The Executive Function: The Crisis Leader’s Edge

Emergency management and crisis leadership demand more than technical skills and knowledge in today’s fast-paced and complex world. To better access information on demand, make appropriate decisions, and lead most effectively, it is essential to understand how the brain works. A critical cognitive skill set known as executive function (EF) is at the heart of effective decision-making in high-pressure situations.

Leaders with robust EF skills are at a distinct advantage. They are better equipped to make informed decisions under pressure and navigate the intricacies of contemporary organizational landscapes and global challenges. EF is especially critical in crisis management and high-stakes decision-making scenarios where clarity of thought and efficient action can be game-changers. The podcast Guest is Kim Guevara, MA Founder and CEO at MOZAIK Solutions  Kim has 25 years’ experience in emergency management, homeland security, and development. She has provided services to all levels of government, the U.S. military, and the private and non-profit sectors. Kim’s combined experience in emergency/crisis management, health community initiatives in humanitarian crises, and organizational leadership also led her to co-create the Crisis Athlete™ program. At its core, the program challenges, questions, and envisions new, more sustainable pathways for crisis leaders to think about resilience by leveraging and applying the power of neuroscience at the individual, organizational, and community levels. You can read about this topic here: Executive Function: The Crisis Leader’s Edge in a High-Pressure World.

For more brain tools see www.crisisathlete.com.Dynamis, a leading provider of information management software and security solutions, is a sponsor of this podcast. 


Eric Holdeman is a professional emergency manager who is passionate about providing information that can help families, businesses & governments become better prepared for disasters of all types. Hear first hand expert insights from Eric on his Podcast, Blog & EricHoldeman.com.