Disaster Podcast

Disaster Meteorologist Dan DePodwin joins us again today on the show. We look at recent severe weather impacts on the U.S. including Tropical Storm Bertha skirting the gulf coast of the United States. Bertha had two landfall impacts with most of the issues caused due to flooding inland and local storm surge on the coast.

The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis.

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Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well.

Podcast Discussion Summary

Tropical Storm Bertha Update

The meeting focused on Tropical Storm Bertha, which has been downgraded to a tropical depression. Dan explained that while the storm caused some flooding and storm surge in Louisiana and Texas, its overall impact would likely be minimal and short-lived. He noted that Bertha’s unusual westward movement into Mexico rather than eastward was due to wind shear, and that the storm would not significantly impact the northeastern United States over the weekend.

Western US Flash Flood Risks

Dan discussed weather conditions in the western United States, highlighting the risks of flash flooding from heavy thunderstorms in mountainous regions like Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. He explained that even small amounts of rain can quickly cause dangerous flash floods due to the terrain’s rapid channeling of water through rivers, creeks, and dry washes. Dan recommended using NOAA Weather Radio for alerts in remote areas without cell service and advised starting outdoor activities early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.

Flash Flooding Risk and Preparedness

Dan and Sam discussed the risks of flash flooding in low-lying areas during summer, particularly referencing a tragic flood at Camp Mystic in Texas that killed over 100 people. Dan explained that while overall precipitation may not have increased significantly, heavy rain events are becoming more intense due to climate change, which causes more flash flooding.

The discussion covered practical flood preparedness measures, including checking FEMA maps for flood zones, considering insurance, and creating drainage solutions, with Dan sharing an example of Becky clearing a clogged street drain during a recent storm.

Heat and Storm Safety Guidance

Dan discussed the current heat wave affecting the western United States, particularly the desert southwest, with Phoenix expected to reach 110 degrees. He advised people to stay hydrated, seek shade, and do outdoor activities early in the day to avoid the dangerous heat.

The discussion also covered hurricane preparedness, with Dan explaining that people in hurricane-prone areas should consider evacuation plans and have emergency supplies ready, noting that hurricanes typically provide advance warning unlike flash floods. Regarding tornado safety, Dan advised having a way to receive warnings and knowing where to go for shelter, particularly recommending interior basement locations if available.

Wrap up and updates

The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group.

Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Tim Conley joins us on the Disaster podcast this week to look at the international response to two concurrent disasters. In his role and Chairman of the Board with Med Global and as a co-founder of Interstate Disaster Medical Collaborative (IDMC), Tim discusses how these organizations are working to help manage the Ebola outbreak response in Africa while they simultaneously send teams to assist with medical care of victims following the earthquakes in Venezuela.

Previous Disaster Podcast Episode on Med Global in Ukraine

MedGlobal provides free, sustainable healthcare services to refugees, displaced persons, and other vulnerable communities in crisis areas and low-resource settings worldwide. They deploy healthcare volunteers, support local medical teams and humanitarian partners with training, funding, and technology, and donate medical equipment, medications and supplies.

The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis.

Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary

Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well.

Podcast Discussion Summary

New Board Chair Introduction Meeting

Sam introduced Tim Conley as the new chair of the board and vice president of MedGlobal, explaining how they first connected in 2006 when Sam was building a disaster team for California and sought Tim’s expertise from the Illinois team. Tim described his current roles as an emergency management supervisor for Mercy Health and his work with MedGlobal’s emergency management and chemical weapons programs, noting his ongoing liaison with IDMC which he helped found. The discussion focused on MedGlobal’s current global healthcare initiatives, including responses in Ukraine, Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, Colombia, and other locations, as well as their work in Ebola and Venezuela responses.

MedGlobal Healthcare Mission Discussion

Sam discussed MedGlobal’s mission of providing free sustainable healthcare to refugees and vulnerable communities through deploying healthcare volunteers and building resilient healthcare systems. Tim explained that his role in emergency management involves providing tools and systems to healthcare providers so they can effectively respond to emergencies, noting that while the concept is simple in description, it’s more complex in practice. The discussion highlighted MedGlobal’s international training programs, including chemical weapons response and surgical techniques, with examples from Ukraine, Gaza, and Bangladesh.

International Medical Logistics Coordination

Tim discussed the logistical challenges of working with international medical communities, noting that physical movement of materials and coordinating with local partners and governments are the main hurdles, especially in countries like Ukraine, Ebola outbreak regions, and Venezuela. He explained that working with organizations like WHO is crucial for navigating local regulations and ensuring proper distribution of PPE and training programs that align with local practices and WHO recommendations.

International Medical Aid Challenges

The discussion focused on the challenges of providing medical equipment and training in international aid situations. Sam shared an example from Ukraine where outdated equipment was sent without proper training, leading to the equipment being unused.

Jamie asked about balancing access to modern technology with local healthcare system capabilities, to which Zoom responded that it’s crucial to assess what the local system can sustain long-term, noting that healthcare systems often excel in some areas while lacking in others.

Ebola Response in Ukraine Challenges

The discussion focused on the challenges of responding to the Ebola outbreak in Ukraine, with participants noting the complex logistics due to the strain of the virus, detection difficulties, and ongoing conflicts in the region. Tim explained that Med Global is working with the WHO to determine the best locations for setting up training programs, considering factors like responder fatigue and logistical access.

The conversation highlighted the importance of addressing both physical and mental health challenges for first responders, with participants acknowledging the long-term emotional toll of working in dangerous environments with limited PPE and family support.

Volunteer Disaster Preparedness Training Challenges

Tim discussed the challenges of preparing volunteers for different disaster scenarios, noting that while MedGlobal staff and volunteers receive training from healthcare professionals and emergency managers, there is no single recipe for mental preparation due to varying dangers like Ebola outbreaks, local conflicts, and natural disasters.

Tim emphasized the importance of proper training, including PPE use and safety protocols, and mentioned specific examples like emergency management volunteers providing safety training in Venezuela after an earthquake. The discussion concluded with Sam considering the situation of federal employees eager to join USAR and DMAT teams but waiting for disaster deployments.

Venezuela Earthquake Relief Efforts

Tim explained their earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela, describing how they are working with NGOs and local authorities through advanced teams that are conducting assessments and establishing logistics for medical supplies and patient care.

The discussion highlighted the challenges of accessing the country and the importance of planning for needs 2-3 weeks ahead rather than immediate requirements. Sam noted similarities to their previous experience with Ukraine relief efforts, mentioning concerns about distribution, security, and implementation logistics.

Venezuela Earthquake Disaster Response

The group discussed the situation in Venezuela following an earthquake, with Jamie reporting that official death tolls are likely underreported, with estimates ranging from 3,700 to potentially 10,000 or more deaths.

Tim highlighted the dedication of disaster response teams, including medical professionals and volunteers, who willingly enter dangerous areas to help others despite personal risks. The conversation also covered the collapsed chronic disease care system in Gaza, where healthcare infrastructure has been destroyed, leading to significant problems with untreated medical conditions.

Wrap up and updates

The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group.

Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

On this week’s episode of the Disaster Podcast, we chat with Dr. Tehnaz Boyle. Dr. Boyle is a pediatric emergency physician and a scientist who studies how to use technology to bring expert care to disaster situations remotely. She works with Health Tech Without Borders who we talked about three years ago on the show related to their work during the early days of the Ukraine war.

Previous Disaster Podcast Episode on Health Tech Without Borders

Health Tech Without Borders is a global non-profit organization aiming to mitigate healthcare crises by leveraging digital tools and technology to provide immediate access to health resources. They work in disaster and war torn areas of the world to bring medical and health expertise.

ASPR Telemedicine Program Site

The episode was co-hosted by Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis and they were joined by Disaster Emergency Management expert Becky DePodwin.

Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary

Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well.

Podcast Discussion Summary

Global Earthquake Response Discussion

The team discussed recent earthquake events, including a 7.2 magnitude earthquake followed by a 7.5 magnitude earthquake in Venezuela, along with additional earthquakes in Northern California and Japan. Becky explained that the back-to-back high-magnitude quakes in Venezuela would likely worsen the already devastating impact, with many older structures built in the 1950s and 1960s failing to meet modern earthquake safety standards.

The discussion highlighted that USAID’s traditional role in international disaster response is no longer available, creating a gap in global disaster relief efforts. The team planned to have a more detailed discussion about the Venezuela situation in next week’s episode, including updates on response efforts from organizations like Med Global and Health Tech Without Borders.

Health Tech Without Borders Overview

Tehnaz, an associate professor and pediatric emergency medicine physician at Boston Medical Center, explained Health Tech Without Borders, a nonprofit that uses digital tools to provide access to medical care during humanitarian emergencies. She described their work in Ukraine, where they partnered with local providers and international clinicians to deliver telehealth services to displaced populations.

Tehnaz also discussed the organization’s role as an innovative hub connecting companies with medical experts, and highlighted the potential for AI and satellite communications to enhance their capabilities in providing remote care.

Telehealth Applications and Remote Monitoring

Tehnaz explained various telehealth applications including digital consultations, remote patient monitoring, and digital therapeutics, using examples from Ukraine and burn care centers in the US. She described how remote monitoring could allow patients to receive care at home instead of in long-term facilities, particularly benefiting those in healthcare deserts and rural areas.

When asked about connected medical equipment, Tehnaz noted that while many devices can connect to networks, not all collected data is necessarily helpful or interpretable, requiring research to determine useful signals from noise.

Telehealth in Crisis Response

Tehnaz discussed Health Tech Without Borders’ work in providing telehealth services and training for clinicians in crisis areas, including Ukraine. She explained the challenges of licensing and governance barriers for remote clinicians, particularly across different jurisdictions.

Tehnaz highlighted ongoing research into streamlining these barriers and developing AI tools to enhance telehealth capabilities, including potential applications for pediatric patients. The group expressed interest in having Tehnaz and Jerone return for future discussions about disaster response and telemedicine deployment.

Wrap up and updates

The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group.

Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

Dr. Joe Holley
On this episode of the Disaster Podcast, Dr. Joe Holley joins us to share his insights following the 2026 Gathering of Eagles Conference recently held in Florida. This annual conference brings together the EMS leaders and physicians from the largest cities and jurisdictions. Its purpose is to give them a chance to share new science and trends in the field and find consensus on where best practices lie in those trends.

Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary

Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well.

Podcast Discussion Summary

Midwest Tornado Weather Discussion

The podcast episode focused on severe weather conditions in the Midwest, particularly tornadoes. Dan explained the meteorological ingredients needed for tornado formation, including warmth, moisture, wind shear, and atmospheric conditions. He noted that while Illinois had experienced a record number of tornadoes in June, the actual number of tornadoes on the day discussed was lower than expected, though there were significant wind damage reports and hail. The weather discussion concluded with a brief mention of weather concerns for upcoming World Cup events, particularly regarding uncovered stadiums in areas prone to summer storms.

Severe Weather and Emergency Planning

The group discussed the end of the Midwest severe weather season and the impact of Tropical Storm Arthur, which caused catastrophic flooding in Louisiana and Mississippi. Becky mentioned the emergency preparedness planning for World Cup events and suggested getting a Philadelphia emergency management official on a podcast after the tournament.

Dan explained that while Arthur was short-lived, it demonstrated how tropical systems can cause significant impacts regardless of category, and noted there was a slight chance it could reform off the East Coast.

Gathering of Eagles Conference Overview

Joe explained that the Gathering of Eagles meeting is the annual conference of the Metropolitan EMS Medical Directors Global Alliance, bringing together medical directors from large cities worldwide to discuss challenges and share experiences. The conference was held in Florida in conjunction with the Florida State EMS Conference, consisting of several days of state-of-the-science presentations and discussions on problematic issues.

This year’s meeting focused on topics including mass gathering medicine, weather-related concerns, VIP management, immigration issues, infectious diseases, and terrorism-related threats.

World Cup Event Preparation Planning

The group discussed preparations for large events like the World Cup, focusing on challenges such as managing non-English speaking athletes and fans, potential health risks including infectious diseases, and ensuring public safety. Joe highlighted new scientific advancements in pre-hospital care, including blood transfusions and trauma treatment.

Becky emphasized the importance of local planning and coordination in emergency management. The team agreed to conduct a deeper dive into event planning and preparation after the games, potentially involving experts like Kyle for insights into event management.

Wrap up and updates

The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group.

Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!

First Line Tech CEO Amit Kapoor
On this episode of the Disaster Podcast, Amit Kapoor, CEO of First Line Technology joins the show to talk about hazardous materials and decontamination techniques and tools. Among the novel tools and techniques are methods of Dry Decon which uses methods other than washing and dilution with copious amounts of water.

First Line Technology designs and manufactures disaster preparedness and emergency response equipment – taking ideas from the Lab to Life-Saving Products. Among those products is FiberTect. This is a multi-layered, nonwoven composite designed to absorb and adsorb hazardous substances, including CWAs and TICs. Its lightweight, flexible design ensures easy use in emergency response and field operations.

B-A-R Method Training teaches the Blot, Apply, Remove technique for effective decontamination. This structured approach ensures proper contaminant removal while maximizing efficiency and safety in the field. The BAR method is trusted by professionals to simplify decontamination while maintaining safety and effectiveness in high-stakes scenarios.

Scroll down for Podcast Discussion Summary

Thank you as always to Paragon Medical Education Group for their long-term support of the Disaster Podcast. Dr. Joe Holley and the team at Paragon continue to provide excellent and customized disaster response training to jurisdictions around the U.S. and internationally as well.

Podcast Discussion Summary

CBRN Technology for First Responders

Sam and Jamie discussed weather conditions, with Sam reporting dry weather in rural Missouri and Jamie updating on Tropical Storm Amanda in the eastern North Pacific. Amit Kapoor, president and CEO of Firstline Technology, joined the conversation to discuss his company’s 23-year focus on developing technology for first responders and first receivers, particularly in CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) situations. Sam highlighted the importance of CBRN protection for first responders, sharing a personal experience about a paramedic who developed chemical pneumonia during a hazmat incident.

CBRN Contamination Decontamination Methods

AmitKapoor discussed the gap in secondary contamination issues during CBRN and hazmat incidents, focusing on challenges in transporting contaminated casualties to hospitals. He explained the differences between dry and wet decon methods, noting that dry decon eliminates the need for water, making it safer and more practical in various environments. AmitKapoor mentioned the PRISM study conducted by HHS, which provided scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of dry decon methods.

Emergency Decontamination Misconceptions Discussion

Amit Kapoor discussed common misconceptions about decontamination (Decon) in emergency medical services and fire communities. He explained that decon is often viewed as unattractive compared to more exciting aspects like detection and triage, and highlighted two key misconceptions: how clean is clean, and that decon has been overcomplicated. Amit emphasized the importance of hybrid decon approaches combining dry and wet methods, and stressed that while there’s no silver bullet solution, having the right knowledge and tools is crucial, particularly noting that water and dilution are not always the best approaches.

CBRN Patient Decontamination Method

AmitKapoor explained the BAR method (Blot, Apply, Remove) for decontaminating patients at CBRN incidents using FiberTech material, which is a DOD-funded textile containing activated carbon that absorbs and holds chemical threats. He demonstrated the method using a kitchen cleaning analogy, showing how contamination should first be blotted up, then a cleaning solution applied, and finally any remaining contamination removed. Jamie expressed interest in learning more about organizations’ responses to this approach and requested more information about presentations at conferences.

Hospital Decontamination Systems Training

Amit Kapoor discussed hospital decontamination systems and training approaches, explaining how his company provides modular decon kits (MDK) that can scale from single patients to mass casualties, along with comprehensive training programs including online courses and a free Decon Field Guide app. The discussion highlighted the importance of proper decon training, with Amit noting that many hospitals only train staff once yearly on outdated mass-casualty protocols rather than addressing everyday contamination scenarios. T

he conversation also covered access to training resources through Firstline Technology’s learning management system and the need for better preparation across fire departments, EMS agencies, and hospitals for various contamination threats.

Wrap up and updates

The team went through contact information and the team encouraged listeners to stay safe. The group discussed the role of specialized training, with Jamie highlighting the sponsorship of the Disaster Podcast by Paragon Medical Education Group.

Catch the full episode using the player above or on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Disaster Podcast for weekly insights from leaders in disaster response and research!