The GPS Podcast - Navigating Small Business Growth

In this episode of the GPS Podcast, we sit down with Ross Driscoll Jr. of Driscoll & Driscoll and National E&S Insurance to discuss one of the most misunderstood parts of running a restoration company: insurance.   Ross explains the risks restoration contractors face today, the coverage gaps that often go unnoticed, and how changes in the insurance market are impacting restoration businesses across the country.   In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why many restoration companies are underinsured • The biggest insurance risks facing contractors today • How subcontractor agreements affect your coverage • What proactive steps owners can take to reduce liability   Learn more about Driscoll & Driscoll Insurance: https://www.driscollanddriscoll.com/   Learn more about National E&S Insurance Brokers: https://nationaleands.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 Nicole Humber, President of Bravo Restoration & Construction, to talk about what it really looks like to take over a struggling restoration company and turn it into something sustainable and strong. Nicole shares the highs, the setbacks, and the leadership lessons that shaped her along the way.   This conversation is about resilience, culture, and what happens when you refuse to give up on your team.   Learn more about Bravo Restoration & Construction: https://www.bravorestoration.com/   Register for Restoration Project Management: https://bit.ly/violand-projectmanagement   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 Shawn Jackson, Founder and President of Liberty Restoration, to discuss what it takes to build a construction and restoration business you actually enjoy showing up to. Shawn shares how focusing on the right team, having fun, and being the expert in the room has shaped his leadership style and supported long-term growth.   In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why enjoying the work can be a competitive advantage, not a distraction • How being the expert in the room shifts conversations with customers and insurers • What to prioritize when building a team that supports long-term growth • How experienced leaders simplify decision-making as their business scales   Learn more about Liberty Restoration: https://www.liberty-restoration.com/   Register for Restoration Project Management: https://bit.ly/violand-projectmanagement   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 Kevin Hussey, Owner of United Fire & Water, for an in-depth discussion on leadership, culture, and growth in the restoration industry.   Kevin shares how his approach to leadership has evolved over time, why building the right team becomes critical as a business scales, and how focusing on data, accountability, and people has shaped the future of his business.   In this episode, you’ll learn: Why strong culture becomes harder but more important as companies grow How letting go of the wrong services and roles can unlock real growth The difference between building systems and building leaders   Learn more about United Fire & Water: https://www.unitedfireandwater.com/   Register for Restoration Project Management: https://bit.ly/violand-projectmanagement   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, Bre Schmitten, Digital Marketing Specialist at Violand, breaks down key considerations for hiring and managing a digital marketing agency in the trades and home services.   The conversation focuses on what digital marketing is actually responsible for, how to evaluate performance, and why many businesses feel disappointed even when reports look good. This episode helps clarify expectations around SEO, paid ads, lead generation, and results.   In this episode, you will learn: • What metrics actually matter for service-based businesses • Why more clicks and traffic do not always mean more jobs • How to review marketing reports with more clarity • What questions to ask before choosing a marketing partner   Download our Marketing Terms Guide: https://bit.ly/marketing-terms-guide   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, advisor Josh Bachman builds on the fundamentals and dives into advanced business numbers that support better decision-making. The conversation focuses on trends, forecasting, cash flow, and key metrics — and how to use those insights strategically, not just understand them. Takeaways: • Advanced metrics that influence smarter decisions • How to interpret trends instead of single data points • How cash flow and receivables impact performance • What to focus on once you’ve mastered the basics   Looking for support with your financials or overall business strategy? Connect with us here: https://violand.com/coaching-services-for-restoration-businesses-violand/   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, advisor Josh Bachman helps owners get comfortable with their financials by breaking down the numbers in a simple, meaningful way. If you want to understand what your financials are really telling you, this conversation is the perfect place to start. Takeaways: • How to interpret your P&L and core financial reports • What revenue, COGS, and expenses really say about performance • Common mistakes owners make when reviewing numbers • How to build a simple, effective financial review rhythm   Looking for support with your financials or overall business strategy? Learn more here: https://violand.com/coaching-services-for-restoration-businesses-violand/   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 happens when restoration professionals find themselves on the other side of disaster? In this episode of the GPS Podcast, we talk with Justin Woodard of Woodard Cleaning & Restoration, Rhett Trotter and Jason Schroeck of Green Clean, and Tammy Stokes of Oklahoma Disaster Restoration about the unexpected reality of rebuilding after their own losses. They share how fires, tornadoes, and business interruptions tested their leadership, reshaped their teams, and deepened their empathy for clients.   You’ll learn: • How to lead through chaos and uncertainty • The financial and insurance lessons most owners overlook • What it takes to rebuild trust, culture, and momentum after loss   Woodard Cleaning & Restoration: https://woodard247.com/ Green Clean: https://www.teamgreenclean.com/ Oklahoma Disaster Restoration: https://okdisaster.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 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/