In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, host John Scardena sits down with Dr. Chris Ellis, a military veteran, scholar, and author of  Resilient Citizens: The People, Perils, and Politics of Modern Preparedness. Together, they explore the evolution of what it means to be a resilient citizen—someone capable of surviving and thriving during crisis through community, faith, and proactive readiness. From Iraq deployments and disaster nation-building to the academic study of resilience and preparedness, Dr. Ellis shares how his journey through war zones, research, and leadership shaped his mission to help others build lasting readiness.

Scardena and Ellis dive into global and cultural lessons from history’s most significant disasters—from Mount St. Helens and Hurricane Katrina to Japan’s tsunami response and European recovery models—and how those events reveal the interconnectedness of preparedness, culture, and resilience. They discuss Ellis’s SPIES framework—Social, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, and Spiritual—and how these five dimensions strengthen individuals and communities before disaster strikes.

The conversation challenges stereotypes of “preppers,” shifting focus toward collaboration, compassion, and civic responsibility. Ellis explains why preparedness is not about fear, but about agency—taking control of your capacity to act and support others. From faith-based readiness to community-driven resilience, this episode is packed with insights for emergency managers, policymakers, and anyone striving to build a stronger, more self-reliant society.

Whether you’re leading disaster response, training in emergency management, or simply looking to protect your family and neighbors, this episode reminds us that true preparedness isn’t about isolation—it’s about connection, purpose, and service.

You can find Dr. Ellis book here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Resilient-Citizens-People-Politics-Preparedness/dp/163763448XSEO

Keywords: John Scardena | Disaster Tough Podcast | Chris Ellis | The People Perils and Politics of Modern Preparedness | Resilient Citizen | Emergency Management | Preparedness | Resilience | Military Leadership | Nation Building | Community Readiness | Emergency Response | Humanitarian Aid | Disaster Leadership | Crisis Management | Faith and Resilience | SPIES Framework | FEMA | Mount St. Helens | Hurricane Katrina | Japan Earthquake | Resilient Communities | Public Safety | Homeland Security | The Readiness Lab | Doberman Emergency Management

Looking for more DTP Content? Check us out: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

In this gripping episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, host John Scardena speaks with Lauren Taylor, a 911 dispatcher who coordinated the emergency response during the October 1, 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting at the Mandalay Bay. Lauren shares her firsthand account of one of the most devastating active shooter incidents in U.S. history, describing the chaos, fear, and determination that defined those 11 minutes—and the long hours that followed.

From the moment the first calls came in, Lauren was responsible for directing teams into a dangerous and rapidly evolving situation. She recalls the overwhelming sound of screams through the radio, the responsibility of protecting responders entering the unknown, and the emotional toll of hearing from people she personally knew on scene. Scardena and Taylor explore what it means to perform under extreme pressure, and how dispatchers—often unseen and unsung—serve as the foundation of every successful emergency operation.

The conversation also delves into Lauren’s continued service in public safety, including her recent experience during the Spokane shooting, and how these events shaped her decision to pursue a degree in Emergency Management. Together, they discuss resilience, leadership, and the lessons learned from crisis—how to process trauma, support teams through recovery, and lead with both faith and compassion.

This episode offers raw insight into the reality of mass casualty coordination, the mental health challenges faced by dispatchers, and the courage it takes to keep showing up after tragedy. Lauren’s story stands as a powerful reminder that while responders are often called heroes, the voices behind the radio are heroes too.

Major Endorsements

Impulse
Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals https://www.impulsekits.com

Doberman Emergency Management
Subject matter experts in assessments, planning, and training https://www.dobermanemg.com

The Readiness Lab
Trailblazing disaster readiness through podcasts, outreach, marketing, and interactive events https://www.thereadinesslab.com

For Sponsorship Requests
314-400-8848 Ext 2
Email contact@thereadinesslab.com

#DisasterToughPodcast #TheReadinessLab #JohnScardena #DobermanEmergencyManagement #EmergencyManagementPodcast #LasVegasShooting #MandalayBay #October1 #ActiveShooterResponse #MassCasualtyIncident #911Dispatch #DispatcherLife #PublicSafetyCommunications #FirstResponder #EmergencyDispatch #CrisisLeadership #IncidentCommand #EOC #IMT #EmergencyOperations #CrisisManagement #ResponderWellness #MentalHealthForFirstResponders #TraumaInformedLeadership #PublicSafetyTraining #FaithAndResilience #LeadershipUnderPressure #CourageInCrisis #HumanBehindTheHeadset #HeroBehindTheScenes #ServiceBeforeSelf

Looking for more DTP Content? Check us out: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

On this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, I sit down with Andrew Donawa, Emergency Management Coordinator for the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, to talk about what it really takes to bridge the gap between law enforcement and emergency management. Andrew brings a rare perspective—combining the mindset of a responder with the strategy of an emergency manager—and he’s helping shape how Pasco County handles everything from hurricane response and flood recovery to incident management and public safety coordination. We dig into lessons from Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, where Pasco County faced record flooding and major operational strain, and how his team worked hand-in-hand with fire, EMS, and outside IMT resources to stabilize the county.

Andrew shares how he’s earned trust across a culture that doesn’t always mesh easily with emergency management, walking us through the balance of humility, persistence, and leadership required to build credibility inside a sheriff’s office. We talk about how faith and service guide his leadership, how to drive policy changes that actually stick—like improved responder safety standards and water-rescue PPE—and what it means to lead with integrity when everything is on the line.

This episode is packed with real-world takeaways on incident command, resource management, and interagency collaboration, and it’s a must-listen for anyone working in public safety, emergency management, or crisis leadership. From Oklahoma tornado deployments to Pasco County’s hurricane operations, Andrew shows what it looks like when emergency management becomes mission-ready, proactive, and trusted by the people it supports.

Major Endorsements

Impulse
Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals https://www.impulsekits.com

Doberman Emergency Management
Subject matter experts in assessments, planning, and training https://www.dobermanemg.com

The Readiness Lab
Trailblazing disaster readiness through podcasts, outreach, marketing, and interactive events https://www.thereadinesslab.com

For Sponsorship Requests
314-400-8848 Ext 2
Email contact@thereadinesslab.com

Emergency Management Leadership | Law Enforcement Integration | Pasco County Sheriff’s Office | Hurricane Response | Flood Recovery | IMT | ICS | Public Safety Collaboration | Faith-Based Leadership | Disaster Response Operations | Crisis Management | First Responder Safety | Disaster Tough Podcast | The Readiness Lab | John Scardena | Andrew Donawa | Doberman Emergency Management | Emergency Operations | Florida Emergency Management | Emergency Manager Interview | Incident Management Team

Looking for more DTP Content? Check us out: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

Host John Scardena sits down with Moose Mutlow, Search and Rescue (SAR) expert, author, and instructor based in Yosemite National Park. With over 20 years of frontline experience in swiftwater rescue, recovery, and family liaison operations, Moose shares hard-won lessons about humility, leadership, and resilience in the face of tragedy.

The episode opens with John contextualizing a recent Yosemite accident—emphasizing that the discussion was recorded before that event but underscores the real-world gravity of Moose’s work. Realities of Search & Rescue Operations Yosemite averages 220 SAR missions annually, from twisted ankles to multi-day helicopter recoveries. Moose recounts six-month recovery efforts and multi-year search closures, explaining how search theory must adapt to reality.

 Leadership, Ego, and Humility
A central thread throughout the episode is balancing confidence and humility. Moose and John explore the dangers of overconfidence—both in rescues and leadership. “A good leader listens, delegates, and lets go of control,” Moose notes. “You’re not the hero if you can’t come home.” They discuss teaching younger rangers through “safe humility”—allowing controlled failure to build competence and self-awareness.

Emotional Health & Responder Wellness
Moose details using the stress continuum to track emotional health, emphasizing the importance of processing trauma before it compounds. He explains the role of Family Liaison Officers in managing information flow to grieving families—balancing empathy, structure, and control. Both men share personal experiences with loss and coping, from fatal rescues to family grief, reinforcing that “holding space in silence” can be the most powerful act of compassion.

Writing, Reflection, and Legacy
Moose’s books—When Accidents Happen and Searching—help responders process trauma through structured reflection. Writing, he says, “forces you to articulate intuition,” turning instinctive experience into teachable frameworks for others. John parallels this idea to the podcast’s mission: amplifying field wisdom for professional development and collective growth.

The Humanity in Service
“Service is a gift, but it comes at a cost,” Moose says, calling for responders to protect their humanity rather than armor it away. The episode ends with a heartfelt reminder to reach out for help, celebrate small joys, and share mental health resources with others.

Visit https://www.moosemutlow.com for training resources, books, and leadership materials.

Major Endorsements

Impulse
Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals https://www.impulsekits.com

Doberman Emergency Management Subject matter experts in assessments, planning, and training https://www.dobermanemg.com

The Readiness Lab Trailblazing disaster readiness through podcasts, outreach, marketing, and interactive events https://www.thereadinesslab.com

For Sponsorship Requests
314-400-8848 Ext 2
Email contact@thereadinesslab.com

#SearchAndRescue #YosemiteSAR #SwiftwaterRescue #FamilyLiaisonOfficer #EmergencyManagement #DisasterToughPodcast #FirstResponderMentalHealth #CrisisCommunication #ResponderWellness #EmergencyManagementLeadership #Mitigation #YosemiteNationalPark

Looking for more DTP Content? Check us our here: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, host John Scardena sits down with Juliette Murphy, CEO and co-founder of FloodMapp, to explore how cutting-edge technology is transforming flood forecasting and disaster response.

Juliette shares her journey from water resource engineering in Australia and Canada to building a company dedicated to giving emergency managers and communities faster, more accurate, impact-based flood intelligence. Drawing on real experiences from disasters like the 2011 Brisbane Floods, the 2013 Calgary Floods, and the Queensland floods of 2022, she explains how early warning systems often fail survivors — and how FloodMapp bridges that gap.

The conversation breaks down the complex science behind meteorology, hydrology, and hydraulic modeling — the three layers needed to predict where floods will hit, how deep the water will get, and what communities, infrastructure, and lives will be impacted. Juliette also highlights how debris flows, wildfire burn scars, and contaminated floodwaters pose unique risks, and how new data sources — from drones to social media — can be used to calibrate and validate models in real time.

John and Juliette also discuss real-world challenges: why agencies sometimes rely on gut instincts in the absence of data, how false alarms affect public trust, and why risk management (not perfection) is the right framework for evacuation and emergency decision-making. With case studies from Oroville Dam, Hurricane Harvey, and more, Juliette shows how better models can prevent loss of life and reduce long-term recovery costs.

👉 Tune in to hear how FloodMapp is helping emergency managers move from static flood maps to dynamic, operational decision support — giving communities hours of advance notice, saving lives, and protecting critical infrastructure.

You can learn more about FloodMapp here: https://www.floodmapp.com

Major Endorsements

Impulse
Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals
https://www.impulsekits.com

Doberman Emergency Management
Subject matter experts in assessments, planning, and training
https://www.dobermanemg.com

The Readiness Lab
Trailblazing disaster readiness through podcasts, outreach, marketing, and interactive events
https://www.thereadinesslab.com

For Sponsorship Requests
contact@thereadinesslab.com
314-400-8848 Ext 2

#Flooding #DisasterResponse #EmergencyManagement #ClimateChange #FloodForecasting #PublicSafety #Hydrology #UrbanResilience #Resilience #DisasterRecovery #HomelandSecurity #CrisisManagement #ClimateTech #InfrastructureProtection

Looking for more DTP Content? Check us our here: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

In Part 3 of this three-part series, host John Scardena wraps up his conversation with Jim Balthazar, exploring how churches and faith-based organizations can strengthen safety while preserving their mission of sanctuary. With decades of law enforcement, ATF Special Response Team service, and experience leading security for a large church, Jim shares practical approaches for balancing protection, ministry, and community trust.Topics Covered in Part 3

• Perimeter strategy — why extending security outward, even to sidewalks and parking lots, creates more time and distance to respond.
• Church disruptions vs. rare violent threats — preparing for the more likely challenges such as disruptions, vandalism, or medical incidents.
• De-escalation and “pastor-first” approach — treating people with kindness while being ready to shift into protection mode when necessary.
• Cultural balance — how to avoid turning places of worship into “fortresses,” while still ensuring safety for congregants.
• Active Threat Mitigation — Places of worship, like businesses and schools, should rely on trained, professional responders to protect congregations. Volunteer greeters and ushers are vital for hospitality and situational awareness, but they should not be expected to act in a professional security or use-of-force role unless they hold current, verifiable professional security or law enforcement credentials.
• Family and community role — why parents and local culture remain the first line of defense, and how churches can reinforce these values.

Key Takeaways

• Prevention begins outside the building — greeters and safety teams should look outward as well as inward.
• Most church incidents are not violent — disruptions and vandalism are far more common and deserve focused planning.
• De-escalation matters — approach with kindness first, but be ready to act decisively if needed.
• Faith and safety can coexist — churches can remain welcoming while still protecting their community.
• Families remain central — cultural norms of responsibility and involvement are more powerful than mandates.

Part One: Leadership in the Field
Part Two: Charlie Kirk, Schools, & Mitigation

Major Endorsements

Impulse
Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals
https://www.impulsekits.com

Doberman Emergency Management
Subject matter experts in assessments, planning, and training
https://www.dobermanemg.com

The Readiness Lab
Trailblazing disaster readiness through podcasts, outreach, marketing, and interactive events
https://www.thereadinesslab.com

For Sponsorship Requests
contact@thereadinesslab.com
314-400-8848 Ext 2

#DisasterToughPodcast #EmergencyManagement #ChurchSecurity #CrisisLeadership #DisasterResponse #ActiveShooterAwareness #PublicSafety #Resilience #Leadership #IncidentCommand #FaithBasedSecurity #CommunitySafety

Looking for more DTP Content? Check us our here: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

In Part 2 of this three-part series, host John Scardena continues his conversation with Jim Balthazar, drawing on Jim’s background in law enforcement, ATF Special Response Teams, and faith-based security leadership to unpack lessons from high-profile incidents and what they mean for community safety today.Topics Covered in Part 2

• The Charlie Kirk incident — rooftop vulnerabilities, the difference between local security resources and federal protective standards, and how evolving threats require new approaches such as counter-sniper teams, drones for observation, and protective design changes.
• Historical parallels — from JFK to modern-day open-air events, how notoriety and visibility create unique risks.
• Schools and safety drills — why “run, hide, fight” isn’t always effective, the role of barricading, and why empowerment strategies can make a difference for students and staff.
• The role of parents and families — parents as the first line of defense, age-appropriate conversations with children, and the importance of monitoring online influences.
• Mitigation and risk management — balancing statistical rarity with catastrophic impact, and how organizations can prepare without creating paranoia.

Key Takeaways

• High-profile figures and open-air venues face unique risks that demand proactive security planning.
• Statistically rare events can still have catastrophic consequences, making risk management essential.
• Training and age-appropriate preparation for schools and families are more effective than fear-based approaches.
• Parents play a critical role in monitoring, guiding, and shaping safe environments for kids.
• Security must adapt as threats evolve — from rooftops to classrooms to community gatherings.

Part One: Leadership in the Field
Part Three: Church Security

Major Endorsements:

Impulse
Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals
https://www.impulsekits.com

Doberman Emergency Management 
Subject matter experts in assessments, planning and training
https://www.dobermanemg.com

The Readiness Lab
Trailblazing Disaster Readiness through podcasts, outreach, marketing, and interactive events
https://www.thereadinesslab.com

For Sponsorship Requests
contact@thereadinesslab.com
314-400-8848 Ext 2

#DisasterToughPodcast #EmergencyManagement #CrisisLeadership #DisasterResponse #ActiveShooterAwareness #PublicSafety #Resilience #SchoolSafety #IncidentCommand #SecurityLeadership #RiskManagement #CharlieKirk #UVU #ChurchSecurity

Looking for more DTP Content? Check us our here: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

In Part 1 of this three-part series, host John Scardena talks with Jim Balthazar, a seasoned law enforcement and emergency management professional, about the realities of leadership in the field.Jim shares insights from his decades of service with the ATF, including his years on the Special Response Team and his work with ESF-13 operations at headquarters. After retiring, he moved into faith-based security leadership in Tampa and continues to support the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office in emergency management.Topics Covered in Part 1

• From law enforcement to emergency management — the challenges of shifting from tactical response to strategic leadership, and how learning ICS reshaped Jim’s perspective.
• Leadership lessons from the field — humility when joining new teams, the importance of listening before leading, and the risks of trying to “leave your mark” too quickly.
• Uvalde school response — a case study in leadership breakdowns, communication failures, and the importance of urgency when lives are on the line.
• Integrating outside expertise — why agencies benefit from new perspectives, and how Pasco County has successfully blended law enforcement with emergency management professionals.

Key Takeaways

• Strong leaders balance tactical expertise with strategic vision.
• Communication and coordination are essential in complex incidents.
• Culture matters — new leaders should observe and earn trust before making changes.
• Training and readiness determine how effectively teams perform under pressure.

Part Two: Charlie Kirk, Schools, & Mitigation
Part Three: Church Security 

*Major Endorsements:

Impulse: Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals:
https://www.impulsekits.com

Doberman Emergency Management 
Subject matter experts in assessments, planning and training
https://www.dobermanemg.com

The Readiness Lab
Trailblazing Disaster Readiness through podcasts, outreach, marketing, and interactive events
https://www.thereadinesslab.com

For Sponsorship Requests
contact@thereadinesslab.com
314-400-8848 Ext 2

#DisasterToughPodcast #EmergencyManagement #CrisisLeadership #DisasterResponse #ActiveShooterAwareness #PublicSafety #Resilience #Leadership #IncidentCommand #CrisisCoordination #TeamReadiness #Security #CharlieKirk #UVU #Catholic 

Looking for more DTP content? Check us out at www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

🎙️ Disaster Tough Podcast – Joel Welsh & Pete Gaynor | Bright Harbor In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, host John Scardena talks with Joel Welsh, founder of Bright Harbor, and Pete Gaynor, former FEMA Administrator, about the realities of disaster recovery in America.

The discussion opens with Joel’s personal experience during the Marshall Fire, where he saw firsthand how survivors struggle through a confusing and exhausting process of insurance claims, FEMA assistance, and SBA loans. That experience led to Bright Harbor’s model of assigning expert advisors to survivors, helping them navigate the system step by step. Pete Gaynor shares hard truths from his time leading FEMA: recovery is often the slowest and weakest part of emergency management, leaving survivors in limbo for months or even years. He points to examples like Hurricane Katrina, where federal recovery dollars are still being spent nearly two decades later.

Together, they dive into the biggest challenges survivors face: underinsurance, delayed payouts, lack of local recovery expertise, and the emotional toll of navigating bureaucracy while displaced. They explain how communities suffer long-term when recovery drags on, with families moving away, businesses closing, and neighborhoods never fully returning. This conversation is about more than policy — it’s about people. Joel and Pete emphasize the importance of survivor-first leadership, faster funding, and better systems that allow individuals and communities to rebuild their lives with dignity and speed.

👉 Listen now to hear Joel Welsh and Pete Gaynor break down what’s broken in disaster recovery, why survivors are often left behind, and how communities can do better.

To learn more about Bright Harbor: https://brightharbor.com

For a personal masterclass on leadership: www.femapete.com

Sponsors: Doberman Emergency Management www.dobermanemg.com

Impulse: www.impulsekits.com

For questions or Sponsorship requests: www.thereadinesslab.com

#FEMA #DisasterRecovery #DisasterResponse #EmergencyManagement #SurvivorsFirst #CommunityResilience #Insurance #DisasterRelief #ClimateCrisis #CrisisManagement #Leadership #Resilience #PublicSafety

Looking for more DTP content? Check us out here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, host John Scardena interviews Erik Kramer, a 26-year U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, tech innovator, and senior leader with the National Center for Urban Operations (NCOU). Erik brings decades of experience in counter-drone warfare, urban operations, and emerging threat environments, with direct insight from years spent training Ukrainian forces and advising on counter-unmanned systems.

Kramer explains how drones and unmanned systems are fundamentally transforming warfare and crisis response — creating a “revolution in military affairs.” Drawing from his time in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, he shares how decision-making is shifting from senior leaders to junior operators who must act instantly under drone threats. He warns that the U.S. and local agencies remain woefully unprepared for a September 11th–style event involving unmanned systems, and stresses the urgent need for counter-UAS training, decentralized decision-making, and survivor-first leadership.

Beyond drones, Kramer highlights the often-overlooked risks of subterranean operations in cities — from tunnels and underground infrastructure to complex dense-urban terrain — and how NCOU is working with ports, first responders, and military units to build awareness, create tailored counter-drone strategies, and deliver advanced training.

This episode connects lessons from Ukraine, Special Forces culture, and emerging technologies directly to emergency managers, first responders, and policymakers who must adapt to an era where drones, cyber, and underground threats redefine homeland security.

👉 Listen now to learn how Erik Kramer and NCOU are helping leaders and responders for the future of urban conflict and crisis.

National Center for Urban Operations: https://ncuo.net

#FEMA #EmergencyManagement #DisasterResponse #NationalSecurity #UrbanOperations #CounterDrone #Drones #HomelandSecurity #PublicSafety #CrisisManagement #UkraineWar #MilitaryInnovation #Readiness #Preparedness #EmergencyServices

Looking for more DTP content? Check us out here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

On May 7, Cameron Hamilton testified before Congress that abolishing FEMA would put Americans at risk. Hours later, his access was revoked, and he was effectively fired by the Trump Administration. In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, Hamilton shares the inside story of that testimony, the fallout with DHS, and why he chose survivors over politics, even though it cost him his job.

Host John Scardena calls FEMA the “IRS of disasters” because so much of the agency’s work revolves around grants, reimbursements, and auditing rather than direct disaster response. Hamilton explains why FEMA has become overloaded with non-core missions and why shifting responsibilities to other agencies is smarter than eliminating FEMA altogether.

Hamilton also discusses his survivor-first reforms, including the FEMA “pizza tracker” for disaster assistance, and his belief in empowering regional leaders to act quickly, even at the risk of audit scrutiny. Drawing from his background as a Navy SEAL medic and State Department crisis responder, he shares hard-won lessons on leadership, risk-taking, and team building.

Listen now for Cameron Hamilton’s unfiltered perspective on FEMA reform, survivor-centric leadership, and why he risked his career to speak honestly before Congress. 

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Disaster Tough, host John Scardena sits down with Gwyn Winfield and Zoe Rutherford from CBRNe World for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of CBRN threats—chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives—and how they intersect with hazmat incidents, emergency management, and homeland security.

Gwyn and Zoe reveal how CBRNe World has built a unique global presence by blending expert CBRN reporting with bold, eye-catching covers and a touch of dark humor to make even the most technical hazardous materials response topics engaging. They share real-world stories ranging from chemical suicides to the surprising case of wedding beer poisoning in Africa, highlighting how CBRN incidents happen more often—and in more unexpected ways—than many realize.

The discussion covers critical distinctions between CBRN vs. hazmat (with “intent” as a key factor), why strategic emergency planning is just as important as tactical response, and how global supply chain vulnerabilities, AI in CBRN, and 3D printing threats could shape the next generation of risks. The trio also explores the importance of cybersecurity and CBRN convergence, the challenges of staying teachable in a technical field, and the need for first responder CBRN training that blends operational skill with strategic awareness.

With 20 years of archives and global reporting, CBRNe World continues to track international hazmat cases, radiological hazard response, and disaster risk reduction efforts worldwide. Gwyn and Zoe share how professionals, students, and first responders can access free CBRN resources, follow daily incident updates, and build the knowledge needed to prepare for complex emergencies.

If you’re in emergency management, hazardous materials response, or homeland security—or you just want to hear fascinating, real-world stories behind some of the most unusual and dangerous incidents around the globe—this is a must-listen conversation that combines serious expertise with an engaging, human approach. 

learn more about CBRNe World Magazine here! 

-------------------------
Impulse: Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals: https://www.dobermanemg.com/impulse

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

Listen, Watch, & Support DTP:  www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

Boost the signal with a $5 monthly donation! 
Become a TRL Insider Member with a ton of extra content!

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"We solve complex problems, and we help people."

This mantra has embodied the work of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for the past 250 years.

On this, the 250th Birthday of the Corps, the Disaster Tough Podcast hears the perspective of Major General Jason Kelly, its Deputy Commanding General of Civil & Emergency Operations.

MG Kelly has an extensive military background, including 30+ years in USACE.  

In this episode, he and DTP host, John Scardena, discuss a wide range of topics including:

• USACE's history dates back to the birth of America shortly after the Revolution
• The corps' efforts to make sure disasters don't do MORE damage than is necessary
• How USACE thinks about infrastructure from a security, risk management, response, and financial point of view
• Counseling and advising leaders and stakeholders from a technical standpoint, regardless of politics
• USACE's work with FEMA and other entities is to be ready for disasters such as the upcoming hurricane season on the East Coast, or the recent fire season and cleanup efforts on the West Coast.

As Major General Kelly says, "We deal with concrete and steel, but we don't PLACE concrete, and we don't PLACE any steel.  We do that with partners."

On this Monday, June 16, DTP celebrates and honors the US Army Corps of Engineers for the way they have fulfilled this mission, and their partnership and contribution to America's prosperity and success.

--------------

Impulse: Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals: https://www.dobermanemg.com/impulse

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

For sponsorship requests, check out our Sponsorship Portfolio here or email us at contact@thereadinesslab.com

Listen, Watch, & Support DTP:  www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

Boost the signal with a $5 monthly donation! 
Become a TRL Insider Member with a ton of extra content!

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Revolutionizing Emergency Response with RSET’s 3D Digital TwinsEmergency response starts with understanding the scene.

RSET—led by Bill Gregory and Michael Schmidt—helps first responders do just that with immersive, VR-style digital twins.

Used by the U.S. Navy and local agencies alike, RSET transforms buildings and environments into 3D training and planning tools.

Firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement use RSET to document layouts, test response plans, conduct after-action reviews, and improve outcomes.

At the 2025 Emergency Management Response for Dynamic Populations certification in Colorado, RSET showcased its latest innovations, including future expansion into Hazmat and CBRNE response.Explore how RSET enhances emergency readiness: https://rset.com

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Impulse: Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals: https://www.dobermanemg.com/impulse

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

For sponsorship requests, check out our Sponsorship Portfolio here or email us at contact@thereadinesslab.com

Listen, Watch, & Support DTP:  www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

Boost the signal with a $5 monthly donation! 
Become a TRL Insider Member with a ton of extra content!

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This week on the Disaster Tough Podcast, we’re joined by Andre Mackey, Chair of NATO’s Specific Environments Panel (SPED)—and all-around powerhouse in the world of crisis leadership.

Andre is an American based in Turkey, working directly with NATO to address the toughest environments on Earth—think urban warfare, cross-border coordination, and multi-agency response in unstable regions.

In this episode, we dive into:

• NATO’s response to current global flashpoints, including Ukraine and Gaza
• The role of SPED in preparing for and operating in extreme and urban environments
• Real-world insights on leadership during international emergencies
• The reality of coordinating across cultures, agencies, and borders

We also want to give a big shoutout to our friends on the Specific Environments Panel (SEP). You know who you are—and we’re grateful for the work you do.

Listen now—this episode brings global perspective from someone who's living it.

#DisasterTough #NATO #SPED #SEP #UrbanWarfare #EmergencyManagement #CrisisResponse #GlobalSecurity #Ukraine #Gaza #CrisisLeadership #PodcastEpisode

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Impulse: Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals:

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

Listen, Watch, & Support DTP:  www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

Boost the signal with a $5 monthly donation! 

Become a TRL Insider Member with a ton of extra content!

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The more you worry about the future, the less you enjoy the present.” Many working for federal agencies, such as FEMA, are worried about the future because of things happening in the present.

For that reason, the Disaster Tough Podcast returns with a timely conversation with former FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor. Pete served at the highest levels of FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security during President Trump's first term.

Since then, he has been providing his expertise in the private sector, including his current role as Vice President of Resiliency and Disaster Recovery at Hill International, Inc.

In this episode, Pete shares his thoughts on the current situation at FEMA amid recent reductions in workforce within the agency. 

He also discusses what employees and emergency management professionals can do to remain viable and ready in the face of uncertainty.

He and host, John Scardena, point out the difficulties that EM professionals run into when it comes to response because of bureaucracy.

He says the expectations often differ from the process and final response.

As such, he calls for systems to be put in place so that state and local agencies have more ability to respond first, and only request federal assistance when necessary.

You can learn more from Pete through his leadership materclass at www.femapete.come
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https://www.dobermanemg.com/impulse Doberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, host John Scardena shares candid reflections on the state of emergency management and calls for actionable solutions, not just commentary. Fresh from a deployment, John goes live and speaks directly to professionals facing job loss, early retirement, or career uncertainty—especially those impacted by changes at FEMA.He highlights the urgent need for strategic coordination in emergency services, challenging outdated norms and emphasizing why emergency managers are first responders, not second-class support. From the rise in demand for Readiness Lab’s gear to redefining EM branding, John shares how the field is shifting—and how we must embrace that change with confidence, unity, and standards.The episode also includes:

• A job support initiative for those laid off in EM
• A bold challenge to FEMA leadership to rise to public expectations
• A new vision for professional identity, training, and field standards
• A reminder that wins come in unexpected forms—“Don’t be mad if your boat can fly”

This is a must-listen for emergency management professionals, especially those seeking purpose, change, or new opportunities. Join the conversation around Next Level Emergency Management, strategic leadership, and real-world impact.

🎧 Keywords: Emergency Management Jobs, FEMA Layoffs, Strategic Coordination, EM Standards, First Responders, EM Careers, Readiness Lab, Disaster Tough Podcast, Next Level Emergency Management, Emergency Manager Branding

In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, John catches up with the audience after his first break in six years. He breaks down the state of emergency management (EM), FEMA reform, and the urgent need for data-driven decision-making and brand standards. With growing concerns about the future of EM, this episode challenges outdated models, calls out inefficiencies, and pushes for a more strategic, structured approach.

The EM field is facing major challenges, from funding gaps to a lack of clear role definitions. Passionate debates online highlight growing concerns, but many conversations fail to focus on long-term sustainability. Emergency managers often struggle to define their role, leading to confusion among stakeholders and underfunding of essential programs. John predicts that without major changes, EM as a profession could fade within 10-20 years.

John challenges the style of approach for calls-to-action, using the airline industry as an example. Despite recent FAA incidents, year-over-year accident data remains stable, proving that two events don’t create a trend—media hype does. The same applies to emergency management: decision-making must be data-driven, not reactive to sensationalized narratives.To be effective, EM must be seen as the strategic coordination of emergency services, not just business management. John emphasizes the importance of branding, clear communication, and stakeholder engagement to secure funding and influence. Without a standardized role for EM professionals across industries, decision-makers struggle to see its value—leading to underfunding and a lack of dedicated resources.

John identifies six critical areas FEMA must address to overcome its challenges:

1. Funding & Budget Issues – Many disaster declarations are for minor incidents ($8M or less). FEMA needs a smarter approach to resource allocation.
2. Technology & Data Utilization – FEMA is severely behind in adopting modern technology for disaster response, coordination, and tracking.
3. Emergency Management vs. Auditing – 90% of FEMA operates like the "IRS of Disasters," focusing on compliance and funding rather than true emergency management.
4. Deployment & Workforce Structure – The current hiring and deployment model is inefficient, leading to wasted resources and burnout.
5. Enhancing EMI (Emergency Management Institute) – FEMA should focus on developing best practices for all industries, not just public safety, to elevate emergency management as a profession.
6. Strategic Coordination & Reform – FEMA must embrace long-term planning, efficiency, and structured leadership instead of reacting to crises with short-term fixes.

The Call to Action: Evolve or Become Obsolete

Emergency management must shift toward data-driven decision-making, strategic planning, and interagency collaboration. EM professionals need to embrace branding, marketing, and clear messaging to establish credibility and secure funding. The field must also attract multi-disciplinary stakeholders, including finance and logistics experts, to enhance operational efficiency.Emergency management is at a crossroads.

Without embracing innovation, technology, and strategic coordination, the field risks being phased out. FEMA and EM leaders must focus on efficiency, structure, and stakeholder engagement to secure long-term success. The world isn’t on fire—but without change, emergency management might be.

Listen, Watch, & Support DTP: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links

Boost the signal with a $5 monthly donation!

Become a TRL Insider Member with a ton of extra content! 
#emergencymanagement #disastertough #leadership #emergencyservices 
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One day after Inauguration Day in the United States, the Disaster Tough Podcast welcomes a former White House Medical Officer to the show.

Travis Kaufman served as a Medical Officer in the White House from 2016 to 2021. 

He has also served in the US Army for nearly 25 years in various capacities, including as an Aeromedical Physician Assistant and an Engineer Diver.  

He has also worked in medical education as an adjunct professor and Emergency Management professional at Lynchburg University.  

He currently serves as the Director At Large of the Colorado Academy of Physician Assistants.  

In this episode, Travis discusses the importance of balancing fluidity in job execution, while maintaining industry standards in the medical and emergency management fields.  

He and host, John Scardena also discuss what the Emergency Management field needs to do to evolve and improve itself as it grows in the world of response.

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Emergency Management for Dynamic Populations (DyPop): Hot Mess Express: An emergency management leadership course focusing on response tactics during terrorist attacks.

Hot Mess Express includes an immersive exercise during an intentional train derailment scenario. Register for DyPop here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/shop/p/dynamic 

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

Listen, Watch, & Support DTP: www.thereadinesslab.com/dtp-links Boost the signal with a $5 monthly donation! 

Become a TRL Insider Member with a ton of extra content! 

#emergencymanagement #disastertough #leadership #emergencyservices 

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Creating resilient communities is the goal of today's guest in the Disaster Tough Podcast.  

JT White and Susanna Pho joined forces in 2019 to form Forerunner, a software platform designed to empower communities to prepare better, respond, and plan for future disasters and major incidents.

The company specializes in its floodplain management platform which is designed to automate workflows for professionals to manage their resources better.  

However, the company is continuing to work toward becoming an "All Hazards Resilience Platform."

In this episode of the Disaster Tough Podcast, Susanna and JT go back to their days as colleagues at MIT, and discuss how their idea for a company came about. 

They also discuss, among other things, how they work to lead a growing company from opposite sides of the country.  

To learn more about Forerunner and its platform, visit https://www.withforerunner.com/

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*Major Endorsements: L3Harris's BeOn PPT App.
Learn more about this amazing product here: https://www.l3harris.com/ 

Impulse: Bleeding Control Kits by Professionals for Professionals: https://www.dobermanemg.com/impulse

Emergency Management for Dynamic Populations (DyPop): Hot Mess Express: An emergency management leadership course focusing on response tactics during terrorist attacks.

Hot Mess Express includes an immersive exercise during an intentional train derailment scenario. 

Register for DyPop here: https://www.thereadinesslab.com/shop/p/dynamic

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