What do disaster management, emotional resilience, and a good laugh have in common? More than you think! Join Mark (host of Double Helix) and Dr. Dolapo “Dolas” Fakuade, globe-trotting expert in intelligence, security, and disaster management, as they unpack why your connections—to people, places, and even your environment—are your real superpower when chaos strikes. From Christchurch earthquakes to awkward work meetings, this episode dives into how social, economic, and spiritual ties shape our ability to survive, recover, and thrive. If you’ve ever wondered why your half-baked self is no good to anyone, or how to spot when you’re about to implode, this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed.

Chapters & Timestamps:

00:00 – Awkward Name Pronunciations & Intros

02:18 – What Does a Disaster Management Expert Actually Do?

05:30 – How Connections Shape Disaster Recovery: Christchurch Case Study

08:17 – Trust, Communication, and Why Connections Matter

13:05 – The Soul of a Place: Recovery Without Losing Yourself

16:40 – Globalization, COVID, and the Ripple Effects of Risk 19:44 – Are You Actually Prepared? Everyday Disasters & Overconfidence

24:25 – Environmental Connections: Why Airports Have Trees

25:44 – Trauma, Spirituality, and the Unseen Impact of Disasters

32:25 – Community Resilience: Why Farmers and Neighbors Matter

36:07 – Stress, Reflection, and Recognizing When You’re Toast

39:39 – The Power of Social Networks (and Why Google Isn’t Your Therapist)

46:42 – “Your Half-Baked Self is No Good to Me”: The Art of Taking a Break

49:15 – Workplace Realities: Surviving Toxicity and Building Healthy Teams

54:34 – Laughter, Well-Being, and the Secret Sauce of Collaboration

56:42 – Strong Connections = Strong Recovery

59:28 – Wrapping Up: The Intricacies of Connection