Restoration Today

Getting the work done is only half the battle—getting paid for it is another. In this episode of Restoration Today, Carlos Ramirez, Doug Weatherman, and Max Pena, from JSTFYD, dive into one of restoration's biggest pain points: the gap between what contractors document and what carriers actually pay.They discuss:How AI is being used on both sides of the claims processHow restoration companies can fight back against denials and carrier tacticsHow automating collections can improve efficiency, profitability, and even EBITDA..and MORE!

AI and technology may be dominating the restoration conversation, but when it comes to building a valuable, sustainable company, people still matter most.Join Michelle and JT Kraai, of Exit Strategies 360, in episode 3 of the Mini Motivation series and explore why strong leadership, team stability, employee tenure, and frontline training can have a greater impact on company value than simply having the latest technology. While AI can be a powerful tool, successful companies know how to use technology to support their people—not replace them.

The restoration industry is facing a new reality: fewer insurance claims, tighter margins and a changing consumer mindset. In this episode, Jeff Moore, Chief Acquisitions Officer at ATI Restoration, breaks down what's driving the decline in claim volume and why restorers can't rely on the old business model to carry them forward.Jeff shares why understanding your bottom line matters more than ever, how higher deductibles and rising premiums are changing consumer behavior, and why restoration companies need to become more proactive about connecting directly with consumers.From shrinking TPA volume to narrowing profit margins, this conversation explores what restorers can do now to adapt, remain profitable and find opportunity in a changing market.

What can the 82nd Airborne teach you about running a restoration business?In this episode of the Restoration Today Podcast, George Hernandez, COO of PuroClean, shares his journey from insurance adjuster to entrepreneur and executive leader, and how military experience shaped his approach to discipline, preparation and leadership.George discusses:PuroClean's growth to more than 500 locationsCurrent industry challengesFranchise supportWhy profitability—not just revenue—is critical to long-term success...and MORE!

Scaling a restoration company brings opportunity—but without the right processes and documentation, growth can quickly impact quality, cash flow, and profitability.In episode 8 of season 4 of the Restoration Master Class, Holly Baldwin of DocuSketch and Alec Demgen of SERVPRO Team Bates & Hogan discuss with Michelle about how standardized processes, strong documentation, employee training, and a consistent customer experience can help restoration companies scale successfully without sacrificing quality.

Recorded live at the Collective by CORE, Ryan Pritchard, VP of Business Development at PSA, breaks down what it really takes to build profitability by design—not by accident.Ryan explores:The hidden profit drains impacting restoration companiesThe importance of accurate data and KPIsHow technology, accountability, and smarter processes can help contractors protect their bottom line...and MORE!From slippage and bad data to uncompensated scope changes and material waste, this conversation offers practical insights for building a healthier, more profitable business.

Emergency Response Plans have come a long way from a binder sitting on a shelf. Today, digital ERPs can give commercial clients instant access to critical property information—and give restoration companies a powerful way to build relationships before disaster strikes.In this episode, Michelle & Jeff Carrier, of Restoration ERP, explore how restoration companies can use ERPs to differentiate themselves, win commercial clients, and move from reactive sales to proactive partnerships. From documenting shutoffs and access points to building communication trees and understanding a client's real pain points, the right ERP can be much more than a preparedness tool—it can be a competitive advantage.The key? Don't wait for the loss to earn the relationship.

Delegation isn't about doing less—it's about giving away real authority. In this episode of Chasing the Vision (in partnership with Violand Management Associates), we break down why so many restoration owners think they've delegated—when they've really just handed off tasks while keeping every meaningful decision for themselves. If every big call still runs through you, the business hasn't scaled—the workload has. Tim Hull, Joey Pendley (Owner & CEO of Penco Restoration), and Michelle Blevins dig into how transferring decision-making authority—not just offloading work—is what builds a business that can thrive without you.

AI is changing marketing faster than most businesses can keep up with—and restoration companies are no exception.In this episode, Michelle and Katie Harris, Founding Partner at Spot On Solutions, dive into how AI is reshaping marketing for service-based businesses, from content creation and search to Google Ads, video, customer engagement, and more.The answer isn't to panic—or ignore it. It's to get brave, start exploring, and learn how to use AI strategically.They also talk about why every company needs an AI policy, where human oversight still matters, and why authentic brand content and genuine human connection may be more important than ever.AI is moving fast. Your marketing needs to move with it.

Technology and AI are reshaping how restoration companies operate—from the field to the back office.Join Michelle Blevins and Leighton Healey of KnowHow as they dive into one of the biggest topics shaping restoration today: Technology & AI. Discover what the latest industry data reveals about AI adoption, automation, and the tools transforming restoration workflows—and what it all means for your business.You'll also hear real-world insights from an incredible panel of industry leaders:⭐ Brayden Everton, Founder, Aiyarise Intelligence Inc.⭐ Tyler Tanaka, CTO, ATI Restoration, LLC⭐ Taylor Carmichael, MIS, Director of Systems, Southeast Restoration

Underground ductwork presents a unique set of challenges that many restoration professionals overlook. In this episode, Jason Stiles, owner of Air Doctor Duct Cleaning & Lining, explains why these systems require specialized equipment, proper inspection, and techniques that go far beyond traditional duct cleaning.From hidden debris and rusted ductwork to indoor air quality concerns and Duct Armor applications, you'll learn what contractors need to know to properly assess, clean, and restore underground duct systems.Whether you're a restoration contractor, HVAC professional, or indoor air quality specialist, this episode offers practical insights you can put to work immediately.

Growing your restoration company doesn't always mean growing your profits. In this episode of Restoration MasterClass, Nelson Higgins, VP, North America at DocuSketch, explains why so many restoration companies see their margins shrink as they scale—and what they can do to stop it.From documentation and SOPs to reconstruction workflows and technician efficiency, Nelson shares practical strategies to protect profitability while building a business that can grow sustainably. If you're looking to scale smarter and keep more of what you earn, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can put to work right away.

The restoration labor market is changing—and so are employee expectations.In the third 2026 State of the Industry Deep Dive on Hiring & Retention, in partnership with KnowHow, join our panel of industry leaders as they break down hiring trends, retention strategies, compensation data, and what it takes to build a company people want to work for.

What makes The Collective one of restoration's must-attend events?Beth Thompson from CORE Group shares what's new for 2026, including:Hands-on AI workshopsAn exciting keynote from Savannah Bananas Head Coach Tyler GillumFresh networking opportunities designed to bring contractors, vendors, and carriers together...and MORE!If you're attending—or thinking about it—this episode gives you a preview of everything you can expect in San Antonio this August!

Asbestos isn't a thing of the past—and assuming it is can put your crew, your customers, and even your family at risk.Dr. Catherine Perrault, Chief Medical Officer at the Mesothelioma Center, breaks down the myths, the science behind asbestos exposure, and the practical steps every restoration company should take to stay safe.

What does it take to lead in today's restoration industry?In this episode, Shawn Hester, Director of Operations at Disaster Restoration Systems/1800 Water Damage of Harrisburg, shares how his background in Air Force combat search and rescue shaped his approach to restoration—where urgency, adaptability, and mission clarity matter every day.From building workflows before technology to leveraging AI as a competitive advantage (not a crutch), this conversation dives into how smart operators are scaling, serving clients better, and staying ahead of carrier expectations.If you're thinking about AI, operations, or what it really takes to run a high-performing restoration team—this is a must-listen.

Accountability is one of the most misunderstood ideas in business especially in restoration companies.In this episode of Chasing the Vision (in partnership with Violand Management Associates), we break down why accountability is not something you install through systems, scorecards, or SOPs. It's something leaders create through behavior, consistency, and expectations.Joined by Katie Smith of PHC Restoration, Tim Hull and Michelle Blevins dig into what real accountability actually looks like inside a growing organization. Instead of relying on tracking and enforcement, they explore how leaders create “accountable moments” that shape ownership, decision-making, and performance.If you've been trying to solve execution problems with more process, this conversation reframes everything: accountability starts with leadership behavior—not management tools.

Claim volume is down—but the complexity of the industry is rising. Aaron Brunko from Verisk breaks down what's driving the shift, from changing consumer behavior to tighter margins, and how AI-powered estimating is reshaping the future for contractors.

In a market full of uncertainty and unsolicited offers, it's easy for business owners to get pulled out of position. In this Mini Motivation episode, JT Kraai, of Exit Strategies 360, breaks down why staying in the driver's seat—through data, process, and discipline—is the key to protecting your business and maximizing its value. Because if you're not controlling the deal, someone else is.

Welcome back to Phil & Michelle's Happy Hour!In this episode, Michelle & Phil Rosebrook Jr. of Business Mentors, talk with Mark Davis, of Signal and PuroClean, and Justin Woodard, of Woodard Cleaning and Restoration, about all things RIA: from the buzz around the 80th anniversary convention to where the industry is heading next. They share real takeaways, stories from the event, and why staying connected with other restorers matters more than ever.They also dive into RIA's push to define the “ethical restorer,” what that actually means, and how it could shape the future of the industry—all in a casual, no-fluff conversation.Pour yourself a cocktail (or another cup of coffee), sit back, relax, and enjoy the conversation.

In this episode of Restoration Master Class, sponsored by DocuSketch, Michelle and Todd Sangid, Enterprise Solutions Consultant at DocuSketch, break down what “scaling” really means—and why so many restoration companies get it wrong. As the industry faces a perfect storm of shifting claims behavior, rapid tech evolution, and tightening margins, growth isn't just about revenue—it's about building smarter systems.Learn how top-performing companies scale successfully by maximizing their tech stack, defining clear roles, and empowering teams to operate without constant leadership involvement. If you're looking to grow without sacrificing margins or control, this episode delivers the practical insights you need.

n this second 2026 State of the Industry Deep Dive, presented in partnership with KnowHow, Michelle Blevins & Travis Martin, of KnowHow, talk with industry leaders Kristin Whitley Smith (Mooring Recovery Services), Sarah Cowell (PHC Restoration), and Jessica Wescott (Stellar Service Brands) and tackle the restoration industry's most pressing challenge: getting paid. Drawing directly from data in the 2026 State of the Industry Report, the panel shares proven strategies for accelerating collections, improving documentation, and creating a culture of accountability around accounts receivable.From setting payment expectations early to leveraging technology, training, and communication to reduce payment delays, this discussion delivers practical takeaways restoration companies can implement immediately to improve cash flow and protect profitability.

Most restoration owners think they understand their numbers… but they're only seeing what's above the waterline.In this episode, John Barnes, President & CEO of Pendleton Street Business Advisors, breaks down what it really takes to understand your financial health—from cash flow and margins to smart growth and long-term value.If you're navigating tighter margins, fewer claims, and more pressure from carriers, this is a must-watch on how to build a more resilient, profitable business.

Processes don't fix execution problems—they expose them.In this episode of Chasing the Vision (in partnership with Violand Management Associates), we break down why so many restoration companies rely on processes as a quick fix—when the real issue is leadership and behavior.If you want consistent results, it starts with people first. Tim Hull & Michelle Blevins dive into how disciplined leadership, accountability, and the right team—not more SOPs—are what actually drive execution, growth, and long-term success.

What's really driving growth in restoration today?Grace Weller, Chief Marketing Officer of Rumsey Construction and Restoration, joins the show to break down how marketing and sales are evolving in the restoration industry.From shifting beyond traditional referral channels to building a more diversified strategy that includes digital lead generation, social media, and commercial relationships, Grace shares what's actually driving growth today.She also dives into the importance of consistency, tracking ROI, and creating real value in every interaction—along with how AI can support your efforts without replacing authenticity.

The labor shortage in restoration is real—but what if the solution has been right in front of us?In this episode, Rod Cruce (former Green Beret, Ranger, and founder of Trifecta Growth Institute) breaks down how the “Hire Veteran” program is helping restoration companies connect with highly skilled, mission-driven talent.We dive into:Why veterans are a natural fit for the industryBiggest hiring mistakes companies makeHow a structured approach to placement and onboarding leads to long-term success—for both the company and the veteran....and MORE!

In this Master Class episode, we dive into why the best restoration teams don't rely on shortcuts—they rely on systems.Travis Martin, from KnowHow, and Nelson Higgins, from DocuSketch, break down the real reasons processes fail, from poor onboarding to lack of accountability, and how that leads to costly mistakes like missed documentation and re-inspections.They explore how tools like AI-driven training and 360° imagery can reinforce consistency—but only when paired with strong leadership and team culture.

Founder & CEO of Dorothy, Arianna Armelli, shares how Dorothy is transforming the way restoration pros, public adjusters, and policyholders navigate storm damage and claims.Originally launched as a cash advancement business, the company pivoted to focus on advocacy and AI-driven damage intelligence. Dorothy aggregates real-time data across hurricanes, hail, wildfires, and more—helping identify impacted properties and uncover unreported damage opportunities.Arianna also discusses with Michelle the evolving insurance landscape, the limits of tools like FEMA maps, and how technology is reshaping response and recovery.

Deep Dive #1 of 4 in The State of the Industry webinar series is here!Join C&R and KnowHow for an exclusive, interactive look at the 2026 report—breaking down key financial trends, workforce realities, tech shifts, and growth opportunities shaping restoration today.Discover what the data says about confidence, margins, and hiring, plus actionable strategies to guide your business decisions this year.

Severe convective storms are quietly becoming the biggest driver of insurance losses—and most people don't even realize it.In this episode, Jon Schneyer of Cotality breaks down why hail, wind, and tornadoes are now outpacing hurricanes, what makes these storms so costly, and why “invisible” damage is a growing problem for property owners and contractors alike.From the surprising spread of storm risk across the country to the “Chicago anomaly” and the role aging roofs play in claim severity, this conversation dives into what's really changing—and what the industry needs to do about it.

What does it take to build a team that lasts in restoration?Jon Vogt and John Warnick, of BluSky, share how they've stayed aligned for 15+ years—through growth, acquisitions, and change—by hiring for fit, leading with honesty, and protecting their culture.

In this episode, we sit down with Gokul Padmanabhan, the founder of the newly rebranded Restoration Advisors of America, to break down what's really happening in 2026.From a slowdown in M&A activity to the rise of tech-driven private equity, the landscape is shifting in ways every restoration business owner needs to understand. We explore the concept of K-shaped consolidation, why investors are doubling down on hyper-local platforms, and how leading companies are moving from reactive work to proactive, contract-based revenue models that drive higher valuations.

What does it take to build a restoration company that doesn't rely on you?In this episode of The Restoration Master Class, in partnership with DocuSketch, special guests Ben Justesen, Enterprise Solutions Consultant at DocuSketch and Chris Laney, Senior Consultant at Midwest Remediation, break down how to move from owner-dependent to system-driven—with clear processes, better documentation, and stronger leadership.Learn how to streamline operations from first call to final invoice, leverage centralized estimating, and build a team that can execute without constant oversight.

What happens when a family-run restoration business outgrows its limits?DJ McCabe shares how he helped scale McCabe Restoration, navigated a family exit, and built Endurant Disaster Recovery into a growing Southeast platform—without losing what made it successful in the first place.

What actually makes a restoration company valuable? In this episode of Chasing the Vision, in partnership with Violand Management Associates, Garrett Sigler, a former CFO in construction and restoration, explains why financial discipline is the foundation of enterprise value. Too many companies rely on assumptions, outdated spreadsheets, and incomplete data—leading to poor decisions and cash flow problems. In this episode, you'll learn: Why inaccurate financials cost you value Common mistakes with AR and billing How liquidity issues really start What strong financial leadership looks like How clarity drives better decisions If you want to grow, scale, or sell your business, it starts with one thing: knowing your numbers—and trusting them.

What happens when you launch two businesses at the same time—and scale to $7M?In this episode, Coral Martin, owner of 1-Tom-Plumber Space Coast, shares how she built a powerful combination of plumbing + restoration services to drive growth, efficiency, and consistent lead flow.From leveraging franchise support to integrating dispatch and office teams, Coral breaks down what's working right now—and what it really takes to build and lead in a competitive, male-dominated industry.You'll hear:Why plumbing and restoration are better togetherHow branding (yes, even pink trucks) can drive recognitionThe real challenges of hiring skilled trades—and how she solved itWhat it's like building a business as a woman in the fieldThe mindset shifts that helped grow a $7M company...and MORE!This is a real, honest look at growth, leadership, and what it takes to win in restoration today.

AI isn't slowing down—it's accelerating. In this episode of RestorAI, David Grove, of BYLT Restoration, and Michelle break down the explosion of AI agents, the race to build massive data centers, and why some experts believe white-collar jobs could be reshaped in the next 18 months.From tools like Claude and autonomous “coworkers” to real-world use cases in restoration businesses, we explore what's hype, what's happening now, and what it means for your future. Plus, we dig into privacy concerns, government influence, and the uneasy balance between innovation and surveillance.

Cash flow is tightening, deductibles are rising, and insurance is shifting—so how are smart restoration companies staying ahead?In this episode of Restoration Today, Nate Cisney of Restoration Made Simple breaks down why financing is becoming a game-changer for restorers. From closing jobs faster to getting paid in 24 hours, we explore how adopting financing—and rethinking your sales approach—can help you survive and thrive in today's market.

What's next for restoration estimating—and how is AI changing the game?

Are you seeing your business clearly—or just what you think is happening?In this episode of Chasing the Vision, Michelle and Tim Hull, of Violand Management Associates, break down the hidden danger of operating on assumptions instead of reality. They explore how familiarity, filtered information, and even good intentions can keep owners in the dark—and why objective data, transparency, and radical candor are essential for real growth.You'll also hear how private equity is reshaping the industry, raising the bar for performance and forcing companies to think differently about value, structure, and readiness for the future.

Welcome to the Mini Motivation series with JT Kraai of Exit Strategies 360!In this short series, JT shares quick, practical insights on mergers and acquisitions in the restoration industry—from evolving deal structures to how owners can start preparing their companies today. In this episode, he explains how earnouts are reshaping restoration deals, why they're being used more often, and what contractors need to understand before selling their business.Have a question about selling your business or preparing for a future exit? Email JT at jt@exitstrategies360.com—we may feature it in a future episode.

Welcome to this Meet the Candidates conversation with Josh Miller, President, Rainbow Restoration.We encourage you to watch ALL the Meet the Candidate interviews to get to know each of them and what they bring to the table. Our goal is for each of them to be 10 minutes or less!There are 3 candidates total for this year's election (Josh Miller, DJ McCabe, and Joe Scroggins), and one open board seat for the ⁠⁠RIA⁠⁠ Board of Directors. Ballots will be emailed directly to RIA members on March 16. Voting is open to RIA members ONLY.Election Results will be announced during the RIA Convention … April 27-29 in Savannah. If you are not yet registered for convention, you can do so at c⁠⁠onvention.restorationindustry.org⁠⁠!

Welcome to this Meet the Candidates conversation with DJ McCabe, president of McCabe Restoration and Endurant Disaster Recovery.We encourage you to watch ALL the Meet the Candidate interviews to get to know each of them and what they bring to the table. Our goal is for each of them to be 10 minutes or less!There are 3 candidates total for this year's election (Josh Miller, DJ McCabe, and Joe Scroggins), and one open board seat for the ⁠RIA⁠ Board of Directors. Ballots will be emailed directly to RIA members on March 16. Voting is open to RIA members ONLY.Election Results will be announced during the RIA Convention … April 27-29 in Savannah. If you are not yet registered for convention, you can do so at c⁠onvention.restorationindustry.org⁠!

Welcome to this Meet the Candidates conversation with Joe Scroggins, COO of Peak Alliance.We encourage you to watch ALL the Meet the Candidate interviews to get to know each of them and what they bring to the table. Our goal is for each of them to be 10 minutes or less!There are 3 candidates total for this year's election (Josh Miller, DJ McCabe, and Joe Scroggins), and one open board seat for the RIA Board of Directors. Ballots will be emailed directly to RIA members on March 16. Voting is open to RIA members ONLY.Election Results will be announced during the RIA Convention … April 27-29 in Savannah. If you are not yet registered for convention, you can do so at convention.restorationindustry.org!

What should restoration companies do when the storms slow down?In this episode of the Restoration Masterclass podcast, Santa Davison of SERVPRO Team Olson and Holly Baldwin from DocuSketch share practical ways restoration teams can use downtime to strengthen marketing, build relationships, and improve documentation workflows.They discuss how tools like DocuSketch can help companies generate leads, create digital twins for claims and facility management, and improve the customer experience—while also preparing teams for future growth. You'll also hear why slow seasons are the perfect time for training, SOP development, and process improvements that set your company up for success when the next surge of work arrives.

What if your TPA jobs, SLA deadlines, and communication tools were all managed in one place?In this episode, Jason McLaughlin, CEO, and Austin McLaughlin, COO, of Complitrac break down how their custom-built platform is helping restoration companies stay ahead of strict SLA requirements and improve visibility across TPA programs.They discuss why the restoration industry is still struggling with outdated, disconnected technology and how modern platforms can automate SLA tracking, send real-time alerts, and consolidate multiple systems into one dashboard.You'll also hear how better communication, transparent updates, and user-friendly tools can improve both policyholder experience and operational efficiency.

What happens when you combine the restoration industry with the timeless networking power of golf?In this episode, Peter Lyons, Founder of Restoration Golf League, & Lee Patterson, Commissioner at Restoration Golf League, dive into the story behind the Restoration Golf League — a growing networking movement designed specifically for restoration professionals. With 18 chapters and expansion plans into cities like Indianapolis, Nashville, St. Louis, and Toronto, this league is redefining how contractors, vendors, and industry partners build authentic relationships.Whether you're a scratch golfer or picking up clubs for the first time, this episode explores how connection — not competition — is the real win. Tune in to learn how relationships built on the fairway are driving real results across the restoration industry.

In episode 2 of season 4 of The Restoration Master Class, experts Robb Harrell, VP of Strategic Accounts at DocuSketch, and Todd Van Sant, VP of Estimating at ATI Restoration, break down how AI is transforming restoration estimating and claims.From faster estimate creation and blueprint analysis to tools that help enforce carrier guidelines, AI is reshaping workflows — but not replacing human expertise. They discuss the opportunities, limitations, regulatory realities, and why experienced judgment remains critical as the industry moves toward faster, more accurate indemnification.

AI isn't just for writing emails anymore. In this episode recorded at INTRConnect, we break down where AI is headed in 2026 — from consolidation among major players like Google, OpenAI, and Anthropic, to what restoration contractors should actually be implementing right now. Think dashboards, automations, and real operational efficiency.

Compound risk is reshaping restoration and insurance. In this episode, Maiclaire Bolton-Smith, VP of Product Marketing at Cotality, breaks down secondary perils, earthquake exposure, and how contractors can use catastrophe data to stay ahead of emerging opportunities.

Season 3 of Chasing the Vision kicks off with a new focus — the real journey of entrepreneurship in restoration. Michelle and Tim Hull, of Violand Management Associates, dive into why growth alone doesn't create value, how scaling exposes hidden problems, and the disciplined habits that build strong, independent businesses.From cash flow traps to owner dependency and the critical $3–5M growth phase, this episode is packed with practical insights for restorers ready to grow the right way.