The Altadena Rebuild

In Episode 3, Austin begins by explaining why building brand new homes isn't something most people in the city of Altadena ever thought was on their roadmap. Then he dives into a conversation with Abbie Liel, a leading construction professor at the University of Colorado in Boulder. She runs a team that studies the community rebuilds in towns decimated by wildfires and other natural disasters. We address building disaster resilient homes, what to look for in builders, and much more!

In Episode 2, Austin starts the show by discussing the parallels between 9/11 and the Eaton Fire through the lens of collective grief. Then he is joined by grief expert Vanessa Fierstadt to break down this unique and specific type of grief that the town of Altadena is going through. We do a deep dive on the emotional side of the recovery, and explore how our neighbors can feel so much at once and meet each other where they're at as we look to rebuild our community.

We begin the story of The Altadena Rebuild by having Austin speak with Cal-State Northridge Professor and Eaton Fire victim, Tom Hogen-esch. Tom explains Altadena's obstacles given its Unincorporated status before the two ideate what incorporating or being annexed by Pasadena may look like.

A quick preview of what's to come on The Altadena Rebuild. Austin lays out the vision for the show and why it exists.