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Managing Your Restoration BusinessAsk the Expert

Ask the Expert

Leveraging AI and Technology for Growth with Nick D’Urbano of Distance

From AI-driven call handling to multichannel engagement, discover strategies that elevate customer experience

By Kayla McGowan
November 28, 2025

On this episode of Ask The Expert, we’re joined by Nick D’Urbano the Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) of Distance. We sat down and talked about restoration companies leveraging AI and technology to help drive growth and keep a competitive advantage. Nick shares insights on handling calls, multichannel engagement and optimizing customer experience.

Nick brings over 15 years of experience in building and scaling businesses to 9-figure revenues and helping them successfully exit. He has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Vogue and Dezeen for key accomplishments and his hard work. 

Key topics of discussion in this episode include:

  • AI and technology are great tools that help restoration companies capture more leads, improve conversion rates and drive growth. 
  • Strategies like AI-powered call handling, SMS, chat and AI Engine Optimization (AEO) can have a significant impact.
  • Restoration companies should focus on optimizing their sales funnel and customer experience first, before adding more lead generation. 
  • Minimizing friction and speed to lead are crucial.
  • Attracting private equity investments requires consistent profitability and revenue.
  • Building long-term value requires commitment to customer experience, beyond the job being complete. 
    • Small personal touches have a long-lasting impact
  • Multichannel lead capture and automated follow-up are proven growth tactics that shouldn’t be ignored.

 

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KEYWORDS: artificial intelligence (AI) customer service restoration business marketing restoration business strategy restoration technology

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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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