448. "Utilizing Your People" - Tyler Whitfield

Tyler Whitfield returns to National Fire Radio for a powerful follow-up conversation on growth, leadership, and building high-performing fire companies. Now several years into his role as a promoted company officer with Clearwater Fire & Rescue, Tyler reflects on the transition from informal leader to officer, earning trust, and inheriting a company with a strong culture and high expectations.

This episode dives deep into what real leadership looks like on the floor—embracing vulnerability, fostering humility, and putting the success of your people ahead of your own. Tyler explains how consistent, realistic training builds confidence, why small details matter on the fireground, and how honest after-action conversations create buy-in and long-term success.

The conversation also explores Tyler’s passion for instruction through The Grab Factory, his residential search training program focused on practical, adaptable tactics for departments of all sizes. From engine-based search considerations to inside/outside truck operations, Tyler shares lessons learned from teaching nationwide and emphasizes the value of networking, shared experiences, and learning from both wins and mistakes.