Episode Description:

In this episode of The Optimist Daily’s Weekly Roundup, Karissa and Arielle shine a light on the devastating California wildfires and explore actionable solutions for recovery and resilience. From supporting first responders and evacuees to mitigating the health risks of wildfire smoke, they share practical tips and inspiring stories of community efforts. Plus, they highlight other uplifting solutions from around the world.

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Transcript:

Theme music

Karissa

Hello, and welcome to The Optimist Daily’s weekly roundup. I’m Karissa.

Arielle

And I’m Arielle, and we’re working hard to put solutions in view and optimism in movement.

Karissa

Well, hello! We’re back again with another episode of our pod to share this week’s solutions from the Optimist Daily. How are you doing today, Arielle?

Arielle

Well, I usually take this time to complain about the weather in Amsterdam because it’s always raining, but considering everything that’s been happening in California lately…

Karissa

Uh-huh.

Arielle

I have a new appreciation for how damp it is here. So, yeah, that’s a change in my perspective. How about you, Karissa? I know you’re a lot closer to the fires.

Karissa

Yeah, I’m not too close to the Southern California fires since I’m up in NorCal in the Central Valley, but I have a lot of friends down there who’ve been affected—either by evacuations or just being in the middle of the chaos. The whole area is dealing with so many fires. I think everyone, even globally, knows someone who’s been impacted. LA is such a melting pot of the entire world. You were even saying earlier in our meeting, Arielle, that you had people you wanted to check up on.

Arielle

Mm-hmm. People here in Europe are definitely talking about it, as well. It’s just devastating to see what’s on the news—people losing not just their homes but their keepsakes, their memories, and everything they’ve worked for.

Karissa

Yeah.

Arielle

It’s really touching everyone, even over here. Obviously, we haven’t been able to think about much else. So both of our solutions this week have to do with the California wildfires.

Karissa

Yeah.

Arielle

I guess I’ll jump into my solution.

Karissa

Let’s hear it.

Arielle

The article I chose to highlight is How to Help Victims of California Wildfires: A Guide to Supporting Relief Efforts. As we’ve said, the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County have dominated the news. These fires have destroyed thousands of homes, scorched tens of thousands of acres, and displaced countless families. But amidst the devastation, there’s been an outpouring of support, resilience, and opportunities to help. Karissa, obviously, It’s a heavy topic, but there are ways we can all make an impact, no matter where we are.

Karissa

Yeah, absolutely. It’s heartbreaking to see what’s happening, but it’s also incredible to witness people coming together. There’s so much we can do, from donating to volunteering, no matter where we are. So, let’s break it down for our listeners.

Arielle

Yes! So first up, let’s talk about evacuees. Many have lost everything and are relying on evacuation centers for basic needs. CBS News Los Angeles has teamed up with the American Red Cross to provide food, water, and emergency supplies. Donations to the Red Cross help ensure that displaced families have access to essentials during this chaotic time.

Karissa

Nice.

Arielle

World Central Kitchen, founded by the amazing Chef José Andrés in 2010 in response to the Haiti earthquake, is also stepping in. They’ve been distributing meals across Southern California. I just love how Chef Andrés always shows up in crises like this. Such a force for good. He’s delivered or served meals for people affected by so many disasters and conflicts—Hurricane Harvey, the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine conflict, and way, way more.

Karissa

Yeah, he’s definitely a rock star in the humanitarian world. I always appreciate hearing about how he shows up.

Arielle

Mm-hmm.

Karissa

It’s not just about the food; it’s about showing people that they’re cared for during these difficult times. Just a hot meal can be so comforting when everything else feels out of control.

Arielle

Yeah, I mean, I know I’m the kind of person who eats my feelings.

Karissa

Same here!

Arielle

OK, now let’s talk about those on the front lines—the first responders. Firefighters are working tirelessly to battle these infernos, and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is raising funds to equip them with all the tools they need.

Karissa

Yeah, and it’s easy to forget just how much they go through—not just the physical exhaustion but also the emotional toll. Supporting their Wildfire Emergency Fund is such a direct way to say, “We see you, and we’re here to support you.”

Arielle

Exactly. It’s about empowering them to keep doing their vital work, and every dollar helps. Another big area of need is helping families rebuild their lives completely. The California Fire Foundation is offering financial aid through its Wildfire and Disaster Relief Fund. These funds go toward everything from rebuilding homes to providing mental health support. The League of California Community Foundations is also doing incredible work, coordinating efforts for those impacted by the Palisades and Eaton fires. They’ve rebuilt homes, restored belongings, and provided counseling in past disasters. Such life-changing support.

Karissa

Yeah, it really is. Mental health services are such an important piece of the puzzle. It’s not just about recovering physically but also emotionally. This is great work.

Arielle

For immediate relief, organizations like the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank are collecting food donations and recruiting volunteers. The Anderson Munger Family YMCA in Koreatown is also accepting food, snacks, water, and emergency supplies.

Karissa

If you’re local to the area, volunteering at places like the food bank can be such a meaningful way to help—sorting donations, distributing essentials. It’s hands-on, tangible support that makes a real difference. And I’ve been really pleased to see that a lot of these distribution centers have been so full of help that they’ve had to turn people away. It’s great to see so many stepping up.

Arielle

Yeah.

Karissa

Hopefully, people will continue to show up and keep the momentum going because this is going to be a long road to recovery.

Arielle

Exactly. Whether you’re in California, halfway across the country, or even in Europe like me, there are ways to help.

Karissa

Yeah.

Arielle

Just to go over it again—donate to trusted organizations like the American Red Cross, World Central Kitchen, and the California Fire Foundation. Volunteer if you’re local. Places like the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and the Anderson Munger Family YMCA need helping hands. And at the very least, spread awareness by sharing these efforts on social media, within your community, or wherever you have reach.

Karissa

Absolutely. And let’s not forget about staying informed. Follow updates, share resources and be a voice for those affected.

Arielle

Recovery from these wildfires won’t happen overnight. It’s going to take collective effort and a lot of compassion, but every contribution, no matter how small, adds up.

Karissa

Yeah, absolutely. And let’s remember that supporting these efforts isn’t just about giving—it’s about hope and showing our neighbors that they’re not alone.

Arielle

Now, moving on from people who are offering support from the outside, I think you have a solution that helps people who are directly affected.

Karissa

Yeah. So, I guess this is kind of for those who have been affected. I know a lot of our readership and following is based in Southern California since our headquarters are in Santa Barbara—not too far from LA. Santa Barbara has experienced its fair share of fires, too. I lived there for many years, so I’ve seen this firsthand.

The solution I’m sharing today is called How to Safeguard Your Health After Wildfire Smoke Invades Your Home. When wildfires tear through neighborhoods, they don’t just burn vegetation. They engulf homes, cars, and everyday materials like electronics, paint, and plastics. These human-made materials release toxic chemicals into the air, which can infiltrate nearby homes, bringing risks that persist long after the flames are extinguished.

This is something I didn’t fully understand until I experienced my first really bad wildfire in 2017—the Thomas Fire—while living in Santa Barbara.

Arielle

Wow. It’s wild to think about how those materials we don’t even notice in our daily lives can turn into serious health risks after a wildfire. As if people didn’t already have enough to worry about.

Karissa

Yeah.

Arielle

I can’t imagine how shocking that must have been for you back then. I didn’t even know you had experienced a wildfire.

Karissa

Yeah, it was definitely a crazy time. It was my first quarter of college, living away from home at 18 years old. It was pretty scary. I remember not being able to leave campus because there hadn’t been any word about class cancellations yet. My parents were freaking out—they were five hours away and couldn’t come get me.

Arielle

Hmm.

Karissa

I remember my dad explicitly telling me, “You need to find a mask to wear,” because of all the particles in the air from things burning. I honestly hadn’t even thought about it until then.

Arielle

Mm. That sounds intense.

Karissa

Yeah. Research highlights that smoke from burned human-made materials is different from natural wildfire smoke, carrying potentially more hazardous pollutants. Once inside, these chemicals can embed themselves in furniture, walls, and surfaces, continuing to off-gas harmful substances for weeks or even months. For people returning to homes affected by wildfires, understanding these risks is crucial to mitigating long-term health impacts.

Arielle

It’s honestly kind of terrifying to think about how long those pollutants can linger. Even after the fires are out and the skies look clear, the danger is literally still in your home.

Karissa

Yeah.

Arielle

What does the science say about the impact of indoor wildfire smoke?

Karissa

Well, studies conducted after the 2021 Marshall Fire in Colorado revealed concerning levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in homes exposed to wildfire smoke. VOCs like benzene and formaldehyde are known carcinogens, while PAHs and other pollutants can irritate the respiratory system and skin.

In a survey of residents six months after the fire, over half reported symptoms they attributed to the event. Common issues included itchy eyes (33%), headaches (30%), and dry coughs (27%). I actually experienced some of this myself during the Thomas Fire—I had itchy, swollen eyes, and it was horrible.

Arielle

That sounds awful.

Karissa

Yeah, it was. Many residents linked their symptoms to lingering smells of smoke and chemicals in their homes. Proximity to destroyed structures increased the likelihood of symptoms, with a 21% rise in reported headaches for every 10 additional burned buildings within 820 feet of a home.

While some symptoms diminished over time, a third of surveyed residents still reported health concerns a year after the fire, and similar numbers persisted two years later. Researchers are continuing to study the long-term implications of exposure to VOCs and other pollutants. While exact exposure levels are difficult to measure, the persistence of unusual smells in affected homes suggests VOCs may still be present, raising concerns about their potential health impacts.

Arielle

Okay, that’s a pretty grim picture—people dealing with the aftermath for years.

Karissa

Yeah.

Arielle

I mean, you don’t think about how something as small as a lingering smell could indicate VOCs still hanging around in the air. It sounds like this problem really needs clear, actionable solutions, especially as wildfires are becoming more common worldwide. What can people do to protect themselves and their homes after exposure to wildfire smoke?

Karissa

Well, if your home has been exposed to wildfire smoke or ash, taking proactive measures can reduce health risks for you and your family. Here are some key steps to consider.

Number one is to prioritize safety during cleanup. Wear protective gear, including an N95 or KN95 mask, gloves, goggles, and skin-covering clothes. Avoid exposing vulnerable individuals—such as children, pregnant women, and older adults—to cleanup activities. That’s very important. I’ve seen videos of people going through the aftermath of fires in LA and picking through the debris. I’m sure it’s an emotional process, but I’m always thinking, “Wear gloves!” So, always take precautions and cover up.

Arielle

Precautions, yeah.

Karissa

Exactly. The second tip is to clean strategically to reduce VOCs. After a fire passes, thoroughly vacuum floors, drapes, and furniture. Research shows that cleaning all surfaces can help lower VOC levels indoors. Once the outdoor air quality improves, open windows to ventilate your home with fresh air. Replace HVAC filters monthly until odors disappear, and clean air ducts to prevent the spread of ash and particles.

Tip three: avoid harsh chemicals. Steer clear of strong chemical cleaners, which may react with ash residues and create harmful byproducts. For a few weeks or months after the fire, opt for mild cleaning agents and follow safety guidelines when handling any products.

Tip four: invest in air purification. Use portable air cleaners with carbon filters to remove VOCs and fine particles from the air. Also, consider replacing the cabin filter in your car if it smells like smoke.

Finally, tip five: monitor for lingering issues. Pay attention to changes in your indoor environment, like persistent smells or symptoms such as coughing or irritation. Seek professional help if odors or health concerns continue.

Arielle

These are really handy tips. I love how they’re practical and cover both immediate and long-term actions.

Karissa

Yeah, absolutely. While rebuilding after a wildfire can be overwhelming, these proactive steps can help you create a safer, healthier environment for your family. By addressing the risks of wildfire smoke, you can focus on recovery and resilience in an increasingly fire-prone world.

Arielle

Hmm. Yeah, definitely an important mindset—focusing on what you can control. So many things are out of our control, like wildfires. They may be unpredictable, but at least you can create a safer environment for yourself and your loved ones.

Karissa

Absolutely.

Arielle

Thank you for walking us through these tips, Karissa. It’s empowering to know that even after something as devastating as a wildfire, there are steps we can take to protect our health and move forward.

Karissa

Exactly. Well, we also had some other solutions on the Optimist Daily this week—some related to wildfires and others highlighting good news from around the world. What do we have, Arielle?

Arielle

Some of our other solutions include How to Protect and Soothe Skin from Smoke Exposure—I think that’s a republish because it’s definitely relevant right now. We also have Progress Amid Backlash: Corporate America’s Commitment to LGBTQ+ Rights.

Karissa

Yeah.

Arielle

Thailand Bans Plastic Waste Imports to Combat Toxic Pollution and Seven Overlooked Money Tips for a Stronger Financial Future.What else do we have, Karissa?

Karissa

New CFPB regulations erase medical debt from credit reports—definitely check that out.

Arielle

Really?

Karissa

Yeah. And there’s also A Hidden Crisis: What LA Residents Need to Know About Water Safety After Wildfires, From Festive to Functional: European Zoos Giving Christmas Trees a Second Life, and Belfast Leads the Way: Venues Unite to Eliminate Single-Use Plastic Cups.

Arielle

Amazing! If you want to start your day off right, make sure to subscribe to our free daily newsletter to get these solutions straight to your inbox.

Karissa

We also have more on our social channels. You can find us @OptimistDaily on all platforms, including Threads and Pinterest. The only exception is on X (formerly Twitter), where we’re known as @OdeToOptimism.

Arielle

We’re a small team of optimists working really hard to bring positive news to the world. If you’d like to support our mission, click the link in the show notes to find out how.

Karissa

Support doesn’t always have to be financial, either. Just recommending our podcast to a friend, leaving a positive review on Apple or Spotify, or sharing a solution on your socials can make a huge difference.

Arielle

All right. Well, Karissa, it’s been a pleasure sharing these solutions with you.

Karissa

It definitely has been. And I think I speak for both of us when I say we’ll both be keeping everyone affected by the LA fires in our thoughts.

Arielle

Yeah, absolutely. We wish everyone a safe and, hopefully, relaxing weekend.

Karissa

We’ll be back next week with more solutions, and we’re looking forward to it. Until then…

Both

Bye!