In the realm of disaster philanthropy, it is crucial to re-evaluate what we consider as "best practices" in providing aid and support. While immediate relief efforts undoubtedly play a crucial role in alleviating the immediate suffering caused by a disaster, our focus should extend beyond the momentary headlines. By recognizing…
In the wake of a devastating wildfire, it is natural for our hearts to ache and our hands to reach out in compassion. However, in our eagerness to help those affected, it is crucial to master the art of effective donations, steering clear of inadvertently causing a secondary disaster. We…
In times of crisis, the resilience of a community is put to the test as their well-being and safety hang in the balance. Hence, the foundation of a robust social contract lies in the ability of individuals, communities, and governments to come together and address the challenges that arise from…
In the face of an unforgiving wildfire, the enormity of destruction and immense human suffering can be overwhelming. Therefore, it is important that we come together to extend our heartfelt support, compassion, and understanding. We may not be able to fully grasp the fear, loss, and uncertainty experienced by those…
The devastating impact of wildfires in the US has reached an alarming scale, instilling fear and concern among communities nationwide. These fires, indiscriminate in nature, show little regard for the wildland-urban interfaces (WUIs) that have become a dominant feature of our landscape. The urgency lies in understanding that these wildfires…
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…
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…
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…
“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…
“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…
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…
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…
“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…
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…
“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…
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…
“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…
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…
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…
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…
“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…
To just have fire experts talk about resilience is not going to create a resilient project and so it's a good thing to have folks to be part of the conversation. We do not know the full scope of what's needed to get done. And together, we can figure it…
"We know that we're not powerless against wildfires. It's a question of, 'what are the steps? What are the actions that really make a difference?'" -Alister Watt "Wildfire doesn't acknowledge boundaries— we need to be thinking about resilience and preparedness with that in mind." -Daniel Gorham Episode Description: When it…
"You need to be prepared for all sorts of scenarios as to what comes into play." -Louie Delaware Episode Description: Homes are meant to be safe havens. They're the places we retreat to in times of need and they help us avoid the brunt of a disaster. The structure and…
