Behind The Shield

Author: James Geering

Bringing the greatest minds in mental and physical wellness to the men and women who serve our communities.
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Language: en

Genres: Fitness, Health & Fitness, Mental Health

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Sam Greif (How Plano Became the First Texas Fire Department to go to the 24/72 (42 Hour) Firefighter Workweek) - Episode 1142
Episode 1142
Sunday, 28 September, 2025

Sam began his career as a paramedic in 1982. In 1985 he joined the Fort Worth Fire department as a firefighter where he worked his way up through the ranks to assistant chief of operations. He retired after 30 years of service. In June 2015, after an extensive nationwide search, Sam was selected as the Fire Chief for the City of Plano a position he held for more than six years.We discuss his journey into the fire service, the increasing call volume, firefighter health, why they opposed the 48/96, how humility and communication forged a successful push for a 24/72 (42 hour) shift schedule, the potential financial savings, their four year implementation plan and so much more. Sam has served on numerous boards and committees at the state and national levels. He is currently the Chairman of the International CAD Consortium, Chairman of the Terrorism and Homeland Security Committee for the International Association of Fire Chiefs and is a past chairman of the Medical City Plano Board of Trustees. In addition, he served eight years on the Tarrant County 911 Board of Managers. Sam is a graduate of Leadership Plano's Class 35 and is a member of the Plano Rotary Club. He is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.