Managing Your Restoration BusinessAsk the Expert

Ask the Expert

From Corporate Burnout to Entrepreneurial Freedom: Dan Gordon’s Journey

A former insurance executive turned franchise owner found purpose and balance in the restoration industry

By Kayla McGowan
May 28, 2025

On this episode of Ask the Expert, we dive into the inspiring story of Dan Gordon, owner of a DRYmedic Restoration Services franchise. After a 25+ year career in insurance, including a role as Vice President of Product Management, Dan made the bold leap in 2024 to transition into entrepreneurship.

Leveraging his extensive expertise in insurance and business, Dan has crafted a fulfilling career with purpose, work-life balance and community impact. Supported by DRYmedic's comprehensive training and resources, Dan’s business has thrived in its first year, reaffirming his decision to reimagine his career.


Key Discussion Points:

  • Recognizing and Overcoming Corporate Burnout: Dan shares his personal experience with corporate burnout and the steps he took to reignite his passion.
  • Making the Leap to Ownership: Find out what inspired Dan to transition from a corporate role to owning a franchise in the restoration industry.
  • Navigating Challenges as a New Business Owner: Dan discusses the hurdles he faced in building his business and how he overcame them using strategic planning and resilience.
  • Standing Out in the Restoration Industry: Learn the strategies Dan has implemented to differentiate his business and drive success in a competitive market.
  • Balancing Personal Well-Being with Professional Growth: Hear Dan’s advice for restoration and cleaning contractors striving to maintain harmony between their personal lives and career aspirations.

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KEYWORDS: business ownership restoration business strategy

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Kayla mcgowan author

Kayla McGowan is the SPAR Partner Manager for PuroClean, where she manages and strengthens the company’s vendor partnership ecosystem. In her role, she serves as a key liaison between PuroClean, approved vendor partners, internal stakeholders, and Franchise Owners, helping connect the network with trusted tools, services, and products that support operational success.

With more than 10 years of experience in marketing and communications within the restoration and cleaning industry, Kayla has built her career around connecting people, ideas, and resources that move the industry forward. She is the former Editor-in-Chief of Restoration & Remediation (R&R) Magazine and continues to contribute to R&R as a writer, bringing her industry knowledge and perspective to its audience.

Kayla holds a B.S. in Criminal Science and an M.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Restoration Industry Association’s Marketing Committee.

Her industry credentials include Microbial Warrior®️, Certified Forensic Operator®️, and High Risk/High Level Decontamination Specialist™️. Passionate about elevating the restoration industry and the professionals within it, Kayla enjoys building meaningful relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for collaboration. Outside of work, she is a food lover who enjoys spending time with her family and being outdoors.

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