Colonel Jeffrey Roth: Lessons I Learned From My Military Experience about How To Survive And Thrive During A Time Of Crisis
Before a crisis strikes, it’s crucial for business owners and leaders to focus on building resilience across all aspects of their organization. This means ensuring that people, systems, processes, and facilities are prepared to withstand unexpected events. The key is to envision the worst-case scenario and develop a comprehensive plan to address it.
In this interview series, we are exploring the subject of dealing with crises and how to adapt and overcome them. Crisis management is one characteristic that many successful leaders share in common, and in many cases, it is the most important trait necessary to survive and thrive in today’s complex market. I had the pleasure of interviewing Jeffrey Roth.
Jeff Roth has tackled complex urban policy challenges, including flood mitigation, emergency management, and taxi regulation in New York City, gaining practical experience in effective city governance. As a colonel in the US Army National Guard, he served for nearly twenty-five years, including responding to Superstorm Sandy, completing two overseas deployments, and commanding Joint Task Force Empire Shield. Roth holds a master’s degree in public policy and urban planning from Harvard University, and a master’s degree in strategic studies from the US Army War College, underscoring his academic and practical expertise in his field.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would love to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood “backstory”?
I grew up in a small town in southeast Michigan, where my early life was marked by a stark contrast between my quiet hometown and the vibrant, challenging urban landscapes I encountered as a teenager. My high school program brought me face-to-face with the realities of inner-city Detroit, where I tutored youth. This experience, coupled with humanitarian work in Mexico and Romania, profoundly shaped my worldview. I vividly recall the emotional struggles of twin brothers in Detroit grappling with family issues, and the heart-wrenching plight of a young boy in Romania, abandoned and living in a shelter. One of the most defining moments was holding a malnourished baby in a Romanian hospital, who tragically passed away days later. These encounters were not just eye-opening; they were a call to action, highlighting the tangible impact of public policies on individual lives.
Pursuing a master’s degree in public policy and urban planning was a natural progression. Following, my path led me to New York City. Here, I delved into complex urban policy issues, from emergency management, to flooding, to fire prevention, to exploring ways to make government more accessible and responsive, affecting millions. These experiences reinforced my belief in the power of sound policy and the critical role of public institutions. They underscored my conviction that as citizens, we have a collective responsibility to safeguard and improve these institutions for the betterment of society.
And what are you doing today? Can you share a story that exemplifies the unique work that you are doing?
Today, as the Commander of Joint Task Force Empire Shield (JTFES), I lead a critical New York National Guard organization focused on homeland security operations in the New York City metropolitan area. JTFES, which emerged in the wake of September 11th, plays a vital role in supporting law enforcement agencies to deter, detect, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism or other emergency events. Our diverse team of Service Members, drawn from the Army National Guard, Air National Guard, and New York
Naval Militia, collaborates closely with local, state, and federal authorities. We understand that New York City remains a high-profile target, and our Task Force is an integral part of New York State’s deterrence and response strategy.
Can you tell us a bit about your military background?
I began my military career as an Army ROTC cadet at Michigan State University, balancing my civilian aspirations with a commitment to serve my country through the National Guard. My initial assignment was with the 1–119th Field Artillery in Lansing, Michigan, where I served in various roles, including a deployment to Sinai, Egypt with the Multinational Force and Observers, which maintains the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel.
Balancing military duties with academic pursuits, I attended Harvard Kennedy School for graduate studies, managing to fulfill my drill responsibilities with a local artillery unit. Post-graduation, I moved to New York City, working in the Mayor’s Office of Operations while commanding Alpha Battery, 1–258 Field Artillery in Newburgh, New York, then later as the Battalion Operations Officer. My tenure saw diverse experiences, from training at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, to responding to Superstorm Sandy in New York City, a highlight of my service.
I then progressed to roles such as Battalion Executive Officer for the 1258 Field Artillery and Chief of Fires for the 42nd Infantry Division. My deployment to Kuwait and Jordan in 2020 was particularly challenging, overseeing COVID-19 response operations and coordinating personnel movements across six countries. After returning, I took command of the 1–258 Field Artillery Regiment, leading over 650 Soldiers, concluding with an exercise at Camp Grayling, Michigan called Northern Strike, the largest National Guard Bureau coordinated exercise in the U.S. Recently, I completed my Battalion Command and am currently serving at the New York Joint Force Headquarters, ready for the next challenge.
Can you share the most interesting story that you experienced during your military career? What “take away” did you learn from that story?
Throughout my military career, I’ve been part of numerous impactful experiences, each leaving its own unique imprint. One of the most rewarding was assisting in the response and recovery efforts during Superstorm Sandy in New York City. The opportunity to help our neighbors and support the city during such a devastating event was an experience that will always stay with me. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of community and solidarity in times of crisis.
However, considering current global events, my first overseas deployment to Sinai, Egypt, as part of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO), stands out. The MFO plays a crucial role in maintaining the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel. A significant part of our mission involved observing border activities. I remember standing on the Egyptian side of the border, facing the Gaza Strip, and being struck by the profound significance of that location. It was a moment of realization about the complexities of the region, the lives of the people residing there, and the delicate balance of international relations.
This experience taught me the immense value of international cooperation in maintaining peace and preventing conflict. It highlighted how, when the global community unites with a common purpose, we can create meaningful change and foster stability in even the most volatile regions. This lesson in the power
of collaboration and diplomacy has stayed with me and continues to influence my perspective on global affairs.
We are interested in fleshing out what a hero is. Did you experience or hear about a story of heroism, during your military experience? Can you share that story with us? Feel free to be as elaborate as you’d like.
Indeed, military service is replete with stories of bravery and heroism. As someone deeply fascinated by military history, I’ve encountered numerous accounts of individuals making extraordinary personal sacrifices for their comrades and for larger humanitarian causes. One such story that deeply resonates with me involves the 42nd Infantry Division, a unit I later had the honor of serving with, and their role in liberating the Dachau Concentration Camp in southern Germany during World War II.
As the 42nd Infantry Division, along with other Allied units, approached Dachau, they were met with a harrowing scene. The camp, notorious for its brutal treatment of prisoners, represented one of the darkest chapters of human history. The soldiers of the 42nd Infantry Division, many of whom were ordinary men from diverse backgrounds, were suddenly thrust into a situation of unimaginable horror. Yet, they responded with extraordinary compassion and courage. They provided immediate aid to the survivors, many of whom were in dire health conditions, offering medical care, food, and comfort.
This act of liberation was more than a military operation; it was a profound humanitarian effort. The soldiers of the 42nd Infantry Division, in liberating Dachau, not only helped end the atrocities occurring there but also restored humanity and dignity to the survivors. This story is emblematic of the values of the US Army and the National Guard. It underscores our commitment not just to the defense of our nation, but to the defense of human rights and the protection of the vulnerable. The heroism displayed at Dachau goes beyond battlefield valor; it speaks to a deeper moral courage — the willingness to confront evil and alleviate suffering, even in the most daunting circumstances.
For me, this story encapsulates the essence of what it means to be a hero in the military. It’s about putting others before oneself, standing up against injustice, and making sacrifices for the greater good. The legacy of the 42nd Infantry Division at Dachau continues to inspire and remind us of the impact military service can have in shaping a better world.
Based on that story, how would you define what a “hero” is? Can you explain?
A hero, in my view, is not just someone who performs a grandiose act of bravery or achieves a monumental feat; rather, it is someone who confronts setbacks, endures hardships, and emerges stronger and more resilient. This concept aligns with the philosophy presented in a favorite book of mine from Ryan Holiday, The Obstacle is the Way. He draws from Marcus Aurelius’ wisdom: ‘The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.’ This idea suggests that it’s not the absence of obstacles that defines heroism, but our response to them.
True heroism is most often found in the quiet persistence and courage of ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges. It’s in the resilience of individuals who navigate through life’s complexities, transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth and learning. Heroes are those among us who, despite personal struggles and societal challenges, continue to contribute positively to society, often without recognition or fanfare.
In this light, heroism is deeply intertwined with our human experience. It’s about the capacity to push through internal and external barriers, to adapt, and to find meaning and purpose even in the face of adversity. Heroes are those who inspire us not by their flawless journeys, but by their ability to navigate the imperfect and often challenging paths of life with integrity, strength, and a commitment to bettering themselves and the world around them.
Do you think your experience in the military helped prepare you for business or leadership? Can you explain?
Definitely! My military experience has been crucial in shaping my leadership and organizational skills. The meticulous planning and foresight I learned in the military are invaluable in business, where understanding the broader impact of decisions is key. Skills in coordinating large, diverse teams and managing complex projects have been directly applicable to my civilian roles.
Moreover, the military taught me adaptability and resilience, essential in today’s dynamic business environment. The ability to quickly adjust strategies and navigate challenges has been a significant asset.
And of course, the discipline and priority setting ingrained in military service have been fundamental to my effectiveness in leadership and management. These skills help me balance multiple tasks and focus on what’s most important for success in both civilian and military roles.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
I’ve been fortunate to receive support and guidance from numerous individuals throughout my career, including colleagues, friends, subordinates, supervisors, and leaders I’ve admired from a distance. Each of these interactions has profoundly shaped my career and personal growth. Among these, I’ve had the privilege of working with some remarkable women who have significantly impacted my professional path, such as Elizabeth Squadron, Loree Sutton, and Isabel Smith.
One standout figure in my journey is Carole Post. As the director of the project management group at the Mayor’s Office of Operations, she played a pivotal role early in my career. I vividly recall my initial interview for an analyst role on her team, where we instantly connected over the shared passion for effective governance. Her decision to offer me a position in what was one of the most talented and ambitious teams I’ve ever been part of, under Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s dynamic administration, was a turning point for me. This opportunity not only gave me a foothold in government but also led to many exciting and fulfilling experiences. I am deeply grateful for the chance she took on me and the doors it opened.
Ok, thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of this interview. We would like to explore and flesh out how to survive and thrive in a crisis. How would you define a crisis?
A crisis can be defined as a significant, unexpected event that poses a serious threat or challenge, often requiring immediate response and action. It’s characterized by a high degree of uncertainty and can significantly disrupt normal operations or conditions. In the realm of emergency management, a crisis often tests the limits of preparedness and response capabilities.
The key to managing a crisis lies not just in the ability to respond to immediate events, but also in having a robust infrastructure and framework in place that can adapt to unforeseen circumstances. This involves building and organizing capabilities to ensure readiness for a wide range of potential scenarios. The goal is to minimize the impact on people and their property, reducing pain and suffering as much as possible.
In essence, a crisis is more than just an unexpected event; it’s a test of our resilience and adaptability. Effective crisis management requires foresight, planning, and the ability to mobilize resources swiftly and efficiently to address the immediate needs and mitigate long-term consequences.
Before a crisis strikes, what should business owners and leaders think about and how should they plan?
Before a crisis strikes, it’s crucial for business owners and leaders to focus on building resilience across all aspects of their organization. This means ensuring that people, systems, processes, and facilities are prepared to withstand unexpected events. The key is to envision the worst-case scenario and develop a comprehensive plan to address it.
Such planning involves several critical components:
Response Process: Clearly define the steps the organization will take in the event of a crisis. This includes establishing clear lines of communication and decision-making protocols.
Resource Allocation: Identify the resources — both human and material — that would be necessary to effectively respond to a crisis. This includes understanding the capabilities and limitations of your current resources.
Employee Preparedness: Ensure that all employees are informed and trained in what to do during a crisis. This can range from emergency drills to detailed briefings on the crisis management plan.
Continuous Improvement: Recognize that crisis management is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update the plan based on new insights, changes in the business environment, or after drills and training sessions.
Investing time in developing a well-thought-out crisis management plan and identifying areas for improvement can significantly enhance an organization’s long-term resilience. It’s not just about having a plan on paper, but about creating a culture of preparedness that permeates every level of the organization.
There are opportunities to make the best of every situation and it’s usually based on how you frame it. In your opinion or experience, what’s the first thing people should do when they first realize they are in a crisis situation? What should they do next?
In a crisis, the priority is always safety. Ensure that you and your loved ones are secure, whether that means seeking shelter or moving away from danger. Once safety is assured, the next step is to assess the situation, which hinges on accessing reliable information.
To stay informed during a crisis:
1. Link with Emergency Management Agencies: Connect with local, state, and federal agencies for updates.
2. Subscribe to Alert Systems: Sign up for local alerts via text or email.
3. Have Backup Information Sources: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio ready. 4. Plan Communication Strategies: Discuss with your family or team alternative ways to communicate, like a designated meeting place or an out-of-town contact.
By focusing first on safety and then on gathering accurate information, you can make more informed decisions and effectively navigate the complexities of a crisis.
What do you believe are the characteristics or traits needed to survive a crisis?
Surviving a crisis requires a specific set of characteristics and traits, crucial for navigating through challenging and often unpredictable situations. Firstly, maintaining calm and composure is essential. Panic can cloud judgment and lead to hasty decisions that may compromise safety. Staying calm allows for clearer thinking and more rational decision-making.
Flexibility is another critical trait. Crises are dynamic, often evolving rapidly and unpredictably. Being flexible means being able to assess the situation as it changes and adapt your response accordingly. It’s important to remember that information from governmental authorities can take time to emerge and may evolve as the situation unfolds.
Lastly, having a well-thought-out plan is invaluable. This doesn’t just mean having a theoretical strategy in mind; it also involves practical preparedness. Basic skills, knowledge, and resources should be readily accessible to help you manage through the initial stages of a crisis. This includes having an emergency kit, knowing basic first aid, and understanding how to access information and assistance.
When you think of those traits, which person comes to mind? Can you explain why you chose that person?
When I think of resilience and the ability to turn a crisis into an opportunity, my friend and neighbor Michael Cairl immediately comes to mind. Five years ago, he experienced a stroke that significantly affected his physical abilities. This was undoubtedly a personal crisis, but Michael’s response to this challenge was nothing short of remarkable.
Rather than allowing this setback to diminish his spirit, Michael seemed to adopt a mindset of, ‘This is unexpected and unwelcome, but goldarn it, I’m going to make the most of it.’ He pivoted from the path he was on and embraced a new direction with incredible determination and positivity. Michael has become a passionate advocate for accessibility in New York City’s transportation system, using his experience to drive positive change for others with disabilities.
Furthermore, he started a blog about exploring staircases he climbs throughout the region, turning his journey into a source of inspiration and exploration. His approach to his stroke — not as a defeat but as a catalyst for new beginnings — is a testament to his strength of character. Michael’s story is a powerful example of how a positive outlook and a sense of humor can transform adversity into an opportunity for growth and advocacy.
Did you have a time in your life when you had one of your greatest setbacks, but you bounced back from it stronger than ever? Can you share that story with us?
My life has been marked by various setbacks, both big and small, professionally, and personally. Each of these moments has been a learning opportunity, thanks to a curiosity-driven mindset. In my book, Fires, Floods, and Taxicabs, I delve into a particularly poignant experience where I was on the cusp of leading a NYC agency but ultimately did not receive confirmation from the NYC Council. This situation, while partially beyond my control, taught me invaluable lessons about self-advocacy, preparation, and the courage to put myself out there.
Interestingly, what initially seemed like a professional setback opened an unexpected door. When the NYC opportunity didn’t materialize as I had hoped, it paved the way for another significant role — serving in the US Army during the COVID-19 pandemic. This turn of events underscored the importance of staying open, flexible, and proactive in the face of change.
This experience reinforced my belief that sometimes, what appears to be a loss can lead to even greater opportunities. The path that unfolded in the military was not only professionally fulfilling but also personally rewarding in ways I hadn’t anticipated. It taught me that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s about bouncing forward into new possibilities and embracing the unknown with a positive outlook. This mindset has been instrumental in helping me navigate life’s unpredictable twists and turns.
Here is the main question of our discussion. Crises not only have the potential to jeopardize and infiltrate your work, but they also threaten your emotional stability and relationships. Based on your military experience, what are 5 steps that someone can take to survive and thrive in these situations?
In my book, I draw from my experiences in the military and NYC government to outline strategies for effectively managing emergencies. These strategies are not only relevant for emergency managers and staff but can also be applied by anyone during a personal crisis.
Be Prepared: Preparation is key. Think through potential worst-case scenarios and develop plans for safety. This includes considering communication strategies, essential resources for survival, and special needs within your community.
Establish Effective Communication: In the fast-paced nature of emergencies, where information constantly changes, it’s crucial to gather accurate information before making decisions. Communicate with your loved ones and share verified information from credible sources.
Stick to Routines: Maintaining familiar routines can provide a sense of stability and predictability in chaotic times. Engaging in meaningful daily rituals can offer emotional grounding when external circumstances are tumultuous.
Connect with Others: After a crisis, connecting with others is vital for emotional well-being. Check on neighbors, offer help to those impacted, and support those in need. Community solidarity can be a powerful tool in recovery. And ask for help if you need it!
Adapt and Learn: Flexibility and resilience are essential. Be ready to adjust your plans as new information emerges or situations evolve. Allowing yourself to pivot when necessary is a crucial aspect of effective crisis management.
Ok. We are nearly done. You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. :-)
If I could inspire a movement, it would center around the concept of ‘neighborliness’ — the idea of actively contributing to and connecting with our local communities. This engagement is crucial for the health and vitality of our democratic society. It’s about more than just living side by side; it’s about building bonds, sharing resources, and fostering understanding among diverse groups. When we come together, our differences become strengths rather than barriers, enriching our collective experience.
Moreover, I strongly advocate for greater involvement of women, minority communities, and young people in the field of emergency management. In times of crisis, the most vulnerable often suffer the most. By ensuring these groups are well-represented in the sector that plans for and responds to emergencies, we can better address and meet their unique needs. This inclusivity is not just beneficial; it’s essential. I encourage anyone drawn to this field, especially those from underrepresented groups, to pursue it. Your perspectives, experiences, and skills are invaluable — we need you to help build a more resilient and empathetic society.
We are blessed that some very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them :-)
Selecting just one individual for such an opportunity is indeed challenging. However, if I had to choose, it would be President Bill Clinton. Growing up as a teenager in the 1990s, I was deeply influenced by his presidency. His commitment to building bridges, both within the United States and internationally, left a lasting impression on me. Moreover, his ability to foster consensus and embrace compromise is something I find particularly admirable, especially considering the current state of our political discourse. A conversation with him would be a chance to understand more about the principles of leadership and unity that seemed so central to his time in office. Oh, and at the time, I was able to do one heckuva President Clinton impression!
How can our readers follow you online?
Readers can find me at www.jeffreydroth.com!
Thank you so much for these amazing insights. This was truly uplifting.
