In this episode of the Hoosier Homeland podcast, we sit down with Indiana’s new Secretary of Public Safety, Secretary Green. With a distinguished military service, cybersecurity and leadership development background, she brings a wealth of experience to her role overseeing the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) and other key public safety agencies.

We dive into her leadership philosophy, the importance of emotional intelligence in high-stakes environments and her vision for IDHS under Governor Braun’s administration. Secretary Green also shares her plans to support first responders, enhance school safety and strengthen Indiana’s cybersecurity efforts.

Plus, get to know her on a personal level with a fun round of rapid-fire questions!

If you enjoyed this episode, our complete catalog can be found on Spotify, YouTube, and Pandora. To listen to previous episodes, go to on.in.gov/hoosier homeland.

You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Indianadhs.

We will see you in our next episode.

Until then, stay informed, stay prepared, and take control of your safety.

Indiana saw a decrease in fire fatalities in 2024, but what does that mean for fire safety across the state? In this episode of Hoosier Homeland, we sit down with Indiana State Fire Marshal Steve Jones to discuss the latest fire fatality data, emerging trends, and how we can continue to reduce fire deaths.

Then, we discuss practical steps every Hoosier can take to prevent fires and protect their families in 2025. From smoke alarms and fire escape plans to the hidden dangers in your home, this conversation is packed with lifesaving tips and expert advice.

Fire safety starts with awareness and action. Tune in to learn how to keep your home, workplace, and community safe. For more fire safety resources, visit GetPrepared.IN.gov.

To listen to previous episodes and subscribe to get notifications for new episodes sent directly to your inbox, go to on.in.gov/hoosier-homeland.

Stay connected with IDHS on social media:

Facebook: @Indianadhs / indianadhs

Instagram: @Indianadhs / indianadhs

-X: @IDHS ⁠https://x.com/IDHS⁠

-Threads: @indianadhs www.threads.net/@indianadhs

Senior Meteorologist Sam Lashley takes us inside the National Weather Service’s Hazard Simplification Project in this bonus episode. This project aims to improve how weather hazards are communicated to the public, making it easier for everyone to understand and respond to weather emergencies. Sam explains the critical elements of the project, how it’s being implemented, and what it means for the future of weather forecasting. Don't miss this essential conversation for anyone interested in weather safety and public communication. Go to weather.gov/hazardsimplification/ to learn more about this project and when what the timeline for these changes are. To listen to previous episodes and subscribe to get notifications for new episodes sent directly to your inbox, go to on.in.gov/hoosier-homeland. Stay connected with IDHS on social media: Facebook: @Indianadhs / indianadhs Instagram: @Indianadhs / indianadhs -X: @IDHS https://x.com/IDHS -Threads: @indianadhs www.threads.net/@indianadhs Stay informed all season long with Hoosier Homeland!

Winter Weather Preparedness Week is here, and in this episode of Hoosier Homeland, IDHS Digital Communications Coordinator Bridget Campbell sits down with Sam Lashley from the National Weather Service to talk about what to expect this winter season in Indiana. This episode has everything you need to know, from snow and temperature predictions to new alert changes. And don't miss the bonus segment later this week where Lashley explains the new Hazards Simplification Project—an effort to make NWS weather alerts more straightforward and actionable for everyone. Listen in, get prepared, and make this your safest winter yet! Go to on.in.gov/winter for more winter weather safety tips To listen to previous episodes and subscribe to get notifications for new episodes sent directly to your inbox, go to on.in.gov/hoosier-homeland. Stay connected with IDHS on social media:

• Facebook: @Indianadhs / indianadhs
• Instagram: @Indianadhs / indianadhs

-X: @IDHS https://x.com/IDHS -Threads: @indianadhs www.threads.net/@indianadhs Stay informed all season long with Hoosier Homeland!

Lessons from Indiana’s 2024 Storm Season: Are You Prepared for What’s Next? This past storm season has been one of the most intense in Indiana’s history, leaving a trail of destruction, property damage, and even the loss of life. In this episode of [Podcast Name], we’re joined by [Guest Name], the Indiana Natural Hazards Program Manager, to reflect on what we’ve learned from these storms and how we can better prepare for the future. In this episode, we discuss: A recap of the most significant storms and their impacts Common mistakes people make when preparing for severe weather Practical steps you can take to protect your home and family How climate change might be influencing storm patterns in Indiana The importance of preparedness during National Preparedness Month Whether you’re a homeowner, a business owner, or want to be better prepared for severe weather, this episode offers valuable insights and tips to help you stay safe when the next storm hits. Don’t forget to subscribe for more expert advice on preparedness and safety! To learn more, go to on.in.gov/hoosier-homeland

In this episode of Hoosier Homeland, Indiana's EMS Training and Education Coordinator, Kari Lanham, dives into the challenges and advancements in pediatric readiness for emergency medical services. When 911 calls involve children, the pressure is higher, and the stakes are critical. Kari discusses how EMS teams across Indiana use tools like the Handtevy app and the role of Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinators (PECCs) to improve care for pediatric patients.

Whether you're an EMT, a healthcare professional, or someone interested in public safety, this episode offers valuable insights into how Indiana is making strides in pediatric emergency care.

If you would like to learn more about the work the EMS division have been undertaking, go to ⁠in.gov/dhs/ems⁠

⁠on.in.gov/hoosierhomeland⁠

Follow us on social media for more updates:

Facebook: [@Indianadhs](/www.facebook.com/IndianaDHS/)

Instagram: [@Indianadhs](https://www.instagram.com/indianadhs/)

X: [@IDHS]: (https://x.com/IDHS)

Threads: [indianadhs]: (www.threads.net/@indianadhs)

In this fourth and final episode of "When the Smoke Clears," a series on first responder mental health, we delve into a crucial subject: identifying the signs of mental stress among firefighters and knowing when to intervene to provide support. Throughout this series, we've explored the growing awareness and acceptance of mental health conversations within the fire service in Indiana and nationwide. In this episode, our expert panel discusses the warning signs that may indicate a fellow firefighter is struggling with more than just the everyday stresses of the job. Join IDHS Executive Director Joel Thacker, Indiana State Fire Marshal Steve Jones, Tony Murray of the Professional Fire Fighters Union of Indiana, firefighter Troy Clements from Pike Township, and mental health expert Dr. Bob Smith as they share their experiences and advice on how to identify when someone needs help—and what to do about it.

If you are suicidal or in emotional distress, consider using the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

To learn more about first responder mental health and access resources, visit: on.in.gov/responder-mental-health Watch the entire series as a playlist: on.in.gov/Smoke-Clears Follow us on social media for more updates: Facebook: [@Indianadhs]( / indianadhs) Instagram: [@Indianadhs]( / indianadhs ) X: [@IDHS]: (https://x.com/IDHS) Threads: [indianadhs]: (www.threads.net/@indianadhs)

In this third installment of "When the Smoke Clears," the video series on first responder mental health, the discussion continues on the critical topic of mental health in the fire service.

Previous episodes have explored how conversations about mental health are becoming more commonplace among firefighters and how leaders are prioritizing the well-being of their teams. Breaking down barriers and stigmas around mental health is crucial for the fire service in Indiana and across the country. This episode shines a spotlight on the programs that are readily available to assist first responders when they need it most. While it takes courage to initiate a conversation about mental health, the real victory lies in following through and accessing the services.

The episode features specific programs for first responders, including the impactful work of Dr. Bob Smith, a dedicated professional who specializes in mental health support for this community. We also discuss more general mental health services to guide individuals in taking the first steps toward seeking help. To learn more about mental health resources for first responders, visit on.in.gov/responder-mental-health To listen to previous episodes and subscribe to get notifications for new episodes sent directly to your inbox, go to on.in.gov/hoosier-homeland. Stay connected with IDHS on social media: - Facebook: @Indianadhs https://www.facebook.com/IndianaDHS/ - Instagram: @Indianadhs https://www.instagram.com/Indianadhs -X: @IDHS https://x.com/IDHS -Threads: @indianadhs www.threads.net/@indianadhs Thank you for listening, and stay tuned for the last episode in the series.