In this episode of DisasterClass, hosts Jason Perez and Jason Martin (aka Pappy) welcome back Arthur Simental, founder of EM Disaster Gaming, and first-time guest Todd Manns, CEO of The Blue Cell Group.
Together, they discuss Complex Coordinated Attack, a groundbreaking new disaster war game designed to push the limits of training, preparedness, and decision-making for emergency managers and first responders.
Discover how this innovative partnership combines The Blue Cell’s simulation system, Chelsea County USA, with EM Disaster Gaming’s immersive game design to create an experience that bridges training, strategy, and realism like never before. 🚨
What You’ll Learn:
-How Complex Coordinated Attack redefines traditional tabletop exercises
-The science behind gamification in disaster response training
-Why simulation and immersion improve decision-making under pressure
-How Chelsea County USA models real communities and crises
-Insights into ICS (Incident Command System) and how gaming teaches structure
-The future of emergency management education through interactive design
🧠 Key Takeaways
✅ Realistic decision-making through war gaming
✅ Collaboration between public and private preparedness organizations
✅ Bridging entertainment, education, and crisis readiness
✅ Preparing for the unpredictable through play-based learning
🔗 Learn More 🎮 EM Disaster Gaming → https://emdisastergaming.com
🏢 The Blue Cell Group → https://thebluecell.com
Chapters
00:00 – Cold Open: Welcome back to DisasterClass; preview of the return of Arthur Simental and introduction of the new game Complex Coordinated Attack.
01:10 – Host Introduction: Jason Perez and Pappy set up the episode and recap the previous “Disaster War Gaming” discussion.
03:00 – Guest Introductions: Arthur Simental (EM Disaster Gaming) and Todd Manns (The Blue Cell Group) join the show.
05:05 – The Vision Behind Complex Coordinated Attack: Arthur shares the inspiration and evolution of the game concept.
9:30 – The Gameplay Explained: Todd and Arthur describe how players simulate decision-making in a complex, multi-agency response scenario.
14:15 – Why Gamification Works: Discussion on how interactive training improves engagement and retention in emergency management.
18:40 – Real-World Applications: Exploring how agencies, schools, and private organizations can use the game for training and exercises.
24:10 – Lessons Learned from Players: Early feedback, challenges, and takeaways from the first users of Complex Coordinated Attack.
28:45 – The Future of Disaster Gaming: What’s next for EM Disaster Gaming and The Blue Cell Group — upcoming expansions and ideas.
33:10 – Key Takeaways: Preparedness training doesn’t have to be boring — gaming as an educational and engaging alternative.
35:25 – Closing & Call to Action: Where to find Complex Coordinated Attack and other preparedness resources from Instinct Ready.
37:10 – Outro Bell: Episode wraps with the signature DisasterClass bell sound.
💬 Join the Conversation
What do you think about using gaming to train for disasters? Drop your thoughts in the comments below 👇
📢 Connect with DisasterClass
🌐 Website: https://www.instinctready.com/disasterclass
📸 Instagram: @disasterclasspodcast
🐦 Twitter/X: @DisasterClass
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🔗 Sponsors & Partners
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🎲 EM Disaster Gaming
Emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be boring. EM Disaster Gaming brings emergency management training to life through interactive tabletop wargames like Wildfire Mayhem, created by a Certified Emergency Manager. These games are designed to teach coordination, decision-making, and disaster response in a fun and engaging way. Learn more today and level up your preparedness! 🌐 Visit EMDisasterGaming.com.
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🛡️ Instinct Ready
DisasterClass is proudly brought to you by Instinct Ready, dedicated to educating, preparing, and equipping communities for emergencies and disasters through quality training, comprehensive planning, and premium products. 🎁 Get 10% off your order with code DISASTERCLASS 📞 Call: (845) 244-6360 🌐 Visit: https://www.instinctready.com
