In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Woolard to talk about Marshall, North Carolina—and what happens when disasters fade from the headlines but the recovery never comes.

During Hurricane Helene, Amanda and I helped coordinate real relief for families in crisis. But while neighbors pitched in and volunteers showed up, con artists slipped in too—eroding trust and leaving legitimate efforts struggling for support.

We talk about scammers who fabricated tragedies to solicit donations, and folks who impersonated FEMA officials. Frauds didn’t just steal money—they sabotaged the work of people trying to help. Amanda explains how she’s mentored honest grassroots groups, challenged organizations to stay accountable, and celebrated small wins—like a local church that exposed an embezzling preacher.

If you’ve ever wondered why bad actors get away with so much—or how ordinary people can make sure their help really reaches those in need—this conversation will hit home.

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Tags:

#MarshallNC #HurricaneHelene #DisasterRelief #GrassrootsAid #NCStories #ScamAwareness #FraudPrevention #WhereTheDogwoodBlooms #CommunityRecovery