266 - After the Flood: The Impact of Hurricane Helene

2025-03-20

How does a community find the strength to rebuild after an unimaginable disaster? In this special ‘Podcasthon’ episode, I’m joined by my guest Marilyn Ball who shares the resilience of Asheville, North Carolina, in the wake of Hurricane Helene, celebrating a city whose history, culture, and unbreakable spirit refuse to be washed away. Together, we reflect on personal stories of devastation and hope, showing how neighbors became lifelines and strangers became friends. Despite the massive obstacles, local busin...

How does a community find the strength to rebuild after an unimaginable disaster?

In this special ‘Podcasthon’ episode, I’m joined by my guest Marilyn Ball who shares the resilience of Asheville, North Carolina, in the wake of Hurricane Helene, celebrating a city whose history, culture, and unbreakable spirit refuse to be washed away. Together, we reflect on personal stories of devastation and hope, showing how neighbors became lifelines and strangers became friends. Despite the massive obstacles, local businesses continue to thrive, communities unite around relief, and visitors are still discovering the magic that makes Asheville so unique.

Episode Highlights:

[00:06] Introduction to the hurricane’s aftermath

[02:06] Guest Marilyn Ball shares Asheville’s origins

[03:49] Early stories of the city’s resilience

[12:56] Community unity in the first days after the disaster

[17:47 Insight on rebuilding plans

[26:23] Impact on art and music scene

[30:00] Learning from Maui's Disaster

[32:55] Importance of tourism in recovery

[35:13] Final reflections and call to action

[40:08] My reflections on the interview with the PMC cast and community

Links &Resources