Shows
GeoTrekThe GeoTrek 2025 Retrospective: 10 Moments That Defined the YearAs we close the book on 2025, Hurricane Hal takes a look back at the top 10 GeoTrek memories of 2025, ranging from an earthquake in Greece to insights from a massive drought mural in Mexico, as well as floods, hail and snowstorms in the United States.Join us for this final journey of the year as we celebrate the stories that shaped us and look ahead to a resilient 2026.
2025-12-3029 min
GeoTrekInside 20 Years of Coastal Resilience with Tracie SempierTracie Sempier has spent more than two decades working with disaster-prone communities along the Gulf Coast — listening, teaching, evaluating, and helping local leaders strengthen their resilience. As a Coastal Resilience Engagement Specialist with Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant, she brings a rare mix of research, community insight, and hands-on experience.On this episode of GeoTrek, she shares what she’s learned about preparedness, trust, communication, and the realities communities face long after the headlines fade.
2025-11-1839 min
GeoTrekFrom Hollywood to High Water: Turning Flood Data into Visual Power with Dan KruegerTelevision producer and digital storyteller Dan Krueger has spent his career turning complex stories into captivating visuals — from CBS and Discovery Channel to his latest work as Lead Technical Field Producer of FloodVision, a groundbreaking Climate Central project bringing flood risk to life.In this episode of GeoTrek, host Dr. “Hurricane Hal” Needham talks with Dan about his journey through television, marketing, and science communication — and how tools like FloodVision are helping forecasters, scientists, and communities better understand and visualize flood danger before disaster strikes.Plus, in our Weathered Wisdom segment, Dan shares the unforgettable extreme...
2025-10-0729 min
GeoTrekWhy Clear Communication Saves Lives in Disasters with Julie Kay Roberts of PSEMAClear communication is paramount for effective disaster response. Julie Kay Roberts, seasoned expert in strategic communications and emergency management, joins us on GeoTrek podcast #119 to talk about the importance of having a disaster plan, and to share about her amazing work at the Private Sector Emergency Management Association (psema.org).
2025-09-0935 min
GeoTrekThe 20th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina with Jim CantoreHurricane Katrina changed the Gulf Coast forever. 20 years later, GeoTrek host Hal Needham sits down with legendary Weather Channel meteorologist Jim Cantore, who rode out the storm in coastal Mississippi.Jim shares his firsthand experience covering Katrina in 2005, the unforgettable moments he witnessed on the ground, and the lessons we’ve learned since then about hurricane preparedness and resilience.👉 Subscribe for more stories from the front lines of extreme weather.
2025-08-2642 min
GeoTrekHurricane Katrina: Lessons Learned and the Path Forward with Alessandra JerollemanIn this episode of GeoTrek, we’re joined by Alessandra Jerolleman, Director of Research at the Center for Environment, Land, and Law at Loyola University in New Orleans. As we mark the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Alessandra shares her personal story of the storm’s impact and reflects on the critical lessons we've learned since then.We dive deep into the ongoing challenges of flood protection, discussing both the benefits and risks of levee systems, as well as how infrastructure can lead to unintended consequences. Alessandra offers a compelling perspective on how the Gulf Coast can bett...
2025-08-1236 min
GeoTrekProtecting Your Property: Floodproofing with Tom LittleFlooding is the most common—and costly—natural disaster in the U.S. So how do you protect your property before the water rises?Tom Little, President and CEO of Smart Vent Products, LLC, joins Dr. Hal to explain the science and strategy behind wet and dry floodproofing. A Certified Floodplain Manager and longtime educator in resilient design, Tom shares how these methods can drastically reduce flood damage and lower insurance premiums.💧 Topics covered:Wet vs. dry floodproofing: What’s the difference?Tips for builders, homeowners, and local officialsHow Smart Vent, Freedom Flood Vent, and Flood...
2025-07-1534 min
GeoTrekExploring the Interface of Climate Resiliency and Historic Preservation with Lisa Craig-HensleyHow do we protect our past from our future? On the latest GeoTrek, we tackle this crucial question with preservation powerhouse Lisa Craig-Hensley! With over 30 years' experience, Lisa reveals the strategies and innovations for making historic properties, from Annapolis to Lodi, more resilient to climate impacts. Prepare to be inspired.
2025-05-2741 min
GeoTrekEp 112 - Exploring the Interface of Climate Resiliency and Historic PreservationLisa Craig-Hensley is a public policy, planning and preservation professional with more than 30 years' experience collaborating with public and private partners to support and execute the adaptive reuse of historic and strategic properties. Lisa joins us on the GeoTrek podcast to discuss challenges and opportunities to make historic properties more climate resilient, from flood-prone Annapolis, Maryland, to places with enhanced wildfire risk, like Lodi, California.
2025-05-2741 min
GeoTrekLiving Shorelines with Ryan Gilbert Coastal communities face growing threats from erosion, storms, and rising sea levels—but could nature itself be the key to resilience? In Episode 110 of the GeoTrek Podcast, we explore how living shorelines blend natural and engineered solutions to protect our coasts. Our guest, Ryan Gilbert, a natural resource specialist and project manager with Headway Environmental, shares insights on where these projects work best, their biggest opportunities and challenges, and how they are funded.Whether you're a coastal resident, an environmental advocate, or simply curious about sustainable solutions, this episode will provide valuable insights on working with nature to...
2025-04-0834 min
GeoTrekHow Hail Causes Damage and How We Can Reduce it with IBHSHailstorms cause billions of dollars in damage each year, but how do we study hail to build stronger homes and communities?In Episode 109 of the GeoTrek Podcast, we dive into the world of hail research, forensic meteorology, and building science with two incredible guests:Brenna Meisenzahl – Researcher at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), leading field studies on hail formation and its impacts on buildings.Sara Hudson – a Forensic Meteorologist at CNC Catastrophe & National Claims, specializing in storm analysis and severe weather damage assessments.Together, we explore:🔬 How sci...
2025-03-1139 min
GeoTrekOptimizing Transportation Business for Winter WeatherIn Episode 108 of the GeoTrek Podcast, we explore how extreme winter weather impacts the transportation and logistics industry. From blizzards to icy roads, truck drivers and logistics professionals must navigate unpredictable and often dangerous conditions to keep supply chains moving.Our guest, Gary Falldin, Senior Director of Industry Solutions at Platform Science, shares expert insights into how technology and best practices help fleets operate safely and efficiently in severe weather.Join Dr. Hal Needham and Gary as they discuss:🚛 The biggest winter weather challenges for trucking fleets❄️ How advanced weather-intelligence technology helps d...
2025-02-2532 min
GeoTrekThe January 2025 Fires in Southern CaliforniaIn Episode 107 of the GeoTrek Podcast, we analyze the devastating January 2025 wildfires in Southern California and discuss how communities can better prepare for future wildfire threats. Our special guest, Steve Hawks, Senior Director for Wildfire at IBHS and former CAL FIRE Battalion Chief, brings decades of expertise in wildland firefighting and fire prevention. Having been deployed to the LA fires, he shares firsthand insights into wildfire behavior, risk mitigation, and the importance of building resilience.Join us as they explore:🔥 How wildfires differ from house fires and why they threaten homes from the outside🌍...
2025-02-1136 min
GeoTrekHow Extreme Weather Impacts Professional Sports Performances In Episode 106 of GeoTrek, we explore the fascinating intersection of extreme weather and professional sports. Special guest Mark Paquette, an expert on how weather influences sports, gambling, and betting, joins Dr. Hal Needham to discuss the surprising ways weather conditions impact athlete performance and game outcomes.From wind and rain to heat and humidity, discover how teams and athletes adapt to the elements, and learn why weather is a critical factor for sports analysts, bettors, and fans alike. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a weather buff, or curious about the science behind athletic performance, this episode of...
2025-01-2832 min
GeoTrekAll About Avalanches - How do Forecasters Predict Avalanches?Join us for Episode 105 of the GeoTrek Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of avalanches! Simon Trautman, Director of the National Avalanche Center, breaks down the science behind how avalanches form, the tools forecasters use to predict them, and the essential steps to interpret avalanche ratings for safer mountain adventures.In this episode, Simon and Dr. Hal Needham discuss the Avalanche Danger Scale, highlight the intricacies of avalanche forecasting, and share captivating images of avalanche events. Learn how to assess and manage avalanche risks, navigate hazardous conditions safely, and discover what a real-life rescue operation...
2025-01-1435 min
GeoTrekVoices from the 2024 Texas Groundwater SummitIn this episode of the GeoTrek Podcast, we bring you exclusive insights from the 2024 Texas Groundwater Summit, where industry experts and thought leaders gathered to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and advancements in groundwater management in Texas. Join us as we sit down with special guests from the summit to explore the critical issues surrounding groundwater sustainability, drought resilience, and the future of water resources in the Lone Star State. Our guests share their perspectives on the importance of innovative technologies, regulatory updates, and collaborative efforts in securing Texas' water future.Our guests are:
2024-08-2733 min
GeoTrekTop 10 Memories of the GeoTrek Podcast from The Past Year (2023)This episode provides the top 10 memories from the GeoTrek podcast during the past calendar year (2023).
2023-12-2834 min
GeoTrekHot Dates in Minnesota - Stories and Insights from a Firefighting CoupleFirefighting couple Gary Ringate and Kellie Murphy-Ringate share stories and insights from decades of fighting fires in Minnesota. Their perspectives on topics like hazard prevention and having a disaster plan, relate closely to disaster mitigation efforts for other hazards.
2023-11-0749 min
GeoTrekRevisiting Hurricane Ian - One Year After Landfall in Southwest FloridaLast year, Hurricane Ian inflicted the deadliest natural disaster in Florida since the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, and the costliest disaster in state history. This podcast looks back at this catastrophe, the recovery process, and lessons learned, through interviews with WINK-TV Chief Meteorologist Matt Devitt, as well as Casper and Kylie Gregory with the Tropical Weather Threat Society.
2023-10-2457 min
GeoTrekClimbing to the Roof of the World with Pete AthansHimalayan mountaineer and Mount Everest Expert Pete Athans shares insights from leading expeditions to the world's highest mountains, perspectives on high-altitude weather extremes, and first-hand accounts of how the 2015 earthquake and Covid-19 Pandemic impacted Nepal.
2023-10-1052 min
GeoTrekWarren Faidley - America's Premier Storm PhotographerJoin us on an adventure with Warren Faidley, America's Premier Storm Photographer. Warren is an American adventurer, photojournalist, storm chaser, and disaster survival expert. He is officially credited as the first storm-chasing photojournalist, documenting hurricanes, tornadoes, lightning, mudslides, blizzards, and many more types of extreme weather over a multi-decade career.
2023-09-2654 min
GeoTrekVoices from Hurricane IdaliaHurricane Idalia was the first major (cat 3+) hurricane to strike Florida's Big Bend Region since the late 1800s. This podcast documents storm impacts on the region, as well as voices from many storm survivors.
2023-09-1240 min
GeoTrekExtreme Weather and Aviation with Jonathan FrankBoeing 777 Captain and accomplished artist Jonathan Frank takes us on an around-the-world adventure to explore the impacts of extreme weather on aviation.
2023-08-1539 min
GeoTrekWomen In Coastal Science: Engineer Tiffany Staten with PEA GroupTiffany Staten, Engineer with PEA Group in Houston, Texas, shares her vision for sustainable development that mitigates flood losses. This interview was part of the Women in Coastal Science Speaker Series, organized by Galveston's Park Board of Trustees.
2023-08-0141 min
GeoTrekPerspectives on Social Science for Hurricane Risk Mitigation with Dr. Laura MyersDr. Laura Myers, Senior Research Scientist and Director of Resiliency at the Alabama Center for Insurance Information and Research, University of Alabama, provides social science perspectives to mitigate losses from hurricanes.
2023-07-1849 min
GeoTrekAll About Air Quality, with David Lu, Co-Founder and CEO of Clarity Movement.This summer, smoke from Canadian wildfires and enhanced urban and industrial pollution have made air quality a high-profile weather story. David Lu, Co-Founder and CEO of Clarity Movement, shares the science behind air pollution, how we can better detect air quality, and practical steps we can take to protect ourselves.
2023-07-0346 min
GeoTrekFrom Flood Victim to Innovator: Rahel Abraham and CLIMAGUARDHurricane Harvey flood victim Rahel Abraham innovated a large, waterproof bag that zips around cars and other large valuable items, like grand pianos. Her Houston-based product is now gaining widespread attention, as it promises to make flood-prone communities around the world more resilient.
2023-06-2037 min
GeoTrekThe Janitor Threw Out the Data- The Back Story of Seasonal Hurricane Forecasting with Phil KlotzbachA janitor throwing out an important stack of tropical climate research papers led Dr. Bill Gray to redirect his research into seasonal hurricane forecasting at Colorado State University. Dr. Phil Klotzbach shares this story, and the science behind seasonal hurricane forecasts.
2023-06-0643 min
GeoTrekMaking Communities Stronger with Tim Riecker, The Contrarian Emergency ManagerTim Riecker, The Contrarian Emergency Manager, shares timeless insights on how to help communities better prepare for disasters, with a focus on extensive stakeholder collaboration to develop better plans.
2023-05-2444 min
GeoTrekThe Value of Local Knowledge - Building for Epic Snow Loads in the Sierras Local knowledge is crucial for building and planning for extreme weather and natural disasters. In this episode, which was recorded live in California's Sierra Nevada during a historic snowfall winter, three professionals share perspectives on what it was like to live and work in such extreme environments.
2023-05-0939 min
GeoTrekAdvances in hurricane research, forecasting products and education/ outreach from the National Tropical Weather Conference - recorded LIVE on South Padre Island, TexasSix experts share insights on cutting-edge hurricane research, forecasting products and education/ outreach at the National Tropical Weather Conference. Explore these insights from Leslie Henderson, Jaime Rhome, Julie Rochman, Brian McNoldy, Ryan Rickert and Derrick Herndon.
2023-04-2650 min
GeoTrekAcademic perspectives on the California mega-winter with Daniel Swain, Andrew Schwartz and Julie KalanskyAcademic climate experts Daniel Swain, Andrew Schwartz and Julie Kalansky weigh in on perspectives about California's mega-winter, including measuring near record snow depth, analyzing climate patterns, and discussing potential snow/ flood impacts.
2023-04-0454 min
GeoTrekLandscape Architecture and the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake with Benjamin GeorgeThe 1755 Lisbon, Portugal earthquake revolutionized building and planning practices around the world. Check out this story along with other insights about landscape architecture from Benjamin George, associate professor at Utah State University.
2023-03-1348 min
GeoTrekThe U-Surge Project and Flood Information SystemsU-Surge provides the most comprehensive archive of coastal flood data for hurricanes and tropical storms around the world since the mid-1800s, providing insights into the frequency and magnitude of storm surge floods, the world’s most deadly and costly natural disaster. Flood Information Systems analyze the impacts of these floods, by overlaying digital building and infrastructure maps.
2023-03-0151 min
GeoTrekArt, Aerosmith and Atmosphere with Tulsa Meteorologist Michael SegerTulsa Meteorologist Michael Seger took an unconventional path in his pursuit of weather work. This podcast tells his back story, which involves years of studying art and some crazy times in South Florida- like hanging out with Aerosmith. He also covers tornado safety and communication in this episode.
2023-02-1548 min
GeoTrekPredicting Arctic Weather Outbreaks in the Central and Eastern U.S. with Judah CohenArctic weather outbreaks can inflict large loss of life and financial losses to the economy in the Central and Eastern U.S. Judah Cohen, climatologist at MIT, describes the influence of the Polar Vortex and Siberian snowpack on these weather patterns, as well as some insights on predicting their timing.
2023-01-3046 min
GeoTrekThe Most Deadly Blizzard on Record in Western New York- with meteorologist Don PaulThe 2022 Christmas Week Blizzard killed 44 people in western New York, making it the deadliest winter storm on record. Meteorologist Don Paul explains the meteorology and impacts of a remarkable storm that inflicted catastrophic impacts on a region accustomed to severe winter weather.
2023-01-1751 min
GeoTrekBuilding Better with Smart Home America and Julie Shiyou-WoodardJulie Shiyou-Woodard, President and CEO of Smart Home America, shares how this non-profit partners with locally-based organizations to foster better building in disaster-prone communities.
2023-01-1044 min
GeoTrekInsurance Claims Adjusting with Murphy BuggsMurphy Buggs, Property Claims Manager at CNC Catastrophe and National Claims, shares insights on many different angles of work in insurance adjusting.
2023-01-0449 min
GeoTrekThe Top 10 Memories on the GeoTrek Podcast in 2022The top 10 memories on the GeoTrek podcast in 2022 include stories about hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, southwestern monsoons, outdoor explorations and sinkholes. They contain much geographic diversity, as they were recorded in Florida, Texas, New Mexico, South Dakota and West Virginia. Happy New Year everyone and we’ll see you in 2023!
2022-12-2729 min
GeoTrekThe Sinkhole That Gobbled Up Eight CorvettesOn February 12, 2014, a sinkhole suddenly opened up under the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, gobbling up eight vintage sports cars. This podcast explores the story behind the sinkhole in a live recording from the National Corvette Museum.
2022-12-2050 min
GeoTrekSinkholes and Caves in West VirginiaSinkholes and caves commonly form in the limestone-rich, karst landscape of Eastern West Virginia. This episode explores the causes of this phenomenon, impacts on buildings and roads, and some surprising stories about the Federal government’s use of classified and declassified bunkers in this region.
2022-12-1246 min
GeoTrekForecasting and Preparing for Extreme Weather with Rob Perillo – Part 2 of 2 Award-winning meteorologist Rob Perillo shares insights about navigating social media, humanizing weather forecasts and reminding listeners to stay tuned for changes.
2022-12-0552 min
GeoTrekForecasting and Preparing for Extreme Weather with Rob Perillo – Part 1 of 2Award-winning meteorologist Rob Perillo draws from his 33 years of experience forecasting weather to share how meteorologists can better communicate extreme weather risks and how people can better prepare for these events.
2022-11-2845 min
GeoTrekInteractive Episode: Answering Your Questions about Atlantic Hurricane Season 2022This interactive episode answers listeners questions about Hurricane Season 2022. This content provides insights on risk assessment and communication, which relates to other hazards as well.
2022-11-2248 min
GeoTrekTips on Disaster Preparedness and Response from Jon StewartJon Stewart shares insights from more than 24 years of working in emergency management and homeland security. His perspectives will help people prepare for and respond to a wide range of disasters, including hurricanes, snowstorms, earthquakes and wildland fires.
2022-11-1554 min
GeoTrekAssessing Risk at the Interface of Insurance and Real Estate with Andrea PelletierThis podcast assesses risk at the interface of insurance and real estate with Andrea Pelletier, Client Advisor and Agency Partner at Gulfshore Insurance. While much of the content relates to the industry in Florida, we also discuss why Superstorm Sandy’s transition to an extratropical cyclone saved homeowners money on their insurance deductible in New Jersey and New York.
2022-11-0858 min
GeoTrekSuperstorm Sandy’s 10-year Anniversary: Insights from Long Island, New YorkSuperstorm Sandy devastated the mid-Atlantic and northeastern U.S. states with 72 direct deaths in the region and over $50 billion in damage. This podcast looks back at the storm with interviews from Long Island, New York.
2022-11-0142 min
GeoTrekHurricane Risk Communication with Bill Read, Jonathan Brazzell and Brian and Lisa FlanakinThis episode shares insights on how to better communicate complex wind and flood hazards related to landfalling hurricanes, with guests Bill Read, Jonathan Brazzell and Brian and Lisa Flanakin.
2022-10-2549 min
GeoTrekAn In-Depth Look at Emergency Management with Perspective on Hurricane Ian from Brandy MaiBrandy Mai, emergency management consultant and disaster communications specialist, provides insights on how to best communicate risk, with a look back at Hurricane Ian.
2022-10-1847 min
GeoTrekVoices from the Hurricane Ian Disaster ZoneThis podcast features interviews with storm survivors in southwest Florida in the week after Hurricane Ian’s landfall, where catastrophic flood and wind impacts were observed.
2022-10-1151 min
GeoTrekDocumenting Hurricane Ian in Southwest FloridaHurricane Ian struck southwest Florida as a cat-4 hurricane on Sep 28, 2022. This podcast provides field work insights from before, during and after landfall.
2022-10-0435 min
GeoTrekBuilding Better to Mitigate Disasters with Alex Cary and IBHSAlex Cary, FORTIFIED Market Development Manager at The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), shares insights about how to build better to minimize storm damage.
2022-09-2642 min
GeoTrekBuilding Better along the Mississippi Hurricane Coast with Scott SundbergMississippi observes the highest storm surges in the Western Hemisphere. Scott Sundberg, a structural engineer who lives in this hurricane-prone area, educates us about how to build better in this region.
2022-09-1950 min
GeoTrekSustainability and Resiliency for Disaster-Prone Communities, with Hank HoddeHank Hodde, Sustainability and Resiliency Coordinator for Pinellas County, Florida, shares insights about how to make disaster-prone communities more resilient.
2022-09-1250 min
GeoTrekAnswering Career Questions from a High School StudentEpisode #44 is interactive, as Dr. Hal answers career questions from a high school student interested to one day work in meteorology, climatology or disaster science.
2022-09-0647 min
GeoTrekRemembering Hurricane Katrina with Chris Franklin – Part 2Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast 17 years ago today. We reflect on the upheaval this disaster caused in the region, and get hurricane forecast/ communication tips from Chris Franklin, Chief Meteorologist of WWLTV, in New Orleans.
2022-08-2952 min
GeoTrekRemembering Hurricane Katrina with Chris Franklin- Part 1Catastrophic Hurricane Katrina slammed the Gulf Coast 17 years ago this month. This podcast remembers Katrina in an interview with Chris Franklin, New Orleans native and Chief Meteorologist with WWL-TV, in part 1 of a 2-part podcast.
2022-08-2247 min
GeoTrekSea Level Rise with Renee ColliniSea-level rise is emerging as a high-profile topic related to climate change. Renee Collini shares the science behind rising seas, some surprising impacts right at the coast and inland, as well as some adaptation options to mitigate the impacts of this hazard.
2022-08-1253 min
GeoTrekThe Growing Danger of Sargassum Seaweed InundationsFranziska Elmer and Paola Diaz share insights about sargassum seaweed inundations, which have a growing impact in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean. Sargassum can inflict a coastal hazard for the ecosystem, economy, and public health.
2022-08-0839 min
GeoTrekThe National Tropical Weather Conference with Alex Garcia and Tim SmithThe National Tropical Weather Conference is a reliable source of information as we head into the heart of hurricane season. This episode goes behind the scenes of the conference, interviewing Alex Garcia and Tim Smith, who provide leadership for both the weekly virtual conference and the in-person conference every April.
2022-08-0144 min
GeoTrekBeach Safety in Complex Coastal Environments with Peter DavisPeter Davis, award-winning lifesaving expert and water sports athlete, shares about hidden dangers in complex coastal environments. He also provides some life lessons about teamwork and preparing for all contingencies that are applicable both at the coast and far inland.
2022-07-2544 min
GeoTrekNew Mexico’s Chile Pepper Industry with Dr. Stephanie WalkerChile peppers are a prolific food in New Mexico, showing up in omelettes, burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and even cheeseburgers. Dr. Stephanie Walker takes us behind the scenes in this episode to explore the history of this crop, as well as the impacts of weather and climate on its growth.
2022-07-1845 min
GeoTrekStudents Designing and Deploying Sensors to Improve Flood Prediction in New MexicoStudents at the University of New Mexico are designing and deploying flood sensors to improve flood prediction models. Dr. Fernando Moreau and Dr. Su Zhang share about the unique culture in this university, where students are encouraged to create and innovate science, while involved in student mentorship. This work helps improve the prediction and response to flooding from monsoon rains in the summer months.
2022-07-1149 min
GeoTrekLocal Historian, Dan Flores, in Eastern New MexicoSanta Rosa, New Mexico experienced a population explosion after the railroad came to town in 1901, and the city remained well-connected, as iconic Route 66 brought people through town from the Depression through the 1970s. Throughout its history, the town has experienced severe droughts and floods, with both hazards striking the town hard in 1937. On this podcast episode, local historian Dan Flores shares perspectives of both natural and human history in this region of eastern New Mexico.
2022-07-0549 min
GeoTrekChasing Severe Storms in the Great PlainsJoin us for severe storm chasing on the Great Plains in this episode of the GeoTrek podcast. We cover chases in Texas, Minnesota, and South Dakota, including interviews with impacted people on the ground. We also interview Dr. Victor Gensini, severe storm researcher and storm chaser, to learn more about the science behind these storms and hear about his recent 10,000 miles of storm chasing this season.
2022-06-2743 min
GeoTrekWomen in Earth and Ocean ScienceIn this episode, we travel the world featuring cutting-edge research from women in Earth and ocean science. Marta Marcos, associate professor at the University of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca, Spain, shares her passion for oceanography and sea-level rise science. Sarah Piwetz, the stranding biologist at the Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network, provides insight into marine mammal stranding trends and conservation biology. Kristina Murphy, a meteorologist with extensive experience working in water resources and engineering, shares insights communities can use to implement lasting infrastructure in light of a changing climate. All three scientists weigh in on their perspective of what...
2022-06-2052 min
GeoTrekExploring Five Continents with Oceanographer Ivan HaighOceanographer Dr. Ivan Haigh, associate professor in Coastal Oceanography at the University of Southampton, United Kingdom, is our special guest on this podcast episode. We follow his journey from growing up in Africa, to oceanography research in the UK, to several years living by the sea in Western Australia. We also hear the story about how he and his wife were nearly victims of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami in Southeast Asia.
2022-06-0645 min
GeoTrekCreative Paths to the Sciences at EVAN Conference (Part 2)Some scientists take creative or unconventional professional paths. This podcast features four such stories, recorded live at the EVAN2022 Conference in Orlando in May 2022. Get inspired by these interviews we conducted with Soenke Dangendorf, Assistant Professor at Tulane University; Joao Morim, Postdoc Researcher at University of Central Florida; Caroline Huguenin, doctoral candidate at the University of Florida; and Samantha Timmers, a graduate student at University of Florida.
2022-05-3049 min
GeoTrekRemembering Historic Floods at EVAN Conference Part 1The Fifth International Conference on Advances in Extreme Value Analysis and Application to Natural Hazards was hosted in May 2022 by the University of Central Florida in Orlando. One of the main themes shared at this conference was the importance of identifying extreme flood events from the past when analyzing flood risk for the future. This podcast features interviews with Jens Bender, Senior Professor Jurgen Jensen, and French scientists Alexa Latapy and Nathalie Giloy.
2022-05-2337 min
GeoTrekCycling Around Europe with Ola Mae (Part 2)Come cycling around Europe with Ola Mae in Part-2 of her 13-month, 9000-mile adventure. In this episode, we join Ola Mae in Portugal, fight a lot of mountain climbs in multiple countries, and then battle tremendous heat in southern Italy. But along the way we find a companion—a black cat named Friederyk, and then start the journey home before winter sets in. In the end, we discover some transformational perspectives, as Ola Mae arrives back home in Poland.
2022-05-1645 min
GeoTrekCycling Around Europe with Ola Mae (Part 1)Are you ready for an adventure? Come cycling around Europe with Ola Mae. This Polish-born adventurer-at-heart crossed 14 international borders on a 13-month, 9000-mile bicycle adventure from 2020 to 2021. Along the way, she learned a lot about herself and met a long-term companion — a black cat named Friederyk — in Southern Italy. This is part 1 of a 2-part podcast that is bound to be a fan favorite!Follow Ola Mae:WebsiteInstagramFacebook
2022-05-0936 min
GeoTrekLessons Learned from the 1998 Ice Storm of Upstate New YorkA catastrophic ice storm crushed Upstate New York and portions of southern Canada in January 1998. Days of freezing rain left more than 3 inches of ice on trees, power lines, and utility poles, causing extended power outages during the coldest time of the year. Rouses Point, New York, a village on the border of Vermont and Quebec, Canada, fared better than many other locations because they started burying power lines underground seven years before the ice storm struck. This episode provides on-the-ground interviews with village historian Brandon Racine and trustee Ben Arno, as they share lessons learned that will relate...
2022-05-0250 min
GeoTrekHow One Texas City Produced Drinking Water During Unprecedented DroughtWhat would you do if your city was facing the threat of collapse from running out of water during an unprecedented drought? When Wichita Falls, Texas, faced this situation in the 2011–2015 drought, they found a creative solution only successfully implemented one other time in world history: direct reuse of wastewater for treated drinking water. In this episode, Daniel Nix, Utilities Operations Manager with the City of Wichita Falls, shares how they pulled off this award-winning endeavor and saved their city from collapse.
2022-04-2550 min
GeoTrekThe Relationship Between Wildfires and EcologyServing as a companion piece to the recent episode on the massive wildfire outbreak in Texas, we feature two experts on the topic of the relationship of wildfires to ecology. Dr. Kelly Lyons, professor of Biology at Trinity University in San Antonio, embarks on a field excursion with us into a recent burn zone to help us interpret the landscape. Matt Mccaw, President for the Texas Chapter of the Society for Ecological Restoration, shares about the impacts of fire on animals, functions of prescribed burns, and the amazing biodiversity following wildfires.
2022-04-1844 min
GeoTrekThe 2022 Hurricane Season and A Look at Emerging Hurricane TrendsScientists are predicting an active 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season. This episode explains the science behind these predictions. We also look back at factors driving recent active hurricane seasons, lessons learned from fieldwork, and emerging trends that coastal residents should understand to protect themselves and their communities.
2022-04-1140 min
GeoTrekVoices from the Texas Wildfires of March 2022Lessons learned from people who live in fire country
2022-03-2843 min
GeoTrekJonathan Taylor: Andromeda District and A New Generation for Green LivingIn this episode we bring forests and green spaces to you—in your community, home, or business. Jonathan Taylor, CEO and co-founder of Andromeda District, shares his vision for a new generation of green living. This Miami-based movement is passionate about bringing plants and green spaces into urban environments, and recently built the largest living green wall in the US in Nashville, Tennessee. We discuss how green walls and plants can clean the air and cool our cities through evaporative cooling.
2022-03-2143 min
GeoTrekJohn William Bailly: Exploring the World at the Interface of Art, Science, and NatureArtist John William Bailly, faculty fellow at Florida International University and the Artist in Residence Fellow at Miami’s Deering Estate, shares his passion for exploring the world, and how he lets cultural and natural excursions guide his art. This podcast explores landscapes and paints a contrast between tropical South Florida and the open spaces of Europe. Listeners on this episode are invited to come along on an audio slough slog, which is a water hike through the Everglades.
2022-03-1446 min
GeoTrekDr. Keren Bolter: How to Prepare for Sea-Level Rise Flooding in South Florida and BeyondSea-level rise has emerged as one of the greatest impacts of climate change. In this episode, Dr. Keren Bolter, a climate scientist from South Florida with a passion for sea-level rise education and communication, shares how communities can prepare for the impacts of this hazard. She shares that impacts may be more complex than people realize, but communities can find hope by planning ahead and raising awareness.
2022-03-0743 min
GeoTrekThe Unusual Nature of Ice Jam Floods Ice jam floods form when river ice jams along with pinch points and sharp turns in rivers after breaking up during warm or rainy weather. The ice jam acts as a dam, backing water up into riverine communities. This episode investigates the science and impacts of these unusual floods through interviews near the Pennsylvania-New York-New Jersey tri-state. Guests include Tom Vicchiariello, Director of Emergency Management for Port Jervis, New York; Bill Clark, President of Matamoras-Westfall Historical Society; and George and Betty Reaggs, long-time residents of the area.
2022-02-2843 min
GeoTrekJonathan Feuer: DAS Technology To Keep Us Better Connected During A DisasterIt's amazing how much we rely on our phones and cell technology during major storms. In this episode, Jonathan Feuer, Vice President of Business Development for CellAntenna Wireless, shares insights about cellular technology with a special focus on natural disasters. He shares how Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) can be used to enhance cell service and gives advice on how homeowners, business owners, and managers of large facilities can take proactive steps to become better connected all the time.
2022-02-2142 min
GeoTrekStories from a Dairy Farm Turned Bed and Breakfast in the Heart of the SnowbeltLeona Chereshnoski provides stories from one of the snowiest inhabited places on Earth, recorded at her family’s farmstead on the Tug Hill Plateau of Upstate New York. Leona provides practical insights related to the importance of removing heavy snow loads from roofs and winter driving safety. She also shares about the importance of snow in this region, as winter tourism is a large part of the local economy. Leona’s family has turned the dairy farm into Old Lard’s Barn Bed and Breakfast, located right on the extensive snowmobile trail network that connects to many restaurants and other...
2022-02-1441 min
GeoTrekSteffen Krei: A Perspective On Flood Protection In GermanyGerman civil engineer Steffen Krei shares perspective on flood protection in Germany in this international episode of the GeoTrek podcast. This interview provides insights into Germany’s long-term flood records, major flood events, and efforts to protect the country in vulnerable ports like Hamburg. Mr. Krei also shares his personal reflections about growing up in East Germany, and how drastically life changed when the Berlin Wall fell in 1989.
2022-02-0743 min
GeoTrekMark Rayome: Building Properly in the Snow BeltMark Rayome is the building code official in Camden, New York, a village in the heart of the snow belt that receives more than 200 inches of snowfall annually. This high-energy episode covers a wide variety of topics, including Mark's passion for history, cross-cultural experiences, building codes and waste water treatment. This interview is particularly applicable for people thinking about construction practices in areas with extreme weather.
2022-01-3143 min
GeoTrekDon Gale of Twin Maple SugarWorks: The Impacts of Weather and Climate on Maple Syrup ProductionDon Gale and his wife Jodi have run Twin Maple SugarWorks in Lincoln, Vermont, since 1998. They produce certified organic, pure maple syrup in a 5200-tap sugarbush at the base of Mount Ellen. In this podcast, Don shares his wealth of experience to explain the intricacies of maple syrup production, including the impacts of weather and climate on this iconic regional product.
2022-01-2443 min
GeoTrekBonus Episode: Will you see a White Christmas this year?This is a question on a lot of people’s minds, as Christmas is right around the corner. Listen to this episode or read the article, What is the probability of a white Christmas this year? on geo-trek.com: https://geo-trek.com/blog/what-is-the-probability-of-a-white-christmas-this-year
2021-12-2012 min
GeoTrekBonus Interview: Poor People's Campaign of SacramentoBonus episode: listen in as Geotrek guest host, Shaq Vaxter, interviews the Poor People's Campaign of Sacramento. Hear how they're working together with policymakers to develop solutions for the unhoused communities of California, and how they handled the pandemic to make sure the homeless were cared for.
2021-11-2235 min
GeoTrekMegan McAlonis Hernandez Part 2: An Action-Packed Episode About Traveling Across The World And What It Feels Like When Temps Reach 130FThis episode picks up with Megan's life in Guam, her adventures around the Tropical Pacific and Southeast Asia, and then her move to Death Valley, California, the site of the hottest recorded temperature on Earth. Megan shares about the beauty of Death Valley’s parched landscape, as well as a firsthand account of what it was like to feel temperatures reach 130F. She shares the tragic personal story of losing most of her possessions in a wildfire, and valuable perspectives on life, cultures, and travel. If you’re into adventure travel you absolutely do not want to miss this acti...
2021-11-0139 min
GeoTrekMegan McAlonis Hernandez Part 1: Hiking National Parks, Trekking in The Himalayas, Diving in The Tropical Pacific Islands, and Safaris in East AfricaAdventurers and explorers, this episode is for you! Megan McAlonis Hernandez is a National Park Service employee who is currently stationed in New Mexico. For almost two decades, she has worked with the NPS, living in remote places like the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, and Guam. During that time, she has traveled extensively, visiting 35 countries and 46 states. This episode is great for adventure travelers, as we hear Megan’s stories about exotic excursions—including trekking in the Himalayas, diving in the tropical Pacific Islands, and safaris in East Africa. This is Part 1 of a 2-part series on Megan’s advent...
2021-10-1936 min
GeoTrekEleanor Kitzman Part 2: Tree Falls, Hail As A Major Weather Peril, and The Importance of Disaster PreventionIn Part 2 of this 2-part interview with Eleanor Kitzman, we discuss tree falls as a major hazard in windstorms, explore insights about hail as a major weather peril, and discuss the importance of disaster prevention. Kitzman is a lawyer, insurance executive, and entrepreneur, who lives near Austin, Texas. She is the former insurance commissioner for Texas and South Carolina.
2021-10-1131 min
GeoTrekEleanor Kitzman Part 1: Her Journey as an Insurance Executive, How to Build Better Through the Fortified Project, and MoreIn Part 1 of this 2-part interview with Eleanor Kitzman, we compare insights from the February 2021 Texas Freeze, discuss Kitzman’s journey into insurance, and give perspective on how to build better through the Fortified project. Kitzman is a lawyer, insurance executive, and entrepreneur, who lives near Austin, Texas. She is the former insurance commissioner for Texas and South Carolina.
2021-10-0431 min
GeoTrekHurricane Ida Special Episode from Houma, LAMostly recorded in the lobby of the Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Houma, Louisiana, on August 31 during Hurricane Ida, Hal interviews Marissa Moreno, General Manager of the hotel. The Marriott stood on relatively high ground and served as a refuge to local people who faced life-threatening flooding on the low-lying ground "down da bayou." This episode provides a great example of how professionals in hotels and hospitality can reach out to serve their community during a disaster.
2021-08-3139 min
GeoTrekJennifer Tisthammer: Trekking Through the South Florida LandscapeGrowing up in the Everglades, Jennifer Tisthammer is now a public information officer with Miami Dade County and a doctoral candidate. Her lifelong relationship with South Florida gives her a unique perspective on the minute changes that have taken place in this important area, from climate change to invasive species. She'll also introduce us to micro-time periods.
2021-08-2338 min
GeoTrekWill Mizell: How Waffle House Became Such an Integral Part of Disaster ResponseWill Mizell, VP of People, at Waffle House, shares how Waffle House became such an integral part of disaster response. Mr. Mizell oversees Waffle House’s crisis response team and coordinates with teams in the field. We're also digging into the now-famous "Waffle House Index."
2021-07-1937 min
GeoTrekMelissa Moon: Insights from a Tornado-chasing MomMelissa Moon is a storm chaser and mom based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She shares her passion for tornadoes and severe weather, along with 18 years of insights into storm chasing. She currently works in the insurance industry, helping restore the lives of storm victims.
2021-07-1934 min
GeoTrekNed Rozell: Sunny Skies and 75 Degrees Doesn’t Sound Dangerous, but in Alaska…Ned Rozell is a science writer and adventure traveler who has lived in Interior Alaska for more than 30 years. In this episode, he shares stories on the impacts of a wide variety of disasters in The Last Frontier, including earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, heatwaves, extreme cold, and melting permafrost, a slow-motion disaster that occurs as frozen soil thaws in warming weather. Mr. Rozell has also trekked the entire 800-mile Alaska Pipeline, twice!
2021-07-1936 min
GeoTrekLiz Chamberlain: Rivers Changing Their Course—and Insights on How Our Infrastructure is “Fighting Nature”☀️ Listen to our first full episode and interview, featuring Liz Chamberlain, a National Science Foundation postdoc, and scientist with extensive experience doing fieldwork in marine sedimentology. Liz shares insights from South Louisiana and Bangladesh—did you know that rivers naturally want to change their courses, meaning the infrastructure we build along rivers to control them is literally “fighting nature?” Dr. Chamberlain also provides some useful advice for young professionals and aspiring scientists interested in fieldwork.
2021-07-1930 min
GeoTrekIntroducing Geotrek by Dr. Hal Needham, Climate Data and Natural Hazards Scientist at CNCWelcome to Geotrek! Hosted by Dr. Hal Needham and presented by CNC.
2021-07-1901 min
Libre à vous ! Les clés du logiciel libre#86 - Geotrek – Carrefour et données personnelles – Libérer aussi des pratiquesAu programme de la 86e émission :
sujet principal : Geotrek (suite logicielle libre pour gérer et valoriser sentiers et activités touristiques) avec Camille Monchicourt, responsable du pôle Système d'informations au Parc national des Ecrins et animateur du projet Geotrek, Amandine Sahl, administratrice du système d'informations Parc national des Cévennes, et Jean-Christophe Becquet vice-président de l'April la chronique « In code we trust » de Noémie Bergez, avocate au cabinet Dune sur « La CNIL force Carrefour à positiver sur la protection des données » la chronique « libérer aussi la pratique des femmes dans nos activités de reco...
2020-12-081h 29