Preparing for Natural Disasters: A Homeowner's Guide
Release Date: 05/22/2025
Navigating Home Complexity with HomeZada
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the complexities of homeownership and how HomeZada serves as a comprehensive platform to manage various aspects of home management. They explore the interconnectedness of home inventory, maintenance, financial insights, and the limitations of using separate apps. The conversation also highlights the role of AI in providing tailored advice for homeowners and the concept of a digital twin for better home management. Takeaways The house is a complex entity made up of various...
info_outline
The Smart Way to Inventory Your Home—Photos, Videos & AI
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the importance of taking a home inventory and provide practical tips on how to get started. They emphasize the significance of documenting valuable items through photographs and videos, and how using tools like HomeZada can streamline the process. The conversation covers various strategies for inventorying items, including focusing on high-value possessions, exploring hidden areas of the home, and utilizing AI technology for efficient documentation. The hosts also share real-life...
info_outline
How to Be a Smarter Multi-Homeowner
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the complexities of managing multiple homes, including rental properties, vacation homes, and family residences. They emphasize the importance of home maintenance, inventory management, and understanding the financial implications of owning multiple properties. The conversation also highlights the impact of weather on home maintenance and the necessity of having a clear system in place for effective management. Takeaways Multiple homeowners can include rental, vacation, and family...
info_outline
The Seasonal Guide to Home Maintenance
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic delve into the essential topic of home maintenance. They discuss what constitutes home maintenance, the importance of seasonal upkeep, and the necessity of having a maintenance schedule. The conversation also touches on the choice between DIY tasks and hiring professionals, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's home and its unique needs. The hosts provide practical insights and tips for homeowners to ensure their properties remain in optimal condition throughout the year. Takeaways...
info_outline
Unlocking Homeowner AI: Your Financial Ally
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the importance of financial visibility for homeowners through the use of Homeowner AI. They explore how homeowners can track their home value, equity, and expenses, emphasizing the need for ongoing financial awareness. The conversation includes a demonstration of the Homeowner AI platform, showcasing its features that help users make informed financial decisions regarding their homes. The hosts stress the significance of understanding both the emotional and financial aspects of...
info_outline
From Wishlist to Budget: AI-Powered Remodeling with HomeZada
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode, Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic explore the complexities of home improvement projects, focusing on the role of AI in remodeling. They discuss the challenges homeowners face in decision-making, budgeting, and material selection, emphasizing the importance of thorough research. The conversation highlights the potential of Home Zada's Shopping AI to simplify the shopping process and enhance the overall homeowner experience. In this episode, John Bodrozic and Beth Dodson discuss the transformative impact of AI on home shopping and remodeling processes. They explore how AI...
info_outline
Smarter Remodeling: How Homeowner AI Transforms Project Planning
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic tackle the world of home remodeling — and how Homeowner AI is making it easier, smarter, and far less overwhelming. From upgrading kitchens to redoing landscaping, remodeling is a massive industry filled with major decisions about budget, materials, and scope. Beth and John break down remodeling projects into four main categories: Big Systems (roofs, windows, HVAC) Lifestyle Upgrades (kitchen and bathroom remodels) Minor Projects (new flooring, painting, appliances) ...
info_outline
From Floods to Fires: How HomeZada's AI Keeps You Informed
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic explore how AI technology is transforming the way homeowners prepare for severe weather events. They discuss how HomeZada now uses AI to deliver real-time alerts based on your exact property location — not just your city or zip code — helping you act faster when dangerous weather is on the way. Beth and John walk through how the system pulls data from the National Weather Service, translates it into specific, actionable recommendations, and even helps homeowners proactively assess risks like...
info_outline
Preparing for Natural Disasters: A Homeowner's Guide
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, co-hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic tackle one of the most vital topics every homeowner needs to hear about: disaster preparedness. Natural disasters — from wildfires and hurricanes to floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes — are increasingly impacting every region of the country. Beth and John break down how homeowners can be proactive rather than reactive when the unexpected strikes. They walk you through practical, actionable steps: creating evacuation plans, assembling essential go bags, safeguarding pets and livestock, hardening your...
info_outline
Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Why You Must Inventory Your Storage Units
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary: In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic dive into a topic you might not think about often — what's hiding inside your storage unit or other outbuildings? Whether it's transitional moves, seasonal gear, heirlooms, or forgotten treasures, too many people lose track of what they own simply because it's out of sight. Beth and John break down why it's critical to inventory your storage units, sheds, barns, or other structures — and how doing so can save you money, protect your investments, and ease the burden on your family in the future. They...
info_outlineSummary:
In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, co-hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic tackle one of the most vital topics every homeowner needs to hear about: disaster preparedness. Natural disasters — from wildfires and hurricanes to floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes — are increasingly impacting every region of the country. Beth and John break down how homeowners can be proactive rather than reactive when the unexpected strikes.
They walk you through practical, actionable steps: creating evacuation plans, assembling essential go bags, safeguarding pets and livestock, hardening your home against potential threats, and ensuring your insurance coverage is truly adequate. They also stress the importance of a home inventory — why it matters, how to do it fast, and how it can make the difference between a stressful insurance battle and a smoother recovery.
This conversation isn't about fear; it’s about calm, clarity, and readiness. By planning ahead, you can protect your family, your finances, and your peace of mind no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. Tune in and learn how to be truly prepared for anything.
Takeaways
- The home is a complex entity that requires management.
- Different regions face different types of disasters.
- Evacuation plans should include multiple routes.
- A go-bag is essential for quick evacuations.
- Protecting your property can minimize damage.
- Insurance coverage should be reviewed regularly.
- A home inventory is crucial for claims.
- Living without utilities requires preparation.
- Planning helps maintain calm during disasters.
- Financial resilience is key after a disaster.
Sound Bites
- "The home is a complex entity."
- "Find a way to get your family safe."
- "Getting ahead of it is important."
- "Do you own an emergency generator?"
- "How would the claims process work?"
- "Prepare for financial resiliency."
Chapters
00:40 Introduction to Home Disasters
01:51 Understanding Different Types of Disasters
06:55 Evacuation Planning and Safety
10:46 Protecting Your Property
15:51 Insurance and Home Inventory
21:55 Living Without Utilities
26:06 Final Thoughts on Preparedness