Every day, businesses and organizations face the potential for reputational damage. Severe weather events and other catastrophes can create a sudden onslaught of challenges that can significantly increase the likelihood of something going wrong. In addition to a disaster plan, potential threats to a business’s reputation and brand should be included in their business continuity plan. After a catastrophe, the potential pitfalls from unexpected events are greatly magnified.

With these challenges in mind, we speak with Stephanie Craig, President of Kith, an elite crisis management firm that works closely with business partners to ensure they are ready to respond to reputation and brand challenges. Kith’s approach is very similar to that of disaster planning and response organizations everywhere—it all begins with a plan.

Join me as Stephanie shares her own disaster experiences and how they prepared her for her current role. Listen as she outlines both the macro and micro aspects of preparing for a reputational crisis, likening it to preparing for a natural disaster. She does an excellent job of detailing the challenges and responses. I think you’ll learn something. I certainly did. Give it a listen!

Kith Website

Stephanie Craig’s Biography

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jamie Rhome. He’s the Deputy Director of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami. Jamie plays a crucial role in developing long-term strategies as well as coordinating the organization’s planning and day-to-day operations.

The NHC, a division of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is essential in keeping us safe during hurricane season, June through November. It’s responsible for tracking and predicting tropical weather systems in the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific Oceans. From issuing advisories and warnings to providing critical information for emergency planning, it’s at the forefront of hurricane preparedness and response.

Jamie and the entire NHC team work tirelessly to ensure we have the information we need to stay safe when a storm is on the horizon. So, if you’re a weather enthusiast, a disaster preparedness professional, or simply someone interested in learning more about hurricane safety, this episode is for you. Give it a listen!

Information Links!

· Jamie Rhome biography January 2024 (noaa.gov)

· National Hurricane Center (noaa.gov)

· NHC Storm Surge Risk Maps (arcgis.com)

· 4-28-22-Find-Your-Evacuation-Zone-Final.pdf (hurricanestrong.org)

· Hurricane Preparedness (weather.gov)

· Develop an Evacuation Plan (Hurricane Preparedness) (weather.gov)

In this episode, we delve into the high-stakes world of emergency management with Anna McRay. As the Assistant Director of Emergency Management for New Hanover County, Anna shoulders the responsibility of safeguarding lives and property during crises. Located in North Carolina, New Hanover’s coastal territory presents many challenges - experiencing hurricanes and floods over the years, and over 1,600 tornadoes since 1950. We explore how her team coordinates efforts across cities, counties, and state agencies, and even with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), when needed.

Anna’s passion for protecting her community shines through. She discusses the rewards and hurdles of emergency management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. From disaster planning to rapid response, her leadership exemplifies the spirit of “It takes a village.”

Tune in as we unravel the intricate web of emergency preparedness, resilience, and community support. Whether you’re a seasoned emergency management professional or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes work, this episode promises valuable insights. Give it a listen!

Emergency Management | New Hanover County, NC (nhcgov.com)

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