Episodes

Thursday May 16, 2024
Thursday May 16, 2024
In this riveting episode of the "Tactics Meeting" podcast, we sit down with Captain Roger LaFerriere, who served as the Coast Guard Incident Commander during the Deepwater Horizon BP oil spill. Captain LaFerriere shares his firsthand experiences managing one of the largest environmental disasters in history.
We'll delve into the complexities of stakeholder engagement, exploring how effective communication and collaboration were crucial in coordinating efforts across federal, state, and local agencies. Captain LaFerriere provides insights into the challenges of shipboard firefighting and the pivotal role of the Coast Guard in emergency response.
Our discussion highlights the authority and responsibility carried by the Incident Commander and the importance of forming cohesive, multidisciplinary teams to tackle such crises. Captain LaFerriere also reflects on the innovative strategies used to contain and clean up the spill, emphasizing the lessons learned and how they have shaped current and future response frameworks.

Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Mastering Crisis Communication: Inside the New JIC and Liaison Manual
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
In this episode, join us for an exclusive preview of the newly updated Joint Information Center (JIC) and Liaison Manual of the Northwest Regional Contingency Plan, along with insights into the upcoming Communications Workshop in Portland on April 3rd, 2024. Our guests, Suzanne Lagoni, Principal at Nexus Northwest, and Ty Keltner, Communications Manager at the Washington State Department of Ecology, bring their wealth of experience and expertise to the discussion.
Throughout the episode, listeners will gain valuable insights into:
- The role of the JIC and liaison officers in coordinating communication during emergencies.
- Best practices for communication planning and implementation in crisis scenarios.
- Case studies and real-world examples illustrating the impact of strategic communication in crisis management.
- An overview of the upcoming Communications Workshop in Portland, offering participants practical tools and techniques for enhancing their crisis communication capabilities.
Whether you're directly involved in emergency response efforts or simply interested in understanding the dynamics of crisis communication, this episode provides invaluable insights and a sneak peek into the latest resources and training opportunities available in the Northwest region.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how effective communication can make all the difference in times of crisis, and discover how you can strengthen your organization's readiness and resilience in the face of uncertainty.

Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Liaison Officer with Jim Butler
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
In this enlightening episode, we dive deep into the critical role of the Liaison Officer within the Incident Command System, an essential framework for emergency response coordination. With the expertise of our guest, Jim Butler, a seasoned professional in the field, we explore the intricacies of how Liaison Officers serve as the pivotal link between various agencies and the command center during crises.

Monday Feb 05, 2024
LNG Safety Conference
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Monday Feb 05, 2024
In this special episode, brought to you by a collaboration between The Tactics Meeting Podcast and Crowley Maritime, , we dive into the intricate world of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), exploring its science, inherent dangers, and the critical measures in place for its safe handling and distribution. Join us as Christopher Deschenes and Rami Abusoufeh from Crowley, Jim Elliott from T&T Salvage, and Captain Kuldeep Singh from Gallagher Marine Services share their expertise on LNG's role in global energy, the risks and precautions associated with its bunkering and transportation, and the strategies for responding to LNG-related incidents. This comprehensive discussion aims to enlighten listeners on the importance of safety protocols and innovations in the LNG industry, offering insights into the challenges and solutions in managing this vital energy resource.

Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Engaging the Next Generation of Responders
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
In this enlightening fifth session of our podcast series, host Mark Curtis, a renowned expert in Emergency Management and Business Continuity, delves into the critical topic of engaging and nurturing the next generation of emergency responders. Mark explores the unique challenges facing the emergency management industry today, including the pressing need for new talent and the evolving landscape of crisis response.

Monday Oct 30, 2023
Empowering the Next Generation: Strategies for Recruiting Young Talent
Monday Oct 30, 2023
Monday Oct 30, 2023
Focus on the challenges facing the industry in getting new blood into the pipeline and what different organizations are doing to engage the next generation of responders.
Host: Mark Curtis, Director Emergency Management & Business Continuity
- Tom Wiker, President, Gallagher Marine Systems
- Patrick Gallagher, Executive Director, Marine Exchange of Puget Sound
- Jenny Johnson, Maritime Inclusion Partners

Thursday Oct 05, 2023
New Technologies for Oil Spill Response
Thursday Oct 05, 2023
Thursday Oct 05, 2023
In this riveting episode, we bring you a recording of a session from The Tactics Conference, where industry experts gather to discuss the latest advancements in oil spill response technologies. With the increasing challenges posed by environmental concerns, it's crucial to stay updated with the most innovative solutions. Dive deep into the discussions, insights, and debates led by our esteemed panelists.
Host: Curtis Cannizzaro, Executive Director, Merchants Exchange
Panelists:
- Christopher J. Hall, Planning & Development Manager, Alaska Clean Seas
- Sarah Behrman, GIS Coordinator, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
- Nic Winslow, Manager Hazmat Planning, BNSF Railway
- Larry Ryan, GIS & Data Analyst, NJ Resources
- John Newhoff, Senior Partner, Portage Bay Solutions

Tuesday Sep 12, 2023
All Hands on Deck: Unified Command in Shipboard Firefighting
Tuesday Sep 12, 2023
Tuesday Sep 12, 2023
Join our panel of experts as we delve into the intricate realm of marine firefighting, emphasizing the crucial role of a unified command. This episode sheds light on the unique challenges of combating fires on ships, highlighting the differences from structural firefighting. We'll discuss the significance of collaboration, efficient communication, and strategic leadership in managing marine emergencies. Tune in as we traverse the hurdles and successes of unifying commands, aiming for safer and more effective responses to marine fire incidents.
- Dan Smiley, General Manager, Washington State Maritime Cooperative
- Todd Duke, General Manager Compliance Services, Resolve Marine
- Kevin Perry, Vice President, Gallagher Marine Systems
- Jim Elliott, Chief Operating Officer, Teichman Group
- Don Doyle, Training Coordinator, MFSA/FPAAC

Wednesday Sep 06, 2023
Women in Power in Emergency Response - The Tactics Conference Session 1
Wednesday Sep 06, 2023
Wednesday Sep 06, 2023
Tune in for an enlightening episode that pays tribute to the remarkable contributions and leadership of women in the realm of emergency response. Hosted by Jenny Johnson, CEO of Maritime Inclusion Partners, we dive deep into the accomplishments, hurdles, and prospects for women who have risen to influential roles in the sector. This episode is a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination of women making waves in emergency response.

Monday Jul 24, 2023
Monday Jul 24, 2023
Welcome to 'Surviving Violent Encounters in the Workplace,' where we dive deep into the nuances of personal and collective safety in professional settings. This episode features guest Randy Ashmore from Training Concepts, bringing with him a legacy of training that spans over half a century. A retired USCG Chief, Randy’s family has been at the forefront of training fire, police, military, and various industries since 1967. Together, we explore the transformational impact of proper training on bystander responses and delve into actionable strategies to empower individuals during moments of crisis, whether caused by firearms or other means. Listen in as we demystify the world of safety training and offer insights on preparing for the unpredictable.