HC Leadership Podcast : Forged in Fire Led with Purpose

Discernment: The Missing Link Between Instinct and Wisdom in Leadership

In this episode of the HC Leadership Podcast, Kyle and Kerry dive deep into the often overlooked leadership skill of discernment, the ability to integrate intuition, analysis, values, and experience to make wise decisions. They unpack why discernment is more than quick judgment, how it differs from both gut instinct and data-driven analysis, and why it is essential for building trust, avoiding reactionary mistakes, and leading with clarity. Through real-world examples from the fire service, parenting, and organizational leadership, they highlight the challenges of slowing down in a fast-paced world, the role of humility in decision-making, and practical ways leaders can sharpen their discernment. If you’ve ever wondered how to move beyond reacting and start leading with wisdom, this episode will give you the tools and challenges to start practicing discernment in every aspect of life.

Quiet Strength: Leading with Influence Without the Spotlight

In this episode of the HC Leadership Podcast, hosts Kyle and Kerry explore a counterintuitive truth: effective leadership doesn’t require the loudest voice in the room. Drawing from experiences in the fire service, military, and beyond, they discuss how quiet, observant leaders build trust, influence others, and drive real change. From navigating strong personalities in meetings to empowering teachers and employees, this episode uncovers the power of listening, vulnerability, and presence in leadership. Learn how to lead with calm, confidence, and authenticity—because true leaders don’t need the spotlight; they create the stage for others to shine.

The Art of Coasting: Finding Balance in Leadership

In this candid episode of the HC Leadership Podcast, Kyle and Kerry explore a topic often overlooked in leadership conversations: the value of coasting. Not all seasons of leadership require maximum effort. Sometimes, stepping back, giving yourself grace, and letting others step up can be the most strategic move. They discuss the importance of recovery, creative outlets, and prioritizing personal life while maintaining professional growth. Listen in as they share personal stories, practical insights, and encouragement for leaders navigating the balance between drive, self-care, and purpose.

Stripping Away the Mask – Leading with Authenticity

In the debut episode of the newly rebranded HC Leadership Podcast, Kyle and Kerry take listeners on a deep dive into what it means to lead authentically. After three years as Heat of Command, they open a new chapter—one that reaches beyond the firehouse to explore leadership lessons from every industry and walk of life.They unpack the challenges of shedding the “mask” that culture, profession, and insecurity often force us to wear, and why authenticity isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of true leadership. From Carl Jung’s ideas of persona and shadow, to raw stories of failure, identity struggles, and growth, Kyle and Kerry challenge listeners to step into discomfort, confront blind spots, and embrace the hard road of self-reflection.This episode sets the tone for the future of the podcast: real conversations, raw truths, and leadership forged in fire, led with purpose.

The Leader You Were Can’t Take You Where You’re Going

In the final episode of this season, Kyle and Kerry take the gloves off and talk about what most leaders won’t: you can’t lead forward while clinging to who you used to be.This is a no-frills conversation about the hard truth of transformation. Real leadership requires shedding old armor, unlearning habits that used to work, and facing the pain of becoming someone new. You’ll hear about the resistance that shows up when you try to grow, the backlash from those who liked you better when you were smaller, and why most people quit before they ever change.But it’s also a call to keep going—to grow anyway. To stand by those who are in the fight. And to remember that becoming a better leader often means becoming a more honest, broken, and resilient human first.If you're not uncomfortable, you're not growing. And if you're not growing, you're just playing dress-up with a title.