How to Disaster

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"Allow yourself the best you can to just release into all things in due time." —Jacqui Jorgeson

 

"It's important as leaders that we show those who we are leading that we also need breaks. We are not gods." —Matt Henderson 

 

"Whatever people needed, everybody stepped up to make sure that needs were met to the best of our capability under horrific and insane conditions. And we can do it. There's no reason not to. It's not rocket science. It's just Aloha." —Noelani Ahia

 

Disaster recovery is a grueling work that can quickly lead to burnout for even the most dedicated leaders. Taking regular breaks is crucial to avoid mental and physical exhaustion, yet many struggle to prioritize self-care amidst the pressing needs of their communities. Therefore, maintaining resilience requires intentional strategies to recharge and prevent compassion fatigue.

In this discussion, Jollie sits with three bold disaster recovery leaders, Jacqui Jorgeson, Matt Henderson, and Noelani Ahia. Dive in as they share powerful stories, practical tips, and holistic approaches to help disaster leaders avoid burnout and foster post-traumatic growth within their teams and within themselves and their families. 

 

• Connect with After The Fire USA: 
• 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/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:29 Meet the Panel: Matt, Jacqui, and Noelani
• 05:50 Origin Story: Volunteer Fire Foundation 
• 09:21 Change Your Socks
• 12:11 How Trauma Gets Stored In Our Bodies
• 20:37 All In Due Time
• 23:50 Take a Break 
• 26:24 It's Just Aloha 

 

 

Meet the Moderator:

👩🏻‍💼Meet Jolie Wills, CEO of Hummingly

Jolie has a Master of Science in Cognitive Psychology and is a leading psychosocial expert in disaster and disruption. Jolie has studied how the mind works under prolonged pressure, how we make decisions and how our reactions and behaviors are impacted by stress. Jolie is a survivor of the Christchurch earthquakes and has lived disaster recovery with her family first-hand. She led the psychosocial recovery program for New Zealand Red Cross in response to the earthquakes and has supported those working in disasters around the world. Jolie is a Winston Churchill fellowship recipient, a Leadership New Zealand alumna, an Edmund Hillary Fellow, and is an advising member to the global Counter Terrorism Prevention Network. She is primary author of New Zealand's Psychological First Aid Guide and is a co-author of Leading in Disaster Recovery: A Companion through the Chaos.

• Website: https://hummingly.co/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hummingly/ 
  
  

Meet the Panel

👩🏻‍💼Meet Jacqui Jorgeson, Founder and Executive Director, Volunteer Fire Foundation

Jacqui Jorgeson is a writer and fourth-generation Californian. A trip to Greece at the height of the Syrian refugee crisis propelled her into grassroots nonprofit work. In the spring of 2016, Jacqui became the first Associate Director of Schoolbox Project, which delivers trauma-informed care to the littlest victims of disasters around the world. Now a mother, Jacqui feels deeply called to serve her community at home. She lives in Santa Rosa with her husband Kevin and their young son Edsel. 

• Website: https://www.volunteerfire.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/volfireorg/ 
• X: https://twitter.com/volfireorg 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/volunteerfirefoundation/

 

👨🏻‍💼 Meet Matt Henderson, NorCal Communications Lead, Team Rubicon

Matt Henderson is a United States Navy veteran, wildlife photographer, and Team Rubicon leader. He has been a dedicated volunteer with Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response organization, serving as the NorCal communications lead and often stepping up as incident commander on operations. Matt has been instrumental in organizing and executing several disaster response projects, including a significant operation in Grizzly Flats that saw 70 volunteers working daily for a month to support a community devastated by wildfires. In addition to his work with Team Rubicon, Matt has 17 years of experience covering wildfires as a photojournalist and has consistently been at the forefront of relief efforts, offering his time, skills, and compassion to support affected communities.

• Connect with Team Rubicon: https://teamrubiconusa.org/ 

 

👩🏻‍💼 Meet Noelani Ahia, Founder, Maui Medic Healers Hui

Noelani Ahia is a healer/activist who works to protect what we love: 'āina, kai, wai, iwi and each other. Trained in Traditional East Asian Medicine, she has been delivering acupuncture and herbal medicine to the Maui community for 15 years. In 2017 she co-founded the Mauna Medic Healers Hui with Dr. Kalama and in 2019, spent 8 months on Mauna Kea tending to our lāhui. 

• Website: https://mauimedichealershui.org/ 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"After disaster, there is plenty of information that you have to absorb, there's plenty of decisions you've got to make, there's plenty of problems you've got to solve, and prolonged stress impacts our ability to do all of those things." —Jolie Wills 

 

After a disaster, it's crucial to equip local communities with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate the recovery process. By sharing practical insights and strategies, we can empower disaster-affected people to make informed decisions and support one another during this challenging time.

Jolie Wills is a cognitive scientist and disaster survivor who has dedicated over a decade to supporting communities through their recovery journeys. Her personal experiences and research-driven approach make her a valuable resource for those navigating the complexities of disaster recovery.

Tune in as Jolie speaks about the importance of empowering local communities with recovery knowledge, the power of community, the role of self-care in ensuring long-term recovery, and more. 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• 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/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 02:13 4 Ways to Empower Communities 
• 06:58 Sharing Recovery Knowledge Into the Locals
• 11:38 Where Support Comes From
• 14:17 Self-Care is Crucial in Long-Term Recovery
• 17:07 Are You a Martyr or a Professional? 

 

👩🏻‍💼Meet Jolie Wills, CEO of Hummingly

Jolie has a Masters of Science in Cognitive Psychology and is a leading psychosocial expert in disaster and disruption. Jolie has studied how the mind works under prolonged pressure, how we make decisions and how our reactions and behaviors are impacted by stress. Jolie is a survivor of the Christchurch earthquakes and has lived disaster recovery with her family first-hand. She led the psychosocial recovery program for New Zealand Red Cross in response to the earthquakes and has supported those working in disasters around the world. Jolie is a Winston Churchill fellowship recipient, a Leadership New Zealand alumna, an Edmund Hillary Fellow, and is an advising member to the global Counter Terrorism Prevention Network. She is primary author of New Zealand's Psychological First Aid Guide and is a co-author of Leading in Disaster Recovery: A Companion through the Chaos.

• Website: https://hummingly.co/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hummingly/ 

👨🏻‍💼Meet Jim Alvey, VP of Disaster Recovery at Good360

Jim Alvey is the Vice President of Disaster Recovery and Philanthropy at Good360, a nonprofit organization which leads global distribution of donations through partnerships with socially responsible companies. Jim's work includes cultivating partnerships with foundations and companies to expand the organization's product donor network, increase nonprofit sector collaboration, and connect with different government agencies. He focuses on medium to long-term disaster recovery efforts. 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimalvey 

 

Connect with Good360:

• Website: https://good360.org/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Good360.org 
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/good360 
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/good360usa/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/good360 
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCItn_VoR1grL7MqOWFgAArA 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"We need to stop looking at people in this country being victims all the time, but actually being the true first responder in every community, in every situation." —Brock Long

 

Disasters are hitting our communities harder and more frequently than ever before. We can't keep relying on the same old playbook - it's time for a fresh, innovative approach. Disaster management needs to move beyond just responding to crises and instead focus on empowering local communities to build resilience. By working together across different sectors, we can find new ways to prepare for and prevent the devastating impacts of future disasters.

Brock Long is a seasoned emergency management professional with over 25 years of experience. He previously served as the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), where he led the agency's response to numerous high-profile disasters.

Tune in and hear insights on the 4 legs of a successful disaster response, the unpredictability of modern disasters, the need for disaster equity, and the importance of proactive mitigation. 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• 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/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:25 25 Years in the Face of Worsening Disasters
• 04:58 The 4 Legs of Success
• 13:25 The Biggest Hit We Might Experience
• 17:00 Disaster Equity- Is the Current Disaster Declaration Process Still Practical?
• 22:42 Approaching Mitigation the Right Way 

 

👨🏻‍💼Meet Brock Long, Executive Chairman, Hagerty Consulting & FEMA Administrator (2017-2019)

Brock Long is a seasoned emergency management expert with over 16 years of experience working with local, state, and federal governments. As Director of Alabama's EMA, he oversaw responses to 14 disasters, including the H1N1 influenza and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. He has also served as a FEMA Regional Hurricane Planner, Response Team Leader, and statewide school safety coordinator. Currently, Brock is the Executive Vice President of Hagerty Consulting, where he leads the firm's emergency management programs and has served as Project Executive on over 50 projects across the United States. His expertise and leadership have made him a sought-after speaker and commentator on emergency preparedness and response.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brock-long-62742a17/ 

 

Connect with Hagerty Consulting:

• Website: https://hagertyconsulting.com/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HagertyConsulting 
• X: https://twitter.com/HagertyConsult 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hagerty-consulting/ 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/HagertyConsultingInc 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"We were rendering aid— food, medical, and those immediate needs until such that the government arrived. So we were in operation for 30 days." —Kalikolehua Storer

 

"Hard decisions had to be made that day. My daughter would grab the pets and I would grab my uncle. This was the plan… On the one-year date, I scattered my uncle's ashes that morning. I felt free, and I felt he was free. — I tell my daughter, my husband, and even my pets all the time we made it." —Laurie Lei DeGama

 

"As we make new memories moving forward, we must learn from the bad ones and treasure the good ones, and together we can and together we will build a better future, not with selfishness or greed, but with a cohesive understanding that we honor our past, live in safety and comfort in the present, and continue to build a solid legacy for future generations to follow."  —Earle Kukahiko

 

"We will not be defined by loss, but by our response, our love and our unwavering commitment to rebuild. Let the story of our resilience be the legacy we forge for generations to come." —Mish Shishido

 

"My memory still taps into the scent of charred cars and debris as I think about the elders hiding in homes that stood still afraid, lonely and without a clue in the world of what was to come." —Nestor Ugale

 

When the devastating Maui wildfires tore through the historic town of Lahaina, the community found itself facing unimaginable loss. Yet, from the ashes, a remarkable story of resilience and community empowerment began to emerge. Everyday people, guided by the values of aloha and ohana, stepped up to lead the charge in rebuilding their beloved home.

Witness the remarkable leadership that emerged as Jennifer sits with Kalikolehua Storer, Laurie Lei Degama, Earle Kuhahiko, Mish Shishido, and Nestor Ugale.

This powerful conversation offers a rare glimpse into the untold stories of Lahaina's recovery, as these emergent leaders share their firsthand accounts of addressing critical challenges, uplifting marginalized groups, and weaving cultural traditions into the rebuilding process. 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• 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/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 01:05 Meet Kalikolehua Storer
• 06:52 Meet Laurie Lei DeGama
• 16:42 Meet Earle Kukahiko
• 20:56 Meet Mish Shishido
• 24:24 Meet Nestor Ugale
• 30:36 Speaking the Language of Hope, Community, and Resilience
• 42:45 Thanks to Emergent Leaders

 

 

Meet The Moderator: 

👩🏻‍💼Jennifer Gray Thompson, MPA, Founder & CEO of After the Fire USA

Jennifer Gray Thompson is a lifelong resident of Sonoma Valley in Northern California's wine country. She attended Santa Rosa Junior College and graduated from Dominican University with dual degrees in English and History, and earned a master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California's Price School of Public Policy.  After the devastating fires of October 2017, she accepted her current position as Executive Director of Rebuild Northbay Foundation (RNBF), a long-term post-disaster organization dedicated to helping our region rebuild better, greener, safer, and faster. In this capacity, Jennifer has traveled across the country to share the innovative model of RNBF with colleagues and newly disaster-affected communities. Jennifer resides in Sonoma Valley with her husband, Douglas, children, and two rescue dogs, Buddy and GiGi, who have both randomly appeared in podcast cameos.

 

Meet The Panel

👩🏻‍💼Kalikolehua Storer, Mayor's Advisory Committee, Operations Manager, Pu'u Kukui Watershed

Kalikolehua Storer is a dedicated community member with a passion for both cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. As an area training and cultural advisor for Hyatt Resorts, she shares her knowledge of Hawaiian traditions and values with visitors and employees alike.  She also serves as the Pu'u Kukui Watershed operations supervisor, playing a vital role in protecting this critical ecosystem. Her diverse roles reflect her commitment to connecting people with the land, its history, and its future. 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaliko-storer-5621a039/ 

 

👩🏻‍💼Laurie Lei DeGama, Community Leader, Mayor's Advisory Committee

Laurie DeGama is a lifelong Lahaina resident with a deep commitment to her community. As the owner of No Ka Oi Deli, she carries on a family tradition of serving the people of Lahaina with delicious food and warm hospitality. Her family's legacy in the town dates back two generations, with the ownership and operation of the beloved Hop Wo store and bakery. Beyond her business, Laurie is actively involved in the community as the president of the Lahainaluna PTSA, advocating for the educational success of the next generation. Laurie's dedication to Lahaina is evident in her work, leadership, and unwavering spirit.

 

👨🏻‍💼Earle Kukahiko, Community Leader, Mayor's Advisory Committee

Earle Kukahiko is a lifelong resident of Lahaina, Maui and a respected kupuna (elder) in the community. As a member of the Lahaina Advisory Committee formed after the devastating 2023 wildfires, Earle brings a valuable perspective rooted in the cultural traditions and history of the region. With deep ties to the land and community, Earle plays a crucial role in ensuring the rebuilding and recovery efforts are done in a righteous and compassionate manner, honoring the past while building a solid legacy for future generations. His commitment to instilling hope and guiding the community through this challenging time is a testament to his leadership and the resilience of the Lahaina ohana.

 

👩🏻‍💼Mish Shishido, Community Leader, Mayor's Advisory Committee

Melissah Mish Shishido is a dedicated educator with a passion for learning and community engagement. She spent 21 years as a high school teacher in Oahu, inspiring generations of students. Mish continues to share her knowledge and expertise as an online tutor, reaching students across the islands. 

Mish embodies the philosophy of "thinking globally and acting locally," demonstrating this through her volunteer work with the Kihei Fourth Friday Town Party. For the past years, Mish has been an active participant in this community event, forging connections, making friends, and gaining valuable insights into the issues facing her community.

 

👨🏻‍💼Nestor Ugale Jr., Community Leader, Mayor's Advisory Committee

Nestor Ugale is a lifelong resident of Lahaina and a member of the Lahaina Advisory Committee. After the 2023 wildfires, he joined the committee to represent the kupuna (elders) and advocate for the Filipino and immigrant communities. As a fourth-generation Lahaina Filipino, Nestor played a crucial role in reaching out to underserved neighborhoods and ensuring they received necessary aid. He co-founded the nonprofit Kaibigan ng Lahaina to address socioeconomic, mental health, and educational needs. Nestor's local knowledge and commitment to supporting Lahaina's diverse residents have made him an invaluable asset in the community's recovery efforts.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nestor-ugale-jr-41ab79122/ 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"We have one chance, and we have one chance to get this right. If we rebuild Lahaina only for Lahaina, we will fail. We have to rebuild Lahaina for all of Hawaii, for all of mankind, so that Lahaina can be the example of how we need to move forward for Hawaii and for the world. The SAIL PLAN for Hawaii is in your hands. It's in all of our hands." —Archie Kalepa

 

After the devastation of the Lahaina fire, the community is charting a bold new course forward— one guided by the values of nature and the wisdom of its people. The "sail plan" envisions an inclusive, sustainable future for Lahaina and beyond.

Archie Kalepa is a Lahaina native with decades of experience as a lifeguard and big wave surfer. Drawing on his deep cultural roots, Archie brings a unique perspective on navigating life's storms and honoring the lessons of the past.

Tune in as Archie shares a stirring call to action— to rebuild Lahaina in a way that reconnects the community to the land, centers indigenous knowledge, and creates a climate-resilient blueprint for the future.  

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• 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/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:46 What is The Sail Plan 
• 03:35 The Sail Plan is in Our Hands
• 06:30 What Our Community Wants

 

👨🏻‍💼 Meet Archie Kalepa, Maui Mayor's Advisory Committee, CEO of Lele Aloha 

Archie Kalepa is a native son of Maui and a descendant of the Konohiki, the traditional stewards of Lahaina. He embodies the spirit and resilience of his ancestors, carrying forward their legacy of safeguarding the community and ocean. Archie's journey has led him to become a respected lifeguard, waterman, and cultural leader. He has dedicated his life to preserving Hawaiian culture, serving his community, and protecting the environment. 

As a crew member of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, Archie sailed on long-distance voyages across Oceania, nurturing the ancient art of wayfinding. He played a prominent role in the successful Hokule'a Worldwide Voyage from 2014-2017. 

Archie is the founder of Lele Aloha, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring Hawaii's rich genealogy, protecting land and water resources, and building healthy communities. His unwavering commitment to Lahaina's people and ʻāina inspires us all to embrace our heritage and strive for a better future.

• Website: https://www.lelealoha.org/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lelealohaofficial/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lelealohaofficial/ 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"Nothing else mattered more than helping our people… Together, we have the chance to not only rebuild, but to do so in a way that honors our past, supports our present, and secures a resilient future."  —Honorable Richard Bissen

 

The August 2023 Maui wildfire is considered the deadliest wildfire incident in the U.S. in over a century. It ravaged over 10 square miles, destroying 2,200 structures and severely impacting the island's native forests, grasslands, and historic sites. This catastrophic event has left the community grappling with immense challenges, from rebuilding infrastructure to preserving their rich cultural heritage. 

Maui Mayor Richard Bissen has been a steadfast leader in Maui's recovery efforts, drawing upon his extensive experience in disaster management and community engagement. Under his guidance, the island is exploring innovative strategies to address the unique cultural, economic, and environmental complexities that have arisen in the wake of the wildfire.

Tune in as Mayor Bissen offers a glimpse into the extraordinary challenges faced by the Maui community, their unwavering commitment to rebuilding with respect for their cultural heritage, and the visionary approaches they are employing to create a more sustainable and resilient future for the island.  

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• 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/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 02:28 Goal: Return the People to Their Lands
• 06:53 Challenges in Recovery
• 10:10 Balancing Economy and Mourning: A Bench Mark to Healing

 

👨🏻‍💼Meet Honorable Richard T. Bissen Jr. 

Honorable Richard T. Bissen Jr. is the current Mayor of Maui County, having assumed office in January 2023. Prior to his mayoral role, he served as a judge in the Second Circuit Court of Hawaii from 2005 to 2021. Appointed by Governor Linda Lingle and later reappointed by Governor David Ige, Judge Bissen held a distinguished legal career before entering public service.

Born on February 28, 1962, Mayor Bissen holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. His career also includes roles as the interim director for the State of Hawaii Department of Public Safety and as the first deputy attorney general for the state.

As mayor, Bissen has faced significant challenges, including leading the recovery efforts following the devastating wildfires in Maui in August 2023. He is committed to supporting the community and guiding the island through this difficult time.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/honorable-richard-t-bissen-a6a34a266/ 

 

Connect with the Government of Maui: 

• Website: https://www.mauicounty.gov/ 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"The most important people in the room are the people who have lived it, who went to bed one night and the next day when they woke up, their lives were absolutely never the same." —Jennifer Gray Thompson

 

"In Hawaii, we call land Aina, and within that word is the word AI, and AI is food, and that is what nourishes you. So we understand the relationship between man and land. If we care for the land, in turn, it will take care of us." —Paʻele Kiakona

 

Welcome to the first day of the 2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT! 

We're thrilled to have you join us as we come together to navigate the challenges and opportunities of wildfire leadership. This event is a testament to the resilience and determination of our community.

Today, we are joined by an incredible group of leaders, innovators, and community members who have come together to navigate the challenges of wildfire recovery and resilience. From frontline responders to policymakers, each guest in attendance has a unique story to share and valuable insights to offer. Their diverse perspectives and experiences will inspire you and ignite your passion for making a difference in the face of natural disasters.

Tune in as our host, Jennifer Gray Thompson, takes the stage to share a message of hope and vision for the future. Plus, hear Lahaina Strong's Paʻele Kiakona as he delivers a powerful land acknowledgment speech about honoring the land that sustains us. Don't miss this inspiring start to the summit!

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• 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/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 00:47 6 Years and 11 Months Ago 
• 01:49 Land Acknowledgement
• 04:48 From Flames to Future
• 09:54 The World Is Worth Believing In 

 

👩🏻‍💼Meet Jennifer Gray Thompson, MPA, Founder & CEO of After the Fire USA

Jennifer Gray Thompson, named one of Forbes' "50 over 50" IMPACT Leaders in 2022, has led Rebuild North Bay Foundation since January 2018, transforming it into a national leader in megafire recovery. A lifelong Sonoma Valley resident, she holds a master's degree in Public Administration from USC and has worked for the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. Post-2017 North Bay fires, she became Executive Director of RNBF, which aids wildfire-affected communities across the American West. As CEO, she developed the Wildfire Resiliency Network and Survivor Deployment Model, advocated for federal policies, and hosted national Wildfire Leadership summits. Jennifer also created the "How to Disaster" podcast and serves on boards supporting Latino communities and first responders' mental health.

 

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

👨🏻‍💼Meet Paʻele Kiakona, Lead Organizer & President of Save Honolua Coalition

Paʻele Kiakona is the driving force behind Lahaina Strong, uniting the team and ensuring the community has a seat at the table for all critical conversations about Lahaina's recovery. A Native Hawaiian with deep ancestral roots in Lahaina, Paʻele gained prominence as the president of the Save Honolua Coalition, where he led efforts to protect Honolua Bay's fragile reefs from damage. His passion for environmental preservation is backed by his degree in Environmental Science from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo.

A former Hawaiian immersion student and Kamehameha Schools graduate, Paʻele is deeply connected to his culture, ensuring that traditional values are at the forefront of his leadership. His voice is recognized and respected by elected officials, community leaders, and the public, solidifying him as a wise and passionate young leader with a bright future.

Under his leadership, Lahaina Strong advocates for sustainable, community-first recovery efforts. Paʻele's ability to bring people together and ensure Lahaina's long-term interests are protected has made him an indispensable figure in rebuilding Lahaina with its people, culture, and environment at the core.

 

Connect with Lahaina Strong:

• Website: https://wearelahainastrong.org/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/6793808114003770/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallahainastrong 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LahainaStrong 

 

2024 WILDFIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

 

Episode Description: 

"The biggest component of it is making sure that everyone's talking as much as possible, that there is collaboration and you're working together in order to make sure that kids have the support that they need." —Henry Meier

 

"If I don't feel emotionally safe, physical safety means nothing.—Kasey Earnest

 

"When we imagine trying to help kids in our community, become that age again." —Alfy Basurto

 

Children are often the forgotten victims in the aftermath of disasters, their needs and trauma overshadowed by the overwhelming task of rebuilding physical infrastructure. Yet, supporting the mental health and resilience of young people is crucial to the long-term recovery of any community. 

Rebuild Paradise Executive Director, Jen Goodlin, leads a powerful discussion with Kasey Earnest of the Malibu Boys & Girls Club, Henry Meier of Project:CAMP, and Alfy Basurto of Rebuild Maui. 

Discover how communities can empower the next generation to heal, grow, and lead in the wake of unimaginable disaster as these inspiring leaders share creative youth-centered approaches to disaster response, the importance of collaboration, adapting engagement strategies for kids, and guiding youth through trauma rather than shielding them.  

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

• Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atf3r
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

• 01:03 Paradise: 5 Years Post-Fire
• 06:09 The Problem with Lack of Dedicated Child Care Assistance
• 10:58 From Disaster to Future
• 19:05 Providing a Safe and Fun Environment
• 29:17 How to Help the Children 
• 33:17 How the Community Can Help

 

Meet the Moderator:

👩🏻‍💼Jen Goodlin, Executive Director, Rebuild Paradise Foundation

Jen Goodlin is the Executive Director of Rebuild Paradise Foundation. She and two other mothers founded Rebuild Paradise after the devastating Camp Fire in 2018 that destroyed the town of Paradise. Under Goodlin's leadership, Rebuild Paradise has focused on supporting the community's recovery, with a particular emphasis on involving children and youth. Jen spearheaded an innovative project to capture the handprints of over 2,500 local students, which were used to create a large-scale mural representing the growth and resilience of the Paradise community. Her commitment to engaging young people in the recovery process has made Rebuild Paradise a model for other disaster-affected communities.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-goodlin-9b993426b/

 

Connect with Rebuild Paradise: 

• Website: https://www.rebuildparadise.org/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paradiserebuilds 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebuildparadiseca/ 

Meet the Panel: 

👩🏻‍💼Kasey Earnest, CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Malibu

Kasey Ernest is the CEO of the Boys and Girls Club in Malibu, California. Through her leadership vision, she has led the Boys and Girls Club in Malibu from a modest beginning of a staff of three and membership of 30 young people in a single trailer to an expansive community for youth, with four locations, 30 staff, 300 volunteers, and has grown the membership from 800 to 1600 young people. The Malibu Boys and Girls Club Wellness Center provides licensed mental health and counseling services to all Malibu public school children and their families. 

Kasey came to the aid of the community during and after the 2018 Woolsey fire, she created and set up the Malibu Emergency Relief Fund in less than a week to provide disaster relief and emergency aid, and then raised $2 million that went directly to fire survivors. Kasey and our team host the annual Malibu Chili Cook, where for four days the club welcomes 25,000 guests to Malibu for a carnival, chili competition, food, and artesian festival. One hundred percent of the proceeds raised from the cook-off support the programs and services provided by the club.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasey-earnest-b454b412/ 

 

Connect with Malibu Boys and Girls Club

• Website: https://bgcmalibu.org/ 

 

👨🏻‍💼Henry Meier, Director of External Affairs, Project:Camp

Henry Meier is the Director of Xternal Affairs for Project:Camp. He was the Editor-In-Chief of the Los Angeles Business Journal and a journalist from the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, and the Los Angeles Daily Journal. AtProject:Camp, Henry helps champion the stories of children and families to ensure that their needs are met during disasters. He focuses both on preparedness and response fronts, where he works with emergency managers and children impacted by disasters.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-meier-64759437/ 

 

Connect with Project:Camp

• Website: https://projectcamp.co/ 

 

👨🏻‍💼Alfy Basurto, Executive Director and Founder, Rebuild Maui  

Alfy Basurto is the executive director of Rebuild Maui, a Lahaina-based nonprofit dedicated to creating community resilience programs, adolescent mental health initiatives, and midterm emergency housing solutions. Alfie his wife and their five children, are survivors of the recent Maui fires, having lost their home in three businesses, He previously served as Secretary on the executive board of the Maui long-term recovery group. Currently, Alfie and his team are constructing two emergency houses in Lahaina for Maui fire survivors. His extensive work on trauma in childhood traumas drives his commitment to teen events and community programs.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfy-basurto-32874091/ 

 

Connect with Rebuild Maui: 

• Website: https://www.rebuildmaui.org/ 

 

"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

 

"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