Shows
HOA HELLIf I Sue My HOA Will I Get My Attorney’s Fees Back?In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner answers one of the most common homeowner questions: If I win a lawsuit against my HOA, will I get my attorney’s fees back? From the American Rule to Civil Code § 5975, Kushner explains when attorney’s fees can be recovered, what it means to be a “prevailing party,” and how these rules play out in HOA enforcement actions. Real-world examples show how outcomes differ depending on whether homeowners win outright, achieve their litigation objectives, or face mixed results. The episode also covers the role of mediation under Civil Code § 593...
2025-08-2829 minHOA HELLYour HOA Can Regulate Your Remodel, But the Rules Must Be ReasonableMost California HOAs have the power to regulate how you remodel, landscape, or modify your property. But under Civil Code § 4765, that power has strict limits. Your HOA can’t deny your application based on vague aesthetics, personal preferences, or unwritten standards. Their rules must be published in the governing documents, and their decisions must be reasonable, consistent, and backed by clear written explanations. That includes citing the specific governing document-based provision that supports any denial by the HOA. ✅ Architectural standards must be reasonable. They cannot be arbitrary or inconsistent.✅ All denials must be in writin...
2025-08-2601 minHOA HELLHOA CC&Rs: The Only Sections You Actually Need to ReadIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner walks homeowners through their CC&Rs, explaining which provisions they can safely skip and which ones they must read and understand. Instead of slogging through a hundred pages of legalese, this guide helps you focus only on the sections that directly impact your daily life and your rights as a homeowner. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Which sections of your CC&Rs you should skip, and which parts you must read.✅ Which sections directly impact homeowners, from maintenance obligations and use restrictions to archite...
2025-08-2530 minHOA HELLCalifornia AB 130 Update: Predictions Come True as HOA Chaos UnfoldsIn this follow-up episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner revisits AB 130 just weeks after it went into effect, and confirms that the fallout is happening exactly as he predicted. From client consultations to opposing counsel discussions to upcoming press coverage, the consensus is clear: AB 130 is already creating confusion, lawsuits, and unintended consequences. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why AB 130’s capping of HOA fines at $100 is already creating havoc.✅ How ambiguities in the law are fueling confusion among homeowners, HOAs, and even reporters.✅ Real client examples showing how the $100 f...
2025-08-2133 minHOA HELLCan My HOA Limit My Guests or What They’re Allowed to Do?Your HOA says your guests can’t use the pool or that you’re hosting too many visitors. Can they do that? In this HOA Q&A, attorney Michael Kushner explains when guest-related rules are enforceable and when your HOA may be crossing the line. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This HOA Q&A:✅ Why your HOA can’t restrict who you invite into your home.✅ When guest use of common areas can be limited by rules.✅ How extended stays may be treated as unauthorized rentals.✅ When HOA guest restrictions must be...
2025-08-2002 minHOA HELLCan Your HOA Block You From Building an ADU in California?California law guarantees your right to build an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU. But that doesn’t stop some bad HOAs from trying to stop you, or at least make it so difficult that you might give up. In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, attorney Michael Kushner explains what the law actually says about ADUs and what your HOA legally can and can’t do to stop you. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This 1-Minute Tip:✅ Why Civil Code § 4751 protects your right to build an ADU.✅ What qualifies as an “unreasonable” restriction or delay.✅ Why requirin...
2025-08-1901 minHOA HELLCan My California HOA Stop Me From Building an ADU?HOAs across California are still trying to deny homeowners the right to build Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADUs”) even though Civil Code section 4751 says they can’t. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down what your rights really are under California law. ✅ What California law actually protects and what HOAs often get wrong.✅ The difference between ADUs and JADUs.✅ How bad HOAs try to delay, obstruct, or condition approval through illegal tactics.✅ What your HOA can require and where the line is legally drawn.✅ What to do when your boar...
2025-08-1833 minHOA HELLHOA Liens and Foreclosures in California: What Homeowners Need to KnowIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down the power California HOAs have to place liens and foreclose on homeowners and what you can do to protect yourself. From understanding the legal thresholds for foreclosure, to the differences between judicial and non-judicial processes, this episode explains the steps an HOA must follow, the rights you have along the way, and how to avoid the most common mistakes that cost people their homes. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The four main situations where you must pay money to your HOA, and h...
2025-08-1457 minHOA HELLCan My HOA Enforce Rules That Aren’t in the CC&Rs?Your HOA says you violated a rule, but it’s not in the CC&Rs. Can they really enforce it? In this HOA Q&A, attorney Michael Kushner explains how California law allows HOAs to adopt enforceable rules outside the CC&Rs, but only if the governing documents give them that power and the rule meets strict legal standards. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This HOA Q&A:✅ Where an HOA’s authority to adopt rules come from.✅ The legal requirements for enforceable HOA rules under Civil Code § 4350.✅ When a board-adopted rule may be inval...
2025-08-1302 minHOA HELLHow to Recall Your HOA Board in California: Legal Process, Signature Rules, and Strategic TipsIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down the legal process for recalling your HOA board in California and why it can be one of the most effective tools for holding directors accountable. He explains the exact signature threshold required, what must be in a valid petition, how the recall election works, and how to counter common board tactics designed to stall or derail the process. Kushner also covers the strategic decision between targeting individual directors versus the entire board, how cumulative voting affects partial recalls, and why organizing your community beforehand can be t...
2025-08-1135 minHOA HELLHow HOA Management Companies Work and What to Do When Yours FailsIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner exposes the often-overlooked role that management companies play in California HOAs and how that role can spiral into abuse, neglect, or outright misconduct if left unchecked. Kushner walks listeners through exactly how management companies are hired, what their contracts say, and what they’re legally allowed, and not allowed, to do. He breaks down common red flags that signal mismanagement, and explains what tools homeowners can use to fight back even though the management company doesn’t report to them directly. This episode arms homeowners with a powe...
2025-08-0744 minHOA HELLCan Your HOA Cut Down Common Area Trees Without Telling You?Bad HOAs have a bad habit of removing trees from the common areas without warning, without a vote, and without any plan to replace them. But unless the trees in question pose a risk to people’s health and safety, that kind of unilateral action is likely a violation of California law. In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains how boards are bound by the Davis-Stirling Act and the CC&Rs when it comes to common area landscaping. Mature trees that provide shade, privacy, or noise protection can’t just be cleared away (with no re...
2025-08-0501 minHOA HELLHOA Architectural Guidelines: What Homeowners Can (and Can't) Do (Without Getting Denied)California law gives HOAs the power to regulate architectural changes, but it also puts strict limits on how that power can be used. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down how far your HOA can go when it comes to reviewing and denying your home improvement plans. From vague aesthetic denials to outright retaliation, Kushner explains what makes a denial unreasonable, arbitrary, or capricious under Civil Code § 4765, and what homeowners can do about it. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ What HOA architectural guidelines are and how they’re legally a...
2025-08-0441 minHOA HELLAB 130 and the $100 Fine Cap: How California Just Made HOA Problems WorseCalifornia’s new law capping HOA fines at $100 per violation is being celebrated by some as a win for homeowners. But in this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down why AB 130 is not the reform it appears to be, and why those so-called experts who support the law didn’t think through the consequences Kushner discusses. Based on his deep dive into the statute and its fallout, Kushner exposes how the law’s vague language, unintended consequences, and political underpinnings will actually create more chaos, more litigation, and more costs for homeowners across the state. 🔍 Wha...
2025-07-3136 minHOA HELLCan My HOA Require Me to Replace My Lawn With Drought-Resistant Landscaping?Your HOA says you have to tear out your grass and install drought-resistant landscaping, but is that legal? In this HOA Q&A, attorney Michael Kushner explains what California law actually says, and why your board may be overstepping if they try to force the change. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This HOA Q&A:✅ What Civil Code § 4735 says.✅ Why boards can’t require turf removal unless the governing documents authorize it.✅ How cost can factor into whether a rule is legally “reasonable.”✅ Why prior approval of your landscaping matters. Micha...
2025-07-2902 minHOA HELLHOA Parking Rules EXPLAINED: Fines, Towing, and Your Legal RightsIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner takes on one of the most common and most infuriating HOA disputes in California: parking enforcement. From surveillance-fueled fines to predatory towing, HOAs across the state are abusing their power. This episode breaks down exactly what HOAs are allowed to do, what they’re not, and what you can do when your board crosses the line. NOTE TO LISTENER: THIS EPISODE WAS FILMED BEFORE AB 130’S LIMIT ON HOA FINES WENT INTO EFFECT. AS OF NOW, CALIFORNIA LAW LIMITS HOA FINES TO $100 REGARDLESS OF THE OFFENS...
2025-07-2828 minHOA HELLWhat Can an HOA Board Discuss in Executive Session in California?HOA board holding closed-door meetings—but not telling you why? Under California law, HOA boards are only allowed to discuss five specific topics in executive session. Anything else must be done in public. In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains exactly what Civil Code § 4935 permits—and how boards routinely violate it. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This 1-Minute Tip: ✅ The five topics an HOA board can legally discuss in executive session.✅ Why topics like “potential liability,” budgets, landscaping, or general liability must be discussed in open session.✅...
2025-07-2402 minHOA HELLHOA Drought Landscaping Rules: What California HOAs Can and Can’t EnforceCan your HOA force you to tear out your grass, install decomposed granite, or replace your flowers with cactus? Or can they fine you for not complying with state drought mandates or for letting your grass die? In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down California Civil Code section 4735 and what it actually says about drought-tolerant landscaping and what your HOA can and can’t do about it. Whether your HOA is trying to mandate artificial turf or deny you the right to conserve water, this episode gives California homeowners the clarity they...
2025-07-2436 minHOA HELLDo Condo Owners Have to Make Fire Zone Disclosures in California?In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner exposes a dangerous gap in California law that affects nearly every condo owner trying to sell in a high fire hazard zone. California Civil Code section 1102.19 requires specific fire-related disclosures when selling property in high-risk areas. The problem with that is that the law fails to account for the unique position of condo owners, who often don’t own or control the roof, walls, or landscaping. This mismatch between legal duty and actual authority puts condo sellers at risk for lawsuits, cancelled escrows, and potentially massive liability. Kushner bre...
2025-07-2237 minHOA HELLHOA Delaying Your Home Sale? You Can Do Something About ItEscrow is moving fast and suddenly your HOA won’t release the resale disclosures, inspection reports, or demand statement. You did everything right, but now your deal is falling apart, and the HOA’s silence is threatening to put you at financial risk. In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains how sellers can enforce their rights when an HOA refuses to cooperate during escrow and why Civil Code section 5200 gives you the power to demand the documents your HOA is required to produce. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This 1-Minute Tip:✅ What...
2025-07-1801 minHOA HELLWill My HOA’s Insurance Cover Damage Inside My Condo?If a pipe bursts or water leaks into your unit, will your HOA’s insurance cover the damage? In this HOA Q&A, attorney Michael Kushner tackles that question. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This HOA Q&A: ✅ What HOA master insurance policies typically cover and what they don’t.✅ Why drywall, flooring, cabinets, and personal property are usually excluded from HOA policies.✅ What an HO-6 condo policy is, and why every condo owner should consider getting one.✅ When HOA negligence could make them liable for the damage inside your unit. 🔔...
2025-07-1801 minHOA HELLWhat Every California Homeowner Needs to Know About HOA Reserve Funds (Part 2-Conclusion)In this episode, Michael Kushner concludes this 2-part series by exposing how some boards don’t just underfund reserves, they engage in actual fraud. In this episode, Kushner exposes the deceptive tactics bad HOAs use to manipulate reserve studies, inflate their “percent funded” numbers, and avoid disclosing the true financial condition of their HOAs. From delisting major components and tampering with useful life calculations, to simply skipping reserve contributions altogether, Kushner walks you through how these schemes work, and how to recognize them. You’ll also learn what kinds of financial red flags to watch for in your HOA’...
2025-07-1742 minHOA HELLWhat Every California Homeowner Needs to Know About HOA Reserve Funds (Part 1)Most homeowners know their HOA is supposed to set aside money for future repairs, but few understand how those funds are calculated, what they’re actually for, or what the “percent funded” number on their annual budget summary really means. In this episode of HOA HELL, which is Part 1 of 2, attorney Michael Kushner walks you through the core elements of a reserve fund and reserve study, explains how they’re structured under California law, and breaks down exactly what your reserve study should be telling you. From “Useful Life” and “Remaining Life” to “Current Replacement Cost,” Kushner explains how to spot...
2025-07-1436 minHOA HELLService Animals— What Your HOA Can & Can’t DoIn this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains how service animals are not pets under the law—and what your HOA can and cannot legally demand from you. Under both federal and California fair housing laws, service animals are assistive devices—like a wheelchair—and they’re protected. This includes dogs and, in some cases, miniature horses. Your HOA is legally allowed to ask only two questions: ✅ Is the animal required because of a disability? ✅ What work or task has it been trained to perform? Your HOA CANNOT:
2025-07-1401 minHOA HELLEmotional Support Animals— What Your HOA Can & Can’t DoIn this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains your rights when it comes to EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS—and how they differ from SERVICE ANIMALS under the law. Stay tuned for the next 1-Min Atty Tip, where I’ll cover SERVICE ANIMALS. But for now, here's what you need to know about emotional support animals: Under California and federal fair housing laws, an HOA must make reasonable accommodations for residents with a disability-related need for an emotional support animal—even if the HOA has a no-pets policy or rules about weight, breed, or number o...
2025-07-1202 minHOA HELLHow to Flip an HOA Election Using Cumulative VotingCan a small group of owners flip an HOA election—even without majority support?Yes, if your HOA uses cumulative voting. And most do, unless they’ve formally opted out. In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, Michael Kushner explains how cumulative voting really works and how you can use it to break up an entrenched board majority. You’ll learn how vote-stacking works, why it’s effective in low-turnout elections, and why most election inspectors don’t even understand it. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This 1-Minute Tip: ✅ What cumulative voting is—and how it differs fro...
2025-07-1101 minHOA HELLYou Have the Right to Install an EV Charging Station in Your Assigned Parking SpotIn this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains your legal right to install an electric vehicle charging station—even if your assigned parking spot is located in the common area. Under Civil Code section 4745, your HOA can’t ban EV chargers outright. They can impose reasonable conditions—like requiring permits, licensed contractors, and insurance—but they must respond within 60 days of your written request or it’s automatically approved by law. Kushner breaks down the requirements, the HOA’s limits, and how to push back if your board tries to stonewall you. 🔔 Subscrib...
2025-07-1101 minHOA HELLIs Your HOA Charging You for Attorney Fees? It’s a Scam, so Push BackSome HOAs are quietly charging homeowners thousands of dollars in attorneys’ fees without ever going to court, without winning a case, and without the legal right to do so. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down one of the most common and illegal tactics used by California HOAs: billing homeowners for legal fees during pre-litigation disputes. From consultation charges, to post-hearing letters, to general budget line items, Kushner exposes the ways boards (and their attorneys) disguise legal costs and illegally pass them on to unsuspecting homeowners. He explains what California law actually allows, wha...
2025-07-1024 minHOA HELLWhat’s the Difference Between a “Regular” Demand Letter and An ADR Demand Letter?In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains why a standard demand letter might be a waste of time—and why an ADR Demand Letter under Civil Code §§ 5925–5940 gives you real legal leverage. Unlike informal letters that HOAs can simply ignore, an ADR Demand Letter triggers mandatory timelines and formal obligations to mediate. If the HOA refuses, that decision can come back to haunt them—even if they win in court. Civil Code § 5960 allows a judge to reduce or deny attorneys’ fees if a party unreasonably refuses to participate in ADR. And here's the st...
2025-07-1001 minHOA HELLNeighbor Disputes—Your HOA Can’t Pretend It’s Not Their ProblemIn this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner breaks down what your HOA must do when a neighbor is breaking the rules. If you’re dealing with a neighbor who’s violating the CC&Rs—loud noise, illegal rentals, harassment, or other disruptive behavior—your HOA can’t just shrug and say, “It’s not our problem,” or “That’s a neighbor-to-neighbor issue.” Wrong. Under California law, HOAs have a fiduciary duty to enforce the governing documents—including nuisance provisions. That means if your neighbor is interfering with your quiet enjoyment or safety, or is otherwise...
2025-07-0901 minHOA HELLIf Your Board Isn’t Providing You with the Mandatory Annual Disclosures, Make Them!In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains why annual disclosures from your HOA aren’t just good practice—they’re required by law. Under the Davis-Stirling Act, your board must send out a disclosure package every year. That includes the budget, reserve funding plan, insurance summary, financial statements, and several key notices—like enforcement policies and dispute resolution procedures. If they’re not sending that package by the statutory deadline, they’re not just being sloppy—they’re violating California law. Homeowners have every right to demand compliance. And if demands don’t wo...
2025-07-0801 minHOA HELLWeaponizing Harassment: How HOAs Use that Word to Silence YouIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner exposes one of the most disturbing recent legal tactics used by HOA law firms today: labeling homeowners as “harassers” and threatening restraining orders against them for doing nothing more than filming rule violations, questioning unauthorized vendor activity, or demanding enforcement of the governing documents. Michael walks viewers through two real cease-and-desist letters sent by two of California’s top HOA-side firms—letters that don’t just misstate the law, but intentionally distort it beyond recognition. One firm threatened to sue for tortious interference because a homeowner took pictures. Another cla...
2025-07-0837 minHOA HELLDoes My HOA Have to Enforce Every Violation of the CC&Rs?Does your HOA have to chase down every violation, no matter how small? In this HOA Q&A, attorney Michael Kushner explains why enforcement is one of the board’s core duties under California law—but also why the law gives boards discretion in how they enforce. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This HOA Q&A: ✅ Why HOAs are legally required to enforce the governing documents.✅ When the board can choose not to enforce a technical or low-impact violation.✅ How selective enforcement can lead to legal liability—or invalidate the rule entirely.✅ W...
2025-07-0701 minHOA HELLIs Your HOA Ignoring Unsafe Common Areas? What the Law Requires in CaliforniaSome HOAs are failing to perform the most basic duty they owe to their members—maintaining, repairing, and replacing common area elements. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down why so many California HOAs fall short, how that failure puts you at legal and financial risk, and what red flags you should be watching for if your board is dragging its feet. From cracked stairways and leaking roofs to ignored inspection reports and deferred slope repairs, Kushner walks listeners through the most common scenarios where HOA neglect creates real danger. He also outlines exa...
2025-07-0744 minHOA HELLCan I Get My Attorneys’ Fees Back if I Sue My HOA?In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner answers a question that every homeowner should ask before taking legal action: Can I recover my attorneys’ fees if I sue my HOA and win? In most cases, the answer is yes. California’s Davis-Stirling Act entitles the prevailing party to attorneys’ fees and costs in enforcement actions (Civ. Code, § 5975), as well as in other cases, such as upon prevailing in a Writ to compel the HOA to produce documents under Civil Code section 5200 (Civ. Code, § 5235). Even better, it’s highly likely that your CC&Rs contain a...
2025-07-0701 minHOA HELLSecurity Cameras—Yes, You Can Watch Your Own Front DoorIn this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains why your HOA can’t stop you from installing a video-only security camera—as long as it’s directed at your own front door or another area under your exclusive control. You can install a camera pointed at your front door, porch, or eave—as long as those areas are part of your separate interest or exclusive use common area. That’s where the law protects your right to safeguard your home and family. But here’s the boundary: you don’t have the right to install...
2025-07-0501 minHOA HELLGot Fined by Your HOA Without Notice? That’s Illegal.In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner breaks down a common (and illegal) HOA tactics: penalizing homeowners without proper notice. Under Civil Code section 5855, your HOA must give you at least 10 days’ written notice before holding a disciplinary hearing—and the notice must include the date, time, and reason. If your board fines you or suspends your rights without that notice, their action is legally invalid. This isn’t a technicality—it’s a defense. You can demand reversal and, if needed, raise it in small claims or superior court. Know your rights befor...
2025-07-0401 minHOA HELLWant to Rally Other Homeowners? Get the HOA Member ListIn this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains how to legally demand access to the HOA’s membership list—including names, property addresses, and email addresses. Under Civil Code sections 5200 and 5225, you’re entitled to this information as long as your request is reasonably related to your interest as a member. Most owners—and many board members—don’t realize that unless someone has affirmatively opted out, their email address must be disclosed too. If you want to organize a recall, oppose a rule, or just communicate with your neighbors, this tip gives you the...
2025-07-0301 minHOA HELLHOA Won’t Let You Park Your EV on the Driveway? Here’s What the Law Really SaysTrying to charge your electric vehicle—but your HOA’s driveway rules won’t let you?In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains how neutral-sounding HOA rules—like “you must use your garage before parking on the driveway”—can end up disproportionately burdening EV owners. Under California law, HOAs aren’t required to install charging infrastructure, but they also can’t enforce rules that effectively block you from charging your EV at home without offering a reasonable alternative. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This 1-Minute Tip:✅ Why some driveway restrictions...
2025-07-0201 minHOA HELLDemand for Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR): Your Free Legal Pressure ToolIn this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains how to invoke Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR)—a powerful, free legal tool that forces your HOA to the table. Under Civil Code section 5910, if you request an IDR meeting, the board is legally required to participate. Most homeowners have no idea this right exists. But a simple written request can shift the balance, build a paper trail, and show that you’re acting reasonably while the board may not be. Kushner explains when to use it, how to ask for it, and why it can be...
2025-07-0201 minHOA HELLCan Non-Owners Serve on the HOA Board?Can a renter, property manager, or relative of a homeowner serve on your HOA board? In this HOA Q&A, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down why California law limits board eligibility to owners only—and what happens when that rule gets ignored. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This HOA Q&A: ✅ What California law says about who can serve on the HOA board.✅ Who counts as a “member”—and who doesn’t.✅ What it means legally if non-owners are serving on the board. Michael explains how HOAs sometimes break this rule without realiz...
2025-07-0101 minHOA HELLIf Your Board Isn’t Doing Their Job Properly, Recall ThemIn this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains how easy it actually is to start the process of recalling your HOA board. Most homeowners don’t realize that a recall petition only takes 5% of the membership to trigger a recall election—and in many cases, it’s easier to recall the entire board than just one or two members. If you’re fed up with unresponsive or rogue board members, this is the legal strategy you need to know. Kushner breaks down the numbers, the voting rules, and why this little-known tool can be a game-ch...
2025-07-0101 minHOA HELLCan You Withhold HOA Dues During a Dispute? Here’s Why That’s a Huge Mistake in CaliforniaThink you can withhold your HOA dues because you're in a dispute? Even if your HOA is in the wrong—California law doesn’t allow you to offset or suspend payments. In this 1-Minute Attorney Tip, California HOA attorney Michael Kushner explains why refusing to pay your dues—even “on principle”—can backfire badly. From penalties to foreclosure, the risks are real. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This 1-Minute Tip: ✅ Why California law does not recognize a homeowner’s right to offset HOA dues.✅ What can happen if you stop paying—even when your...
2025-07-0101 minHOA HELLHOA Justice, Mob Style: What Tulsa King Gets Wrong—and Right—About HOA FinesSylvester Stallone vs. the HOA? In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner reacts to a fun clip from Tulsa King where Stallone’s character gets slapped with an on-the-spot $100 fine for leaving his garage door open too long. But here in California, it wouldn’t—and legally couldn’t—go down like that. Not that a lot of HOAs don’t try. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why HOA fines in California must follow a strict legal process (Civil Code § 5855).✅ What Stallone’s Tulsa King scene gets laughably wrong—and disturbingly right.
2025-06-3022 minHOA HELLHOA Embezzlement: Real HOA Theft Cases in California (Part 2-Conclusion)When an HOA board starts hiding financial records, limiting access to bank accounts, or rubber-stamping reimbursements with no documentation—homeowners need to pay attention. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down five red flags that often signal financial misconduct inside an HOA, and explains the specific tools California homeowners can use to expose it. From obstructed inspection requests to board members who refuse to answer basic questions, Kushner walks listeners through how these issues actually play out—and how to push back using the Davis-Stirling Act. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episod...
2025-06-3043 minHOA HELLHOAs vs. Marijuana—Who Wins?Can your HOA stop you from using marijuana? What about when it’s medically necessary? In this HOA Q&A, attorney Michael Kushner explains how California law treats marijuana use in HOA communities, and why context matters when it comes to enforcement. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This HOA Q&A: ✅ When HOAs can ban smoking marijuana—even for medical use.✅ Why shared walls and ventilation systems make a difference.✅ When a total ban might be unreasonable in single-family homes.✅ How medical necessity may support a request for reasonable accommodation under...
2025-06-2702 minHOA HELLHOA Embezzlement: Real HOA Theft Cases in California (Part 1)HOA embezzlement is real—and it’s happening in California communities just like yours. In Part 1 of this special two-part episode, attorney Michael Kushner exposes real-life examples of theft and financial misconduct inside HOAs, including actual news reports from Chula Vista and Santa Monica. Whether it’s padded invoices, unauthorized reimbursements, or shady board/manager collusion, these cases reveal just how easy it is for dishonest insiders to siphon your money. And while most boards do the right thing, those that don’t are counting on one thing: that no one will look too closely. This episode breaks th...
2025-06-2741 minHOA HELLUncovered: The Shocking Truth About HOA Insurance—and What It Means for YouThink your HOA’s master insurance policy protects you? Think again. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down the shocking gaps in HOA insurance—and how they can leave homeowners stuck with five- or six-figure bills after a disaster. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The real difference between condos, planned developments, and townhomes.✅ What your HOA’s master policy usually covers—and what it doesn’t.✅ When HO-6 policies are essential, and who actually needs one.✅ Why most HOAs don’t carry earthquake insurance (and what that me...
2025-06-2533 minHOA HELLEmergency or Excuse? How HOAs Use “Safety” to Justify Illegal Emergency AssessmentsA few months ago in Modesto, an HOA blindsided its members with a $25,000-per-unit “emergency” assessment to replace just eight red-tagged balconies—without a vote, and without following key legal procedures. And this isn’t just a Modesto problem. Across California, HOAs are abusing the emergency assessment loophole—declaring preventable maintenance issues as “emergencies” so they can skip a member vote and impose massive charges on homeowners. In this episode of HOA HELL, Michael Kushner and senior associate Sam Khil break down how emergency assessments are supposed to work under California law—and how boards are viol...
2025-06-2324 minHOA HELLCan Your HOA Stop You from Going Solar? What California Law Really SaysCalifornia law gives you the right to install solar energy systems—but that doesn’t stop some HOAs from trying to block or delay you. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner explains exactly what the law allows, what your HOA can (and can’t) do, and how to fight back if your solar plans are denied or ignored. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ What Civil Code §§ 714, 714.1, and 4746 actually say—and how they apply to both single-family homes and condos.✅ How HOAs illegally use “aesthetic standards” to block legal solar projects.✅ W...
2025-06-2039 minHOA HELLWhy Your HOA Has the Upper Hand—and 7 Legal Tools to Fight BackHOAs have real power. And it’s not just because of outdated governing documents or unchecked boards. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner dissects the flawed logic behind a podcast hosted by a lawyer he once hired and trained—who now claims to run the most experienced HOA law firm in California. Kushner explains why homeowners are often outgunned—and delivers 7 legal tools that actually explain, and begin to correct, the imbalance. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why HOAs have so much legal and procedural power over homeowners.✅ What the Business...
2025-06-1847 minHOA HELLCommon Area Nightmares: What to Do When Your HOA Won’t Repair, Replace, or MaintainIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner tackles one of the most frustrating and costly HOA disputes homeowners face: when the HOA refuses to repair or maintain common areas. From leaking roofs and cracked patios, to slope failures and hidden pipe damage, these common area nightmares cause real harm—and often leave homeowners stuck with the bill. But California law gives you real power to fight back. 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ What California law actually requires your HOA to maintain—and what it doesn’t.✅ What to do when the HOA...
2025-06-1643 minHOA HELLYour HOA’s Paper Trail: How to Use Civil Code § 5200 to Get Every Document You NeedIf your HOA has ever dodged your questions, withheld financial records, or made you feel like you don’t have the right to know how your dues are being spent—this episode is for you. California Civil Code § 5200 gives you powerful rights to demand specific HOA records—and Civil Code § 5235 gives you the power to enforce those rights in court, fast and without the cost of a full-blown lawsuit. In this episode, attorney Michael Kushner explains how to use § 5200 to obtain your HOA’s bank statements, invoices, meeting minutes, contracts, tax returns, reserve balances, and more—and how...
2025-06-1342 minHOA HELLHow Are CC&Rs, Bylaws, Rules, and Architectural Guidelines Different From Each Other?Ever wonder whether your HOA can actually do what it’s doing? Whether it’s issuing fines, denying architectural requests, or citing obscure rules—none of it matters if the board doesn’t have legal authority. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down the four core governing documents that every California HOA relies on—CC&Rs, Bylaws, Rules, and Architectural Guidelines—and explains exactly how they work under the Davis-Stirling Act. You’ll learn the legal hierarchy, how to recognize board overreach, and how to push back when your HOA crosses the line.
2025-06-1122 minHOA HELLSpotlight: Director From Hell Assaults a HomeownerThis is what HOA abuse of power looks like—and we caught it on video. If it didn’t really happen, it would actually be funny because of how pathetic this director’s personal life must really be. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner is joined by his former client Kourosh Amini to expose a disturbing example of egregious HOA director abuse (including assault) and it was caught on video. A director obsessed with power and control stalks a homeowner (who happens to fit into a particular ethnic category), confronts him with wild accusations, repeate...
2025-06-1029 minHOA HELLDog Bites, Emotional Distress, and Everything in Between (Part 6 of 6 Series)In the final episode of our 6-part Neighbor Dispute Series, attorney Michael Kushner tackles the lesser-known but still highly effective legal claims that often go overlooked in neighbor disputes. These “legal wildcards” may not fit the typical categories of nuisance or trespass—but they can be just as powerful when applied correctly. Michael explains how negligence and waste show up in real-life HOA and neighbor conflicts, breaks down exactly what conversion is and how it differs from theft, and provides a brutally honest look at why Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress claims are so difficult to win in HOA...
2025-06-0939 minHOA HELLHarassment, Surveillance & Defamation: When Neighbor Drama Turns Personal (Part 5 of 6-Part Series)In Episode 5 of our 6-part Neighbor Dispute Series, attorney Michael Kushner explores the most emotionally charged—and legally dangerous—types of neighbor conflict: harassment, surveillance, defamation, and even physical assault or battery. If your neighbor is yelling through walls, filming through your windows or into your yard, spreading lies about you, or crossing the line physically, this episode will show you how to document it, stop it, and legally protect yourself. Michael explains what qualifies as civil harassment under California Code of Civil Procedure § 527.6, how to challenge illegal surveillance under Civil Code § 1708.8 and Penal Code § 647(j), and when a f...
2025-06-0638 minHOA HELLHOAs & Neighbor Disputes: When the Association Becomes the Problem (Part 4 of 6-Part Series)In Episode 4 of our 6-part Neighbor Dispute Series, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down one of the most common—and infuriating—scenarios homeowners face: when your HOA refuses to intervene in neighbor disputes. Whether your HOA is enforcing the rules selectively, ignoring serious violations, or pretending it’s “not their problem,” this episode will show you exactly how to force them to act.Michael explains what kinds of disputes the HOA is almost always obligated to address—like noise, nuisance, view obstruction, harassment, and privacy violations—and what steps you can take to compel enforcement under California’s Davis-Stirling A...
2025-06-0529 minHOA HELLTrespass, Encroachments & Spite Fences: Defending Your Dirt (Part 3 of a 6-Part Series)In Episode 3 of our 6-part Neighbor Dispute Series, attorney Michael Kushner is joined by senior associate Sam Khil to tackle one of the most aggressive categories of neighbor conflict: trespass, encroachments, grading manipulation, and spite fences. If you’ve ever discovered a fence or other structure built on your property, watched runoff destroy your landscaping, or had a neighbor claim rights to land you own—whether it’s an inch or much more than that—then this episode will give you the tools to fight back. Michael and Sam unpack how California law treats physical and structural invasions...
2025-06-0333 minHOA HELLPrivate Nuisance: From Noise Complaints to Odor Issues (Part 1 of 6-Part Series)In this first episode of our 6-part Neighbor Dispute Series, attorney Michael Kushner breaks down one of the most common—and misunderstood—legal tools in California neighbor law: the private nuisance.Whether it’s relentless noise, recurring foul odors, or something harder to pin down like light pollution, Michael explains when everyday annoyances cross the legal threshold and become actionable. Drawing from Civil Code § 3479 and local ordinances, this episode walks you through the elements of a nuisance claim, how to distinguish between permanent and continuing nuisances, and what kind of relief you can actually get—from injunctions to damage...
2025-06-0242 minHOA HELLTrees, Roots & the Right to Chop: Navigating Nature’s Property Line Wars (Part 2 of 6-Part Series)In Episode 02 of our 6-part Neighbor Dispute Series, attorney Michael Kushner digs into one of the most common—and most expensive—sources of neighbor conflict in California: tree disputes. Whether it’s overhanging branches, root damage, or a tree blocking your view, this episode explains when you can act, when you need permission, and when you’re setting yourself up for a lawsuit. You’ll learn the difference between your nearly absolute right to cut back overhanging branches versus your more limited right to cut back invasive roots. Michael also breaks down the legal consequences of cutting down a neig...
2025-06-0227 minHOA HELLHOA Lies About Rentals—and What California Law Actually SaysHOAs across California are misleading homeowners about what they can and can’t do when it comes to renting out their property. Whether it’s an arbitrary rental cap, an outdated restriction buried in the CC&Rs, or a flat-out ban, the result is the same: intimidation, confusion, and lost income. But the law tells a different story—and in this episode of HOA HELL, noted attorney and HOA expert Michael Kushner cuts through the noise.You’ll hear how Civil Code §§ 4740 and 4741 actually work, why those provisions of the Davis-Stirling Act changed California’s rental landscape, and what to...
2025-05-2924 minHOA HELLThe Insurance Squeeze: How Rising Premiums Are Threatening California HOAsCalifornia homeowners are getting blindsided by soaring HOA insurance costs—but what’s actually driving this crisis? In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner breaks it down: the real reasons behind exploding premiums, how it's impacting HOAs statewide.What You’ll Learn in this Episode✅ The real causes behind soaring HOA insurance premiums: Wildfires, insurer exits, and a strangling regulatory environment—Michael Kushner explains why California’s insurance market is collapsing and how HOAs are getting caught in the fallout. ✅ How rising premiums are quietly destroying HOAs: Boards are scrambling, dues are spiking, co...
2025-05-2837 minHOA HELLNavigating HOA Disputes: A Homeowner’s GuideIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner delivers something every California homeowner needs: a step-by-step playbook for holding your HOA accountable.If you’ve been dealing with a dysfunctional board—whether it’s ignoring maintenance obligations, enforcing rules unevenly, or blocking your improvement requests without justification—this episode gives you the legal roadmap to fight back effectively and professionally.Joined by MBK Chapman senior associate Sam Khil, Michael explains exactly what to do when your HOA crosses the line, and why the law is often more on your side than you’ve been led to bel...
2025-05-2629 minHOA HELLHOAs Under Fire: The Push for Transparency and Homeowner RightsIn this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner takes on a topic that cuts to the core of every California homeowner’s battle with their HOA: transparency. This episode focuses on the very brief rise—and immediate fall—of Assembly Bill 21, a 2025 legislative proposal that would have forced HOAs to operate with the same level of transparency as public agencies.Kushner breaks down what AB 21 would have required, why it terrified HOA boards and management companies, and how its demise exposes some of the most critical enforcement loopholes in California’s Davis-Stirling Act. You’ll hear stories of...
2025-05-2229 minHOA HELLThe Consequences of California's Balcony LawWhat started as a well-meaning safety law has turned into a financial wrecking ball for thousands of California homeowners. In this episode of HOA HELL, attorney Michael Kushner—one of the pioneers of HOA litigation in California—is joined by senior associate at MBK Chapman, Sam Khil, to break down California’s Balcony Law and its devastating unintended consequences for everyday homeowners.In this podcast, you’ll learn: • Why the 2015 Berkeley balcony collapse led to California’s new inspection mandates.• How this important law is now triggering massive special assessments in HOAs all over California...
2025-05-2140 minHOA HELLClick to Vote: California's New HOA Electronic Voting LawDid you know that on January 1, 2025, a new law went into effect that, for the first time ever, allows HOAs to adopt electronic voting procedures—without the red tape that used to make it nearly impossible? In this episode of HOA Hell, attorney and a leading authority on HOA law, Michael Kushner, along with his producer, Justin Rodriguez, take a deep dive into California’s new HOA Electronic Voting Law (otherwise known as AB 2159). This podcast will cover several key topics, including:• The problems associated with paper ballots and the old way of doing th...
2025-05-2036 min
Links to Messiah PodcastEp. 72 - Real Discipleship Starts at Home (Feat. Rachel Kushner)Send us a textIn this episode, Rachel Kushner gets real about the heart behind parenting—why we do it, and how we can raise kids who truly know and love Jesus. ❤️We’re diving into what it means to disciple at home (hint: it’s not about being perfect), why the Jewish roots of our faith matter, and how celebrating Shavuot can open powerful conversations with your kids about the Holy Spirit and the story God is writing.We’re talking hands-on faith, deep roots, and helping your children build a lifelong c...
2025-05-2008 min
The Music MakersBrent Birckhead/Saxophonist: A Musician's Journey Part 3This is the 3rd part in a series of interviews, done every couple of years, with Brent Birckhead, an award-winning artist who writes, composes, and performs on a variety of woodwinds, mostly alto saxophone. Educated at Howard University, Brent was named best blues/pop/rock soloist and outstanding instrumental jazz soloist by Downbeat Magazine as part of the annual Student Music Awards. Since then, he’s received various other awards. He’s also had the honor of performing and touring with legendary artists including Lauryn Hill, Wale, Eric Benet, Larry Graham, George Duke and many more. Brent was also the...
2022-06-0333 minThe Music MakersIna Forsman: Her Latest ReleaseI first interviewed Ina Forsman in September of 2020, the year after she had released an absolutely stellar album, Been Meaning To Tell You. We were five and a half months into the pandemic and public performances had temporarily come to a halt. We went through her journey including her process as a singer, songwriter, and performer as well as some of the songs on her last album. I highly recommend listening to that episode, which was #25. In today’s episode, we talk about what Ina’s been doing since then and get into the recording process and the behind-the-scenes of s...
2022-05-1328 minThe Music MakersBrad Clements: Trumpet Player ExtraordinaireTrumpeter Brad Clements has recorded and/or performed with numerous major artists including Prince, Chuck Brown, Bootsy Collins, Aretha Franklin, Larry Graham, Kenny G, and Thievery Corporation. He also owns and runs B&B Music Lessons, which creates systems music teachers can use so they can focus on their craft and further hone their skills as well as help students find the best teachers available. https://www.bnbmusiclessons.com/ https://www.facebook.com/brad.clements.77/ https://www.instagram.com/bradclementstrumpet/ Mentioned: Greg Boyer (Episode #15) SoundConnection The Music Makers podcast theme song was written and produced by An...
2021-09-1043 minThe Music MakersRob Wells: Multi-Platinum Award-Winning Producer/SongwriterRob Wells is a multi-platinum, award-winning producer/songwriter based in Canada, and is the other half of the writing/production team The Fourth Floor with singer, songwriter & recording artist Shobha. Rob has worked with Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, Adam Lambert, Katharine McPhee, the Backstreet Boys, Nelly Furtado, Desmond Child, Cyndi Lauper, Corey Hart, & many others. His work has been featured in numerous films, television shows, commercials and video games worldwide. Rob has appeared as a music producer on "Canadian Idol", "The House Of Carters" & "The Next Star". His awards include first place in numerous songwriting competitions, and SOCAN #1...
2021-08-1341 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business287 THE NEXT LEVEL: ROBERT SHERMAN discusses JOANN GREGOLI, The Godmother of Destination WeddingsDoes giving back make you feel better? Listen as Andy and Robert Sherman, the President of Washington Talent Andy's partner at Kushner Entertainment, discuss JoAnn being the godmother of destination weddings, wanting to be an advocate for her clients, founding the Sewing Angles, and much more on this episode of The Next Level. JoAnn is the owner of Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli. She has been included in Modern Bride Magazine as one of their Top Trendsetters of the year, and she was recently recognized as one of the top twenty-five most influential wedding planners i...
2020-08-2611 min
Help I'm ConfusedPhone CallsAidan, Phil and Abi discuss the confusing art of making phone calls.
Here are the questions that are answered: When is it appropriate to make a phone call vs. a text?
How do you answer the phone?
Can you call someone just to call them?
How do you end the call?
Plus Aidan makes a real live phone call to a friend to test his new knowledge.
Theme song composed by Howard Kushner.
2020-07-221h 04The Music MakersToni Mengage/Singer & Producer: The Path To Musical FreedomToni Menage has a career most aspiring singers envy. She’s toured the world with Lisa-Lisa Cult Jam, sang with and was produced by the legendary Stevie Wonder, and performed on legendary television shows including Soul Train, The Grammy’s The Arsenio Hall Show, and many others. But her path to get there was not as full of rainbows as you might think. Andy and Toni discuss what it’s like to grow up as an up and coming singer in the projects of Harlem, and how she first got noticed by a producer when she was in just 7...
2020-07-1746 minThe Music MakersDave Russell: Grammy Award-Winning Recording EngineerImagine getting the opportunity to work with Steely Dan, George Benson, and Willie Nelson. Sometimes, our goals and dreams are just fun words that sound nice rolling off the tongue, yet have nothing to back them up. This is not the case with Dave Russell. Dave went from sweeping floors at a music studio to becoming a multi-Grammy Award Winning Recording Engineer. Join us today as Dave shares his experience of working in the music industry and advice he has to offer. When we’re working towards a new goal, one question we hear is “how bad do you want it?” W...
2020-07-031h 01The Music MakersWilliam Riley: Celebrity Vocal TeacherLearning the art of using your voice as an instrument is one that takes a lifetime of practice to master. Professor William Riley has been teaching vocal technique to hundreds of elite performers for decades. Professor Riley and I got to spend a bit of time together last year to chat about his background, his career, and what it has been like to work with so many household names over the years. He himself is an award-winning baritone, an operatic stage director, conductor, and writer. He has spent his life learning the language of music and how t...
2020-05-221h 05The Music MakersLesly Simon: General Manager Pearl/Gwendolyn Records for Garth Brooks and Trisha YearwoodLesly Simon is the General Manager of Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood's record labels, Pearl Records and Gwendolyn Records, respectively. Listen as she shares her rise through the ranks in the music industry and why it’s so important to treat your team with kindness and respect. Lesly has loved music her entire life. Never just one genre either, but all of them. They all had an emotion or message to share. After going to college to become an accountant, she realized that she had bigger dreams. She started off being a nanny to a pr...
2020-05-1539 minThe Music MakersRobert Kraft: Former President of Music, 20th Century Fox FilmRobert Kraft’s list of accomplishments is nothing short of incredible. He was the President of 20th Century Fox Music for 18 years, supervising the music and film scores for blockbusters like Titanic, Avatar, and Slumdog Millionaire as well as for hit television shows like The X-Files and The Simpsons. Under his leadership, Fox Music garnered numerous Academy Award nominations and awards, Emmys, Golden Globes, and Grammys. He is also an award-winning songwriter, film composer, recording artist, and record producer. His talent is multifaceted and far-reaching, as is evident in today’s interview. Andy and Robert delve into the journey he w...
2020-05-0159 minThe Music MakersBrent Birckhead/Saxophonist: A Musician's Journey Part 1Under the tutelage of Louis Tibbs and Charlie Young, Brent Birckhead has become a dynamically versatile saxophonist of many genres. With a unique style born of his deep passion for the art of music, Birckhead has established himself as one of the bright young musical voices of his generation. Educated at Howard University (BME, MM), Brent was named best blues/pop/rock soloist and outstanding instrumental jazz soloist by Downbeat Magazine as part of the annual Student Music Awards. The Baltimore native’s talent earned him the honor of gracing the same stage as many legendary performers including Benny Golson, Jo...
2020-04-171h 04The Music MakersBranden Chapman/Recording Academy Executive: Behind The Scenes Of The GrammysWhen we think about our favorite songs, we tend to think of the artist who sings them. What we don’t think about, however, is the amount of work and people that went into bringing it to life. The way artists have hundreds of people working to create tomorrow’s top hits, it takes just as many to put together a show to honor music and its makers. Today, Branden Chapman, Executive In Charge Of Production and Chief Business Development Officer, shares how he followed his passion for music and how it led to becoming a major executive and producer for...
2020-04-1051 minThe Music MakersWelcome to The Music Makers!Welcome to The Music Makers with Andy Kushner! THE ultimate podcast sharing the behind-the-scenes stories of some of the most influential music industry pros around. Gain insight, education, and inspiration from going deep into the psyches of artists, record producers, songwriters, recording engineers, managers, record industry executives, and more. Crank up the volume and get the inside scoop as you enter the world of...The Music Makers The Music Makers podcast theme song was written and produced by Andy Kushner with help from the rhythm section and horn players of the band, SoundConnection: Elliot Jefferson...
2020-03-2709 minThe Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business231 THE NEXT LEVEL: ROBERT SHERMAN discusses EVOKE DESIGN/Jeannette Tavares & Jodi Moraru: Thriving In A PartnershipWhen does it make sense to change the dynamics of a company? Listen, as Andy and Robert Sherman discuss how changing the leadership of Evoke Design led Jeannette Tavares and Jodi Moraru to greater personal and business success. Robert is the President of Washington Talent and Andy’s business partner with Kushner Entertainment. Andy interviewed him on The Wedding Biz in November of last year as they announced their partnership. Evoke Design is based in Washington, D.C, and serving clients worldwide. Jeannette is the Chief Creative Director, and Jodi is a producer; however, it wasn...
2020-03-0417 minThe Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business207 THE NEXT LEVEL: SEAN LOW Discusses ROBERT SHERMAN/Washington Talent - Creating Happiness One Event at a Time and Forming A PartnershipThe Next Level welcomes back Sean Low. Sean’s company, The Business of Being Creative, focuses on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative. His client list includes the whos who of the wedding industry and design community. Robert is the owner of Washington Talent, the iconic entertainment company out of the Washington, DC area. Robert is passionate about what he does and is in it to bring joy not only to his clients but also to his industry partners. Andy and Sean discuss how Robert expanded his company by adding se...
2019-11-2725 minThe Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business187 THE NEXT LEVEL: VALERIE GERNHAUSER Discusses CARRIE GOLDBERG - Travel & Weddings Director, Harpers BazaarToday on The Next Level, Andy Kushner is speaking with Valerie Gernhouser, Owner of Sapphire Events. She also created Sapphire Sessions Speaking Tour, a specialized program for wedding planners and event designers. They speak this week about Carrie Goldberg, the Travel and Wedding Director at Harpers Bazaar. She oversees all things bridal, weddings, and travel for Bazaar.com. She is also responsible for content strategy and visuals for Bazaar's digital travel and wedding verticals, and editor of Bazaar's new subscription program called Bazaar Brides. Valerie chats with us about her views, in addition to Carrie’s...
2019-09-1816 minThe Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business183 THE NEXT LEVEL: PHILLIP VAN NOSTRAND Discusses KING DAHL Former Executive Director of Events, MGM Resorts.In this episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and Phillip Van Nostrand a photographer based in New York and California, talk about King Dahl’s interview on the Wedding Biz. Phil has been been published in numerous publications including the New York Times, Fortune.com, Huffington Post and Forbes.com and was a master class speaker at WPPI. Listen in as they talk about King Dahl and his incredible designs. King is the former Executive Director of Event Design for MGM Resorts, where he was responsible for 1200 events a year. He is known for his signature sty...
2019-09-0418 minThe Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business179 THE NEXT LEVEL: SEAN LOW Discusses DAVID ADLER, CEO of Bizbash Media: A Guide to Collaboration ArtistsIn this episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and Sean Low, Founder and President of The Business of Being Creative LLC, chat about David Adler's interview on the Wedding Biz. Seans’ consulting firm is focused on providing practical advice to those in the business of being creative, his client list includes many of the biggest names in the wedding and design industries. Listen in as they discuss David’s comments on social engineering, his insights on augmented reality, radical humanization and code switching. The idea that events are like standing around the water cooler or going to t...
2019-08-2120 minThe Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business175 THE NEXT LEVEL: TAIT LARSON Discusses TIM CHI - CEO, The Knot Worldwide: Combining Technology and Trends to Innovate the Wedding IndustryIn this episode of The Next Level, Andy Kushner and Tait Larson, co-founder of Style Me Pretty, discuss Tim Chi’s interview on the Wedding Biz. Tait and his wife Abby founded Style Me Pretty, sold it to AOL, and then took it back after AOL announced they were shutting it down. Tait has some fantastic insights to share on Tim’s interview and the future of the industry. Learn how Tait and Andy feel about Tim’s opinions on failure, courage, and entrepreneurship. They dig deep into their views on the role of failure, or obstacles, in bui...
2019-08-0722 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business153 THE NEXT LEVEL: CARL RAY: Celebrity Makeup ArtistCarl Ray, celebrity makeup artist and beauty expert, has mastered the art of highlighting the inner beauty of each individual client. And, in the service industry, how you make people feel is the most important part of the job. Today, Andy Kushner and Julie Sabatino of The Stylish Bride dissect Carl’s recent interview into tangible ideas and tips to help you apply them to your business. To learn more about how to empower your clients, create a sense of comfort in vulnerability for others, and how to manifest authenticity, tune into this episode of The Next Level. ...
2019-05-2215 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business149 THE NEXT LEVEL: Liese Gardner: Brand Therapy & Marketing With HeartOn today’s episode of The Next Level, Guest Co-Host Shannon Leahy, of Shannon Leahy Events, joins Andy Kushner in reflecting on last week’s interview with Liese Gardner. Liese is a blogger, branding and marketing strategist, and influential event industry leader. This episode is full of key tips you can apply to growing your own business. To hear more from this week’s episode translated into tangible tactics join Andy and Shannon on this episode of The Next Level. Show Highlights: Using marketing to make a human connection Becoming our own publishers and media outlets Applyi...
2019-05-0816 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business148 LIESE GARDNER: Brand Therapy & Marketing With HeartOne of the most fundamental components of any business is marketing and communication. The art of learning how to create an effective marketing strategy is crucial. In this episode of The Wedding Biz, Andy Kushner interviews communications specialist, Liese Gardner, and unravels some of the industry secrets to mastering your marketing and expressing your brand. To hear more about creating a sustainable and well-curated business, join Andy and Liese in this episode of The Wedding Biz. Show Highlights: The fundamentals of marketing What makes PR relative to marketing today What drew Liese to the event industry...
2019-05-0648 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business138 THE NEXT LEVEL: Natasha Miller: Overcoming Adversity To ThriveBeing able to create the perfect ambiance for a wedding or event that leaves a lasting impact is a skill that sometimes gets overlooked. In this episode, Shannon Leahy, this week’s guest co-host and one of the top wedding and event planners in the world according to Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides Magazine and Harper’s Bazaar, brings additional insight and wisdom to today’s conversation about Natasha Miller’s interview. Ranging from executing a vision, channeling calm energy, and how to get in touch with your subconscious to live a more centered life, this podcast has something for everyone...
2019-03-2718 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business127 THE NEXT LEVEL: Cindy Novotny: Part 2 Master Connection AssociatesHaving a set expectation of goals implemented is important for any company. This structure helps eliminate losing direction and the impact of confrontation. In today’s episode, Andy and renowned New York City based event producer and designer, David Stark discuss this week’s episode with Cindy Novotny. Their commentary covers advice Cindy shared on how to embrace confrontation, creating unification in the workplace, how to set prices, and combatting fear. Tune into this episode of The Next Level with Andy Kushner and David Stark to embark on your own journey in changing the culture of your business.
2019-02-1325 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business125 ANDY KUSHNER: Interviewed By Mary Swaffield of The WedpreneurToday it's all about Andy! For quite a while now, people have been asking him to air an interview about himself. Andy has been interviewed on many different podcasts, so today he decided to publish the most recent of these, with Mary Swaffield, of the Wedpreneur Podcast. Andy and Mary will be talking about what Andy has learned from all the amazing icons whom he has interviewed on The Wedding Biz Podcast. Mary asks Andy about the common threads in the more than seventy-five interviews he's done with some of the biggest names in the wedding and...
2019-02-0444 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business122 THE NEXT LEVEL: Julie Novack, PartySlateToday we discuss Julie Novack, CEO and Co-Founder of PartySlate and some of the ways in which she has created such a successful business that is still very much in the process of expanding. Sean Low, of The Business of Being Creative, joins our Host, Andy Kushner. Forming relationships is a key factor when creating your own business. Also, learn about raising funds from Venture Capitalists. Listen in today and hear how getting feedback from people you trust is a major element when owning your own company. Show Highlights: Dreaming out loud, don’t ke...
2019-01-2318 min
The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding Business120 THE NEXT LEVEL: Brett Culp: Obstacle Or OpportunityDo you allow opportunities to enter your life? Some do not know an opportunity when it comes to them. Today we hear how you need to maximize opportunities and discuss the interview with Brett Culp. Brett Culp an acclaimed filmmaker and social entrepreneur. What is interesting about Brett is that he started in the luxury end of weddings with quite a run in it and ended up going through a fascinating transformation. If you haven’t heard the Brett Culp podcast, it is very inspiring and please take the time to listen to Brett speak. Joi...
2019-01-1420 min
Extraordinary Ordinary PeopleRayshun Lamarr: The Voice Finalist Who Overcame Cancer to Achieve His DreamsRayshun Lamarr has officially put his voice in the arena-- it’s where he’s always known he wants it to be. As a singer since childhood, it would be easy to stay on a relatively safe course as an entertainer and rely on the talent he’s been recognized for since an early age. Instead, Rayshun creates opportunity after opportunity for himself to hone his craft and put himself up against the best. His first steady gig as a professional singer was with host Andy Kushner with a 10-piece party band called SoundConnection. Weddings were a huge en...
2018-04-251h 21The Wedding Biz - Behind the Scenes of the Wedding BusinessWelcome from Andy KushnerA welcome to the podcast, from creator and host Andy Kushner.
2017-05-1214 min
Extraordinary Ordinary PeopleWelcome from Andy KushnerLinks
About Extraordinary Ordinary People and Andy KushnerAndy Kushner Entertainment DesignSoundConnection band “Live” In SingaporeAndy Kushner interviewed by Now Here This president Bruce Wawrzyniak: 38-minute edit, full-length original episodeSean Low [Andy's business consultant]Theme song courtesy of SoundConnection, inspired by Aretha Franklin's recording of Chain Of Fools, written by Don Covay and produced by Jerry Wexler
With thanks to
Charles Wiltgen, who is my brilliant show producer, editor, strategist, creative partner and great friend. I honestly don’t know how I would do this show without you.
Sean Low, my business consultant since 2011 who has helped me to structure my businesse...
2017-05-0326 min
Extraordinary Ordinary PeopleWelcome from Andy KushnerLinks About Extraordinary Ordinary People and Andy Kushner Andy Kushner Entertainment Design SoundConnection band “Live” In Singapore Andy Kushner interviewed by Now Here This president Bruce Wawrzyniak: 38-minute edit, full-length original episode Sean Low [Andy's business consultant] Theme song courtesy of SoundConnection, inspired by Aretha Franklin's recording of Chain Of Fools, written by Don Covay and produced by Jerry Wexler With thanks to Charles Wiltgen, who is my brilliant show producer, editor, strategist, creative partner and great friend. I honestly don’t know how I would do this show without you. Sean Low, my business consultant since 2011 who has helped me to str...
2017-05-0326 min