Restoration Rundown Podcast

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/

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In this episode of The Restoration Rundown, I’m joined by Rod Cruce, founder of Trifecta Growth Institute, to break down why leadership identity is often the missing link holding restoration business owners back.

We talk about the shift from operator to leader, how identity shapes culture and decision-making, and practical steps owners can take to lead with more clarity and consistency as their companies grow.

If your business feels reactive, chaotic, or harder to lead than it used to, this episode is your starting point.

👉 Take the next step: Learn more and enroll in Rod’s Shaping Your Leadership Identity class at

https://trifectagrowth.com

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⏰ Enrollment deadline: 2/3/26 — seats are filling fast

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 like
• The transition from consulting to leadership roles inside FP Restoration
• Cultural mistakes that keep companies stuck
• The systems every restoration company must master
• Why owner identity and emotional maturity matter more than you think
• The 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.

On today's episode I am joined by James Hatfield, the CRO of Live Switch, a communications platform that uses instant video to transform how Restorers work and scale their businesses. I got to know James, his background as a serial entrepreneur, and all about how Live Switch is changing the game for Restoration Companies. Buckle up and get ready for the Rundown.

If you want to learn more about how you can use Live Switch to help your Restoration Business then check the links below and remember Use code "RRundown10" for 10% off at checkout! :

Book a demo: https://tinyurl.com/muzey2uk

Website: https://www.liveswitch.com/

Start your free trial: https://www.liveswitch.com/contact-signup

Coupon: Use code "RRundown10" for 10% off at checkout! 

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 old friends Annissa and Kevin Coy from Firehouse Education where we catch up on whats new with them, and learn about an exciting new venture they're launching soon. Get a sneak peek at their new coaching initiative at their upcoming session at the Experience Conference in Las Vegas in September.

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.

In this episode, I sat down with a man who needs no introduction, but Ill give him one anyways! Join us as we talk shop with Jeff Moore, a 2nd generation Restorer, the President of the largest family run Restoration Companies in the world, ATI Restoration, and, the newly appointed President of the RIA. We will be talking about all things Restoration and about Jeff's journey from a youngster in the industry and into where he stands today, as a serious powerhouse who is advocating for big changes aimed to positively move the Restoration Industry forward.

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.

Many of us get into our businesses with the intention of putting in our all and working hard day in and day out- but what about when the time comes for you to kick back and retire? We often hear that people plan to pass down their businesses to loved ones- and while we absolutely love the sentiment there, it often ends up being a bit disastrous or stressful, and causes Restoration Experts to keep working.... and working... and WORKING.......

So what's the alternative? How do you set yourself up to retire successfully? We are joined today by Rocky Hensley from 1-Tom-Plumber, and he is here to empower you all with the information you need to do just that. With plenty of experience in franchising, selling, and running and growing amazing businesses, there is no better person to guide us all through this journey.