Weather Geeks

Guest: Dr. Justin Mankin

When we hear the words El Niño, most of us think about shifting weather patterns—changes in rainfall, warmer winters, or an active hurricane season. But what if one climate pattern could influence far more than the forecast? What if its impacts could ripple through the global economy for years after the event itself has ended? Today on Weather Geeks, we're joined by climate scientist Dr. Justin Mankin, whose research explores the intersection of climate, weather, and society. His groundbreaking 2023 study examined how El Niño doesn't just shape weather around the globe—it can also leave lasting economic consequences that affect countries, industries, and communities long after the atmosphere returns to normal. We'll discuss what the research revealed, why the effects of El Niño can persist for years, and how a changing climate could influence the risks associated with future events. It's a fascinating look at how one of Earth's most familiar climate patterns can have impacts that extend well beyond the weather map.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to El Nino and its Global Impact
• 01:57 Justin Mankin's Background and Climate Science Journey
• 05:01 Research Focus: El Nino and Economic Consequences
• 08:06 Methodology: Using Observations and Causal Inference
• 11:50 Global Teleconnections and Regional Impacts of El Nino
• 16:07 Economic Toll of Past Major El Nino Events
• 21:49 Future El Nino Events and Economic Projections
• 22:47 Break 1
• 22:52 Regional Variations in El Nino's Economic Effects
• 35:00 Climate Change, El Nino, and Warming Trends
• 35:16 Break 2
• 35:17 Applying Research to Future Climate Resilience Strategies

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Guest: Kevin Roth

We all love to think that the outcome of a game comes down to talent, strategy, and maybe a little luck. But there’s another player on the field that nobody can control: the weather. Wind can turn a routine fly ball into an adventure, heat and humidity can test athletes and fans, and a thunderstorm can send an entire stadium scrambling for cover. So how much can weather actually influence the game—and what should fans know before they head to the stadium? Today, we’re talking to Kevin Roth, a sports meteorologist who lives right at the intersection of weather and sports. We’ll talk about forecasting for different sports, how weather affects performance and strategy, and how fans can be better prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws their way.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Kevin Roth and sports meteorology
• 01:57 How Kevin Rxoth became a weather geek and his background
• 03:49 The intersection of weather and sports forecasting
• 07:52 Data analysis in sports weather forecasting
• 12:04 Challenges of using weather data for player-specific insights
• 12:39 Break 1
• 12:40 Impact of stadium microclimates and venue design
• 19:48 Weather's influence on game strategy and player performance
• 23:57 Weather considerations in sports betting and fantasy sports
• 24:40 Break 2
• 24:41 Adapting forecasts for severe weather and safety concerns
• 32:02 Career advice for aspiring sports meteorologists
• 35:46 Future of weather forecasting in sports and technology advancements

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Guest: Dr. Stephen Nesbitt

Five years ago, Dr. Steve Nesbitt joined us to unpack the fundamentals of radar meteorology. Since then, atmospheric science has undergone a massive evolution moving from how we capture severe weather to how we decode it using artificial intelligence and cloud computing. As a UIUC Professor, incoming Associate Dean, and newly named AMS Fellow, Steve has spent his career studying Earth’s most explosive storms. Today, he’s leading a new frontier in meteorology, building open-source tools like Radar DataTree to turn decades of legacy radar files into AI-ready intelligence. We’re sitting down with Steve to catch up on what’s changed since his last visit, how AI is reshaping weather science, and the physics behind the Midwest’s wild tornado season.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
• 01:05 How Dr. Nesbitt Became a Weather Geek
• 03:59 AI's Impact on Meteorology and Weather Resilience
• 06:57 Recent Tornado Trends in Illinois and the Midwest
• 09:58 Break 1
• 09:59 Remote Sensing Technologies in Severe Weather Study
• 15:35 Introduction to Radar Data Tree and Its Applications
• 20:53 Stakeholder Engagement: Insurance and Water Resources
• 22:08 Current Research Projects and Urban Resilience
• 26:17 Break 2
• 26:17 Future Advances in Satellite and Radar Technology
• 29:18 Climate Change and Severe Weather Patterns
• 32:57 The Evolving Role of Academics in Public Engagement
• 35:51 Resources and Final Thoughts

Resources

• AtmosScale.ai - https://atmoscale.ai
• Ed Zipser - Google Scholar - https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0,11&qsp=5&q=edward+zipser&qst=ib
• Relampago Project - https://journals.ametsoc.org/view/journals/bams/102/8/BAMS-D-20-0029.1.xml
• Radar Data Tree - https://atmoscale.github.io/radar-datatree/index.html
• NASA Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission - https://trmm.gsfc.nasa.gov

Guest links

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/steve-nesbitt-b8a06a54

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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

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

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

Resources

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

Guest links

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

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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

• 00:00 Introduction to Marine Heat Waves
• 02:32 Dylan Amaya's Journey into Meteorology
• 05:34 Understanding Marine Heat Waves
• 08:48 Marine Heat Waves vs. Ocean Warming
• 11:38 Impact of Marine Heat Waves on Weather
• 13:37 Break 1
• 13:39 Marine Heat Waves and El Niño
• 17:45 Causes and Effects of Marine Heat Waves
• 20:54 Ocean Temperature Changes and Jet Stream Dynamics
• 22:11 Marine Heat Waves and Climate Variability
• 23:59 Ecosystem Impacts of Marine Heat Waves
• 25:41 Coral Reefs and Marine Heat Waves
• 27:17 Global Hot Spots for Marine Heat Waves
• 28:05 Break 2
• 28:06 Understanding Atlantic Niña and Its Effects
• 30:32 European Heat Waves and Ocean Anomalies
• 31:37 Surprising Discoveries in Marine Heat Wave Research
• 34:13 Climate Change and Ocean Temperature Trends
• 36:22 Future Research Directions in Marine Heat Waves
• 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 - https://www.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

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

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

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

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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

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

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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

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

• 00:00 Introduction and Career Background of Dr. Mike Farrar
• 01:30 The Evolution of Weather Forecasting Technologies
• 04:18 Transformational Advances in Meteorology
• 09:15 The Private Sector and Meteorology's Growth
• 12:16 Break 1
• 12:19 The Impact of AI and Cloud Computing
• 19:28 Modernizing the National Weather Service
• 22:55 The Role of Human Forecasters in the Age of AI
• 26:51 Break 2
• 28:01 The North Star of Meteorology: Science and Service
• 30:18 Skills for Future Meteorologists
• 33:50 Embracing Change in the Meteorological Field
• 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 - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikefarrar-wx/

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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

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

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

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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

• 00:00 The Sound of Coral Reefs
• 06:00 Sound as a Restoration Tool
• 12:02 The Mechanics of Sound Playback
• 17:23 Break 1
• 17:55 Environmental Influences on Coral Soundscapes
• 20:17 The Power of Sound in Coral Restoration
• 26:59 Break 2
• 27:28 Hurricanes and Their Impact on Coral Reefs
• 30:43 Understanding the Time Scale of Sound Influence
• 35:39 Scaling Sound Solutions for Coral Reefs
• 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

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

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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

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

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

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

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

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