In this episode of the Public Health Joy Podcast, Dr. Joyee Washington sits down with Ginny Katz, the Founder and CEO of HazAdapt, a groundbreaking company dedicated to building stronger, safer, and more resilient communities. As the Head of Research at HazAdapt Community Resilience Tools, Ginny leads the charge in developing innovative, technology-driven solutions that redefine how we prepare for and respond to disasters. Together, Dr. Joyee and Ginny explore the intersection of public health, technology, and human connection, shedding light on how digital innovation can empower individuals and communities before, during, and after crises.

Throughout their conversation, they dive deep into the foundations of disaster preparedness, breaking down what it truly means to understand and define hazards—from natural disasters to social and systemic challenges. They discuss the critical role of community engagement in emergency management and how inclusive, people-centered approaches can transform preparedness into collective empowerment. Dr. Joyee and Ginny also unpack the often-overlooked impact of racism as a public health hazard, emphasizing the importance of addressing trauma, promoting equity, and centering healing and joy as vital components of resilience.

This episode offers a powerful reminder that disaster preparedness isn’t just about surviving the storm—it’s about building communities that thrive through connection, compassion, and innovation.

Key Points From This Episode:

• HazAdapt focuses on community-centered disaster preparedness.

• Technology should move at the speed of trust.

• Resilience is about adapting and growing stronger after disasters.

• Community engagement is crucial for effective disaster response.

• Racism is a significant hazard that affects community safety.

• Lived experience provides valuable insights into hazards.

• Disasters shape communities and their responses.

• Healing and joy are essential for community resilience.

• Public health and emergency management must collaborate.

• Empowering communities leads to better preparedness.

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