The History And Legacy Of Hurricane Helene
Aug 20, 2026 · 28m
Summary
Host Jen White discusses the two-year recovery from Hurricane Helene with reporter Corey Valancourt and author Andrew Aydin. They examine the massive infrastructure damage, federal aid delays, and the spread of misinformation that hindered relief efforts. Aydin highlights his graphic novel anthology, which preserves survivors' stories and emphasizes the community resilience and mutual aid that emerged during the crisis.
Topics discussed
Intro: Trump crime claims, Helene recovery preview, and NPR promos
Guests introduce themselves and detail the massive scale of Helene's damage
Andrew Aydin on isolation and listener stories about FEMA struggles
Corey Valancourt explains federal aid delays and state budget limitations
Andrew Aydin on combating misinformation with a people's history graphic novel
Survivor stories, social media manipulation, and the danger of lost lessons
Discussions on building resilience, infrastructure, and community unity post-storm
Processing trauma through art, community events, and Appalachian culture
Generational ties to the land, long-term recovery outlook, and closing
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