Improve error handling on github timeouts / issues

[jon-shanks]

Describe the bug
If there is an issue with github i.e. a connectivity issue or some error on GH side, there is a panic

To Reproduce

Expected behavior
Better error handling, capture the error and either retry or at least explain there was an error with GH and to retry

Screenshots
If applicable, add screenshots to help explain your problem.

Additional context
Add any other context about the problem here.