219. Surviving Politics - Jared Renshaw

Quite often the Chief's role can be a lonely one. From a once thriving firefighter and line officer, when you become the Chief of Department, there are plenty of hurdles that you have not encountered on your way up. One in particular, politics. Even the very best firefighter with an impeccable record and reputation isn't ready for the back and forth required when dealing with the higher ups. Jared Renshaw, the Fire Commissioner of the Western berks Fire Department has learned through trial and error the ins and outs of playing politics. His course titled, "A Fire Chief's Guide to Surviving Local Politics" is a powerful class that helps give guidance to those who are thrusted into the Chief's position and now has to deal with city hall. The need for "forecasting" and "strategic planning" are just two topics that Jared dives into. The glorious side to being the Chief is certainly on the fireground and the success of their department. However, it is much more common to deal with the inglorious side of managing and maintaining a fire department. Budgets, political favors, working with other departments all while balancing the conversation for your people while protecting their best interests... this is a high stakes game and it falls primarily on you, the Fire Chief. Jared's course certainly is not your everyday class but the value and message it brings to the table is powerful and can certainly help new Chief's in their roll.