During the Black Summer bushfires, journalist and former co-host of ABC News Breakfast Michael Rowland spent time on the ground with communities directly impacted by one of Australia’s largest disasters. His experience shaped his perspective about the role of journalism in disasters, the evolving role of media during disaster response and the challenges with misinformation.

Andrew and Josh chat discuss Michael’s book Black Summer, which covers the perspectives of ABC journalists involved in the coverage of the 2019-20 bushfires. The ABC played a significant role in the bushfire crisis with journalists across Australia contributing to rolling news stories and updates – including when evacuation warnings were issued. Michael shares his insights about working for the ABC, the trauma journalists face alongside emergency service workers and volunteers, and the challenges journalists face with the emergence of new technologies including artificial intelligence.

Tune in as we chat with Michael Rowland about his story, on Me, Myself and Disaster.