Rebuilding L.A.
Rebuilding L.A.
Podcast Description
What’s next for L.A. in the wake of its recent wildfires? In “Rebuilding Los Angeles,” broadcast journalist Kate Cagle examines the systems that failed us, the path forward and the innovative fire recovery efforts making L.A. more resilient. You’ll also hear inspiring stories from real Angelenos working to restore their lives and rise from the ashes. “Rebuilding Los Angeles” is more than an essential resource for California — it’s a cautionary tale for everyone affected by climate change.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers themes related to disaster recovery, community resilience, and climate change adaptation. Episodes explore topics such as the complexities of rebuilding homes and infrastructure in the aftermath of wildfires, the impact of environmental policies on urban planning, and personal stories of resilience from residents like Kelsey Szamet who is striving to return to her hometown. Specific episodes highlight the status of debris removal, considerations for fire-resilient rebuilding, and the emotional struggles of displaced families.

What’s next for L.A. in the wake of its recent wildfires? In “Rebuilding Los Angeles,” broadcast journalist Kate Cagle examines the systems that failed us, the path forward and the innovative fire recovery efforts making L.A. more resilient. You’ll also hear inspiring stories from real Angelenos working to restore their lives and rise from the ashes. “Rebuilding Los Angeles” is more than an essential resource for California — it’s a cautionary tale for everyone affected by climate change.
Just before Thanksgiving, Altadena resident Whitney Haggins — who is VERY big on holidays — told us she hopes to break ground on her new home in the new year using a design she chose out of The Foothill Catalog, which has already been pre-approved by Los Angeles County. It’s got a porch and everything — perfect for watching the sun set and chatting with her neighbors, many of whom are also choosing to rebuild. It’s pretty much a win all around and a positive note to wrap up what’s been a pretty horrible year for many in our region.Given her story, we thought we’d re-air our conversation with Alex Athenson, the co-founder of The Foothill Catalog Foundation. We originally ran this interview back in July just after Foothill got its first design — the one Whitney went with — approved by the county.
Guests:
Whitney Haggins, Altadena Resident
Alex Athenson, president and co-founder, The Foothill Catalog Foundation.
Links:The Foothill Catalog Foundation Website: https://www.foothillcatalog.org/
The Lewis: https://www.foothillcatalog.org/the-lewis
The Altadena Christmas Tree Lane tree lighting on Dec 6: https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2025-09-10/eaton-fire-displaced-christmas-tree-lane-volunteers-altadena-holiday-event#:~:text=again%20this%20year.-,California,that%20destroyed%20many%20other%20structures.

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