This Manhattan Beach Fintech Startup Is Crowdfunding Its $1 Million Seed Round

Living in LA means being ready for anything—quakes, wildfires, crazy weather, you name it. Luckily, there’s a suite of tech apps designed to keep you informed, connected, and safe when disaster strikes. From real-time alerts to staying in touch with loved ones, these apps have you covered. Here’s the ultimate list to help you handle whatever chaos comes your way in LA County.

Get Real-Time Alerts

Image Source: MyRadar

FEMA App

• What it does: Provides real-time alerts from the National Weather Service, along with shelter and disaster recovery info.
• Key features: Weather alerts, shelter locator, and preparedness resources.
• Available on:iOS | Android

MyRadar Weather Radar

• What it does: Offers real-time, animated radar for tracking severe weather and storms.
• Key features: Live radar, storm tracking, and severe weather alerts.
• Available on:iOS | Android

Clime: NOAA Weather Radar

• What it does: Delivers real-time radar and weather updates, with wildfire and flood tracking.
• Key features: Customizable weather alerts, disaster tracking.
• Available on:iOS | Android

American Red Cross Emergency App

• What it does: Provides real-time alerts for over 35 types of emergencies, plus disaster preparedness tips.
• Key features: Alerts, safety check-ins, and emergency tips.
• Available on:iOS | Android

My Earthquake Alerts & Feed

• What it does: Sends real-time earthquake alerts, with maps and detailed data.
• Key features: Earthquake alerts, customizable notifications, detailed maps.
• Available on:iOS | Android

Citizen

• What it does: Delivers real-time alerts for emergencies, including natural disasters and crime near your location.
• Key features: Safety alerts, live incident reports, and community updates.
• Available on:iOS | Android

Stay Connected with Loved Ones

Image Source: Life360

While social media apps like Facebook and X provide real-time updates, additional tools can help with communication and location sharing, ensuring you stay connected and safe.

Nextdoor

• What it does: Connects neighbors with real-time local updates on emergencies and community events.
• Key features: Neighborhood alerts, local info, resource sharing.
• Available on:iOS | Android

WhatsApp

• What it does: Enables secure messaging, location sharing, and video/voice calls with family and friends.
• Key features: End-to-end encryption, location sharing, voice/video calls.
• Available on:iOS | Android

Zello Walkie Talkie

• What it does: Turns your phone into a push-to-talk walkie-talkie for communication in low-signal areas.
• Key features: Push-to-talk, works over Wi-Fi/data, group communication.
• Available on:iOS | Android

Glympse – Share Your Location

• What it does: Lets users share real-time locations with family and friends without needing an account.
• Key features: Location sharing, ETA updates, private tracking.
• Available on:iOS | Android

Life360

• What it does: Tracks real-time location of family members and provides emergency SOS alerts.
• Key features: Family location tracking, emergency alerts, crash detection.
• Available on:iOS | Android

Stay Mobile

Image Source: PlugShare

For navigating road closures and traffic during disasters, Google Maps and Waze are essential tools that offer real-time updates and alternate routes. Along with these go-to options, there are additional apps that can help you stay mobile when it matters most.

GasBuddy

• What it does: Locates nearby gas stations and provides real-time updates on fuel availability and prices.
• Key features: Gas station locator, fuel prices, availability checks.
• Available on:iOS | Android

PlugShare

• What it does: Provides a comprehensive map of public EV charging stations worldwide. It offers real-time availability, pricing, user reviews, and photos of charging stations, helping you find the best nearby options.
• Key features: Real-time station availability, detailed station info, user reviews, and trip planning.
• Available on:iOS | Android

Traditional Preparedness Tips

In addition to these tech apps, it’s crucial to prepare for natural disasters with traditional methods:

• Build a disaster kit: Gather essential supplies like food, water, first aid supplies, and a flashlight.
• Develop an evacuation plan: Determine where you will go and how you will get there in case of an emergency.
• Keep emergency contacts handy: Make a list of important phone numbers.

Maximize Battery Life and Data During Emergencies

During disasters, power outages and increased network traffic can affect your device's battery life and data usage. Consider the following:

• Keep your devices charged: Use portable or solar-powered chargers to extend battery life.
• Conserve data: Use Wi-Fi hotspots when available to avoid excessive data charges.

These apps are your go-to tools for staying informed, connected, and ready for anything in Los Angeles County. Whether you need real-time alerts, navigation assistance, or ways to keep in touch with loved ones, having these apps on hand can make all the difference when it matters most.

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🔦 Spotlight

Pacaso addresses the pain points of second home ownership, offering a luxurious, flexible, and financially sound alternative to traditional second homes and ultra-luxury hotels. Co-founded in 2020 by entrepreneur Austin Allison and former Zillow executive and prominent LA tech figure Spencer Rascoff, Pacaso, an unicorn startup, has redefined vacation home ownership with its unique co-ownership model. Rascoff's contributions to the LA tech scene extend beyond real estate; he also founded 75 & Sunny, an LA-based startup studio and venture fund, and co-founded dot.LA, an LA tech news and events company.

LA residents adore Pacaso for its lush vacation destinations that also make for smart investments. Pacaso offers everything from serene weekend getaways in Aspen to sophisticated escapes in Paris. Each residence, valued between $200k to over $2M for 1/8th, boasts meticulous design, high-end furnishings, and premium amenities. Unlike traditional second home ownership, which involves high costs, maintenance, and underutilization, or ultra-luxury hotels, which lack the personal touch and investment potential, Pacaso's co-ownership model offers a superior solution. Co-owners enjoy the benefits of a high-end vacation home without the full financial burden and hassle of sole ownership, making it a smarter and more flexible choice for discerning buyers.

Image Source: Pacaso

Cabo, Mexico

$822,000 (1/8th ownership)

5 bds. l 5 ba. l 4,969 sq ft

View Here

Image Source: Pacaso

Paris, France

$600,000 (1/8th ownership)

2 bds. l 2.5 ba. l 1,410 sq ft

View Here

Image Source: Pacaso

Malibu, California

$750,000 (1/8th ownership)

3 bds. l 3 ba. l 1,880 sq ft

View Here

Image Source: Pacaso

Park City, Utah

$755,000 (1/8th ownership)

4 bds. l 4.5 ba. l 2,584 sq ft

View Here

Head to Pacaso to learn more about its innovative co-ownership model that addresses the common challenges of second home ownership!

🤝 Venture Deals

LA Companies

• Oak Essentials, the natural skincare brand founded by Jenni Kayne, has raised an undisclosed amount in Series A Funding from Silas Capital and Unilever Ventures. This investment will drive the brand’s expansion, focusing on product development, boosting marketing efforts, and expanding distribution channels. - learn more

• Playhouse MD, an upcoming children’s healthcare platform that incorporates play to enhance health outcomes, has raised $4M in funding, according to a recent SEC filing. - learn more

• FluidLogic, a high-performance hydration system provider, raised $15M in a Series A Extension led by Solyco Capital to support product development and innovation for adventure sports and outdoor endurance categories, with consumer products launching in early 2025. - learn more

• Reflect Orbital, which uses in-space reflectors to direct sunlight to solar farms and large-scale lighting applications after sunset, has raised $6.5M in seed funding led by Sequoia Capital. The funding will help the company develop production vehicles and expand its team as it builds space-based energy infrastructure. - learn more

• Feno, a Los Angeles-based company developing an AI-powered energy trading platform, raised $6M in seed funding led by Bold Capital Partners. - learn more

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Podcasts offer a front-row seat into the minds of the most successful entrepreneurs, VCs, and industry thought leaders. Whether you're scaling your startup, raising capital, or simply staying ahead of the game, these shows deliver invaluable insights, actionable lessons, and fresh inspiration. And let’s be honest, if you’re stuck in LA traffic (again), what better way to kill time than by learning from the best? Here’s a roundup of our top podcasts for entrepreneurs, founders, tech professionals, and VCs, complete with why they’re a must-listen.

Image Source: Apple Podcasts

The a16z Podcast

• Hosts: Partners at Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), one of Silicon Valley’s most influential venture capital firms.

• What it discusses: Covering a broad spectrum of topics like AI, blockchain, healthcare, and fintech, the podcast features interviews with founders, VCs, and tech leaders shaping the future.

• Why you should listen: Get access to cutting-edge insights from one of the world’s most influential VC firms, keeping you ahead of emerging trends.

• Why it’s great for entrepreneurs, founders, and VCs: This podcast brings cutting-edge insights from one of the top VC firms. Entrepreneurs will learn about emerging technologies, while VCs can stay ahead of investment trends shaping the future of tech.

Listen on: Spotify |Apple Podcasts

Image Source: Apple Podcasts

Acquired Podcast

• Hosts:Ben Gilbert andDavid Rosenthal.

• What it discusses: Acquired breaks down the stories behind major tech acquisitions, IPOs, and exits, dissecting the strategies and market dynamics involved.

• Why you should listen: Gain deep insights into how tech giants build and sell, making it essential for anyone aiming to understand successful exits.

• Why it’s great for entrepreneurs, founders, and VCs: Perfect for founders looking to scale or position themselves for acquisition. VCs will benefit from the deep dives into the playbooks of successful exits, offering valuable lessons on company growth and market positioning.

Listen on: Spotify |Apple Podcasts

Image Source: Apple Podcasts

The All-In Podcast

• Hosts:Chamath Palihapitiya (Social Capital),Jason Calacanis (LAUNCH),David Sacks (Craft Ventures), andDavid Friedberg (The Production Board).

• What it discusses: From venture capital and tech trends to politics and economics, this podcast delivers unfiltered, candid commentary from high-profile industry insiders.

• Why you should listen: It’s a no-holds-barred discussion on major issues affecting the tech industry, providing you with insider insights into the conversations that shape Silicon Valley.

• Why it’s great for entrepreneurs, founders, and VCs: The candid, unfiltered conversations give listeners a peek into the decision-making processes of some of the biggest names in tech and VC. Entrepreneurs can gain valuable market insights, while investors will appreciate the high-level strategy discussions.

Listen on:Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Image Source: Apple Podcasts

BG2 Podcast

• Hosts:Brad Gerstner (Altimeter Capital) andBill Gurley (Benchmark).

• What it discusses: BG2 takes you through macroeconomic trends, the tech market, venture capital insights, and cutting-edge technologies like AI. It’s a high-level conversation on tech investing.

• Why you should listen: Brad and Bill’s deep experience in tech investing, combined with their straightforward, no-nonsense style, makes this a must-listen for tech insiders.

• Why it’s great for entrepreneurs, founders, and VCs: Get insider-level insights into the macro trends driving tech investments. Founders will learn how to navigate these trends, while VCs can better understand the shifting forces in the venture world.

Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Image Source: Apple Podcasts

Crucible Moments Podcast

• Host:Roelof Botha of Sequoia Capital

• What it discusses: The podcast dives into the pivotal, career-defining moments of top leaders and entrepreneurs. Guests share personal stories of resilience, growth, and how they overcame adversity.

• Why you should listen: It’s packed with inspirational stories of grit and perseverance, offering lessons that apply to both life and business.

• Why it’s great for entrepreneurs, founders, and VCs: The podcast’s focus on personal and professional resilience makes it especially valuable for entrepreneurs who need inspiration during tough times, and VCs who want to understand how founders overcome adversity.

Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Image Source: Apple Podcasts

Grit Podcast

• Host:Joubin Mirzadegan.

• What it discusses: In-depth interviews with founders, executives, and leaders who share stories of navigating challenges, building resilience, and finding success in tough times.

• Why you should listen: If you want raw, real stories of leadership and determination, this podcast offers invaluable insights into what it takes to lead in business.

• Why it’s great for entrepreneurs, founders, and VCs: The podcast’s focus on perseverance and leadership makes it a must-listen for founders facing challenges in their business. VCs will gain insights into the traits that make strong, resilient founders.

Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Image Source: Apple Podcasts

The Twenty Minute VC

• Host:Harry Stebbings.

• What it discusses: Featuring short, insightful interviews with top VCs and founders, this podcast covers topics ranging from securing funding to scaling startups.

• Why you should listen: Perfect for busy professionals who want quick, actionable advice on navigating the venture capital world.

• Why it’s great for entrepreneurs, founders, and VCs: For busy entrepreneurs, this podcast delivers quick, actionable advice on funding and scaling. VCs can stay connected to the latest trends through bite-sized interviews with industry leaders.

Listen on: Spotify |Apple Podcasts

These podcasts are packed with insights, inspiration, and actionable advice for anyone looking to grow, innovate, or level up. Whether you're building something new, looking for investment know-how, or just eager to learn from those who've been there, each show has something valuable to keep you moving forward on your journey.

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