The Commute

The Commute

Leadership lessons, observations, and reflections from the road ahead.

The Fire Hazard We Brought Home

Oct 7, 2026

•

5 min read

The Fire Hazard We Brought Home

A Fire Prevention Week reflection on lithium-ion batteries

Shanton Russell
Shanton Russell
We’re Still Called The Fire Department

Sep 28, 2026

•

7 min read

We’re Still Called The Fire Department

Fire accounted for just 4% of reported fire department runs during the first half of 2026. The number says a lot about what the modern fire service has become.

Shanton Russell
Shanton Russell
The Fire Has Changed

Sep 18, 2026

•

6 min read

The Fire Has Changed

Lithium-ion batteries are changing the fire environment and reminding us why the fire service must never stop learning.

Shanton Russell
Shanton Russell
The Man Who Cleared The Way

Sep 10, 2026

•

4 min read

The Man Who Cleared The Way

Remembering Matt Suhey, and a lesson about the people who make greatness possible.

Shanton Russell
Shanton Russell
Looking Back, Moving Forward

Aug 24, 2026

•

4 min read

Looking Back, Moving Forward

Reflections on service, change, and the importance of taking a break.

Shanton Russell
Shanton Russell
Before We Get Rolling...Thank You!

Jul 16, 2026

•

2 min read

Before We Get Rolling...Thank You!

Before we hit the road this week, I want to say thank you. I was genuinely excited to see new passengers climb aboard after the first edition of The Commute. Whether you found it through The Shanton Effect website, social media, or someone who shared it with you, I truly appreciate you taking the time to join me on this journey. One of my goals for The Commute is to make it feel less like a newsletter and more like a conversation. I’ll do my best to keep these reflections interesting, practical, and worth a few minutes of your time without overwhelming your inbox. I’d also love to hear from YOU! If there’s a leadership topic, a life lesson, a challenge you’re working through, or even a question you’d like me to explore in a future edition, don’t hesitate to reach out. Some of the best conversations begin with a simple question, and your ideas may inspire a future stop along the route. Thanks again for riding along. I’m glad you’re here. Now, let’s get on the road.- Shanton

Shanton Russell
Shanton Russell
Load more