​​Twenty years ago, Hurricane Katrina forever changed the way we think about natural disasters, emergency response, and community resilience.  For me, it became a defining moment as a journalist shaping how I understand technology, content, and community. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the tragic event, and in this episode, I sit down with Michelle Payne, chief strategy and resiliency officer at the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, and Kirby Nagel, their public information officer. 

Together, we explore how technology and community networks have evolved since 2005. From real-time flood sensors to social media alerts, the tools for connecting and informing people during emergencies are more advanced than ever. This episode is a timely reminder that disaster preparedness is a challenge facing all of us, especially in a world reshaped by climate change.

Chapters:

00:00 Cory's Personal Katrina Story

03:30 Meet Kirby Jane Nagle and Michelle Payne of United Way of Southeast Louisiana

09:22 New Tech Flood Sensors

13:10 Camp Mystic

14:57 FEMA's Future Role in Disaster Relief

15:50 Create a Climate Disaster Savings Plan

17:15 Future Tech and Disaster Equity

19:00 Future Proofing for Climate Disasters

About Kirby Jane Nagle:

Kirby Jane Nagle is the public information officer for United Way of Southeast Louisiana, where she brings strategic thinking, creative storytelling, and a relentless work ethic to every project she leads. A communications expert specializing in media relations, fundraising, and crisis messaging, Kirby has helped raise more than $25 million in disaster response funds, supporting the region through hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. In times of disaster, Kirby transitions to help lead United Way’s disaster response team, directing critical communications while also stepping into hands-on recovery efforts, including managing boots-on-the-ground operations and even driving a forklift when needed. Her work and that of the disaster response team were instrumental in securing a transformational MacKenzie Scott gift in recognition of United Way’s COVID-19 relief efforts and positioning the organization as a national leader in disaster response and community impact. 

About Michelle Payne:

Michelle Clarke Payne is the Chief Strategy & Resiliency Officer at United Way of Southeast Louisiana, where she leads strategy, storytelling, and resource development to mobilize people into action. From securing emergency aid after hurricanes to launching rapid financial assistance programs during the pandemic, she has helped raise nearly $10 million for relief and recovery while spearheading United Way's efforts in the launch of the United Way Resiliency Center founded by Rebuilding Together. Beyond disaster response, she mentors the next generation of marketers as an adjunct professor at Tulane University, earning recognition as the American Advertising Federation’s 2023 Educator of the Year and a Loyola University “40 Under 40” honoree. Her leadership extends through service as President of the Junior League of New Orleans, member of the Women United Global Leadership Council, and recognition as a 2025 Top Female Achiever by New Orleans Magazine and a 2025 CityBusiness Icon Award honoree.

Learn More About United Way:

https://www.unitedwaysela.org/  

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