The Anatomy of Readiness: Emergency Preparedness & Response at Tulane University

The Business Emergency Room Podcast

Emergencies test the resilience and adaptability of individuals and organizations, but preparation makes the difference between chaos and control. In this insightful conversation, Meredith Beers, Associate Director of Emergency Preparedness and Response at Tulane University, shares her experience managing diverse and complex scenarios ranging from natural disasters to campus-specific crises. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication, an adaptable all-hazards plan, and structured decision-making to ensure safety and continuity. Her proactive approach to training, collaboration with external agencies, and stakeholder feedback fosters a robust emergency management system, applicable beyond the academic environment. This episode underscores the value of readiness, adaptability, and the human factor in navigating uncertainty effectively.

About the Guest:

Meredith’s journey into crisis preparedness began as a student at Tulane University when Hurricane Katrina struck. Experiencing one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history profoundly shaped her career path – she realized her calling was to help others prepare for and recover from crises. These days, she's all about making organizations crisis-ready, but don't expect any dusty emergency manuals that sit on shelves. Her real-world approach brings everyone into the conversation, from mapping out solid game plans to making sure employees know exactly what to do when things go sideways. She's got a knack for breaking down complex situations into clear, actionable updates that keep everyone in the loop when it matters most. Whether she's working with large organizations or community groups, Meredith's message is simple: emergencies don't schedule appointments, so being prepared isn't just a box to check – it's a way of life.

www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-beers

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

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