Listen "Do we rebuild after a disaster?"
Episode Synopsis
Rebuilding after a disaster is in our DNA as Americans. Often, it is the measuring stick for our disaster recovery efforts. Rebuilding can also be an incredible boon for local economies. But rebuilding doesn’t necessarily mean that our homes and communities are safer. It doesn’t mean that the risk is gone. Join Doug, Ryan and their colleague Kristin Smith, a flooding expert, as they discuss how and whether to rebuild after a disaster.
Links:
Building wildfire-resistant homes after disasters will save billions
Building for wildfire in Hawaii
America's urban wildfire crisis: More than 1,100 communities at risk
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: Commitment to Long-Term Rebuilding01:22 Historical Perspectives on Disaster Recovery02:20 The Complexities of Rebuilding After Disasters04:31 Wildfire Rebuilding Challenges06:14 Flood Rebuilding Challenges08:46 Recurrent Disasters and Community Resilience27:11 Economic and Social Impacts of Disasters34:56 Conclusion: Balancing Risks and Community Needs
Episode hosts
Ryan Maye Handy
Ryan is a wildfire and land use expert for the Community Planning Assistance for Wildfire program. Her experience as an urban planner and former journalist brings invaluable insights to communities that must prepare for increasing wildfire risks.
See more about Ryan
Doug Green
Doug brings two decades of professional experience in fire departments and as a land use planner to the Community Assistance for Wildfire program. His practical insights and expertise in fire operations has supported dozens of communities working to reduce wildfire risks.
See more about Doug
Guest
Kristen Smith, Ph.D.
Kristin “Kris” Smith, Ph.D., is the Lead Researcher for Headwaters Economics’ FloodWise Community Assistance program. Her research on hazards, natural resources, and rural economic development is informed by her on-the-ground work with local governments and technical experts helping communities reduce flood risk.
See more about Kris
Links:
Building wildfire-resistant homes after disasters will save billions
Building for wildfire in Hawaii
America's urban wildfire crisis: More than 1,100 communities at risk
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: Commitment to Long-Term Rebuilding01:22 Historical Perspectives on Disaster Recovery02:20 The Complexities of Rebuilding After Disasters04:31 Wildfire Rebuilding Challenges06:14 Flood Rebuilding Challenges08:46 Recurrent Disasters and Community Resilience27:11 Economic and Social Impacts of Disasters34:56 Conclusion: Balancing Risks and Community Needs
Episode hosts
Ryan Maye Handy
Ryan is a wildfire and land use expert for the Community Planning Assistance for Wildfire program. Her experience as an urban planner and former journalist brings invaluable insights to communities that must prepare for increasing wildfire risks.
See more about Ryan
Doug Green
Doug brings two decades of professional experience in fire departments and as a land use planner to the Community Assistance for Wildfire program. His practical insights and expertise in fire operations has supported dozens of communities working to reduce wildfire risks.
See more about Doug
Guest
Kristen Smith, Ph.D.
Kristin “Kris” Smith, Ph.D., is the Lead Researcher for Headwaters Economics’ FloodWise Community Assistance program. Her research on hazards, natural resources, and rural economic development is informed by her on-the-ground work with local governments and technical experts helping communities reduce flood risk.
See more about Kris
More episodes of the podcast Burning Questions
Who pays for recovery after a disaster?
18/09/2025
Urban conflagrations, are they wildfire?
06/06/2025
Wildfire risk maps: Are they necessary?
02/05/2025
Season 1 Trailer
01/05/2025
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