Estimating is changing—and technology is moving fast.

In the latest episode of the Restoration Master Class, sponsored by DocuSketch, Michelle & Chris Tilkov, of DocuSketch & AskAime, explore how technology and AI are transforming restoration estimating, from field capture to the final scope.

What does the future look like?

Faster data collection, smarter workflows, better integrations, and an “estimator in the loop”—where AI handles the mundane while human expertise remains essential.

The restoration industry is going through a tough stretch - but is this downturn really like the others?

Michelle with Timothy Hull, CR and John Monroe, of Violand Management Associates, dig into what’s happening behind the scenes: what the companies struggling have in common, what the successful ones are doing differently, and whether anyone is truly immune.

They talk about TPA dependence, claim volume, knowing your numbers, early warning signs, and perhaps most importantly - what owners can do when they realize something isn’t right.

Think you're ready for CAT work?

There's a lot more to it than having enough equipment and being willing to travel.

Mike Allred of Helixco and Parker Olsen of Atmos Drying Services dive into what it takes to successfully prepare for and execute large-loss and catastrophe restoration work—from cash flow and personnel to partnerships, equipment deployment, contracts and legal compliance.

They also share why smaller contractors can benefit from teaming up with experienced partners and why building your CAT capabilities before disaster strikes is so important.

Are you prepared to deliver?

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 process
• How restoration companies can fight back against denials and carrier tactics
• How 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 locations
• Current industry challenges
• Franchise support
• Why profitability—not just revenue—is critical to long-term success
• ...and MORE!

🎙️ Listen now for lessons on leading through change and building a sustainable restoration business.

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 companies
• The importance of accurate data and KPIs
• How 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.