In this episode of The Chief Exchange, Alec sits down with Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer, of Boise, Idaho, and President of the Western Fire Chiefs Association. Chief Niemeyer shares his unconventional path to leadership, including how a text from the mayor while recovering from surgery led to one of the most pivotal moments in his career. He breaks down the importance of servant leadership, how to sustain culture within a winning department, and why being radically honest—with yourself and your team—is a leadership superpower. Plus, hear the story behind Boise Fire’s feature in a national documentary, his thoughts on when it’s okay to violate policy, and why "the higher you go, the more you owe.