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

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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

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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/

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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/

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YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz

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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/

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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

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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/

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YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hJfqUz

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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

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