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Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we train for emergencies — from the way we design crisis exercises to how we think about communication, collaboration, and creativity under pressure.

In this episode, OSRL’s Ines Costa joins host Emma Smiley to explore how AI is helping transform preparedness. Ines shares how her background in marketing and digital media led her to experiment with AI tools in training and crisis management — and how those early tests evolved into fully immersive exercises now used across OSRL.

Together, they discuss what AI can (and can’t) do, the ethics of using deepfakes in drills, the power of storytelling in technical training, and why experimentation is key to innovation.

Whether you’re in emergency response, communications, or tech, this conversation offers a grounded look at what happens when human creativity meets machine intelligence.

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In this episode we continue our journey with oiled wildlife preparedness and response. In particular we look at the important role of Sea Alarm, a non-governmental organization founded 25 years ago to advance wildlife response preparedness. In 2005, OSRL and Sea Alarm joined forces to address the critical gaps in oiled wildlife response preparedness, particularly in relation to industry preparedness. Back then, major oil spills like Erika, Prestige, and Tricolor exposed much of the world’s lack of readiness to protect wildlife. Governments were often overwhelmed, and NGOs had to self-organize without adequate resources. Over the last 20 years the collaboration between OSRL and Sea Alarm has transformed the landscape, making wildlife response preparedness more of a priority for governments and industry alike.

To explore this, we speak with Sea Alarm’s General Manager, Hugo Nijkamp. Hugo has been at the helm of Sea Alarm since its inception. We reflect on the achievements and transformations of the past 20 years - from developing international networks and enhancing local capabilities to mapping global preparedness. We also celebrate the partnership between Sea Alarm and OSRL and look ahead to the future and explore how we can adapt to new risks to wildlife, further improve global response capabilities, and continue to foster international collaboration.

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This episode explores the complexities of emergency planning and response, focusing on the personal journeys of professionals in the field, strategies for effective training, and the critical role of technology and collaboration in enhancing preparedness. Listeners gain valuable insights into the mindset required for success and the importance of fostering teamwork amid crises.

• Personal journeys into emergency response and the motivations behind them
• Importance of effective exercises for readiness and team cohesion
• Use of technology to create realistic crisis simulations
• The necessity of strong collaboration within the industry
• Building trust through open communication with regulators
• Shared lessons learned and advice for emerging professionals in the field

Please give us ★★★★★, leave a review, and tell your friends about us as each share and like makes a difference.