The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations

Jeff Perkins
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  • GOVERNMENT

The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations explores the critical world of emergency management, public safety, and interoperable communications. Hosted by Jeff Perkins, this podcast delivers expert insights and real-world stories to inspire collaboration and resilience in crisis  #TheEOCPodcast #EmergencyManagement #PublicSafety #DisasterPreparedness #Resilience #LeadershipInCrisis #EmergencyPlanning 

Episodes

  1. 11/07/2025

    Bridging the Communication Gap: Insights from Brian Gould on Public Safety and Technology

    Send us a text Title: Bridging the Communication Gap: Insights from Brian Gould on Public Safety and Technology Introduction: In the world of public safety, effective communication is not just a necessity; it's a lifeline. In this episode of the EOC podcast, host Jeff Perkins welcomed Brian Gould, Public Safety Segment Advisor for T-Mobile for Government, to discuss the evolving landscape of communication in emergency services and the crucial role technology plays in keeping first responders connected. Main Content: 1. The Importance of Communication in Public Safety    Communication is the backbone of public safety operations. Brian Gould emphasizes that successful emergency response hinges on the ability to build relationships before crises occur. As he states, "Your ability to build relationships prior to meeting them is absolutely critical." This proactive approach ensures that when disasters strike, responders can coordinate effectively, drawing on established trust. 2. Brian's Journey in Public Service    Brian's background is a testament to his commitment to public safety. He began his career as a 911 dispatcher and quickly rose through the ranks in law enforcement, ultimately serving as the Chief of Police in Chiquitawaga, New York. His experience in both policing and firefighting gives him a unique perspective on incident command and operational challenges. Brian recalls, "I think the number one thing...is that your ability to build relationships prior to meeting them is absolutely critical." 3. Challenges Faced in Western New York    During his tenure as chief, Brian faced significant challenges, particularly staffing shortages and interoperability issues among agencies. He notes, "We saw a lot of recruitment and retention challenges when it came to policing." Additionally, he highlights the ongoing struggle for agencies to communicate effectively during pursuits and emergencies due to outdated systems. This underscores the need for investment in modern communication technology. 4. The Role of Technology in Modernizing Communication    Technology has advanced rapidly, offering new tools for public safety. Brian discusses the importance of innovations like T-Mobile's T-Satellite, which ensures reliable communication even in the toughest environments. He stresses that "the technology is advancing faster than any of us could ever imagine," making it imperative for agencies to stay informed about available resources. 5. Real-World Impact of Effective Communication    The significance of communication becomes starkly clear in emergency situations. Brian recounts the devastating blizzard of 2022, where many lives were lost due to communication failures. He explains that during this crisis, effective communication was paramount for coordinating rescue efforts and ensuring the safety of community members. Conclusion: In summary, Brian Gould's insights on public safety and communication highlight the vital role that technology plays in ensuring first responders can perform their duties effectively. Building relationships and staying informed about the latest communication tools are key takeaways for anyone involved in emergency management. As Brian aptly puts it, "When everything goes wrong, you gotta know who your friends are." Key Takeaways: - Effective communication is crucial for successful emergency response. - Building relationships before crises can significantly improve response efforts. - Modern technology, like T-Satellite, is essenti Powered by the Sapper Company LLCYour trusted source for survival gear, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness solutions. Support the show

    54 min

  2. 11/04/2025

    Why 911 Matters: The Untold Story of Call Takers, First Responders, and the People They Save

    Send us a text Behind every 911 call is a story of courage, calm, and connection. Jeff Perkins explores what happens between the caller, the call taker, and the first responder — and why those invisible moments matter more than ever. When the world feels out of control, one number connects us all: 911. In this powerful solo episode of The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations, Jeff Perkins takes listeners inside the hidden world of emergency communications — from the terrified caller to the calm, steady voice on the other end, and from the dispatcher’s console to the first responder racing toward the unknown. You’ll hear how call takers translate chaos into clarity, how dispatchers bridge emotion and action, and how empathy, leadership, and trust keep communities safe. Through vivid storytelling and real-world insight, Jeff reminds us that 911 is more than a number — it’s a national promise that no one faces their worst day alone. In this episode, you’ll discover: • Why communication is the heartbeat of every emergency response • What 911 professionals experience behind the headset • How empathy and composure can save lives in seconds • The human stories that rarely make headlines but change lives every day Whether you’re in public safety, emergency management, or simply want to understand what really happens when you call for help, this episode will change how you think about 911 — forever. 🎧 Listen. Reflect. Share. Because behind every emergency, there’s a voice that chose to care.  00:00 – Introduction: The moment before the call  04:00 – The Number We All Know  12:00 – The Sound of Crisis  22:00 – The Bridge Between Worlds  29:00 – A Tale of Two Moments  39:00 – The Human Cost and Quiet Heroes  47:00 – Connection and Trust  52:00 – Humor and Humanity  57:00 – Evolution of 911  1:03:00 – Conversation with Silence  1:09:00 – Closing Reflections: Why 911 Matters  Powered by the Sapper Company LLCYour trusted source for survival gear, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness solutions.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    18 min

  3. 10/11/2025

    Radios, Relationships, and Resilience with Greg Hauser

    Send us a text  How North Carolina’s SWIC turned lessons from Hurricanes Florence & Helene into a national playbook for connectivity, trust, and response.  When disaster strikes and communications fail, leadership and relationships make all the difference. In this episode of The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations, host Jeff Perkins sits down with Greg Hauser, North Carolina’s Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC) and Vice Chair of the National Council of SWICs, to talk about what it truly takes to keep people connected when everything else goes dark. Greg shares lessons learned from leading communications during hurricanes, floods, and national events, and how North Carolina’s Emergency Support Function 2 (ESF-2) continues to innovate under pressure. Together, Jeff and Greg explore the human side of interoperability — where trust, humility, and teamwork matter as much as the technology itself. Listeners will hear first-hand stories from Hurricane Helene, reflections on how communities step up when systems go down, and a candid look at the future of emergency communications. Whether you’re in emergency management, public safety, or just passionate about resilience, this conversation delivers insight, leadership, and heart — proving that true interoperability starts with relationships. Powered by the Sapper Company LLCYour trusted source for survival gear, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness solutions. Support the show

    56 min

  4. 04/23/2025

    Grants, Gaps, and the Great Freeze: How States Are Navigating FEMA’s Changing Grant Landscape

    Send us a text 🎙️ EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations Series: Federal Firestorm – The FEMA Files Episode 2: “Grants, Gaps, and the Great Freeze: How States Are Navigating FEMA’s Changing Grant Landscape” As federal disaster policy undergoes a seismic shift, local emergency managers are left in a holding pattern. In Episode 2 of our Federal Firestorm series, we dive deep into the turbulence surrounding FEMA’s grant programs—past, present, and future. We examine the Trump administration’s recent cancellation of FEMA’s BRIC program, the freezing of billions in grant disbursements, and the growing tension between federal oversight and local autonomy. Drawing comparisons to the Biden-era initiatives aimed at equity and climate resilience, this episode explores how evolving philosophies about disaster governance are reshaping funding priorities on the ground. From halted wildfire mitigation in Arizona to cyber readiness projects stalled in Illinois, the ripple effects are real—and mounting. We ask critical questions:  🔹 What happens when preparedness programs lose funding mid-stream?  🔹 How should local agencies respond when the federal safety net begins to fray?  🔹 If FEMA steps back, who steps up—and how? Whether you're an emergency manager, policymaker, or concerned citizen, this episode offers an in-depth, fact-based look at a pivotal moment in U.S. emergency management—and what’s at stake for the communities who depend on it. Powered by the Sapper Company LLCYour trusted source for survival gear, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness solutions. Support the show

    29 min

  5. 04/04/2025

    FEMA: A History of Heroes, Headlines, and Hard Lessons

    Send us a text After a long hiatus, the EOC Podcast returns with the first installment in a timely new series examining FEMA's past, present, and uncertain future. As the emergency management community grapples with unprecedented federal changes, understanding FEMA's evolution provides critical context for navigating what comes next. From its formation in 1979 under President Carter to its current challenges, FEMA's journey reflects America's evolving approach to disasters. We trace how an agency initially focused on nuclear war preparation transformed through failures during Hurricane Andrew, achieved excellence under James Lee Witt in the 1990s, lost momentum after being absorbed into Homeland Security post-9/11, faced its darkest hour during Hurricane Katrina, and gradually rebuilt its capabilities leading up to COVID-19. This comprehensive look at FEMA's trajectory reveals much more than organizational history – it illuminates the critical importance of federal emergency support as communities nationwide face increasingly frequent and severe disasters. As host Jeff Perkins notes, "FEMA is the E in the PACE plan" – the emergency option when all other resources are exhausted. With training programs disrupted, staffing reduced, and fundamental questions about federal disaster support unresolved, emergency managers must understand where we've been to navigate the road ahead. Join us for this essential conversation about the agency that serves as America's disaster safety net, and stay tuned for future episodes diving deeper into specific aspects of FEMA's operations and the challenges facing our profession. Powered by the Sapper Company LLCYour trusted source for survival gear, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness solutions. Support the show

    26 min

  6. 01/14/2025

    Unpacking the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires: A Complete Timeline and Response Breakdown

    Send us a text 🚨 Breaking Down the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires 🚨 The fires burning across Los Angeles County have captured the world’s attention—but what really happened? On the latest episode of The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations, we take you inside the facts: 🔥 What ignited the fires? 🔥 How did responders react? 🔥 What’s being done now to contain the devastation? This isn’t about blame—it’s about clarity. From the Palisades Fire to the Kenneth and Eaton Fires, we untangle the complexities of this crisis and bring you the real story from the ground up. If you’re looking for accurate, detailed information or want to help those affected, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and stay informed 📢 Share this post to help others understand the facts behind this disaster. Together, we can amplify the stories that matter. Here are some places where you can donate directly: American Red Cross – Disaster Relief: Provide shelter, food, and support for families affected by the fires. Visit www.redcross.org.California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund: Support long-term recovery efforts for communities impacted by wildfires. Visit www.calfund.org/wildfire-relief-fund.Direct Relief: Help supply emergency medical equipment and aid to responders on the front lines. Visit www.directrelief.org.Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: Support the firefighters and first responders working tirelessly to protect lives and property. Visit www.supportlafd.org.#LosAngelesWildfires #WildfireResponse #EmergencyManagement #EOCConversations #StayInformed #DisasterRelief Powered by the Sapper Company LLCYour trusted source for survival gear, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness solutions. Support the show

    25 min

  7. 01/04/2025

    Resilience in Action: Building Stronger Communities with Mike Harryman

    Send us a text In this episode of The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations, Jeff Perkins sits down with Mike Harryman, Oregon’s first State Resilience Officer and current OEMA President, to dive into what it really takes to build resilient communities. 💪🌎 From disaster preparedness and infrastructure upgrades to the invaluable role of volunteers, Mike shares insights from his decades-long career in emergency management. They also discuss the challenges of funding, long-term recovery, and why resilience is an ongoing process without a finishline. Don’t miss this conversation packed with practical tips and inspiring stories! 🎧✨ 📲 Listen now: #EmergencyManagement #Resilience #EOCPodcast #DisasterPreparedness #Leadership Powered by the Sapper Company LLCYour trusted source for survival gear, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness solutions. Support the show

    58 min

  8. 12/14/2024

    Unprecedented Inferno: Lessons from Oregon’s 2024 Wildfires

    Send us a text In this episode of The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations, we reflect on Oregon's devastating 2024 wildfire season—the worst in the state’s recorded history. With 1.9 million acres burned and countless lives impacted, we explore the challenges, lessons learned, and the incredible bravery of those who responded to the crisis. We honor the legacy of James Bailey Maxwell, a 74-year-old pilot who tragically lost his life during the Falls Fire, and discuss the critical role of aerial firefighting in emergency response. This episode is dedicated to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, a remarkable organization supporting wildland firefighters and their families. Visit wffoundation.org to learn more and support their vital mission. Join us as we examine the response strategies, partnerships, and resilience needed to face a growing wildfire threat in the Pacific Northwest.  “The opinions expressed in this podcast are my own and do not reflect the views or policies of my employer.”   #TheEOCPodcast #WildlandFirefighters #EmergencyManagement #PublicSafety #WildfirePreparedness #FireSeason2024 #Resilience #DisasterResponse #WFFoundation #AerialFirefighting #ClimateCrisis #PacificNorthwest #EmergencyResponse #Interoperability  Powered by the Sapper Company LLCYour trusted source for survival gear, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness solutions. Support the show

    41 min

  9. 12/07/2024

    Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness: Lessons from December 5th and Iron-OR 24

    Send us a text  On December 5th, an earthquake and tsunami warning tested the state's response capabilities and highlighted the importance of individual preparedness. In this episode of The EOC Podcast, we dive into how Oregon responded, lessons learned from the Iron-OR 24 exercise, and practical tips for creating your own emergency plan to sustain yourself and your family after a disaster. Tune in for insights that could make all the difference in a crisis.  https://www.ready.gov/ https://www.oregon.gov/oem/hazardsprep/Pages/orshakealert.aspx https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/individuals-communities/preparedness-activities-webinars/community-emergency-response-team Support the show

    23 min

  10. 12/04/2024

    Introducing The EOC Podcast: Meet Your Host and the Mission Ahead

    Send us a text  In the inaugural episode of The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations, host Jeff Perkins introduces himself and shares his journey from 911 dispatcher to emergency management professional and Army Reserve Sergeant. Discover what inspired Jeff to create this podcast and explore the critical role of communication, coordination, and leadership in public safety. Learn what The EOC Podcast is all about and what to expect in upcoming episodes. This is where the conversation begins—welcome aboard!  Support the show

    13 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

The EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations explores the critical world of emergency management, public safety, and interoperable communications. Hosted by Jeff Perkins, this podcast delivers expert insights and real-world stories to inspire collaboration and resilience in crisis  #TheEOCPodcast #EmergencyManagement #PublicSafety #DisasterPreparedness #Resilience #LeadershipInCrisis #EmergencyPlanning 

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