On its surface, restoration doesn’t seem synonymous with “soft.” It is a hard industry that operates in physically and emotionally tough working environments. Restoring a property to pre-loss condition requires a particular set of hard (job-specific) skills and tools. But there is a soft side that R&R Editor Valerie King discusses in her latest editor’s note. She argues that it carries more weight than tools and technical training.

In the final Women in Restoration episode, Staci Sargent shares how leadership, training, and real-world experience are shaping the industry. She highlights the importance of structure, accountability, and continuous learning in building confident restoration professionals.

With over 50 years in the restoration industry, Darren Hudema has built a career centered on education, service, and giving back. He reflects on the power of leadership, mentorship, and industry collaboration.

Alma West of Quick Dry Water Restoration and Magdalena Rebuild shares how she built her businesses by focusing on leadership, communication, and improving customer experience.

Learn how the Restoration Golf Leage (RGL) helps restorers build relationships, network, and strengthen collaboration across the industry. 

ServiceMaster Restore’s Jeff Todd shares how operator-led growth and market density strategies help restorers scale and improve their performance.

In this episode of Ask The Expert, Abby Vallelonga shares how marketing and communication can build trust and humanize the restoration industry. She highlights the importance of education, connection, and empathy in high-stress and high-stakes situations.