Innovative Crisis Exercises: From Design to Execution with Sophia Klewer

Crisis Lab

In this episode of the Crisis Lab Podcast, host Kyle King sits down with Sophia Klewer, the COO of PREVENCY and an expert in crisis management simulations.

Kyle and Sophia discuss why crisis simulations are essential, showing how these exercises help organizations adapt by testing systems, decisions, and teams in realistic scenarios. They cover the role of technology, common challenges, realistic scenario design, after-action reviews, and involving senior leaders in preparation.

With experience spanning government, military, and private sectors, Sophia brings a unique perspective to the conversation. She shares her expertise in developing PREVENCY’s proprietary crisis simulation software and explains how these exercises build resilience, prepare teams for the complexities of real crises, and go beyond theory. Sophia also talks about her academic role at the Leipzig School of Media, where she trains future professionals in crisis communications.

Tune in to learn how crisis simulations can elevate your organization’s preparedness for the unexpected.

Show Highlights

[03:03] Cross-sectoral lessons in crisis management
[03:38] Challenges in situational awareness and communication
[06:56] The need for cross-sector training
[11:44] Managing pushback and participant frustration in exercises
[14:55] Incorporating cascading events in simulations
[18:48] The role of technology in crisis simulations
[21:41] Designing effective crisis exercises
[27:58] Common misconceptions in crisis preparedness
[32:34] The role of After Actions Review
[37:55] The future of crisis simulations

Connect with Sophia Klewer

-Linkedin