In this episode, we dive into the evolving world of contents restoration with two industry innovators: Saul Lustgarten, Co-Founder of ContentsPal and Jordan Paugh from Just Contents Solutions.

Together, they share how artificial intelligence is reshaping how restoration companies approach contents workflows—from inventory to customer experience. Saul breaks down how ContentsPal integrates AI into daily processes, while Jordan offers real-world insights on team adoption, industry shifts, and how tech is helping companies scale smarter.

Whether you’re just exploring AI tools or looking to optimize your restoration business, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways and inspiration.

What do you do when your vision is bigger than your bank account?  When the hustle runs dry and the resources just aren’t there?

In season 2 episode 4, in partnership with Exit Strategies 360⁠ and Violand Management Associates, we’re talking with guest Seth Vander Woude, VP of Small Business Lending at Live Oak Bank, about the real struggle of chasing a business vision when you’re at the end of yourself.

Most business owners don’t have unlimited time, energy, or money—so how do you keep moving forward? Seth brings practical insight, hard-earned wisdom, and encouragement for entrepreneurs navigating that gap between passion and provision. Don’t miss this conversation—it’s one every leader needs to hear.

Join industry leaders Bran Lynch (Chair, S700 & BELFOR), Brandon Burton (IICRC Standards Chair & Cotality), John Pletcher (Vice Chair, S700 & RestorTech), and Mili Washington (Standards Director) as they take you behind the scenes of the groundbreaking S700 Standard for Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration.

Learn what it takes to create a trusted, industry-wide standard—from initial concepts to final approval—and why it matters to every restoration professional. Discover key terms, the evolving role of volunteers, and the critical balance required to maintain integrity in the standards process.

Whether you’re new to fire restoration or a seasoned pro, this episode breaks down the evolution of the S700 from RIA roots to its place at the IICRC today. Tune in and get the clarity you need to elevate your restoration practice!

In this powerful conversation, Michelle sits down with Jenkins Restorations leadership—CEO Drew Fetterolf, VP of Strategic Alliances Jason Coleman, and Director of Specialty Services David Ness—to explore how faith, employee ownership, and a commitment to excellence have sustained the company for over 50 years.

Hear firsthand how Jenkins has adapted to industry shifts, weathered major challenges like COVID-19, and remained rooted in its mission. Learn how being an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) company influences everything from company culture to customer service, and discover the role faith plays in guiding leadership decisions.

From memorable success stories to complex restoration jobs, this discussion offers a rare look inside a company that’s not only built to last—but built on purpose.

Chasing the Vision season 2 episode 3, in partnership with  Exit Strategies 360⁠ and Violand Management Associates, dives deep into one of the most critical — and challenging — aspects of running a restoration business: financial management & cash flow.

From tackling the pain points of collections to understanding how proper financial systems build long-term equity, this conversation is a must-listen for owners and leaders looking to boost stability and profitability. Whether you're planning to grow, sell, or simply stay afloat, this episode arms you with the insight to take control of your financial future.

On this episode, Michelle sits down with David Grove, Owner & Founder of BYLT, to dive into what it takes to scale fast in the restoration industry.

From navigating rapid growth and building strong company culture, to staying competitive amid consolidation and leveraging AI, David shares real-world lessons and insights.

Welcome back to Phil & Michelle’s Happy Hour – a podcast designed to make you smile, and hopefully learn a few things along the way.

In this episode, Phil & Michelle chat with Russ Palmer, president and owner of Titan Restoration, and learn more about where he started in the industry to technology, favorite AI tool, empowering your team, favorite stories, and MORE!

Pour yourself a cocktail (or mimosa!), sit back, relax, and enjoy the conversation.

Welcome back to the brand new dynamic and practical video tip series designed to help restoration professionals overcome common team challenges and drive consistent, high-quality results.

Erik Berglund, expert and founder of The Language of Leadership, in collaboration with RTILearning.com, presents “How to Get Your Team to Do the Thing.”

This series offers actionable insights on building highly accountable teams, eliminating excuses, and effectively implementing new strategies, services, technology, products, equipment, and any other “thing” essential to your business’s success.

What is it REALLY like to work for you?

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by Eric Sprague, owner of Super Tech University, to dive into the inspiration behind his recent C&R article, “What It’s Like to Work For You, and Why It Matters More Than You Think.”

Eric shares what led him to turn the mirror inward and how doing the personal work transformed not just his leadership—but his entire company culture. Michelle and Eric talk about the moments that revealed areas needing growth, how to respond to business owners who think this kind of work is too “woo,” and why blaming the workforce isn’t a strategy.

Plus, how can you tell if your people actually enjoy working for you? Eric shares the real signs to watch for—and the small shifts that make a big difference.

Don’t miss this honest, practical convo about leadership, accountability, and building a company people are proud to work for.

In episode 2 of season 2 of Chasing the Vision, in partnership with ⁠ Exit Strategies 360⁠ and Violand Management Associates, Michelle, JT, and Tim reflect on the challenges and uncertainty that defined 2024. What can the restoration industry learn from a tough year? And more importantly, how can we shift momentum and make 2025 our most resilient and growth-focused year yet? Tune in for candid insights, honest reflection, and real encouragement to help you reset, recharge, and refocus your vision for a healthier, more successful 2025.