John Mills is the CEO and Co-Founder of Watch Duty, an app that alerts users to nearby wildfires and firefighting efforts. The app’s “reporters” – many volunteers – include journalists, wildfire experts, and former fire service workers monitoring scanners, live video, and other data in order to provide up to the minute information. The app includes interactive maps that allow users to track evacuation zones and shelter locations. Recently, Watch Duty became the #1 downloaded free app on the Apple App store due to s surge in users during the Los Angeles wildfires.
On January 27, 2025, John Mills talked to Alexis Madrigal about how he developed the app and its non-profit mission.