Hailstorms cause billions of dollars in damage each year, but how do we study hail to build stronger homes and communities? In Episode 109 of the GeoTrek Podcast, we dive into the world of hail research, forensic meteorology, and building science with two incredible guests: Brenna Meisenzahl – Researcher at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), leading field studies on hail formation and its impacts on buildings. Sara Hudson – a Forensic Meteorologist at CNC Catastrophe & National Claims, specializing in storm analysis and severe weather damage assessments. Together, we explore: 🔬 How scientists simulate hailstorms in a lab 💰 The financial toll of hailstorms and how we can reduce losses 🏠 How building materials and design impact hail damage 🛰️ How forensic meteorologists analyze past storms to assess damage Check out IBHS here 👉 https://ibhs.org/ Whether you’re a homeowner, insurer, builder, or just fascinated by extreme weather, this episode unlocks the secrets of hail and how science is helping us better prepare!
In Episode 108 of the GeoTrek Podcast, we explore how extreme winter weather impacts the transportation and logistics industry. From blizzards to icy roads, truck drivers and logistics professionals must navigate unpredictable and often dangerous conditions to keep supply chains moving. Our guest, Gary Falldin, Senior Director of Industry Solutions at Platform Science, shares expert insights into how technology and best practices help fleets operate safely and efficiently in severe weather. Join Dr. Hal Needham and Gary as they discuss: 🚛 The biggest winter weather challenges for trucking fleets ❄️ How advanced weather-intelligence technology helps drivers make safer decisions 📦 The impact of extreme weather on delivery deadlines and industry contracts 🌨️ Should truck drivers be required to pass winter driving training? Whether you're in the transportation industry, love extreme weather stories, or just want to understand how storms affect our global economy, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!
In Episode 107 of the GeoTrek Podcast, we analyze the devastating January 2025 wildfires in Southern California and discuss how communities can better prepare for future wildfire threats. Our special guest, Steve Hawks, Senior Director for Wildfire at IBHS and former CAL FIRE Battalion Chief, brings decades of expertise in wildland firefighting and fire prevention. Having been deployed to the LA fires, he shares firsthand insights into wildfire behavior, risk mitigation, and the importance of building resilience. Join us as they explore: 🔥 How wildfires differ from house fires and why they threaten homes from the outside 🌍 The highest-risk wildfire zones across the U.S. and what makes them vulnerable 🏡 Key strategies for protecting homes, from landscaping to building design 🛠️ Fire-resistant construction materials and their role in reducing property loss 📜 The future of fire-resistant building codes and what needs to change Whether you live in a wildfire-prone area or want to learn more about fire science and mitigation, this episode delivers critical insights for homeowners, builders, and policymakers alike.
In Episode 106 of GeoTrek, we explore the fascinating intersection of extreme weather and professional sports. Special guest Mark Paquette, an expert on how weather influences sports, gambling, and betting, joins Dr. Hal Needham to discuss the surprising ways weather conditions impact athlete performance and game outcomes. From wind and rain to heat and humidity, discover how teams and athletes adapt to the elements, and learn why weather is a critical factor for sports analysts, bettors, and fans alike. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a weather buff, or curious about the science behind athletic performance, this episode offers unique insights you won’t want to miss!
Join us for Episode 105 of the GeoTrek Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of avalanches! Simon Trautman, Director of the National Avalanche Center, breaks down the science behind how avalanches form, the tools forecasters use to predict them, and the essential steps to interpret avalanche ratings for safer mountain adventures. In this episode, Simon and Dr. Hal Needham discuss the Avalanche Danger Scale, highlight the intricacies of avalanche forecasting, and share captivating images of avalanche events. Learn how to assess and manage avalanche risks, navigate hazardous conditions safely, and discover what a real-life rescue operation involves. Whether you're a skier, mountaineer, or simply curious about the natural forces shaping our world, this episode delivers valuable insights to keep you informed and prepared.