Laura Spaulding, founder and CEO of Spaulding Decon, is a former law enforcement officer who has evolved her business from a solo operation to a nationwide franchise that specializes in biohazard disinfection and decontamination. Spaulding Decon topped the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 crime-scene cleaning category in 2022. In this episode of Real Stories in Restoration, Spaulding shares her journey from humble beginnings as a woman-led startup. Today, Spaulding Decon is scaling rapidly with 20 to 30 new franchises a year, has added real estate acquisitions to its business model, and has millions of followers on social media.

Can mobile testing eliminate one of restoration’s biggest bottlenecks? Ben Doebler and Mark Davis share how The Mobile Lab™ brings asbestos sampling and analysis directly to the jobsite, reduces turnaround times, and can change how insurers, contractors, and restorers navigate the claims process.

Fire damage goes far beyond removing soot and repairing visible damage. Learn about commonly overlooked contamination, fire suppression water damage, documentation, safety, and exceptional customer service. 

Wildfire risk is expanding into new regions across the US, creating new challenges for restorers. Jamie Knippen of Cotality shares her insights on conflagration, emerging technology, and how restorers can use data to prepare both their businesses and communities.

Is your business prepared for 2027? Jeff Jones and Josh Bachman share the systems, numbers, sales strategies, and long-term planning restoration businesses should focus on as both competition and the market evolve.

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Verisk experts break down the 2026 Q1 restoration trends that cover claim volume, CAT losses, pricing, labor, materials, and loss severity.

David Gavilanes shares how restorers can properly prepare for fire response with hazard assessments, PPE, communication, community education, and partnerships.

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