The Leadership Crucible Podcast

Dr. Gav Schneider, a martial artist and risk strategist, discusses the urgent need for modern leaders to adopt resilience as a core competency. He reveals why traditional risk management fails, emphasizing that most strategies are overly reactive and disconnected from real decision-making. Dr. Schneider introduces his innovative Presilience® framework, advocating for a proactive mindset focused on opportunities. He also explores the importance of emotional intelligence, adaptability, and learning cultures to enhance organizational resilience, especially in times of disruption.

Great leaders don’t just give feedback—they model it. And in a culture where trust is eroding, avoidance is normalized, and conflict is feared, feedback may be one of the most urgent leadership tools we have.In this episode, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Margie Mauldin, bestselling author of Feedback Revolution and founder of Executive Forum, to unpack how feedback done right can shape culture, unlock growth, and define legacy. With over 30 years of experience coaching leaders across corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors, Margie shares how feedback can move from fear to focus—and why most leaders wait too long to say what needs to be said.You’ll hear how a fractured business relationship led her to take a bold leap of ownership, how Stephen Covey mentored her through her early years, and how one conversation with her son changed the trajectory of her career. She unpacks the difference between motivation and ability, the role of emotional preparation in giving feedback, and why ego and time are the two biggest enemies of honest communication.This conversation is more than professional development—it’s a personal challenge. Whether you lead a city department or a startup team, Margie’s clarity and conviction will help you build the kind of culture people want to be part of—and grow in.ABOUT MARGIE:Marjorie (Margie) Mauldin, Executive Forum’s owner and president, is an energetic and creative leader. In the past 30 years, Margie has earned the trust of the Denver business community as an entrepreneur and successful business owner.  She effectively manages Executive Forum’s global client list that includes a variety of compelling projects such as strategic planning for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Colorado and Arizona state departments of transportation and iLoveFeedback® certification and training for IHS Markit, Pinal County (AZ), City & County of Denver, Arapahoe County (CO), Riverside County (CA), State of Michigan, University of Alberta (CAN), South Metro Fire Rescue Authority, City of Aurora, Department of the Army, Department of Housing and Urban Development, the National Parks Service and Comcast. Presentations include the 2014 Correctional Accreditation Manager’s Association, 2015 NeighborWorks Training Institute, 2016 ATD International Training Conference and Expo, 2017 International Brain Summit, the 2017 and 2018 Rocky Mountain Project Management Symposium, 2018 National Organization of Trusted Advisors and the 2019 Strategic Government Resources Servant Leadership Conference.  Scheduled presentations include the 2019 Western Region IPMA-HR Annual Conference and the 2019 COSHRM State Conference.  Margie’s best-selling book, Feedback Revolution: Building Relationships & Boosting Results, now in its second printing, focuses on organizational culture, performance review systems, employee engagement, communication and accountability.LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible) - Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj) - Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu) LINKS & RESOURCES:- Executive Forum (https://executiveforum.net/)- Feedback Revolution Book (https://tinyurl.com/yc76ew6w)CONNECT WITH US:- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/) - The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation) - The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/) - Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman) - Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

Fire service is evolving — and so is the way we train its leaders. In this forward-thinking episode, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Joe Bennett, Director of Fire Service Training at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, to explore how one of the nation’s most respected hands-on programs is reshaping firefighter education. But this isn’t just about tactical skills — it’s about forming character, cultivating leadership, and preparing the next generation for a world of complex challenges.With decades of experience in fire service, education, and executive development, Joe unpacks what makes OSU’s program different — from immersive simulations to leadership-driven coursework that pushes students beyond the fireground. You’ll hear about how mentorship is built into the curriculum, why OSU’s model is drawing national attention, and what every leader can learn from the fire service’s values of discipline, humility, and service.Whether you’re a fire chief, a public safety professional, or an educator shaping tomorrow’s leaders, this episode will challenge your assumptions about technical training — and inspire you to think bigger about what real leadership development looks like.0:00:00 — Introduction00:02:15 — Joe’s Journey from Firefighter to Program Director00:06:32 — What Makes OSU’s Fire Program So Unique00:11:45 — Building Leadership Through Simulation and Scenario-Based Training00:17:08 — The Critical Role of Mentorship in Developing the Next Generation00:21:30 — Bridging Tactical Excellence with Emotional Intelligence00:25:40 — Challenges Facing Fire Service Education Today00:30:10 — What Every Sector Can Learn from the Fire Service00:33:55 — Final Reflections: The Future of Hands-On Leadership TrainingABOUT JOE:Joe Bennett serves as the Director of the Fire Science Program at Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC), where he leads one of the nation’s most forward-thinking fire service education programs. Under his leadership, the program has experienced 65% growth in enrollment—defying national trends in higher education—through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and a relentless focus on relevance and innovation.Bennett oversees a diverse instructional team delivering hands-on and academic training across four flagship initiatives: the Structural Firefighter Training Program, the Fire Investigator Training Program, the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program, and a new Tactical Fitness Program for firefighters. He also designed and launched a statewide workforce development initiative that enables high school students to graduate as certified structural firefighters—accelerating both access and impact.Beyond the classroom, Bennett has positioned OSU-OKC as a hub for national and international collaboration, hosting events such as the Women’s Tactical Performance Conference, the Firefighter Challenge League Southwest Divisional Championship, and the 2025 National Championship. His leadership style centers on team development, faculty empowerment, and mission-aligned growth.With a passion for shaping future-ready leaders, Bennett continues to advance the fire service by blending operational excellence, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to service. His work is not only transforming firefighter education — it’s building a new model for leadership development in public safety.LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible) - Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj) - Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu) RESOURCES:- Oklahoma State | Fire Service Training (https://www.osufst.org/) - Joe Bennett | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-bennett-22717581)  - Servant Leadership by Robert Greenleaf (https://tinyurl.com/3k59fej8) - One-Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard (https://tinyurl.com/4hsdmh3r) CONNECT WITH US:- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/) - The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation) - The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/) - Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman) - Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)MUSIC CREDITS:Fanfare For The Common ManFace - Meaning Machine (MB01IE1PXOUK6GH)This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about trust. And right now, trust is breaking down at every level. In this compelling conversation, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Mike Studeman — former Director of Intelligence for both the U.S. Indo-Pacific and Southern Commands — to explore why America’s greatest threat may not be geopolitical, but moral. With 35 years of military service, global intelligence leadership, and national security briefings behind him, Admiral Studeman brings unmatched clarity to the character crisis shaping modern leadership.Drawing from defining moments in his career — from leading multi-national teams to confronting senior leaders with uncomfortable truths — Admiral Studeman unpacks what he calls iron integrity: the kind of moral courage forged in small, unseen decisions long before crisis strikes. You’ll hear his early lessons in accountability (including a story involving a marble, a Mercedes, and a summer’s worth of babysitting money), his philosophy of speaking truth to power, and his take on how moral compromise at the highest levels erodes the very foundation of democracy.But this isn’t just about national security or military leadership. It’s about the everyday choices that shape who we become — and whether we can be trusted when the stakes are highest. Whether you’re a young professional or a seasoned executive, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you lead, who you admire, and what kind of legacy you’re building.0:00:00 — Introduction00:01:53 — A Childhood Lesson in Accountability (and a Cracked Windshield)00:05:35 — What “Iron Integrity” Really Means00:10:17 — Character, Compromise, and the Collapse of Trust00:13:26 — Leading Through Ambiguity and Global Complexity00:17:57 — Humility, Empathy, and Building International Partnerships00:23:40 — Moral Gray Areas: Justice vs. Mercy, Short-Term vs. Long-Term00:28:28 — The Cost (and Power) of Speaking Truth to Power00:33:50 — Advice for Young Leaders: Learning, Modeling, and Courage00:41:48 — Global Challenges, Civic Responsibility, and the Medici Effect00:49:05 — Social Media, Civility, and the Need for Moral Maturity00:51:40 — Final Reflections: Choosing the Harder RightAbout Mike:Rear Admiral Mike Studeman (Ret.) is one of the nation’s most respected national security professionals, with more than three decades of global leadership across intelligence, foreign policy, and defense. A retired U.S. Navy flag officer and former Commander of the Office of Naval Intelligence, Studeman has led intelligence operations at every level — tactical, strategic, joint, and interagency — supporting combat missions from Desert Storm to Afghanistan and shaping strategy against threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.As Director of Intelligence (J2) for both U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Southern Command, Studeman provided critical assessments that shaped America’s global posture. He also commanded the Joint Intelligence Operations Center at U.S. Cyber Command and remains a recognized authority on Asia-Pacific affairs, with deep expertise on China’s global ambitions.Appointed by President George W. Bush as a White House Fellow in 2005, Studeman is the only naval officer to have served as Special Assistant to the Chief of Naval Operations, the Vice Chief, and the U.S. Fleet Forces Commander. He holds distinguished academic honors in Mandarin Chinese, Asian affairs, and strategic studies, and is a graduate of the College of William and Mary, the Defense Language Institute, the Naval Postgraduate School, and the National War College.Now retired from active duty, Studeman continues to advise top organizations on leadership, resilience, and national security. He is the author of Might of the Chain: Forging Leaders of Iron Integrity, a powerful call to rebuild trust in a fractured world. He lives with his college sweetheart and is the proud father of two sons.LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible) - Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj) - Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu) RESOURCES:- Mike Studeman | Web (https://www.mikestudeman.com/ ) - Mike Studeman | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikestudeman/) - Mike Studeman | X (https://x.com/mikestudeman) - Mike’s Book | Might Of The Chain: Forging Leaders of Iron Integrity (https://tinyurl.com/aemtshbk)- Media Bias Chart (https://app.adfontesmedia.com/chart/interactive) CONNECT WITH US:- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/) - The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation) - The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/) - Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman) - Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)MUSIC CREDITS:Fanfare For The Common ManEvermore - Generdyn (MB01GPT0VQK4JM2)This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Crisis leadership isn’t about reacting faster — it’s about thinking differently. In this powerful conversation, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Melissa Agnes, founder of the Crisis Ready® Institute and one of the world’s most trusted voices on crisis management, to explore why most organizations fail before the crisis even starts — and how the best leaders prepare for pressure long before it arrives.Drawing from her work with NATO, the Pentagon, Fortune 500 companies, and major municipalities, Melissa unpacks the Crisis Ready® model — a three-part framework built on mindset, skillset, and capability.But this isn’t just a checklist. It’s a call to lead with emotional intelligence, clarity, and conviction — especially when the stakes are high.You’ll hear stories of courageous leadership that saved millions, strategies for navigating disinformation and digital chaos, and practical tools to turn fear-based reactions into trust-building responses. Whether you’re leading a business, a government agency, or a community organization, this episode will challenge the way you think about crisis — and equip you to lead with greater strength, humanity, and purpose.0:00:00 - Introduction00:02:35 - Melissa’s Path Into Crisis Leadership00:08:13 - Why Most Organizations Fail Before Crisis Hits00:13:41 - The Crisis Ready® Model: Mindset, Skillset, Capability00:19:00 - Case Study: $9 Million Saved Through Courageous Leadership00:24:23 - Crisis Leadership in the Age of AI, Disinformation, & Chaos00:28:51 - Advice for the Next Generation of Leaders00:34:08 - Final Thoughts: Leading With Connection, Not ControlAbout Melissa:Melissa Agnes is a globally recognized thought leader, author, and strategist in crisis communication and leadership resilience. As the Founder and CEO of the Crisis Ready® Institute, she developed the widely adopted Crisis Ready® Model—a five-phase framework that helps organizations anticipate risk, respond with clarity, and build unshakable trust, even in the face of high-stakes disruption. Her work equips leaders and organizations to not only survive crises, but emerge stronger because of them.Melissa is the author of the best-selling book Crisis Ready: Building an Invincible Brand in an Uncertain World, which was named one of Forbes’ Top 10 Business Books of 2018. Her model is taught in universities across the globe, including Harvard, NYU, Columbia, and McGill. She’s served as a trusted advisor to top-level institutions such as NATO, the Pentagon, ministries of foreign affairs and defense, Fortune 100 companies, healthcare systems, municipalities, and non-profits—helping them embed strategic resilience into their culture before a crisis ever strikes.In addition to her consulting and executive coaching work, Melissa is a sought-after keynote speaker and media contributor. Her insights have been featured in outlets including Forbes, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, MSNBC, Bloomberg, Fox Business, and CNN. She has also delivered a TEDx talk in Los Angeles and continues to shape best practices in the field through her involvement with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the Institute for Strategic Risk Management (ISRM), and her co-development of ISO 22361, the international standard for crisis management.Through her teaching, writing, and advisory work, Melissa Agnes is reshaping how leaders think about crisis—not as a moment to fear, but as a defining opportunity to lead with integrity, clarity, and care.LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible) - Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj) - Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu) RESOURCES:- Melissa Agnes | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/melissaagnes) - Melissa Agnes | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaagnes/) - Melissa Agnes | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/melissaagnes) - Leading Through Change With Melissa Anges | Podcast (https://crisisreadyinstitute.com/podcast/) - Crisis Ready Institute (https://crisisreadyinstitute.com/) - Melissa’s Book | Crisis Ready: Build An Invincible Brand In This Uncertain World (https://tinyurl.com/2hu7nssu) CONNECT WITH US:- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/) - The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation) - The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/) - Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman) - Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)MUSIC CREDITS:Fanfare For The Uncommon ManThis Is The Beginning (Instrumental) - Lights & Motion (MB01ZYTIXH84LK9)This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.How did a basketball walk-on for Coach K become a powerhouse in the advertising world and beyond? Tune in to the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast to unravel the captivating story of finding purpose through perseverance and seizing opportunities fearlessly.In this episode, you will lear about:Overcoming adversity: Learn valuable leadership lessons from navigating challenging circumstances and emerge stronger and more resilient.Fostering trust: Master the art of building trust in leadership roles to inspire confidence and loyalty among your team members.Seamless career transitions: Discover effective strategies for transitioning careers to ensure a smooth and successful shift to a new professional path.Technological impact on leadership: Embrace the transformative power of technology in leadership and leverage it to drive organizational success.Uncover purpose and meaning: Explore the keys to finding profound purpose and meaning in your career, leading to fulfillment and satisfaction.My special guest is Andy BerndtAndy Berndt, a seasoned professional, has transitioned from a successful tenure in advertising to a prominent role at Google. His extensive experience includes leadership positions at renowned organizations such as Ogilvy, where he played a pivotal role in the turnaround of the IBM account, and Chiat/Day, where he contributed to the relaunch of the Apple brand. Andy's impressive track record encompasses notable achievements, including overseeing the launch of the Apple online store and leading segments of the Microsoft account. His accomplishments have been widely recognized by industry bodies in the US and abroad, culminating in his induction into the Hall of Achievement in 2007. With a bachelor's degree in English Literature from Duke University and a background in basketball under Coach K, Andy's multifaceted journey exudes a wealth of expertise in navigating career transitions and finding purpose in professional pursuits.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:02 - Facing Adversity and Leadership 00:01:21 - Journey to Advertising 00:02:02 - Basketball and Leadership 00:10:39 - Life after Duke 00:14:23 - Working with Major Companies 00:15:32 - Unexpected Promotion 00:17:34 - Dream Job at Nike 00:19:21 - Meeting Steve Jobs 00:22:58 - Transition to IBM 00:27:20 - Evolution at Google 00:30:51 - Building Trust and Community in a Diverse World 00:32:26 - Navigating Disagreements in the Age of Social Media 00:33:24 - Making a Difference in Life 00:34:30 - Pursuing Meaningful Work 00:35:43 - Leaving a Lasting Legacy

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.Do you want to enhance your leadership effectiveness and build organizational resilience? Ready to discover the solution to achieve this result? Join Fire Chief Randy Bruegman and emergency management expert Patrick Van Horne as they delve into the challenges of leadership in changing environments and the strategies for disaster preparedness. Get ready to unlock the key to navigating complexity and leading with competence. Don't miss out on this insightful episode of the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast!In this episode, we will cover these topics:Navigate Leadership Challenges in Changing Environments: Master the art of leading through uncertainty and change, ensuring organizational resilience and success.Cultivate Situational Awareness for Effective Leadership: Develop a keen understanding of your surroundings to make informed decisions and inspire confidence in your team.Overcome Personal Adversity to Forge Your Career Path: Harness the power of resilience to turn personal challenges into opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.Implement Disaster Preparedness Strategies for Organizational Resilience: Safeguard your organization against unforeseen events, ensuring continuity and stability.Elevate Leadership Effectiveness Through Competence: Acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to lead with confidence, driving organizational success and growth.My special guest is Patrick Van Horne Patrick Van Horne, a distinguished emergency management and homeland security professional, brings a wealth of expertise as a Marine veteran, consultant, and co-author of "Left of Bang: How the Marine Corps' Combat Hunter Program Can Save Your Life." His focus on disaster preparedness and security, coupled with a deep understanding of situational awareness and proactive violence prevention, provides valuable insights for leaders navigating changing environments and challenges. With a keen eye for enhancing leadership capabilities and guiding executives through complex organizational hurdles, Patrick's presence on the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast promises to deliver impactful strategies and perspectives to foster enhanced leadership effectiveness and organizational resilience.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:03 - The Crucible of Adversity00:01:31 - Journey to the Military00:03:34 - Left of Bang Book00:06:15 - Behavioral Analysis and Situational Awareness00:13:14 - Left of Bang in Business00:15:39 - Building Organizational Capabilities00:18:37 - Life-Changing Moments00:20:02 - Team Rubicon's Mission00:23:15 - Leadership Lessons00:27:25 - The Current State of Leadership00:30:36 - Importance of Long-Term Thinking00:31:50 - Communication Challenges00:33:45 - Stability and Grounding in Leadership00:37:35 - Importance of Communication for Future Leaders00:38:20 - Pursuing Hard Things

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.Does it seem like you're facing insurmountable challenges in your path to leadership? Have you been told to simply "tough it out" or "wait for things to get better"? The frustration of feeling stuck in adversity without a clear way forward can be overwhelming. If you're tired of ineffective advice and want to discover real strategies for overcoming adversity through leadership, then this is for you.In this episode, you will learn the following:-Mastering Adversity: Uncover strategies to conquer challenges through effective leadership.-Education for Success: Discover the pivotal role of education in achieving personal triumphs.-Navigating Career Choices: Unveil the profound impact of personal decisions on career trajectories.-Political Success Strategies: Explore effective tactics for achieving bipartisan success in politics.-Community Support: Embrace the significance of community aid in navigating crisis recovery.My special guest is Frank Keating Frank Keating served as the Governor of Oklahoma from 1995 to 2003, demonstrating exceptional leadership during a challenging period in the state's history. His notable contributions include leading the state's recovery efforts after the devastating 1995 bombing of the Alpha P. Murrow Federal Office Building in Oklahoma City. Governor Keating implemented significant tax reductions and reforms, particularly in the education system, the state's purchasing system, and the workers' compensation system. His dedication to public service and his extensive experience in law enforcement and public office provides valuable insights into overcoming adversity, the role of education in personal success, and the impact of personal choices on career paths. Governor Keating's expertise and experience make him a compelling guest for the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast, offering invaluable perspectives on leadership, resilience, and community support.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:03 - The Importance of Adversity in Leadership00:01:20 - Frank Keating's Contributions as Governor00:01:48 - Frank Keating's Journey into Public Service00:06:52 - Leadership During the Oklahoma City Bombing00:11:27 - Community Support and Resilience00:16:54 - Leadership and Service in Oklahoma00:18:51 - Accomplishments as Governor00:22:51 - Post-Political Career00:27:20 - Authoring Children's Books00:28:58 - Challenges and Takeaways00:34:12 - Getting Involved in Public Life00:34:23 - Appreciation and Invitation 00:35:08 - Conclusion and InvitationBio:Frank Keating grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and received his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma.His 30-year career in law enforcement and public service included service as an FBI agent, U.S. Attorney and state prosecutor, and Oklahoma House and Senate member, including service as a Republican senate leader.   He served Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush in the Treasury, Justice, and Housing departments.As Governor, Keating won national acclaim in 1995 for his compassionate and professional handling of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal building in Oklahoma City. In the aftermath of the tragedy, he raised more than six million dollars to fund scholarships for the nearly 200 children left with only one or no parents.Keating currently serves as a regent for the University of Oklahoma and lives with his wife Cathy in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.  They have three children and eleven grandchildren.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.Why Today's Leaders Must Meet Innate Needs to Love and BelongDo you want to implement impactful leadership strategies for personal and team growth? Are you eager to learn the solution that can help you achieve this result? Join the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast as Fire Chief Randy Brugman delves into the personal journeys of leaders, including retired Brigadier General John Teichert. His insights and experiences will provide you with the guidance you need to develop as a leader and make a lasting impact.In this episode, you will be able to:Mastering Leadership Development: Unveiling proven strategies for personal and team growth.Triumphing Over Adversity: Embracing challenges to emerge as a resilient leader.Embodying Selfless Leadership: Harnessing the power of putting others first for organizational success.Navigating Bureaucratic Environments: Pioneering innovation in structured settings for impactful change.Harnessing Mentorship for Career Growth: Unlocking the potential of mentorship for professional advancement.My special guest is Brigadier General John TeichertBrigadier General John Teichert is a distinguished leader with a robust career rooted in inspirational, innovative, and integrity-filled leadership. Graduating from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University, he ventured into the United States Air Force as an F15E combat pilot, later assuming roles including F22 test pilot and Commander of Joint Base Andrews. General Teichert's prolific career spans over 28 years, marked by over 2000 flight hours in 38 different types of aircraft and extensive leadership experience in whole-of-government settings. With a wealth of knowledge in national security, risk management, and international affairs, General Teichert's insights on leadership and mentorship offer invaluable guidance to aspiring leaders seeking impactful career growth and personal development. Author of Boom, Leadership that Breaks BarriersThe key moments in this episode are:00:00:03 - The Crucible of Leadership 00:02:00 - An Inspirational Journey 00:09:24 - Boom: Leadership that Ignites Innovation 00:12:53 - Leading Selflessly 00:15:45 - Overcoming Adversity and Toxic Leadership 00:17:30 - Commanding Joint Base Andrews and Edwards Air Force Base 00:20:45 - Leadership and Impact 00:23:01 - Investing in People 00:29:46 - State of Leadership in Society 00:30:37 - Importance of Investing in the Next Generation 00:31:16 - Sound Bite Leadership vs. Strategic Vision 00:32:25 - Fulfilling Fundamental Human Needs 00:34:52 - Leadership Across Generations 00:37:35 - Multi-Generational Impact of Leadership Bio:After graduating from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University, John entered the United States Air Force as an F-15E combat pilot. He would go on to serve as an F-22 test pilot and eventually lead as the commander of Joint Base Andrews, the commander of Edwards Air Force Base, and our nation’s Senior Defense Official in Iraq. General Teichert ended his service in the Air Force as the Assistant Deputy Undersecretary of the Air Force, International Affairs. During his career, he logged over 2,000 flight hours in 38 different aircraft types.General Teichert is a champion for inspirational, innovative, integrity-filled leadership. He has vast whole-of-government leadership experience – from cutting-edge technology to our nation’s most sensitive international relationships. John has written and spoken extensively on leadership, national security, innovation, risk management, and international affairs. He is an Amazon #1 best-selling author and a former candidate for U.S. Senate who maintains a robust schedule of international-level media engagements.John is the founder and president of Capital Leadership LLC, developing the leaders our nation needs and fostering a leadership style that breaks barriers, challenges convention, and ignites innovation. His eclectic activities can best be followed through johnteichert.com and LinkedIn as he continues to serve with his amazing wife Melonie and their three remarkable children.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.The Heart of a First Responder: Serving People and Finding MeaningIf you're feeling overwhelmed by the constant pressure to be a perfect leader, striving for an unattainable standard, and struggling to find your purpose and balance in your career, then you are not alone! The quest for ideal leadership can often lead to burnout and relational strain, making it difficult to achieve true fulfillment and success.In this episode, you will cover: -Overcoming adversity cultivates resilient leadership skills, essential for navigating challenging situations in the fire and emergency services.-Achieve a harmonious work-life balance to enhance your leadership effectiveness and overall well-being.-Embrace the transformative power of technology to revolutionize your leadership approach in the fire and emergency services.-Uncover the deeper meaning in your firefighting career, igniting a sense of purpose that drives impactful leadership.-Master effective crisis management strategies to safeguard your team and community during emergencies.My special guest is Chief Richard KellyChief Richard Kelly, the esteemed fire chief of the Oklahoma City Fire Department, boasts a distinguished career spanning over three decades in the fire and emergency services. Chief Kelly's journey, which commenced in 1991, has seen him ascend through various pivotal roles within the fire community, showcasing an unwavering commitment to leadership and excellence. His active involvement in esteemed organizations such as the International Association of Fire Chiefs and Leadership Crucible Foundation Association highlights his dedication to advancing the field. Chief Kelly's academic accomplishments, including a Bachelor of Technology in Emergency Responder Administration from Oklahoma State University, alongside his successful completion of multiple leadership programs, underscore his relentless pursuit of professional growth. Beyond his illustrious career, Chief Kelly's devotion to literature, family, physical fitness, and community engagement reflects his multifaceted approach to life and leadership.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast00:01:23 - Chief Richard Kelly's Background00:03:32 - Chief Kelly's Journey into the Fire Service00:06:20 - Experience at the Oklahoma City Bombing00:14:54 - Building Relationships and Collaboration00:16:37 - Personal Growth and Transformation00:19:04 - Leadership Lessons from Adversity00:23:26 - Evolving Nature of Leadership00:29:49 - Leading with Responsibility00:30:47 - Embracing Technology00:31:30 - Adapting to Technology00:32:26 - Overcoming Challenges00:33:19 - Finding Purpose and BalanceBio:Oklahoma City Fire Chief Richard A. Kelley joined the Oklahoma City Fire Department in 1991 and was appointed Fire Chief in September 2017. He was promoted through the ranks in suppression and also held the positions Special Operations Coordinator, Technical Rescue Station Officer, Ride-out Officer, Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief of Support Services and Deputy Chief of Operations. He is a Fire Instructor Level II, EMT, HazMat Technician, Rescue Technician, Dive Team Member and OK-TF1 Task Force Leader. Chief Kelley was an adjunct instructor for Eastern Oklahoma County Vo- Tech Fire Training Academy mentoring and training students for over a decade. He is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association (OFCA) and the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association. Chief Kelley is the President for the Oklahoma State Fire Chiefs Association, he also serves on the Board for the YMCA of Greater OKC, Ex Officio Member and Conscience Committee of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Board of Trustees and the OSU-OKC Fire Protection AAS and BT Degree Advisory Board.Chief Kelley has been recognized for many awards throughout his career, Captain/Major of the year in 2005 and Major of Special Operations in the Work Section of the Year in 2006.Chief Kelley has an A.A.S.in Municipal Fire Protection and a Bachelor of Technology in Emergency Responder Administration from Oklahoma State University. He has attended the National Fire Academy for multiple classes and completed the Oklahoma Executive Fire Officer Leadership Program in 2015 and Leadership OKC (Class 37) in 2018. Along with his wife Liz, Chief Kelley’s household includes daughters Mikayla, Johnna and Addison, and stepchildren Emily and Nick and grandchildren Karter Jaye, Gunner Barron, Erin, and Legend. He enjoys spending time with his family and physical fitness. He attends Life Church NW.