Service, Culture, and the Courage to Evolve: Chief Don Lombardi on Leadership That Lasts

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Don Lombardi of West Metro Fire Rescue reflects on more than three decades in the fire service, including 14 years as Fire Chief. As he prepares to retire, Chief Lombardi shares the hard-won lessons that shaped his leadership—from building a strong organizational culture to navigating grief, growth, and generational change.

From responding to firefighter suicides to creating strategic planning teams that empowered his department, this is a conversation about building something that lasts—through clarity, humility, and a deep belief in the people around you.

🔥 Tune in to hear:

✅ Why early experience as a teacher and coach influenced his leadership style

✅ How West Metro rebuilt morale and trust after losing a ballot measure and downsizing services

✅ What he learned from navigating two firefighter suicides—and how it shaped a proactive mental wellness culture

✅ How strategic planning teams gave West Metro members real ownership and voice

✅ Why succession planning began years before his retirement—and led to an internal-only chief search

✅ What it looks like to lead through legacy, not ego

If you lead in any high-trust profession, this episode is a candid and grounded look at evolving with your organization—and leaving it stronger than you found it.