Shows
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #321: From Risk to Reach - Building Business-Fluent Leaders in ResilienceIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser explores how Chief Risk Officers and resilience leaders can develop the next generation of risk talent—by focusing on business fluency as a core leadership capability. As the risk function continues to evolve, technical excellence alone is no longer enough. The most effective leaders are those who can translate risk into strategic advantage and influence decisions at the highest levels. Bryan unpacks insights from a recent McKinsey article and ties them to Bryghtpath’s own white paper, The Strategic Edge: Wielding Influence as a Resilience Leader. He shares practical strategies for...
2025-12-2905 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #321: From Risk to Reach – Building Business-Fluent Leaders in ResilienceIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser explores how Chief Risk Officers and resilience leaders can develop the next generation of risk talent—by focusing on business fluency as a core leadership capability. As the risk function continues to evolve, technical excellence alone is no longer enough. The most effective leaders are those …
2025-12-2905 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #320: Championing Resilience - How to Communicate Your Program with InfluenceIn this episode, Bryan Strawser explores how resilience and business continuity leaders can effectively champion their programs by communicating with influence. He outlines how to keep executives informed, explain the real business value of your program, and share meaningful metrics that demonstrate progress. Bryan also discusses the importance of storytelling and using impact-focused communication to build credibility. Drawing from Bryghtpath’s The Strategic Edge whitepaper, this episode reframes communication as a leadership tool—not just an update mechanism. You’ll learn practical techniques to shift from simply reporting activity to driving engagement, alignment, and strategic investment. Whether you’re just gaining...
2025-12-2206 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #320: Championing Resilience – How to Communicate Your Program with InfluenceIn this episode, Bryan Strawser explores how resilience and business continuity leaders can effectively champion their programs by communicating with influence. He outlines how to keep executives informed, explain the real business value of your program, and share meaningful metrics that demonstrate progress. Bryan also discusses the importance of storytelling and using impact-focused communication to …
2025-12-2206 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #319: Muscle Memory for the Mission – What IVs and Crisis Exercises have in CommonIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath CEO Bryan Strawser shares lessons from a recent week of paramedic skills training. As he practiced high-stakes procedures like IV insertions and airway management, Bryan was reminded of a fundamental truth: repetition builds muscle memory—and that muscle memory saves lives. This insight directly applies to how we approach crisis management and organizational resilience. Bryan draws a clear connection between clinical skill repetition and the value of regular crisis exercises. Just as paramedics must perform under pressure without hesitation, Crisis Management Teams must respond with clarity and speed when it matters mo...
2025-12-1608 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #319: Muscle Memory for the Mission – What IVs and Crisis Exercises have in CommonIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath CEO Bryan Strawser shares lessons from a recent week of paramedic skills training. As he practiced high-stakes procedures like IV insertions and airway management, Bryan was reminded of a fundamental truth: repetition builds muscle memory—and that muscle memory saves lives. This insight directly applies to how …
2025-12-1608 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #318: You Can't Lead What You Don't UnderstandIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath CEO Bryan Strawser explores why resilience leaders must have total command of their own programs to maintain credibility and influence. When executives ask pointed questions about recovery time objectives, critical processes, or current risks, hesitation or vague responses can quickly erode trust. You don’t need to recite every line of a continuity plan—but you must understand the strategy, current state, and gaps of your program cold. Bryan outlines what you need to know without reference material, how to build that command over time, and why this level of preparedness is e...
2025-12-0105 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #318: You Can’t Lead What You Don’t UnderstandIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath CEO Bryan Strawser explores why resilience leaders must have total command of their own programs to maintain credibility and influence. When executives ask pointed questions about recovery time objectives, critical processes, or current risks, hesitation or vague responses can quickly erode trust. You don’t need to …
2025-12-0105 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #317: The Future Cybersecurity Org - Influence Over ControlIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser explores key insights from Forrester’s 2025 report, Building a Security Org for the Future. Bryan breaks down how cybersecurity leadership is shifting from tactical execution to strategic influence—where CISOs are now expected to lead through credibility, relationships, and alignment with business outcomes. The episode offers a clear perspective on why traditional control-based security models are no longer enough. Bryan outlines the essential transformations security leaders must prioritize: building federated teams, communicating risk in business language, and aligning investments to enterprise performance and trust. He shares …
2025-11-2404 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #317: The Future Cybersecurity Org – Influence Over ControlIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser explores key insights from Forrester’s 2025 report, Building a Security Org for the Future. Bryan breaks down how cybersecurity leadership is shifting from tactical execution to strategic influence—where CISOs are now expected to lead through credibility, relationships, and alignment with …
2025-11-2404 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #316: The Enterprising Adversary - Cyber Threats at Startup SpeedIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, explores key insights from the 2025 CrowdStrike Global Threat Report. He discusses how modern adversaries are behaving more like high-speed startups—leveraging generative AI, identity compromise, and sophisticated non-malware tactics to scale attacks quickly. With breakout times now averaging just 62 minutes, the threat landscape demands faster detection, tighter controls, and executive-level urgency. Bryan outlines critical shifts in adversary behavior, from the rise of ransomware-as-a-service to the increased use of AI for phishing and social engineering. He shares strategic takeaways for resilience and security leaders, …
2025-11-1706 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #316: The Enterprising Adversary – Cyber Threats at Startup SpeedIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, explores key insights from the 2025 CrowdStrike Global Threat Report. He discusses how modern adversaries are behaving more like high-speed startups—leveraging generative AI, identity compromise, and sophisticated non-malware tactics to scale attacks quickly. With breakout times now averaging just …
2025-11-1706 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #315: Meeting the Moment – What the 2025 National Risk Study Tells Us About Emergency Management’s FutureIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, unpacks the key findings from the 2025 National Risk Study by Deloitte and NEMA. This nationwide assessment reveals the stark realities facing state emergency management agencies—rising disaster complexity, funding challenges, workforce gaps, and outdated systems. Bryan explores why these …
2025-11-1005 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #315: Meeting the Moment - What the 2025 National Risk Study Tells Us About Emergency Management’s FutureIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, unpacks the key findings from the 2025 National Risk Study by Deloitte and NEMA. This nationwide assessment reveals the stark realities facing state emergency management agencies—rising disaster complexity, funding challenges, workforce gaps, and outdated systems. Bryan explores why these findings matter now more than ever and what leaders can do to turn risk into resilience. You’ll hear why strategic planning, modernization, and leadership investment are no longer optional in emergency management. Bryan breaks down the study’s four strategic imperatives and outlines practical steps...
2025-11-1005 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #314: When the Cloud Breaks: What Leaders Must Learn from the AWS OutageIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser explores the operational, reputational, and strategic risks organizations face when a major cloud provider like AWS experiences an outage. Bryan breaks down why most companies are underprepared for large-scale cloud disruptions and what executive leaders must do differently to ensure …
2025-11-0307 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #314: When the Cloud Breaks: What Leaders Must Learn from the AWS OutageIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser explores the operational, reputational, and strategic risks organizations face when a major cloud provider like AWS experiences an outage. Bryan breaks down why most companies are underprepared for large-scale cloud disruptions and what executive leaders must do differently to ensure continuity. He also outlines how cloud dependency should be treated as an enterprise risk—one that deserves board-level attention and investment. Bryan shares practical actions organizations can take to build greater resilience, from conducting robust Business Impact Analyses to testing real-world failover scenarios. He discusses how …
2025-11-0307 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #313: Running Exercises with your Board of DirectorsIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser explores how to design and lead effective crisis or continuity exercises with your Board of Directors. These sessions are often filled with hesitation, but when approached with clarity and strategic framing, they become a powerful opportunity to build influence and drive alignment at the highest level of the organization. Bryan shares how to move beyond traditional tabletop exercises and instead facilitate a meaningful dialogue on risk, readiness, and executive decision-making. You’ll learn how to reframe exercises as strategic conversations, choose scenarios that matter to the …
2025-10-2707 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #313: Running Exercises with your Board of DirectorsIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser explores how to design and lead effective crisis or continuity exercises with your Board of Directors. These sessions are often filled with hesitation, but when approached with clarity and strategic framing, they become a powerful opportunity to build influence and …
2025-10-2707 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #312: 10 Crisis Scenarios Every Company Should Be Ready ForIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser walks through ten high-impact crisis scenarios that organizations should prioritize in their tabletop exercises for 2025. From cyber extortion and data exfiltration to executive malfeasance and misinformation, these scenarios are drawn from real-world threats affecting the world’s leading companies. Bryan outlines how each scenario challenges leadership, disrupts operations, and demands cross-functional readiness. This episode is a strategic guide for resilience, business continuity, and crisis management professionals who want to build better exercises and strengthen organizational preparedness. Bryan also shares insight on compound crises—where multiple threats unfold at once—and why no
2025-10-2205 min
Managing UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #312: 10 Crisis Scenarios Every Company Should Be Ready ForIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser walks through ten high-impact crisis scenarios that organizations should prioritize in their tabletop exercises for 2025. From cyber extortion and data exfiltration to executive malfeasance and misinformation, these scenarios are drawn from real-world threats affecting the world’s leading companies. Bryan outlines how each scenario challenges …
2025-10-2205 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #311: Don’t do check the box shitIn this episode, Bryan Strawser tackles one of the most frustrating patterns in resilience and continuity programs: the trap of check-the-box compliance. He unpacks how performative efforts that focus solely on documentation or audits undermine actual readiness and stall progress toward maturity. Bryan also explores the equally dangerous alternative—doing nothing—and why that’s no better. Instead, Bryan lays out a clear, actionable approach to building both capability and maturity without overcomplicating your program. From anchoring efforts in business value to leveraging influence across the organization, this episode offers practical guidance for moving forward—even when you’re not fully “rea...
2025-10-1307 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #310: The Board’s Role in Crisis ManagementIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser of Bryghtpath explores the critical role of the Board of Directors during times of crisis. Boards are often looked to for leadership and assurance, but their responsibilities are frequently misunderstood. Bryan outlines how directors can provide strategic oversight without stepping into operational decision-making. Drawing on best practices from global standards and real-world examples, Bryan highlights how boards can support management teams, enable resources, and protect organizational reputation. He also examines common pitfalls that boards must avoid and offers practical guidance for engaging in crisis preparedness. Listeners will come away with …
2025-10-0608 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #309 - Exercising more than Cyber MusclesToo many organizations treat crisis exercises as one-dimensional drills focused on ransomware and cybersecurity. While those scenarios are critical, they don’t prepare leaders for the full spectrum of disruptions that can impact operations, reputation, and people. In this episode, Bryan Strawser breaks down why your exercise program can’t live on cyber alone. He explores what’s missing when organizations over-index on ransomware, why exercising “other muscles” matters for true resilience, and how to build a balanced exercise program that strengthens decision-making, executive presence, and cross-functional coordination. If your crisis playbook feels stuck in a cyber-only loop, this episode is your ro
2025-10-0205 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #308 – Why Exercises Fail Without Prepared ExecutivesCrisis exercises are meant to test decision-making and build organizational confidence. But too often, they fail because executives and other key players haven’t been trained on the crisis management framework. Instead of practicing decisions, the exercise gets bogged down in debates about the scenario or the process. In this episode, Bryan Strawser of Bryghtpath explains why training is preparation and exercising is practice. He shares the most common failure modes, the risks of skipping executive training, and practical steps to ensure your leaders are ready before the next exercise. By training first and then exercising, your team walks away wi...
2025-09-2404 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #307 - Why Training Before an Exercise Is Non-NegotiableIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser explores why training your team before an exercise is essential for success. Too often, organizations treat exercises as teaching moments rather than validation tools. The result is confusion, wasted time, and missed opportunities to truly measure resilience. Bryan explains how effective training sets the foundation for meaningful exercises that build confidence, competence, and muscle memory. He shares common pitfalls when training is skipped and offers practical steps to prepare teams before they walk into the room. By investing in training first, leaders ensure exercises deliver …
2025-09-1504 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #306 - Does AI help or harm resilience?Artificial intelligence is transforming how organizations prepare for and respond to disruption. From predictive analytics to automated crisis communications, AI offers powerful tools to strengthen resilience. But it also introduces new risks, including overreliance, bias, and vulnerabilities that can erode trust. In this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath CEO Bryan Strawser explores whether AI ultimately helps or harms resilience. He examines both the opportunities and pitfalls of integrating AI into resilience strategies, offering practical insights for leaders navigating this complex landscape. You’ll walk away with clear considerations for balancing innovation with governance and ensuring AI enhances—not unde...
2025-09-0906 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast –Episode #305 - The New Role of the Resilience Leader: From Plan Writer to Strategic InfluencerIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser of Bryghtpath explores how the role of the resilience leader has evolved. Once viewed primarily as a compliance function focused on writing plans and running exercises, today’s resilience leader is expected to operate as a strategic influencer. Influence, not documentation, is the new measure of impact. Bryan discusses why technical expertise alone is no longer enough, and how leaders must align their programs with business goals, communicate with executive presence, and build strong cross-functional relationships. He also examines common pitfalls that hold practitioners back and offers practical steps for sh...
2025-08-2504 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #304: Just Effing Do SomethingIn this episode of Managing Uncertainty, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser tackles one of the most common — and dangerous — mistakes leaders make in a crisis: doing nothing. Drawing on decades of experience in crisis management, business continuity, and organizational resilience, Bryan explains why waiting for perfect information can paralyze a response and worsen the situation. Instead, he makes the case for decisive, early action, even when all the facts are not yet clear. Bryan shares practical strategies for breaking the stalemate in high-pressure moments, including setting decision triggers, empowering teams, and practicing rapid decision-making. He emphasizes …
2025-08-1807 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #303 - The Resilience Imperative: Lessons from the 2025 WEF Resilience Pulse CheckThe World Economic Forum’s 2025 Resilience Pulse Check delivers a clear message: most organizations are still underprepared for the complex, interconnected risks shaping our world. In this episode, Bryan Strawser breaks down the WEF’s findings and shares Bryghtpath’s proven strategies for closing capability gaps, integrating resilience into strategy, and turning disruption into a competitive advantage. Listen to learn how leaders can move from reactive crisis management to offensive resilience—anticipating change, seizing opportunities, and accelerating transformation. Read the WEF’s 2025 Resilience Pulse Check: https://www.weforum.org/reports/the-resilience-pulse-check-2025 Read our full article: https://bryghtpath.com/the-2025-resilience-imperative-lessons-from-the-wef-pulse-check-and-bryghtpaths-playbook/
2025-08-1206 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #302: Building a Resilience Dream TeamIn this episode of Managing Uncertainty, Bryan Strawser shares lessons from his experience leading security and resilience at a Fortune 30 retailer, reflecting on what it takes to build a high-performing, future-focused team. From hiring with intent to fostering a culture of trust and accountability, Bryan outlines the principles that helped shape a team whose impact continues across industries. He emphasizes that true resilience leadership starts with people—not just processes. You’ll hear practical guidance on identifying potential leaders, investing in mentorship, and building the kind of cross-functional bench that can thrive under pressure. Bryan also explores how alignment, clarity, and
2025-08-0707 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #301 – Is AI Coming for your Resilience Job?In this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryghtpath Principal & Chief Executive Bryan Strawser explores the growing influence of generative AI on the resilience profession. He unpacks the current and emerging use cases of AI in business continuity, crisis management, and risk intelligence—and what these shifts could mean for practitioners. Bryan emphasizes the importance of adapting skillsets to stay relevant in a changing landscape. Rather than resisting AI, resilience professionals should be looking at how to leverage it as a strategic force multiplier. The episode concludes with practical advice for staying ahead of disruption—not just managing it.
2025-07-2910 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #300 - Celebrating 300 Episodes of Managing UncertaintyJoin Bryan Strawser in a milestone episode of the Managing Uncertainty podcast as we celebrate 300 episodes dedicated to enhancing resilience and preparedness in organizations. This episode revisits pivotal moments from past episodes, offering a roadmap for future readiness. Explore lessons from Episode 1, which emphasizes the importance of imaginative crisis planning, to Episode 100, which delves into the nuanced process of threat assessment beyond surface behaviors. In this episode, Bryan also reflects on Episode 200’s interactive format, highlighting the value of open dialogue and continuous learning in resilience strategies. As we look ahead, the podcast aims to explore emerging …
2025-07-2208 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #299: Personal Resilience & the Legacy of D-DayIn this thought-provoking episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, shares insights from his recent visit to the historic D-Day sites in Normandy. This reflective journey highlighted the profound lessons in resilience displayed by the soldiers who bravely stormed the beaches on June 6, 1944. Bryan draws parallels between the courage and preparedness of these young men and the resilience needed by today’s leaders to navigate organizational challenges. Bryan emphasizes the importance of personal resilience as a foundation for effective leadership. He discusses the necessity for leaders to take time to recharge and …
2025-07-0806 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #298: Technology Resilience in HealthcareIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, delves into the critical issue of technology resilience in the healthcare sector. With a decade of experience working with various healthcare organizations, Bryghtpath has witnessed the impact of underinvestment in cybersecurity and infrastructure firsthand. Bryan shares insights into the escalating cyber threats and technology failures that healthcare providers face, highlighting the pressing need for a comprehensive approach to resilience. Listeners will learn about the strategic recommendations necessary to bolster technology resilience, including adopting a risk-based approach, integrating business continuity with IT disaster recovery, and …
2025-06-0206 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #297: What Makes a Great Crisis Management Team Today?Unlock the secrets to building a formidable crisis management team that thrives amid chaos and uncertainty. Join Bryan Strawser as he demystifies the evolution from reactive, ad-hoc crisis teams to modern, proactive units poised to lead at a moment’s notice. This episode reveals how the ability to make fast, confident decisions is not just a skill but a competitive edge. Discover practical strategies for nurturing potential crisis leaders within your organization, emphasizing the importance of clear roles, disciplined decision-making, and cross-functional integration. Bryan emphasizes the need for robust preparedness through regular, realistic exercises that create muscle memory. Learn about th...
2025-05-1905 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast - Episode #296: Managing the Whole Crisis - Cyber Disruptions Beyond the IT DepartmentIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, discusses the crucial need to view cyber incidents as comprehensive organizational crises rather than mere technical issues. He highlights the importance of an enterprise-wide approach, emphasizing that leadership from across the business is essential to manage cyber disruptions effectively. Bryan explores the five pillars critical to crisis management: technical recovery, reputation management, business continuity, customer care, and post-incident recovery.
2025-05-1205 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast - Episode #295: Closing the Gaps - Critical Opportunities to Strengthen Organizational ResilienceIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser delves into the vital topic of organizational resilience. Drawing on a decade of experience in evaluating resilience programs across various industries, Bryan outlines how leading organizations turn uncertainty into opportunity by adopting a robust approach to business continuity and crisis management. He emphasizes the importance of executive sponsorship, effective emergency communication, and operational flexibility as key elements in transforming resilience from a compliance exercise into a core leadership competency. Bryan also highlights common pitfalls organizations face, such as lacking formalized crisis management processes and failing to integrate business continuity …
2025-05-0506 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast - Episode #294: The Future of Resilience Leadership - Influence over ExecutionIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, explores the evolving role of resilience leaders from technical facilitators to strategic powerhouses. He emphasizes the importance of mastering influence, strategic alignment, and executive presence to elevate resilience leaders from behind-the-scenes operators to indispensable partners in decision-making. As organizations face global uncertainties and regulatory demands, resilience leaders are urged to engage proactively with business leaders, shifting their focus from mere technical excellence to becoming strategic advisors. Bryan discusses the need for resilience leaders to conduct relationship audits and participate in strategic initiatives beyond risk management to …
2025-04-2905 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast - Episode #293: An Interview with Dan StonekingIn this insightful episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser of Bryghtpath engages in a compelling conversation with Dan Stoneking, founder and vice president of the Emergency Management External Affairs Association. Dan shares his remarkable journey from the Army to pivotal roles within FEMA, emphasizing his dedication to enhancing emergency management strategies post-Hurricane Katrina. The discussion delves into the establishment of the National Business Operations Center (NBEOC) and the critical role of public-private collaboration in disaster management. As the conversation progresses, Dan explores the evolving landscape of emergency management, highlighting significant changes within FEMA and the challenges of …
2025-04-2128 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast - Episode #292: Building Game Changing Relationships as a Resilience LeaderIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser, principal and CEO at Bryghtpath, explores the critical role of strategic relationships in enhancing your influence as a resilience leader. By developing foundational “table stakes” connections with key roles such as the Chief Information Security Officer, Chief Security Officer, and disaster recovery leaders, you can align trust and ensure the success of your resilience program. Bryan discusses the importance of “value relationships” with departments like communications, compliance, and enterprise risk management to amplify your impact across the organization. Discover how these essential relationships not only bolster your everyday operations …
2025-04-1411 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #291: An Interview with Ian HayIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with veteran emergency manager Ian Hay. Ian recounts his compelling journey into Homeland Security and Emergency Management, driven by the tragic events of September 11th. From witnessing the attacks in Syracuse, New York, to establishing one of the first public-private partnerships for information sharing, Ian’s career path exemplifies the critical role these partnerships play in enhancing national security and fostering collaboration between governmental and private sectors. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the early challenges and successes of
2025-04-0755 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #288: The Value of an Intelligence Program to your OrganizationIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, principal and CEO at Bryghtpath, explores the importance of building a resilient intelligence program within organizations. Drawing from his experience leading a global intelligence function at a Fortune 30 company, Bryan shares how these programs are vital for proactive risk management and strategic decision-making. He discusses the essential components of an intelligence program, such as monitoring global events, assessing risks, and providing early warnings to equip organizations with the foresight needed to handle potential threats effectively. Bryan delves into the multifaceted benefits of a well-structured intelligence function, highlighting its role …
2025-03-1705 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #287: The Evolving Role of the General Counsel in Crisis ManagementIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, explores the transformative journey of General Counsels as they step beyond their traditional roles. Once primarily seen as chief legal advisors, General Counsels are now pivotal strategic leaders in crisis management. This episode delves into how these legal professionals are becoming essential forces in navigating complex challenges such as cyber extortion, ransomware, and reputational crises. Bryan discusses the expanding responsibilities of General Counsels, which now include regulatory compliance, reputation management, and proactive risk management. He emphasizes the importance of their collaboration with communications teams …
2025-03-0206 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #286 - Managing Healthcare in Chaos - Strategies for Crisis ResilienceIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser from Bryghtpath delves into the complexities of crisis management in healthcare. Drawing insights from Newsweek’s virtual panel, Bryan highlights key strategies shared by top healthcare executives to effectively prepare for and navigate crises. This episode is packed with practical tools for developing robust crisis response plans, fostering trust within teams, and combating staff burnout, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Bryan also explores the potential of emerging technologies like telemedicine and data analytics in maintaining continuous patient care during disruptions. He emphasizes the critical role of leadership in st...
2025-02-1705 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #285: Your Board’s Role in Organizational ResilienceIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and CEO at Bryghtpath, delves into the crucial role boards of directors play in fortifying organizational resilience. Drawing from his extensive experience at a Fortune 30 company, Bryan emphasizes the importance of aligning board decisions with stakeholder expectations to drive resilience strategies. He shares insights on how proactive board engagement in risk management, operational transparency, and strategic foresight can give organizations a competitive edge, especially in the face of natural disasters and cyber threats. Bryan highlights actionable steps boards can take, such as conducting stress tests and scenario analyses, …
2025-02-1006 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #284: Is it time for a Chief Resilience Officer?In this insightful episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser of Bryghtpath explores the emerging role of the Chief Resilience Officer (CRO) as a strategic asset within organizations. Drawing from Mark Nevins’ article in Forbes, Bryan delves into the transformative potential of appointing a CRO to proactively manage a broad spectrum of risks, from geopolitical upheavals to cyber threats. He discusses how embedding this role into the executive team can align risk management with business objectives, fortifying organizational resilience and enhancing stakeholder trust. Bryan also highlights the tangible benefits and challenges of this evolving position. He examines the responsibilities …
2025-02-0304 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #283: Using the Strategy Choice Cascade to build your Resilience StrategyIn this insightful episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, delves into the intricacies of building a resilient organization. Drawing from his extensive experience and the strategic insights of Roger Martin’s “strategy choice cascade,” Bryan presents a straightforward approach to resilience, business continuity, crisis management, and IT disaster recovery. He emphasizes the importance of aligning these efforts with organizational goals to enhance team effectiveness and create a future-proof business. Bryan guides listeners through the essential questions that form the backbone of a resilience roadmap. From defining a winning aspiration to determining how to …
2025-01-2807 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #282: Enhancing Decision Making Under Pressure through Crisis ExercisesIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, delves into the transformative power of crisis management exercises. He discusses the essential role these exercises play in honing decision-making skills under pressure and building robust crisis processes within organizations. Through a spectrum of exercises, from low-stress tabletops to immersive full-scale simulations, Bryan emphasizes the importance of practicing in a safe environment to foster muscle memory and expertise. Bryan highlights the strategic roadmap for implementing crisis exercises, urging organizations to initiate their crisis and continuity tabletop exercise journey by 2025. He shares insights on …
2025-01-2012 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #281: You should exercise with your Vendors and Key PartnersIn this insightful episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser of Bryghtpath discusses the critical importance of conducting tabletop and simulation exercises with your key vendors and partners. Bryan emphasizes that these exercises not only identify vulnerabilities but also help align expectations, ensuring that every stakeholder understands their role in a crisis. Through real-world examples, including a cybersecurity breach simulation, Bryan illustrates how collaborative preparation can enhance communication, build trust, and ultimately strengthen crisis management capabilities. Bryan highlights the numerous benefits of practicing with external stakeholders, such as outside counsel and forensics firms, to improve resilience and reduce …
2025-01-1306 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #279: You must have Strategic Alignment in your Crisis Management ProcessIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser, principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, delves into the critical importance of strategic alignment in crisis management. Drawing from nearly three decades of experience, Bryan emphasizes the necessity of a unified approach to handling crises, whether it’s a cybersecurity breach or a natural disaster. He explains how a consistent crisis management process is essential for C-suite leaders and outlines the pitfalls of a siloed approach, which can derail effective crisis responses. Bryan explores two pathways to achieving strategic alignment: a top-down approach led by the C-suite and a bo...
2024-12-3006 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #278: What Sucks in Information Security Right Now?In this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, dives into the pressing challenges facing today’s security leaders. Joined by insights from Maya Kaczorowski, Bryan explores findings from a tl;dr sec article based on interviews with over 50 Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). They discuss the overwhelming vendor landscape, the intricacies of access management, and the struggle with vulnerability overload, providing a comprehensive look at the hurdles that shape current cybersecurity strategies. The episode delves into the complexities of SaaS logging, the ambiguity surrounding asset ownership, and the critical communication barriers between se...
2024-12-2305 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #277: Lessons from the 2024 BCI Crisis Management ReportIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and CEO at Bryghtpath, discusses insights from the Business Continuity Institute’s Annual Crisis Management Report. He points out a worrying trend: 29% of employees don’t know their organization’s crisis plans, highlighting the need for better communication and training. Bryan talks about how organizational silos can harm crisis response and stresses the importance of a collaborative approach involving all employees. He also looks at the changing landscape of crisis management, noting that cyber incidents and reputational risks are now major threats. Bryan emphasizes the need for regular training and si...
2024-12-1605 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast - Episode #276: Initial Lessons from the Assassination of the United Healthcare CEOIn this gripping episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser delves into the tragic assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The shocking event underscores the urgent need for organizations to adopt robust executive protection strategies and crisis management plans. Bryan explores five key areas crucial for enhancing executive safety and ensuring organizational resilience, from threat monitoring and intelligence to comprehensive crisis management planning. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of maintaining transparent communication and providing psychological support to employees in the aftermath of traumatic events. Bryan emphasizes the necessity of reputation management, particularly when public scrutiny …
2024-12-1003 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #275 - What We’ve Seen With Exercises in 2024In this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser, principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, delves into the consistent themes observed during crisis management and business continuity exercises conducted over the past year. Bryan emphasizes the importance of enhancing communication and notification systems, ensuring that teams are well-versed in necessary procedures, and recognizing the critical role of clear documentation. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of stakeholder management, proactive response planning, and effective information sharing. Bryan also explores the necessity of clear ownership of documentation and the need for well-defined roles and responsibilities during crises, particularly concerning …
2024-12-0204 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #274: The Initial Crisis Activation MeetingIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser from Bryghtpath delves into the critical elements of leading an effective initial crisis management meeting. Whether faced with a natural disaster, data breach, or reputational issue, Bryan emphasizes the importance of fostering collaboration and informed decision-making. He introduces listeners to the concept of situational awareness, ensuring that all team members understand the scope of the incident from the outset. Bryan provides a detailed blueprint for structuring the first crisis meeting, highlighting key roles such as the incident leader and subject matter experts. He discusses the importance of having a standard …
2024-11-2506 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #273: My Cybersecurity Resilience Agenda for President Trump’s 2nd termIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, shares his strategic blueprint for enhancing national cybersecurity resilience. Drawing from his experience, Bryan outlines eight critical areas that need attention to strengthen the digital defenses of the nation’s critical infrastructure. His agenda includes proactive measures such as modernizing government cybersecurity systems, promoting cybersecurity training, and fostering public awareness on cyber hygiene. Bryan emphasizes the importance of collaboration between government agencies and the private sector, advocating for real-time cyber threat intelligence sharing and the development of resilience-focused cybersecurity frameworks. He also highlights the ne...
2024-11-1805 minManaging UncertaintyManaging Uncertainty Podcast – Episode #272: My Emergency Management and Resilience Agenda for President Trump’s Second TermIn this insightful episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, outlines a comprehensive emergency management and resilience agenda tailored for President Trump’s upcoming term. Focusing on strengthening America’s national preparedness, Bryan emphasizes the importance of investing in resilient infrastructure and fostering robust public-private partnerships. With critical infrastructure predominantly managed by the private sector, he underscores the need for enhanced collaboration to bolster disaster response and economic recovery. Bryan also advocates for modernizing crisis communication systems and empowering local authorities to lead emergency management efforts. By leveraging cutting-edge technology such as AI-driven disa...
2024-11-1104 minManaging UncertaintyEpisode #271: Election Day Crisis Management: Last-Minute Strategies to Protect Your OrganizationIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, titled “Election Day Crisis Management: Last-Minute Strategies to Protect Your Organization,” Bryan Strawser of Bryghtpath offers crucial insights into navigating the challenges posed by the upcoming U.S. Election Day. He discusses effective crisis management strategies to help organizations maintain stability and security amid potential turbulence. Listeners will learn how to prepare their teams to identify threats, secure communication channels, and reinforce remote work policies to mitigate disruptions. Bryan also delves into essential cybersecurity practices, emphasizing the need to protect against heightened risks from cyber threats and misinformation campaigns. Beyond logistical measures, he …
2024-11-0407 min
Managing UncertaintyEpisode #270: The 2024 Election & Potential Civil UnrestIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, host Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, delves into the pressing concerns surrounding the 2024 presidential election. With former President Donald J. Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris as key contenders, the potential for civil unrest looms large. Bryan explores various scenarios that could trigger widespread demonstrations, emphasizing the need for preparedness in the days following the election, particularly if the results are delayed or contested. The episode also addresses the implications for businesses, particularly those in contested states and cities. Companies must brace for disruptions to operations and …
2024-10-2905 minManaging UncertaintyEpisode #269: Building Trust through Transparent Communication in a CrisisIn this episode of the Managing Uncertainty Podcast, Bryan Strawser, Principal and Chief Executive at Bryghtpath, delves into the vital role of transparent communication in building trust during a crisis. As trust becomes an ever-important currency in today’s digital and post-COVID era, Bryan unpacks the psychological benefits of being open, honest, and proactive. He highlights the dangers of opaque communication and emphasizes how clear and empathetic messaging can safeguard reputations and reassure stakeholders in uncertain times. Bryan offers practical strategies for effective crisis communication, including the importance of clarity, empathy, and actionability in messaging. He also discusses leveraging various ch...
2024-10-2108 min
Guns Guide To LiberalsEpisode 4 Special Report Interview With Bryan StrawserBryan Strawser is Founder, Principal, and CEO at Bryghtpath LLC, a strategic advisory firm he founded in 2014. He has more than twenty-five years of experience in the areas of global enterprise risk management, business continuity, disaster recovery, crisis management, intelligence, and crisis communications. In this episode, we sit down with Bryan to discuss the recently released Violence Project report on mass shootings, common misconceptions about mass shootings, how to identify risks, and intervention strategies. Jon and Sarah Hauptman are the owners of PHLster Holsters. Learn how to carry concealed with our library of ed...
2019-12-0252 min