Welcome to The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, your go-to resource for navigating the emotional and practical challenges of downsizing. Whether you’re helping a senior loved one transition to a smaller space, embracing minimalism, or simply looking to simplify your life, this podcast offers expert tips, heartwarming stories, and actionable advice to guide you every step of the way. Join us as we share insights, interview trusted vendors, and explore real-life journeys of letting go and moving fo ...
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Downsizing Roadmap Podcasts
Welcome to Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, where hosts, Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic are dedicated to helping you save money and get organized while managing, maintaining, protecting, improving, and eventually buying or selling your largest financial asset and biggest expense, your home. Discover how easy it is to be a smarter homeowner. Having worked with homeowners for over 20 years, your co-hosts are two of the three co-founders of HomeZada, a digital home management software platform th ...
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48. Downsizing After Divorce: Making Space for a New Chapter
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33:03Divorce is one of the biggest life transitions you can experience—and your home is often at the center of it. In this episode, we’re talking about what it really looks like to downsize after divorce and how to make thoughtful housing and decluttering decisions during a season of major change. Whether you’re deciding whether to keep the house, prepa…
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47. How to Downsize with Confidence Using the One-Week Rule
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39:39If you had to move in one week, what would you take—and what would you leave behind? This simple question can change the way you downsize, declutter, and make decisions. In today’s episode, we’re introducing the One-Week Rule—a mindset tool that helps you get clarity fast. It’s not just a thought experiment. It’s a powerful downsizing filter that c…
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46. When to Downsize: Timing the Real Estate Market vs Timing Your Life
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30:33Is the housing market making you second-guess your downsizing plans? You're not alone. Many homeowners—especially in their 50s, 60s, and beyond—are stuck waiting for the “perfect time” to move, only to feel more stuck as life keeps changing around them. In this episode, we break down the truth about market timing vs. life timing when it comes to do…
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45. Letting Go of More Than Stuff: Finding Yourself After the Clutter Clears
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33:58When you downsize, you’re not just clearing out closets — you’re closing chapters, releasing old roles, and stepping into a new version of yourself. In today’s episode, we’re talking about what really happens after the clutter is gone… when the house feels lighter, but your identity suddenly feels unfamiliar. We explore the hidden emotional work of…
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44. What to Ask a Real Estate Agent When Downsizing
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35:20Downsizing isn’t just a move—it’s a major life transition. And hiring the right real estate agent can make the process easier, more personal, and a whole lot less stressful. In this episode, we’re walking you through what to ask when interviewing a real estate agent for downsizing. You’ll learn: The 10 smartest questions to ask before you hire anyo…
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43. 10 Easy Things to Declutter Now (That You Won’t Miss at All)
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31:37Decluttering doesn’t have to mean tackling your photo albums or your kid’s old art projects. Start with the easy stuff—no guilt, no emotional rollercoaster. In this episode, we’re sharing 10 quick wins you can declutter right now without a second thought. These are low-stress, high-impact categories that will give you instant momentum (and maybe a …
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Your First Homeowner Roadmap - Simplifying the Complex
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35:59Summary this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the essential steps for first-time homeowners. They cover the importance of understanding how to operate and maintain a home, the significance of regular maintenance, and how to prioritize home projects based on inspections. The conversation…
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42. Should You Downsize Before Retirement? What to Know While You're Still Working
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23:07Do you really have to wait until retirement to make your move? Not necessarily. In this episode, we bust the myth that downsizing is a post-retirement project — and show you why moving while you’re still working might be the smarter, smoother path. We’ll cover why your income gives you more financial flexibility, how to plan a move without disrupti…
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41. How to Talk to Your Adult Children About Downsizing (Before It’s a Crisis)
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35:58Starting the downsizing process is hard—but talking to your adult children about it can feel even harder. What if they resist? What if they worry you’re sick? Or worse, what if they avoid the conversation altogether? In this episode of the Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, we walk you through exactly how to have honest, calm, and proactive conversations …
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40. How to Downsize and Sell Your Home While Buying Another (Without Losing Sleep)
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36:09Trying to buy your next home while selling your current one—and downsizing at the same time? It’s one of the most complex moves you can make… and it’s also one of the most common for people in midlife and retirement. In this episode of The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, we’re sharing how to navigate the emotional and logistical puzzle of selling, buyi…
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First-Time Homebuyers: The 4 Phases to Get it Right
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46:03Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic share their personal experiences as first-time homeowners and provide valuable insights into the home buying process. They discuss the importance of financial readiness, the significance of choosing the right location, and the criteria for select…
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What Every Homeowner Should Know About Shutoffs and Safety
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32:24Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner Podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss essential knowledge every homeowner should have regarding their home's utilities. They emphasize the importance of understanding how to manage water, electricity, and gas systems to prevent damage and ensure safety. The conversation cover…
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39. A 12-Month Downsizing Plan: The 3-Space Method for a Lighter Life
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47:05What if you could downsize your home—without overwhelm—by focusing on just three key spaces over the next 12 months? In this episode of The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, Jodi and Heather introduce The 3-Space Method, a simple, year-long plan that helps you clear clutter and create breathing room one quarter at a time. Instead of trying to tackle ever…
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Homeowner Survival Guide: Claims, Contractors & Chaos
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59:48Summary In this episode, Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic share their harrowing experience with a water damage emergency in their home. They recount the chaotic moments when they were awakened by screaming smoke detectors, leading to the discovery of water pouring from their light fixtures. The couple discusses the immediate actions they took, in…
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38. How to Downsize When You’re the Family Keeper of Memories
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36:14If your home has become the storage unit for generations of family photos, heirlooms, and keepsakes—you’re not alone. Many people unexpectedly find themselves the “family memory keeper,” responsible for preserving the stories, history, and belongings of an entire extended family. But how do you honor that legacy without drowning in boxes? In this h…
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37. Downsize Your Digital Clutter: Photos, Files, and Email
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32:59We all know the stress that comes from a cluttered house—but what about the clutter you can’t see? If your phone is full of screenshots you never revisit, your inbox is overflowing with unread messages, or you’re storing years of old files “just in case,” this episode is for you. Today, we’re tackling the growing problem of digital clutter—how it b…
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36. Should You Fix Up Your House or Sell As-Is When Downsizing?
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39:15Should you tackle repairs and updates before selling your home—or skip the stress and list it as-is? If you’re downsizing, this decision can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we walk you through exactly how to decide what’s worth fixing and when it’s better to leave things as-is for a faster, simpler move. 🎯 In this episode, we cover: The emotion…
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35. 8 Things to Downsize Now—Your Future Self Will Thank You
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43:16What are you still holding onto that your future self is begging you to let go of? In this uplifting and practical episode of The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, we’re diving into 8 common things people keep out of guilt, habit, or fear—and what happens when you finally release them. This isn’t just about decluttering your home—it’s about freeing your …
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34. How to Downsize and Declutter Your Hobby Room Without Guilt
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31:55Craft rooms, woodworking benches, model train layouts—these spaces are more than just square footage. They’re often deeply personal zones of creativity, identity, and memory. So when it’s time to downsize or simplify your home, the hobby room is often the hardest place to start. In this episode of The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, we walk you through…
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From Honey-Do to Honey-Done - Smarter Home Maintenance
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40:46Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss essential home maintenance tasks that homeowners often overlook. They emphasize the importance of understanding different categories of maintenance, including preventative and inspection-oriented tasks. The conversation covers various ins…
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33. Downsizing After a Loss: Grief, Healing, and Home
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37:11Downsizing is never easy—but when it comes after the loss of a spouse or parent, it can feel almost impossible. In this heartfelt episode, we talk about what it really looks like to downsize in the wake of grief. Whether you're sorting through a loved one’s belongings or facing the emotional decision to leave a shared home, we’re here to guide you …
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32. Swedish Death Cleaning: A Surprisingly Uplifting Book About Letting Go
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37:52What do you want your loved ones to deal with when you’re gone—boxes of clutter or a home that tells a clear story? In this week’s episode of the Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, we review the bestselling book The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson—a heartfelt, humorous, and refreshingly honest guide to decluttering your life wi…
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Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the complexities of homeownership and how HomeZada serves as a comprehensive platform to manage various aspects of home management. They explore the interconnectedness of home inventory, maintenance, financial insights, and the limitations of u…
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31. Rethink Your Rooms: Design As You Downsize
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35:40Downsizing isn't just about reducing—it's about reimagining. In this empowering episode, we shift the focus from what you're giving up to what you're creating. Instead of starting with the donation pile, what if you started with a blank slate? We’ll walk you through how to design your downsized home with purpose, not pressure—no Pinterest account r…
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30. Best Homes for Downsizing: Ranch, Condo, or Dream Home?
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34:57Thinking about your next move—but not ready for a senior living community? You're not alone. In this episode, we explore the most popular home types for active downsizers and how to choose the right fit for your lifestyle today and your future needs. We break down ranch homes, condos, patio homes, dream homes, and the rising trend of second-home bu…
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The Smart Way to Inventory Your Home—Photos, Videos & AI
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36:04Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Elizabeth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the importance of taking a home inventory and provide practical tips on how to get started. They emphasize the significance of documenting valuable items through photographs and videos, and how using tools like HomeZada can streamline the…
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29. Why Downsizing Is So Hard: The Science of Decision Fatigue
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30:58If you’ve ever sat in front of a closet, drawer, or attic full of stuff and felt totally overwhelmed—you’re not alone. Downsizing isn’t just physical work—it’s mental work. And in this episode, we’re diving into why it feels so exhausting to make all these decisions. We explore the science of decision fatigue and how it affects your brain during th…
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28. Are You Saving It or Avoiding It? How to Spot Hidden Clutter Traps
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43:50Some clutter hides in plain sight—disguised as good intentions, future plans, or memories we think we’re preserving. In this episode of The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, we unpack the hidden clutter traps that sneak into your home and your mindset. Whether it’s the “someday” box, the craft supplies you’ll get to one day, or the heirlooms you’re savin…
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27. What to Keep When the Kids Are Grown (and Say They Don’t Want Anything)
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36:59You saved it all—the baby clothes, the school projects, the toys. But now your adult kids say… they don’t want any of it. So, what should you actually keep? In this episode of The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, we’re getting real (but keeping it light) about what’s worth saving from your kids’ childhood and how to finally let go of the rest without gu…
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26. Decluttering for a Fresh Start: How to Make Space for What’s Next
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28:33Is your home filled with things from past seasons of life? It's time to make room for what’s next. In this episode, we’re rethinking decluttering—not as a chore, but as a fresh start. You’ll learn how to let go of what no longer serves you and create space for the lifestyle you want now. Whether you're planning a move, simplifying your routines, or…
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25. The 12-Month Downsizing Journey: A Season-by-Season Guide to a Lighter Life
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38:01Thinking about downsizing but overwhelmed by the idea of doing it all at once? In this episode, we share a 12-month, season-by-season downsizing plan that helps you clear space and lighten your life without the stress of a last-minute purge. Whether you’re preparing for a move or simply want less clutter, this gentle, realistic approach allows you …
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Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the complexities of managing multiple homes, including rental properties, vacation homes, and family residences. They emphasize the importance of home maintenance, inventory management, and understanding the financial implications of owning m…
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24. The Myth of the Perfect Time: Why You Should Start Downsizing Now
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36:44Are you waiting for the “perfect time” to start downsizing? The truth is, that day rarely comes—and waiting can cost you more than you realize. In this episode, we unpack the myth of the perfect time and why so many people delay downsizing until it’s urgent. We share the hidden financial, emotional, and physical costs of waiting too long, along wit…
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Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic delve into the essential topic of home maintenance. They discuss what constitutes home maintenance, the importance of seasonal upkeep, and the necessity of having a maintenance schedule. The conversation also touches on the choice between DIY tasks a…
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23. The VA Benefit Every Senior Veteran Should Know About
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33:02If you're a veteran—or love someone who is—and you're navigating a big life transition like downsizing or aging in place, this episode is for you. We’re joined by elder law attorney Rachael Houck of Houck Menninger Law to talk about veterans benefits that often go overlooked, especially Aid & Attendance and how it can support the cost of care. We c…
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Unlocking Homeowner AI: Your Financial Ally
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38:07Summary: In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic discuss the importance of financial visibility for homeowners through the use of Homeowner AI. They explore how homeowners can track their home value, equity, and expenses, emphasizing the need for ongoing financial awareness. The conversation includ…
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22. Which Downsizing Type Are You? 5 Ways People Declutter and What Actually Works
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40:47Some people keep everything “just in case.” Others are deeply sentimental. And some are ready to toss it all and start fresh. Sound familiar? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to downsizing. But there are patterns—and recognizing your personal style can make everything easier. In this episode, we walk through the 5 most common dow…
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From Wishlist to Budget: AI-Powered Remodeling with HomeZada
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47:57Summary: In this episode, Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic explore the complexities of home improvement projects, focusing on the role of AI in remodeling. They discuss the challenges homeowners face in decision-making, budgeting, and material selection, emphasizing the importance of thorough research. The conversation highlights the potential of Home…
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21. Financial Planning for Seniors: What You Need to Know
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39:57In this episode, we’re joined by financial advisor, Beth Beebe, who specializes in helping people navigate money decisions with clarity and confidence. For seniors looking at downsizing, these conversations can be even more important to navigate upcoming decisions such as managing a fixed income or preparing for rising healthcare costs. This conver…
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Smarter Remodeling: How Homeowner AI Transforms Project Planning
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40:25Summary: In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic tackle the world of home remodeling — and how Homeowner AI is making it easier, smarter, and far less overwhelming. From upgrading kitchens to redoing landscaping, remodeling is a massive industry filled with major decisions about budget, materials, and scope. Beth an…
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20. Can I Stay Here? How to Know if Your Home Works for Aging in Place
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39:42If you’ve ever looked around your home and wondered, “Can I really live here long-term?” — this episode is for you. As more adults choose to age in place, it’s essential to take an honest look at whether your current home will support that goal. In this episode, Jodi and Heather walk through a full home assessment, from front door to back yard, to …
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From Floods to Fires: How HomeZada's AI Keeps You Informed
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43:26Summary: In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic explore how AI technology is transforming the way homeowners prepare for severe weather events. They discuss how HomeZada now uses AI to deliver real-time alerts based on your exact property location — not just your city or zip code — helping you act faster when…
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19. What Do I Do With All These Photos? A 5-Step Downsizing Plan
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39:55If you’ve ever opened a closet and found stacks of albums, shoeboxes of old prints, or random framed photos stuffed in drawers… you’re not alone. For many of us—and especially those helping a parent or grandparent downsize—the photo pile is one of the most emotional and paralyzing parts of the process. In today’s episode of The Downsizing Roadmap P…
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Preparing for Natural Disasters: A Homeowner's Guide
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32:24Summary: In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, co-hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic tackle one of the most vital topics every homeowner needs to hear about: disaster preparedness. Natural disasters — from wildfires and hurricanes to floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes — are increasingly impacting every region of the country. Beth and John bre…
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18. Legal Peace of Mind for Seniors and Their Families with Rachael Houck
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41:40When you’re planning a move later in life—whether to a smaller home, a senior living community, or closer to family—there’s one piece that often gets overlooked: legal planning. In this episode, we’re joined by Rachael Houck, elder law attorney and partner at Houck Menninger Law. Rachael shares what every downsizing senior (and their adult children…
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Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Why You Must Inventory Your Storage Units
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31:44Summary: In this episode of Be a Smarter Homeowner, Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic dive into a topic you might not think about often — what's hiding inside your storage unit or other outbuildings? Whether it's transitional moves, seasonal gear, heirlooms, or forgotten treasures, too many people lose track of what they own simply because it's out of …
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17. Downsizing Disagreements: Finding Common Ground As A Couple
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46:05Facing downsizing disagreements? Downsizing is never just about the stuff—it’s about timing, emotions, identity, and often... compromise. And when you’re not on the same page with your spouse or partner? The whole process can feel even more overwhelming. Listen now to find out how you can find common ground as a couple. In this episode, we’re diggi…
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Home Maintenance with AI: A Homeowner's Best Friend
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42:00Summary In this episode, Beth Dodson and John Bedrozik delve into the world of Homeowner AI, focusing on its application in home maintenance. They discuss the challenges homeowners face in managing maintenance tasks, the importance of preventative maintenance, and how AI can simplify the process. The conversation highlights personal experiences, th…
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16. Feeling Stuck? Try This 10-Day Downsizing Kickstart
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44:0810 Days to Jumpstart Your Downsizing Journey Feeling overwhelmed about where to start with downsizing? You’re not alone—and the good news is, you don’t have to do it all at once. In this episode, we walk you through a simple, 10-day plan to help you build real momentum without burnout. Each day focuses on one small task that’s totally doable—and su…
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Title Revolutionizing Home Inventory with AI Summary In this episode of the Be a Smarter Homeowner podcast, hosts Beth Dodson and John Bodrozic explore the intersection of home inventory management and AI technology. They discuss the importance of understanding fixed assets versus personal property, the significance of photo composition for accurat…
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