LA Is Burning | 2 Bears, 1 Cave
In this episode of the 2 Bears, 1 Cave podcast with Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer, the devastating impacts of Los Angeles' wildfires are examined. The hosts lament the total destruction of neighborhoods, homes, businesses, and cherished landmarks across the region - both in affluent areas like Palisades and more modest locales like Altadena.
As they discuss the profound emotional toll on residents who lost heirlooms and lifetime memories, Segura and Kreischer also delve into the practical challenges ahead: fire insurance issues, rebuilding costs with fire-resistant materials, the emergence of new fire-resistant industries, and potential opportunities to purchase fire-damaged properties. They explore human reactions to disaster, from unsettling schadenfreude to the bizarre norms of rapidly packing "go-bags" - a stark reminder of the lasting changes these wildfires will bring to Los Angeles' physical and cultural landscape.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jan 13, 2025 episode of the 2 Bears, 1 Cave with Tom Segura & Bert Kreischer
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1-Page Summary
Devastating Impact of Los Angeles Wildfires
Tom Segura reveals his former neighborhood was completely wiped out by Los Angeles' most extensive wildfire, leaving homes, businesses, and landmarks destroyed across affluent areas like Palisades and modest locales like Altadena.
Total Destruction, Leaving Residents To Relocate or Rebuild
Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura lament the loss of familiar establishments, observing the city's landscape is irrevocably altered. Many will likely relocate rather than rebuild.
Emotional and Financial Toll on Homeowners
The conversation shifts to the profound emotional impact, with Kreischer noting those close to him lost entire homes, heirlooms, and a lifetime of memories. Homeowners face mortgages on nonexistent properties.
Rebuilding Challenges in Fire Zones
Fire Insurance Issues and Rebuilding Costs
In fire zones, homeowners discover separate, prohibitively expensive fire insurance policies are needed. Rebuilding with fire-resistant materials will drastically increase construction costs, according to Segura.
Opportunities in Buying Fire-Damaged Properties
However, Segura suggests the disaster could present chances to buy fire-damaged properties at reduced prices.
Changing Neighborhood Aesthetics
New fire regulations may eliminate flammable landscaping, ushering in rock gardens. Wooden home construction could also give way to materials like concrete and stone, and new fire-resistant coating industries may emerge – all altering architectural styles.
Human Response to Disaster
Empathy Lacking as Some Celebrate Wealthy's Misfortune
Kreischer highlights the disturbing "schadenfreude" – pleasure at seeing affluent suffer losses – as an emotional response, though he admits pondering newly available beachfront properties in Malibu.
Impact on Routines: Rapid "Go-bag" Packing
The imminent danger forces residents to rapidly pack essential belongings into "go-bags," with priorities differing – Kreischer's daughter wanted lamps and her cat, while his wife favored photos and jewelry.
Human Behavior and Media's Role
Voyeuristic Thrills in Disaster
Kreischer explores the human tendency to flock to disaster sites, recounting looking up fire-sale properties. He criticizes social media self-promotion during crises.
News Media Limitations
Segura's surprise at the scale implies media doesn't always convey disasters' true impacts. Kreischer cites a reporter's misstatements, underscoring professional media's potential blind spots during crises.
1-Page Summary
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Counterarguments
- While some may relocate, others may feel a strong attachment to their community and choose to rebuild despite the challenges.
- The emotional toll of losing a home can be profound, but it can also lead to community solidarity and support systems that help individuals cope.
- Fire insurance may be expensive, but it is a necessary investment for homeowners in fire-prone areas to mitigate potential losses.
- Rebuilding with fire-resistant materials, while costly, can be seen as a long-term investment in safety and may lead to savings on insurance premiums.
- Buying fire-damaged properties at reduced prices could be seen as taking advantage of others' misfortunes, but it can also be viewed as a way to revitalize and rebuild communities.
- Changes in neighborhood aesthetics due to new fire regulations could result in a loss of traditional charm, but they also represent an adaptation to changing environmental conditions and a commitment to safety.
- The pleasure some feel at the misfortune of the wealthy reflects broader societal issues of inequality, but it is also important to recognize that disaster impacts individuals regardless of wealth, and empathy should be extended to all affected.
- The tendency to pack "go-bags" with personal priorities reflects the diversity of what individuals value, and while some choices may seem trivial, they can provide comfort during times of distress.
- Voyeuristic behavior at disaster sites can be insensitive, but it can also stem from a natural human curiosity and a desire to understand the scale of a disaster firsthand.
- Criticism of social media self-promotion during crises is valid, but social media can also be a powerful tool for spreading awareness and mobilizing aid.
- News media limitations in conveying the true impact of disasters highlight the complexity of reporting, but they also underscore the importance of diverse sources of information and on-the-ground accounts to provide a fuller picture.
Actionables
- You can create a personalized emergency plan by identifying local hazards and outlining specific actions for different scenarios. Start by researching the natural disaster risks in your area, such as wildfires, floods, or earthquakes. Then, draft a detailed plan that includes evacuation routes, meeting points for family members, and a communication strategy for when mobile networks are down. For example, if you live in an area prone to wildfires, your plan should detail the steps to take when you receive an evacuation warning, the items to pack, and how to secure your home before leaving.
- Enhance your financial preparedness by reviewing and adjusting your insurance coverage to match potential risks. Take the time to understand the specifics of your home insurance policy and consider additional coverage for natural disasters that are common in your area. For instance, if you're in a wildfire-prone zone, look into the cost and benefits of adding a fire insurance policy. Additionally, set aside an emergency fund that can cover living expenses for a few months in case your home is damaged and you need temporary accommodation.
- Cultivate empathy and community support by volunteering with local disaster relief organizations. Engage with groups that provide aid during emergencies, such as the Red Cross or community-led initiatives. Volunteering can range from participating in training sessions to understand how to assist during a disaster, to helping with fundraising efforts for affected families. This not only prepares you to help others in times of crisis but also fosters a sense of community resilience and shared responsibility.
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Devastating Impact of Los Angeles Wildfires
The most extensive wildfire in Los Angeles history leaves neighborhoods in ruins and residents grappling with loss and decisions to relocate or rebuild.
Destruction in Palisades and Malibu
Tom Segura reveals that his former Los Angeles neighborhood has been completely wiped out by the wildfire, erasing his past home, his child's school, and numerous local businesses. Bert Kreischer and Tom Segura lament the loss of familiar establishments such as CVS, Gelson's, Ralph's, a gas station, and Starbucks, emphasizing the total devastation of the community.
Neighborhoods, Homes, Businesses, and Landmarks Destroyed
Tom Segura and Bert Kreischer observe that the Los Angeles landscape has been irrevocably altered by the wildfires, indicating expansive destruction across the city's fabric. The affluence of Palisades is contrasted with the more modest lifestyles of Altadena, yet homes in both areas did not escape the wildfire's wrath.
Fires Impact Los Angeles, Residents Relocate or Rebuild
Segura points out that many people will choose to leave the disaster-stricken areas, possibly relocating to cities like Austin, Nashville, or Denver, seeking a new start away from the wildfire risks of Los Angeles.
Emotional Toll on Displaced Residents
The conversation moves to the emotional impact on individuals who have lost everything. Segura and Kreischer share personal stories of loss within their community.
Homeowners Grapple With Mortgages on Nonexistent Properties
Homeowners now face ...
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Devastating Impact of Los Angeles Wildfires
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Actionables
- You can create a personal disaster preparedness plan to mitigate the impact of potential future wildfires or other natural disasters. Start by identifying local hazards and creating an evacuation plan that includes multiple escape routes from your home and neighborhood. Assemble an emergency kit with essential items such as water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, medications, and important documents in waterproof containers. Regularly review and practice your plan with all household members.
- Develop a digital inventory of your possessions to safeguard against total loss in the event of a disaster. Use your smartphone to take photos or videos of your home and belongings, categorize them, and store the information in a secure cloud service. This can be crucial for insurance claims and for preserving a visual record of items with sentimental value.
- Engage in community resilience-bu ...
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Practical and Financial Challenges Faced
Tom Segura highlights the difficulties that homeowners face in fire zones, including the struggle with insurance and the steep costs associated with rebuilding fire-resistant homes.
Insurance Industry Struggles With Overwhelming Claims
Homeowners in Fire Zones Lack Adequate Insurance Coverage
In heavy fire zone areas, homeowners are discovering that fire insurance is an add-on that significantly raises the cost of their usual insurance policy. These separate fire insurance policies can be prohibitively expensive, posing a challenge for residents wanting to ensure their homes are protected against wildfires.
Rebuilding Homes With Fire-Resistant Materials to Skyrocket In Cost
Those seeking to rebuild in areas frequently affected by wildfires, like the Palisades or Malibu, will confront the necessity of using fire-retardant products. Such materials and construction will lead to an increase in overall rebuilding expenses. Segura notes that the normal budget for constructing a house will need to account for these additional fire prevention measures, pushing the costs even higher.
Post-Disaster Housing and Real Estate Dynamics
Opportunities In Buying Fire-Damaged Properties
Segura suggests that the aftermath of a disaster might present opportunities like purchasing fire-damaged properties. Since the value of properties impacted by the fires is expected to decline, buyers might find opportunities to acquire land and homes at reduced prices.
Rebuilding Will Change Architectural Styles and Landscaping
Post-fire rebuilding is likely to change the ...
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Practical and Financial Challenges Faced
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Homeowners in fire zones face challenges such as high costs for fire insurance, which is often an additional expense to their regular insurance policies. Rebuilding homes in fire-prone areas requires using fire-resistant materials, significantly increasing construction costs. Post-disaster, homeowners may need to adapt to new regulations that discourage flammable landscaping and traditional building materials like wood. The shift towards fire-resistant construction materials and coatings can alter both the appearance and financial aspects of housing in fire-prone regions.
- Fire insurance policies in high-risk areas often require homeowners to purchase separate coverage due to the increased likelihood of wildfires. These specialized policies can be costly, adding a significant financial burden to homeowners already paying for standard insurance. The expenses associated with fire insurance can be prohibitive, making it challenging for residents to afford comprehensive protection against wildfire damage. Homeowners rebuilding in fire-prone regions may face higher costs due to the need for fire-resistant materials and construction, further impacting the financial aspects of insurance and rebuilding.
- Using fire-resistant materials in rebuilding homes in fire-prone areas increases overall expenses due to the higher cost of these specialized materials compared to traditional construction materials. The need for fire-retardant products and construction techniques adds a significant financial burden to homeowners reconstructing in areas susceptible to wildfires. This cost increase is a result of the premium pricing associated with fire-resistant materials and the specialized labor required for their installation. Incorporating these materials is essential for mitigating fire risks but contributes to the elevated costs of rebuilding in fire zones.
- When considering buying fire-damaged properties, potential opportunities lie in acquiring real estate at reduced prices due to the impact of the fires. Howe ...
Counterarguments
- Insurance costs may be high, but they reflect the increased risk and potential cost of claims in fire-prone areas, which insurers must manage to remain solvent.
- While rebuilding with fire-resistant materials is more expensive, it can be seen as a long-term investment that may save money by preventing future fire damage.
- The opportunity to buy fire-damaged properties at lower prices could be offset by the hidden costs of repair, compliance with new building codes, and the potential for future fires.
- Changes in architectural styles and landscaping might not only be driven by fire resistance but ...
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The Human and Emotional Response to the Disaster
Amidst the chaos of natural disasters such as wildfires, human reactions and emotions vary widely, revealing the complexity of human empathy and its limitations, as well as the tangible impacts on daily lives and routines.
Empathy and Schadenfreude Over Wealthy Losing Homes
The emotional response to disasters that affect wealthy communities illustrates a divisive human tendency.
Celebration Over the Misfortune of the Affluent
Bert Kreischer brings to light a disturbing sensation known as schadenfreude, highlighting the "celebration of rich people getting what they deserve in America," where individuals exhibit pleasure at seeing the affluent suffer from calamities like the loss of their homes in wildfires. This reaction indicates a complex mix of emotions, where empathy may be overshadowed by resentment toward disparity in wealth.
Tragedy's Scale Overwhelms Empathy for Human Suffering
In a more personal reflection, Kreischer acknowledges his own thoughts about the potential availability of beachfront property in Malibu following the fires, an indicator of how the magnitude of a disaster can sometimes overwhelm the basic human response of empathy for the suffering of others, even leading to thoughts of personal gain.
Impact on Daily Routines and Lives
Those facing immediate danger from disasters such as wildfires experience profound changes in their daily routines and the significance they assign to personal belongings.
Residents Must Swiftly Pack "Go-bags" and Choose Essentials in Imminent Danger
Kreischer shared his family's experience during the Runyon Canyon fire, where they had to quickly pack "go-bags" amidst the threat. He discusses the contents of h ...
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The Human and Emotional Response to the Disaster
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Clarifications
- Schadenfreude is a German term that describes the feeling of pleasure or satisfaction derived from witnessing the misfortune or suffering of others. It is a complex emotion that can stem from various factors like rivalry, aggression, and a sense of justice. The concept has been observed in children as young as 24 months old, indicating its early emergence in human behavior. Schadenfreude can sometimes arise in response to perceived inequalities or disparities in society.
- Bert Kreischer is an American stand-up comedian, podcaster, and actor known for his energetic and storytelling style. He gained fame for being named the top partyer at Florida State University in a Rolling Stone article, which inspired the movie "National Lampoon's Van Wilder." Kreischer hosts podcasts like Bertcast and 2 Bears, 1 Cave, and has appeared in various television shows and films. His comedic work often involves personal anecdotes and humor drawn from his life experiences.
- Runyon Canyon is a park in Los Angeles, California, located at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains. It is a popular hiking spot known for its scenic views and proximity to residential areas, including Hollywood. The park was purchased in 1984 for public use and offers various hiking trails and a liberal dog policy. The Runyon Canyon fire mentioned in the text likely refers to a wildfire that occurred in or near the park, prompting residents to evacuate and pack essential belongings.
- A "go-bag" is a pre-packed bag containing essential items needed for a quick evacuation during emergencies like wildfires. It typically includes important documents, cash, basic supplies, and personal items to sustain individuals for a short period away from home. These bags are pre ...
Counterarguments
- While some individuals may experience schadenfreude, it is not universally true that everyone feels pleasure at the misfortune of the wealthy; many people feel empathy regardless of the victims' socioeconomic status.
- The idea that the magnitude of a disaster overwhelms empathy might not account for the full spectrum of human responses; some individuals may become more empathetic and motivated to help in the face of large-scale suffering.
- The assertion that material possessions hold minimal emotional value in perilous situations may not capture the deep sentimental attachment some people have to certain items, which can be irreplaceable and cherished beyond their monetary worth.
- The concept of "go-bags" might oversimplify the complexity of evacuation scenarios, where some individuals may not have the luxury of choosing what to take due to time constraints, physical ability, or other factors.
- The suggestion that personal an ...
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Observations on Human Behavior in Tragedy
Bert Kreischer leads a discussion that delves into the complexities of human behavior in times of tragedy, including the impulse to seek voyeuristic thrills in disaster and the role of media in shaping the perception of crisis.
Human Tendency to Seek Voyeuristic Thrills In Disaster
People Flock To Fires, Some Seeking Real Estate Opportunities Later
Kreischer grapples with his own thoughts about the fires, hinting at an uncomfortable mix of emotions that may even include opportunistic impulses. He recounts how after the fires in Malibu, he looked at properties for sale on Zillow and noticed that everything south of Dukes was gone. Kreischer openly acknowledges the grim thought of finding real estate opportunities in the wake of such destruction. He also admits to considering a move to the Palisades after the disaster, underscoring a voyeuristic curiosity in properties affected by the fires.
Social Media's Documentation of Devastation Reflects Empathy Lack
Kreischer highlights the voyeuristic behavior of people taking pictures or going out of their way to see the aftermath of fires. This points to a larger tendency for individuals to find thrill or intrigue in the tragedy of others. Kreischer also broaches the subject of people on social media who focus on personal branding and use crises to self-promote. He describes how some individuals were "live" on their phones during the fires, prioritizing self-promotion over a responsible engagement with the situation.
Media's Role In Shaping Crisis Perception
News Reports Often Miss Conveying Fires' True Scope and Impact
Kreischer and the conversation suggest that mainstream media coverage may not always reflect the full extent or ramifications o ...
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Observations on Human Behavior in Tragedy
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Counterarguments
- People may visit disaster areas out of genuine concern or to offer help, rather than for voyeuristic thrills or opportunistic motives.
- Social media can be a tool for raising awareness and soliciting aid for those affected by tragedy, not just a platform for self-promotion or a reflection of a lack of empathy.
- Individuals documenting disasters on social media or visiting sites may be driven by a need to process the event emotionally or to understand the scale of the tragedy firsthand.
- Some individuals may use personal branding on social media during crises to effectively mobilize resources and support for relief efforts.
- Mainstream media coverage can be limited by practic ...
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