Act ASAP

Welcome to the Act ASAP Podcast, where we talk about leadership, communication, and preparedness—because when disruption strikes, how you respond matters.I'm your host, Daniel Kilburn, with Emergency Action Planning.Today's topic starts with a question you probably never expected to hear on a preparedness podcast: How long does beer last at room temperature?Now before anyone gets too excited, this is not an endorsement to add beer to your emergency supplies. Beer just happens to be today's teaching tool.Because the real issue during a disaster is not whether your beer goes flat. The real issue is whether your food remains safe, your water supply holds out, and your family knows what to do when normal life gets disrupted.In today's episode, we use this lighthearted question to explore serious lessons about food storage, pantry rotation, home food preservation, and why real preparedness is about far more than stockpiling supplies.As I often say, preparedness is leadership.If you want to read the full companion blog post, the link is in today's show notes at What's The Plan Dan Blog.Let's get into it.

Welcome to another episode of Act ASAP, the show where we talk about leadership, communications, preparedness, and taking action before disruption forces your hand.I'm your host, Daniel Kilburn, founder of Emergency Action Planning, retired U.S. Army Drill Sergeant, and author of Why Plans Don't Prepare You.Today's conversation is one every leader, parent, and business owner needs to hear.Cybercrime is evolving rapidly. Identity theft is growing. AI-generated scams, voice cloning, and deepfake fraud are making it harder than ever to know what is real and what is fake.The reality is this: criminals no longer need to break into your home or office to cause damage. Sometimes they only need access to your password, your personal information, or your trust.That is why preparedness today must include both physical and digital readiness.My guest today is Robert Siciliano, a nationally recognized cybersecurity expert, author, speaker, and security awareness advocate who has spent decades helping individuals and organizations prevent fraud, reduce risk, and become harder targets.In this conversation, Robert shares practical strategies to help you protect your identity, secure your digital life, recognize AI-driven scams, and strengthen your personal preparedness.One of the biggest takeaways from this interview is simple but powerful:Prepared people do not eliminate risk—they reduce vulnerability and improve response.So whether you are protecting your family, your organization, or yourself, this conversation will give you practical insights you can use immediately.Let's get into it.Here is my conversation with Robert Siciliano.

Welcome to the ACT ASAP Podcast.I'm Daniel Kilburn.When disruption comes, people do not follow binders—they follow leadership.Today, we're discussing why real readiness is built through training, communication, and leadership under pressure.Let's begin.

What happens when an ordinary person becomes the first responder during a life-threatening emergency?In this episode of the ACT ASAP Podcast, Daniel Kilburn sits down with father-daughter team Brad Newbury and Kiera Newbury to discuss CPR preparedness, emergency response, the bystander effect, and the extraordinary ripple effects that can occur when a life is saved.Drawing upon decades of experience in fire service, EMS, emergency medicine, and education, Brad and Kiera share the inspiration behind their upcoming book, The Saved Effect: How Ordinary People Create Extraordinary Outcomes.During this conversation, we discuss:• Why most cardiac arrests occur at home• The importance of CPR preparedness for families• Situational awareness during emergencies• The psychology of the bystander effect• Why confidence comes from training and practice• How ordinary people can make extraordinary differences when seconds matterOne of the most powerful lessons from this discussion is that preparedness is not reserved for first responders. The person who saves a life is often a spouse, parent, friend, neighbor, or bystander who chose to prepare before the emergency occurred.If you have ever wondered whether you could make a difference during a crisis, this episode is for you.Preparedness Is Leadership.Additional Resources

Welcome back to the Act ASAP Podcast.I'm your host, Daniel Kilburn.Over the past several weeks, I've shared the complete chapter-reading series of my newly released book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.Today, we're doing something a little different.Rather than reading another chapter, we're stepping back to review the key lessons, themes, and leadership principles that run throughout the entire book.If you've followed this series from the beginning, thank you for joining me on the journey.If you're just tuning in, this episode will provide an overview of why I wrote the book and what I hope readers take away from it.The central message is simple:Plans are important.But plans alone do not create readiness.Real preparedness is built through leadership, communication, practiced systems, resilience, and the ability to adapt when circumstances change.In this episode, we'll discuss:• the illusion of preparedness• the hidden burden leaders carry• why organizations delay readiness efforts• the difference between binders and systems• building a culture of preparedness• calm, confident continuity• the leaders people look for during uncertainty• and the practical steps you can take to strengthen readiness todayMonday the 1st, Why Plans Don't Prepare You officially launched on Amazon, and I want to thank everyone who has supported the book, listened to the chapter readings, and helped share the message.And I am announcing a special Leadership Readiness Bonus in the coming days for readers who are ready to take the next step in their preparedness journey.For more information: whatstheplandan.com/bookSo settle in, and let's take one final look at the lessons behind readiness.Because when leadership is tested, preparedness becomes more than a plan.It becomes a responsibility.Let's begin.

Welcome back to the Act ASAP Podcast.Yesterday, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested officially launched on Amazon. Today, we arrive at the final reading from the book.Throughout this journey, we've explored leadership, communication, resilience, continuity planning, and preparedness. More importantly, we've examined what real readiness looks like when uncertainty tests our families, organizations, communities, and leadership.In today's episode, I share the final section of the book:Start Here: Your Readiness PathThis section is designed to help you move from learning to action.Because preparedness is not something you achieve by reading a book.Preparedness is developed through the decisions you make, the conversations you have, and the actions you take after the book is closed.In this episode, we discuss:• identifying your next step in preparedness• building leadership readiness• creating a practical preparedness roadmap• strengthening resilience and continuity• turning knowledge into action• beginning your readiness journeyAs you listen today, I encourage you to think about one question:What is your next move?Not next month.Not next year.Today.Tomorrow, I'll be sharing a special summary and review of the book, highlighting some of the key lessons and themes we've explored together.In addition, be on the lookout over the coming days for a special launch promotion designed to help readers take the next step toward greater readiness.

Welcome back to the Act ASAP Podcast.Over the course of this book, we've explored an important truth:Preparedness is not about having the perfect plan.It's about developing the leadership, communication, and resilience needed to navigate uncertainty with confidence.In today's episode, I share the Appendix from my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.Titled Leadership Tools for Immediate Readiness, this appendix is designed to help you move from understanding to action.Whether you lead a family, a business, a nonprofit organization, a school, or a community group, these practical tools can help you strengthen readiness starting today.In this episode, we discuss:• leadership readiness tools• practical preparedness actions• continuity planning strategies• communication readiness• operational resilience• building confidence through preparationToo often, people believe they need more time, more resources, or a better plan before they begin.The reality is that readiness starts with a single decision.The decision to act.Because preparedness is not a destination.It is a leadership practice.And leadership begins long before disruption arrives.

Welcome back to the Act ASAP Podcast.Today, we reach the final chapter in my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.Over the course of this book, we've explored leadership, communication, resilience, continuity planning, and the realities of preparedness in an uncertain world.Now it's time for one final question:What's your next move?In Chapter 14, Your Next Move, I challenge you to move beyond information and begin taking action. Because readiness is not built by reading another book, attending another webinar, or creating another checklist.Readiness is built through action.In this chapter, we discuss:• taking the next step toward readiness• turning knowledge into action• leadership readiness and resilience• continuity planning for families and organizations• building confidence before disruption occurs• creating a practical path forwardMy hope is that this book has done more than share ideas.I hope it has inspired action.Because preparedness is not a destination.It is a decision.And every journey toward readiness begins with a single step.

Welcome back to the Act ASAP Podcast.When uncertainty rises, who do people look for?Not necessarily the person with the title.Not necessarily the person with the plan.They look for the leader who inspires confidence, communicates clearly, and remains steady when others are feeling uncertain.In today's episode, I continue the pre-release reading series for my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.Chapter 13, The Leaders People Look For, explores why leadership is ultimately about trust, confidence, and the ability to help others move forward when circumstances become difficult.In this chapter, we discuss:• trusted leadership during uncertainty• leadership readiness and resilience• communication under pressure• building confidence through action• organizational trust and continuity• why preparedness is leadershipThroughout history, people have remembered leaders not because they had perfect plans, but because they provided clarity when it mattered most.The leaders people look for are not perfect.They are prepared.And preparation begins long before disruption arrives.

Welcome back to the Act ASAP Podcast.When disruption strikes, people don't immediately look for the plan.They look for leadership.In today's episode, I continue the pre-release reading series for my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.Chapter 12, Calm, Confident Continuity, explores one of the most important qualities of resilient organizations: the ability to remain calm, capable, and operational when uncertainty arrives.Real readiness isn't measured by the number of plans on a shelf.It's measured by an organization's ability to maintain trust, communicate effectively, and continue serving its mission when conditions become difficult.In this chapter, we discuss:• calm leadership under pressure• operational continuity and resilience• communication during uncertainty• maintaining confidence during disruption• organizational trust and stability• why preparedness is leadershipThe organizations that perform best during disruption are rarely the ones that panic the least because they are lucky.They are the ones that prepared before the crisis arrived.Because preparedness is not about predicting the future.It is about building the capability to lead through it.

What happens when disruption reaches beyond operations and enters the boardroom?In this episode of the Act ASAP Podcast, I continue the pre-release reading series for my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.Today's chapter, Boards, Funders, and Stakeholders, explores how organizational trust, leadership confidence, and continuity planning influence the way boards, donors, partners, and stakeholders evaluate leadership during uncertainty.Preparedness is not only an operational responsibility.It is also a leadership and governance responsibility.In this chapter, we discuss:• stakeholder trust during disruption• board-level continuity responsibilities• nonprofit and organizational resilience• communication under pressure• operational continuity and leadership• maintaining confidence during uncertaintyWhen disruption occurs, stakeholders do not simply evaluate the event itself.They evaluate leadership.Preparedness Is Leadership.

When disruption occurs, prepared teams behave differently.They communicate clearly, adapt quickly, maintain trust under pressure, and stay focused on continuity instead of reacting emotionally to uncertainty.These behaviors are not accidental.They are developed intentionally through leadership, communication, and preparation long before a crisis occurs.In Chapter 10 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested, I explore the operational habits and leadership patterns that separate resilient teams from those that only appear prepared on paper.Preparedness is not just about information.It is about how people perform together when conditions become difficult.Read Chapter 10: What Prepared Teams Do Differently on the Emergency Action Planning blog:https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/chapter-10-what-prepared-teams-do-differently/Pre-order the book on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H28B8XSRLearn more about leadership, preparedness, and resilience:https://www.whatstheplandan.com#WhyPlansDontPrepareYou #PreparednessIsLeadership #PreparedTeams #BusinessContinuity #OperationalReadiness #LeadershipDevelopment #CrisisLeadership

Welcome to Chapter 9 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.In this exclusive pre-release reading, I explain why many organizations mistake documentation for preparedness.A binder may contain policies, procedures, and emergency contacts—but a binder alone cannot think, adapt, communicate, or lead under pressure.Systems can.In Chapter 9, The Difference Between a Binder and a System, you will discover why real readiness depends on leadership, communication, testing, accountability, and operational systems that people can trust when conditions change unexpectedly.Preparedness is not measured by what is printed on paper.It is measured by how effectively people perform together when pressure is real.Listen to this chapter, share your thoughts in the comments, and be among the first to experience the book before its official release on June 1, 2026.Pre-order the book on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H28B8XSRLearn more about leadership, preparedness, and resilience:https://www.whatstheplandan.comPreparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair.#WhyPlansDontPrepareYou#PreparednessIsLeadership#BusinessContinuity

Welcome to Chapter 8 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.In this episode, I read Transform & Thrive—Turn Preparedness Into Culture and explain why true readiness was never meant to be a one-time project or a document placed on a shelf.The most resilient families, organizations, and leadership teams build preparedness into the way they think, communicate, and operate every day.When preparedness becomes cultural, people respond with greater confidence, leadership becomes steadier under pressure, and organizations become more adaptable during disruption.This chapter explores how leaders create long-term resilience by turning preparedness into a shared responsibility rather than an occasional task.Listen in, share your feedback, and be among the first to experience the book before its official release on June 1, 2026.Pre-order the book on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H28B8XSRLearn more about leadership, preparedness, and resilience:https://www.whatstheplandan.comPreparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair.Til next time.Stay Informed and Stay SafeDaniel

Welcome to Chapter 6 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.In this episode, I read Assess Progress—Test What You Think You Have and explain why completed tasks do not automatically create real readiness.A contact list may be updated. Roles may be assigned. Systems may be documented. But until they are tested, leaders are still relying on assumptions.This chapter shows how tabletop exercises, communication drills, and honest evaluation transform effort into evidence and confidence into something real.Listen in, share your feedback, and be among the first to experience the book before its official release on June 1, 2026.Pre-order the book on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H28B8XSRLearn more about leadership, preparedness, and resilience at:https://www.whatstheplandan.comPreparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair.

Welcome to Chapter 5 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.In this episode, I read Take Action—Motion Defeats Anxiety and explain why clarity alone is not enough to create real readiness.Many leaders understand what needs to be done, yet progress stalls when action is delayed. This chapter reveals how disciplined action reduces uncertainty, builds confidence, and transforms good intentions into measurable preparedness.When leaders take visible steps forward, anxiety begins to shrink. Momentum replaces hesitation. And calm, confident continuity becomes possible.Listen in, share your feedback, and be among the first to experience the book before its official release on June 1, 2026.Visit https://www.whatstheplandan.com to learn more about leadership, preparedness, and bulk orders of the book for your organization.Preparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair.

Welcome to Chapter 4 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.In this episode, I read Leadership Intent Comes First and explain why teams perform best when leaders clearly define what matters most before disruption occurs.When intent is clear, people can make better decisions, adapt to changing conditions, and act with confidence under pressure.Listen in, share your feedback, and be among the first to experience the book before its official launch on June 1, 2026.Learn more at https://www.whatstheplandan.comPreparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair.

Welcome to Chapter 3 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.In this episode, I read Why Good Leaders Delay This Work and explain why even responsible, capable leaders often postpone preparedness and continuity planning.The issue is rarely a lack of concern.More often, urgent demands crowd out important work until disruption exposes the cost of delay.This chapter reveals how real readiness begins when leaders choose to act before circumstances force them to.Listen in, share your feedback, and be among the first to experience the book before its official launch on June 1, 2026.Learn more at https://www.whatstheplandan.comPreparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair.

Welcome to Chapter 2 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested.In this episode, I read Liability Anxiety Has a Cost and explore the hidden burden leaders carry when they suspect their preparedness efforts may not be enough.That uncertainty affects confidence, focus, and decision-making.This chapter explains how real readiness replaces anxiety with clarity and equips leaders to move forward with calm, confident continuity.Listen in, share your feedback, and be among the first to experience the book before its official launch on June 1, 2026.Learn more at https://www.whatstheplandan.comPreparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair

Welcome to Chapter 1 of my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You. In this episode, I read The Lie Leaders Tell Themselves and reveal why written plans alone do not create real readiness. Listen, share your feedback, and be among the first to hear the book before its June 1, 2026 launch. Visit https://www.whatstheplandan.com to learn more.

Welcome to a special pre-release series on the Act ASAP Podcast.Over the next several weeks, I'll be reading my upcoming book, Why Plans Don't Prepare You: What Real Readiness Looks Like When Leadership Is Tested, exactly as it will appear in the published edition.Today's episode features The IntroductionThis book explores why written plans alone are not enough and what true preparedness looks like when families, businesses, schools, and communities face real-world pressure.Listen in, share your feedback, and be among the first to experience the book before its official launch on June 1, 2026.Learn more at https://www.whatstheplandan.comPreparedness Is Leadership.It is better to prepare than repair.

“Welcome back to the ACT ASAP Podcast—where preparednessmeets leadership.This month, we're focusing on something that impactsmillions of families and communities every year: wildfire awareness.Wildfires don't just happen in places like California—theycan start anywhere. And the reality is, most of them are preventable.In today's episode, I'm walking you through what NationalWildfire Awareness Month really means… and more importantly, what you can doright now to protect your family, your home, and your future.Because here, we don't wait for disruption—we prepare for it.Let's get started.”Go to: https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/national-wildfire-awareness-month/For the entire post.

Most organizations don't realize they're unprepared until it's too late.Not because they didn't care…Not because they didn't plan…But because they assumed.In today's episode, we're breaking down one of the earliest, and most overlooked signs that a company isn't truly prepared for disruption.And more importantly, what that means for leadership, communication, and execution when it matters most.If you've ever heard the phrase, “we've talked about that”…this conversation is for you.Preparedness isn't what you've discussed. It's what your team can execute under pressure.If today's episode made you think, don't stop there.

Are you preparing… or just guessing?In this episode, we challenge some of the most common beliefs in preparedness culture and uncover what really keeps families and businesses stable during disruption.This isn't about fear.It's about leadership.

Strong family communication can make the difference betweenconfusion and calm during an emergency. In this episode, Daniel Kilburnintroduces the March preparedness series “Testing Communication Systems.” Learnhow simple conversations, planning, and practice can help families stayconnected when technology struggles or disruptions occur. Discover practicalsteps families can take today to strengthen communication and build confidencebefore emergencies happen.Check out the entire blog post here: https://wp.me/p7NwNC-2t1

Welcome back to the podcast.Today we're taking a moment to look back at the conversations we had throughout February around Financial Foundations for Family Security and Financial Habits for Stability.Over the past month we explored a simple but powerful idea: strong families build stability before disruption ever arrives.We talked about the everyday financial habits that quietly protect households—things like the 15-minute money check-in, automating savings, planning food and household expenses, and having honest financial conversations at home.None of these habits are dramatic. But together they create something incredibly important: confidence and calm when life becomes unpredictable.Because when disruption comes, families don't rise to their intentions—they fall to their habits.In this episode we'll recap the key ideas from February and reflect on how those small habits help families lead with clarity, stability, and preparedness.Let's get into it.Blog Link: https://wp.me/p7NwNC-2sH

Every year, disruption gets a little more complex—and a little more expensive for organizations that aren't ready.The 2026 disaster preparedness outlook lays out the trends leaders are facing and the practical steps that protect people, operations, and revenue before disruption hits.If you lead a team, organization, or community group, this is worth your time.Read the full outlook here:https://wp.me/p7NwNC-2qZ

Welcome back to the show.Today, we're opening a new conversation, and really, a new focus for the month of February:Financial Foundations for Family Security and Financial Habits for Stability—Leadership Before Disruption.Here's something most families never get told:Stability isn't lost during a crisis. It's lost long before, when the habits that protect families are never put in place.This month, we're talking about the small, daily and monthly financial behaviors that quietly create security. Not fear-based planning. Not extreme preparation. Just steady leadership at home that shows up when life gets unpredictable.We'll explore simple money check-ins, financial rituals, and practical readiness habits that reduce stress, strengthen confidence, and help families respond calmly instead of reacting emotionally.Because preparedness isn't about what you're afraid of.It's about who you're responsible for.If you're a parent, a partner, or someone others depend on, this series is for you.Let's get into it.

Today's conversation is not about theory or hype—it's about wherewe actually are right now.In this episode, Daniel is joined by Mark Matheson,founder of the eCERT® program, to provide a clear, grounded update on thecurrent state of eCERT®. Together, they discuss what has been built, what isactively in motion, and what still needs to happen.This conversation explores the growing gap between disastersand readiness—operationally, financially, and at the community level—and howeCERT® is positioning itself to address that gap through deployable NGO-basedresponse teams and separate financial resilience tools.Important clarification:eCERT® Memberships and Digital Currency owners are two separate markets.One is operational—teams on the ground.The other is financial—individuals and investors preparing resources beforedisaster strikes.They are distinct, but they support the same mission: readiness beforeresponse. New to This Series? Start HereThis episode builds on earlier conversations. If you're justjoining us, these three episodes provide important context:Episode 1: Inside the eCERT Program – https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/ClYb1Ivco0bEpisode 2: Behind The eCERT Vision – https://spotifycreators-eb.app.link/e/MR1aCGvco0bEpisode 3: eCERT Interview #3 – https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/GT5lNFvco0b Looking for Additional Information?General Preparedness & Resources

Uncertainty is everywhere right now. From global instability to personal and financial stress, many people are being told the answer is to simply “learn to tolerate the unknown.”I disagree.In this episode of the Act ASAP Podcast, I explore a different approach—one shaped by decades of military leadership, disaster response, and lived experience. The truth is, uncertainty itself isn't the real problem. The real problem is failing to prepare for what we already know.In this conversation, we break down why preparedness creates calm, how structure reduces anxiety, and why confidence under pressure isn't accidental—it's trained. I share personal stories from my time as a U.S. Army Senior Infantry Drill Sergeant, lessons learned from the Loma Prieta earthquake, and practical insights you can apply immediately in your family, business, or community.This isn't about fear.It's about leadership.Because it is always better to prepare than to repair.

Today, I want to talk about a mistake I see families and leaders make every single year—they wait for the perfect preparedness plan. The truth is, preparedness doesn't fail because people don't care. It fails because people don't practice. In this episode, we'll explore why one simple drill builds confidence, leadership, and calm far more effectively than endless planning ever will. Because prepared beats perfect—every time.You can also read the full article at https://wp.me/p7NwNC-2p1.

In today's episode of the ACT ASAP Podcast, we're talking about the future; not hypothetical, not fear-based, but intentional and grounded.2025 showed us what families, organizations, and communities can accomplish when preparedness becomes personal.2026 challenges us to turn that preparation into leadership, legacy, and real community power.This episode explores why resilience must live beyond the home, and how businesses, schools, and CBOs become force multipliers for the families they serve.

In this third and final conversation with Mark Matheson, founder of the eCERT Program, we step into the future of disaster resilience—and what it will take to truly protect families, businesses, and communities before the next emergency strikes.This episode goes beyond traditional preparedness models. Mark unpacks a bold, federally supported yet locally owned approach to disaster response—one that combines real-world infrastructure, MAVIS deployment units, asset-backed digital currency, and individual resiliency accounts into a closed-loop system designed for accountability, speed, and long-term stability.We talk candidly about why communities must move from reactive aid to proactive resilience, how financial access after disaster can calm chaos and accelerate recovery, and why leadership—not luck—is the deciding factor when everything is on the line. Mark also shares how the eCERT Program plans to build a 25,000-person civilian disaster workforce and deploy 1,000 MAVIS units nationwide—without competing for existing FEMA funding or relying on hype-driven solutions.What makes this conversation especially powerful is the human element. Drawing from decades of experience in high-stakes environments—from nuclear facilities to military construction in Guam—Mark reflects on the lessons that shaped his philosophy on resilience, accountability, and integrity. His message is clear: resilience is earned through preparation, discipline, and the courage to do what's right—especially when it's difficult.Whether you're a veteran, first responder, emergency manager, community leader, or a parent who simply wants to be better prepared, this episode invites you to rethink what readiness really means—and how you can be part of something bigger.This conversation doesn't just explain the eCERT vision.It invites you into it.For more information about the eCERT Program or to speak directly with its founder, you can reach Mark Matheson at mark.matheson@drteamsint.com. To explore the program, review membership requirements, or submit an intake form, visit the official website at https://ecertprogram.com. This is the best place to learn how eCERT operates, how MAVIS Units support disaster operations, and how individuals or organizations can get involved in building the next generation of community-driven resilience.

Today's episode is a powerful deep dive into the heart of leadership, communication, and human transformation. I'm joined by Dr. Ron Stotts, a Marine Corps veteran, bestselling author, and transformational leadership coach who has helped thousands of high-performing leaders evolve beyond stress-driven success into deeply aligned, purpose-driven leadership.Together, we explore how emotional awareness unlocks higher performance, why the logical mind alone can never carry us to our potential, and how leaders can rewire the inner game that drives every outer result.If you are ready to lead with presence instead of pressure, this conversation will move you.To learn more about Dr. Ron Stotts'transformational leadership work. Visit RonStotts.com, where you'll find his books, programs, and free resources for personal and professional growth.

In this powerful follow-up conversation, Daniel Kilburn sits down once again with Mark Matheson, the visionary force behind the ECERT Program, to explore how communities across America can step into a new era of disaster readiness. This episode dives deep into the operational backbone of a program designed to scale to 1,000 fully equipped, independently operated disaster-response memberships—each capable of deploying rapidly, communicating securely, and serving with purpose.Mark reveals how ECERT's structure brings together NGOs, oversight committees, deployable teams, and cutting-edge communication technologies like the Mavis satellite array, giving communities the ability to stand strong even when traditional infrastructure fails. From the groundbreaking $43 million manufacturing facility to the half-million dollars of equipment provided to each membership, the scale of this initiative is both bold and profoundly hopeful.Daniel and Mark explore critical themes that matter to every family and every leader:How everyday citizens can become disaster-ready assets to their communitiesWhy Mavis units and deployable trailers are game-changers in crisis communicationsWhat it takes to maintain readiness—45–75 days of service, FEMA CERT requirements, and advanced online trainingHow digital currency is being reimagined as personal disaster mitigation insuranceWhy preparedness must be community-centered, scalable, and sustainableThis conversation is a reminder that resilience doesn't happen by accident—it is built. And with programs like ECERT, America is designing the future of local emergency response one membership at a time.If you are committed to protecting your family, your neighborhood, or your community, this episode will deepen your understanding of what's possible when people step forward and serve.Learn more about the ECERT Program: https://ecertprogram.com/Connect with Mark Matheson: mark.matheson@drteamsint.com

When disaster strikes and the systems we rely on collapse, who steps in to reconnect communities, restore communication, and bring real help where it's needed most? In this powerful interview, I sit down with Mark Matheson, founder of the eCERT Disaster Response Program, to explore how his team is building the future of emergency readiness in America.From nationwide volunteer deployability to cutting-edge mobile tech platforms like the Mavis units, eCERT represents a new national model for disaster response—faster, smarter, and built for the realities we face today. Whether you're an emergency manager, first responder, preparedness advocate, or simply someone who wants their family safe when everything else fails, this conversation will change the way you think about readiness.Subscribe for more episodes focused on leadership, resilience, and protecting what matters most.And remember not to forget to join the Holiday Housefire Prevention Webinar at: www.holidayfireprevention.com

In today's vlog, I'm breaking down a powerful insighthighlighted in Bloomberg's recent feature on the rising costs of disasterrecovery in America.“The Disaster Industrial Complex: How Climate DisastersTurned into a Trillion-Dollar U.S. Industry”Read it here: https://www.bloomberg.com/features/2025-disaster-industrial-complex-us-economy/The message is clear: recovery is expensive, disruptive, andoften devastating for businesses and community organizations, and preparednessis a strategic investment that pays dividends long before the next emergencystrikes.If you're a business leader or part of a community-basedorganization, now is the time to evaluate where you stand and identify yourstrengths and vulnerabilities. Take the Disaster & Emergency PlanningAssessment for Businesses and CBOs at:

In an age where our personal lives, finances, and family safety are wired into the cloud, cybersecurity is no longer a luxury—it's survival. In this compelling 30-minute conversation, I sit down with Jeffrey Lyon, founder of The Cyber Wild, to uncover what's really happening in the digital wilderness that surrounds us.Jeffrey doesn't just talk tech—he humanizes it. From the recent AWS disruption to the rise of AI deepfakes and ransomware, he paints a vivid picture of how every keystroke, email, and click can become a crossroads between safety and exposure. Together, we explore why humans—not machines—remain the weakest link, and how training, awareness, and culture change are our best defenses.What makes this conversation different is its practicality. We don't just name threats; we break them down into doable steps for families, small businesses, and community organizations. From budget-friendly protection tools and password management habits to IoT safety and phishing detection techniques, Jeffrey delivers insights that every listener—tech-savvy or not—can immediately apply.We also look toward the future: affordable Security Operations Center (SOC) services for small businesses, educational gamification, and Jeffrey's upcoming book on crypto scams. Together, we reflect on how cybersecurity is not just about data—it's about protecting the people behind the devices.So tune in, take notes, and take action. Because in this connected world, safety isn't automatic—it's intentional.Visit www.thecyberwild.com or reach Jeffrey directly at info@thecyberwild.com to learn more about his work.And as always, you can find more preparedness resources at www.emergencyactionplanning.com and follow the ACT ASAP podcast wherever you listen.

They don't knock anymore… they click.Scammers have upgraded their game — and now, every text, email, or “urgent message” could be a digital ambush waiting to happen.We've all seen them — fake shipping notices, fraudulent charities, even “friends” asking for help through payment apps. But as we step into the holiday season, these attacks surge by almost 400%.That's why I wrote my latest blog:

Why Every Family Needs to Be Its Own First ResponderRecently, I received yet another email from a man whosemessages always carry the same urgent theme: government failures, collapsing systems, and the hidden costs we're all about to pay. The latest claimed his brother died, not from illness, but from the ripple effects of a 40-year-old policy decision made back in 1981. I get these emails often, and while they are clearly written to provoke fear, I believe there's value in pausing to research the claims, separate fact from rhetoric, and uncover what lessons families can actually take away. The truth is, our healthcare system is strained, and thedoctor shortage and family preparedness are two realities we can't ignore. Whether or not the email's story is literal, the underlying point rings true: there are not always enough doctors, nurses, or hospital beds when disaster strikes. From wildfires in California to hurricanes in Florida, we've seen how quickly access to care can disappear when systems are overwhelmed. And when that happens, families are left with one option they must become their own first responders.Go to: https://wp.me/p7NwNC-2bg for the compete post.

Welcome back to the Act ASAP Podcast, where we talk about resilience, leadership, and the practical steps you can take today to protect what matters most tomorrow.September is National Preparedness Month, a nationwide reminder that disasters don't wait for a convenient time. This year's theme, “Fortify Your Future,” is about equipping families and communities with the tools to thrive in the face of emergencies.I've written a full blog post that walks through the importance of preparedness and the Six Pillars of Family Resilience. You can read it here:

Is your business prepared for the next crisis—natural or manmade?In this video, I explore the top 5 risks threatening businesses in 2025 and how to apply FEMA's O.P.E.N. strategy to protect your people and your profits.

Emergencies and disasters can strike at any moment—oftenwithout warning. But what if you could turn chaos into confidence? By preparing for emergencies, you don't just stock up on supplies; you actively boost your survival quotient, ensuring you and your loved ones come out stronger, safer, and more resilient.Why Emergency Preparedness MattersHaving a plan and the right kit does more than provide peaceof mind—it's a proven advantage in the face of adversity. Studies show that those who prepare for disasters fare significantly better, not only surviving the immediate event but recovering faster afterwards.Reading about preparedness is a great first step—but action is what saves lives.That's why I'm giving you two free tools to get started right now:1️⃣ 72-Hour Emergency Kit Checklist – Your step-by-step guide to building a life-saving kit that keeps you and your loved ones safe during the critical first three days of any emergency.2️⃣ Disaster and Emergency Planning-Assessment – A quick, revealing quiz to measure your current readiness and pinpoint exactly where you need to improve.Both resources are designed to be fast, practical, and immediately useful. The sooner you put them to work, the sooner you'll feel the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're ready for whatever comes next.

A Conversation with Bonnie Lierse on Love, Loss, andFinancial Readiness What happens when a creative heart meets a crisisunprepared? In this deeply moving and insightful interview, Daniel Kilburn sitsdown with author and creative entrepreneur Bonnie Lierse to explore herunexpected journey through grief, estate chaos, and emotional resiliencefollowing the sudden loss of her husband. Bonnie opens up about the real-life struggles many silentlyface—the absence of a will, missing passwords, no life insurance, and a profound sense of “we thought we didn't need that yet.” Her story is not just a cautionary tale—it's a powerful wake-up call to families everywhere that preparation isn't just about wealth. It's about peace, legacy, and the strength to move forward. Throughout their heartfelt 30-minute conversation, Bonniealso shares how her spiritual insights, artistic pursuits, and desire to help younger generations turned a painful life transition into a platform for healing and teaching. From her children's books and past publishing experiences to future goals of recreating a once-lost greeting card line, Bonnie's voice carries wisdom, vulnerability, and hope. Whether you're just starting your financial journey orfacing the complexities of managing a loved one's affairs, this episode is a must-listen. Bonnie's reflections remind us that being prepared isn't just financial—it's emotional, spiritual, and essential for those we leave behind. Connect with Bonnie: go to https://pearsonsmithrealty.com/agent/bonnie-lierse/DM us your thoughts or #BonnieLierse#GriefToGuidance #EstatePlanningMatters #EmergencyPreparedness#FinancialResilience  Until next time, stay informed, and stay safe.Daniel KilburnAmericas 5-Star Leadership Coach P.S.Are your most important documents organized, accessible, and ready when life throws the unexpected your way? As a thank you for tuning in, I'm offering you a free copyof Document or Disaster: The Emergency Document Organizer. A powerful tool to help you and your loved ones gather essential information in one secure place before a crisis strikes. Store critical contacts Track financial accounts & insurance policiesSecure digital access instructionsPrepare your family for anything 

People generally associate Memorial Day with the beginningof summer through activities such as BBQs and beach trips and patrioticparades. Memorial Day 2025 brings a more profound meaning to the table thisyear. It serves as a symbol of sacrifice, yet it also highlightsresponsibility. Parents have an obligation to safeguard the living childrenwhile paying tribute to deceased heroes since natural disasters and fatalsummer heat present the most urgent threat.

Jasper the Cats 2025 Summer Heat SurvivalGuide (for Humans & Furballs Alike)By Jasper the Cat, Now Older, Wiser, and Slightly MoreJudgmentalSee the full Blog here: https://wp.me/p7NwNC-1W6 And get your Summer Heatwave Emergency Kit Checklists for Hoomans and pets:Summer Heatwave Emergency Kit Checklist: https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Summer-Heatwave-Emergency-Kit-Checklist.pdfSummer Heatwave Emergency Kit for Pets: https://www.emergencyactionplanning.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Summer-Heatwave-Emergency-Kit-for-Pets.pdf#HotCatSummer #PetPreparedness #FurAndFamilyFirst #HeatSafety #EmergencyActionCat #JasperSaysMeow

Have you ever noticed how life has a funny way of throwing curveballs—like a toddler with a spaghetti noodle? One minute, you're cruising along, and the next, you're ankle-deep in marinara sauce wondering where your clean socks went.Let me share three lessons I've learned, often the hard way, that help bring a little rhythm to the chaos.

Between 2018 and 2024, the world experienced an alarmingescalation in natural disasters, reshaping lives and landscapes across every continent. This review of natural disasters from 2018 to 2024 uncovers critical disaster trends and statistics that reveal how our vulnerabilities have evolved. As we approach an uncertain future, the 2025 disaster risk forecast signals even greater urgency for communities, businesses, and families.Understanding natural disaster impacts over the past seven years empowers us to make smarter choices in the face of rising threats. This comprehensive global disaster analysis highlights why preparing for future disasters and prioritizing emergency preparedness in 2025 is not just wise — it's essential for survival.The entire Blog can be found here: https://wp.me/p7NwNC-1TLGet your copy of Summer Safety Tips here: https://www.eapworkshop.com/f/summer-safety-tips

Daniel and Jeffrey discussed Jeffrey's career in cybersecurity, starting with his experience with the Y2K experiment and the Melissa virus. Jeffrey shared his journey from being an IT administrator to becoming a cybersecurity expert, and his recent experience with a client hospital that was attacked by ransomware. Jeffrey emphasized the challenges faced by smaller regional hospitals and medical clinics in building a robust cybersecurity team due to resource constraints.Links for Jeffrey Lyon and Cyber Wild:Website: https://www.thecyberwild.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyber-jeffMy personal FB: https://www.facebook.com/jeff.lyon.1447/TheCyberWild FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560251728716Password manager trial: https://thecyberwild.com/free-trial_password_manager

A Guide to Personal and Financial Risk Assessments This is real life. It is always possible to have a medical emergency, to lose your job, or to experience a natural disaster that will leave families in debt, both emotionally and financially. The question is: Are you and your family ready for an emergency? View the entire blog at: https://wp.me/p7NwNC-1Oy Take advantage of your free Disaster and Emergency Planning Assessment at: https://www.depassessment.com

This isn't some disaster movie plot. This is Southern California right now. Fires rage, homes burn, and lives are upended. The unprepared are left scrambling, while those with a plan know exactly what to do. This is why having an Emergency Plan of Action is non-negotiable. Let's break it down. Get your free Disaster ans Emergency Planning Assessment here: www.depassessment.com