Restoration Rundown Podcast

In this episode of The Restoration Rundown, I’m joined by Claire Carreras from 1-Tom-Plumber to talk about how teams are actually built and why so many aren’t set up to succeed. Claire brings a unique perspective from leading operations in high-pressure service environments, transitioning into ownership, and unexpectedly, working in the thrash metal music scene before entering the trades. We explore how team structure, roles, and expectations impact performance, why some teams struggle even with good people, and how to identify strengths in individuals that most companies overlook. If you’re a restoration business owner trying to build a team that actually performs, this conversation will give you a different way to think about it. 🚀 Want to grow your restoration business? Book a strategy session with Ironclad Restoration Marketing https://ironcladrestorationmarketing.com/contact/ 📱 Curious how live video can help you win more jobs? Check out LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/hzl6jpv6328r

Are restoration contractors unintentionally training the AI systems that could eventually challenge their estimates? That’s the question we explore in this episode of The Restoration Rundown. A year ago, Doug Weatherman wrote an article in C&R Magazine titled “We Have a Big Problem,” raising concerns about how artificial intelligence could influence the restoration claims process. Shortly after that article was published, Doug joined me on The Restoration Rundown for an episode called “AI and the Future of Restoration.” Now, a year later — after massive advances in AI — we’re revisiting that conversation. In this episode we discuss: • How AI may already be influencing insurance claims • Whether contractors could be unintentionally training AI systems • The growing value of restoration industry data • What AI could mean for negotiations with carriers • How restoration owners should approach AI moving forward 📖 Read Doug’s Article “We Have a Big Problem” – C&R Magazine https://www.candrmagazine.com/letter-to-the-editor-we-have-a-big-problem/ 🚀 Want to Grow Your Restoration Business? Book a strategy session with Ironclad Restoration Marketing https://ironcladrestorationmarketing.com/contact/ 📱 Curious how live video can help you win more restoration jobs? Check out LiveSwitch https://join.liveswitch.com/hzl6jpv6328r

In this episode of The Restoration Rundown, we’re joined by two of the most influential voices in the restoration industry: Brandon Reece and Chris Nordyke, co-founders of Floodlight Consulting Group, hosts of the Head, Heart & Boots podcast, and key leaders inside FP Restoration. We dive into "The Floodlight Framework"—a foundation built on leadership, culture, systems, identity, and long-term strategy. Together, we break down the exact ingredients needed to build a legacy restoration company: the kind that isn’t just profitable today, but is structured to outlast seasons, trends, and owner burnout. You’ll hear insights on: What a true legacy restoration business actually looks likeThe transition from consulting to leadership roles inside FP RestorationCultural mistakes that keep companies stuckThe systems every restoration company must masterWhy owner identity and emotional maturity matter more than you thinkThe real work leaders must do to build something that lasts If you’re leading a restoration company and want to build a business that works today and stands the test of tomorrow, this is a must-listen conversation.

In this episode, I am joined by past guest and friend of the show Jeff Diem from Elkmont Estimates to talk about his new software is leveling up the estimating/billing processes for Restorers.

In this episode I am joined by my friends Andy McCabe and Doug Weatherman to discuss how AI is changing the Restoration industry at breakneck speeds. From FNOL to claims and everything in between, AI is integrating into all aspects of operations. If you are a Restorer, then you don't want to miss this episode.

Andy McCabe is a veteran of the restoration industry with over 20 years of experience. Founder of Claims Delegates and leader of the Restoration Rebel group now known as the Total Claims Alliance on Facebook, he has dedicated his career to empowering restoration contractors, challenging unfair insurance practices, and promoting transparency. As an early pioneer in remote estimating, Andy continues to push the boundaries of what's possible for independent restorers, helping them navigate the complexities of insurance claims while growing their businesses.

The development and utilization of AI in the Restoration Industry is moving at breakneck speeds - already taking over any of the processes you see on a day to day basis with carrier developed models and chat bots. We are in a pivotal moment in the Restoration industry where if we do not adapt, we will die. IN this episode, I am are joined today by Doug Weatherman the COO of Rare Restoration who is here to offer an "AI Dooms Day Prep Kit" for Restorers in this ever evolving AI powered world.

In today's episode we are joined by Kayla McGowan, the new Editor-in-Chief of R&R Magazine. Kayla walks us through her journey in the industry and talks about the R&R Magazine's upcoming Experience Conference and Trade Show Aril 8-10th in Punta Gorda Florida. To learn more visit randrmagonline.com/the-experience-conference.

2024 was one heck of a year! You may have noticed a lot of changes when it comes to your digital presence, and we are here to tell you that you are not the only one. If your business is online, chances are you were affected by these changes in some way, shape, or form, and we think it's important for all of you out there to know exactly what has changed and how your Restoration Business can adapt to use it to your advantage. I'm joined by Nikki from our team at Ironclad Restoration Marketing for this 2024 recap, where we will talk about some of the major changes we all experienced last year- from LSA and GBP maintenance and management to exploring the AI Overview and what it means for your Restoration Company's rankings and visibility, and everything in between.

In this episode, I sit down with Rocky Hensley, founder of 1 Tom Plumber to uncover the strategies and stories behind his success in the restoration industry. From humble beginnings to building and selling multiple businesses, Rocky shares his inspiring journey marked by resilience, grit, and a relentless drive for growth. Tune in to learn how he’s transformed challenges into stepping stones, developed powerful systems for scaling, and built a thriving franchise model with 1 Tom Plumber. This is a must-listen for restoration business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to take their companies—and their mindsets—to the next level.

Google Announces HUGE Change coming to Local Service Ads!!! In this podcast short, I talk about a major change to Google LSA program that is coming November 21st 2024!

CAT season poses quite a few marketing challenges for restoration contractors, but within each challenge there are an equal amount of opportunities for the restoration company who is prepared. These marketing challenges mirror most of the common challenges restorers face during CAT season, like the huge increase in demand which strains resources, budget and heightens the competition. In this episode I walk you through some of those challenges but more so how to leverage digital marketing to capitalize on the increased demand and competition

CORE is home to the industry’s most elite property restoration service providers. They are pioneers who expect more from a conference experience. You wont want to miss this year's Collective, July 8-10th at the JW Marriott in Downtown Austin. From Core "The Collective as an innovation summit featuring state-of-the-art technology, leadership growth experiences, sales development strategies, and a wellness retreat, all under one roof. While other conventions simply bring you speakers, The Collective delivers thought leaders and game changers. While other shows might bring you some useful information, The Collective brings you deep-seated knowledge to help tackle your toughest challenges ahead. " USE CODE: IRONCLAD to save $100.00 off your registration! Follow and Subscribe to The Restoration Rundown and Ironclad Restoration Marketing by following the links below: - ironcladrestorationmarketing.com - restorationrundown.com Facebook: /ironcladmarketing Instagram: /ironcladrestorationmarketing/ TikTok: @ironcladrm Stream/Watch (search The Restoration Rundown on EVERY streaming service) - Spotify: @therestorationrundown - Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/restoration-rundown-podcast/id1601823477 - YOUTUBE @ironcladrestorationmarketing - YOUTUBE @restorationrundownpodcast