In this episode of All Things Wildfire, host OP Almaraz welcomes John Mills, the founder of Watch Duty, a groundbreaking app for wildfire alerts. John shares his personal journey, starting with his life off the grid in Sonoma County and how his first-hand experiences with wildfires inspired him to create a tool that could save lives. Watch Duty is designed to provide real-time, detailed wildfire information that goes far beyond traditional alerts, offering users clear, actionable insights to protect their lives and property.

John discusses the app's growth, its unique features, its impact on first responders and residents, and exciting developments on the horizon. He also opens up about his commitment to the nonprofit model, the passion driving his work, and the collaborative efforts with government agencies and private entities.

Episode Highlights:

1. Origins of Watch Duty:
   • John Mills recounts how living off-grid in Sonoma County exposed him to the dangers of wildfires. His frustration with the lack of accessible, reliable information sparked the idea for Watch Duty.
2. What Makes Watch Duty Unique:
   • Provides a narrative from ignition to extinguishment, giving users detailed context, including maps, evacuation routes, and wind conditions.
   • Designed for ease of use during high-stress situations, offering clarity and actionable data.
3. From Wildfire Alerts to Broader Disaster Coverage:
   • Watch Duty is expanding to include data on floods, air quality, and tsunamis, aiming to become a comprehensive platform for natural disaster alerts.
4. Collaboration with First Responders:
   • Many firefighters and emergency managers use Watch Duty for its real-time data. The app is now being integrated into county-level fire maps in areas like Orange County, Ventura County, and LA County.
5. Impressive Growth:
   • 7.2 million yearly active users in 2024, a 4x increase from the previous year.
   • Raised $2 million through Google.org funding and $2 million through memberships and donations.
6. Radical Transparency and Nonprofit Model:
   • Watch Duty is a nonprofit with a focus on transparency, publishing annual reports to show donors how funds are used. Only 2.5% of users pay for memberships, yet donations support millions of users.
7. John’s Personal Dedication:
   • John has self-funded much of the app's development, investing $1 million of his own money and working without a salary for years to ensure its success.
8. Looking Ahead:
   • New features like enhanced wind and fire forecasting tools, expanded geographic coverage, and professional tools for utilities and emergency teams are in the pipeline.

Show Notes:

• Introduction (00:01–01:19): OP introduces John Mills and Watch Duty’s mission.
• John’s Origin Story (01:19–06:01): John shares his first wildfire experiences and how they led to the app's creation.
• Features and Growth (12:41–15:06): Discussion on Watch Duty’s unique offerings and its user growth.
• Collaboration with First Responders (29:03–31:25): How Watch Duty supports emergency professionals.
• Future Developments (18:39–22:14): Plans for expanding Watch Duty’s scope to cover other natural disasters.
• Closing Notes (43:33–46:21): John encourages listeners to prepare for disasters and support Watch Duty’s mission.

Resources:

1. Download Watch Duty: Available on app stores for wildfire alerts.
2. Support Watch Duty: Make a donation or become a member to help sustain and grow the platform.
3. Spread the Word: Share Watch Duty with friends and family to ensure more people benefit from its life-saving information.

Quote of the Episode: "Watch Duty optimizes for time in life, not time in the app." – John Mills

In this episode of All Things Wildfire, the host welcomes Chin Thammasaengsri, a long-time member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Los Angeles. Together, they discuss the critical role CERT plays in disaster preparedness and response, focusing on wildfires, earthquakes, and other emergencies.

Chin shares insights into CERT’s history, its three-fold mission of self-care, family preparedness, and community support, and practical strategies to engage with neighbors and build disaster resilience. He highlights personal stories and actionable advice, emphasizing the importance of preparation, teamwork, and communication during emergencies.

Key Takeaways:

1. CERT Overview:
   • Established in 1985 by the Los Angeles Fire Department.
   • Aims to train civilian volunteers to support themselves, their families, and their communities during disasters.
   • Offers practical skills in first aid, evacuation, fire suppression, search and rescue, and communication.
2. Three Pillars of CERT Training:
   • Self-care: Being prepared with personal emergency supplies and knowledge.
   • Family preparedness: Ensuring immediate family members are safe and supported.
   • Community connection: Coordinating efforts with neighbors for collective disaster response.
3. Lessons from Wildfire and Disaster Response:
   • The emotional toll of disasters, such as survival guilt, underscores the value of community solidarity.
   • Evacuation planning and multiple escape routes are critical in wildfire-prone areas.
   • Maintaining open communication channels, such as two-way radios, ensures preparedness when traditional methods fail.
4. First Aid and Common Injuries:
   • Glass-related injuries, broken bones, and lacerations are common after earthquakes or wildfires.
   • Basic disaster medical training and a well-stocked first-aid kit are essential.
5. Community Engagement:
   • Start small by connecting with a few committed neighbors to build awareness.
   • Use tools like flyers, educational talks, and apps like Watch Duty for wildfire alerts to foster preparedness.
   • Encourage a culture of mutual support and proactive planning.
6. Practical Tools:
   • Two-way radios (FRS/GMRS) for reliable neighborhood communication.
   • Emergency supplies such as N95 masks, first-aid kits, and evacuation plans.

Show Notes:

• Guest: Chin Thammasaengsri, Community Emergency Response Team member.
• Contact Chin: Email at [email protected].
• Resources Mentioned:
  • Watch Duty app for wildfire alerts.
  • CERT training programs (local fire departments or emergency management offices).
  • American Red Cross and American Heart Association for CPR and first-aid certifications.
  • FRS/GMRS radios available at Walmart or Best Buy.

Actionable Steps for Listeners:

1. Take CERT Training: Find a local CERT program to learn essential disaster response skills.
2. Prepare Emergency Kits: Stock your home with first-aid supplies, N95 masks, radios, and evacuation essentials.
3. Engage Your Community: Start conversations about disaster planning with neighbors and join or form local preparedness groups.
4. Download Preparedness Apps: Stay informed with apps like Watch Duty for real-time wildfire alerts.

Disaster preparedness starts with individual action but thrives through community collaboration. Take the time to know your neighbors, plan together, and be ready to support one another when emergencies arise.

Be sure to subscribe and follow All Things Wildfire for more expert insights on protecting your property and community.

Subscribe for more wildfire updates and tips on protecting your home against disaster.

Whether you're passionate about environmental sustainability, intrigued by technological advancements, or simply eager to learn about the latest developments in wildfire prevention, this episode is a must-listen.

 

The episode provides in-depth insights into real estate investment, with a strong focus on the challenges and opportunities in California, particularly related to fire-prone areas and property management. The speaker shares personal experiences in real estate investment, insurance claim negotiations, and the difficulties of navigating complex regulations in California. The discussion is framed within the broader context of property acquisition, management, and financing.

Key Highlights:

1. California Real Estate Market and Insurance Challenges (0:00 - 20:00)
   • The episode begins with a discussion about the challenges of investing in California real estate, particularly in areas prone to wildfires. The speaker shares an example of successfully negotiating an insurance claim for a fire-damaged property, emphasizing the importance of thorough documentation and the need to challenge initial settlement offers from insurance companies.
   • Real estate investors are warned about the hidden costs of multi-unit properties, such as the significant repair expenses and challenges related to rent control laws. Rent control in California restricts how much rent can be increased, leading to challenges for property owners trying to maximize profitability.
2. Multi-Unit Property Investment: Advantages and Drawbacks (10:00 - 20:00)
   • While multi-unit properties may seem like a good investment due to their lower upfront costs, the speaker warns that long-term profitability may be limited by challenges such as rent control and tenant difficulties.
   • The discussion covers property management strategies and how cash flow can be maximized by screening tenants carefully and ensuring long-term stability in rental income. The importance of detailed tenant screening is stressed as a way to mitigate risks associated with rental properties.
3. Tenant Screening and Rental Income Strategies (20:00 - 30:00)
   • Tenant screening goes beyond checking credit scores and references. The speaker encourages background checks, analyzing social media, and assessing a potential tenant’s overall behavior to predict reliability.
   • Long-term tenants are ideal, as they help stabilize cash flow and reduce turnover costs, which are particularly significant in California’s high-rent markets. Investors are advised to carefully weigh the risks of purchasing properties in regions with strict tenant laws.
4. Investment Opportunities in Other States (30:00 - 40:00)
   • The conversation shifts to out-of-state investment opportunities. States like Texas, Arkansas, and Kansas are highlighted as more favorable markets for real estate investors due to lower property costs, fewer tenant restrictions, and less expensive property management.
   • The speaker advocates looking beyond California’s high prices and regulatory challenges, emphasizing that other states offer better return on investment (ROI) and a simpler management process.
5. Challenges in California’s Real Estate and Insurance Market (40:00 - 50:00)
   • The California insurance market is discussed, particularly the challenges faced by homeowners and investors when dealing with fire damage claims. The speaker notes that insurance companies are under pressure in California, especially in high-risk wildfire areas, which can make it difficult for property owners to receive adequate coverage.
   • Investors are cautioned to account for the significant risk of wildfires and the resulting challenges in securing insurance, along with the high costs of rebuilding in fire-prone areas.
6. Understanding Financing and Investment Strategies (50:00 - 60:00)
   • The speaker shifts to financing options for real estate investors, discussing private money lenders and the flexibility they offer compared to traditional bank loans. The importance of understanding financing terms and using creative financing strategies is emphasized.
   • Investors are advised to diversify their portfolios and consider other types of properties such as commercial real estate or multi-family units in more tenant-friendly states.

Summary of Core Insights:

• California's real estate market presents significant challenges for investors, especially in areas impacted by natural disasters such as wildfires. Rent control laws and high repair costs make it a complex market for multi-unit properties.
• Insurance settlements should be thoroughly reviewed and challenged to ensure full compensation for fire or disaster damage. Investors should take a proactive approach when negotiating with insurance companies.
• Tenant screening is a crucial step in securing long-term, stable rental income. Investors should go beyond basic background checks and assess a potential tenant’s broader behavior, including through social media.
• For investors looking for better ROI, out-of-state properties in states like Texas and Kansas offer less regulatory burden and lower costs.
• Financing options such as private money lenders provide greater flexibility for real estate deals, especially for those who may have trouble securing traditional bank financing.

The episode offers practical advice for both new and experienced investors, guiding them through the complexities of California’s market and helping them explore more favorable opportunities in other states. Creative financing strategies and thorough due diligence are key takeaways for navigating the challenges of real estate investing.

Subscribe for more wildfire updates and tips on protecting your home against disaster.

Whether you're passionate about environmental sustainability, intrigued by technological advancements, or simply eager to learn about the latest developments in wildfire prevention, this episode is a must-listen.

 

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Sautel, a former firefighter, author of The Rescuer, and an advocate for mental health in the first responder community. Jason shares his incredible story of rising from a troubled childhood, battling trauma on the front lines, and finding a deeper purpose through faith and service.

Key Takeaways:

• Jason’s early firefighting days and a life-changing encounter that ignited his career
• His near-death experience inside a burning building that became his “come to Jesus” moment
• The heavy toll PTSD took on him and his journey of recovery
• How mentorship and small acts of kindness can make a lasting impact
• The importance of mental health and vulnerability in first responders

Whether you're a first responder, know someone who is, or simply want to hear a story of resilience, faith, and hope, this episode is a must-listen.

Don't miss this episode – it could be the encouragement someone needs to find their way back to hope.

 

In this episode of the All Things Wildfire podcast, OP Almaraz dives deep into the latest developments on California's devastating Line Fire, which has already scorched over 23,000 acres. Governor Newsom has declared a state of emergency, and the National Guard has been deployed to help fight the fire. OP breaks down the critical steps you need to take if you’re in an evacuation zone, how to prepare your home for wildfire protection, and why embers—not direct flames—are the biggest threat to homes.

Key Highlights:

• Line Fire Update: Rapid fire growth, evacuation orders, and the National Guard's response.
• Evacuation Tips: When to leave, what to pack, and how to stay safe.
• Home Defense: Protect your home with practical tips like covering vents and removing flammable vegetation.
• Aftermath: How to inspect your home after evacuation and what to consider before filing insurance claims.

OP also shares his personal experience with wildfires and provides essential home-hardening strategies to safeguard your property. Don’t wait for the “Go” order—prepare now!

Subscribe for more wildfire updates and tips on protecting your home against disaster.

In this powerful episode, we explore the emotional and transformative journey of rebuilding after a devastating wildfire. Our Jessie Fischer recounts the heartbreaking loss of their vacation home, a place that held countless cherished memories for not only their family but also for hundreds of others who had stayed there. The destruction was not just of a property, but of a beloved space that had become a haven for many. This episode delves into the emotional impact of losing such a significant place and how it fueled a determination to rebuild not just a home, but a stronger, more resilient community.

The conversation transitions into the challenges and complexities of navigating insurance claims after such a disaster. Jessie shares their extensive experience with the insurance process, highlighting the often-overlooked emotional toll it takes. They discuss the adverse effects of these claims and the importance of being prepared and informed when dealing with such situations. This part of the episode offers invaluable advice for anyone facing similar challenges, providing insight into how to handle the process with both practicality and emotional resilience.

As the discussion progresses, Jessie reflects on the broader impact of the wildfire and the subsequent rebuilding efforts. They emphasize the importance of community involvement and the role it played in their journey. The episode shines a light on the concept of Firewise communities and how collective efforts can enhance safety and resilience in the face of natural disasters. This story is not just about personal recovery but about contributing to a larger movement of community preparedness and support.

The episode concludes with a message of hope and encouragement. Jessie shares how this experience has motivated them to create something even more meaningful than before. They talk about the significance of rebuilding with a purpose, focusing on future opportunities for families and communities to come together.

Highlights:

• The emotional journey of rebuilding after a wildfire.
•  
• Insights into handling insurance claims effectively.
•  
• The role of community in enhancing safety and resilience.
•  
• Motivational reflections on turning tragedy into opportunity.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Valkyrie Holmes, the CEO of Faura, as she delves into her groundbreaking work in wildfire prevention. Discover how Faura is revolutionizing the fight against wildfires through innovative data and satellite technology.

Valkyrie shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and her vision for a safer future. Whether you're passionate about environmental conservation, technology, or entrepreneurship, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration. Don't miss out on this chance to learn from a true trailblazer in the field!

Episode Highlights:

Meet Valkyrie Holmes: CEO and co-founder of Faura, a company using climate and property risk analytics to help insurance companies and homeowners reduce their wildfire risk.

Innovative Tech for Wildfire Prevention: Discover how Valkyrie's journey from data science for space tech companies to wildfire suppression has led to groundbreaking advancements in using drone technology and analytics for wildfire prevention.

Essential Tips for Homeowners: Learn critical steps homeowners can take to mitigate wildfire risk, from roof maintenance to vegetation management and more.

Impact on Insurance: Explore how Faura’s technology is helping insurance companies better assess and mitigate risks, potentially leading to lower premiums and renewed policies for homeowners.

Valkyrie's passion and expertise in wildfire prevention are not only impressive but also incredibly relevant as we face increasing wildfire threats. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to protect their property and community from wildfires.

 

We are excited to bring you the latest episode of "All Things Wildfire," where we dive into groundbreaking strategies and innovative partnerships aimed at tackling one of today's most pressing issues: wildfire prevention and management.

In this episode, join our host OP Almaraz as he sits down with two trailblazing leaders in the fight against wildfires:

Jeff Huebner, Chief Risk Officer at CSAA Insurance Group

Zach Knight, CEO of Blue Forest 

Episode Highlights:

Dynamic Partnerships: Discover how CSAA and Blue Forest are joining forces to create impactful solutions in wildfire prevention through innovative financial and ecological strategies.

Wildfire Risk Management: Learn from Jeff Huebner about the proactive steps CSAA is taking to not only respond to but also prevent wildfires, ensuring safety and sustainability for Northern California communities. 

Forest Resilience and Restoration: Zach Knight shares insights into Blue Forest's approach to ecosystem restoration and the significance of managing our public lands to reduce wildfire risks effectively.

California Wildfire Innovation Fund: Explore the goals and vision behind this collaborative fund designed to enhance forest management practices and drive sustainable solutions for wildfire challenges.

Practical Advice for Homeowners: Get practical tips on how to make your home more resistant to wildfires, along with details on financial incentives offered by CSAA for taking preventive measures.

Whether you're a homeowner, a real estate professional, or someone interested in environmental innovation, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration on how we can all contribute to a safer, more resilient future.

Kate Stillwell, co-founder of Fire Break, joins the conversation to discuss her company's innovative approach to wildfire risk management and insurance. FireBreak focuses on creating data-driven solutions to predict and mitigate the impact of wildfires.

Kate shares her journey in founding FireBreak, driven by a deep understanding of the growing threat of wildfires and the need for more effective risk management strategies in this area. Kate elaborates on the technology behind FireBreak, highlighting how the company uses advanced data analytics and modeling to assess wildfire risks accurately.

This technology not only helps in predicting wildfire occurrences but also aids in crafting better insurance products tailored to high-risk areas. The conversation delves into the importance of integrating technology with traditional insurance practices to enhance resilience against natural disasters.

The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities in the insurance tech space, particularly in relation to natural disaster management. Kate emphasizes the critical role of partnerships between technology firms and insurance companies to develop innovative solutions that address the complexities of wildfire risks. She shares insights on the evolving landscape of insurance technology and the potential for growth and innovation in this sector.

Throughout the episode, Kate's passion for mitigating wildfire risks and her vision for a more resilient future come through strongly. Her expertise and dedication to leveraging technology for better risk management make for a compelling conversation, offering valuable perspectives for anyone interested in insurance tech and disaster management.

Highlights:

1. Innovative Approach to Wildfire Protection: Kate Stillwell discusses how FireBreak is pioneering new methods for preventing and managing wildfires, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures.
2. Technological Integration: The conversation delves into the cutting-edge technology employed by FireBreak, including predictive analytics and real-time monitoring systems.
3. Community Involvement: Kate highlights the role of community engagement and education in wildfire prevention, stressing the need for collective efforts to mitigate risks.
4. Personal Journey: Kate shares her personal journey and inspiration behind founding FireBreak, providing insight into her passion for wildfire safety and resilience.
5. Success Stories and Impact: The episode features success stories and the tangible impact FireBreak has had on communities, showcasing the effectiveness of their strategies and solutions.

In this episode of the All Things Wildfire podcast, host OP Almaraz welcomes Diane Delaney, CEO and Executive Director of the Private Risk Management Association (PRMA). The discussion kicks off with Diane explaining her role at PRM, highlighting how the organization brings together independent agents, high-net-worth insurance carriers, and service providers to enhance the personal insurance industry. OP emphasizes Diane's expertise in the rapidly changing insurance landscape and her insights on how brokers can stay ahead of these changes to benefit homeowners and insurance professionals alike.

The conversation delves into the importance of proactive risk management in the insurance industry. Diane and OP discuss how the insurance landscape is evolving, with an increasing focus on understanding clients' needs and tailoring solutions accordingly. Diane shares a personal anecdote about her financial planner to illustrate the significance of listening to clients' concerns and providing tailored solutions, rather than just selling a product. They stress the need for brokers to re-engage with their clients, especially in times of market volatility, to build trust and offer valuable, customized advice.

In the latter part of the episode, Diane addresses the role of technology in the insurance industry. While technology cannot replace the nuanced understanding of human interactions, it can enhance efficiency by automating mundane tasks and allowing professionals to focus on value-driven discussions with clients. They discuss various technological advancements, such as wildfire detection systems and water shut-off devices, which can help homeowners manage risks more effectively. Diane also touches on the importance of collaboration within the industry to navigate the current challenges and emphasizes PRMA's commitment to equipping risk management professionals with the tools and education needed to serve their clients better.

Show Notes:

• The Changing Insurance Landscape (00:01:14 - 00:02:01) Discussion on how the insurance landscape is evolving rapidly and the need for brokers to stay informed to better serve their clients.
• Importance of Education and Training (00:02:01 - 00:02:42) The critical role of education and training in the insurance industry, especially in adapting to market changes.
• Relevance of Competitiveness and Collaboration (00:02:42 - 00:03:26) The importance of putting competitiveness aside and collaborating to address the industry's challenges and improve client outcomes.
• The Need for Proactive Risk Management (00:03:26 - 00:04:11) Emphasis on the necessity for insurers and brokers to be proactive in managing risks and ensuring clients are well-protected.
• Diane's Personal Experience and Industry Insight (00:04:11 - 00:06:38) Diane shares a personal experience to illustrate the importance of tailoring insurance solutions to clients' specific needs and concerns.
• Enhancing Client Relationships (00:06:38 - 00:09:23) The importance of listening to clients, understanding their concerns, and providing tailored solutions to build stronger relationships and improve client satisfaction.
• Technology's Role in Insurance (00:09:23 - 00:10:08) The impact of technology on the insurance industry and how it can enhance brokers' ability to serve their clients more effectively.
• Balancing Technology and Personal Service (00:10:08 - 00:11:03) Discussion on how technology should enhance, not replace, the personal service provided by brokers.
• Risk Management Tools and Measures (00:11:03 - 00:12:20) The benefits of implementing risk management tools and measures to improve insurability and reduce potential losses.
• The Role of PRMA (00:12:20 - 00:13:12) Diane explains the mission and activities of the Private Risk Management Association in supporting the insurance industry.
• PRMA's Vision and Mission (00:13:12 - 00:16:50) The vision and mission of PRMA for the next year, focusing on providing tools and education to risk management professionals to better serve their clients.
• Upcoming PRMA Summit (00:16:50 - 00:20:00) A look ahead to the next PRMA summit, expected to be the largest and most comprehensive event yet, offering valuable insights and networking opportunities for industry professionals.

Key Takeaways:

1. The insurance industry is rapidly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for brokers and agents.
2. Education and proactive risk management are essential to better serve clients and ensure they are well-protected.
3. Technology should be used to enhance personal service, not replace it.
4. Collaboration within the industry is necessary to address ongoing challenges and improve outcomes for clients.
5. The upcoming PRMA summit will provide valuable opportunities for learning and networking.