After 20 years in restoration, Katie Smith, second-generation owner and CEO of PHC Restoration, has discovered that success isn’t just about profit—it’s about people, purpose, and impact.

She shares how personal transformation, strategic planning, and clear leadership roles reshaped her company. From cash flow protection to thriving as an independent restorer, this episode delivers hard-earned wisdom for building a restoration business that lasts.

In this episode of Restoration Today, Robbie Bradshaw, IICRC’s Director of Government Relations, shares the latest wins for the restoration industry on Capitol Hill. From pushing mold legislation in states like Michigan to securing the adoption of the S520 standard, Robbie’s work is all about protecting public health and raising the bar for remediation.

He reveals how recent federal changes now allow 529 savings plans to cover industry certifications—opening more doors for skilled trade careers—and why the annual Educating the Advocates Symposium is empowering restorers to influence legislation. Robbie also cautions against relying on AI for copyrighted standards and stresses the value of official digital editions for accuracy.

Plus, a peek into his life outside lobbying, where music fuels his creativity. Hear why he’s optimistic about growing recognition of IICRC standards in law and how you can get involved in shaping the industry’s future.

Welcome to the first episode of RestorAI, where hosts Michelle Blevins and co-host Dave Grove, of Bylt Restoration, explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the restoration industry.

In under five minutes, they break down the different types of AI—research AI, co-pilot AI, generative AI, vision AI, predictive AI, and more—explaining how each can be leveraged in real-world restoration work. Whether you’re curious about AI workflows, voice tools, or embedded tech, this quick episode will give you a clear, practical foundation.

Stay tuned for future hands-on demos and the latest AI news tailored for restoration pros.

Eric Berglund discusses how to effectively integrate AI into team operations, emphasizing responsible usage rather than focusing on specific tools. He outlines four main applications of AI in businesses:

1) Data Analysis: AI can process large datasets to provide insights for better decision-making, but caution is needed to maintain familiarity with the data to avoid misinterpretation.

2) Content Creation: While AI can generate various content types, the accuracy and authenticity of the output can be questionable, necessitating careful oversight.

3) Automation: AI can streamline processes and improve efficiency, but teams should first understand the processes manually before automating to avoid skipping critical steps.

Learn applicable uses for AI tools you can start implementing effectively today.

Join Michelle outside one of Michigan’s most magical landmarks – an iconic Mushroom House in Charlevoix – for a conversation that bridges the whimsical and the cutting-edge.

In this special on-the-road episode of Restoration Today, Michelle sits down with Jeff Diem of Elkmont Estimates and Levlr to talk about what it would take to restore a property like this, both structurally and historically. From there, the conversation mushrooms into the future of estimating, the evolving role of AI and tech in restoration, and how contractors can stay ahead in a rapidly shifting landscape.

It’s equal parts nostalgia, innovation, and restoration tech trends.

In this episode, we’re joined by two industry innovators tackling some of restoration’s most frustrating challenges head-on: Lindsay Bunker, Co-Founder & CEO of JobSight, and Lane Larsen, Founder & CEO of CleanClaims.

Together, they unpack how their platforms were born out of firsthand experience in the field—and why tech that actually solves problems is more critical than ever. From meaningful integrations to tackling contractor pain points like delayed payments and labor shortages, Lindsay and Lane share what today’s restorers are really looking for in software, and how thoughtful tech design can create clarity, not complexity.

Whether you’re searching for better systems or just trying to get paid faster, this is a must-listen for every forward-thinking restoration pro.

In season 2, episode 5 of Chasing the Vision, in partnership with Exit Strategies 360⁠ and Violand Management Associates, we dive into the side of business growth we avoid talking about—the emotional side. From scaling your company to planning an exit (or not), the journey is rarely just about numbers and strategy. It’s about identity, trust, fear, and learning when to listen to your gut.

JT Kraai and Tim Hull open up about the personal challenges behind professional decisions—sharing real stories of pressure, pivot points, and what it feels like to carry the weight of big moves. If you’ve ever wrestled with doubt, timing, or what’s next for your business, this one will hit home.

In this episode, we sit down with Leslie Anderson, SVP of Training & Launch at Paul Davis and President/Chair of the IICRC Board of Directors.

Leslie shares her incredible journey in the restoration industry, her leadership role at Paul Davis, and the critical work she’s doing with the IICRC.

From new certifications and standards in development to the broader pulse of the restoration world, Leslie gives us an insider’s look at what’s evolving, what’s next, and what restorers should be paying attention to—plus insight into what the latest Colorado State predictions could mean for storm season and the industry.

What makes a trade show worth your time—and how do you choose which ones to attend?

In this episode, Michelle sits down with Beth Thompson, VP of Events at CORE Group, and Ryan Pritchard, VP of Sales & Marketing at PSA, to talk all things restoration industry events. With years of experience attending conferences across the country, they break down what’s working in 2025, how their companies decide which shows to attend, and what sets some events apart from the rest. 

Plus, get an inside look at The Collective by CORE, happening August 6–8!

Don’t miss this real-talk conversation on making the most of your time, travel, and trade show budget.

Sales in restoration isn’t like sales anywhere else—and in a year where volume might be down, many companies are asking: How do we innovate, adapt, and keep revenue flowing?

In this episode, we talk with Gregg Taylor of Restoration Recruitment Partners, an industry pro with deep roots in the field and a passion for building high-performing sales teams.

We cover:

• Why restoration sales is a different beast
• Common pain points restorers face in hiring and sales
• The power of training and ongoing coaching
• Fresh ways to approach revenue in a shifting market

Don’t miss this timely conversation on how to sell smarter, lead better, and grow through the slowdown.