In this episode, journalist Joel Pollak, along with technology expert Ron Goldschmidt and entrepreneur Oren Ezra, discuss the aftermath of the Palisades fire with Merritt David Farren, a fire survivor and candidate for insurance commissioner. The conversation covers the challenges faced by residents in the wake of the fire, particularly regarding insurance claims and the role of local government in disaster recovery. Merritt shares his personal experiences with State Farm and outlines his vision for reforming the insurance industry to better serve consumers. He emphasizes the need for transparency, accountability, and innovative solutions to address the ongoing insurance crisis in California.

takeaways

• Merritt David Farren is a Palisades fire survivor and candidate for insurance commissioner.
• The insurance process has been a significant barrier to recovery for fire victims.
• Merritt's background includes extensive experience in legal and corporate roles at Disney and Amazon.
• The current insurance commissioner has not effectively addressed consumer needs post-fire.
• Merritt filed a petition to intervene in the insurance rate-setting process.
• There is a need for legislative changes to simplify insurance regulations.
• Community safety standards must be established to improve insurance pricing.
• The Fair Plan structure is problematic and needs reform to attract insurance companies back to California.
• Merritt proposes a reinsurance fund to mitigate risks for insurance companies.
• Technology should be leveraged to streamline the insurance process and improve consumer outcomes.

In this episode of Three Homeless Guys, host Joel Pollak and co-hosts Arne Ezra and Ron Goldschmidt welcome Chad Bianco, the Riverside County Sheriff and a candidate for California governor. The conversation covers Bianco's vision for California, addressing the state's financial crisis, the need for insurance reform for fire victims, the impact of regulations on the economy, accountability in government, and the importance of bipartisan cooperation. Bianco emphasizes the need for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to public safety as he outlines his plans for the state.

takeaways

• Chad Bianco emphasizes the need for massive change in California.
• He believes government should not spend more than it has.
• Bianco identifies structural deficits as a major issue in California's finances.
• He advocates for removing regulations that hinder insurance companies from operating in California.
• Bianco argues that California has sufficient funds but lacks fiscal responsibility.
• He calls for oil independence to stabilize the state's economy.
• Bianco highlights the corruption and lack of accountability in California's government.
• He stresses the importance of bipartisan cooperation for effective governance.
• Bianco has had positive experiences working with moderate Democrats in Riverside County.
• He expresses a commitment to transparency and honesty in his governance.

titles

In this episode of Three Homeless Guys, the hosts discuss the ongoing legal proceedings related to the Palisades fire and the challenges faced by fire victims in the permitting process. Michael Kureth shares his personal experiences with rebuilding after losing his home in the Woolsey fire and highlights the need for federal oversight to streamline the permitting process. The conversation also touches on the implications of recent court decisions, the role of technology in improving the permitting process, and the emotional toll on families affected by the fires.

takeaways

• The permitting process is a significant hurdle for fire victims.
• Michael Kureth's experience illustrates the complexities of rebuilding.
• Federal intervention is necessary to streamline the permitting process.
• The city of Malibu is severely understaffed and overburdened.
• Soft costs in the permitting process can be substantial and often overlooked.
• Technology can play a crucial role in improving the permitting process.
• There is a need for oversight to prevent exploitation in the rebuilding process.
• Emotional and psychological impacts on fire victims are profound and long-lasting.
• The legal proceedings are a critical avenue for fire victims to seek justice.
• Community support and federal assistance are vital for recovery.

The conversation revolves around the aftermath of the Palisades fire, focusing on the experiences of residents from the Tahitian Terrace mobile home park. The guests share their personal stories of loss, the challenges they face in rebuilding their community, and the fight for affordable housing. They discuss the legal and bureaucratic hurdles they encounter, the lack of support from local government, and the importance of community organization and advocacy. The episode highlights the resilience of the residents and their determination to return to their homes, while also calling for greater attention and action from policymakers.

takeaways

• The residents of Tahitian Terrace are fighting to return to their homes after the Palisades fire.
• Many residents were underinsured, complicating their recovery efforts.
• The community is organized and actively seeking collaboration with local government.
• Affordable housing is crucial for the diverse community in Pacific Palisades.
• Legal challenges hinder the residents' ability to rebuild and return.
• The lack of communication from landowners is a significant barrier.
• Local government support is limited, with few officials advocating for the residents.
• The community has become knowledgeable about policy and recovery processes.
• There is a need for funding and resources to support the rebuilding efforts.
• The residents are hopeful and motivated to reclaim their community.

summaryIn this episode of Three Homeless Guys, journalist Joel Pollack, technology expert Ron Goldschmidt, and entrepreneur Oren Ezra engage with Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton. They discuss the aftermath of the Palisades fire, the importance of community engagement through town halls, and the implications of Trump's executive order on permitting. Hilton critiques California's political leadership, emphasizing the role of unions in governance and the state's economic challenges, including a significant budget deficit and rising healthcare costs. He outlines his vision for California, advocating for structural reforms and the CalDoge initiative to tackle waste and fraud in the budget. The conversation highlights the need for change in California's political landscape and the importance of winning elections to implement these changes.

• Steve Hilton emphasizes the importance of community engagement through town halls.
• Trump's executive order aims to streamline the permitting process in California.
• California's political leadership is criticized for inaction and bureaucracy.
• Unions play a significant role in California's governance and economic challenges.
• California faces a substantial budget deficit and economic issues.
• Healthcare costs in California are rising, with calls for reform.
• Hilton outlines his vision for California, focusing on practical solutions.
• Winning elections is crucial for implementing change in California.
• The CalDoge initiative aims to identify waste and fraud in the budget.
• Structural problems in California's government hinder effective governance.

https://nypost.com/2026/01/27/us-news/trump-orders-feds-to-take-over-californias-wildfire-rebuilding/?utm_campaign=iphone_nyp&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social

Trump Takes Over - THG Quick TakeIn this episode, the hosts discuss the recent executive order signed by President Trump regarding the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire burn areas. The order allows the federal government to take control of the permitting process and investigate the use of federal disaster funds. The conversation highlights the implications of this order, including the potential for increased accountability in rebuilding efforts and the relationship between state and federal governments.

takeaways

• The executive order allows federal control over permitting processes.
• There is a significant amount of unspent federal disaster funds.
• The Trump administration is taking a more active role in California's rebuilding efforts.
• Legal challenges are expected from state and local governments.
• The executive order aims to improve accountability in disaster response.
• The president's personal interest in California is notable.
• The order may change the dynamics between state and federal authorities.
• The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is under scrutiny for unspent funds.
• The administration's commitment to rebuilding is emphasized.
• The hosts express optimism about the potential outcomes of the order.

In this episode of 'Three Homeless Guys', host Joel Pollak discusses various pressing issues in California, including the recent permit fee waivers for rebuilding homes after the Palisades fire, Governor Gavin Newsom's controversial speech at Davos, and the growing concern over fraud in the state. The conversation delves into high-profile fraud cases, the implications for California's budget, and the impact of fraud on fire aid and recovery efforts. The episode highlights the need for accountability and transparency in government spending, especially in light of the significant increase in the state budget over the past decade.

takeaways

• California's budget has doubled in the last decade, but services have not improved accordingly.
• Fraud in California is a significant issue, with billions lost to fraudulent activities.
• Permit fee waivers for rebuilding homes are a positive step for fire victims.
• Gavin Newsom's speech at Davos raised eyebrows for its controversial content.
• High-profile fraud cases in other states highlight vulnerabilities in California's systems.
• The lack of accountability in California's government agencies is alarming.
• Fire aid funds have been mismanaged, leading to skepticism about their effectiveness.
• Independent journalism plays a crucial role in uncovering fraud and mismanagement.
• The relationship between government funding and political connections can lead to corruption.
• The future of California's financial health is uncertain due to rising debts and obligations.

In this episode of "Three Homeless Guys," host Joel Pollock, along with technology expert Ron Goldschmidt and entrepreneur Oren Ezra, discuss the aftermath of the Palisades fire and the ongoing rebuilding efforts. They are joined by Roxanne Beckford-Hogues, chairman of the Los Angeles County GOP, who shares her insights on the political landscape in California, particularly in light of the upcoming elections. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by residents in the wake of the fire, the role of government at various levels, and the need for political change in a predominantly Democratic state. Roxanne emphasizes the importance of local governance and the potential for change through nonpartisan races, while Oren highlights the need for accountability in how taxpayer money is spent, especially regarding homelessness and public services.

The discussion also delves into the dynamics of the upcoming mayoral race, with candidates like Spencer Pratt and Karen Bass in the spotlight. The panel reflects on the need for candidates who genuinely care about the community and can address pressing issues like homelessness and public safety. As they explore the implications of the political climate, they encourage listeners to engage in the electoral process and consider the impact of their votes on local governance. The episode concludes with a call to action for residents to stay informed and involved in shaping their community's future.

Takeaways

We need someone honest who cares about the people.

$80 million went to serve 55 homeless people alcohol.

We want our taxpayer money to improve lives, not line pockets.

Local governance matters more than federal issues.

Voter registration is crucial for those displaced by disasters.