How to Disaster

"Don't expect to go through it yourself. People will want to help, ask for it. And then when you get through your disaster, pay it forward." -Margie Foster

 

Episode Description: 

When catastrophe strikes, it falls to ordinary citizens to come together, support each other, and lead the recovery efforts from the ground up.  And in these moments, they also discover inner strength and resilience within themselves and their community. By banding together through difficult times, they can help rebuild and renew their town stronger than before.

Margie Foster, a longtime resident of Glen Ellen, shares her first-hand experience of evacuating from the Tubbs Fire and the emotional toll it took on her tight-knit community. She discusses the frustration of the slow rebuilding process in the first year, the challenges of mitigating fire-damaged land, how she helped coordinate a local rehousing initiative and secure funding to support fire survivors. 

Join in as Jennifer and Margie reflect on the importance of "neighbor helping neighbor" in times of crisis and valuable lessons on community preparedness, the emotional toll of disaster, and innovative ways citizens can lead recovery efforts through connectivity and grassroots organization. 

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebuildNorthBay/

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:

03:59 Surviving the Devastating Fire

10:22 Disaster Preparedness and Community Response

17:57 Rehousing Initiatives

23:08 Disaster Relief Efforts and Community Resilience

29:09 Rebuilding Challenges

33:04 Recovery and Emergent Leadership

 

"Be prepared so you can help, because everyone needs everybody in this situation." -Joshua Farrell

 

Preparation isn't just about survival— it's about having the capacity to help others. Our ability to lend a hand can significantly ease the burden and contribute to a faster recovery for the entire community. 

In the previous episode, we covered the basics of individual disaster preparedness with citizen prepper, Josh Farrell. This week, Josh continues unpacking the contents of his go bag, sharing additional items that can help us transition from basic preparedness to a more proactive role.

Stay tuned as Jennifer and Josh cover communication and respiration needs to stay connected when infrastructure fails, rations and essentials to keep us fueled until assistance arrives, building necessities that allow innovative solutions in dire straits, pets necessities to reduce their anxiety during disaster, clothing, disinfection, and navigation supplies to keep us healthy on the move, and power supplies to ensure we can keep our lines open to coordinate relief efforts.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebuildNorthBay/

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:

02:06 Check #1- Communication and Respiration

07:41 Check #2- Rations and Essentials 

17:38 Check #3- Building Necessities

23:20 Check #4- Shelter and Pets and Sunblock?

39:44 Check #5-Clothing, Disinfection, and Navigation

36:07 How Heavy? 

39:16 Check #6- Power Supply

43:04 Prepared to Help 

 

"If you're prepared, you're not freaking out, you're taken care of, and you can help other people." -Joshua Farrell

 

Being prepared for disaster is crucial for citizens and communities alike. When emergencies like wildfires or other natural hazards strike, they can overwhelm local response efforts and leave many residents vulnerable in the aftermath. However, with some basic preparation at an individual level, people can significantly improve their resilience and ability to weather crises. 

In this two-part podcast series, Jennifer interviews her friend, Josh Farrell, about his experiences with the devastating 2017 wildfires in Sonoma County, California, and how it prompted him to become more prepared for emergencies as a citizen.

In part one, Josh shares his harrowing experience evacuating his elderly mother from the rapidly advancing wildfires. He recounts the chaotic scenes upon returning to find the town without power or resources. This personal encounter was the catalyst for Josh to seriously focus on disaster readiness.

Listen in as Jennifer and Josh talk about the importance of promptly heeding evacuation orders, must-haves in a go-bag, ways to ensure that necessary documents are accessible, how to maintain preparedness, and how even small steps at an individual level can boost community resilience in the face of catastrophe.

 

Connect with After The Fire USA: 

Website: https://afterthefireusa.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebuildNorthBay/

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:

03:34 Fire Evacuation and Preparedness

07:39 The Impact of Wildfire 

11:07 Firefighting Efforts

14:52 How to Prep

19:03 Emergency Response Strategies

23:55 What to Have In Your Go Bag

32:51 Other Essentials

 

 "Don't isolate first responders by making them into heroes. The greatest thing that anyone can do is just say, 'thank you for your service.'" -Susan Farren

 

"We owe it to our first responders to do whatever we can to help make their jobs easier." -Bailey Farren

Episode Description: 

Our first responders and healthcare workers sacrifice so much to care for our communities during times of crisis. They put their own health and safety at risk on a daily basis to save lives. However, the trauma and stress of responding to disaster after disaster take a tremendous toll. Thus, we must find ways to support their well-being. Truly, our first responders deserve nothing less for their selfless service. 

 

In this episode, Jennifer interviews two outstanding pioneers in this field, Susan Farren, Founder of First Responders Resiliency, a nonprofit organization that provides proactive training to help mitigate the effects of trauma and stress for first responders, and Bailey Farren, CEO and co-founder of Perimeter, a map-based platform to provide real-time situational information to first responders and citizens. With over 33 years of experience as a paramedic, Sue was inspired to start First Responders Resiliency after being diagnosed with kidney cancer and learning about the health impacts experienced by many in the first responder community. On the other hand, Bailey was motivated to start Perimeter after seeing how first responders and those affected lacked access to up-to-date information.

Join in as Jennifer, Sue, and Bailey dive deep into the increasing toll that responding to massive, fast-moving wildfires is taking on first responders' mental and physical health. They also highlight ways to create innovative solutions to support first responders, the challenges of funding organizations in this space, scaling technology to reach more communities, and valuable insights into how communities can better partner with and care for the public servants risking their lives every day to keep us safe.

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/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

 

Highlights:

01:17 Different but Effective Ways to Help the Helpers

09:38 Improving Disaster Response Through Geospatial Mapping

12:29 First Responders Mental Health

16:07 Fire Safety and Tech to Reduce Anxiety for First Responders

24:40 Funding Challenges

32:20 Showing Support and Gratitude

40:14 Community Preparedness for Disasters

43:07 Resiliency Centers for First Responders

 

"Being a volunteer is a privilege…  I wasn't documented so I volunteered a lot. And that volunteer work led many doors to be opened up for me." -Jocksana Corona

 

Episode Description: 

When disaster strikes a community, ordinary people frequently discover an inner strength and sense of purpose they never knew they possessed. Driven by a desire to help their neighbors through difficult circumstances, emergent leaders step forward to direct rescue efforts, organize relief supplies, provide calm guidance, and more. Though they may lack formal titles or training, these individuals understand that leadership isn't defined by a position, but rather by one's willingness to serve others in their hours of greatest need. 

Jocksana Corona exemplified what it means to be an emergent leader, rising to the forefront of her community's response and recovery efforts following the devastating Alameda Fire in Southern Oregon. Through empathy, initiative, and an unwavering commitment to helping others, she made a profound difference for many families during an incredibly challenging time.

Tune in as Jocksana discusses the obstacles faced by mixed-status families in navigating recovery systems not designed with their needs in mind, the emotional toll of loss, and the strength and resilience required in supporting others in the face devastation. 

 

Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.

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/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

01:28 When the Reg Flag Stands

16:46 Stuck In Between Two Fires

21:53 A Tearful, Sleepless Night

25:40 Finding Shelter Amidst COVID 

30:44 Being a Volunteer is a Privilege

41:19 The Beauty of a Community 

45:53 Challenges Faced by the Undocumented Community

56:39Housing and Undocumented Communities

01:03:16 54 Days and Reunited

 

"You're in that place where disaster hasn't hit you, but you know it's coming. Start training now." -Tennis Wick

 

Episode Description: 

In the aftermath of the devastating 2017 wildfires that destroyed thousands of homes in Sonoma County, Tennis Wick found himself at the center of recovery efforts as the director of Permit Sonoma. 

This interview explores how to effectively navigate the dual roles of public servant and fire survivor in the crucial period after the fires. Listen in as Tennis details the immense challenges of the initial disaster phase from managing emergency response operations around the clock to setting up a local assistance center where displaced residents could access vital services. 

Jennifer and Tennis also discuss how Permit Sonoma adapted its processes to better serve overwhelmed homeowners seeking permits with a commitment to rapid five-day turnarounds, creative problem-solving through the block captain system and leveraging community relationships, and lessons learned about the importance of mitigation and managing wildfire risk proactively. 

Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.

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/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

02:11: On the Disaster Frontline

11:15: Meeting the Needs

16:04: How to Approach Rebuild Projects 

20:35 The Role of a Block Captain

25:15 The Problem with Contractor Fraud

30:19 Be Disaster Smart 

36:51 Risk Mitigation is a Collective Effort

42:31 How Helpers Can Help Themselves

SERIES: Role of the Non-Profit

 

"You cannot approach a community without respecting in full who they are and their autonomy. If you can't approach it that way, it's going to come off as ingenuine, and they're going to read it right away, and that disengages people right off the bat." -Alma Bowen

 

Episode Description: 

In the event of a disaster, first responders receive calls beyond number, but only a small fraction of these come from communities that need help the most. Oftentimes, they are the last to receive assistance because of language barriers, documentation issues, disabilities, and lack of technical knowledge. Hence, this episode focuses on helping 3 of the most vulnerable groups build resiliency: the Latin X community, seniors, and undocumented immigrants. Tune in as Jennifer and Alma Bowen, the CEO and Founder of Nuestra Comunidad, discuss the best practices and most appropriate approaches to bring the culture of preparedness and resiliency into these communities. They talk about practical steps to address problems in communicating information, creating an alert system, power outage, evacuation plans, and transportation. In addition to helping communities, hear how Alma and her team launched a special project on training the younger generations to become Preparedness Ambassadors. As a former 9-1-1 Emergency Services Dispatcher, Alma also shares how first responders can cope up with personal losses and trauma as they continue to serve the community. Join the conversation and discover ways to strengthen your capacity to serve!  

Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.
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/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

05:12: A Life-Altering Night  

13:52: Helping the Vulnerable Population 

25:07: Training Young "Preparedness Ambassadors"  

30:06: Acknowledging the Bigger Problems 

36:18: Meeting the Needs of the  Undocumented Population 

44:38: Helping the Senior Population

50:05 Building Capacity 

53:04: How to Serve  

 

SERIES: Role of the Public Sector Leader 

 

"Sometimes we think physically doing something for someone is what's best for them. But sometimes they just want someone to hear their story… Sit back and listen. People want to be heard." -Christa López

Episode Description: 

 

There are so many layers to unpack in a disaster. Everything happens so quickly, people are anxious, supplies are running low, and people's lives and livelihoods are at risk. If you are a leader, you may be challenged with making sure you address the needs of each community in your jurisdiction and help them develop resiliency at the same time. This can be a demanding yet exciting task. In this episode, Jennifer interviews one of the strong leaders of today, Dr. Christa López. Dr. López is the  Chief of Staff for Community Development and Revitalization for the Texas General Land Office. Listen in as they teach how you can obtain the best knowledge possible during a crisis, find trustworthy investments, get the most of your insurance, and prepare for necessities during the YOYO (You're On Your Own) period in a disaster. Dr. López also shares valuable insights for long-term recovery in terms of disaster housing, managing donations, and considering the culture of a community. Whether you are a leader or a community member, you can find ways to help- the right way. And sometimes, that help is simply becoming a friend who is ready to sit and listen to the victims.   

 

Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.
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/in/after-the-fire-usa-8241b7217/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuTefxZgWUJkDVoZGZQpxgQ

Highlights:

02:52: Life Lessons About Real Life Disasters 

09:10: The First Step- Investments

15:12: Taking Care of the Needs of  Those in Your Jurisdiction

18:26: Considerations Before Making Donations

21:44: Respect for Community Culture

24:21: Sit and Listen

31:05: Where Can You Help

36:18: How to be Resilient

42:00: Always Document 

46:15: Disaster Housing and Innovations

52:20: No One Should be Re-traumatized

 

SERIES: Role of the Mental Health Care Leaders

 

"We have to go beyond education, we need mental health action!" -Adrienne Heinz, Ph.D.

 

Episode Description: 

What's more terrifying and costly than cancer? Untreated mental health issues. Mental health is a huge part of recovery after a disaster. This week, Jennifer interviews Dr. Adrienne Heinz for an in-depth discussion about mental health. Dr. Heinz talks about the mindsets most people have about mental health, why it is important to address trauma as a community and as helpers, and how to overcome crisis fatigue. She also shares helpful apps and exercises to help you slow down, de-stress, and fight off anxiety. Join the conversation, recover from the inside, and reimagine a new tomorrow! 

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:

05:17: The Struggle with Collective Trauma

11:55: The Digital Aspect of Mental Health Intervention 

19:19: The Stages of Grief

25:13: The Present and Future of Apps

29:33: The Value of Mental Health

35:26: Overcome Crisis Fatigue 

38:38: Stimulate Your Vagus Nerve 

41:25: Breathing Exercise

 

 "Be very careful what you promise unless you know you can deliver something. There is enough heartbreak in a disaster that people don't need to hear that you're going to solve all their problems, and then you don't." -Charles Brooks

 

The last thing we want to do in a disaster is to create another disaster, that's why having an organization to help build a system is invaluable. This week, Jennifer interviews Charles Brooks, the Executive Director of Rebuild Paradise Foundation. The Rebuild Paradise Foundation, incubated through the North Valley Community Foundation, is a grassroots movement of Camp Fire survivors and community leaders from the public and private sectors who are dedicated to serving the long-term needs of Butte County's disaster-affected residents, businesses, and workforce. Founded in January of 2019 under the mentorship of Rebuild Northbay Foundation, this non-profit foundation provides access to resources and helps lower barriers to entry for those repopulating the disaster affected areas. The Rebuild Paradise Foundation is proud to partner with other non-profits, corporate donors, private donors, and government agencies to accomplish our mission.

 

Charles talks about building a sustainable model- from conceptualizing to framing projects that will serve the community best. We also learn how to measure and reach the target population, leverage resources to get the most impact, work with the public sector, relate your story, and furnish implementation. Emergent leaders are humans too. Hear Charles' advice on how to avoid crashes and burns and be sustainable in giving. Most importantly, never give up on your dream to get people back to their homes. If you are receiving a chain of rejections to prospect funders, tune in and find out the secret to turning their NO into an ABSOLUTELY YES!      

Connect with After the Fire: Recover. Rebuild. Reimagine.

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:

01:57: The Building of a Rebuild Org

07:50: The Value of Connections

12:33: The How of Fundraising 

21:32: Facing the Hurdles

29:01: Develop Relationship with the Public Sector

32:17: Telling Your Story

40:49: Sustainable Giving

45:12: Do You Have a Disaster Buddy? 

52:12: How to Create a Rebuild Organization  

56:02: Be Careful What You Promise