Tragedy can be a catalyst for change—but turning loss into meaningful action is rarely easy. In this episode of the TruCode Podcast, host Matt Silver sits down with Eric Quanbeck, who, alongside his wife Dayna, experienced an unimaginable tragedy when their son, Alex, was killed by a falling gate while playing at recess. In the aftermath, Eric and Dayna turned their grief into advocacy, working to raise public awareness and push for legislation designed to prevent similar tragedies from happening again. But how does someone with no legislative experience become an effective advocate? What does it take to turn public awareness into meaningful change? And why can passing new laws take so long? Eric shares his family’s story, the challenges of navigating the legislative process, and what it takes to turn tragedy into action. Learn more in the latest episode of the TruCode Podcast. Host: Matthew R. Silver, CCEO, Esq. Guest Speaker: Eric Quanbeck, Safety Advocate and Co-founder Ready, Set, Safe! Eric Quanbeck is the co-founder of Ready, Set, Safe!, a nonprofit that seeks to build safer educational and recreational spaces for children by establishing consistent safety standards for schools, playgrounds, community centers, and after-school programs. Eric and his wife, Dayna, founded the organization in response to the tragic death of their son, Alex, who was killed at school by a manual gate that collapsed during recess. Eric and Dayna have become tireless advocates for more comprehensive safety standards. Their work helped drive the International Code Council to draft new safety requirements for heavy gates, which are set to go into effect in 2027. Last year, the Alex Gate Safety Act of 2025 was introduced in Congress. The bipartisan bill would establish national safety standards for gates across the United States. It is currently awaiting a floor vote in the Senate Commerce Committee after passing the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee earlier this year. Resources: Ready, Set, Safe!: https://readysetsafe.org/ ---------- At TruCode®, our mission is to reveal the truth about code enforcement and its role in protecting and improving communities. Send us your episode suggestions and TruTales stories to podcast@civicalaw.com. New episodes drop every other Wednesday, so follow, review, and rate us wherever you're listening now. ---------- Legal Disclaimer: TruCode® Podcast provides updates and insights into current municipal legislation and is not intended as legal advice. Outcomes of legal matters can vary significantly based on specific factual and legal circumstances. Civica Law Group, APC® remains dedicated to providing unmatched legal solutions and upholding community standards and environmental integrity. For professional legal counsel or guidance, visit civicalaw.com/contact-us to get in touch with our experienced attorneys.
