Episode Title: Raising the Standard – Lifeguard Culture, Training & Leadership

Published: April 9, 2025
Guests: Tom Ford | Hosts: Nicole Fairfield & Wes King
Length: 47:58

Episode Overview

In this episode of Navigating Neva, hosts Nicole Fairfield and Wes King are joined by long-time lifeguard trainer Tom Ford to explore what it really means to lead with excellence in the aquatics world.

Together, they take a deep dive into how lifeguard training has evolved, what skills have been lost over time, and what aquatic professionals need to do to raise the standard. Whether you’re a new guard or a seasoned director, this episode offers insight, challenge, and inspiration.

Tom shares personal stories from decades on the stand, including his time guarding lakefronts and his experience training hundreds of guards across the country. Nicole and Wes guide the conversation through key themes: leadership, readiness, responsibility, and rebuilding a strong lifeguard culture.

🔥 What You’ll Learn:

The history and evolution of lifeguard training and rescue equipment

Why modern training sometimes falls short—and how to fix it

How to lead a team with high standards and heart

The emotional and mental side of guarding that often gets overlooked

Real stories that shaped how Tom, Wes, and Nicole approach aquatics today

🎁 Plus:

We announce the winner of our Season 1 giveaway—Nicole is mailing out their prize right after this episode airs!

💡 Key Takeaways:

Lifeguarding isn’t just a job—it’s a responsibility, a calling, and a culture

Leadership starts with modeling the standard, not just enforcing it

Realistic training and strong team dynamics can save lives

Guards need support after critical incidents—mental health matters too

📢 Call to Action:

Loved the episode?
👉 Follow the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with your aquatic crew, manager, or anyone passionate about water safety.

📌 Don’t forget to check out our upcoming event in September where Tom’s aquatic product will be featured!

🎧 Listen Now:

https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1961195.rss

Or Watch: https://youtu.be/abGoNWiUzTo?si=hoY0SDfaxf325Y3-

🔗 Episode Tags:

Media Credits: https://www.instagram.com/zidonstudios/  https://www.facebook.com/ZIDONStudiosX/

Lifeguard Training, Aquatic Leadership, Rescue Skills, Water Safety, Lifeguard Culture, Professional Standards, Navigating Neva, Tom Ford, Nicole Fairfield, Wes King,