OFCA #37 Cooper and Welch

Does working fewer hours solve the challenges facing today’s firefighters—or does the conversation need to go deeper? Chiefs Clayton O’Brien and Josh Eberly welcome Dr. Paul Hasenmeier, Public Safety Director and Fire Chief for Hernando County, Florida, to discuss his doctoral research on reduced work hours in the fire service. Drawing on interviews with chief fire officers in the southeastern United States, Paul explores how leaders balance firefighter wellness, operational readiness, training, staffing, and fiscal responsibility. He also shares his experience implementing a 48-hour workweek with Kelly days in his department. The discussion goes beyond the 24/48 versus 24/72 debate to examine a central question: **Are we reducing work hours, addressing workload, or both?** **Discussion Highlights** • **Training and readiness:** How fewer hours on duty can affect training opportunities, incident experience, and skill development. • **Staffing and cost:** Additional personnel, qualified acting officers, and potential increases in overtime during implementation. • **Wellness and recovery:** Why sleep disruption, demanding shifts, and secondary employment remain important considerations. • **Recruitment and retention:** Reduced hours can attract applicants, but leadership, culture, and resources still matter. • **Deployment alternatives:** Additional staffed units, peak-demand EMS coverage, crew rotation, and different shift models. **Key Takeaways** A schedule change requires more than a new calendar. Departments must plan for staffing, training, coverage, funding, and community expectations. Additional time off does not automatically reduce the demands of a busy shift. Examining apparatus and personnel workload can help leaders protect time for training, fitness, meals, and recovery. Reduced work hours should be considered alongside broader wellness efforts, including peer support, exposure reduction, physical fitness, and a supportive work environment. There is no single schedule that fits every department. Local needs and evidence should guide decisions. **Episode Chapters** 00:09 — Meet Dr. Paul Hasenmeier 02:37 — Why he researched reduced work hours 07:46 — The four research themes 14:20 — Reduced hours beyond 24/72 15:49 — Training, experience, and readiness 23:29 — Staffing needs versus workload 28:54 — Apparatus and personnel utilization 34:30 — Economic, political, and labor considerations 45:52 — Who participated in the research 48:27 — Work-life balance and wellness 50:44 — Secondary employment and recovery 54:21 — Exploring shorter shifts 1:06:28 — Recruitment, retention, and culture 1:18:00 — Crew rotation and individual workload 1:21:17 — Balancing wellness and community service 1:28:42 — Paul’s published dissertation 1:35:00 — Final advice *Times follow the supplied transcript and may need adjustment for the final edit.* **Guest Resource** Paul’s dissertation is available as a self-published book on Amazon. Search **Paul Hasenmeier** to locate his research and practical considerations for departments evaluating reduced work hours. *The episode includes research findings and professional opinions. The study examines chief officer perceptions and does not establish a universally preferred schedule or guaranteed outcomes.* Follow the **Triple P Podcast**, the official podcast of the **Ohio Fire Chiefs Association**, and share this episode with your chief officers, training staff, and union leadership.

Promotion changes your title but earning trust and leading your crew takes much more. In this episode of the Triple P Podcast, host Clayton O’Brien sits down with retired Elyria Fire Chief Joe Pronesti to discuss the transition from firefighter to company officer. Drawing on 37 years in the fire service, Joe shares candid stories, hard-earned lessons, and mistakes that helped shape his leadership. From moving from “buddy to boss” to setting expectations, holding consistent standards, and working with senior firefighters, this conversation explores what it takes to lead both in the firehouse and on the fireground. Clayton and Joe also discuss managing frustrated firefighters, keeping ego in check, building relationships with labor, and earning the trust your crew needs when a Mayday occurs. The episode previews Joe’s Ohio Fire Chiefs Association Officer Development Series class on "Transitioning from the back step to the officer’s seat." Whether you’re preparing for promotion, newly promoted, or an experienced officer, this conversation offers practical lessons to bring back to your crew. 🎙️ Triple P Podcast — Premier • Professional • Proactive The official podcast of the Ohio Fire Chiefs Association. #TriplePPodcast #OhioFireChiefsAssociation #JoePronesti #FireServiceLeadership #CompanyOfficer #OfficerDevelopment #Firefighter #FireChief #FirehouseLeadership #LeadByExample #FirefighterSafety #Mayday

In this episode of the Triple P Podcast, we sit down with Paul Combs—internationally recognized fire service cartoonist, speaker, author, artist, and retired firefighter/paramedic. Paul's work has challenged the fire service to think differently about leadership, culture, mental health, firefighter wellness, organizational accountability, and the future of our profession. Through powerful illustrations, compelling artwork, and thought-provoking commentary, he has sparked important conversations across the fire service and beyond. During this conversation, we discuss leadership challenges facing today's fire service, the importance of self-awareness, the role of culture in organizational success, and how honest dialogue can drive meaningful change. Paul shares insights from his decades of experience and offers practical perspectives for chiefs, company officers, aspiring leaders, and firefighters at every level. Whether you're leading an organization, preparing for promotion, or simply striving to be a better firefighter and leader, this episode delivers valuable lessons you can apply immediately. Topics Covered: • Fire service leadership and accountability • Organizational culture and change • Mental health and firefighter wellness • Professional development and growth • Communication and influence • The power of art and storytelling in the fire service • Lessons from a career in public service Learn More About Paul Combs: Paul's website: https://paulcombsart.com/ Art Gallery 317: https://artgallery317.com/ Subscribe to the Triple P Podcast for conversations that help fire service professionals become Premier, Professional, and Proactive leaders. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Penn Care For more than 35 years, Penn Care has been a trusted provider of EMS and public safety solutions, helping agencies deliver exceptional service to their communities. Visit: https://www.penncare.net/ Symtech Fire Symtech Fire provides innovative fire apparatus and equipment solutions designed to support today's fire service professionals. Visit: https://symtechfire.com/ Connect with Triple P Podcast: 👍 Like the video ✅ Subscribe to the channel 🔔 Turn on notifications 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments 📘 Follow us on Facebook 🎵 Follow us on TikTok Leave a review and help us reach more fire service leaders dedicated to excellence in leadership, service, and community trust.

Property tax reform in Ohio is gaining serious momentum, but for fire departments, this isn’t just policy… it’s operational reality. In this episode of the Triple P Podcast, hosts Clayton O’Brien sits down with David Thomas to break down what’s happening at the state level and what it means for fire chiefs, command staff, and departments that rely heavily on levy-based funding. From levy fatigue to proposed reforms that could limit revenue growth, this conversation gets into the real-world impacts and long-term sustainability. If your department depends on property tax funding, this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss. Reach out to Representative David Thomas - Website - https://www.ohiohouse.gov/members/david-thomas Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/friendsofdavidthomas You tube- @davidthomasforohio Tic Tok - David Thomas for Ohio 🔥 In This Episode: What’s driving property tax reform in Ohio The reality of levy fatigue across communities Risks and unintended consequences of reform What fire chiefs should be doing right now 🎯 Who This Is For: Fire Chiefs Command Staff Company Officers Municipal Leaders Anyone involved in fire service funding and policy 🎙️ About Triple P Podcast: Premiere. Professional. Proactive. We focus on real-world leadership, operations, and the issues shaping the fire service today. 👍 Don’t Forget: Like 👍 Subscribe 🔔 Share with your department 🔗 Follow & Connect: You tube- https://www.youtube.com/@UC81WCUfRjY5LAmOjHGbvmEA Tik Toc - @triple.p.podcast Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559937983139 #TriplePPodcast #FireServiceLeadership #FireChief #PropertyTax #OhioFire #PublicSafety #FireDepartment #EMS #LocalGovernment #Levy #HB920 #FireService #Leadership #Firefighter #EmergencyServices

In this episode of the Triple P Podcast, we sit down with James Geering, host of the Behind the Shield Podcast, for a deep dive into one of the most talked-about topics in the fire service today: the 24/72 work schedule. James brings a global perspective shaped by his experience in the fire service and conversations with some of the most respected voices in health, wellness, and performance. Together, we break down the operational realities, cultural resistance, and long-term health implications tied to traditional schedules—and why more departments are seriously evaluating a shift to 24/72. This episode isn’t just theory. It’s a candid, experience-driven discussion on: Firefighter sleep, recovery, and long-term health Recruitment and retention impacts Work-life balance in today’s fire service Cultural barriers to change What departments need to consider before making the transition If you’re a fire chief, union leader, or firefighter thinking about the future of your department, this is a must-listen conversation that challenges the status quo while staying grounded in real-world application. 🔗 Learn more about James and his work: https://www.jamesgeering.com 🎙 Triple P Podcast — Premiere. Professional. Proactive.

In this episode, we sit down with Steve, Dave, and Gina for an honest and engaging conversation about leadership, collaboration, and the realities facing today’s fire service and local government professionals. We discuss what it takes to build strong teams, navigate organizational challenges, and keep people at the center of public service decision-making. From lessons learned to practical takeaways, this episode is packed with insight for fire chiefs, officers, administrators, and anyone committed to serving their community with integrity and purpose. Whether you’re leading from the front office or the fireground, this conversation reinforces why relationships, communication, and trust still matter most.

Join us for a powerful session recorded live at the Ohio Fire & Rescue Officer Development Conference, featuring guest Dr. Johnny Torgelson—aka “Dr. JT”—author of the impactful book Forging Your Team: Demystifying Team Development for First Responders. In this episode of the Triple P Podcast, we dive deep into the fire-service-specific leadership and team-development strategies that Dr. JT has honed through decades of experience. We cover: How to transition from a group of individuals into a high-trust, high-performance team. Practical tactics for fire chiefs and officers on culture-building, empowerment, and relational leadership in the fire-service context. Real-world stories and lessons from Dr. JT’s career—from the U.S. Army, global fire service assignments, entrepreneurial ventures and college leadership roles. How you can enact early wins in your department—leveraging trust, communication, and deliberate leadership—to build momentum and credibility among crews and command staff. Whether you’re a newly minted fire chief, a battalion officer looking to elevate your crew, or a department executive seeking to embed a culture of trust and performance, this episode delivers actionable insight tailored for the fire-service world. 📚 Get the Book: Purchase Forging Your Team here: • Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1593706057 Amazon • Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/forging-your-team-demystifying-team-development-for-first-responders-johnny-torgeson/b0f6bb102e522173 Bookshop 🌐 Visit the Website: For more from Dr. JT (seminars, consulting, free team-resources): https://forgingteams.com/ Forging Teams 📌 Stay Connected: #FireLeadership #TeamDevelopment #FireService #ForgingYourTeam #DrJT #TriplePPodcast #OhioFireConference #FireChief #HighPerformanceTeams Tune in, take notes, and let’s get serious about forging your team. 💪

Dr. David Griffin, a Charleston, South Carolina native, is a nationally recognized leader, speaker, author, and fire service professional whose life was forever changed on June 18, 2007. As the driver of the first engine on scene at the devastating Sofa Super Store fire that claimed the lives of nine Charleston firefighters, David was thrust into a journey of trauma, transformation, and ultimately, purpose. Haunted by survivor’s guilt, Griffin initially spiraled into destructive coping mechanisms including alcohol, painkillers, and professional mixed martial arts fighting. After a punishing bout with UFC veteran Houston “The Assassin” Alexander left him battered and soul-searching, he came to a powerful realization: the path he was on did not honor the legacy of the nine lives lost. That moment became the catalyst for his life’s mission to lead change, challenge outdated systems, and promote healing and resilience among first responders and organizations worldwide. Today, Dr. Griffin holds a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development, a Master’s Degree in Executive Fire Service Leadership, and a Bachelor of Science in Education from The Citadel, where he also played Division I baseball and later coached. He currently serves as the Assistant Chief for the Charleston Fire Department, having held every uniformed rank, and leads the department’s Honor Guard and Mental Health Peer Support Team. He is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer program and has completed executive education at Harvard, Yale, Cornell, and through the IAFC’s Fire Service Executive Development Institute. He is a Certified Fire Officer IV, Chief Fire Officer (CFO), and Chief Training Officer (CTO), and is an active member of the IAFC and the Institution of Fire Engineers (MIFireE). Beyond his fire service career, Griffin’s personal journey is one of grit and resilience. From overcoming doubts as a young athlete to becoming a state bodybuilding champion, professional MMA fighter, marathoner, and Ironman triathlete, he lives what he teaches. He was a rider in the 1,700-mile Brotherhood Ride from Florida to Ground Zero and continues to pursue fitness through boxing, surfing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and more. In 2013, David launched The Find Your Mission Tour, an international movement of leadership, mental health awareness, and cultural reform. Over the last 12 years, he has spoken to more than 1,300 organizations across 47 U.S. states and multiple countries, reaching over 550,000 people in five languages. His audiences include fire and police departments, military units, universities, private companies, and nonprofits. He is also a best-selling author with four published books: In Honor of The Charleston 9: A Study of Change Following Tragedy ACTION: 9 Missions for Personal and Professional Growth From PTSD to PTG: A Firefighter’s (MY) Journey After a Multiple LODD Incident Tattoos and Trauma: The Healing Power of Tattoos for Emergency Responders Griffin is currently working on three new books: I’ll Stand By You, Principled Leadership From The Road Less Traveled, and Handwritten Hope: Poetry and Prose to Cope. His wife, Melissa Griffin, is also an author, having written Inspiration from a Wife on a Mission Following Tragedy, which details the challenges of supporting a partner with PTSD. Dr. David Griffin is living proof that adversity can be transformed into impact. His message is clear: trauma does not have to define you your mission can.

Courtney Hull is the Associate Dean of Fire/EMS Training at Waukesha County Technical College in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, and the founder of Plugged In, LLC, a company focused on leadership and relationship development, communication, and connection in high-stakes environments. A former career Firefighter/AEMT, Courtney transitioned to Fire/EMS education full time in 2010 after teaching part-time since 2007. She holds a master’s degree in training & development and is passionate about shaping the future of emergency services through inclusive, high-quality education. As a classroom leader, Courtney is known for building strong relationships with students, designing creative, engaging lessons that proactively manage classroom dynamics, and providing holistic support to increase student success. Her leadership style is driven by her CliftonStrengths of Learner, Developer, and Relator—she’s energized by helping people grow, learn, and connect with purpose. Courtney’s strategic mindset shines in her ability to rally teams around a shared vision, foster inclusive and engaged cultures, and generate fresh, effective solutions to stubborn challenges. Whether in a classroom, firehouse, or boardroom, she’s committed to developing resilient, high-performing teams that thrive under pressure. Clifton Strengths: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspx Learner, Developer, Relator, Individualization, Analytical https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-hull-aa5b8b73/ Jeremy Blair is a career Battalion Chief with the City of Wauwatosa Fire Department and a seasoned Fire/EMS Instructor at Waukesha County Technical College, where he has been preparing the next generation of firefighters for state certification and real-world service. With 29 years of experience in fire and emergency services, Jeremy brings a grounded, real-talk approach to leadership, communication, and personal development. A dedicated mentor and motivator, Jeremy thrives in every setting—whether leading crews in the firehouse, instructing in the classroom, or presenting in front of a professional audience. He is known for creating learning environments that are practical, engaging, and growth-focused, blending high standards with high support. His leadership is anchored in clear direction, accountability, meaningful feedback, and a deep commitment to helping others reach their potential. Jeremy’s Clifton Strengths—Woo, Communication, Significance, Ideation, and Context—shape his dynamic presence as a speaker. He connects quickly with audiences, delivers messages that resonate, and brings energy, insight, and authenticity to every engagement. Whether he's training future firefighters or inspiring current leaders, Jeremy leaves listeners with the tools and motivation to grow, lead, and make an impact. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jblair6255/ WCTC - https://www.wctc.edu/

This episode we sat down with Lt. Welch and Battalion Chief Cooper of the Findlay Police and Fire Departments. They share their experience in implementing school safety measures against active shooter threats. Email - [email protected]