How to Disaster: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine Podcast

When a disaster strikes, the conversation typically focuses on what has been lost: homes, livelihoods, and even lives. The emotional and spiritual toll of a disaster can be harder to recognize, but it is every bit as important. But in times like these, it’s crucial to remember that humans are creative creatures, and we have…

Media is arguably one of the most powerful resources in terms of information gathering and distribution. As the old adage goes, “the pen is mightier than the sword.” Media, especially that which has gone digital and wirelessly transmitted to smartphones and televisions has become a force unto itself — capable of bringing changes in the…

Charitable giving surges during periods of natural disaster. In a time when the heartstrings are being tugged and people are donating like crazy, it is easy to be overwhelmed with donations.  Unfortunately, most items donated to shelters do not suit the immediate needs of survivors. As a result, donations often do not reach their intended…

There are things we often don’t want to talk about— but need to know, including insurance and legal aid. Not many people enjoy getting insurance, but it’s becoming more and more necessary as we continue to experience stronger and more frequent disasters.  However, even these recovery processes can be taxing and even more painful than…

Many people lost not just their homes and belongings during a disaster, but also the ability to continue working. On top of dealing with their own loss, many families find it difficult to afford the additional costs of repairs and rebuilding when something happens. And, sometimes, people just don’t have the tools to do some…

As we watch global events unfold, we realize that there will be more climate-related disasters in the coming years. The devastating truth is that we will never be able to stop natural disasters from happening, but there is something we can do to build our homes and communities with more tolerance to disasters.   As the…

Disasters can devastate communities greatly. When this happens, the focus of those affected is on survival, but after the immediate danger has been thwarted, many then turn their attention to longer-term issues of survival and recovery. For them, the most important thing is to get their lives back to normal. In this event, disaster management…

Mega wildfires are an anomaly. They aren’t supposed to happen. Fires aren’t supposed to burn millions of acres of land in a single year. More than that, they aren’t supposed to be a multi-billion dollar problem. This episode is focused on private landowners and the role they play in preventing and mitigating fire risks on…

It’s impossible to look at the devastation brought by wildfires and not be overwhelmed with sadness. It’s a natural tendency to want to beat yourself up when things aren’t going well. And while it is heartbreaking to realize that the ongoing recovery will last years, we shouldn’t lose hope. There’s a reason that people rebuild…

In times of crisis, it is the first responders who show up to help those in need. They work non-stop to help the victims. They risk their lives for us each time they respond to an emergency situation. For this reason, we owe it to them to give back. But, giving back does not mean…