EP 37 Listen to the elders - mass casualties and lessons learned from the Lahaina wildfire with Michael Brogan

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How does one navigate the chaos of a natural disaster while ensuring cultural respect and effective communication? Join us as we dive into the compelling and heart-wrenching story of the Lahaina wildfire in Hawaii through the eyes of Michael Brogan, a seasoned public affairs expert. He recounts the sheer devastation he witnessed in Lahaina and the complex, multi-agency recovery efforts that ensued. Michael shares the challenges of communicating the EPA's mission in an environment where traditional information channels were obliterated, offering a vivid portrayal akin to his deployments in war zones.

With over three decades of experience in the Department of Defense, Veterans Administration, and the EPA , Michael's journey from childhood inspiration to achieving his dream role at the EPA in San Francisco in 2022 is nothing short of remarkable. 

In another gripping segment, we spotlight the critical role of cultural training and sensitivity in emergency response, particularly in Hawaii. Michael discusses how mandatory cultural training, led by a local Hawaiian elder, was pivotal in ensuring respectful and effective operations. He provides insight into the emotional and political turmoil faced by local authorities and federal teams, stressing the importance of understanding, humility, and grace. Michael’s reflections on working with exhausted local staff underscore the human element in crisis management, making this episode an essential listen for anyone interested in emergency response and public affairs.

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