Advertise on podcast: Tune In with Michigan's Public Safety Communications System

Oxygen tanks. Blocked roads. Weeks without power. When disasters hit Michigan, the hard part is rarely the headline and it’s almost always the logistics. Brad Stoddard, Director of Michigan’s Public Safety Communications System, joins Captain Kevin Sweeney, commander of the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division and Deputy State Director of Emergency Management, to show what statewide coordination actually looks like when communities need help fast. Kevin explains the core truth that guides the work: disasters start local and end local. We talk through how the state supports local emergency managers, police, fire, and EMS by coordinating resources, activating the State Emergency Operations Center, and working with federal partners like FEMA Region 5 when incidents grow. He shares a memorable look at the northern Michigan ice storm response, including how requests were routed through 211 and how life-safety deliveries like oxygen refills were organized with troopers and National Guard soldiers. We also break down what EMHSD does day to day, from recovery and finance to training, radiological preparedness, public information, and tools like MySIMS that help keep everyone aligned.

A derailment in a farm field. A 53-vehicle pileup in brutal winter weather. A hazmat tanker carrying oleum, a vaporizing form of sulfuric acid. These are the moments when a community learns whether its plans and partnerships are real. We sit down with Therese Crementi, Livingston County Emergency Manager, to talk through what emergency management actually looks like when the stakes are high and information has to move fast.    Therese shares her path from the Michigan State Police into emergency management, including what it feels like to walk into a new discipline full of acronyms, new partners, and a very different kind of leadership. We get practical about the training tools that make it work: NIMS and ICS training, FEMA independent study courses, exercise design, crisis communication, and the Michigan Professional Emergency Manager (PEM) designation. Along the way, we dig into why emergency management should stand on its own, how a county maintains an Emergency Operations Plan, and how federal funding and hazard mitigation planning can determine what help is available after a disaster.    We also break down the “wheel” of emergency management planning, prevention, response, recovery, mitigation and why recovery is usually the longest, hardest phase. Therese explains how and when we activate an Emergency Operations Center (EOC), including the difference between a plug-and-play physical EOC and a virtual EOC model learned during COVID. The conversation closes with grounded career advice for anyone entering public safety: live in the moment, take self-care seriously, and remember the badge exists to empower the people you serve.

In September 1995, Michigan broke ground on Phase I of the MPSCS system. To help us reflect on this journey from those early days to where we are now - and where we are heading - we are thrilled to welcome two MPSCS Pioneers for Part II:First, Jeff Steffel, retired trooper and Captain and commanding officer of the communication system when the MPSCS system was originally contracted and constructed.And second, Chuck Cousino, named Motorola's Project Director with the award of the original contract. https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Brad-Jeff-Chuck-Transcript-Pt-2-FINAL-EDIT.pdf

In September 1995, Michigan broke ground on Phase I of the MPSCS system. To help us reflect on this journey from those early days to where we are now - and where we are heading - we are thrilled to welcome two MPSCS Pioneers:First, Jeff Steffel, retired trooper and Captain and commanding officer of the communication system when the MPSCS system was originally contracted and constructed. And second, Chuck Cousino, named Motorola's Project Director with the award of the original contract. Transcript:  https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Brad-Jeff-Chuck-Transcript-Pt1--Final-v2.pdf

Join retired MSP Trooper David Service and host, retired MSP Trooper and MPSCS Manager Tim Lee, as they explore the evolution of public safety radio communications - from the early days of patrol work to the advanced systems in use today. As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the MPSCS, David shares firsthand stories from the origins of public safety communications and reflects on the pivotal transition to Michigan’s statewide radio system in 1995. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how technology transformed communication, safety, and coordination across the state. https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Dave-Service-Tim-Lee-Podcast-Transcript--0112525.pdf

In September 1995, Michigan broke ground on Phase I of the MPSCS system. To help us reflect on this journey from those early days to where we are now - and where we are heading - we are thrilled to welcome two MPSCS Pioneers: Theron Shinew, who served MPSCS from 1981 to 2019. He started out as a steeplejack and rose through the ranks to become Deputy Director before retiring after an incredible 37-year career. And Bob Batis, Senior Director, Business Relationship Manager with Motorola Solutions. Bob was there from the beginning, when the State partnered with Motorola in the mid-1990s to help build the foundation of what MPSCS is today. https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Brad-Theron-Bob-Transcript-Pt-3.pdf

In September 1995, Michigan broke ground on Phase I of the MPSCS system. To help us reflect on this journey from those early days to where we are now - and where we are heading - we are thrilled to welcome two MPSCS Pioneers: Theron Shinew, who served MPSCS from 1981 to 2019. He started out as a steeplejack and rose through the ranks to become Deputy Director before retiring after an incredible 37-year career. And Bob Batis, Senior Director, Business Relationship Manager with Motorola Solutions. Bob was there from the beginning, when the State partnered with Motorola in the mid-1990s to help build the foundation of what MPSCS is today. https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Brad-Theron-Bob-Transcript-Pt2.pdf

In September 1995, Michigan broke ground on Phase I of the MPSCS system. To help us reflect on this journey from those early days to where we are now - and where we are heading - we are thrilled to welcome two MPSCS Pioneers: Theron Shinew, who served MPSCS from 1981 to 2019. He started out as a steeplejack and rose through the ranks to become Deputy Director before retiring after an incredible 37-year career. And Bob Batis, Senior Director, Business Relationship Manager with Motorola Solutions. Bob was there from the beginning, when the State partnered with Motorola in the mid-1990s to help build the foundation of what MPSCS is today. Transcript: https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Brad-Theron-Bob-Transcript-Pt-1.pdf

What was it like before Michigan built a unified communication system for its first responders? In this episode, we take a step back in time to explore the challenges emergency personnel faced when every agency had its own radio system—and none of them talked to each other. Join Tim Lee, Deputy Director at Michigan Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) and former Michigan State Police trooper, as he sits down with retired MSP Lieutenant Joseph Thomas. Together, they discuss the chaos of early emergency communication, when officers juggled CB radios, county, state, and local systems, and even scanners—just to coordinate a response. Don’t miss this look into how far Michigan has come in building a modern, interoperable system to keep communities safe. Transcript: http://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Joe-Thomas-Tim-Lee-Podcast-Transcript--073025.pdf

Join us for a special 30th Anniversary Edition of the Michigan’s Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) podcast as we honor one of our most dedicated pioneers, Del Rajala, Superior Region Radio Network Technician. From the rugged terrain of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to high-tech innovation and community leadership, Del’s journey with MPSCS is nothing short of extraordinary. A foundational force since the system’s inception, Del was recently named Technician of the Year, a tribute to his relentless dedication, deep technical expertise, and unshakable commitment to his team and community. 🔊 What you'll hear in this episode: •How Del tested every square mile of the U.P. during early MPSCS rollout •MPSCS first Communications on Wheels (COW), built by Del in 2005 •2010 IT Excellence Award from the Michigan Information Systems Association •Antenna System Replacement at Michigan Tech University •Del’s public service on the Keweenaw County Board of Commissioners for over 14 years, 911 Commission, Vice Chair of the Western UP Health Department, Veterans Affairs, and more. 📡 Tune in and be inspired by the legacy of Del Rajala and 30 years of life-saving connectivity across Michigan. Transcript: https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Del-Rajala-Podcast-Transcript-Final-June-2025.pdf

🎉 30th Anniversary Edition podcast with Michigan Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) and Gray Page, Bay City Supervisor! 🎉 As we mark this milestone, we're proud to highlight one of our dedicated team members, Gray Page - Bay Region Supervisor and a longtime MPSCS employee whose commitment continues to shape our success. At our October Division Meeting, Gray was honored with the Director's Award by Director Brad Stoddard. This award recognizes his exceptional leadership, work ethic, and consistently positive attitude. Most recently, Gray played a key leadership role in the Motorola Virtualized Prime (V-Prime) Conversion Project, a major step forward in modernizing our system. For almost 30 years, Gray has made vital contributions to the MPSCS buildout, including but not limited to: 🔹 Genesee Simulcast 🔹 Saginaw Simulcast & Dispatch 🔹 Tuscola Dispatch 🔹 Lapeer Simulcast 🔹 City of Flint 🔹 Midland Simulcast & Dispatch 🔹 Bay County & Iosco County Dispatch Please join us in celebrating Gray’s incredible work and 30 years of reliable public safety communications in Michigan! 🔊📡 Transcript available here: https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Gray-Page-Bay-City-Transcript-Final.pdf

Join Danielle Stewart, MPSCS Business Unit Manager, as she sits down with Adam Philpott from the Indiana Integrated Public Safety Commission (IPSC) to explore his critical role in public safety communications during the Total Eclipse of April 2024. Adam was a featured presenter at the 15th Annual Michigan's Statewide Interoperable Communications Conference in where he delivered a compelling talk: "Communications Success: Lessons from a Total Solar Eclipse." In preparation for the April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse, Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb declared a state of emergency to ensure the state was ready for an influx of visitors and the potential strain on infrastructure. Thanks to meticulous planning and coordination, Indiana achieved stellar success in managing emergency response, transportation, and communications during this rare celestial event. We also take a moment to celebrate major milestones—30 years of MPSCS and 25 years of IPSC—as we recognize the dedication of our public safety partner to the south. Tune in for an insightful discussion on crisis preparedness, interoperability, and the lessons learned from an event where the stars literally aligned for public safety. https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Conversation-with-Adam-Philpott-IPSC_v03142025.pdf

Join us for a special podcast from 'The Hot Seat' with Michigan’s Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) Director, Brad Stoddard. Under Brad’s leadership, the MPSCS has become an internationally acclaimed P25 700/800 MHz digital trunked radio network, ensuring seamless communication and interoperability among local, state, federal, tribal, and private first responders across Michigan. With a distinguished career in public safety communications, Brad brings a wealth of experience to the table. He has served as an engineer with the U.S. Department of Defense at the Joint National Test Facility and currently holds the position of Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC) and National Chair, leading Michigan’s efforts in emergency response interoperability. Brad has also chaired the FEMA Region V Emergency Communications Coordination Working Group and the APCO Broadband Committee, and so much more. Tune in to gain insights from Brad’s extensive expertise and discover the critical role of public safety communications in serving all first responders and protecting communities. Transcript: https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/Brad-Podcast-Transcript-Draft-Pt-1-Final.pdf

Do you have legacy radios approaching end of life? Why is replacement necessary and how do you navigate that change? Where do you turn if you have questions and need answers? RPU/TDU – we’re bigger, better, and more efficient. Tune In to learn what our Radio Programming, Template Design, Console, and Fire Paging Unit do, and the big improvements we have made. Discover the Radio Management tool and how we are modernizing the MPSCS system and support infrastructure. For a full list of Radios Approved on the MPSCS System, please visit our Website at www.michigan.gov/mpscs and go to Radios, Consoles, Pagers and Sirens tab. RPU Hotline: 517-333-2720 RPU/TDU Email: [email protected] Transcript: https://www.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/RPU-TDU-Chris-Kuhl-Transcript-Final.pdf

Join us as we go Behind the Console with Michael Armitage, Executive Director of the Calhoun Co. Dispatch Authority to discuss the important work 911 Dispatchers and PSAP’s do to ensure seamless public safety communications for our first responders. For the month of April during National 911 Education Month, we would like to take the opportunity to thank our Public Safety Telecommunicators for their service and dedication. #thankyou911 #911EducationMonth Transcript: https://cms.michigan.gov/mpscs/-/media/Project/Websites/MPSCS/Social_Media/Transcripts/911-Director-Armitage-Transcript-Final.pdf