In this episode, Chief Joe Tyler and Deputy Director Monte Manson are joined by Human Resources Manager December Brinsfield to break down everything you need to know about Open Enrollment. With more than 12,000 CAL FIRE employees receiving benefits, there's a lot to consider when it comes to making the right choices for you and your family. We’ll cover key dates, deadlines, and how to submit your paperwork to make changes. Plus, we'll walk you through the tools available to see how different benefit options could affect your paycheck. Whether you’re looking to make updates or just want to stay in the loop, this episode has got you covered with all the essentials for a smooth Open Enrollment process. Full transcript available: https://calfire.box.com/s/q9iahragw141z0ubppyjmiyh23fwj674

In this episode, CAL FIRE’s Director and Fire Chief, Joe Tyler, and Deputy Director Monte Manson discuss CAL FIRE’s soon-to-be-released 2024 Strategic Plan — a comprehensive guide that will shape the future of our department. But what does this plan mean for you as a CAL FIRE employee? Why should it matter to you, whether you’re a first-year Firefighter or the Director of the Department? Join us as we explore how the Strategic Plan isn’t just a document; it’s a call to action. We’ll discuss the pivotal role each one of us plays in driving change and how you can get involved to make an impact on the future of CAL FIRE. Listen now to find out how your efforts today can transform CAL FIRE's tomorrow.

Full transcript available: https://calfire.box.com/s/x2ur215qrtiej3j0hp5s8lh70vkohyzp

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