All Things Wildfire Podcast

O.P. Almaraz
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All Things Wildfire is where you will learn everything you can do about living in a wildfire hazard area by us bringing in all the experts in the industry. We will bring in Insurance specialists, state officials, fire officials, and wildfire solution providers.

  1. 1D AGO

    The Insurance Mistake Homeowners Discover After Wildfires - Diane Delaney

    In this episode of All Things Wildfire, OP Almaraz sits down with returning guest Diane Delaney, with Private Risk Management Association (PRMA), to unpack what the insurance industry has learned one year after the Palisades wildfire—and what must change going forward. Drawing from PRMA's nationwide survey of high-net-worth homeowners, Diane reveals a striking disconnect: while over 95% of respondents say they feel confident in their insurance coverage, nearly 70% fear exclusions and gaps at the time of claim. This gap has become painfully clear in catastrophe-prone regions like California, where wildfires, wind-driven embers, and insurance non-renewals are forcing homeowners and brokers alike to rethink how insurance is used. The conversation explores why insurance can no longer be treated as a commodity, and why brokers must evolve into true risk management advisors—having ongoing, consultative conversations that address lifestyle changes, life stages, and worst-case scenarios. From wildfire mitigation and water-leak detection systems to rebuilding realities and self-insurance risks, this episode highlights how proactive planning can protect not just property—but livelihoods and peace of mind. Diane also shares how PRMA is investing in education, learning tracks, and AI-powered role-play tools to help brokers sharpen difficult conversations around rate increases, coverage gaps, and resiliency. Together, OP and Diane emphasize a central message: you either invest in resilience early, or you pay far more later when disaster strikes. Key Highlight 95% vs. 70% disconnect: Homeowners feel confident in coverage—yet fear exclusions when claims happen Why insurance doesn't protect your lifestyle unless it's designed to How wildfires exposed major gaps in homeowner understanding during real-time claims Why brokers must shift from transactional sales to ongoing consultative partnerships Real wildfire and water-damage stories that show the true cost of being under-prepared The growing importance of leak detection devices, mitigation, and prevention tools Why insurance should be viewed as catastrophic protection—not home maintenance How PRMA is modernizing broker education with learning tracks and AI role-play tools Why resilience investments feel expensive—until disaster makes them unavoidable In This Episode: What one year after the Palisades wildfire has revealed about insurance gaps Insights from PRMA's nationwide survey of high-net-worth homeowners Why many insured homeowners still feel unprotected at claim time How wildfire, flood, wind, and water risks intersect Why prevention and mitigation improve insurability—not just safety The emotional and financial toll of rebuilding after catastrophe How brokers can deliver real value in a hard insurance market PRMA's 2026 initiatives: learning tracks, education, and AI-based coaching Key Takeaway: Insurance works best before disaster strikes. When homeowners, brokers, and carriers collaborate proactively—focusing on resilience, communication, and realistic expectations—insurance becomes a powerful tool instead of a painful surprise. Learn More: Visit privateriskmanagement.org to explore PRMA members

    46 min

  2. 11/25/2025

    How Climate Literacy Changes the Way We Handle Wildfires

    In this episode of All Things Wildfire, we sit down with Alison Smart, Executive Director of Probable Futures, to explore why climate literacy is one of the most essential skills of the 21st century, and how it directly impacts the way we prepare for and respond to wildfires. Alison explains how, for the past 12,000 years, our climate was remarkably stable, allowing us to use the past to predict the future. But as the climate shifts, those old assumptions no longer hold true. We discuss how understanding climate science helps us make sense of today's instability and why everyone, from homeowners to policymakers, needs to rethink what it means to live safely in a changing climate. Whether you're in wildfire country or simply want to better understand the connection between education, climate change, and environmental resilience, this conversation offers an enlightening look at how climate literacy can shape a safer, more informed future. Takeaways: Everyone needs climate literacy. Climate literacy is essential to living in the modern world. For 12,000 years, the climate was stable. We could expect the past to inform the future. Climate science helps us understand stability. Assumptions about climate were based on historical patterns. The changing climate requires new skills. Financial and digital literacy are not enough. Understanding climate change is a 21st-century skill. Education must adapt to include climate literacy. From understanding shifting weather patterns to making smarter community and property decisions, this conversation reveals how education, awareness, and science can help us better navigate an unpredictable wildfire landscape. 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.

    46 min

  3. 08/13/2025

    Wildfire Insurance in California: What Homeowners Need to Know Now

    California homeowners are facing a growing wildfire insurance crisis. With rising rates, reduced coverage options, and increased wildfire risk due to climate change and inflation, understanding your insurance options is more important than ever. In this episode of the All Things Wildfire podcast, host OP Almaraz speaks with Sharon Smith, Outreach Analyst at the California Department of Insurance, to discuss the challenges, solutions, and legislative changes shaping wildfire coverage in California. Why Wildfire Insurance Rates Are Rising in California Wildfire insurance premiums are increasing due to multiple factors: Climate change is driving more frequent and severe wildfires. Inflation has pushed up construction and repair costs. Outdated regulations under Proposition 103 have made it difficult for insurers to adapt pricing to today's risks. Sharon explains why Prop 103 needs modernization to better protect homeowners and keep insurance available in high-risk fire zones. Understanding Proposition 103 and Its Impact Proposition 103 is a decades-old regulation that governs how insurance rates are approved in California. While it was designed to protect consumers, many experts argue it hasn't evolved to address the current wildfire landscape. Modernizing Prop 103 could help stabilize the insurance market while ensuring fair treatment for policyholders. The Safer from Wildfires Program The Safer from Wildfires program is a state-led initiative to improve home resilience against wildfire damage. By completing specific home-hardening measures, homeowners may: Reduce their risk of fire damage. Qualify for potential insurance discounts. Increase their chances of keeping existing coverage. The California Fair Plan: Last-Resort Coverage For homeowners unable to find traditional coverage, the California Fair Plan acts as a safety net. However, it's meant as a temporary solution. Modernizing the Fair Plan is essential, especially for high-value homes that require broader protection. Admitted vs. Non-Admitted Insurance Carriers Understanding the difference between admitted insurance carriers (regulated by the state) and non-admitted carriers (not backed by the state's guarantee fund) is critical when comparing wildfire insurance policies. Sharon provides insights on the pros and cons of each option. Smoke Remediation and New Task Force Efforts Smoke damage after a wildfire can create serious health hazards. The California Department of Insurance has established a task force to address smoke remediation standards, helping homeowners get better results from their claims and contractors. Legislative Changes and Homeowner Resources Sharon discusses new legislative proposals designed to: Ease the recovery process after a wildfire. Improve claims handling by insurance companies. Provide more resources to homeowners navigating wildfire-related claims. The California Department of Insurance offers free resources to help property owners understand their rights, find coverage, and take preventive measures. Join the Conversation: What challenges are you facing with wildfire insurance in California? Share your experiences in the comments below or reach out to us for support.

    38 min

  4. 07/30/2025

    Insurance Claims Guide: Recovering after the wildfires

    In this episode of All Things Wildfire, host OP Almaraz sits down with Brad Sawyer and Robert Clemmons of Marsh & McLennan Agency to unpack the growing urgency of wildfire resilience. Together, they explore practical home hardening strategies, the power of community collaboration, and the often-overlooked complexities of the insurance claims process after a wildfire. Listeners will gain insight into how homeowners can take proactive steps to reduce risk, better understand their insurance policies, and improve their chances of recovery post-disaster. The discussion wraps with a strong call to action—resilience isn't optional, it's essential. Show Notes Highlights: Wildfires as Wake-Up Calls: Recent wildfire events have highlighted the urgent need for communities to act before disaster strikes. Home Hardening Musts: Learn how features like ember-resistant vents, non-combustible materials, and defensible space can dramatically reduce wildfire risk. Insurance Gaps & Misconceptions: Many homeowners are unaware of what's actually covered—understanding your policy is critical. The Claims Process: Why documentation matters and how being unprepared can delay or reduce your claim. The Role of Community: Fire resilience goes beyond individual homes—neighborhoods that collaborate are safer. Preparedness is Prevention: Investing in wildfire prevention today means fewer losses tomorrow. Education is Lacking: Despite growing threats, awareness and understanding of wildfire preparedness remain low. Key Takeaways: Wildfires should be a trigger for action, not reaction. Home hardening and defensible space are foundational to fire resilience. Don't wait until disaster hits—document home contents now. Know your policy. Know your risk. Community-wide strategies are the future of wildfire prevention.

    57 min

  5. 07/02/2025

    Innovative Fire Detection with Firebird - Lindsey Firesense

    Innovative Wildfire Detection: How Firebird and Lindsey FireSense Are Changing Fire Prevention In this episode of All Things Wildfire, we sit down with Tim Dunfee, former deputy fire chief and now fire safety advocate at Lindsey FireSense, to explore a critical innovation in wildfire detection: The Firebird. With wildfires increasing in frequency and intensity—especially in high-risk areas like California—communities, homeowners, and insurers are searching for smarter, faster ways to detect and prevent fire damage. The Firebird is one such solution. Using thermal fire detection technology, Firebird offers early alerts that can be the difference between a close call and a catastrophic loss. From the Front Lines to Fire Tech: Meet Tim Dunfee With decades of firefighting experience behind him, Tim Dunfee brings deep insight into the complexities of fire management. His transition from firefighting to fire safety tech was driven by one mission: to improve how we detect and respond to fire threats. As he says, "Fire has no boundaries." And in today's environment, wildfire prevention must be just as dynamic as the threats themselves. Why Firebird Matters The Firebird device adds a crucial layer to fire detection, supplementing traditional alert systems. Positioned on properties, it actively monitors for heat signatures, delivering alerts before smoke or flames reach catastrophic levels. It's a game-changer for: Homeowners looking to protect their properties Insurance companies seeking to reduce wildfire risk Fire departments looking for faster detection tools Wildfire Prevention Requires a Team Effort Throughout the episode, Tim emphasizes that effective wildfire prevention isn't just about technology—it's about community collaboration. He urges homeowners to take initiative with home hardening measures and stay informed on local risks. Tim also addresses the emotional toll of fire response, reminding listeners that behind every wildfire event are responders who put their lives on the line. Fire Safety, Insurance & the Future One of the most eye-opening parts of the conversation is the growing role of insurance companies in wildfire prevention. As premiums rise and coverage shrinks, insurers are starting to recognize the value of proactive solutions like Firebird. This shift could reshape how communities approach fire safety, pushing for smarter technology and shared responsibility. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Firebird enhances fire detection through thermal sensors. Community engagement is essential for wildfire prevention. Firefighters face emotional challenges and need community support. Insurance providers are beginning to incentivize fire safety investments. Collaboration among neighbors improves outcomes during fire events. Homeowners must take ownership of their fire risk.

    35 min

  6. 06/18/2025

    Navigating the Aftermath of the Palisades Fire

    In this conversation, OP Almaraz and Steve Severaid discuss the ongoing challenges faced by homeowners in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire. They delve into the complexities of insurance claims, the importance of understanding additional living expenses, and the unique difficulties associated with total losses. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough documentation and proactive communication with insurance companies to navigate the recovery process effectively. They also highlight the long-term implications of rebuilding in affected areas and the importance of being prepared for the challenges ahead. This conversation delves into the complexities of insurance and the impact of wildfires on communities. It discusses the new legislation regarding insurance replacement policies, the challenges of underinsurance, and the importance of accurate coverage. The speakers emphasize the need for homeowners to conduct annual policy reviews and understand the implications of their insurance decisions. They also explore the financial challenges faced by homeowners post-wildfire and the ongoing need for awareness and preparedness in the face of natural disasters. Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to the Palisades Fire Impact 03:01 Navigating Insurance Challenges Post-Fire 06:04 Understanding Additional Living Expenses 09:02 Total Losses and Rebuilding Challenges 12:11 The Importance of Documentation and Digital Scans 14:59 The Long Road to Recovery 17:53 The Future of Rebuilding in Affected Areas 29:41 The Impact of Wildfires on Communities 31:58 New Legislation and Insurance Replacement Policies 34:28 Understanding Insurance Limits and Underinsurance 36:39 The Importance of Accurate Insurance Coverage 41:05 Annual Policy Reviews and Homeowner Responsibilities 43:45 Risk Transfer and the Value of Insurance 44:25 Mortgage Implications After a Loss 48:04 Navigating Financial Challenges Post-Wildfire 51:34 The Ongoing Need for Awareness and Preparedness Takeaways The Palisades Fire has created a complex recovery situation for homeowners. Insurance companies respond differently to claims, complicating the process. Homeowners must advocate for their specific needs during recovery. Environmental contaminants pose new challenges for cleaning and restoration. Patience is essential when dealing with insurance claims post-fire. Additional living expenses can be negotiated with insurance companies. Total losses present unique challenges in the rebuilding process. Documentation, including digital scans, is crucial for claims. Communication with insurance adjusters must be documented to avoid issues later. Rebuilding in affected areas will take time and may be chaotic.  People are selling their homes due to the impact of wildfires. New legislation allows homeowners to buy new properties without land value deductions. Many homeowners are underinsured, leading to financial challenges after a loss. Insurance policies often do not reflect the true cost of rebuilding. Homeowners should conduct annual reviews of their insurance policies. Extended replacement costs should not be relied upon for coverage calculations. Insurance is a risk transfer tool that protects homeowners financially. Mortgage companies typically hold insurance payouts in trust accounts during rebuilding. Some homeowners are considering selling their lots after a loss. Awareness and preparedness are crucial for homeowners in wildfire-prone areas.

    54 min

  7. 06/04/2025

    Wildfire Insurance is Broken: Here's how we're fixing it with WOWS Insurance

    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.

    48 min

  8. 05/21/2025

    The Race to Stop Wildfires: Drones, Sensors & the Future of Autonomous Firefighting

    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.

    40 min
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All Things Wildfire is where you will learn everything you can do about living in a wildfire hazard area by us bringing in all the experts in the industry. We will bring in Insurance specialists, state officials, fire officials, and wildfire solution providers.

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