Summary
In this episode of 'Five Minutes to Chaos', Steven Kuhr and Tom Sivak discuss the intricacies of crisis management, emphasizing the importance of people, relationships, and adaptability in emergency situations. Tom shares his extensive background in emergency management, detailing his experiences from local to federal levels, and highlights the need for effective planning, technology integration, and community resilience. The conversation also touches on the evolution of emergency management practices and the critical role of networking in building effective response teams.
takeaways
Crisis management is fundamentally about people and their needs.
Emergency management requires a focus on recovery and adaptation.
Technology, including AI, is essential for modern emergency management.
Plans must be actionable and regularly exercised, not just theoretical documents.
Building relationships and trust is crucial in emergency management.
Every disaster presents an opportunity for learning and improvement.
Networking is vital for effective crisis response and management.
Emergency managers must anticipate worst-case scenarios to prepare effectively.
The future of emergency management is bright with opportunities for growth.
Investing in people is key to successful emergency management.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-sivak-ms-cem/
Summary
In this episode of 'Five Minutes to Chaos', Steven Kuhr discusses the evolving landscape of crisis management in 2025 with emergency management experts Kelly McKinney and Tom Serio. They share personal experiences from recent disasters, the complexities of federal crisis management, and the importance of effective communication and coordination among stakeholders. The conversation emphasizes the human element in crisis management, the role of the private sector, and the need for emergency managers to demonstrate their value through effective execution and preparedness. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of FEMA and the necessity for public-private partnerships in crisis response.
Takeaways
Crisis management is essential in today's complex environment.
Understanding your 'why' is crucial for emergency managers.
FEMA's role is often misunderstood; they are not first responders.
Effective communication is vital during a crisis.
The private sector plays a significant role in disaster recovery.
Emergency managers must demonstrate their value through action.
Preparedness and planning are key to successful crisis management.
Coordination among various stakeholders is critical in emergencies.
Survivability should be the focus of business continuity plans.
The future of FEMA may require restructuring and better integration with local agencies.
Contact Information
Via LinkedIn
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, Steven Kuhr interviews Arthur J. Simental, M.S., CEM, discussing his extensive career in emergency management and the historical evolution of the field. They explore the significance of understanding emergency management's history, the impact of political changes on FEMA, and the importance of adapting to modern challenges. Arthur shares insights from his research and experiences, emphasizing the need for a cohesive identity in emergency management and the lessons learned from past crises.
Takeaways
Emergency management has a rich history that predates the Cold War.
Understanding the history of emergency management is crucial for future progress.
Political changes have historically influenced the structure and function of emergency management agencies.
The first emergency managers were state and local defense councils during World War I.
FEMA's creation in 1979 marked a significant moment in emergency management history.
Civil defense origins are foundational to modern emergency management practices.
The role of emergency management has evolved through various presidential administrations.
The importance of community involvement in emergency management dates back to World War II.
Research and education are vital for advancing the emergency management profession.
Arthur is writing a definitive history of emergency management to capture its evolution and significance.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/arthursimental/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, Steven Kuhr interviews Brendan Winder, head of emergency management for Christchurch, New Zealand. They discuss Brendan's journey in emergency management, the unique risks faced by New Zealand due to its geography, and the significant challenges encountered during the 2011 earthquake. Brendan shares insights on crisis management, the importance of community resilience, and the lessons learned from managing the red zone in Christchurch. The conversation also touches on funding for emergency management and the ongoing challenges faced in recovery efforts.
Takeaways
Crisis management requires collaboration and a strong network.
Defining the problem is crucial for effective response.
Emergency management is about sustained operations over time.
Community resilience is built through strong relationships.
The role of emergency managers is to facilitate solutions.
Lessons learned from past events can guide future responses.
Funding and support are critical for recovery efforts.
Emergency management must adapt to changing circumstances.
Understanding the geographic risks is essential for preparedness.
Crisis management is a continuous learning process.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendenwinder/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, Steven Kuhr and Adam Eckstein discuss the critical intersection of crisis management and the restoration industry. They explore the evolution of satellite communication, the role of the Association of Continuity Professionals, and the importance of pre-planning and situational awareness in disaster response. Adam shares insights into the logistics and command structures of restoration operations, emphasizing the need for collaboration and preparedness in the face of emergencies. The conversation highlights the often-overlooked role of restoration companies in crisis management and the importance of having a robust emergency response plan.
Takeaways
Crisis management exists in various sectors and industries.
Satellite communication has evolved significantly since Y2K.
The Association of Continuity Professionals fosters collaboration among emergency managers.
Pre-positioning resources is crucial before a hurricane strikes.
Restoration companies play a vital role in disaster recovery.
Situational awareness is key to effective emergency response.
Logistics operations are essential for restoration efforts.
Command and control structures are implemented in restoration operations.
Emergency response plans must be detailed and well-communicated.
Collaboration with engineers and specialists enhances recovery efforts.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/adameckstein/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, host Steven Kuhr speaks with Yaniv Amar, a New York City firefighter and former Marine, about his journey through emergency services and his recent deployments to Israel following the October 7th attacks. Yaniv shares his experiences in the Marine Corps, the differences in fire service operations between the U.S. and Israel, and the unique challenges faced during crisis situations. The conversation highlights the importance of service, resilience, and the lessons learned from working in high-stress environments.
Takeaways
The journey from EMT to firefighter and Marine Corps is significant.
Crisis management requires adaptability and quick decision-making.
Fire service operations differ greatly between countries.
The importance of community and support in emergency services.
Experiencing crisis situations can change one's perspective on safety.
The role of technology, like drones, in modern warfare is evolving.
Cultural differences impact how emergency services operate.
Resilience is key in high-stress environments.
Leadership in crisis requires calmness and decisiveness.
Gratitude for the resources available in the U.S. is essential.
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, host Steven Kuhr speaks with Michelle Newcomb, an expert in crisis management and organizational resilience. Michelle shares her unique journey into the field, stemming from a childhood experience with wildfires. The conversation explores global perspectives on crisis management, highlighting cultural differences in emergency response, particularly in countries like Sweden and Singapore. They discuss the importance of weather preparedness for businesses, especially in hurricane-prone areas like Florida, and the challenges of planning for a dispersed workforce. The episode emphasizes the duty of care organizations have towards their employees, especially in remote work settings. In this conversation, Michelle and Steven delve into the intricacies of emergency management and resilience, discussing the responsibilities organizations have in ensuring safety and preparedness. They explore the definition of resilience, the critical practices that contribute to it, and the importance of effective communication and planning in crisis situations. The discussion also highlights the current risks businesses face, including digital threats and climate change, and emphasizes the necessity of executive protection and comprehensive crisis management strategies.
Takeaways
Michelle's journey into crisis management began with a childhood wildfire experience.
Crisis management perspectives vary significantly across different cultures.
In Sweden, the concepts of safety and security are intertwined linguistically.
Understanding local emergencies is crucial for effective crisis management.
Weather preparedness is essential for business continuity planning.
Hurricane preparedness in Florida often lacks urgency among businesses.
A dispersed workforce requires proactive communication strategies during emergencies.
The knowledge and experience of employees are a company's most valuable assets.
Emergency management prioritizes the well-being of people above all.
Organizations must navigate the complexities of duty of care for remote employees. Emergency management involves clear communication and planning.
Resilience encompasses both employee safety and organizational continuity.
There are 12 essential practices for achieving resilience.
A roadmap is crucial for implementing resilience strategies.
Crisis communication plans should be straightforward and effective.
Executive protection is vital for high-risk individuals.
Digital threats, especially from AI, are a growing concern.
Climate change poses significant operational risks.
Organizations must prioritize the safety of their employees.
Investing in crisis preparedness is essential for business survival.
Contact Information (1) Michelle Newcome | LinkedIn
Summary
In this episode of 'Five Minutes to Chaos', host Steven Kuhr engages in a deep conversation with journalist Anne Woolsey McCartan about the intersection of crisis management and journalism. They explore the importance of relationships between emergency responders and the press, the role of technology in communication, and personal experiences that shape their understanding of crisis situations. The discussion also touches on significant events like 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, emphasizing the need for preparedness, resilience, and the critical role of information dissemination during emergencies.
Takeaways
Crisis management requires strong relationships between journalists and emergency responders.
Personal experiences can significantly shape a journalist's perspective on crisis situations.
Elected officials play a crucial role in communicating during emergencies.
The press is not an enemy; they are partners in disseminating vital information.
Technology is changing the landscape of crisis communication, but traditional methods still hold value.
Access to emergency scenes is essential for accurate reporting.
Preparedness and resilience are key in facing future crises.
The aftermath of 9/11 has led to health concerns for both first responders and journalists.
Katrina highlighted the need for accountability in crisis response.
Joint Information Centers can enhance communication but should not replace direct access to emergency responders.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-woolsey-mccarton-b6592a7a/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, host Steven Kuhr speaks with Brent Bloomfield, the Assistant Chief and Director of Emergency Management for the West Palm Beach City Fire Department. They discuss Brent's extensive career in emergency management, the challenges faced during hurricanes and special events, and the importance of community resilience and support from elected officials. Brent shares insights on the operations of the fire department, the impact of significant events like the POTUS watch party, and the ongoing growth and development of West Palm Beach. The conversation highlights the critical role of emergency management in urban settings and the need for effective communication and planning during large-scale events.
Takeaways
West Palm Beach Fire Department runs about 32,000 calls annually.
Emergency management requires support from elected officials.
The city has seen a 30% population increase in the last decade.
Special events require extensive planning and coordination.
Hurricanes and tornadoes pose significant challenges for emergency management.
Building codes have evolved to enhance community resilience.
Unified command is essential for managing large-scale events.
Emergency management is a critical component of public safety.
The fire department is a full-service agency, handling various emergencies.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-bloomfield-mpa-cem-498b9324/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, Steven Kuhr interviews Chief Bill Van Helden, who shares his extensive experience in emergency management and crisis leadership. The conversation covers Bill's career journey, the importance of spirituality in emergency services, and the emotional toll that crisis management can take on leaders. They discuss significant events like Hurricane Charlie, the need for courage and command presence in emergencies, and the importance of thinking the unthinkable. Bill emphasizes the necessity of humility in leadership, the risks of carbon monoxide after hurricanes, and the changing nature of emergency management in Florida. The episode concludes with reflections on the emotional impact of crisis management and the importance of pre-planning for emergencies.
Takeaways
The importance of crisis management in emergency situations.
Leadership requires courage and the ability to make tough decisions.
Spirituality can play a significant role in the lives of emergency workers.
Understanding the emotional toll of crisis management is crucial.
Planning for the unthinkable is essential in emergency management.
The need for humility in leadership roles.
Carbon monoxide risks increase after hurricanes due to generator use.
Continuity of government is vital during emergencies.
New residents in Florida may not understand hurricane risks.
Pre-planning contracts for debris management can save time and lives.
Contract Information bvhretiree2021@gmail.com
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, host Steven Kuhr interviews Dr. Yasmin Ali about her book detailing the Waverly train disaster of 1978. The conversation explores the chaotic emergency management landscape of the time, the personal experiences of Dr. Ali's family during the disaster, and the subsequent changes in regulations and the establishment of FEMA. The episode highlights the importance of disaster planning, community response, and the evolution of emergency management in the United States.
Takeaways
The Waverly train disaster had broad national consequences.
Emergency management in 1978 was chaotic and uncoordinated.
Dr. Ali's parents played a crucial role in the medical response.
The hospital's disaster plan was pivotal in saving lives.
FEMA was established as a direct result of the Waverly disaster.
Regulatory changes in railroad safety emerged from the incident.
The community response was vital, with citizens stepping up to help.
Incident command systems were not in place during the disaster.
The importance of disaster drills was highlighted by the recent simulation.
The disaster led to significant changes in emergency management practices.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasmine-s-ali-md/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, host Steven Kuhr engages with Liz Treston, an expert in community-based emergency management, to discuss the critical aspects of crisis management, particularly in the wake of Superstorm Sandy. They explore the roles of VOADs and COADs in disaster response, the shifting impact of hurricanes on inland communities, and the need for national disaster insurance. The conversation highlights the importance of community preparedness, collaboration among organizations, and continuous training for volunteers to effectively manage disasters. Liz shares her insights on the challenges faced with FEMA and the necessity of educating the public about disaster recovery processes.
Takeaways
Emergency management is crucial in all sectors of society.
Superstorm Sandy highlighted the need for community preparedness.
VOADs and COADs play a vital role in disaster response.
Hurricanes are increasingly impacting inland communities.
National disaster insurance could provide broader coverage.
FEMA's role is often misunderstood by the public.
Community education is essential for disaster preparedness.
Collaboration among organizations enhances disaster response.
Training for volunteers is key to effective emergency management.
Continuous communication is necessary for successful disaster recovery.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-t-9627875/
Summary
In this episode of '5 Minutes to Chaos', host Steven Kuhr engages with Rich Pepe, a seasoned crisis management professional with extensive experience in law enforcement, emergency services, and corporate security. The conversation explores Rich's journey through the NYPD Highway Patrol, his volunteer firefighting experience, and the evolution of emergency services in New York City. They discuss the critical role of the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) in coordinating responses during crises, the intricacies of traffic incident management, and the implementation of contraflow strategies during evacuations. Rich also shares insights from his time at Deutsche Bank during the COVID-19 pandemic and his current role at Manhattan Beer Distributors, highlighting the importance of collaboration and communication in crisis management.
Takeaways
Crisis management is about real experiences and observations.
Traffic incident management is crucial for emergency response.
Combat parking helps ensure emergency vehicles can access scenes.
OEM plays a vital role in coordinating emergency responses.
Contraflow planning is essential for effective evacuations.
Crisis management requires collaboration across agencies.
The Deutsche Bank crisis management team was well-prepared during COVID-19.
Effective communication is key in crisis management.
Keeping the beer flowing is critical for Manhattan Beer Distributors.
Takeaways
Crisis management is about real experiences and observations.
Traffic incident management is crucial for emergency response.
Combat parking helps ensure emergency vehicles can access scenes.
OEM plays a vital role in coordinating emergency responses.
Contraflow planning is essential for effective evacuations.
Crisis management requires collaboration across agencies.
The Deutsche Bank crisis management team was well-prepared during COVID-19.
Effective communication is key in crisis management.
Keeping the beer flowing is critical for Manhattan Beer Distributors.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nypdpepe/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, Steven Kuhr and Peter LaPorte discuss the intricacies of crisis management and emergency response, drawing from their extensive careers in the field. They explore the evolution of emergency management, the importance of community engagement, and the role of technology in enhancing response efforts. The conversation highlights key lessons learned from major incidents, the significance of women in leadership roles, and the ongoing challenges faced in urban emergency management. The episode concludes with reflections on past experiences and a look towards the future of emergency management.
Takeaways
Crisis management requires collaboration and effective communication.
Emergency management has evolved significantly over the years.
Community engagement is crucial for effective emergency response.
Women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in emergency management.
Technology plays a vital role in modern emergency management practices.
Learning from past incidents is essential for improvement.
Emergency management is fundamentally a people-first business.
Building strong teams is key to successful emergency management.
Preparedness exercises should challenge existing systems.
The future of emergency management will require adaptability and innovation.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-laporte-bba176104/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, Steven Kuhr and Linda Reissman discuss the challenges and experiences faced during the recent Hurricane Helene disaster in North Carolina. Linda shares her extensive background in emergency management and her unconventional role in supporting her community during the crisis. They explore the importance of communication, the impact of misinformation, and the need for civic education in disaster response. The conversation highlights the resilience of communities and the critical role of emergency managers in navigating complex situations.
Takeaways
Crisis management requires real-time observations and adaptability.
Communication failures can severely hinder disaster response efforts.
Community leadership is essential during emergencies.
Misinformation can prevent people from receiving necessary aid.
Civic education on disaster response is crucial for public understanding.
Emergency managers must balance their roles without interfering with official responses.
The importance of local support networks in disaster recovery cannot be overstated.
Animal rescue efforts are as vital as human support during crises.
Preparedness education can enhance community resilience.
The emotional toll of disasters can trigger memories of past traumatic events.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindareissman/
Summary
In this episode of 'Five Minutes to Chaos', Steven Kuhr interviews Kit Lee-Demery, an experienced emergency manager, who shares her journey through various roles in crisis management. They discuss the importance of emergency management in different sectors, particularly in the private sector, and how it has evolved over time. Kit shares her experiences preparing for Hurricane Milton, emphasizing the need for effective communication and situational awareness during emergencies. The conversation highlights the significance of collaboration within crisis management teams and the necessity of continuous training and preparedness to ensure the safety of employees and the organization as a whole.
Takeaways
Emergency management exists in various sectors beyond traditional roles.
Effective communication is crucial during emergencies to ensure safety.
Organizations have a duty of care to protect their employees.
Crisis management requires collaboration and support from various departments.
Training and preparedness are essential for effective emergency response.
Situational awareness helps in making informed decisions during crises.
Riding the wave of an emergency can help gain buy-in for preparedness initiatives.
Plans should be actionable and regularly updated to avoid the paper plan syndrome.
Building a network of contacts is vital for effective crisis management.
Continuous learning from past incidents is key to improving future responses.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kldem/
Summary
In this powerful episode of 'Five Minutes to Chaos', host Steven Kuhr engages in a deep conversation with John Peruggia, a veteran of the New York City Emergency Medical Services and Fire Department. They discuss John's extensive career, the merger of EMS with the FDNY, and the challenges faced during significant incidents, particularly the events of September 11, 2001. John shares his personal experiences and reflections on leadership, crisis management, and the evolution of emergency response in New York City.
Takeaways
Crisis management is built on real experiences and observations.
The merger of EMS and FDNY was a significant change for public safety.
Leadership during crises requires clear communication and quick decision-making.
The events of 9/11 highlighted the importance of preparedness and inter-agency cooperation.
Understanding the history of emergency services can inform better practices today.
The deployment of resources during emergencies must be flexible and responsive.
Building relationships with partner agencies is crucial for effective emergency management.
The emotional toll of responding to disasters can impact first responders long after the event.
Training and experience play a vital role in effective crisis response.
Reflecting on past incidents can provide valuable lessons for future preparedness.
Contact Info
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnperuggia/
Summary
In this episode of Five Minutes to Chaos, host Steve Kuhr engages with Frank McCart0n, a seasoned emergency management leader with extensive experience in both New York City and California. They discuss Frank's journey through various roles in emergency management, the importance of crisis management practices, and the lessons learned from significant events such as wildland fires and structural collapses. The conversation emphasizes the need for coordination among agencies, the criticality of understanding infrastructure, and the empowerment of emergency managers to make decisions effectively. Frank shares valuable insights and anecdotes from his career, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and adapting in the field of emergency management.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-mccarton-247bb77/
Summary
Senior Crisis Manager John Liuzzi shares his experience in crisis management as the global director of crisis management and business continuity for a large wine and spirits distributor. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the business and being a business partner rather than focusing solely on compliance. John discusses the logistics of the distribution business, including domestic and international transportation, and the significance of business survivability. He also shares examples of crises he has managed, such as simultaneous hurricanes, the COVID-19 pandemic, and civil unrest. In this conversation, John discusses the various crises and disasters that his organization, Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits, has faced and how they have managed them. He highlights the importance of having strong partnerships with external partners and a robust support network outside of the organization. John and Steve discuss the concept of Rolodex management and the value of building relationships in emergency management. John emphasizes the need for extensive training and exercises to develop muscle memory and ensure organizational survivability. He also talks about the duty of care to the organization, employees, facilities, and brand reputation.
Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-liuzzi-559378/
Summary
In this episode, Steve Kuhr reflects on his experience during the September 11, 2001 terror attacks and shares his thoughts on crisis management and communication. He discusses his journey from being in Orlando, Florida for a healthcare conference to making his way back to New York City to support the response efforts. Steve highlights the importance of effective communication and the challenges that still exist in crisis management today. He also expresses his gratitude to the individuals he worked with during the response and recovery efforts.
Contacts
https://www.linkedin.com/in/skuhr/
