Level Up Claims

Insurance companies are in business to make money, not to spend money. The Level Up Claims podcast helps public adjusters and contractors understand the property insurance loss game and create a winning strategy to help homeowners recover from a disaster. Host Galen Hair talks to industry experts and thought leaders to give you priceless insight so you can maximize your claims and grow your business to the next level.

Smart Claims, Safe Solutions with Jonathan Bowers - Episode 148

In this episode of the “Level Up Claims” podcast, Galen Hair explores the complexities of fire-related insurance claims with Jonathan Bowers, Executive Director of Clean Environmental Solutions. Bowers shares insights on how proper testing and understanding of building science can mitigate risks and enhance safety for property owners after fire events like wildfires. Discover why staying updated on the latest scientific advancements in fire remediation could be a game-changer for your claims strategy. A must-listen for claims professionals seeking growth opportunities!   Highlights Importance of understanding fire claims. Growth opportunity in property claims. Toxicity of microparticles in fires. Distinction between urban and wildfire claims. Effective contamination testing methods. Balancing cost and thoroughness in testing. Impact of HVAC systems on fire claims. Knowledge gaps in public adjusters. Testing standards and building science integration. Challenges with content claims in insurance. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Industry Resources: AIHA: https://www.aiha.org/ IICRC Standards: https://webstore.ansi.org/sdo/iicrc Relevant Articles: Article 1: Research Paper Article 2: Fastest Growing and Most Destructive Fires  

10-15
29:39

Automate & Elevate: Unlock Success with Ari Meisel - Episode 147

In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair discusses with Ari Meisel, a productivity expert who has collaborated with giants like Tony Robbins and NASA, about optimizing your life. Ari shares his journey from a Crohn’s diagnosis to pioneering efficiency through “Less Doing” with insights on automation and productivity tools. Tune in to learn strategies for freeing up your time, reducing stress, and achieving more by doing less. This episode might just give you back your life!   Highlights Automate repetitive tasks. Doing less as a solution. Ari Meisel’s journey to productivity. Overcoming Crohn’s with productivity framework. The impact of time restrictions on innovation. Challenging the “busy” mindset. Asynchronous communication benefits. Automation’s role in error reduction. Utilization of Kanban boards for task management. Diet and stress management in biohacking. Impact of sugar and emotional eating. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/

10-08
27:18

AI Negotiation Revolution with Keld Jensen - Episode 146

In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, Galen Hair hosts Keld Jensen, a global negotiation expert and author of “The Smart Negotiator.” They discuss AI’s transformative role in modern deal-making, blending intuition with data, and unlocking the untapped potential in negotiations. Essential listening for anyone in business wanting to sharpen their negotiation skills and leverage AI effectively.   Highlights Negotiation game analogy. Jensen’s career-changing moment. AI’s role in modern negotiations. AI-enhanced negotiation simulations. Asymmetric value in negotiations. Discussing the negotiation process. Negotiation strategy's importance. Caution: AI is not a shortcut. Using AI during live negotiations. Checking AI-generated information. Importance of listening in negotiations. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/  

10-01
29:22

AI & Insurance: Friend or Foe? with Chad Robinson - Episode 145

In this episode, Florida attorney Chad Robinson discusses how AI is reshaping the insurance industry and why the human touch still matters. Gain insights into how claims are being handled with AI and automation, and discover tools professionals can use to stay ahead. Whether you’re in legal, adjusting, or even contracting, Chad’s expertise shows how to thrive in an AI-driven world. A must-listen for those wanting to elevate their claims game!   Highlights Impact of AI on Insurance Industry. Chad Robinson’s Multifaceted Career. From Defense to Plaintiff’s Side in Law. Importance of Human Element in Claims. Policyholders’ Role in Documenting Damage. Adjusters’ Approach to Inspections. Concerns with AI in Claims Decisions. Logic Loops in AI Handled Claims. Tools for Legal Professionals. Automation: Enhancing AI Efficiency. Leveling Up Through Professional Civility. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/

09-24
29:42

Cracking Claims with Asher Ware - Episode 144

Tune into The Level Up Claims Podcast with Galen Hair as he chats with Asher Ware, a trailblazing young entrepreneur revolutionizing public adjusting. Discover his journey, the strategic use of AI, and how he’s navigating industry changes at just 21. Don’t miss this inspiring story!   Highlights Building his own path. Growing up in storm restoration. Passion for policy and debate. Harnessing AI for efficiency. The era of AI revolution. Overcoming challenges of youth. Youth as a superpower. Strong industry networking. Launching Sage Loss Consulting. Authenticity in social media. Viral success with AI. Future of insurance claims. Moving beyond roofing. Managed repair implications. Sage Loss Consulting culture.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/  

09-17
27:18

Harnessing Storms & Followers with Scot Pilié - Episode 143

Don’t miss this episode of the Level Up Claims podcast! Meteorologist Scot Pilié explores hurricane season, explaining storm patterns and social media’s role in forecasts. With his extensive experience, Scot demystifies weather reliability. Perfect for weather enthusiasts!.   Highlights Power of social media in weather forecasting. Return to New Orleans and the impact of nostalgia. Decision between local and national meteorology roles. Versatility in local vs. national news roles. Transformation of weather dissemination through social media. The journey from zero to being a vital online weather source. Expectations and anomalies of the current hurricane season. Explanation of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO). The extended length of hurricane seasons in recent years. AI’s role in modern weather forecasting. Challenges in hurricane landfall wind speed measurements. The need for improved weather infrastructure across the Gulf Coast. Leveling up by giving back to the community.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Scot Pilié https://www.linkedin.com/in/scot-pili%C3%A9-6b3564101/   

09-10
29:33

Claim Game Evolution: Level Up with Vince Perri - Episode 142

In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair engages with Vince Perri, founder of Elite Resolutions. Discover how Vince turned operational challenges into strategic strengths by embracing technology and education to scale his multistate firm. A must-listen for insights on modern claim management and growth strategies!   Highlights Building a personal brand through social media. Transition from consumer to public adjuster focus. Importance of training and education in the firm. Challenges in settling insurance claims today. The significance of sales in business success. Benefits of having standard operating procedures (SOPs). Importance of business transferability and structural integrity. Utilizing AI tools in claims processing. Outsourcing and efficiency in business operations. Growth mindset as a key to success. Continuous education and leveling up.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Vince Perri https://eliteresolutions.com/about-us/vince-perri/   

09-03
32:14

Hire Sales Pros: Beyond Leads with David Asarnow - Episode 141

Tune into this episode of Level Up Claims Podcast with guest David Asarnow, CEO at Sababa.global.  David shares insights on building top-tier sales and marketing teams using AI and strategic systems. Perfect for public adjusters, contractors, and attorneys aiming to boost their business.   Highlights Challenging a candidate’s claims in interviews. Building a $45 million division through cold calls. Solving business problems on the spot. Importance of hiring sales hunters. Evaluating potential hires through behavioral questions. Automated systems and AI in lead funnels. Building trust with leads through AI and personalization. Crafting effective AI prompts for better results. Clear expectations in leadership and team management. Holding oneself and others accountable in business. Daily self-improvement and leveling up.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with David Asarnow https://davidasarnow.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidasarnow/   

08-27
29:11

How to Fix the Florida Insurance Crisis with Frank Collige - Episode 140

In this episode, host Galen Hair is joined by Dr. Frank Collige, a multi-state public adjuster, combat veteran, and candidate for Florida’s chief financial officer. They discuss Florida’s insurance crisis, tackling issues like claim delays, lack of transparency, and fraudulent practices. Frank shares his vision for creating a fair insurance system that holds everyone accountable, from companies to consumers. His unique blend of military discipline and industry experience offers a refreshing perspective on reforming the system. This episode is a must-listen for anyone impacted by Florida’s insurance landscape!   Highlights Lessons from military service: integrity, service, excellence. Misleading narrative on unlicensed contractors in Florida. Business process issues contribute to Florida’s insurance crisis. Arbitrations and constitutional rights challenges in Florida. Proposal for a balanced oversight board. Identifying carrier’s business tactics that inflate rates. Proactive administrative measures for insurance fairness. Encouraging competition through reinsurance and catastrophe funds. Running for office: unexpected challenges and support.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Frank Collige https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-collige/   

08-20
31:57

From Nice to Influential with Katie Armentrout - Episode 139

In the latest episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair welcomes Katie Armentrout , founder of Peoplefluence, who challenges the notion that being nice is an effective leadership strategy. With insights from corporate leadership, Katie explains how courageous leadership drives real influence and team success. Don’t miss how to foster healthy conflict and boost your team’s performance. Tune in for practical tips on evolving your leadership style and breaking away from people-pleasing habits.   Highlights Leadership involves effectiveness, not just likability. Nice is not a strategy. Moving beyond merely “nice” leadership. Nice vs. Kind leadership. Value of healthy conflict. Silos resulting from avoiding conflict. Five phases of courageous leadership. Transition from pleasing to stirring phase. Importance of courageous leadership. Benefits of engaged leadership. Artificial harmony in teams. Identifying artificial harmony. Communication issues as warning signs. Importance of high performer retention.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Katie Armentrout https://www.peoplefluence.com/homepage   

08-13
29:10

Smart HR: Boost Business & Culture with Cornelia Gamlem & Barbara Mitchell - Episode 138

Tune in to the Level Up Claims Podcast as HR mavens Barbara Mitchell and Cornelia Gamlem, authors of the Big Book of HR, share why HR is crucial even for small businesses. Discover strategies to boost employee retention, foster engagement, and sidestep common HR pitfalls. Perfect for managers eager to enhance their work culture and protect their company. Don’t miss this chance to strengthen your team dynamics and build a vibrant, productive workplace.   Highlights HR’s Role in Business Success Misconceptions About Human Resources Risks of Overlooking HR in Small Businesses Importance of Employee Onboarding Strategies for Hiring in Small Teams Engaging and Retaining Employees Impact of Effective Onboarding Creating a Supportive Onboarding Structure Balancing Personal and Professional Boundaries Importance of Management Training Conducting Difficult Let-Go Conversations Documenting Employee Performance Issues People-Driven Success in Business   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Cornelia Gamlem & Barbara Mitchell https://www.amazon.com/Decisive-Manager-Results-Morale-Deserve/dp/1632652013   

08-06
29:49

Safety Mindset: Beyond Scopes with Kevin Dandridge - Episode 137

Tune into the latest episode of the Level Up Claims podcast with host Galen Hair and guest Kevin Dandridge, owner of 1 Life Safety. Kevin shares vital insights on adopting a safety-first mindset in claims professions, emphasizing the importance of proactive safety measures at job sites. Discover how fostering a culture of safety can not only protect your team but also ensure the longevity of your career. If you’re in the claims industry or construction, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss!   Highlights Safety as a Culture: Beyond Priorities. Hard-hitting Story: The Roofer’s Fate. Importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Large Loss Fire Safety Mindset. Authentic Safety Practices Amidst Insurance Scrutiny. The Dangers of Silica: The New Asbestos. Environmental Concerns with Fire Suppression Foam. Investing in Safety: Beyond Immediate Profits. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Kevin Dandridge https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-dandridge-b7a84244/

07-30
30:08

Mastering Negotiation Tactics with Scott Tillema - Episode 136

Tune into this intriguing episode featuring Scott Tillema, a former SWAT hostage negotiator, who shares essential communication strategies. Learn how principles from high-stakes situations can transform tough business talks, building trust and defusing tension. Don’t miss it!.   Highlights Manage yourself first. Emotional tone dictates outcome. The real goal in negotiations. Avoid making the other feel like a loser. Importance of fairness in negotiations. Treating people fairly yields long-term benefits. Misalignment in listening habits. Unpacking true desires in negotiation. Identifying the real issue. The power of timing in questioning. Emotional labeling. Influence begins with connection. AI can’t replace human connection. Verbal influence in leadership. Human connection’s vital role in business.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Scott Tillema https://www.scotttillema.com/

07-23
32:27

Building a Legacy: Succession Secrets with Dominic Rubino - Episode 135

Ready to ensure your business thrives beyond your tenure? Tune in to hear Dominic Rubino, a top business coach, on the Level Up Claims Podcast. Learn how to create a sustainable succession plan and understand the importance of gaining external experience for the next generation. Don’t miss this chance to future-proof your legacy!   Highlights Effective succession planning and starting outside the company. Why do many contracting businesses fail in succession? Dominic Rubino’s journey into business coaching. From business coach to building and selling multimillion-dollar businesses. Addiction to buying, growing, and selling companies. Challenges with family business succession planning. Importance of documenting business knowledge. Learning from outside the family business. Sending the next generation away for business experience. Recommended readings: Traction and Scaling Up. sing dashboards and SOPs for business control. Preparing the public and customers for leadership transition. Assessing whether successors have the capacity to lead. Importance of choice in succession planning. Importance of strategic planning for family benefit.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Dominic Rubino https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominicrubino/?originalSubdomain=ca   

07-16
29:14

AI-Driven Business Revolution with Charlotte Lindberg - Episode 134

In this episode of the Level Up Claims podcast, host Galen Hair is joined by Charlotte Lindberg, Program Manager at Personal AI, to explore exciting applications of AI in modern business. Charlotte shares how their personalized AI systems are transforming industries by automating competitor analysis, enhancing customer intake, and refining internal workflows, all while ensuring data privacy and security. With AI’s rapid evolution, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leveraging AI to stay ahead in their field. Tune in for insights to level up your business!   Highlights Misconceptions about AI before entering the field. Personalized AI vs. generic large language models. Building workflows to reduce reliance on constant re-prompting. Creating multiple AI personas for different functions. Importance of proprietary knowledge in AI training. Cross-referencing external and internal resources for strategy. Application of AI for competitor intelligence. Conversational AI for legal intake processes. Alternative to traditional live chat with AI interaction. Encouragement to consider AI before hiring decisions. Concept of AI agents interacting with each other. Efficiency and support as the purpose of AI, not replacement.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Charlotte Lindberg https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-lindberg619/   

07-09
29:30

Boost Your Claims Success with Alena Wilson - Episode 133

Tune in to this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast as Galen Hair welcomes Alena Wilson, founder of Estimate Mastery! Discover the costly mistakes contractors make, the power of proper training, and how mastering Xactimate can transform your payouts. A must-listen for contractors looking to boost their bottom line!   Highlights Common contractor mistakes with estimates. Estimate Mastery for contractor training. Alena’s insight into Xactimate. Missing line items costing contractors money. Importance of meticulous documentation. Value of photo documentation in insurance claims. Handling multiple-roof scenarios effectively. Significance of detailed documentation in negotiations. Contractors’ education gap in estimating tools. Leveraging training for increased profits. The rationale behind embracing education. Effective use of macros for consistent estimating. The importance of double-checking your work. The critical role of price updates in estimates. Investing in education boosts contractor success. Incremental progress leads to significant gains.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Alena Wilson https://www.linkedin.com/in/alena-wilson-1b678864/   

07-02
28:49

The Power of AI In Lead Generation with Josh Thomas - Episode 132

In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair welcomes back Josh Thomas, an AI expert. Josh reveals the power of AI in lead generation, emphasizing the importance of asking the right questions to unlock AI’s potential. By using strategic queries, AI becomes a tool for crafting compelling, objection-proof sales pitches. Josh shares insights on staying competitive and the evolving role of technology in business. A must-listen for those looking to harness AI for growth!   Highlights Status of AI: More than a buzzword. AI’s rapid advancement. Self-awareness in sales and martial arts analogy. The methodology of harnessing objections. Transforming complaints into selling points. AI’s role in producing near-flawless sales messaging. Strategic utilization of AI for high-level tasks. The future of human-AI integration. Where lead generation is heading.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Josh Thomas https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtliterally/   

06-25
31:28

Cybersecurity Essentials with Sarah Mary Parker - Episode 131

In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, join host Galen Hare and cybersecurity expert Sarah Mary Parker as they uncover the crucial topic of digital literacy and cybersecurity. Learn how to protect your business and client data from digital threats with practical, actionable advice. With Parker’s expert insights, discover the hidden risks in everyday digital use and safeguard your company’s future. It’s an episode packed with valuable knowledge you can’t afford to miss!   Highlights Digital literacy and unintended public exposure. Cybersecurity focus in legal firms. Definition of cybersecurity. Risk of human error and hacking. Importance of not saving passwords in browsers. Vendor management requirements for cybersecurity. Implications of outsourcing estimates. Legal consequences of data breaches. Data collection in vehicles and devices. Leveraging technology for crime. Leveling up through education and giving back. Practical steps for cybersecurity awareness.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Sarah Mary Parker https://thesarahparker.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesarahparker/  https://ppaclaim.com/ https://kuvamedia.com/ General References https://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Roman/Texts/Cicero/de_Officiis/home.html  https://www.mirahistoria.com/  https://www.lovelandinnovations.com/imging-flight/ https://go.tni.sh/insecure-web  https://ppaclaim.com/sarah-parker   

06-18
36:29

What Does It Mean To You To Level Up - Compilation - Part 5 - Episode 130

Tune into this special episode of the “Level Up Claims Podcast” with host Galen Hair, featuring powerful insights from industry experts. Discover how to improve, grow, and elevate your business ahead of the 4th Annual Level Up Claims Summit. Whether it’s embracing technology, enhancing personal growth, or championing justice, find out what it truly means to “level up.” Perfect for anyone in the storm restoration industry ready to embrace new challenges!   Highlights Mentoring and doing the right thing. Continuous learning. Leveling up claims like a video game. Using AI for self-improvement. Embracing challenges. The importance of self-awareness. A perspective on overcoming challenges. Justice and spread awareness. Business endgame strategy. Unlearning to unlock potential. Staying curious and intentional.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/  

06-11
17:03

Mastering Xactimate Claims with Todd Beckman - Episode 129

Discover the secrets to mastering Xactimate with Todd Beckman on the Level Up Claims Podcast. With over 25 years in the industry and experience at Xactimate, Todd shares invaluable insights on insurance claims, the importance of understanding policies, and how to leverage Xactimate for business success. Perfect for contractors and claims professionals eager to optimize their processes and ensure fair payments. Tune in for practical advice and learn how to up your game in the insurance claim world.   Highlights Journey from contractor to insurance adjuster. Working experiences with Xactware. Impact of corporate acquisitions. Key advice for contractors pre-work communication. Challenges contractors face with insurance processes. Importance of understanding insurance policies. Essential tools for insurance claims contractors. Precautions when taking assignment of benefits. Importance of starting with solid contractual ground. Xactimate’s guidelines on general contractor definitions. Overhead and profit clarifications. Cost of doing business vs. direct job expenses. Personal narrative in claims and conveying project specifics. Importance of photo documentation in insurance claims. Adjusting estimates to reflect market conditions. Keeping track of job-related expenses. Educating contractors on proper Xactimate use.   Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair https://insuranceclaimhq.com hair@hairshunnarah.com  https://levelupclaim.com/ Connect with Todd Beckman https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-beckman-a844ab1a1/  

06-04
31:29

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