George Siegal

Most people believe buying a home is a safe, informed decision.It isn’t. Across the country, families are making high-stakes choices about where they live and what they buy—without fully understanding the risks built into those decisions. I investigate those risks. Through my documentaries that aired on PBS, including Built to Last: Buyer Beware (narrated by Dylan Baker), I uncover how construction practices, insurance limitations, and policy gaps intersect—and how those hidden vulnerabilities can lead to catastrophic losses when disasters strike. My previous film, The Last House Standing, explored why some homes survive while others fail. It aired nationally on PBS and is currently streaming on Tubi.Speaking & Screenings I work with conferences, universities, and professional organizations that want their audiences to think differently about risk—and make better decisions as a result. My sessions combine: real-world case studies investigative storytelling practical frameworks that audiences can immediately apply Audiences I work with: planners & policymakers builders & engineers insurance & risk professionals universities (architecture, construction, public policy)What Audiences Take Away Why homes that meet code still fail The hidden risks most buyers never see Where insurance falls short—and what that means in real dollars How small decisions before purchase can determine long-term outcomes Engagement Formats Keynote presentations Film screenings + live discussion Panels and moderated conversationsCredibility Creator of Built to Last: Buyer Beware — distributed to PBS stations nationwide Creator of The Last House Standing — PBS broadcast + streaming 20+ years in broadcast journalism (KOMO, WDIV, KTVU)Booking If you're planning a conference, event, or university program and want your audience to walk away with a clearer understanding of risk—and how to avoid costly mistakes—let’s talk. https://www.movetheworldfilms.org