Becoming an exceptional volunteer Fire and EMS leader is a life-long journey that embraces continuous learning — not just in the classroom or the field — but also as part of an ongoing quest for leadership innovation, insight, and inspiration.

While we can’t accompany you every step of the way, the resources on this page have been thoughtfully selected by leaders across career, volunteer, and combination Fire and EMS services, as well as our guest instructors. We hope these suggestions keep the flame of your passion for personal development alive and assist you and those you lead as you travel along your leadership path. Many are specifically focused on leadership, while others are pointers to important books, podcasts, conferences, and other resources that you may find helpful.

If your favorite book, podcast, social media account, or training conference isn’t on this list, please feel free to suggest it!

We’re excited to share recommendations for books, social media accounts, blogs, podcasts, TV shows, and other media that our staff and instructors believe will introduce you to thought leaders who will expand, challenge, or even shatter your preconceptions about leadership. While some of these authors, speakers, and content creators hail from the Fire and EMS services, we also showcase leaders from the military, hospitals, and other domains. Their unmatched expertise and profound insights will undoubtedly stimulate your thinking and foster your personal growth.

In order to be a truly effective leader, it is necessary to learn as much as possible from the examples of history—the disasters as well as the triumphs. At Gettysburg, Union and Confederate commanders faced a series of critical leadership challenges under the enormous stress of combat. The fate of the nation hung in the balance. These leaders each responded in different ways, but the concepts and principles they applied during those traumatic three days contain critical lessons for today’s leaders that are both useful and applicable—whether those leaders manage operations at a large corporation, supervise a public institution, lead an athletic team, or govern a state or municipality.

“A Bit of Optimism with Simon Sinek” is a podcast hosted by Simon Sinek, a renowned leadership speaker and author. In this podcast, Sinek shares inspiring stories, insights, and practical advice aimed at helping listeners develop a positive and optimistic outlook on life and work. Through engaging conversations and solo episodes, Sinek explores various topics such as leadership, personal growth, finding purpose, and building strong relationships. The podcast aims to provide a fresh perspective, encouragement, and practical tools to navigate challenges and find fulfillment in both personal and professional spheres. Each episode offers doses of optimism and valuable insights to inspire listeners on their journey of self-discovery and leadership development.

The Art of Clear Thinking takes an in-depth look at the everyday illusions we come across, and how to defeat them once and for all. What makes us jump to conclusions, evaluate incorrectly, and consistently make errors when we should know better? Why do we act against our own interests so frequently? It’s just how we’re wired. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. This book gives you the tools to clear the fog from your eyes and simply think smarter.

“Responder Resilience” is an insightful and empowering podcast that delves into the lives and experiences of frontline responders, such as firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and other emergency personnel. Hosted by experts in mental health and resilience, this thought-provoking series offers a compassionate and candid exploration of the challenges these heroic individuals face while serving their communities. Through captivating interviews and compelling narratives, the podcast highlights the resilience, coping strategies, and emotional well-being of responders, shedding light on the importance of mental health support and self-care within this demanding profession. With a focus on fostering understanding and support, “Responder Resilience” offers valuable insights for both responders themselves and the general public, promoting a deeper appreciation for the often-unseen sacrifices made by those on the frontlines of emergency response.

Dale Carnegie’s book “How to Win Friends and Influence People” is a timeless guide to improving social skills and building meaningful connections. First published in 1936, it offers practical advice on showing genuine interest, remembering names, listening actively, and making others feel valued and appreciated. The book emphasizes the power of empathy, avoiding criticism, and providing sincere appreciation. It also explores techniques for influencing others without arousing resentment and becoming a successful leader. With its enduring wisdom, the book has helped millions of readers enhance their interpersonal relationships and achieve lasting success.

“Come Up for Air: How Teams Can Leverage Systems and Tools to Stop Drowning in Work” is a groundbreaking book that explores the challenges faced by modern teams overwhelmed with work and offers practical strategies to regain control and improve productivity. Authored by industry expert Nick Sonnenberg, the book delves into the complexities of managing multiple tasks, deadlines, and communication channels in a fast-paced work environment. It emphasizes the importance of leveraging effective systems and tools to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and reduce the mental burden on individuals. By providing actionable insights and real-world examples, “Come Up for Air” equips teams with the knowledge and tools to effectively manage their workload, achieve better work-life balance, and thrive in today’s demanding professional landscape.

Brené Brown hosts this podcast based on her best-selling book, “Dare to Lead.” The podcast features conversations with change-catalysts, culture-shifters, and more than a few troublemakers who are innovating, creating, and daring to lead.

“Emotional Intelligence” by Daniel Goleman is a groundbreaking book that explores the importance of emotional intelligence in personal and professional success. Goleman delves into the core components of emotional intelligence, such as self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills, and highlights how these skills can be developed and cultivated. Drawing on extensive research and real-life examples, the book provides valuable insights into how emotional intelligence can enhance relationships, leadership abilities, and overall well-being. With practical strategies and compelling anecdotes, “Emotional Intelligence” offers readers a roadmap to harnessing their emotional intelligence for personal growth and success.

“The Killer Angels” is a historical novel written by Michael Shaara that vividly brings to life the events surrounding the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. Set in the summer of 1863, the book delves into the minds and actions of key military leaders from both the Union and Confederate armies, offering a gripping and intimate portrayal of their motivations, struggles, and the devastating consequences of war. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Shaara illuminates the complexities of leadership, human nature, and the harrowing realities faced by soldiers on the battlefield, resulting in a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most critical turning points in American history.

“The Leadership Moment” by Michael Useem explores pivotal moments that define leadership and have the power to shape lives and organizations. Drawing on real-life examples from a diverse range of leaders, Useem delves into critical situations and decision points where leadership is put to the test. Through engaging narratives, he highlights the importance of courage, resilience, and adaptability in navigating these challenging moments. The book provides valuable insights and practical lessons for leaders at all levels, offering guidance on how to effectively lead through crises, inspire teams, and make impactful decisions. “Leadership Moments” is a thought-provoking read that sheds light on the transformative power of leadership during critical junctures.

The Leadership Under Fire Humanizing the Narrative Podcast (formerly Optimizing Human Performance Podcast) provides a platform to prepare performance leaders to navigate the moral, mental, emotional, intellectual and physical rigors in high-risk and ultra-competitive settings by developing strength of mind, body, character and critical thought. The podcast features guests who are performance leaders in a myriad of industries and explores human performance at the tactical/individual level, the operational/team level as well as the organizational level. The LUF Human Performance podcast endeavors to synthesize ideas, concepts and practices from divergent industries where uncertainty, risk, time-pressure and resource limitations are pervasive, and the consequences of sub-optimal performance are severe.

“Turn the Ship Around!” by L. David Marquet is a captivating account of leadership transformation based on Marquet’s experiences as a US Navy submarine commander. The book challenges traditional hierarchical leadership models and introduces a groundbreaking approach called “leader-leader” instead of “leader-follower.” Marquet shares the inspiring story of how he empowered his crew to take ownership and initiative, fostering a culture of leadership at every level. Through insightful anecdotes and practical guidance, Marquet provides valuable lessons on creating an environment that promotes accountability, innovation, and individual growth. “Turn the Ship Around!” is an engaging and thought-provoking read that offers a fresh perspective on leadership and organizational success.

“The Jocko Podcast” is hosted by Jocko Willink, a former Navy SEAL and co-author of the book “Extreme Ownership.” In this podcast, Jocko delves into a wide range of topics including leadership, discipline, and overcoming challenges. Drawing from his military experiences and extensive knowledge, Jocko shares captivating stories, interviews fellow veterans, and provides practical advice on personal and professional development. The podcast aims to inspire and motivate listeners to take ownership of their lives, embrace discipline, and adopt a resilient mindset. Jocko’s no-nonsense style, along with his emphasis on accountability and self-improvement, makes “The Jocko Podcast” a valuable resource for those seeking to enhance their leadership skills and cultivate a winning mindset.

“Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman is a renowned exploration of the two systems that drive our thinking processes. Drawing on decades of research in psychology and behavioral economics, Kahneman introduces the concept of two cognitive systems: System 1, which operates quickly and intuitively, and System 2, which engages in deliberate and analytical thinking. Through captivating examples and experiments, Kahneman delves into the biases and heuristics that influence our decision-making and judgment. The book sheds light on the interplay between these two systems, providing insights into how they shape our perceptions, beliefs, and choices. “Thinking, Fast and Slow” is a thought-provoking and enlightening read that challenges our understanding of rationality and offers a comprehensive exploration of human cognition.

The TEEX Response Leadership podcast is for anyone looking to add to their leadership toolbox. Each month, we will talk to thought leaders in law enforcement, fire and emergency services, infrastructure and safety, or cybersecurity to gain insights into the challenges leaders face in these disciplines. Not only for those in leadership roles, the podcast is for anyone looking to lead from their current position. New episodes are released on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Visit teex.org/podcast for more information or to read episode transcripts

“Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek delves into the concept of leadership and explores what sets exceptional leaders apart. Drawing on a combination of biology, anthropology, and real-life examples, Sinek uncovers the importance of trust, empathy, and a supportive environment in building successful teams. The book emphasizes the significance of leaders who prioritize the well-being and success of their team members above their own interests. Sinek illustrates how such leaders create a culture of cooperation, trust, and loyalty, leading to higher levels of collaboration, innovation, and overall organizational success. “Leaders Eat Last” offers valuable insights and practical strategies for leaders looking to create an environment where individuals thrive and teams excel.

“Think Again” by Adam Grant is a thought-provoking book that challenges readers to reevaluate their beliefs, assumptions, and decision-making processes. Grant, an organizational psychologist and renowned author, encourages individuals to embrace the art of rethinking in order to foster personal growth and make better choices. Through engaging anecdotes, compelling research, and practical strategies, Grant explores the importance of intellectual humility, open-mindedness, and flexibility in an ever-changing world. He argues that being willing to question and update our perspectives not only leads to greater personal and professional success but also promotes a culture of innovation and progress. “Think Again” serves as a compelling guide for readers to enhance their critical thinking skills and develop a mindset that embraces continuous learning and adaptation.

The Medic Mindset podcast is created and hosted by Ginger Locke, BA, NRP. As an associate professor of EMS Professions at Austin (TX) Community College, she has immersed herself in the art and science of how medics think and perform. In interviews with medics and subject-matter experts, she thoughtfully explores the inner-workings of the minds of medics. Prior to becoming a paramedic, she studied social psychology at the University of Georgia and the University of Leicester, UK. Her professional endeavors revolve around the conviction that the most important and complicated tool in EMS in the brain of the medic.

“Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin presents a powerful and practical framework for leadership based on their experiences as Navy SEALs. The book emphasizes the concept of extreme ownership, where leaders take complete responsibility for the outcomes and results of their teams. Willink and Babin share captivating combat anecdotes and demonstrate how the principles they learned in the battlefield can be applied to various leadership situations. Through insightful lessons, they highlight the importance of discipline, accountability, decisiveness, and humility in effective leadership. “Extreme Ownership” is an inspiring and transformative guide that challenges readers to step up, lead with conviction, and take ownership of their actions for personal and professional success.

“The Work Life Podcast” hosted by Adam Grant is an insightful and engaging audio series that explores various aspects of work, psychology, and organizational culture. Drawing from his expertise as an organizational psychologist, Grant delves into topics such as motivation, teamwork, leadership, and creativity, providing listeners with practical advice and thought-provoking insights. Through interviews with a diverse range of professionals and experts, Grant explores the dynamics of work environments, the challenges individuals face, and strategies for fostering a more fulfilling and productive work life. With his signature blend of research-based knowledge, storytelling, and relatable anecdotes, Grant offers valuable takeaways and actionable tips for listeners seeking to enhance their professional lives and create positive change within their organizations. “The Work Life Podcast” serves as an enlightening and empowering resource for individuals navigating the complexities of work and striving to thrive in their careers.

In “Start with Why,” Simon Sinek explores the concept of purpose-driven leadership and its impact on organizations and individuals. Sinek introduces the powerful idea of starting with the fundamental question of “Why” before addressing “How” and “What.” He demonstrates how great leaders and successful organizations communicate their purpose and beliefs effectively, inspiring others to join their cause. Drawing upon inspiring examples from companies like Apple, Southwest Airlines, and Martin Luther King Jr., Sinek provides compelling insights into the importance of aligning actions with a clear sense of purpose. “Start with Why” is a thought-provoking book that encourages readers to rethink their approach to leadership and discover the transformative power of finding their “Why.”

In the realm of organizational psychology, Adam Grant firmly believes that true brilliance emerges not from uniform thinking, but from the willingness to challenge established notions. Through his podcast, Re:Thinking with Adam Grant, he engages in vibrant dialogues and spirited debates with a captivating array of renowned thinkers, innovators, high achievers, and influential leaders, spanning from Lin-Manuel Miranda and Brené Brown to Mark Cuban and esteemed recipients of Olympic medals, Nobel laureates, and Oscar winners. With a deep dive into their inner workings, Adam embarks on a mission to unearth audacious insights and share remarkable scientific discoveries that have the power to augment our intellectual capacities. Join the captivating journey of Re:Thinking with Adam Grant, where you just might find the inspiration to shed antiquated beliefs and embrace fresh perspectives.

“Left of Bang” by Patrick Van Horne and Jason A. Riley offers a unique perspective on situational awareness and the art of recognizing and preventing threats before they happen. Drawing on the Marine Corps’ Combat Hunter program, the book provides valuable insights and practical techniques for enhancing personal and organizational security. Van Horne and Riley introduce a proactive approach to identifying and analyzing behavioral cues and anomalies that indicate potential danger. By shifting our mindset to the “left of bang” – before an event occurs – we can effectively mitigate risks and improve our ability to prevent and respond to critical incidents. “Left of Bang” is an essential read for individuals interested in honing their observational skills and developing a proactive mindset to enhance personal safety and security.

“The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast” is hosted by John C. Maxwell, a prolific author and leadership expert. In this podcast, Maxwell shares his vast knowledge and insights on leadership principles and practices. Each episode features engaging discussions, interviews with influential leaders, and practical advice to help listeners become more effective leaders in their personal and professional lives. Maxwell covers a wide range of topics, including communication, influence, teamwork, and personal growth, providing actionable strategies and tips for leadership development. With his warm and relatable style, Maxwell imparts wisdom, inspires listeners, and encourages them to make a positive impact in their spheres of influence. “The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast” is an invaluable resource for individuals aspiring to lead with excellence and make a difference in their organizations and communities.

“Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown is a compelling and insightful book that explores the transformative power of courageous leadership. Drawing upon her extensive research and personal experiences, Brown challenges conventional notions of leadership by emphasizing vulnerability, empathy, and wholeheartedness as essential qualities for effective leadership in today’s complex world. Through engaging stories, practical advice, and actionable strategies, she guides readers on a journey to cultivate brave leadership, foster meaningful connections, and create thriving workplaces where individuals can truly bring their authentic selves. “Dare to Lead” is an inspiring and empowering read that encourages individuals at all levels to embrace their unique strengths, navigate difficult conversations, and cultivate the courage to step into leadership roles with authenticity and compassion.

The following list of local, state, national, and online training programs and resources are specifically chosen for their relevance to fire and EMS volunteers. We feature programs and resources that come highly recommended by Fire and EMS leaders and educators we trust, with an understanding that these opportunities can provide tools and knowledge to enhance your leadership skills – and are also excellent resources to share with those you lead. Whether you’re seeking specialized courses, certifications, or valuable insights from experienced professionals, our curated selection will guide you towards the right resources. Empower yourself through these training programs and unlock your full potential as a leader in the Fire and EMS service.

The Virginia EMS Symposium is one of the largest and most comprehensive EMS training events in the country! This five-day training event helps EMS providers fulfill their continuing education needs, with more than 300 classes and various course tracks. These courses are also applicable for nurses and physicians.

The NCS⁴ offers national and international training and certification programs. A partnership with the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service’s (TEEX) National Emergency Response and Recovery Training Center (NERRTC), promotes in-person courses for multi-agency teams preparing for sports and special events. Courses focus on risk management, incident management, evacuation and protective measures, crisis communications, and crowd management. In addition, professional development opportunities are available for all staff levels via the NCS⁴ Learn eLearning platform, and educational degree and certificate programs are provided through the USM’s nationally recognized College of Business and Economic Development.

The Northern Virginia Fire and Rescue Leadership Development Institute (the LDI), was established in 2013 at the direction of the Northern Virginia Fire Chiefs Committee. To address an identified regional gap in leadership development, the Fire Chiefs Committee created a program designed to enhance the region’s fire and rescue leaders’ understanding of the art and science of leadership, as well as the practical application of management techniques and skills.

Annually, the LDI is delivered to approximately sixty company and command-level officers, offering a unique training program critical to succession planning. Historically, the LDI limited participation to students within the fifteen-member jurisdictions comprising the Fire Chiefs Committee. However, in recent years, and as the program has grown in national prominence, select admission opportunities have been made available to students outside of Northern Virginia. By broadening the selection criteria, the LDI continues to refine their curriculum and provides a more encompassing perspective, improving diversity of thought in the learning environment.

Andy Fredericks Training Days is an esteemed annual event that pays tribute to the legacy of Deputy Chief Andy Fredericks and his unwavering commitment to firefighter training and education. This conference brings together firefighting professionals from all ranks to participate in a series of engaging workshops, interactive demonstrations, and thought-provoking lectures. Attendees have the unique opportunity to learn from industry experts, share experiences, and gain invaluable insights into the latest advancements in firefighting tactics and strategies. With a focus on enhancing operational effectiveness and firefighter safety, Andy Fredericks Training Days equips participants with practical skills, critical knowledge, and innovative approaches to mitigate risks and respond to emergencies efficiently. This event serves as a beacon of inspiration and professional development, honoring Deputy Chief Andy Fredericks’ enduring dedication to elevating the standards of training in the fire service.

The FDIC Fire Conference is the premier gathering for fire service professionals, instructors, and industry leaders worldwide. It is a transformative event that offers a comprehensive platform for learning, networking, and innovation in the field of firefighting and emergency response. Attendees have the opportunity to engage in hands-on training, informative workshops, and insightful presentations led by renowned experts. The conference showcases cutting-edge technologies, equipment, and strategies through its dynamic exhibits, enabling participants to stay at the forefront of the industry. With its unwavering commitment to excellence and advancement, the FDIC Fire Conference serves as a catalyst for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the continuous improvement of fire service capabilities. Join us at FDIC to ignite your passion, expand your expertise, and contribute to the collective effort of ensuring public safety.

The Virginia Fire Rescue Conference, organized by the Virginia Association of Fire Chiefs (VAFC), is a premier event that brings together fire service professionals, leaders, and industry experts from across the state. This conference serves as a hub for knowledge sharing, networking, and professional development, offering a diverse range of workshops, presentations, and hands-on training sessions. Attendees have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge firefighting techniques, incident management strategies, and the latest advancements in fire and rescue technology. The conference also provides a platform for fostering collaborations and building relationships among fire chiefs, officers, and firefighters. With its focus on enhancing operational capabilities, promoting best practices, and addressing the unique challenges faced by the fire service in Virginia, the Virginia Fire Rescue Conference is a must-attend event for those dedicated to safeguarding lives, property, and communities.

The Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) is an internationally recognized leader in emergency response training, workforce training and technical assistance. Last year, TEEX served more than 174,000 people from every U.S. state and 109 countries worldwide. Major TEEX programs include Fire and Emergency Services, Infrastructure and Safety, Law Enforcement and Protective Services and Business and Cyber Solutions. Many free training courses are offered throughout the nation each year.

As part of the National Domestic Preparedness Consortium and home to the National Emergency Response and Recovery Training Center, TEEX has also been a leader in homeland security training since 1998, providing federally funded homeland security training and exercises for communities across the nation.

The IAFC Fire Rescue International conference is an annual event that serves as a premier gathering for fire and emergency service professionals from around the world. It brings together firefighters, chiefs, officers, and industry leaders to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation in the field of fire and rescue. The conference offers a dynamic platform where attendees can engage in interactive workshops, insightful presentations, and hands-on training sessions that cover a wide range of topics, including firefighting tactics, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, incident command, and leadership development. With a focus on the latest advancements and best practices, the IAFC Fire Rescue International conference provides a vital opportunity for professionals to stay updated on cutting-edge technologies, equipment, and strategies that enhance their capabilities in protecting lives and property. Moreover, the event also features an expansive exhibit hall, showcasing state-of-the-art firefighting apparatus, tools, and services offered by leading industry providers. This conference serves as an invaluable hub for networking, fostering connections, and building relationships among professionals who share a common passion for preserving public safety and enhancing the effectiveness of fire and emergency services worldwide.

VAVRS brings together the best and brightest in the industry for an unforgettable experience. This conference is not just about continuing education; it’s a celebration of camaraderie, learning, and innovation. Get ready to engage in friendly competitions with agencies from across the state, putting your skills and expertise to the test. But that’s not all – our conference is also a platform for networking and socializing, with exciting social events that foster connections and create lifelong memories. Explore our vibrant exhibition floor, where you can immerse yourself in the latest advancements in fire and EMS technologies, cutting-edge apparatus, state-of-the-art rescue equipment, informative publications, and much more. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to enhance your professional development, forge new relationships, and discover the future of fire and EMS.

Bob Page serves as the statewide CE educator for the Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services. He works in collaboration with the Division of Accreditation, Certification & Education and Local CE Educators across the Commonwealth to provide CAT 1 CE programs to all licensed EMS agencies at no charge.

Mr. Page’s classes include classroom-based education and also high-fidelity simulation and scenario-based trainings that capture real-life situations that Virginia providers will encounter on-scene.

All communication and request for classes through this program must flow through official state government channels.  Bob can be reached via e-mail at: robert.page@vdh.virginia.gov and his OEMS cell phone number is: 804-998-3623.

The VAVRS State Rescue College is an annual event that offers a range of training programs at both basic and instructor levels. The primary objective of the State Rescue College is to enhance the qualifications of emergency service providers in various aspects of basic and specialized rescue services throughout the state. By doing so, the ultimate aim is to elevate the level of patient care provided statewide.

The State Rescue College focuses on training candidates who demonstrate advanced knowledge and leadership skills in specific VAVRS courses, enabling them to become qualified instructors. This process contributes to the improvement of both basic and advanced levels of emergency services across the state. By producing capable instructors, the State Rescue College expands the pool of skilled professionals who can effectively train others in rescue techniques, thereby benefiting the entire emergency service community.

The State Rescue College recognizes the importance of specialized education in promoting the development of well-rounded and productive members within rescue organizations. With this in mind, the VAVRS is dedicated to offering a diverse range of exceptional training programs. These programs cover various areas, including EMT recertification, Operational Medical Director Training, management programs, and technical rescue training. The courses provided align with the most current training course outlines available, ensuring that participants receive the latest knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their respective roles.

NOTE: Please understand that we’re not specifically endorsing any of the resources listed on this page. At the time they were added, they were believed to be of high quality and worth sharing with the larger volunteer Fire and EMS community. If you have concerns about any of the resources listed, please contact us. As always, carefully evaluate every resource to ensure it meets your own expectations for quality and value, and always, always follow guidance, SOPs, and protocols from your own department.