The Emergency Management Network Podcast

In the fast-paced world of emergency management, staying ahead of potential threats during large-scale events like the Super Bowl is critical. Skyline Technology Solutions is at the forefront of this effort and a key player in integrating real-time video-sharing solutions that empower emergency responders to make swift, informed decisions. In this edition, we sit down with Mia Millette, CEO of Skyline Technology Solutions, to explore how their cutting-edge technology transforms public safety operations and strengthens community resilience. Join us as we delve into the innovations shaping emergency management's future.. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

The IAEM Region 9 Presidential Candidates Forum brought together the candidates for the upcoming IAEM Region 9 presidency as they presented their platforms, shared their visions for the future of emergency management, and answered questions from the community. This interactive session provided a unique opportunity for IAEM members to engage with the candidates, learn about their priorities, and understand how they plan to lead the region toward greater resilience and professional growth. If you missed the live event, you can catch up by listening to the recording and staying informed about the future direction of IAEM Region 9! This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

In the Emergency Management Network Leaders and Innovators interview series, Todd DeVoe speaks with Arthur Simental, a certified emergency manager and game creator, about an innovative training board game for emergency managers. The guest shares their journey into emergency management, which began after high school with an introduction to an exercise in Colorado Springs. Inspired by disaster movies and exercises, they developed a passion for emergency management and training.The conversation covers creating a unique board game that fills a gap in emergency management training by being more immersive and engaging than traditional tabletop exercises. The game focuses on ESF (Emergency Support Function) roles, simulating real-life scenarios like wildfires, resource allocation, and political challenges. It introduces an element of "chaos" through cards, keeping the game dynamic and unpredictable, reflecting the nature of real emergencies. Additionally, the game is designed to be cost-effective, making it accessible to smaller emergency management programs.The game also emphasizes team-based wins, as success in emergencies relies on collaboration. The guest highlights how they sought to create a tool that trains emergency managers and educates the public on emergency management processes. They discuss the importance of balancing fun, replayability, and authenticity while advancing emergency management training methods through both traditional and potentially digital platforms in the future.Link to Gamehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/arthursimental/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

Emergency Management Leadership Summit Live & VirtualEvent by Emergency Management NetworkWhen: Wed, Sep 18, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM PTWhere: Online Live EventHow: Event Link This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

The Leadership Summit is a dynamic and transformative event that brings together leaders, innovators, and visionaries from various fields and backgrounds. This summit is a platform for sharing insights, strategies, and best practices in leadership, management, and personal development. Attendees can expect engaging discussions, thought-provoking presentations, and opportunities for networking and collaboration.The Emergency Management Network is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

In this heartfelt and detailed episode of 'Theory into Practice,' host Dan Scott chats with retiring emergency management expert Carol Cwiak. They discuss the controversial rebranding of the Emergency Management Institute (EMI) to the National Disaster and Emergency Management University, exploring its implications for the professionalization and capabilities of emergency management. Carol shares her career journey, the challenges of a profession often overlooked and underfunded, and her passionate plea for the community to work together toward recognition and respect. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the past, present, and future of emergency management. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

Episode Description: Get ready to explore the high-stakes world of Game Day Management, where precision, planning, and quick decision-making are crucial. In this episode, we bring together top minds to share their expertise. Brian P. Bittner, a leader in game-day emergency management at Penn State, joins us to discuss the unique challenges of coordinating safety and operations for one of the largest college football stadiums in the country.We’ll explore how Penn State manages the influx of over 100,000 fans on game days, ensuring their safety and enjoyment while navigating the complexities of emergency preparedness and response. Brian will share his insights on the strategies that keep everything running smoothly, from handling weather-related emergencies to coordinating with local law enforcement and medical teams.Whether you’re an emergency management professional, an event planner, or just fascinated by the behind-the-scenes work that makes game days possible, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. In the middle of the podcast, a 4.7 earthquake struck my area. We interrupted the interview so I could check in on my daughter. She was a little scared, but with a hug and reassurance, all was well. It goes to show everyone that an event can strike at any time. As always, stay safe and stay hydrated. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

"Elemental: Reimagine Wildfire" is a timely and thought-provoking documentary that challenges the conventional narratives around wildfires and their management. As emergency management professionals, we are often at the forefront of responding to these increasingly frequent and intense natural disasters. This film provides us with a critical opportunity to rethink our approaches, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in how we understand and manage wildfires.The documentary explores the complex relationship between fire, the environment, and human communities, pushing the boundaries of what is traditionally considered effective wildfire management. It highlights the importance of returning to indigenous knowledge and practices, which have long recognized fire as a natural and necessary part of the ecosystem. By integrating these practices with modern science and technology, the film advocates for a more holistic and sustainable approach to wildfire management.One of the key takeaways from "Elemental" is the idea that we need to move away from the notion of fire suppression as the sole strategy for wildfire management. Instead, the film urges us to focus on creating fire-resilient communities through proactive measures such as controlled burns, better land-use planning, and community engagement. This shift in focus aligns with the broader goals of emergency management: to mitigate risk, enhance resilience, and ensure that communities are better prepared to face disasters.For emergency managers, "Elemental" serves as a powerful reminder that our strategies must evolve to meet the challenges of a changing climate. The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires are not just environmental issues; they are public safety concerns that require a coordinated and informed response. By adopting the principles presented in this documentary, we can work towards a future where wildfires are not seen as catastrophic events but as natural phenomena that we can live with and manage effectively.In conclusion, "Elemental: Reimagine Wildfire" is more than just a documentary; it is a call to action for all of us in the emergency management field. It challenges us to rethink our approaches, embrace new strategies, and work collaboratively with communities to build a more fire-resilient future. As we continue to face the growing threat of wildfires, this film offers valuable insights and practical solutions that can help guide our efforts in creating safer, more resilient communities.Links https://www.elementalfilm.com/homehttps://www.elementalfilm.com/streamingtrailer This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

Description: Join us for an inspiring interview with Vivek Kaliraman, where he shares his journey of perseverance and the innovative vest and app he has developed to enhance emergency management. Todd discusses the importance of collaboration with social entrepreneurs like Vivek and the need for emergency managers to seek out and support innovative startups. This conversation highlights how unique solutions and partnerships can better prepare communities for emergencies. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to seeing you in our next episode!For more information, click here https://perci.us/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

In the high-stakes world of emergency management, where every detail matters and preparation is critical, finding fun moments can be a rare but vital source of relief. Yesterday, my nephew introduced me to an app that generates full songs from just a few keywords. Intrigued, I decided to experiment with this tool, and th… This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

Today, we honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed in service to our nation. Memorial Day is a time for reflection, remembrance, and gratitude as we pay tribute to those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms and values we hold dear.The origins of Memorial Day can be traced back to the aftermath of the American Civil War, a conflict that tore our nation apart and claimed countless lives. As the war ended in 1865, communities across the country began holding ceremonies to honor the Union and Confederate soldiers who had perished. One of the earliest known ceremonies occurred in Charleston, South Carolina, in May 1865. There, a group of freed slaves gathered to commemorate fallen Union soldiers buried at a local race course, a poignant moment in our nation's history.The first national observance of Memorial Day, then Decoration Day, was declared by General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic on May 5, 1868. He designated this day as a time to decorate the fallen graves with flowers and hold ceremonies in their honor. The name "Decoration Day" reflected this tradition of adorning the final resting places of our heroes with blooms of respect and remembrance.As the years passed, Memorial Day evolved into a day of national significance, honoring all Americans who died while serving in the military. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a federal holiday to be celebrated on the last Monday in May, giving us a designated day to remember and honor our fallen heroes.Today, Memorial Day is marked by parades, speeches, and ceremonies at military cemeteries and other sites nationwide. We gather in towns and cities, at monuments and memorials, to ensure that the sacrifices of our service members are never forgotten. This day serves as a solemn reminder of the true cost of freedom and the bravery of those who have defended it with their lives.As we stand here today, let us reflect on the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the men and women who have died in service to our country. Their legacy is one of honor and valor, and their memory inspires us to strive for a future worthy of their sacrifice. Let us also remember the families of our fallen heroes, who carry the weight of loss every day. Their strength and resilience are a testament to the enduring spirit of our nation.Today, take a second or two to bow your head in silence to honor those who have given everything for the United States of America. May we never forget their sacrifice and continue to uphold the values and freedoms they fought for.Thank you. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

In the Emergency Management Network series hosted by Todd DeVoe, Jason Hurley and Sarah Bonk from Erie County, New York, discuss their experiences with emergency communication, particularly during crises like blizzards. They emphasize the importance of setting up a call center for crisis communications, recounting the establishment of the "snow line" during the 2022 blizzard. This hotline helped manage a range of issues from locating towed vehicles to coordinating medical treatments.Jason and Sarah highlight the necessity of public outreach and effective communication strategies, particularly for vulnerable populations. They discuss the importance of using clear, understandable language in public messaging and the role of community partnerships in maintaining service networks during emergencies.Sarah discusses the mental health aspects of managing emergency call centers, stressing the need for real-time support and post-crisis care for call takers. They also mention using tools like WebEx and Cisco for remote operations and the significance of annual training to prepare for future emergencies.The conversation concludes with Todd's light-hearted question about the Buffalo Bills' chances of winning the Super Bowl, to which Jason expresses optimistic support. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

Transcripts were produced by Streamyard and edited for easier reading. The content has not been changed Good afternoon, everybody. This is Todd DeVoe, your host of the Emergency Manager Network. We are starting a new series brought to you by DLAN, where we'll be discussing various ideas in emergency management, policy ideas, and how we can move things forward. Today, we're focusing on artificial intelligence and machine learning and how these technologies impact emergency management and decision-making. Tim Matheson from Buffalo Computer Graphics and Eric Kant are joining me. We'll have an in-depth conversation about machine learning and AI. First, let's welcome Eric to the show. Hey, Eric, welcome.Hey, thank you for having me, Todd. Glad to be here.Absolutely. I'm going to bring Tim in, too. You know each other, so no formal introductions are necessary, but we'll do some self-introductions in a moment. Eric, could you give us a quick background on yourself? Your background is impressive, from what you've done in the past to what you're doing now and how you're using AI.Sure. My background has been one of luck and privilege. I started as a firefighter-paramedic in both New York and Florida, where I experienced six presidentially declared disasters. During that time, I was with a very progressive department, and we implemented cutting-edge software, hardware, and processes, even in the mid-90s. I then helped build out systems for disasters like 9/11, Katrina, and Sandy. During those years, I met Tim and Buffalo Computer Graphics, and we worked on several interoperability projects. In the last few years, I've been focused on decision intelligence, applying what is now termed AI, although many of us have been working with these concepts for at least a decade.AI is indeed an interesting and somewhat misunderstood term. We often hear about ChatGPT as AI, but there's more to it. Tim, could you introduce yourself and talk about what you guys are doing at Buffalo Computer Graphics?Thanks, Todd. I'm the Director of Products at Buffalo Computer Graphics, and we develop incident management software. Incident management software can encompass a wide range of functions, from situational reporting to resource tracking and documentation. AI is becoming a significant part of this as more people want to use their data to make informed decisions.Thanks, Tim. And thank you for the work you guys are doing at Buffalo Computer Graphics. AI is often misinterpreted, especially with tools like ChatGPT. Eric, can you explain what AI really is?Absolutely. AI is defined by governance and regulations, which is crucial. For instance, the White House Executive Order and the EU Artificial Intelligence Act offer broad definitions of AI, covering various technologies from regression algorithms to more advanced systems. When we talk about AI, it could mean many different technologies, such as machine learning models, neural networks, and natural language processing, among others.When it comes to large language models like ChatGPT, they're essentially statistical tools guessing the next word or phrase based on patterns in the data they were trained on. They don't truly understand language; they operate on tokens, which are sequences of characters and spaces.Let's discuss using AI in emergency management. We had a discussion about using language models to write emergency messages on the fly, but we agreed that's not a great idea because you need human oversight. However, language models can help create more inclusive messages by refining the language used.I completely agree. Using a large language model for on-the-fly emergency messaging is risky. However, it can be useful for planning and ensuring messages are clear and inclusive. For instance, it can help refine directions or instructions to avoid ambiguity.Exactly. Now, Eric, could you talk about decision intelligence and how it integrates with AI to help make decisions in emergency management?Sure. Decision intelligence is a framework that augments AI to make it useful for decision-making. It involves modeling and contextually framing decisions, which helps in evaluating complex situations. For example, we use decision intelligence to simulate various scenarios and bring back multiple courses of action based on operational parameters.Tim, how does this apply to your work with Buffalo Computer Graphics?We use AI to enhance our incident management software, helping users navigate and understand their systems better. AI assists with customer support, creating internal documents, and responding to requests. However, it's crucial to vet AI outputs carefully because they can sometimes produce unexpected results.Absolutely. AI can provide valuable information, but human oversight is essential. For instance, when dealing with large-scale events like recent tornadoes, AI can help process vast amounts of data quickly, but final decisions should always be made by informed humans.Exactly. AI should be seen as an assistant rather than a decision-maker. By modeling decision processes, we can use AI to provide better insights and recommendations without fully relying on it to make critical decisions.Eric and Tim, thank you for sharing your insights. If anyone has questions or wants to learn more, how can they get in touch with you?You can find me on LinkedIn and other professional networks. Tim, what about you?We are continuously working on new projects at Buffalo Computer Graphics, integrating AI to improve our systems. Feel free to reach out to us through our website or LinkedIn.Great. Thank you both for your time. For everyone listening, it's crucial to stay updated with the latest tools and methods in emergency management. Until next time, stay safe and stay hydrated. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

 Dscript produced the transcripts; some paragraphs were lightly edited from the audio version for easy reading. However, the spirit of the conversation is the same. There are conversations about mental health, suicide and the impact of disasters on our fellow humans.Welcome everyone to the Emergency Management Network podcast, your go-to source for all things related to disaster management and helping you create a disaster-resilient community.thein-depth  Welcome everyone to the Emergency Management Network podcast, your go-to source for all things related to disaster management and helping you create a disaster-resilient community.  We are the trusted voice in emergency management as we continue to grow, evolve and enhance your listening experience. We're introducing a few changes that will bring even more depth and insight to the conversations that matter the most in our field.  We're expanding our format to include in-depth interviews with leaders and pioneers in emergency management. We'll delve into detailed discussions that impact disaster policy and tackle current challenges.Topics and explore the cutting edge of our field.  We want to hear from you during this conversation and the EMN substack page, where you can read articles, leave comments, and become part of the growing community for those who want more from EMN.  We encourage you to become a paid supporter, and your contributions will not only help us keep the conversation going but also enable us to bring you more content that you love and the expert insights you need.As a paid supporter, you'll gain access to exclusive content and inside information, making your support even more impactful and appreciated.  Before we delve into today's episode, I want to thank Buffalo Computer Graphics and the International Association of Emergency Managers for their ongoing support of the Emergency Management Network.The commitment helps us continue to bring these crucial discussions to you. So whether you're a professional in the field, a policymaker, or someone with a keen interest in emergency management, there's something here for everyone. Be sure to follow us on Substack and consider supporting us in accessing exclusive content and insider information. This week, I was interviewed by Christina Silva, who graciously permitted me to share this entire conversation.  Stepping into the interviewee's shoes was a refreshing challenge for me,  and our dialogue was genuinely impactful. We delved into some intense topics, though, including mental health and suicide prevention, with a particular focus on the veteran community.And how they can transition and explore a career in emergency management,  a field that I'm deeply passionate about. I hope you find this segment engaging. Let's get into the show.  This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

AI in emergency management revolutionizes the entire disaster lifecycle, from preparedness to recovery, by harnessing advanced algorithms to analyze vast data sets for risk assessment and proactive planning. AI empowers decision-makers with real-time insights from diverse sources during crises, optimizing resource allocation and response strategies. Automated tools streamline tasks like damage assessment and risk communication, while simulation models enable scenario planning for more effective interventions. In the aftermath, AI aids in post-disaster analysis, guiding long-term recovery efforts by identifying needs and optimizing rebuilding strategies. AI enhances emergency management's agility, efficiency, and resilience, ensuring more effective responses to disasters and emergencies. This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

As we bid farewell to another remarkable year, we stand united in our commitment to resilience, preparedness, and the well-being of our communities. Together, we have faced challenges, embraced innovation, and continued to strengthen the bonds that define our emergency management family.In 2023, your dedication to safeguarding lives, property, and the environment has been inspiring. Whether responding to natural disasters, coordinating emergency plans, or enhancing community engagement, each of you has played a crucial role in creating a safer and more resilient world.As we step into 2024, let the spirit of hope and positivity guide us forward. May this new year bring fresh opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth. Let's celebrate the successes of the past and channel that energy into building an even more robust, adaptive, and compassionate emergency management network.May the coming year be filled with triumph, camaraderie, and shared achievements. May our collective efforts continue to impact the lives of those we serve positively.Thank you for being an essential part of the Emergency Management Network. Wishing you a joyful, prosperous, and fulfilling New Year! 🌟Stay resilient, stay prepared, and let's make 2024 a year to remember!Cheers to a Happy New Year! This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

Once upon a time in the bustling, snow-covered town of North Pole, there was a unique reindeer named Rudolph the emergency management reindeer (and he had a bright red nose to boot). Unlike his public safety peers, Rudolph had skills that were not on the front line but were critical to the overall response to a disaster. While the other reindeer were trained in public safety and were playing disaster games, they did not invite Rudolph because well...they did not know what he did. You see Rudolph was more of a behind-the-scenes kind of deer. He had an innate talent for emergency management, but his skills were not well understood or appreciated by others.Santa Claus, the jovial and wise Mayor of North Pole City, oversaw all the town's affairs, including the public safety team. He was a kind and thoughtful leader but, like the others, he hadn't yet recognized the true potential of Rudolph's unique abilities. The public safety reindeer, led by his Fire Chief Dasher, Police Chief Dancer, and Director of Public Works Comet, were skilled and confident in their roles but were skeptical of Rudolph. They often excluded him from emergency drills and critical planning meetings, chuckling about his position and questioning his role in their operations.Rudolph, though disheartened, didn't give up. He spent his time studying emergency management, learning about crisis coordination, recovery planning, and how to keep the town's Christmas spirit alive even in the worst of times. He knew deep down that his skills were valuable, even if the others didn't see it yet.Then, one fateful Christmas Eve, a fierce and unexpected storm hit North Pole City. The blizzard was like nothing they had ever seen. Visibility was near zero, and the public safety reindeer were at a loss. They struggled to coordinate their efforts, and the town was in disarray. The residents of the North Pole, worried about their safety and the delivery of gifts to children around the world, were looking to Santa for a solution.In this hour of need, Santa Claus realized that they needed someone with a different set of skills, someone who could manage this emergency with expertise and bring back order. He thought of Rudolph and his unique abilities. Swiftly, he called upon Rudolph, asking him to lead the emergency response and coordinate the recovery efforts.Rudolph, though surprised, was ready. He quickly assessed the situation, his red nose glowing brightly through the storm, serving as a beacon of hope and guidance in the chaotic night. He organized the public safety reindeer into efficient teams, delegating tasks based on their strengths. He set up emergency routes for gift delivery, ensuring that Santa's sleigh could navigate through the treacherous weather safely.Under Rudolph's leadership, the emergency response was seamless. He showed immense skill in coordinating the efforts, making sure that all residents of North Pole City were safe and that the Christmas spirit was kept alive. The gifts were delivered on time, and the joy of Christmas was not dimmed by the storm.The public safety reindeer, who had once doubted Rudolph, were now in awe of his expertise and leadership. They apologized for not recognizing his talents earlier and thanked him for his incredible contribution. Santa Claus was proud of Rudolph and made him an integral part of the North Pole's emergency management team.From that day forward, Rudolph was no longer just the reindeer with the red nose. He was Rudolph, the skilled emergency manager, a vital part of keeping North Pole City safe and ensuring that every Christmas was merry and bright. The town celebrated him, and he became a beloved figure, not just in North Pole City but all around the world, as the reindeer who saved Christmas in the face of a storm.All of the other public safety reindeer shouted out with glee, Rudolph the Emergency Management Reindeer, you will always be part of the team!  This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

As someone who's had the privilege of knowing Justin Kates for several years and sharing a seat with him on the board of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), I am thrilled to witness his ascent to the role of President for the 2023-24 term. Justin's election is a testament to his unwavering dedication and expertise in emergency management.Justin is known for his thoughtful approach and steadfast commitment to the profession. His leadership at IAEM-USA marks a significant milestone, bringing his rich experience and strategic vision to the forefront. He keenly recognizes the importance of professional associations in advocacy and unifying our members' voices, a quality that makes him an ideal leader for our times.Justin's background is as diverse as it is impressive. From leading emergency management in Somerville, Massachusetts, to his significant contributions in Nashua, New Hampshire, and as a Homeland Security Consultant for the State of Delaware, and in the private sector developing a program for Wawa Inc., his journey is a narrative of relentless dedication to public safety and emergency management. His academic credentials, with degrees from the University of Delaware and the Naval Postgraduate School, further bolster his professional stature. Beyond IAEM, Justin's role as Treasurer of the National Association for Public Safety GIS Foundation and his FEMA National Advisory Council membership highlight his broad influence in the field.Justin’s leadership is a beacon of progress for IAEM-USA. His election as President is an honor and a reflection of the respect and trust he has earned across the emergency management community. I am excited and optimistic about the future of IAEM under his guidance, and I look forward to supporting his initiatives and vision in the coming year.Supporters This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

Today, my heart is full of gratitude and excitement. As we cross the three-year mark of our journey together, I want to reflect on our shared experiences and thank each of you for your unwavering support.Three years ago, EMN was an idea, a spin-off from a podcast I was producing. The concept was simple yet ambitious – to deliver emergency management content in new and exciting forms. Looking back, I am overwhelmed by how much we have achieved together. Your engagement, feedback, and encouragement have been the driving force behind our success.Our mission at the Emergency Management Network (EMN) has always been to serve the emergency management community with unwavering dedication and bring innovation to the forefront of our content and programs. As we look to the future, I am excited to announce several new and exciting initiatives in the pipeline, each carefully crafted to enhance your experience with us.These upcoming programs are not just additions to our portfolio; they represent our commitment to staying at the cutting edge of emergency management. We understand that this field constantly evolves, with new challenges and advancements emerging regularly. We aim to ensure that you, our valued community, are equipped with the most current and comprehensive information available.We focus on various formats and platforms to disseminate our content to achieve this. Expect more interactive webinars, in-depth interviews with experts in the field, and hands-on workshops that provide practical insights and skills. We are also enhancing our digital presence, ensuring that our content is accessible and engaging, whether you're reading our newsletter, listening to our podcast, or participating in our online forums.In addition to these content improvements, we are also exploring partnerships with key organizations and thought leaders in emergency management. These collaborations aim to bring diverse perspectives and world-class expertise to our community, further enriching your learning and engagement with us.Our commitment to innovation also means we constantly seek feedback and ideas from you, our audience. Your input has been invaluable in shaping EMN's journey so far, and it will continue to guide us as we develop these new programs.These new initiatives are more than just expanding our content. They represent our ongoing dedication to serving the emergency management community with the most relevant, informative, and engaging content. We are excited to embark on this next phase of our journey with you.Your support becomes even more vital as we continue to grow and evolve at the Emergency Management Network (EMN). We humbly ask you to consider taking the next step in your journey with us by becoming a paid subscriber. Your subscription helps us keep the lights on and fuels our mission to bring innovative and essential emergency management content to our community. Every subscription goes a long way in ensuring that we can maintain the quality and frequency of the valuable resources you've come to expect from us. Additionally, if you find our content insightful and valuable, we encourage you to like and share it with your peers and colleagues. Your endorsements help us reach a wider audience and strengthen our community, allowing us to enhance our knowledge and preparedness in emergency management collectively. Your support, in any form, is greatly appreciated and plays a crucial role in our continued success and growth.I want to extend my deepest thanks to each one of you. Whether you have been with us from the beginning or have recently joined our community, your support has been invaluable. You are the reason we strive to push boundaries and continuously improve.We are excited about the future and are committed to bringing you the best in emergency management content. Stay tuned for more updates, and here's to many more years of growth, learning, and collaboration.Thank you once again for being a part of our journey.Supporters This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe

Today, we are at a pivotal moment in history. As the world watches with bated breath, nations grapple with crises that test the very core of their resilience and determination. The war in Ukraine has become a stalemate without an off-ramp, and the new conflict in Israel looks as if it may become long and drawn out. We look at the countless other situations many African nations have been in sustained armed conflict. We cannot forget the drug wars between the cartels and the government in Mexico. These conflicts serve as somber reminders of the unpredictable nature of our times.The unexpected assault on Israeli soil has thrown the region into turmoil, leading to immense loss and heartbreak. These devastating incidents raise the age-old question: How can we manage crises effectively as global citizens and leaders? How do we ensure the safety and well-being of the innocent people?Substackhttps://emnetwork.substack.com/Supportershttps://emnmedia.com/supporters/ This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emnetwork.substack.com/subscribe