Umbrella Insurance: The One Policy Most People Misunderstand
Umbrella coverage in plain English: what it is, what it isn’t, who it’s for, and how to size it.
Real stories about risk, protection, and life in the Bay Area. A look behind the curtain of a 4th-generation family business.
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Practical resources to help you understand your coverage.
Umbrella coverage in plain English: what it is, what it isn’t, who it’s for, and how to size it.
California auto rates are rising even for clean drivers because the cost of claims has exploded, especially from litigation and “social inflation.” Here’s what’s driving the increases and the smart ways to cut premiums without gutting liability protection.
What a deductible actually is, how it works in real claims, and how to choose one without guessing.

The first Growing Up Covered video is here. A short intro to who we are, where we come from, and what this series is all about.
Everyone says "go independent" — but what does that actually mean for your coverage? A plain-language explainer from someone who grew up in the business.
Four generations. One family. A century of coverage. Here is why I finally started writing about it — and why it might matter to you too.

A step-by-step walkthrough of the Safeco mobile app, including ID cards, payments, policy info, and starting a claim.

Five practical tips for California property insurance owners to help avoid gaps, surprises at renewal, and underinsurance.

A plain-English overview of commercial auto insurance: when personal auto is not enough, key coverages, and what to review with your agent.

A plain-English guide to umbrella insurance: how it extends liability protection, common requirements, and when it is worth it.

A plain-English guide to renters insurance: personal property, liability, loss of use, and how to pick limits that make sense.

A plain-English walkthrough of homeowners insurance: what it covers, how claims typically work, and common gaps to plan for.

A plain-English overview of auto insurance: what each coverage does, how deductibles work, and what to consider when choosing limits.

A plain-English guide to jewelry insurance: scheduling items, appraisals, coverage details, and common gaps to watch for.

A quick, plain-English overview of what general liability insurance covers and when it matters.

A homemade pasta episode with a simple dough and two approaches for shaping or serving.

A simple overnight oats workflow with an easy base recipe and quick mix-in ideas.

Taco Tuesday from scratch: salsa, guac, and tortillas, plus tips for building the perfect taco.

A breakfast sandwich episode with an easy, repeatable build and quick prep tips for busy mornings.

A fresh summer salad episode with simple prep, easy add-ins, and serving ideas.


A BBQ rotisserie turkey episode with a simple workflow for prep, seasoning, rotisserie timing, and carving.

Desserts Part 2: more sweet ideas with approachable steps, timing tips, and serving notes.

Desserts Part 1: a sweet episode with approachable dessert ideas and practical tips.

A simple, step-by-step beef brisket recipe with tips for big flavor and easy prep.