How Improv Theater Unlocks Better EM Collaboration with Andrew Phelps
Riding the Wave-Project Management for Emergency Managers · 2026-03-02 · 36 min
Episode notes
What if the secret to better emergency collaboration isn't another FEMA course - but improv theater techniques? In this episode, Andrew Phelps, COO of AC Disaster Consulting, reveals why emergency management's biggest myth is that "collaboration just happens." Drawing from his unique background as a trained actor and emergency management leader, Andrew shares how principles from improvisational theater can transform how we work together during disasters. From the "Yes, And" principle to making your partners look brilliant, discover practical frameworks for breaking down barriers, building trust, and creating more effective emergency teams - on both blue sky and dark sky days. Time Stamps 0:50 - Guest Introduction 1:28 - Challenges in Emergency Management 4:46 - Andrew's Background in Theater 6:09 - Five Principles of Improv 11:37 - Overcoming Collaboration Barriers 13:31 - Cultural Shifts Needed 17:24 - Emergency Management Is Everybody's Job 20:10 - Supporting Collaborative Instincts 25:21 - Balancing Stakeholder Needs 28:16 - Managing Scope Creep 34:30 - Closing Thoughts About Andrew Phelps is the Chief Operating Officer with AC Disaster Consulting.
More from Riding the Wave-Project Management for Emergency Managers
All episodes →- FEMA Reform at a Crossroads: What Local Emergency Managers Need to Know65 / 100
- Logistics Makes or Breaks Emergency Response: Logistics Ninja LN Lurie71 / 100
- Slow Down to Speed Up: Jonathan Spector on Establishing AI Guard Rails66 / 100
- Speed Up to Slow Down: AI as a Force Multiplier EMs with Tom Sivak
- Empowering Emergency Management through Project Management: A Conversation with Ashley Morris