

Tip Of The Spear Leadership Podcast
Michael Nasti
Welcome to the Tip Of The Spear Leadership Podcast. I’m your host Mike Nasti and our goal is to create a movement of strong competent leaders. Our guests will discuss how to lead and flourish by sharing their lessons learned and shared experiencesPlease follow and like on social media.
Instagram: @tip_of_the_spear_leadership
Email: tip.of.the.spear.leadership@gmail.com
Instagram: @tip_of_the_spear_leadership
Email: tip.of.the.spear.leadership@gmail.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 11, 2025 • 49min
#82 "Take Care Of The Job, And It Will Take Care Of You" With Mickey Farrell (NY)
In this conversation, Mickey and Michael discuss the current state of the fire service, emphasizing the impact of social media on perceptions and the importance of maintaining standards and culture within firehouses. They highlight the significance of loyalty, brotherhood, and learning from mistakes, while also addressing mental health issues and the need for strong leadership characterized by humility and character. The discussion underscores that change in the fire service must come from within, focusing on personal accountability and the collective responsibility of firefighters to uphold the integrity of their profession.titlesNavigating the Fire Service LandscapeThe Impact of Social Media on Firefighting"It's the greatest job in the world.""You either get it or you don't.""Change comes from within."Sound BitesChapters00:00The State of the Fire Service and Social Media02:33The Importance of Standards and Culture05:35Loyalty and Brotherhood in the Firehouse08:18The Role of Experience and Mistakes10:59Mental Health and Support in the Fire Service14:05The Influence of Social Media on Perception17:07Character and Leadership in Firefighting19:57The Future of the Fire Service and Change

Jul 28, 2025 • 1h 10min
#81 "Reality and Simplicity" with Tim Anderson (Anderson Rescue Solutions)
In this episode, Tim Anderson from Anderson Rescue Solutions discusses the realities of firefighting, the importance of training, and the design of the Multi-Loop Brushless Strap. He emphasizes the need for simplicity in rescue techniques, shares lessons learned from his time in the Philadelphia Fire Department, and highlights the significance of mental flexibility in high-stress situations. Tim also reflects on the beauty of the fire service and the importance of community and brotherhood among firefightersTitlesRescue Operations: The Reality of FirefightingSimplicity in High-Stress Situations"Simplicity in rescue techniques can save lives.""Mental flexibility is key in emergency situations.""Community and brotherhood in firefighting are vital."Sound BitesChapters00:00Introduction to Special Operations Training02:09The Reality of Firefighting and Mayday Situations05:03Designing the Multi-Loop Rescue Strap09:24Simplicity in Rescue Techniques13:34Real-World Applications and Feedback19:15Lessons from the Philadelphia Fire Department25:31Mental Flexibility in High-Stress Situations34:02Learning from Mistakes and Moving Forward44:44The Beauty of the Fire Service

Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 20min
#80: "A Commander's Intent" with Devon Richio
In this conversation, Devon Richio shares his experiences as a firefighter and leader within the Philadelphia Fire Department. He discusses the challenges faced during firefighting operations, the importance of command presence, and the influence of mentors throughout his career. Richio reflects on the impact of line of duty deaths, the significance of community interactions, and the lessons learned from civil unrest and emergency responses. He emphasizes the need for a strong firehouse culture and the importance of supporting each other in the line of duty.

Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 18min
#79 " From The Sink To The Front Seat" with Paul Hashagen (FDNY)
Key Take Aways:There's a fine line between being a rookie and a leader.Listening is crucial for learning and growth.Proving yourself in the firehouse is essential.Leadership is about maintaining calm in chaos.Experience shapes trust and decision-making.Firehouse culture can include hazing, but it should beconstructive.9/11 significantly impacted firehouse dynamics and morale.Leadership has a ripple effect on the team.Personal power is more effective than positional power.Influential officers can shape the careers of firefighters.Summary:In this conversation, Paul Hashagen shares his journey frombeing a rookie firefighter to a respected leader in the fire service. He emphasizes the importance of listening, learning, and proving oneself in the firehouse. The discussion touches on the impact of 9/11 on firehouse dynamics, the significance of personal power versus positional power, and the ripple effect of good leadership. Hashagen reflects on the lessons learned throughout his career, the value of open communication, and the necessity of preparing forthe unexpected in high-pressure situations.Titles:From Rookie to Leader: A Firefighter's JourneyThe Art of Listening in FirefightingSound Bites:"Your size up is the voices of the other people youhear.""You can make your own luck by being ready.""You want to be able to do that for people."Chapters00:00 The Journey from Rookie to Leader02:42 The Importance of Listening and Learning05:41 Proving Yourself in the Firehouse08:28 Leadership in High-Pressure Situations11:29 The Role of Experience and Trust14:12 Navigating Firehouse Culture and Hazing17:05 The Impact of 9/11 on Firehouse Dynamics19:51 The Ripple Effect of Leadership22:47 Personal vs. Positional Power25:25 Influential Officers and Their Impact28:33 The Importance of Perspective in Leadership31:05 Managing Expectations and Responsibilities34:00 The Value of Open Communication36:32 Lessons Learned from Experience39:21 Preparing for the Unexpected42:07 The Legacy of Leadership44:59 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Service

Jun 9, 2025 • 1h 37min
#78 "Fires That Made Me: Camden Fire (PART 2)" With Bryan Emenecker
In this episode, Bryan Emenecker shares his journey from probationary firefighter to captain in the Camden Fire Department. He discusses the importance of training, the memorable experiences of his first fire, and the critical role of mentorship from experienced officers. Emenecker emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the fire service, particularly in urban environments where challenges abound. He also highlights the significance of sharing knowledge among firefighters to enhance safety and effectiveness on the job. In this conversation, Michael Nasti and Bryan Emenecker delve into the intricacies of urban firefighting, focusing on the importance of experience, mentorship, and leadership. They discuss the role of rescue operations, the significance of continuous learning, and the challenges faced by firefighters in high-pressure situations. Emenecker shares personal anecdotes from his career, emphasizing the need for accountability and the value of effective communication on the fire ground.In this conversation, Michael Nasti and Bryan Emenecker discuss the profound satisfaction that comes from leadership in the fire service, the importance of teamwork, and the continuous learning that occurs throughout a firefighter's career. They explore the dynamics of transitioning into officer roles, the accountability that comes with leadership, and the significance of mentorship and reaching out for support. Emenecker shares personal experiences from his career in the Camden Fire Department, emphasizing the value of relationships and the importance of using the fire service as a resource for growth and development.titlesFrom Probie to Pro: A Firefighter's JourneyFirst Fires and Lasting LessonsThe Role of Mentorship in FirefightingNavigating Urban Fire ChallengesRescue Operations: A Firefighter's PerspectiveBuilding Knowledge: The Importance of ExperienceFirefighting Culture: Earning RespectLearning from the Streets: Real-World TrainingThe Evolution of a Firefighter's CareerInsights from the Fireground: A Conversation with Captain Emenecker"Respect is earned, not demanded.""Every day's a learning process.""The first fire is unforgettable.""Your officer should be like a coach.""Experience is invaluable in firefighting.""Urban fires present unique challenges.""Continuous learning is key in firefighting.""Sharing knowledge is vital for growth.""Look up and look out your windshield.""I was still a young fireman.""You're like a utility player, really.""Experience will always be king.""You should always be cognizant of learning.""You have to own your mistakes.""I wept like a baby watching her get her diploma.""That's what it's all about, dude.""The process of learning never ends.""You should not be ashamed to ask for advice.""Use the fire service as a toolbox.""Don't be afraid to reach out to people."Sound BitesChapters00:00The Journey Begins: Training and Probationary School05:06First Experiences: The Reality of Firefighting10:01Learning from the Field: The Role of Officers14:56Transitioning to Rescue: Career Progression20:07Understanding Urban Fires: Challenges and Insights33:52Urban Rescue Operations: Insights and Experiences38:57The Role of Experience in Firefighting44:58Mentorship and Learning in the Fire Service51:05Transitioning to Leadership: The Academy Experience57:01Ownership and Accountability in Leadership01:07:31The Satisfaction of Leadership01:10:18Understanding Squad Operations01:14:32Transitioning to Officer Roles01:19:06Learning Through Experience01:23:07The Accountability of Leadership01:30:02Returning to Rescue One01:39:35Advice for New Officers

May 28, 2025 • 35min
A Fireman's Side Gig #1: "Brass Tacs" With Jeff Taccarino (NJ)
In this conversation, Michael Nasti and Jeff Tacarino discuss the journey of entrepreneurship within the fire service, focusing on Jeff's creation of Brass Tacks products. They explore the importance of consistency, customer feedback, and the willingness to embrace failure as part of the growth process. The discussion highlights the significance of passion in side hustles and the value of community support in the fire service.Reach Brass Tacs:Instagram: @brass.tacsWeb Shop:https://brasstacs.shop/?srsltid=AfmBOopWSsRncWcpFKfBiSDIWY3JjEpW19BKA5PloiOMVdmGK7KXAJul

May 24, 2025 • 1h 6min
#77 "Fires That Made Me: From The Command Post" with David Polikoff (MD)
In this conversation, David Polikoff shares his extensive experience in firefighting, emphasizing the importance of leadership, communication, and accountability in the fire service. He reflects on defining moments in his career, the significance of maintaining a strong culture within firehouses, and the need for command officers to be present and engaged with their teams. The discussion also covers the challenges of task saturation and the necessity of learning from mistakes to foster growth and trust among firefighters.TakeawaysDavid emphasizes the importance of being prepared for every call, regardless of past experiences.Leadership in the fire service starts at the top and must trickle down to all levels.Complacency can lead to dangerous situations; always treat every call seriously.Effective communication is crucial for accountability on the fire ground.Command officers should not micromanage but instead support their teams.Building relationships with firefighters fosters a positive culture in the firehouse.Mistakes are inevitable; the key is to learn from them and move forward.A good command officer understands the challenges faced by their team.Trust is built through consistent presence and engagement in the firehouse.Leadership is about being human and understanding the needs of your team.Fires That Made Me: Leadership LessonsThe Firefighter's Journey: From Rookie to Chief"Don't hide in your office.""You have to have a command team.""Be human as a command officer."Sound BitesChapters00:00Defining Moments in Firefighting04:34The Importance of Leadership and Culture09:14Expectations and Accountability in Command13:37The Role of Experience in Command Decisions18:25Communication and Adaptability in Crisis23:17The Balance of Authority and Approachability36:01Lessons from the Fire Ground48:21The Importance of Communication in Command57:58Leadership and Accountability in Firefighting

May 19, 2025 • 1h 40min
#76 " Fires That Made Me: Camden Fire" with Bryan Emenecker (Part 1)
In this conversation, Bryan Emenecker, a retired captain from Camden City Fire, shares his extensive experience in the fire service, discussing the evolution of firefighting tactics, the importance of training and experience, and the challenges faced by firefighters today. He emphasizes the need for a balance between traditional methods and modern tactics, the significance of physical fitness, and the impact of leadership on fire culture. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the lessons learned from mistakes and the necessity of mastering the basics in firefighting. In this conversation, Bryan Emenecker shares his extensive experience in firefighting, emphasizing the importance of mastering the basics, effective leadership, and the emotional connections formed within teams. He discusses the adaptability required in changing conditions, the impact of significant fires, and the power of words in leadership. Bryan reflects on the balance between career and family life, urging younger firefighters to love their job while being mindful of their capabilities and responsibilities.

May 15, 2025 • 1h 5min
#75 "Promote The Fire Service, NOT The brand" with John Velez (TX)
summaryIn this conversation, John Velez and Michael Nasti discuss the critical role of social media in the fire service, emphasizing the need to promote the fire service rather than personal brands. They explore the importance of leadership, mentorship, and genuine messaging in creating a positive impact within the community. The discussion also touches on the significance of experience, the concept of the senior man, and the necessity of building relationships to foster influence. They conclude with reflections on the culture of the fire service and the importance of intent behind actions and communicationsTakeawaysSocial media should be used to promote the fire service, not just personal brands.Leadership and mentorship are crucial for new firefighters.Genuine messaging is key to retaining audience attention.Experience in the fire service varies greatly depending on location and circumstances.The concept of the senior man is evolving in modern fire departments.Building relationships is essential for effective mentorship.The starfish analogy illustrates the importance of individual impact.Intent behind actions and communications matters in the fire service.Navigating challenges requires a focus on community and service.A positive fire service culture is built on mutual respect and support.The Impact of Social Media on Fire ServicePromoting the Fire Service: A Call to Action"You either get it or you don't.""The starfish analogy is powerful.""You have to start creating change."Chapters00:00The Role of Social Media in the Fire Service02:31Building a Brand vs. Making an Impact05:36The Importance of Leadership and Mentorship10:42Creating Value Through Genuine Content14:28The Essence of Mentorship in the Fire Service32:57Building Influence Through Relationships35:13The Importance of Self-Reflection37:39Mentorship and Leadership Dynamics39:36The Starfish Analogy: Making an Impact42:34Redefining the Senior Man Concept46:55Experience vs. Tenure in Leadership52:14The Role of Team Dynamics in Success56:20Setting Boundaries and Expectations01:02:04Intent Behind Actions in the Fire Service

May 7, 2025 • 1h 20min