Emergency Management: Unfiltered Thoughts from the Field

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impacted by changes at FEMA.He highlights the urgent need for strategic coordination in emergency services, challenging outdated norms and emphasizing why emergency managers are first responders, not second-class support.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