The Expert Podcast

Episode Show Notes / Description 

• Cyber Attacks: A Risk for Non-Tech Companies
  • Cyber attacks are not just a threat to tech companies; manufacturing companies, retailers, and other non-tech businesses are at risk as well.
  • Buildings and facilities are prime targets due to their numerous digitized management systems (e.g., HVAC, fire alarms, security cameras).
  • Many of these systems are connected to the internet but are often not fully protected by firewalls or cyber defense systems.
  • Hackers often target these devices because they are easier to infiltrate and harder to detect once compromised.
• Why Are Buildings a Target?
  • Common building devices like HVAC systems, security cameras, access key code swipers, and security gates are essentially mini computers connected to the internet.
  • These devices are easy targets for hackers due to their often weak security measures.
  • Once hackers infiltrate one device, they can gain access to your entire network, potentially compromising sensitive business information.
• Real-World Example: Hackers Targeting Security Cameras
  • A client had their security camera system hacked at a car dealership.
  • The camera was connected to the internet, allowing hackers to access passwords and sensitive business systems like accounting, payroll, and accounts receivable.
  • This illustrates the importance of monitoring all devices connected to your network.
• Best Practices for Cyber Defense
  • Regularly review and monitor the devices on your network to identify vulnerabilities.
  • An IT professional can assist in this process, or a good cyber liability insurance policy will often include this as part of the coverage.
  • Standalone cyber policies provide additional benefits, such as automatic monitoring of your network and response teams in case of a breach.
• Why Cyber Liability Insurance is Essential
  • Many cyber policies offer monitoring tools that passively check for compromised devices, which can be more cost-effective than hiring a dedicated team.
  • In case of a breach, insurance companies often provide response teams to help mitigate damage.
• The Threat of Ransomware
  • Hackers scan millions of IP addresses daily, looking for vulnerable devices to access and potentially launch ransomware attacks.
  • A successful attack could result in significant financial losses (hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars).
• Access Expert Consultations
  • For personalized advice and consultations, you can access licensed experts, including private investigators, insurance brokers, real estate title examiners, court mediators, and building contractors.
  • Schedule a live one-on-one session to discuss your specific situation and receive tailored guidance.

For more information, visit actualhum.com to book a consultation with a licensed expert.

🔍 Episode Description / Show Notes: 

• Learn how the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can assist consumers dealing with potentially fraudulent or excessive vehicle loans.
• Discover what a CID (Civil Investigative Demand) is — a legal tool similar to a subpoena, used to gather information from businesses suspected of harming consumers.
• Understand Section 20 of the FTC Act, which authorizes the FTC to investigate unfair or deceptive acts or practices.
• Find out how the FTC investigates:
  • Dealerships
  • Lenders
  • Related third parties like accountants or advertising agencies
• CIDs are legally enforceable — recipients are required to respond fully and cannot ignore them.
• The FTC typically issues a CID only when there is a reasonable expectation of consumer harm.
• If you were pressured into a loan with inflated costs or unfair interest rates, the FTC may initiate an investigation or help with a negotiation with the lienholder.
• Learn how government oversight supports private sector investigations and consumer protection.
• Book a live one-on-one consultation with licensed professionals — investigators, insurance brokers, real estate brokers, mortgage brokers, and title examiners — through actualhum.com.
• Host credentials include:
  • Certified Real Estate Title Examiner
  • Certified Civil Court Mediator
  • Entrepreneur behind over 15 businesses, several of which sold for millions

🔗 Book a Consultation:
Visit actualhum.com to schedule your private session with a licensed expert.

In this episode, we discuss: 

• The growing trend of property owners turning to non-standard insurance due to traditional carriers pulling out of high-risk areas
• Why standard homeowners insurance is becoming unavailable in markets affected by:
  • Wildfires (California)
  • Hurricanes (Florida)
  • Hail and tornadoes (Midwest)
• The reality that some homeowners are going bare (without insurance) if they don't have a mortgage
• The problem of being underinsured for those who still carry some coverage

Understanding ENS (Excess and Surplus Lines Insurance):

• ENS insurance covers properties that admitted carriers won’t insure
• Issued by carriers not technically admitted in the state, but filling important gaps
• Most insurance brokers can help you access ENS policies
• Types of ENS include:
  • Severe weather policies
  • Over-and-above policies
  • Parametric insurance

What is Parametric Insurance?

• Event-based trigger insurance
• Pays a flat amount regardless of damage scope
• Not traditionally primary coverage but can be used as such if:
  • You own the house outright
  • You’re willing to take the risk on catastrophic loss
• Available for both residential and commercial properties

Need personalized help?

• Visit actualhum.com for live one-on-one consultations
• Speak with licensed experts in:
  • Insurance
  • Surety bonds
  • Civil court mediation
  • Real estate research
  • Mortgage lending
  • Business development
  • Marketing & advertising

Got questions or comments?

• Drop them in the comments section
• Use the link below to talk to a real person for customized advice

Overview:

• The most expensive component of an electric vehicle (EV) is its battery, and when it dies, the car may not be worth fixing. However, new technology is emerging to recycle dead EV batteries, providing more value that can help offset the cost of a new battery.
• While it won't make replacing the battery free, this process offers hope for a more affordable solution.
• Nissan is leading the charge in EV battery recycling, and other manufacturers are expected to follow suit in the future.

Key Points:

• A dead EV battery doesn't mean the end for the vehicle.
• With new recycling processes, you might be able to recover some value from the old battery to lower replacement costs.
• When buying a used EV, ensure you check the battery's health to avoid costly surprises.
• Even if your EV battery dies, there's potential for a less expensive replacement thanks to advancements in battery dismantling and recycling.

Call to Action:

• If you own an electric vehicle, share your experience with battery replacement. Did your battery ever die? How much did it cost to replace it?

Expert Consultations Available:

• You can access live one-on-one consultations with licensed experts in various fields, including:
  • Private Investigator
  • Commercial Insurance Broker
  • Real Estate Title Examiner
  • Certified Civil Court Mediator
  • Building General Contractor
• Click the link below to arrange a live consultation and get personalized advice.

Overview: In this episode, we dive into the role of mediation in resolving conflicts, offering a perspective from attorneys on how it can help settle disputes. We explore the dynamics of legal representation, the benefits of having a neutral third party, and how mediation can lead to better outcomes for all involved.

Key Takeaways:

• Role of Lawyers in Settlements: Typically, each party has a lawyer advocating for their best interest, which can escalate conflicts and hinder de-escalation.
• What is Mediation?: A mediator is a neutral third party who does not take sides and works to identify common ground, often revealing that 70-80% of disputes are already in agreement.
• Reducing Emotional Escalation: Mediators help reduce emotions like spite or principle-driven stances, which can cloud judgment and prolong conflict.
• Reality Check: Mediators provide insight into the potential outcomes of litigation, helping both sides understand the risks and realities.
• Benefits of Mediation: Mediation helps parties save face, avoid costly litigation, and resolve conflicts without years of legal battles.
• End Results: Both parties walk away from the table with a settlement, protecting their honor and avoiding the unpredictable nature of a court trial.

Resources:

• For personalized one-on-one consultations, visit actualhum.com to book a session with a licensed expert in mediation, law, insurance, real estate, or other related fields.

Closing: Tune in next time for more insights on conflict resolution and legal strategies.

Episode Show Notes / Description: 

• Topic: Can You Charge Storage Fees for a Vehicle in Order to Get a Title?
• Many clients ask if they can charge storage fees for a vehicle left on their property and claim ownership after accumulating fees.
• Key Point: Charging storage fees is not the proper way to gain ownership of a vehicle, and doing so improperly can actually waive your rights to the vehicle.
• Legal Overview (Illinois Law Example):
  • The Illinois Code states that before charging storage fees, you must notify the vehicle owner or lien holder in writing via certified mail.
  • Notification Requirements:
    • Must inform them before starting to charge fees.
    • Allow them to inspect the vehicle within two days of notice.
  • If these requirements are not followed, storage fees cannot be charged, and the owner or lien holder is entitled to reclaim the vehicle without paying the fees.
• What Happens If You Don't Follow the Law:
  • Failing to notify the owner before charging storage fees can lead to legal action.
  • The owner can sue for possession of the vehicle in circuit court without paying storage fees.
• When Charging Storage Fees Could Be Legal:
  • Only licensed auto facilities (e.g., body repair shops or tow companies) can charge storage fees if they have a signed contract with the vehicle owner or were instructed to tow the vehicle legally (e.g., by the police).
• Alternatives to Charging Storage Fees:
  • If your goal is to obtain a title for a vehicle, there are legal methods like bonded titles, magistrate titles, and vehicle title transfers (VT) that are more effective and lawful than charging storage fees.
  • Storage fees should only be considered as a last resort after all other title options have been explored.
• Free Resources Available:
  • Our website offers free, detailed instructions for obtaining a title legally without resorting to storage fees.
  • If you prefer assistance, we also offer title services for a fee, but you can do it yourself for free with our guidance.
  • Consultations: Schedule a consultation with a licensed title agent to discuss your specific case.
• For more information and resources, visit our website and check out more videos on similar topics.

Episode Description / Show Notes: 

• Topic Overview:
  • Can you charge storage fees for a vehicle in order to obtain a title? Many clients inquire about charging storage fees for abandoned vehicles left on their property.
  • The idea sounds appealing, but the law typically says otherwise. Charging storage fees incorrectly can waive your rights to the vehicle.
• Storage Fees Law (Illinois Example):
  • Illinois law, which is similar to most states, follows the federal UCCC (Universal Commercial Code) on storage fees.
  • According to Section 770 of the Illinois Code:
    • Before charging storage fees, written notice must be sent via certified mail to the vehicle owner or lienholder.
    • The owner must be given an opportunity to inspect the vehicle within 2 days of the notice.
    • If the notice isn't given, storage fees cannot be charged, and the owner or lienholder can retrieve the vehicle without paying any fees.
• Consequences of Failing to Comply:
  • If you fail to notify the owner or lienholder, you cannot charge storage fees.
  • The owner may take legal action in circuit court to retrieve the vehicle without paying storage fees.
• When Charging Storage Fees May Be Allowed:
  • You must be a licensed automotive facility, such as an auto body repair shop or towing service, with a signed contract from the vehicle owner authorizing storage fees.
  • Towing under legal orders (e.g., police tow) may also allow charging fees.
  • Private citizens or self-storage facilities cannot charge arbitrary storage fees.
• Alternative Ways to Obtain a Title for a Vehicle:
  • Charging storage fees is not a viable solution for getting a title.
  • There are legal methods like bonded titles, magistrate titles, and VT transfers to obtain a title.
  • These options are outlined on our website, and you can follow the steps yourself for free or consult with us for assistance.
• Free Resources and Consulting:
  • Visit our website for free, detailed guides on legitimate methods to obtain a vehicle title.
  • If you need help, we offer professional title services and consultations with licensed title agents.
• Additional Resources:
  • For more information on title-related issues, check out other videos on our channel related to similar topics.

Episode Description / Show Notes: 

• Discover one of the most common misconceptions in vehicle title recovery: the "abandoned vehicle" route.
• Many people believe that if a vehicle is abandoned, they can easily claim ownership and get a title.
• The truth: declaring a vehicle abandoned often does not mean you get to keep it.
• A vehicle bought without a title or left on your property isn't legally "abandoned" in most cases.
• Real-world examples: a customer drops off a vehicle, or you buy a car but never get the title—these aren’t abandoned.
• Clarification on storage liens vs. abandoned vehicles.
• Breakdown of Georgia’s abandoned vehicle procedure as a reference (similar across most states).
• Federal and state laws require:
  • Protecting rights of prior owners, lien holders, and security interest holders.
  • Strict procedures before you can apply for a title.
• Common mistakes:
  • Thinking "finders keepers" applies.
  • Trying to charge storage fees without a signed contract.
• Important process steps:
  • Notifying the prior owner and lien holders.
  • Filing the correct forms like “Notice of an Abandoned Vehicle.”
  • Court order required to apply for a title—no shortcuts.
• Risks of using the wrong process:
  • Potential title denial.
  • Legal penalties if false statements are made under oath.
  • Prior owners can contest the process and reverse the transfer.
• Summary: Declaring a vehicle abandoned is often a way to dispose of a vehicle, not to gain ownership.
• Better option: Use the proper court order or lien process instead of relying on the "abandoned vehicle" route.
• For personalized help, consider booking a one-on-one consultation via ActualHum.com.

🔑 In This Episode: 

• What a vehicle lien release is and why it's important
• What happens to your vehicle title after you've paid off your car loan
• Why your lender holds the title during the loan period
• Common issues people face after loan payoff:
  • Title lost in the mail
  • Lender fails to send the title
  • Lien still recorded in DMV database
• Why you can’t just ask the lender to send another title
• The solution: Request a lien release form
• How to get a lien release if:
  • The bank won't respond
  • They say they already sent it
  • You can’t find a real person to help you
• Why most lenders don’t have a dedicated lien release department
• The most effective method to get your lien release:
  • Prepare all the necessary documents yourself
  • Include a lien release form, letter of non-interest, and declaration of facts
  • Mail the complete package to the lender
  • Include a stamped return envelope to make it easy for them
• What to do after you receive your lien release:
  • Bring it to the DMV to get your new title
  • Or mail it to the DMV with completed forms
• Why preparing everything yourself is key to avoiding delays
• Tips:
  • Get the necessary forms from the DMV
  • Use physical mail—don’t rely on phone, email, or online portals
  • Include stamps—most offices don’t keep them anymore
• What to do if the car was charged off or written off:
  • You can still prepare and send the documents
  • Lenders will usually sign if it’s a verified charge-off
• Alternative solutions like using a magistrate title
• Why doing all the work yourself is often the only way to get results

📌 Bonus Tip:
If you need help, our website offers live one-on-one video consultations to walk you through your exact situation and make sure you're on the right path.

🔗 Watch more videos on our channel for additional help and insights!

Episode Show Notes: 

• Introduction to Curb Stoning (Title Jumping or Skipping):
  • A common used car scam where the seller skips proper title transfer procedures.
  • Often involves flipping a car purchased cheaply from auctions or private sellers.
  • The title is signed over to the new owner, but the title isn't transferred through the DMV, making it a voided title.
• How Curb Stoning Works:
  • The seller buys a car at a low price, signs over the title, but doesn't get it properly transferred to their name at the DMV.
  • The vehicle is resold to you with the improperly signed title.
  • The issue is discovered when you try to register the car at the DMV.
  • The DMV may reject the title or even confiscate it, causing legal and registration problems.
• The Consequences:
  • Curb stoners don’t have dealership licenses or official businesses.
  • They may advertise on platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or OfferUp.
  • They meet buyers in non-official locations like intersections or parking lots, take cash, and give the faulty title.
  • You may face a revoked title, liens, or discover the car is a salvage, leading to extra legal hoops and issues.
• Why It's Called Curb Stoning:
  • Sellers are referred to as "curb stoners" because they don’t have official dealerships and sell vehicles directly from the curb.
  • They operate informally, without licenses or proper business structures.
• Buyer Beware:
  • Always check if the seller’s name on the title matches their ID.
  • If there's a mismatch, avoid the car—it’s likely to cause title problems, even if it seems like a bargain.
• Expert Guidance Available:
  • Access one-on-one consultation with licensed experts for advice on title-related issues.
  • Get expert advisement on options and how to resolve problems related to buying a car with a skip title.
• Takeaway:
  • Don’t buy cars with skip titles. Even if the price seems too good to pass up, the risk of legal issues and title problems is not worth it.

Related Resources:

• Explore more videos on title scams, legal advice for car buyers, and how to avoid fraudulent deals.