Wildfires, Floods, and Chaos Communications: Management of Issues, Crises and Disasters

Send us a textAuthor Doug Levy, of The Communications Golden Hour® Book, joins host Tim Conrad, APR, for the second of three episodes to discuss the roles of public information officers and crisis communications in emergencies and crises/issues.Listen For:01:05 - Communicating in the chaotic Trump style10:40 - Media literacy14:12 - Navigating global conflicts19:45 - How values can be used to navigate divisionConnect with Doug LevyLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Amazon - Buy BookConnect with Tim ConradLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textAuthor Doug Levy, of The Communications Golden Hour® Book, joins host Tim Conrad, APR, for the first of three episodes to discuss the roles of public information officers and crisis communications in emergencies and crises/issues. Listen For:01:15 - From Practitioner to Author11:27 - The Role, Skills and Practice of a Public Information Officer20:30 - Communications is Two-way or It's Not Communications28:04 - Evolving as a PIOConnect with Doug LevyLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Amazon - Buy Book Connect with Tim ConradLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textIt was the year 2008. Newspapers, local and provincial/state broadcast TV news, and radio news dominated the media landscape. Misinformation wasn't a word that was used.These are the stories of the before times. When coordinating more news media was easier than responding, developing, coordinating, producing, and posting media on all channels. Listen For:03:55 - Size Up with the Incident Commander08:04 - A Memorial to News Media13:57 - Perspectives from Responders and Residents18:33 - Top Lessons  Connect with Tim ConradLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textHow do you handle the unexpected when the stakes are at their highest?  Tim sits down with Shawna Bruce to break down the critical differences between a crisis communications plan and a full-fledged program. Recorded live at the 2024 Canadian Emergency Preparedness and Climate Adaptation Convention in Ottawa, the conversation dives deep into the importance of preparedness, flexibility, and teamwork in crisis management.  Whether navigating social media pitfalls or leading a military response, Shawna and Tim explore what it takes to stay ahead of chaos. Listen For:06:07 - The Rarity of Proper Crisis Communication Programs12:29 - Crisis Communications: Then vs. Now16:39 - Viral Crisis: A Mayor’s Social Media Misstep25:03 - Leveraging Proven Practices in Crisis Response Guest: Shawna BruceLinkedIn | Website Connect with Tim ConradLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textEver wonder what it takes to be the calm in the storm during an emergency?  Tim talks with Dorit Mason, an expert in emergency planning and operations. They look at the critical role of planners in emergency operations centres (EOCs), recalling their experiences managing wildfire evacuations in 2017.  Mason shares insights on the characteristics of a great planner, the importance of personal preparedness, and how effective communication plays a vital role in crisis management.  They discuss the essential traits required for those working in EOCs and reflect on the camaraderie and humor that keep emergency teams going through the toughest times.  Listen For:02:48 Importance of EOCs08:21 The Synergy Between Planning and Communication14:31 Volunteering Safely During Earthquakes21:26 What Earthquake Planning Teaches Us Connect with guest: Dorit MasonLinkedIn | Public emergency preparation and recovery - Province of British Columbia  Connect with Tim ConradLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textIs building an emergency program a matter of simply responding to crises, or does it require something more?  In this episode, host Tim Conrad talks with Steph Masun about the vital role of community, communication, and adaptability in emergency management.  With years of experience in the Cariboo Regional District's emergency program, Steph shares insights into the creation and continuity of an effective emergency response, emphasizing the importance of building a legacy, nurturing relationships, and continuous improvement.  From floods to fires, to landslides, learn how communities and emergency professionals can work together to navigate the unpredictable landscape of crisis management. Listen For:04:01 - Creating a Culture of Continuous Improvement12:50 - The Challenges of Managing Multiple Disasters25:40 - Recommended Resources for Emergency Management Learning30:04 - Maintaining Mental Wellbeing During Crisis Response Guest: Stephanie Masun LinkedInConnect with Tim Conrad, APRLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textHow do you rebuild communities after wildfires, floods, and chaos?  In this episode, Tim Conrad and emergency management expert Stephanie Masun dive deep into the challenges of post-disaster recovery in British Columbia's Cariboo Regional District.  From the devastation of the 2017 wildfires to multi-year recovery programs, they share powerful lessons on teamwork, community resilience, and emergency management. Listen For:05:20 - Patchwork recovery: Different challenges in each community14:44 - The challenge of sustaining energy in recovery efforts20:57 - Staffing challenges in emergency management22:45 - Recognizing and supporting team members during recovery Guest: Stephanie Masun Connect with Tim Conrad, APRLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textDisaster communications isn’t just about fighting fires – it’s about connecting communities amidst chaos. In this episode, host Tim Conrad discusses the intense challenges and strategies behind managing public relations during the 2023 British Columbia wildfire season. Guest Jan Enns delves into her own experiences with evacuation and loss, while highlighting the critical importance of mental health for responders and residents. Together, they share valuable insights on how to navigate the complexities of crisis communications, emphasizing the power of empathy, community engagement, and resilience.Listen For:06:30 - The Butterfly Effect Explained14:51 - Developing a Crisis Strategy Amid Chaos18:40 - Navigating the Meta News Ban25:03 - The Mental Health Impact on Responders See the graphics and documents discussed in this episodeDocuments and imagesGuest: Jan Enns LinkedIn | Website | Facebook | InstagramConnect with Tim Conrad, APRLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textCan strategic planning and empathy transform chaos into order? In this episode, Tim Conrad introduces Michele Toma, an information officer with expertise in research, analytics, and crisis communication strategies. They recount their experiences during the devastating 2023 British Columbia wildfire season, highlighting the importance of humanity, empathy, and meticulous documentation in managing crises. Michele shares her insights on strategic planning, stakeholder relations, and the critical role of business continuity plans. Their discussion underscores how turning negative feedback into opportunities for improvement can significantly enhance crisis response and communication efforts.Listen For:06:47 - Documentation and Accountability15:04 - Empathy in Crisis Management20:08 - Business Continuity Planning Essentials27:54 - Turning Negatives into OpportunitiesSee the graphics and documents discussed in this episodeDocuments and imagesGuest: Michele TomaLinkedIn Connect with Tim Conrad, APRLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textIn the eye of the storm, communication is key.In this episode, Tim Conrad and Kendra Stoner discuss the high stakes of emergency communication. They discuss the challenges and rewards of managing emergency operations centres (EOCs) during British Columbia's intense 2023 wildfire season. Kendra highlights the importance of effective communication, maintaining public trust, and the emotional resilience required for this demanding work. The episode underscores the critical role of preparation, strong team dynamics, and the personal commitment needed to support communities in crisis.Listen For:03:14 - The Hybrid EOC Challenge06:02 - Overcoming Burnout in Emergencies11:37 - Personal and Professional Detachment22:36 - The Importance of PreparationSee the graphics and documents discussed in this episodeDocuments and imagesGuest: Kendra StonerLinkedIn Connect with Tim Conrad, APRLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textFrom the frontlines of wildfires to the heart of communities.This episode dives deep into the gritty realities of disaster communications. Tim Conrad interviews Lloyd Piehl, an experienced information officer, about their harrowing yet impactful experiences during the 2023 British Columbia wildfire season. Lloyd shares compelling stories of working closely with firefighters and community members, illustrating the emotional and mental toll of such crises. Their discussion covers the importance of public outreach, mental well-being, and the therapeutic role of art in processing trauma. Piehl's unique approach to healing through Lego art therapy provides a fascinating insight into coping mechanisms for those in high-stress environments. Listen For:02:34 - Life in the Firetruck09:37 – The Reality of Disaster Zones11:23 - The Importance of Public Outreach During Disasters18:31 - From Anger to Healing: Transforming Community EmotionsGuest: Lloyd Piehl Instagram Connect with Tim Conrad, APR LinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textWhen chaos strikes, communication is key.  In this episode of the Wildfires, Floods, and Chaos Communications podcast, Tim sits down with Leila Daoud, an experienced public relations professional, to discuss the unprecedented 2023 British Columbia wildfire season.  Leila shares her insights on the challenges and benefits of operating in a fully remote Emergency Operations Center (EOC), highlighting the importance of adaptability and clear communication during crises.   They delve into the complexities of media relations, the evolving role of social media, and the crucial need for trust and transparency in emergency communications.  Listen For: 10:10 - The Role of Social Media in Emergencies 16:31 - Choosing the Right Spokesperson 20:38 - The Power of Graphics in Communication 32:27 - Building Trust Before Emergencies  See the graphics and documents discussed in this episode Documents and images  Guest: Leila Daoud LinkedIn Connect with Tim Conrad, APR LinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textWhen wildfires rage, clear communication is the ultimate firebreak.In this episode, Tim Conrad sits down with Mike Lupien, a public relations expert, to discuss his experiences during the 2023 British Columbia wildfire season and the infamous 2016 Fort McMurray fire. Mike shares his insights on crisis communication strategies, the development of essential reentry guides, and the intricate dynamics within an Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Mike emphasizes the critical role of communication in managing public perception and facilitating recovery efforts.Listen For:02:39 - Fort McMurray Fire Insights07:01 - Evacuee Challenges13:18 - Reentry Logistics21:13 - Recovery Communications PlanningSee the graphics and documents discussed in this episodeDocuments and imagesGuest: Mike Lupien, APRLinkedIn Connect with Tim Conrad, APRLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Send us a textNavigating chaos with calm.In episode one, Tim Conrad interviews Brie Thorsteinson-Ogle, an expert in strategic behavioural communication, about their experiences managing communications during the brutal 2023 British Columbia wildfires. Brie discusses the critical importance of building trust, simplifying complex processes, and effectively engaging with communities under duress. Together, they explore the power of listening and adapting in crisis situations, emphasizing that every gap identified is an opportunity for better solutions and community healing.Listen For:04:50 - Simplifying Complex Processes08:37 - Building Trust and Credibility18:07 - The Power of Listening31:19 - Team Support and Psychological SafetySee the graphics and documents discussed in this episodeDocuments and imagesGuest: Brie Thorsteinson-OgleWebsite | LinkedIn Connect with Tim ConradLinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram

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