Episodes
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“If you're just doing a very limited role and not maximizing your contribution, you're selling yourself short. And it's probably not why you were selected.” -Aristotle Wolfe
Episode Description:
When disaster strikes, police officers take on the difficult but vital role of protecting the public. They establish security perimeters, communicate warnings, and keep other first responders safe, all while making fast decisions under pressure. Truly these officers are invaluable pillars of strength for communities in need, facing uncertainty and risks to their well-being to protect others from threats.
In this episode, Jennifer interviews CHP Officer Aristotle Wolfe to discuss the crucial but often unseen roles of law enforcement during emergencies, effective communication strategies, the importance of cross-agency cooperation, ways in which citizens can support first responders and continually improve our disaster recovery systems, plus much more.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
03:13 A Unique Job Description
08:08 What The Job Means
14:04 Who Plays Which Role?
17:01 Communication Lessons
22:34 Leader of Leaders
26:04 CHP’s Role in Supporting Local Officials
31:05 Be a Human Being
39:15 Maximize Your Role
46:32 Mental Health Support for Law Enforcement Officers
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“You do have to bring in some science and some education. But there is something that people who have this generational knowledge can teach.” -Algeo Che Casul
Episode Description:
Mega fires pose a grave threat to private lands across California in the era of climate change. As hotter, drier conditions fuel larger and more destructive wildfires, the majority of wildlands that surround communities remain in private ownership. Adopting ecologically-minded stewardship techniques is necessary to not only protect personal property but also safeguard surrounding communities from the devastation of mega-fires.
In this episode, Jennifer interviews Algeo Che Casul, a seventh-generation rancher in Sonoma County. In addition to operating his ranch, Che runs the local nonprofit Circuit Rider Community Services which teaches at-risk youth ecological land management practices through paid vocational programs.
Tune in as Jennifer and Che discuss effective practices to mitigate mega-fires, the benefits and challenges of these stewardship techniques, invasive species impacting the landscape, strategies to build more fire-resilient communities, as well as helpful insights into balancing fire safety, sustainability, and equity concerns as climate change drives larger wildland fires.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebuildNorthBay/
X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
05:28 Prescribed Fires
11:08 Education for Land Treatment
15:23 The Grazers Controversy and Responsible Land Stewardship
24:01 Wildfires and Their Impacts on Residents
27:26 Resiliency Practices
30:45 Priority Checklist
36:19 Fire Forward
41:16 Energy and Equity
45:20 Generational Sustainability
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“Don't expect to go through it yourself. People will want to help, ask for it. And then when you get through your disaster, pay it forward.” -Margie Foster
Episode Description:
When catastrophe strikes, it falls to ordinary citizens to come together, support each other, and lead the recovery efforts from the ground up. And in these moments, they also discover inner strength and resilience within themselves and their community. By banding together through difficult times, they can help rebuild and renew their town stronger than before.
Margie Foster, a longtime resident of Glen Ellen, shares her first-hand experience of evacuating from the Tubbs Fire and the emotional toll it took on her tight-knit community. She discusses the frustration of the slow rebuilding process in the first year, the challenges of mitigating fire-damaged land, how she helped coordinate a local rehousing initiative and secure funding to support fire survivors.
Join in as Jennifer and Margie reflect on the importance of “neighbor helping neighbor” in times of crisis and valuable lessons on community preparedness, the emotional toll of disaster, and innovative ways citizens can lead recovery efforts through connectivity and grassroots organization.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebuildNorthBay/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
03:59 Surviving the Devastating Fire
10:22 Disaster Preparedness and Community Response
17:57 Rehousing Initiatives
23:08 Disaster Relief Efforts and Community Resilience
29:09 Rebuilding Challenges
33:04 Recovery and Emergent Leadership
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"Be prepared so you can help, because everyone needs everybody in this situation." -Joshua Farrell
Preparation isn't just about survival— it's about having the capacity to help others. Our ability to lend a hand can significantly ease the burden and contribute to a faster recovery for the entire community.
In the previous episode, we covered the basics of individual disaster preparedness with citizen prepper, Josh Farrell. This week, Josh continues unpacking the contents of his go bag, sharing additional items that can help us transition from basic preparedness to a more proactive role.
Stay tuned as Jennifer and Josh cover communication and respiration needs to stay connected when infrastructure fails, rations and essentials to keep us fueled until assistance arrives, building necessities that allow innovative solutions in dire straits, pets necessities to reduce their anxiety during disaster, clothing, disinfection, and navigation supplies to keep us healthy on the move, and power supplies to ensure we can keep our lines open to coordinate relief efforts.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebuildNorthBay/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
02:06 Check #1- Communication and Respiration
07:41 Check #2- Rations and Essentials
17:38 Check #3- Building Necessities
23:20 Check #4- Shelter and Pets and Sunblock?
39:44 Check #5-Clothing, Disinfection, and Navigation
36:07 How Heavy?
39:16 Check #6- Power Supply
43:04 Prepared to Help
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“If you're prepared, you're not freaking out, you're taken care of, and you can help other people.” -Joshua Farrell
Being prepared for disaster is crucial for citizens and communities alike. When emergencies like wildfires or other natural hazards strike, they can overwhelm local response efforts and leave many residents vulnerable in the aftermath. However, with some basic preparation at an individual level, people can significantly improve their resilience and ability to weather crises.
In this two-part podcast series, Jennifer interviews her friend, Josh Farrell, about his experiences with the devastating 2017 wildfires in Sonoma County, California, and how it prompted him to become more prepared for emergencies as a citizen.
In part one, Josh shares his harrowing experience evacuating his elderly mother from the rapidly advancing wildfires. He recounts the chaotic scenes upon returning to find the town without power or resources. This personal encounter was the catalyst for Josh to seriously focus on disaster readiness.
Listen in as Jennifer and Josh talk about the importance of promptly heeding evacuation orders, must-haves in a go-bag, ways to ensure that necessary documents are accessible, how to maintain preparedness, and how even small steps at an individual level can boost community resilience in the face of catastrophe.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebuildNorthBay/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
03:34 Fire Evacuation and Preparedness
07:39 The Impact of Wildfire
11:07 Firefighting Efforts
14:52 How to Prep
19:03 Emergency Response Strategies
23:55 What to Have In Your Go Bag
32:51 Other Essentials
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“Don't isolate first responders by making them into heroes. The greatest thing that anyone can do is just say, ‘thank you for your service.’” -Susan Farren
“We owe it to our first responders to do whatever we can to help make their jobs easier.” -Bailey Farren
Episode Description:
Our first responders and healthcare workers sacrifice so much to care for our communities during times of crisis. They put their own health and safety at risk on a daily basis to save lives. However, the trauma and stress of responding to disaster after disaster take a tremendous toll. Thus, we must find ways to support their well-being. Truly, our first responders deserve nothing less for their selfless service.
In this episode, Jennifer interviews two outstanding pioneers in this field, Susan Farren, Founder of First Responders Resiliency, a nonprofit organization that provides proactive training to help mitigate the effects of trauma and stress for first responders, and Bailey Farren, CEO and co-founder of Perimeter, a map-based platform to provide real-time situational information to first responders and citizens. With over 33 years of experience as a paramedic, Sue was inspired to start First Responders Resiliency after being diagnosed with kidney cancer and learning about the health impacts experienced by many in the first responder community. On the other hand, Bailey was motivated to start Perimeter after seeing how first responders and those affected lacked access to up-to-date information.
Join in as Jennifer, Sue, and Bailey dive deep into the increasing toll that responding to massive, fast-moving wildfires is taking on first responders' mental and physical health. They also highlight ways to create innovative solutions to support first responders, the challenges of funding organizations in this space, scaling technology to reach more communities, and valuable insights into how communities can better partner with and care for the public servants risking their lives every day to keep us safe.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website : https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
01:17 Different but Effective Ways to Help the Helpers
09:38 Improving Disaster Response Through Geospatial Mapping
12:29 First Responders Mental Health
16:07 Fire Safety and Tech to Reduce Anxiety for First Responders
24:40 Funding Challenges
32:20 Showing Support and Gratitude
40:14 Community Preparedness for Disasters
43:07 Resiliency Centers for First Responders
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“Being a volunteer is a privilege… I wasn't documented so I volunteered a lot. And that volunteer work led many doors to be opened up for me.” -Jocksana Corona
Episode Description:
When disaster strikes a community, ordinary people frequently discover an inner strength and sense of purpose they never knew they possessed. Driven by a desire to help their neighbors through difficult circumstances, emergent leaders step forward to direct rescue efforts, organize relief supplies, provide calm guidance, and more. Though they may lack formal titles or training, these individuals understand that leadership isn't defined by a position, but rather by one's willingness to serve others in their hours of greatest need.
Jocksana Corona exemplified what it means to be an emergent leader, rising to the forefront of her community's response and recovery efforts following the devastating Alameda Fire in Southern Oregon. Through empathy, initiative, and an unwavering commitment to helping others, she made a profound difference for many families during an incredibly challenging time.
Tune in as Jocksana discusses the obstacles faced by mixed-status families in navigating recovery systems not designed with their needs in mind, the emotional toll of loss, and the strength and resilience required in supporting others in the face devastation.
Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.
Website : https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
01:28 When the Reg Flag Stands
16:46 Stuck In Between Two Fires
21:53 A Tearful, Sleepless Night
25:40 Finding Shelter Amidst COVID
30:44 Being a Volunteer is a Privilege
41:19 The Beauty of a Community
45:53 Challenges Faced by the Undocumented Community
56:39Housing and Undocumented Communities
01:03:16 54 Days and Reunited
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“You're in that place where disaster hasn't hit you, but you know it’s coming. Start training now.” -Tennis Wick
Episode Description:
In the aftermath of the devastating 2017 wildfires that destroyed thousands of homes in Sonoma County, Tennis Wick found himself at the center of recovery efforts as the director of Permit Sonoma.
This interview explores how to effectively navigate the dual roles of public servant and fire survivor in the crucial period after the fires. Listen in as Tennis details the immense challenges of the initial disaster phase from managing emergency response operations around the clock to setting up a local assistance center where displaced residents could access vital services.
Jennifer and Tennis also discuss how Permit Sonoma adapted its processes to better serve overwhelmed homeowners seeking permits with a commitment to rapid five-day turnarounds, creative problem-solving through the block captain system and leveraging community relationships, and lessons learned about the importance of mitigation and managing wildfire risk proactively.
Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
02:11: On the Disaster Frontline
11:15: Meeting the Needs
16:04: How to Approach Rebuild Projects
20:35 The Role of a Block Captain
25:15 The Problem with Contractor Fraud
30:19 Be Disaster Smart
36:51 Risk Mitigation is a Collective Effort
42:31 How Helpers Can Help Themselves
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SERIES: Role of the Non-Profit
“You cannot approach a community without respecting in full who they are and their autonomy. If you can't approach it that way, it's going to come off as ingenuine, and they're going to read it right away, and that disengages people right off the bat.” -Alma Bowen
Episode Description:
In the event of a disaster, first responders receive calls beyond number, but only a small fraction of these come from communities that need help the most. Oftentimes, they are the last to receive assistance because of language barriers, documentation issues, disabilities, and lack of technical knowledge. Hence, this episode focuses on helping 3 of the most vulnerable groups build resiliency: the Latin X community, seniors, and undocumented immigrants. Tune in as Jennifer and Alma Bowen, the CEO and Founder of Nuestra Comunidad, discuss the best practices and most appropriate approaches to bring the culture of preparedness and resiliency into these communities. They talk about practical steps to address problems in communicating information, creating an alert system, power outage, evacuation plans, and transportation. In addition to helping communities, hear how Alma and her team launched a special project on training the younger generations to become Preparedness Ambassadors. As a former 9-1-1 Emergency Services Dispatcher, Alma also shares how first responders can cope up with personal losses and trauma as they continue to serve the community. Join the conversation and discover ways to strengthen your capacity to serve!
Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.
Website : https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
05:12: A Life-Altering Night
13:52: Helping the Vulnerable Population
25:07: Training Young “Preparedness Ambassadors”
30:06: Acknowledging the Bigger Problems
36:18: Meeting the Needs of the Undocumented Population
44:38: Helping the Senior Population
50:05 Building Capacity
53:04: How to Serve
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SERIES: Role of the Public Sector Leader
“Sometimes we think physically doing something for someone is what's best for them. But sometimes they just want someone to hear their story… Sit back and listen. People want to be heard.” -Christa López
Episode Description:
There are so many layers to unpack in a disaster. Everything happens so quickly, people are anxious, supplies are running low, and people’s lives and livelihoods are at risk. If you are a leader, you may be challenged with making sure you address the needs of each community in your jurisdiction and help them develop resiliency at the same time. This can be a demanding yet exciting task. In this episode, Jennifer interviews one of the strong leaders of today, Dr. Christa López. Dr. López is the Chief of Staff for Community Development and Revitalization for the Texas General Land Office. Listen in as they teach how you can obtain the best knowledge possible during a crisis, find trustworthy investments, get the most of your insurance, and prepare for necessities during the YOYO (You’re On Your Own) period in a disaster. Dr. López also shares valuable insights for long-term recovery in terms of disaster housing, managing donations, and considering the culture of a community. Whether you are a leader or a community member, you can find ways to help- the right way. And sometimes, that help is simply becoming a friend who is ready to sit and listen to the victims.
Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.
Website : https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
X: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
02:52: Life Lessons About Real Life Disasters
09:10: The First Step- Investments
15:12: Taking Care of the Needs of Those in Your Jurisdiction
18:26: Considerations Before Making Donations
21:44: Respect for Community Culture
24:21: Sit and Listen
31:05: Where Can You Help
36:18: How to be Resilient
42:00: Always Document
46:15: Disaster Housing and Innovations
52:20: No One Should be Re-traumatized
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SERIES: Role of the Mental Health Care Leaders
“We have to go beyond education, we need mental health action!” -Adrienne Heinz, Ph.D.
Episode Description:
What’s more terrifying and costly than cancer? Untreated mental health issues. Mental health is a huge part of recovery after a disaster. This week, Jennifer interviews Dr. Adrienne Heinz for an in-depth discussion about mental health. Dr. Heinz talks about the mindsets most people have about mental health, why it is important to address trauma as a community and as helpers, and how to overcome crisis fatigue. She also shares helpful apps and exercises to help you slow down, de-stress, and fight off anxiety. Join the conversation, recover from the inside, and reimagine a new tomorrow!
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
05:17: The Struggle with Collective Trauma
11:55: The Digital Aspect of Mental Health Intervention
19:19: The Stages of Grief
25:13: The Present and Future of Apps
29:33: The Value of Mental Health
35:26: Overcome Crisis Fatigue
38:38: Stimulate Your Vagus Nerve
41:25: Breathing Exercise
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"Be very careful what you promise unless you know you can deliver something. There is enough heartbreak in a disaster that people don't need to hear that you're going to solve all their problems, and then you don't." -Charles Brooks
The last thing we want to do in a disaster is to create another disaster, that's why having an organization to help build a system is invaluable. This week, Jennifer interviews Charles Brooks, the Executive Director of Rebuild Paradise Foundation. The Rebuild Paradise Foundation, incubated through the North Valley Community Foundation, is a grassroots movement of Camp Fire survivors and community leaders from the public and private sectors who are dedicated to serving the long-term needs of Butte County's disaster-affected residents, businesses, and workforce. Founded in January of 2019 under the mentorship of Rebuild Northbay Foundation, this non-profit foundation provides access to resources and helps lower barriers to entry for those repopulating the disaster affected areas. The Rebuild Paradise Foundation is proud to partner with other non-profits, corporate donors, private donors, and government agencies to accomplish our mission.
Charles talks about building a sustainable model- from conceptualizing to framing projects that will serve the community best. We also learn how to measure and reach the target population, leverage resources to get the most impact, work with the public sector, relate your story, and furnish implementation. Emergent leaders are humans too. Hear Charles’ advice on how to avoid crashes and burns and be sustainable in giving. Most importantly, never give up on your dream to get people back to their homes. If you are receiving a chain of rejections to prospect funders, tune in and find out the secret to turning their NO into an ABSOLUTELY YES!
Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
01:57: The Building of a Rebuild Org
07:50: The Value of Connections
12:33: The How of Fundraising
21:32: Facing the Hurdles
29:01: Develop Relationship with the Public Sector
32:17: Telling Your Story
40:49: Sustainable Giving
45:12: Do You Have a Disaster Buddy?
52:12: How to Create a Rebuild Organization
56:02: Be Careful What You Promise
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“You have to have some structure so that when that event happens, there's a trusted grassroots network in place.” —Michael Morter
Episode Description:
It is said that disaster recovery is part problem-solving and part relationship-building. It recognizes that both practical solutions and social connections are vital to restoring what was lost and building resilience for the future.
In this episode, Jennifer sits with former Wildfire Recovery Ombudsman for Oregon, Michael Morter. Michael helped communities navigate rebuilding challenges after the devastating 2020 wildfires and worked to address barriers that were impeding recovery efforts. Drawing on his experience in state government and insurance, he now advises communities through his consulting firm on navigating disaster recovery.
Listen in as Jennifer and Michael offer a behind-the-scenes look at disaster recovery coordination and insights directly from someone who has navigated these challenges first-hand.
They also discuss the importance of engaging local builders and navigating complex debris removal processes, innovative programs that increase access to recovery resources, as well as valuable lessons on community engagement, building social capital before disasters strike, and establishing trusted roles like an Ombudsman to cut through bureaucracy.
Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
03:23 Building Social Capital in Disaster Response
10:03 Identifying Barriers Impeding Recovery Efforts
15:02 The Wildfire Ombudsman Project
19:19 Engaging Local Builders
25:17 Disaster Recovery Resources and Insurance and Settlements
35:12 Gentrification and Infrastructure in Rural Communities
40:03 Affordability Concerns and Alternative Sanitary Methods
44:02 The Importance of Community Involvement
49:23 The Importance of Trust and Building Relationships
54:44 The Importance of Having a Dedicated Ombudsman in Recovery Efforts
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“If you're a local leader, you're knee-deep in it, moving at the speed that the community wants you to move, in the direction that they're willing to go. That's the basis of a successful recovery.” —Alicia Johnson
“We have to learn and be able to educate our communities around … the why behind what rebuild looks like.” —Dave Reid
Episode Description:
Disasters can exacerbate pre-existing disparities, disproportionately affecting low-income individuals, people of color, and those with limited access to resources. Therefore, in order to ensure equity, recovery efforts should champion equal access to relief, resources, and support. By doing so, communities can rebuild in a fair and sustainable manner. After all, a society is only as strong as its most vulnerable members.
In this episode, Jennifer interviews Alicia Johnson, the CEO of Two Lynchpin Road, and Dave Reis, the Director of the Office of Recovery and Resiliency for the County of Santa Cruz. Alicia and Dave have worked together on various projects related to emergency planning and community organizations in Santa Cruz County. Their shared experience fired their passion for issues of equity and serving diverse communities in disaster recovery.
Listen in as Alicia and Dave talk about the challenges of ensuring an equitable recovery, the difficulties of navigating FEMA assistance and the denial process, the importance of long-term recovery groups and disaster case management, post-disaster housing options, workforce development, as well as lessons that can be applied to the recovery efforts in Maui from recent flooding.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
05:49 Disaster Management and Equity
08:29 Wildfire Impacts on Varying Socioeconomic Statuses
17:53 Rebuilding Trust After Disasters
24:56 Finding Contractors Who Match The Community
33:09 The Importance of Metabolizing Trauma
44:39 Post-Disaster Housing Solutions
57:36 Disaster Response and Community Involvement
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“One of the beautiful things disasters have to teach us is how to not just offer support, but receive it.” —Jolie Wills
Episode Description:
Emergent leaders and frontliners are akin to shock absorbers in a car. They absorb a heavy load of impact, cushioning the rest of the community. These individuals, by virtue of their roles, are at the frontlines of disaster response, spearheading the recovery efforts and acting as the life rope for those affected. But, even the sturdiest of shock absorbers can break under sustained pressure from constant exposure to distress, trauma, and physical and emotional burnout.
In this episode, Jennifer interviews Jolie Wills, the CEO of Hummingly, an organization that provides practical tools and resources, all gathered from real disaster and crisis situations, to help individuals and organizations around the world navigate the toughest of times.
Listen in as Jennifer and Jolie explore the gap in providing help to our front liners, what leaders can do to help their team, and how leaders can care for themselves as well. They also share how community members can show respect for each other’s decisions, how to overcome the self-imposed guilt of prioritizing self-care, and how to manage secondary stress.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
05:19 The Mission of Hummingway
17:59 The Gap in Helping The Helpers
25:46 How to Support Leaders
37:28 How to Self-Care: Recovery Leaders
45:01 It’s Hard Because It’s Hard
52:30 The Burden of Guilt
01:01:56 Managing Secondary Stress
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“Helping people adjust to that new financial reality is really critical in helping them adjust quickly. Because the longer someone goes where they're spending more than they're making every month, the harder it is for them to recover long-term.” —Kate Bulger
Episode Description:
When disaster strikes, loss of income is often an unpleasant reality. Whether it's due to business shutdowns or property damage in a natural disaster, the reduction in income can cause significant financial strain. Moreover, disasters can lead to unforeseen expenses. Repair costs for properties, medical bills, or short-term accommodation can quickly pile up.
In this episode, Jennifer sits with the Vice President of Business Development at MMI, Kate Bulger. Kate began her personal involvement in disaster recovery in 2011 when she visited Joplin, a city left in ruins by an EF5-rated tornado. Her first-hand experience illuminated the enduring and challenging journey to complete recovery.
In 2012, Kate started contributing to partner programs that concentrate on mitigating housing-related issues, enhancing financial health, and assisting victims of natural disasters in their recovery from financial setbacks. Her commitment to these initiatives has been unyielding.
Listen in as Jennifer and Kate explore the importance of trauma-informed recovery, how survivors can protect themselves from fraud and scams, the benefits of applying for SBA, supportive techniques for survivors during initial recovery years, and what helpers can learn about self-care.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
02:15 A Journey Into The Disaster Recovery World
10:34 Trauma-Informed Recovery
15:03 The Danger of Fraud and Scams
19:10 Overcoming the First Impulse
24:36 The Impact of Disaster on Renters
32:48 Applying for SBA
38:18 Long-Term Outcomes
41:53 Helping the Helpers
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“It's a matter of keeping the guardrails up and making sure that people continue to be safe.” —Reina Pomeroy
Episode Description:
When disaster strikes, there’s no time for mixed messages. Misinformation can fuel panic, hamper recovery efforts, and even endanger lives. Effective disaster response isn’t just about physical aid— it’s also about keeping the facts straight and delivering them to the right community.
The essence of addressing misinformation and communication in a disaster lies in building trust. Only when people trust the source of information will they accept and act accordingly. By combining technology with a strong emphasis on trust and authority, it’s possible to stem the tide of misinformation and ensure accurate, life-saving information is circulated swiftly and efficiently.
Join Jennifer and Reina Pomeroy of Marshall Together as they share how messaging apps like Slack can help maintain the balance between openness and data privacy, truth and misinformation, and organization and fluidity. They also discuss the importance of limiting members, keeping the communication channels organized, some challenges that may occur in moderating the communication, and how to solve them.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
03:52 Misinformation in a Disaster
08:10 What is Slack?
12:01 Addressing Misinformation
15:34 Pass Along the Info
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“Disaster relief needs a space where we can provide support for kids because it has so many knock-on effects. The only way a community up and running again is if they have reliable childcare.” —Mikey Latner
Episode Description:
Natural disasters can be very frightening for children. They may see or hear about things that are frightening, such as death, destruction, and violence. They may also be separated from their parents or other loved ones.
But unfortunately, disasters can strike at any time, without warning. That's why it's so important to make sure that our children are safe and have their needs met during and after a disaster.
Project Camp, founded by Mikey Latner is an organization that made this need its very mission. Along with their partners, Project Camp has become a sanctuary for young ones, providing safety in a fun and creative way.
Learn more about Project Camp’s mission as Jennifer and Mikey revisit the organization’s origin and the process of creating a space of safety and normalcy for kids— from the organization and preparation to the actual building of camps. They also discuss the role of professionals in supporting children in the face of disaster, bridging the gap in the relief space, the importance of “writing your plans in pencil”, implementing strategic collaboration among partners, and how to help the helpers practice self-care as individuals and as an organization.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
02:06 The Project Camp Mission
07:46 Your Skill Matters
11:59 Creating a Safe and Creative Space for Kids
15:53 Meeting Kids Where They’re At
25:31 Growing the Camp
31:57 Leveraging People to Do the Work
33:41 Self-Care in the Organization
38:47 Defining Service Delivery
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Welcome aboard to Season 5 of the How to Disaster Podcast!
When we launched this podcast a couple of years ago, we could not have foreseen the escalation of global warming in such a short span. Climate change is no longer a distant reality, and its impacts are being felt across the globe. Our health, economy, and social structures are experiencing unprecedented strain due to these cascading crises.
This global challenge layered over our existing health crisis has made it apparent that we must act fast. And we believe that the key to surviving and thriving in this new environment lies in our ability to be resilient and adaptable.
Recognizing the interconnected nature of these issues has prompted us to shift our focus this season on exploring approaches to increase resilience whilst confronting both challenges.
For the past four seasons, we've brought extraordinary minds who are truly making strides in battling climate-based disasters. This season, we aim to unleash an exciting lineup of enthusiasts who have rolled up their sleeves and faced these challenges head-on to make a lasting impact.
We are grateful for the unwavering support you have shown us throughout the past seasons. Your encouragement and engagement have fueled our passion to provide you with the best resources for navigating through challenging times. Our commitment remains steadfast in delivering valuable content that equips you with the knowledge and skills to handle disasters effectively.
We encourage you to tune in to our upcoming episodes, like, and share them with others. We value your feedback and take it seriously as we continuously work towards refining our content and delivering a tailored experience that meets your expectations.
Thank you once again for being an integral part of our journey. We look forward to embarking on this new season alongside you, as we strive to bring you the best resources on HOW TO DISASTER.
Resources:
Find us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qf4grpRpMbegzl56vM4fM?si=CeHOPe8nSumMahhIexJKkA&dl_branch=1
Find us on Our Libsyn Distribution Portal:
https://howtodisaster.libsyn.com
Highlights:
00:24 The Past Seasons
00:39 Season 5
00:57 What to Expect
01:09 Thank You
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“It's through those human relationships that make this whole thing tolerable to do because it's about the people involved." -Pamela Van Halsema
Episode Description:
Wildfires are a natural part of the globe's ecosystem. But in recent years, they've become more common and destructive due to climate change. Wildfires have been occurring with greater frequency and intensity.
When preparing for a wildfire, it's important to think about the community as a whole. This kind of planning is important because it ensures that everyone in the community has access to the resources they need when disaster strikes and after.
In this episode, Pamela Van Halsema returns as an official part of the After the Fire family. She serves as the Director of Community and Digital Programs and oversees the organization’s Community to Community Series.
Listen in as Jennifer and Pamela discuss how we can rebuild with climate resiliency in mind, how to help survivors emotionally and prepare them for the next steps, what adaptable systems can we use, and why getting to know our neighbors is a big factor in resilience.
Connect with After The Fire USA:
Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfterTheFireUSA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ
Highlights:
04:56 Pam About Helping One Another
09:09 Helping People Build Back
13:49 The Scope of Work to be Done
19:16 Different Responses to Disasters
29:38 Know the People You Are Trying to Help
36:41 Helpful Resources for Rebuilding
43:47 2022 Wildfire Leadership Summit
49:15 It’s About the People Involved
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