California’s Homeowners Insurance is in Crisis

Here’s What You Need to Know In this episode of All Things Wildfire, OP Almaraz sits down with Robert Feldman, CEO of WOWS Insurance, to break down the skyrocketing premiums, shrinking coverage options, and the wildfire-driven shakeup hitting California's insurance market.

Robert Feldman is an insurance professional with nearly 25 years of experience. Robert’s specialty is insurance in fire zones and hard to place risks. As an industry professional, Robert has served as a speaker at the California Association of Realtors. Robert travels the state educating realtors about how to secure insurance for homes that are deemed uninsurable. Robert serves on many task forces and insurance panels, working directly with senior leadership of many insurance carriers to solve the state’s current insurance crisis. To that end, Robert is the founder of WOWS Insurance Services, designed to deliver insurance solutions for large homes that struggle to secure insurance in California.

OP and Robert dive into the WOWS Insurance program, a bold initiative aiming to transform how high-risk homes stay insured.

You’ll learn:

Why fire hardening is no longer optional

The difference between admitted vs. non-admitted insurance

What the California FAIR Plan doesn’t cover

The hidden power of realtors in keeping homes insurable

Why neighbor collaboration and annual mitigation are now essential

Whether you're a homeowner, broker, or real estate pro — this episode is your wake-up call.

Subscribe for more wildfire defense strategies and real estate risk insights.

What if we could detect and suppress wildfires within minutes—not hours? In this episode of All Things Wildfire, we sit down with Carsten Brinkschulte, CEO of Dryad Networks, to explore the cutting-edge technology redefining wildfire defense. From solar-powered IoT sensors that detect fires in their earliest stages to SilverGuard, an autonomous drone system poised to revolutionize fire suppression, this conversation dives deep into the future of wildfire resilience.

We uncover how parametric insurance could reshape wildfire risk models and why collaboration between tech innovators and insurance providers is essential. Carsten shares Dryad’s bold vision: a world where wildfires are extinguished before they can spread—using AI, sound wave suppression, and a fast-reacting web of intelligent systems.

Key Takeaways: Dryad’s SilverNet detects ignition in minutes—before smoke is even visible. 85% of wildfires are caused by human activity, increasing the need for early intervention. Parametric insurance may unlock faster claims and incentivize prevention tech. Autonomous drones and sound wave suppression may be the future of firefighting. A call for industry collaboration to achieve fully integrated wildfire response systems. If you're in wildfire prevention, insurance, or technology—this is a must-listen episode.

In this conversation, OP Almaraz and Paul Brady discuss the complexities of wildfire risk and insurance. Paul shares his unique background in wildfire mitigation and how it informs his work at Green Shield Risk Solutions. They explore the challenges of modeling wildfire risk compared to other perils, the importance of understanding wildfire behavior, and the innovative solutions being developed to assess and mitigate these risks. The discussion emphasizes the need for better communication and understanding between insurance providers and homeowners regarding wildfire risks and safety measures. In this conversation, Paul Brady and OP Almaraz discuss the complexities of insurance coverage in wildfire-prone areas, emphasizing the importance of community efforts, vegetation management, and the role of designations like Firewise. They explore the challenges faced by homeowners with high-value properties, the dynamics of the real estate market, and the future of insurance models in the context of increasing wildfire risks. Innovations in insurance products aimed at high-value homes are also highlighted, along with the need for standardized mitigation practices to restore confidence in the insurance market.

Highlights:

• Paul Brady has a unique background in wildfire mitigation and insurance.
• There is a significant gap in the insurance industry's understanding of wildfire risk.
• Wildfire risk modeling is more complex than modeling for other perils like floods.
• Wildfire behavior is influenced by topography, weather, and fuels.
• The radiant heat from a wildfire can cause significant damage to nearby structures.
• Green Shield Risk Solutions aims to make homes more insurable against wildfires.
• Their technology utilizes updated aerial imagery for risk assessment.
• Homeowners can order wildfire risk reports directly from Green Shield.
• Defensible space around properties is crucial for wildfire safety.
• Community efforts are essential in mitigating wildfire risks. HOAs can benefit from hiring firms to visualize community impact.
• Firewise designation can positively influence insurance coverage.
• Reducing vegetation can lower risk assessment models over time.
• High-value properties face unique insurance challenges post-wildfire.
• The real estate market is affected by insurance availability and risk perception.
• Wildfire risk is becoming a nationwide concern, not just localized.
• Insurance companies are hesitant to insure properties in high-risk areas.
• Standardizing mitigation practices is crucial for restoring insurance confidence.
• Innovative insurance products are being developed for high-value homes.
• Community efforts in wildfire mitigation can lead to better insurance outcomes.

This episode of All Things Wildfire serves as both a wake-up call and a guidepost for navigating wildfire disasters. Remember, preparation and community effort are key to reducing future risks. For more tips and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website.

In this episode of All Things Wildfire, we explore Wildfire Mitigation and Prevention for Community Managers, a crucial topic for those overseeing managed communities. Join Rich Snyder (Retired Fire Captain, Sierra Madre Fire Department) as they discuss best practices for reducing wildfire risks, improving insurability, and implementing effective fire prevention strategies.

This course provides Community Managers with essential knowledge and strategies for wildfire mitigation and prevention in managed communities. Participants will learn best practices, insurance considerations, and practical methods to reduce wildfire risk and protect properties.

Course Modules:

1. Introduction to Wildfire Risk
   • Overview of wildfire threats to managed communities
   • Importance of proactive mitigation strategies
2. Best Practices for Wildfire Prevention
   • Community-wide strategies
   • Resident education and engagement
   • Creating and maintaining defensible spaces
3. Insurance Considerations
   • Dealing with rate increases
   • Strategies to improve insurability
   • Working with insurance providers
4. The Community Manager's Role
   • Coordinating mitigation efforts
   • Communication with residents and board members
   • Implementing and enforcing fire safety policies
5. Wildfire Mitigation Techniques
   • Home hardening strategies
   • Vegetation management in individual properties and common areas
   • Long-term fire retardant applications
6. Understanding Wildfire Damage
   • How most homes are damaged during wildfires
   • Preventing secondary damage (water systems, etc.)

To earn CAMICB continuing education credits for this course:

1. Listen for the 4-digit code announced throughout the podcast.
2. Visit allthingswildfire.com/cecredits.
3. Submit the code in the form to verify completion.

This episode is packed with actionable insights that will help community managers make informed decisions and protect the properties they oversee. Tune in now and take the next step in wildfire preparedness!

This episode of All Things Wildfire serves as both a wake-up call and a guidepost for navigating wildfire disasters. Remember, preparation and

Podcast Summary

In this episode of All Things Wildfire, we dive deep into groundbreaking wildfire protection technology with Gadi, co-founder of FireDome (Adi Naor Pomerantz, co-founder), and Wade White, retired Assistant Chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department. Gadi, a former Israeli Defense Intelligence officer, discusses how military-grade technology is being applied to wildfire mitigation, inspired by Israel’s renowned Iron Dome missile defense system.

FireDome is a revolutionary autonomous wildfire suppression system that detects spot fires in seconds and launches fire-retardant capsules to extinguish them before they spread. The discussion explores the challenges of integrating new technology into the fire service, the growing need for proactive wildfire protection, and the potential impact on high-risk properties, businesses, and entire communities.

With insights from Wade, who led innovations like the first robotic firefighter in LA, this episode highlights how technology can disrupt traditional firefighting methods and provide property owners with a powerful new defense against wildfires.

• Gadi - Co-Founder of FireDome, former Israeli Defense Intelligence officer
• Wade White - Retired Assistant Chief, Los Angeles Fire Department

Topics Covered: The inspiration behind FireDome and its military-tech roots
- How FireDome detects and suppresses fires within seconds
- Challenges of introducing disruptive technology to firefighting
- The growing need for private wildfire protection solutions
- Why high-net-worth homeowners and businesses are looking for alternatives to costly insurance
- Future vision: Deploying FireDome across wildfire-prone regions

Notable Quotes: "We don’t have to put our lives at risk anymore. We can let technology protect us from wildfires."

"FireDome creates an invisible shield around properties, launching fire-retardant capsules in seconds—just like Iron Dome intercepts missiles."

"This isn’t just about detection; it’s about reaction. We’re bringing innovation to wildfire suppression in real-time."

⏳ 00:02 - 00:15 | How FireDome creates a protective barrier using fire-retardant capsules
⏳ 00:15 - 00:43 | The role of real-time fire suppression and why current methods fall short
⏳ 00:57 - 02:28 | Why insurance brokers, real estate agents, and government agencies should pay attention to FireDome
⏳ 05:03 - 09:08 | How Gadi’s military background led to the development of FireDome
⏳ 09:32 - 13:31 | How Wade pioneered robotic firefighting technology in Los Angeles
⏳ 17:00 - 22:00 | The mechanics of FireDome: Detection, launching capsules, and stopping fires before they spread
⏳ 27:14 - 30:50 | How FireDome could be a game-changer for vineyards, hospitals, and HOAs
⏳ 33:53 - 37:11 | When FireDome will be available in the U.S.

🔥 Final Thought:
Wildfires are not going away. It’s time to rethink our approach and invest in proactive protection that saves lives, properties, and communities.

This powerful episode of All Things Wildfire brings together firsthand accounts, expert insights, and actionable advice following one of the most devastating wildfire weeks in Southern California. Featuring Rich Snyder, a pioneer in wildfire mitigation, and the team at Allied Restoration & Allied Disaster Defense, the conversation dives deep into the emotional toll, the importance of community preparedness, and the practical steps homeowners can take to protect their properties. Whether you're in an affected area or looking to prevent future disasters, this episode offers invaluable resources and hope in the face of destruction.

Highlight:
"Even the most prepared individual can feel powerless in the face of a wildfire. This episode reminds us of the importance of faith, community, and proactive action in mitigating these disasters."

Key Topics Covered:

1. Introduction
   • Overview of the devastating wildfire week.
   • Guests: OP Almaraz, Tim Bauer and Stewart Barrios, experts in disaster prevention.
2. Rich Snyder's Story
   • A deeply personal account of combating wildfire in his own neighborhood.
   • Emotional and spiritual resilience in the face of destruction.
3. Homeowner Preparedness Tips
   • DIY wildfire prevention: vegetation management, ember-resistant vents, and the importance of fire retardant.
   • The critical importance of documenting damage before cleaning.
4. Community Impacts
   • Stories of loss and recovery in Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas.
   • The ripple effects of community-wide devastation on schools, businesses, and daily life.
5. Insights on Insurance and Recovery
   • Navigating underinsurance challenges.
   • Understanding policy buckets and working with brokers.
   • Avoiding pitfalls with unscrupulous actors during claims.
6. What You Can Do
   • Proactive measures for wildfire prevention.
   • The importance of community involvement and joining fire safety councils.
7. Gratitude and Hope
   • A heartfelt thank you to first responders and volunteers.
   • Spotlight on the The Passionate Life Foundation and its efforts to assist those affected.

Practical Tools and Apps:

• Watch Duty: A real-time wildfire tracking app for staying informed.
• California Fire Safe Council: Resources for community prevention initiatives.

DIY Resources:

• Ember-resistant vent installation (AlliedDisasterDefense.com)
• Home hardening tips (CalFire Ready for Wildfire).

Recommended Reading:

• "Wildfire Ready: Homeowner’s Guide to Prevention and Mitigation" (CalFire resource).

This episode of All Things Wildfire serves as both a wake-up call and a guidepost for navigating wildfire disasters. Remember, preparation and community effort are key to reducing future risks. For more tips and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website.

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.

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.

• 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.

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