DisasterClass Podcast | Your Masterclass in Disaster Preparedness.

PODCAST · education

DisasterClass Podcast | Your Masterclass in Disaster Preparedness.

Welcome to the DisasterClass Podcast, your trusted source for expert guidance on disaster preparedness, emergency management, and building resilience in a chaotic world. Hosted by real emergency responders, EMTs, and risk professionals, this show is dedicated to helping you educate, prepare, and equip yourself for life’s disruptions—whether personal, professional, or community-wide. Each episode features powerful insights, real-world case studies, interviews with industry leaders, and practical tips on topics like:Emergency planning for families, businesses, and schoolsCrisis leadership and decision-making under pressureBleeding control and life-saving medical interventionsBusiness continuity and disaster recovery strategiesRisk mindset development for everyday resilienceEmerging threats and real-time lessons from recent disastersWhether you're an emergency manager, first responder, school administrator, business owne

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    92_May the Preparedness Be With You | Emergency Lessons from Star Wars

    You’ve seen Star Wars. But you’ve probably never looked at it like this.In this special May 4th episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we break down Star Wars as a case study in emergency management, risk mindset, and real-world preparedness.From the Death Star’s catastrophic design flaw to the Rebel Alliance’s ability to operate under extreme constraints, every major moment in Star Wars reveals critical lessons about how people and organizations succeed—or fail—under pressure.More importantly, we answer the question most people never ask: What does this mean for you?In this episode, you’ll learn:How overconfidence creates hidden riskWhy adaptability matters more than perfect planningWhat continuity failure actually looks likeHow to prepare with limited resourcesWhy your environment defines your riskHow to build a real-world risk mindsetAnd we break it down at three levels:Family / IndividualOrganization / BusinessCommunity / MunicipalWhether you're preparing your household, leading a team, or working in emergency management, these are lessons you can apply immediately.🔗 Sponsors & Partners🩸 STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com00:00 Cold Open00:45 Intro – Star Wars Day01:30 Death Star – Overconfidence Risk04:00 Luke Skywalker – Adaptive Preparedness06:45 Order 66 – Continuity Failure10:00 Ad Break10:30 Rebel Alliance – Preparedness Under Constraints13:15 Tatooine – Environmental Risk16:00 Core Lesson – Risk Mindset18:30 Wrap-Up

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    91_Why People Ignore Emergency Warnings (And How to Avoid Deadly Mistakes)

    They got the alert.They heard the warning.They had time to leave.And they stayed anyway.In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we break down one of the most dangerous patterns in emergency response: why people ignore warnings—even when the risk is real.From wildfires to hurricanes, tornadoes to floods, history shows that delayed decisions cost lives. But this isn’t about ignorance—it’s about human behavior.We explore real-world disasters like the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise, California, where delayed evacuation led to devastating consequences. Then we break down the psychology behind it, including normalcy bias, confirmation seeking, and real-world barriers that prevent people from taking action.Most importantly, we show you how to overcome these biases and make faster, better decisions when it matters most. Because warnings don’t save lives—decisions do. 🎯 WhatYou’ll Learn:Why people delay or ignore emergency warningsThe “Warning Failure Loop” and how it worksReal disaster case studies and lessons learnedHow to overcome hesitation in high-risk situationsPractical steps to improve your emergency decision-making📚 Sources Referenced:CAL FIRE – Camp Fire Incident Report (2019)Butte County Sheriff’s Office Fatality SummaryFEMA – Hurricane Katrina After Action ReportNOAA/NWS – Flood Fatalities DataTexas Division of Emergency Management – Hurricane Rita AAR🔗 Sponsors & Partners🩸 STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and learn how you can get involved. 🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Cold Open: “They got the alert…”00:33 – Camp Fire Case Study (Paradise, CA)00:51 – Episode Introduction01:18 – Hosts Introduced (Jason & Pappy)01:28 – Topic Setup: Emergency Warnings02:10 – Why Ignoring Warnings Is Common03:15 – The Warning Failure Loop05:20 – Normalcy Bias Explained07:40 – Confirmation Seeking Behavior09:30 – Confusion & Lack of Clarity11:15 – Real-World Barriers to Action13:30 – Disaster Case Examples16:10 – How to Make Better Decisions18:00 – Pre-Decision Strategy20:10 – Removing Barriers22:15 – Training & Practice24:10 – Personal Reflection26:00 – Listener Challenge27:15 – Key Takeaways28:30 – Closing Message

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    90_You Won’t Rise to the Occasion — You Fall to Your Training

    What would you do if someone collapsed right in front of you?In this solo episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, Pappy explores a hard truth about emergencies: you do not rise to the occasion—you fall back on your training.When stress hits, good intentions are not enough. In those first critical moments, people often freeze, hesitate, or wait for someone else to act.That is why training matters. It builds competence, confidence, and the ability to respond when every second counts.In this episode, Pappy breaks down why people freeze, how training changes outcomes, and why preparedness is not just about knowledge—it is about action. If you have ever told yourself you should probably learn CPR, first aid, or emergency response skills “someday,” this episode is your reminder that someday should probably be sooner.🔗 Sponsors & Partners🩸 STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and learn how you can get involved.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 – The Scenario: Someone Collapses00:20 – The Critical Question: Do You Know What to Do?00:32 – The Reality: You Fall Back on Training00:49 – Title Sequence01:00 – Episode Introduction 01:30 – Why People Freeze in Emergencies02:45 – The Bystander Effect Explained04:10 – Training vs Instinct05:30 – Confidence Comes from Repetition06:50 – The Cost of Not Being Prepared08:10 – What a Few Hours of Training Can Do09:30 – Closing Thoughts: Action vs Intention10:15 – Final Takeaway

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    89_Why Waiting for 911 Isn’t a Plan | with Dustin Talacko

    When someone collapses from cardiac arrest, brain injury begins in 4–6 minutes.In many communities, EMS arrival can take 10 minutes or more.So what exists in that gap?In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we sit down with firefighter-paramedic and AED Empire co-founder Dustin Talacko to discuss the dangerous space between emergency and response — and why access to life-saving equipment can determine whether someone survives.Drawing from thousands of emergency calls, Dustin explains why preparedness is not about panic, but infrastructure. We explore why organizations delay purchasing AEDs, how decision paralysis affects safety planning, and why survival should never depend on luck, location, or privilege.Dustin also shares the story behind AED Empire, a company built to simplify access to automated external defibrillators and bleeding control solutions so organizations can move from good intentions to real preparedness.If you are responsible for the safety of others — in a workplace, school, gym, church, or public venue — this conversation will change how you think about readiness.What You'll Learn• The critical first minutes of cardiac arrest• The gap between collapse and EMS arrival• Why many organizations delay implementing AED programs• How simplifying preparedness improves real-world outcomes• Why access to equipment reduces responder stress• The role of bleeding control in modern safety planningAbout Dustin TalackoDustin Talacko is a firefighter-paramedic and co-founder of AED Empire, a national life-saving equipment platform focused on improving access to AEDs and bleeding control resources. His work sits at the intersection of public safety, workplace readiness, and responder mental health.Learn More About Dustin & AED Empire🌐 https://www.aedempire.com🔗 Sponsors & Partners🩸 STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org 🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com00:00 Cold Open – The Dangerous Assumption About Emergency Response01:03 Meet Dustin Talacko02:25 Why Seconds Matter in Cardiac Arrest03:33 The Reality of EMS Response Times05:08 The Dangerous Gap Between Collapse and Response06:57 Why AED Access Still Falls Short10:29 Why Organizations Delay Preparedness13:28 The Origin of AED Empire16:59 From Field Experience to Building a Business20:26 Simplifying AED Access24:06 Why Preparedness Shouldn't Depend on Luck27:28 The Role of Bleeding Control30:08 Infrastructure vs Panic33:20 Making Preparedness Simple36:06 What True Readiness Looks Like

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    88_International Travel Preparedness: Shelter in Place, Embassies & Travel Emergencies Overseas

    Every day, thousands of Americans board international flights thinking about beaches, business meetings, and bucket lists.Very few think about embassy locations.Very few think about hospital systems.And almost no one thinks about what they would do if they were told to shelter in place in a country that isn’t theirs.Recently, tourists in parts of Mexico were advised to remain inside their hotels due to instability. Flights were delayed. Movement was restricted. Information was fragmented.But this type of disruption isn’t isolated to one country.Across the world — including regions like the Middle East and Iran — travelers have faced sudden airspace closures, government advisories, unrest, and rapidly changing conditions that left tourists relying on embassies and emergency planning instead of itineraries.That’s not a political conversation.That’s a preparedness conversation.In this roundtable discussion, Jason Perez, Pappy, and Anthony Escoto from Disaster Operations Group break down what smart travelers do differently before they leave the country.We discuss:• How the U.S. STEP Program actually works• What embassies can — and cannot — do for you• Documentation redundancy and passport planning• Financial and logistical buffers for travel disruptions• A real experience calling an ambulance overseas• Travel medical and evacuation considerations• Shelter-in-place vs evacuation decision-making• Traveling internationally as a father responsible for a family• Leadership and psychological preparedness abroad If you travel internationally — for business, vacation, or mission work — this episode will change how you think about preparedness.For Instinct Ready services or Capable Community courses:📩 [email protected] learn more about operational preparedness:🌐 disasteroperationsgroup.comPrepared travel isn’t about expecting disaster. It’s about respecting uncertainty. ⸻🔗 Sponsors & Partners🩸 STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and learn how you can get involved. 🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.comChapters00:00:07 – Why Travel Preparedness Matters00:00:20 – Mexico Shelter-in-Place Context00:03:45 – How the STEP Program Works00:05:29 – Evacuation Considerations00:08:32 – Documentation & Passports00:12:17 – Traveling Internationally with Family00:14:09 – Communication Planning While Abroad00:16:45 – Financial & Money Considerations Overseas00:18:33 – Travel Insurance & Coverage Discussion00:24:53 – Calling an Ambulance Overseas (Real Experience)00:37:09 – Disaster Operations Group Perspective

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    87_How Risk Becomes Visible (Part 2)

    In Part 1, we asked a difficult question: Why does preparedness fail so many people after disasters?In Part 2, we go deeper.This episode explores what changes when risk becomes visible — not as a checklist, not as a warning, but as something that can actually be understood, measured, and acted on before disaster strikes.As insurance companies, real estate markets, and governments increasingly price risk into everyday life, homeowners and communities are often left reacting to decisions already made without them.So what does visibility really mean? And why does it change recovery outcomes?In this documentary-style episode, DisasterClass hosts Jason Perez and Jason “Pappy” Martin continue their conversation with Ben Gilliland, founder of Future Proof Property Intelligence, to examine:• Why risk is already visible to insurers — but not to homeowners• How small, hidden failure points lead to catastrophic loss• Why preparedness often stops at survival instead of recovery• What it means to understand how things actually fail• How visibility shifts decisions, priorities, and outcomes• Why recovery is becoming harder even after “smaller” disastersThis episode is not about fear or forecasting. It’s about agency — and what becomes possible when people can finally see the risks shaping their future.🎧 This is Part 2 of a two-part documentary series. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, start there to understand why preparedness alone is no longer enough. ⸻🔗 Sponsors & Partners🩸 STOP THE BLEED® Coalition Uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. 🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.comChapters00:00 – The Question Preparedness Never Answers00:25 – How Risk Becomes Visible00:33 – DisasterClass Introduction00:55 – Why Insurers Don’t Guess01:35 – Where Preparedness Falls Short02:30 – Understanding Failure Before It Happens03:25 – Why Small Failures Lead to Big Loss04:20 – Risk Is Already Being Priced In05:30 – Translating Risk for Homeowners06:30 – What Visibility Changes07:30 – From Information to Action08:20 – The Role of Instinct Ready09:00 – Agency, Recovery, and What Comes Next10:05 – Final Reflection

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    86_Preparedness is broken

    Across the country, people are doing what they’ve been told.They build emergency kits.They follow alerts.They evacuate when ordered.And still — they lose everything.Not during the disaster.After it.In Part 1 of this documentary-style episode, DisasterClass examines a hard truth most preparedness conversations avoid: survival is not the same as recovery.Homes may survive storms but become unlivable. Insurance claims may be approved but still fall short. Families may do “everything right” and still never fully recover.To understand why preparedness is failing — and why that failure is accelerating — hosts Jason Perez and Jason “Pappy” Martin speak with Ben Gilliland, a technologist and disaster-resilience expert whose work focuses on what determines whether recovery is even possible after first responders leave.This episode does not offer quick tips or checklists. Instead, it asks a deeper question:Is the way we define preparedness still working?🎧 This is Part 1 of a two-part documentary series.Part 2 explores how risk becomes visible — and what changes when people can finally see it. ⸻🔗 Sponsors & Partners🩸 STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org 🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.comChapters00:00 – The Problem No One Talks About00:32 – Is Preparedness Still Working?00:40 – Why This Episode Is Different01:05 – DisasterClass Introduction01:27 – Why Preparedness Is Failing01:36 – Introducing Ben Gilliland02:01 – Survival vs. Recovery03:10 – Where Preparedness Stops04:15 – The Hidden Cost After Disasters05:35 – Why Recovery Is Getting Harder06:45 – What Preparedness Misses07:45 – The Question That Changes Everything08:34 – Final Reflection & What Comes Next

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    85_Emergency Preparedness for Kids: What Children Can Really Do in a Crisis

    What should kids actually know how to do during an emergency?In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, Jason Perez and Pappy break down emergency preparedness for kids by age, using real-world case studies, child development science, and practical experience to show what children are truly capable of when they’ve been prepared calmly and intentionally.This isn’t about scaring kids — it’s about building familiarity, confidence, and capability.We cover:• What toddlers can realistically do in an emergency• How young children recognize danger and ask for help• Why pre-teens often outperform adults when they have clear procedures• How teens step into leadership roles during real emergencies• Why preparedness reduces panic — and fear-based messaging doesn’t workThroughout the episode, we share real-life examples of children who saved lives, evacuated safely, or made critical decisions during:• Medical emergencies• Fires• Natural disasters• Violent incidentsThese stories prove one core truth:Children are not liabilities in emergencies.Unprepared children are.⸻🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode• How cognitive development affects emergency response at different ages• Why repetition and normalization matter more than one-time instruction• How to assign age-appropriate responsibilities without overwhelming kids• What parents, schools, and child-focused organizations should stop doing• How to build preparedness without creating anxiety ⸻📄 Free Resource: Capable Kids™ Emergency Readiness ChecklistWe reference the Capable Kids™ Emergency Readiness Checklist throughout this episode. You can download it here: 👉 https://drive.google.com/file/d/17E-Af0-bTbSCQmpbAkojAYWBVWoU16Tu/view?usp=sharingThe checklist breaks down:• What kids can do at each age• What adults should practice with them• Emotional preparedness strategies for all ages⸻🛡️ About Instinct Ready & Capable CommunityEverything discussed in this episode reflects the approach used by Instinct Ready when developing emergency plans and training for:• Families and households• Child care centers and early learning programs• K–12 schools and school districts• Camps, youth programs, and community organizationsThis same philosophy is also taught in the Capable Community course series, which helps families and communities build preparedness skills step by step — without fear-based messaging or unrealistic expectations.Learn more at 👉 https://www.instinctready.com⸻🎧 About the DisasterClass PodcastThe DisasterClass Podcast by Instinct Ready Emergency Management focuses on practical preparedness, real-world decision-making, and capability-building — for everyday people, families, and communities.If this episode was helpful:• 👍 Like the video• 📌 Subscribe for future episodes• 💬 Share it with a parent, teacher, or school leaderPrepared kids are calmer kids.Prepared families are more resilient families.00:00 – What Would Kids Actually Do in an Emergency?01:10 – Preparedness for Kids: Calm, Not Fear02:40 – How Kids Think and React Under Stress04:00 – Toddlers (Ages 2–4): Familiarity and Simple Actions05:40 – Real Story: 4-Year-Old Calls for Help07:10 – Ages 5–7: Awareness and Asking for Help08:40 – Real Story: Young Child Gets Help During Medical Emergency10:20 – Ages 8–11: Confidence, Responsibility, and Procedures12:10 – Real Story: Child Recognizes Tsunami Warning Signs14:00 – Ages 12–14: Decision-Making and Situational Awareness15:40 – Ages 15–18: Teens as Leaders in Emergencies17:20 – Emotional Preparedness at Every Age18:40 – Final Takeaways: Calm, Confident, Capable Kids

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    84_Why the Same Emergency Affects Households Differently

    Preparedness isn’t about disasters — it’s about the systems you rely on every day.When people think about preparedness, they often focus on hazards: storms, outages, emergencies. But real-world outcomes aren’t determined by the event itself — they’re shaped by how that event disrupts essential systems and how those disruptions interact with household vulnerabilities.In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we break down what risk actually means and why the same emergency can affect households very differently. Using a simple, practical framework — Risk = Hazard × Vulnerability × Impact — we explore how power, communications, healthcare, income, and other essential community systems quietly support daily life, and how disruptions to those systems drive real consequences.This episode is designed as a mini masterclass to help you:Understand why disasters don’t impact everyone the same waySee preparedness beyond gear, supplies, or checklistsRecognize how essential systems shape riskIdentify household vulnerabilities without fear or panicMake better decisions before stress takes overWe also walk through three simple questions you can ask tonight to better understand your household risk — no shopping, no downloads, just awareness.Preparedness starts with understanding how your life actually works. That’s where real resilience begins.📱 FOLLOW & CONNECT📧 Questions, stories, or topic ideas?Email us at [email protected]📲 Follow us on social media:@instinctready @sawyerproducts @emdisastergaming @stopthebleedcoalition @preppingwithpappy @higher_ground_survival @gobagwesley @thebestgobag @gobagready72🔗 Sponsors & Partners🩸 STOP THE BLEED® Coalition Uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and learn how you can get involved. 🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com00:00 Sponsor Message: STOP THE BLEED Coalition01:00 Preparedness Isn’t About Disasters01:48 Why Systems Matter More Than Emergencies03:00 What Risk Actually Means (Hazard × Vulnerability × Impact)04:05 Essential Community Systems Explained05:20 Why the Same Emergency Affects Households Differently06:35 Vulnerability Is Context, Not Weakness07:40 Three Questions to Understand Your Household Risk09:25 Preparedness Starts With Understanding

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    83_Year in Review: Disasters, Lessons Learned & What’s Next

    2025 flew by — and in this Season 3 Year-in-Review episode, Jason Perez and Pappy (Jason Martin) look back at what made this year memorable: major disasters and real-time event breakdowns, standout guests and episodes, and the key preparedness lessons that kept showing up again and again. We also shift into winter weather preparedness with practical reminders for travel, vehicle readiness, power outages, cold exposure, pets, and checking on vulnerable neighbors. And before we close, we tease what’s coming next — including a major update to our Community Emergency Planning (CEP) course and what that means for bringing training into communities.Drop a comment: What was your favorite episode of 2025 — and what do you want more of in 2026?Featured / Mentioned Guests (Season 3 highlights):•Chris Grollnek (Active Shooter Prevention Project)•Arthur Simental (Disaster wargaming / tabletop training)•IBHS guests (home hardening, wildfire & hurricane mitigation)•Mariah Washington (NYC Emergency Management)•Anthony Escoto (Disaster Operations Group) Chapters00:00 - “Didn’t it just start?” 2025 flies by00:53 - DisasterClass intro + bell (Class is in session)01:36 - Thank you to listeners & sponsors02:18 - Favorite episodes? Tell us what you want more of03:05 - Live event breakdown: LA wildfires (Palisades & Eaton)04:32 - Do you want more real-time disaster breakdown episodes?05:02 - Ad Break: Sawyer Products05:47 - Favorite guest highlight: NYC Emergency Management (Mariah Washington)06:57 - Roundtable: AI in emergency management (ChatGPT “put to the test”)08:54 - AI as a tool: benefits, limits, and misuse risks11:49 - Favorite guest highlight: Arthur Simental + disaster wargaming12:56 - Arthur + Todd Manns: building scenario-driven games13:17 - IBHS episodes: resilient homes, hurricanes, wildfire science15:17 - Why full-scale testing matters (real-world vs computer models)16:07 - Chris Grollnek: active shooter preparedness insights16:45 - Winter weather readiness: why this matters right now17:14 - Winter travel + vehicle kit essentials18:30 - Power outages: generator safety, food safety, surge protection19:18 - Cold exposure safety + pets + wind chill risks20:50 - Check on neighbors: vulnerable populations & welfare checks21:39 - Real winter road shutdown lessons (why preparedness saves lives)23:38 - Looking ahead: big things coming in 202624:06 - CEP course update teaser (major upgrade coming soon)25:07 - CEP expansion: hosting training in your own community25:41 - Partnership: Disaster Operations Group (Anthony Escoto)26:03 - Wrap-up: feedback, rewatch episodes, and stay tuned26:49 - Closing: Stay educated, prepared, and equipped 🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts. 👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🩸 STOP THE BLEED® Coalition Uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and learn how you can get involved. 🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com.

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    82_How to Build a Culture of Preparedness with Chris Grollnek

    In Part 2 of our interview with Chris Grollnek, one of the nation’s leading experts in active shooter prevention and response, we transition from mindset to real-world action.This episode breaks down the practical, proven steps schools, workplaces, and communities can take right now to build a true culture of preparedness. Chris shares decades of insight from law enforcement, consulting, and high-risk incident response to help organizations strengthen prevention, response, and recovery long before a crisis occurs.Whether you’re a school administrator, safety coordinator, business leader, or simply someone who cares about community resilience, this episode provides actionable guidance you can implement immediately.🔔 What You’ll Learn in This Episode• The core components of effective organizational preparedness• Why some training fails — and how to make it stick• Practical steps for schools, workplaces, and public venues• How leadership drives a culture of resilience • Real strategies that empower everyday people to act under stress• How to prepare communities without overusing fear🎙 About Our Guest: Chris GrollnekChris Grollnek is a nationally recognized expert in active shooter prevention, counterterrorism, and complex threat response. His work focuses on realistic, research-supported strategies that help organizations prevent incidents and respond more effectively when seconds matter.🔗 Connect with Chris — Through ASPPPRO For training, consulting, organizational support, and media inquiries, connect with Chris Grollnek through:👉 ASPPPRO — Active Shooter Prevention ProjectWebsite: https://aspppro.com/Contact: https://aspppro.com/contactTraining & Services: https://aspppro.com/services🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer Products Sawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way.🌐 Visit: EMDisasterGaming.com🩸 STOP THE BLEED® Coalition Uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. In just one hour, learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit scaling the national campaign to bring bleeding-control training and tools to communities across the country.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready—educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com0:00 Return on Regret – Cold Open  0:11 “That’s the shift we all need to make.”  0:16 DisasterClass Intro  0:52 Welcome Back / Episode Setup  1:22 Moving From Awareness to Action  1:53 Mindset Shift for Organizations  2:26 Corporate Disconnects in Readiness  3:08 Fortune 100 Leadership Example  4:01 Actuaries & the Cost of Prevention  6:00 How to Get Leadership Buy-In  7:02 Five-Question Assessment Method  7:17 Introducing the PRO Model (Prevention • Response • Options)  8:01 Why PRO Was Needed  9:00 The Shooting That Sparked the Shift  11:01 Faster Response ≠ Prevention  12:03 Prevention in Emergency Management  13:03 Bleeding Control Reality Check  14:14 Personal Connection to Sandy Hook  16:00 Tools Schools Can Implement  17:06 Communications, Interop & Detection  18:01 Gun Detection Technology (Types Explained)  21:00 How the U.S. Army Uses PRO  22:45 Gunshot Detection Accuracy  24:00 The 17 Elements of Prevention  25:04 Tabletop Exercises & Stakeholder Involvement  26:30 Why Traditional Drills Are Expensive  28:20 Harm of Hyper-Realistic Drills for Kids  29:17 Active Shooter Prevention Project Overview  30:54 Indoor Mapping & Real-Time Navigation  32:53 Mapping for EMS & Dispatch  34:44 All-Hazards Benefits of Prevention Tech  35:53 Free Resources at ASPPPRO.com  36:56 Closing Reflections from Jason & Wesley  37:52 Preparedness = Empowerment  38:25 Outro – Stay Educated, Prepared, Equipped

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    81_Hiding Is Not a Strategy: Chris Grollnek on Active-Shooter Reality

    🚨 “It’ll never happen here.”That mindset could cost lives. In this powerful episode, active-shooter prevention expert Chris Grollnek joins hosts Jason Perez and Wesley Long to break down what real readiness looks like—far beyond “run, hide, fight.” Chris shares how his on-duty experience changed his life and how schools, businesses, and families can prepare for the unthinkable without fear-mongering.💡 In this episode:✅ Why hiding is not a survival strategy✅ What a survivable plan looks like for schools & staff✅ The real timeline: police response vs. medical care✅ Why bleeding-control skills save more lives than heroics✅ How media & movies distort public expectations✅ Free child-friendly guides for hard conversations 🎓 Guest:Chris Grollnek – Founder of the Active Shooter Prevention Project (ASPP), retired Marine & law-enforcement officer, and national threat-management consultant.🌐 Website: activeshooterpreventionproject.com🧩 Next Episode (Part 2): Chris shares his PRO Model and actionable prevention steps for every organization.⏱️ Chapters 00:00 – 🚨 Cold Open: “It’ll Never Happen Here”00:24 – 🎧 Title Sequence | DisasterClass Podcast Intro00:35 – 🙌 Hosts Introduction: Jason & Wesley00:53 – ⚖️ The Weight of the Topic01:12 – 👮 Meet Chris Grollnek – Active Shooter Expert02:45 – 🎖️ Chris’s Journey from Marine to Law Enforcement03:35 – 💥 The Day Everything Changed05:00 – 🎙️ Why Chris Rarely Speaks Out06:40 – 🧩 Preparedness vs. Perception07:30 – 🕐 Start Today: “Nothing Will Ever Be Perfect”08:50 – 🏫 Defining Preparedness for Schools10:20 – 📖 Redefining ‘Active Shooter’12:45 – 🎓 Training the Right Way13:30 – 👶 Free Children’s Resource Guide15:00 – 🚫 Run, Hide, Fight? Not Always.16:00 – 🧍‍♂️ Who Are the Real First Responders?18:20 – 💡 Fear Sells, But Fear Doesn’t Solve19:00 – 🎬 Media & Movie Influence on Public Perception21:30 – ⏳ The Real Response Timeline23:20 – 🩸 Bleeding Control Saves Lives27:00 – ❤️ Shift from Heroics to Help29:40 – 🛑 Stop the Bleed & Realistic Readiness30:10 – 🎲 Sponsor Break: EM Disaster Gaming – Wildfire Mayhem30:33 – 🔁 Reflection & Takeaways31:00 – 🧠 Next Episode Teaser: The PRO Model31:15 – 🎓 Outro | Stay Prepared. Stay Educated. Stay Equipped.🔗 Sponsors & Partners🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way.🌐 Visit: EMDisasterGaming.com🩸 STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. In just one hour, learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit scaling the national campaign to bring bleeding-control training and tools to communities across the country.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready—educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com.

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    80_How “Complex Coordinated Attack” Is Changing Disaster Preparedness

    In this episode of DisasterClass, hosts Jason Perez and Jason Martin (aka Pappy) welcome back Arthur Simental, founder of EM Disaster Gaming, and first-time guest Todd Manns, CEO of The Blue Cell Group.Together, they discuss Complex Coordinated Attack, a groundbreaking new disaster war game designed to push the limits of training, preparedness, and decision-making for emergency managers and first responders.Discover how this innovative partnership combines The Blue Cell’s simulation system, Chelsea County USA, with EM Disaster Gaming’s immersive game design to create an experience that bridges training, strategy, and realism like never before. 🚨 What You’ll Learn:-How Complex Coordinated Attack redefines traditional tabletop exercises-The science behind gamification in disaster response training-Why simulation and immersion improve decision-making under pressure-How Chelsea County USA models real communities and crises-Insights into ICS (Incident Command System) and how gaming teaches structure-The future of emergency management education through interactive design🧠 Key Takeaways✅ Realistic decision-making through war gaming✅ Collaboration between public and private preparedness organizations✅ Bridging entertainment, education, and crisis readiness✅ Preparing for the unpredictable through play-based learning🔗 Learn More 🎮 EM Disaster Gaming → https://emdisastergaming.com🏢 The Blue Cell Group → https://thebluecell.comChapters00:00 – Cold Open: Welcome back to DisasterClass; preview of the return of Arthur Simental and introduction of the new game Complex Coordinated Attack.01:10 – Host Introduction: Jason Perez and Pappy set up the episode and recap the previous “Disaster War Gaming” discussion.03:00 – Guest Introductions: Arthur Simental (EM Disaster Gaming) and Todd Manns (The Blue Cell Group) join the show.05:05 – The Vision Behind Complex Coordinated Attack: Arthur shares the inspiration and evolution of the game concept.9:30 – The Gameplay Explained: Todd and Arthur describe how players simulate decision-making in a complex, multi-agency response scenario.14:15 – Why Gamification Works: Discussion on how interactive training improves engagement and retention in emergency management.18:40 – Real-World Applications: Exploring how agencies, schools, and private organizations can use the game for training and exercises.24:10 – Lessons Learned from Players: Early feedback, challenges, and takeaways from the first users of Complex Coordinated Attack.28:45 – The Future of Disaster Gaming: What’s next for EM Disaster Gaming and The Blue Cell Group — upcoming expansions and ideas.33:10 – Key Takeaways: Preparedness training doesn’t have to be boring — gaming as an educational and engaging alternative.35:25 – Closing & Call to Action: Where to find Complex Coordinated Attack and other preparedness resources from Instinct Ready.37:10 – Outro Bell: Episode wraps with the signature DisasterClass bell sound.💬 Join the ConversationWhat do you think about using gaming to train for disasters? Drop your thoughts in the comments below 👇📢 Connect with DisasterClass🌐 Website: https://www.instinctready.com/disasterclass📸 Instagram: @disasterclasspodcast🐦 Twitter/X: @DisasterClass▶️ Subscribe for more episodes on preparedness, response, and resilience!🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer Products Sawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts. 👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness! 🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🩸STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved. 🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com

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    79_Sleep: The Overlooked Secret to Emergency Preparedness

    What if the biggest threat to your disaster readiness isn’t your gear… but your lack of sleep? In this episode of Disaster Class, Jason Perez and Wesley Long talk with Lori Oliver and Jill MacRae, co-founders of The Inactive Company, about why rest is one of the most overlooked tools in emergency preparedness. You’ll learn:Why sleep deprivation can impair judgment like alcohol 🚨The Sleep 7 Playbook: seven steps to train better sleep 🛌How to build your own sleep cave (dark, cool, quiet) 🌙Simple fixes for blue light, shift work, and family sleep challenges ☀️One small change you can try this week for better rest ✔️Whether you’re a first responder, shift worker, or just someone who wants to stay sharp under pressure, this episode will help you sleep better, think clearer, and be more prepared. 👉 Learn more about Lori & Jill’s work at inactiveco.com🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!  🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🩸STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.  🌐 Visit:  StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com

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    78_Wildfire Prepared Home & Neighborhoods Explained | Steve Hawks (IBHS)

    Wildfires are burning hotter, faster, and in more places than ever before. In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, IBHS Senior Director Steve Hawks shares how post-fire research, Wildfire Prepared Home, and Wildfire Prepared Neighborhoods are helping families and communities build resilience against a growing national threat.📌 Learn more: www.wildfireprepared.org | IBHS: https://ibhs.orgFollow us on social: @disasterclasspodcast🌟 SponsorsSawyer Products → https://sawyer.comEM Disaster Gaming → https://emdisastergaming.comStop The Bleed Coalition → https://stopthebleedcoalition.org

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    77_Wildfire Prepared Home Explained with Steve Hawks (IBHS)

    Wildfires are spreading faster, burning hotter, and threatening communities across the U.S. — not just in California. But here’s the surprising truth: most homes don’t burn from flames… they burn from embers. In this debut episode of DisasterClass, we sit down with Steve Hawks, Senior Director for Wildfire at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) and former CAL FIRE leader with 30+ years of experience. Steve shares how wildfire research, building science, and community action are helping families prepare for the growing wildfire threat. 🔥 In this episode, you’ll learn:Why wildfires are now a national problemThe biggest myths and misconceptions about wildfire preparednessHow the Wildfire Prepared Home program helps homeowners reduce riskWhy Wildfire Prepared Neighborhoods are essential for resilience3 steps you can take today to safeguard your home from wildfire📌 Resources & LinksLearn more: www.wildfireprepared.orgFollow IBHS: https://ibhs.orgConnect with DisasterClass: https://www.instagram.com/instinctready🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer Products Sawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts. 👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!  🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🩸STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.  🌐 Visit:  StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com

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    76_Hurricane Ready: How to Fortify Your Home and Reduce Storm Damage by 70%

    What does it really mean to be hurricane ready?🌀 In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we sit down with meteorologist Rachael Gauthier from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) to uncover the science-backed strategies that protect homes against hurricane damage.Rachael explains:✅Why your roof is your home’s first line of defense✅How wind-rated garage doors prevent catastrophic structural collapse✅The role of FORTIFIED construction standards✅How grant programs are making upgrades affordable for homeowners✅The real-world results from Hurricane Sally, where FORTIFIED homes were 70% less likely to file insurance claimsWhether you’re a homeowner, builder, or emergency manager, this episode gives you practical steps and proven solutions to protect your property, reduce risk, and recover faster after severe storms.🔗 Resources from IBHS FORTIFIEDHome Program: https://fortifiedhome.org/Home Disaster Guides: https://ibhs.org/guidance/homedisasterguides/ Roofing Roadmaps: https://ibhs.org/roofing-roadmaps/Why Garage Doors Matter: https://ibhs.org/why-a-strong-garage-door-matters/Disaster Discussions Podcast (IBHS): https://ibhs.org/disaster-discussions-podcast/ IBHS YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@IBHS_org/videos📱 Follow IBHS on Social MediaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/IBHSorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibhs_orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-business-&-home-safetyTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/ibhs_org🔔 Subscribe to the DisasterClass PodcastHelping you educate, prepare, and equip yourself for life’s disruptions. 🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disasterclass/id1662144263🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5NDYauzCjHLgYXHVZarBdE📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@disasterclasspodcast🌐 Website: https://www.instinctready.com/disasterclass🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts. 👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness! 🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🩸STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved. 🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org. 🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com

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    75_Parks and Recreation– What They Got Right (and Hilariously Wrong) About Disaster Drills

    In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast by Instinct Ready, hosts Jason Perez and Wesley Long are joined by Anthony Escoto of Disaster Operations Group to take a deep dive into the Parks and Recreation Season 5 episode “Emergency Response.” You know—the one where Leslie Knope faces an avian flu outbreak drill on the exact same day as her big gala fundraiser.With Anthony’s real-world disaster response expertise, we break down each scene of the fictional drill, highlighting what’s surprisingly accurate, what’s wildly unrealistic, and the valuable lessons that emergency managers, public safety professionals, and even city officials can take away.We also spotlight Haz Assist—the powerful tool from Disaster Operations Group—designed to help you assess risk and create plans. Learn more at disasteroperationsgroup.com.From last-minute scenario reveals to communication breakdowns, political sabotage, and Leslie’s decision to “destroy the entire town” in the simulation, we uncover how this comedy episode is a goldmine for talking about incident command, exercise planning, and after-action reviews.Whether you’re a Parks and Rec fan, an emergency management professional, or just curious about how drills really work, you’ll walk away knowing why Pawnee’s approach would fail—and how real-world agencies like Disaster Operations Group do it right.🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🩸STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.  🌐 Visit:  StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!  🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com

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    74_What Is Emergency Management? | National EM Awareness Month ft. Arthur Simental

    Most people don’t know their local emergency manager—but they should. In this episode of DisasterClass, we celebrate the very first National Emergency Management Awareness Month and break down what emergency management really is, why it matters to your business, community, and family, and how to connect with the professionals working behind the scenes to keep you safe.Joining us is Arthur Simental (@emdisastergaming), founder of EM Disaster Gaming and creator of the preparedness board game Wildfire Mayhem, who’s turning disaster education into something fun, engaging, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a business leader, community organizer, or just someone who wants to be ready when disaster strikes, this conversation will give you a new appreciation for the people and systems that protect our communities every day.📌 In This Episode: What emergency management actually means Why National EM Awareness Month matters How businesses and organizations can prepare for disruptions The story behind Wildfire Mayhem and EM Disaster Gaming How YOU can get involved in raising awareness🔗 Resources & Links:Learn more about National Emergency Management Awareness Month: https://www.iaem.org/KnowYourEMFollow EM Disaster Gaming: @emdisastergaming🎯 Get Wildfire Mayhem here (Affiliate Link): https://emdisastergaming.com/ref/8/👍 Like, Subscribe & Comment:If you learned something new about emergency management, hit the like button, subscribe, and drop a comment about how YOU plan to take action this month.#DisasterClassPodcast #EmergencyManagement #EMAwarenessMonth #KnowYourEM #IAmEM #WildfireMayhem #Preparedness #CommunityResilience #BusinessContinuity #DisasterPreparedness @emdisastergaming🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🎲 EM Disaster Gaming Emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🩸STOP THE BLEED® Coalition Uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org. 🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com

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    73_Emergency Preparedness That Doesn’t Suck | Here comes the apocalypse with Jen Heller

    Looking for realistic emergency preparedness tips for your family? In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we’re joined by Jen Heller, founder of Here Comes the Apocalypse—a modern, relatable take on family disaster preparedness and emergency planning. Jen shares how she turned personal fear into action by designing creative, paper-based emergency preparedness kits, disaster checklists, and survival guides that help people prepare for everything from wildfires and power outages to bioterrorism and even zombie attacks—without fearmongering or doomscrolling.🎙 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How to start prepping as a family without going full “doomsday prepper”✅ Why humor is a powerful tool in disaster preparedness✅ What to include in your emergency go-bag or bug-out bag✅ How to prepare kids for emergencies using realistic drills✅ Why paper-based planning tools matter in a digital age✅ How to create a household “Master of Disaster” planWhether you're new to emergency planning or looking to upgrade your disaster kit, this episode will give you practical, step-by-step advice to prepare your household for unexpected events—without panic.🔗 Links & Resources:🌐 Jen Heller’s site: https://herecomestheapocalypse.com📧 Send your questions or preparedness stories: [email protected]🚨 More emergency resources: https://instinctready.com📌 Subscribe for weekly episodes on:→ Disaster preparedness tips→ Family emergency planning→ Emergency kits & gear→ Real-world case studies & interviews👍 Like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your biggest takeaway!🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts. 👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🩸STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual ServicesLet Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love.🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com#EmergencyPreparedness #FamilyPreparedness #DisasterPreparedness #DisasterClassPodcast #HereComesTheApocalypse #SurvivalChecklist #EmergencyPlanning #PreppingWithHumor #BugOutBag #MasterOfDisaster #DisasterKits #PaperPrepping #InstinctReady

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    72_Connecticut Sets the Bar: Breaking Down the Nation's Strongest Bleeding Control Law

    Connecticut just raised the bar for bleeding control legislation — and the rest of the country is watching. In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we dive into Connecticut’s groundbreaking new law that requires bleeding control kits and training across a wide range of public buildings — making it one of the most comprehensive bleeding control laws in the United States.Whether you're a parent, educator, emergency manager, or community member, this conversation is packed with essential insights to help you stay informed and prepared.In This Episode:\✅ What Connecticut’s new Bleeding Control Law (Public Act 25-160) actually requires✅ Which buildings and organizations must comply by July 1, 2026✅ How this law compares to bleeding control requirements in Texas, Indiana, New Jersey, and beyond✅ Why uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death✅ How preparedness saves lives — and how you can get ahead of the curve✅ What organizations in any state can learn from Connecticut’s approachWhy This Matters:Uncontrolled bleeding can turn deadly in minutes. Having the right equipment — and the training to use it — can mean the difference between life and death. Connecticut’s new law is a major step forward for public safety and community resilience, and it’s a sign of what’s to come nationwide.Want to Get Prepared?At Instinct Ready, we help organizations, schools, and communities get equipped with life-saving bleeding control kits, training, and emergency planning — without the stress and confusion.Learn more at: www.instinctready.comStay Connected:✔️ Subscribe to DisasterClass for expert insights on emergency preparedness✔️ Rate & Review to help others discover the show✔️ Send us your questions or preparedness stories: [email protected]✔️ Follow us: @disasterclasspodcast🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!  🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🩸STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.  🌐 Visit:  StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual ServicesLet Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love.🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com

  22. 73

    71_Disaster Prep for Pets | What Every Owner Must Know to Protect Their Pets!

    June is National Pet Preparedness Month, and this episode is your guide to ensuring your pets are just as ready for emergencies as the rest of your family. 🐶🐱🐰🐴Join Wesley and Pappy for an in-depth breakdown of:Episode Highlights:✅ Pet Emergency Kit Essentials: What to include—food, water, medical records, collar, sanitation items, comfort items like toys and bedding—to reduce stress during disasters.✅ Evacuation Planning: Practice safe car travel, get carriers prepped, and always take your pets when leaving before a storm.✅ Sheltering Options: Learn how to find pet‑friendly shelters in advance and maintain updated vet contact info.✅ Identification Strategies: Use ID tags, recent photos, and microchips (plus keeping registration info current) to help reunite with lost pets.✅Seasonal Safety Tips: Beat the heat with hydration and shade, avoid hot pavements, and protect against cold risks like ice‑melt toxins and antifreeze.🛒 Ready-to-Go Pet Emergency KitsSkip the prep—Instinct Ready offers comprehensive Pet First Aid Kits, Deluxe Cat/Dog Emergency Kits, and Basic Kits with food, water, first aid, shelter, sanitation, and comfort items.👉 Shop at Instinct Ready: https://www.instinctready.com/shop/pet-kits📌 Additional Resources:Pet Preparedness Checklist – Ready.govFind Pet-Friendly Shelters – GoPetFriendly.com📱 Follow Us for More Tips: @DisasterClassPodcast • @PreppingWithPappy • @GoBagWesley •🔔 Subscribe Now for more expert guidance on emergency readiness, family safety, and preparedness.#PetPreparedness #EmergencyKitForPets #InstinctReady #DisasterPreparedness #PetSafety #EvacuateWithPets #NationalPetPreparednessMonth #EmergencyManagement #PetFirstAid #AnimalPreparedness🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🩸STOP THE BLEED® CoalitionUncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual Services Let Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love.🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com

  23. 72

    70_Prepared Like a Mother: One mom’s journey to preparedness

    In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, Jason and Pappy sit down with the incredible JaNae F — better known online as @preparedlikeamother — a preparedness influencer, mother, and passionate advocate for family and community readiness.JaNae shares the story of how she got started in emergency preparedness, what sparked her journey, and how it quickly turned into a mission. We talk about the viral reel that catapulted her message into the mainstream, reaching millions of viewers and inspiring families across the country to take preparedness seriously.She also walks us through the creation of her Preparedness Workbook, a practical, family-friendly resource designed to help households get ready for life’s unexpected disruptions. Plus, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her growing website and brand, where she offers tools, tips, and empowerment for busy moms and preparedness newcomers alike.Whether you’re a parent, a prepper, or just preparedness-curious, this conversation is full of inspiration and practical insights. 🔗 Mentioned in This Episode: Follow JaNae on Instagram: @preparedlikeamother Visit her website: www.preparedlikeamother.com🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere you get your podcasts. 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @DisasterClassPodcast #Preparedness #EmergencyPreparedness#MomLife #ViralReel #PreppingWithKids #PreparedNotScared #FamilyPreparedness #DisasterClassPodcast #PreparedLikeAMother #EmergencyPlanning🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer Products Sawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts. 👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🩸STOP THE BLEED® Coalition Uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🎲 EM Disaster Gaming Emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual Services Let Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love.🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com

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    BONUS: STOP THE BLEED® Awareness Month: Training, Kits, and Life-Saving Skills

    In this special bonus episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we’re diving deeper into the STOP THE BLEED® campaign—this time with a focus on how YOU can get trained.We break down:🩸 What the STOP THE BLEED® course covers and how the training is delivered📍 How to find a course near you or bring one to your organization📅 The significance of STOP THE BLEED® Day and National STOP THE BLEED® Month🧰 Why having the right equipment matters—and where to get itWhether you're a teacher, coach, parent, business owner, or just someone who wants to be prepared, this episode shows you how easy it is to learn three simple steps that can save a life.🔗 Instinct Ready is a licensed STOP THE BLEED® course provider and a trusted supplier of high-quality bleeding control kits designed for schools, workplaces, vehicles, and more. Learn more at InstinctReady.com.🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more📲 Follow us @DisasterClassPodcast #stopthebleed #DisasterClassPodcast #BleedingControl #TraumaResponse #StopTheBleedDay #StopTheBleedMonth #SaveALife #EmergencyPreparedness #FirstResponderSkills #PublicSafety #InstinctReady #PreparednessEducation #BystanderIntervention #BleedingControlKit #StopTheBleedTraining🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer Products Sawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🩸STOP THE BLEED® Coalition Uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🎲 EM Disaster Gaming Emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual Services Let Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love.🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com

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    69_STOP THE BLEED®: Empowering the Public to Save Lives

    In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we’re joined by Patrick O’Neill of the STOP THE BLEED® Coalition to uncover the truth behind one of the most important public safety initiatives in America. While mass shootings often capture headlines, they are not the primary reason why STOP THE BLEED® matters. From vehicle crashes and workplace incidents to accidents at home, life-threatening bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death—and in many cases, you don’t have time to wait for first responders.We discuss:🩸 What the STOP THE BLEED® campaign is and how it began 🕒 Why emergency response times make bystander intervention critical❌ Debunking the myth that STOP THE BLEED® is only about active shooter response💪 How training and kits can turn ordinary citizens into lifesavers🛠️ What the STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is doing to bring bleeding control tools and education to schools, workplaces, and communities across the country.This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in being ready to act when it matters most.🔗 Learn more at:https://stopthebleedcoalition.org📲 Follow the STOP THE BLEED® Coalition:Instagram: @stopthebleedcoalitionTwitter/X: @stopthebleedcoaFacebook: @stopthebleedcoalition 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. 📣 Follow us: @DisasterClassPodcast🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer Products Sawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts. 👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🩸STOP THE BLEED® Coalition Uncontrolled bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after injury. But in just one hour, you can learn three simple steps to save a life. The STOP THE BLEED® Coalition is a nonprofit organization formed to support and scale the national STOP THE BLEED® campaign, helping bring bleeding control training and tools to communities across the country. Find a class near you and to learn how you can get involved.🌐 Visit: StopTheBleedCoalition.org.🎲 EM Disaster GamingEmergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness!🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual Services Let Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love.🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com

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    68_NYCEM Outreach in Action: A Firsthand Look at Community Preparedness

    🎙️ DisasterClass Podcast: Reviewing NYCEM’s Community Preparedness EventIn this episode of DisasterClass, hosts Jason Perez and Wesley Long break down their experience attending a recent community preparedness event hosted by New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM). From the resources handed out to the engagement strategies used, they offer a candid review of what worked, what could be improved, and what other cities can learn from NYC’s approach.🗽 Whether you're a public safety professional, emergency manager, or just someone trying to be more prepared, this episode offers valuable insights into:The structure and highlights of the NYCEM eventWhat made it effective in reaching the publicThe importance of accessibility, including language servicesHow community events can drive emergency preparedness at the local level💡 Jason and Wesley discuss the real-world impact of outreach initiatives and how small touches—like swag bags and clear messaging—can go a long way in building trust and awareness.📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.📺 Watch full episodes and more clips right here on YouTube.👇 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL@disasterclasspodcast@preppingwithpappy | @instinctready | @gobagwesley | @highgroundsurvival#DisasterClass#EmergencyPreparedness #NYCEM #CommunityPreparedness #EventReview #InstinctReady #DisasterResponse #PreparednessEducation🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual ServicesLet Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love.🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com

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    67_Summer Road Trip Preparedness: What Every Driver Needs to Know

    Summer is here, and that means road trips, vacations, and outdoor adventures! But before you hit the highway, are you really ready for the road ahead? In this episode of DisasterClass, Jason Perez and Pappy break down essential summer travel safety tips to help you prepare, stay safe, and handle unexpected challenges while traveling — whether you’re driving solo, taking the family, or bringing your furry friends along for the ride.We’re covering:🚗 Vehicle Prep 101→ Why a pre-trip tune-up can save your summer→ Tire safety, fluids, brakes, battery, and AC checks→ Must-have items for your vehicle emergency kit 🛣️ Safe Driving Tips→ Avoiding distractions→ Staying alert and hydrated→ How to leverage apps & offline maps☀️ Beating the Heat → Protecting yourself and your vehicle from extreme heat→ Sun protection hacks & extra coolant tips→ Heat danger awareness for kids & pets📱 Tech & Travel Readiness→ Keeping devices charged→ The value of offline navigation→ Planning your route & fuel stops🐶 Traveling with Pets→ Keeping your pets safe, cool, and comfortable→ Essentials for pet travel kits→ Why leaving pets in a hot car is never an optionReady to level up your vehicle preparedness?→ Grab your Instinct Ready Emergency Car Kit: https://www.instinctready.com/shop/automobile-kits→ Traveling with pets?Check out our Pet Emergency Kits: https://www.instinctready.com/shop/pet-kitsThese kits were built by emergency professionals to help you stay ready for whatever the road throws your way — flat tires, breakdowns, medical emergencies, or even just unexpected delays.Stay Connected:→ Follow us on Instagram: @DisasterClassPodcast→ Visit us online: https://www.instinctready.com→ Subscribe, rate, and share the show!Remember: Preparedness isn’t paranoia — it’s peace of mind.#DisasterClass #EmergencyPreparedness #RoadTripSafety #SummerTravelTips #EmergencyCarKit #PetEmergencyKit #InstinctReady🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer ProductsSawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts. 👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🛡️ Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🏫 Safety 360Safety 360 designs high-detail virtual models essential for effective crisis management, emergency planning, and campus security. Protect your students and staff with actionable visualization tools.📞 Call: (845) 330-0192🌐 Visit: https://www.safety360consultants.com🔥 Pull Start FireNo matches? No problem! Pull Start Fire is the easiest way to start a fire—even in water, wind, or snow. Just pull.👉 Learn more at: https://www.pullstartfire.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual ServicesLet Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love.🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com

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    66_Emergency Preparedness Starts with YOU: The Fitness Truth Nobody Talks About

    How prepared are you—physically—for a disaster? In this eye-opening episode of DisasterClass, we explore the critical connection between physical fitness and emergency preparedness, joined by special guest Isaac Williams, founder of I Will Aesthetics.Isaac is a professional firefighter, EMT, and certified fitness coach who trains both the public and emergency responders to build bodies that are not just aesthetic—but functional under pressure. He brings real-world insight from the front lines, where strength, endurance, and resilience are not optional—they’re life-saving essentials.🎙️ In this episode, we cover:Why health and fitness are foundational to personal preparednessHow being physically compromised can limit your ability to act in a crisisHow you can get started today🔥 Whether you're a responder or a concerned civilian, your first tool in any emergency is your body. If you're not investing in your health now, you may be limiting your options when it matters most. 🧠 More Preparedness. Less Panic. Better Performance.👇 Drop your questions or share your fitness journey in the comments! And check out more from Isaac Williams at👉 https://iwillaesthetics.com📲 Subscribe and hit the bell icon to never miss a DisasterClass.🔗 Sponsors & Partners🧢 Sawyer Products Sawyer offers the most advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, and injuries—everything from high-quality water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every purchase supports clean water programs for those in need, both in the U.S. and around the world, including disaster relief efforts.👉 Visit: https://www.sawyer.com🛡️ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products.🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS📞 Call: (845) 244-6360🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com🏫 Safety 360 Safety 360 designs high-detail virtual models essential for effective crisis management, emergency planning, and campus security. Protect your students and staff with actionable visualization tools.📞 Call: (845) 330-0192🌐 Visit: https://www.safety360consultants.com🔥 Pull Start Fire No matches? No problem! Pull Start Fire is the easiest way to start a fire—even in water, wind, or snow. Just pull.👉 Learn more at: https://www.pullstartfire.com🪷 Blue Lotus Virtual Services Let Blue Lotus Virtual Services take care of the behind-the-scenes admin work so you can focus on growing your business and doing what you love. 🌐 Get started today: https://www.bluelotusvs.com

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    65_Wargaming for Disasters?! How a Game is Revolutionizing Emergency Preparedness

    🔔 Class is in session! 🔔What if gaming could save lives? 🎲🚨 In this episode of DisasterClass, Wesley Long and Jason "Pappy" Martin sit down with Arthur Simental, a career emergency manager, to explore how wargaming is transforming the way we train for disasters. 🕹️ Arthur’s background in wildland firefighting, FEMA, and the CDC led him to create a disaster wargame—a training tool that simulates real-world emergency scenarios. Inspired by classic strategy games like Risk and Axis & Allies, this innovative game challenges emergency managers, responders, and even families to make critical decisions under pressure.🔎 In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ The history of wargaming and how it shaped military strategy✅ How disaster wargaming can help emergency managers & first responders✅ How families can use this game to prepare for unexpected crises✅ Where to get Arthur’s disaster wargame and try it for yourself🎉 SPECIAL OFFER for DisasterClass listeners! 🎉🔥 Get 15% OFF Arthur’s Disaster Wargame!💻 Order here: https://emdisastergaming.com/ref/8/🎟️ Use Promo Code: DISASTERCLASS at checkout!📢 Like, Subscribe & Hit the Bell to stay prepared for anything!💬 What do you think? Could gaming be the future of emergency readiness? Drop a comment below!🔔 Stay Educated. Stay Prepared. Stay Equipped.#podcast #Wargaming #EmergencyPreparedness #DisasterResponse #EmergencyManagement #BoardGames #DisasterClass #Podcast #risk #gaming #preparedness #response #wildfire #femaOur sponsors:Sawyer ProductsSawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you.Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. Get 10% off the online store with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.comSafety 360Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or Visit safety360consultants.com to learn more.Pull Start FireLight your fire in 5 seconds with Pull Start Fire, the pull-string fire starter guaranteed to light even wet logs every time! Visit PullStartFire.com to learn more!

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    64_The HALO Smart Sensor: Revolutionizing Safety with Real-Time Monitoring

    In this episode, we’re exploring the innovative HALO Smart Sensor, a cutting-edge device designed to keep you safe and informed. Whether you're in a school, healthcare facility, hotel, or any other high-traffic environment, the HALO Smart Sensor offers real-time monitoring for a variety of environmental and safety concerns.🔍 Key Features: Health Sensors: Monitors air quality, temperature, carbon monoxide, humidity, and more.Safety Sensors: Detects security threats, including motion, aggression, and panic buttons.Vape Sensors: Identifies vaping and THC use to combat the vaping epidemic in schools and public spaces.Privacy-Focused: No cameras or audio recording, ensuring personal privacy.Real-Time Alerts: Push notifications and email alerts when environmental conditions or threats change.Easy Installation: Mounts easily with a single cable and Power over Ethernet (PoE).The HALO Smart Sensor is a game-changer for environments that require constant monitoring. Its advanced features and seamless integration with the HALO Cloud make it an invaluable tool for maintaining safety and security.👉 Interested in learning more or getting your own HALO Smart Sensor? Check out the link below for more details and how to get started: https://www.instinctready.com/halo-smart-sensor🔔 Don't forget to subscribe, like, and hit the notification bell to stay up to date with the latest in safety tech and emergency management.#HALOSmartSensor #TechForSafety #SmartSensor #SafetyTechnology #VapeDetection #AirQualityMonitoring #Security #EmergencyPreparedness #RealTimeAlertsOur Sponsors:Sawyer ProductsSawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you.Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.comSafety 360Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or Visit safety360consultants.com to learn more.Pull Start FireLight your fire in 5 seconds with Pull Start Fire, the pull-string fire starter guaranteed to light even wet logs every time! Visit PullStartFire.com to learn more!

  31. 64

    63_Using AI for Disaster Preparedness: Can ChatGPT create an emergency plan?

    In this episode of DisasterClass, Jason Perez, Wesley Long, Jason "Pappy" Martin, and Melvin Bland put AI to the test! 🤖🔥 We experiment with ChatGPT to conduct a risk assessment and create an emergency plan—exploring the potential and limitations of AI in disaster preparedness. Can artificial intelligence revolutionize emergency planning, or does it still need the human touch? 🤔 🚀Key Topics We Cover:✅ How AI is being used in emergency preparedness✅ Live risk assessment & emergency plan creation using AIWhether you're an emergency manager, first responder, business owner, or just curious about AI in disaster preparedness, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!🔔 Make sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of DisasterClass!📢 Join the Conversation: Drop a comment below! Do you think AI can be a game-changer for emergency management?🚀 Sponsored By:🔹 Sawyer ProductsSawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water, & injuries—everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. 👉 Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you. 🔹 Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. 🛒 For products: Visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. 📞 For professional emergency management services: Schedule a free consultation by calling (845) 244-6360 or visiting instinctready.com.🔹 Safety 360Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. 📞 Call (845) 330-0192 🌍 Visit safety360consultants.com to learn more.🔹 Pull Start Fire🔥 Light your fire in 5 seconds with Pull Start Fire, the pull-string fire starter guaranteed to light even wet logs every time! Perfect for camping, survival, and emergency preparedness. 🌍 Visit PullStartFire.com to learn more!#DisasterClass #EmergencyPreparedness #AIinEmergencyManagement #ArtificialIntelligence #ChatGPT #DisasterResponse #CrisisManagement #EmergencyPlanning #RiskAssessment #PublicSafety #EmergencyManagement #AIforGood #Resilience #TechForGood #SituationalAwareness #DisasterRecovery #AIRevolution #MachineLearning #FirstResponders

  32. 63

    62_Earthquake Preparedness & Business Continuity: Top Insights from the QuakeSmart Event in St. Louis

    #EarthquakePreparedness #EmergencyManagement #DisasterPreparednessJoin us as we break down essential takeaways from the QuakeSmart event held in the St. Louis area. In this episode, our disaster preparedness experts discuss how free workshops and training can empower both business owners and families to protect their assets and loved ones against earthquakes.Learn about:-Key emergency planning strategies for securing your home and business-The critical importance of continuity planning and proactive risk management-How local community initiatives and free training events drive resilience-Practical tips on safeguarding equipment, retrofitting structures, and preparing for cascading impacts-Real-life insights into disaster preparedness from industry professionals and stakeholdersWhether you’re an emergency management professional, a small business owner, or simply looking to improve your family’s safety plan, this comprehensive recap offers valuable, actionable advice.Sponsored by Sawyer Products, Safety 360 Consultants, and Pull Start Fire, this video is a must-watch for anyone committed to staying prepared and building a more resilient community. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave your comments or disaster preparedness tips below!#EarthquakePreparedness #BusinessContinuity #EmergencyManagement #DisasterPreparedness #QuakeSmart #CommunityResilience #DisasterClass #safetytrainingvideoOur SponsorsSawyer ProductsSawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you.Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.comSafety 360Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or Visit safety360consultants.com to learn more.Pull Start FireLight your fire in 5 seconds with Pull Start Fire, the pull-string fire starter guaranteed to light even wet logs every time! Visit PullStartFire.com to learn more!

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    61_Proactive Community Engagement in Emergency Management with Moriah Washington

    #CommunityEngagement #EmergencyManagement #DisasterPreparednessJoin us on Disaster Class as we dive deep into the power of proactive community engagement in emergency management. In this episode, Moriah Washington, Director of Community Engagement for New York City Emergency Management, shares how leveraging local assets and forging strong partnerships can transform disaster preparedness. Discover actionable strategies, including asset mapping, sustainable emergency planning, and the importance of continuous community collaboration—not just after a crisis, but long before one hits.Key discussion points include:The shift from reactive to proactive community outreachStrengthening partnerships and incentivizing preparednessInsights on collaborative emergency planning and communication strategiesReal-life examples from NYC’s innovative approach to disaster responseWhether you’re an emergency management professional, community leader, or simply interested in building resilient communities, this conversation offers valuable insights on creating lasting, impactful change. Subscribe for more expert advice on disaster preparedness and community engagement, and don’t forget to leave a comment with your thoughts or experiences!#CommunityEngagement #EmergencyManagement #DisasterPreparedness #NYCEmergencyManagement #ProactiveStrategies #CommunityPartnerships #ResilientCommunities #DisasterResponse #EmergencyPlanning #StrengtheningCommunitiesOur SponsorsSawyer ProductsSawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you.Instinct Ready DisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.comSafety 360Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or Visit safety360consultants.com to learn more.Pull Start Fire Light your fire in 5 seconds with Pull Start Fire, the pull-string fire starter guaranteed to light even wet logs every time! Visit PullStartFire.com to learn more!

  34. 61

    Situation Update: LA Palisades Fire

    #latestnews #losangeles #palisadesfire #eatonfire #wildfire #california #disasterpreparedness In this special episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, hosts Jason Perez, Wesley Long, and Pappy are joined by special guest Anthony Escoto to provide an in-depth update on the ongoing LA wildfires. The team dives into the latest developments, sharing crucial insights on staying informed during a crisis.Key topics include:- Where to find reliable and factual information about the wildfires.- How to identify and avoid misinformation during emergencies.- Lessons learned from the response efforts and how they can improve preparedness for future events.Tune in for actionable advice, expert perspectives, and practical takeaways to help you stay safe and informed during wildfire emergencies.Links for fire updates:https://www.fire.ca.gov/https://emergency.lacity.gov/notifylahttps://www.caloes.ca.gov/Situation Update is brought to you by:Sawyer Products Sawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you.Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.com Website: www.instinctready.com #emergencyresponse #emergencymanagement #podcast #gobag #bugoutbag #emergencyplan

  35. 60

    60_Game-Changer in Emergency Water Filtration: New Sawyer Mini Filter!

    #cleanwater #emergencypreparedness #waterfilter #giveawayAccess to clean water is essential, especially during emergencies. In this episode, we revisit with Travis Avery from Sawyer Products to discuss their latest innovation – the new Sawyer Mini Emergency Water Filter. This compact, affordable filter is designed for emergency situations, offering up to 100,000 gallons of clean water at a price point of just $15!🌍 We explore how this filter compares to the original and how it can make a significant impact during disasters, boil water alerts, and more. Plus, discover how Sawyer's commitment to global clean water initiatives is changing lives worldwide, including their partnerships with 140+ charities in over 80 countries.🎁 GIVEAWAY ALERT 🎁We’re giving away Sawyer Mini Water Filters and other Sawyer products to our viewers! Stay tuned to learn how to enter and win these life-saving devices.Learn more about Sawyer: https://www.sawyer.comSubscribe for more disaster preparedness tips, reviews, and giveaways!🌟 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Your support helps us bring more valuable content. 📣 Stay connected with Disaster Class:✅ Like this video✅ Subscribe to our channel✅ Leave a comment or reviewOur sponsors:Sawyer ProductsSawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit https://www.sawyer.com/ to find a retailer near you.Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.comSafety 360Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or visit https://www.safety360consultants.com/ to learn more.Pull Start Fire Light your fire in 5 seconds with Pull Start Fire, the pull-string fire starter guaranteed to light even wet logs every time! Visit https://pullstartfire.com/ to learn more!

  36. 59

    59_The Importance of Leadership: Insights from Pete Gaynor on Effective Leadership in Emergencies

    #fema #emergencypreparedness #emergencymanagement #preparationLeadership plays a critical role in emergencies and everyday life. In this episode of Disaster Class, we dive into what makes an effective leader with insights from Pete Gaynor, former FEMA Administrator and Marine Corps veteran. Discover:-Why leadership is essential in emergency situations.-How to develop and refine your leadership skills.-The core values every leader should embrace, like integrity and honesty.-Lessons learned from both great and poor leadership examples.Pete also shares details about his leadership masterclass, offering practical tools for emergency managers, public safety professionals, and anyone looking to lead effectively in challenging times. 💡 Ready to sharpen your leadership skills?Visit Pete’s website at https://femapete.com/ for courses, articles, and resources. 🌟Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Your support helps us bring more valuable content. 📌Stay connected with Disaster Class: ✅ Like this video ✅ Subscribe to our channel ✅ Leave a comment or review#Leadership #EmergencyPreparedness #DisasterManagement #FEMA #PeteGaynorr #Integrity #LeadershipSkills #EmergencyManagement #LeadershipTraining Our sponsors: Sawyer Products Sawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit https://www.sawyer.com/ to find a retailer near you.Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.comSafety 360Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or visit https://www.safety360consultants.com/ to learn more.Pull Start Fire Light your fire in 5 seconds with Pull Start Fire, the pull-string fire starter guaranteed to light even wet logs every time! Visit https://pullstartfire.com/ to learn more!

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    58_Lessons From Helene

    In this episode of DisasterClass, we sit down with Rob Roberts to uncover the invaluable lessons he learned while responding to Hurricane Helene. Rob takes us through his firsthand experiences on the ground during the hurricane's aftermath, shedding light on the challenges faced, strategies that worked, and key takeaways for future disaster preparedness and response. Whether you're an emergency responder, a community leader, or someone passionate about readiness, this episode is packed with insights to enhance your approach to managing emergencies. Don’t miss this engaging and educational conversation!Our sponsors: Sawyer ProductsSawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you.Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.comSafety 360Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or Visit safety360consultants.com to learn more.Pull Start FireLight your fire in 5 seconds with Pull Start Fire, the pull-string fire starter guaranteed to light even wet logs every time! Visit PullStartFire.com to learn more!

  38. 57

    57_The Power of Community Engagement in Emergency Preparedness

    In this episode of DisasterClass, Jason Perez and Wesley Long dive into the challenge of stakeholder buy-in when implementing safety and preparedness measures. Using a historical deep dive into seatbelts, they explore how public education and awareness campaigns helped increase seatbelt adoption, despite initial opposition. They draw parallels to emergency readiness, discussing how community engagement can overcome resistance and enhance safety initiatives. Featuring insights from Dustin Ridener of NYC Emergency Management, they highlight programs like CERT and Safe City NY, emphasizing the importance of education, trust-building, and collaboration in fostering capable citizens and resilient communities.Stay in touch with New York City Emergency ManagementREADY NEW YORK https://www.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/ready-new-york.pageNYC STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES PROGRAMhttps://www.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/strengthening-communities.pageNYC COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAMhttps://www.nyc.gov/site/em/volunteer/nyc-cert.pageNOTIFY NYChttps://www.nyc.gov/site/em/resources/notify-nyc-app.pageNYC 311https://portal.311.nyc.gov/article/?kanumber=KA-01082Our Sponsors:Sawyer ProductsSawyer Products offers the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you.Safety 360Specializing in cutting-edge digital twin technology tailored for schools and campuses, Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models that are essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or Visit safety360consultants.com to learn more.Instinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.com

  39. 56

    56_A 360 Look At Readiness

    In this episode of the DisasterClass Podcast, we dive into the future of emergency readiness with Ed Mackey, founder and CEO of Safety 360. Join hosts Jason Perez and Wesley Long as they explore the groundbreaking role of 360-degree camera technology in enhancing safety and preparedness.Ed shares insights on how Safety 360 is using innovative technology that is transforming emergency planning, training, and response. Learn how this technology can improve situational awareness, enhance decision-making, and increase safety for first responders, venue operators, and event managers alike.Whether you’re involved in emergency management, event safety, or just interested in the latest tech trends, this episode is packed with valuable information on how 360-degree cameras can revolutionize the way we approach readiness and response.Tune in to discover the future of safety through a new lens!Our Sponsors:Sawyer ProductsSawyer Products offer the best, most technologically advanced solutions for protection against sun, bugs, water & injuries–everything from water filtration systems to insect repellents. Every Sawyer product you buy is a contribution to our common humanity, bringing clean water programs to people in need domestically, internationally, and in disaster relief missions all around the world. Visit sawyer.com to find a retailer near you.Safety 360Specializing in cutting-edge digital twin technology tailored for schools and campuses, Safety 360 creates highly detailed virtual models that are essential for effective crisis management. Whether it's planning for emergencies or enhancing security protocols, Safety 360 provides the tools you need to ensure the safety of your students and staff. Call (845) 330-0192, or Visit safety360consultants.com to learn more.Instinct Ready Emergency ManagementDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive emergency plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Call (845) 244-6360 or visit instinctready.com

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    55_Lessons From Maui

    In this episode, we continue our conversation with Dr. Shawn Rowland, Founder & CEO of Jase Medical. He discusses his experience and lessons learned from responding to the Maui wildfires. Check out Jase Medical at https://jasemedical.com/?rstr=16738Promo Code InstinctReady for $10 offDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Phone: (845) 244-6360Website: www.instinctready.comConsultation Request: https://calendly.com/instinctready/consultationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Instinctready/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instinctreadyTwitter: https://twitter.com/instinctready LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instinctreadyYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@instinctready

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    54_How to prepare medically for a disaster

    During a disaster, we often think about the basics, like food, water, and shelter. But what about medications? What if you can’t get to a doctor? In this episode, we talk Dr. Shawn Rowland, Founder & CEO of Jase Medical to learn about some major concerns regarding medication access during a disaster and how to prepare.Check out Jase Medical at https://jasemedical.com/?rstr=16738Promo Code InstinctReady for $10 offInstinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation.Phone: (845) 244-6360Website: www.instinctready.comConsultation Request: https://calendly.com/instinctready/consultationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Instinctready/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instinctreadyTwitter: https://twitter.com/instinctreadyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instinctreadyYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@instinctready

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    53_Survival Surprise!

    On this episode of DisasterClass, Jason, and Wesley talk about a new mystery box by Instinct Ready that is filled with survival gear and goodies.Pick up your Survival Surprise Mystery Box at instinctready.com while supplies last. https://instinctready.com/products/survival-surprise

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    52_School Safety-Questions Parents Should Ask

    In a previous episode, we discussed how parents should get involved in school safety. However, how does a parent actually do that? In this episode, Jason and Wesley discuss some questions parents can ask school officials and how they can get involved.Download the Parent School Safety Questionnairehttps://drive.google.com/file/d/1gHgKcWceXq5N9yoWDQVx5KvCVMp1U-d-/view?usp=sharingReferral ProgramRefer a qualifying school district and get up to $1,000 cash.Our Sponsors:Safer EscapeThis episode of DisasterClass is brought to you by Safer Escape. When a fire happens, seconds count. The Modum Retractable Fire Escape Ladder was designed with safety in mind and is always ready when you need it most. It's easy to use, affordable, and dependable. Don't leave your family's safety to chance. Visit SaferEscape.com to get a free quote and free shipping off your first order when you mention DisasterClass. Visit SaferEscape.com today, or call 725-2ESCAPE!Phone: (725) 2ESCAPE (237-2273)Website: www.saferescape.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/saferescapeladdersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saferescape/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saferescape/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiGptufi17U5nHWTtC1ZfYQInstinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Phone: (845) 244-6360Website: www.instinctready.comConsultation Request: https://calendly.com/instinctready/consultationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Instinctready/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instinctreadyTwitter: https://twitter.com/instinctreadyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instinctreadyYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@instinctready

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    51_School Emergency Drill Fail

    Exercises and drills are a great way to prepare for an emergency and test your plans and capabilities. However, there is a right and wrong way to do it, and to do it right, you need to plan thoroughly. Unfortunately, one school principal learned the hard the hard way. In this episode, Jason and Wesley discuss what happened when a school drill was planned and executed poorly and the lessons we can learn from it.Our Sponsors:Safer EscapeThis episode of DisasterClass is brought to you by Safer Escape. When a fire happens, seconds count. The Modum Retractable Fire Escape Ladder was designed with safety in mind and is always ready when you need it most. It's easy to use, affordable, and dependable. Don't leave your family's safety to chance. Visit SaferEscape.com to get a free quote and free shipping off your first order when you mention DisasterClass. Visit SaferEscape.com today, or call 725-2ESCAPE!Phone: (725) 2ESCAPE (237-2273)Website: www.saferescape.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/saferescapeladdersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saferescape/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saferescape/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiGptufi17U5nHWTtC1ZfYQInstinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Phone: (845) 244-6360Website: www.instinctready.comConsultation Request: https://calendly.com/instinctready/consultationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Instinctready/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instinctreadyTwitter: https://twitter.com/instinctreadyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instinctreadyYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@instinctready

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    50_Survival Lessons From Lego Fortnite

    We take a little detour off our usual format to kick back to play some video games. Jason & Wesley checkout Lego Fortnite, a survival-esque video game where users get dropped in a random wilderness biome and have to use available resources to survive and build a village. Jason & Wesley discuss how the game can be used to teach some survival and disaster preparedness principles.If you are a fellow gamer, seize the opportunity to play along with Jason & Wesley. Send them a request on Lego Fortnite to kick back, play some games, and talk preparedness.Send Wesley a request at GoBagWesleySend Jason a request at DisasterMasterJOur Sponsors:Safer EscapeThis episode of DisasterClass is brought to you by Safer Escape. When a fire happens, seconds count. The Modum Retractable Fire Escape Ladder was designed with safety in mind and is always ready when you need it most. It's easy to use, affordable, and dependable. Don't leave your family's safety to chance. Visit SaferEscape.com to get a free quote and free shipping off your first order when you mention DisasterClass. Visit SaferEscape.com today, or call 725-2ESCAPE! Phone: (725) 2ESCAPE (237-2273)Website: www.saferescape.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/saferescapeladdersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saferescape/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saferescape/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiGptufi17U5nHWTtC1ZfYQInstinct ReadyDisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation.Phone: (845) 244-6360Website: www.instinctready.comConsultation Request: https://calendly.com/instinctready/consultationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Instinctready/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instinctreadyTwitter: https://twitter.com/instinctreadyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instinctreadyYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@instinctready

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    49_Survival lessons from Michael Scott

    Join us as we review season 4, episode 7 of The Office, streaming on Peacock. In this episode, Michael Scott, played by Steve Carrel, goes into the woods to do his own version of Survivor Man. Jason and Wesley break down the episode and provide valuable lessons learned from Michael Scott.Our Sponsors:Safer Escape This episode of DisasterClass is brought to you by Safer Escape. When a fire happens, seconds count. The Modum Retractable Fire Escape Ladder was designed with safety in mind and is always ready when you need it most. It's easy to use, affordable, and dependable. Don't leave your family's safety to chance. Visit SaferEscape.com to get a free quote and free shipping off your first order when you mention DisasterClass. Visit SaferEscape.com today, or call 725-2ESCAPE! Phone: (725) 2ESCAPE (237-2273)Website: www.saferescape.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/saferescapeladdersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saferescape/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saferescape/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiGptufi17U5nHWTtC1ZfYQ Instinct Ready DisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Phone: (845) 244-6360Website: www.instinctready.comConsultation Request: https://calendly.com/instinctready/consultationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Instinctready/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instinctreadyTwitter: https://twitter.com/instinctreadyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instinctreadyYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@instinctready

  47. 48

    $25,000 Giveaway!

    We've partnered up with some amazing brands to participate in a massive $25,000 giveaway! Enter at the link below for your chance to win some amazing prizes!Click Here To Enter the Giveaway!

  48. 47

    48_Is your child's school safe?

    In today’s day and age, there are many challenges facing schools. These challenges are ever-evolving and require school administrators to proactively address safety and security threats. In this episode, we talk to Michael Madison, a school safety subject matter expert. He discusses what schools can do to develop and implement plans and how parents can be involved in the discussion. Our Sponsors:Safer EscapeThis episode of DisasterClass is brought to you by Safer Escape. When a fire happens, seconds count. The Modum Retractable Fire Escape Ladder was designed with safety in mind and is always ready when you need it most. It's easy to use, affordable, and dependable. Don't leave your family's safety to chance. Visit SaferEscape.com to get a free quote and free shipping off your first order when you mention DisasterClass. Visit SaferEscape.com today, or call 725-2ESCAPE!Phone: (725) 2ESCAPE (237-2273)Website: www.saferescape.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/saferescapeladdersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saferescape/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/saferescape/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiGptufi17U5nHWTtC1ZfYQInstinct Ready DisasterClass is brought to you by Instinct Ready, whose mission is to educate, prepare, and equip communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive plans, and premium products. For products, visit www.instinctready.com and get 10% off with promo code DISASTERCLASS. For professional emergency management services, schedule a free consultation. Phone: (845) 244-6360Website: www.instinctready.comConsultation Request: https://calendly.com/instinctready/consultationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Instinctready/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instinctreadyTwitter: https://twitter.com/instinctreadyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/instinctreadyYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@instinctready

  49. 46

    47_A look back at Safer Escape

    We are happy to welcome Safer Escape as an official sponsor of DisasterClass. In this episode, we revisit our previous conversation with Aaron and Barry Mezei, a father and son duo, working hard to help protect families from the risk of fire.Learn more about Safer Escape at www.saferescape.com

  50. 45

    46_Guess who's back...back again!

    That's right! DisasterClass is back and better than ever! We've made some changes but we have some exciting new things to come! In this episode, Jason and Wesley talk about some updates with @instinctready including a new Personal Home Risk Assessment service now available at instinctready.com. Personal Home Risk Assessment

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to the DisasterClass Podcast, your trusted source for expert guidance on disaster preparedness, emergency management, and building resilience in a chaotic world. Hosted by real emergency responders, EMTs, and risk professionals, this show is dedicated to helping you educate, prepare, and equip yourself for life’s disruptions—whether personal, professional, or community-wide. Each episode features powerful insights, real-world case studies, interviews with industry leaders, and practical tips on topics like:Emergency planning for families, businesses, and schoolsCrisis leadership and decision-making under pressureBleeding control and life-saving medical interventionsBusiness continuity and disaster recovery strategiesRisk mindset development for everyday resilienceEmerging threats and real-time lessons from recent disastersWhether you're an emergency manager, first responder, school administrator, business owne

HOSTED BY

Jason Perez & Wesley Long | Instinct Ready Inc.

Produced by Instinct Ready Inc.

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