Emergency Recovery Episodes

After a disaster, the world moves on, but communities don’t. In this episode of the Wildfires, Floods and Chaos Communications Podcast, host Tim Conrad talks with Deb Borsos, one of BC’s most respected recovery specialists, about what really happens after the emergency ends. Deb shares decades of hard‑earned wisdom from wildfire zones, flood‑stricken towns, and remote communities in both Canada and Australia. She explains why communication failures can derail recovery, why co...

It was the year 2008. Newspapers, local and provincial/state broadcast TV news, and radio news dominated the media landscape. Misinformation wasn't a word that was used. These are the stories of the before times. When coordinating more news media was easier than responding, developing, coordinating, producing, and posting media on all channels.

Is building an emergency program a matter of simply responding to crises, or does it require something more?   In the final episode of the two-part series, host Tim Conrad talks with Steph Masun about the vital role of community, communication, and adaptability in emergency management.   With years of experience in the Cariboo Regional District's emergency program, Steph shares insights into the creation and continuity of an effective emergency response, emphasizing the importance of building a legacy, nurturing relationships, and continuous improvement.   From floods to fires, to landslides, learn how communities and emergency professionals can work together to navigate the unpredictable landscape of crisis management.

How do you rebuild communities after wildfires, floods, and chaos?   In the first of two episodes, Tim Conrad and emergency management expert Stephanie Masun dive deep into the challenges of post-disaster recovery in British Columbia's Cariboo Regional District.   From the devastation of the 2017 wildfires to multi-year recovery programs, they share powerful lessons on teamwork, community resilience, and emergency management.

Disaster communications isn’t just about fighting fires – it’s about connecting communities amidst chaos. In this episode, host Tim Conrad discusses the intense challenges and strategies behind managing public relations during the 2023 British Columbia wildfire season. Guest Jan Enns delves into her own experiences with evacuation and loss, while highlighting the critical importance of mental health for responders and residents. Together, they share valuable insights on how to navigate the complexities of crisis communications, emphasizing the power of empathy, community engagement, and resilience.

From the frontlines of wildfires to the heart of communities. This episode dives deep into the gritty realities of disaster communications. Tim Conrad interviews Lloyd Piehl, an experienced information officer, about their harrowing yet impactful experiences during the 2023 British Columbia wildfire season. Lloyd shares compelling stories of working closely with firefighters and community members, illustrating the emotional and mental toll of such crises. Their discussion covers the importance of public outreach, mental well-being, and the therapeutic role of art in processing trauma. Piehl's unique approach to healing through Lego art therapy provides a fascinating insight into coping mechanisms for those in high-stress environments.