Women's History Month may be over, but our recognition of the countless contributions made by women throughout CAL FIRE continues.

In this episode, Windy C. Bouldin, Deputy Director of the CAL FIRE Office of Program Accountability, sits down with Chief Tyler and Monte Manson. With decades of service to CAL FIRE, Windy shares her wealth of experience and insights as a leader within the administrative side of the department, as well as offering her unique perspectives and observations on being a woman in a leadership role. Windy also shares her passion for her pioneering work on the R.V.E.T.S. (Returning Veterans: Enlisting Their Skills for CAL FIRE Service) program. Through her dedication and vision, R.V.E.T.S. has not only provided opportunities for returning Veterans, Service Members, and their families but has also enriched CAL FIRE with their diverse skills and experiences.

You won't want to miss this inspiring conversation as Windy shares her remarkable journey.

Full transcript available: https://calfire.box.com/s/78zy8gt417jguftiz3gml8xtir2lknwd

Joining Chief Tyler and Deputy Director Monte Manson is Fire Captain Paramedic Shavawn Johnson from the CAL FIRE San Diego Unit. Captain Johnson offers a glimpse into her journey which began after a serendipitous encounter with a female firefighter set her on the path to a career of service and sacrifice. In this candid conversation, Captain Johnson not only highlights some of the challenges faced by women in firefighting but also offers valuable perspectives on ways to address and overcome them.

Don't miss this compelling discussion as Fire Captain Paramedic Shavawn Johnson provides insights into the realities, experiences, and triumphs as a member of CAL FIRE's dedicated firefighting team.

Full transcript available: https://calfire.box.com/s/i5gxtnks9kq3bksrjl13xf4bu85myov6

In recognition of Women's History Month, Chief Tyler and Monte Manson talk with CAL FIRE Deputy Director Serena Ortega. Delving into her 15-year tenure with CAL FIRE, they discuss her deeply-embedded drive to advocate for and support others, and her exceptional leadership in the ongoing development of CAL FIRE's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) efforts.

You won't want to miss this inspiring conversation with one of the Department's leaders in driving positive change within CAL FIRE's workforce.

Full episode transcript available: https://calfire.box.com/s/qfzkacwj219ntdmqo37fofoem63t9hy6

In this special bonus episode, Chiefs Tyler and Sjolund take a deep dive into the remarkable history of CAL FIRE's Aviation Program.

Learn about the pivotal moments that laid the foundation for what would become a world-renowned program. Discover the evolution of CAL FIRE's aviation capabilities, tracing the trajectory of technological advancements and strategic innovations that have propelled the program to the forefront of firefighting excellence.  

The story of CAL FIRE's Aviation Program is one of continuous adaptation and unwavering dedication to protecting communities and landscapes.

Full episode transcript: https://calfire.box.com/s/0ndvvudkjkqqfgdji6aitdzytk4wvrs4

We take a deep dive into CAL FIRE's globally acclaimed aviation program. With the largest civil fleet of aerial firefighting equipment on the planet, this program has been a beacon of hope in times of wildfire crises. Chief Tyler and Chief Sjolund reveal how cutting-edge technology is shaping the future of aerial firefighting. From training simulators to a well-established drone program we'll uncover how innovation is making our skies safer and our firefighting efforts more effective. Join us for an engaging and informative discussion on the present and exciting future of CAL FIRE's aviation program. Whether you're a fire enthusiast or simply curious about aerial firefighting this episode is not to be missed!

Full episode transcript available: https://calfire.box.com/s/3rba6q9rjw7dmnl4xen2wm6qzmpq0flc

Chief Tyler takes us on a journey into the inner workings of the department as we embark on the development of the 2024 Strategic Plan. Chief Tyler emphasizes the critical importance of ensuring that employees' voices are not only heard but actively integrated at all levels of the organization.

Throughout the episode, Chief Tyler reflects on the accomplishments and milestones achieved through the 2019 Strategic Plan, offering a glimpse into the department's past successes. However, the discussion doesn't stop there; Chief Tyler candidly shares his perspective on the challenges that lie ahead.

Join us for a compelling conversation that highlights the significance of collaboration, transparency, and employee engagement in shaping the future of this dynamic organization. Whether you're a member of the department or simply interested in effective strategic planning, this episode provides valuable insights and food for thought on fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation.

Full transcript available at: https://calfire.box.com/s/9uahk9vswhuigp6ees9n4vmtttgbem79

In this engaging and insightful podcast episode, hosted by Monte Manson, the Deputy Director of the Professional Standard Program, listeners are granted an exclusive glimpse into the world of CAL FIRE. Monte Manson sits down with CAL FIRE Director and Fire Chief, Joe Tyler, to explore the motivations behind the department's podcast, reflect on Chief Tyler's impactful first year and a half in his dual roles, and dive into the successes and challenges that have marked his tenure.

Chief Tyler shares candidly about the issues that keep him awake at night, drawing attention to the pressing concerns that shape CAL FIRE's operations and its commitment to safeguarding the state's natural resources and communities. With a dedicated workforce of over 12,000 employees, Chief Tyler underscores the importance of conveying his key messages to the CAL FIRE team, highlighting the collective vision and values that drive their mission. This episode offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into the world of firefighting leadership and the critical work performed by CAL FIRE in California.

Download a full transcript of this episode.