Most restorers hear "follow the rules" and never stop to ask: whose rules? And who made them?In this episode, I sit down with two of the top 1% of restoration operators.Kevin Dooley and Chris Laney will unpack the difference between real standards and inherited assumptions that hold this industry back.We get into the rules worth following (technical standards, unmanipulated data, consistent documentation) and the ones worth questioning (Xactimate-only pricing, adjustor-dictated scope, fear-based billing).Plus: why most collection problems start at onboarding, not at invoicing.You'll hear Kevin explain IoT (Internet of Things) and sensor-driven drying data, why Chris believes consistent repeatable results start with telling the story on the front end, and why I think your technicians shouldn't need a second job to make rent.This one's a bigger conversation than 56 minutes allows, but it's a start.A little about the 8%: The contractors who set their own standards, personal, operational, and technical, instead of waiting for someone else to define them? That's the 8%.If you want to understand this philosophy of The 8% deeper, check out the 8% Restopreneurs™ book series at https://restorationadvisers.com/storeWhat's next for Disaster Podcaster? Expect more real conversations with operators who are doing the work, fewer echo chambers, and practical frameworks you can actually use.🎧 Subscribe and listen to more at: https://restorationadvisers.com/podcastJoin The Incredible Restoration Business Academy: https://restorationadvisers.com/rbaUpcoming Modern Restoration Aramsco Classes: https://restorationadvisers.com/aramscoContact Info for our guests: Kevin Dooley: Kevin@kahi.ioChris Laney: chris@e3drying.comKlark Brown: Klark@hey.com

Most people see disaster response as emergency work and cleanup. But there's a whole layer of invisible work that determines whether survivors actually recover, or get left behind.In this episode, we share our recent experiences volunteering with United Survivors Disaster Relief (USDR) in Kerrville, Texas, Jamaica, and Washington State.You'll hear about the critical behind-the-scenes coordination that makes or breaks disaster response, logistics, intelligence gathering, community connections, and survivor advocacy. This is work that rarely gets talked about but absolutely has to happen.A little about the 8%: this invisible infrastructure work is exactly what separates restoration contractors who truly serve people in crisis from those just running insurance jobs.What is the 8%?The 8% are restoration operators who think differently than the conventional majority. They build businesses around empowered teams, community relationships, and long-term sovereignty, not insurance dependency. They're the innovators and early adopters who lead the industry forward while others wait for permission.
If you want to understand this philosophy deeper, check out the 8% Restopreneurs™ book series at https://restorationadvisers.com/store

What's next for Disaster Podcaster?Expect more field stories, fewer industry politics, and practical frameworks you can actually use.🎧 Subscribe and listen to more at: https://restorationadvisers.com/podcast

Join Restoration Business Academy: https://restorationbusinessacademy/rba

Check out UDSR at: https://unitedsurvivorsrelief.org/

Upcoming Aramsco Classes: https://restorationadvisers.com/aramsco

Too many restoration contractors have been told they’re part of the insurance industry. That’s a lie that keeps you broke and stuck.

In this episode, Toby has a conversation with the CEO and founder of Albiware: Alex Duta.

They dive deep into how the industry is made up of contractors, not claims specialists. We are part of the claims process, not the claims industry. The minute you embrace that distinction, everything changes.

In this video, you’ll learn:
🔹Why restorers lose money by acting like insurance middlemen
🔹The difference between the claims process vs. the claims industry
🔹How plumbers and other trades bill for cost incurred — and why you should too
🔹Practical steps to collect deposits, secure draws, and stop waiting on carrier approval
🔹How to finish jobs, collect checks, and take back control as a Restopreneur™️

Contrary to the loudest voices in the industry right now, this is how the most successful independent restoration companies are operating right now.

Stop giving away your leverage to carriers. Start leading your business like a contractor who gets paid.

🚨 Are you ready to stop waiting for carriers and start getting paid faster?

Join our 2-Day Client Onboarding Class and learn how to take control of the client journey, protect your margins, and build independence. 👉 https://www.restorationadvisers.com/finish-jobs-collect-checks 🎧

Subscribe and listen to more at Disasterpodcaster.com

Join Restoration Business Academy: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/RBA-Academy

Stop Playing Their Game | Disaster Podcaster What happens when carriers shift the burden of documentation, dictate pricing, and leave restorers waiting 90 days or more to get paid? In this episode of Disaster Podcaster, Toby sits down with Russ Harlow, owner of Reliable Remediation and an outspoken voice for independent restorers. Russ has written powerfully about the gap between RIA rhetoric and the daily reality of contractors and, more importantly, he’s implemented a playbook like the Client Onboarding program from Restoration Advisers for how restorers can stop playing the carrier’s game and take back financial control. From contracts and deposits to abandoning Xactimate, Russ shares the practical steps his company has taken to restore independence, cash flow, and dignity in the restoration profession. This isn’t about griping. It’s about building businesses that serve clients first and showing that independence isn’t just possible, it’s necessary. If you’ve ever felt like an unpaid data-entry clerk for the insurance industry, this conversation is for you. 🚨 Are you ready to stop waiting for carriers and start getting paid faster? Join our 2-Day Client Onboarding Class and learn how to take control of the client journey, protect your margins, and build independence. 👉 https://www.restorationadvisers.com/finish-jobs-collect-checks 🎧 Subscribe and listen to more at Disasterpodcaster.com Join Restoration Business Academy: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/RBA-Academy CompanyCam Discount Link: https://www.companycam.com/air 95 Great Responses for Carriers [free download]: https://restorationbusinessacademy.circle.so/c/restoration-resources/95-great-responses-to-carriers-17050414-e9f4-4572-8b16-b841c9770d04

In this episode of the Disaster Podcaster, Klark Brown delves into the transformative power of stepping away from daily operations to gain clarity and strategic insight. Broadcasting from the Montana Business Retreat, Klark shares firsthand experiences and reflections on how this unique gathering empowers restoration professionals to reassess their business models, foster meaningful connections, and rejuvenate their leadership approach. restorationadvisers.com Whether you're a seasoned restorer or new to the industry, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the importance of intentional retreats for personal and professional growth. Join us as we uncover the benefits of taking a step back to move forward in the restoration industry. ____________________________________________________________________________________🔗 Links & Resources: Learn more about the Montana Business Retreat: restorationadvisers.com/montana2024 ____________________________________________________________________________________Everything starts in our Academy. RBA.

Join here for free: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/RBA-Academy

Enrolling here, you will see updates on our CATx (Commercial Restoration) opportunities as well as programs and courses around Middle Management and Leadership Development.

Explore coaching and mentorship opportunities: restorationadvisers.com

Contact us to schedule a 1:1 if you want to explore how we can help you grow your business and create wealth and freedom.

We would love to chat. https://www.restorationadvisers.com/contact

"Do You Really Want to Scale?" – The Truth About Growth in Restoration. Bigger isn’t always better.

In this episode, we dismantle the most dangerous myths about scaling your restoration business—and show you a smarter path to growth. From bloated payrolls to zero-margin companies, we share real stories and give you a proven roadmap:

Structure → Systems → Scale.

You’ll learn:

✅ Why chasing revenue often kills profit

✅ How to know if you're really ready to grow

✅ The 3 myths keeping contractors stuck What success actually looks like—and how to define it on your terms.

🎧 Subscribe and listen to more at Disasterpodcaster.com #

RestorationBusiness #FamilyBusiness #DisasterPodcaster #Leadership #Restopreneur

Grab your Restoration AF Swag: https://restorationadvisers.bigcartel.com/

We invite you to join our Universe to explore what we are building and offer.

Everything starts in our Academy. RBA. Join here for free: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/RBA-Academy

Enrolling here, you will see updates on our CATx (Commercial Restoration) opportunities as well as programs and courses around Middle Management and Leadership Development.

CATx Info: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/catx

Contact us to schedule a 1:1 if you want to explore how we can help you grow your business and create wealth and freedom. We would love to chat. https://www.restorationadvisers.com/contact

🎙️ Welcome to My Favorite Podcast This Week – Where Great People Shine!

Join us this week on My Favorite Guest of the Week as we are joined by Scott Rutkowski with Restoration HQ! Scott was so generous to open up on the adventure of moving his family across the country to chase a dream, what he misses and what he looks forward to.

Scott has climbed and clawed in this industry and is now working with one of the most influential companies in the SW US. Don't miss this opportunity to listen to Scott. Feel free to reach out to get to know him even better, as I have.

🔔 Make sure to subscribe so you never miss out on our weekly guests and the fantastic stories they bring! 👍 Like and comment below—let us know what your favorite takeaway from Travis was!

📲 Connect with Scott:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scott.rutkowski.7
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-r-305583214/

🎧 Catch up on previous episodes: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5yDz6Y47kwgqJEUjewRbV2avuogqI4tQ&si=Fkti5M8rBzKL6g_J

#MyFavoriteGuest #Scottrutkowski #PodcastInterview #BusinessInsights #Inspiration #phoenix

If you love hearing real stories from real people, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and drop a comment below! Who should we feature next?

📢 Follow us for more inspiring conversations:
🔗 Website: http://restorationadvisers.com/
📲 Join our Academy- RBA: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/RBA-Academy
🎧 Listen on Spotify/Apple: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/podcasts/disaster-podcaster-2

#Podcast #InspiringStories #GreatPeople #Entrepreneurship #Leadership

🎧 Catch our last podcast with Travis here: https://youtu.be/fXbbUdnfodI

Struggles of a Family Business | Disaster Podcaster

Running a restoration company is hard. Running one with family? That’s next-level.

In this episode of Disaster Podcaster, Klark and Toby pull back the curtain on the unique challenges—and hidden blessings—of building a family business in the disaster restoration world.
From blurred boundaries and generational clashes to deep-rooted trust and legacy-driven leadership, this conversation is raw, honest, and packed with real talk. Whether you’re in business with your spouse, siblings, or kids or are thinking about it, this one’s for you.

🎧 Subscribe and listen to more at Disasterpodcaster.com

#RestorationBusiness #FamilyBusiness #DisasterPodcaster #Leadership #Restopreneur

Grab your Restoration AF Swag: https://restorationadvisers.bigcartel.com/

We invite you to join our Universe to explore what we are building and offer. Everything starts in our Academy. RBA. Join here for free: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/RBA-Academy
Enrolling here, you will see updates on our CATx (Commercial Restoration) opportunities as well as programs and courses around Middle Management and Leadership Development.

CATx Info: https://www.restorationadvisers.com/catx

Subscribe to this podcast.

Reach out to us to schedule a 1:1 if you want to explore how we can help you grow your business to create wealth and freedom.
We would love to chat. https://www.restorationadvisers.com/contact