Level Up Claims
The Level Up Claims Podcast brings you real conversations with the leaders, builders, and disruptors shaping the property damage, restoration, and insurance-claims world. Each week, we dig into the strategies, systems, and mindset needed to grow, whether you’re a contractor, public adjuster, attorney, or anyone working in the claims ecosystem. From business growth and leadership to industry trends, complex losses, tech, and entrepreneurship, we spotlight the people who refuse to settle and are pushing the industry forward. No fluff. No sales pitches. Just actionable insight from those who’ve lived it. If you’re ready to think bigger, operate smarter, and level up your impact, you’re in the right place.
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What Does It Mean To You To Level Up - Compilation - Vol. 5 - Episode 159
12/31/2025
What Does It Mean To You To Level Up - Compilation - Vol. 5 - Episode 159
As we ready for the new year, tune into this special episode of the “Level Up Claims Podcast” with host Galen Hair, featuring powerful insights from industry experts. Whether it’s embracing technology, enhancing personal growth, or championing justice, find out what it truly means to “level up.” Perfect for anyone in the storm restoration industry ready to embrace new challenges! Highlights Continuous learning. Building potential. Keep moving forward. The importance of self-discovery. Tackle daily challenges. Holistic problem solving. Maintaining personal goals. Take community action. Growing business value. Taking a step back. Staying curious and intentional. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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How Storytelling Drives Business Growth with Aurora Winter - Episode 158
12/24/2025
How Storytelling Drives Business Growth with Aurora Winter - Episode 158
In this episode, host Galen Hair sits down with creative entrepreneur and author Aurora Winter to explore the power of storytelling in business, leadership, and sales. Aurora explains why expertise alone is no longer enough in a crowded, AI-driven world—and how the right message can dramatically multiply impact and revenue. Drawing from neuroscience, real-world case studies, and her book Turn Words Into Wealth, Aurora breaks down how stories bypass resistance, build trust, and drive decision-making. From crafting irresistible hooks to leveraging books as powerful business assets, this conversation offers a clear framework for turning your experiences into influence and income. Highlights Aurora Winter’s journey as a creative entrepreneur and author Why most professionals underinvest in their message How one simple messaging shift led to $3M in sales The neuroscience of communication and the three-step persuasion framework Why stories sell better than data alone Pattern interrupts and hooks that cut through content noise The role of status, authority, and social proof in messaging How AI can help—and where it falls short in storytelling Using books as lead magnets rather than products Aurora’s $250,000 case study from a single book funnel The 27x value multiplier created by adding meaning and story Why struggle is essential to the hero’s journey Aurora Winter’s definition of leveling up Episode Resources Connect with Aurora Winter Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Building Trust and Leading People with Andrew Hinkelman - Episode 157
12/17/2025
Building Trust and Leading People with Andrew Hinkelman - Episode 157
In this episode of the Level Up Claims podcast, host Galen Hair welcomes Andrew Hinkelman of Priority-1 Group, former CTO turned leadership coach, to discuss the evolution of effective leadership. With over 25 years in technology and corporate management, Andrew shares insights on how to move beyond systems and processes to focus on what truly drives success: building trust and fostering strong human connections. Highlights: Andrew’s career transition from CTO to leadership coach. Overcoming burnout and trusting your team. How shadow cultures can hinder real decision-making. The importance of emotional intelligence in technical leadership. Practical tips for improving team dynamics and communication. Leveraging AI as a tool, not a threat, to leadership. For leaders ready to “level up” their approach, this episode provides actionable strategies to enhance communication, develop stronger relationships, and lead with empathy. Episode Resources Connect with Andrew Hinkelman Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Automating the Permitting Process with AI with Fabian Videla - Episode 156
12/10/2025
Automating the Permitting Process with AI with Fabian Videla - Episode 156
After more than 25 years running one of Florida’s fastest-growing remodeling companies, Fabian Videla found himself facing the same nightmare every contractor knows too well: permitting delays, inconsistent city processes, and mountains of paperwork that slowed projects, and profits, to a crawl. Instead of accepting that bottleneck as “just how it is,” Fabian decided to rebuild the system from the ground up using AI. Today, Permit Rockstar is redefining the way construction and remodeling companies move work through cities and counties. Highlights: His journey from growing up in Mendoza, Argentina to launching a multimillion-dollar remodeling company in the U.S. The permitting pain points that pushed him to create a tech solution contractors desperately needed How he strategically integrates AI—without relying on generic “chatbot” tools—to automate real, regulation-bound workflows What the future of construction tech looks like, from AI-generated blueprints to instant zoning checks Why accessibility, training, and understanding the right AI models will separate winners from laggards in the next 3–5 years His vision to make permitting in Florida fully digital—and eventually transform the industry nationwide Episode Resources Connect with Fabian Videla Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Your Business Might Be Worth More Than You Think with Jonathan Buehler - Episode 155
12/03/2025
Your Business Might Be Worth More Than You Think with Jonathan Buehler - Episode 155
In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, Galen Hair sits down with Jon Buehler, founder of Buehler Business Brokers, to break down the realities of valuation, risk, transferability, and how to plan for a successful exit, whether or not you want to sell in 3 years or 30. Jon has worked on deals ranging from small home-service companies to $100M+ transactions. Highlights Why most owners wildly overestimate or underestimate their business How buyers actually evaluate value The hidden risks that kill deals (owner dependency, customer concentration, bad financials) When you should start exit planning How to know if now is the right time to sell Why your identity might be the biggest obstacle to exiting How to fix your business so it’s worth more, even if you’re not ready to sell Episode Resources Connect with Jon Buehler Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Doing Less to Get More with Nell3D - Episode 154
11/26/2025
Doing Less to Get More with Nell3D - Episode 154
In this powerful episode, host Galen Hair sits down with leadership strategist Nell 3D, whose Me–We–World framework is reshaping how high achievers lead, live, and sustain performance. Nell’s story is anything but ordinary: from student debt, burnout, missing her father’s funeral, divorce, and even a near-fatal head-on collision all forced a reckoning that transformed both her life and her leadership philosophy. What emerged is a radical concept: The Missing 1%—the idea that real success comes not from adding more, but from subtracting strategically. Highlights Nell3D's academic background and journey to leadership. Why many leaders feel successful on paper but empty in reality. The gap between theory and practice in high-level organizations. A divorce, missing her father’s funeral, and a near-fatal crash. The shift from one-dimensional “world impact” to 3-dimensional leadership. Turning personal collapse into a leadership framework. Integrating personal well-being, relationships, and world impact. Identifying outdated habits and inherited “shoulds. Power with instead of power over in collaboration. Negative thought spirals and realistic energy management. Real-world, data-driven self-awareness. Why horses detect inauthenticity better than humans. Nell3D's definition of leveling up. Episode Resources Connect with Nell3D Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Empower Change: Rethinking Leadership with Diane Helbig - Episode 153
11/19/2025
Empower Change: Rethinking Leadership with Diane Helbig - Episode 153
In this episode, host Galen Hair sits down with international business advisor Diane Helbig to explore modern leadership. Helbig challenges outdated practices, advocating for empathy, presence, and collaboration over control. Her insights offer a playbook for leaders seeking to empower teams and drive innovation. Tune in to learn actionable strategies to foster a supportive and productive business environment. Great for anyone interested in transforming their leadership approach. Highlights Diane Helbig’s background and career transition. Problems with traditional leadership structures. The global work environment shifts post-Covid. Shift from ego to empathy and control to curiosity. Challenges with an employee not meeting deadlines. The importance of having safe conversations to address disconnects. Presence over performance in leadership. Trust and its challenges in remote/hybrid teams. Power with instead of power over in collaboration. Encouraging leaders to communicate change transparently. Steps to foster psychological safety in a team. Measuring success in collaborative leadership. Diane Helbig’s definition of leveling up. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Culture Eats Strategy: Level Up! with Lee Miller - Episode 152
11/12/2025
Culture Eats Strategy: Level Up! with Lee Miller - Episode 152
Catch the latest Level Up Claims podcast episode, where Galen Hair chats with Lee Miller, host of the Conquer Contractor Chaos podcast. Lee shares his journey from construction to building multi-million dollar businesses. Discover how crafting the right culture can turn chaos into long- term success. Whether you’re a contractor or business owner, learn why culture trumps strategy and how to build a powerhouse team that wins every time. Don’t miss Lee’s insights on leveraging intrinsic values to create a thriving work environment. Tune in! Highlights Culture always eats strategy for breakfast. Contractors lose people due to culture, not pay. Transition from construction to hospitality. Learning through managerial curiosity. Culture needs to be intentional. Intrinsic vs. extrinsic values. Building intrinsic values in the workplace. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs applied. The love and belonging phase elevates teams. Cultivate a positive and intentional culture. Competency vs. commitment in employees. Blueprint for intentional culture building. Communicate culture goals effectively. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Mastering Non-Large Loss Claims with Darrick O’Day - Episode 151
11/05/2025
Mastering Non-Large Loss Claims with Darrick O’Day - Episode 151
In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, Galen Hair talks with Darrick O’Day, a seasoned public adjuster and appraiser, about the underestimated impact of non-large loss insurance claims. Discover how even “small” claims can critically affect families and businesses, and learn strategies to navigate the challenges posed by insurers. Darrick’s insights shed light on the appraisal process and highlight the importance of community support and equitable advocacy in the claims landscape. A must-listen for anyone involved in insurance or interested in advocacy for fair treatment. Highlights Impact of overlooked claims on families. Challenges of representing smaller claims. Tactics insurers use on smaller claims. Independent appraisal challenges. Changes in the appraisal process. How fees affect smaller claims viability. Balancing advocacy and independence in appraisal. Leveling up: moving forward, keeping still. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Unlock Success: From To-Do to To-Be with Michael King - Episode 150
10/29/2025
Unlock Success: From To-Do to To-Be with Michael King - Episode 150
In this episode of “Level Up Claims Podcast” guest Michael King, a seasoned leadership coach, breaks down how most leaders get stuck in endless to-do lists and why their strategies fail. Learn how his “To-Be List” approach, rooted in identity and vision, offers a game-changing perspective that aligns strategy with genuine identity. King provides insights on effective team communication, using assessment tools, and moving from task-focused to vision-driven leadership. If you’re a leader looking to truly propel your organization forward, this episode is a must-listen! Highlights Anchoring strategy in identity and vision. Michael King’s transition from executive pastor to coach. Understanding church leadership complexity. Temperament of fast-paced leaders and their vision. Importance of motivation-based assessments. Enneagram’s impact on understanding team dynamics. “I’m the executive coach that elevates, not eliminates.” Understanding your team for realistic expectations. The concept of a “to-be” list over a “to-do” list. Avoiding “borrowed identity” in leadership. Balancing personal passions and professional pursuits. Karaoke leadership vs. authentic leadership. Leveling up by being honest with yourself. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Defy Identity: Embrace Change with Kidane Jones - Episode 149
10/22/2025
Defy Identity: Embrace Change with Kidane Jones - Episode 149
In this Level Up Claims Podcast episode, host Galen Hair chats with Kidane Jones, a former NFL player turned top bodybuilder and performance coach. They explore why men often give up on their goals, battling old identities, and the impact of unmet expectations. Kidane shares insights on understanding behaviors, navigating mental health, and the power of pursuing true potential. With his personal experiences and coaching wisdom, this conversation offers valuable lessons on embracing change and chasing who we want to become. It’s a must-listen for anyone ready to transform their life. Highlights Kidane’s unexpected athletic journey. The influence of an athletic family. Transition from braces to bodybuilding. The role of identity in action. The habit loop: cue, behavior, reward. Emotional challenges and male identity. Societal pressure on men to appear strong. Men’s reluctance to share emotional struggles. Communication differences between men and women. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Smart Claims, Safe Solutions with Jonathan Bowers - Episode 148
10/15/2025
Smart Claims, Safe Solutions with Jonathan Bowers - Episode 148
In this episode of the “Level Up Claims” podcast, Galen Hair explores the complexities of fire-related insurance claims with Jonathan Bowers, Executive Director of Clean Environmental Solutions. Bowers shares insights on how proper testing and understanding of building science can mitigate risks and enhance safety for property owners after fire events like wildfires. Discover why staying updated on the latest scientific advancements in fire remediation could be a game-changer for your claims strategy. A must-listen for claims professionals seeking growth opportunities! Highlights Importance of understanding fire claims. Growth opportunity in property claims. Toxicity of microparticles in fires. Distinction between urban and wildfire claims. Effective contamination testing methods. Balancing cost and thoroughness in testing. Impact of HVAC systems on fire claims. Knowledge gaps in public adjusters. Testing standards and building science integration. Challenges with content claims in insurance. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Industry Resources: AIHA: IICRC Standards: Relevant Articles:
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Automate & Elevate: Unlock Success with Ari Meisel - Episode 147
10/08/2025
Automate & Elevate: Unlock Success with Ari Meisel - Episode 147
In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair discusses with Ari Meisel, a productivity expert who has collaborated with giants like Tony Robbins and NASA, about optimizing your life. Ari shares his journey from a Crohn’s diagnosis to pioneering efficiency through “Less Doing” with insights on automation and productivity tools. Tune in to learn strategies for freeing up your time, reducing stress, and achieving more by doing less. This episode might just give you back your life! Highlights Automate repetitive tasks. Doing less as a solution. Ari Meisel’s journey to productivity. Overcoming Crohn’s with productivity framework. The impact of time restrictions on innovation. Challenging the “busy” mindset. Asynchronous communication benefits. Automation’s role in error reduction. Utilization of Kanban boards for task management. Diet and stress management in biohacking. Impact of sugar and emotional eating. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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AI Negotiation Revolution with Keld Jensen - Episode 146
10/01/2025
AI Negotiation Revolution with Keld Jensen - Episode 146
In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, Galen Hair hosts Keld Jensen, a global negotiation expert and author of “The Smart Negotiator.” They discuss AI’s transformative role in modern deal-making, blending intuition with data, and unlocking the untapped potential in negotiations. Essential listening for anyone in business wanting to sharpen their negotiation skills and leverage AI effectively. Highlights Negotiation game analogy. Jensen’s career-changing moment. AI’s role in modern negotiations. AI-enhanced negotiation simulations. Asymmetric value in negotiations. Discussing the negotiation process. Negotiation strategy's importance. Caution: AI is not a shortcut. Using AI during live negotiations. Checking AI-generated information. Importance of listening in negotiations. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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AI & Insurance: Friend or Foe? with Chad Robinson - Episode 145
09/24/2025
AI & Insurance: Friend or Foe? with Chad Robinson - Episode 145
In this episode, Florida attorney Chad Robinson discusses how AI is reshaping the insurance industry and why the human touch still matters. Gain insights into how claims are being handled with AI and automation, and discover tools professionals can use to stay ahead. Whether you’re in legal, adjusting, or even contracting, Chad’s expertise shows how to thrive in an AI-driven world. A must-listen for those wanting to elevate their claims game! Highlights Impact of AI on Insurance Industry. Chad Robinson’s Multifaceted Career. From Defense to Plaintiff’s Side in Law. Importance of Human Element in Claims. Policyholders’ Role in Documenting Damage. Adjusters’ Approach to Inspections. Concerns with AI in Claims Decisions. Logic Loops in AI Handled Claims. Tools for Legal Professionals. Automation: Enhancing AI Efficiency. Leveling Up Through Professional Civility. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Cracking Claims with Asher Ware - Episode 144
09/17/2025
Cracking Claims with Asher Ware - Episode 144
Tune into The Level Up Claims Podcast with Galen Hair as he chats with Asher Ware, a trailblazing young entrepreneur revolutionizing public adjusting. Discover his journey, the strategic use of AI, and how he’s navigating industry changes at just 21. Don’t miss this inspiring story! Highlights Building his own path. Growing up in storm restoration. Passion for policy and debate. Harnessing AI for efficiency. The era of AI revolution. Overcoming challenges of youth. Youth as a superpower. Strong industry networking. Launching Sage Loss Consulting. Authenticity in social media. Viral success with AI. Future of insurance claims. Moving beyond roofing. Managed repair implications. Sage Loss Consulting culture. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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Harnessing Storms & Followers with Scot Pilié - Episode 143
09/10/2025
Harnessing Storms & Followers with Scot Pilié - Episode 143
Don’t miss this episode of the Level Up Claims podcast! Meteorologist Scot Pilié explores hurricane season, explaining storm patterns and social media’s role in forecasts. With his extensive experience, Scot demystifies weather reliability. Perfect for weather enthusiasts!. Highlights Power of social media in weather forecasting. Return to New Orleans and the impact of nostalgia. Decision between local and national meteorology roles. Versatility in local vs. national news roles. Transformation of weather dissemination through social media. The journey from zero to being a vital online weather source. Expectations and anomalies of the current hurricane season. Explanation of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO). The extended length of hurricane seasons in recent years. AI’s role in modern weather forecasting. Challenges in hurricane landfall wind speed measurements. The need for improved weather infrastructure across the Gulf Coast. Leveling up by giving back to the community. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Scot Pilié
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Claim Game Evolution: Level Up with Vince Perri - Episode 142
09/03/2025
Claim Game Evolution: Level Up with Vince Perri - Episode 142
In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair engages with Vince Perri, founder of Elite Resolutions. Discover how Vince turned operational challenges into strategic strengths by embracing technology and education to scale his multistate firm. A must-listen for insights on modern claim management and growth strategies! Highlights Building a personal brand through social media. Transition from consumer to public adjuster focus. Importance of training and education in the firm. Challenges in settling insurance claims today. The significance of sales in business success. Benefits of having standard operating procedures (SOPs). Importance of business transferability and structural integrity. Utilizing AI tools in claims processing. Outsourcing and efficiency in business operations. Growth mindset as a key to success. Continuous education and leveling up. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Vince Perri
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Hire Sales Pros: Beyond Leads with David Asarnow - Episode 141
08/27/2025
Hire Sales Pros: Beyond Leads with David Asarnow - Episode 141
Tune into this episode of Level Up Claims Podcast with guest David Asarnow, CEO at Sababa.global. David shares insights on building top-tier sales and marketing teams using AI and strategic systems. Perfect for public adjusters, contractors, and attorneys aiming to boost their business. Highlights Challenging a candidate’s claims in interviews. Building a $45 million division through cold calls. Solving business problems on the spot. Importance of hiring sales hunters. Evaluating potential hires through behavioral questions. Automated systems and AI in lead funnels. Building trust with leads through AI and personalization. Crafting effective AI prompts for better results. Clear expectations in leadership and team management. Holding oneself and others accountable in business. Daily self-improvement and leveling up. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with David Asarnow
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How to Fix the Florida Insurance Crisis with Frank Collige - Episode 140
08/20/2025
How to Fix the Florida Insurance Crisis with Frank Collige - Episode 140
In this episode, host Galen Hair is joined by Dr. Frank Collige, a multi-state public adjuster, combat veteran, and candidate for Florida’s chief financial officer. They discuss Florida’s insurance crisis, tackling issues like claim delays, lack of transparency, and fraudulent practices. Frank shares his vision for creating a fair insurance system that holds everyone accountable, from companies to consumers. His unique blend of military discipline and industry experience offers a refreshing perspective on reforming the system. This episode is a must-listen for anyone impacted by Florida’s insurance landscape! Highlights Lessons from military service: integrity, service, excellence. Misleading narrative on unlicensed contractors in Florida. Business process issues contribute to Florida’s insurance crisis. Arbitrations and constitutional rights challenges in Florida. Proposal for a balanced oversight board. Identifying carrier’s business tactics that inflate rates. Proactive administrative measures for insurance fairness. Encouraging competition through reinsurance and catastrophe funds. Running for office: unexpected challenges and support. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Frank Collige
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From Nice to Influential with Katie Armentrout - Episode 139
08/13/2025
From Nice to Influential with Katie Armentrout - Episode 139
In the latest episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair welcomes Katie Armentrout , founder of Peoplefluence, who challenges the notion that being nice is an effective leadership strategy. With insights from corporate leadership, Katie explains how courageous leadership drives real influence and team success. Don’t miss how to foster healthy conflict and boost your team’s performance. Tune in for practical tips on evolving your leadership style and breaking away from people-pleasing habits. Highlights Leadership involves effectiveness, not just likability. Nice is not a strategy. Moving beyond merely “nice” leadership. Nice vs. Kind leadership. Value of healthy conflict. Silos resulting from avoiding conflict. Five phases of courageous leadership. Transition from pleasing to stirring phase. Importance of courageous leadership. Benefits of engaged leadership. Artificial harmony in teams. Identifying artificial harmony. Communication issues as warning signs. Importance of high performer retention. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Katie Armentrout
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Smart HR: Boost Business & Culture with Cornelia Gamlem & Barbara Mitchell - Episode 138
08/06/2025
Smart HR: Boost Business & Culture with Cornelia Gamlem & Barbara Mitchell - Episode 138
Tune in to the Level Up Claims Podcast as HR mavens Barbara Mitchell and Cornelia Gamlem, authors of the Big Book of HR, share why HR is crucial even for small businesses. Discover strategies to boost employee retention, foster engagement, and sidestep common HR pitfalls. Perfect for managers eager to enhance their work culture and protect their company. Don’t miss this chance to strengthen your team dynamics and build a vibrant, productive workplace. Highlights HR’s Role in Business Success Misconceptions About Human Resources Risks of Overlooking HR in Small Businesses Importance of Employee Onboarding Strategies for Hiring in Small Teams Engaging and Retaining Employees Impact of Effective Onboarding Creating a Supportive Onboarding Structure Balancing Personal and Professional Boundaries Importance of Management Training Conducting Difficult Let-Go Conversations Documenting Employee Performance Issues People-Driven Success in Business Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Cornelia Gamlem & Barbara Mitchell
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Safety Mindset: Beyond Scopes with Kevin Dandridge - Episode 137
07/30/2025
Safety Mindset: Beyond Scopes with Kevin Dandridge - Episode 137
Tune into the latest episode of the Level Up Claims podcast with host Galen Hair and guest Kevin Dandridge, owner of 1 Life Safety. Kevin shares vital insights on adopting a safety-first mindset in claims professions, emphasizing the importance of proactive safety measures at job sites. Discover how fostering a culture of safety can not only protect your team but also ensure the longevity of your career. If you’re in the claims industry or construction, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss! Highlights Safety as a Culture: Beyond Priorities. Hard-hitting Story: The Roofer’s Fate. Importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Large Loss Fire Safety Mindset. Authentic Safety Practices Amidst Insurance Scrutiny. The Dangers of Silica: The New Asbestos. Environmental Concerns with Fire Suppression Foam. Investing in Safety: Beyond Immediate Profits. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Kevin Dandridge
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Mastering Negotiation Tactics with Scott Tillema - Episode 136
07/23/2025
Mastering Negotiation Tactics with Scott Tillema - Episode 136
Tune into this intriguing episode featuring Scott Tillema, a former SWAT hostage negotiator, who shares essential communication strategies. Learn how principles from high-stakes situations can transform tough business talks, building trust and defusing tension. Don’t miss it!. Highlights Manage yourself first. Emotional tone dictates outcome. The real goal in negotiations. Avoid making the other feel like a loser. Importance of fairness in negotiations. Treating people fairly yields long-term benefits. Misalignment in listening habits. Unpacking true desires in negotiation. Identifying the real issue. The power of timing in questioning. Emotional labeling. Influence begins with connection. AI can’t replace human connection. Verbal influence in leadership. Human connection’s vital role in business. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Scott Tillema
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Building a Legacy: Succession Secrets with Dominic Rubino - Episode 135
07/16/2025
Building a Legacy: Succession Secrets with Dominic Rubino - Episode 135
Ready to ensure your business thrives beyond your tenure? Tune in to hear Dominic Rubino, a top business coach, on the Level Up Claims Podcast. Learn how to create a sustainable succession plan and understand the importance of gaining external experience for the next generation. Don’t miss this chance to future-proof your legacy! Highlights Effective succession planning and starting outside the company. Why do many contracting businesses fail in succession? Dominic Rubino’s journey into business coaching. From business coach to building and selling multimillion-dollar businesses. Addiction to buying, growing, and selling companies. Challenges with family business succession planning. Importance of documenting business knowledge. Learning from outside the family business. Sending the next generation away for business experience. Recommended readings: Traction and Scaling Up. sing dashboards and SOPs for business control. Preparing the public and customers for leadership transition. Assessing whether successors have the capacity to lead. Importance of choice in succession planning. Importance of strategic planning for family benefit. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Dominic Rubino
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AI-Driven Business Revolution with Charlotte Lindberg - Episode 134
07/09/2025
AI-Driven Business Revolution with Charlotte Lindberg - Episode 134
In this episode of the Level Up Claims podcast, host Galen Hair is joined by Charlotte Lindberg, Program Manager at Personal AI, to explore exciting applications of AI in modern business. Charlotte shares how their personalized AI systems are transforming industries by automating competitor analysis, enhancing customer intake, and refining internal workflows, all while ensuring data privacy and security. With AI’s rapid evolution, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leveraging AI to stay ahead in their field. Tune in for insights to level up your business! Highlights Misconceptions about AI before entering the field. Personalized AI vs. generic large language models. Building workflows to reduce reliance on constant re-prompting. Creating multiple AI personas for different functions. Importance of proprietary knowledge in AI training. Cross-referencing external and internal resources for strategy. Application of AI for competitor intelligence. Conversational AI for legal intake processes. Alternative to traditional live chat with AI interaction. Encouragement to consider AI before hiring decisions. Concept of AI agents interacting with each other. Efficiency and support as the purpose of AI, not replacement. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Charlotte Lindberg
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Boost Your Claims Success with Alena Wilson - Episode 133
07/02/2025
Boost Your Claims Success with Alena Wilson - Episode 133
Tune in to this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast as Galen Hair welcomes Alena Wilson, founder of Estimate Mastery! Discover the costly mistakes contractors make, the power of proper training, and how mastering Xactimate can transform your payouts. A must-listen for contractors looking to boost their bottom line! Highlights Common contractor mistakes with estimates. Estimate Mastery for contractor training. Alena’s insight into Xactimate. Missing line items costing contractors money. Importance of meticulous documentation. Value of photo documentation in insurance claims. Handling multiple-roof scenarios effectively. Significance of detailed documentation in negotiations. Contractors’ education gap in estimating tools. Leveraging training for increased profits. The rationale behind embracing education. Effective use of macros for consistent estimating. The importance of double-checking your work. The critical role of price updates in estimates. Investing in education boosts contractor success. Incremental progress leads to significant gains. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Alena Wilson
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The Power of AI In Lead Generation with Josh Thomas - Episode 132
06/25/2025
The Power of AI In Lead Generation with Josh Thomas - Episode 132
In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair welcomes back Josh Thomas, an AI expert. Josh reveals the power of AI in lead generation, emphasizing the importance of asking the right questions to unlock AI’s potential. By using strategic queries, AI becomes a tool for crafting compelling, objection-proof sales pitches. Josh shares insights on staying competitive and the evolving role of technology in business. A must-listen for those looking to harness AI for growth! Highlights Status of AI: More than a buzzword. AI’s rapid advancement. Self-awareness in sales and martial arts analogy. The methodology of harnessing objections. Transforming complaints into selling points. AI’s role in producing near-flawless sales messaging. Strategic utilization of AI for high-level tasks. The future of human-AI integration. Where lead generation is heading. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Josh Thomas
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Cybersecurity Essentials with Sarah Mary Parker - Episode 131
06/18/2025
Cybersecurity Essentials with Sarah Mary Parker - Episode 131
In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, join host Galen Hare and cybersecurity expert Sarah Mary Parker as they uncover the crucial topic of digital literacy and cybersecurity. Learn how to protect your business and client data from digital threats with practical, actionable advice. With Parker’s expert insights, discover the hidden risks in everyday digital use and safeguard your company’s future. It’s an episode packed with valuable knowledge you can’t afford to miss! Highlights Digital literacy and unintended public exposure. Cybersecurity focus in legal firms. Definition of cybersecurity. Risk of human error and hacking. Importance of not saving passwords in browsers. Vendor management requirements for cybersecurity. Implications of outsourcing estimates. Legal consequences of data breaches. Data collection in vehicles and devices. Leveraging technology for crime. Leveling up through education and giving back. Practical steps for cybersecurity awareness. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair Connect with Sarah Mary Parker General References
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What Does It Mean To You To Level Up - Compilation - Part 5 - Episode 130
06/11/2025
What Does It Mean To You To Level Up - Compilation - Part 5 - Episode 130
Tune into this special episode of the “Level Up Claims Podcast” with host Galen Hair, featuring powerful insights from industry experts. Discover how to improve, grow, and elevate your business ahead of the 4th Annual Level Up Claims Summit. Whether it’s embracing technology, enhancing personal growth, or championing justice, find out what it truly means to “level up.” Perfect for anyone in the storm restoration industry ready to embrace new challenges! Highlights Mentoring and doing the right thing. Continuous learning. Leveling up claims like a video game. Using AI for self-improvement. Embracing challenges. The importance of self-awareness. A perspective on overcoming challenges. Justice and spread awareness. Business endgame strategy. Unlearning to unlock potential. Staying curious and intentional. Episode Resources Connect with Galen M. Hair
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