• 2 -3: Kaye Steinsapir - Transforming Pain Into Purpose
    May 21 2025

    In this episode of 'Three Homeless Guys', host Joel Pollak, along with guests Ron Goldschmidt, Oren Ezra, and Kaye Steinsapir, discuss the aftermath of the Palisades fire, the community's rebuilding efforts, and the emotional and legal challenges faced by those affected. Kaye shares her personal journey of loss and resilience, highlighting the importance of community support and the transformative power of helping others. The conversation also touches on the complexities of insurance issues, the language surrounding victimhood, and the significance of authenticity in communication during times of grief.

    takeaways

    • The importance of community support in recovery efforts.
    • Insurance companies are facing backlash for rate increases post-fire.
    • Kaye Steinsapir emphasizes the need for space to connect and heal.
    • The term 'victim' can be limiting; 'survivor' may be more appropriate.
    • Legal advice is crucial for those navigating fire-related lawsuits.
    • Transforming pain into purpose can lead to personal growth.
    • Authenticity in communication is vital during difficult times.
    • Helpers often provide more support than those who simply offer help.
    • Community gatherings can foster connections and healing.
    • The podcast serves as a platform for sharing stories and resources.
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • 2 -2: State Senator Ben Allen: The Palisades Will Have to Lead
    May 14 2025

    In this episode of Three Homeless Guys, host Joel Pollak, along with Ron Goldschmidt and Oren Ezra, engage with State Senator Ben Allen to discuss the aftermath of the Palisades fire, the ongoing rebuilding efforts, and the various challenges faced by the community. The conversation covers the roles of state and federal agencies, the importance of insurance and utility companies, and the need for better fire mitigation strategies. Senator Allen shares insights on the rapid cleanup process, the complexities of rebuilding, and the political landscape surrounding disaster recovery. The episode concludes with discussions on the potential for a local resilient rebuilding authority and Senator Allen's future in politics.

    Takeaways

    The cleanup process after the Palisades fire has been impressively fast.

    State and federal agencies play crucial roles in disaster recovery.

    Insurance issues remain a significant concern for fire victims.

    Utility companies need to improve their response during fire events.

    Community resilience is essential for future fire mitigation efforts.

    The permitting process for rebuilding needs to be more efficient.

    Local authorities can play a role in managing rebuilding efforts.

    Senator Allen emphasizes the importance of ongoing political advocacy for fire victims.

    There is a need for better communication between residents and government agencies.

    Senator Allen is considering his political future amidst ongoing challenges.

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    58 mins
  • Season 2 Premiere
    May 6 2025

    In this episode of 'Three Homeless Guys', the hosts discuss the impact of the Palisades fire and the rebuilding efforts, drawing on their personal experiences and historical parallels. They emphasize the importance of community resilience, the need for practical solutions over ideological debates, and the role of technology in facilitating recovery. The conversation also touches on political accountability and the necessity for community engagement in the rebuilding process, ultimately aiming to inspire hope and action among listeners.

    Takeaways

    The podcast aims to explore broader issues beyond the Palisades fire.

    Personal experiences shape perspectives on community and resilience.

    The Palisades fire represents a loss of something precious.

    Historical lessons from Chicago's Great Fire inform current rebuilding efforts.

    South Africa's challenges highlight the importance of practical solutions.

    Community needs must take precedence over ideological goals.

    Technology can play a crucial role in efficient rebuilding.

    Political accountability is essential for effective recovery.

    Community engagement is vital for rebuilding efforts.

    The podcast encourages listeners to stay strong and involved.

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    51 mins
  • 22 : State Farm - Like a Good Neighbor... If Your Neighbor Was a Sociopath. With Joy Chen of the Eaton Fire Survivors Network
    May 2 2025

    This conversation explores the aftermath of the Palisades and Eaton fires, focusing on community efforts led by Joy Chen to organize survivors and address the challenges posed by insurance companies, particularly State Farm. The discussion highlights the importance of solidarity among affected communities, the need for political oversight, and the potential for legal action against insurance practices that hinder recovery. Joy shares her experience of mobilizing her community through technology and emphasizes the emotional toll of navigating insurance claims. The episode concludes with a call to action for survivors to unite and advocate for their rights.

    Takeaways

    Community organization is crucial in disaster recovery.

    WhatsApp and Discord can facilitate communication among survivors.

    Insurance companies like State Farm face scrutiny for their practices.

    Rate hikes by insurance companies can be unjustified during recovery periods.

    Community solidarity can amplify voices against corporate negligence.

    Political oversight is necessary to protect consumers from insurance companies.

    Survivors share similar challenges regardless of their community's wealth.

    Emotional stories resonate and drive public interest in insurance issues.

    Legal action may be necessary to hold insurance companies accountable.

    Grassroots movements can lead to significant changes in policy.

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 21 - Financial Decision Points During The Rebuild - With Jacqueline Chernov
    Apr 29 2025

    In this episode, journalist Joel Pollak, along with technology expert Ron Goldschmidt and entrepreneur Oren Ezra, engage in a heartfelt discussion with real estate agent Jacqueline Chernov about the aftermath of the Palisades fire. Jacqueline shares her personal experience of losing two homes and the challenges faced by the community in making critical decisions about rebuilding or relocating. The conversation delves into the complexities of insurance claims, financial pressures, and the mixed emotions of residents as they navigate their futures. The group emphasizes the importance of community resilience, collaboration, and the need for innovative solutions to support the rebuilding efforts in the Palisades.

    Takeaways

    Jacqueline lost two homes in the Palisades fire.

    The community faces tough decisions about rebuilding or relocating.

    Insurance challenges are a significant concern for many homeowners.

    There is a mix of optimism and uncertainty about the future of the Palisades.

    Local families are looking to combine lots for family compounds.

    Developers are hesitant to invest until they see market stability.

    The rebuilding process is complicated by financial and regulatory hurdles.

    Community events help maintain connections among displaced residents.

    The housing market is sensitive to pricing and comp values post-fire.

    Patience and collaboration are essential for the community's recovery.

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • 20 - Luke Melchior - Construction Hacks, Debris, Tariffs, And “Full Conspiracy Mode”
    Apr 25 2025

    This podcast episode discusses the ongoing rebuilding efforts following the Palisades fire, highlighting community engagement, challenges in debris removal, the role of insurance, and concerns over corruption. Luke Melcher, a contractor involved in the recovery, shares insights on the financial aspects of rebuilding, the impact of tariffs and labor costs, and the importance of acting quickly to secure competent contractors. The conversation also touches on technological innovations in construction and the political landscape's influence on recovery efforts.

    Takeaways

    Community spirit remains strong despite challenges.

    Debris removal is a significant hurdle in recovery.

    Insurance plays a crucial role in the rebuilding process.

    Concerns about corruption in the recovery efforts persist.

    The private sector could have handled debris removal more efficiently.

    Contractors face challenges with over-excavation and billing practices.

    Homeowners need to act quickly to secure competent contractors.

    Tariffs and labor costs are impacting construction prices.

    Technological innovations may aid in rebuilding efforts.

    Political decisions are affecting the pace of recovery.

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • 19. Traci Park - Palisades Councilwoman Guest Interview
    Apr 18 2025

    In this episode of 'Three Homeless Guys', host Joel Pollak, along with co-hosts Ron Goldschmidt and Oren Ezra, engage with Traci Park, a city council member, to discuss the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Palisades fire. The conversation highlights the frustrations of the community regarding slow rebuilding processes, insurance challenges, and the importance of local government and community engagement in navigating these obstacles. Traci Park shares her commitment to advocating for the residents and emphasizes the need for collaboration to ensure a successful recovery. The episode also draws insights from other fire recovery efforts and encourages residents to stay involved in the rebuilding process.

    takeaways

    • The Palisades fire has left a significant impact on the community, with ongoing frustrations regarding rebuilding efforts.
    • Traci Park emphasizes the importance of keeping the community's story alive and advocating for their needs.
    • The pace of rebuilding is slow, with only a limited number of permits approved so far.
    • Community engagement is crucial for effective recovery and rebuilding efforts.
    • Insurance issues are a major hurdle for many residents trying to rebuild their homes.
    • Local government is working on legislative actions to streamline recovery processes.
    • The experiences of other communities recovering from fires provide valuable insights for the Palisades.
    • There is a need for collaboration between the community, local government, and private sectors to address challenges.
    • Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and provide feedback to their representatives.
    • The future of the Pacific Palisades depends on collective efforts and commitment from both residents and leaders.

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • 18. Parenting & Rebuilding Lives After the Palisades Fire - with Alicia Dry Cohen
    Apr 15 2025

    In this episode of Three Homeless Guys, host Joel Pollak, along with technology expert Ron Goldschmidt and guest Alicia Dry Cohen, discuss the aftermath of the Palisades fire and the challenges of rebuilding their community. They explore the emotional and practical aspects of parenting in the wake of such a disaster, the importance of community support, and the complexities of navigating school transitions for their children. Alicia shares her journey of creating 'The Palisades Mom' blog to document her experiences and connect with other parents facing similar challenges. The conversation also touches on the future of real estate in the Palisades and the resilience of families as they adapt to new circumstances.

    takeaways

    • The Palisades community is actively rebuilding after the fire.
    • Parenting has become more challenging due to the fire's aftermath.
    • Alicia Dry Cohen started 'The Palisades Mom' blog to share experiences.
    • School transitions are a significant concern for families post-fire.
    • Community support is crucial for families navigating these changes.
    • Parents are trying to balance work and family life amidst chaos.
    • Finding joy in small moments is essential for mental health.
    • Real estate values in the Palisades are expected to rise post-rebuilding.
    • Families are forming stronger bonds through shared experiences.
    • The importance of empathy and understanding among parents is highlighted.
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    54 mins
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