Disaster Podcast

This week on the Disaster Podcast we take a look at the 2026 hurricane forecast put out by several universities, NOAA, and groups like Accuweather. One key variable in predicting the coming season is the presence or absence of El Niño or La Niña in the equatorial region of the central Pacific Ocean. Dan DePodwin, our disaster weather expert breaks down the coming forecast and talks about how global weather and climate patterns impact storm formation half a world away. Dr. Joe Holley joins the discussion as well and we look at the messaging around hurricanes as they approach landfall. The National Hurricane Center recently updated their forecast cone graphic to make it easier to understand. Dan and Joe share their thoughts about the adjustments and about disaster messaging in general. Joe also shares his thoughts about preparedness for the coming season at the local, state, and federal levels. What to know about the new cone graphic: Incorporates all land-based (coastal and inland) tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings in effect for the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands; Uses single shading for the entire 5-day outlook cone; Legend depicts symbols for areas where a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning are both in effect (represented by diagonal pink and blue lines); and Full and intermediate Tropical Cyclone Advisories are/will be publicly available on hurricanes.gov. NHC will also be introducing a new experimental version of the NHC’s Tropical Cyclone Track Forecast Cone. Since its debut in 2002, the cone has shown where the tropical cyclone’s forecast center is likely to go, based on past forecast calculations. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Hurricane Season Forecast Discussion The podcast host Jamie Davis welcomed back Dr. Joe and Dan Depodwin to discuss upcoming weather events, particularly the hurricane season. Dr. Joe shared his upcoming schedule, including a Paragon lab in Florida and the First Care Conference in Fort Lauderdale in early June, which runs alongside the Gathering of the Eagles event. Dan discussed unusual weather patterns in the Northeast, noting chilly conditions in May despite early warm spells, and shared AccuWeather’s forecast for the Atlantic hurricane season, predicting 11-16 named storms and 4-7 hurricanes, which is around or slightly below average. He emphasized that even in a below-average season, multiple hurricanes could still impact the United States, using Hurricane Andrew in 1992 as an example. El Nino’s Impact on Hurricanes Dan and Jamie discussed how El Nino and La Nina affect hurricane seasons in the Atlantic Basin. Dan explained that El Nino, characterized by warmer than average water temperatures in the Pacific, typically leads to increased wind shear in the Atlantic, resulting in fewer hurricanes. They noted that while El Nino years generally have fewer storms, they don’t eliminate the possibility of storms. Dan mentioned that current forecasts indicate a strong or potentially record-breaking El Nino developing later in the summer and continuing into the fall. El Niño and Hurricane Season Dan explained that El Niño is driven by weakening easterly winds along the equator in the Pacific Ocean, which reduces cooler water upwelling and leads to warmer ocean temperatures. He noted that hurricanes play a crucial role in transferring energy globally by moving heat from the equator to higher latitudes. Dan emphasized that while this year’s hurricane season may have fewer storms than normal, the warm sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico will continue to fuel storm intensification, making preparation essential during the season running from June 1st to November 30th. Hurricane Preparedness and Response Planning The group discussed hurricane preparedness and response capabilities ahead of the upcoming hurricane season. Joe explained FEMA’s reorganization, noting that while federal response capabilities are effective, there may be variability in state-level preparedness and recovery efforts. The discussion included an analysis of updated National Hurricane Center forecast cone graphics, which now better show inland risks and warning areas. Dan and Joe emphasized the importance of heeding evacuation orders and preparing well in advance of storms, with Joe highlighting the need for experiential training and partnership between federal and state teams. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

New Look to Forecast Cone Today on the Disaster Podcast, co-host Sam Bradley and I discuss her recent move from Colorado to Missouri. She almost immediately ran into severe weather in the new house and talks about the things she did to improve her preparedness in the face of a change of location. Sam’s experience during the move had a profound impact on her and led her to locate the nearest shelter to their home for storm safety. We also looked at the upcoming hurricane season and discussed a quick overview of the 2026 hurricane forecast. We’ll have a more in-depth discussion with our meteorologists in a coming episode. One interesting topic that came up was the updated messaging from the National Hurricane Center and their cone of forecast track for hurricanes. They implemented new messaging upgrades to the graphic. What to know about the new cone graphic: Incorporates all land-based (coastal and inland) tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings in effect for the continental United States, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands; Uses single shading for the entire 5-day outlook cone; Legend depicts symbols for areas where a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning are both in effect (represented by diagonal pink and blue lines); and Full and intermediate Tropical Cyclone Advisories are/will be publicly available on hurricanes.gov. NHC will also be introducing a new experimental version of the NHC’s Tropical Cyclone Track Forecast Cone. Since its debut in 2002, the cone has shown where the tropical cyclone’s forecast center is likely to go, based on past forecast calculations. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Hurricane Season Preparation Discussion Sam shared her recent experience moving from suburban Colorado to rural Missouri, including challenges with severe weather, particularly tornado warnings during her drive. The group discussed upcoming hurricane season predictions, noting that while the storm count is projected to be near to below average, the risk remains significant due to potential rapid intensification and elevated early season threats. Jamie emphasized the importance of being prepared for hurricane season by having emergency supplies ready and staying informed through local emergency management centers and weather forecasts. Hurricane Forecast Graphics Updates Jamie and Sam discussed updates to hurricane forecast cone graphics from the National Hurricane Center, which will now include tropical storm and hurricane watches and warnings, as well as single shading for the entire 5-day cone outlook. Jamie explained that these changes aim to make the information more understandable and help people better assess their risk and evacuation needs. They also discussed the importance of staying informed through apps and alerts, emphasizing the need for immediate action during severe weather events. Weather Updates and Emergency Preparedness Jamie and Sam discussed the impact of constant weather updates and news notifications on public awareness and decision-making. They also talked about military drills, with Sam sharing his experience from a 2015-2016 Urban Shield exercise in Alameda County that involved emergency services training. Sam described how the realistic nature of the exercise surprised some hospital interns who initially viewed it negatively but gained valuable insights during the debriefing. Emergency Response Training Collaboration Sam and Jamie discussed emergency response training, particularly focusing on the evolution of collaboration between police, fire, and EMS teams in active shooter situations. They highlighted the development of training programs like Rescue Task Force and Active Violence Emergency Response Training (AVIRT), which aim to improve coordination and patient care in high-risk scenarios. Jamie mentioned the importance of unified communication systems and the challenges of maintaining effective communication in underground settings. The conversation concluded with plans to discuss recent severe weather trends and hurricane forecasts in a future episode with Dan. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Hail Damage This episode of the Disaster Podcast featured a discussion about resilience and preparedness with guest Jake Sorber from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). Jake explained IBHS’s research on severe weather hazards, particularly focusing on hail damage and wind-driven hail, which can cause significant additional damage to homes. He described IBHS’s unique ability to manufacture scientific ice spheres to accurately test building materials’ resistance to hail impacts. Becky DePodwin, our disaster emergency management expert joined the discussion along with our episode host, Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Disaster Podcast: Resilience and Preparedness Jamie Davis welcomed listeners to the Disaster Podcast and introduced the topic of resilience and preparedness. He noted that Sam was unavailable due to her recent move, but Becky was present as a guest. Jamie then introduced Jake Sorber, a research project scientist at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, who discussed his background in atmospheric science and his current work studying the effects of hail and wind on residential homes and commercial structures. IBHS Structure Testing and Mitigation Jake explained how IBHS, an insurance industry organization, was founded to conduct full-scale testing of structures to better understand vulnerabilities to severe weather events like hurricanes, hail, tornadoes, and wildfires. He described a specific hailstorm in Rock Hill, South Carolina in April 2024 that demonstrated how wind-driven hail can cause damage beyond rooftops, including siding and windows, which can lead to water intrusion and significantly increase losses by 2-4 times. Jake emphasized the importance of identifying “damage amplifiers” – structural elements that fail and cause disproportionate damage, which helps in developing mitigation strategies. Hail Risk and Insurance Insights Jake explained that there is limited historical data on wind-driven hail frequency, and IBHS is developing an instrument to measure impact angles and forces during their annual hail field campaign. He noted that while storm severity has shifted, socioeconomic factors like urban sprawl and increased building costs have had a greater impact on insured losses than weather changes. Jake mentioned that severe convective storms now cause annual losses of $40-60 billion, up from $15 billion historically, primarily due to increased population in hazard areas rather than increased weather risk. Hail-Resistant Building Materials Assessment Jake explained that hail-resistant building materials do exist and are assessed based on IBHS’s testing protocol, which involves simulating hailstorms in a lab. He mentioned that synthetic composite roofs like F-Wave and metal roofs perform well against hail damage, though metal roofs may have cosmetic issues. Jake noted that while some materials like synthetic composites show no damage after multiple hail exposures, the distinction between cosmetic and functional damage is important to consider. Residential Building Weather Resilience Jake from IBHS discussed residential building resilience against severe weather hazards. He explained that while completely hazard-proof homes don’t exist, building materials and construction methods can significantly reduce risk, particularly in high-risk areas like Tornado Alley. Jake described IBHS’s work on developing resilience scores for structures and their unique ability to manufacture hailstones for testing building materials. He also covered wildfire preparedness, emphasizing the importance of defensible space and structure separation. The discussion concluded with information about IBHS resources available at ibhs.org. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Sonnet Daymont, clinical therapist, joins the show this week with a look at the treatment and management of mental health trauma in both victims and responders following a major event. Her experiences following devastating wild fires in the Los Angeles area in January of 2025 help her define the needs of individuals in the short and long term. Dr. Joe Holley from Paragon Medical Education Group and Becky DePodwin, our disaster emergency management expert joined the discussion as well. The episode is co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Disaster Podcast Planning Meeting The team introduced themselves and discussed upcoming topics for the Disaster Podcast. Sam mentioned moving to Missouri and plans to build a tornado shelter in his garage. Becky advised keeping an eye on the severe weather forecast during the move. The group then introduced their guest for the episode, trauma expert Sonnet Daymont, who is a licensed marriage and family therapist and consultant on films. They discussed her background and her upcoming book “When Dangerous Feels Like Home,” a true crime memoir about healing from trauma. Sonnet’s Trauma Therapy Memoir Discussion The discussion focused on Sonnet’s background as a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in trauma treatment. She explained her upcoming book “When Dangerous Feels Like Home,” which is a true crime-inflected memoir about her journey to becoming a therapist through experiencing relational trauma. The conversation also touched on Sonnet’s work in the film industry, including consulting on a horror film about child abuse titled “Women in the Yard.” When asked about red flags for narcissistic personality traits, she began explaining how these traits relate to antisocial personality disorder and the challenges they present in relationships, though the transcript ended before she could complete her answer. Narcissistic Behavior Identification Discussion Sonnet advised that identifying narcissistic behavior involves paying attention to genuine empathy and listening carefully to others. They explained that while some behaviors like love bombing and grandiosity can be normal early in relationships, pathological versions might indicate manipulative or harmful intentions. Sonnet also clarified that mental health disorders like narcissism lack biomarkers and diagnostic criteria change over time, while explaining that Machiavellianism describes manipulative and cunning behavior lacking empathy. Psychological Disorders and Resilience The group discussed psychological disorders, focusing on the differences between psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder as defined in the DSM. Sonnet explained that while these conditions share some traits like low empathy, they represent distinct diagnostic categories, and individuals can exhibit multiple disorders simultaneously. Becky raised questions about nature versus nurture in personality development, to which Sonnet responded that brain scans show differences in people with reduced empathy or antisocial behavior, though the cause could be either genetic or environmental factors. The conversation then shifted to trauma and resilience, with Sonnet sharing insights about how supportive caregivers or mentors can help individuals process trauma constructively rather than developing problematic behaviors. Jamie introduced a new topic about disaster resilience, asking about preparation methods for people living in disaster-prone areas, but the transcript ended before this question was addressed. Disaster Responder Mental Health Strategies The meeting focused on discussing self-care and mental health strategies for disaster responders and survivors. Sonnet explained key components of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), including mindful awareness, thought restructuring, and exposure therapy, as effective tools for managing trauma and anxiety. The discussion highlighted how community support and social connections are crucial during disasters, with examples from recent wildfires in Los Angeles. The group agreed to bring back Sonnet for future discussions on mental health topics, particularly focusing on meteorologists’ experiences with disaster forecasting and its impact on their mental well-being. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

The Disaster Podcast hosted Ben Gilliland from Future Proof Property Intelligence to discuss his company’s AI-powered solution for assessing and mitigating climate-related risks to homes. Ben explained how their technology uses smartphone video scans, NVIDIA AI, and IBM climate data to create 3D models of properties, identify risk factors, and provide remediation plans and cost estimates. The discussion covered how their system addresses the mismatch between rising weather risks and shrinking insurance options, with an average cost of $10,000-$40,000 for home remediation. Becky DePodwin joined the call as well to offer her thoughts on this technology. The episode is co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Disaster Response Program Evolution The group discussed Joe, a Memphis-based medical director and ER doctor who runs Pentagon Medical Education Group, which provides experiential training for disaster responders using cadaver labs. Benjamin shared that his organization has shifted focus to develop a private sector solution for disaster mitigation after FEMA’s funding changes, working with Thomas Chandler from Columbia on developing remediation programs. Benjamin explained how their program has evolved to include three main areas: remediation, education, and preparedness, moving from a initial focus on house hardening to a broader approach including people engagement and warning systems. Resilience Technology Podcast Preparation The meeting focused on preparing for an upcoming podcast episode about using technology to enhance home and workplace resilience. Benjamin Gilliland from Future Proof Property Intelligence was introduced as the guest. The hosts, Jamie and Sam, discussed the format of the podcast and introduced Becky, a meteorologist and emergency management expert, as a participant. The conversation briefly touched on weather conditions and El Nino before transitioning to prepare for the main discussion about resilience technology. AI-Powered Home Assessment Solution Benjamin shared his extensive background, from his early career in lighting design for rock bands to his involvement in early Silicon Valley computing, where he funded several technology projects including the first spelling checker and multimedia initiatives. He explained how his non-profit TPHA.org, which focuses on affordable and climate-resilient housing in Hawaii, led to the development of Future Proof’s AI-powered solution. The system uses iPhone video recordings to create 3D models of homes, generating repair plans, budgets, and material lists while also identifying available government grants and financing options for home improvements. Disaster Preparedness and Risk Mitigation Benjamin and Sam discussed disaster preparedness and risk mitigation, particularly focusing on a three-silo approach involving home assessments, education, and emergency alerts. Benjamin explained their work with Columbia University, which includes developing a vision system using AI to help homeowners identify safe areas in their homes during disasters, while simultaneously creating video records of their belongings for insurance purposes. They also discussed a comfort bot with patent-pending technology that can adjust its messaging based on the listener’s age and situation during emergency alerts. AI Emergency Warning Conflicts Becky raised concerns about how AI systems might handle competing emergency warnings, such as conflicting advice during Hurricane Ida where tornado and flooding warnings contradicted each other. Benjamin acknowledged this was still an area being developed, mentioning NVIDIA’s work on reasoning components and noting that while the system could potentially handle house-related alerts, direct AI instructions for emergency warnings were still 2-3 years away. The discussion highlighted the need to address how AI systems might triage conflicting alerts based on house mapping and personal information, though current AI trustworthiness for direct emergency instructions was deemed insufficient. Address-Level Risk Assessment System Benjamin explained that their risk assessment system operates at the address level rather than broader grid squares, providing more granular data than what insurance companies currently use. He described how they can identify specific risk factors like trees near homes in Southern California versus central Missouri, where different hazards prevail. The system aims to empower homeowners with property risk information while creating a bridge between homeowners and insurance companies, allowing for better-informed decisions about insurance and potential remediation work. AI-Driven Home Hardening Initiative Benjamin and Jamie discussed the importance of homeowners advocating for themselves with insurance companies regarding home hardening measures. Benjamin shared that they are building a collective expertise, including partnerships with NVIDIA and Lawrence Livermore Labs for AI model validation, and Columbia University for educational content and chatbot development. The team is developing AI tools to help homeowners, contractors, and insurers, with plans to automate forms processing and certification of completed work. Benjamin emphasized the life-saving potential of their technology while ensuring proper guardrails are in place, particularly given the AI’s deep learning capabilities. Magic Window App Discussion Benjamin discussed the Magic Window app, which assesses weather risks and helps homeowners address damage, noting that it started as a non-profit educational tool before becoming a public benefit corporation. He shared that the average cost to remediate a house is estimated at $10,000 to $40,000, with an aggressive federal program potentially saving 80% of at-risk homes over 20 years. Benjamin and Becky highlighted the app’s potential benefits, particularly in preventing wildfire damage through defensible space creation, while acknowledging challenges in addressing natural hazards like sea level rise. Climate Change Risk Assessment App Benjamin discussed the implications of climate change using his FutureProof app, which analyzes risks for specific locations. He highlighted that Riverside, California, and an area near Dallas are expected to face the worst conditions in the U.S. by 2075-2100. The app, available through the Apple Store and Google Play Store, provides detailed risk assessments and reports for $24, helping individuals understand their vulnerability to seven major disasters. Benjamin encouraged listeners to spread awareness about the issue and visit futureproof.org for more information. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Dr. Joe Holley in USAR training The Disaster Podcast’s Dr. Joe Holley has been busy over the last month and a half traveling to conferences and training scenarios. In this episode, we talk with Joe about his recent travels to get his take aways from these events and what he sees in the near future for disaster responders. Also on the show were disaster emergency management expert Becky DePodwin and our disaster meteorologist Dan DePodwin. The episode is co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary US Severe Weather Discussion The group discussed recent severe weather events across the United States, including tornadoes, snowstorms, and a heat wave in the West. Becky explained that March is typically an active weather month due to jet stream patterns, and current conditions are being influenced by an amplified jet stream rather than El Nino or La Nina patterns. The discussion covered impacts including power outages, road closures, and challenges for emergency services in affected regions. The group noted that while weather conditions have been extreme, the forecast for the coming week appears calmer with no severe weather expected. EMS Developments and Education Updates Joe discussed his recent activities in EMS, including attending the National Association of EMS Physicians meeting in Florida and teaching a medical specialist class for urban search and rescue. He highlighted new developments in EMS, such as blood administration programs, changes in DEA regulations, and technological advancements in airways and patient monitoring. Joe also mentioned his work with Paragon Medical Education Group and the Commission on Accreditation of Prehospital Continuing Education (CAPSE), emphasizing the importance of quality continuing education for EMS providers. The group discussed potential future collaborations, including a planned episode featuring James Corbin to discuss experiential training. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

The Winter X-Games are back! Disaster Podcast OG meteorologist, Kyle Nelson, comes on the show to discuss his work with the 2026 Winter X-Games in his capacity as a leader in the Pitkin County, Colorado Incident Management Team (IMT). The IMT helps to prepare for and run emergency services response to the X-Games. Kyle discusses the various roles he’s assumed over the years for this special event in Aspen, Colorado. The team explores how the event prepares for managing emergency events and treating injuries for both athletes and attendees. The episode is co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Snow Impact and Emergency Roles Jamie Davis, Sam Bradley, and Kyle Nelson discussed the impact of recent weather events, particularly heavy snowfall across the East Coast and Colorado. Kyle provided an overview of his roles, including ski patroller, avalanche dog handler, manager of Pitkin County Telecommunications, and Emergency Support Function 2 communications lead. He also shared his background in meteorology and experience as a 911 dispatcher, highlighting his work with state incident management teams and his role as a contract instructor for Argonne National Labs and FEMA’s training centers. Kyle’s Projects and Weather Update Sam and Jamie discussed Kyle’s involvement in various projects, highlighting his contributions to the team. Kyle provided a weather update, predicting warm temperatures in the desert southwest and a return of winter in the east. He also explained the significance of the Winter X Games in Aspen, Colorado, as an Olympic qualifying event and a platform for pushing the boundaries of winter sports. Olympic Qualifying and Incident Management Sam and Kyle discussed the Olympic qualifying system, where athletes can make or break their Olympic bid by achieving high scores and podium spots. Kyle explained his role in the Incident Management Team (IMT), which provides structure and coordination for local responders during incidents, whether planned or emerging. The IMT’s mission is to support local entities and coordinate resources, ensuring effective management of events. X Games Incident Management Evolution Kyle has been involved with the X Games in Aspen for over 10 years, starting as a ski patrol member and later becoming the Winter X Games lead for Aspen Skiing Company. He helped reshape the athlete medical component and worked with Dr. Joel Buzzi to enhance safety. Kyle transitioned to a 911 dispatcher role, managing event schedules and staff, before joining the Incident Management Team as a Type 3 team member. He initially worked in the planning section, was qualified as a Type III plan section chief, and this year took on the Communications Unit Leader role, combining his experiences in dispatching and telecommunications. X Games Emergency Communication Strategies Jamie and Kyle discussed emergency preparedness and communication strategies for events like the X Games. Kyle explained that their team manages venue safety, coordinates with X Games and local authorities, and prepares for various emergencies, including athlete injuries. They emphasized the importance of pre-planned messaging to quickly and effectively communicate with media and the public in case of incidents. Jamie inquired about how such situations are handled at X Games events, particularly regarding the evacuation of injured athletes. X Games Medical Response Team Kyle explained the multi-faceted athlete medical team at the X Games, coordinated by Dr. Buzzy, which includes ski patrol from Aspen Skiing Company, the Aspen Ambulance District, and Medicine in Motion. He described how they handle athlete injuries, from minor incidents to major emergencies, ensuring the closest provider assesses and reports the injury while calling for additional resources if needed. The medical team works to provide the best care for athletes, with dispositions ranging from self-care to medical tents or ambulance transport, and noted that helicopter evacuations are not typically necessary due to the venue’s low elevation and efficient toboggan evacuation methods. Overcoming Language Barriers in Sports Jamie asked about challenges with translation and language barriers for international athletes and their support teams. Kyle explained that they have systems in place to address these issues, including allowing coaches or parents to assist with communication, using translation apps, and having a dedicated medical team. They emphasized their ability to adapt and solve problems as they arise, ensuring all athletes receive the necessary care and support. X Games Planning and Operations Kyle discussed the planning process for X Games, explaining that it starts with a hot wash after the event to capture learning points. He described the scale of the event, comparing it to building a small city for a one-week TV show. Kyle also mentioned his recent promotion to managing people instead of projects, and expressed appreciation for his predecessor’s work. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

This week on the Disaster Podcast we chat with Seamus Leary ,MPA, CEM about leading through catastrophe: when systems fail. He is President of Meridian Strategic Services, Inc. and is an emergency management expert who worked at the state and local levels and later with FEMA at the Federal level. With responses to numerous major disasters, Seamus brings a unique perspective to how emergency managers can cope when all the usual systems break down. The episode is co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary FEMA’s Disaster Response Methods Seamus Leary, president of Meridian Strategic Services, discussed his experience in emergency management, including his role as a federal coordinating officer for FEMA Region 2 and his work as a county emergency manager. He explained FEMA’s disaster classification system, highlighting that catastrophic disasters, or Level 1 events, require national-level responses involving resources from across the country. Seamus shared insights from his deployment to St. Thomas ahead of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required to address such catastrophic events. Enhancing Disaster Response Strategies The discussion focused on disaster response challenges, with Seamus sharing his experience in St. Thomas after a storm where they faced significant communication and infrastructure failures. They discussed how multiple issues can cascade, making it difficult to manage complex disasters, and emphasized the importance of having both digital and traditional emergency management tools to handle various scenarios. Jamie contributed by mentioning their county’s use of both digital screens and physical maps for nuclear incident planning, highlighting the value of having multiple systems in place. Blending Digital and Traditional Communication The group discussed the importance of combining digital media skills with traditional communication methods, emphasizing the value of explaining the “why” to younger team members who excel in digital but may lack traditional skills. Seamus shared his experience as an emergency manager during Hurricane Irene, highlighting the need for rest and backup plans for teams working around the clock, and Jamie referenced Joe’s practice of maintaining a notebook of contacts during responses to quickly access needed resources. Emergency Response Coordination Strategies Seamus emphasized the importance of building relationships with local emergency responders and understanding cultural differences when working in unfamiliar communities. He and Sam discussed the need for contingency plans when communication systems fail, such as having backup power and redundant communication channels. Seamus also highlighted the challenge of managing disasters while dealing with personal emergencies and suggested leveraging non-traditional resources and coordinating with neighboring jurisdictions to overcome resource shortages. Emergency Management and Community Resilience The meeting focused on emergency management and disaster response strategies. Seamus, an experienced emergency manager, discussed the importance of training organizations to be adaptable and flexible during crises, emphasizing the need to prepare for when systems fail rather than when they work. He highlighted the importance of partnerships with non-traditional organizations like churches and hardware stores, as well as the role of community leaders in fostering relationships with local businesses. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Helen Hynson Vettori (https://www.helenhynsonvettori.com/) is a former EMT/paramedic and retired senior medical intelligence analyst at the Department of Homeland Security. We have her on the show to share her insights and the two sci-fi thriller novels she wrote based on her experiences. Helen channeled her real-world emergency response and pandemic-planning experience into her sci-fi disaster thriller series, beginning with Black Swan Impact and followed by Black Swan Shock. A “Black Swan” event is a term used to describe a catastrophic incident that no one could have foreseen or imagined because of its unprecedented impact. Helen didn’t imagine crisis from the outside, rather she spent years preparing for biological threats, including pandemics, and then watched COVID unfold in real time. That insider perspective and her frustration with confusing messaging and federal missteps became the fuel for fiction that feels uncomfortably plausible. Dr. Joe Holley from Paragon Medical Education Group joined the podcast as well as our disaster emergency management expert Becky DePodwin and our disaster weather expert Dan DePodwin. The episode is co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Winter Storm Impact and Preparations The meeting focused on a major winter storm expected to impact large parts of the United States, with Dan providing detailed forecasts of snow, ice, and travel disruptions across multiple regions. The group discussed the storm’s potential effects on various cities, including Oklahoma City, Atlanta, and the Northeast, emphasizing the danger of ice accumulation and power outages. They also advised listeners to consider rescheduling flights and prepare for travel disruptions, particularly in the affected areas. The conversation ended with an introduction to their guest, Helen Hinson Vittori, a former EMT and intelligence analyst at the Department of Homeland Security, who will discuss her experiences during the pandemic. Emergency Response Expert’s Pandemic Novel Helen shared her extensive background in emergency response, including her work as a paramedic, her role in biothreat planning at DHS, and her experience creating pandemic response plans. She retired in 2018 but became concerned about the government’s response to COVID-19 in 2020, which led her to write a sci-fi political thriller novel called “Black Swan Impact” that explores a catastrophic pathogen event in the year 2113. The novel served as a cathartic way for her to process the chaotic response to the pandemic she had witnessed firsthand. Emergency Preparedness Through Personal Writing Helen shared her experience as an emergency manager and author, discussing how writing provided her with both peace and a mission to educate others about emergency preparedness. She emphasized that individual preparedness is crucial for both personal and community-level disasters, and highlighted a book club question in her second book, “Black Swan Shock,” that encourages readers to assess their own emergency preparedness. Federal Pandemic Planning and Leadership Helen shared her experience working on federal pandemic plans and witnessing their partial abandonment during the actual crisis, expressing disappointment in leadership’s failure to communicate effectively and adhere to established protocols. The discussion explored how better preparation and public education could improve future responses to pandemics and other disasters, with Helen emphasizing the importance of all-hazard planning that starts at the individual level. The group agreed to have Helen return for another podcast episode, and several connections were made between participants for future discussions. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and Joe shared that Paragon is working on a new cadaveric-based simulator for pericardial tamponade training. The team encouraged listeners to stay safe and check out Helen’s books. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

We delve into the recent surge of Influenza cases across large swaths of the United States in recent weeks. This year is shaping up to be a particularly difficult year for health care facilities and the patients who need them for treatment. Dr. Joe Holley joins us today to discuss what he’s seeing in the Memphis, Tennessee area and what the national flu outlook is. The most common Influenza A strain right now is causing a surge in ER visits and hospital admissions across the U.S. right now. The dominant Influenza A strain for the 2025-2026 flu season is the A(H3N2) subclade K, a variant with notable mutations. The annual vaccine is moderately effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalization and the subclade K variant responds well to antivirals such as Tamiflu. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Flu Trends and Vaccination Impact Joe and Jamie discussed the recent surge in flu cases, particularly affecting unvaccinated individuals and those with underlying health conditions. Jamie shared his experience of being admitted to the ER with influenza A and noted that vaccinated individuals were more likely to be discharged. Joe confirmed that national trends showed higher hospitalization rates and deaths among the unvaccinated, elderly, and those with other medical issues. Flu Awareness for Healthcare Jamie shared his severe flu experience, which included a high fever, chills, and muscle cramps, leading him to seek emergency care. He emphasized the importance of flu awareness for healthcare professionals, noting the recent increase in flu-related deaths and pediatric deaths reported by the CDC. Healthcare Virus Transmission Prevention Jamie and Joe discussed protective measures for healthcare providers against virus transmission, emphasizing hand hygiene, respiratory protection, and avoiding confined spaces with sick individuals. Joe highlighted the risk of virus spread in confined environments like airplanes, while Jamie shared personal experiences and encouraged listeners to take transmission prevention seriously, noting its impact on their community. Post-COVID Brain Fog Symptoms Jamie described experiencing “brain fog” after recovering from COVID-19, which made mental tasks difficult and required significant mental effort. Joe explained that this could be due to increased inflammatory markers and the body’s energy expenditure in fighting the infection. Sam noted that their household member who had not been vaccinated experienced different symptoms, and both Sam and their household member took about two weeks to regain their energy levels. Influenza Symptoms and Management Joe explained that vaccination can reduce the severity of symptoms, and both Jamie and Sam experienced typical symptoms of influenza A, with Jamie noting the importance of IV fluids in managing his symptoms. Sam described severe gastrointestinal symptoms, while Jamie mentioned being prescribed Zofran despite not experiencing nausea. Joe elaborated on how dehydration and inflammatory mediators contribute to symptoms, and rehydration can help alleviate them. Winter Virus and Flu Updates Jamie shared his experience of being delayed for release from the hospital due to low blood pressure, which was unusual for him. The medical team tried various methods to increase his blood pressure, including making him angry and having him walk around. Joe explained that while having the flu is unpleasant, it leads to the development of protective antibodies. Sam noted that the flu often overshadows other winter viruses, and Joe confirmed they are still seeing a variety of other respiratory infections. Early Flu Treatment and Testing Joe and Sam discussed the importance of seeking medical attention and testing for flu symptoms, with Joe recommending early treatment with antiviral drugs like Tamiflu, which are most effective within the first 48 hours of symptoms. Sam acknowledged that healthcare professionals might be reluctant to visit doctors when they need to, possibly due to a false sense of invincibility. Jamie emphasized the significance of early testing and treatment for flu, aligning with Joe’s advice. Influenza Testing and Treatment Discussion The group discussed influenza prevention and treatment, with Joe emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and medication, particularly given the availability of over-the-counter rapid flu tests. Jamie noted that the COVID-19 pandemic had increased access to home testing, which Sam and Joe hadn’t previously considered. They agreed that while many people might choose to tough it out, getting tested early could be beneficial. Flu Prevention and Training Updates The team discussed the flu, including its incubation period and how it spreads. Joe explained that people are most infectious when symptoms start, as their viral load is high. Jamie mentioned that the team had been affected by the flu in various ways. Joe also shared that Paragon is working on a new cadaveric-based simulator for pericardial tamponade training. The team encouraged listeners to stay safe and follow guidelines to prevent the spread of the flu. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

We gather our podcast regulars for a look at the past year on the show with our 2025 Disaster Podcast year in review. Dr. Joe Holley joined co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis for this episode. Kyle Nelson, Becky DePodwin, and Dan DePodwin sent in their top episode picks by email. Joe Holley kicks off the look back at last year with a vote for the clinical topics, especially the recent 5-episode run on head-up CPR during sudden cardiac arrest. We assembled a special page for the head up CPR topic with all 5 episodes listed. Joe also discussed the importance of understanding how research works and not to get caught up in a single social media post on a novel subject without really understanding the context amidst other research. His final choice was the look at K9 and USAR dog training with Kimberly Holley. Kimberly has extensive training alongside her two trained USAR dogs and the third dog she has in training. Kyle talked about the episode with the Combat Midwife, Jessica Arno. This was an in-depth look at maternal and pediatric disaster care. In addition, Stump Dan the weatherman was another favorite episode as host Sam Bradley used the internet to come up with some novel weather terms and try to stump our own Dan DePodwin. These episodes are an annual favorite as Dan has an amazing understanding of weather, especially winter weather. Investigating airline disasters with Edward Colson of Ready Northwest was one of Becky DePodwin’s favorites as we delved into aviation industry disaster planning. She also put in her vote for the Stump the weatherman episode linked above. Jamie added the annual look at the Winter X-Games in Aspen. Our own Kyle Nelson worked as Planning Section Chief for the incident management team before and during the event this past year and shared some of the challenges they faced making such an event as safe as possible. We covered many other excellent topics this past year. If you have a different favorite from the ones listed in this episode retrospective, leave your answer in the comments below. Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well.   Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Kurt Bramer from Advanced CPR Solutions comes back for a final look at Head-Up CPR as we pull all the pieces from the earlier four episodes together. Dr. Joe Holley is back to bring in the latest research into the process as well. We will tie all this back to the global health disaster that is sudden cardiac arrest. Recent research from across the emergency medical community has pointed to impressive improvements in both return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) as well as survival to discharge and neurologically intact survival when compared to conventional supine CPR performance. We’ll have links below to some of those studies and papers. Research Bibliography for Head-Up CPR Studies The episode is co-hosted again by our regular hosts, Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Elevated CPR Series Episode One Elevated CPR Series Episode Two Elevated CPR Series Episode Three Elevated CPR Series Episode Four CARES Registry for Cardiac Arrest Stats Follow up on more of these segments as we continue to look at the current research trends in future episodes and what is on the horizon for the future. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Head-Up CPR Research Update Jamie and Sam discussed the upcoming podcast episode, which will focus on wrapping up the last four episodes about head-up CPR and recent research. They mentioned the challenges of implementing new approaches in rural systems with volunteer staff. Sam noted that Dr. Joe and Kurt Bramer have been working on presenting the information in a way that can be applied responsibly. Joe briefly mentioned that SENA teams were activated to assist with floods in Seattle. The main focus of the episode will be on the latest data on head-up CPR, including improved physiology, survival rates, and neurological function, particularly for non-shockable rhythms like asystole. Advantages of Head-Up CPR Studies Sam, Kurt, and Joe discussed the significance of two seminal studies on head-up CPR. The 2016 preclinical animal study showed significant improvement in perfusion when compared to standard CPR, with a synergistic effect when using additional devices like the ITD and suction cup. The 2022 independent registry analysis demonstrated that head-up CPR resulted in a five times greater likelihood of neurologically intact survival compared to conventional CPR, even up to 20 minutes post-cardiac arrest. Joe explained that the bundled care approach for cardiac arrest patients involves multiple components, including appropriate ventilation, high-quality CPR, and post-resuscitation care, all of which contribute to improved outcomes. Bystander CPR System Implementation The discussion focused on the importance of proper implementation of bystander CPR, AEDs, and advanced techniques like impedance threshold devices and suction cup CPR to improve patient outcomes, particularly neurologic ones. Kurt emphasized the need for a system-wide approach, from first responders to hospital care, highlighting successful partnerships like Louisville’s, where continuity of care is prioritized. Jamie inquired about best practices for implementing this system-wide approach, to which Kurt responded with examples from different regions, noting that while ideal partnerships exist, proactive agencies can still achieve good outcomes even with less supportive hospitals. Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation Bundle Implementation The team discussed the importance of addressing multiple aspects of cardiac arrest resuscitation simultaneously, as highlighted by Joe, who emphasized that successful outcomes require implementing all elements of the care bundle equally. Jamie inquired about training approaches, to which Joe responded that effective training involves both initial instruction and ongoing feedback through quality improvement processes, stressing that successful resuscitations require adherence to the entire bundle rather than just some components. Prioritizing Tasks in Resuscitation Joe and Kurt discussed the importance of prioritizing tasks during resuscitation, emphasizing the need to focus on the overall process rather than individual steps. They highlighted the benefits of the Head-Up CPR model, which organizes priorities and reduces chaos during medical emergencies. Kurt explained that this method allows for more efficient and coordinated delivery of therapies, leading to better patient outcomes. Head-Up CPR Survival Benefits The group discussed two significant studies on CPR techniques. Kurt presented findings from a 2023 preclinical study showing that early administration of head-up CPR resulted in a 40% 24-hour survival rate compared to 9% for delayed conventional CPR. Joe highlighted an observational study from 2024 showing that head-up CPR improved survival rates for non-shockable rhythms from 2.8% to 7.6%, representing a nearly 3-fold improvement. Both studies suggested that head-up CPR could significantly enhance survival chances, particularly when administered early. Non-Perfusible Rhythm Blood Flow Method The group discussed a new methodology for perfusing patients with non-perfusible rhythms, which allows for continued blood flow and preserves neurological status. Joe explained that this could open up windows for interventions like ECMO or cardiac catheterization while CPR is underway. Kurt shared anecdotal evidence from agencies that have gained confidence in staying longer during arrests, leading to increased rates of ROSC in non-shockable rhythms. The group also touched on the importance of proper ventilation during CPR, with Joe highlighting the lack of focus on this aspect in many clinical trials. Head-Up CPR Survival Benefits Joe explained the concept of pressure-volume loops in CPR, demonstrating that head-up CPR generates greater blood flow and pressures compared to standard CPR. Kurt presented data from two studies comparing outcomes between CARES and head-up CPR data, showing improved survival rates for head-up CPR patients over one and five-year periods. The research suggests that head-up CPR may lead to better patient outcomes, though these findings were not included in the 2025 American Heart Association guidelines. Cardiac Arrest Economic Impact Discussion The group discussed the economic impact of cardiac arrests, with Kurt noting that the total cost per person in the US is approximately $4,000 annually, highlighting the need for improved resuscitation techniques. Jamie emphasized the importance of community contributions from survivors, while Joe provided recommendations for enhancing CPR quality, including the use of the Lucas 3.1 device with its enhanced lift feature and avoiding overly tight cervical collars during CPR to maintain blood flow. Improving Sudden Cardiac Arrest Response The meeting focused on sudden cardiac arrest, emphasizing its global impact as a leading cause of death. Kurt and Joe discussed the need for first response agencies and emergency managers to explore research and improve care delivery to enhance patient survivability. Joe highlighted the importance of understanding the physiology of cardiac arrest and considering new approaches, as current CPR methods have not changed in 50 years. Jamie suggested applying disaster management strategies to sudden cardiac arrest to improve outcomes. Joe mentioned upcoming procedural cadaver labs and ongoing work on superglottic studies and new airway management tools. Kurt provided contact information for further discussions and was invited to return for future updates on research. Podcast Series Conclusion and Future Plans The group discussed the conclusion of a podcast series on medical topics, with Kurt expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share his message and Jamie inviting him back for future episodes. They agreed to continue the conversation on social media and the Disaster Podcast website, with Kurt planning to draft questions for potential CEU credits. The group the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Kurt Bramer from Advanced CPR Solutions returns again this week to continue the series on Head-Up CPR and other promising sudden cardiac arrest treatments. There are three previous episodes in this series. Elevated CPR Series Episode One Elevated CPR Series Episode Two Elevated CPR Series Episode Three Elevated CPR Series Episode Five After the severe weather update from disaster meteorologist Dan DePodwin, the Disaster Podcast team focuses on the science and physiology of Head-Up CPR. They ask why this approach provides for better protection of neurological function during a cardiac arrest. Dr. Joe Holley does an excellent job of describing the specific concepts of pressure gradients in blood flow to and from the heart during CPR in various patient positions. Kurt outlines what he calls the Four Rules of Head-Up CPR that are essential components for successful resuscitation during cardiac arrest treatment. These rules come from Dr. Joanna Moore’s Editorial The Do’s and Don’ts of Head Up CPR: 1) Use of Suction Cup CPR and an ITD 2) A Priming Period is Needed 3) Cannot Lift the Patient Too High 4) You Cannot Lift the Patient Too Quickly CARES Registry for Cardiac Arrest Stats Follow up on more of these segments as we continue to look at the current research trends in future episodes and what is on the horizon for the future. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Episode Opening segment and Weather update The meeting began with a discussion about travel weather for the country and record cold in many parts of the upper midwest and northeast with Dan DePodwin. The group then transitioned to their main topic, the physiology of CPR, with Dr. Joe Holley focusing our attention on the specific anatomy and process inside the body during CPR. Head-Up CPR Techniques Discussed Kurt and Joe discussed the importance of adhering to the “four rules” of head-up CPR, which were derived from a published editorial by Dr. Moore. They emphasized that studies showing no improved outcomes often violate these rules, highlighting the significance of proper technique. Jamie Davis, the host of the Disaster Podcast, introduced the episode, which would focus on the science and physiology of elevated CPR, while Sam and Dan briefly discussed the early winter weather conditions across the United States. Head-Up CPR Research Advances The discussion focused on head-up CPR, a novel research advancement in resuscitation aimed at improving neurologic survival. Kurt explained its origins, highlighting a case study involving a ski hill cardiac arrest patient who survived due to an elevated head position, which was later recognized as a critical factor. The conversation also touched on a study conducted in South Korea, where researchers developed a modified EMS stretcher to accommodate patients in high-rise buildings with small elevators, leading to the question of the optimal CPR position. Initial findings from animal studies suggested that a head-up position could reduce intracranial pressure, potentially improving outcomes during CPR. CPR Physiology and Blood Flow Joe explained the physiology of CPR, focusing on how differences in pressure inside the body create blood flow. He described how chest compressions increase intrathoracic pressure, pushing blood towards the brain and other areas of lower pressure. He emphasized that over-ventilation and incomplete chest recoil can be detrimental during CPR, as they prevent blood from flowing back into the heart. He also noted that patients who exhibit “guppy breathing” during resuscitation have a better chance of successful resuscitation. CPR Vacuum Technology and Physiology Joe explained the physiology of blood flow during CPR, focusing on the importance of preload and the manipulation of pressure differences between the thoracic cavity and the brain. He described how the ITD16 device creates a vacuum in the chest to enhance blood flow to the brain and reduce intracranial pressure. Joe also discussed the concept of “head-up CPR,” which combines enhanced vacuum with gravity assistance to improve blood flow and neuroprotective outcomes. Head-Up CPR Techniques and Safety Sam and Kurt discussed the importance of using proper equipment and techniques for head-up CPR, as outlined by Dr. Joanna Moore’s “four rules.” Kurt emphasized that suction cup CPR in conjunction with an ITD or rescue pod is crucial for effective and safe head-up CPR. He also stressed the need for a priming period, avoiding excessive head elevation, and slow head-up positioning to prevent blood from draining from the head faster than CPR can pump it back in. Kurt noted that studies claiming head-up CPR doesn’t work often violate these rules, highlighting the significance of adhering to the correct procedures. Head-Up CPR: A Novel Approach The team discussed the importance of proper technique in head-up CPR, emphasizing that it requires a bundled care approach with specific parameters to be effective. Joe and Kurt shared a case study of a retired fire chief who successfully underwent head-up CPR, highlighting the potential benefits of this novel approach. The discussion also touched on the concept of using a combination of therapies in resuscitation, similar to the drug cocktail approach used in treating HIV. Success Stories in Advanced CPR The meeting focused on sharing and discussing remarkable cases of successful CPR, particularly highlighting the concept of “head-up” CPR, which has shown improved outcomes. Kurt and Joe shared several stories of patients who experienced significant neurologic recoveries after cardiac arrests, with survival rates and recovery rates significantly higher than national averages. The discussion emphasized the potential of advanced CPR techniques to improve survival and neurologic outcomes, with Joe noting that two of his services have seen similar success rates. The group the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

We are joined by Kurt Bramer from Advanced CPR Solutions again this week to continue the series on Head-Up CPR and other promising sudden cardiac arrest treatments. He and Dr. Joe Holley kicked off the discussion in two previous episodes. Elevated CPR Series Episode One Elevated CPR Series Episode Two Elevated CPR Series Episode Four Elevated CPR Series Episode Five We open this week’s episode with a holiday severe weather update from our disaster meteorologist, Dan DePodwin. He reports on several storm systems that will impact Thanksgiving holiday travel across the eastern half of the country. Following that update, we kick off episode 3 of our Head-Up CPR series with a look at the long history of the evolutionary changes to cardiac arrest treatment. Kurt Bramer from Advanced CPR Solutions leads off with a response to some comments to the first two episodes in this series. A few listeners worried that we might sound like we were criticizing the individual responders on cardiac arrest calls over the low survival rates for the condition. The team made a joint statement that no criticism of providers in the field was intended. We all are providers ourselves and are merely commenting on the results that everyone has been getting in response to treating cardiac arrest. Some systems do better with resource management than others, but even those areas fail to save even a simple majority of their cardiac arrest patients. CARES Registry for Cardiac Arrest Stats Follow up on more of these segments as we continue to look at the current research trends in future episodes and what is on the horizon for the future. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary CPR Challenges and Future Improvements The meeting began with a discussion about travel weather for the Thanksgiving weekend, with Dan DePodwin warning of widespread lake effect snow in the eastern United States and a potential ground blizzard in the Dakotas and Minnesota. The group then transitioned to their main topic, CPR, where Joe clarified that their previous discussion about CPR’s limitations was not meant to criticize CPR providers, but rather to highlight the challenges and lack of progress in the field over the past 50 years. They planned to explore potential improvements to CPR in future episodes. Advancements in CPR Techniques Kurt Bramer, with 40 years of experience in EMS and emergency management, discussed the history of CPR, highlighting its evolution from mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to modern techniques. He emphasized the need for better tools and more effective methods for emergency responders, as current practices are often based on outdated or insufficiently tested techniques. The group acknowledged that while responders are doing their best with limited tools, recent research may lead to positive changes in CPR practices. They also touched on the introduction of high-performance CPR in the 2010s, which aimed to maximize the effectiveness of current technologies and minimize detrimental pauses during resuscitation efforts. Mechanical CPR Guidelines Review The discussion focused on the American Heart Association’s recent guidelines regarding mechanical CPR, which recommend against routine use but allow for exceptions like transport scenarios. Kurt and Joe highlighted that the guidelines lump together different types of mechanical compressors, ignoring their unique physiological effects and training limitations. They emphasized that current research primarily focuses on patient survival as an endpoint, which may not fully capture the benefits of mechanical CPR, such as improved blood flow and reduced pauses during resuscitation. The conversation also touched on the importance of considering neurological outcomes beyond mere survival and the need for better training on integrating mechanical devices into overall cardiac arrest management. Bundle Care Approach in Resuscitation The group discussed the bundle of care approach in resuscitation, focusing on the use of multiple therapies simultaneously to improve patient outcomes. Kurt and Joe highlighted the success of the ITD (Impedance Threshold Device) when used with high-quality CPR, leading to a 50% increase in one-year survival. They also noted that only a small percentage of resuscitation guidelines are supported by randomized control trials, emphasizing the challenges in interpreting research data. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Kurt Bramer from Advanced CPR Solutions comes back on the show this week to continue the series on Head-Up CPR and other promising sudden cardiac arrest treatments. He and Dr. Joe Holley kicked off the discussion in a previous episode. Elevated CPR Series Episode One Elevated CPR Series Episode Three Elevated CPR Series Episode Four Elevated CPR Series Episode Five In this second episode installment of the sudden cardiac arrest and CPR series Kurt and Dr. Joe Holley discuss some key flaws in approaching cardiac arrest research like other medical diseases and treatments. The large number of unknown and uncontrollable variables surrounding sudden cardiac arrest make it hard for randomized control trials to effectively pinpoint positive treatment modalities. CARES Registry for Cardiac Arrest Stats Follow up on more of these segments as we continue to look at the current research trends in future episodes and what is on the horizon for the future. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Challenges in Resuscitation Research Funding Kurt discussed the paradox between resuscitation research and orphan drugs, highlighting how both lack funding despite their importance. He explained that orphan drugs target rare conditions, making research and development challenging due to limited market potential, similar to the situation in cardiac arrest resuscitation, which is a leading cause of death worldwide but receives limited research funding. Joe agreed, noting that complacency and insufficient focus contribute to the lack of high-quality research and implementation of new techniques in cardiac arrest resuscitation. Sam questioned the reliance on randomized control trials as the gold standard for evaluating resuscitation therapies, suggesting a need to explore alternative research paradigms. Propensity Score Matching in Research Kurt explained the concept of propensity score matching, a statistical analysis tool that allows for patient-to-patient comparisons using control groups not part of randomized trials, by matching variables such as age, downtime, and bystander CPR. Joe elaborated on the challenges of conducting cardiac arrest resuscitation research, highlighting the difficulty of patient participation in randomized trials and the need for large patient numbers to account for numerous impactful details. Jamie questioned the acceptance of different statistical analyses, to which Kurt responded that the issue is primarily one of unfamiliarity, as propensity score matching is widely used in other industries but not yet fully embraced in medicine. Improving CPR Techniques and Trials Joe and Kurt discussed the challenges of conducting randomized controlled trials for cardiac arrest, noting the difficulty in controlling variables and the high cost associated with large-scale studies. They highlighted the importance of using large numbers of patients to account for variables and the need for funding, which is often scarce. Sam brought up the discovery of the ITD and the plunger concept, leading to the suggestion of placing a thumb over the end of the ET tube to enhance pressure differentials and improve blood flow during CPR. Joe explained the hydrodynamic principles behind this technique, emphasizing the role of pressure differentials in creating flow and enhancing cardiac output. Counterintuitive CPR Physiology Insights The group discussed counterintuitive aspects of CPR physiology, including how preventing air from entering the lungs during chest compressions can actually improve blood flow. Kurt shared that many of these discoveries were made serendipitously while studying the body’s response to cardiac arrest. The discussion touched on the challenges of rural emergency response and the importance of data collection in EMS agencies. The participants agreed to continue the series with future episodes focusing on heads-up CPR and various therapies, with Kurt promising to share survival stories in the next installment. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Kurt Bramer from Advanced CPR Solutions comes on the show this week with Dr. Joe Holley. Kurt has a background in EMS since 1979 and worked as an emergency manager in Minneapolis. He currently works for Advanced CPR Solutions as a clinical educator. Sudden cardiac arrest is a global disaster that rivals the recent viral pandemic in scope. Cardiac arrest is by far the number one killer worldwide according to every public health agency of note. Over the years, treatment of this problem has a less than 4 or 5 percent survival rate with only minor incremental changes to treatment modalities. CARES Registry for Cardiac Arrest Stats Episode 2 of Elevated CPR Series Episode 3 of Elevated CPR Series Episode 4 of Elevated CPR Series Episode 5 of Elevated CPR Series The regular treatment updates that go out every five years feature only relatively minor adjustments to treatments that aren’t all that effective. Part of the problem is that it’s nearly impossible to accurately study the effects of various treatments on cardiac arrest victims due to the wide variety of variables present. Follow up on more of these segments as we continue to look at the current research trends in future episodes and what is on the horizon for the future. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Advancing Cardiac Arrest Survival Strategies Jamie, Sam, and Kurt discussed the global disaster of sudden cardiac arrest, highlighting its prevalence and the low survival rate despite advancements in CPR. Kurt explained the distinction between evolutionary and revolutionary changes in resuscitation, emphasizing the need for significant innovations like public access defibrillation and rescue CPR. The group planned to explore these topics further in upcoming episodes, aiming to engage both EMS professionals and emergency managers in addressing this critical issue. CPR Practices and Research Evolution The group discussed the evolution of CPR practices and the impact of scientific research on patient outcomes. Kurt and Jamie shared their experiences with skepticism and complacency among emergency responders regarding cardiac arrest cases, noting that previous protocol changes often had limited effectiveness. The conversation highlighted the importance of evidence-based practices and the potential for new techniques, like active compression and decompression, to improve survival rates. Cardiac Arrest Survival Rates Challenges The group discussed the challenges and limited success rates in resuscitating cardiac arrest patients, with Joe noting that despite advancements, survival rates remain around 10-11%, equivalent to a 90% failure rate. Kurt explained that while the Cardiac Arrest Registry for Enhanced Survival (CARES) data shows a 10% overall survival rate, the rate for neurologically intact survival has remained below 9% since 2013. The discussion highlighted the difficulties in conducting research on cardiac arrest due to variables like CPR quality, EMS response models, and patient characteristics, leading Kurt to suggest that randomized control trials may not be the most effective research paradigm for this field. Challenges in Pre-Hospital RCTs The group discussed challenges in conducting randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for pre-hospital resuscitation, with Joe highlighting significant variability in CPR quality and ventilation techniques. Kurt mentioned Peter Safar’s work and his belief that high-quality animal studies are needed before deploying therapies in uncontrolled EMS environments. The discussion also touched on the American Heart Association’s guidelines, with Joe noting that while these represent the state of science, local factors and resource constraints must be considered when implementing recommendations. Advancing CPR Techniques for Survival The meeting focused on a series discussing cardiac arrest as a global disaster, with a particular emphasis on improving CPR techniques. Kurt Bramer shared a case study from a ski slope where a patient’s recovery was attributed to the use of a rescue pump and the gravitational effect of being in an inclined position. The group discussed the potential of “head-up CPR” as a promising technique, and Jamie Davis announced upcoming episodes in the series. The participants agreed to continue exploring these topics in future discussions. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Marcus Coleman Vice President of Community Resilience Strategy, for the United Way Worldwide joins the podcast episode. He talks with the team about the 138 year history of the United Way and its commitment to 4 areas of community resilience: Disaster, Resilient Ecosystems, Economic Resilience, and Personal Resilience (personal connectedness and social capital). They commit to being there for people before, during, and after disaster strikes. Also joining us to participate in the discussion is our disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin. She brings her background to asking Marcus questions about the ways local communities are adapting to the rapidly changing Federal response system in the current environment. Tip Sheet PDF for United We Prepare Initiative United We Prepare Program Homepage The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Community Resilience and Climate Action The group welcomed Marcus Coleman, Vice President of Community Resilience Strategy for United Way Worldwide, and discussed his role in establishing public-private partnerships to promote community resilience and address the climate crisis. They briefly touched on recent weather patterns and the success of a recent podcast episode. United Way’s Crisis Response Initiatives Marcus explained United Way’s 138-year history as an interfaith organization that mobilizes communities during crises, with a focus on disaster response, environmental resilience, economic resilience, and social connectedness. He detailed how United Ways activate locally during disasters through partnerships with organizations like the Red Cross and Salvation Army, leveraging their 2-1-1 information service and existing community relationships. Marcus highlighted their role in both immediate disaster response, as seen in recent events in Texas and Alaska, and long-term recovery efforts, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they focused on mental health support and trauma recovery. Mental Health in Disaster Recovery The discussion focused on the importance of mental health support in disaster recovery, with Becky highlighting how survivors cope with both physical and psychological impacts after disasters. Marcus shared an example from Valdosta, Georgia, where the local United Way, in partnership with Resilient Georgia and Legacy Behavioral Health Services, has expanded mental health training and support for both survivors and first responders following three hurricanes in 18 months. The conversation emphasized the role of United Ways in connecting communities to mental health resources, particularly in the long-term recovery phase when emergency responders have departed. United Way Disaster Preparedness Initiative Marcus explained United We Prepare, a national initiative by United Way to enhance disaster preparedness, focusing on risk understanding, family communication plans, and safeguarding valuables. He highlighted the role of local United Ways in coordinating volunteers, supporting caregivers, and integrating preparedness into existing community programs. Marcus also discussed how United Ways conduct community needs assessments to address housing insecurity and provide data for emergency operations planning. United Way’s Disaster Preparedness Efforts Marcus discussed United Way’s efforts in addressing food and financial insecurity, highlighting their partnerships with food banks and financial education initiatives. He also talked about their focus on hurricane recovery and preparedness, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with meteorologists and other emergency management professionals. Becky, a meteorologist, agreed on the importance of year-round preparedness and suggested that United Way continue to build relationships with local weather forecasting offices and private sector weather companies. She also expressed interest in how United Way might step in to fill gaps left by the federal government in disaster response. Lessons from FEMA Leadership Marcus reflected on lessons learned from past FEMA administrators, emphasizing the importance of whole community engagement, locally-led emergency management, and maintaining core values such as compassion and fairness. He highlighted the need for continued investment in emergency management systems and the role of United Way in supporting communities during crises. Marcus also discussed the challenges posed by pandemics, extreme weather, and misinformation, and the importance of positioning United Way as a partner of choice in navigating these disruptions. 211 Service Expansion and Impact Marcus explained the role of 211 as a free service connecting people to resources through referrals and partnerships with nonprofit organizations and government agencies. He highlighted that disaster-related assistance calls increased by 50% in 2024, with top needs including housing, utility, and food assistance. Marcus also noted that 211 complements local government services, providing support for non-emergency crises, and praised Heather Black for her leadership in mobilizing 211 systems across the United States and Canada. United We Prepare Initiative Overview Marcus explained the United We Prepare initiative, and discussed how it involves community-based organizations in 14 markets. He emphasized that the initiative provides resources for individual preparedness and encourages collaboration with local United Ways, which cover 95% of the country. Marcus also outlined various ways for individuals and nonprofits to get involved as volunteers, including connecting with local United Ways and utilizing the dedicated volunteer page on the United Way website. Marcus Returns for Disaster Preparedness The conversation ended with positive feedback about Marcus’s participation and an agreement to have him return for future episodes, particularly to discuss disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Jamie expressed interest in featuring United Way representatives again and encouraged them to reach out for future discussions. Marcus offered to connect Jamie with local CEOs for more localized insights and emphasized the importance of community resilience. The group also discussed the upcoming release of the podcast episode and the potential for sharing it on the United Way’s website. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

credit — National Hurricane Center Tonight on the Disaster Podcast we dig into the expected impacts Hurricane Melissa will carry into Jamaica as it impacts the island country in the Caribbean. Disaster meteorologist Dan DePodwin and disaster emergency management expert Becky DePodwin join us this evening to look at the storm’s origins and projected track. Melissa threatens multiple countries with hurricane and tropical storm force winds. In addition to Jamaica, Cuba, the Bahamas, and Bermuda are all in the projected cone of travel. Additionally, Haiti and the Dominican Republic are getting peripheral storm effects. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Hurricane Melissa Impact Discussion Jamie hosted a mid-week update episode of the Disaster Podcast to discuss Hurricane Melissa, which is expected to be the strongest storm recorded worldwide in 2023. Jamie, Sam, and Dan discussed the storm’s potential impact, with concerns raised about entire communities being wiped off the coastline due to storm surge and prolonged winds. The team planned to bring in meteorologists and disaster management experts for further updates, and Jamie noted that this episode would be shorter than usual due to another episode already scheduled for Friday. Category 5 Hurricane Impact Assessment Dan explained that Jamaica and eastern Cuba are facing a dire situation due to an extremely strong Category 5 hurricane, Melissa, which rapidly intensified over the weekend. He noted that the storm is moving unusually slowly, which will prolong the impacts, including prolonged hurricane-force winds, significant infrastructure damage, and several feet of rain. Sam mentioned that this year has seen three Category 5 hurricanes, the most in a single season since 2005, and asked Dan about the rarity of such events, to which Dan responded that it is concerning, especially given the potential impacts of climate change on hurricane intensity. Rapid Hurricane Intensification Trends Dan explained that rapid hurricane intensification, such as Melissa’s recent rapid development, has become more noticeable due to improved monitoring and reporting, though the exact rate of such events is unclear. He noted several recent examples of rapid intensification, including Hurricane Michael and Otis, which caused significant damage. Sam asked about factors influencing hurricane speed, and Dan clarified that steering winds in the atmosphere determine a hurricane’s movement, with weak steering winds allowing Melissa to meander slowly across the Caribbean. Jamie raised concerns about the impact of storm surge on coastal communities, particularly critical infrastructure, and questioned how to effectively communicate such risks to the public. Hurricane Melissa Impact on Jamaica Jamie and Becky discussed the challenges faced by Jamaicans as Hurricane Melissa approaches, noting the lack of evacuation options due to economic dependencies on fishing and limited resources. Becky highlighted the storm’s well-forecasted nature but expressed concern about the prolonged impact and Category 5 intensity, emphasizing the logistical hurdles in providing aid post-storm. Dan provided an update on the storm’s projected path, predicting significant impacts in Jamaica, Cuba, the Bahamas, and Bermuda, with Jamaica expected to bear the brunt as the first landfall. He advised residents to remain in safe shelters and outlined the expected wind, flooding, and landslides in affected areas. Caribbean Hurricane Preparedness Concerns Becky expressed concerns about the impact of the upcoming hurricane in the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica, noting that while the island has experienced hurricanes before, this one is expected to be significantly more severe. She highlighted the limited evacuation options and infrastructure challenges, suggesting that many residents may not be prepared for the magnitude of the disaster. Jamie mentioned that a Hurricane Hunter flight was aborted due to extreme wind conditions, an unusual occurrence that Dan might be able to provide more context on. Hurricane Hunting and Turbulence Challenges Dan discussed the National Hurricane Center’s report about a NOAA aircraft that encountered severe turbulence while flying through a storm, highlighting the challenges of flying into rapidly intensifying hurricanes. He explained that while commercial flights experience turbulence, hurricane flights can be significantly rougher, with large altitude changes and intense shaking. Dan also mentioned a notable incident during Hurricane Hugo in the late 1980s when an aircraft lost an engine, leading to changes in procedures. Becky and Sam discussed their interest in hurricane hunting, with Becky recalling a Hurricane Hunter Tour event they attended in Harrisburg, and Dan emphasized the importance of these flights for gathering critical data on hurricane structure and intensity. Hurricane Impact and Aid Planning The group discussed the recent hurricane and its impact on the islands, with Dan providing detailed information about weather research planes and their sensor technology. Jamie suggested reaching out to Nick for potential contacts and mentioned that Commonwealth nations might provide aid. The team expressed concern for the islands and emphasized the importance of preparedness, thanking Paragon Medical Education Group for their sponsorship. They agreed to follow up after the storm passes on Thursday and encouraged listeners to check out Paragon’s disaster training programs. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Tim Conley, Emergency Management Supervisor Mercy Health Care System. He’s also the co-founder of the IDMC (Interstate Disaster Medical Collaborative) with our co-host Sam Bradley. Sam invited Tim on the show to talk about his Illinois Regional Healthcare Coordination system. This allows local healthcare systems to collaborate to provide emergency and disaster preparedness systems to their regions. Joining us on the show tonight are our two disaster weather experts, Kyle Nelson and Dan DePodwin. We also have disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin. We discuss how collaboration before disaster strikes is essential to maximizing the ability to respond in a timely fashion when major events occur. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Illinois Preparedness and Response Discussion Jamie, Sam, and Joe welcomed Tim Conley to the show to discuss his work with the Illinois Preparedness and Response Coalition. Tim explained that his hospital has the Regional Healthcare Coordination Center (RHCC) for the northwest part of the state, and he helps with it but does not run it himself. The group briefly discussed Tim’s background and his previous appearances on the show. Jamie then introduced Tim to the audience and announced they were ready to start recording the episode. Northwest Illinois Preparedness Coalition Discussion The meeting began with a casual discussion about weather conditions on the East Coast, where Jamie described mild October weather with some rain from a nor’easter. Sam and Joe discussed the weather in Memphis, which had cooled off slightly due to the same storm. The group welcomed meteorologists and show regulars Becky, Dan, and Kyle to the meeting, and Dan provided an update on tropical weather, noting that while the Atlantic hurricane season is winding down, there is still potential for one or two more storms in the Caribbean over the next six weeks. The conversation then shifted to discussing a video Tim Conley had shared about the Northwest Illinois Preparedness and Response Coalition. Emergency Management Coordination and Preparedness Tim described his roles in emergency management, including his position as an emergency management supervisor for Mercy Healthcare System and his work with Medglobal’s chemical weapons training programs. He also discussed the Interstate Disaster Medical Collaborative, which helps states coordinate for preparedness, particularly through Regional Health Coordination Centers (RHCCs). Sam noted the potential shift of FEMA responsibilities to the state level, emphasizing the importance of his involvement given the uncertainty in federal requirements for RHCCs. Regional Health Coordination Centers Overview Tim explained the function of Regional Health Coordination Centers (RHCCs), using Illinois as an example, and described their role in disaster planning, training, and maintaining disaster warehouses. He highlighted the importance of establishing relationships and understanding capabilities before an event occurs, emphasizing that no single organization can meet all needs. He also discussed the Northwest Illinois Preparedness and Response Coalition, mentioning its two dedicated employees, medical director, and ongoing efforts to prepare the region for potential disasters through training, budgeting, and equipment maintenance. Emergency Management All-Hazards Approach Tim discussed the importance of an all-hazards approach in emergency management, emphasizing collaboration with various agencies and the establishment of MOUs with big-box stores to ensure 96-hour sustainability. They explained the setup and logistics of field alternate care sites, which are modeled after DMATs, and highlighted the complexity of logistics involved. He also mentioned the presence of ALS and hospital-based equipment in these sites, though they are not equipped for full ER care. Joe shared that similar networks exist in Memphis, with ongoing challenges in logistics and coordination, and mentioned an upcoming drill at the airport to test these systems. Rural Emergency Response Coordination Sam, Jamie, and Kyle discussed the importance of coordinated emergency response programs, particularly in rural areas. Kyle explained that Colorado has 11 RETACs to provide a coordinated approach for emergency medical and trauma care at the regional level, with each region having its own talk group on the state radio system. He emphasized the need for collaboration between hospitals, EMS agencies, and other response agencies to effectively handle planned events and emerging incidents, highlighting the vital role of coordination in areas with limited resources. Emergency Coordination Across Regional Centers The group discussed emergency coordination in Pennsylvania, with Tim sharing an example from Illinois where a tornado at the Apollo Theater resulted in multiple casualties and required medical dispersion across the region. They highlighted an ongoing IDMC project led by a Tennessee RHCC, which aims to connect emergency coordination centers across 20 states, with Tim encouraging RHCCs to participate. Dan, who was in New York City at the time, shared his observations about the differences between urban and rural emergency response settings. La Nina, X Games, Preparedness The group discussed the current La Nina weather conditions in the Pacific Ocean and its potential impact on winter weather patterns across the United States. They also talked about the upcoming Winter X Games in Aspen, which will include snowmobile events and concerts. The conversation then shifted to disaster preparedness and the importance of creating links between different organizations before disasters occur, especially given the current uncertainty at the federal level. The participants emphasized the need for states to be prepared to respond to their own disasters and highlighted the work being done by various states in this area. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

This week’s Disaster Podcast episode is a stump the weatherman episode with our disaster meteorologist, Dan Depodwin. Co-host Sam Bradley and Dan’s wife and disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin take turns with the terms. Dan rises to the occasion as he does every year and answers most of them correctly. Scroll down for more of the terms as he works through events like snow rollers, halos, seiche, and toad strangler. Frost Flower Image Link Hair Ice Image Link The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Tropical Storm Season Forecast Update Dan discussed the current and forecasted tropical storm activity, noting that Humberto and Imelda impacted Bermuda before moving towards Europe, bringing significant wind and rain to the UK. He explained that the tropical storm season typically ends on November 30th, with October averaging 3-4 named storms and November about 1. However, this year could see more activity due to favorable conditions like low wind shear and above-average water temperatures. Sam suggested they take turns monitoring the weather, finding the early part straightforward but anticipating more complexity as they progress. Seiche and Hail Storm Insights Becky shared her experience of seeing large hail during storm chasing in Oklahoma, noting that hail can grow up to 4 inches in diameter and record sizes have reached 7-8 inches. Dan and Becky discussed the definition of a Seiche, which Becky explained as a standing wave in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water caused by long-period waves. Natural Phenomena Discussion The team discussed several natural phenomena, including snow rollers, halos, and toad stranglers. Sam explained that snow rollers are rare formations that require specific weather conditions, while Dan and Becky discussed sun and moon halos caused by light refracting through ice crystals. Becky then challenged the group with the term “toad strangler,” which refers to heavy rain leading to flash flooding in the southern United States. Types of Clouds and Their Meanings The group discussed various types of clouds, including Mattis Clouds, Gray Lady, and Mare’s Tails. Dan explained that Mattis Clouds are common with severe thunderstorms and indicate an unstable atmosphere. Becky mentioned the Gray Lady, referring to Nantucket’s nickname due to its frequent fog and gray architecture. Jamie shared that the term “Gray Lady” is also used in a science fiction series about Nantucket being swapped with a Bronze Age version of itself. Dan described Mare’s Tails as another name for cirrus clouds, which are the highest clouds and often signal an approaching change in weather. Weather Phenomena and Wildfires The group discussed various weather phenomena, including a Williwaw, a sudden blast of wind from mountainous coasts, and a Monkey’s Wedding, which refers to a sun shower in South Africa. They also explored the concept of a fire tornado, or a wildfire so intense it creates its own weather, and discussed pyrocumulus clouds formed by fires. Jamie shared insights on how wildfires and weather are interconnected, particularly in Western states like California. Understanding Weather Storm Terms The group discussed various weather-related terms, with Dan explaining that a Nor’easter is a storm that gets its name from the prevailing northeast wind direction, occurring most commonly in fall, winter, and spring but also happening in summer, often causing beach erosion and travel issues. Dan also clarified that a Pineapple Express is a flow of moist air from Hawaii that can bring significant flooding to the West Coast, particularly California, and is sometimes referred to as an atmospheric river. The discussion included other terms like Alberta Clipper, Manitoba Mauler, and Saskatchewan Screamer, which refer to specific storm tracks, and the concept of a Snow Eater, which describes a warm wind that quickly melts snow, particularly in the Rockies. Understanding Weather and Ice Phenomena The group discussed various weather phenomena and natural ice formations. Dan explained the concept of a “blue norther,” where temperatures drop rapidly from 50 to 0 degrees in about 4 hours. Sam shared information about “air ice,” a fungus that grows on tree bark and forms ice-like structures. Becky and Dan discussed the differences between sleet, graupel, and freezing rain, with Dan explaining that freezing rain is rain that freezes on contact with a surface below freezing, while sleet is partially melted snow that refreezes, and graupel is similar to sleet but forms in cold core systems. Sam also introduced the concept of “nieve penitente,” tall, sharp ice formations that resemble monks’ robes and form in high, dry environments through a process called sublimation. The group discussed several natural phenomena, including ball lightning, glory, and types of frost. Dan and Becky shared information about hoarfrost and rime ice, with Becky mentioning a notable hoarfrost event in State College. Jamie explained that ball lightning is thought to be caused by plasma bubbles formed from sunlight and lightning interaction. The group also discussed frost flowers, which Becky described as delicate strands of frost, though the exact formation process was unclear. Weather Phenomena and Meteorological Terms The group discussed various weather phenomena, including “weather whiplash” which refers to rapid changes between drought and flooding, and an “ACSL” or Alto Cumulus standing lenticular cloud, which Dan described as looking like a spaceship. Sam introduced the concept of a “space hurricane,” a newly coined term for a cyclone-like aurora where electrons rotate around a central eye. Becky explained the phenomenon of “anvil crawlers” – lightning bolts that crawl across thunderstorm anvils and can result in “bolts from the blue” when the anvil extends beyond the precipitation. The discussion concluded with the “lemon technique,” a method used by meteorologists to study updrafts and thunderstorm cells, which Dan revealed was named after Leslie Lemon, co-creator of the supercell conceptual model. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

In this week’s episode of the Disaster Podcast, we start off with a discussion of the possibility of dual hurricanes in close proximity inside the Atlantic Basin. This gives rise to the term Fujiwara Effect, which discusses the impacts two nearby storm systems have on each other based upon their relative storm strengths. Disaster meteorologist Dan DePodwin joins us to describe the tropical weather systems affecting the U.S. at this time and define this specialized weather event. We shift gears to our clinical topic, effects of various penetrating trauma on body systems. Dr. Joe gives and overview of the topic in various situations. Becky DePodwin, our disaster emergency management expert, asked about penetrating trauma caused by high speed wind events like tornados and hurricanes. Co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis ask Joe about different aspects of penetrating thoracic trauma including a look at simple and tension pneumothorax injuries. Joe gives a great overview of this particular injury and field assessment and treatment. He says that the sign of tracheal deviation and jugular vein distention are over-valued as useful assessment tools in pneumothorax. Catch the episode for his full discussion. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Atlantic Storms and FujiwHara Effect The Disaster Podcast returned after a few weeks of absence, with Jamie Davis and Sam Bradley discussing current Atlantic storms and the Fujiwhara effect with meteorologist Dan. Dan explained that Tropical Storm Humberto and a potential Tropical Storm Imelda could interact in a rare phenomenon where storms circle each other, potentially steering Imelda away from the U.S. East Coast. He noted that while this interaction is less common in the Atlantic than the Western Pacific, the second half of hurricane season is expected to be more active due to favorable conditions. The discussion concluded with Jamie and Sam considering a potential disaster movie plot, while Dan clarified that while the Fujiwara effect adds complexity to storm modeling, accurate intensity predictions are crucial for forecasting its impact. Penetrating Trauma and Treatment Mechanisms Dr. Joe Holley explained the mechanics of penetrating trauma, focusing on how bullets transfer energy and cause damage through blast cavitation, which can be more severe with high-velocity, jacketed bullets designed to mushroom upon impact. He noted that while knowing the caliber or type of injury can influence treatment decisions, the primary focus is on controlling hemorrhage and addressing specific injuries like damaged organs or foreign objects. Becky raised questions about penetrating injuries from high-speed wind events, such as tornadoes, which Dr. Holley described as similarly violent but often more complicated due to the nature of the projectiles and increased risk of infection. Chest Trauma: Types and Treatment Sam and Joe discussed the complexities of chest trauma, focusing on the differences between open and tension pneumothorax. Joe explained how air escapes from the lung in a pneumothorax, leading to lung collapse, while in a tension pneumothorax, air is trapped in the chest cavity, causing increased pressure and potential damage to surrounding structures. Jamie highlighted the importance of transporting patients with such injuries to specialized trauma centers, as local hospitals may not have the expertise to handle these cases. Joe also mentioned that EMS can provide initial interventions like using a one-way valve bandage or inserting a needle to relieve pressure in a tension pneumothorax, but these patients often require more advanced care, including chest tubes and possible surgery. Head Injuries: Causes and Treatments Dr. Joe provided an in-depth explanation of head injuries, ranging from concussions to severe brain damage, including the causes and treatments of subdural and epidural hematomas. He emphasized the importance of managing intracranial pressure and described the use of a pressure monitor and spinal fluid drainage in severe cases. Dr. Joe also discussed the challenges of diagnosing tension pneumothorax in the field, noting that tracheal deviation and jugular venous distension are not reliable indicators and that healthcare providers should focus on listening for differences in breath sounds and chest movement, as well as assessing respiratory distress and hemodynamic compromise. Emergency Medicine Clinical Signs Reliability The group discussed the importance of understanding the reliability of clinical signs in emergency medicine, particularly focusing on the distinction between positive and negative indicators. Joe emphasized that while tracheal deviation and jugular venous distension are often taught as reliable signs, they are actually uninterpretable if not present, and students need better training in understanding the context of these findings. The team also discussed their social media presence and ways listeners can connect with them, including through the Disaster Podcast Facebook group and various social media platforms. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

In this episode of the Disaster Podcast, the team brings in professionals from across several hospital systems to look at how they prepare for incoming mass casualty patients. We talk about the kinds of drills the systems run, and also look at the various departments and how they respond in each type of situation. On the show are Dr. Joe Holley from Paragon Medical Education Group as well as working as a EMS medical director in Memphis, Tennessee. Joining us as well is Dr. Brian Froelke, one of the founders of IDMC (Interstate Disaster Medical Collaborative) and an ER doctor based in Missouri. We also are lucky to be joined by Rebecca Dougherty, LCSW, C-MHIMP, a mental health professional working specifically with medical professionals in the disaster response setting. She now works in private practice in St. Louis, Missouri. Minneapolis School/Church Mass Shooting Orlando Hospital Response to Pulse Night Club Shooting (Disaster Podcast Episode) Disaster Podcast Episode on Joplin, Missouri Tornado Response The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis and our disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin, joined in. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Minneapolis Shooting Emergency Response Sam discussed a recent shooting incident in Minneapolis that resulted in 22 gunshot victims, including two children killed and 18 others injured, with 15 being children. The emergency response was efficient, with ambulances reaching the scene within minutes and all injured individuals requiring hospital attention being transported within 25 minutes. Sam inquired about the hospital alerting system, which used the Zip it emergency messaging system to provide clear information about the injuries and estimated time of arrival. Brian, an EMS physician from St. Louis, was invited to share his expertise on emergency response systems and disaster medical response. Trauma Management and Communication Systems Brian discussed the frequency of shootings at their level one trauma center in St. Louis, noting that it’s due to selection bias from the greater area. He explained their early management of penetrating trauma and the use of whole blood products, which have been successful in saving patients. Brian also described their communication system with EMS providers through Javari, which uses a half-bed resource system for emergencies. Sam and Joe discussed other communication tools like Pulsara and Tennessee’s in-house system, with Joe mentioning its effectiveness for state-wide emergency responses. Memphis Trauma Response System Joe described Baptist Hospital in Memphis as a level 2 trauma center that coordinates with a downtown level 1 trauma center and pediatric facility. He explained that Memphis experiences significant gun violence but fewer active shooter incidents compared to other cities. Joe detailed their multi-level response system, which initially relies on the trauma team and ED staff before expanding to other hospital departments and external resources as needed, while also coordinating with EMS to direct patients to appropriate care facilities based on injury severity. Brian confirmed that their area’s trauma response system operates similarly, with both adult and pediatric centers prepared to handle various age groups and emotional support needs through chaplains and social workers. Hospital Disaster Preparedness Strategies The discussion focused on hospital preparedness and response to multiple casualty incidents. Brian and Joe explained that hospitals have internal response policies and conduct disaster preparedness exercises at least twice a year. They described how hospitals manage surges in patient volume by activating different teams and utilizing flexible spaces like hall beds. The conversation also touched on the importance of managing limited resources, such as emergency stabilization rooms and blood supplies, during overflow situations. Hospital Preparedness for Mass Casualties The group discussed mass casualty incidents and hospital preparedness, with Joe and Jamie sharing insights from their experiences. They noted that hospitals near the scene often become overwhelmed as people with minor injuries arrive first, followed by more critically injured patients. Jamie mentioned a previous episode about the Pulse nightclub shooting in Florida, where a nearby hospital was quickly overwhelmed by walk-in patients. The discussion highlighted the challenges hospitals face in preparing for such incidents and the importance of being ready for a second wave of more severely injured patients. Pediatric Trauma’s Impact on EMS The group discussed the impact of pediatric trauma events on emergency medical services, with Brian noting that while only about 10% of patients are pediatric, they have a disproportionate effect on providers due to factors like drug dose calculations. Rebecca shared her experience as a mental health specialist in disaster response, highlighting her work with first responders and the importance of delayed emotional responses to traumatic events. Jamie raised questions about managing stress in non-medical hospital staff during major incidents, to which Rebecca responded about the challenges faced by registration staff and administrative personnel who deal with families’ emotional needs. Disaster Response and Trauma Support Rebecca shared her experience with the Joplin tornado in 2011, emphasizing the need for early intervention to help people process traumatic events. Brian discussed his role as the chief medical officer for the disaster response system and his involvement with the Interstate Disaster Medical Collaborative (IDMC) to coordinate resources. Sam mentioned a creative approach used by a psychologist to identify and describe children in the aftermath of the tornado. The group highlighted the importance of supporting both trained and untrained personnel in disaster response, with a focus on the critical first 24 hours after an incident. Supporting Volunteers in Crisis Situations The discussion focused on the impact of traumatic events on volunteers and community members, particularly in religious and school organizations. Brian highlighted how volunteers, despite their critical role, may not be adequately prepared for mass casualty events and can suffer emotional and health consequences. Rebecca elaborated on the need for targeted support programs, emphasizing the importance of addressing different groups such as first responders, schools, and faith-based communities with tailored approaches. She also described how schools and archdioceses often have existing protocols for such events, though they may lack trained counselors and other resources. Challenges in Disaster Response Mental Health The group discussed the challenges faced by emergency responders and storm chasers in the aftermath of disasters, highlighting the mental health impact on those involved. Joe emphasized the ripple effect of incidents on families, coworkers, and media personnel, while Becky noted the recent efforts to provide mental health support for weather scientists conducting damage surveys. Sam and Becky shared insights on the overwhelming nature of initial responses and the need for preparation and support, with Jamie concluding that the discussion provided valuable insights into community readiness and long-term recovery efforts. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Julie Roberts from JK Roberts, LLC drops by the podcast this week to address business disaster continuity plans. Julie led communications efforts at both the Federal and State levels including NOAA. Julie discusses the importance of building a disaster plan for businesses of all sizes. These plans include creating contingencies around suppliers and employees to ensure operations can resume at the time when it is safe to return to work. PSEMA (Private Sector Emergency Management Agency) Also on the show were Dr. Joe Holley who brought up a news item about the termination of National EMS Advisory Council members at the federal level which could have long lasting effects on training and education of providers nationwide. The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary NOAA Weather Radio Distribution Initiative The meeting began with introductions, including Dr. Joe Holly, who works with FEMA’s search and rescue team in Tennessee. Julie discussed a new initiative to distribute NOAA weather radios to camps across the country, inspired by recent flooding events where early warnings could have made a difference. The group agreed on the importance of NOAA weather radios as a reliable alert system, especially during power outages or when mobile phones are not functional. Jamie and Sam prepared to record a podcast episode, with Jamie handling the technical aspects and Sam introducing the guest. Public-Private Collaboration in Emergencies Julie K. Roberts, a disaster management expert with over 20 years of experience in both public and private sectors, discussed her background, including her work at FEMA, NOAA, and Florida Emergency Management. She highlighted her role in building relationships between government and private sectors, particularly during the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando, where she coordinated with companies like JetBlue and Uber to provide support. The conversation touched on disaster preparedness and the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors in managing emergencies. Private Sector Disaster Response Collaboration Julie discussed her work with private sector partnerships during disasters, highlighting a successful collaboration with Airbnb and Jump Blue that provided 2,501 flight tickets and housing for victims’ families in Orlando and Las Vegas. She explained that this experience led her to create the Private Sector Emergency Management Association four years ago to facilitate private sector involvement in disaster response and recovery. The organization focuses on helping businesses of all sizes develop continuity plans and access resources, with recent activations during hurricanes, wildfires, and other emergencies. Private Sector’s Role in Disaster Response Julie and Joe discussed the increasing role of the private sector in hurricane response and recovery, particularly in light of upcoming changes from FEMA and potential funding cuts to essential services. Sam shared his experience with a nonprofit that helps coordinate disaster response between states, highlighting a recent shift back to state-level focus due to changing government policies. Both Julie and Sam agreed that the first 72 hours of disaster response relies heavily on local and individual efforts, as government resources may not be as readily available as in the past. Business Continuity Planning for Small Businesses Julie discussed the importance of business continuity planning for both large and small businesses, emphasizing the need to prepare for various hazards and have strategies in place for unexpected closures. She explained that small businesses should focus on essential information like employee contact details, vendor relationships, and insurance procedures, while also considering backup resources and recovery plans. Jamie highlighted the need for small business owners to think through potential disruptions and have contingency plans in place, suggesting that these plans should be tailored to the specific needs and resources of each business. Small Business Resilience Strategies Julie discussed the challenges small businesses face in accessing potable water after disasters, using Asheville, North Carolina, as an example. She suggested exploring solutions to ensure businesses can reopen quickly, such as splitting costs between government and businesses. Joe highlighted the issue of hospitals being reliant on a single water vendor, which can lead to service disruptions. Jamie shared Waffle House’s preparedness strategy as an example of effective planning for adversity. The group agreed on the importance of supporting small businesses and having contingency plans in place for emergencies. Crisis Communication in the Digital Age Julie discussed the importance of flexible planning and clear communication in shaping disaster outcomes, highlighting how social media and the 24-hour news cycle have changed crisis management. She emphasized the need for immediate response and the authority to post information quickly, warning against the delay caused by excessive approval processes. Jamie agreed with Julie’s proactive approach, encouraging companies to be prepared for rapid communication in crises. Proactive Crisis Communication Strategies Julie emphasized the importance of proactive communication, particularly for companies and governments facing crises, noting that delays in responding to negative stories can harm brands and credibility. She highlighted the value of leveraging the private sector to speak on behalf of governments and the need for timely, credible information dissemination. Sam agreed, stressing the demand for reliable information sources. Joe introduced a news item about the Federal Interagency Committee on Emergency Medical Services (FICEMS), which has been working for over a decade to coordinate and provide direction on emergency medical services at the federal level. Government Weather Radio Initiative The meeting discussed recent staff reductions at a government group, with Julie highlighting a new initiative by Pacima to provide NOAA weather radios to camps across the country in response to recent events in Texas. Julie shared her contact information and website details, while Joe clarified that the National EMS Advisory Council had been eliminated, not FICUMS, and provided Paragon’s contact information. Jamie and Sam discussed the importance of these resources and mentioned their own social media presence. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Dan Zehner from the Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure (NHERI) drops in the podcast to report on the recent documentary output from the research group. The links below contain a lot of information on how the NHERI research grants have turned into actionable infrastructure and building code improvement suggestions. Dan and co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis also talk about data collection about wild fire affects on infrastructure and buildings. By analyzing the survival of buildings built under different code requirements and from differing materials, NHERI can suggest improvements that would improve survival and lessen the impact of disastrous fires. Links and Resources Dan Discussed NHERI RESEARCH IMPACT SHOWCASED FUNDING MESSAGE FROM THE NHERI COUNCIL, JULY 2025 CALIFORNIA FLOODING FROM THE ARKSTORM Technology Transfer from NHERI NHERI Impact 2020 Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Coordinating Weather Impact Efforts Jamie, Sam, and Dan discussed recent weather events, including thunderstorms and wildfires. Sam mentioned coordinating efforts with 18 states to address the impact of nonprofits assuming roles previously held by the federal government. Dan shared that the northwest has been experiencing hot weather but is now getting some rain, which is helping to control wildfires. The group briefly touched on Hurricane Erin, but no specific information was provided. NHERI Operations Extended Through 2026 The meeting discussed the status and future of the National Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure (NHERI), which received a no-cost extension from the National Science Foundation to continue operations through September 2026. Dan explained that while there are some uncertainties due to the current political environment, NHERI’s core facilities, tools, and data services will remain available for researchers. The discussion also touched on recent and ongoing natural disasters, including wildfires and floods, which NHERI continues to support through testing and research efforts. Overcoming Fear in Emergency Care The group discussed fear and anxiety in medical and emergency situations, with Jessica emphasizing the importance of addressing personal fears and biases to provide better care. Jamie shared advice about trusting parents’ instincts regarding their children’s health, particularly for those with preexisting conditions. The conversation concluded with Jessica encouraging self-compassion and acceptance of imperfection in emergency response work. Wildfire Research and Infrastructure Planning The group discussed wildfire research, focusing on the National Science Foundation’s work in the wildland-urban interface, particularly through the Rapid Assessment, Planning, and Response (RAPID) system. Dan explained how RAPID uses advanced tools like fixed-wing drones and lidar to collect high-fidelity data on fire damage before cleanup, which is crucial for understanding infrastructure performance and updating building codes. Jamie emphasized the importance of science-based infrastructure adjustments, while Sam highlighted the critical role of research in preventing future wildfires, noting that many people are unaware of the work being done in this area. Insurance Challenges in High-Risk Areas Dan and Sam discussed the challenges of insurance availability and affordability in high-risk areas, particularly due to the high costs of insurance premiums. Dan explained that the insurance industry relies on actuarial models and historical data to assess risk, but noted that there is no universally accepted standard for wildfire-resistant construction. They mentioned organizations like the Insurance Institute for Building and Home Safety (IBHS) and the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) that focus on property insurance and loss prevention, but emphasized the need for more scientifically backed methods to ensure communities can be insured based on evidence rather than intuition. Wind and Flooding Research Updates The discussion focused on two main topics: wind research facilities and flooding studies. Dan described the University of Florida’s boundary layer wind tunnel and Florida International University’s “Wall of Wind” facility, which can simulate Category 5-level winds with wind-driven rain and variable ground conditions. The conversation then shifted to flooding research, highlighting a 2023 study that created a publicly available dataset of California’s atmospheric river flooding simulations, which has been useful for FEMA, water resources departments, and emergency services. The discussion concluded with an observation about how dry ground conditions can exacerbate flooding issues, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure to manage water runoff. Design Safe Resource Overview The meeting focused on discussing resources and information available through Design Safe and the National Science Foundation. Dan provided an overview of their funding process and highlighted various platforms and resources, including their podcast, Slack channel, and community calendar. Jamie and Sam discussed the importance of these resources and mentioned their own social media presence. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Midwife and Paramedic Jessica Arno, the Combat Midwife, returns this week to talk focus on pediatric emergencies in the disaster environment. She and the Disaster Podcast team talk about unique challenges facing responders who encounter sick and injured kids. Jessica stresses the importance of understanding age-appropriate behaviors and presentation. We discuss why it’s necessary to trust the parents’ instincts about their kids. They often realize a problem is present before others would notice a change in the child. Also on the show this week are disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin, disaster meteorologist, Dan DePodwin, and Dr. Joe Holley, as well as co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Combat Midwife Returns for Pediatrics Jamie introduced the main guest, Jessica Arno, the combat midwife, who was returning for a second episode to discuss more pediatric topics. The group discussed recent weather conditions, including flooding in the Northeast and Midwest, and Joe shared his busy schedule involving alerts for weather events. The conversation then shifted to the upcoming podcast segment featuring Jessica, who was introduced to the audience as a midwife, paramedic, and expert in pediatric care. Pediatric Emergency Care Challenges The meeting focused on the unique challenges of providing medical care to children in emergency and disaster situations, emphasizing that children are not simply “tiny adults.” Jessica, a paramedic and midwife, explained the importance of understanding children’s physiological differences, such as their limited blood volume and distinct airway anatomy, which can lead to rapid decompensation. Jamie highlighted the need for quick decision-making in pediatric emergencies, especially in austere environments where resources may be limited. The discussion also touched on the broader issue of women’s health research, noting that it often falls short due to gaps in scientific focus. Overcoming Fear in Emergency Care The group discussed fear and anxiety in medical and emergency situations, with Jessica emphasizing the importance of addressing personal fears and biases to provide better care. Jamie shared advice about trusting parents’ instincts regarding their children’s health, particularly for those with preexisting conditions. The conversation concluded with Jessica encouraging self-compassion and acceptance of imperfection in emergency response work. Trusting Parental Instincts in Healthcare The group discussed the importance of trusting parents’ instincts and expertise, particularly in medical situations involving their children. Jessica emphasized the need to trust parents’ observations and to act on instincts, even if the reasons aren’t immediately clear. Becky shared her experience of trusting her intuition about her child’s health, highlighting the value of parental insight. The discussion underscored the importance of balancing emotional and professional judgment in medical care, with a consensus that erring on the side of safety is crucial. Pediatric Disaster Medical Care The group discussed pediatric medical care, particularly in disaster situations, emphasizing the need for age-appropriate assessment and treatment. Jessica highlighted the importance of vital signs, bleeding control, and understanding the unique challenges of treating children, including the use of appropriate tourniquets and recognizing internal bleeding. Dan shared his perspective as a parent, emphasizing the value of trusted care in complex situations. The discussion also touched on the potential lack of parental presence in disaster scenarios and the need for practitioners to be prepared to triage and treat children without parental input. Emotional Preparedness for Crisis Situations The group discussed emotional preparedness, particularly focusing on how to handle children in chaotic situations. Jessica emphasized the importance of honesty with children, sharing an example of a Coast Guard rescue during recent flooding in Texas where the responder maintained calm by being transparent about the situation’s uncertainties. The discussion highlighted the value of relying on training in crisis situations, even when facing unfamiliar challenges. Children’s Emotional Resilience in Disasters The discussion focused on the emotional and psychological challenges faced by children in disaster situations, particularly how their brains process trauma and the role of emotional regulation in parenting. Becky and Sam discussed how children’s reactions to stress are influenced by their parents’ emotional responses, noting that calm parental reactions can help children regulate their own emotions. They also touched on the importance of emotional intelligence in caregivers and how children learn from their parents’ reactions to situations, particularly in medical contexts. Pediatric Care in Austere Environments Jessica shared her experience of being calm in chaotic situations, which was noted as a strength by her colleagues. She discussed the importance of having pediatric medications in austere kits, including basic items like Tylenol and ibuprofen, as well as herbal and homeopathic remedies. She also described a real-life situation where she provided neonatal care in a disaster zone, emphasizing the need for evaluating underlying issues in such complex medical situations. Pediatric Healthcare and Learning Insights The meeting focused on a discussion about pediatric and clinical healthcare, featuring Combat as the main expert. Combat shared insights on differential diagnosis and women’s/children’s health, emphasizing the importance of hands-on practice and continuous learning. The participants agreed that while they may not be experts in pediatrics, they should strive to learn and build confidence in handling pediatric cases. Joe mentioned upcoming military training activities, and the group discussed how listeners can connect with various speakers through social media platforms and the disaster Podcast community. The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Jessica, the Combat Midwife, shared her expertise and offered a discount code for her training materials. Use code DISASTER for a discount on her page. The participants agreed to have Jessica return for a follow-up episode the next Thursday. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

This week features a discussion of maternity and pediatric care in disaster situations with Jessica Arno, the Combat Midwife. Jessica is a midwite, paramedic, and battlefield-born educator who’s trained over 100,000 combat medics, Special Warfare medics, and EMS professionals in OB/GYN and pediatric emergencies. From Afghan refugee camps to rural fire stations, she equips medics and civilians with the skills to handle birth, bleeding, and babies-when help isn’t coming. Also on the show this week are disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin, as well as co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Enhancing OB-GYN Emergency Training Jessica Arno, a paramedic and midwife, discussed her experience training combat medics and civilians in obstetrics and gynecology emergencies, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive training in areas often overlooked due to their perceived unsexiness. She highlighted the need for more in-depth training in these areas, citing her work in academia where she was able to expand the curriculum beyond the traditional few hours allocated to OB-GYN. Jamie, a nurse, shared his experience with OB-GYN training, noting the contrast between his nursing education and his limited exposure to the subject as a medic. Both agreed on the importance of building confidence in handling rare or uncomfortable medical situations. Disaster Impact on Maternal Health Jessica and the group discussed the impact of weather and disasters on childbirth and women’s health. The team explored how changes in barometric pressure and temperature can trigger labor, and highlighted the risks of infections and complications in post-disaster scenarios. Jessica emphasized the need for medical professionals to receive specialized training in handling obstetric and pediatric emergencies in disaster situations, including understanding normal versus sick baby presentations and different age-related responses. Newborn Assessment and Pain Perception Jessica and Sam discussed the use of the APGAR score in assessing newborns and its relevance in emergency situations. Jessica explained that while APGAR is typically used post-delivery, it can be useful for assessing older infants as well, focusing on reflexes and normal responses. The team also explored how understanding a patient’s menstrual cycle can provide insights into their pain perception and overall health, particularly for female patients. Jessica emphasized the importance of considering hormonal changes and their impact on various bodily functions, especially for post-menopausal women, and highlighted the need for healthcare providers to listen attentively to all patients’ concerns. Emergency Birth Kit for Soldiers Jessica shared her experience creating an emergency birth kit for soldiers on humanitarian missions, which includes essential items like chucks, organic pads, a blanket for the baby, herbal medications for postpartum hemorrhage, and a Delee suction for suctioning mucus from newborns. She emphasized the use of herbal compounds over Pitocin for managing post-delivery bleeding, highlighting their gentler effect and faster action. Jessica also discussed the inclusion of an ink set and birth certificate to document the baby’s parentage in case of grid-down scenarios, and she noted that the kit’s contents are listed on her website at CombatMidwife.com. Refugee Camp Health Challenges Jessica shared her unexpected experience working in a refugee camp, where she encountered a severe herpes outbreak among patients due to limited resources and poor living conditions. She emphasized the importance of being cautious about infections in disaster zones, including proper patient inspection and cleaning procedures to prevent the spread of diseases among both patients and caregivers. Sam expressed interest in further discussions about pediatric care and childbirth, and Becky highlighted the need for more research and open discussions on women’s health, particularly regarding the lack of studies on pregnant women. Disaster Preparedness Training Discussion The group discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group. Jessica, the Combat Midwife, shared her expertise and offered a discount code for her training materials. Use code DISASTER for a discount on her page. The participants agreed to have Jessica return for a follow-up episode the next Thursday. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Disaster meteorologist, Dan DePodwin, joins the show this week to discuss the severe weather patterns that have led to dangerous flash flooding all across the country so far in July. The team discusses how this weather affects millions of Americans this summer. Disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin shares her thoughts on messaging to protect public safety in the face of these disasters. The whole team discusses how mitigation starts before the disaster strikes. Preparedness is the best protection from sudden disasters that strike with little warning. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary U.S. Flooding and Natural Disasters The team discussed recent flooding events across the United States, with a focus on Texas, where Dan provided insights from AccuWeather about the factors contributing to the flooding. They also touched on a 7.3 earthquake in Alaska that triggered tsunami warnings, though the rural location minimized potential damage. The group briefly shared personal experiences with local flooding, with Jamie describing flooding issues near his home and Becky noting their new house’s relative safety from flooding. Texas Floods: Warning and Response Dan explained the recent flooding in Texas’s hill country, caused by extreme rainfall from a combination of tropical storm moisture and atmospheric conditions, leading to rapid river rises. Sam noted similar flooding patterns in Florida and asked about the meteorological factors, which Dan simplified as mesoscale convective systems. Jamie shifted the discussion to warning systems, asking Becky about the feasibility of timely alerts for such rapid-onset floods, to which Becky responded that while there was significant advance warning, the rapid development of the event made it challenging to issue timely alerts. Flash Flood Warning System Improvements Becky discussed the challenges of warning and evacuating people during flash floods, noting that the delay in acting on the flash flood emergency warning cost lives. Jamie highlighted that some disasters are so destructive that complete prevention of loss of life is not possible, and emphasized the need for better communication and preparedness. Sam suggested improving the flash flood warning system and addressing the issue of people being unaware of flood risks while recreating in flood zones. Becky criticized the decision to build in flood-prone areas, emphasizing that better mitigation efforts could have prevented the tragedy. Nighttime Weather Emergency Preparedness The discussion focused on the importance of preparedness for nighttime weather emergencies, with Dan emphasizing that people should check forecasts before sleeping and have reliable warning systems in place. Sam shared an example of a camp that lacked a siren system, highlighting the need for weather radios as a more reliable warning method, especially in areas with poor cell signal. Becky agreed that multiple weather radios distributed throughout camps could be effective, and Dan recommended that camp organizers work with local officials to develop and drill emergency plans. The conversation also touched on the challenges faced by economically underserved communities in accessing warnings and responding to emergencies, as noted by Sam and Jamie. Disaster Impact on Underserved Communities Jamie and Becky discussed how underserved communities are disproportionately affected by natural disasters due to lack of resources and knowledge, citing examples from Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Ida. Dan provided an update on current weather conditions, noting concerns about flooding risks in the Midwest and Appalachians due to atmospheric disturbances and increased moisture from climate change. Becky emphasized the importance of being weather-aware, especially in summer, and advised taking proactive measures like having evacuation plans and staying informed about potential threats. Weather and Response Training Insights The group discussed the importance of weather-related aspects in their recent discussions and expressed gratitude to Paragon Medical Education Group for their sponsorship and educational services. Jamie encouraged listeners to reach out to Joe and the team at Paragon for innovative training exercises, and provided various platforms where group members could be found, including Blue Sky, the Disaster Podcast Facebook group, and disasterpodcast.com. Sam agreed that the weather perspective was crucial alongside the response perspective, and the conversation ended with a reminder to stay aware and stay alive. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Chuck Costanza joins the Disaster Podcast team tonight. He’s the Vice President of Client Engagement for Global Guardian. They provide global threat assessments for companies, helping them protect their employees from the effects of things like major disasters. The team discusses global security issues surrounding things like climate change. It affects many areas of global security like mass migrations, sea level rise, and destabilizing food supplies. The impacts are wide ranging with many disaster-related situations, like major hurricanes and other weather events. Global Guardian Hurricane Preparedness Guide The episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and featured disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin, and disaster meteorologist, Dan DePodwin. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary East Coast Power Outage Discussion Jamie, who was supposed to co-host, was unable to participate due to a power outage caused by a storm on the east coast, outside Baltimore. Sam introduced Becky and Dan as meteorologists to discuss the weather situation, and Chuck joined to talk about disaster management for businesses. The meeting officially started with Sam introducing the topic as the “Disaster Podcast,” focusing on the east coast power outages and upcoming discussions on disaster management. Extreme Heat Wave Discussion The group discussed recent extreme weather patterns, particularly record-breaking heat in the Northeast and Midwest, with temperatures reaching 100 degrees in New York City and Boston. Dan explained that while the intense heat would subside, warmer conditions would persist, especially in the western United States as July approaches. Becky emphasized the importance of heat safety and checking on neighbors, while Sam and Chuck, both located in Colorado, noted the region’s relative relief from humidity. Climate Change and Security Impacts Chuck Costanza, a former senior advisor at the U.S. Department of State, discussed how climate change impacts global security, including migration, water scarcity, and sea level rise. Dan from AccuWeather confirmed that the upcoming hurricane season is expected to be above average, with up to 19 named storms, including 5 major hurricanes. The discussion highlighted the importance of business preparedness for extreme weather events, with Chuck offering a hurricane preparedness guide for sharing. Hurricane Preparedness and Business Continuity Chuck and Sam discussed the importance of preparing for hurricanes, emphasizing business continuity and the need for proactive planning. Chuck highlighted the necessity of designating roles and responsibilities within an organization, as well as establishing relationships with external partners for resource support during emergencies. They also addressed the challenges of remote work, accountability issues, and the need to update emergency plans annually to account for changing weather patterns and new hazards. Becky agreed, adding that plans should be reviewed regularly to assess and prepare for evolving risks, such as migration to new regions and increased exposure to unfamiliar weather events. Business Emergency Planning Strategies Becky emphasized the importance of comprehensive emergency planning for businesses, highlighting the need to consider both economic and human factors. Chuck discussed the challenges of relying on external partners during disasters, citing examples from Asheville and Hawaii, and stressed the importance of having contingency plans and updated contact information for employees. The group also explored the difficulties of accounting for remote workers during emergencies, particularly when traditional communication methods fail. Enhancing Disaster Preparedness Strategies Sam and Chuck discussed disaster preparedness and response, emphasizing the importance of both centralized and individual disaster plans. They highlighted the role of disaster recovery contractors, insurance companies, and the potential for remote work capabilities in the aftermath of a disaster. Sam stressed the significance of after-action reviews to learn from past experiences and improve future responses. Becky agreed, suggesting that lessons could be learned from other regions’ experiences, even if a community was not directly impacted. Disaster Planning for Businesses Chuck advised businesses to start disaster planning by working with experienced personnel, reviewing existing resources, and conducting tabletop exercises to identify specific needs and strengths. He emphasized the importance of having clearly defined roles and responsibilities within an organization for effective disaster response. Hurricane Safety and Preparedness The discussion focused on hurricane intensification and safety measures. Dan explained that rapid intensification of hurricanes, particularly over warm waters with low wind shear, can lead to dangerous Category 5 storms, citing Hurricane Michael as an example. He emphasized that while wind damage is significant, storm surge and freshwater flooding from rainfall pose the greatest threat to life. Sam highlighted the importance of preparedness for families and businesses, including having backup power, communications, and evacuation plans, while Chuck noted that businesses must prioritize employee safety through comprehensive duty of care programs. Global Guardian Emergency Response Sam and Chuck discussed Global Guardian’s emergency response capabilities, highlighting their experience in handling natural disasters like Hurricane Helene. They emphasized the importance of having pre-established relationships with emergency response teams and the value of Global Guardian’s global network, which enabled them to quickly mobilize resources from different countries. Chuck encouraged potential clients to learn more about Global Guardian’s services through their website and membership program, and advised listeners to contact 911 in emergencies. Global Guardian Disaster Preparedness Insights The meeting focused on disaster preparedness and emergency response, with Chuck from Global Guardian providing insights into their services and resources available for individuals and businesses. Participants discussed the importance of planning ahead and utilizing tools like Global Guardian’s offerings to stay prepared. The conversation also touched on social media presence and future podcast appearances, with plans to invite Chuck back for further discussions. Sam thanked Dr. Joe and the team at Paragon Medical Education Group for their continued sponsorship, highlighting the customizability of their training resources. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Dan Zehner from the U.S. National Science Foundation’s NHERI returns to the podcast this week. He talks about some of the key reports generated by their institutions in the past year. One particular StEER report on Hurricane Milton showed a huge dataset collected about the storm and its impact on homes and other infrastructure along the storm’s path. This data then goes to the individual testing centers for wind and storm surge around the country where they start testing building materials and techniques against specific natural forces. In the end, these tests become recommendations to states and local jurisdictions about building codes to create safer housing and infrastructure. Check out the individual linked data sets and reports below. Hurricane and Windstorm Experts List Hurricane Simulations in High Gear The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Hurricane Season Preparation Discussion The meeting began with Sam and Jamie discussing recent weather events and the start of the hurricane season, noting that Becky and Dan Z were present to provide insights. Becky mentioned that the season had started early and that NOAA predicted an above-average season, while Dan Z explained his role in coordinating research infrastructure for natural hazard engineering. The group discussed the importance of preparation for the upcoming hurricane season and mentioned an upcoming workshop in July for learning to use equipment for data collection and analysis. Weather Service Staffing and Safety Jamie discussed concerns about staffing cutbacks at Federal agencies and their impact on National Weather Service warning systems during severe weather events. Kyle explained the challenges of alerting people during overnight hours and emphasized the importance of local weather service offices for accurate forecasting and trust in warnings. Tom and Becky highlighted the value of local knowledge in forecasting and the human impact of staff cuts on forecasters, who are vital to communities’ safety. 2024 Storm Season Forecast Review The group discussed the anticipated number of named storms this year, with Becky reporting 13 to 19 total storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 5 major hurricanes, with 70% confidence in these ranges. Daniel shared insights from a report on the rapid intensification of storms, particularly highlighting Milton’s extreme transformation from a tropical depression to a category 5 hurricane in just 48 hours, which he attributed to warmer sea surface temperatures linked to climate change. The discussion also covered the impact of such storms on critical infrastructure, including power outages affecting 3.4 million people, and the increased risk of heat-related illnesses during prolonged power cuts. NHERI’s Infrastructure Performance Research Daniel explained how NHERI’s network and testing facilities, like the Wall of Wind, analyze building performance during hurricanes by examining historical data, current construction practices, and building codes. He noted that while older homes can be well-built if properly maintained, newer homes may not always meet current standards. Jamie highlighted the importance of NHERI’s long-term research in influencing building code updates, while Becky asked about the effectiveness of building codes, which Daniel addressed by describing how NHERI’s research evaluates adherence through data collection and analysis. Hurricane Expert Network and Resources Daniel shared a list of hurricane and windstorm experts, including Jennifer Bridge at the University of Florida, Arindam Chowdhury at FIU’s Wall of Wind, and Brian Phillips who will take over for Forest Masters as the new leader of mobile deployments. He highlighted the importance of the Texas Advanced Computing Center’s supercomputing facility, which provides accurate storm surge forecasts and has helped protect lives and property during recent hurricanes. Daniel also mentioned that the facility runs models every time a new track comes from NOAA, offering up-to-date and granular data on storm surge predictions. NSF Funding Advocacy Meeting The meeting discussed the potential funding challenges facing the National Science Foundation, which could impact NHERI’s operations and access to testing equipment as of October 1st. Daniel encouraged attendees to contact their representatives to support NSF funding, emphasizing that this issue transcends political affiliations. Jamie highlighted NHERI’s transparency in sharing data and information, while Daniel mentioned a collection of open-access articles in the Frontiers in the Built Environment journal showcasing NHERI’s research from 2015 to 2025. Becky stressed the importance of scientific research in various fields, urging attendees to advocate for continued support of such work. Podcast Rankings and Sponsorship Update The team discussed their recent ranking on a list of natural disaster podcasts, with Design Safe Radio podcast being ranked 5th and the Disaster Podcast being ranked 11th. Jamie thanked Dr. Joe and the team at Paragon Medical Education Group for their continued sponsorship, highlighting the customizability of their training resources. The group also discussed how listeners can find and connect with them through various social media platforms and websites, and Jamie encouraged listeners to subscribe to future episodes. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

We asked Thomas Di Liberto, meteorologist, climatologist, and former NOAA employee on the show to discuss recent changes in National Weather Service staffing. Do the changes made in the name of government efficiency lead to risks in accurate weather prediction and disaster weather alerts? We discuss this on the show this week with the team. Also on the show this week were meteorologist and weather-squatch Kyle Nelson along with our disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin. The team talks about the recent string of fatal tornado outbreaks across the south and midwest. We also ponder how the staffing changes may affect alerts during the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season. The episode was hosted by Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Tornado Warning System Improvement Discussion Jamie, Kyle, and Becky discussed the active severe weather season, with Kyle highlighting potential threats across the central and southeastern United States. Becky shared that the number of severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings issued since January 1st exceeded previous records, surpassing those from 2011. Jamie mentioned recent storms causing significant deaths, and the group prepared to transition to their guest, Tom de Liberto, a meteorologist and former NOAA public affairs specialist. Weather Service Staffing and Safety Jamie discussed concerns about staffing cutbacks at Federal agencies and their impact on National Weather Service warning systems during severe weather events. Kyle explained the challenges of alerting people during overnight hours and emphasized the importance of local weather service offices for accurate forecasting and trust in warnings. Tom and Becky highlighted the value of local knowledge in forecasting and the human impact of staff cuts on forecasters, who are vital to communities’ safety. Weather Service Staffing Crisis Impact Jamie, Tom, and Becky discussed the critical staffing shortages and morale issues within the National Weather Service, particularly the impact of reduced staff on the agency’s ability to perform its core mission of public safety. Tom highlighted the significant challenges faced by weather forecast offices, including burnout, early retirements, and the absence of key leadership positions like meteorologists in charge. These changes have led led to staff members being overburdened and unable to maintain 24/7 forecasting operations or conduct community outreach. Becky inquired about the functioning of offices without MICS (meteorologists in charge), and Tom explained that acting leaders are often overburdened, potentially affecting operations during extreme weather events. Weather Reporting in Emergency Management Jamie and Kyle discussed the critical role of weather reporting in emergency management, highlighting its importance for operations like fire response, nuclear facility drills, and backcountry missions. Kyle emphasized the National Weather Service’s support, particularly through spot weather forecasts and on-site incident meteorologists, which are vital for events like the winter X games. Both agreed on the necessity of weather service coverage for smaller areas to ensure effective decision-making and resource allocation in emergency situations. AI’s Role in Weather Forecasting Jamie raised concerns about AI’s potential role in forecasting and diagnosing, referencing studies showing AI’s slight advantage over human experts in some areas. Becky and Tom discussed the limitations of AI in meteorology, emphasizing the importance of human interpretation and decision-making. They agreed that while AI could assist forecasters, it cannot replace human expertise. Jamie and Kyle highlighted broader issues of government cutbacks affecting disaster response infrastructure and the importance of human communication in weather forecasting. Weather Community Unity Discussion The group discusses the importance of having Tom back on the podcast in the future to continue the conversation about weather-related issues. Becky expresses concern about worsening staffing and burnout problems at NOAA, the National Weather Service, and FEMA. Tom emphasizes the mission-driven nature of the field and the importance of the weather community staying united to make the best decisions and forecasts for people. The participants share their contact information and social media handles for listeners to connect with them. The team also thanked their sponsor, Paragon Medical Education Group, and urged listeners to reach out for unique training opportunities. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

David DiPietro was a former Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer and eventually an instructor for community operations and personnel. He later founded DiPietro and Associates, a medical equipment business, including the distribution of AEDs. Kelsey Treat, David’s daughter, now runs the company’s sales and operations while Dave focuses on new business opportunities. Our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Weather Conditions and Flood Preparedness In the meeting, Jamie and Sam discussed the weather conditions in their respective locations. Jamie shared that there was a flash flood watch in Maryland, with significant rainfall causing flooding and water rescues. Sam mentioned that Colorado was experiencing heavy rain and wind. The team also discussed the importance of general preparedness and being aware of potential flooding in their regions. Medical Equipment Business and Training Services Dave and Kelsey from Dipietro and Associates discussed their medical equipment business and training services. Dave, a former helicopter rescue swimmer in the Coast Guard, shared his background in expanding medical capabilities with defibrillators and becoming one of the first distributors in the country. Kelsey, who has been involved with the company since she was a teenager, is now the sales and operations manager. They expressed interest in opportunities and removing obstacles, with Kelsey taking the reins of the company’s operations. AEDs and Lay Responder Programs Kelsey discussed the importance of lay responders in the chain of survival and her efforts to create a program for clients. Sam and Dave shared their thoughts on the ease of use of AEDs, with Dave noting that the modern defibrillator started around 2000. Kelsey agreed that children should learn how to use AEDs, especially if they have family members with heart issues. Jamie shared his family’s experience with community activities and the ease of operating an AED. Dave emphasized the simplicity of using an AED, suggesting that it’s easier to operate than performing CPR. FDA Compliance for Medical Devices Dave and Sam discussed the company’s market, which includes various sectors such as schools, police departments, and manufacturing, excluding hospitals and EMS. Dave clarified that their products are FDA Class 3 medical devices, not consumer products, and thus require compliance with specific regulatory issues. Kelsey added that these issues include a data management system for tracking the AED’s location, maintenance, and any FDA recalls or corrective actions. AED Maintenance and Data Management Dave, Kelsey, and Sam discussed the importance of maintaining Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in various settings. Kelsey highlighted their proprietary data management system, which includes developing written policies and procedures for AED deployment, conducting Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Improvement (QI) checks, and registering AEDs with local Emergency Medical Services (EMS). They also emphasized the need for regular inspections and maintenance of AEDs to ensure their readiness in emergency situations. Dave mentioned the new Wi-Fi connected AED, the AED 3, which can perform self-inspections and provide notifications for battery and pad replacements, as well as deployment. AEDs, CPR, and Trauma Kits Kelsey discussed the removal of a requirement for organizations with publicly available AEDs to have CPR and AED certified employees. Dave explained that the General Duty Act requires appropriate care for sick or injured individuals in the workplace, which often means having a group of people trained in CPR and first aid. Jamie shared their church’s experience with AEDs and CPR training. Dave emphasized the importance of a robust management program for defibrillators to prevent high failure rates. Kelsey introduced a hot topic regarding the introduction of trauma kits, which include tourniquets, pressure bandages, and packing gauze, in buildings constructed or renovated after 2021. A bill has also been proposed to require a trauma kit in every classroom of California public schools. Lay Responders’ Standard of Care Dave and Jamie discussed the increasing standard of care for lay responders and the general public in the public safety industry. They noted that the standard of care is pushing down to lay responders, with more technical applications of equipment and devices. This trend is driven by legislative efforts and the need for organizations to be prepared to respond to mass casualty incidents. Dave highlighted the psychological and emotional strain on lay responders, while Jamie emphasized the importance of communities being aware of and maintaining defibrillators in their facilities. Jamie also mentioned the success of defibrillators in saving lives, particularly in schools. Improving Mass Casualty Event Support Dave, Jamie, and Sam discussed the importance of preparedness and the use of available equipment to save lives. They also touched on the need for better support for late responders and secondary victims in mass casualty events. Sam expressed interest in working with Dave on improving post-event support and incident stress debriefing. The team also thanked their sponsor, Paragon Medical Education Group, and agreed to send a link to the episode for further use. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

We are joined this week by former FDNY firefighter/paramedic Vincent Johnson. Vinnie comes to us from Disaster Medical Solutions and a former FEMA USAR team in New York. He and Dr. Joe Holley share information about USAR medical specialist operations training for USAR docs and paramedics. Dr. Joe Holley was also on the call and our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Medical Training for Disaster Response Vinnie Johnson discussed the required class for medical team managers, physicians, and paramedics to be deployed as medical specialists with a FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team. The training provides a realistic disaster environment and emphasizes the medical care during technical rescue training. He also mentioned the ability to tailor training to the needs of state and local teams. Sam and Joe discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for tactical equipment for rescue work. Vinnie and Joe also mentioned their ability to provide training on tactical medicine and disaster preparedness. Experienced Educators in Disaster Response Training In the meeting, Jamie and Vinnie discussed the importance of experienced educators in disaster response training. Vinnie explained that they recruit individuals with a history of responding to smaller-scale disasters, which provides a solid foundation for learning. The team also incorporates lessons learned from past incidents into their training scenarios. Vinnie mentioned that they offer technical assistance to states facing disasters, such as tornadoes, by coordinating with their network of instructors and former students. The team also provides subject matter expertise to news outlets and reviews response agency reports to make recommendations for improvement. Value of Constant Learning Vinnie, Sam, and Joe discussed the value of learning from students and other instructors, emphasizing the importance of constant learning and the passion for teaching and mentoring. They shared personal experiences of receiving heartfelt compliments and seeing the positive outcomes of their teachings. Jamie agreed with their sentiments and highlighted the importance of institutional knowledge in the response community. Joe mentioned upcoming procedural education courses in Florida and encouraged interested parties to reach out to Paragon Medical Education Group for customized training programs. Episode Wrap Up and What’s Next Jamie, Sam, and Vinnie discussed coming on an upcoming episode of the Disaster Podcast, which will feature Vinnie. They agreed to share the link to disastermedicalsolutions.com and encouraged people to reach out with questions. Sam and Jamie shared their social media handles and encouraged listeners to subscribe to the podcast. They also discussed the importance of continuous learning, as emphasized by Vinnie. The team expressed their appreciation for Vinnie’s participation and looked forward to future collaborations. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

In this episode we talk about a conference a few months back that was attended by both Becky DePodwin and Kyle Nelson. Becky is our Emergency Management disaster expert and Kyle has experience in meteorological issues and is also an educator for emergency managers on social media use and information management during disasters and major events. The International Association of Emergency Managers conference was held in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The next event will be on November 14-20 in Louisville, Kentucky. The topic of the 2025 event is “Champions of Change.” Dr. Joe Holley was also on the call and our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Unusual Weather Patterns and Storms Sam, Becky, and Kyle discussed the unusual weather patterns in their respective areas. Sam mentioned the snow medic’s experience with thunderstorms at night, while Kyle shared that the high country was experiencing chilly nights but had received some precipitation. Becky reported a nasty storm in Ohio and Pennsylvania, causing power outages and damage. The team also discussed the concept of a derecho, a storm producing high wind over a distance, and its potential impact. They also touched on the high wind conditions in the high country. IAEM Annual Meeting Recap In the meeting, Becky and Kyle discussed their experiences at the International Association of Emergency Managers annual meeting in Colorado Springs. Kyle, a long-time member, was drawn to the event through colleagues and enjoys the networking opportunities and the Crisis Technology Center. Becky, who supports her client at the event, noted the presence of various exhibitors, including software providers and government agencies. The attendees are primarily emergency managers from state and local levels. The meeting also touched on the diverse topics discussed, including the National Weather Service’s vision and the challenges of rural emergency management. Inclusive Alerting for Deaf Community Becky discussed the importance of understanding the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing community in disaster situations. She highlighted the need for accessible alerting and the ongoing efforts to include multiple languages, including American Sign Language, in alerts. Sam shared her past work with the deaf community and expressed relief that things have improved. Becky also mentioned the need for more emotional expression in sign language, as emphasized by the deaf and hard of hearing community. Building Connections at Professional Conferences The team discussed the importance of attending professional conferences for networking and building connections. They shared their experiences of meeting and staying in touch with people they met at conferences, both online and offline. The team emphasized the value of these connections in solving problems and finding solutions to new challenges. They also highlighted the benefits of getting involved in committees, boards, and other organizational activities to further develop these connections. The team encouraged others to attend conferences and get involved in their respective fields to build a strong network of friends and professionals. Conferences, Connections, and Birthday Wishes In the meeting, Sam, Jamie, Becky, and Kyle discussed their experiences at various conferences, including the Ems conferences and the Authors Conference. They reminisced about their time at these events, including the mass shooting incident in Las Vegas and the friendships they formed. Jamie mentioned the support of Dr. Joe and the Paragon Medical Education Group, which enables them to continue hosting the show. They also discussed the importance of attending conferences for professional connections and learning opportunities. The conversation ended with plans for future conferences and a birthday wish for Dr. Joe. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

This week we take a look at what it takes to train and deploy with USAR dogs during disasters. Dr. Joe Holley’s better half, Kimberly comes by to talk about her work with the FEMA team from Memphis, Tennessee. She currently had two trained dogs (one live find dog and a human remains detection dog), Kimberly is currently training a third for live search and rescue. Kimberly goes over the training process and the breeds that are best for the hard work of searching in difficult environments for hours on end. The Tennessee team has an excellent training facility with multiple rubble piles, tunnels, and simulated collapsed structures. This type of training goes a long way but doesn’t completely prepare the dog and handler for working in the field at an actual disaster site. In those situations, it falls to the handler to be vigilant to the safety of the situation and watch the dog for cues that a break is needed. USAR Foundation site Search Dog Foundation site Dr. Joe Holley was also on the call and our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Kimberly’s Search and Rescue Journey The team welcomed Kimberly, Joe’s wife, who is involved in dog training and search and rescue. Kimberly explained how her interest in search and rescue dogs was influenced by Joe’s FEMA activities and her background in animal rescue. She also mentioned their three certified search and rescue dogs and a new dog, Leo, who is in training for live find. Evaluating Dogs for Search and Rescue Kimberly discussed her process of evaluating dogs for search and rescue, emphasizing the importance of drive and temperament. She shared an example of how she identified Leo’s potential as a search and rescue dog. Sam asked about specific breeds and how to know if a dog is suitable for search and rescue. Kimberly explained that drive is the key factor, and certain breeds have different types of drive. She also mentioned the importance of training dogs in various environments to prepare them for different search scenarios. Jamie asked about training dogs for search in difficult environments, and Kimberly explained that they have a training site with various props to expose dogs to different environments. Search and Rescue Dog Training The discussion focuses on search and rescue dogs, their training, and deployment. Kimberly explains that they train dogs for either live find or human remains detection, with different traits suited to each role. Live find dogs need to be comfortable with human interaction, while human remains detection dogs often work more independently. Kimberly emphasizes the importance of rewarding dogs during deployments to keep them engaged. The team discusses maintaining the dogs’ health in the field, with handlers playing a crucial role in day-to-day care. Joe mentions that task forces have veterinary resources and that medical team members receive specialized training in canine care. Kimberly explains the certification process for search and rescue dogs in the Federal system, which involves rigorous testing every three years. The conversation concludes with a discussion on how handlers manage stress during deployments and the ongoing need for new handlers and dogs in search and rescue programs. More SAR Dogs Needed Kimberly discussed the growth of the need for search and rescue dogs in both live find and human remains detection, highlighting recent deployments in Hawaii, Maui, California, and Fort Myers. She noted the increasing use of canines in disaster responses due to refined research and resources. She shared her most memorable deployment experience, which was her first disaster response in Cookville, Tennessee in 2019, where she and her dog partner, Ed, a human remains detection Labrador, witnessed the devastating effects of a tornado that took 19 lives. Canine Training in Team Operations Joe discussed the importance of canine training in their team’s operations, emphasizing the significant decisions made based on the findings of these dogs. He expressed skepticism about other teams with dogs that can find anything, as he doesn’t know what that means. Jamie highlighted the importance of training and commitment to training within their systems, including FEMA and local resources. Joe mentioned upcoming training in Florida next month. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Our resident meteorologist and disaster emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin, shares her take on the preparedness challenges when a broad weather front crosses the nation. Many states are dealing with severe rain, winds, and flooding that have caused more than a dozen deaths. In fact, the month of March was the windiest on record. Dr. Joe Holley talks about the post-storm USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) efforts. He also delves into the recent Dominican Republic nightclub disaster. The roof collapse at the popular club is responsible for more than 200 deaths and hundreds more injured. Our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Severe Weather Trends in Midwest The team discussed the severe weather trends in the Midwest and the South, particularly the Midwest and the South experiencing tornadoes, floods, and winds. They also discussed the impact of the windiest March on record, with over 1,500 reports of wind damage submitted to the National Weather Service. The team also discussed the potential for wildfires in Texas and Oklahoma due to the wind. They discussed the severe weather outbreaks and tornado outbreaks, and the flooding potential across Southern Indiana, Western Kentucky, Western Tennessee, and the Gulf Coast. They also discussed the bomb cyclone that went through the Northwest and the potential for severe weather in the coming weeks. First Responder and USAR Emotional Well-being Joe discussed his team’s experience in the area, focusing on their local and state-level activities. They were involved in a search for a missing child, which unfortunately ended in a tragic discovery. Joe highlighted the emotional challenges of their job, particularly when dealing with difficult situations. Sam shared his understanding of these challenges from his Dmat experience. Resource Availability for Teams After Situations Jamie and Joe discussed the availability of resources for teams after dealing with difficult situations. Joe mentioned that there is variability at the federal level, with some resources coming from local, regional, and state levels, often from private or non-profit organizations. He acknowledged that there is still work to be done in pulling all these pieces together. Sam asked Becky for her opinion on local groups with expertise to handle such situations. In the meeting, Sam, Becky, Jamie, and Joe discussed the mental health challenges faced by first responders, particularly in dealing with traumatic events. They noted the lack of specialized resources for first responders and the need for more financial support at the state and local levels. Joe mentioned the involvement of local universities with strong psychology departments in supporting first responders. Becky highlighted the emotional toll on meteorologists who conduct damage surveys after natural disasters. The team also discussed the importance of preparing first responders to ensure their families’ safety during emergencies. Improving Community Preparedness and Resilience Jamie emphasized the need for better community preparedness and resilience, particularly among first responders. He noted that the community’s numbers often reflect the surrounding community’s preparedness, and that first responders are not always better at being prepared. Sam and Joe agreed, with Sam suggesting that recent events might help increase resilience. Becky agreed, noting that unprecedented events can happen anywhere. Jamie also highlighted the difference in resilience between coastal and inland communities, using the example of the hurricane in Central North Carolina and Florida. Natural Disasters and Tragedies Discussed Sam and Joe discussed various natural disasters and tragedies, including a tornado in New York and a building collapse in the Dominican Republic. Joe shared that a friend was on a mission trip near the collapse site and sent him pictures. Jamie updated the death toll in the Dominican Republic to 221 people, most of whom were crushed under the concrete ceiling. The team acknowledged the scale of the tragedy and the challenges in providing healthcare in the affected area. Severe Weather and Safety Training Jamie, Sam, Becky, and Joe discussed the importance of severe weather, safety, and flooding safety, with Becky suggesting a future episode on the topic. Jamie proposed revisiting the story of navigating bad weather and rising floodwaters for lessons to be learned. Joe shared a preliminary project on supraglottic airways and upcoming labs in Florida. Jamie encouraged listeners to consider customized disaster and preparedness training for their responder communities. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Gavin Blair, COO of Bright Harbor, joins the rest of the podcast team tonight. He discusses the unique challenges people face in the aftermath of disaster. Whether it’s knowing the best way to file with your insurance company, or how to navigate the FEMA bureaucracy, having an advocate in your corner can be a game-changer. Bright Harbor, a leading disaster recovery company that has been on the front lines of wildfire recovery efforts across the country. In the wake of the recent LA wildfires, the team has been helping survivors navigate the complex and often frustrating process of securing FEMA aid, insurance payouts, and emergency housing—guiding them through bureaucratic roadblocks that can delay relief for months. Also on the show was Dr. Joe Holley from Paragon Medical Education Group. Our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Severe Weather and Disaster Recovery Jamie and Sam discussed the weather conditions, with Sam mentioning the mix of rain, snow, and hail. Jamie then introduced Dr. Joe, who shared updates on the severe weather situations, including tornado outbreaks in Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Kentucky. Joe also mentioned the potential for more bad weather and heavy rain with flooding through the weekend. Jamie recalled the severe weather in Kentucky last year and the impact on the community. Joe mentioned upcoming procedural labs in Florida and Arkansas, which may be affected by the storms. Jamie then introduced their guest, Gavin Blair, who shared his experience dealing with insurance and red tape following disasters. Navigating Disaster Recovery With Bright Harbor Gavin Blair from Bright Harbor discusses the challenges faced by individuals after natural disasters. He highlights the increasing frequency and severity of disasters, coupled with the insurance industry’s struggle to manage risk. Many people are underinsured, often unaware of gaps in their coverage until disaster strikes. Blair emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s insurance policy, considering home hardening techniques, and having an evacuation plan. He advises on immediate steps after a disaster, such as securing temporary housing through insurance or FEMA assistance. Blair stresses the importance of quantifying losses and understanding available funding sources for recovery, which is where Bright Harbor assists individuals in navigating the complex process of rebuilding after a disaster. Navigating Disaster Relief Programs Jamie and Gavin discussed the challenges of navigating bureaucracy in State and Federal relief programs post-disaster. Gavin emphasized the importance of verifying information and seeking primary sources of information, such as the FEMA website. He also addressed the issue of uneven distribution of resources and the need for more effective government programs. Gavin advised people not to overthink the insurance process and to wait for the first response from their insurance company before seeking external help. He also reassured that there is time to apply for FEMA and SBA, and that the application process is just about filing the form. Preparing for Natural Disasters Gavin discussed the importance of being prepared for natural disasters, emphasizing the need for insurance and understanding one’s situation. He highlighted the unique challenges faced by those living in disaster-prone areas and those who are not. Gavin also mentioned the importance of neighbors cooperating and leveraging each other’s resources during such events. Jamie asked about immediate relief options, to which Gavin explained their service, which provides a tailored plan and support throughout the process. Disaster Preparedness and Response Strategies Jamie, Joe, and Gavin discussed disaster preparedness and response. Gavin shared his experiences and insights on preparing for and managing major events, emphasizing the importance of planning and collaboration. Joe expressed gratitude for Gavin’s expertise and encouraged listeners to reach out to Paragon Medical Education Group for customized training and support. The team agreed on the significance of having resources to navigate the aftermath of disasters. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Edward Coulson Edward Coulson from Ready Northwest returns to the Disaster Podcast to share ways businesses can build resiliency plans for disasters and major adverse events. Often overlooked in the community resilience discussion, local and regional businesses are anchors for the financial well being of a community. Including them while planning drills and events can improve the overall community response to a disaster. Also on the show was out emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin. Our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Emergency Preparedness Planning for Businesses Edward Coulson, owner of Ready Northwest emergency management, discusses his company’s focus on emergency preparedness planning for businesses and organizations. He explains that they fill a gap in disaster preparedness by helping businesses on Main Street get ready for emergencies, which is crucial for community recovery. Edward highlights the increasing awareness and investment in emergency planning among businesses, especially since the pandemic. He describes working with various industries, including healthcare, food and beverage, construction, and retail, often seeing increased interest following major incidents. He also addresses the challenges of convincing businesses to invest in emergency planning when not required by regulations, emphasizing the benefits such as employee safety, potential insurance premium reductions, and improved post-incident investigations. Continuous Emergency Management and Preparedness Edward emphasized the importance of continuous emergency management and preparedness programs, rather than one-time efforts. He highlighted the need for updating, educating, training, and reviewing these programs throughout their life. Sam and Edward discussed the challenges of emergency planning, such as the need to consider post-disaster actions and the importance of business continuity planning. They also touched on the need for integrating weather warnings into comprehensive emergency plans. Emergency Management in Consulting Edward emphasized the importance of emergency management in the consulting space, particularly in asking the right questions to identify potential hazards. He highlighted the role of weather partners in providing critical information for decision-making during emergencies. Jamie asked about the frequency of involving the community in resilience plans, to which Edward responded positively, suggesting that businesses should establish relationships with first responders and conduct drills to prepare for emergencies. Edward also predicted an increase in interest in emergency preparedness plans and training in the next five to ten years, with a growing need for partners in emergency management. Ready Northwest Services and Weather Warnings Edward discussed the services offered by Ready Northwest, including emergency management consulting and training programs for businesses. He encouraged listeners to visit their website for more information. Becky emphasized the importance of receiving local weather warnings, particularly during severe weather season. Jamie and Sam invited listeners to follow them on social media and sign up for notifications on their respective websites. The team expressed gratitude for the discussion and wished everyone a good weekend. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Author Beth Livingston Author Beth Livingston joins the team in this episode to share her accounts of two past disasters here in the United States. First she recounts the personal stories of resilience in The Dayton Flood of 1913. Then she tells the stories of the survivors of The Charleston Earthquake of 1886. Both of these disasters took place long before our 24-hour video media coverage. Yet the personal accounts were recorded by local historians and news sources for us to learn from. Beth uses her ability to breathe life into these accounts and creates a fictional story around these true life situations. More about the Great Flood of 1913 More about the Charleston Earthquake of 1886 Beth Livingston has been telling stories for as long as she can remember. When she was two years old, she entertained passengers on a train ride across California with her made up tales. She went on to become a teacher and then a school librarian, all the while telling her stories. Her first book, The Hideout, was published in 1983. Since then, she’s gone on to write four children’s books and nine adult novels. Also on the show were our disaster weather experts Kyle Nelson and Dan DePodwin, along with our emergency management expert Becky DePodwin. Our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Exploring Historical Weather Disasters Jamie introduces a new episode of the Disaster Podcast, which will focus on historical disasters. He mentions that his co-host Sam Bradley is present, and they have a special guest lined up to discuss past events. The show plans to explore weather forecasting and conditions during historical disasters, with input from three meteorologists who will be participating in the discussion. Weather Conditions and Storms Discussed The meeting discussed the weather conditions in various regions. Jamie shared that they experienced a storm with high winds and rain, which led to the loss of trees and power outages. Dan mentioned that the weather has been active in March, with severe thunderstorms and a March snowstorm in the Midwest. He also predicted a warm period in the south and a significant storm in the east for the weekend before Saint Patrick’s Day. Jamie brought up a rare tropical cyclone in Australia, which has been slow-moving and bringing rain. Kyle added that the cyclone was expected to cause significant rainfall and potential inland flooding in Southern Queensland and northern New South Wales. Beth’s Christian Historical Fiction Books Sam and Beth Livingston discussed Beth’s Christian historical fiction books, specifically her Disaster series. Beth shared her interest in disasters, which began when she visited the Carillon Historical Park in Dayton, Ohio, and discovered the Dayton flood of 1913. She then researched and wrote a book about the event, incorporating firsthand accounts and old pictures. Beth also mentioned her interest in the Charleston earthquake of 1886, which she researched and wrote about in another book. Sam expressed interest in hearing firsthand stories from people who lived through these disasters. Beth then described the Dayton flood of 1913, explaining that it was caused by three large storm systems converging on the city, resulting in 9 to 11 inches of rain falling on already saturated land. The flood went through downtown Dayton, leaving 15,000 residents homeless, 92 people dead, and causing an estimated $2 billion in merchandise loss in today’s economy. The Great Dayton Flood of 1913 Beth narrated the story of the Great Dayton Flood of 1913. She detailed the rising water levels, the breaking of levees, and the subsequent flooding of the city. The National Cash Register Company, led by John Patterson, was converted into a relief center where employees were organized to serve the flood victims. Beth also shared several personal accounts of people who survived the flood, including one about a man who risked his life to rescue a family trapped in their hotel room. The conversation ended with her highlighting the bravery and resilience of the survivors and the lessons learned from the disaster. Dayton Flood and Community Response In the meeting, the team discussed a historical weather scenario involving a significant flood in Dayton, Ohio, in 1913. Dan provided historical context, mentioning the Johnstown flood and the extraordinary weather conditions in March 1913. Kyle emphasized the importance of neighbors helping neighbors during disasters and the role of public information in reaching out for resources. Becky compared the factory owner’s response to the modern-day example of Mattress Mac in Houston. Jamie praised Beth’s storytelling ability in weaving together individual accounts into a cohesive narrative. The team also discussed the availability of the books discussed in the meeting, with links provided in the show notes. 1886 Charleston Earthquake Destruction and Recovery In the meeting, Dan, Sam, and Kyle discussed the 1886 Charleston earthquake, one of the most destructive earthquakes in the Eastern United States. The quake, initially felt in Somerville, resulted in significant damage to Charleston, with over 6,000 buildings destroyed or badly damaged. The earthquake was unusual as it occurred in the middle of a tectonic plate, distant from any plate boundary. Despite the devastation, Charleston survived and rebuilt within 14 months. The earthquake served as a significant event for geologic service scientists to study earthquake intensity and its distribution, as it was felt across a wide area, including Ontario, Bermuda, and Cuba. The meeting highlighted how this tragedy spurred interest and advancements in the science of geology and earthquakes. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Photo Credit Dr. Joe Holley In this episode we look at the variable patient presentations USAR docs and paramedics encounter when rescuing individuals from a collapsed structure. Joe points out that these patients vary based on the amount of time that has passed since the initial disaster situation. If you’re responding to the early hours after a collapse, your approach is more immediate life threats such as hemorrhage management or opening and maintaining an airway. Many hours or even days later, rescuers are less likely to encounter survivors with active life threats and are more likely to encounter threats associated with the entrapment itself. Crush injuries, particulate inhalation, and other less acute factors. Also on the show were our disaster weather expert Kyle Nelson and our emergency management expert Becky DePodwin. Our episode was hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Managing Trauma in Urban Search Jamie introduces the topic for this episode of the Disaster Podcast, focusing on managing various types of trauma during urban search and rescue (USAR) operations. The discussion will cover best practices for assessing and treating patients in trapped situations, such as in collapsed structures following earthquakes. Sam mentions that crush injuries will be a particular point of interest, and the group plans to discuss the order of treatment priorities for trapped patients. Kyle is expected to contribute scenarios, possibly relating to avalanche rescue. The hosts also briefly discuss the current weather in Colorado, noting the variability typical of March. Managing Patients in Complex Situations In the meeting, Jamie and Joe discussed the management of patients in complex situations, such as a rescue operation following a collapsed structure due to an earthquake. The discussion focused on the different types of patients expected to be encountered, how they are managed, and the timeline of their treatment. Joe highlighted the importance of understanding and sorting out the timeline of the event and the patient’s condition, which can significantly impact the priorities and management of the patient’s care. The conversation also touched on the challenges and considerations in remote or wilderness medicine settings, emphasizing the importance of considering the time factor in treating patients. Factors to Consider in Treating Exposed Patients In the meeting, Joe discussed the various factors that need to be considered in treating patients who have been exposed to adverse conditions for extended periods. He highlighted the potential for significant fluid loss, exposure to elements, and a higher likelihood of hypothermia and hyperthermia. Joe also pointed out the potential for metabolic derangements, such as hypoglycemia, due to lack of food intake. Joe emphasized the need to consider crush syndrome and its impact on patients, particularly during extraction. Furthermore, Joe noted the potential for respiratory injury and the impact of prolonged exposure to dust, spores, and other toxic substances on the patient’s airway and immune system. He also touched on the possibility of neurologic changes due to head injuries or other factors. IV Access in Confined Spaces Jamie and Joe discussed the practicality of initiating intravenous (IV) access during rescues in confined spaces. Joe explained that as the situation becomes more critical, interventions like IV access become higher priority to prevent dehydration. He detailed the challenges of finding a vein in a dehydrated patient and the need for alternative methods like intraosseous access. Joe also discussed the importance of maintaining IV flow during the rescue process, using pressure bags, IV pumps, and packaging the IV line to protect it during patient movement. He emphasized the need for careful patient movement to avoid injury and the potential fragility of the patient due to prolonged exposure. Crush Injuries and Fluid Therapy Joe discussed the importance of fluids in treating crush injuries, which are common in major disasters like earthquakes. He explained that these injuries occur when tissues are crushed, causing toxins like potassium to build up, affecting the patient’s nerves and cardiovascular system. The treatment involves specific medications and dilution with fluids to restore the patient back to their pre-injury state. Joe also mentioned that extrication can cause bleeding and fluid loss, which can negatively impact the patient. He emphasized the need for rescuers to understand disease processes to treat patients effectively before, during, and after extrication. Rhabdo Management and Patient Monitoring Joe emphasized the importance of managing Rhabdo, a significant concern in patients, both before, during, and after extrication. He highlighted the need for aggressive pain management due to the uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking nature of the process. Kyle raised concerns about pain management and monitoring patients, particularly those with nerve damage or other factors affecting sensation. Joe agreed, stressing the need for continuous monitoring of patients’ responses to interventions, especially in cases of crush injuries and Rhabdo. He also discussed the challenges of patient packaging to accommodate necessary monitoring equipment while still allowing for safe and efficient extrication. Rescuing Patients in Disaster Situations In the meeting, Joe shared his insights on the challenges of rescuing patients in disaster situations, emphasizing the importance of a tailored and customized approach. Jamie and Sam expressed their appreciation for Joe’s expertise and suggested that the team from Paragon Medical Education Group could provide specific and focused training for rescuers in their jurisdiction. The team also discussed the importance of considering practical issues when rescuing patients, such as packaging and moving them in a restricted environment. The conversation ended with plans for future episodes and the suggestion for the community to share their ideas and experiences. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Dr. Joe Holley in USAR training Dr. Joe Holley comes back after being off the show for a few months due to extensive travel for training and conference attendance. We discuss the inflow of respiratory illness to our nation’s hospitals and the difficulties finding rooms and beds for patients who need them. After we talk about the hospital side of things, Joe shares some of his recent training travels for Paragon Medical Education Group. Sam then discusses some of the anticipated changes pending with FEMA as the U.S. federal government goes through significant restructuring. Joe proposes that perhaps the response and recovery components of FEMA might be separated from each other due to the different natures of their missions. Also on the show were co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Emergency Department Overload and Innovations Joe reports on his recent activities, including attending the National Association of EMS Physicians meeting in California and conducting a cadaver lab training for an aeromedical service in the southeastern US. He discusses testing a new bandaging product from Israel, which features a grid system for monitoring bleeding. The conversation then shifts to the current overload in emergency departments across the country, which is largely attributed to viral infectious diseases, including flu and concerns about avian flu. Jamie and Sam share personal experiences of family members facing extended hospital stays and ER waits due to overcrowding, highlighting the strain on the healthcare system. FEMA’s Role and Potential Changes Joe and Sam discussed potential changes at the Federal level, particularly concerning FEMA. Joe suggested that the response and recovery components of FEMA might be separated, with the response side potentially moving to another entity. He also mentioned upcoming training exercises and labs. Jamie agreed that separating the two halves of FEMA might make sense, but expressed concern about the potential challenges of such a separation. Sam emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent training across different states to ensure effective teamwork in disaster situations. Joe and Sam agreed that FEMA’s role in assisting overwhelmed local and state resources is crucial, especially in multi-state disasters. Supraglottic Airways Research and Future Plans Sam, Joe, and Jamie discussed a research project involving supraglottic airways. Joe explained that they have conducted two published studies comparing supraglottic airways to tracheal tubes, focusing on their sealing ability and impact on blood flow during emergent conditions. They are considering a third study to better understand how much these devices might leak and how it might affect ventilation. The team plans to utilize cadaveric tissue for this study, with the aim of starting a pilot evaluation in the next few months. Jamie expressed his excitement about the potential for improved outcomes from this research. Sam suggested a future episode could be a retrospective on the changes in CPR techniques over time. Rescuing and Rehabilitating Dutch Shepherd Joe shared the story of how his wife, a canine handler, rescued a malnourished Dutch Shepherd named Leo from a parking lot. Leo has since gained 16 pounds and is showing great potential as a search and rescue dog. Joe noted that Dutch Shepherds are generally smaller in build than German Shepherds and tend to have fewer hip issues. The team expressed their appreciation for the rescue and the good home Leo has found. Paragon Medical Education Group Resources In the meeting, Jamie and Joe discussed the resources available from Paragon Medical Education Group, including training for state search and rescue teams. Joe encouraged anyone interested to reach out to them through their website or Facebook page. Jamie and Sam also discussed their social media presence and encouraged listeners to subscribe to the show. Joe shared updates about his dog, Leo, who has been recovering and is now doing well. The team expressed their appreciation for Joe’s contributions and wished him well. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Kyle Nelson, our disaster meteorologist and ski patroller, joins us this week in his role as Planning Section Chief with the Winter XGames Aspen Incident Management Team. He shares his experiences planning and helping with operations for medical and response management during the games this year. Kyle addresses the importance of addressing complacency within the teams who’ve run the response side of the Winter XGames in the past. Becky DePodwin, our disaster emergency management expert, asks for an overview of what a day in the life is like for the planning section chief. What is it like for him during a major event like this. Kyle walks us through his day from wake up to wrapping up the hand off to the other response and incident command and general staff positions. FEMA Incident Command System Training Page Also on the call were co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary X Games Evolution and Ticketing Kyle discussed the history and evolution of the X Games, a winter sports event held in Aspen, Colorado. He explained that the event has grown to become the second largest internationally televised winter sporting event after the Olympics, featuring disciplines like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. He highlighted the introduction of new events like the knuckle huck competition and the changes in the slope style course each year. Kyle also mentioned that this year’s event was fully ticketed, a decision made by X Games leadership. Jamie asked about the reasons behind this change, to which Kyle responded that it was not a requirement from Pitkin County, where the event is hosted. X Games Incident Management Strategy Kyle discussed the incident management structure for the X Games event, highlighting his role as the Planning Section Chief. He emphasized the importance of avoiding complacency, which was a focus for the team this year. The team held multiple meetings leading up to the event to ensure everyone was on the same page and to prevent potential incidents. Kyle also mentioned that the team’s safety message included discussions on the dangers of complacency. Sam and Jamie asked for more details about the planning section’s role and how the team overcame complacency, respectively. Exploring Incident Command System (ICS) Principles In the meeting, Sam and Kyle discussed the Incident Command System (ICS) and its application across different organizations and countries. They emphasized that despite variations in how ICS is taught and applied, the fundamental principles remain the same, allowing for a common terminology and structure across different roles and incidents. Kyle further explained the principles of ICS, including unity of command, communication tools, work assignments, and reporting. The conversation then shifted to Kyle’s day-to-day experience at the Winter X Games, where he shared his typical morning routine and operational periods. Becky asked about the duration of Kyle’s day, to which he responded with a 13-hour operational period. Planning Section’s Role in Incidents Kyle discussed the importance of the planning section in managing an incident. He highlighted the need for a check-in desk to track resources, the significance of the operations briefing to set clear objectives for the day, and the role of the planning section in gathering and archiving incident documentation. He also mentioned the involvement of the National Weather Service Office in providing weather decision support. The afternoon involved preparing for meetings, getting approval from command and General staff positions, and building the incident action plan for the next day. Kyle emphasized the importance of the planning section in gathering information and watching for activities that could impact the venue. X Games Event Support and Safety Kyle discussed the various resources and teams that support the X Games event in Colorado, including the civil support team, FBI, Colorado State Patrol, and bomb detection teams. He highlighted the importance of these resources in managing the event and keeping the community safe. Kyle also explained how special event operations differ from day-to-day operations, emphasizing the importance of planning, staffing, and communication. He shared that there were no critical incidents during this year’s event, and that the main weather-related challenge was extreme cold. Becky asked about the spectators’ preparedness for the weather, to which Kyle responded that they generally plan ahead and dress appropriately. Sam asked about the total number of people involved in the event, and Kyle estimated around 10,000 spectators. Disaster Preparedness and Response Importance Jamie, Kyle, and Becky discussed the importance of disaster preparedness and response, particularly in the context of major events. They emphasized the value of real-world experience and training, and encouraged others to reach out to experts like those from Paragon Medical Education Group for customized training programs. They also highlighted the role of local National Weather Service offices in providing accurate weather information. The team expressed their appreciation for the annual event and looked forward to future discussions. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

This week on the Disaster Podcast we look at some of the root causes of airline crash disasters and what kinds of things pilots do to avoid midair collisions. Becky DePodwin helped us bring in an Emergency Management colleague, Edward Colson. He’s a former commercial helicopter pilot, currently and emergency manager and owner of a consulting firm, Ready Northwest. Edward helps us understand the specific challenges when flying at night in urban environments with busy air traffic corridors. Also on the call were emergency management expert, Becky DePodwin, meteorologist Dan DePodwin, along with co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Weather Events and City Adaptations Dan provides an update on recent weather events, including a narrow band of snow in Colorado and a historic snowstorm in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. The New Orleans storm dropped 8 inches of snow, matching a record from 1895, and set a new state record for Florida with 6-7 inches. Jamie shares that the storm stranded some authors in New Orleans for an extra three days. Becky explains that southern cities are unprepared for such rare snow events, lacking the necessary equipment and plans. Edward notes that Portland, Oregon has adapted to more frequent snow events in recent years. Dan then discusses the potential for heavy rain and flooding in California, particularly in the northern part of the state, following recent wildfires in the south. Aviation Accident Investigation and Safety Sam and Edward discussed a recent aviation accident involving an airliner and a helicopter. Edward, a helicopter pilot and emergency management consultant, shared his insights on the possible causes of the accident, including the positioning of the aircraft and the role of air traffic control. He suggested that the helicopter may have been looking at the landing lights of the aircraft behind it, rather than the one in front, and that the airliner may not have seen the helicopter until the last minute. Edward also mentioned that the investigation is ongoing and that the technology and safety measures in place have contributed to a relatively good safety record in the United States. Sam agreed with Edward’s analysis and expressed his concern about the speed at which the accident occurred. Night Flying Challenges and Safety Edward discussed the challenges of flying at night, particularly in a city environment with numerous lights. He highlighted the difficulty of identifying aircraft due to the brightness of city lights, which can blend in with the aircraft. Edward also mentioned the use of night vision goggles, which can enhance situational awareness but can also complicate the identification of aircraft. He noted that the use of night vision goggles is more common in rural or search and rescue operations. Edward also touched on the importance of situational awareness and the potential for spatial disorientation, which can lead to accidents. Dan agreed with Edward’s points, emphasizing the differences between helicopter and commercial aviation. The team also discussed a recent accident in Texas involving a helicopter that contacted a high tension tower. NTSB Investigation Process and Recommendations Jamie expressed interest in understanding the process the NTSB follows during extensive investigations into aviation accidents, particularly in high-profile cases with significant loss of life. Edward explained that the NTSB has a go team of investigators on call 24/7, ready to deploy within 6 hours of a large incident. They gather data from the accident aircraft, air transport, air traffic control tapes, audio recordings, radar scopes, and other relevant pieces. A preliminary report is issued, identifying probable causes, followed by a final report with recommendations. Edward noted that the NTSB does not have enforcement authority but can issue recommendations to regulatory agencies. Dan recommended listening to the NTSB’s press briefing for a detailed overview of the crash. Edward and Dan also highlighted the importance of the NTSB’s recommendations in improving aviation safety. Preparing for Mass Casualty Incidents The team discussed the importance of drills and preparations for mass casualty incidents, using the recent plane crash in the Potomac River as a case study. They highlighted the challenges faced during the response, such as the night-time crash, cold water temperatures, and windy conditions. The team also discussed the role of airports in conducting regular drills and exercises to prepare for such incidents. The conversation ended with a focus on the importance of understanding the root causes of such incidents to prevent them in the future. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Welcome back to the Disaster Podcast, your go-to resource for medical professionals, first responders, and disaster rescue experts. This week’s episode features a returning guest, Dan Zehner, from the Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure (NHERI), alongside our cohosts Sam Bradley (retired firefighter and paramedic) and Jamie Davis (nurse and retired paramedic). Together, they dive into the critical role of NHERI in understanding and mitigating the impacts of natural disasters—and its exciting potential for wildfire research in the future. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Understanding NHERI’s Mission and Expansion into Wildfire Research NHERI, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation, has spent years advancing our understanding of natural hazards such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and coastal phenomena. As Dan shares, NHERI is now preparing for its next chapter: applying its methodologies to wildfire research, particularly in the wildland-urban interface (WUI). This shift is informed by a groundbreaking NSF study that identified the need for a dedicated facility to tackle wildfire challenges on a scale comparable to NHERI’s work with hurricanes and earthquakes. The NHERI Approach: Building Resilient Infrastructure Dan and Sam explore how NHERI’s proven methods—examining hazards, structural response, and the building envelope—can be adapted for wildfire scenarios. This approach aligns closely with the work of organizations like the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), which also studies structural resilience. The team emphasizes that stronger, science-backed building guidelines can help homes withstand wildfires while also addressing concerns like insurance coverage for homes in high-risk zones. Key takeaway: Homeowners and builders must carefully weigh the risks of building in fire-prone areas and incorporate non-combustible zones around structures to increase survivability. The Role of Data and Technology in Wildfire Preparedness Wildfire research hinges on robust data collection and analysis. Dan describes how advanced tools like fixed-wing aircraft, drones, and LiDAR technology are used to scan wildfire-affected areas for critical insights into vegetation, topography, and structural materials. These data sets not only inform landslide-prone areas post-fire but also enhance community preparedness. The conversation underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. NHERI’s Technology Transfer Committee plays a vital role in ensuring research findings are shared with key stakeholders like practitioners and insurance companies. This open channel fosters practical, real-world applications of cutting-edge science. The Human Element: Community Resilience and Education Jamie highlights the concept of community resilience, discussing how NHERI’s research can empower communities to recover faster and better after disasters. Dan also shares a personal passion: engaging kids in science. By bringing his daughters to NHERI’s wave tank at Oregon State University, Dan emphasizes the importance of hands-on education in sparking curiosity and inspiring the next generation of disaster researchers. The team reflects on how tools like wave tanks and wildfire models can not only inform research but also serve as educational and community outreach platforms. How to Stay Connected with NHERI and Wildfire Research Dan wraps up the episode by pointing listeners to several valuable resources for wildfire research and community preparedness: •Public data sets: Explore open resources on everything from community readiness to housing recovery post-wildfire. •NHERI Science Plan: A comprehensive roadmap outlining the next five years of research priorities. •Decadal Visioning Study: A glimpse into the research community’s goals for the next decade. •Design Safe Slack Channel: Join the conversation and connect with researchers in real-time. This week’s episode provides a deep dive into the future of wildfire research and its critical role in creating resilient communities. Be sure to listen in to learn how NHERI’s cutting-edge science is bridging the gap between natural hazards research and practical solutions. Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

On this week’s episode, Dan DePodwin joins us to discuss the unique weather implications surrounding the widespread wildfires hitting the Los Angeles area this week. We discuss Santa Ana winds and the source in the mountain deserts around the Four Corners region of the Southwest. Then co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis look at wildfire preparedness, emergency evacuation on a moment’s notice, and the need for a go bag. When the orders to leave come in, we all need to have a list of needed items and supplies for a quick bug out from our homes. This includes everything we need for our pets, medications, and a supply of water and food in cast we’re away for an extended period of time. Cal Fire Preparedness Page Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Upcoming Weather Events and Wildfires Jamie, Sam, and Dan discuss upcoming weather events and wildfires. Sam mentions that they have snow but no fire, which is a good thing. The three hosts plan to talk about wildfire scenarios and preparedness, but also touch on other weather topics. Sam asks Dan if there is anything notable in the upcoming weather outlook for the next week or so. La Nina’s Impact on Wildfires Discussed Dan discussed the ongoing cold weather in the Eastern United States and the snow and ice storm from Texas through Oklahoma and Arkansas. He also mentioned the potential for a disruptive snow event in the southeast and Ohio Valley. Jamie confirmed that Maryland would experience snow from the same storm system. Sam and Jamie discussed the arrival of La Nina, which is expected to have an impact on the wildland fire situation in Southern California. They noted that the fires have already caused significant damage, with 6 deaths, over 6,000 structures burned, and 180,000 residents under evacuation orders. The fires have the potential to be the costliest wildland fire in American history and the most destructive fire in L.A. history. Los Angeles Wildfires and Air Quality Sam and Dan discussed the severe air quality situation in the Los Angeles area due to the ongoing wildfires. They noted that the air quality was unhealthy, with a rating of 173, and that the smoke and ash had contaminated water supplies, leading to boiling restrictions in some areas. Dan emphasized that the poor air quality could cause significant side effects, even for healthy individuals, and that it was not just a local issue but affected a vast stretch of Southern California. Jamie shared a personal experience of friends evacuating their homes due to poor air quality, despite not being under evacuation orders. The conversation concluded with Dan explaining that the fire weather was expected to continue, with the wind event being a rare occurrence that significantly increased the risk of fire spread. Southern California Wind Situation Discussed Dan discussed the ongoing wind situation in Southern California, noting that while the winds were expected to die down, there could be an increase in gustiness in the coming days. He also mentioned the potential for another round of strong winds next week. Sam shared her familiarity with Santa Ana winds, which can gust between 70 and 100 miles per hour. Jamie highlighted the unique challenges posed by the Wildland/urban interface, where homes burn, releasing toxic fumes into the air and water supply. Dan agreed, noting the increasing concern with fires spreading from wildland areas to urban or suburban areas. The group also discussed the unusual timing of the current fires, which typically occur in the fall but are happening in the early part of the year due to a year and a half of wetter than average conditions followed by no rain. Sam added that there have been 60,000 fires since 2001, with the fastest growing ones causing more destruction than the slower, larger blazes. Challenges in Wildfire Evacuation Procedures Sam, Jamie, and Dan discussed the challenges faced during the wildfires in La County. They highlighted the lack of information about evacuation procedures and the difficulty in evacuating people due to the speed of the fires and the limited number of roads. Jamie mentioned that the La Fire Department and Cal Fire had to clear abandoned cars from the roads to allow fire vehicles to access the fires. Dan noted the erratic fire behavior caused by the winds and the difficulty in proactively evacuating areas. The team agreed that managing such emergencies is a complex task, especially in rapidly evolving situations. Preparing for Wildfires and Evacuations Jamie and Sam discussed the challenges faced during the recent wildfires, particularly the erratic spread of fires and the difficulty in evacuating due to limited access routes. They emphasized the importance of planning and preparation for such events, including creating a Wildland Action Plan, clearing brush around homes, and signing up for text alerts about wildfires. Dan agreed with their points, adding that having a plan and packing essentials in advance can be crucial during significant fire events. Emergency Preparedness Kit Discussion In the meeting, Sam and Dan discussed the importance of having a preparedness kit in the car in case of emergencies such as wildfires. They emphasized the need for items like medications, extra glasses, and important documents. Jamie added that having a checklist and knowing where to find everything quickly is crucial. They also discussed the importance of having a communication plan with family members, especially during emergencies when phone lines and cell towers may be down. Sam mentioned the 6 P’s of evacuation, which include people, pets, papers, phone numbers, papers and important documents, and personal items. Dan agreed that these tips are applicable to various hazards, not just wildfires. Jamie recommended checking the Cal fire site for more information and resources.

Our amazing Disaster Podcast team got together this week to share their favorite episodes from 2024. We covered a lot of topics and disaster responses over the previous year but there were a few standouts for each of us. Becky shared her picks first. She loved our annual “Stump Dan with obscure weather terms” episode. She also mentioned our mental health for first responders episode featuring Dr. Genie Burnett. There was the episode on a Dulles Airport mass casualty drill that Becky and Dan participated in as patients. Her last pick featured Dan Zehner from NHERI who talked about disaster resilient construction and wildfires. Dan seconded several of the same episodes as Becky did. He also added in the episode we did on the basis of the long term hurricane forecasts. We talked about how forecasters try to nail down the approaching hurricane season months ahead of time each year. Kyle put the Colorado Avalanche Rescue Dog Training episode at the top of his list. Who could fault him. The dog in question, Ruby, is a cutie. He also mentioned the episode Dr. Joe headed up on the fallout from the Elijah McClain homicide trial where two EMS providers were found guilty in the patient’s death. Kyle and Jamie both recommended our report from the field with Dr. Joe Holley on the North Carolina Hurricane Helene response and follow up. Dr. Joe also mentioned our ongoing reports from organizations working to assist Ukrainian medical professionals in their efforts to take care of patients. The first episode was on Med Global’s Ukraine Mission. Our other episode for Ukraine response was on educating nurses and doctors in Ukraine with IDMC volunteers. Jamie added the episodes on Geohazard Mitigation. The first featured a look at one company’s efforts to support critical infrastructure when endangered by soil erosion and mudslides. He specifically liked their Soil Nail Launcher technology. There was also the follow-up episode with Dan Zehner that looked at NHERI’s research on geohazard mitigation. Finally, co-host Sam Bradley shared her picks. Her first was the Bullets and Bandaids project episode. She also recommended the episode on Connecting Public-Private Sector Partnerships with Healthcare Ready. And, it wouldn’t be a Disaster Podcast retrospective if we didn’t remember our all-time favorite and quirky episode. Dr. Joe’s now famous discussion on why a foley catheter was a must-have piece of survival gear to have in one’s kit. This episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Thanks for your support in listening to the show. Don’t forget to subscribe using the links above near the audio player on this page or in the sidebar to the right.

With the approaching holidays here at the end of December, along with the accompanying winter storms tracking across the midwest and into the northeast, it’s important to review preparedness and travel warnings for your region. Becky DePodwin, our disaster emergency management expert, joins us to cover some of the weather and preparedness concerns. Dr. Joe Holley shares some updates on winter respiratory virus season. This includes a brief update on some Bird Flu cases in humans that are causing public health officials in parts of the country on their toes. The team shares a reminder it’s not too late to get your COVID, Flu, and RSV vaccines if you’re eligible. This episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Preparing for Cold Weather Travel Becky discussed the cold weather forecast for the eastern half of the country, advising travelers to be prepared with blankets, jackets, and good footwear. She mentioned that the Pacific Northwest could experience rain, wind, and snow, while the northeast might see rain and snow in higher elevations. Jamie shared his friend’s experience with strong winds and power outages in Washington State. The team also discussed their own experiences with cold weather and the upcoming Christmas weekend. Joe mentioned a new addition to his family, a dog that he had recently taken in. The conversation ended with a suggestion to discuss cold weather preparations. Combating Multiple Viruses and Health Issues Sam, Joe, and Jamie discussed the current health issues, particularly the combination of influenza, RSV, Covid, and bird flu. Joe highlighted the severity of the flu this year and the importance of vaccination. Jamie mentioned that flu and Covid can be administered simultaneously. Sam and Jamie shared their recent experiences with RSV and flu. Joe explained that the bird flu has been associated with dairy cattle and has raised concerns among health professionals. The group also discussed the potential for multiple viruses to be present in the body at the same time, which can make treatment more challenging. Joe mentioned that treatment usually involves managing respiratory symptoms and, in some cases, specific medications for each virus. Preparing for Cold Weather Safety In the meeting, the team discussed the importance of being prepared for cold weather. Joe emphasized the need to pay attention to various factors such as humidity, wind, and clothing when outdoors in cold conditions. Becky advised dressing in layers, keeping extremities warm, and having a blanket, food, and water in the car in case of being stuck. She also stressed the importance of checking the weather forecast and having a good weather app. Jamie highlighted the need to consider the specific needs of individuals, especially the young and the old, when traveling in cold weather. The team also discussed the importance of having a shovel in the car in case of getting stuck in snow. New Year’s Plans and Updates In the meeting, Sam, Jamie, Joe, and Becky discussed their plans for the upcoming New Year’s weekend and the holidays. Jamie emphasized the importance of being prepared for potential travel disruptions and checking with local emergency management experts for updates. Joe shared that he has three scheduled events in January, all related to EMS. The team also discussed their support for the Paragon Medical Education group and encouraged listeners to share their favorite episodes of the disaster podcast. Joe also mentioned his plans to adopt a new puppy, which sparked interest from the others. The conversation ended with the team wishing each other a Merry Christmas and expressing their anticipation for the New Year.

Our ski patrol and disaster meteorology expert, Kyle Nelson, comes by the episode tonight with fellow snow and mountain rescue expert Carl Kishbaugh. Karl is a ski-patroller with years of experience in mountain and ski-lift rescue as well as avalanche dog handling. Ruby, his avalanche search and rescue dog, recently trained with he and Kyle on helicopter acclimation and landing zone handling. Colorado Avalanche Dog Article Doctor Joe Holley joins the conversation with questions about Ruby’s training. His experience with USAR dogs extends to his wife Kimberly Holley and her three trained USAR dogs. The episode is hosted by Jamie Davis. Co-host Sam Bradley is on a much-needed episode away. Photo Credits: Kyle Nelson Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Ski Patrol Operations and Dispatch Carl Kishbaugh, a ski patrol member, discussed the operations of his team. He explained that they are dispatched based on the nature of the call, with the level of trauma or medical need determining the response. They operate under the same medical protocol as the local county’s ambulance, fire, and mountain rescue services. Carl also detailed how they are contacted, with guests on the mountain knowing which ski patrol to call or calling 911, which then directs the call to their dispatch. He mentioned that they have radios and phones on lifts for communication and that cell phone coverage is improving. In cases where further advice or direction is needed, they can call the hospital directly or relay through their dispatch. Jamie and Kyle confirmed Carl’s explanations. Joe asked about the dispatch process, and Carl clarified that they are contacted through various means, including cell phones and radios. Search and Rescue Dogs Importance Carl discussed the importance of search and rescue dogs in their operations, highlighting their superior capabilities compared to other resources like avalanche beacons and probe lines. He explained the process of acquiring a rescue dog, starting with an internal application process within the company, followed by certification through the Colorado Rescue Avalanche Dog program. He also shared his experience with Ruby, a Scottish field golden retriever, which he obtained from a breeder known for producing dogs suitable for search and rescue tasks. Ruby’s Pack Drive and Training Carl shared his experiences with his two dogs, Ruby and his 12-year-old husky. He described Ruby as a pack-driven dog, meaning she is highly motivated to please her pack and will strive to do so. This trait has been beneficial in training Ruby, as she responds well to positive reinforcement and is eager to please. Carl emphasized the importance of not shaming Ruby for her mistakes, but instead refocusing her energy into good behavior. He also mentioned that Ruby’s pack drive is her strongest instinct, and she understands when she has done something wrong. Carl’s observations on Ruby’s pack drive have been insightful and have helped him train her effectively. Dog Breeds and Training Differences In the meeting, Carl and Joe discussed their experiences with different dog breeds, particularly Malinois and Labradors. They highlighted the unique characteristics of each breed, with Malinois being highly intelligent and driven, while Labradors are more docile and adaptable. Joe shared his experience with his Malinois, who requires daily stimulant drugs to manage her high drive. Carl emphasized the importance of not shaming or disciplining dogs for their behavior, but rather refocusing them. The conversation also touched on the differences in training needs for various breeds, with Carl noting that Malinois are highly trainable and intelligent, but may require more direction than other breeds. Training Ruby for Avalanche Rescue Jamie, Carl, and Kyle discussed the training of Ruby, an avalanche rescue dog. Carl explained the various training methods they use, including behavioral training and avalanche drills. He detailed how they progress from simple drills to more complex ones, such as hiding Kyle in a shallow snow grave and training Ruby to locate him. Kyle emphasized the importance of training the handler as much as the dog, and how weather conditions affect the search. Joe agreed, highlighting the importance of the handler’s role in interpreting the dog’s actions. The team concluded that understanding the dog’s behavior and the handler’s role is crucial for successful avalanche rescue operations. Upcoming Projects and Ski Patroller Expert In the meeting, Jamie and Joe discussed upcoming projects and events, including a National Association of EMS Physicians (NAEMSP) event and an evaluation of new products for hemorrhage control. They also mentioned the 11th year of production for the disaster podcast. Kyle shared his social media handles and mentioned his Instagram account for winter updates. Carl, a guest speaker, offerred to share his expertise and experience as a ski patroller and lift evacuation coordinator on a future episode. The team agreed to have Carl back to discuss more about his technical rescue work.

We start off today’s episode discussing recent projects with our Disaster Weather Expert, Kyle Nelson. He recently engaged in a training exercise as an avalanche search and rescue dog handler where they introduced the dogs to riding in a helicopter and learning operations around aviation assets. Then Henry Mitchell joined the show and we switched gears to discuss emergency planning and management of diverse community resources to prepare to respond to emergencies and disaster situations. Henry is Deputy Director Office of Emergency Preparedness Response in the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. He holds an MS Emergency Response and Biosecurity and specialized for a time in Disaster Behavioral Health. Henry dives into the necessary needs when bringing together different groups and response organizations like public health assets, emergency response organizations, and community volunteers. Planning ahead can help make future events run more smoothly. Kyle introduced the acronym CMIST which revolves around response to help diverse and special needs communities. CMIST stands for: Communication Maintaining health Independence Support, Safety, and Self-determination Transportation We also discuss the need for constructive or creative outlets away from our work in emergency response. Henry uses music and participation in theater and dramatic endeavors. We point out the necessity for having positive ways to work out the vicarious trauma we experience during work in the field. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Avalanche Training and Emergency Management Kyle shared his recent experience at the International Association of Emergency Managers Conference in Colorado Springs, where he met Becky DePodwin face-to-face for the first time. He also discussed his involvement in dog avalanche training and search and rescue operations, including a recent helicopter training session. Sam introduced Henry Mitchell, who was recommended by Kyle, as the deputy director of the Office of Emergency Preparedness Response in the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Henry shared his background in disaster, behavioral health, and emergency management. Emergency Operation Planning and Coordination Sam, Henry, and Jamie discussed their experiences and expertise in emergency operation planning. Henry shared his passion for plan writing and reviewing, emphasizing the importance of understanding the assets and capabilities of different groups involved in a response or operational action. He also highlighted the value of pre-planning and coordination with various agencies to ensure effective collaboration. The conversation also touched on the importance of reviewing plans to identify what worked and what didn’t, and how to improve for future situations. Additionally, they briefly discussed climate adaptation planning from a public health perspective. Public Health in Disaster Response Henry discussed the importance of public health in disaster response, particularly in relation to extreme heat. He proposed strategies to bolster community preparedness and response efforts, including utilizing federal partners to monitor potential heat waves and forming a communications plan to educate the community. He also highlighted the need to focus on vulnerable populations, such as residents of long-term care facilities, the elderly, and those with certain medical conditions or medications that make them more susceptible to heat. Sam agreed with Henry’s thoughts. Emergency Planning and Preparedness Kyle discussed the importance of planning and preparedness for emergencies, using the CMIST memory tool as an example. He emphasized the need for individuals and communities to be prepared for disasters, especially in the face of a changing climate. Jamie then asked Henry about his approach to helping local jurisdictions with their planning needs. Henry explained that he uses his experience as a local emergency manager to understand the specific needs of each jurisdiction and to help them plan effectively. He also highlighted the importance of cross-pollination of ideas and resources from other jurisdictions and levels of government. Sam then asked Henry about his training in nonviolent de-escalation, which Henry explained was useful in facilitating community meetings and responding to disasters. The discussion concluded with Sam asking Henry about increasing community preparedness at the individual and family level, to which Henry responded that even a small increase in preparedness could significantly improve response times. Preparing for Disasters and Support In the meeting, Henry discussed the importance of being prepared for disasters, emphasizing the need for people to have essential items like extra clothing, food, and water in their cars. He also highlighted the importance of having a backup plan for important documents and banking information. Henry shared his personal experiences with disaster response and how it has shaped his views on preparedness. He also mentioned his passion for theater and DJing as outlets for stress and trauma. Jamie and Sam agreed with Henry’s points and discussed the importance of peer support programs for responders. They also thanked Dr. Joe Holley for his continued support of the podcast.

Tom Cotter, MPH, serves as executive director of Healthcare Ready, bringing more than a decade of global health readiness and response expertise to expand nonprofit’s mission-driven work addressing health equity. Healthcare Ready is a nonprofit organization established in 2007 to help strengthen the US healthcare system and assist all communities in planning for, responding to, and recovering from disasters and disease pandemics. Tom brings his experience with international and domestic emergency response to the challenges of accessing needed supplies and resources during major incidents. Healthcare Ready acts as a bridge to forge public and private partnerships to get needed items to the responders and healthcare professionals who need them. On the show in addition to our guest were co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Improving Healthcare Response Amid Crises In the meeting, Jamie Davis, the host of the podcast, introduced the topic of the day, which was about how to get things done in their jobs. He then brought in his co-host, Sam Bradley, who mentioned that there would be snow in the Front Range the next day. The meteorologists weren’t present during the recording, so they planned to catch up with them later in the week. Tom Cotter, the executive director of a nonprofit called Healthcare Ready, joined the conversation. He explained that his organization serves as a public-private partnership to avoid patient disruptions amid crisis by forging partnerships between the healthcare supply chain and government. Tom also shared his background in international and domestic emergency response work, including experiences with polio outbreaks and typhoons. Healthcare Access During Disasters Discussed Tom discussed the mission of his organization, Healthcare Ready, which aims to ensure good access to healthcare during disasters. He emphasized the importance of a needs-based approach, particularly for historically underserved communities. Tom also mentioned that the organization responds to non-traditional events, such as logistics strikes, which disproportionately affect certain communities. Sam and Jamie agreed with Tom’s points, highlighting the importance of empowering the healthcare workforce and connecting in times of need. Improving Mental Health and Resilience Jamie and Tom discussed the lessons learned from the pandemic and how they can be applied to improve mental health support and community resilience. Tom emphasized the need for increased funding in public health resilience and the importance of leveraging both communities and the private sector as a force multiplier. He also highlighted the need for a wider view of healthcare infrastructure, including not just hospitals but also urgent care centers. Tom mentioned that Healthcare Ready is training community health center workers to be more resilient during emergencies, with the goal of minimizing closure times and reducing financial strain on patients. Improving Clinic and Pharmacy Resilience Tom and Sam discussed strategies for improving clinic and pharmacy resilience, particularly in the face of disasters. Tom highlighted the challenges faced by smaller community pharmacies due to limited resources and the need to understand their networks for effective resiliency. He mentioned partnerships with organizations like the National Association of Chain Drugstores and the website RxOpen.org to help patients and healthcare providers navigate the status of pharmacies during disasters. Jamie raised concerns about public trust in health initiatives, questioning if healthcare is involved in efforts to rebuild this trust. Tom acknowledged the issue but did not provide a specific solution. Community Leaders and Telehealth Impact Tom emphasized the importance of community leaders in delivering messages and building trust, citing examples from international health spaces. He also highlighted the effectiveness of telehealth in reducing health disparities and improving access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas and during disasters. Jamie agreed with Tom’s points and suggested that Tom could be a guest on their show to discuss his work and partnerships further. Sam expressed appreciation for Tom’s insights and the potential for future discussions.

The National Science Foundation NHERI (Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure) organization had teams out in advance of the recent hurricanes to strike Florida. They set up for the Sentinel Program from the University of Florida to use sensor platforms to detect all the various forces from incoming storms. This was the first full deployment of the Sentinel system. The teams were struck by the destruction to the communities when they returned to collect the Sentinel sensor platforms. While their storm sensors were in pretty good shape, the surrounding communities hadn’t fared as well, with some totally destroyed. Dan also talked about the new planned Wind-Wave research facility with the NICHE Project (National Full-Scale Testing Infrastructure for Community Hardening in Extreme Wind, Surge, and Wave Events). This new multi-story laboratory will be able to do full scale materials and structural testing based upon wind and flood water events. Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well. Podcast Discussion Summary Joe’s FEMA Deployment Experiences In the meeting, Sam and Jamie welcomed back Joe from his FEMA deployment and discussed his experiences during Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. Joe shared that his team was deployed to North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Florida, where they conducted rescue operations and located remains for families. They also discussed the challenges and stress of the deployment. Sam expressed interest in conducting a longer podcast with Joe and Kimberly, who was also deployed. Dan was also present, and it was mentioned that he would be discussing some research information related to the article Sam received. Sentinel Project Enhances Hurricane Data Sam and Dan discussed the Sentinel project, a research initiative by the University of Florida to set up store monitoring equipment that collects data on wind, storm surge, waves, and water equality before, during, and after a hurricane. The Sentinel is a 33-foot tall device that reports data back to researchers in real time, providing valuable insights into environment, structural, and human survival. Dan highlighted the project’s collaboration with other teams, including the University of Washington, and the use of various technologies such as Lidar and drones. The Sentinel’s ability to withstand 16 feet of storm surge and provide accurate wind speed measurements, even over terrain, was emphasized as a significant improvement over traditional wind towers. The data collected by the Sentinel was used by Noah in an official update, demonstrating its immediate impact. Hurricane Impact and Coastal Infrastructure In the meeting, Sam, Dan, Joe, and Jamie discussed the aftermath of Hurricane Florence and the impact of storms on coastal communities. They highlighted the importance of data collection and analysis to improve infrastructure resilience and inform rebuilding efforts. Dan mentioned the role of new sensor platforms in gathering valuable data, and Jamie expressed interest in the relationship between field work and lab work. They also discussed the potential for learning from inland flooding events and the importance of understanding coastal erosion and sediment movement. The conversation ended with Dan sharing some data sets from Hurricane Helene, which included high water marks from North Carolina and Virginia. NSF Invests in Extreme Weather Facility Dan discussed the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) investment of 12.8 million dollars in a Mid-scale research infrastructure program, the first of its kind for a natural hazards laboratory. The program, called Niche, aims to design and test structures to withstand extreme wind and wave events. The facility will feature 20 fans capable of generating wind speeds of up to 200 miles per hour and a 500-meter-long wave flume that can generate waves up to 5 meters tall. Jamie and Sam expressed their excitement about the project, with Jamie noting that the facility will include a full-scale two-story home for testing storm surge and wind effects. World’s Largest Wind and Wave Facility The team discussed the development of a world’s largest wind and wave research facility, similar to Japan’s e-defense facility for earthquake engineering. Dan explained that the facility is currently in the design phase, with 11 universities and organizations involved. The team is also upgrading several facilities, including the Wall of Wind at Fiu and the Oregon State University wave flume, to test various parts of the niche design before spending more money on the actual build. The team agreed that full-scale testing with all three elements of the structure (wind, waves, and structure) is necessary due to the increasing intensity and number of storms. Dan also mentioned that the collected data is freely available for researchers to use in their investigations and to inform their tests in wind tunnels or wave labs. Natural Hazards Research and Support In the meeting, Sam, Dan, Joe, and Jamie discussed the ongoing research and collaborations in natural hazards, particularly in the context of recent storms. Dan highlighted the support from the US National Science Foundation and the importance of the network provided by Mary. Joe mentioned his upcoming training sessions in Florida and the opportunity for others to attend the Urban Search and Rescue Medical Specialist Operations Conference. Jamie encouraged listeners to subscribe to the Design Safe Radio podcast for updates on Neri’s work. The team also discussed Dan’s colleague, Marty Lashanz, who is the communications director at Neri. Dan shared that his wife, Tracy, is undergoing surgery for breast cancer treatment, and the team expressed their support and well wishes.