In this episode of *Red Light, Green Light*, host Cindy Skalicky sits down with Rod Goossen, Founder and CEO of Rogo Communications, to discuss how a devastating wildfire tragedy inspired a mission to save lives through technology.

Following the 2013 Yarnell Hill Fire in Arizona, where 19 Granite Mountain Hotshots lost their lives, Rod set out to solve a critical challenge in emergency response: the lack of real-time communication and situational awareness for firefighters operating in remote, high-risk environments. Drawing on his background in avionics engineering, he founded Rogo Communications and developed the Drop Block, a satellite-enabled device designed to help first responders communicate, coordinate, and stay safe when traditional networks fail.

Rod shares the story behind Rogo’s creation, the lessons he's learned building a mission-driven technology company, and how effective communication, customer discovery, and authentic leadership have shaped his entrepreneurial journey. He also discusses expanding Rogo’s technology beyond wildfires to support hurricane, earthquake, tornado, and other disaster-response efforts.

Key topics include:

* The Yarnell Hill Fire tragedy and its lasting impact
* How satellite technology is improving firefighter safety
* Building products that solve real-world problems
* The importance of customer-focused communication
* Authentic leadership and finding your purpose
* Innovation, resilience, and securing NASA SBIR funding
* Expanding emergency-response technology to all-hazards disasters

Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, first responder, or someone passionate about innovation with impact, this conversation offers valuable insights into turning purpose into action.

Connect with Rod via https://www.linkedin.com/in/rod-g-645bb31a6/
Learn more about Rogo Communications: [www.rogocom.com](http://www.rogocom.com)

I hope you enjoy this episode!
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Cindy

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We explore business and leadership, helping you spot red light behaviors that create risk and doubt while embracing green light strategies that drive success. Learn about the power of silence in communication, storytelling for impactful presentations, and the importance of mentorship. Discover why your ability to learn is more important than what you know, how walking the circle in leadership builds trust, and why you are in charge of your calendar. Plus, we cover mindset shifts, navigating change, and podcast coaching for leaders to help you grow.
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