Show Notes
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.
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