
What would you do if you lost everything in an instant?
In this episode of The Art of Badassery podcast, Jen Cassetta welcomes back Tanya Memme—TV host, executive producer, real estate expert, and former Miss World Canada—to share her firsthand experience of surviving the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. Tanya opens up about the destruction that swept through her community, impacting both her home and livelihood.
Through her story, she highlights the power of community support during crises, the importance of emergency preparedness, and the emotional resilience it takes to rebuild after loss. Her journey, filled with both trauma and hope, offers powerful lessons on facing life’s unexpected challenges with strength and determination.
Watch the episode here
Listen to the episode here
When the Fire Hits Home: Resilience and Rebuilding After the Palisades Fire with Tanya Memme
Welcome to the Art of Badassery podcast recap, where we turn poignant conversations into valuable life lessons. In a recent episode, host Jenn Cassetta sat down with the inspirational Tanya Memme. In a captivating discussion, Tanya shares her experiences during the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles. Her story is one of resilience, community support, and finding gold at rock bottom. Join us as we delve into the highlights and takeaways from their heartwarming conversation.
Recounting the Incident
On a regular Tuesday morning, Tanya Memme’s life was suddenly upheaved. The severe wildfires in Los Angeles forced her and her family to evacuate their home in the Pacific Palisades. Tanya recounts the panic, confusion, and the eventual clarity that came from having someone like her partner, OT, a veteran, by her side. As the fires raged, Tanya had to make split-second decisions about what to save and navigate through gridlocked streets filled with chaos.
Finding Shelter and Solace
After hours in gridlock, Tanya and her family found temporary solace at a friend’s house. However, the unknown still loomed over them—was their house still standing? Was it habitable? The uncertainty was overwhelming, yet Tanya speaks about the immense support from her community that helped her through these trying times.
Community and Connection
The difficulties that Tanya faced were alleviated by her strong network of friends and acquaintances. As she navigated the aftermath of the fires, the outpouring of help reminded her that sometimes our greatest assets are the people in our lives. The kindness she received, even from those she’d had distant relationships with, reinforced the idea that during times of crisis, human connection can be a lifeline.
Coping with Trauma
Experiencing trauma brings about various emotional challenges, including survivor’s guilt. Tanya discusses how she copes with not just the material loss but also the emotional turmoil brought on by the disaster. Her takeaway is the importance of acknowledging what you cannot control and allowing yourself to heal on your own timeline, with resilience and the support of others.
Resilience and Looking Forward
Despite being displaced and dealing with the trauma of the fires, Tanya still clings to the mindset that every valley has its gold. Though she’s in the thick of recovery, she maintains hope that this experience will bring about personal growth and wisdom she can share in the future.
Key Takeaways
- Preparedness and Community: Being prepared for disasters is vital, but often it’s the strength of community and support networks that help get through the hardest times. Writing a checklist of essentials ahead of time can be a small but powerful step in disaster readiness.
- Human Connection in Crisis: In moments of crisis, people often come together in unexpected ways. Whether it’s through direct support or emotional upliftment, community spirit plays a crucial role in recovery.
- Healing and Growth: Trauma is a complex experience, and healing takes time. Allowing space for emotions, reaching out for help, and relying on a supportive network can facilitate growth and recovery from such experiences.
Conclusion
Tanya Memme’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of community, resilience, and hope in the face of unprecedented challenges. Her journey through the wildfires of Los Angeles offers valuable lessons on the importance of preparedness, the strength of human connection, and the possibility of finding gold even at rock bottom. As Tanya continues on her path of recovery, she reminds us all of the enduring spirit of resilience that lies within each of us.
Thank you for joining us in recapping this powerful episode. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking discussions on the Art of Badassery podcast, and remember to stay safe and connected.
Important Links
- Create Your Future
- Burnout to Badass
- The 6 Habits Of High Performance With Jenn Cassetta – Past episode
- Art of Badassery Retreat
- Boundary Boss
- Ep. 5 | The Power of Rock Bottom: Figuring Out Your Healing Journey with Tanya Memme
- Ep. 23 | Who Survives When Disaster Strikes With Amanda Ripley
- Tanya Memme website
- Tanya Memme Instagram
- Smart Home Nation
- Sell This House
- Set Boundaries & Protect Your Power With Jenn Cassetta – Past episode
About Tanya Memme

Tanya Memme is an acclaimed Award-winning TV Host, Executive Producer, Former Miss World Canada, Keynote Speaker, and Transformational Coach with a dynamic career history that includes 9 TV Series, 50+ Infomercials and commercials, red carpet interviews, the Grammys, Emmys, Peoples Choice Awards, and numerous celebrity guest appearances. As the Star of the hit shows “Sell This House” and “Sell This House Extreme” currently airing on A&E Network, Tanya has guided the sale of over 500 homes on TV world-wide. She is also an executive Producer and Star of “Smart Home Nation”. For more, see www.tanyamemme.com