Grassroots Podcast #L.A. Rising: A Voice of Hope Celebrated Nationally
Grassroots Podcast #L.A. Rising: A Voice of Hope Celebrated Nationally
The nonprofit podcast, #L.A. Rising, created by a survivor of the devastating Los Angeles fires, has recently garnered national acclaim. Named a finalist in the 5th Annual Signal Awards, this inspirational podcast aims to share stories of resilience and hope, helping listeners navigate through their personal struggles.
Launching shortly after the catastrophic events of January 2025, the podcast brings together experiences from various survivors, providing a platform for healing and wellness. The show was born from a $5,000 grant provided by L.A. County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath, along with the support of a pro bono production partner. Kim S. Marshall, a seasoned podcast host and wellness communications expert, leads this initiative, sharing her journey of survival during the Palisades Fire where she escaped with only a small suitcase and two dogs.
A Mission of Healing
The Signal Awards, known for celebrating excellence in podcasting, recognized #L.A. Rising in the Mental Health category, honoring its impact on the community. Judges for the awards include influential voices such as author Jay Shetty and executives from notable organizations like TED Talks and NPR, emphasizing the show's significance in the podcasting landscape. The finalist episode, titled “Writing to Surprise Ourselves: Fire Survivor Kathleen Katims' Saved by a Story,” has also been nominated for the Listener's Choice Award, where avid fans have the chance to vote until October 15, 2026.
Marshall's heartfelt approach resonates with many, as highlighted by one of the judges noting the “raw authenticity” that comes from sharing survivor stories directly from those who lived through them. The podcast aims to create a trusted space where not only stories of loss and resilience are shared, but also expert resources and wellness tools that are crucial for lasting recovery.
Expanding Horizons
The podcast's reach transcends local narratives, drawing parallels to global issues. With an advisory contribution from Emmy-winning broadcaster Giselle Fernandez, #L.A. Rising has extended its discussions to cover disasters around the world—from flooding in Brazil to Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. Each episode not only shares a survivor’s story but also incorporates strategies for coping with trauma, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and learning to understand grief.
A Global Movement
The production of #L.A. Rising is supported by the international podcast agency NOVA, which plays a crucial role in amplifying its message of hope. NOVA CEO Hayden Lyon expresses the podcast's appeal, stating, “This wasn’t just a local story; it was a global moment,” indicating the universal themes of resilience that the podcast addresses.
In early 2026, Marshall and NOVA also began contributing to After the Fire USA’s podcast titled “How to Disaster,” which focuses on recovery after megafires, further solidifying Marshall’s commitment to helping communities recover from disasters.
Conclusion
#L.A. Rising stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in healing and building resilience in our increasingly unpredictable world. The mission of the podcast aligns perfectly with its fiscal partnership with the Creative Visions Foundation, showcasing the collective effort to create a positive impact through shared experiences. To learn more about #L.A. Rising and the incredible stories of survival featured, visit larisingstories.org or check out their Instagram page @larisingpodcast.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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