WeatherBrains
The world's oldest and greatest weather podcast. Join weather geeks James Spann, Bill Murray, Kim Klockow-McClain, Dr. Neil Jacobs, Rick Smith, Aubrey Urbanowicz, Jen Narramore, and Troy Kimmel along with some of the most brilliant minds in the weather enterprise every week!
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WeatherBrains 1024: Tokin' On A Number
09/03/2025
WeatherBrains 1024: Tokin' On A Number
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a meteorologist, climatologist, instructor, and now author. She has a brand new book just released titled "Wilder Weather: What Laura Ingalls Wilder Teaches Us About Weather, Climate, And Protecting What We Cherish". In her book, she digs deep into Wilder's depictions of weather events and helps readers connect past weather to present weather. She's worked at NOAA for over 23 years. Dr. Barbara Boustead, it's great to have you on the show! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Introduction to Laura Ingalls Wilder and he r background (13:00) Entire Little House on the Prairie series (14:45) Analyzing 1880s weather records in Dakota Territory (19:00) Laurapalooza Conference (21:45) Weather in Wilder's other works (24:15) Further examples of Wilder's writings about weather events (34:30) Today's different climate from the era of authors like Charles Dickens (44:00) Climate is the past, present, and future (50:00) Encouraging teachers to use "Wilder Weather" in lesson plans (58:30) Weather folklore (01:00:00) Where can you order "Wilder Weather"? (01:10:00) Tips for aspiring authors (01:24:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:11:20) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:12:50) E-Mail Segment (01:14:05) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1024: Picks of the Week: Dr. Barbara Boustead - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Out Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - John Gordon - Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1023B: Me And 8 Million Bags
08/26/2025
WeatherBrains 1023B: Me And 8 Million Bags
WeatherBrains Episode 1023B is a deep dive into 2005's Hurricane Katrina. It's hard to believe, but the tragedy is approaching its 20th anniversary. Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain for this somber episode is the Curator of the Ground Zero Museum in Waveland, Mississippi. She's a retired RN and was a former Nurse Administrator in New Orleans, LA. Bernie Cullen, thanks for joining us. Guest Panelist and show veteran Mark Sudduth "The Hurricane Tracker" joins the panel's discussion by looking back at such a significant historical event, the technological challenges of twenty years ago, and looking ahead to the future. He's a well known storm chaser and weather documentarian. Thanks for your valuable insight on tonight's episode, Mark! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Robert Ricks and his pre-landfall Katrina doomsday forecast (04:00) Tropical Storm Katrina forms on August 23rd, 2005 (08:30) 2005 tech available to hurricane chasers vs today (08:45) Katrina's Fort Lauderdale, Florida landfall (11:00) Early Katrina prep in New Orleans (17:00) 1992's Hurricane Andrew and it's forgotten second landfall in Louisiana (29:30) Lack of accurate storm surge forecasting 20 years ago (40:00) Parallels with 1969's Hurricane Camille and its change of forecasted landfall point (53:00) Katrina vs Camille wind fields (58:30) Ground Zero Museum - contents, purpose and history (01:20:00) More TikTok nonsense (01:47:30) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:48:50) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:50:35) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week - stay tuned!) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1023B: Picks of the Week: James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1023A: NWA 2025 Preview
08/26/2025
WeatherBrains 1023A: NWA 2025 Preview
WeatherBrains Episode 1023A is a preview of the upcoming 2025 NWA Annual Meeting in Huntsville, AL. The meeting is only two weeks away from the date of recording (August 25th, 2025). Show veteran Kevin Laws joins us to dive into the upcoming NWA Annual Meeting in Huntsville. He currently serves as the SOO (Science and Operations Officer) of the Birmingham, AL NWS office. Kevin, it's great to see you again. David from the Texas Storm Chasers also drops in to chat with the panel about what to expect at the meeting. Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Tropics remain quiet (02:45) Starting the dialogue of a changing business model (07:55) Baby steps toward progress in the field starting over 15 years ago (11:00) Gatekeeping and resentment among various sectors in meteorology (12:00) Objectives of the upcoming Annual Meeting (23:00) The outdated concept of TV market boundaries (36:00) NWA registration procedures (44:00) How do we define expertise in 2025? (48:30) What will the broadcast transition look like moving forward? (50:45) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (No segment for this episode) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (No segment for this episode) E-Mail Segment (No segment for this episode) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1023A: Picks of the Week: James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Out Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - Foghorn John Gordon - Out Bill Murray - Out James Spann - Foghorn The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1022: Tighter Than A Tick’s Butt
08/19/2025
WeatherBrains 1022: Tighter Than A Tick’s Butt
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a professor of mechanical engineering and applied mathematics at the University of Pennsylvania. He previously served as a principal scientist at Microsoft Research, where he led the development of Aurora. This was the groundbreaking AI foundation model for earth system forecasting. Dr. Paris Perdikaris, welcome to WeatherBrains! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. What is Aurora and the motivation for the program? (08:15) Practical experience and forecasting with tropical forecasting with Aurora (12:30) Success stories with Aurora (14:00) Convection-allowing models (CAMS) (17:15) Convective feedback problems with models (18:45) Emergence of the Google DeepMind ensemble and other AI models (20:00) Aurora's hardware architecture and its importance (23:30) Continuing need of physics-based models in the age of AI (28:00) Ethical considerations and biases in model training data (33:30) Role of US agencies and potential loss of funding (37:55) Communicating AI forecasts to the public and the ensuing ethical issues (42:30) Broad risks of using AI (44:30) Aurora business model (58:45) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:05:25) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:07:25) E-Mail Segment (01:09:30) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1022: Picks of the Week: James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - Out John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1021: I’m Glad You Wear Pants Now
08/12/2025
WeatherBrains 1021: I’m Glad You Wear Pants Now
Tonight's First Guest WeatherBrain is a meteorologist and veteran storm chaser who has documented tornadoes, hurricanes and supercells across the United States since 2015. He has degrees from Arizona State University and the University of Oklahoma, where he operated a mobile radar under tornado research pioneer Dr. Howie Bluestein. Trey Greenwood, welcome to the show! Our Second Guest WeatherBrain is a professional broadcaster and CEO of storm chaser Coaching, hosting over 200 episodes of the Chaser Chat Podcast since 2020. He leads the company's mission to centralize storm chasing education through structured courses and a long-term membership model connecting learners with experienced coaches. Gabriel Harber, thank you for joining us tonight. WeatherBrains veteran Sandy LaCorte also joins the panel to discuss the upcoming NWA Meeting 2025. It's great to see you again, Sandy. Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. End of dog days of summer; fall is on our doorstep (04:30) NWA Annual Meeting 2025 Huntsville, AL (07:30) Invest in others and pay it forward! (13:00) Trey's first tornado chase in 2015 and the takeaways (33:00) Working with Dr. Bluestein in the field (36:00) What is storm chaser coaching and how did it come to be? (43:00) Bill Murray's first tornado intercept (48:45) No such thing as a bust when storm chasing in the field! (52:45) Driving etiquette/mob behavior ruining storm chasing (55:30) Risks/distractions/recommendations of storm chasing solo (01:11:30) Analysis of the economics of storm chasing (01:15:30) Oklahoma storm chaser license legislation (01:18:15) Role of drones in the storm chaser toolkit (01:22:00) Under-appreciated aspects of storm chasing (01:31:30) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:35:15) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:37:15) E-Mail Segment (01:38:30) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1021: Picks of the Week: Trey Greenwood - James Aydelott - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Official launch of the Alabama Weather Network Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1020: Slashing Tires
08/05/2025
WeatherBrains 1020: Slashing Tires
Tonight's special Guest WeatherBrain is Evan Fryberger, who is an independent content creator and a weather communicator who has built a loyal following online. He's a calm and informed voice in the ever-noisy world of weather streaming. His no-hype approach stands out in an age of rising anxiety and clickbait. Evan, welcome to WeatherBrains! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. New record low maximum for Birmingham, AL on August 4th at 77 (02:00) One week away from launch of Alabama Weather Network (05:30) Looking back at 9/11/2001 and Hurricane Gabrielle (19:30) Fighting clickbait and hype online (26:00) 2025 Mental health crisis (33:00) Storm chasing overcrowding and dangers on the road (43:30) Blurring lines and reaching saturation in the weather entertainment/streaming world (46:30) Approaching urgency and calmness during severe weather streams (53:30) National Integrated Warning Team meeting (01:04:00) Preparing for an active severe weather day as a streamer/content creator (01:09:15) When does Evan bring his dog on stream? (01:19:00) Experiences with demonetization and copyright issues as a streamer (01:24:30) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:27:50) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:29:50) E-Mail Segment (01:31:45) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1020: Picks of the Week: Evan Fryberger - Evan Fryberger - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Out Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Out Kim Klockow-McClain - Foghorn John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1019: Colon Cleansing
07/29/2025
WeatherBrains 1019: Colon Cleansing
Tonight is a late-summer unfiltered homegrown show from the panel, and it's an array of important topics, including the launch of the Alabama Weather Network. The panel discuss its mission and vision moving forward. The regulars deep-dive into other pressing topics like confusion over county warning areas, new information about the Texas flooding tragedy, and much more. Thanks for listening! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Telling the stories from the perspective of storm survivors after major severe weather events (14:30) Introducing The Alabama Weather Network and its State-wide operation (16:10) Disturbing story about an emergency manager in early July Texas flooding tragedy (32:30) Appreciating Ben Luna and his contributions (37:30) Different cultures at different NWS offices (40:30) Issues with NWS County Warning Areas (42:30) Lessons learned from Texas floods (51:30) Hope is not a plan! (53:30) Warning fatigue fallout (01:03:00) Rainfall rates explained (01:23:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (No segment this week - stay tuned!) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (No segment this week - stay tuned!) E-Mail Segment (01:17:00) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1019: Picks of the Week: James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - Out John Gordon - Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1018: He Got His Crotch Caught
07/22/2025
WeatherBrains 1018: He Got His Crotch Caught
Tonight's Hall of Fame Episode pays tribute to the legendary late broadcast meteorologist and industry pioneer Gary England, who passed away on June 10th 2025. He was 85 years old. We have three Guest WeatherBrains tonight to help us honor Gary England, who was a pioneer and a trailblazer in the field of meteorology. Our first two Guest WeatherBrains appeared on Episode No. 946. First up is David Payne, who is the Chief Meteorologist of KWTV Channel 9 in Oklahoma City. He replaced Gary England when he retired in mid-2013. He is a native Oklahoman and an OU graduate and previously he spent 19 years at KFOR-TV in Oklahoma City. Appearing second on the show is the morning broadcast meteorologist at News Channel 9 in OKC. She's an OU graduate and has been at News Channel 9 since 2011. She previously interned with Gary England for several years while she was a student at OU. Lacey Swope, it's great to see you again. Last but certainly not least, we introduce Barbara Merckx, who is now the News Director for OU Nightly at the OU Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication. She previously worked with our very own James Aydelott at NBC 5 in Fort Worth, TX. Thanks for joining us tonight, Barbara! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Lacey's experience with meeting and working with Gary England (10:30) Experiences working with Gary (25:00) Gary-isms (48:30) Looking back at 2013 El Reno, OK tornado (50:00) Importance of building rapport with the public as a broadcast meteorologist (01:14:00) Gary England paving the way for future generations (01:28:30) Warning process during devastating Texas floods (01:34:30) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:29:45) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:31:00) E-Mail Segment (01:32:00) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1018: Picks of the Week: David Payne - Barbara Merckx - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1017: Jenny8675309
07/15/2025
WeatherBrains 1017: Jenny8675309
Tonight's episode features TWO special guests! Our Guest WeatherBrain for tonight is an award winning journalist and author who's latest book "Cloud Warriors" was recently named one of Barnes and Nobles's best science and technology books in 2025 with a background in investigative and narrative journalism. He brings a deep curiosity and perspective to the world of atmospheric science. In researching his book, he traveled across the country embedded with scientists at the National Weather Service. His book explores the shifting landscape of weather forecasting at a time that climate change, technical disruption and institutional uncertainty is shaking the foundations of our industry. Thomas Weber, welcome! Our Guest Panlist is the lead meteorologist at the NWS forecast office in State College, PA. He's got years of operational forecasting experience and plays a key leadership role in the accuracy, timeliness, and relevance of forecasts for central Pennsylvania. He's deeply involved in mentoring younger forecasters and helping to communicate critical weather information to emergency managers and the public. He's also a graduate of Penn State. Welcome to the show, John Banghoff! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Role/responsibilities of a NWS Lead Forecaster (11:00) Official "Cloud Warriors" book website (20:45) How early science/technology developed and shaped societies (22:30) Shift at the NWS forecast office in Caribou, Maine in the 60s/modern parallels (28:00) What is a NWS WFO and what does it do? (29:45) Focusing on public service in journalism (44:30) Weather and its ability to be a great unifier (57:30) 2019 Beauregard/Lee County tornado research (01:16:00) Revolutions in weather forecasting (01:25:30) Fighting conspiracy theories and misinformation (01:34:30) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:44:40) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:46:45) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week - stay tuned!) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1017: Picks of the Week: John Banghoff - James Aydelott - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Out Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1016: A Time For Sorrow
07/08/2025
WeatherBrains 1016: A Time For Sorrow
Tonight's episode comes on the heels of another horrific weather tragedy; a Texas hill country flash flooding event that killed at least 100 people. This was a flash flood that we all fear - extreme rainfall, rugged terrain, and was a nocturnal event overnight on a holiday weekend. It's a home-grown show among our panelists, and it's a critical topic about a historical weather event. Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. 1978 Texas Flash Flood/Tropical Storm Amelia (03:00) What makes the Hill Country so susceptible to flooding? (05:00) WEA Alerts issued before flash flood tragedy (12:00) Prior major flash floods that have plagued the U. S. (20:45) Returning to critical thinking about risk assessment and wading through the madness of social media (25:00) Exploring the role of NWS Warning Coordination Meteorologist and the EMA coordination process (37:25) Difficulties of warning the public for flooding events/Call to action (50:30) Warning fatigue similarities with Severe Thunderstorm/Flash Flood NWS bulletins (59:25) Legacy and critical lasting importance radio/NOAA weather radio communication in an emergency (01:11:30) Modeling post-event reports from NTSB service assessments (01:15:00) First ever issued NWS Flash Flood Emergency (01:24:00) Political activist posts following tragedy/cloud seeding explained (01:33:45) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:47:35) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (No segment this week - stay tuned!) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week - stay tuned!) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1016: Picks of the Week: James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Samaritan's Purse/Convoy of Hope Texas Flood Tragedy Fundraising Campaigns Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - Wine Fish John Gordon - Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1015: Not Clear and Concise
07/01/2025
WeatherBrains 1015: Not Clear and Concise
Tonight's guest joins us from Bonn, Germany — and from the far side of the clock, where it's 2 a.m. local time! Lars Lowinski is a seasoned meteorologist with international experience spanning Europe and New Zealand. He now works with WetterOnline, one of Europe's largest weather platforms, where he connects their U.S. business operations with German-based product development and training. He's also an avid storm chaser who's pursued Great Plains supercells and participated in the Hazardous Weather Testbed in Norman, Oklahoma. Lars has been a loyal WeatherBrains listener since 2008 — and we're thrilled to finally have him on the show! Thanks for joining us tonight. Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Is tornado season over? (02:30) Forecasting in the Southern Hemisphere and working with oil and gas industry (17:50) Compare/Contrast experiences in NOAA Hazardous Weather Testbed (20:00) Importance of doing a thorough hand analysis before utilizing model data when assimilating forecasts (21:00) Discussing the European Severe Storms Laboratory (23:00) Importance of working together internationally/globally when communicating severe weather risks (28:00) Breaking down barriers in the science of meteorology through simple human interaction (35:00) Approaches/challenges in weather messaging across different cultures and languages across the world (35:30) Looking back at Lars's storm chasing experiences (45:30) Discussion of deadly July 1916 Austria tornado and it's experiences lost in history due to World War One (55:00) European severe weather warning process vs U.S. severe weather warning process (57:45) Weather-aware subculture in the United States (01:13:00) Rise of Digital Meteorologists (01:16:00) NWS budget update/analysis (01:29:30) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:26:20) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:28:00) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1015: Picks of the Week: Lars Lowinski - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Out Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Out James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1014: Among the Daywalkers
06/24/2025
WeatherBrains 1014: Among the Daywalkers
Tonight's show features an assortment of guests as we take a deep-dive into the National Weather Association - what it is, and why it matters. In addition, we examine how the NWA is evolving in its 50th year. We will talk about the NWA Road Map, the critical role of the NWA seals (both broadcast and digital), the power of professional service and volunteering, and the future of trusted weather communication in a changing media environment. James Jessel is a friend of the podcast and works with Guest Booking Officer Bill Murray. He works for Pinnacle Communications Corporation as National Account Manager and joins us tonight as Guest Panelist. James, it is good to see you! Becca Mazur is the 2025 President of the National Weather Association. She's been active with the organization since 2014. She works in Anchorage, Alaska, where she specializes in integrating new science, forecast methods and tools/operational forecasting. She holds degrees from Northern Illinois University and Colorado State University. We are also honored to be joined tonight by Matt Beitscher, who is one of the lead meteorologists with the NWS in St. Louis. He is the Commissioner of Committees for the NWA. Matt, it's great to have you join us tonight! Kendra Kent also joins the gang tonight for our discussion and is the Chief Meteorologist Fox Carolina News in Greenville, South Carolina. She is a long-time NWA seal holder and Emmy nominee. She was named the 2024 South Carolina Weathercaster of the Year. She's also known for her community service and animal rescue work. It's an honor to have you join us tonight, Kendra. Last but certainly not least in order of their appearance, Isaac Williams joins us from WANF-TV in Atlanta Georgia where he is a broadcast on-air meteorologist. He was formerly the Chief Meteorologist at WCBI-TV in Columbus, Mississippi. He's also an instructor at Mississippi State and is currently pursuing his PhD in Earth and Atmospheric Science from Mississippi State. Thanks for joining us, Isaac! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Memorable New England tropical systems this millennium (25:30) December 16th, 2000 Tuscaloosa tornado (29:00) Becca Mazur's most rewarding projects in meteorology (33:00) Notable professional challenges in meteorology (36:00) Difficulties of time management in a fast paced/digital world (39:30) Dr. George Fischbeck's legacy and passion for weather and its impact on James Jessel (46:10) How did James Spann get into the NWA/History of the NWA? (01:06:45) Preparations for 50th Anniversary/Huntsville NWA meeting September 6th-10th 2025 (01:09:00) "A Brave New World" topic of discussion at NWA meeting (01:14:00) The RON (Research Operation Nexus) (01:18:00) Creation of the NWA Digital Seal/Bill Murray's inaugural Seal (01:21:30) NWA Roadmap Initiative (01:31:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (No segment this week) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:34:24) E-Mail Segment (01:35:35) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1014: Picks of the Week: Becca Mazur - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - Foghorn John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1013: Underwear Older Than You
06/17/2025
WeatherBrains 1013: Underwear Older Than You
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is the creator of Durango Weather Guy Hyper Local Weather Blog that is an essential forecasting source for the residents of the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado. He's a former investment banker turned real estate agent and he taught himself meteorology. He now delivers deeply personalized forecasts to nearly the entire population of Durango, Colorado. Jeff Givens, welcome to WeatherBrains! Difficulties of predicting microclimates (14:15) Notable Iowa tornadoes (19:30) Creation of Durango Snow Lovers page (22:00) Forecast challenges in the San Juan Mountains (33:55) Changing snow patterns over the last few decades (37:30) Jeff Givens most memorable forecasts (44:30) Small town attachment to weather personalities (47:50) Veterans Day 1911 record high and low temperatures (01:17:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (No segment this week) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (No segment this week) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1013: Picks of the Week: James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Out Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Out Kim Klockow-McClain - Out John Gordon - Out Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1012: Regional Hair Club Convention
06/10/2025
WeatherBrains 1012: Regional Hair Club Convention
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is one of the rising stars in the new wave of digital storm coverage. His livestreams have gained national attention for their accuracy, clarity, and his calm demeanor under pressure. He's part of a growing cadre of content creators that are changing how people experience severe weather in real time. He also recently graduated with a degree in Meteorology. Max Velocity, welcome to WeatherBrains! Also joining us is show regular and Birmingham NWS Science and Operations Officer Kevin Laws. He brings extensive experience in the field and has an impeccable track record of keeping the public safe and informed when dangerous weather threatens. Kevin, welcome back to the show! Friend of the podcast Ben Luna from Tennessee Valley Weather also joins us as Guest Panelist # 2 and participates in the discussion concerning severe weather coverage and changing methods of communication. It's great to see you Ben! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: . Early history of Max Velocity's story (11:15) Challenges and philosophy for covering the entire country during severe weather (23:00) Differences of NWS Birmingham warning philosophy compared to other offices (24:45) QLCS warning inconsistency among offices across the country (26:45) Maintaining/sustaining energy and voice during long streams/severe weather events (30:30) Communicating information above and beyond what is available to the NWS (38:40) Local vs National coverage differences and tornado warning fatigue (40:45) Continuing issues/disconnect with the public and weather safety (01:02:30) Max Velocity's future and vision for the upcoming years (01:14:20) Regional differences in weather literacy (01:18:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:26:47) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:29:07) E-Mail Segment (01:30:20) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1012: Picks of the Week: Max Velocity - Kevin Laws - James Aydelott - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1011: Wine Science
06/03/2025
WeatherBrains 1011: Wine Science
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a show veteran and seasoned meteorologist known for cutting through the noise to clearly communicate impacts in a high-stakes environment. He has experience in digital media and corporate forecasting. His insights have earned praise from CEOs, traders and major media outlets like The New York Times and BBC. Matt Lanza, welcome to WeatherBrains! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: . Diving into Space City Weather (15:15) Takeaways from 2024's Hurricane Beryl (21:20) Long-term ramifications of staffing shortages at NOAA (31:30) Lanza article and NWS Jackson MS warning discussion (33:10) Unintentionally confusing the public when assimilating forecasts (44:20) Jackson, KY severe weather event (01:04:30) Max Velocity vs Ryan Hall severe weather coverage (01:10:25) Changing perspective in science communication (01:18:30) Job search mindset and tips to stand out with recruiters (01:23:45) Seasonal outlook discussion (01:33:06) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:36:52) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:39:18) E-Mail Segment (01:41:20) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1011: Picks of the Week: Matt Lanza - Matt Lanza - Matt Lanza - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1010: Chief Smoothing Officer
05/28/2025
WeatherBrains 1010: Chief Smoothing Officer
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is an award winning journalist and author who runs the New England Historical Society. She's been sharing of New England's past since 2013. With a background in reporting, she brings history to life through the lenses of food, travel, scandal, immigration, and weather. She joins us to discuss their new book, “New England Weather: Historic Storms, Twisters, Floods, Droughts, Nor’easters, Hurricanes and Heat Waves.” The Landrigans explore how New England’s wild weather has influenced history and shaped communities—from killer hurricanes to brutal snowstorms to legendary heat waves. Leslie Landrigan, welcome to WeatherBrains! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: . Fetching aerial shots when needed after a severe weather episode (03:29) 1997 Jarrell, Texas tornado 28th anniversary (06:30) 1973 Centreville, AL tornado anniversary (9:40) Looking back at exceptional and extended New England 1965 drought (17:20) Great Colonial Hurricane of 1635 (29:13) Importance of almanacs during Colonial era (39:09) Blizzard of 1978 (50:40) Maine Purple Fire Snowstorm of 1853 (01:03:32) 1953 Worcester MA tornado (01:09:00) 2011 Springfield MA EF3 tornado (01:15:40) Favorite weather folklores (01:26:00) Alabama tornado damage near Redstone Arsenal (01:33:30) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (01:42:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:34:15) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:36:50) E-Mail Segment (01:39:10) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1010: Picks of the Week: Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1009: People Are Complicated
05/20/2025
WeatherBrains 1009: People Are Complicated
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a Professor of Geology from the University of Alabama, where he specializes in synoptic climatology, which focuses on the intersection of weather, risk, perception and public response. His research focuses on how people interpret severe weather messaging; especially tornadoes and hurricanes. He's also a key contributor to projects on warning communication. Dr. Jason Senkbeil, welcome to WeatherBrains! Tonight's First Guest Panelist is a WeatherBrains regular and is the Science and Operations Officer at the NWS office in Birmingham. Kevin Laws, it's always good to see you! Tonight's Second Guest Panelist is the Director of the NWS Operations Proving Ground. He graduated with a Bachelor's in Geography at Arizona State University. JJ Brost, welcome to WeatherBrains! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Baseball sized hail near Bowling Green (06:28) Weather literacy in the U. S. Southeast (09:28) Factors in geography in risk perception (10:41) Path direction of tornadoes (17:15) General public's lack of geographic awareness and its long-term effects (18:40) NWS BMX leads the Nation in FAR and POD (20:55) Two Dimensional map space vs Three Dimensional world space (27:50) General public interpreting text from a NWS warning polygon (35:20) Literacy issues with audiences when distributing a weather forecast (40:30) What does an Enhanced severe risk mean and why is it so difficult to forecast? (01:03:00) Improving consistency with different NWS offices as DMAs dissolve (01:28:30) Parking under overpasses (01:53:00) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (Out this week) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:37:43) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:41:01) E-Mail Segment (01:42:38) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1009: Picks of the Week: Dr. Jason Senkbeil - Kevin Laws - Bruce Jones - Out James Aydelott - Out Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Out James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1008: No Cookies In Cookietown
05/13/2025
WeatherBrains 1008: No Cookies In Cookietown
Tonight's episode is a homegrown show discussing a wide range of topics. Notably, the panel discusses resume-building and interview skills in a changing world, the controversial topic of non-NWS issued watches and warnings, and so much more. As always, our show is all about YOU. Thanks for listening! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Mississippi flash flooding due to persistent upper low (06:00) Relationship between improved physical health and improved cognitive health (10:30) Importance of following your passion in life and in your career (18:30) Do you want to work for the NWS? (19:45) Gift of perseverance and owning up to your mistakes, and learning from them (24:30) Critical importance of diversification in the weather enterprise (30:20) GIS is IN! (31:20) Write an attention-grabbing resume to stand out (37:00) Is it appropriate for a meteorologist or weather entertainer to issue their own watches and warnings? (46:30) Issues with FAR (False Alarm Ratio) in the weather enterprise (01:12:00) Lightning is frightening (01:25:55) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (01:31:33) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:27:42) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:29:00 ) E-Mail Segment (01:30:55) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1008: Picks of the Week: Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - OUT Troy Kimmel - FOGHORN Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Quantitative intensity forecasts to Spc mesoscale convective discussion text and graphics Bill Murray - FOGHORN James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1007: I Am Unsettled
05/06/2025
WeatherBrains 1007: I Am Unsettled
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is author and researcher Kati Wylie Ray. Tonight we learn about and discuss the devastating F4 tornado that struck Poplar Bluff, Missouri on May 9th, 1927. She's been on the Board of the Poplar Bluff Museum since 2001, and has been involved with the Butler County Historical Society since 1999. She started researching the people who died in this tornado in 2017 and has written a book about the event. Kati, welcome to the show! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Memorial for Poplar Bluff MO 1927 tornado (08:30) 98th anniversary of 1927 Poplar Bluff MO tornado (12:45) Tornado distance and path it took through Poplar Bluff (31:00) Opening windows and pressure equalization fallacy when preparing for an imminent tornado (36:50) Artifact collection from the tornado (50:45) Origins of funding to rebuild Poplar Bluff after the tornado (57:00) Differences in how fast news was spread and the mechanisms in the 1920s compared to today (59:20) Origins of the National Weather Service (01:03:00) May 5, 1933 Helena Alabama tornado (01:09:00) Emergency medicine in the 1920s (01:10:00) Mass exodus at the NWS (01:30:30) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (01:42:25) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:17:40) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:19:35) E-Mail Segment (01:21:35) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1007: Picks of the Week: Kati Wylie Ray - Kati Wylie Ray - Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - Out John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1006: Farmer McNasty Pants
04/29/2025
WeatherBrains 1006: Farmer McNasty Pants
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain has a 25-year history in aviation. He is an experienced skydiver with over 700 jumps, a fixed-wing pilot with a seaplane rating, and a commercial hot air balloon pilot. His company, Champagne Sunrise, operates out of Meridian, Mississippi, and has safely taken hundreds of passengers on unforgettable balloon rides over the years. Beyond commercial operations, he uses Champagne Sunrise for community outreach, including delivering letters to the North Pole for Santa with local schools and donating tethered balloon rides to the local children’s museum. During the week, he serves as the General Manager of Peavey Electronics, one of the largest manufacturers of musical instruments and professional audio equipment in the world, with sales in over 136 countries. Additionally, he is a Board Member of the Balloon Federation of America (BFA). Fred Poole, welcome to WeatherBrains! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Conditional severe weather threat in Nation's Heartland (01:00) Potential issues for severe thunderstorms on May 1st (04:30) Differences between base jumping vs sky diving (11:30) Base level weather knowledge needed for hot air balloon piloting (20:30) What it is like to ride in seaplanes (29:50) Utilizing Windy.com in aviation and hot air balloon piloting (34:30) Balloon chasing before the days of GPS (44:30) Hot air balloon designs/artwork/decorations (49:45) Fabric/materials used in hot air balloons (51:30) On-site weather operations/protocol for hot air balloon festivals (53:00) Hot air balloon safety precautions (58:15) Typical hot air balloon clientele and standard flight preparation (01:03:07) Hot air balloon instrumentation (01:06:30) Unique rides (01:15:00) Balloon Federation of America (01:17:30) Communication and radio equipment (01:21:45) Saint Louis University loses meteorology program (01:30:00) Importance of past analogs of severe weather events for assimilating public forecasts (01:31:00) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (01:33:25) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (No segment this week) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:26:15) E-Mail Segment (01:27:30) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1006: Picks of the Week: Fred Poole - Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Out Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Out James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1005: Barking Up The Wrong Tree
04/22/2025
WeatherBrains 1005: Barking Up The Wrong Tree
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is an Associate Professor at Villanova University, specializing in severe weather risks, societal impacts and hazard mitigation. His research focuses on tornado and lightning exposure at large outdoor gatherings. In addition, it focuses on urbanization effects on disasters and improving public safety strategies. Dr. Stephen Strader, welcome back to WeatherBrains. Brandon Skalniak is a senior emergency management major at Millersville University of Pennsylvania. He is passionate about all things weather, having gained an interest in the field when he stumbled upon the Discovery Channel's Storm Chasers in second grade. Brandon loves weather history, and cataloging the country's significant weather events on radar is his main hobby. Welcome to the show as tonight's Guest Panelist, Brandon! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Manufactured housing safety rules situation (17:00) National Manufactured Housing Database under construction (28:20) Secondary confirmation when warned with impending severe weather (45:00) Generalities on gender reaction to severe weather threats (48:30) Stopping flash flooding deaths and mitigating risk (53:40) Risk ranking metric developed by Dr. Strader (59:40) NASCAR lightning strike protocol (01:06:00) Tradeoffs when considering weather safety and proper procedure when in a warning (01:18:30) Further observations on tornado-related fatalities in mobile homes (01:23:00) Continued FAR in the industry and the fallout of these problems (01:25:00) Average lead-time of severe weather warnings (0 1:25:30) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (01:45:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:29:14) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:30:40) E-Mail Segment (01:31:55) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1005: Picks of the Week: Brandon Skalniak - Brandon Skalniak - Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1004: You’ll Never Be As Good As That Guy In The 80s
04/15/2025
WeatherBrains 1004: You’ll Never Be As Good As That Guy In The 80s
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is an AMS Certified Broadcast Meteorologist and Weather Communications Coach whose mission is to keep communities safe and help people live better lives through effective, viewer-focused weather communication. A four-time Emmy winner, Tim brings decades of major-market experience and was among the first in the nation to incorporate augmented reality into daily forecasts. Tim Heller, welcome back to WeatherBrains! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Significant severe thunderstorm activity in West Virginia (01:10) Lack of relevant online weather content by local TV stations (08:00) Tech early adopters and its influence on the field (15:00) Death of newspapers and other products of a bygone era (17:10) Issues with corporate meddling in local meteorologist televised forecasts (25:50) How technical should a TV meteorologist be when giving a public forecast? (31:00) Emotional toll of weather-related trauma (44:15) Four key lessons that broadcast meteorologists need to UNLEARN! (48:00) Earning social media followers and how it has changed the business (50:30) Difficulty communicating certainty and timing for winter weather events (01:06:15) Emerging prevalence of AI in the weather community (01:10:00) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (01:26:10) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:31:40) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:33:48) E-Mail Segment (01:34:50) and more! Web Sites from Episode 1004: Picks of the Week: Tim Heller - Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - Out John Gordon - John Gordon - Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1003: I’ve Eaten 20 Year Old SPAM
04/08/2025
WeatherBrains 1003: I’ve Eaten 20 Year Old SPAM
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a prolific author and Southern preparedness expert who has written over 75 novels that blend gripping survival scenarios with real world lessons drawn from his professional training in emergency management. His work spans everything from tornadoes and hurricanes to grid-down solar flare events. His storytelling offers a uniquely grounded, Southern approach to self-reliance and resilience. Ron Foster, welcome! Tonight's Guest Panelist is Jared Rennie, research meteorologist at NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information in North Carolina. He's an AMS-certified consulting meteorologist who is passionate about data, accessibility, climate services and applying new technologies like AI and machine learning in the world of meteorology. Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Cataclysmic flooding in Mid-South (02:30) Meteorologist fatigue after multiple day events (03:00) Senatobia, Mississippi tornado last week (06:30) What is a disaster-prepper? (18:30) Prepper starter kit for beginners (20:00) How to purify water during a disaster (25:30) Living through 1979's Hurricane Frederic (34:15) Different perceptions of severe weather in the South compared to other regions (40:15) Internet dependency and society vulnerability (50:00) Carrington level solar events and appropriate reaction (01:02:00) Recommended basic survival kit (01:11:30) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (01:34:42) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:16:45) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:18:50) E-Mail Segment (01:20:25) National Weather Round-Up and more! Web Sites from Episode 1003: Picks of the Week: Jared Rennie - Jared Rennie - Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1002: I Am Sending You A Hair Clip
04/01/2025
WeatherBrains 1002: I Am Sending You A Hair Clip
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a fast-rising YouTube creator known for her deeply researched and emotionally resonant documentaries on high-end tornadoes. Her channel goes beyond the radar and statistics in order to tell the human stories behind these devastating events. Born and raised in East Tennessee, she combines strong narrative skills with a unique interest in global severe weather, particularly in undeserved regions like India and China. Her work bridges science communication and empathy in a way that resonates with a new generation of weather enthusiasts. Carly Anna, welcome to the show! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Record highs in the South later this week? (01:55) QLCS tornado hits Dothan, AL school (04:45) Origins of Carly Anna YouTube channel (15:25) 1997 Jarrell, Texas F5 tornado (17:00) Relationship between slow-moving weaker tornadoes and fast-moving tornadoes (31:50) Antecedent conditions prior to natural disasters (38:00) March 15th 2025 tornado in Plantersville (46:00) Recovering after tragic circumstances and providing the right answers (50:00) Average False Alarm Ratio (FAR) characterizations/solutions (56:30) Difficulties with QLCS tornadoes in less predictable environments (01:06:00) Inspiring future weather communicators/creators (01:14:00) Bruce Jones/Midland Weather Radio (01:20:30) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:17:58) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (No segment this week) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week) National Weather Round-Up and more! Web Sites from Episode 1002: Picks of the Week: Carly Anna - Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Out Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - John Gordon - Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1001: You And Your Jet Cores
03/25/2025
WeatherBrains 1001: You And Your Jet Cores
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is one of the most respected voices in the field of broadcast meteorology. He celebrated his 45th anniversary with WGN-TV in August 2023, and officially retired from WGN-TV at the end of February 2024. Tom Skilling, it's great to see you tonight! Meteorologist and Former Director of NWS (2013-2022) Louis Uccellini also joins us tonight as a Guest Panelist. He was also director of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction and served as the Permanent Representative of the United States for the World Meteorological Organization. Thanks for joining us tonight, Louis! Joining us as Guest Panelist is a brilliant researcher and recently tenured Professor in the Department of Earth, Atmosphere, and Environment at Northern Illinois University. His research umbrella covers a wide range of topics related to severe weather, particularly the relationship between severe convective storms and climate change by utilizing dynamical downscaling. Dr. Victor Gencini, welcome to the show! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. New Panelist Introduction (05:15) 1990 Plainfield tornado tragedy (18:00) Lack of feasibility to privatize government warning systems for severe weather (25:00) Writing on the wall with budget cuts/staffing reductions and concerns for working in Government Sector/NOAA (41:00) Losing younger scientists to the private sector (55:45) November 17th, 2013 Washington, Illinois Tornado (01:00:30) Long-term budget concerns (01:05:00) Importance of not losing upper-air data when assimilating a public forecast (01:08:00) Development of global radiosonde network (01:20:00) Final thoughts on uncertain times in the industry (02:01:00) Inexpensive cost to taxpayers for NOAA's forecasts and services (01:53:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (No segment this week) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:54:57) E-Mail Segment National Weather Round-Up and more! Web Sites from Episode 1001: Picks of the Week: Bruce Jones - Foghorn James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - Foghorn John Gordon - Foghorn Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 1000: We're Just Getting Started
03/18/2025
WeatherBrains 1000: We're Just Getting Started
Tonight's WeatherBrains is a celebration. Nineteen years and 1000 shows! We are looking back on our journey and celebrating all of these years together, and we wouldn't be a podcast without our most important asset - our listeners! Tune in for this is a one-of-a-kind episode. We are also excited to announce our new permanent Panelist, meteorologist John Gordon! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Montage of David Black's work on early WxBrains episodes (05:10) Happy 1000th Episode Greetings (09:45) Dancing With the Stats: Most Guest Appearances (12:45) Favorite Clips From Listeners (14:30) First Ever WeatherBrains 101 with Professor Peters (36:26) Former Panelist Kevin Selle Congrats (40:15) Marshall Shepherd Congrats (41:50) Favorite Panelist Guests (49:30) Tom Skilling Guest Appearance Recording (59:00) Thanking meteorologist Bob Baron (01:12:00) Looking back at Nov. 15th, 1989 F4 Huntsville tornado (01:12:45) NWS Birmingham Congratulates WeatherBrains on milestone (01:24:50) Remembering J. B. Elliott (01:31:00) Bruce Jones with Midland Weather Radio shoutout for show 1000! (01:49:50) Looking back at difficult/eye-opening subject matter (01:53:50) Meteorologist Ginger Zee Congrats Video (02:07:30) John Gordon introduced as new WeatherBrains Panelist (02:11:50) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (02:07:55) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (No segment this week) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week) National Weather Round-Up and more! Web Sites from Episode 1000: Picks of the Week: Bruce Jones - Foghorn (Just For This Week!) James Aydelott - Foghorn (Just For This Week!) Jen Narramore - Foghorn (Just For This Week!) Rick Smith -Foghorn (Just For This Week!) Troy Kimmel - Foghorn (Just For This Week!) Kim Klockow-McClain - Foghorn (Just For This Week!) John Gordon - Foghorn (Just For This Week!) Bill Murray - Foghorn (Just For This Week!) James Spann - Foghorn (Just For This Week!) The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, John Gordon, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 999: I'm Muting As Fast As I Can
03/11/2025
WeatherBrains 999: I'm Muting As Fast As I Can
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a veteran meteorologist at Bluewater Forecasting in Montgomery, Alabama. He's got almost five decades of experience in the field, and formerly served as the Chief Meteorologist at WSFA-TV in Montgomery for 34 years, before transitioning to radio. Rich Thomas, welcome to WeatherBrains! Brooks Garner of FOX 35 TV in Orlando also stops by to discuss the tornado that made a direct hit on their studios on March 10th, where he covered the tornado live on air and warned his viewers, and in this case, his co-workers! Brooks, thanks for hanging out with us. Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Tornado hits FOX 35 TV studio in Orlando (06:30) Strong unexpected tornado hits Orlando in area that wasn't outlooked/forecasted for severe weather (12:00) Disc jockey/radio, and improving communication skills in order to transition to broadcast meteorology (25:45) Looking back at April 3-4, 1974 tornado outbreak (32:00) Major changes in broadcast television in the last 35 years (38:00) March 1st, 2007 Enterprise tornado analysis/When do we send children home from school during severe weather threats? (45:00) 4/27/2011 modeling analysis/Morning QLCS (47:00) Looking back at 2004 Hurricane Ivan's second landfall on Gulf Coast with same name (58:30) A day in the life of Rich Thomas (01:00:30) NWS layoff rumors (01:35:30) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:15:40) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:18:20) E-Mail Segment (01:20:15) National Weather Round-Up and more! Web Sites from Episode 999: Picks of the Week: Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 998: Bangers and Mash
03/04/2025
WeatherBrains 998: Bangers and Mash
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a retired meteorologist with thirty-five years of experience at the NWS. That includes twenty-six years as a SOO, and he's been a leader with forecaster training, mesoscale analysis and radar interpretation, which helps NWS offices improve proving warning decision-making and lead times for severe weather hazards. Pete Wolf, welcome to WeatherBrains! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Critical Fire Danger for several areas around the country (05:15) Petersburg, VA F4 tornado/outbreak on August 6th, 1993 (9:45) Key changes seen with Doppler radar/Warning systems since the early 1990s (13:45) WoFS (Warn on Forecast System) (15:25) Appreciating the important tools of hodographs and soundings (18:00) SW Oklahoma sounding analysis (Live on 03/03/25) (21:15) Reconciling SRH in QLCS situations (28:00) Tools needed to downscale warnings (43:15) No relation between VIL (Vertically Integrated Liquid) and tornado formation (56:15) Least-understood radar signatures by meteorologists (01:09:00) Improving efficiency of operations in the NWS (01:13:30) AI-generated weather broadcasters and battling automation (01:20:00) NOAA banned from having its own app (01:29:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (No segment this week) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:35:22) E-Mail Segment (01:37:00) National Weather Round-Up and more! Web Sites from Episode 998: Picks of the Week: Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Rick Smith - Out Troy Kimmel - Roswell, NW extreme winds Kim Klockow-McClain - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 997: Merry Go Round of Craziness
02/25/2025
WeatherBrains 997: Merry Go Round of Craziness
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a retired Lead Forecaster for the Storm Prediction Center with nearly four decades of Federal service, specializing in severe convective storms and tornado forecasting. He's a passionate storm chaser, researcher, and an advocate for weather safety. He co-founded the Electronic Journal of Severe Storms Meteorology and remains an influencial voice in meteorology. Roger Edwards, it is great to see you! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Roger's arrival at OU and opening horizons in meteorology (20:30) Connections between operations, research, and visual conceptualization (34:00) Importance of critical thinking in the science (35:00) Importance of growing, building, and passing on knowledge gained in the field of meteorology (40:30) Witnessing rapid progress of technology and applying that to visuals in the field (41:50) Trade-offs between improving technology and what it can show us and lead to development of theory (49:00) May 4, 2003 High Risk (01:01:00) Mesonets and scan strategies (01:05:00) Storm chaser responsibilities (01:12:00) Reduced funding and its impact on severe weather forecasting and research (01:17:00) Loss of institutional knowledge and looking forward (01:23:00) Memorable shifts at SPC (01:36:00) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:38:19) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:40:15) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week) National Weather Round-Up and more! Web Sites from Episode 997: Picks of the Week: Roger Edwards - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Out Rick Smith - Troy Kimmel - Kim Klockow-McClain - Bill Murray - Foghorn James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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WeatherBrains 996: Pull the METARs
02/18/2025
WeatherBrains 996: Pull the METARs
Tonight's Guest WeatherBrain is a seasoned broadcast meteorologist and weather anchor at KGW-TV in Portland, Oregon. He brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for weather to his viewers daily. His forecasting career has spanned nearly 30 years, taking him from the hurricanes of south Texas to the lake effect snows of Michigan, the tornadoes of the Ohio valley and yes, the hard to predict weather of the Pacific Northwest. Rod grew up in Missouri and graduated from Mizzou. He later earned his certificate of broadcast meteorology from Mississippi State. Soon after, Rod earned the seal of approval from the American Meteorological Society and the National Weather Association. He later served on the NWA certification board for more than five years. Rod Hill, it's great to see you and thanks for joining us! Also, Bruce Jones joins us to discuss the importance of NOAA Weather Radio and its integration in order to save lives. Welcome back, Bruce! Our email officer Jen is continuing to handle the incoming messages from our listeners. Reach us here: [email protected]. Figuring out the puzzle as a synoptic weather forecaster (18:30) Advice for TV meteorologists with job security concerns (25:30) Uncertainty for the future in operational meteorology (28:00) Where will traditional television stations be a decade from now? (37:00) Current morale and level of fear and uncertainty in the NWS offices (53:00) Complexities of Pacific Northwest weather (01:02:30) Social media strategies (01:09:45) The Astronomy Outlook with Tony Rice (01:16:03) This Week in Tornado History With Jen (01:19:50) E-Mail Segment (No segment this week) National Weather Round-Up and more! Web Sites from Episode 996: Picks of the Week: Bruce Jones - James Aydelott - Jen Narramore - Out Rick Smith - Neil Jacobs - Out Troy Kimmel - Foghorn Kim Klockow-McClain - Bill Murray - James Spann - The WeatherBrains crew includes your host, James Spann, plus other notable geeks like Troy Kimmel, Bill Murray, Rick Smith, James Aydelott, Jen Narramore, Dr. Neil Jacobs, and Dr. Kim Klockow-McClain. They bring together a wealth of weather knowledge and experience for another fascinating podcast about weather.
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