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!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

Cindy

#redlightgreenlight #onpoint #podcast #podcastshow #newepisode #foryou #foryoupage
#business #advice #success #leadership #podcast #fyp #redlightgreenlightpodcast #businessleadership #storytelling #mentorship #effectivecommunication #mindsetshifts #navigatingchange #podcastforleaders
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.
#Leadership #WildfireResponse #EmergencyManagement #Innovation #FirstResponders #Technology #PublicSafety #Entrepreneurship #SatelliteCommunications #DisasterResponse #RedLightGreenLightPodcast

In this episode, Cindy Skalicky discusses the importance of visualization as a tool for leaders to master their presentations and manage pressure. She guides listeners through a visualization exercise designed to enhance confidence and performance in high-stakes situations. The episode emphasizes the significance of preparation, self-affirmation, and the celebration of successes after delivering impactful presentations.

Key Takeaways:

Visualization is a powerful tool for leaders.
It helps in managing pressure during presentations.
Preparation is key to delivering a successful message.
Self-affirmation boosts confidence before speaking.
Engaging with the audience enhances the presentation experience.
Handling questions effectively is crucial for credibility.
Celebrating small wins reinforces positive experiences.
Visualization can be practiced in various scenarios.
Confidence can be built through mental rehearsal.
Leaders should strive to lower their own pressure to influence others.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

Cindy

#redlightgreenlight #onpoint #podcast #podcastshow #newepisode #foryou #foryoupage
#business #advice #success #leadership #podcast #fyp #redlightgreenlightpodcast #businessleadership #storytelling #mentorship #effectivecommunication #mindsetshifts #navigatingchange #podcastforleaders
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.

In this episode, Cindy Skalicky interviews Chris Cummins, a renowned speaker and media expert, discussing the intricacies of public speaking, the emotional rollercoaster of engaging with audiences, and the importance of preparation and routine. Chris shares his journey into public speaking, the adrenaline rush and exhaustion that follows, and the rituals he employs to get into the zone before a presentation. The conversation also delves into the significance of crafting a compelling opening to capture the audience's attention and the research that informs his approach. In this conversation, Chris Cummins and Cindy Skalicky explore the nuances of public speaking, emphasizing the importance of building trust with audiences through thorough research and engagement. They discuss the evolution of audience interaction, the dangers of relying on AI for speech writing, and the significance of creating memorable experiences. The duo also highlights the value of long-term engagements and the need for customization in presentations to ensure that speakers resonate with their audiences.

Takeaways:

Public speaking can evoke both terror and exhilaration.
The adrenaline rush can lead to exhaustion after a presentation.
Preparation and routine are key to successful speaking engagements.
Visualization techniques can enhance performance and reduce anxiety.
Understanding the audience is crucial for effective communication.
Crafting a strong opening can set the tone for the entire presentation.
Self-talk and affirmations can help speakers focus and calm nerves.
Engaging with the audience creates a shared experience.
Researching the audience's needs can improve relatability.
Post-presentation recovery is essential for speakers. Building trust with the audience is crucial.
Researching the audience enhances engagement.
Human connection is essential in presentations.
AI-generated speeches can lack authenticity.
Creating memorable experiences is key for speakers.
Through lines help unify presentations.
Long-term engagements can enhance speaker effectiveness.
Customization is vital for audience connection.
Speakers should reflect their unique voice.
Engaging the audience fosters a better experience.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

Cindy

#redlightgreenlight #onpoint #podcast #podcastshow #newepisode #foryou #foryoupage
#business #advice #success #leadership #podcast #fyp #redlightgreenlightpodcast #businessleadership #storytelling #mentorship #effectivecommunication #mindsetshifts #navigatingchange #podcastforleaders
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.