Delegation isn't about doing less—it's about giving away real authority. In this episode of Chasing the Vision (in partnership with Violand Management Associates), we break down why so many restoration owners think they've delegated—when they've really just handed off tasks while keeping every meaningful decision for themselves. If every big call still runs through you, the business hasn't scaled—the workload has. Tim Hull, Joey Pendley (Owner & CEO of Penco Restoration), and Michelle Blevins dig into how transferring decision-making authority—not just offloading work—is what builds a business that can thrive without you.

🎧 Explore more restoration leadership insights at

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AI is changing marketing faster than most businesses can keep up with—and restoration companies are no exception.

In this episode, Michelle and Katie Harris, Founding Partner at Spot On Solutions, dive into how AI is reshaping marketing for service-based businesses, from content creation and search to Google Ads, video, customer engagement, and more.

The answer isn’t to panic—or ignore it. It’s to get brave, start exploring, and learn how to use AI strategically.

They also talk about why every company needs an AI policy, where human oversight still matters, and why authentic brand content and genuine human connection may be more important than ever.

AI is moving fast. Your marketing needs to move with it.

Technology and AI are reshaping how restoration companies operate—from the field to the back office.

Join Michelle Blevins and Leighton Healey of KnowHow as they dive into one of the biggest topics shaping restoration today: Technology & AI. Discover what the latest industry data reveals about AI adoption, automation, and the tools transforming restoration workflows—and what it all means for your business.

You'll also hear real-world insights from an incredible panel of industry leaders:
⭐ Brayden Everton, Founder, Aiyarise Intelligence Inc.⭐ Tyler Tanaka, CTO, ATI Restoration, LLC⭐ Taylor Carmichael, MIS, Director of Systems, Southeast Restoration

Underground ductwork presents a unique set of challenges that many restoration professionals overlook. In this episode, Jason Stiles, owner of Air Doctor Duct Cleaning & Lining, explains why these systems require specialized equipment, proper inspection, and techniques that go far beyond traditional duct cleaning.

From hidden debris and rusted ductwork to indoor air quality concerns and Duct Armor applications, you'll learn what contractors need to know to properly assess, clean, and restore underground duct systems.

Whether you're a restoration contractor, HVAC professional, or indoor air quality specialist, this episode offers practical insights you can put to work immediately.

Growing your restoration company doesn't always mean growing your profits. In this episode of Restoration MasterClass, Nelson Higgins, VP, North America at DocuSketch, explains why so many restoration companies see their margins shrink as they scale—and what they can do to stop it.

From documentation and SOPs to reconstruction workflows and technician efficiency, Nelson shares practical strategies to protect profitability while building a business that can grow sustainably. If you're looking to scale smarter and keep more of what you earn, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can put to work right away.

The restoration labor market is changing—and so are employee expectations.

In the third 2026 State of the Industry Deep Dive on Hiring & Retention, in partnership with KnowHow, join our panel of industry leaders as they break down hiring trends, retention strategies, compensation data, and what it takes to build a company people want to work for.

What makes The Collective one of restoration's must-attend events?

Beth Thompson from CORE Group shares what's new for 2026, including:

• Hands-on AI workshops
• An exciting keynote from Savannah Bananas Head Coach Tyler Gillum
• Fresh networking opportunities designed to bring contractors, vendors, and carriers together
• ...and MORE!

If you're attending—or thinking about it—this episode gives you a preview of everything you can expect in San Antonio this August!

Asbestos isn't a thing of the past—and assuming it is can put your crew, your customers, and even your family at risk.

Dr. Catherine Perrault, Chief Medical Officer at the Mesothelioma Center, breaks down the myths, the science behind asbestos exposure, and the practical steps every restoration company should take to stay safe.

What does it take to lead in today’s restoration industry?

In this episode, Shawn Hester, Director of Operations at Disaster Restoration Systems/1800 Water Damage of Harrisburg, shares how his background in Air Force combat search and rescue shaped his approach to restoration—where urgency, adaptability, and mission clarity matter every day.

From building workflows before technology to leveraging AI as a competitive advantage (not a crutch), this conversation dives into how smart operators are scaling, serving clients better, and staying ahead of carrier expectations.

If you’re thinking about AI, operations, or what it really takes to run a high-performing restoration team—this is a must-listen.

Accountability is one of the most misunderstood ideas in business especially in restoration companies.In this episode of Chasing the Vision (in partnership with Violand Management Associates), we break down why accountability is not something you install through systems, scorecards, or SOPs. It’s something leaders create through behavior, consistency, and expectations.Joined by Katie Smith of PHC Restoration, Tim Hull and Michelle Blevins dig into what real accountability actually looks like inside a growing organization. Instead of relying on tracking and enforcement, they explore how leaders create “accountable moments” that shape ownership, decision-making, and performance.If you’ve been trying to solve execution problems with more process, this conversation reframes everything: accountability starts with leadership behavior—not management tools.