Bonus Episode: A Break Down on Debunking Misinformation about FEMA

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky

On this special bonus episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr are joined by Bryan Strawser, Principal and CEO of Bryghtpath.

Introduction and Guest Introduction

• Michael Brodkorb introduces the podcast and mentions Becky Scherr’s absence due to illness. He also welcomes guest Bryan Strawser, an expert on emergency management, to discuss misinformation related to FEMA and hurricane relief.

00:01:00 - Bryan Strawser’s Background

• Bryan shares his professional background, including his previous work at Target and expertise in crisis management, emergency preparedness, and disaster response.

00:02:15 - Overview of How Emergency Response Works

• Bryan explains the structure of disaster response, highlighting that emergency management is locally led, state-managed, and federally supported. He outlines the role of FEMA in providing logistical support and funding in coordination with local and state authorities.

00:04:00 - The Role of Politics in Disasters

• Michael comments on the influence of politics, especially during elections, on disaster management. The conversation shifts to how misinformation spreads rapidly, especially in times of crisis.

00:05:45 - Example of Misinformation about FEMA

• Bryan discusses an example of misinformation during Hurricane Helene. Rumors spread that FEMA was seizing supplies from citizens and volunteer organizations, which was untrue. He explains how social media accelerates the spread of such falsehoods.

00:06:57 - Dangerous Misinformation about FEMA

• Michael highlights how political actors sometimes exploit disasters for misinformation, citing claims about FEMA’s handling of supplies. They discuss how FEMA had to set up a webpage to counter misinformation, which Bryan notes has been done since Hurricane Katrina.

00:08:00 - Misinformation about FEMA Running Out of Money

• Bryan debunks claims that FEMA is running out of money because it supports disaster relief. He explains how FEMA’s funding works through separate appropriations for operations and disaster response.

00:09:12 - Claims about FEMA Diverting Funds for Immigrants

• The discussion shifts to misinformation claiming FEMA diverted disaster funds to support immigrants. Bryan clarifies that the funds for immigration support come from Customs and Border Protection, not FEMA’s budget.

00:10:15 - Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories

• Michael and Bryan discuss conspiracy theories, including a popular claim that the federal government can control the weather, which Bryan dismisses as false.

00:11:45 - Mutual Aid in Disasters and State Collaboration

• Bryan explains how mutual aid between states works during disasters and why Minnesota or other states not directly impacted by hurricanes still send aid to affected regions.

00:14:30 - How Disaster Resources Are Managed Across States

• Bryan provides examples of how states collaborate through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) to provide specific resources, such as National Guard capabilities and EMS teams.

00:17:00 - Federal and State Preparedness for Disaster Response

• The discussion delves deeper into how states and the federal government prepare for disasters, including how states request resources and how the federal government funds these efforts.

00:19:30 - Rejecting FEMA Aid Based on Political Misinformation

• Michael references a recent story where a person rejected FEMA assistance due to political beliefs influenced by misinformation from Trump. Bryan emphasizes the danger of rejecting needed aid based on misinformation.

00:20:30 - Impact of Misinformation on Disaster Relief

• They discuss how misinformation affects disaster relief efforts and the importance of verifying facts before sharing information. Bryan encourages people to seek accurate sources and reject false claims.

00:24:00 - Importance of Preparedness and Accurate Information

• Bryan stresses the need for individuals to be prepared for emergencies by having a plan and gathering supplies. He advises people to rely on trusted sources like local emergency services and FEMA for information.

00:26:00- Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments

• Michael thanks Bryan for his insights and emphasizes the importance of sharing accurate information. They wrap up the discussion with light-hearted banter about sports before concluding the episode.

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week.