Episode 6: Consistency Builds Trust - CMSgt (Ret.) William Taylor

Episode 12: Leadership, Courage, and Standing Up for Your People | Dr. Dyjuan Washington

In this episode of the Call Sign Chief-1 Podcast, Shanton sits down with Senior Master Sergeant (Ret.) Dyjuan Washington, a retired Air Force firefighter, First Sergeant, and leadership professional whose career was built on service, integrity, and putting people first. From adapting to military life as a young Airman to leading in high-pressure environments around the world, Chief Washington shares lessons learned through experience, adversity, and personal growth. Most importantly, he discusses a defining moment in his career when he chose to stand up against toxic leadership to protect the people entrusted to his care. His story is a reminder that leadership isn't about power, it's about responsibility. LISTEN ON APPLE AND SPOTIFY | WATCH IT ON YOUTUBE Like, Subscribe, and Share

Episode 11: Season 2 Opener | Life, Leadership & Starting Over

In the Season 2 opener of the Call Sign Chief-1 Podcast, Shanton Russell shares personal lessons learned while transitioning from military service into civilian life, relocating from Illinois to Virginia, navigating career changes, and rediscovering purpose beyond the uniform. This episode is an honest conversation about identity, leadership, resilience, and what it truly means to start over while carrying forward the lessons that shaped you. In This Episode: * Transitioning from military service after 30 years * The emotional and professional realities of “starting over” * Why following your instincts matters during major life decisions * The importance of networking and professional reputation * Building new routines after leaving structured environments * Embracing uncertainty and growth * Leadership lessons that apply both in and out of uniform * Learning to work with what you have while building toward something greater Key Takeaways: * “You’re interviewing for your next opportunity every single day” * Leadership doesn’t end when the title changes * Purpose can evolve without disappearing * Growth often begins when comfort ends * Relationships and reputation continue opening doors long after a career transition About the Podcast: The Call Sign Chief-1 Podcast is focused on leadership, growth, mentorship, resilience, and real conversations that inspire people to lead with purpose in every area of life. Hosted by retired Air Force Fire Chief Shanton Russell, the podcast blends lessons from military service, emergency response leadership, personal development, and everyday life. Connect with The Shanton Effect: Website: theshantoneffect.com [http://theshantoneffect.com] Follow on social media: * Instagram: @callsignchief1 * TikTok: @callsignchief1 * LinkedIn: Shanton Russell New season. New chapter. Same mission.

Episode 10: Mental Health is Part of Your PPE | Featuring Carol-Ann Cerkan (Season Finale)

Mental health isn't separate from the job. It's part of it. In this season finale of Call Sign Chief-1, we tackle one of the most important conversations in emergency services: breaking the stigma around seeking help and building real resilience. I’m joined by Carol-Anne Cerkan, a Licensed Professional Counselor and trauma specialist, who brings powerful insight into what positive mental health looks like for first responders and why this population deserves more focused support. This episode challenges outdated mindsets, reinforces that seeking help is a responsibility, not a weakness, and provides practical ways to take care of yourself and your people. If you or someone you know needs help, visit www.theshantoneffect.com/mental-health-advocacy [http://www.theshantoneffect.com/mental-health-advocacy] for a list of resources. You don't have to carry it alone. VIEW, LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE on YouTube @TheShantonEffect Listen on Apple and Spotify!

Episode 9: In Kindness & In Health

Episode 9: In Kindness & In Health In Episode 9, I reflect on three recent encounters that reminded me why kindness and professionalism still matter. I also share my recent colonoscopy experience during Colon Cancer Awareness Month and why taking care of yourself is part of leadership too. This episode is a reminder that how we treat others matters, and so does how we take care of ourselves. VIEW, LIKE, and SUBSCRIBE on YouTube @TheShantonEffect Listen on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast channel.

Episode 8: Lessons From The Second Seat - SMSgt Justin Fellure (Deputy Fire Chief)

In Episode 8 of the Call Sign Chief-1 Podcast, Chief Shanton Russell sits down with Senior Master Sergeant Justin Fellure, Deputy Fire Chief with the 87th Civil Engineer Squadron at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, to discuss powerful leadership lessons from the “second seat.” Justin shares his journey from growing up in Jacksonstown, Ohio, to building a successful career in the United States Air Force fire service. In this conversation, we explore leadership, mentorship, firefighter training, and the critical role deputy leaders play in supporting the mission and developing teams. Justin and Chief Russell also reflect on their deployments together to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, and the leadership lessons learned in high-tempo operational environments. This episode is packed with insights for firefighters, military leaders, and anyone developing their leadership skills. Topics include: • Leadership from the second seat • Fire service training and readiness • Mentorship and developing firefighters • Military leadership lessons • Building trust within teams 🎙 Episode 8 – Lessons From The Second Seat