In honor of Women’s History Month and Women in Construction Week, we are re-airing our Real Stories in Restoration interview with Jennifer Todd, president of remediation company LMS General Contractors. She discusses her experience as a Black, woman contractor-owner in a white-, male-dominated field. She also highlights the importance of viewing the labor shortage and diversity as one conversation. Todd has been recognized as a 2020 Top Newsmaker by R&R’s sister publication Engineering News Record (ENR), a 2020 Outstanding Women in Construction finalist by Construction Business Owner Magazine, a 2021 ENR 20 Under 40 Construction Professional, and a 2021 ENR Southeast Top Young Professional.

ServiceForge’s Jane Blanchard shares how after-hours response and customer communication can help restoration companies improve their reviews, increase lead conversion, and build trust.

Jeff Cross joins host Kayla McGowan to discuss AI in industry media, the value that deadlines bring, collaboration, and why coffee is part of their workflow.

PuroClean’s Margaret Chebat and Melissa Wittig discuss women in restoration, operational leadership, franchise growth, and the evolution of the restoration industry.

Nate Cisney of Restoration Made Simple shares TPA vs non-TPA work, how it affects your operations, profitability, diversifying your work, and long-term growth for restorers.

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.