As those who lost their homes in the Thomas Fire begin to rebuild, author and Santa Barbara's own Pico Iyer joins us to talk about his own experience losing everything in a fire, and the deeper lessons he learned. He also discusses his upcoming event with palliative care doctor BJ Miller, who specializes in something many Americans absolutely hate to talk about - death.

California’s fortunes were boom and bust in 2017. KCRW looks back and ahead in this special year end review.

It's hard to recall what predated the Thomas Fire here along the Central Coast, but before the flames began, Santa Barbara elected a new mayor, the housing market got even tighter, and leaders across the tri-county region rushed to draft new marijuana regulations. We take a look at the top stories of 2017, and what local journalists will be paying close attention to next year.

As some folks in Ventura are return to their homes, the Thomas Fire continues to burn in the foothills of Santa Barbara. Through it all, countless stories have emerged of businesses, neighbors and nonprofits helping disaster victims and firefighters.

The Thomas Fire has burned more than 132,000 acres in Ventura County, and taken down hundreds of homes and other structures. We take a look at the current dangers, and speak with those beginning to assess the damage.