Promises We Keep: Getting Everyone Home Safe Every Night The Lab Safety Gurus podcast

#Science #Biology #Chemistry #Natural Sciences #WITH DAN SCUNGIO & SEAN KAUFMAN #SEAN KAUFMAN #WITH DAN SCUNGIO

29:27

With AI’s ability to augment in-house creative teams, how does that change the way organizations should approach both their creative strategies and how they evaluate the value of creative as a business function? Today, we’re joined by Jen Rapp, Chief Marketing Officer at Superside. Jen has had key roles at iconic brands like Patagonia, Arc’teryx, DoorDash, Owlet Baby, and Klaviyo. Now, she’s leading Superside’s rebrand with a focus on AI-powered creative services that augment in-house teams. RESOURCES Superside website: https://www.superside.com Wix Studio is the ultimate web platform for creative, fast-paced teams at agencies and enterprises—with smart design tools, flexible dev capabilities, full-stack business solutions, multi-site management, advanced AI and fully managed infrastructure. https://www.wix.com/studio Don't miss Medallia Experience 2025, March 24-26 in Las Vegas: Registration is now available: https://cvent.me/AmO1k0 Use code MEDEXP25 for $200 off registration Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

The Lab Safety Gurus »
Promises We Keep: Getting Everyone Home Safe Every Night

9 days ago 17:34

MP3•Episode home

What can spiritual practices teach us about laboratory safety? In this thought-provoking discussion, Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman draw unexpected parallels between religious observances like Lent and Ramadan and the discipline required for maintaining a safe laboratory environment.
We explore the challenging journey of behavioral change in laboratory settings, questioning how long it truly takes to transform safety habits and create lasting cultural shifts. Sean offers a powerful reframing: rather than focusing solely on habit formation timelines, we should identify what distracts us from safety consciousness and replace those distractions with safer alternatives.
Cell phones emerge as a primary laboratory safety concern, but we dig deeper into the myriad distractions affecting laboratory professionals: personal stressors, workplace pressures, interpersonal conflicts, and psychological safety concerns. Each of these can compromise our commitment to safety protocols and put ourselves and others at risk. The most compelling moment comes when we articulate the three fundamental promises laboratory professionals make daily: to return home safely to loved ones, to ensure colleagues can do the same, and to protect the wider community from laboratory hazards.
The conversation concludes with practical wisdom through the STAR methodology (Stop, Think, Act, Review) and a challenge to listeners: take time during this reflective season to identify what distracts you from laboratory safety and consciously replace those distractions with safer behaviors. Your commitment to mindful safety practices doesn't just protect you—it honors the promises you've made to your loved ones, colleagues, and community. What safety distraction will you eliminate today?

Chapters

1. Welcome and Season of Reflection (00:00:00)

2. Changing Behavior and Lab Safety Culture (00:03:05)

3. Identifying Safety Distractions (00:07:20)

4. Promises to Yourself and Others (00:13:40)

5. Safety Challenge: Thinking Before Acting (00:16:10)

22 episodes

Promises We Keep: Getting Everyone Home Safe Every Night

The Lab Safety Gurus

published 9 days ago

MP3•Episode home

Chapters

1. Welcome and Season of Reflection (00:00:00)

2. Changing Behavior and Lab Safety Culture (00:03:05)

3. Identifying Safety Distractions (00:07:20)

4. Promises to Yourself and Others (00:13:40)

5. Safety Challenge: Thinking Before Acting (00:16:10)

22 episodes

#Science #Biology #Chemistry #Natural Sciences #WITH DAN SCUNGIO & SEAN KAUFMAN #SEAN KAUFMAN #WITH DAN SCUNGIO

All episodes

1
Promises We Keep: Getting Everyone Home Safe Every Night 17:34

9 days ago17:34

17:34

What can spiritual practices teach us about laboratory safety? In this thought-provoking discussion, Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman draw unexpected parallels between religious observances like Lent and Ramadan and the discipline required for maintaining a safe laboratory environment. We explore the challenging journey of behavioral change in laboratory settings, questioning how long it truly takes to transform safety habits and create lasting cultural shifts. Sean offers a powerful reframing: rather than focusing solely on habit formation timelines, we should identify what distracts us from safety consciousness and replace those distractions with safer alternatives. Cell phones emerge as a primary laboratory safety concern, but we dig deeper into the myriad distractions affecting laboratory professionals: personal stressors, workplace pressures, interpersonal conflicts, and psychological safety concerns. Each of these can compromise our commitment to safety protocols and put ourselves and others at risk. The most compelling moment comes when we articulate the three fundamental promises laboratory professionals make daily: to return home safely to loved ones, to ensure colleagues can do the same, and to protect the wider community from laboratory hazards. The conversation concludes with practical wisdom through the STAR methodology (Stop, Think, Act, Review) and a challenge to listeners: take time during this reflective season to identify what distracts you from laboratory safety and consciously replace those distractions with safer behaviors. Your commitment to mindful safety practices doesn't just protect you—it honors the promises you've made to your loved ones, colleagues, and community. What safety distraction will you eliminate today?…

1
Embodying Safety: Transformative Resolutions for a Safer Laboratory Environment 16:08

10 weeks ago16:08

16:08

Kickstart your year by aligning your beliefs with your behaviors in the lab. Discover the power of genuine commitment to safety as we, Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman, guide you through practical safety resolutions that go beyond mere words. We promise you'll learn how to effectively embody safety in your daily practices by replacing outdated habits with sustainable, healthier ones. Together, we'll explore the hierarchy of controls, waste management, and the often-overlooked aspect of psychological safety, inspiring a culture of continuous improvement in the lab environment. For those new to the field or feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of change, we emphasize the importance of incremental steps. Our approach ensures that lab safety improvements are both achievable and manageable, creating a safe working environment that evolves with you. Join us, the Lab Safety Gurus, as we express our heartfelt gratitude for your support and set the tone for a year dedicated to enhancing lab safety. Get ready to embrace practical tips and personal insights that will keep safety at the forefront of your laboratory work this year and beyond.…

1
Revolutionizing Safety Culture: The Intersection of Psychology and Laboratory Protocols 15:31

20 weeks ago15:31

15:31

Unlock the secrets of aligning human psychology with laboratory safety protocols as Sean Kaufman and Dan Scungio unravel the intriguing parallels between Maslow's hierarchy of needs and the hierarchy of controls. Discover how addressing fundamental needs for air and water can be mirrored in engineering controls to create safer laboratory environments. As we journey through this discussion, we highlight the often overlooked connection between comfort, security, and adherence to safety measures, emphasizing the crucial role psychological safety plays in fostering an open culture of dialogue and innovation. Prepare to have your perspective on safety culture transformed as we explore the symbolic power of two triangles—one upright, one inverted—and their combined potential to revolutionize organizational safety practices. This episode delves into how these geometric shapes can provide unexpected insights for strengthening safety measures. With gratitude to Dan Scungio for being a catalyst in this conversation, we reaffirm our dedication as lab safety gurus committed to empowering laboratories worldwide to cultivate robust and effective safety cultures. Join us in this compelling exploration and be part of the transformation in laboratory safety dynamics.…

1
From Stress to Success: Navigating Lab Emergencies 18:09

25 weeks ago18:09

18:09

How prepared are you mentally to handle a lab emergency? Join us as we unpack this crucial—but often overlooked—aspect of laboratory safety. In this riveting episode of the Lab Safety Gurus Podcast, we dive into the heart of psychological preparedness for lab workers. Dan Scungio shares his firsthand encounters with unexpected lab incidents, such as unknown source exposures and accidental pathogen contact. We discuss the everyday stressors of the lab environment, from staffing shortages to tight deadlines, and how they can lead to burnout, anxiety, and reduced performance. These factors can severely impede effective emergency responses, making mental readiness a vital component of laboratory safety. Leadership and continuous improvement are pillars of a robust emergency response plan. We emphasize the importance of having a dedicated individual to document events during emergencies, facilitating thorough reviews or "hot wash" meetings to identify strengths and areas for improvement. Tabletop scenarios and drills are not just beneficial—they're essential for discovering weak points in your emergency management plans. Effective leadership during crises is also highlighted; a calm and composed leader can make all the difference, guiding their team with confidence and reassurance. Tune in as Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman stress the indispensable role of planning and leadership in safeguarding our labs.…

1
Spotlight on Laboratory Scientists Fighting Emerging Diseases 16:34

30 weeks ago16:34

16:34

How do laboratories act as frontline warriors during health crises like COVID-19? Join us, Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman, as we explore the indispensable role these labs play in diagnosing diseases, guiding treatments, and ensuring public safety. Drawing from our own experiences and professional insights, we discuss the procedural challenges and emotional pressures faced by laboratory professionals, emphasizing the urgent need for specialized training in handling dangerous substances. We also spotlight the unsung heroes working in public health and academic labs. These professionals are not only researching new treatments and diagnostics but are also preparing for threats to our food and environment. From developing life-saving vaccines to conducting groundbreaking experiments, their contributions are vital. Tune in as we celebrate the dedication and hard work of these laboratory scientists, whose efforts are crucial in the fight against emerging infectious diseases.…

1
Normalized Deviance in Laboratory Settings 18:34

36 weeks ago18:34

18:34

What happens when unsafe practices become the norm in your lab? Join us as we reflect on the tragic Space Shuttle Challenger disaster and how it unveiled the concept of "normalized deviance" — where organizations become desensitized to risky behaviors. We share our own memories of that devastating day and draw parallels to everyday lab environments, stressing the grave dangers of neglecting personal protective equipment (PPE) and bypassing engineering controls. By highlighting shocking examples, such as lab workers suffering severe chemical burns from washing with microchem, we aim to raise awareness about this critical issue and advocate for proactive safety measures to prevent such catastrophic outcomes. Promoting a robust safety culture goes beyond just following protocols; it requires open communication and consistent vigilance. We discuss how external audits can unearth normalized unsafe practices and the importance of creating an environment where safety concerns can be voiced without fear of retribution. Through the touching story of a father's daily calls to his children, we underscore the power of consistent communication in personal and professional spheres. Tune in to hear how these lessons can fortify your lab's safety and foster stronger, enduring connections with your colleagues and community.…

1
Navigating Conflict and Communication Challenges in Laboratory Teams 16:54

39 weeks ago16:54

16:54

Ever wondered how to handle that colleague who just doesn't seem to get it? On the latest episode of the Lab Safety Gurus Podcast, we promise to equip you with practical strategies and real-life anecdotes to tackle even the most challenging coworkers in your lab. From those who hog the spotlight to others who bend or break the rules, we break down various difficult personality types and explore the generational shifts impacting workplace dynamics. Learn how maintaining high standards and clear communication can significantly improve job commitment and performance quality. Join us as we highlight the power of professionalism, setting boundaries, and effective communication to foster a respectful and efficient workplace. Hear transformative stories about resolving conflicts with respect and love and discover why every action must have a corresponding reaction to create a structured work environment. We also stress the critical importance of safety compliance and proper use of PPE. Get actionable advice from hosts Dan and Sean on promoting a culture of safety and ensuring that everyone adheres to essential protocols. Tune in for an insightful discussion that promises to transform how you navigate your lab's social landscape.…

1
Redefining Glove Removal Protocols in Laboratory Environments 16:55

43 weeks ago16:55

16:55

When it comes to laboratory safety, the smallest steps can have the biggest impact—discover how with our special guests, Sean Kaufman and Dan Scungio, as we unveil the Beaking Method for doffing gloves. Developed in response to the harrowing realities of lab-acquired infections and the stark lessons from GloGerm experiments, this episode is a deep dive into a technique that's reshaping safety protocols. Hear about its critical role during the Ebola crisis and the roadblocks we faced in implementing it across healthcare settings, despite its undeniable effectiveness in reducing contamination risks. Our conversation takes an instructive turn, highlighting the paramount importance of precision in personal protective equipment removal. We'll guide you through the nuances of the "beaking method" and its varied reception in the field, dwelling on the challenges of altering ingrained behaviors for safer outcomes. Sean lends his expertise as we discuss the method's correct application in high-stakes environments and direct you to authentic demonstrations of the technique. Listen closely for an enlightening dialogue that not only educates but also empowers healthcare and laboratory professionals to safeguard themselves with confidence. You can view the Beaking Method at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfGivTv3wbc.…

1
Reimagining Lab Safety Training for Behavioral Impact 16:12

50 weeks ago16:12

16:12

Tired of snoozing through the same old lab safety spiel? Buckle up, because lab safety gurus Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman are here to shake up the status quo of blood-borne pathogen instruction. Get ready to transform your approach to lab safety as they lay out the raw truth behind the cookie-cutter compliance culture that's numbing the minds of lab professionals everywhere. By bringing our personal frustrations to the table, we illuminate the stark difference between rote policy reading and the dynamic impact of hands-on mentorship. This episode promises to engage, enlighten, and challenge the way you think about lab training, emphasizing the need for behavior modeling over documentation. Lab safety isn't just about ticking boxes—it's about embodying the very practices that keep us safe. Venture with us into the heart of what it means to standardize laboratory procedures, especially when infectious diseases are in play. Dan and Sean tackle the delicate balance between individual liberty and the absolute must of following safety protocols. We dissect the unique challenges diverse research labs face, the pivotal role of steadfast mentorship, and the uncompromising enforcement of standard operating procedures. Remember, it's not just about the written SOPs; it's the direct mentorship that embodies and upholds these life-saving practices that ultimately creates a culture of safety. Join us for a fresh take on fostering consistent, safe behavior in the laboratory.…

1
Strategies for Laboratory Safety in the Face of Emerging Threats 18:34

50 weeks ago18:34

18:34

Uncover the hidden complexities of lab safety as we team up with Sean Kaufman and Dan Scungio to dissect the intersections of biosafety, psychological preparedness, and communication within the lab. When a laboratory's casual approach to separation leads to a heated encounter with OSHA, we're forced to question the balance between stringent regulations and practical risk management. Tune in to hear us tackle the debate on absolute physical barriers and the scientific grounds for such measures, especially when lower-risk pathogens enter the equation. It's a conversation that doesn't just skim the surface but probes the depths of what it truly means to maintain a safe laboratory environment. As we reconstruct the transformation of a standard hospital room into a bulwark of biocontainment during disease outbreaks, the narrative shifts to the human element behind the safety cabinets and floor tape. Dan Scungio illuminates the necessity of clear communication and decontamination processes, aiming to eradicate common misconceptions among lab personnel. Whether it's facing Ebola head-on or establishing steadfast containment strategies, our episode provides essential insights into fostering a culture where safety is second nature. Don't miss these vital discussions that could be the crucial difference in a world where laboratory mishaps are not an option.…

1
Mastering Laboratory Evacuations and Biohazard Emergencies 16:15

50 weeks ago16:15

16:15

When the ground shakes beneath a lab, every second counts. Join us, your Lab Safety Gurus, Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman, as we dissect the thrilling, yet essential topic of laboratory evacuations, sparked by New Jersey's unexpected seismic stir. Through vivid recollections of the Virginia earthquake, we'll bring you eye-opening insights on the necessity of robust evacuation strategies, including horizontal and zonal methods, tailored for an array of exigencies. Encounter the gripping narrative of a BSL-4 lab where the blare of a fire alarm met with hesitation, a stark reminder of the pressing need for clear communication when every moment is critical. With infectious patients and biohazards thick in the lab air, the right preparation can mean the difference between chaos and control. In this session, we underscore the life-or-death importance of swift, guided escapes and the life-saving potential of self-decontamination backpacks. Dive into the mechanics of executing focused drills that confront the formidable task of evacuating highly infectious patients. Alongside Sean and me, saturate yourself in the strategies that fortify lab staff to tackle any emergency with decisive action, fortifying everyone's safety. It's a masterclass in laboratory emergency response, illuminating the path to safety for those on the frontlines of science.…

1
The Lifesaving Guide to Responding to a Person Down in the Laboratory 16:28

50 weeks ago16:28

16:28

Are you equipped to face a 'man down' scenario in your lab? Ensuring your team's safety is paramount, and that's why we, Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman, are here to share essential strategies and firsthand accounts for navigating these high-stress situations. Our latest episode of the Lab Safety Gurus Podcast is a deep dive into the critical response protocols needed when seconds count. With stories pulled from our own experiences, including a harrowing tale from a highly infectious disease unit in Atlanta, we provide a stark look at the dangers of unpreparedness and the life-saving power of immediate, informed action. We lay out the must-have tools for every lab's emergency kit, from mechanical creepers to AEDs and stop-the-bleed kits, while driving home the importance of comprehensive safety training for all personnel. You'll gain practical advice on how to maintain a state of readiness, and why something as simple as a zip-tied first aid kit can foster accountability and ensure prompt, proper care. This isn't just about ticking boxes for compliance; it's about instilling a culture of respect and preparedness that extends to every member of your lab—because when it comes to lab safety, every detail matters, and every second counts. Join us for a conversation that could very well change how you think about emergency response and lab safety.…

1
Risk and Responsibility in the Laboratory with Experts Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman 15:37

52 weeks ago15:37

15:37

Why do some scientists skirt the edge of safety in the pursuit of discovery? Join us, lab safety experts Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman, as we unravel the complex psychology of risk-taking in the laboratory, examining how personal thresholds for danger can lead to a dicey dance with the potentially hazardous. Our discussion illuminates the mysterious force that pushes individuals to breach protocol, even when the risks are glaringly apparent. We probe into the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time that has starkly redefined our collective understanding of risk, and how this has shifted behaviors and protocols within the scientific community. Venturing further into the realm of controversy, we passionately deliberate the ethics of virus research, particularly the genetic alteration of viruses to simulate pandemics. We shed light on the global repercussions of such scientific gambles, advocating for innovative alternatives like artificial intelligence which promise to lower these existential stakes. As we close the conversation, we encourage our peers in the field of laboratory safety to engage in a profound self-inquiry about their own risk thresholds, underscoring the imperative to harmonize personal and organizational safety values to champion the most rigorous safety standards in our laboratories.…

1
Nurturing a Culture of Compliance and Care in Laboratory Settings 16:04

52 weeks ago16:04

16:04

Have you ever wondered how a sprinkle of positive reinforcement can ignite a rigorous safety culture in a laboratory? Prepare to be enlightened as your Lab Safety Gurus, Dan Scungio and Sean Kaufman, unveil the pivotal role of accountability and compliance in fostering a dynamic lab environment. In our latest episode, we dissect the art of encouraging positive safety behaviors, where observation meets opportunity for immediate course correction. With an intriguing look at how a 5 to 1 ratio of positive to negative feedback can revolutionize staff performance, we promise you'll walk away with actionable strategies to uplift and inspire your team to maintain the highest safety standards. Step into the world of compliance as an attitude, not just a checklist, and grasp the profound power of trust in shaping a lab's ethos. We, along with our guests, delve into how a simple phrase, "we don't do that here," can cement a shared dedication to safety protocols. As we explore the nuanced dance between mentoring and disciplinary action, gain insights on how to deftly handle non-compliance. By emphasizing mentorship and positive reinforcement, we show you how to nurture a culture of safety that upholds integrity and excellence. Join us on this journey, and together let's pledge to a future where every lab is a bastion of safety and responsibility.…

1
Building a Resilient Laboratory Team by Mastering Onboarding and Offboarding Practices 15:49

52 weeks ago15:49