Joe Knows Better

Joe Ducey and Michelle Marin sit down with Adrian Keller, Program Director at Solar United Neighbors, to break down everything consumers must know before making a commitment. Together, they walk through how to spot reputable local installers, recognize common red flags, and navigate fine print, warranties, and consumer protections. You'll learn why Adrian recommends the "3-bid rule"—sleeping on a sales pitch, gathering multiple written quotes, and weighing the pros and cons of owning versus leasing your panels before signing anything.

Would you RSVP to a neighborhood pool party with no pool? Or a birthday party with no cake? It sounds ridiculous, but fake event invitations are showing up in inboxes right now. One click could lead to stolen information or malware on your device, making these invitations anything but a celebration. On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, Joe Ducey and Michelle Marin break down the latest scams hitting consumers, including fake party invitations, travel scams, investment fraud, and more, along with simple ways to protect yourself.

Scammers know people looking for financial help may be under pressure, which is why fake lenders often promise guaranteed approval, low rates, or no credit checks, only to ask for money upfront. On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, Joe Ducey sits down with Gerald Tarling, Senior Business Banking Officer at Desert Financial Credit Union, to discuss how to spot legitimate lenders, what to look for before applying, and how to avoid costly loan scams. Do your homework before you borrow.

If your customers only find you through Google, you’ve already lost. The goal is to become the business people think of first, not just another search result. Building trust before someone needs your service can make all the difference. On this special Lunch & Learn edition of Joe Knows Better, Joe Ducey sits down with Tyler Kelley, CEO and Co-Founder of SLAM Agency, to discuss how businesses can build brand awareness, earn trust, and market smarter before customers ever start searching.

Moving can be stressful enough. Getting hit with a surprise bill after your belongings are already on the truck is even worse. Some moving companies quote one price, then demand thousands more before delivery. So how can you protect yourself before moving day? On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, Joe Ducey sits down with Donavon and Devin Connor from Overall Moving to discuss moving scams, what contracts should include, and how to research a mover before trusting them with everything you own. A little homework now can save you a major headache later.

The next scam you see might look completely legitimate. With AI, fake websites, polished emails, and even celebrity endorsement videos can be created in minutes, making scams more convincing than ever before. On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, Joe Ducey and Michelle Marin sit down with Julien Brandt, Founder and CEO of Ampra.ai, to break down how AI is changing scams and why consumers need to question everything they see online. A professional looking website does not always mean it’s real.

Business kept your money and won’t make it right? Small claims court could be an option. For a relatively small filing fee, you may be able to recover thousands, but preparation matters. On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, Joe Ducey and Michelle Marin sit down with Judge Michele Reagan of the Maricopa County Justice Court to break down when small claims court makes sense, how the process works, and what you need to do to build a strong case. Know your options before you give up.

You get a notice your account was charged $400 for something you didn’t order. Now what? Call the number in the message? Or log into your account and check it yourself? The wrong move could hand scammers exactly what they want. On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, BBB's Joe Ducey down with BBB’s Michelle Marin to break down the biggest scams we’re seeing and the simple steps that can keep you from losing money.

When the heat hits, the last thing you want is guessing your way through repairs or overpaying the wrong person. Knowing who to trust and what to expect can make all the difference. On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, Joe Ducey and Michelle Marin sit down with Joe Egosque of Efficiency Mechanical to break down how to hire the right AC professional and avoid costly mistakes.

Romance scams. Fake sweepstakes. Tech traps. The playbook keeps evolving, but so do the people fighting back. National Investigative Emmy recipient Joe Ducey and BBB's Michelle Marin sit down with AARP Arizona Communications Director Alex Juarez to break down the biggest scams targeting seniors right now, the warning signs to watch for, and how to shut them down before they cost someone everything.

He thought he was finally seeing her face. A video call. A real person. The same face from all the photos. But something was off. The lips didn't quite move right. Looking back, he knows what it was. An AI filter. A fake face layered over a real call, designed to make him believe the person he'd been trusting was actually there. This is where scams are now. And most people wouldn't catch it.

Have a home improvement job and need to hire a contractor? Where do you find one? What do you need to know about them? Too many people are complaining Better Business Bureau about losing thousands of dollars to contractors taking money upfront and leaving. In this BBB Joeknowsbetter podcast, Joe Ducey and Michelle Marin talk to .... about how to check out your contractor, what the contract should contain, how much money you should give them upfront and more.

Not all scams happen from long distances. Some fraudsters operate in plain site. In this BBB Joeknowsbetter podcasts, Ann tells her story about a person she thought was a friend. When he moved away, he reached out needing financial help, not once or twice but multiple times leaving Ann struggling with debt. How did he manipulate Ann into giving him money repeatedly? She tells her story so you can avoid the same fate.

Make $100s off class action settlements? What they are and how to get involved! Sometimes businesses settle class action lawsuits for millions of dollars, without admitting any guilt. While lawyers get a big chunk, you can file a claim if you qualify-if you were affected. Joe Ducey talks to a man who files claims, Tracks payouts, and pockets hundreds!

Joe Ducey and Michelle Marin of BBB talk with Sally French, Travel Expert with Nerdwallet, to share a simple but powerful money saving tip. Leave a day earlier or later. Tools like Google Flights make it easy to spot the cheapest travel days, and the savings can add up fast, especially for families.

Scammers called! We called the scammers back using numbers reported to BBB and suddenly we were lottery winners with millions of dollars and luxury cars on the way… all we had to do was pay a “small fee.”

BBB’s Michelle Marin and Jasmine Tucker joined Joe Ducey to turn the tables and see what really happens next.

Think your HOA is just trying to make money? Think again.

On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, Joe Ducey sits down with Nery Ralon and Jonathan Brown from GUD Community Management to explain why HOAs are nonprofit entities and how unpaid dues can impact the entire community

Joe’s conversations often dig into the tougher side of doing business and staying protected… but this episode brings in a whole new vibe. Jodi Low, Founder and CEO of U & Improved and BBB Board Chairwoman, joins the show to talk about heart-felt leadership and how purpose can transform a business.

Thinking about getting out of your timeshare? The resale market is full of scams targeting owners who just want out. High fees + low resale value = a perfect setup for scammers promising buyers for big upfront costs. Joe Duecy talked with Jeremy Russo of Vacation Ownership Consultants, who breaks down a safer approach — working with attorneys to legally cancel contracts.

More than $2 billion in unclaimed property is sitting with the state — and some of it could belong to you. We’re talking forgotten bank accounts, safe deposit box items, uncashed checks, gold bars, jewelry, sports collectibles — all tied to real names and last known addresses… and waiting for the rightful owners to claim them.

A single mom of three, on the verge of losing her home, turned to social media for support — and instead found scammers posing as “helpers” with fake investment opportunities. What started as hope turned into hard-earned money disappearing fast.

From application fees to support animals, BBB’s Joe Ducey sits down with Deborah Simmons of Advantage Arizona Real Estate & Property Management and Michael Kotin of Kay-Kay Realty Corp to break down what renters should (and shouldn’t) be paying for.

Medicare Open Enrollment runs Oct 15 – Dec 7, and while that means it’s time to review your coverage… it also means scammers are getting ready to strike. Carol Brown from the Area Agency on Aging shares important tips on how to protect yourself (or a loved one) this enrollment season.

Hiring a contractor soon? Whether it’s home repairs, landscaping, or even putting in a pool — protecting your project and your money starts with asking the right questions. In this episode, BBB’s Joe Ducey talks with Arizona Registrar of Contractors Director Tom Cole + Assistant Director Cindy Casaus!

Scammers are getting bolder, and BBB Scam Tracker is seeing a spike in reports—from bogus rental application fees charged before you can even view a property, to fake job offers, romance scams, loan schemes, and crypto cons draining wallets fast.

If you drive a car, you’ve probably felt the sting—some rates have doubled or even tripled! On this episode, BBB’s Joe Ducey teams up with Nathan Mason of Insurance Professionals of Arizona to share real strategies for cutting costs without cutting corners.

On this week’s Joe Knows Better podcast, Joe Ducey sits down with Dave Riccio of Tri City Transmission and Eric Newton of Curt’s Auto Repair to break down what your car actually needs and what maintenance guidelines you can take with a grain of salt.

Think you can spot a scam? Think again. 

From fake vacation rentals to sketchy job offers and scammy shopping sites—fraud is everywhere right now.

BBB Scam Survivor Day (May 8) is about raising awareness through real stories.

Kirstin thought she was just reviewing her doctor—until someone offered her paid gigs writing reviews.

$8,000 Gone: A Local Online Shopping Scam Story

Bill thought he found a great deal on a shipping container through Facebook Marketplace. It looked legit—local, affordable, and exactly what he needed.

That Dream Remote Job? She Got It... Then Regretted It.

Sylvia thought she found the perfect remote job—great pay, flexible hours.

But before her first paycheck, the “employer” asked her to pay for training upfront… and just like that, thousands were gone.

Think you can afford a beachfront getaway? Yes you can! We talk to two travel agents who know where to go to get the best deals. What should you book on your own? When could a travel agent help and how much does it cost? If it's the ocean, the mountains or a city trip you're planning, there are ways to make your trip less expensive.

Need a loan? How to get a good rate and NOT get scammed! Having hard time paying off all of those bills from the holidays?, you may be looking online for a small personal loan. How to find the best loan with a good lender and not fall victim to scams and high fees.

Calling back the scammers is a Joe favorite! Listen as 3 scammers try to get into our computers and bank accounts and how quickly they turn vulgar when we confront them. Better yet, watch the expressions of BBB's Sophie Simpson and Jasmine Hill as they join Joe and become the targets of scammer's anger!

The puppy pictures are cute. But there is no puppy for sale. Online scammers stealing thousands from people looking for a pet.Puppy lovers are losing thousands sending money to fake online pet sellers. We talk about how adoptions and fostering can save you money and a pet's life!

She was just looking for work and thought she found it. Instead, she lost thousands of dollars. In this episode of Scammed In Their Own Words. Cassie tells Joe about an employment scam that took her money and her confidence. She shares her story so you can spot the common online scam and avoid the heavy costs.

This Joe Knows Better episode offers advice on choosing a gym and sticking to your fitness goals. Experts Greg LeFever and Webb Travis emphasize the importance of finding a supportive gym community and working with a knowledgeable coach. They also provide practical tips for weight loss and weight gain, stressing the importance of proper nutrition and exercise techniques.

In this episode of Joe Knows Better, we explore the rise of real estate scams, from property theft to rental fraud. Learn how to protect yourself and your property from these schemes with expert advice from a real estate commissioner and a property manager.

The new year means new tax strategies for businesses and consumers. We talk with Patricia Huerta, Accountant at H&H Business & Tax Consulting and David King, CEO of Optima Tax Relief about that. What should you do not only at tax time, but all year. And what to do if you run into trouble with the IRS.

If scammers can get your Social Security number, your birth dates and credit card information, they can cause havoc for you and your finances. They can open up accounts in your name even before you know it.

Mystery or secret shopper scams have taken huge amounts from people just looking for work. We tell you how to avoid the scams and find REAL jobs, getting paid to eat at restaurants, see movies and more. 

Recent hurricanes caused flood damage to many cars. Some of those cars end up for sale on lots around the country. They may be cleaned up. But the damage caused doesn't go away. Here's where to look before you buy.

Your credit score matters! Discover how to improve it and save money on loans and interest rates. Listen to our expert advice now.

Linda fell victim to a bank scam and lost thousands. In this episode, she shares her harrowing experience, detailing how scammers tricked her and the devastating consequences. Learn how to protect yourself from similar scams.

Auto, home and health insurance costs are going up, way up! Joe finds ways you can save money by being selective with claims, dropping unnecessary coverage and more.

Scammers are getting smarter. Join Joe and the BBB team as they uncover the newest and most sophisticated scams in town. Find out how to stay one step ahead.

Moving day can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be a nightmare. Learn how to avoid common moving scams, choose the right company, negotiate your contract, and protect your belongings.

Gloria thought she had landed the perfect online job. But what she didn't know was that she was about to become a victim of a scam. Hear how she was tricked into sending thousands of her own money to a fake employer. Learn the red flags to watch out for and protect yourself from similar scams.

Roseann Higgins tells Joe about her 30 years as a professional matchmaker leading to 176 marriages. Roseann talks about her business and what it takes to find a lasting partner.

Looking for a car? New or used, the experience is usually not enjoyable. What are all of these extra add-ons? Why can't you get the advertised price? How much should you really be paying? Joe and experts help you find the good dealers and avoid the bad practices and scams.

After a decade leading the charge for Arizona consumers on ABC15's "Let Joe Know" unit, Joe reunites with his successor, Kristel Bell. Together with producer Kirstin Johnson, they delve into the world of consumer scams, revisit past confrontations, and explore how "Let ABC15 Know" continues to be a champion for consumer protection.

Mosquitoes, scorpions and bees! You have them? Here's how to get rid of them! We're talking home remedies with Dave and Austin Burns with Burns Pest Elimination. What can you do on your own? When do you need a pro, and how do you find one?

We're scamming the scammers! Joe and the BBB team flip the script on phone scammers. We call them back, expose their tricks & confront the con artists!

Part 2 of Going Solar heats up! Arizona's solar veteran, Joy Seitz of American Solar and Roofing, exposes the industry's shady side. Discover why finding a trustworthy installer is a challenge, where solar is headed, and how to protect yourself from scams.

Arizona and California sunshine might be perfect for solar power, but beware of shady installers! This two-part episode dives deep to help you navigate the solar market. In Part 1, we chat with the trusted crew at Sunny Energy, a BBB Accredited Business, and an expert from Solar United Neighbors. Learn how to dodge the duds and find the perfect solar fit to light up your life (and save you money!)

Feeling the heat? Don't let your A/C woes turn into a financial burden. This episode brings you expert advice from the air conditioning pros at Hobaica Services and Mason Pro Services - both BBB Accredited Businesses. Learn valuable tips to get a fair price, identify red flags, and ensure you're making informed decisions.

Joe dives into the challenges and triumphs of being a woman entrepreneur with craft beer boss Megan Greenwood and Bra Recyclers' Elaine Birks-Mitchell.

She's been in the news a lot lately, but Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes took the time to chat with Joe about some high profile cases, including Apple's alleged smartphone monopoly and price fixing impacting Arizona renters.

Online shopping, job searches, and even romances aren't safe from scammers! Joe and the BBB team dive into BBB Scamtracker and how to spot and avoid the latest scams.

Smart Shopper Daphne Munro spills about how to find the best shopping deals, and Joe tests her consumer law knowledge, but not before they catch up about their days as reporters at ABC15.

Hiring a contractor is a big decision that can cost a lot of money. Joe chats with Tom Cole and Cindy Casaus from the Arizona Registrar of Contractors about the common complaints they see, how to avoid them, and why checking BBB reviews before hiring is a good idea.