Episodes
408
Latest episode
Jun 2026
Language
EN
Restoration Today is a video and audio podcast covering everything restoration-related. Every week, Michelle Blevins sits down with an industry peer – a contractor, a colleague, a supplier, an innovator, an insurer, etc. Every conversation will cover the hottest topics in today’s restoration industry – going beyond fire and water damage restoration and diving into topics like M&A, company culture, hiring and recruiting, innovations in restoration, and tools of the trade. Plus, there will be some guaranteed laughs and heartfelt moments.
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.
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