Vulnerability Is a Leadership Superpower: Lessons from Deputy Chief Scott Booth

What if the strongest thing a fire service leader could do... was be vulnerable?

In this rich and powerful episode of Beneath the Helmet, retired Fire Chief Arjuna George sits down with Deputy Chief Scott Booth to explore the misunderstood strength of vulnerability in fire service leadership. With over three decades of experience, Booth shares his personal story of trauma, resilience, and leadership transformation backed by original research from his Executive Fire Officer (EFO) capstone on vulnerability.

Hear how vulnerability builds trust, boosts team performance, and fosters psychological safety in high-stress environments. From navigating emotional trauma to leading authentically in the firehouse and beyond, this conversation is a masterclass in human-centred leadership.

Subscribe for more authentic conversations that challenge outdated leadership norms and elevate how we care for ourselves and those we lead. Share this episode with a leader who needs to hear that strength doesn’t mean silence—it means showing up as you are.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:59 Meet Deputy Chief Scott Booth

01:10 Scott's Journey in the Fire Service

01:53 Family and Personal Life

03:48 The Importance of Vulnerability

13:37 Defining Vulnerability

19:33 Vulnerability in Leadership

23:58 Challenges and Misconceptions

32:03 Micromanagement vs. Trust

33:55 The Importance of Training Your Replacement

34:42 Building Confidence and Letting Others Shine

36:01 Understanding and Overcoming Cultural Barriers

37:40 The Benefits of Vulnerability in Leadership

38:24 Creating Meaningful Relationships for Mental Health

46:56 Shared Struggles and Team Cohesion

50:39 Outdated Leadership Norms and the Need for Change

56:31 The Future of the Fire Service and Diversity

59:12 Challenges for Different Leadership Levels

01:03:18 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Contact Scott Booth

sbooth@gigharborfire.org

Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)

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