EM Weekly Podcast

EM Weekly Podcast

EM Weekly is the podcast for emergency managers, by emergency managers. We’ll cover everything that impacts you as an emergency manager, including the latest in technology, preparedness, strategy, and tactics. Our goal is to provide you with real insights into the world of emergency management, as well as give you an opportunity to get to know the people behind the job. So grab a drink, pull up a chair, and join us for EM Weekly, where the conversation is always lively, informative, and predictably unexpected. Learn more: www.thereadinesslab.com/em-weekly-links Podcast Network: The Readiness Lab Owned and operated by Doberman Emergency Management

Episodes

December 6, 2024 69 mins
In this episode, Zack and Jeff Perkins discuss Jeff's unique journey from aspiring rapper to emergency management professional. They explore the challenges of dispatching, the importance of building relationships in emergency management, and the critical role of technology and interoperability in public safety. Jeff shares insights on his experiences with FirstNet and LTE and how it has transformed communication during emergencies....
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In this episode of EM Weekly, host Zack engages in a dynamic conversation with ChatGPT about the transformative role of AI in emergency management. They explore how AI can assist emergency managers, especially those new to the field, by providing tools for data analysis, training, and real-time decision-making. The discussion covers practical applications of AI, including training programs, evacuation planning, and effective commun...
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August 29, 2024 26 mins
In this episode of EM Weekly, Zack makes his return to podcasting and outlines his exciting plans for future episodes. He shares a sneak peek of upcoming guests, including experts from Trauma Soft and the CISA's Office of Bombing Prevention. With National Preparedness Month just around the corner, Zack delves into the critical topic of school safety. He stresses the importance of behavioral threat assessment teams in schools as a p...
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In this episode of EM Weekly, Zack dives deep into the world of emergency communications with Aaron Williams and Jason Burt from L3Harris. Discover the cutting-edge evolution of the radio industry, the game-changing adoption of LTE and LMR convergence, and how L3Harris is setting new standards from large agencies to small volunteer departments. Get the inside scoop on innovative safety features for law enforcement, the crucial role...
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The conversation between Zack and Mike covers their long-standing friendship, Mike's journey into the army and his role as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician. They discuss the challenges and training involved in EOD work, as well as the importance of realistic training and the need to balance risk aversion with preparedness for high-risk events. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges o...
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In today's episode, Zack provides a debrief of his experience at the National Preparedness Symposium at the Center for Domestic Preparedness, highlighting the topics and trends discussed. Zack presented on the use of AI in emergency management and the need for understanding its limitations. Other big discussions included the importance of the national qualification system, the use of IPAWS for emergency notifications, cybersecurity...
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Today we're joined by James Neufeld of Samdesk, a company that provides real-time monitoring and intelligence augmentation using AI and software. James, the founder and CEO of Samdesk, has a background in broadcast and journalism, which led him to recognize the need for a better way to gather and analyze information during crises.

The conversation explores the importance of real-time information in emergency management and the chal...
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Andrew Donawa, an emergency manager within the Pasco County Sheriff's Office, discusses the unique role of law enforcement in emergency management. He highlights the importance of having dedicated emergency managers in every agency, regardless of the scale of the emergency. Andrew also shares his experiences in building an incident management team and the benefits of incorporating technology, such as L3 Harris radios and mobile com...
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In this episode, Zack discusses the upcoming eclipse and its impact on communities. He emphasizes the importance of preparedness and readiness for large events, regardless of their scale. Zack highlights the anticipated impacts of the eclipse, such as increased traffic and congestion, and the strain on critical infrastructure. He also addresses communication challenges and the need for emergency response planning.

Additionally, Zac...
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In this episode, Zack discusses the cell phone outage affecting major carriers and emphasizes the importance of having a PACE (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) communication plan. He explores alternate communication methods such as landlines, Wi-Fi, and smart devices, and contingency methods like satellite phones and radios. Zack also mentions the impact of solar flares on communication systems and highlights the need fo...
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Joseph Porcelli, the Global Public Agency, Life Safety & Disaster Response Lead at Nextdoor, discusses the importance of connecting neighbors and building community resilience. He shares his journey from taking action in his own neighborhood to joining Nextdoor and working with emergency managers across the country. Porcelli emphasizes the value of service and the power of asking for and offering help. He highlights the Storm C...
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In this conversation, Doug Bainton, a citywide interagency coordinator in New York City, discusses the importance of interagency coordination in emergency management. He highlights the value of field experience and understanding the tactical mindset in emergency response. Doug emphasizes the need for building relationships and communication among different agencies and the benefits of working together in incident response. He also ...
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In this episode, Zack discusses his excitement for the innovations and advancements in emergency management that he anticipates in 2024. He highlights the role of AI in project management and organization, as well as the potential for AI to expedite emergency response. Zack also discusses the evolution of emergency management practices, emphasizing the need for flexibility and resilience. He explores the gamification of emergency m...
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Get pumped people - Discover ChatGPT's new superpower that lets you create your very own AI assistants! I'm talking customized Generative Pre-trained Transformers built for emergency managers, by emergency managers. In this episode, I showcase the two GPTs I built to become your exercise and messaging sensei.

First, I unveil Exercise Architect - Our new tabletop and training workout buddy. I walk through how this GPT helps me put to...
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In this episode of EM Weekly, we sit down with Andy Bozzo, the visionary founder and CDO of Tablet Command. From his early success in college as an NCAA athlete, to his first career as a teacher, to his current role as a Fire Captain, Andy's unique journey epitomizes a fusion of service, technology, and continuous learning. We delve into the genesis of Tablet Command, a groundbreaking tool that marries modern tech with real-world e...
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On this week's episode, we talk to Jacob Saltzman! Jacob recounts his experience working emergency medical services at Burning Man and dealing with the two significant rainstorms that impacted the event this year. He details the unique emergency response structure at the festival, the challenges of providing care in extreme weather, and the resiliency of the Burning Man community. Jacob also shares insights on improvising response ...
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This is a must listen episode! This week's guest is David Riedman, researcher and creator of the K-12 School Shooting Database. We discuss the surprising realities around shootings and violence at schools that often go unreported in the media. How can emergency managers help schools be more proactive with safety planning and preparedness? David shares insights from the data and patterns seen in the 300+ school shootings in the data...
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September 18, 2023 46 mins
Artificial intelligence is transforming how governments operate, but adopting new tech can be a challenge. In this week's episode, we chat with Micah Guadet, a trailblazer in using AI ethically and responsibly in the public sector.

Micah developed the first course on adopting AI in government, sharing how to navigate policy, fear, and change management. He's an evangelist for the potential of AI to improve public safety and operatio...
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In this episode of the EM Weekly podcast, host Zack dives into the essential aspects of school emergency preparedness at the start of the academic year. From comprehensive strategies that administrators, teachers, and staff should implement, to the vital role parents play in ensuring their children's safety, we cover it all. The episode provides a roadmap for schools to create a resilient environment and offers practical advice for...
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Today's episode is actually the launch episode for our latest podcast, Life Fire Layout!

Subscribe and listen in!www.spreaker.com/show/life-fire-layout

In the inaugural episode of "Life, Fire, Layout," host Prescott Nadeau sits down with Zack Borst, an emergency manager and host of the popular EM Weekly Podcast. Together, they delve into the purpose and vision for this new series. Nadeau shares his aspirations for the show, which a...
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