Restoration Today

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.

In this episode of Restoration Today, Drew and JT Pells from PNT Advisors join the show to break down practical tax and business strategies specifically for restoration industry entrepreneurs.From deciding when an S-Corp election actually makes sense, to understanding how to pay yourself properly through payroll and distributions, this conversation tackles the real financial questions owners face every day.Watch this episode if you're a restoration business owner looking to protect profit, stay compliant, and make smarter financial decisions!

Season 4 of the Restoration Master Class, sponsored by DocuSketch, kicks off with a powerful conversation on one of the most misunderstood—and underutilized—scaling tools in restoration: remote estimating.This episode features Nelson Higgins, VP of North America for DocuSketch and a 43-year veteran of insurance restoration. Nelson breaks down why only 15–20% of the industry is currently using remote estimating, what's holding the rest back, and how centralized estimating can dramatically improve efficiency, margins, and scalability.We dig into:What remote estimating actually requires to workWhy resistance to change is the biggest obstacleHow companies can cut estimating costs from 7–10% of revenue down to nearly 1%....and MORE!Nelson also shares real performance data from DocuSketch—including turnaround times, rejection rates, and how AI will support (not replace) estimators moving forward.

What does the launch of Altimeter Solutions Group mean for managed repair contractors and carriers?In this exclusive Q&A recorded at INTRConnect, Jonathan Miko, CEO of⁠ Altimeter Solutions Group⁠, and Stephen Marquardt, Investment Partner at BV Investment Partners, share inside details on the newly formed Altimeter Solutions Group, formerly known as Alacrity Solutions Group's managed repair program. They discuss the vision behind the move, how the company plans to strengthen managed repair delivery, invest in technology, expand opportunities for contractors, and raise service standards across the ecosystem.

s AI driving real growth—or setting up the next bubble?Recorded live at this year's INTRConnect, this episode features Selma Hepp, SVP & Chief Economist at Cotality, breaking down the macroeconomic trends shaping the housing and insurance markets.Selma explores AI's growing role in economic activity, concerns around potential market overvaluation, labor market softness, rising construction costs, and the surge in mergers and acquisitions driven by data investments. She also unpacks the reality of the K-shaped economy and what uneven wealth distribution means for contractors and the industry at large.Despite ongoing uncertainty, Selma shares why she remains cautiously optimistic—and how staying informed can help contractors navigate what's next with confidence.

The restoration industry moves fast, and many entrepreneurs quietly slip into workaholism along the way. In this episode, Michelle and Eric Sprague, co-founder of SuperTech University, talk honestly about the culture of overwork, both sharing their journeys of learning to work more strategically and saying yes to work that aligns with their purpose. This episode challenges restorers to rethink hustle culture and build healthier, more intentional work habits for 2026 and beyond. 

Holly Baldwin, Senior Customer Success Manager at DocuSketch, joins the podcast to share her unexpected path into the restoration industry and nearly a decade of hands-on experience supporting contractors in the field. The conversation dives into how 360 documentation is transforming customer service, increasing transparency, and helping restorers get paid faster by reducing adjuster visits and follow-up questions.From combating tech fatigue during slower seasons to creative ways franchises are incentivizing technology adoption and using free 3D scans to strengthen relationships, this episode reinforces one key truth: restoration may be evolving, but it remains a people-first business built on trust.

Are you ready to kick off 2026?In the last episode of 2025, Scott Severe (SVP, Alliances & Industry Relations at Cotality) and Matthew Parkerson (Senior Director, Customer Innovation at Cotality) join us to dive into what you can expect at Cotality's INTRConnect Conference — January 20–22 in Washington, D.C.With multiple learning tracks, hands-on sessions, and powerful networking opportunities, INTRConnect gives field leaders, owners, and ops teams the tools they need to navigate tight margins, optimize processes, and build stronger leadership in the year ahead. Registration is still open—team discounts available!

Welcome back to Main Street Restorer, a video series showcasing real-world challenges and practical advice from seasoned broker, Gokul Padmanabhan of Restoration Brokers of America, helping entrepreneurs discover innovative solutions and strategies for success.In this episode of Main Street Restorer, we break down shifting M&A trends, why smaller restoration companies are selling faster, how private equity is reshaping the lower middle market, and what today's economic climate means for valuations, buyers, and sellers.Read Restoration Brokers of America's Q3 Restoration Market Update HERE.

Leadership, culture, and the future of restoration.

This episode of the podcast we are joined by an amazing group of RIA volunteers and board members that include RIA President, Jeff Moore, Vince Scarfo, Mark Davis, Marcie Richardson, and Davis Ness. We will look at how the Restoration Industry Association moved the industry forward in 2025—and what's coming next.From record-breaking events and major advocacy wins to education updates, ethical standards, and the future of AI, this episode breaks down why RIA engagement matters and how it's shaping restoration in 2026 and beyond.

Scaling doesn't have to mean wearing more hats. In the latest episode of Chasing the Vision, in partnership with Exit Strategies 360 and Violand Management Associates, Josh Bachman of Violand Management Associates shares how restoration contractors can use outsourcing as a strategic tool to increase capacity, improve profitability, and build scalable systems.JT Kraai and Tim Hull add real-world commentary on the challenges they see every day—owners stretched too thin, operational bottlenecks, and how the right outsourcing decisions can relieve pressure, improve performance, and increase enterprise value.

AI is no longer a “future” conversation for restoration—it's happening now.In this episode of Restoration Today, Nick D'Urbano, Co-Founder & CRO at Distance, breaks down how AI-native platforms are helping restoration contractors capture more leads, respond faster during storm surge events, and improve customer experience across every touchpoint.

AI is evolving fast — and the restoration industry is feeling the impact. In this episode, David Grove, from BYLT Restoration, joins Michelle to break down the most practical, business-ready AI tools restorers should be using right now.They dive into the latest updates from ChatGPT, OpenAI's Sora 2, and Google Gemini, plus the real-world workflows these tools can automate. From email scheduling and dictation to contract drafting, custom GPTs, project management, and company-trained models, this episode shows how AI can streamline your ops without the hype.They also unpack the risks of the AI bubble, the role of AEO and SEO in discoverability, and why training AI on your own company data is now essential.

In this episode of Restoration Today, James Hatfield, CRO of LiveSwitch and RIA Affinity Partner, breaks down how real-time video technology, remote collaboration, and AI are reshaping restoration operations — especially during flash flood events.James shares why July's peak flood season exposes major bottlenecks for contractors, how tools like live video, drones, BIM, and moisture mapping are shifting from “nice-to-have” to essential, and why first-contact video calls dramatically improve customer trust and job accuracy.We also dive into reducing truck rolls, simplifying insurance documentation, crew adoption, and how restorers are seeing 200%+ ROI with the right tech stack.If you want to respond faster, document smarter, win more jobs, and future-proof your restoration business, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.

Most restorers talk about “building a valuable business,” but few know what their company is actually worth — or what truly drives valuation in this industry.In Episode 10 of Chasing the Vision, in partnership with Exit Strategies 360 and Violand Management Associates, Michelle sits down with JT and Tim to break down the real factors behind restoration valuations, from EBITDA and recurring revenue to leadership depth and owner dependency.Whether you're planning for the future, preparing for growth, or simply want to understand how buyers think, this episode gives you the clarity (and reality check) you've been looking for.

What does 45+ years in restoration teach you? A lot. In this episode, industry veteran David A. Olson—consultant, mentor, and retired leader—breaks down the biggest transformations he's seen since entering the restoration world in 1979.We cover:How the industry has changed in people, profits, and ROIWhat healthy year-over-year growth really looks likeIndependent vs. franchise models (and the blindspots of both)His path from the field to leadership, M&A, and industry consultingThe biggest workflow, tech, and customer shifts over four decadesHis best advice for the next generation of restoration leaders..and MORE!

Garret Gray, President of Global Insurance Solutions at Cotality, breaks down the current state and future of the industry. From navigating recent dips in claim volumes to the massive shift from paper to digital—including advanced AI and image analytics for estimating—this is a must-listen for contractors.Garret provides practical advice on how to diversify, use technology to capture market share, and take advantage of better carrier-contractor collaboration. Don't miss his take on why adapting to AI is essential for competitive survival.The future is digital. Learn how to use data and technology to boost profitability and operational excellence at the upcoming InterConnect 2026 conference!Register today: https://intrconnect.cotality.com/event/6924361e-50f7-40b7-8ed4-19f64208d9a4/intrconnect-26

What's it really like to run a business with your spouse? In season 2, episode 9 of Chasing the Vision, brought to you in partnership with Exit Strategies 360 and Violand Management Associates, we sit down with Katie Smith, CEO of PHC Restoration, to unpack the real dynamics of building a company—and a marriage—at the same time.From defining roles and separating finances to protecting the relationship above all else, Katie shares honest lessons from her journey as a second-generation owner working alongside her spouse. Tim and JT add practical insight from years of advising family-run businesses on growth, value, and long-term planning.Whether you're in a family business, thinking about bringing your spouse into the company, or just curious about how couples make it work, this episode is full of takeaways you can put into practice today.

In this episode of Restoration Today, we sit down with Matt Hensley, the newly appointed President of CORE Group, to talk about leadership, collaboration, and the future of the restoration industry.Matt shares his journey from insurance adjusting to leading one of the most influential networks connecting independent restoration contractors and insurance carriers. He opens up about what makes the CORE Elite membership so impactful — from high-level networking and business growth opportunities to the rigorous vetting process that ensures quality, integrity, and reputation across the board.We discuss how CORE Group is helping independents stay competitive in a rapidly consolidating market, the importance of relationships in driving success, and what's next for the restoration industry as technology, training, and claim volume continue to evolve.

From parachutes to project sites — meet Chris Kushmaul, a U.S. Army veteran turned restoration business owner.In this special Veterans Day episode of Restoration Today, Chris, U.S. Army veteran and owner of a Restoration 1 franchise in Metro Detroit, shares how the lessons of discipline, teamwork, and mission focus from his military service built the foundation for success in the restoration industry.This is more than a business story — it's about finding purpose after service.

In this Restoration Today episode, we sit down with Yvonne Vanbibber, General Manager of Blue Kangaroo Packoutz of Cincinnati & Dayton, to explore the emotional and logistical side of contents restoration.  From hoarding situations to heavy-loss homes, Yvonne shares how her unique background helps her lead with empathy, communication, and care.She discusses:The emotional realities behind contents restorationHow tools like Matterport and photo documentation keep claims clearWhy Blue Kangaroo uses a VIP tagging system to honor sentimental itemsHow contractors can find contents partners who truly “get it”...and MORE!This episode is a reminder that in restoration, we're not just rebuilding property — we're helping people heal. 

Grab a drink and join Phil & Michelle for another Happy Hour with one of the industry's top leaders — Jeff Moore, President of the Restoration Industry Association (RIA) and President and Chief Acquisitions Officer at ATI Restoration.Jeff shares the remarkable story of how his family's abatement business evolved into a national restoration powerhouse. From defining roles in a family company to building a strong culture and hiring top talent, Jeff offers candid insights into what drives sustainable growth.He breaks down:- Why profitability now matters more than raw growth.- How smaller operators can dominate their local markets.- The RIA's initiatives to improve communication, pricing, and industry unity.- His funniest industry story- ...and MORETune in for a mix of leadership lessons, business strategy, and good laughs — only on Happy Hour with Phil & Michelle!

Welcome back to the brand new dynamic and practical video tip series designed to help restoration professionals overcome common team challenges and drive consistent, high-quality results.Erik Berglund, expert and founder of The Language of Leadership, in collaboration with RTILearning.com, presents “How to Get Your Team to Do the Thing.”This series offers actionable insights on building highly accountable teams, eliminating excuses, and effectively implementing new strategies, services, technology, products, equipment, and any other “thing” essential to your business's success.

From Firefighting to Founding a Movement — Dave Heimbach joins us to share the inspiring story behind Helpful Heroes.What started as an idea to help off-duty firefighters earn extra income has become a nationwide network of trusted handyman services. Through Helpful Heroes, firefighters connect directly with homeowners needing help around the house — bringing reliability, integrity, and peace of mind to every job.In this episode, Dave dives into:How Helpful Heroes was born and how it empowers firefighters across the U.S.The innovative two-app system connecting homeowners and heroesThe Shark Tank experience that fueled national growthWhy trust, safety, and service are at the heart of Helpful Heroes' missionHow partnering with Belfort Franchise Group boosted job completion rates from 30% to 80% -Expansion plans in Arizona, Florida, and beyond..and MORE!