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🎙️ EOC Podcast: Emergency Operations Conversations
Series: Federal Firestorm – The FEMA Files
Episode 2: “Grants in Limbo: How Uncertainty Threatens Preparedness”

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.

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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.

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🚨 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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

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