Inside Lahaina’s Recovery: Wildfire Devastation & Hope for the Future

In this powerful episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon takes us to Lahaina—a once-thriving coastal community now navigating the long road to recovery after devastating wildfires.

Through firsthand footage and on-the-ground storytelling, we explore the lasting impact of the disaster and what rebuilding truly looks like—physically, economically, and emotionally.

Mike sits down with local artist and business owner Ryan Staub, whose journey reflects both loss and resilience. After losing millions in artwork and facing repeated setbacks, Ryan shares what it takes to rebuild not just a business, but a sense of normalcy in a community forever changed.

Support Ryan’s work and explore Moana Glass: https://moanaglass.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoo1wpWsKaIYQwTc8WduNF77L8PyZzz8P6PFjYewmaxExS4LNofN

This episode is a raw look at climate impact, community resilience, and the human spirit’s ability to rise—even when everything feels lost.

Why Listen
Experience real, on-the-ground storytelling from a disaster recovery zone
Hear a powerful personal story of resilience from a local business owner
Understand the long-term effects of environmental disasters on communities
Gain insight into climate, rebuilding, and sustainable future planning
Connect with a story that goes beyond headlines—this is about people, not just places

00:00 – Introduction to Lahaina, Maui after the wildfire
01:10 – First look at the devastation along Front Street
03:00 – How the fire spread and long-term impact on the community
05:15 – Signs of rebuilding and community resilience
06:30 – Interview begins with Ryan Staub (Moana Glass)
07:45 – Ryan’s journey: from success to losing everything in the fire
10:20 – The financial and emotional toll of rebuilding
12:30 – Lack of support and challenges with insurance
14:10 – What recovery really looks like 2 years later
15:30 – The unpredictable reality of business in Lahaina today
17:00 – Hope, resilience, and the future of Lahaina
18:30 – How you can support local businesses like Moana Glass
19:30 – Closing thoughts + call to action