Critical Alliances: Elected Officials and Emergency Managers
When disaster strikes, leadership and coordination can mean the difference between chaos and recovery. In this gripping episode, we explore the high-stakes partnership between emergency managers and elected officials. These leaders must work in lockstep to protect and serve their communities. While their roles and perspectives may differ, their mission is the same: to lead with clarity, act decisively, and restore order amid crisis.Join us as we unpack real-world case studies, uncover the challenges of crisis communication, and reveal how trust, collaboration, and swift decision-making shape disaster outcomes. From emergency declarations to community messaging, this episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the critical alliances that keep communities resilient when every second counts.
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32:17
The Journey to 40: A Founder’s Reflection
In this special milestone episode of DisasterSmiths, our hosts sit down with IEM Founder and Chairwoman, Madhu Beriwal, to reflect on four decades of resilience, innovation, and impact. From humble beginnings to building a thriving legacy, she shares the proud moments that shaped IEM's journey, the impacts that drive our mission, and the vision that propels the company forward. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that uncovers the heart, soul, and future of IEM and the disaster management industry.
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30:12
When the Smoke Clears: Resilience and Recovery in the Face of Fire
In this episode of DisasterSmiths, our hosts delve into the resilience and recovery efforts that follow devastating wildfires, emphasizing the critical role of mitigation in preventing future disasters. They are joined by Jennifer Gray Thompson, whose firsthand experiences and expert insights have jump-started recovery efforts for wildfire survivors across the country. Together, they explore how communities are rebuilding and healing, while learning about proactive measures—such as controlled burns, creating defensible space, and improving land management—that can reduce wildfire risks. This episode highlights the strength of those affected and the importance of understanding the science behind wildfires, ensuring we’re better equipped to face the next challenge when the smoke clears.
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21:54
2025 and Beyond: The Next Generation of Emergency Managers
Step into 2025 with an exclusive episode featuring IEM President and CEO Bryan Koon, a seasoned emergency management expert with over two decades of leadership experience, and Emily Zegowitz, a trailblazing innovator reshaping the field. Together with our DisasterSmith hosts, they dive into the forces transforming emergency management and reveal how the next generation of leaders is redefining resilience in an era of rapid change. From the power of mentorship to the critical role of education and passion, this conversation uncovers what it takes to inspire and equip tomorrow’s emergency managers. Hear firsthand insights on fostering innovation, strengthening communities, and creating a safer, more prepared future.
Join us for a compelling dialogue that connects experience with vision, spotlighting the synergy between established leaders and emerging talent shaping the future of disaster response and recovery.
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29:40
Holiday Havoc: DisasterSmiths Break Down Iconic Disaster Movies
This holiday season, the DisasterSmiths podcast delivers an unforgettable gift: a high-energy episode diving into the thrilling world of disaster movies! Join hosts Chris and Diana as they break down iconic cinematic chaos, exploring the pulse-pounding action, unexpected humor, and timeless appeal of blockbuster hits and some oldies, but goodies. Special guest Stephanie Tennyson, IEM’s Chief Communications Director, adds her expert perspective to the mix, making this episode a must-listen. Whether you're unwinding from a whirlwind year or seeking a dose of entertaining nostalgia, this episode promises to keep you hooked. Don’t miss this epic end of the year episode (read in the movie trailer voice)!
What is your favorite disaster movie? Let us know in the comments!
IEM Unscripted presents DisasterSmiths, a dynamic podcast that dives into the heard of disaster resilience. Join us as we explore the practical solutions, innovative programs, and dedicated service delivery crafted to aid disaster survivors and fortify communities. Our mission is clear – to make our communities more resilient in the face of adversity.
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