In Part 1 of A New Revolution: How AI is Transforming Disaster Resilience, host Rachael Penton Gauthier sat down with IBHS Director of AI Research Dr. Hesam Fallahian to trace the sweeping history of artificial intelligence—from its roots in science fiction and pop culture to its emergence as a real-world force reshaping how humans live and work. The episode explored the major technological revolutions—agricultural, industrial, and information—and how AI is poised to become the next game‑changer. The conversation followed the evolution of AI, from early concepts and landmark breakthroughs to the rapid rise of generative AI and large language models like ChatGPT.

In Part 2, Dr. Fallahian returns to dive into the real-world impact of artificial intelligence on disaster resilience, exploring how AI is transforming weather forecasting, risk assessment, and insurance—making communities safer and smarter. This episode also highlights cutting-edge research at IBHS, the rise of AI agents and behavioral models, and the challenges and risks that come with these powerful new tools. Plus, listeners get a glimpse of what’s ahead for the future of AI.

Artificial intelligence isn’t just the next big tech trend—it’s the newest revolution reshaping how we understand, prepare for, and respond to disasters. In this two‑part episode of Disaster Discussions, we trace AI’s evolution from science fiction and pop‑culture icon to a real‑world force transforming weather forecasting, insurance, and community resilience. Host Rachael Gauthier sits down with Dr. Hesam Fallahian, Director of AI Research at IBHS, to unpack everything from generative models and AI agents to behavioral models, computer vision, and the surprising risks and misconceptions surrounding today’s systems. Whether you’re curious about how AI is changing storm prediction, modernizing risk assessment, or helping communities stay safer before disaster strikes, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of the most transformative technologies of our time.

As we wrap up another year of Disaster Discussions, we’re taking a moment to look back at the conversations that shaped 2025. From wildfire resilience and severe weather preparedness to the latest research on building standards, this season brought together experts and stories that matter for safer communities. Join us as we revisit key insights, highlight memorable moments, and celebrate the guests who helped make this year impactful.

This episode features interviews from experts at IBHS, UC Berkeley, James Cook University Cyclone Testing Station, KB Home, ICECHIP, Geotrek, Alabama Department of Insurance, University of Alabama Center for Risk and Insurance Research, and McRoof Roofing and Insurance Experts.