The Los Angeles wildfires may no longer be in the headlines, but their impact continues to be felt across the region. That includes the devastating impact of the Eaton fires on the historic Black middle-class community of Altadena. A new podcast from BIN: Black Information Network and iHeartMedia will focus on the community to explore the significance of Altadena, its legacy and the personal stories of survivors and community members who lived through one of the region’s most destructive natural disasters.
The podcast To Altadena, With Love is a five-part series that will be hosted by BIN journalist Mimi Brown. She will showcase how the fire devastated homes and families while also highlighting the courage and determination of Altadena’s residents as they fight to rebuild their community, not just structures, but a spirit of survival against all odds.
“Most people only learned about Altadena after the fire, but its history was rich long before the flames,” Brown says. “This podcast isn’t just about what was lost — it’s about what must be remembered. Because even after the news cycle moves on, this community’s story will still matter.”
The producers say To Altadena, With Love will blend history, education, and firsthand survivor accounts to offer listeners an in-depth perspective on the fires. The podcast will also showcase how the fire devastated homes and families while also highlighting the courage and determination of Altadena’s residents as they fight to rebuild their community.
In episode one, titled “The Fire That Changed Everything,” Brown will recount her personal experience evacuating during the fire and learning about its devastating impact on Altadena. Listeners will also hear stories from survivors like Edgar Johnson, a longtime resident who tried to fight the fire with a garden hose before realizing he had to flee, and 81-year-old Willie Johnson, who discovered the body of his neighbor who stayed behind to defend his home and tragically didn’t survive.
“We are honored to share the stories of the people of Altadena — stories of strength, loss and the incredible resilience that shapes the community,” says BIN President Tony Coles. “This series is a chance to not only educate listeners about the impact of the wildfires, but to celebrate the history and spirit of Altadena as it rises from the ashes.”
The first episode of To Altadena, With Love will be available on Monday (March 24), with new episodes available weekly.
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