Altadena: After The Fire

Longtime Altadena resident and Hollywood vet Andre Barnwell reflects on the community’s character—three distinct neighborhoods, strong Black homeownership, indie business vibe—and the night the Eaton Fire upended assumptions with 90-mph Santa Ana winds. Out of the devastation, he’s developing a youth-centered scripted series set in Altadena to create local jobs, showcase student talent, and reframe the town with optimism.

Why Listen

• First-person fire account from a 25-year resident
• Practical blueprint for community-rooted production
• How incentives are shifting filming geographies (GA/TX/Canada)
• Proof that hyper-local youth stories travel

Chapters

00:00 Intros • 02:14 Andre’s path (Philly → BET DC → LA)
04:59 Altadena’s map: East / Central / “The Meadows”
07:49 Indie business DNA; low-franchise culture
11:11 Altadena/Pasadena as “LA’s exterior lot”
15:11 Fire night: evacuations, horses running uphill, survivor’s guilt
21:01 The series idea; 26:22 Pilot shot, financing phase

Key Takeaways

• Place matters: Multi-generational Black homeownership strengthened resilience.
• Protect the vibe: Indie shops over franchises preserve identity.
• Build a pipeline: Student-led series = local crews, recurring jobs, long-term impact.

Notable Quotes

• “When you see an oak tree bend, that’s a whole different level.” — Andre
• “Let’s brand Altadena with something positive.” — Andre

Follow/Resources

• Andre’s YouTube: The Way We Do It — @TTWWDITV
• Seeking partners: pitch deck + pilot completed; financing underway

Host

Colby “Colb” Tyner — SVP, Programming, Urban One / Reach Media
📩 [email protected] • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner • IG: @officialcolbycolb • BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social

How to Help

Urban One supports Brotherhood Crusade’s Wildfire Relief Fund aiding Altadena/Pasadena families affected by the Eaton Fire. Donate at BrotherhoodCrusade.org. Have updates or firsthand stories? Contact Colby.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly 100 days after the deadly Eaton Canyon fire, former Assemblymember Chris Holden joins host James Farr to discuss the path to recovery, the push for accountability from Southern California Edison, and the legislation meant to protect communities from future disasters. Later, Catherine Peoples of HPP Cares shares critical steps for rebuilding on fire-damaged land, from securing insurance payouts to ensuring safe soil remediation. This episode shines a light on Altadena’s resilience—and the urgent work still ahead.

Key Takeaways:

2:55 - Chris Holden on seeing the destruction firsthand
7:20 - What makes the Altadena community special
13:30 - Breaking down AB 1054 and the wildfire fund
18:20 - Pushing for accountability from the utility company

Connect with Us:

Host & Executive Producer: Colby "Colb" Tyner
📩 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
📱 Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
🌐 BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social

How to HelpUrban One is supporting the Brotherhood Crusade's Wildfire Relief Fund, which assists Altadena and Pasadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Donations provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and necessities to families in need.

To contribute, visit: BrotherhoodCrusade.org

If you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Episode Summary:

Six months after the devastating Eaton Canyon wildfire that scorched parts of Altadena, journalist James Farr joins Tavis Smiley to reflect on what’s changed—and what hasn’t. Farr, who was evacuated with his family but spared from losing his home, shares his personal and journalistic insights on the community's ongoing struggle. While the flames are gone, the trauma and lack of comprehensive support persist. The conversation underscores a painful truth: despite promises and photo ops, real relief—especially financial—has yet to reach many displaced residents.

The episode dives into the bureaucratic slowdowns surrounding rebuilding permits, the underinsurance crisis, and the emotional toll of displacement. Less than 20 rebuilding permits have been issued in six months, and residents are being asked to pay or defer exorbitant fees just to begin recovery. Farr emphasizes that what’s needed isn’t more platitudes or donated goods—it’s long-term, material investment. As he puts it, this isn’t recovery; it’s a call for relief. The show closes with a powerful meditation on hope as both a responsibility and a survival tactic in the face of systemic neglect.

 Key Topics Covered:

• The emotional and psychological toll of the fire six months later

• Slow permit processing and costly bureaucratic hurdles

• The difference between “recovery” and “relief”

• Black generational wealth in Altadena at risk

• The role of local media and accountability

• Ongoing displacement and inadequate insurance settlements

• Grassroots efforts like KBLA’s gift card drive to provide immediate help

• Reflection on community hope and resilience

💬 Highlight Quote:

“Where we are right now will burn and last far longer than the flames. The pain of it. The sting of it. And so people need resources… People need relief.” — James Farr

 

Connect with Us:

Host & Executive Producer: Colby "Colb" Tyner
📩 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
📱 Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
🌐 BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social

How to HelpUrban One is supporting the Brotherhood Crusade's Wildfire Relief Fund, which assists Altadena and Pasadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Donations provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and necessities to families in need.

To contribute, visit: BrotherhoodCrusade.org

If you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guest:
Chris Holden, Former Chair of the Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee; Former Mayor of Pasadena; Advocate with LA Fire Justice

Episode Summary:
In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Chris Holden to explore how decades of public service—from local government to the state legislature—shaped his leadership in one of California’s most critical policy arenas: wildfire and utility regulation.We unpack the origins and impact of AB 1054, a landmark bill designed to stabilize California’s utility sector while driving stronger accountability and wildfire prevention. We discuss the Wildfire Recovery Fund, executive safety oversight, and the difficult tradeoffs involved in crisis legislation.We also hear about his current work with LA Fire Justice, supporting communities like Altadena and Pasadena that continue to face the devastating consequences of wildfires.

Key Topics Covered:

• Growing up in Pasadena and how community roots influence policy
• Why energy and utility regulation became a legislative focus
• The urgency and political climate behind AB 1054
• How the Wildfire Recovery Fund works—and where accountability fits in
• Expert oversight and tying executive pay to safety performance
• Cultural shifts within California utility companies post-AB 1054
• LA Fire Justice’s mission and the needs of local wildfire survivors
• Evolving legislative responses to climate-driven fire risk
• Long-term solutions California must prioritize for resilience

Quotes to Highlight:

“We knew we had to act—not just quickly, but responsibly. Lives and livelihoods were on the line.”
“Accountability isn’t just about dollars. It’s about systemic change.”
“The communities closest to these fires are often the last to get help. That has to change.”

 Connect with Us:

Host & Executive Producer: Colby "Colb" Tyner
📩 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
📱 Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
🌐 BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social

How to HelpUrban One is supporting the Brotherhood Crusade's Wildfire Relief Fund, which assists Altadena and Pasadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Donations provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and necessities to families in need.

To contribute, visit: BrotherhoodCrusade.org

If you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

🎧 Description:

In this powerful part two episode of Altadena: After The Fire, we take you inside a live town hall held 100 days after the devastating Eaton Fire. Hosted by KBLA Talk 1580, this gathering in Pasadena brought together survivors, community leaders, attorneys, builders, and mental health professionals for a frank and emotional conversation about what has happened, what hasn’t, and what needs to happen next.Moderated by Dominique DiPrima and Dr. Nicquetta “Nick” Corde, this episode captures raw testimony and unfiltered perspectives from those on the ground—from displaced residents to environmental lawyers taking on Southern California Edison.📝 Show Notes:Key Themes Covered:

• Displacement & Resilience: Testimonies from residents like Martin Gordon and Ash Level reflect both the emotional toll and the fierce determination to rebuild Altadena, particularly its Black community.
• Legal Accountability: Attorneys from Quinn Emanuel explain how litigation may help close the insurance gap for fire victims and hold SoCal Edison accountable.
• Rebuilding Challenges: Joel Bryant, a local developer, breaks down what it takes for a homeowner to rebuild in the current market, especially in the face of toxic soil, labor shortages, and predatory land grabs.
• Mental Health & Grief: Dr. Isha Williams discusses the trauma facing residents and the importance of community-based healing.
• Youth and Cultural Legacy: Ash Level and Veronica Jones emphasize the need to elevate youth voices and preserve the historical identity of Black Altadena.

Featured Voices:

• Dominique DiPrima, KBLA Host
• James Farr, Conversation Live: Altadena Rising
• Martin Gordon, Pasadena Community Coalition
• Crystal Nix-Hines, Quinn Emanuel Trial Lawyers
• Joel Bryant, Housing Developer
• Ash Level, Altadena Rising Organizer
• Veronica Jones, President, Altadena Historical Society
• Dr. Isha Williams, Licensed Therapist
• Brandon Lamar, President, NAACP Pasadena
• Dr. Nicquetta Corde, KBLA Host

Highlights:

• Calls for transparency in disaster relief fund distribution.
• Warnings against “disaster capitalism” and out-of-town opportunists.
• Clear message: “Don’t tell us what we need. Ask us.”

🗣️ Quote of the Episode:

“Everybody tells us what we need—stop it. Ask us what we need and give us what we ask for.” – Martin Gordon

Connect with Us:
Host & Executive Producer: Colby "Colb" Tyner
📩 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
📱 Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
🌐 BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social🤝 How to Help
Urban One is supporting the Brotherhood Crusade's Wildfire Relief Fund, which assists Altadena and Pasadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Donations provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and necessities to families in need.To contribute, visit: BrotherhoodCrusade.orgIf you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

🎧 Description:

In this powerful episode of Altadena: After The Fire, we take you inside a live town hall held 100 days after the devastating Eaton Fire. Hosted by KBLA Talk 1580, this gathering in Pasadena brought together survivors, community leaders, attorneys, builders, and mental health professionals for a frank and emotional conversation about what has happened, what hasn’t, and what needs to happen next.Moderated by Dominique DiPrima and Dr. Nicquetta “Nick” Corde, this episode captures raw testimony and unfiltered perspectives from those on the ground—from displaced residents to environmental lawyers taking on Southern California Edison.📝 Show Notes:Key Themes Covered:

• Displacement & Resilience: Testimonies from residents like Martin Gordon and Ash Level reflect both the emotional toll and the fierce determination to rebuild Altadena, particularly its Black community.
• Legal Accountability: Attorneys from Quinn Emanuel explain how litigation may help close the insurance gap for fire victims and hold SoCal Edison accountable.
• Rebuilding Challenges: Joel Bryant, a local developer, breaks down what it takes for a homeowner to rebuild in the current market, especially in the face of toxic soil, labor shortages, and predatory land grabs.
• Mental Health & Grief: Dr. Isha Williams discusses the trauma facing residents and the importance of community-based healing.
• Youth and Cultural Legacy: Ash Level and Veronica Jones emphasize the need to elevate youth voices and preserve the historical identity of Black Altadena.

Featured Voices:

• Dominique DiPrima, KBLA Host
• James Farr, Conversation Live: Altadena Rising
• Martin Gordon, Pasadena Community Coalition
• Crystal Nix-Hines, Quinn Emanuel Trial Lawyers
• Joel Bryant, Housing Developer
• Ash Level, Altadena Rising Organizer
• Veronica Jones, President, Altadena Historical Society
• Dr. Isha Williams, Licensed Therapist
• Brandon Lamar, President, NAACP Pasadena
• Dr. Nicquetta Corde, KBLA Host

Highlights:

• Calls for transparency in disaster relief fund distribution.
• Warnings against “disaster capitalism” and out-of-town opportunists.
• Clear message: “Don’t tell us what we need. Ask us.”

🗣️ Quote of the Episode:

“Everybody tells us what we need—stop it. Ask us what we need and give us what we ask for.” – Martin Gordon

Connect with Us:
Host & Executive Producer: Colby "Colb" Tyner
📩 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
📱 Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
🌐 BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social🤝 How to Help
Urban One is supporting the Brotherhood Crusade's Wildfire Relief Fund, which assists Altadena and Pasadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Donations provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and necessities to families in need.To contribute, visit: BrotherhoodCrusade.orgIf you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host Colby "Colb" Tyner welcomes back journalist and radio host James Farr for an in-depth update from the front lines of Altadena’s recovery. James, host of Conversation Live: Altadena Rising on KBLA, discusses the community’s resilience, the ongoing displacement of thousands of residents, and the slow, complex road to rebuilding.They cover:

• The cultural and historical significance of Altadena’s Black community
• How the fire has permanently altered daily life and local infrastructure
• Displacement challenges and the housing crisis
• The looming threat of disaster capitalism and predatory land grabs
• Updates on insurance, FEMA support, and rebuilding plans
• Potential accountability for Southern California Edison
• The emotional and financial toll on displaced families

James also shares insights from his weekly show, including firsthand stories from survivors, community leaders, and legal experts.Key Takeaway:
Altadena’s path to recovery is long and uncertain, but the community’s resilience and shared history are driving efforts to rebuild and resist exploitation.

Guest Contact:
📞 James Farr
🔗 [email protected]
📱 @jamesfarrliveConnect with Us:
Host & Executive Producer: Colby "Colb" Tyner
📩 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
📱 Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
🌐 BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social🤝 How to Help
Urban One is supporting the Brotherhood Crusade's Wildfire Relief Fund, which assists Altadena and Pasadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Donations provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and necessities to families in need.To contribute, visit: BrotherhoodCrusade.orgIf you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this deeply moving episode, Altadena: After The Fire correspondent Tawala Sharp sits down with Zaire Calvin—former high school football coach, founder of Extreme Athletics, and a rising leader in the community’s recovery. Zaire lost both his home and his sister in the devastating Eaton Fire, yet he has emerged as a driving force in Altadena’s efforts to rebuild—not just structures, but spirit.Zaire shares an unfiltered and emotional look at the struggles facing residents in the fire’s aftermath: displacement, broken systems, lack of access, and the emotional toll of navigating disaster recovery while trying to hold families together. He also outlines his vision and practical solutions for real recovery—one rooted in advocacy, unity, and putting resources directly in the hands of the people who need them most.This episode is a raw testament to the resilience of Altadena and a rallying cry for those who want to help the city rise from the ashes.Key Topics:

• The real-time challenges of navigating FEMA, insurance, and housing displacement
• Elder vulnerability and generational loss
• The need for direct aid and trustworthy distribution systems
• Community-driven solutions and grassroots planning
• What true advocacy looks like during disaster recovery
• Zaire’s call to action: how to help and why it matters

Guest Contact: 📞 Zaire Calvin
🔗 extremeathletics.org | 📱 (626) 399-2034📩 Connect with Us

• Guest Host: Tawala Sharp – Contact: [email protected]
• Host & Executive Producer: Colby "Colb" Tyner
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
• Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
• BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social

🤝 How to HelpUrban One is supporting the Brotherhood Crusade's Wildfire Relief Fund, which assists Altadena and Pasadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire. Donations provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and necessities to families in need.To contribute, Visit: BrotherhoodCrusade.org If you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This emotional two-part episode takes listeners directly into the chaos and aftermath of the catastrophic fires ravaging Los Angeles County. First, KJLH’s Tammy Mack updates listeners during the day of the fires, sharing real-time evacuation alerts, health warnings, and safety tips. Then, Brandon Lamar, President of the Pasadena NAACP, dives deep into how the wildfire devastated the historic Black community in Altadena and Pasadena — and how the community is rallying to rebuild from unimaginable loss.

📰 Part 1: The Day of the Fires (Tammy Mack, KJLH Radio)Highlights:

• Fires burn uncontrollably from Pacific Palisades to Altadena and into the Hollywood Hills, creating an "apocalyptic" scene.
• Over 10,600 acres destroyed in San Gabriel Valley alone.
• Mandatory evacuations issued across Santa Monica, Hollywood Hills, and other neighborhoods.
• Evacuation Shelters and Animal Shelters were urgently activated.
• Health Warnings:
• Boil water due to toxins.
• Wear masks to avoid breathing harmful smoke.
• Generator safety tips to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Emotional check-in: Callers like Trayvon share disbelief at how fast and widespread the fires became.

Key Quote:"A lot of people woke up to darkness… fires burning homes, businesses, and dreams." — Tammy Mack

🏡 Part 2: After the Fire – The Fight to Rebuild (Brandon Lamar)Highlights:

• Historical Significance: Altadena was a sanctuary for Black families escaping racial violence.
• Fire Devastation: 80% of Black Altadena residents lost their homes; 10 churches and 5 schools were destroyed.
• Ongoing Challenges: Underinsurance, missing property deeds, displacement pressures, housing crisis.
• Community Actions:
• Legislative efforts to fast-track deed transfers and defer mortgage payments.
• Relief Drive helping thousands of families with essentials and temporary housing.
• Partnering with Black-owned groups to retain homes in the community.
• Fighting off predatory contractors and developers.
• Emotional Toll: Brandon shares the mental burden of witnessing and responding to such widespread loss.

Key Quote:"Disasters don’t discriminate — but social recovery does." — Brandon Donte Lamar

🙌 How Listeners Can Help:

• Donate:
  Every dollar goes directly to families for housing, essentials, and rebuilding.
  → projectpassioninc.com
• Volunteer:
  Help at Saturday distributions (11 AM–4 PM) at Pasadena Church, 425 N Sierra Madre Villa Ave, Pasadena, CA.
• Offer Professional Services:
  Licensed therapists, financial counselors, insurance specialists, honest contractors are needed.

Altadena: After The Fire – An Urban One podcast chronicling the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, which devastated Altadena, California, in January 2025. A historic center of Black prosperity and culture, the community lost over 7,000 homes, schools, and businesses, leaving thousands displaced and fighting to rebuild.Hosted by Colby Colb, this series brings you on-the-ground reporting, in-depth interviews, and real stories of resilience. We examine the personal toll of the disaster, the environmental and political factors at play, and the ongoing efforts to restore Altadena’s rich cultural heritage.We’re also supporting the Brotherhood Crusade’s Wildfire Relief Fund, helping affected families and businesses recover. Visit BrotherhoodCrusade.org to contribute.Join us as we document the journey of a community determined to rise from the ashes.If you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby.

• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
• Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
• BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful episode, we explore the lasting impacts of the recent fire and its ripple effects on families, businesses, and entire communities. We begin with Charisse Bremond, CEO of the Brotherhood Crusade, who shares how her organization is actively working to help families in Altadena and Pasadena recover and build long-term stability.Next, we turn to KBLA Los Angeles’ Dominique DiPrima and The LA Progressive’s James Farr for an in-depth discussion on:

• The environmental aftermath of the fire, especially as the region enters its annual winter rainy season
• The political ramifications of the displacement of 22,000 residents and what that means for future government resources
• The economic impact on small businesses, renters, and their rights in the wake of the disaster

Join us for this critical conversation on resilience, recovery, and the fight for justice in our communities.Guest Speakers:🎙️ Charisse Bremond – CEO, Brotherhood Crusade
🎙️ Dominique DiPrima – Host, KBLA Los Angeles
🎙️ James Farr – Journalist, The LA ProgressiveTopics Covered:✅ Community-led recovery efforts in Altadena & Pasadena
✅ The environmental risks tied to the fire and rainy season
✅ How displacement could impact future government resources
✅ Small business challenges and renters' rights post-disasterResources & How to Help:🔗 Brotherhood Crusade – Support families in recovery
🔗 LA Progressive – Read more on local policy and justice issues
🔗 KBLA Los Angeles – Stay informed with in-depth coverageAltadena: After The Fire – An Urban One podcast chronicling the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, which devastated Altadena, California, in January 2025. A historic center of Black prosperity and culture, the community lost over 7,000 homes, schools, and businesses, leaving thousands displaced and fighting to rebuild.Hosted by Colby Colb, this series brings you on-the-ground reporting, in-depth interviews, and real stories of resilience. We examine the personal toll of the disaster, the environmental and political factors at play, and the ongoing efforts to restore Altadena’s rich cultural heritage.We’re also supporting the Brotherhood Crusade’s Wildfire Relief Fund, helping affected families and businesses recover. Visit UrbanOneCares.com to contribute.Join us as we document the journey of a community determined to rise from the ashes.If you have updated information or firsthand stories to share, feel free to reach out directly to Colby.

• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colbycolbtyner
• Instagram: @officialcolbycolb
• BlueSky: @colbycolb.bsky.social

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.