In this episode of Resilient Forward, Paul Taylor, Growth Director for Resilient Services at Black & Veatch and former FEMA Region 7 Administrator, joins Irela Bagué, David Rathke, and Pepper Uchino to discuss what FEMA reform could mean for disaster recovery. They share practical steps that local governments can take to prepare for the next storm, emphasize the importance of getting funding into communities quickly, and explore how the return of BRIC grants indicates that mitigation funding may finally be heading in the right direction.

In this episode of Resilient Forward, Irela Bagué, David Rathke, and Pepper Uchino sit down with Florida Chief Resilience Officer Eddy Bouza II to discuss the progress of the Resilient Florida Program, the recent signing of Florida's Coastal Resilience legislation, and the investments helping communities prepare for future risks. From vulnerability assessments and infrastructure projects to supporting local governments and measuring long-term outcomes, the conversation explores how resilience is being put into action across the state.

In this episode of Resilient Forward, Irela Bagué, David Rathke, and Pepper Uchino are joined by Dr. Erik Stabenau of The Everglades Foundation to discuss the current drought and its impact on the Everglades. The conversation also touches on recent legislative developments shaping resilience and water management across the state.

As Florida navigates drought conditions, shifting Senate priorities, and evolving environmental policy, what role does the ocean economy play in shaping the state’s future? In this episode of Resilient Forward, Irela Bagué, David Rathke, and Pepper Uchino sit down with Dr. Colin Polsky — Professor of Geosciences at Florida Atlantic University and newly appointed leader of Florida’s Office of Ocean Economy — to explore the intersection of science, policy, and economic opportunity. From water scarcity and legislative impacts to the promise of Florida’s blue economy, this conversation unpacks the risks, realities, and strategies shaping the state's future.

Resilience, Risk & What’s Next: Closing Out 2025, Looking Ahead to 2026 by Resilient Forward

Florida is leading the wave in resilience. In this episode, David and Pepper recap key takeaways from the Florida Resilience Conference — from AI-powered innovation and creative funding to the growing One Water movement. Special guest Gary Hubbard from the City of Winter Haven joins to share how his team is pioneering an integrated, sustainable approach to managing all water as one. Resilience Forward — Florida’s path to a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.

Featuring Jonathan Lord, Director of Emergency Management, this episode explores restoration successes, emergency response strategies, and what lies ahead for the state.

Exploring how tech and teamwork are changing the storm game.

We are back! In this episode: ✅ 2025 FL legislative session recap ✅ FEMA Review Council's impact ✅ Preview of the 2025 FL Resilience Conference

We had the pleasure to speak with Chief Meteorologist of NBC6 John Morales. Listen in as we discuss the 2020 hurricane season projections, hurricane preparations during a pandemic, lessons learned from Hurricane Maria, the importance of scientists and climate advocacy in meteorology. If you would like to know more about John Morales follow him on social: Twitter: https://twitter.com/johnmoralesnbc6 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnmoralesnbc6/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnmoralesnbc6/ To learn more about NBC6 First Alert Doppler 6000 visit https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/first-alert-doppler-6000-2/30882/. Learn more about Resilient Forward at www.resilientforward.com Follow us on Twitter @ResilientFWD, Facebook @ResilientForward, and Instagram @ResilientForward Resilient Forward is also available on iTunes, Spotify, iHeart, Stitcher, and Google Play. Hosted by Irela Bagué |​ Produced by Ana Fiotte