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In Part 1 of this three-part series, host John Scardena talks with Jim Balthazar, a seasoned law enforcement and emergency management professional, about the realities of leadership in the field.Jim shares insights from his decades of service with the ATF, including his years on the Special Response Team and his work with ESF-13 operations at headquarters. After retiring, he moved into faith-based security leadership in Tampa and continues to support the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office in emergency management.Topics Covered in Part 1
- From law enforcement to emergency management — the challenges of shifting from tactical response to strategic leadership, and how learning ICS reshaped Jim’s perspective.
- Leadership lessons from the field — humility when joining new teams, the importance of listening before leading, and the risks of trying to “leave your mark” too quickly.
- Uvalde school response — a case study in leadership breakdowns, communication failures, and the importance of urgency when lives are on the line.
- Integrating outside expertise — why agencies benefit from new perspectives, and how Pasco County has successfully blended law enforcement with emergency management professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Strong leaders balance tactical expertise with strategic vision.
- Communication and coordination are essential in complex incidents.
- Culture matters — new leaders should observe and earn trust before making changes.
- Training and readiness determine how effectively teams perform under pressure.
Part Two: Charlie Kirk, Schools, & Mitigation
Part Three: Church Security
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