What happens when you’re tasked with solving a high-stakes problem you know almost nothing about? This episode of The Business Emergency Room takes you behind the scenes of a fascinating real-life challenge: tackling the unknown to support critical decision-making.

Join Maartje as she recounts a pivotal experience early in her career—a multi-billion-dollar investment opportunity in Iran, fraught with risks, including unexploded ordinances in an oil field near the Iran-Iraq border. With little knowledge of the issue and limited resources, her team had to think fast, ask the right questions, and collaborate effectively to provide leadership with the insights needed to make a decision.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How to approach complex, high-risk challenges with resourcefulness and creativity.
• The importance of de-risking decisions by identifying what you know—and what you don’t.
• Why collaboration and transparency are essential in problem-solving under uncertainty.
• Lessons learned from both the successes and missteps in their decision-making process.

This story is more than a case study; it’s a masterclass in resourcefulness, decision-making, and leadership. Whether you’re tackling a small challenge or navigating a major business emergency, the lessons in this episode will inspire you to face the unknown with confidence and clarity.

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

What if the key to overcoming your organization's toughest challenges lies in understanding the human element? In this compelling podcast episode, psychotherapist Elaine Belson shares her journey from over 30 years in psychotherapy to becoming a social work officer in the U.S. Army at age 42, including her deployment to Afghanistan. She recounts a pivotal experience providing critical incident stress management after 9/11 for a healthcare organization. While addressing immediate trauma, she uncovered deeper organizational challenges stemming from a merger. Elaine emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, effective communication, and human-centered leadership in navigating crises and maintaining workplace well-being. Her structured approach to problem-solving and decision-making, rooted in identifying core needs, is both practical and transformative.

About the Guest:

Elaine Belson has 30 years of combined experience in clinical practice, military service, politics, and teaching. Her work spans a variety of settings, including private practice, colleges, community agencies, and hospitals. At the age of 42, she joined the U.S. Army as a Social Work Officer, managing domestic violence cases and teaching anger management to soldiers. Her deployment to Afghanistan included providing outpatient services and serving as XO for Medical Command. Elaine’s professional background also includes service on several advisory boards, teaching psychology at the college level, and holding multiple legislative positions in Washington, D.C. In addition to her private practice, she hosts the YouTube channel Ask The Therapist, makes podcast appearances, and writes about psychology in pop culture and politics.

Elaine’s Website: http://elainebelson.com/

YouTube: Ask The Therapist

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Feeling overwhelmed by unclear goals or stalled projects? This episode dives into the transformative power of "opportunity framing"—a structured approach to redefine success and realign teams amid chaos. Using Toyota’s 2010 accelerator pedal recall as a case study, the discussion highlights how to assess crises, prioritize impactful actions, and establish clear direction to rebuild trust and efficiency. By embracing tools like AI, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring transparency, teams can shift from reactive firefighting to proactive progress, unlocking clarity and focus for long-term success.

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Unlock the secrets to transforming overwhelm into empowerment in a dynamic discussion recorded live at Podapalooza, featuring Robyn McTague, a specialist in team engagement and conflict resolution after 3 decades with WorkSafeBC, a workers' compensation insurer in British Columbia, Canada. This episode discusses shifting from panic to power, cultivating emotional and physical awareness, and leveraging tools like motivational mapping and the Enneagram for personal and team resilience. Robyn emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual motivators, the value of grounding techniques, and the transformative power of curiosity in conflict resolution. Leaders are encouraged to identify energy drains, build resilience, and align their actions with their team’s needs for sustainable success.

About the Guest:

Robyn McTague, known as the Engagement Catalyst, is a dynamic coach, speaker, and consultant specializing in emotional balance, team engagement, and leadership development. With a career spanning over three decades at WorksafeBC, Robyn has held pivotal roles, including Joint Committee Chair for Safety, Diversity, and Employee Assistance Programs. She was instrumental in creating a department for seriously disabled workers and implementing diversity training initiatives, breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. Robyn’s academic foundation includes a BA in Psychology from Simon Fraser University, complemented by certifications in counseling, motivational mapping, the Enneagram, and conflict resolution.

As the founder of A Life of Choice and Positive Team Engagement, Robyn helps individuals and small businesses build authentic, thriving workplaces. Her approach emphasizes resilience, self-awareness, and alignment with core motivators, creating environments where team members feel valued and engaged.

Robyn McTague’s websites: Positive Team Engagement and A Life of Choice.

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Process Decay is a chronic condition in almost all organizations and can be a significant invisible contributor to overload and turmoil - i.e. Bad Chaos. Do you feel your organization is burdened by inefficiencies that hinder progress? This episode sheds light on the concept of "process decay," a pervasive issue where outdated, redundant, or misaligned ways of working silently drain 20-30% of annual revenue while consuming significant employee time. With compelling examples and research-backed insights, this episode highlights how ineffective processes can bottleneck operations, increase frustration, and reduce compliance. By streamlining and modernizing workflows, you can cut costs, improve morale, and reduce frustration. Start by identifying bottlenecks, engaging end-users, and leveraging AI tools to pinpoint issues and simplify workflows. Think of processes as a well-organized coat rack—supporting the team without being a burden. Addressing process decay isn’t just maintenance; it’s a step toward sustainable growth and resilience.

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Trigger warning: This episode discusses suicide and mental health. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to a trusted friend, a mental health professional, or a crisis hotline in your area.

Workplace mental health is not just a tick-box exercise; it’s a vital, actionable step toward saving lives. This discussion with Frank King, a renowned advocate and mental health comedian, underscores the profound impact of mental health awareness and suicide prevention in professional settings. With 85% of suicides occurring among people aged 18-65—many of whom spend their days at work—the workplace becomes a critical arena for intervention. Frank shares actionable strategies for spotting warning signs, fostering open communication, and building organizational trust. Leaders and colleagues alike can play a pivotal role in recognizing and addressing mental health challenges before they escalate. The key takeaway? Starting the conversation could save a life.

About the Guest:

Frank King, known as The Mental Health Comedian, is a renowned Suicide Prevention and Postvention Public Speaker, Trainer, and Corporate Comedian. With over 20 years as a writer for The Tonight Show and 38 years in stand-up comedy, he has shared the stage with legends like Jerry Seinfeld, Ellen DeGeneres, and Adam Sandler. Turning his lifelong battle with depression and suicidality into a platform for change, Frank has delivered 12 TEDx Talks, including the acclaimed "A Matter of Laugh or Death". He combines humor with lifesaving insights to break the stigma surrounding mental health, equipping audiences—ranging from corporations to schools—with tools to recognize and address mental health challenges. His resilience extends beyond mental health, having survived significant physical health challenges, which he jokes about with grace. A passionate advocate and author, Frank inspires others by proving that where there is humor, there is hope.

Website: mentalhealthcomedian.com

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Overwhelmed by the flood of data in today's fast-paced business environment? This discussion dives into the critical issue of "information inflation," where 90% of existing data has been generated in just the past two years. The constant influx of redundant and excessive information strains productivity, creativity, and decision-making. Leaders and teams alike face increasing challenges to prioritize, streamline communication, and maintain focus amidst redundant information. But there is hope—strategic practices such as periodic chaos cleanses, optimized technology use, and structured collaboration can help tame the data storm. Addressing these challenges is vital for unlocking organizational efficiency, innovation, and clarity in decision-making.

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Emergencies test the resilience and adaptability of individuals and organizations, but preparation makes the difference between chaos and control. In this insightful conversation, Meredith Beers, Associate Director of Emergency Preparedness and Response at Tulane University, shares her experience managing diverse and complex scenarios ranging from natural disasters to campus-specific crises. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication, an adaptable all-hazards plan, and structured decision-making to ensure safety and continuity. Her proactive approach to training, collaboration with external agencies, and stakeholder feedback fosters a robust emergency management system, applicable beyond the academic environment. This episode underscores the value of readiness, adaptability, and the human factor in navigating uncertainty effectively.

About the Guest: 

Meredith’s journey into crisis preparedness began as a student at Tulane University when Hurricane Katrina struck. Experiencing one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history profoundly shaped her career path – she realized her calling was to help others prepare for and recover from crises.  These days, she's all about making organizations crisis-ready, but don't expect any dusty emergency manuals that sit on shelves. Her real-world approach brings everyone into the conversation, from mapping out solid game plans to making sure employees know exactly what to do when things go sideways. She's got a knack for breaking down complex situations into clear, actionable updates that keep everyone in the loop when it matters most. Whether she's working with large organizations or community groups, Meredith's message is simple: emergencies don't schedule appointments, so being prepared isn't just a box to check – it's a way of life.

www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-beers

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Picture a workplace where chaos thrives, not because people lack talent, but because communication falters and goals feel uninspiring. Could the solution to this turmoil lie in something as simple—and powerful—as better communication and inspired goal-setting? In this episode, we explore how leaders and employees can build better workplace dynamics by tackling these challenges head-on. The conversation delves into the concept of "bad bosses," not as individuals, but as behaviors that can be corrected through communication and self-awareness. Ken shares his unique approach to goal setting, emphasizing the importance of inspiration and energy in achieving clarity and focus amidst chaos. The discussion also highlights the power of declaring intent and fostering open communication to create empowered, collaborative environments. Ending on an optimistic note, Ken reminds listeners that challenges always resolve, even if not easily, and encourages resilience.

About our Guest: 

Ken Williams, is a certified life coach, and an accomplished author and podcaster. He is known for his book The Stupid Goals Blueprint: The Antidote to Toxic SMART Goals, which offers a fresh approach to goal setting by emphasizing inspiration and individual alignment. Ken is also the host of The Bad Boss Podcast, where he explores the dynamics of leadership, workplace relationships, and the impact of toxic managerial behaviors.

Ken's philosophy focuses on improving communication, fostering mutual respect in workplace relationships, and empowering individuals to create inspiring goals. He advocates for open dialogue between employees and leaders and emphasizes the importance of understanding each other’s intentions to build stronger teams. With a passion for helping others navigate chaos and disruption, Ken provides practical tools and wisdom for both personal and professional growth. He is accessible via his website, KenWilliamsCoaching.com, where listeners can find links to his podcast and coaching services.

Get Ken's Book - STUPID Goals Blueprint: The Antidote to Toxic SMART Goals

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

When disaster strikes and reputations are on the line, are you ready to communicate your way through the storm? Effective crisis communication is a cornerstone of business resilience, as highlighted in this discussion with Melissa Hodgson, a seasoned PR and Communications Expert. Drawing from over three decades of experience, Melissa emphasizes the importance of proactive planning to mitigate business emergencies, from natural disasters to reputation crises. She shares insights on why organizations must anticipate vulnerabilities and cultivate trusted relationships with communication specialists. Moreover, she stresses the role of transparency, respect, and tactful messaging in managing public and media narratives, even when sensitive issues arise. This episode serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize readiness and strategic communication to maintain trust and credibility during crises.

About our Guest: 

Melissa Hodgson, ABC APR, is an award-winning public speaker, PR practitioner and proven leader with a unique perspective on crisis communication. As vice president at Gambel Communications, Melissa provides crisis communication counsel and oversees best-in-class public relations services for Gambel clients.

With more than 30 years’ experience in public relations and issues management, Melissa has successfully represented her employers and clients in proactive and reactive communication environments.

Melissa is accredited by both the International Association of Business Communicators (ABC) and Public Relations Society of America (APR). The dual accreditation indicates her commitment to the rigorous national and international standards for senior communicators. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communication theory and public relations from the University of Alabama.

About the Host:

Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.

Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/

https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.