Weather Geeks

Guest: Dr. Samantha Montano

When a disaster strikes, most of us focus on what we can see: the storm, the wildfire, the flood, or the earthquake. But what if the real story begins long before the event—and continues long after the headlines fade?  Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by Dr. Samantha Montano, a disaster researcher, author, and one of the leading voices helping the public better understand how disasters actually work. Through her work in "Disasterology," she examines the systems, decisions, and vulnerabilities that can turn natural hazards into human disasters—and what we can do to build more resilient communities.  We'll talk about some of the biggest misconceptions surrounding disasters, why recovery is often the most overlooked phase of the disaster cycle, and how individuals, communities, and leaders can better prepare for the challenges that come before, during, and after a crisis.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Disasterology and Dr. Montano
2. 01:05 How Disasterology Became a Field
3. 02:07 The Human Side of Disasters
4. 03:36 Disaster Research and Human Responsibility
5. 05:08 The Role of Community and Leadership
6. 07:10 Impact of Physical and Social Vulnerability
7. 09:16 Training and Roles of Emergency Managers
8. 11:50 Public Misconceptions and Personal Responsibility
9. 13:51 Communication Strategies During Disasters
10. 14:29 Break 1
11. 14:30 Recovery Challenges and Success Factors
12. 18:49 Community Leadership in Recovery
13. 22:24 Social Media and Disaster Communication
14. 26:19 The Future of Disaster Communication
15. 28:51 Break 2
16. 28:51 Increasing Costs of Disasters and Communication
17. 36:16 Building Resilient Communities
18. 39:01 The Future of Disaster Management
19. 41:03 Optimism and the Next Generation of Emergency Managers

Resources

• Book - Disasterology: Dispatches from the Front Lines of the Climate Crisis
• Dr. Samantha Montano - Website - https://disaster-ology.com
• FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency - https://www.fema.gov

Guest links

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samlmontano/
• Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/samlmontano.bsky.social

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Guest: Mike Olbinski

For most people, a thunderstorm is something you watch from a window. But for storm chasers, it's a front-row seat to some of nature's most spectacular displays—and few have captured those moments as beautifully as today's guest. On this episode of Weather Geeks, we're joined by storm chaser and filmmaker Mike Olbinski. Based in the Desert Southwest, Mike has spent years documenting everything from towering monsoon thunderstorms and dramatic haboobs to lightning-filled skies across the Great Plains, creating breathtaking imagery that has inspired weather enthusiasts around the world. We'll talk about what makes chasing storms in Arizona so unique, some of the unforgettable moments he's experienced on the road, and how the art of storm storytelling has evolved alongside advances in cameras, social media, and live streaming.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Mike Olbinski and his work
2. 13:38 Break 1
3. 13:39 How technology has changed storm chasing
4. 24:38 Break 2
5. 24:40 Advances in weather models and forecasting
6. 26:53 Mobile connectivity and Starlink for storm chasing
7. 28:22 Apps and tools for real-time weather data
8. 28:45 Use of drones in storm photography
9. 29:45 Carving out a niche in storm photography
10. 30:22 Advice for aspiring storm chasers and photographers
11. 32:34 Platforms to follow Mike Olbinski
12. 33:24 Closing remarks and upcoming projects

Resources

• Storm Photo Contests - https://stormphotocontest.com/
• Stormchaser Atlas App - https://stormchaseratlas.com/
• Weatherfront App - https://weatherfront.com/

Guest links

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikeolbinski/
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/mikeolbinski

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest: Dr. Dillon Amaya

The Pacific Ocean covers nearly a third of our planet, and yet some of its most important changes happen far from shore and often out of sight. But whether it's a developing El Niño, a cooling La Niña, or an expansive marine heat wave, what happens in the Pacific can influence weather, ecosystems, and communities around the world. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by Dillon Amaya, whose research focuses on the complex relationship between the ocean and the atmosphere. We'll explore the growing scientific interest in Pacific marine heat waves, what we've learned from some of the most notable events in recent years, and how these episodes can ripple through both weather and climate systems.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Marine Heat Waves
2. 02:32 Dylan Amaya's Journey into Meteorology
3. 05:34 Understanding Marine Heat Waves
4. 08:48 Marine Heat Waves vs. Ocean Warming
5. 11:38 Impact of Marine Heat Waves on Weather
6. 13:37 Break 1
7. 13:39 Marine Heat Waves and El Niño
8. 17:45 Causes and Effects of Marine Heat Waves
9. 20:54 Ocean Temperature Changes and Jet Stream Dynamics
10. 22:11 Marine Heat Waves and Climate Variability
11. 23:59 Ecosystem Impacts of Marine Heat Waves
12. 25:41 Coral Reefs and Marine Heat Waves
13. 27:17 Global Hot Spots for Marine Heat Waves
14. 28:05 Break 2
15. 28:06 Understanding Atlantic Niña and Its Effects
16. 30:32 European Heat Waves and Ocean Anomalies
17. 31:37 Surprising Discoveries in Marine Heat Wave Research
18. 34:13 Climate Change and Ocean Temperature Trends
19. 36:22 Future Research Directions in Marine Heat Waves
20. 37:41 Machine Learning in Marine Heat Wave Forecasting

Resources

• NOAA PSL Marine Heat Waves Forecast System - https://psl.noaa.gov/marine-heatwaves/
• NOAA Ocean Temperature Monitoring - https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/GODAS/
• El Nino and La Nina Explained - NOAA - https://oceantoday.noaa.gov/elninolanina/
• Marine Blob Tracker - NOAA - https://www.integratedecosystemassessment.noaa.gov/regions/california-current/california-current-marine-heatwave-tracker-blobtracker
• Scripps Institution of Oceanography - https://scripps.ucsd.edu/

Guest links

• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/dillon-j-amaya-2bb2a892
• Twitter - https://twitter.com/dillonamaya
• North Carolina State University - Dillon Amaya Profile - https://meas.sciences.ncsu.edu/people/djamaya/

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Guest: Craig Setzer

When most people think of meteorology, they think of forecasts on television, hurricane updates, or severe weather warnings. But some meteorologists work in places most of us rarely consider—guiding ships across vast oceans, helping industries make critical weather decisions, and even reconstructing past weather events to answer important questions long after the skies have cleared. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by maritime meteorologist Craig Setzer. Throughout his career, Craig has helped bridge the worlds of weather, ocean navigation, and risk management, providing forecasts and expertise for operations that depend on understanding conditions far from land. We'll explore the unique challenges of forecasting weather at sea, how the cruise industry uses meteorological information to keep passengers and crews safe, and the fascinating field of forensic meteorology—where weather data, observations, and science are used to piece together what happened during past events.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Maritime Meteorology
2. 05:31 Differences Between Maritime and TV Forecasting
3. 08:32 Cruise Industry and Weather Disruptions
4. 10:27 Operational Decisions During Hurricanes
5. 12:38 Pressure and Responsibilities of a Maritime Meteorologist
6. 15:16 Legal Considerations in Maritime Operations
7. 16:42 Other Weather Hazards in Maritime Forecasting
8. 18:55 The Impact of Meteorology on Cruise Experiences
9. 20:51 The Value of Weather in Maritime Safety
10. 21:16 Break 1
11. 21:17 Introduction to Forensic Meteorology
12. 22:05 Craig Setzer's Background and Expertise
13. 23:36 Understanding Forensic Meteorology
14. 25:09 The Role of Captains and Meteorologists
15. 26:40 Clients and Cases in Forensic Meteorology
16. 28:22 Challenges in Weather Data Analysis
17. 30:28 The Importance of Buoy Data
18. 32:12 Historical Data from Ships
19. 33:38 Break 2
20. 33:38 Hurricane Forecasting and the Cone
21. 39:01 Communication in Meteorology
22. 40:21 Advice for Future Meteorologists

Resources

• Royal Caribbean Group - https://www.royalcaribbean.com/
• NOAA Buoy Data Center - https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/
• Metropolitan State University of Denver - https://www.msudenver.edu/
• University of Oklahoma - https://www.ou.edu/

Guest links

• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/craig-setzer-ccm-03095422a
• Twitter - https://twitter.com/craigsetzer

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Guest: Tim Gallaudet

The ocean shapes our weather, our climate, our economy, and ultimately, life on Earth itself. And yet, for something so vast and so essential, there’s still so much we’re only beginning to understand. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re joined by Dr. Tim Gallaudet—oceanographer, former NOAA administrator, and longtime advocate for advancing ocean science and literacy. His new book takes readers deep into the challenges, discoveries, and opportunities tied to the future of our oceans, while also reflecting on the leadership and innovation needed to better understand and protect them. We’ll talk about the inspiration behind the book, the emerging technologies transforming ocean research, and why collaboration and communication may be just as important as the science itself when it comes to shaping the future of ocean stewardship.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Ocean's Role in Earth's Climate
2. 00:47 Dr. Gallaudet's Background and Ocean Passion
3. 01:48 From Coast to Navy: A Dual Passion for Fluids
4. 02:48 Career Highlights and Leadership in the Navy
5. 07:22 Serving as NOAA Deputy and Leading Through Challenges
6. 09:32 Motivation Behind Writing 'Holding Fast in Heavy Seas'
7. 11:31 Break 1
8. 11:32 Stories of Leadership and Resilience
9. 15:09 Advances in Ocean Mapping and Research Initiatives
10. 17:35 Bipartisan Support and Environmental Wins
11. 21:14 Leadership Pillars: All In, All Good, All For One
12. 21:44 Break 2
13. 21:46 Coral Reefs: Biodiversity, Protection, and Economic Impact
14. 28:20 The Role of Private Sector in Ocean and Climate Science
15. 31:02 UAPs and the Quest for Scientific Truth
16. 33:55 Where to Find the Book and Future Research Directions

Resources

• Holding Fast in Heavy Seas by Tim Gallaudet - https://www.amazon.com/Holding-Fast-Heavy-Seas-
• NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - https://www.noaa.gov
• Ocean STL Consulting, LLC - https://oceanstl.com

Guest links

• Website - https://timgallaudet.com
• Twitter - https://twitter.com/TimGallaudet

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Guest: Dr. Amanda Staudt

We live in an era where the weather is breaking records, reshaping economies, and dominating global headlines. Navigating this rapidly changing landscape requires a unique blend of cutting-edge science, public trust, and bold leadership. As the newly appointed Executive Director of the American Meteorological Society, Dr. Amanda Staudt is stepping into the helm at a pivotal moment. From the rapid integration of artificial intelligence in forecasting to the battle against climate misinformation, she is tasked with guiding the scientific community into the future. Today, we’re sitting down with Dr. Staudt to discuss her vision for the future of meteorology, how AMS is adapting to the AI revolution, and what it takes to inspire the next generation of weather and climate professionals.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Amanda Staudt's background
2. 00:50 How Amanda became a weather enthusiast
3. 04:02 AMS's history and Amanda's leadership role
4. 04:58 Bridging academia, government, and private sector
5. 07:42 AMS's publications, conferences, and programs
6. 10:46 The new AI-focused journal and its significance
7. 14:57 AMS's role in policy and advocacy
8. 15:46 Break 1
9. 20:01 Communicating science to policymakers and the public
10. 25:00 The importance of conferences and professional development
11. 27:47 Break 2
12. 30:00 Future vision for AMS and the evolving weather enterprise
13. 33:55 AMS's organizational structure and volunteer engagement
14. 36:43 Closing remarks and gratitude

Resources

• American Meteorological Society (AMS) - https://www.ametsoc.org
• AMS Journals - https://www.ametsoc.org/ams/index.cfm/publications/journals/
• Climate Crossroads Congressional Fellowship - https://www.nationalacademies.org/programs/NRCEO-CCX-23-P-56
• AI in Environmental Systems Journal - https://www.ametsoc.org/ams/publications/journals/artificial-intelligence-for-the-earth-systems/
• National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine - https://www.nationalacademies.org

Guest Links

• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/amanda-staudt-27ba22b8
• Twitter - https://twitter.com/amandastaudt

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest: Amber Sullins, Chief Meteorologist at ABC15

When most people think about dangerous weather, they think about hurricanes, tornadoes, or blizzards. But in the deserts of the Southwest, one of the most impactful—and often overlooked—hazards can arrive as a towering wall of dust. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by Amber Sullins, a longtime Arizona meteorologist who has spent her career helping people navigate everything from extreme heat and monsoon storms to the massive dust storms that have become synonymous with life in the desert Southwest. We'll talk about her journey forecasting some of the country's most unique weather, and we'll take a deep dive into the development of the new PHX-DUST scale—a groundbreaking effort designed to classify dust storms and better communicate their impacts to the public. From the science behind the scale to the challenges of translating complex research into actionable information, we'll explore how meteorologists are working to improve awareness and resilience in the face of one of Arizona's signature weather threats.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Dust Storms in the Southwest
2. 01:00 Amber Sullins' Journey in Meteorology
3. 02:21 Unique Weather Challenges in Arizona
4. 03:22 Forecasting Monsoon and Dust Storms
5. 05:05 Factors Influencing Dust Storm Severity
6. 07:16 Impact of Water Scarcity on Dust Storms
7. 08:40 Health Risks from Dust Storm Particulates
8. 10:33 Types of Dust Storms and Their Detection
9. 14:15 Break 1
10. 14:18 Development of the Phoenix Dust Scale
11. 17:02 Using Air Quality Data for Dust Severity
12. 20:27 Safety Tips for Dust Storms
13. 22:11 Assessing Dust Storm Intensity Quickly
14. 24:17 Applicability of the Dust Scale Elsewhere
15. 25:19 Break 2
16. 28:37 Sharing the Dust Scale with the Public
17. 30:01 Acceptance and Validation of the Scale
18. 32:41 Future Weather Challenges in Arizona
19. 33:40 Upcoming Weather Events and Outlook

Resources

• phoenixdust.asu.edu - https://phoenixdust.asu.edu
• American Meteorological Society - https://www.ametsoc.org
• Arizona State University - https://www.asu.edu

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest: Dr. Michael Brennan, Director of NOAA's National Hurricane Center

The peak of hurricane season is right around the corner—and whether you live along the coast or hundreds of miles inland, what happens in the tropics can have real impacts on your life. The question is: what do you actually need to know before the season really ramps up? Today on Weather Geeks, we’re getting a preview straight from the source. Dr. Michael Brennan, Director of the National Hurricane Center, joins us to walk through what forecasters are watching this year, how hurricane prediction continues to improve, and where the biggest challenges still remain. We’ll also talk about new tools and products coming out of the National Hurricane Center, how technology is shaping the future of forecasting, and what all of this means for you when the next storm is on the horizon.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Hurricane Season and Its Impacts
2. 02:45 Understanding Tropical Storm Arthur and Its Effects
3. 05:41 El Niño's Influence on Hurricane Activity
4. 08:34 The Importance of Preparedness and Messaging
5. 11:59 Evolving Forecasting Techniques and Challenges
6. 14:15 Break 1
7. 14:40 Advancements in Predictive Modeling and AI
8. 17:44 The Role of Communication in Weather Forecasting
9. 20:46 Inland Hurricane Threats and Their Impacts
10. 23:51 Future Directions in Hurricane Research and Forecasting
11. 26:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Hurricane Preparedness
12. 26:58 Break 2
13. 27:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Hurricane Preparednes

Resources

• NOAA National Hurricane Center - https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
• Google DeepMind - https://deepmind.com/
• Hurricane Forecasting Models (HWRF, HAFS) - https://www.nco.ncep.noaa.gov/pmb/products/hwrf/

Guest Links

• Twitter - https://twitter.com/NHC_Atlantic
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brennan-5a90322b2

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest: Dr. Mike Farrar, Booz Allen Hamilton

Weather forecasting has come a long way—from hand-drawn maps and limited observations to a world driven by supercomputers, satellites, and real-time data. But as technology continues to evolve, so does the challenge of making forecasts faster, smarter, and more useful for the people who rely on them every day. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re joined by Dr. Mike Farrar, whose career has spanned research, operations, and leadership across the meteorological community. His company has been tasked to help modernize the National Weather Service, and with that he’s helping shape what the future of forecasting could look like for both meteorologists and the public alike. We’ll talk about the biggest challenges facing weather operations today, how emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing are changing the forecasting landscape, and why communication and public trust remain just as important as the science itself.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Career Background of Dr. Mike Farrar
2. 01:30 The Evolution of Weather Forecasting Technologies
3. 04:18 Transformational Advances in Meteorology
4. 09:15 The Private Sector and Meteorology's Growth
5. 12:16 Break 1
6. 12:19 The Impact of AI and Cloud Computing
7. 19:28 Modernizing the National Weather Service
8. 22:55 The Role of Human Forecasters in the Age of AI
9. 26:51 Break 2
10. 28:01 The North Star of Meteorology: Science and Service
11. 30:18 Skills for Future Meteorologists
12. 33:50 Embracing Change in the Meteorological Field
13. 34:29 Closing Remarks and Resources

Resources

• Booz Allen Hamilton - https://www.boozallen.com
• NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Prediction - https://www.weather.gov/ncep/
• American Meteorological Society - https://www.ametsoc.org
• AWIPS (Advanced Weather Information Processing System) - https://vlab.noaa.gov/web/nws-heritage/-/introducing-awips
• NCAR (National Center for Atmospheric Research) - https://ncar.ucar.edu

Guest links

• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/mikefarrar-wx

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest: Dr. Jennifer Francis, Woodwell Climate Research Center

When we think about the Arctic, it's easy to picture a remote landscape of sea ice and polar bears. But what happens in the far north doesn't stay there. As the Arctic continues to warm at an unprecedented pace, scientists are uncovering how those changes may be influencing weather patterns across the Northern Hemisphere—from prolonged heat waves and persistent droughts to heavy rainfall and unusual swings in the jet stream. Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by atmospheric scientist Dr. Jennifer Francis, whose pioneering research has helped shape our understanding of the connection between Arctic climate change and the behavior of the jet stream. We'll explore why the Arctic is warming so rapidly, how those changes can ripple through the atmosphere, and what they may mean for the persistent weather patterns we've seen in recent years—including the extreme heat that has gripped much of Europe this summer.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Dr. Jennifer Francis's background and interest in weather
2. 05:22 Jet stream patterns and their role in extreme weather
3. 13:21 Break 1
4. 14:31 Mechanisms of Arctic amplification and feedbacks
5. 22:57 Stratospheric polar vortex and winter weather effects
6. 25:04 Break 2
7. 25:58 Summer jet stream behavior and climate connections
8. 32:08 Ocean heat waves and their influence on jet stream patterns
9. 34:33 Current research and future challenges in Arctic climate studies
10. 37:06 Closing remarks and resources

Resources

• Woodwell Climate Research Center - https://www.woodwellclimate.org/
• Jennifer Francis - Research Profile - https://www.woodwellclimate.org/our-scientists/jennifer-francis/
• Clausius-Clapeyron Relationship - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clausius%E2%80%93Clapeyron_relation

 Guest links

• Twitter - https://x.com/WoodwellClimate https://x.com/JFrancisClimate
• Research Center - https://www.woodwellclimate.org/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest: Dr. Jennifer Collins & Dr. Nadia Bloemendaal

When it comes to hurricanes, we often rely on a familiar scale to understand their strength — categories based largely on wind speed. But anyone who’s experienced a storm knows that impacts go far beyond just how fast the winds are blowing. Today, we’re joined by Jennifer Collins and Nadia Bloemendaal, whose work is helping to rethink how we model and measure tropical cyclones. They’re the minds behind the STORM model, a powerful tool for simulating thousands of storms across the globe, and the developers of the Tropical Cyclone Severity Scale — a new way of looking at storm risk that goes beyond traditional categories. In this episode, we’ll explore how large-scale modeling is changing our understanding of hurricane risk, why current classification systems may fall short, and how new approaches could improve the way we communicate danger and prepare for future storms.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to the New Storm Model
2. 00:20 The Storm Model's Impact on Various Sectors
3. 01:02 Challenges in Developing a Global Storm Model
4. 02:21 Modeling Hazards Beyond Wind: Rain and Surge
5. 04:31 Motivation for a New Hurricane Severity Scale
6. 06:42 Limitations of the Wind-Only Scale
7. 08:35 The New Scale: Incorporating Multiple Hazards
8. 10:27 Break 1
9. 11:28 The Concept of a Category 6 Storm
10. 13:05 Public Perception and Education Strategies
11. 15:22 Localized and Personalized Risk Communication
12. 17:27 Real-World Applications and Case Studies
13. 19:20 Future Directions and Climate Change Impacts
14. 21:54 Inertia and Adoption Challenges in Meteorology
15. 23:49 Break 2
16. 25:00 Public Perception of Storm Categories
17. 27:33 The Path Toward Standardization and Adoption
18. 30:12 Future Collaborations and Final Thoughts

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest: Dr. Aran Mooney

When you think about saving coral reefs, you probably imagine divers, coral nurseries, or maybe even futuristic technology — but what if part of the solution starts with simply turning up the volume? Because it turns out, coral reefs don’t just look alive… they sound alive. Today’s guest, Dr. Aran Mooney, is helping scientists and conservationists tune into the ocean in a whole new way. His research explores how the natural “music” of healthy reefs — the pops, clicks, and choruses of marine life — can actually help guide coral larvae home and jump-start reef recovery. In this episode, we’ll talk about listening to the ocean, using sound as a conservation tool, and why sometimes the key to protecting our planet isn’t louder warnings — it’s learning how to hear what nature has been telling us all along.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Sound of Coral Reefs
2. 06:00 Sound as a Restoration Tool
3. 12:02 The Mechanics of Sound Playback
4. 17:23 Break 1
5. 17:55 Environmental Influences on Coral Soundscapes
6. 20:17 The Power of Sound in Coral Restoration
7. 26:59 Break 2
8. 27:28 Hurricanes and Their Impact on Coral Reefs
9. 30:43 Understanding the Time Scale of Sound Influence
10. 35:39 Scaling Sound Solutions for Coral Reefs
11. 40:51 Community Engagement and Partnerships for Coral Health

Resources

• Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution - https://www.whoi.edu/
• NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program - https://coralreef.noaa.gov/

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Guest: Brad Panovich, WCNC Charlotte

If you’ve lived in North Carolina for any length of time, chances are you’ve turned to one familiar face when the weather turns serious. But being a trusted meteorologist today isn’t just about what happens on TV—it’s about showing up wherever your audience is, whether that’s on-air, online, or in the middle of a rapidly evolving storm. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re joined by Brad Panovich, Chief Meteorologist at WCNC Charlotte. For decades, Brad has helped guide North Carolinians through everything from day-to-day forecasts to high-impact events—including more recent storms like Hurricane Helene—building a level of trust that goes far beyond the forecast itself. We’ll talk about how his approach to communication has evolved in the age of social media, what it takes to cut through misinformation, and how you balance urgency, clarity, and calm when people are depending on you the most.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Brad Panovich and His Journey
2. 02:55 The Evolution of Weather Communication
3. 05:54 The Importance of Credentialing in Meteorology
4. 08:56 The Role of Trust in Weather Forecasting
5. 12:05 Break 1
6. 12:08 Navigating Social Media as a Meteorologist
7. 15:13 Handling Negativity and Criticism in the Digital Age
8. 20:13 Understanding Public Perception of Weather Forecasts
9. 23:40 Break 2
10. 24:12 The Role of Social Media in Weather Communication
11. 26:28 The Impact of AI on Meteorology
12. 30:11 Personal Reflections on the Impact of Meteorology
13. 34:26 The Educator's Role in Meteorology

 Resources

• Ohio State University Meteorology Program - https://meteo.osu.edu/
• UNC Charlotte Weather Communication Course - https://physics.charlotte.edu/

Guest links

• Brad Panovich on Twitter - https://twitter.com/WXBrad
• Website - https://www.wcnc.com/
• TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@wxbrad

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest: Seth Borenstein, Associated Press

Every day, new scientific discoveries shape the way we understand our world — from extreme weather to the changing climate. But most of us don’t read scientific journals. Instead, we rely on journalists to translate complex research into stories that inform the public and help us make sense of what it all means. Today we’re joined by Seth Borenstein, a veteran science reporter with the Associated Press who has spent decades covering everything from hurricanes and heat waves to the latest breakthroughs in climate research. Over the years, his reporting has helped bring critical science stories to audiences around the world. In this episode, we’ll talk about how science journalism has evolved, how the media approaches reporting on Climate Change, and what it takes to translate complex science into clear, trustworthy stories for the public.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility
2. 01:43 How Seth Became a Weather and Climate Geek
3. 04:02 The Evolution of Climate Science Narratives
4. 07:47 From Uncertainty to Scientific Certainty
5. 11:53 Finding and Vetting Credible Scientific Sources
6. 16:04 The Role of AP and Wire Services in Science Reporting
7. 17:48 Break 1
8. 18:16 Challenges and Opportunities in Science Journalism
9. 21:52 How Seth Finds His Experts
10. 25:03 Impact of Social Media on Climate and Weather Reporting
11. 27:57 Dealing with Disinformation and Misinformation
12. 28:39 Break 2
13. 29:46 Memorable Stories and Impactful Reporting
14. 32:20 Embedded Reporting with Storm Chasers
15. 34:15 The Human Side of Weather Disasters
16. 36:55 Advice for Future Climate and Science Journalists
17. 39:25 Where to Find Seth's Work

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GUEST: Ken Graham, Director of NOAA National Weather Service

National Weather Service Director Ken Graham visited The Weather Channel for a wide-ranging conversation with Jim Cantore about the future of weather forecasting and public safety.

They will discuss ongoing efforts to modernize the National Weather Service, the challenges of maintaining critical infrastructure, the latest developments in forecasting technology and AI, and what improvements may be on the horizon for everything from hurricane forecasts to severe weather prediction. They also talk about staffing, observations, and the tools that help forecasters turn data into decisions when lives are on the line.

And as he marks four years as Director, Jim will ask Ken to reflect on the experiences that shaped his career, the accomplishments he's most proud of, and what he wants the public to better understand about the work happening behind the scenes every day.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility
2. 00:59 Ken Graham's Ten and Progress Overview
3. 02:24 Reflecting on Achievements and Vision
4. 03:45 Staffing Challenges and Hiring Boom
5. 05:19 Reorganizing for the Future
6. 07:01 Modernizing Infrastructure and Cloud Transition
7. 08:20 Partnering with Emergency Managers
8. 08:59 Radars: Aging Systems and Next-Gen Plans
9. 10:29 Private Sector Collaboration on Radars
10. 12:48 Innovations in Data Collection: Drones and Balloons
11. 13:42 NWS Chat and Communication Tools
12. 14:17 Break 1
13. 14:31 Communicating Strong El Nino and Hurricane Risks
14. 15:47 Aircraft and Data for Better Forecasts
15. 16:38 Improvements in Track and Intensity Forecasts
16. 17:19 AI and Machine Learning in Weather Models
17. 18:36 Future of High-Resolution and Rapid Refresh Models
18. 20:17 Balancing Over-Preparation and Real-Time Response
19. 21:28 Next-Generation Modeling and Cloud Computing
20. 22:50 Break 2
21. 22:50 Vision for Year 10: Fully Cloud-Based, Well-Staffed NWS
22. 24:26 Memories of Weather Disasters and Motivation
23. 25:37 The Drive to Save Lives and Limit Damage
24. 26:30 Engagement with the President and Policy Support
25. 27:35 Office Culture and Workforce Changes
26. 28:49 Challenges of Modernization and Change Management
27. 29:23 Supporting NWS Staff and Future Outlook

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Guest: Adam Fouche, University of Georgia

When you head to a big football game or an outdoor concert, you’re probably thinking about the music, the crowd, and the excitement in the air. But behind the scenes, there’s another team hard at work — one that’s watching the skies. From lightning delays to fast-moving thunderstorms, weather can quickly turn a packed stadium or festival into a serious safety challenge. Protecting tens of thousands of people requires careful planning, constant monitoring, and sometimes very quick decisions. Today we’re joined by Adam Fouche, Interim Associate Vice President for Environmental Safety, Risk, and Resiliency at the University of Georgia. His team works behind the scenes to help keep major events — from concerts to packed game days — safe when the weather takes a turn.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
2. 00:53 Adam Fouche's Weather Geek Origin Story
3. 02:45 Adam's Role in Weather Safety at UGA
4. 04:09 Weather Safety in Large Campus Events
5. 07:09 Weather Risk Assessment for Events
6. 10:22 Lightning Protocols and the 8-Mile Rule
7. 12:57 Debate on Lightning Delay Rules
8. 13:44 Break 1
9. 15:15 Weather Support Models at SEC Schools
10. 18:01 Collaboration with National Weather Service
11. 20:04 Communication Strategies for Weather Risks
12. 21:59 Psychology of Weather Risk Perception
13. 25:01 Venue Design and Weather Vulnerabilities
14. 26:07 Break 2
15. 26:38 Understanding Severe vs. Non-Severe Weather
16. 30:09 Technology and Weather Monitoring Tools
17. 33:33 Public Safety Advice for Weather Preparedness

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Guest: Jordan Hall

Storm chasing has always lived right at the edge—part science, part instinct, and part, let’s be honest… a little bit of chaos. But these days, it’s not just about being in the right place at the right time—it’s also about capturing it, sharing it, and bringing people along for the ride in real time. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re talking with storm chaser Jordan Hall—someone who’s spent countless hours on the road tracking down everything from classic supercells to high-risk, high-reward setups… all while navigating what it means to be a storm chaser in the age of social media. We’ll get into some of his wildest chase stories, the decisions that matter most when things get intense, and how storm chasing is evolving in a world where your next viral video might be just one tornado away.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Thrill of Storm Chasing
2. 10:01 From Hobby to Career: The Journey of a Storm Chaser
3. 16:17 Break 1
4. 20:10 Navigating the Challenges of Storm Chasing
5. 23:03 Break 2
6. 29:22 Navigating Personal Safety
7. 29:59 The Role of Social Media in Storm Chasing
8. 30:35 Pressure and Competition in Storm Chasing
9. 32:06 Impact of Social Media on Storm Chasing
10. 34:42 International Storm Chasing Adventures
11. 36:55 Choosing Which Storms to Chase
12. 38:06 Awe-Inspiring Natural Phenomena
13. 39:39 Unique Chase Stories
14. 40:09 The Intersection of Storm Chasing and First Response
15. 44:32 Challenges of Chaser Convergence
16. 48:01 The Storm Chasing Community
17. 49:59 Advice for Aspiring Storm Chasers

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Guest: Dr. Michael Pritchard, Director of Climate Simulation Research

When we think about climate models, we often picture supercomputers humming away in government labs or university basements. But increasingly, some of the most powerful tools shaping the future of climate science are coming from an unexpected place — Silicon Valley. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Michael Pritchard, Director of Climate Simulation Research at NVIDIA. Yes, that NVIDIA — the company known for powering gaming, AI, and some of the world’s fastest computing systems. But behind the scenes, NVIDIA is helping drive a revolution in climate and Earth system modeling, using advanced GPUs and machine learning to build faster, higher-resolution simulations of our planet. In this episode, we’ll explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping climate science, what it takes to simulate Earth in unprecedented detail, and why the future of forecasting may depend as much on silicon as it does on physics.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to AI in Weather and Climate Modeling
2. 03:21 Understanding NVIDIA's Role in Climate Simulation
3. 05:34 The Motivation Behind Earth Simulation
4. 07:40 AI vs Traditional Weather Modeling Techniques
5. 11:10 Addressing Concerns About AI in Weather Forecasting
6. 13:49 Break 1
7. 14:19 The Earth 2 Project and Its Implications
8. 18:37 Open Source Weather Models and Their Importance
9. 23:33 Exploring GPUs and Their Role in AI
10. 24:51 Stormscope: A New Era in Nowcasting
11. 28:55 AI and Machine Learning in Mesoscale Forecasting
12. 31:48 Break 2
13. 32:15 Ensuring Ethical AI in Weather Forecasting
14. 35:31 The Future of AI in Climate Modeling

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GUEST: Allison Begalman

Hollywood is known for big ideas, big creativity, and big storytelling — but in recent years, one of the biggest forces reshaping the industry isn’t a genre or a trend… it’s the climate crisis. And at the center of that movement is Allison Begalman.  As the co-founder of the Hollywood Climate Summit, Allison has built a space where filmmakers, writers, activists, scientists, and executives come together to ask a simple but powerful question: What if the stories we tell could help shape a more sustainable future?  Today, we’re diving into how she’s mobilizing the entertainment world to take climate action seriously — not just in documentaries or disaster films, but in the everyday narratives that reach millions.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Climate Crisis in Hollywood
2. 03:53 The Birth of the Hollywood Climate Summit
3. 10:29 Barriers to Climate Storytelling
4. 13:25 Break 1
5. 14:23 Climate-Informed Storytelling vs. Climate-Themed Content
6. 19:57 Successful Examples of Climate Storytelling
7. 24:44 The Role of Social Media in Climate Advocacy
8. 24:52 Break 2
9. 29:18 Measuring Impact in Climate Storytelling
10. 31:37 Future Vision for the Hollywood Climate Summit

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Guest: Max Van Wyk De Vries, Assistant Professor at the University of Cambridge

From wildfires sparking power outages, to hurricanes triggering chemical spills, today’s disasters rarely unfold in isolation. They cascade, compound, and collide — creating challenges far more complex than any single hazard on its own. At the University of Cambridge, the Complex and Multihazard Research Group is leading the charge to better understand these interconnected risks, and to help communities, governments, and industries prepare for a more uncertain world. In this episode, we sit down with the program head of the group Max Van Wyk De Vries to explore how their research is reshaping the way we think about hazards, resilience, and the future of global risk.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Understanding Complex and Multi-Hazard Risks
2. 10:47 The Role of Human Activity in Natural Hazards
3. 14:04 Break 1
4. 19:24 Techniques and Methodologies in Hazard Research
5. 23:41 Break 2
6. 29:24 Future Challenges and Opportunities in Multi-Hazard Risk Management

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Guest: Dr. Tracy Fanara

If you’ve ever fallen down a science rabbit hole on social media and thought, “Wow… I just learned something and had fun doing it,” there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with Inspector Planet. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Tracy Fanara — scientist, investigator, and one of the most recognizable voices in modern science communication. She’s built a career on asking bold questions, testing claims, and making complex science feel approachable, playful, and empowering. We’ll talk about how she spreads weather geekiness online, what it takes to cut through misinformation with creativity and humor, and why making science joyful might be one of the most powerful tools we have.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Tracy Fanara and Inspector Planet
2. 02:35 The Journey to Science and Engineering
3. 05:42 The Birth of Inspector Planet
4. 08:31 Career Path and NOAA Experience
5. 11:35 Understanding Florida Red Tide and the 2018 Water Crisis
6. 17:10 Break 1
7. 17:42 Project INKI: Transforming Flood Data into Actionable Intelligence
8. 23:25 The Importance of Communication in Science
9. 27:47 Break 2
10. 29:33 Leveraging Social Media for Science Communication
11. 35:25 Future of Science and Technology in Environmental Research

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Guests: Harlan Brothers and Jamie Perera

We spend a lot of time looking at climate data — charts, maps, graphs, trends. But what if, instead of staring at the numbers, we listened to them? What if rising temperatures, shifting seasons, and accelerating change had a sound? Today’s guests, Harlan Brothers and Jamie Perera, are pioneers in a growing and fascinating field known as climate data sonification. They take datasets that often feel distant or abstract and translate them into music and sound — turning climate change into something you don’t just understand, but feel. In this episode, we’ll explore how sound can open new doors to climate communication, why art and science don’t have to live in separate worlds, and how listening to the planet might help us connect with it in a whole new way.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Intersection of Sound and Climate Data
2. 08:33 Understanding Sonification: Transforming Data into Sound
3. 19:25 Break 1
4. 19:44 Artistic Choices in Sonification: Making Data Listenable
5. 27:06 Break 2
6. 27:45 The Audience of Sonification: Education, Art, and Engagement
7. 37:34 Future of Climate Data Sonification: Collaborations and Innovations

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Guest: Chris Vagasky, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Few things in weather grab our attention quite like lightning. It’s fast, powerful, a little bit mysterious — and for today’s guest, it’s been a lifelong fascination. Joining us is lightning expert Chris Vagasky, a scientist whose career has sparked everything from groundbreaking lightning safety work to a new chapter with Wisconet, one of the most advanced surface observation networks in the country. While his day-to-day role may have evolved, his passion for understanding and explaining lightning has never dimmed. In this episode, we’ll talk about career pivots in meteorology, why high-quality observations matter so much during severe weather, and how you keep your scientific spark alive even as your job changes. So stay grounded, because this conversation is charged with insight, curiosity, and a whole lot of lightning science.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Fascination with Lightning
2. 14:30 Break 1
3. 14:33 Career Pivot and WiscoNet
4. 26:36 Break 2
5. 26:54 The Future of Weather Communication and AI

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Guest: Dr. Connell Miller, Western University

When a tornado tears through the landscape, one of the first questions we ask is, how strong was it? Answering that usually means boots on the ground, surveying damage piece by piece. But what if part of that story could be told from hundreds of miles above Earth? Today, we’re joined by Dr. Connell Miller, whose research explores how satellite data can be used to detect and measure tornado damage from space, especially in rural and agricultural areas where traditional damage indicators can be hard to find. We’ll talk about using vegetation signals to infer tornado intensity, how this approach could complement ground surveys, and what it means for improving tornado climatology and post-storm analysis.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Tornado Research and Satellite Data
2. 05:46 Innovative Use of Satellite Data in Tornado Assessment
3. 12:12 Correlation Between Satellite Data and Ground Surveys
4. 14:00 Break 1
5. 17:56 Limitations and Future of Satellite Data in Tornado Rating
6. 25:03 Break 2
7. 25:05 AI and Automation in Tornado Damage Assessment

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Guest: Dr. Bruce Albrecht, University of Miami

Most of us look at the sky every day but let’s be honest, we usually only glance up long enough to decide if we need an umbrella. But what if your phone could actually help you notice the atmosphere again? Not doomscrolling… cloud-scrolling! Today we’re joined by Dr. Bruce Albrecht, the mind behind SeeMyClouds — the app that’s turning sky-gazing into a social, creative, totally addictive hobby. Whether you’re a cirrus superfan, a cumulus connoisseur, or someone who just likes a good sunset photo, Bruce is here to talk about why clouds deserve their moment…and how his app is bringing weather geeks and casual sky-watchers together one snapshot at a time.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Cloud Appreciation
2. 02:56 Bruce Albrecht's Journey in Meteorology
3. 05:50 The Science of Cloud Microphysics
4. 09:06 Exploring Cloud Radar Technology
5. 11:17 Break 1
6. 11:49 Inspiration Behind See My Clouds App
7. 15:02 The Role of Social Media in Cloud Appreciation
8. 18:00 Features and Functionality of See My Clouds
9. 20:10 Break 2
10. 21:08 Potential for Scientific Research
11. 24:03 Understanding Cloud Seeding
12. 26:55 Final Thoughts on Cloud Enthusiasm

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Guest: Paul Goodloe, Weather Channel Meteorologist

 Winter is officially in the rearview mirror and while some parts of the country were digging out from snow and ice, others were wondering if winter ever showed up at all! So today, we’re doing something a little different. We’re sitting down with a familiar face from The Weather Channel, meteorologist Paul Goodloe, to look back at the season that was. From headline-making storms like Winter Storms Fern and Hernando, to the surprisingly quiet winter across much of the Western United States, there’s plenty to unpack. So grab a warm drink — or maybe start thinking about putting the snow shovel away — as we recap the biggest winter weather moments of the season.

Chapters

• 00:00 Winter Weather Overview
• 10:55 Paul Goodlow's Journey to Meteorology
• 13:39 Characterizing the Winter of 2025-2026
• 19:44 Break 1
• 19:46 Winter Storm Fern: A Deep Dive
• 31:19 Break 2
• 31:21 Winter Storm Hernando: The Big Nor'easter
• 32:16 Hurricane Forecasting and Model Accuracy
• 34:53 The Impact of AI in Weather Forecasting
• 35:08 Experiencing Winter Storm Hernando
• 39:25 Blizzard Conditions and Snow Accumulation
• 41:48 Comparing Winter Storms: Fern vs. Hernando
• 46:07 Public Response to Weather Forecasts
• 48:15 The Western Winter: A Lack of Snow
• 54:23 Avalanche Risks and Climate Change
• 58:24 Wildfire Threats Due to Low Snowpack
• 01:00:02 Looking Ahead: Weather Patterns and Droughts

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Guest: Lt. Col. Andrew Gay

Forecasts don’t just matter for farmers, travelers, or weekend plans — they can influence decisions that ripple across the globe. Few people know that better than Major Andrew Gay, who has served as a meteorologist in the U.S. Air Force, at the White House, and at the Pentagon. In those roles, weather wasn’t simply data — it was mission-critical information that could impact safety, security, and strategy at the highest levels. Today, we’ll hear how his career has bridged science and service, and what it takes to forecast when the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Importance of Weather Forecasting
2. 02:51 Andrew Gay's Journey to Meteorology
3. 05:56 Career Path in the Air Force
4. 08:53 Supporting Military Operations
5. 11:44 Weather Forecasting at the White House
6. 12:30 Break 1
7. 14:44 Current Role and Responsibilities
8. 17:55 Challenges in Weather Forecasting
9. 21:52 Emerging Technologies in Meteorology
10. 22:26 Break 2
11. 25:06 Effective Science Communication
12. 29:50 Advice for Aspiring Meteorologists

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Guests: Doug Hilderbrand & Jennifer Sprague-Hilderbrand

When you think about the weather world, you might picture satellites spinning overhead, supercomputers crunching data, or meteorologists trying to explain that yes, the cone is not the size of the storm. But behind all of that is a whole community of people working together to keep us informed and safe. Today, we’re joined by two people who know that ecosystem better than almost anyone: Doug and Jennifer Hilderbrand, co-founders of the American Weather Enterprise Association. Together, they’re building a space where the public, private, and academic sectors can actually talk to each other — and maybe even agree on a few things — to strengthen the entire weather community. We’ll dive into why they launched the association, what they hope to change, and how collaboration can help us all navigate a future with more complex storms, more data, and more demand than ever.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to the Weather Community
2. 03:04 Personal Journeys into Meteorology
3. 06:03 The American Weather Enterprise Association Explained
4. 07:56 The Importance of Economic Valuation in Weather
5. 13:16 Break 1
6. 13:45 Building a Strong Foundation for the Future
7. 20:00 Advocacy and Engagement with Policymakers
8. 25:50 The Personal Dynamics of Building an Organization
9. 26:30 Break 2
10. 32:02 Conclusion and Future Directions

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Guest: Dr. Russell Schneider

Spring may mean blooming flowers and warmer days, but for meteorologists, it means something else entirely: severe weather season is officially here. As we head into the months when thunderstorms sharpen, tornadoes spin up, and the atmosphere becomes anything but predictable, there’s one place every forecaster and weather enthusiast looks to: the Storm Prediction Center. Today, we’re joined by the Director of the SPC Dr. Russell Schneider, the person who helps oversee the outlooks, mesoscale discussions, and tornado and severe thunderstorm watches that millions depend on when the stakes are high. We’ll look back at what last season taught us, talk about what’s on the horizon for this year, explore how new tools — including emerging AI guidance — are shaping the forecasting landscape, and discuss the growing influence of storm chasers and open-access model data.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Severe Weather Season
2. 01:03 Dr. Russell Schneider's Journey to Meteorology
3. 04:42 Understanding the Storm Prediction Center (SPC)
4. 10:17 Reflections on the 2025 Severe Weather Season
5. 11:54 Break 1
6. 12:38 Shifts in Tornado Activity and Trends
7. 15:54 The Spectrum of Severe Weather Hazards
8. 22:08 Preparing for the 2026 Severe Weather Season
9. 25:20 Break 2
10. 25:49 Innovations in Weather Forecasting Technology
11. 30:01 Communicating Weather Risks Effectively
12. 33:53 The Role of Storm Chasers and Social Media

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Guest: Ryan Hall

 When severe weather is on the horizon, many people turn to their local meteorologist—but millions are heading to YouTube to get the latest from Ryan Hall, Y’all. With his signature down-to-earth style and real-time, no-nonsense weather coverage, Ryan has built one of the most popular and trusted weather communities online. But what’s it really like to cover major weather events on social media’s biggest stage? How does he balance entertainment with accuracy? And where does he see weather communication heading next? Today on Weather Geeks, we’re pulling back the curtain with Ryan Hall himself. From storm-chasing stories to the power of digital weather, we’re diving into how one YouTuber is changing the way we watch the skies.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Ryan Hall, Y'all
2. 02:57 Ryan's Journey into Weather
3. 06:07 The Rise of Ryan Hall, Y'all
4. 08:49 Transitioning from Traditional Media to Digital
5. 11:15 The Evolution of Weather Communication
6. 14:37 Building a Community and the Y'all Squad
7. 17:12 The Role of Teamwork in Content Creation
8. 20:27 Navigating Severe Weather Coverage
9. 23:26 Addressing Misinformation in Weather Reporting
10. 26:25 The Impact of AI on Weather Communication
11. 29:26 Advice for Aspiring Weather YouTubers

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Guest: Dr. Alexander Gates, Rutgers University - Newark

Weather doesn’t just shape our daily plans — sometimes, it shapes the course of history. From floods that altered empires to storms that changed the outcome of wars, extreme weather has quietly (and sometimes violently) rewritten the human story. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Alexander Gates, professor at Rutgers University–Newark and author of the upcoming book Wicked Weather. In it, he explores the natural disasters that didn’t just make headlines, but changed societies, politics, and the world as we know it. In this episode, we’ll talk about the historical storms, droughts, and disasters that left lasting marks on civilization, what those events teach us about risk and resilience, and why understanding the past may be one of our best tools for preparing for the future.

Chapters

1. 00:00 - Introduction: Weather's historical influence on civilizations
2. 00:32 - Dr. Gates’ background & inspiration for Wicked Weather
3. 01:06 - How natural disasters shape human societies
4. 03:29 - The significance of weather-related events like hurricanes, volcanoes, and earthquakes
5. 06:37 - Most impactful natural disasters in history
6. 07:30 - Volcanoes from 536-540 AD changing the global climate
7. 09:24 - The hurricane that helped end the American Revolution
8. 11:06 - Human decisions impacting disaster resilience
9. 11:40 - Break 1
10. 11:42 - Building resilience: lessons from historical events
11. 13:19 - Climate change’s role in intensifying weather extremes
12. 16:16 - Lessons from historical weather disasters on modern emergency preparedness
13. 17:37 - How different types of disasters prompt societal change
14. 20:44 - Responses to weather-related disasters in different countries
15. 23:31 - Break 2
16. 23:33 - The importance of societal response and adaptation
17. 28:04 - The science behind storms and the importance of understanding natural causes
18. 29:28 - Final reflections: societal resilience and future preparedness

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Guest: Dr. Younes Alila, University of British Columbia

Floods are some of the most devastating natural disasters on Earth—washing away homes, reshaping landscapes, and testing the limits of our infrastructure. But what if the way we measure and plan for floods is decades out of date? A new study out of the University of British Columbia led by Dr. Younes Alila reveals that the so-called “100-year flood” may now be striking every 10 years or less across parts of British Columbia. Dr. Alila joins us to unpack how land-use changes, deforestation, and a warming climate are amplifying flood frequency, why natural features like wetlands and forests are key to protection, and what communities can do to adapt.

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Guest: Dr. Marcus Williams, Research Meteorologist

Wildfire is one of the most complex weather-driven hazards we face — shaped by wind, terrain, fuel, and timing, where the forecast isn’t just about what happens next, but about keeping people safe in real time. Behind every major fire response and every carefully planned prescribed burn is a team of scientists working to understand those conditions down to the finest detail. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Marcus Williams, a research meteorologist with the U.S. Forest Service whose work sits at the intersection of science, operations, and on-the-ground decision-making. We’ll talk about what it takes to provide weather support during major California fires, why prescribed fire depends so heavily on getting the forecast right, and how USFS research is shaping the future of fire weather forecasting.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Wildfire and Meteorology
2. 00:51 Marcus Williams: Journey to Meteorology
3. 04:58 Role of Meteorologists in the US Forest Service
4. 07:46 Experiences in Wildfire Deployment
5. 10:52 Understanding Prescribed Fires
6. 12:33 Break 1
7. 12:40 Meteorological Tools in Prescribed Fires
8. 15:32 Challenges in Fire Management
9. 18:14 Weather Modeling and Its Applications
10. 21:09 Break 2
11. 21:40 Leadership and Mentorship in Meteorology
12. 25:46 Future of Meteorology in Fire Management

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Guest: Matthew Cappucci

If you’ve ever watched a weather forecast and thought, “Wow, that meteorologist has way more energy than the atmosphere itself,” there’s a good chance you were watching Matthew Cappucci. He’s a scientist, a storyteller, a storm chaser, an author, a communicator who somehow manages to make jet streaks sound exciting — and now he’s back on the show! Today, we’re talking to Matthew about how he brings weather to life across TV, print, social media, and whatever platform he conquers next. We’ll chat about the state of weather communication in the age of algorithms, how he cuts through the noise without losing the science, and where he thinks the industry is headed as our storms — and our conversations — keep evolving.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Matthew Cappucci
2. 03:02 Matthew's Journey into Meteorology
3. 05:51 Creating Engaging Weather Content
4. 08:48 The Impact of Social Media on Weather Communication
5. 11:48 Challenges in Weather Forecasting
6. 14:59 Navigating the Noise in Weather Communication
7. 18:04 The Role of Meteorologists in the Digital Age
8. 21:01 Future of Weather Communication
9. 23:49 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

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Guest: Dr. Wallace Hogsett, Science & Operations Officer at the NHC

Every hurricane season tells a story — not just through the storms that form, but through the forecasts that guide us. And once the season ends, the real detective work begins: Which models nailed the track? Which ones struggled with intensity? And what did we learn that will help us prepare for the next big storm? Joining us today is Dr. Wallace Hogsett from the National Hurricane Center, one of the experts who turns those post-season numbers into meaningful insight. We’ll break down the verification results from the 2025 season, explore how models are improving — and where they’re not — and talk about the growing influence of AI-based forecasting tools. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the scorecard that shapes the future of hurricane prediction, straight from the people who know the models best.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Hurricane Forecasting
2. 01:00 Dr. Hogsett's Journey in Meteorology
3. 05:01 Understanding Verification in Hurricane Forecasting
4. 07:12 AI's Impact on Hurricane Prediction
5. 13:47 Break 1
6. 14:13 Rapid Intensification and Forecasting Tools
7. 17:41 Incorporating AI Models into Forecasting
8. 30:29 Break 2
9. 30:31 Communication and Uncertainty in Weather Forecasting
10. 39:53 Looking Ahead: The Future of Hurricane Prediction

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Guest: Samira Davis, United Cajun Navy

When disaster strikes, it’s often the people on the ground — not the headlines — who make the biggest difference. During Hurricane Florence, while historic floods swallowed neighborhoods across the Carolinas, Samira Davis was among those who stepped up. As a volunteer with the United Cajun Navy, she helped coordinate relief for families, pets, and even horses — filling the gaps between official response and human need. In this episode, we hear her firsthand account of what it’s like to navigate chaos and compassion side by side, the lessons she’s carried from that experience, and how grassroots responders are reshaping what disaster recovery looks like.

CHAPTERS

1. 00:00 The Human Impact of Disaster Response
2. 03:03 Becoming a Weather Geek: Personal Journeys
3. 06:16 The Role of Grassroots Organizations in Disaster Relief
4. 09:02 The United Cajun Navy: A New Era of Response
5. 11:55 Navigating Challenges in Disaster Recovery
6. 14:46 BREAK 1
7. 14:54 The Importance of Preparedness and Community
8. 18:06 Animal Rescue in Disaster Situations
9. 21:09 The Long-Term Effects of Natural Disasters
10. 23:56 Getting Involved: How to Help
11. 27:04 The Power of Community and Collaboration
12. 27:40 BREAK 2
13. 00:27:41 Real Estate Lessons from Disasters
14. 00:31:28 Collective Action and Preparedness
15. 00:34:54 Evolving Strategies in Disaster Relief
16. 00:37:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

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Guest: James Spann, Chief Meteorologist & Founder of the Alabama Weather Network

When it comes to weather, few names carry the respect, trust, and authority of James Spann. For decades, he’s been the steady voice that Alabamians turn to when the sky turns dark — part scientist, part storyteller, and always a servant to his community. But beyond the green screen, James has become a powerful advocate for local weather, founding the Alabama Weather Network to bring hyper-local, science-based forecasting back to the people who need it most. Today, we talk with James about how the weather and media industries have evolved, why social science is now at the heart of saving lives, and how meteorologists can stay grounded in service even as technology and the atmosphere continue to change.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Journey of James Spann: A Weather Legend
2. 11:38 The Evolution of Weather Broadcasting
3. 17:30 The Impact of Social Media on Weather Communication
4. 18:16 BREAK 1
5. 19:07 The Power of Social Media in Weather Reporting
6. 21:13 Launching the Alabama Weather Network
7. 25:14 Innovating Weather Coverage for the Next Generation
8. 29:56 BREAK 2
9. 30:01 The Importance of Hyperlocal Weather Reporting
10. 39:22 A Commitment to Community and Future Generations

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Weather Geeks Team

What began as Fourth of July thunderstorms in Kerr County, Texas rapidly evolved into a catastrophic flash flood that overwhelmed campgrounds, highways, and homes. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re dedicating our episode to understanding the flood disaster in Texas’ Hill Country, how it happened so fast, and how we can better prepare for the next time the sky opens up. We’ll unpack the meteorological setup as well as the human and infrastructural challenges in warning, evacuation, and rescue. This isn’t just a weather story—it’s a community story, and a wake-up call for every corner of the country vulnerable to sudden flooding.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Understanding the Texas Hill Country Flood Disaster
2. 01:39 Meteorological Insights and Communication Challenges
3. 05:00 Analyzing the Meteorological Setup
4. 09:32 The Role of Terrain and Hydrology
5. 18:12 The Impact of Communication on Preparedness
6. 25:02 Cloud Seeding Myths and Misunderstandings
7. 27:22 Lessons Learned for Future Flood Events
8. 27:50 The Deadly Overnight Flooding Event
9. 29:02 The Importance of a Nightly Weather Check
10. 29:30 Enhancing Flood Warnings and Public Response
11. 31:18 The Role of Forecasting in Emergency Management
12. 33:44 Public Perception and Weather Warnings
13. 35:41 Psychology of Weather Response
14. 37:31 The Need for Effective Warning Systems
15. 39:54 Advocating for Weather Radios
16. 41:22 The Impact of Climate Change on Flooding
17. 43:49 Understanding Extreme Weather Events
18. 45:57 The Role of Sea Surface Temperatures
19. 51:30 The Human Element in Weather Events

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RECORDED FEBRUARY 21, 2025; Originally released April 30, 2025

Guest: Alan Sealls, AMS President-Elect

For decades, broadcast meteorologists have been the trusted voices guiding us through hurricanes, tornadoes, and everyday forecasts. But behind every great weathercaster is a deep passion for both science and communication. Few embody that balance as well as Alan Sealls—a highly respected meteorologist, educator, and soon-to-be President of the American Meteorological Society. As we head into more uncertain times, Alan will certainly have a lot on his plate in 2026 as he manages the relationship between academic, government, broadcast, and private meteorologists all across the country. How will his tenured career translate to get this done? Let’s ask him right now on Weather Geeks

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Journey of a Weather Geek
2. 03:07 Career Trajectory and Passion for Meteorology
3. 06:04 Navigating Challenges in Meteorology
4. 09:00 The Importance of Education and Communication
5. 12:00 Lessons Learned in the Broadcasting Industry
6. 15:05 Community Engagement and Impact
7. 18:04 Secrets to Effective Communication and Teaching
8. 20:57 Engaging Communication in Meteorology
9. 22:21 Approaching Severe Weather Coverage
10. 25:42 The Impact of Technology on Meteorology
11. 27:54 The Future of Broadcast Meteorology
12. 30:01 Leadership and Representation in Meteorology
13. 34:13 Exploring African American Contributions to Meteorology
14. 39:57 Alan Sealls' Literary Contributions

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Guest: Dr. Neil Jacobs

Every forecast, every watch or warning, every piece of storm research in America… starts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

And there’s a new leader in charge: Neil Jacobs.

Over the past year, as he waited for Congress to confirm his nomination, NOAA saw cuts to staffing, research and observations.

All while the infrastructure that predicts our weather keeps right on aging.

The Weather Channel's Jim Cantore sat down with Neil Jacobs, for an exclusive interview- his first as head of NOAA.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to NOAA and Leadership Changes
2. 02:55 Priorities in Weather Forecasting
3. 06:00 Advancements in Forecasting Technology
4. 08:50 The Role of AI in Weather Prediction
5. 12:03 Challenges in Weather Data Collection
6. 15:00 Improving Public Awareness and Response
7. 18:09 The Future of Weather Forecasting
8. 21:01 Navigating Controversies and Public Trust
9. 23:57 Looking Ahead: The Next Five Years
10. 26:50 Conclusion and Call to Action

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RECORDED FEBRUARY 25, 2025; Originally released March 26, 2025

Guest: Daniel Swain

Winds are howling outside Los Angeles, California on a dry January day. The hillsides north and east of the city erupt in flames. A wall of fire begins to consume neighborhoods faster than firefighters can keep up. As wind-driven embers continue to fly down hill - a thousand miles away, Daniel Swain’s phone begins to light up. Journalists, companies, officials - all want answers to California’s extreme weather and the impact of climate change. On this week’s episode of Weather Geeks we learn how one high schooler, with a blog, ignited his career to become one of the leading communicators on climate change and the Weather out West.

Chapters:

1. 00:00 California's Wildfires and Climate Change
2. 10:08 Daniel Swain: The Weather Geek's Journey
3. 19:52 The Importance of Effective Communication
4. 27:05 Linking Climate Change to Extreme Weather
5. 40:05 Understanding the Complexity of Weather Events

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RECORDED MARCH 4, 2025; Originally released March 12, 2024

Guest: Dr. Sean Waugh, National Severe Storms Laboratory research scientist

As we’ve seen in the movies, and real life, tornadoes are some of the most destructive forces in nature, capable of leveling homes and damaging entire communities in a matter of minutes. And what about hail? It causes BILLIONS and billions of dollars in damage in the US every year. But how do we get up-close, real-time data on these violent storms in order to learn what is needed for better predictions? That’s where cutting-edge field research comes in. Today on Weather Geeks, we’re diving into the world of storm observation and mobile weather technology with Sean Waugh from NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory. From deploying instrumented drones and mobile mesonets to braving the extreme environments of tornadoes and hailstorms, his work is helping scientists better understand the atmospheric conditions that drive severe weather for years to come…

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Destructive Power of Tornadoes and Hail
2. 02:58 Sean Wu: A Journey into Meteorology
3. 05:57 Innovative HAIL Camera Technology
4. 08:47 Chasing Hail: The Challenges and Safety Measures
5. 11:59 Observing Hail: The Role of High-Speed Cameras
6. 14:46 Mobile Mesonets: Gathering Atmospheric Data
7. 17:59 Machine Learning and AI in Weather Prediction
8. 21:02 AI in Meteorology: Enhancing Forecasting Accuracy
9. 24:23 Hands-On Learning: Training the Next Generation of Meteorologists
10. 26:00 Tornado Research: Understanding Formation and Behavior
11. 28:05 Behind the Scenes of Twisters: A Meteorologist's Role
12. 32:20 Authenticity in Film: The Science of Twisters
13. 36:41 Passion in Meteorology: Inspiring Future Generations

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RECORDED JANUARY 22, 2025; Originally released FEBRUARY 12, 2025

Guests: Dr. Ilan Price, Senior Research Scientist, & Matt Willson, Research Engineer

From the Euro to the GFS to the Canadian, there are multitudes of models that forecasters use to predict our daily weather. There are models for short-term severe forecasting, 10-day outlooks from your local news, and even models that predict our climate years into the future. As technology advances, so do all of these models and the technology we are focusing on today on Weather Geeks is AI. While it may seem like a buzzword these days, it can be used to enhance our industry and help us all reach our common goal: saving lives and property. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ilan Price to discuss GenCast, Google’s weather forecasting model that is entirely powered by AI. How does it stack up to the models we know and love? The answer may surprise you…

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to AI in Weather Forecasting
2. 02:10 Meet the Experts: Ilan Price and Matthew Wilson
3. 06:34 Understanding GenCast: The AI Weather Model
4. 10:47 Machine Learning vs Traditional Forecasting
5. 13:22 Data Sources and Ethical Considerations
6. 15:10 Handling Extreme Weather Events
7. 21:15 Validation and Verification of GenCast
8. 23:26 Impact of GenCast on Weather Forecasting

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It’s been one wild ride through the atmosphere this year — from record-breaking heat waves to snowstorms that made us double-check the map, a hurricane that rewrote history, and tornadoes that left meteorologists speechless.  Today, we’re taking a step back (and maybe a deep breath) to relive the biggest, boldest, and most unbelievable weather moments of the year. We’ll break down what happened, why it happened, and what it all means for the climate conversations ahead.  Pour yourself a cup of coffee, sit back, and join us as we revisit the skies that shaped our 2025 one storm at a time.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Weather Highlights of 2025
2. 10:13 Devastating Fires in Los Angeles
3. 16:53 Break 1
4. 16:58 Severe Weather and Tornadoes
5. 24:54 Flooding Across the Country
6. 25:49 Understanding Extreme Weather Events
7. 28:49 The Importance of Flash Flood Warnings
8. 31:35 The Impact of Urbanization on Flooding
9. 33:53 Break 2
10. 33:54 Analyzing the Quiet Hurricane Season
11. 40:01 Hurricane Melissa: A Case Study
12. 45:13 The Role of AI in Weather Forecasting
13. 47:57 The Importance of Meteorological Workforce

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Guests: Dr. Steven Ackerman and Dr. Jonathan Martin

For most of us, weather talk is a quick chat about the weekend forecast or a snowy commute. But in Wisconsin, “The Weather Guys” have turned those conversations into something much bigger — a beloved radio show that brings science, stories, and a touch of humor to the airwaves. For years, they’ve been breaking down everything from blizzards to climate change, making meteorology both accessible and fun. Today, we’ll sit down with Dr. Steven Ackerman and Dr. Jonathan Martin to hear how their show began, what keeps listeners tuning in, and why Wisconsin weather makes for some of the best conversations around.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Birth of Weather Talk
2. 00:45 How They Became Weather Geeks
3. 03:02 Research Insights and Contributions
4. 08:08 Engaging the Public Beyond Academia
5. 11:44 Break 1
6. 11:45 The Importance of Public Engagement
7. 14:12 The Dynamics of Show Planning
8. 15:29 Memorable Questions from Callers
9. 17:00 Balancing Complexity in Communication
10. 18:38 Break 2
11. 18:40 Wisconsin Weather: A Unique Landscape
12. 21:30 The Changing Landscape of Weather Communication
13. 24:35 Advice for Young Meteorologists
14. 27:21 The Future of Weather and AI

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Guest: Ken Burns

He’s an Award-Winning Filmmaker known for his documentary films and television series, many of which chronicle American history and culture. Some of his most popular works include the Civil War, Baseball, Jazz, the National Parks, Prohibition, the Roosevelts, the Vietnam War, and Country Music. Behind the majestic shots and carefully chosen words, there’s another character always in the frame: the weather. From outracing clouds to chasing snow that just won’t fall, even filmmaker Ken Burns has learned that Mother Nature doesn’t always take direction. While shooting his newest series The American Revolution, weather wasn’t just a backdrop — it was a full-fledged co-star. Today, we’ll talk with Ken about the challenges and surprises of filming history in real weather, how climate and geography shaped the American Revolution, and why sometimes the best storyteller is the sky.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Ken Burns and His Work
2. 01:10 The Role of Weather in Filmmaking
3. 02:22 The American Revolution: A Complex Narrative
4. 04:19 Challenges of Capturing Weather in Filmmaking
5. 07:14 The Importance of Authenticity in Storytelling
6. 09:36 Weather's Impact on Historical Events
7. 12:13 Technological Advancements and Their Influence
8. 14:27 The Unpredictability of History
9. 17:31 The Drama of Real Weather in Storytelling

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Guest: Alex Tomoff

When you think of weather and meteorology, you probably picture storm chasers, satellites, or your local forecast. But what about chocolate? At Mars, Inc. — the company behind favorites like M&M’s and Snickers — weather isn’t just background noise, it’s a critical part of the business. From the cocoa fields that depend on rainfall, to the sugar supply impacted by drought, to the logistics of getting chocolate safely from factory to shelf, weather touches every step. And standing at that intersection is today’s guest: Alex Tomoff, the meteorologist of Mars, Inc. We’ll find out how forecasting shapes the future of candy, agriculture, and sustainability — and yes, even your sweet tooth.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Intersection of Weather and Chocolate
2. 01:46 Alex Tomoff's Journey to Meteorology
3. 04:38 Day-to-Day as a Meteorologist at Mars, Inc.
4. 07:44 Understanding Key Ingredients: Cocoa, Sugar, and Peanuts
5. 10:50 Break 1
6. 10:52 Climate Change and Its Impact on Cocoa Production
7. 13:40 Logistics and Supply Chain Challenges
8. 16:29 Weather Risk Communication in the Private Sector
9. 20:25 Break 2
10. 20:27 Sustainability Initiatives at Mars, Inc.
11. 22:35 Innovations in Agriculture and Climate Resilience
12. 25:24 The Role of Technology in Weather Forecasting
13. 28:27 Advice for Aspiring Meteorologists

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Guest: Sean Sublette

When science and policy meet, the results can shape the way communities prepare for the future. Our guest today, meteorologist and science communicator Sean Sublette, is on a mission to make sure that scientific insight has a stronger voice in Congress. From years of forecasting and breaking down weather impacts for the public, Sean now sees an opportunity to bring that same clarity and perspective to the policymaking table. We’ll talk with him about why science matters in the halls of government, how weather and climate knowledge can translate into smarter decisions, and what it means to bridge the gap between data, communication, and action.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Sean Sublett and His Journey
2. 00:24 Introduction to Sean Sublett and His Journey
3. 02:46 The Evolution of Weather Communication
4. 05:46 Challenges in Meteorology and Communication
5. 08:38 The Role of Meteorologists in High-Impact Events
6. 10:11 Break 1
7. 10:11 Transitioning from Meteorology to Politics
8. 14:22 Bridging Science and Policy
9. 17:31 The Importance of Listening in Politics
10. 20:28 Break 2
11. 20:31 Weather and Climate in Policy Making
12. 23:31 Challenges Facing the Weather and Climate Enterprise
13. 26:15 Learning from the Political Process
14. 28:56 Advice for Scientists Engaging with Policymakers

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Guest: Dr. Josh Kastman

When you think about Amazon, you probably picture two-day shipping, Prime Video, or that familiar brown package on your doorstep. But behind the scenes, the company has to navigate one force that doesn’t follow a schedule: the weather. From hurricanes threatening delivery routes to heat waves impacting worker safety, weather impacts nearly every aspect of Amazon’s operations. And at the center of it all is Dr. Josh Kastman, Amazon’s Chief Meteorologist. Today, we’ll explore how one of the world’s biggest companies forecasts, prepares for, and adapts to the atmosphere’s every move.

Chapters

1. 00:00 The Role of Weather in Amazon's Operations
2. 02:56 Josh Kastman's Journey to Meteorology
3. 05:52 A Day in the Life of Amazon's Chief Meteorologist
4. 09:03 Safety First: Preparing for Severe Weather
5. 12:03 Communicating Weather Risks Effectively
6. 14:21 Break 1
7. 14:53 Forecasting Tools and AI in Meteorology
8. 18:08 Community Engagement and Disaster Relief
9. 21:02 The Importance of Communication in Forecasting
10. 22:41 Break 2
11. 22:42 Lessons from the Private Sector
12. 27:07 Global Weather Challenges and Solutions
13. 29:55 The Excitement of Meteorology in the Private Sector
14. 32:57 Advice for Future Meteorologists

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Guest: Alan Gerard

From tornado outbreaks to hurricane landfalls, few have had a front-row seat to as many high-impact weather events as Alan Gerard. After decades of service with NOAA and the National Weather Service, Alan now brings his expertise to the public through Balanced Weather, a Substack dedicated to delivering clear, measured, and science-driven weather insights. In this episode, we’ll talk with Alan about the biggest changes he’s seen in forecasting, the challenges of communicating severe weather without hype, and why independent weather voices are more important than ever. Whether you’re a Weather Geek or just someone who wants to better understand the skies above, this conversation will offer a rare look at the intersection of science, communication, and public trust…

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Alan Gerard and His Journey in Meteorology
2. 05:20 Evolution of NOAA and National Weather Service
3. 12:43 The Birth of Balanced Weather and Its Mission
4. 23:21 Challenges in Modern Weather Forecasting
5. 31:15 The Role of Independent Weather Voices
6. 33:43 Future Aspirations for Balanced Weather

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