In this special LA Fire edition of CACM Chat: HOA Life, we tackle one of the most pressing issues affecting community associations in California—the aftermath of wildfires. Join guest host Alia Souli of CACM as she sits down with Shant Karnikian, Esq., managing partner at Kabateck LLP, and an expert in complex litigation, including insurance and property damage claims. Shant provides invaluable insights on navigating insurance claims, understanding policy coverage and exploring legal avenues for recovery after a disaster. Whether you’re an HOA manager, board member or homeowner, this episode offers practical guidance on protecting your community and preparing for future risks. Don’t miss this critical discussion.

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In this special LA Fire episode, host Tom Freeley sits down with Dr. Diane Gehart, an award-winning psychotherapist, to explore the emotional impact of the recent LA fires. They discuss how victims can recognize when it’s time to seek professional help, cope with grief and uncertainty and take steps to rebuild resilience after such a life-altering event.

With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Gehart also shares practical advice for supporting other managers or victims. Including using empathetic language, setting healthy boundaries and balancing empathy with self-care. Whether you're directly affected or looking for ways to help, this conversation offers valuable insights to navigate trauma with compassion and strength.

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In this special LA Fire episode, host Tom Freeley talks with Senior Professional Public Adjuster Steve P. Severaid about how victims of the LA County fires can begin rebuilding their lives. The devastating wildfires have impacted thousands of families, homeowners, business owners, HOAs and managers. With over 30 years of experience, Severaid offers practical advice on starting the recovery process, from keeping receipts and tracking expenses to accepting help. This episode aims to provide guidance for those affected and prepare other listeners for future disasters. For more information on ways to help, visit cacm.org/member-relief-la or email CACMmemberrelief@cacm.org.

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Guest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Korinna Peterson, CACM Education Events Coordinator, to explore the pressure of New Year’s resolutions—or the decision to ditch them altogether. For community managers, the start of the year can feel overwhelming with so much already on their plate all the time. Instead of setting unrealistic resolutions, this episode focuses on achievable goals and celebrating small wins. With years of experience in the events industry, Peterson shares insights on being your own toughest critic, while emphasizing the importance of recognizing progress and having the courage to keep moving forward. Tune in for this refreshing conversation, designed to inspire and refresh you for the new year!

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CEO and host Tom Freeley brings some end-of-year holiday cheer and good tidings in this festive episode. One recent update that brings good news is on the Corporate Transparency Act. At the time of this recording, HOAs and managers responsible for filing on behalf of their client boards were relieved of the requirement to provide beneficial ownership information to the U.S. Treasury Department. Without our commitment to working together as a community, this change wouldn’t have been possible. Speaking of community, in 2024 CACM supported numerous charity organizations with your help. Including the Ronald McDonald House, Second Harvest Food Bank, Compassion Planet, Bill Wilson’s Center for Unhoused Youth, Redwood Empire Food Bank, and One Warm Coat, and multiple donation drives are planned for 2025. How are you spreading cheer and happiness? Make sure to stay to the end of this episode for a heart-warming and funny HOA holiday poem.

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Guest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Becky Jolly, CCAM, Senior Community Manager at Professional Association Services, to talk about dealing with hoarding in your communities. Hoarding is something that both you and the resident don’t intend for and especially don’t know how to navigate. With 20 years of experience under her belt, Becky dives into tips on dealing with the clutter while also remaining compassionate and understanding of homeowners (and not just with hoarding, but in every situation). Tune in for fresh insights on handling hoarding with empathy and learn how to manage both the mess and the personalities that come with it!

Find Becky Jolly:
https://www.pas-inc.com/
Email: becky@pas-inc.com

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Guest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Shawn Hill of Storm Water Innovative Solutions to discuss the reality of storm water in Southern California. Though it may not rain much down here, community managers and homeowners should be aware of the potential damages of storm water. Storm water can affect not only your home but other belongings as well, such as a Volkswagen Bus (which Shawn shares). And with every unique property, there is a specific storm water filtration system to pair with it. Providing the proper maintenance and care to these systems can either make or break your property and your wallet. With education at the forefront of this conversation, tune in to hear how you can save your property in the long run!

Find Swiscorp:
Website: https://www.swiscorp.com/
Call them at 760-688-4910
Email: info@swiscorp.com

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This week, guest host Alia Saouli of CACM talks about the importance of gratitude in everyday life. On a day-to-day basis, most people are thinking about themselves, their to-do lists, their families and more. But what if you could begin to rewire your brain just by expressing gratitude every day? Studies show that being more grateful and optimistic in the little things can ultimately improve your daily life. Tune in to hear some of Alia’s tips and tricks on gratitude this holiday season!

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