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September 12, 2023

100. Preventing Wildfire Disasters A Conversation with OP Almaraz

Are you prepared for the wildfire season? Don't rely on luck – arm yourself with strategies to protect your home from wildfires. I sat down with O.P. Almaraz, a seasoned disaster restoration expert and owner of Allied Restoration and Allied Disaster Defense. We dissect the concept of home hardening and how this preventative approach could mean the difference between disaster and survival. We also delve into a real-life case study involving the Lahaina tragedy. You’ll learn how one house survived, while everything around it burned to the ground.

As we navigate through a hot fire season in California, we also discuss the fears, preparations, and safety measures surrounding this potential disaster. Discover the steps Cal Fire and city politicians are taking to mitigate risks and learn from past disasters. From detailing evacuation routes to vegetation clearing, gain practical tips to make your home safer. O.P. also shares his top three steps to minimize wildfire risks and the importance of community involvement in spreading awareness and preparedness. Tune in to this episode to protect your most valuable asset - your home.

Here’s how you can follow OP:

Website:  allieddisasterdefense.com

Website: alliedrestoration.com

 
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/allieddefense/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliedrestoration/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/opalmaraz/ 

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

September 5, 2023

99. Understanding Disaster Preparedness: A Conversation with Terri Richards

Ever wondered how prepared you are for a disaster? I sat down with Terri Richards, an expert in disaster management, to bring you a comprehensive guide on how to safeguard yourself, your business, and your community when calamity strikes. Terri brings her extensive knowledge and experience to the forefront, shedding light on the critical importance of disaster preparedness for businesses and individuals.

As Terri discusses the cascading impacts of disasters, she underlines the significant role that small businesses play in our economy and the need to protect them. Her expertise emphasizes the importance of early planning, resource management, and community support in the face of disasters.

 
Here’s how you can follow Terri:
 

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/terririchards

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

August 29, 2023

98. How Do You Find a Good Contractor with Jay Jenkins?

Want to build or remodel your home without experiencing the agonizing stress it often entails? Jay Jenkins is a builder/contractor in Tampa, Florida who knows the ropes of residential construction. Jay walks us through the complex maze of building or remodeling, sharing invaluable advice on everything from conducting your own due diligence to crafting an articulate statement of work. Strong emphasis is placed on the art of effective communication, as Jay insists this could mean the difference between a dream home and a construction nightmare.

The conversation delves into the nitty-gritty of planning, contractor vetting, and the importance of specifying your building materials. Hear firsthand from homeowners Kelly and Tre McQueen about their recent experience and how it shaped their approach to contractor dealings. It's an episode with important information for anyone navigating the construction industry!

Here’s how you can reach Jay:

Email: [email protected] 

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

August 22, 2023

97. Overcoming the Nightmare of a Trust-Gone-Wrong: A Single Mother's Journey through Contractor Fraud and Financial Ruin

Ever thought you've hit the jackpot with a contractor, only to be left with a mountain of debt and an uninhabitable house? This is exactly what happened to our brave guest, Katie Allaby. Katie, a single mother, opened her heart and her home to a contractor she trusted—only to be left in a living nightmare. We delve deep into Katie's harrowing journey, from the trust gone bad to the financial ruin and the lessons she's learned along the way. We also discuss crucial steps you can take to avoid falling prey to these unscrupulous operators, highlighting the importance of due diligence when hiring contractors.

Here’s how you can follow Katie:
 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purelykatehealth

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purelykatehealth

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

August 15, 2023

Episode 96 Hurricane Michael, the Rebuilding Continues with Al Cathey

Picture the quaint beach town of Mexico Beach, Florida, now forever changed by the devastating impact of 2018’s Category 5 Hurricane Michael. With former mayor, Al Cathy, we navigate through the harrowing aftermath and the resilience of the community in the face of utter destruction. Al’s personal insights reveal the Herculean task of rebuilding, and the emotional toll a disaster like this has on a community. 

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

August 8, 2023

Episode 95 Mastering Disaster Preparedness with Emergency Expert Barb Payne

Are you ready to transform your home into a fortress against natural disasters?  Barb Payne, a renowned emergency management specialist shares her wisdom on crafting resilient homes that can endure the wrath of Mother Nature.

But, this episode isn't just about turning your home into a disaster-proof bunker. We're also tackling disaster etiquette and community preparedness. Barb emphasizes the importance of self-care in emergencies, equipping ourselves and our neighbors with survival resources. We delve deep into the idea of collective safety planning, with Barb guiding us through practical steps to make this happen.

So tune in, and let's make resilience our new norm!

Here’s how you can follow BARB:

Personal Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-payne-mpa-sas-0510a616/ 

Barbs Firm: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reimagine-resiliency-c-o-of-barb-payne-mpa-64a233186/

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

August 1, 2023

94. Disasters Are Getting Worse Are You Ready, with Rob Moore

In this episode of the Tell US How to Make It Better podcast, host George Siegal is joined by Rob Moore from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to discuss the pressing issues of climate change, flooding, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters. They shed light on the importance of raising awareness, demanding better building standards, and implementing policies to protect homes and communities. Together, they explore the significance of disclosure requirements and flood insurance to empower homeowners to make informed decisions and create a more resilient future.
 

Here’s how you can follow Rob and the NRDC:

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nrdc_org/ or @nrdc_org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-defense-council/ or Natural Resources Defense Council

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-moore-7a61a415b/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/nrdc.org/ or NRDC

Twitter: @NRDC

Twitter: @RobMooreNRDC

Rob’s NRDC Website: https://www.nrdc.org/bio/rob-moore

Interesting Posts & Websites:

 https://www.americaadapts.org/

How States Stack Up on Flood Disclosure

Seeking Higher Ground: How to Break the Cycle of Repeated Flooding with Climate-Smart Flood Insurance Reforms

As Climate Risks Worsen, U.S. Flood Buyouts Fail to Meet the Need

As flood waters rise, outdated standards make the natio

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

July 25, 2023

93. Transform Your Home: Renovation Secrets Every Buyer Should Know!
 
In this week's episode, we delve into the world of home renovation and building, exploring ways to avoid common pitfalls and mistakes. Monika Zasada, shares her expertise from two decades in the industry and her comprehensive training program for homeowners.

Monika's master class focuses on unbiased education, empowering homeowners to make informed decisions during their projects. We discuss the importance of sourcing trustworthy contractors and understanding the four critical phases of any project. 

George and Monika also touch on the misleading expectations set by HGTV shows, urging listeners to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to safety and functionality in their homes. Monika emphasizes the need to prioritize personal preferences and lifestyle over potential future buyers. Get practical advice to help you make smarter choices for your home projects. 

Here’s how you can follow Monika:

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/de_mazing_/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/monikazconstructionexpert

Monika’s master class:  https://www.de-mazingsociety.com/home-construction-survival-guide-2022

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

July 18, 2023

92. It’s Not Supposed to Do That
 
Every homebuyer needs a really good home inspector. In this week’s episode of the "Tell US How to Make it Better” podcast" host George Siegal interviews Matthew Brading, a home inspector from Houston, Texas. Matthew, known for his popular Instagram videos, brings a fresh perspective to the role of home inspectors and shares valuable insights on the importance of a thorough inspection before purchasing a house. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding inspectors, the need for transparency, and the impact of sloppy workmanship. Listen in as they highlight the significance of hiring a professional to uncover potential issues and ensure a safe and well-built home.  You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the value a thorough inspection brings to your home-buying process.

Here’s how you can follow Matthew:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/texas.edge.inspect

Facebook: www.facebook.com/txhminspect/

YouTube:  www.youtube.com/c/TexasEdgeHomeInspections

TitTok: www.tiktok.com/@texas.edge.inspect

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!

Send us a text

July 11, 2023

91. What Does it Mean to be Prepared, with Toolman Tim
 
In this podcast episode, host George Siegal invites Tim Cook as a guest to discuss the topic of disaster preparedness. They emphasize the importance of being ready for unforeseen events and highlight the fact that many people are not adequately prepared. 

Tim shares his perspective on being a prepper, debunking the negative connotations associated with the term. He explains that being prepared involves planning for the most likely scenarios, such as health issues, job loss, or local emergencies. The conversation touches on various aspects of preparedness, including the need for a solid plan, understanding potential risks in one's area, and identifying evacuation routes. 

The episode concludes by stressing the importance of proactive preparation and communication with family members to ensure everyone is on the same page during emergencies.

Here’s how you can follow Tim:

Instagram : http://www.instagram.com/toolmantimsworkshop

Website: http://toolmantim.co/

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/c/toolmantimsworkshop/ 

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/toolmantimsworkshop  

Important information from Homeowners Be Aware:

Here are ways you can follow me on-line:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeownersbeaware/

Website: https://homeownersbeaware.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-siegal/

If you'd like to reach me for any reason, here's the link to my contact form:

https://homeownersbeaware.com/contact

Here's the link to the trailer for the documentary film I'm making: Built to Last: Buyer Beware.

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, don't keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends and help spread the knowledge. Remember to hit the like button, subscribe for more insightful content, and leave a review to let us know your thoughts. Your support means the world to us! 🌟

Thanks for listening!