In this special episode of the GPS Podcast, we’re joined by Kelley Dolan, Violand Business Development Advisor, and Jim Eckard, CFO of Thomasville Restoration, to unpack the Restoration Industry Association’s Cost of Doing Business Report powered by KnowHow.   Together, they dive into what the data reveals about profitability, labor costs, technology investments, and the real challenges restoration companies face in 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re an owner, manager, or financial leader, this conversation will help you benchmark your business and make more strategic, data-driven decisions.   Download RIAs Cost of Doing Business Report: https://www.costofrestoration.com/download-the-report   Listen on: Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

What’s the real secret behind earning 5-star Google reviews and loyal customers? It’s not discounts—it’s trust. In this episode of the GPS Podcast, we sit down with Ed Marchiselli, founder and CEO of The Seal, to talk about how service businesses can build credibility, earn authentic reviews, and win customers for life.   Key Takeaways: How building genuine trust leads to long-term customer loyalty How to ask for (and get) more Google reviews the right way The connection between technician soft skills and reputation How to handle negative reviews without hurting your brand   Learn more about The Seal: https://theseal.com/ Secure your spot at Violand's Business Planning Retreats before time runs out! https://violandplanning.com/   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

AI isn’t here to replace the trades — it’s here to make them better. In this episode of the GPS Podcast, we’re joined by LiveSwitch CRO James Hatfield and Violand’s Kelley Dolan to talk about how AI + live video are reshaping workflows in restoration, HVAC, plumbing, and beyond. We dig into: How LiveSwitch tools streamline jobsite documentation and reporting Why AI-powered workflows save time and reduce costly callbacks The balance between human connection and technology in the trades What owners and managers should know when adopting AI If you’re curious about how technology can support your team, improve efficiency, and build stronger customer trust, this episode is packed with insights you can put to work right away.   Register for Violand's Business Planning Retreats: https://bit.ly/3IsY95O   About LiveSwitch: LiveSwitch is the world-leading communications platform for small businesses and entrepreneurs. We provide world-class technologies to help small businesses thrive–directly saving them money, making them money, saving them time, and helping them serve their customers better. Virtual estimates, on-site documentation, and AI built for small businesses are some of the many offerings we provide. We use innovative video and photo technologies to achieve this. Book a Demo: https://book-a-demo.referral-factory.com/uuZqB0mu Website: https://www.liveswitch.com/ Start your free trial: https://www.liveswitch.com/contact-signup Coupon: Use code "GPS10" for 10% off at checkout!   Listen on: Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

Starting a business is never easy. Starting one with only $5,000, no safety net, and a baby on the way? That’s exactly what Marvin Williams faced when he founded Recon Restoration. His story is about more than building a business—it’s about resilience, faith, and finding purpose through second chances.   In this episode of The GPS Podcast, we sit down with Marvin to hear how he:✔ Overcame addiction and personal setbacks to rebuild his life✔ Took the leap with just $5K to start Recon Restoration✔ Balanced urgency and rapid growth without burning out the team✔ Built a culture of second chances and community involvement   Whether you’re starting a business, chasing a dream, or overcoming your own challenges, this podcast will inspire you to keep moving forward.   Register for Violand's Business Planning Retreats: https://bit.ly/3IsY95O Learn more about Recon Restoration: https://reconrestorationms.com/   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

Jeff Jones welcomes advisor Rob Curran to the GPS Podcast to explore how trades industry companies can succeed in commercial sales by developing strong teams and effective leadership. Rob shares lessons from his experience in operations and sales, offering practical guidance on managing long sales cycles, avoiding common mistakes, and building lasting client relationships. This episode provides leaders with clear strategies to grow their commercial business and create a sustainable sales division.   Register for Violand's Business Planning Retreats: https://bit.ly/3IsY95O   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

On this episode of The GPS Podcast, Jeff Jones welcomes entrepreneur Chris Garrison for a conversation on building thriving businesses in the blue collar world. Chris shares his journey from starting a small cleaning company to running multiple profitable ventures, creating a community of over 230,000 business owners, and developing systems that make growth sustainable. This episode is packed with insights on leadership, opportunity, and staying focused in a world full of distractions.   Register for Violand's Business Planning Retreats: https://bit.ly/3IsY95O Learn more about Absolute Cleaning & Restoration: https://absolutecleaningms.com/ Learn more about Blue Collar Millionaire: https://bluecollarmillionaire.net/   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

Are you struggling to attract and retain Gen Z or Millennial technicians in your restoration, construction, or home services business? In this episode of the GPS Podcast, Jeff Jones sits down with Larry Wilberton and Eric Sprague from Super Tech University to discuss proven strategies for hiring, coaching, and keeping top talent in the trades. Discover how soft skills training, team culture, and modern leadership can help you build a five-star workforce and stand out in today’s competitive market.   Register for Violand’s Business Planning Retreats: https://bit.ly/3IsY95O Learn more about Super Tech University: https://supertechu.com/   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

What does it take to buy a magazine and turn it into a leading voice in the restoration industry? Michelle Blevins, owner of C&R Magazine, shares her story of entrepreneurship, team building, and industry innovation. Learn about the challenges and rewards of running a media business in the trades, the power of great content, and the key issues facing restoration professionals today.   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching Register for The 2025 Violand Executive Summit: https://bit.ly/violand-summit Check out C&R Magazine: https://www.candrmagazine.com/   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

In this episode of the GPS Podcast, we sit down with Jorge Villalobos of The Best Restoration. Jorge shares his incredible journey, from overcoming challenges as an immigrant to building a thriving company with a strong team and a commitment to quality.   Learn how mentorship has played a key role in Jorge's success, and discover strategies for finding the right mentors, fostering a supportive company culture, and scaling your restoration or carpet cleaning business for long-term growth. Get ready to be inspired by Jorge's story and gain valuable insights to help you achieve your own entrepreneurial dreams.   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching Register for The 2025 Violand Executive Summit: https://bit.ly/violand-summit   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

AI is no longer a futuristic fantasy – it's transforming the trades today. In this episode of the GPS Podcast, we explore practical AI applications for small businesses in restoration, plumbing, HVAC, and more. Discover how to use AI to generate leads, improve customer communication, optimize operations, and even handle HR tasks. The time to implement AI into your business is now. Find out what you need to know to stay competitive in 2025 and beyond.   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching Register for The 2025 Violand Executive Summit: https://bit.ly/violand-summit   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

What does it take to build a thriving business in the challenging environment of Alaska? In this episode of the GPS Podcast, Jeremy Hongslo, former owner of TCM Restoration, shares his inspiring story of leaving everything behind to live in a humble cabin and building a carpet cleaning business that evolved into a successful restoration company. Learn how he overcame obstacles, built a strong team, and discovered unique opportunities in the Alaskan trades industry.   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching Register for The 2025 Violand Executive Summit: https://bit.ly/violand-summit Register to complete the RIA Cost of Doing Business Survey: https://www.costofrestoration.com/   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

Curious about what it’s really like owning a plumbing franchise? In this episode of the GPS Podcast, we sit down with Randy Anderson, owner of Roto-Rooter of NE Alabama, to discuss the realities of running a successful plumbing business. Randy shares his journey from aerospace engineering to franchise ownership, his top sales strategies, and what it takes to build a team and grow a trades business in today’s market.   Learn more about Roto-Rooter of NE Alabama: https://www.rotorooter.com/albertvilleal/ Learn more about AON Water Technology: https://aonwatertech.com/   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching Register for The 2025 Violand Executive Summit: https://bit.ly/violand-summit   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

Join us for the final part of our conversation with Willy Johnson, as he shares his inspiring story of transformation. Willy opens up about balancing family and business, building a supportive culture, the decision to sell his business, and his work with Montana Re-Entry, helping individuals reintegrate after incarceration. His journey is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the past, there’s always a path forward.   Learn more about Montana Re-Entry and how you can help support the cause: https://montanareentry.org/ Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching Register for The 2025 Violand Executive Summit: https://bit.ly/violand-summit   Listen on: YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz Apple: https://apple.co/42EB8Vp Spotify: https://spoti.fi/40Ne6ZW Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Q3viW7 iHeartRadio: https://bit.ly/3Ene5o6   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

What does it take to overcome a dark past and build a life of purpose and leadership? In this episode of the GPS Podcast, we talk with Willy Johnson, Founder of Alpha Omega Disaster Restoration and Montana Re-Entry, who shares his powerful story of redemption. From a troubled youth to building a successful career and finding purpose in helping others, Willy’s journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of second chances. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we explore Willy’s early struggles, his path to the trades, and how he began building a business that would change his life. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive deeper into his success as a business owner and leader.   Learn more about Montana Re-Entry: https://montanareentry.org/ Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching Register for The 2025 Violand Executive Summit: https://bit.ly/violand-summit Register for the RIA International Restoration Convention & Industry Expo: https://convention.restorationindustry.org/   Listen on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@violandmanagement Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gps-podcast-navigating-small-business-growth/id1794350235 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7fwc42iL7qUmVgmhFElDLU Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/fccf1886-1c1e-4e72-8734-3f0f72d032ce iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/264022400   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

What does it take to lead a family business to success while giving back to the community? In this episode of Violand's GPS podcast, Craig Kersemeier, owner of K-tech, shares his journey as a second-generation business owner in the restoration industry. From serving on the boards of the IICRC and RIA to building K-tech Charities and raising millions for local causes, Craig offers invaluable insights. We explore the power of personal connections at trade shows, the challenges of leadership in family businesses, and the future of restoration. This inspiring conversation is packed with practical advice for small business owners and trades professionals.   Learn more about K-tech Kleening & Restoration: https://k-techkleening.com/   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching Get Early Bird Pricing for The 2025 Violand Executive Summit: https://bit.ly/violand-summit Register for the RIA International Restoration Convention & Industry Expo: https://convention.restorationindustry.org/   Listen on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@violandmanagement Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gps-podcast-navigating-small-business-growth/id1794350235 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7fwc42iL7qUmVgmhFElDLU Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/fccf1886-1c1e-4e72-8734-3f0f72d032ce iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/264022400   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

Shrinkflation, AI, and the changing insurance market are reshaping the restoration industry. In this episode of Violand's GPS Podcast, Jeff Jones and Chris McQueen explore the biggest challenges restoration businesses face in 2025, including rising deductibles, cash jobs, and the need for smarter sales, marketing, and estimating strategies. Discover how to adapt to industry changes, uncover new opportunities, and thrive in a tough market.   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching   Receive tools and proven strategies to boost profits, efficiency, and become a recognized Restoration Project Manager. Limited Spots – Register Today: https://bit.ly/violand-projectmanagement   Vote for the RIA Contractor's Choice Awards! Voting closes March 14: https://form.jotform.com/240175063990154   Listen on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@violandmanagement Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gps-podcast-navigating-small-business-growth/id1794350235 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7fwc42iL7qUmVgmhFElDLU Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/fccf1886-1c1e-4e72-8734-3f0f72d032ce iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/264022400   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

In this episode of Violand's GPS podcast, host Jeff Jones and advisor Chris McQueen sit down with restoration veterans Kirk Prouse and Matthew Sharpe to uncover the realities of running a business during catastrophic events like the California wildfires. From scaling operations and managing customer expectations to navigating insurance hurdles and legal risks, they share hard-earned lessons and strategies for success. Discover how preparation, empathy, and strong leadership can make all the difference when disaster strikes.   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation: https://bit.ly/violand-coaching   Receive tools and proven strategies to boost profits, efficiency, and become a recognized Restoration Project Manager. Limited Spots – Register Today: https://bit.ly/violand-projectmanagement   Register for the RIA International Restoration Convention & Industry Expo: https://convention.restorationindustry.org/   Listen on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@violandmanagement Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gps-podcast-navigating-small-business-growth/id1794350235 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7fwc42iL7qUmVgmhFElDLU Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/fccf1886-1c1e-4e72-8734-3f0f72d032ce iHeartRadio: https://iheart.com/podcast/264022400   Follow us on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ViolandManagement LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/violand-management-associates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/violand_management/

Join us as Jon Fields, owner of RestorePro, shares candid insights from his journey in the restoration industry. From managing family dynamics to building strong teams, Jon reveals how maintaining strong ethics and 'restoration-side manners' has helped him build a sustainable business. Learn valuable lessons about cash flow management, employee development, and maintaining professional relationships in the challenging world of restoration.   Check out the video episodes on YouTube   Ready to reach the next level in your business? Schedule your free consultation   Learn more about Jon’s business: RestorePro   Receive tools and proven strategies to boost profits, efficiency, and become a recognized Restoration Project Manager. Limited Spots – Register Today!   Follow us on socials! Facebook LinkedIn Instagram   7VqlNA2CSxvJriOSWlIo