The Leadership Crucible Podcast

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.My special guest is Dr. Kristen WilleumierDr. Kristen Willeumier is a renowned neuroscientist known for her expertise in neurobiology and neuroimaging. With a strong academic background, including degrees from Boston College and UCLA, she has dedicated her career to understanding the complexities of the brain and its impact on human health. Dr. Willeumier's research has focused on utilizing cutting-edge imaging technologies to unravel the neurobiology signatures underlying psychiatric disorders. Notably, she has led groundbreaking studies on the long-term effects of repetitive head impacts in the National Football League, shedding light on the importance of brain health in athletes. Her work extends beyond the sports arena as she actively investigates therapeutic approaches to rehabilitate brain function in military personnel and civilians with mild traumatic brain injuries. Dr. Willeumier's dedication to scientific advancement and her commitment to serving others make her a highly respected guest on the Leadership Crucible Podcast.The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:33 - Becoming a Neuroscientist 00:07:11 - Addressing Traumatic Brain Injuries 00:10:33 - Passion for Neurotrauma 00:12:08 - Personal Reflection and Service 00:17:51 - The Use of AI and Big Data in Medicine 00:20:27 - Shifting from Reactive to Predictive Medicine 00:24:18 - The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace00:27:35 - Supporting Mental Health in High-Stress Professions 00:29:52 - The ROI of Investing in Employee Health 00:35:39 - The Importance of Leadership Potential 00:36:10 - The Rewards of Service 00:36:52 - Service Over Self 00:37:49 - Following One's Passion 00:38:57 - Appreciation and Friendship Bio: Kristen Willeumier, Ph.D., conducted her graduate research in the laboratory of Neurophysiology at the University of California, Los Angeles and the laboratory of Neurogenetics at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. She received MS degrees in Physiological Science and Neurobiology and a Ph.D. degree in Neurobiology from the University of California, Los Angeles. She was a post-doctoral fellow in the Department of Neurology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center where she continued her work in the field of neurodegenerative disease. She was the recipient of an NIH fellowship award from the National Institute of Mental Health and has presented her work internationally. She is the author of the book Biohack Your Brain: How to Boost Cognitive Health, Performance and Power.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.Navigating the Challenges of Law Enforcement Leadership: Insights from Sheriff Mike ChitwoodA second-generation law enforcement officer confronts the challenges of leadership, battles the fentanyl crisis, and strives to make a difference in a constantly scrutinized profession.In this episode, you will be able to:Enhance your leadership skills and strategies to effectively address challenges in law enforcement.Stay ahead of the curve with insights on the impact of technology on policing and interpersonal skills.Discover effective solutions for recruitment and retention issues faced by law enforcement agencies.Learn innovative approaches to community engagement while addressing the fentanyl crisis.Gain valuable insights on the importance of mentoring and support in developing future leaders in law enforcement.My special guest is Sheriff Mike ChitwoodWe are honored to have Sheriff Mike Chitwood join us as a guest on the Leadership Crucible Podcast. With an impressive career in law enforcement spanning over three decades, Sheriff Chitwood brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Starting as a lieutenant in the Philadelphia Police Department, he excelled in various divisions, including Patrol, Tactical, Narcotics, and the Detective Division. Throughout his career, Sheriff Chitwood received 58 commendations for his valor, bravery, heroism, and merit. After serving as police chief in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and Daytona Beach, Florida, he was elected as the Volusia County Sheriff in 2016 and reelected without opposition in 2020. With his extensive training from the FBI National Academy and Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, Sheriff Chitwood is a respected leader in the law enforcement community. Join us as we delve into his personal journey and gain valuable insights into his leadership approach in the face of challenges.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction, 00:02:31 - Sheriff Chitwood's Experience in Philadelphia, 00:07:05 - Journey to Becoming a Police Chief, 00:09:56 - Taking Opportunities and Longevity, 00:11:06 - Current Challenges in Law Enforcement, 00:14:37 - The Impact of Substance Abuse on Communities, 00:15:12 - Challenges Facing Law Enforcement, 00:16:54 - Transparency and Community Relations, 00:21:00 - Leadership Lessons and Development, 00:24:06 - Leadership Void in Law Enforcement, 00:28:40 - The Grim Future of Technology and AI, 00:30:16 - The Importance of Interpersonal Skills, 00:32:26 - The Challenges of Work from Home and Hybrid Models, 00:34:53 - The Duty and Obligation of Younger Leaders, 00:35:58 - The Call to Lead and Bring Perspectives,Bio: Personal • Born November 1963 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania• Second-generation law enforcement officer• Three grown daughters, three grandchildrenEducation • Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management, Eastern University of Pennsylvania (2005)• Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice, NOVA Southeastern University (2008)Employment • Elected Sheriff of Volusia County in August 2016. Sworn in on Jan. 3, 2017. Re-elected without opposition in August 2020.• Police Chief, Daytona Beach Police Department (May 30, 2006-November 11, 2016)• Police Chief, Shawnee, Oklahoma (May 1, 2005-May 23, 2006)• Philadelphia Police Department (November 1988-May 2005); worked in the patrol, tactical, narcotics and detective divisions; rose to the rank of Lieutenant and was the recipient of 58 official commendations for valor, bravery, heroism and merit Professional training• Graduate of the Philadelphia Police Academy• Graduate of the 204th session of the FBI National Academy, Quantico, VA (2001)• Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (1999)Professional Involvement • Board of Directors, Police Executive Research Forum• Member of the International Association of Police Chiefs• Member of the Volusia/Flagler Police Chiefs Association• Adjunct professor, University of Central Florida

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.In a world where adversity can often hinder progress, one man's journey defied all odds. Dr. Kelvin Cochran's story is a testament to the power of staying true to one's core values in leadership. From facing discrimination to becoming the fire chief of the very department that once held him back, Kelvin's resilience is awe-inspiring. But little did he know, his path would take an unexpected twist that would challenge his unwavering commitment to his values. The question remains: How did this unexpected turn shape Kelvin's leadership and inspire others to do the same? In this episode, you will be able to: Learn why maintaining a steadfast commitment to your core values is central to efficient leadership. Master the art of juggling personal demands and professional duties to attain long-lasting success. Realize the power of ongoing education and professional growth for superior leadership. Absorb how the dynamics of family relationships can tangibly impact leadership competence. Acknowledge the importance of mentoring and sturdy relationships in leadership progression. My special guest is Dr. Kelvin Cochran Known for his exceptional leadership and relentless integrity, Dr. Kelvin Cochran exemplifies the strength of core values in guiding one’s career. Having his humble beginnings in Shreveport, Kelvin dreamed of becoming a firefighter at a young age, setting a clear path for his future. He pursued academic excellence, acquiring degrees in Organizational Management, Industrial and Organizational Psychology. His tenacity saw him rise through the ranks to become the Fire Chief of the Shreveport Fire Department. Kelvin's extraordinary influence extends beyond his hometown with his appointment as the United States Fire Administrator by President Barack Obama in 2009.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction,00:02:34 - Childhood Challenges and Dreams,00:08:27 - Overcoming Challenges in the Fire Service,00:12:47 - Career Progression,00:14:57 - Navigating Financial Challenges,00:16:47 - Starting a New Journey in Atlanta,00:19:09 - Facing Legal Issues,00:25:30 - The Current State of Leadership,00:28:37 - Emerging Issues for the Next Generation of Leaders,00:32:19 - Following Your Passion,00:35:39 - The importance of family relationships,00:36:09 - Lifelong learning,00:36:46 - Commitment to personal growth,00:37:13 - Appreciation and gratitude,00:38:27 - Future plans and aspirations,Bio:Shreveport, Louisiana native Kelvin J. Cochran, as a five-year-old boy, was spellboundby Shreveport Firefighters fighting a fire across the street from his house and dreamedthat one day he would be a firefighter.A proud student of Caddo Parish Public Schools, he graduated from Woodlawn HighSchool (1978); higher education includes: Wiley College (1999) Bachelor's Degree inOrganizational Management; Louisiana Tech University (2004) Master’s Degree inIndustrial and Organizational Psychology; Ohio Christian University (2016) HonoraryDoctorate in Christian Leadership; Creighton University (2018) Doctorate inInterdisciplinary Leadership.His employment with the Shreveport Fire Department began in 1981 as a firefighter. Hewas then promoted to Fire Training Officer and served in this capacity from 1985 - 1990,when he gained promotion to Assistant Chief Training Officer. His service in this positionconcluded when he was appointed Fire Chief of the Shreveport Fire Department onAugust 26, 1999. On January 2, 2008 he was appointed fire chief of the City of AtlantaFire Rescue Department. On August 17, 2009 he was appointed as the United StatesFire Administrator by President Barack Obama; June 19, 2010 he was re-appointed byMayor Kasim Reed as Fire Chief of the City of Atlanta Fire Rescue Department. Heserved five (5) years as Chief Operating Officer of Elizabeth Baptist Church in Atlanta,Georgia and currently serves as Senior Fellow; Vice President for Alliance DefendingFreedom.He is married to Carolyn and the father of three children and has one granddaughter.

Unleashing the Power: Syd Kitson, the visionary force behind sustainable communities, challenges leaders to harness technology and innovation to create a resilient future despite the growing complexities of our world. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how to foster leadership abilities and navigate personal growth. Uncover the essentials in building environmentally-friendly and sustainable communities. Find out the importance and advantages of education combined with technology in developing communities. Know effective resilience measures to combat natural calamities and climate change. Learn to encourage upcoming leaders and how to see failure as an opportunity for improvement. My special guest is Syd Kitson Our discussion today features Syd Kitson, the mind behind the largest single preservation agreement in the history of Florida. Syd is famed for his role as the Chairman and CEO of Kitson & Partners, a Florida-based real estate firm focused on building sustainable communities and commercial properties that respect the environment. Syd, an alumnus of Wake Forest University, brings his forward-thinking perspectives gleaned from illustrious leadership roles like Chair of the Florida Council of 100 and the Board of Governors for the State of University System of Florida.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:47 - Welcome Sid Kitson00:02:11 - Sid Kitson's Journey and Influences,00:08:30 - Finding Purpose and Passion,00:12:51 - Building Babcock Ranch,00:16:30 - Building a Sustainable Community,00:18:53 - The Importance of Education,00:21:04 - Prioritizing Health and Wellness,00:23:28 - Building a Resilient Community,00:25:13 - Overcoming Challenges,00:33:16 - Making a Difference in Sustainability,00:34:51 - Challenges for Future Leaders,00:36:51 - Optimism for the Future,00:38:19 - Embracing Failure and Setting Goals,Syd's Bio: Syd Kitson is Chairman/CEO of Kitson & Partners, a Florida-based real estate company specializing in the creation and development of environmentally responsible, sustainable master-planned communities and commercial properties.Kitson is a graduate of Wake Forest University, with a notable career in the National Football League. Upon retirement, he began his career in real estate, founding Kitson & Partners in 1999. In 2006, Kitson completed the historic purchase of Babcock Ranch in Southwest Florida, encompassing an area five times the size of the island of Manhattan, with over 80% of the original land purchase set aside in the largest single land preservation agreement in the state’s history.Syd has served on multiple civic, education and non-profit boards. He is immediate past Chair of the Florida Council of 100, served as Chair of the Board of Governors for the State University System of Florida in 2020 and 2021, and was elected the 2016-2017 Chair of the Florida Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.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 become a more successful leader and drive organizational success? Are you searching for a solution that can help you achieve this desired outcome? Look no further, because today we have a guest who will share the key to unlocking improved leadership and organizational success through adaptability. This powerful trait is the secret ingredient that can transform your leadership style and drive your organization towards unprecedented levels of success. Get ready to discover the pathway to achieving remarkable results in your leadership journey.In this episode, some key concepts will be:Comprehend how balancing work and life propels you towards effective leadership.Acquire the blueprint for building a workplace atmosphere marked by loyalty and a sense of belonging.Understand the importance of adaptability in steering both leadership and organizational triumph.Absorb the immense influence of technology on the future work landscape and the essentiality of digital skill-set.Appreciate the significance of kindness and empathy in leadership and in cultivating a safe work environment.My special guest is Brad Williams:Dr. Williams earned his bachelor’s degree in communication, marketing and music and a master’s degree in human resource administration from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, and a Ph.D. in educational leadership and higher education from Oklahoma State University. Driven by a strong commitment to student success, employee excellence and community relevance, he values creativity and innovation, collaboration, and the integration of technology to enhance resources to provide students hope, help and a way forward. Prior to OSU-OKC, Dr. Williams served as deputy director of strategic planning and initiative at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. He also directed fundraising efforts at the Price Tower Arts Center in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and at the University of Central Oklahoma. Dr. Williams worked as an ombudsman for the Chickasaw Nation Office of Community Advocacy and for its Division of Housing. He is a citizen of the Choctaw Nation.For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

R. Murali Krishna, MD is the author of Vibrant: To Heal and Be Whole. Dr. Krishna also serves on many professional and civic organizations’ boards and committees. He currently serves as president of the Oklahoma State Board of Heath and founding president/president emeritus of the Health Alliance for the Uninsured (HAU). He is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; Dr. Krishna is committed to improving the health of the people in our communities. Dr. Krishna is a motivating and engaging speaker on mental health and mind, body, spirit medicine topics and is often interviewed by television and print news organizations for his expert opinion on mental and emotional health issues.For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Paul C. Darley is Chairman, CEO & President of W.S. Darley & Co. In 1997, he became President and COO and was appointed CEO in 2003. He was named Chairman in 2011. Under his leadership, sales have increased over 5000% to over $625 million in 2021. He began in pump sales in 1985 and was named Vice President for the Fire Pump Division of Darley in 1990.Founded in 1908, W.S. Darley & Co is a fourth-generation family business, led by Paul and an executive team that has transformed this 114-year-old company into a world leader in the firefighting and defense industries.Paul is a graduate of St. Ignatius College Prep in Chicago and he holds a BS Degree in Marketing and Finance from Marquette University. He earned his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where is a guest lecturer and an executive-in-residence. Paul has traveled to 80 countries in his 37-year tenor and has made over 500 industry speaking engagements. He is involved with numerous charitable, business and service organizations. He is a former Chairman of the Chicago Windy City Chapter of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) and is a trustee for Dominican University.He is a Past President of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association (FAMA) and he also served on the Board of Directors of Fire & Emergency Manufacturers & Services Association (FEMSA). Paul Darley currently serves on the Board of the National Defense Industry Association (NDIA) for the Great Lakes Chapter.He is the author of the book Sold! The Art of Relationship Sales. The book highlights emotional intelligence and authentic leadership to sell more, work your way up the corporate ladder…and what to do once you get there.Paul is married to his high school sweetheart for 36 years and together they raised three daughters in Elmhurst, IL.For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

J. Blake Wade was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Native American Cultural and Educational Authority (NACEA) on December 1, 2011. The NACEA is the state agency responsible for building and developing The American Indian Cultural Center and Museum. Prior to assuming the NACEA appointment, Wade was President of Oklahoma’s Business Roundtable, Oklahoma’s primary economic development “support” organization. The Roundtable accomplishes this by providing critical private funding in support of the economic development efforts of the Governor, Lt. Governor, and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Wade served as the executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society from 1990-1999, and the Director of the Oklahoma Capitol Complex and Centennial Commemoration Commission beginning August 1, 1999. He was responsible for overseeing preparations for Oklahoma’s centennial commemoration of statehood in 2007.The first three years as Director of the Centennial, the focus was the State Capitol Dome and the Centennial Plaza of the Oklahomans. These projects were completed in 2002. Then the planning began to implement a Centennial Commemoration that recognized the spirit of Oklahoma’s people, encouraged pride in the state, and instilled confidence in Oklahoma’s future. The vision was to offer a commemoration that encouraged Oklahomans to examine its unique history, experience our rich heritage, explore our promising future, and ensure a listing legacy for future generations.While a Major, U.S. Army, he received two Bronze Stars, three Vietnam Service Medals and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. A Lawton native, Wade graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a BA in journalism, and a graduate of the Command and General Staff College.Wade participates actively in community organizations serving on the board of directors for the State Fair, the Campaign for Arcadia Trails Treatment Center that opened in May 2019, Boy Scouts of America, First Step and Metro Alliance, Director of USS Oklahoma Memorial at Pearl Harbor, Friends of the Governor’s Mansion, the Jim Thorpe Association and Hall of Fame, Metro Alliance, and Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum. He is the recipient of the 2008 Administrator of the Year Award and received an “Emmy” Award for the production of the Oklahoma Centennial’s “Spectacular.” (Ford Center, November 16, 2007) J. Blake Wade presently serves as the Executive Director of the Native American Cultural and Education Authority from 2012 to present.For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Kirk Arthur is the leader of Worldwide Public Safety and Justice for Microsoft, with responsibility over experts that serve the public safety & justice communities. He has over 18 years of experience as a federal and municipal law enforcement official in the United States. In this role, Kirk is responsible for all aspects of the business, including the development and adoption of Microsoft technology solutions in public safety and justice that enable positive and productive outcomes of mission requirements. He is passionate about the safety and security of citizens in the global community, as well as working with customers around the world to achieve their mission goals using Microsoft’s technology. Prior to coming to Microsoft, he was a Supervisory Special Agent for the U.S. Secret Service managing the San Francisco Electronic Crimes Task Force and Asset Forfeiture Squads. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing global investigations involving network intrusions, data breaches, theft of intellectual property, and other digital and financial threats against the United States’ critical infrastructure. He was also responsible for conducting community outreach initiatives on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, of which the U.S. Secret Service reports under, to the private and public sector communities regarding current and emerging cyber security threats and responses to these threats. Kirk’s career with the U.S. Secret Service spanned over fifteen (15) years where he held positions as a criminal investigator in the field, within headquarters, and on the Presidential Protective Division during the Bush and Obama Administrations.For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Mary Cameli is the fire chief for the Mesa (Arizona) Fire and Medical Department, a Commission of Fire Accreditation International accredited agency. She joined the department in 1983 and has risen through all of the ranks, including serving 11 years as Assistant Chief prior to being selected as Chief in 2016. She is the past president of the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA) and currently serves a Section Chair as the Metro representative for the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association, and Vice Chair of the International Fire Service Training Association Board. She is active in her community as Vice Chair of the Community Bridges Board, past Chair of the Child Crisis Arizona Board, and past President of the Mesa Sunrise Rotary. Chief Cameli holds a master’s degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix and a bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Physical Education from Southern Utah University. She received her credential as a Chief Fire Officer in 2018 and a Certified Public Manager certification from Arizona State University in 2011.For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.orgTo watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.