This chapter presents the theory of independent mindedness, which explains how particular combinations of communication traits (i.e., argumentativeness, verbal aggressiveness, and communicator style) optimize or harm efficient communication exchange among collaborators. The chapter demonstrates the importance of argumentativeness, or the ability to articulate and defend a specific position on controversial issues, and approaches, such as crew resource management, because they enable members of interprofessional teams within prehospital healthcare to speak up and to hear the alternative perspectives of others. Empirical studies confirm the importance of independent minded communication for increased efficiency, improved hand-off communication accuracy, and lower rates of medical error. The chapter concludes with an analysis of how these communication exchanges play out in the context of rural first responder networks.