Preparing for Natural Disasters: A Homeowner's Guide
Release Date: 05/22/2025
Visual Design AI: Empowering Homeowners
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss HomeZada's new Visual Design AI feature. They explore the importance of visualizing home projects, the pain points homeowners face in the design process, and how the AI tool can empower users to make confident design decisions. The conversation covers how homeowners find inspiration, the benefits of using Visual Design AI, and the ease of getting started with the platform. The episode emphasizes the emotional connection homeowners have with their spaces and how the AI can help alleviate...
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What Every First-Time Homeowner Needs to Know
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the essential steps for first-time homeowners. They cover the importance of understanding how to operate and maintain a home, the significance of regular maintenance, and how to prioritize home projects based on inspections. The conversation also delves into budgeting for homeownership, including the total cost of ownership and the balance between DIY projects and hiring professionals. The hosts emphasize the need for preparation and awareness to navigate the complexities of...
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The Goal: Be a Smarter Homeowner
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic share their personal experiences as first-time homeowners and provide valuable insights into the home buying process. They discuss the importance of financial readiness, the significance of choosing the right location, and the criteria for selecting a home. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper planning and preparation to navigate the complexities of buying a home, including understanding financing options and the negotiation process with real estate agents. Takeaways Home buying...
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Be a Smarter Claimant - Advice from a World-Renowned Adjuster
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode, Elizabeth Dodson interviews claims consultant Chantal Roberts, who shares her extensive experience in the insurance industry. They discuss the role of an adjuster in the claims process, the responsibilities of homeowners, and how to effectively communicate and support each other during claims. Chantal emphasizes the importance of understanding the claims process, the need for homeowners to provide necessary information, and the mutual responsibilities of both parties in achieving a successful resolution. In this conversation, Elizabeth Dodson and Chantal M. Roberts...
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Your First Homeowner Roadmap - Simplifying the Complex
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the essential steps for first-time homeowners. They cover the importance of understanding how to operate and maintain a home, the significance of regular maintenance, and how to prioritize home projects based on inspections. The conversation also delves into budgeting for homeownership, including the total cost of ownership and the balance between DIY projects and hiring professionals. The hosts emphasize the need for preparation and awareness to navigate the complexities of...
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First-Time Homebuyers: The 4 Phases to Get it Right
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic share their personal experiences as first-time homeowners and provide valuable insights into the home buying process. They discuss the importance of financial readiness, the significance of choosing the right location, and the criteria for selecting a home. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper planning and preparation to navigate the complexities of buying a home, including understanding financing options and the negotiation process with real estate agents. Takeaways Home buying...
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What Every Homeowner Should Know About Shutoffs and Safety
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner Podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss essential knowledge every homeowner should have regarding their home's utilities. They emphasize the importance of understanding how to manage water, electricity, and gas systems to prevent damage and ensure safety. The conversation covers practical tips on locating shutoff valves, the significance of sump pumps, and the necessity of documenting procedures for emergencies. The hosts aim to empower homeowners with the knowledge to protect their homes and minimize risks...
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Homeowner Survival Guide: Claims, Contractors & Chaos
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode, Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic share their harrowing experience with a water damage emergency in their home. They recount the chaotic moments when they were awakened by screaming smoke detectors, leading to the discovery of water pouring from their light fixtures. The couple discusses the immediate actions they took, including shutting off the water, documenting the damage, and navigating the insurance claims process. They emphasize the importance of preparation, teamwork, and understanding the intricacies of home insurance and repair processes. Throughout...
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From Honey-Do to Honey-Done - Smarter Home Maintenance
Be a Smarter Homeowner
Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss essential home maintenance tasks that homeowners often overlook. They emphasize the importance of understanding different categories of maintenance, including preventative and inspection-oriented tasks. The conversation covers various inspection tasks, such as checking roofs and foundations, and highlights the significance of using technology for home inspections. The hosts also share practical maintenance tips for appliances, cleaning routines, and safety considerations, ultimately...
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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...
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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