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  • Disaster Trauma and Mental Health with Sonnet Daymont

    Disaster Trauma and Mental Health with Sonnet Daymont
    Apr 17 2026
    Sonnet Daymont, clinical therapist, joins the show this week with a look at the treatment and management of mental health trauma in both victims and responders following a major event. Her experiences following devastating wild fires in the Los Angeles area in January of 2025 help her define the needs of individuals in the short and long term. Dr. Joe Holley from Paragon Medical Education Group and Becky DePodwin, our disaster emergency management expert joined the discussion as well. The episode is 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 Disaster Podcast Planning Meeting The team introduced themselves and discussed upcoming topics for the Disaster Podcast. Sam mentioned moving to Missouri and plans to build a tornado shelter in his garage. Becky advised keeping an eye on the severe weather forecast during the move. The group then introduced their guest for the episode, trauma expert Sonnet Daymont, who is a licensed marriage and family therapist and consultant on films. They discussed her background and her upcoming book “When Dangerous Feels Like Home,” a true crime memoir about healing from trauma. Sonnet’s Trauma Therapy Memoir Discussion The discussion focused on Sonnet’s background as a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in trauma treatment. She explained her upcoming book “When Dangerous Feels Like Home,” which is a true crime-inflected memoir about her journey to becoming a therapist through experiencing relational trauma. The conversation also touched on Sonnet’s work in the film industry, including consulting on a horror film about child abuse titled “Women in the Yard.” When asked about red flags for narcissistic personality traits, she began explaining how these traits relate to antisocial personality disorder and the challenges they present in relationships, though the transcript ended before she could complete her answer. Narcissistic Behavior Identification Discussion Sonnet advised that identifying narcissistic behavior involves paying attention to genuine empathy and listening carefully to others. They explained that while some behaviors like love bombing and grandiosity can be normal early in relationships, pathological versions might indicate manipulative or harmful intentions. Sonnet also clarified that mental health disorders like narcissism lack biomarkers and diagnostic criteria change over time, while explaining that Machiavellianism describes manipulative and cunning behavior lacking empathy. Psychological Disorders and Resilience The group discussed psychological disorders, focusing on the differences between psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder as defined in the DSM. Sonnet explained that while these conditions share some traits like low empathy, they represent distinct diagnostic categories, and individuals can exhibit multiple disorders simultaneously. Becky raised questions about nature versus nurture in personality development, to which Sonnet responded that brain scans show differences in people with reduced empathy or antisocial behavior, though the cause could be either genetic or environmental factors. The conversation then shifted to trauma and resilience, with Sonnet sharing insights about how supportive caregivers or mentors can help individuals process trauma constructively rather than developing problematic behaviors. Jamie introduced a new topic about disaster resilience, asking about preparation methods for people living in disaster-prone areas, but the transcript ended before this question was addressed. Disaster Responder Mental Health Strategies The meeting focused on discussing self-care and mental health strategies for disaster responders and survivors. Sonnet explained key components of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), including mindful awareness, thought restructuring, and exposure therapy, as effective tools for managing trauma and anxiety. The discussion highlighted how community support and social connections are crucial during disasters, with examples from recent wildfires in Los Angeles. The group agreed to bring back Sonnet for future discussions on mental health topics, particularly focusing on meteorologists’ experiences with disaster forecasting and its impact on their mental well-being. 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...
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    44 Min.
  • Future Proof Homes Against Disaster with Ben Gilliland

    Future Proof Homes Against Disaster with Ben Gilliland
    Apr 10 2026
    The Disaster Podcast hosted Ben Gilliland from Future Proof Property Intelligence to discuss his company’s AI-powered solution for assessing and mitigating climate-related risks to homes. Ben explained how their technology uses smartphone video scans, NVIDIA AI, and IBM climate data to create 3D models of properties, identify risk factors, and provide remediation plans and cost estimates. The discussion covered how their system addresses the mismatch between rising weather risks and shrinking insurance options, with an average cost of $10,000-$40,000 for home remediation. Becky DePodwin joined the call as well to offer her thoughts on this technology. The episode is 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 Disaster Response Program Evolution The group discussed Joe, a Memphis-based medical director and ER doctor who runs Pentagon Medical Education Group, which provides experiential training for disaster responders using cadaver labs. Benjamin shared that his organization has shifted focus to develop a private sector solution for disaster mitigation after FEMA’s funding changes, working with Thomas Chandler from Columbia on developing remediation programs. Benjamin explained how their program has evolved to include three main areas: remediation, education, and preparedness, moving from a initial focus on house hardening to a broader approach including people engagement and warning systems. Resilience Technology Podcast Preparation The meeting focused on preparing for an upcoming podcast episode about using technology to enhance home and workplace resilience. Benjamin Gilliland from Future Proof Property Intelligence was introduced as the guest. The hosts, Jamie and Sam, discussed the format of the podcast and introduced Becky, a meteorologist and emergency management expert, as a participant. The conversation briefly touched on weather conditions and El Nino before transitioning to prepare for the main discussion about resilience technology. AI-Powered Home Assessment Solution Benjamin shared his extensive background, from his early career in lighting design for rock bands to his involvement in early Silicon Valley computing, where he funded several technology projects including the first spelling checker and multimedia initiatives. He explained how his non-profit TPHA.org, which focuses on affordable and climate-resilient housing in Hawaii, led to the development of Future Proof’s AI-powered solution. The system uses iPhone video recordings to create 3D models of homes, generating repair plans, budgets, and material lists while also identifying available government grants and financing options for home improvements. Disaster Preparedness and Risk Mitigation Benjamin and Sam discussed disaster preparedness and risk mitigation, particularly focusing on a three-silo approach involving home assessments, education, and emergency alerts. Benjamin explained their work with Columbia University, which includes developing a vision system using AI to help homeowners identify safe areas in their homes during disasters, while simultaneously creating video records of their belongings for insurance purposes. They also discussed a comfort bot with patent-pending technology that can adjust its messaging based on the listener’s age and situation during emergency alerts. AI Emergency Warning Conflicts Becky raised concerns about how AI systems might handle competing emergency warnings, such as conflicting advice during Hurricane Ida where tornado and flooding warnings contradicted each other. Benjamin acknowledged this was still an area being developed, mentioning NVIDIA’s work on reasoning components and noting that while the system could potentially handle house-related alerts, direct AI instructions for emergency warnings were still 2-3 years away. The discussion highlighted the need to address how AI systems might triage conflicting alerts based on house mapping and personal information, though current AI trustworthiness for direct emergency instructions was deemed insufficient. Address-Level Risk Assessment System Benjamin explained that their risk assessment system operates at the address level rather than broader grid squares, providing more granular data than what insurance companies currently use. He described how they can identify specific risk factors like trees near homes in Southern California versus central Missouri, where different hazards prevail. The system aims to empower homeowners with property risk information while creating a bridge between homeowners and insurance companies, allowing for better-informed decisions about insurance and potential ...
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    46 Min.
  • NAEMSP, EMS and USAR Training, and Disaster Response with Dr. Joe Holley

    NAEMSP, EMS and USAR Training, and Disaster Response with Dr. Joe Holley
    Mar 20 2026
    Dr. Joe Holley in USAR training

    The Disaster Podcast’s Dr. Joe Holley has been busy over the last month and a half traveling to conferences and training scenarios. In this episode, we talk with Joe about his recent travels to get his take aways from these events and what he sees in the near future for disaster responders. Also on the show were disaster emergency management expert Becky DePodwin and our disaster meteorologist Dan DePodwin.

    The episode is 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

    US Severe Weather Discussion

    The group discussed recent severe weather events across the United States, including tornadoes, snowstorms, and a heat wave in the West. Becky explained that March is typically an active weather month due to jet stream patterns, and current conditions are being influenced by an amplified jet stream rather than El Nino or La Nina patterns.

    The discussion covered impacts including power outages, road closures, and challenges for emergency services in affected regions. The group noted that while weather conditions have been extreme, the forecast for the coming week appears calmer with no severe weather expected.

    EMS Developments and Education Updates

    Joe discussed his recent activities in EMS, including attending the National Association of EMS Physicians meeting in Florida and teaching a medical specialist class for urban search and rescue. He highlighted new developments in EMS, such as blood administration programs, changes in DEA regulations, and technological advancements in airways and patient monitoring.

    Joe also mentioned his work with Paragon Medical Education Group and the Commission on Accreditation of Prehospital Continuing Education (CAPSE), emphasizing the importance of quality continuing education for EMS providers. The group discussed potential future collaborations, including a planned episode featuring James Corbin to discuss experiential training.

    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!
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    35 Min.
  • Planning and Execution of Emergency Response for 2026 Winter X-Games

    Planning and Execution of Emergency Response for 2026 Winter X-Games
    Mar 6 2026
    The Winter X-Games are back! Disaster Podcast OG meteorologist, Kyle Nelson, comes on the show to discuss his work with the 2026 Winter X-Games in his capacity as a leader in the Pitkin County, Colorado Incident Management Team (IMT). The IMT helps to prepare for and run emergency services response to the X-Games. Kyle discusses the various roles he’s assumed over the years for this special event in Aspen, Colorado. The team explores how the event prepares for managing emergency events and treating injuries for both athletes and attendees. The episode is 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 Snow Impact and Emergency Roles Jamie Davis, Sam Bradley, and Kyle Nelson discussed the impact of recent weather events, particularly heavy snowfall across the East Coast and Colorado. Kyle provided an overview of his roles, including ski patroller, avalanche dog handler, manager of Pitkin County Telecommunications, and Emergency Support Function 2 communications lead. He also shared his background in meteorology and experience as a 911 dispatcher, highlighting his work with state incident management teams and his role as a contract instructor for Argonne National Labs and FEMA’s training centers. Kyle’s Projects and Weather Update Sam and Jamie discussed Kyle’s involvement in various projects, highlighting his contributions to the team. Kyle provided a weather update, predicting warm temperatures in the desert southwest and a return of winter in the east. He also explained the significance of the Winter X Games in Aspen, Colorado, as an Olympic qualifying event and a platform for pushing the boundaries of winter sports. Olympic Qualifying and Incident Management Sam and Kyle discussed the Olympic qualifying system, where athletes can make or break their Olympic bid by achieving high scores and podium spots. Kyle explained his role in the Incident Management Team (IMT), which provides structure and coordination for local responders during incidents, whether planned or emerging. The IMT’s mission is to support local entities and coordinate resources, ensuring effective management of events. X Games Incident Management Evolution Kyle has been involved with the X Games in Aspen for over 10 years, starting as a ski patrol member and later becoming the Winter X Games lead for Aspen Skiing Company. He helped reshape the athlete medical component and worked with Dr. Joel Buzzi to enhance safety. Kyle transitioned to a 911 dispatcher role, managing event schedules and staff, before joining the Incident Management Team as a Type 3 team member. He initially worked in the planning section, was qualified as a Type III plan section chief, and this year took on the Communications Unit Leader role, combining his experiences in dispatching and telecommunications. X Games Emergency Communication Strategies Jamie and Kyle discussed emergency preparedness and communication strategies for events like the X Games. Kyle explained that their team manages venue safety, coordinates with X Games and local authorities, and prepares for various emergencies, including athlete injuries. They emphasized the importance of pre-planned messaging to quickly and effectively communicate with media and the public in case of incidents. Jamie inquired about how such situations are handled at X Games events, particularly regarding the evacuation of injured athletes. X Games Medical Response Team Kyle explained the multi-faceted athlete medical team at the X Games, coordinated by Dr. Buzzy, which includes ski patrol from Aspen Skiing Company, the Aspen Ambulance District, and Medicine in Motion. He described how they handle athlete injuries, from minor incidents to major emergencies, ensuring the closest provider assesses and reports the injury while calling for additional resources if needed. The medical team works to provide the best care for athletes, with dispositions ranging from self-care to medical tents or ambulance transport, and noted that helicopter evacuations are not typically necessary due to the venue’s low elevation and efficient toboggan evacuation methods. Overcoming Language Barriers in Sports Jamie asked about challenges with translation and language barriers for international athletes and their support teams. Kyle explained that they have systems in place to address these issues, including allowing coaches or parents to assist with communication, using translation apps, and having a dedicated medical team. They emphasized their ability to adapt and solve problems as they arise, ensuring all athletes receive the necessary care and support. X Games Planning and Operations Kyle ...
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    32 Min.
  • Leading Through Catastrophe with Seamus Leary

    Leading Through Catastrophe with Seamus Leary
    Feb 7 2026
    This week on the Disaster Podcast we chat with Seamus Leary ,MPA, CEM about leading through catastrophe: when systems fail. He is President of Meridian Strategic Services, Inc. and is an emergency management expert who worked at the state and local levels and later with FEMA at the Federal level. With responses to numerous major disasters, Seamus brings a unique perspective to how emergency managers can cope when all the usual systems break down. The episode is 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 FEMA’s Disaster Response Methods Seamus Leary, president of Meridian Strategic Services, discussed his experience in emergency management, including his role as a federal coordinating officer for FEMA Region 2 and his work as a county emergency manager. He explained FEMA’s disaster classification system, highlighting that catastrophic disasters, or Level 1 events, require national-level responses involving resources from across the country. Seamus shared insights from his deployment to St. Thomas ahead of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required to address such catastrophic events. Enhancing Disaster Response Strategies The discussion focused on disaster response challenges, with Seamus sharing his experience in St. Thomas after a storm where they faced significant communication and infrastructure failures. They discussed how multiple issues can cascade, making it difficult to manage complex disasters, and emphasized the importance of having both digital and traditional emergency management tools to handle various scenarios. Jamie contributed by mentioning their county’s use of both digital screens and physical maps for nuclear incident planning, highlighting the value of having multiple systems in place. Blending Digital and Traditional Communication The group discussed the importance of combining digital media skills with traditional communication methods, emphasizing the value of explaining the “why” to younger team members who excel in digital but may lack traditional skills. Seamus shared his experience as an emergency manager during Hurricane Irene, highlighting the need for rest and backup plans for teams working around the clock, and Jamie referenced Joe’s practice of maintaining a notebook of contacts during responses to quickly access needed resources. Emergency Response Coordination Strategies Seamus emphasized the importance of building relationships with local emergency responders and understanding cultural differences when working in unfamiliar communities. He and Sam discussed the need for contingency plans when communication systems fail, such as having backup power and redundant communication channels. Seamus also highlighted the challenge of managing disasters while dealing with personal emergencies and suggested leveraging non-traditional resources and coordinating with neighboring jurisdictions to overcome resource shortages. Emergency Management and Community Resilience The meeting focused on emergency management and disaster response strategies. Seamus, an experienced emergency manager, discussed the importance of training organizations to be adaptable and flexible during crises, emphasizing the need to prepare for when systems fail rather than when they work. He highlighted the importance of partnerships with non-traditional organizations like churches and hardware stores, as well as the role of community leaders in fostering relationships with local businesses. 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!
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    39 Min.
  • Black Swan Disaster Events with Helen Hynson Vettori

    Black Swan Disaster Events with Helen Hynson Vettori
    Jan 23 2026
    Helen Hynson Vettori (https://www.helenhynsonvettori.com/) is a former EMT/paramedic and retired senior medical intelligence analyst at the Department of Homeland Security. We have her on the show to share her insights and the two sci-fi thriller novels she wrote based on her experiences. Helen channeled her real-world emergency response and pandemic-planning experience into her sci-fi disaster thriller series, beginning with Black Swan Impact and followed by Black Swan Shock. A “Black Swan” event is a term used to describe a catastrophic incident that no one could have foreseen or imagined because of its unprecedented impact. Helen didn’t imagine crisis from the outside, rather she spent years preparing for biological threats, including pandemics, and then watched COVID unfold in real time. That insider perspective and her frustration with confusing messaging and federal missteps became the fuel for fiction that feels uncomfortably plausible. Dr. Joe Holley from Paragon Medical Education Group joined the podcast as well as our disaster emergency management expert Becky DePodwin and our disaster weather expert Dan DePodwin. The episode is 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 Winter Storm Impact and Preparations The meeting focused on a major winter storm expected to impact large parts of the United States, with Dan providing detailed forecasts of snow, ice, and travel disruptions across multiple regions. The group discussed the storm’s potential effects on various cities, including Oklahoma City, Atlanta, and the Northeast, emphasizing the danger of ice accumulation and power outages. They also advised listeners to consider rescheduling flights and prepare for travel disruptions, particularly in the affected areas. The conversation ended with an introduction to their guest, Helen Hinson Vittori, a former EMT and intelligence analyst at the Department of Homeland Security, who will discuss her experiences during the pandemic. Emergency Response Expert’s Pandemic Novel Helen shared her extensive background in emergency response, including her work as a paramedic, her role in biothreat planning at DHS, and her experience creating pandemic response plans. She retired in 2018 but became concerned about the government’s response to COVID-19 in 2020, which led her to write a sci-fi political thriller novel called “Black Swan Impact” that explores a catastrophic pathogen event in the year 2113. The novel served as a cathartic way for her to process the chaotic response to the pandemic she had witnessed firsthand. Emergency Preparedness Through Personal Writing Helen shared her experience as an emergency manager and author, discussing how writing provided her with both peace and a mission to educate others about emergency preparedness. She emphasized that individual preparedness is crucial for both personal and community-level disasters, and highlighted a book club question in her second book, “Black Swan Shock,” that encourages readers to assess their own emergency preparedness. Federal Pandemic Planning and Leadership Helen shared her experience working on federal pandemic plans and witnessing their partial abandonment during the actual crisis, expressing disappointment in leadership’s failure to communicate effectively and adhere to established protocols. The discussion explored how better preparation and public education could improve future responses to pandemics and other disasters, with Helen emphasizing the importance of all-hazard planning that starts at the individual level. The group agreed to have Helen return for another podcast episode, and several connections were made between participants for future discussions. Wrap up and updates The team went through contact information and Joe shared that Paragon is working on a new cadaveric-based simulator for pericardial tamponade training. The team encouraged listeners to stay safe and check out Helen’s books. 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!
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    41 Min.
  • 2026 Seasonal Influenza Update with Dr. Joe Holley

    2026 Seasonal Influenza Update with Dr. Joe Holley
    Jan 19 2026
    We delve into the recent surge of Influenza cases across large swaths of the United States in recent weeks. This year is shaping up to be a particularly difficult year for health care facilities and the patients who need them for treatment. Dr. Joe Holley joins us today to discuss what he’s seeing in the Memphis, Tennessee area and what the national flu outlook is. The most common Influenza A strain right now is causing a surge in ER visits and hospital admissions across the U.S. right now. The dominant Influenza A strain for the 2025-2026 flu season is the A(H3N2) subclade K, a variant with notable mutations. The annual vaccine is moderately effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalization and the subclade K variant responds well to antivirals such as Tamiflu. 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 Flu Trends and Vaccination Impact Joe and Jamie discussed the recent surge in flu cases, particularly affecting unvaccinated individuals and those with underlying health conditions. Jamie shared his experience of being admitted to the ER with influenza A and noted that vaccinated individuals were more likely to be discharged. Joe confirmed that national trends showed higher hospitalization rates and deaths among the unvaccinated, elderly, and those with other medical issues. Flu Awareness for Healthcare Jamie shared his severe flu experience, which included a high fever, chills, and muscle cramps, leading him to seek emergency care. He emphasized the importance of flu awareness for healthcare professionals, noting the recent increase in flu-related deaths and pediatric deaths reported by the CDC. Healthcare Virus Transmission Prevention Jamie and Joe discussed protective measures for healthcare providers against virus transmission, emphasizing hand hygiene, respiratory protection, and avoiding confined spaces with sick individuals. Joe highlighted the risk of virus spread in confined environments like airplanes, while Jamie shared personal experiences and encouraged listeners to take transmission prevention seriously, noting its impact on their community. Post-COVID Brain Fog Symptoms Jamie described experiencing “brain fog” after recovering from COVID-19, which made mental tasks difficult and required significant mental effort. Joe explained that this could be due to increased inflammatory markers and the body’s energy expenditure in fighting the infection. Sam noted that their household member who had not been vaccinated experienced different symptoms, and both Sam and their household member took about two weeks to regain their energy levels. Influenza Symptoms and Management Joe explained that vaccination can reduce the severity of symptoms, and both Jamie and Sam experienced typical symptoms of influenza A, with Jamie noting the importance of IV fluids in managing his symptoms. Sam described severe gastrointestinal symptoms, while Jamie mentioned being prescribed Zofran despite not experiencing nausea. Joe elaborated on how dehydration and inflammatory mediators contribute to symptoms, and rehydration can help alleviate them. Winter Virus and Flu Updates Jamie shared his experience of being delayed for release from the hospital due to low blood pressure, which was unusual for him. The medical team tried various methods to increase his blood pressure, including making him angry and having him walk around. Joe explained that while having the flu is unpleasant, it leads to the development of protective antibodies. Sam noted that the flu often overshadows other winter viruses, and Joe confirmed they are still seeing a variety of other respiratory infections. Early Flu Treatment and Testing Joe and Sam discussed the importance of seeking medical attention and testing for flu symptoms, with Joe recommending early treatment with antiviral drugs like Tamiflu, which are most effective within the first 48 hours of symptoms. Sam acknowledged that healthcare professionals might be reluctant to visit doctors when they need to, possibly due to a false sense of invincibility. Jamie emphasized the significance of early testing and treatment for flu, aligning with Joe’s advice. Influenza Testing and Treatment Discussion The group discussed influenza prevention and treatment, with Joe emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and medication, particularly given the availability of over-the-counter rapid flu tests. Jamie noted that the COVID-19 pandemic had increased access to home testing, which Sam and Joe hadn’t previously considered. They agreed that while many people might choose to tough it out, getting tested early could be ...
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    29 Min.
  • Disaster Podcast 2025 Year In Review

    Disaster Podcast 2025 Year In Review
    Jan 11 2026

    We gather our podcast regulars for a look at the past year on the show with our 2025 Disaster Podcast year in review. Dr. Joe Holley joined co-hosts Sam Bradley and Jamie Davis for this episode. Kyle Nelson, Becky DePodwin, and Dan DePodwin sent in their top episode picks by email.

    Joe Holley kicks off the look back at last year with a vote for the clinical topics, especially the recent 5-episode run on head-up CPR during sudden cardiac arrest. We assembled a special page for the head up CPR topic with all 5 episodes listed.

    Joe also discussed the importance of understanding how research works and not to get caught up in a single social media post on a novel subject without really understanding the context amidst other research. His final choice was the look at K9 and USAR dog training with Kimberly Holley. Kimberly has extensive training alongside her two trained USAR dogs and the third dog she has in training.

    Kyle talked about the episode with the Combat Midwife, Jessica Arno. This was an in-depth look at maternal and pediatric disaster care. In addition, Stump Dan the weatherman was another favorite episode as host Sam Bradley used the internet to come up with some novel weather terms and try to stump our own Dan DePodwin. These episodes are an annual favorite as Dan has an amazing understanding of weather, especially winter weather.

    Investigating airline disasters with Edward Colson of Ready Northwest was one of Becky DePodwin’s favorites as we delved into aviation industry disaster planning. She also put in her vote for the Stump the weatherman episode linked above.

    Jamie added the annual look at the Winter X-Games in Aspen. Our own Kyle Nelson worked as Planning Section Chief for the incident management team before and during the event this past year and shared some of the challenges they faced making such an event as safe as possible.

    We covered many other excellent topics this past year. If you have a different favorite from the ones listed in this episode retrospective, leave your answer in the comments below.

    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.

    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!
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    39 Min.