Episode 8: Carlene York APM, Retired Commissioner, NSW State Emergency Service

Episode 8: Carlene York APM, Retired Commissioner, NSW State Emergency Service

This conversation with Carlene explores how she leads with trust, steady guidance and genuine care for the people around her. She reflects on the experiences that shaped her approach to leadership, the moments that challenged her, and the values that continue to anchor her. As she talks, she shares stories about the moments that influenced her, the environments that taught her resilience, and the quiet, consistent habits that help her show up with clarity and integrity. What emerges is a portrait of leadership that is grounded, intentional and deeply human, the kind that grows from lived experience and a genuine commitment to others.

Episode 7: Rev Dr Mark Layson, Researcher & Disaster Leadership Practitioner.

This conversation stayed with me long after we stopped recording. Rev Dr Mark Layson CESM MAIES [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-layson/] brings an extraordinary blend of research, chaplaincy and lived experience to the realities of moral injury, psychosocial risk and the cultural pressures carried by people in emergency roles. What unfolded between us was not just an exploration of systems and stressors, but a deeply human dialogue about courage, compassion and the quiet toll this work can take. Mark speaks with a gentleness that invites honesty, and a clarity that challenges us to rethink how we support the people who show up when everything else is falling apart. This episode is for anyone who wants to understand the emotional truth of our sector and the leadership required to protect the hearts and minds of those who work in emergencies.

Episode 6: Mike DeGrosky, Former Chief Fire Protection Bureau, Montana USA.

If you’ve ever wondered what leadership feels like behind the scenes, this episode is for you. In Episode 6, I sit down with Mike DeGrosky for a powerful conversation about leading under pressure — the decisions, the emotions, the integrity, and the humanity behind it all. Mike brings rare insight and humility as we unpack what it means to show up for people when it matters most. It’s honest, thoughtful and full of the kind of wisdom you only get from lived experience.

Episode 5: Angela Whillas, former Deputy Group Officer CFS, SA.

In this powerful conversation, Angela opens up about the confronting reality of being a witness in a coronial investigation — a silent stressor faced by so many in emergency services after catastrophic events. Angela shares a thoughtful, deeply human perspective on what it’s like when everything feels out of your control: processing the fire and devastation, trying to reconnect with your team, your community, your friends and family, all while being treated as an isolated individual in a system that overlooks the importance of your network. Her honesty, courage, and vulnerability make this an episode you won’t forget. Listen now and sit with a story that deserves to be heard.

Episode 4: Fabio Silva, Coordinator National Decision Support Unit, undertaking a PHD, Portugal.

A grounded, generous conversation with Fabio Silva from Portugal, on leading through complexity, communicating risk with clarity, and staying human in high‑pressure environments. Episode 4 cuts through the noise and gets to the real work of communicating leadership in a changing climate.