I’ve written in the past a few times about some emergency management and homeland security podcasts that I recommend.  As a podcaster myself, I’ve become a bit more discerning about what I listen to, which is a pretty extensive library of nerd culture, EM/HS, entrepreneurial, and political commentary podcasts.  I’ve recently come across a new podcast which is absolutely being added to my regular listening, and that’s Catastrophe!

Catastrophe! is hosted by Jess Phoenix and her husband Carlos.  Jess is a volcanologist with numerous television appearances and interviews related to such, and is well versed in a range of topics within emergency management and climate change.  Carlos is a cybersecurity and risk management expert, and together they run the non-profit Blueprint Earth.  The two complement each other well as hosts and are able to bring their experiences into the discussion.

As of my writing, Catastrophe! has released four episodes, with the current focus being on human caused disasters.  I’ve so far listened to the introductory episode and the fourth episode, which is on the Centralia PA Mine Fire, a disaster that has fascinated me for years.  While I do need to jump back to episodes 2 and 3, I’ll say that even in just the span of a few episodes, Jess and Carlos got more comfortable behind the mic, providing much smoother conversations.

The coverage they give on the catastrophes they discuss is great, with well researched topics and a presentation style that is interesting, entertaining, and even a bit instructional as they break down some of the technical aspects within each show’s topic area.  They have largely dedicated themselves to being a family friendly podcast, so I’d say that their show is appropriate for teens on up.  Their website, catastropheshow.com, also includes some great information complementing each show, with pictures, maps, links, and references.

I’m hopeful that Catastrophe! has a long and successful run.  You can find it through all the regular podcast apps or stream episodes from their website. Follow them on Twitter @catastrophepod and be sure to give them a listen, subscribe, and leave reviews wherever you find your podcasts.  I’m hopeful that they cover the Boston molasses flood soon!

• Tim Riecker, CEDP