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    Disaster Tough Podcast

    The Disaster Tough Podcast is for emergency managers, by emergency managers. We share stories, lessons learned, and tips to help you make informed decisions. Our host, John Scardena is a former Federal Emergency Response Official with Type 1 response experience. He now leads Doberman Emergency Management, from which this is being recorded. Our guests are also field experts who provide their insights in our conversation based podcast.
    Discussions with emergency managers revolve around the entire disaster life-cycle. We provide solutions based on training and backed by data. We share experiences of emergency response and identify the lessons learned through our own version of after action reporting. This is conversation mode activated. We are known for flipping from serious to humor without warning. Try to keep up in our weekly podcasts!
    About Doberman Emergency Management. We provide customized plans, mitigates hazards, delivers training, and supplies emergency products to meet the unique needs of clients. We identify and solve the Nation’s most complex incidents. That’s our job.
    enThe Readiness Lab187 Episodes

    Episodes (187)

    DTP Season 4 #166 Leading the “A” Team of Animal Care In Disaster Interview with Susan Anderson of ASPCA

    DTP Season 4 #166 Leading the “A” Team of Animal Care In Disaster Interview with Susan Anderson of ASPCA
    Listen, Watch, & Support DTP: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    #emergencymanagement #disastertough #leadership #mentorship #education #emergencyservices #ASPCA #animalrescue

    One of the main purposes of Emergency Management is to protect life, property, and continuity of operations in time of disaster. When it comes to protecting life, that purpose isn’t limited to people, but animals as well, particularly pets.

    Susan Anderson is at the forefront of that effort as Director of Disaster Response for the ASPCA.

    With multiple years of experience in local government and animal welfare, Susan has a unique perspective on how to handle issues and concerns relating to animals in times of disaster response.

    In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, Susan shares experiences of the ASPCA’s response efforts during recent real life disasters. It also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the ASPCA Disaster Response or “A” team, and other organizations when properly taking care of animals in time of crisis.

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4 #165 Big News - Bigger Ideas with John, Zack, and Prescott

    DTP Season 4 #165 Big News - Bigger Ideas with John, Zack, and Prescott
    Listen, Watch, & Support DTP: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    #emergencymanagement #disastertough #leadership #mentorship#education #emergencyservices

    John Scardena introduces Prescott Nadeua as our newest pocaster on The Readiness Lab. His show will be entitled, “Life, Fire, Layout.” Zack Borst from EM Weekly joins us on the show to catch up and chat all things podcasting and emergency management response for dynamic populations, training and certification. We are excited for the next course here in St. Louis! Major Endorsements:

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4 EP#164 You Should Never Compromise This.

    DTP Season 4 EP#164 You Should Never Compromise This.
    Listen, Watch, & Support DTP: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    #emergencymanagement #disastertough #leadership #mentorship #emergencyservices

    --- The podcast episode begins by acknowledging the flooding in Vermont and encouraging support for the affected communities. Exciting announcements are made, including an upcoming webinar on emerging technologies and hurricane response, emphasizing the importance of interoperability and technology in assisting emergency managers and responders. The episode then discusses the significance of coordination and collaboration among security professionals, highlighting the need for effective crowd management and maintaining a balance between situational awareness and overreactions. The importance of instilling a sense of safety and hope in the public is emphasized. Finally, the concept of compromise is explored, stressing the need to uphold integrity and not compromise on life-saving emergency management practices. Listeners are encouraged to engage in discussions and share their experiences to create positive spaces within the emergency management community. Topics covered include disaster response, emerging technologies, collaboration among security professionals, crowd management, and the importance of integrity. Major Endorsements:

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4, EP #163 How to Avoid Burnout in Emergency Management

    DTP Season 4, EP #163 How to Avoid Burnout in Emergency Management
    Listen, Watch, & Support DTP: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    #emergencymanagement #disastertough #leadership #mentorship#education #risinggeneration #emergencyservices

    ---
    To avoid burnout and ensure effective emergency management, it is crucial to prioritize innovation, branding and messaging, and additional support. Embracing innovative technologies and mitigation strategies within emergency management processes can streamline operations, reduce workload, and enhance response capabilities. Staying updated with building codes, policies, and best practices is essential to ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks. By proactively incorporating new technologies and staying informed about industry advancements, emergency managers can alleviate stress and prevent burnout.

    Effective branding and messaging also play a pivotal role in emergency management. Clearly defining the mission, values, and objectives of emergency management efforts helps establish a strong brand identity. Consistent and targeted communication strategies enable emergency managers to effectively engage with the community, build trust, and disseminate important information during crisis situations. By cultivating a strong brand image and employing strategic messaging techniques, emergency managers can enhance public awareness, improve preparedness, and reduce the burden of constantly searching for new stakeholders and resources.

    Furthermore, seeking additional support through expanding the emergency management team or collaborating with contractors can significantly alleviate burnout and enhance overall performance. Building a diverse and skilled team with specialized expertise enables emergency managers to delegate tasks, share responsibilities, and effectively respond to emergencies. Engaging contractors or partnering with external organizations can provide additional resources and expertise during peak periods or complex emergencies. By fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment, emergency managers can prevent burnout, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and ensure sustainable emergency management practices.

    In summary, to avoid burnout in emergency management, it is crucial to prioritize innovation, branding and messaging, and additional support. Leveraging innovative technologies and mitigation strategies can enhance response capabilities and reduce workload. Implementing effective branding and messaging techniques helps establish a strong brand identity and engage stakeholders. Seeking additional support through team expansion and contractor collaboration provides valuable assistance and promotes a supportive work environment. By adopting these strategies, emergency managers can effectively manage crises, maintain their well-being, and ensure the resilience of their emergency management efforts.Major Endorsements:

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com
    Disaster Tough Podcast
    enJune 21, 2023

    DTP Season 4: Ep #162 From Churchill Downs to University of Kentucky - Organizational EM with Sarah Razor

    DTP Season 4: Ep #162 From Churchill Downs to University of Kentucky - Organizational EM with Sarah Razor
    Listen, Watch, & Support DTP: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    #emergencymanagement #disastertough #leadership #mentorship#education #risinggeneration #emergencyservices

    ---

    From racehorses to Wildcats, the Emergency Management journey of Sarah Razor has been a unique one.
    After starting her career with internships in government and higher education, Sarah changed course and headed over to one of the most famous sporting venues in the country and home of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs Racetrack, joining their Emergency Management Department as an Security Intern in 2019.
    After moving her way up to Security Manager in 2022 and serving in that role for the past 18 months, Sarah has recently returned to the world of higher education, accepting a role at the University of Kentucky Campus Police Department as the Crisis Management and Resiliency Advisor.
    In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, Sarah talks about her experiences in Emergency Management and security for a major sports venue and how to keep people not only entertained but safe as well. She and host, John Scardena discuss the importance of fulfilling that mission by being a "Swiss Army Knife" when it comes to one's capabilities as an Emergency Manager. Sarah also talks about how she now plans to help keep students safe while learning at the University of Kentucky.

    3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4: Ep #161 How to land a job: The Do's and Don'ts of Job Hunting

    DTP Season 4: Ep #161 How to land a job: The Do's and Don'ts of Job Hunting
    Listen, Watch, & Support DTP: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    #emergencymanagement #disastertough #leadership #mentorship#education #risinggeneration #emergencyservices

    ---

    In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, I shared valuable insights and advice on how to improve your chances of getting hired in the emergency management field. Drawing from my own experiences and conversations with industry professionals, I highlighted five key areas to focus on. Employers often include tests or specific instructions in job postings to filter out candidates who haven't thoroughly read the requirements. By demonstrating your attention to detail and following instructions, you increase your chances of landing an interview. By focusing on these five areas—being open to new opportunities, overcoming excuses, embracing challenges, setting priorities, and paying attention to details—you can significantly enhance your prospects of getting hired in the emergency management field. Don't shy away from taking risks, attending conferences, and getting in front of industry professionals. Remember, there are numerous exciting job opportunities available, so keep searching, stay proactive, and always be ready to say yes to the next step in your career journey. If you need further guidance or have questions about job hunting in emergency management, feel free to reach out to me via LinkedIn, Instagram, or email. Good luck in your job search! Major Endorsements:

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com
    Disaster Tough Podcast
    enJune 07, 2023

    DTP Season 4: Ep #160 Emergency Medical & Emergency Management: with Portland's Expert Paramedic, Jake Shores

    DTP Season 4: Ep #160 Emergency Medical & Emergency Management: with Portland's Expert Paramedic, Jake Shores
    Support our podcast: www.thereadinesslab.com.dtp-links

    Sign up for Emergency Management Response for Dynamic Populations: www.thereadinesslab.com/dynamic-populations

    Jake, who works in AMR (American Medical Response) in Portland, shares his perspective on the integration of emergency medicine and emergency management. He emphasizes the importance of transportation in emergencies and the need for better cohesion between EMS and emergency management.

    Jake discusses his experience working in AMR for over 13 years and obtaining a degree in emergency management. He highlights the integration of EMS and emergency management through tabletop and full-scale exercises. He mentions his role as the go-to person for AMR in the Portland region, serving a population of close to 2 million people.

    Jake also addresses the challenges faced during wildfires and emphasizes the value of building relationships through shared meals and treats to foster collaboration between EMS and emergency management.

    The conversation shifts to discussing quality control and identifying gaps in emergency management. Jake suggests that EMS and emergency management need to engage in casual environments and actively seek each other out to better integrate and plan together. He shares examples of building relationships through community events and barbecues, stressing the importance of spending time together and exchanging business cards before major events. The discussion concludes with the mention of dynamic populations and the value of training experiences that go beyond traditional emergency management courses, as Jake highlights the importance of
    training and its impact on understanding and data-driven decision-making.

    Major Endorsements:

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4 #159 Going Above & Beyond with Responder Tech - Interview with Blake Resnick, CEO of BRINC Drones

    DTP Season 4  #159 Going Above & Beyond with Responder Tech - Interview with Blake Resnick, CEO of BRINC Drones
    Support our podcast: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    Developments in technology are usually driven by the desire to make processes and life, in general, more effective.
    The efforts of today's guest in the Disaster Toug Podcast, Blake Resnick, are no exception.
    Blake is the Founder and CEO of BRINC. In the short period of six years, BRINC drones have been deployed by over 250 public safety agencies around the world with the purpose of initiating contact with victims of disaster, and in doing so, saving the lives of both the victims themselves, and the emergency responders who would normally put themselves at risk in an effort to find those victims.
    Some of the disasters in which BRINC Drones have been utilized for this purpose include the Surfside Building Collapse in 2021, the recent earthquake in Turkey, along with the current crisis in Ukraine, and many others.
    Blake's idea to find a way to better utilize technology for emergency response dates back to the 2017 mass shooting at a concert in his hometown of Las Vegas. During that incident, there were numerous conflicting reports that hindered the effectiveness of emergency responders and potentially put them at risk.
    In this episode, Blake talks about how he believes technology could improve those efforts and make them more effective. He also explains how he and his company plan to work toward overcoming the many hurdles that still stand in the way of this vision becoming a reality.
    He also goes into more detail about other products that BRINC Is developing or already utilizing to improve emergency response.
    Major Endorsements: L3Harris and the BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.L3Harris.com/ResponderSupport.

    Doberman Emergency Management provides subject matter experts in planning and training. Learn more here: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network: Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network

    DTP Season 4 #158 The DHS Safety Act: An Important EM Readiness Tool - Interview with Latasha Thompson

    DTP Season 4  #158 The DHS Safety Act: An Important EM Readiness Tool - Interview with Latasha Thompson
    What is the DHE Safety Act? What does it do? Why is it important?

    All of these questions are answered in this week's episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast.

    This week's guest, Latasha Thompson, Director of the Office of Safety Act Implementation, goes into more detail on the legal liability protections offered for providers of Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technologies.

    Thompson also talks about the importance of strong team continuity in performing high-quality work for the entities they serve.

    For more detailed information about each of these topics, check out: https://www.dobermanemg.com/school-safety-program

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4 #157 Emerging Technology in Emergency Management & Response - Interview with EM Weekly Host, Zack Borst

    DTP Season 4  #157 Emerging Technology in Emergency Management & Response - Interview with EM Weekly Host, Zack Borst
    Albert Einstein once said, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.”

    This principle has been put to the test in the era of seemingly constant updates in technology. While many are slow to accept and implement said changes, others are quick to adapt. The same is true in the world of Emergency Management and Response.

    In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, host John Scardena welcomes back the host of the EM Weekly Podcast, Zack Borst to dive into the exciting changes in technology happening in the field and what the outlook is for such innovations going forward.

    As Emergency Management experts with multiple years of experience in the field, both Zack and John have seen the practical benefits that innovations in technology can offer.

    In this episode, they share success stories of tech implementation in the field, and the struggle they and other Emergency Managers over the years have faced in getting other innovations approved and off the ground.

    For more detailed information about each of these topics, check out: https://www.dobermanemg.com/school-safety-program

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4 #156 How To Create A Success School Safety Program: Tasks, Organization, Approach

    DTP Season 4  #156 How To Create A Success School Safety Program: Tasks, Organization, Approach
    John Scardena, Host, just returned from the University of California - Irvine. He and his team at Doberman Emergency Management support school safety programs around the county. In order to foster best practice and idea generation for you, the emergency managers, he shares how to ehance readiness by discussing the tasks, organizaiton, and approach need to protect life, property, and continuity of operations in K-12 Schools and Universities.

    For more detailed information about each of these topics, check out: https://www.dobermanemg.com/school-safety-program

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4 #155 The 3 Underutilized Tips in Communications (That Will Improve Your Life in EM)

    DTP Season 4 #155 The 3 Underutilized Tips in Communications (That Will Improve Your Life in EM)
    Support our podcast: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    Miscalculations in mass messaging / mass notifications communications in Florida due to an erroneous 4am test emergency alert caused more problems for public relations between emergency management and the general public. To make matters worse, instead of owning the issue, the blame game spun up between public and private entities about what happened.

    This podcast episode dives deep into three tips to help avoid the mistakes of accidental 4am test alerts and exercise alerts all the way through creating success in communications during a real disaster.

    John Scardena, host, pulls out three underutilized tips in communications that will drastically help your career as an emergency manager. These tips include strategic thinking, creativity, and attention to detail.

    Major Endorsements:

    L3Harris's BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com

    Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network:

    Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    For sponsorship requests: contact@thereadinesslab.com
    or visit our website: www.thereadinesslab.com

    DTP Season 4 #154: Atmospheric River Incidents at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo

    DTP Season 4 #154: Atmospheric River Incidents at Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo
    Support our podcast, click here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    A philosopher once said, "Those who have knowledge don't predict."

    This principle of readiness could be applied to the exercise that happened on the campus of Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo in 2022.

    At that time, the Emergency Management Department held a training exercise to emphasize readiness for a potential atmospheric river event.

    A few months later, the campus experienced a serious atmospheric river event which caused major flooding on and around the campus, destroying property and causing millions of dollars in damage.

    Emergency Services and Business Continuity Manager, Megan Harrington was a part of both events, helping organize the training, and also working hard to coordinate the response to the real-life event a few months later.

    She shares her experiences on this week's episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast. She also talks about how the university was able to be ready for such an event, and as such, respond more effectively.

    Megan also attended the Readiness Lab's Emergency Management Response for Dynamic Populations course last year in Atlanta.

    In this episode, she also talks about the lessons learned there and how they are being applied at Cal Poly to make the campus, and San Luis Obispo in general, a safer place.

    Major Endorsements: L3Harris and the BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.L3Harris.com/ResponderSupport.

    Doberman Emergency Management provides subject matter experts in planning and training. Learn more here: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network: Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network

    DTP Season 4 #153: Innovation in Active Shooter Mitigation (EM & Physical Security Assessments)

    DTP Season 4 #153: Innovation in Active Shooter Mitigation (EM & Physical Security Assessments)
    Support our podcast, click here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    It was once said that the best time to fix the roof is when the sun is still shining. - President Kennedy

    John led a group of subject matter experts from Doberman Emergency Management, FuturityIT, and Nuharbor Security to look at physical security and cybersecurity access at the Univeristy of California - Irvine. This, "Wolf Pack," in concert with UCI Emergency Management and UCI Police innovated the hazard vulnerability asssement process through application developement, penetration testing, and on site surveys with recommendations. This is the combination of innovation and best practice.

    Innovation is worth the potential push back from those who are unwilling to improve. They are a distraction... keep learning, keep improving. That is the point of being disaster tough.


    Major Endorsements: L3Harris and the BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.L3Harris.com/ResponderSupport.

    Doberman Emergency Management provides subject matter experts in planning and training. Learn more here: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network: Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network
    Disaster Tough Podcast
    enApril 04, 2023

    DTP Season 4 #152: You Need A "Branding Operations Plan" Interview with Noble Creative Collective Co. Founders

    DTP Season 4 #152: You Need A "Branding Operations Plan" Interview with Noble Creative Collective Co. Founders
    Support our podcast, click here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    It was once said that, "Design is what makes the world beautiful. It is what makes the world understood." - Author Unknown

    Landon and CJ are the co founders of Noble Creative Collective co. They are experts in the field of graphic design and are the "go-to" for all things related to The Readiness Lab.

    In this episode we talk about the need for brand standards and consistency, and how that will impact your ability to communicate with the public and stakeholders.

    The Readiness Lab has thrown out the trash of past EM related logos. We offer a new "icon" a symbol that simply explains who we are and what our purpose is. We work around the clock. We collaborate and support. We communicate and organize. We are emergency managers - unlike anyone one else in emergency services, yet can jump into any sphere of influence to move the needle forward.


    Major Endorsements: L3Harris and the BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.L3Harris.com/ResponderSupport.

    Doberman Emergency Management provides subject matter experts in planning and training. Learn more here: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network: Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network

    DTP Season 4 #151: Everything You Need To Know About Press Briefs - Interview with Prescott Nadeau

    DTP Season 4 #151: Everything You Need To Know About Press Briefs - Interview with Prescott Nadeau
    Support our podcast, click here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    Drawing in the Media with Valuable Information

    “Be brief, be brilliant, be gone.”

    This quote has been attributed to a handful of famous public speakers in history including the likes of Presidents Woodrow Wilson and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

    No matter who first introduced the principle, the lesson it teaches still applies to the work of news briefings and getting vital and accurate information out to the media in times of crisis and disaster.

    Longtime Public Information Officer, Prescott Nadeau returns to the Disaster Tough Podcast and in this episode, explains how he applies this art to his everyday work in media relations.

    Prescott has been the PIO for the Williston Fire Department in Vermont for the past decade.
    This is his second appearance on the Disaster Tough Podcast.

    Major Endorsements: L3Harris and the BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.L3Harris.com/ResponderSupport.

    Doberman Emergency Management provides subject matter experts in planning and training. Learn more here: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network: Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network

    DTP Season 4 #150: Slack VP Talks About Lifelines - Interview with Mark “Whit” Whittington

    DTP Season 4 #150: Slack VP Talks About Lifelines - Interview with Mark “Whit” Whittington
    Support our podcast, click here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links


    Picking Up the “Slack” in EM Communications

    A philosopher once said made the case for the importance of experience when he said, “Life can only be understood backward, but must be lived forwards.”

    In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, guest Mark “Whit” Whittington shares how his multiple decades of experience with the biggest technology companies in the country has led him to be on the cutting edge of emergency communications.

    “Whit” is the Public Sector Vice President at Slack, North America. In that capacity, he has helped guide Slack to the forefront of emergency communications. One such step in that direction includes the recent agreement between Slack and the National Weather Service to create NWSChat 2.0.

    Before joining Slack, “Whit” worked in upper management at some of the largest and most successful tech companies including among others, Oracle, Microsoft, and Amazon.

    In this episode, “Whit” explains his gratitude for having a “ringside seat” to see how tech companies such as Slack can play a major role in disaster and emergency response. He has seen it firsthand over the years in situations such as “Digital Dunkirk” and the 2022 Kentucky Floods.

    Major Endorsements: L3Harris and the BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.L3Harris.com/ResponderSupport.

    Instinct Ready Everyday Readiness Kits. Learn more about Instinct Ready's incredible line of readiness products at: www.instinctready.com

    Doberman Emergency Management provides subject matter experts in planning and training. Learn more here: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network: Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network

    DTP Season 4 #149: Police Need Emergency Managers - Interview with Corporal Haley Evans

    DTP Season 4 #149: Police Need Emergency Managers - Interview with Corporal Haley Evans
    Support our podcast, click here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”

    Corporal Haley Evans of the Bella Vista Police Department in Arkansas has been putting this idea into practice since attending the Emergency Management Response for Dynamic Populations Course (DyPop) last year.

    In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, Haley goes into more specifics about what she learned and how she is applying it in her work in law enforcement.

    Besides her six years of experience as a police officer, Haley also has a Masters Degree in Emergency Management. In her time in law enforcement, she has seen how proper coordination among police, Emergency Managers, and other first responders makes the overall response efforts more effective.

    In this episode, she discusses the importance of all parties stepping back and working together. She also emphasizes how vital it is that the community is aware of what response efforts may look like to disasters and emergency situations.

    Major Endorsements: L3Harris and the BeOn PPT App.Learn more about this amazing product here: www.L3Harris.com/ResponderSupport.

    Instinct Ready Everyday Readiness Kits. Learn more about Instinct Ready's incredible line of readiness products at: www.instinctready.com

    Doberman Emergency Management provides subject matter experts in planning and training. Learn more here: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network: Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network

    DTP Season 4 #148: Reaction to the East Palestine Ohio Train Disaster - Interview with Eric Helpenstell

    DTP Season 4 #148: Reaction to the East Palestine Ohio Train Disaster - Interview with Eric Helpenstell
    Support our podcast, click here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

    On February 3, 2023, 38 cars from a Norfolk Southern freight train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed in the small town of East Palestine, Ohio near the border with Pennsylvania.

    Several of the derailed cars burst into flames, releasing the hazardous chemicals such as hydrogen chloride and phosgene into the air. More chemicals were released due to controlled burns.

    Residents within a 1-mile radius were evacuated, and the emergency response has been handled by agencies from three different states including Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

    In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, Eric Helpenstell of Praetorian reacts to the disaster the response efforts from local response agencies and the Federal Government.

    Eric is an expert in the field of fire response, particularly Hazmat situations.

    Together with host, John Scardena, these two Emergency Management professionals and experts break down what exactly happened in this disaster, positive and negative lessons learned from the response efforts that can be applied to future incidents, and compare this incident to others he has seen in his multiple decades of experience in fire and Hazmat response.

    Major Endorsements: L3Harris and the BeOn PPT App.Learn more about this amazing product here: www.L3Harris.com/ResponderSupport.

    Instinct Ready Everyday Readiness Kits. Learn more about Instinct Ready's incredible line of readiness products at: www.instinctready.com

    Doberman Emergency Management provides subject matter experts in planning and training. Learn more here: www.dobermanemg.com

    The Readiness Lab Podcast Network: Disaster Tough Podcast is part of The Readiness Lab Podcast Network

    DTP Season 4 #147: The Waverly Train Disaster 45 Years Later: How it Changed EM Forever - Interview with Yasmine S. Ali, M.D.

    DTP Season 4 #147: The Waverly Train Disaster 45 Years Later: How it Changed EM Forever - Interview with Yasmine S. Ali, M.D.
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    Forty-five years ago, this week, a train derailment and explosion in the small town of Waverly, Tennessee set in motion a chain of events that would change the way emergencies are managed in the United States forever.

    Today’s guest on the Disaster Tough Podcast, Yasmine S. Ali, M.D. grew up in the area and knows the details of the disaster well. Her latest book, Walk Through Fire comes out today, and tells the story of the disaster and the experiences of those who lived through that day including her parents, who were the attending physicians at the local hospital in Waverly and treated many of the victims.

    The situation began on February 22, 1978, when a 92-car freight train carrying hazardous materials passed through Waverly and derailed near the small downtown area, and exploded two days later when it was discovered that there was a small vapor leak in one of the cars.

    In total, 16 people lost their lives in the explosion and the aftermath. Despite the damage and loss of life, many lives were saved due to the heroic efforts of local emergency responders and medical professionals, including Dr. Ali’s parents.

    In this episode, she discusses the lessons learned from the disaster that can be applied to the modern world of Emergency Management and Response.

    Shortly after this disaster, President Jimmy Carter and his administration signed an Executive Order creating FEMA to better coordinate disaster response efforts.

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