Becker & Poliakoff

Surviving the Storm: A Journey Through Hurricane Ian and Beyond with Joseph E. Adams, Becker & Poliakoff

Surviving the Storm: A Journey Through Hurricane Ian and Beyond with Joseph E. Adams, Becker & Poliakoff

For more episodes of Take It To The Board, click here!


What would you do if you found yourself in the eye of a devastating hurricane? This week, our guest and Becker Shareholder, Joseph E. Adams, sits down with Donna DiMaggio Berger and relives this very question when he rode out Hurricane Ian in his home on Fort Myers Beach. In this gripping episode, Joe shares his harrowing experience and provides valuable insights into preparing for and recovering from such catastrophic events.

From the chaos of managing a team of 30 lawyers during the hurricane to navigating the insurance crisis, Joe’s story is one of resilience and determination. We dive into the challenges of obtaining insurance coverage, the problem of overcharging for remediation services, and the importance of being part of a larger team in times of personal tragedy. Joe also sheds light on the role of technology in the legal profession and the increasing presence of lawyers in the US.

But how does one embrace life’s uncertainties and survive multiple disasters? Joe’s incredible experiences, including surviving lightning strikes, a massive car pile-up, and a horseback riding accident remind us all of the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. Join us for this thought-provoking and inspiring episode that will change the way you view the world around you.

Conversation highlights include:

  • A Birdseye description of Hurricane Ian’s destructive path.
  • ​Lessons learned when riding out a storm at home.
  • Steps needed to get back up and running after the storm
  • The challenges that community associations face when preparing for and recovering from a major catastrophe
  • Why some communities have decided to terminate and sell
  • The one thing Joe wishes more boards would do.
  • How being part of a large legal team helps not only the clients but the lawyers
  • What the next generation of community association attorneys should expect

About Take It To The Board

Think you know what community association life is all about? Think again. Residents must obey the rules, directors must follow the law, and managers must keep it all running smoothly. Take It To The Board explores the reality of life in a condominium, cooperative or homeowners’ association, what’s really involved in serving on its board, and how to maintain that ever-so-delicate balance of being legally compliant and community spirited. Leading community association attorney Donna DiMaggio Berger acknowledges the balancing act without losing her sense of humor as she talks with a variety of association leaders, experts, and vendors about the challenges and benefits of the community association lifestyle.

If you’ve got a question, Take It To The Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger – We Speak Condo & HOA!

Episodes are available for subscription on iTunesAmazon Music, Spotify, YouTube, or listen through any podcast streaming app. You can also click here for the full archive.