When Growth Works Against You

If your cleaning business feels harder to run right now, you’re not imagining it. Rising costs, labor challenges, and constant uncertainty are putting pressure on every part of the operation. But what if the answer isn’t working harder—it’s working smarter with better data? In this episode, Steve Ashkin breaks down why sustainability reporting is no longer just a compliance exercise—it’s a practical business tool. 

You had a great year. Revenue is up. The phone kept ringing. So when you call a broker and float the idea of selling, you expect excitement on the other end of the line. Here is why that may fall flat.

Growth should feel like progress—but for many businesses, it creates more problems than it solves. In this episode, we take a closer look at the leadership decisions that determine whether growth actually scales or simply adds stress, complexity, and constant fires. 

What does it take to lead—and succeed—at the highest levels of the cleaning industry? In this episode, we sit down with three dynamic women leaders in manufacturing and distribution to explore the real drivers behind their success. 

Are you using ChatGPT for everything? You might be slowing yourself down without even realizing it. In this episode, we break down a smarter way to use AI: matching the right tool to the right job. From writing and research to strategy, numbers, and visuals, we walk through real-world use cases that show where different AI tools shine—and where they fall short.

Why do ethics matter in restoration? Because trust is everything. In this conversation, Saima Hedrick, CEO of the Restoration Industry Association, and Justin Woodard, the RIA President Elect, discuss why ethics are not just a talking point, but a business issue that affects credibility, claims, partnerships, professionalism, and the future of the industry. 

Indoor air quality and mold are no longer just operational concerns—they’re central to guest experience, brand reputation, and long-term building health. In this conversation, Doug Hoffman of NORMI and John Greenwell of EcoLife Asia share how global hospitality brands are approaching IAQ and mold in smarter, more strategic ways. 

What happens in Washington, D.C., doesn’t stay in Washington—it impacts every corner of the cleaning and restoration industry. In this conversation, we explore the IICRC Legislative Fly-In, where industry professionals meet directly with Congressional offices to advocate for the work of inspectors, cleaners, and restorers—and for the standards and certifications that protect consumers and communities.

A small change to a software setting… with a big impact. In this conversation, we break down the updated labor efficiency settings in Xactimate and what they mean for disaster restoration professionals.