The GPS Podcast - Navigating Small Business Growth

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 ba...

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...

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...

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, opportunit...

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...

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 busin...

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 rest...

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 ...

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 opportuniti...

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 ab...

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 m...

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 chan...

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 persona...

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 ...

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 ...

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 rest...