Shows
The Restoration ReportFrom Full House to Full Hauls: How John Freeman Bet Big on Junk Pros NWIn this episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns sits down with John Freeman, owner of Junk Pros Northwest, for an inspiring and surprisingly heartfelt conversation about entrepreneurship, service, and second chances.John shares how he transitioned from a 23-year career in the casino and poker world to building a junk removal company rooted in compassion, community, and doing things the right way. From cleaning extreme hoarding situations to donating furniture to families in need, John reveals the behind-the-scenes work that goes far beyond hauling items to the dump.You’ll hear:- How a major life pivot pu...
2025-12-1718 minThe Restoration ReportThe Race That Changed His Life: Todd Fahlman’s Journey to Real Estate LeadershipOn this episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns sits down with Todd Fahlman, Broker/Owner of Realty One Orca Group, whose story is packed with grit, humility, and the kind of life lessons every entrepreneur needs to hear. Todd shares his journey from pumping gas and selling furniture to becoming a franchise owner in one of the fastest-growing international real estate brands. He opens up about the hurdles—literally—that shaped his resilience, the mindset that fuels his leadership, and the systems he uses to build teams that thrive.You’ll hear:How he built an ecosystem-style real e...
2025-12-0337 min
To the Extent That...The Advocates Toolbox: Episode 3: Anchoring Strategy and Messaging in MediationThe Advocates Toolbox: Effective Advocacy Strategies for a Successful Mediation, is co-hosted by Mia Levi, Vice President and Corporate Secretary, CPR Dispute Resolution Services LLC, and Rachel Gupta, Mediator and Arbitrator at JAMS. This podcast will cover the skills business lawyers need to be successful advocates in mediation. Episode 3: Anchoring Strategy and Messaging in Mediation. Distributive bargaining is a competitive negotiation strategy that is used to decide how to allocate available funds in mediations. The speakers will guide us in developing your anchor, your target settlement range, and the strategy and messaging for achieving it. Speakers: Joan Stearns Johnsen, Mediator...
2025-12-0126 minThe Restoration ReportBuilding Community Through Connection: Ivonne Sepulveda on the Power of the ChamberIn this episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns sits down with Ivonne Sepulveda, President and CEO of the Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce, to explore how genuine connection drives business growth and community impact.Ivonne shares her journey from a decade in insurance to leading one of the region’s most active chambers, the challenges and rewards of supporting small businesses, and the importance of collaboration between the City of Marysville and the Tulalip Tribes.They dive into:How chambers of commerce create real opportunities for local business ownersThe evolving role of community leadership in economic de...
2025-11-1932 minThe Restoration ReportWhy Every Small Business Needs a Bookkeeper (Before It’s Too Late) | Restoration Report Ep. 22In Episode 22 of The Restoration Report, we sit down with Jennifer Solsvik, owner of JKS Creative Solutions, to unpack why bookkeeping is one of the most overlooked — yet most critical — foundations of running a healthy business.Jennifer shares how she went from her first bookkeeping job in high school to running a thriving, relationship-based business built entirely on referrals, helping business owners stay compliant, organized, and audit-proof.We cover:Why most business owners wait too long to outsource bookkeepingWhat really happens during an IRS or state audit (and how far back they can go)The difference between a bookkeeper and...
2025-11-0526 min
I Love It WhenLevi Stearns: Stay True To YouSend Mo a text about this episode!Next Thursday, November 6th I'm teaching a Burnout Prevention and Recovery mini workshop in Marysville, WA. This workshop is made possible by Core Contractors (Title Sponsor) and the Greater Marysville Tulalip Chamber of Commerce (Host). I wanted to bring Levi onto the podcast because he has an inspiring story that is very much aligned with the work I do and support. Tune in for this special episode and think of Levi the next time you're looking for a contractor.Purchase your ticket here and join us next Thursday:
2025-10-2844 minThe Restoration ReportRestoring What Matters Most: Inside Reliable Content Services with Mike MissallIn this episode of The Restoration Report Podcast, host Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, sat down with Mike Missall of Reliable Content Services to discuss the often-overlooked but vital role that content specialists play in the restoration process. From floods and fires to mold and smoke damage, Reliable’s mission is simple yet powerful: helping families recover what truly makes their house a home.
2025-10-1525 minThe Restoration ReportWhy Branding Matters in Construction & Restoration | Restoration Report Podcast Ep. 20In the latest episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, sat down with Dan Lawrie of Watchmaker Marketing to unpack the power of brand building in the construction and restoration industry. Their conversation offered valuable takeaways for business owners navigating the question of how to build a business that can stand the test of time.
2025-10-0127 minThe Restoration ReportRestoration Report | Episode 19 | What I've Learned So FarIn this episode of the Restoration Report, owner Levi Stearns shares the most important lessons he has learned while building one of the fastest growing construction companies in the state over the 20 months.
2025-09-1731 minThe Restoration ReportRestoration Report | Episode 18 | Feat: The Drain DoctorsWhen it comes to protecting your home, most people think about the roof, windows, or insulation. But as Levi Stearns, general contractor and host of The Restoration Report, points out in Episode 19, one of the most overlooked elements is what’s happening underground—your drainage and septic systems. In this episode, Levi sat down with Bob and Shawn from The Drain Doctors, a family-owned plumbing and drainage company in Snohomish County, to talk about what makes proper water management such a crucial part of construction, restoration, and homeownership.
2025-09-0334 minThe Restoration ReportRestoration Report Ep 17 | The Intersection of Equity and RestorationIn this episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns of Core Contractors sits down with Vince Thomas of Equity Solutions Northwest to discuss the connections between smart financial decisions, property ownership, and long-term stability. While Vince’s expertise is in mortgage solutions, the conversation delivers valuable lessons for anyone involved in construction, restoration, remodeling, or home improvement—especially those navigating insurance claims and project management.
2025-08-2029 minThe Restoration ReportThe Importance of Relationships in Local Business (Restoration Report Ep 16 w/Shannon Coy)In this episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Sterns (owner of Core Contractors) sits down with Shannon Coy, publisher of Snohomish City Lifestyle Magazine. The conversation blends personal story with professional insight, giving listeners a deeper look at entrepreneurship, local media, and the power of meaningful relationships in business.
2025-08-0629 minThe Restoration ReportCeline Williams on Hustle, Heart & Real Estate (Restoration Report Ep 15)The Restoration Report — Episode 15Guest: Celine Williams, Real Estate BrokerTitle: Turning Fear Into Action: Real Estate Success with Celine WilliamsEpisode Summary:In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Snohomish County real estate broker and community leader, Celine Williams. Celine shares her personal journey into real estate — from being too afraid to activate her license, to closing over 130 homes in just four years. We dive deep into the mindset, work ethic, and relationship-building that fuel her success.Whether you’re an aspiring agent, a first-time home buyer, or just someone looking to create more success in your own life, this c...
2025-07-1638 minThe Restoration ReportHow Christie Found Freedom Through Clean Living and Business Ownership (Restoration Report Ep 14)The Restoration Report – Episode 14Guest: Christie Thompson, Regional Vice President, ArbonneHost: Levi Stearns, Core ContractorsEpisode Title:Building Wellness & Business Success with Christie Thompson of ArbonneEpisode Summary:In this episode of The Restoration Report, Levi Stearns sits down with Christie Thompson, Regional Vice President with Arbonne, to talk about her inspiring journey from the fast-paced beverage industry and real estate world to building a thriving wellness business. Christie shares how she discovered Arbonne’s clean nutrition and wellness products, transformed her own health, and ultimately created a career that allows her to support her family while helping others do the same...
2025-07-0235 minThe Restoration ReportFrom Retail to Real Estate: Roy Van Winkle’s Journey Through the Housing Market CrashIn this episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns sits down with real estate veteran Roy Van Winkle of Keller Williams to explore his incredible journey from retail management to co-owning multiple real estate offices—and weathering the 2008 housing crash along the way.Roy shares practical advice for homebuyers, insights into how the real estate industry has evolved, and why today's housing market is NOT headed for another crash. They also dive into the crossover between real estate, insurance restoration, and construction—highlighting why experience, strategy, and client care matter more than ever.
2025-06-1833 minThe Restoration ReportThe Restoration Report | Why Homeowners Should Rethink Insurance Strategy (Matt Layson)In Episode 12 of The Restoration Report, Levi Stearns of Core Contractors sits down with Matt Layson of CalRose Insurance for a candid conversation that every homeowner, contractor, and business owner should hear. The episode dives deep into what makes insurance work—or fail—when disaster strikes, and why having the right support can make all the difference.Matt, a fourth-generation insurance agent, shares his journey from the world of live event production to founding CalRose Insurance with his father. Their mission? Helping people make better decisions. And when it comes to insurance restoration, project management, and home remodeling, better deci...
2025-06-0430 min
BioClean UnfilteredBioClean Unfiltered | Episode 5 | The Grit Behind GrowthIn this episode, Rhea sits down with Levi Stearns, founder of Core Contractors, for a raw, transparent conversation about the real road to entrepreneurship. From crawling through flooded homes to managing multi-million dollar businesses, Levi shares the highs, lows, and everything in between—including multiple failed partnerships and the lessons that finally led him to launch Core.🔥 What you’ll hear:Levi’s early career in construction, real estate, and mitigationThe hard truths of business partnerships (including a few that went sideways)How Core Contractors came to life—STP fans, you’ll love thisWhy leadership isn’t about being the boss—it’s a...
2025-06-0347 min
The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World[Rewind] Nancy Levine Stearns: Riding and Reporting on the Tsunami of Support for DEIWe had to rewind this episode from just a few months back because Nancy’s reporting on DEI has become the Bible for those following this issue. In just the last week, Amazon, McDonald’s, and Merck shareholders and boards have all resoundingly rejected proposals to retreat or scale back on their diversity and equity initiatives! They join other powerhouses like John Deere, Yum! Brands, Levi’s, Costco, and Berkshire Hathaway, to name a few! Through relentless reporting and a mix of humor, history, and advocacy, her firm, Impactivize, is highlighting “DEI Job of the Day,” “DEI Employer of the Day,” an...
2025-05-2940 minThe Restoration ReportDigital Marketing Strategies Every Business Owner Should KnowIn today’s competitive construction and home services landscape, having a professional website is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. But as Nick Sanders from Valor Marketing shared in a recent episode of The Restoration Report, just having a website isn’t enough. For general contractors, restoration specialists, and remodelers, real digital success comes from pairing a well-built website with intentional marketing strategies.Here’s how to turn your digital presence into a lead-generating powerhouse — and why it matters more than ever.
2025-05-0725 minThe Restoration ReportThe Restoration Report | Preventative Maintenance and Professional CleaningIn this episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns of Core Contractors sits down with the owner of Sky Power Wash to talk about more than just surface-level cleaning. This candid conversation dives deep into the science, strategy, and value behind proper exterior maintenance—and why investing in the right service now can prevent expensive repairs down the line.
2025-04-2330 minThe Restoration ReportBuilding Towards Success with Matt Hansen (EOS)Running a successful construction or restoration company involves far more than hammers and hard hats. In Episode 9 of The Restoration Report podcast, Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, sits down with Matt Hanson—an EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Implementer—to talk about how business owners in the construction, remodeling, and insurance restoration industries can streamline operations, enhance project management, and truly lead with purpose.Whether you're a general contractor, restoration expert, or home improvement business owner, EOS offers a proven framework to cut through chaos and lead your company with clarity.
2025-04-0928 min
Ask Valor MastermindsDay Drinking With Levi Stearn: You Don't need a Business Partner To be SuccessfulGet ready for a fun and insightful episode! We're day drinking with Levi Stearn, and he's dropping some serious truth bombs about solo success. Forget the partnership pressure – Levi's here to show you how to crush it on your own. Expect laughs, real talk, and maybe a few spilled drinks. 😉 During this episode we had the pleasure of getting business insights from a previous #podcast guest, Noah Anacker, a #serialentreprenuer that shares his business wisdom and drives him to keep going even after failures. #failforward Tune in to learn: Why going solo might be your best...
2025-04-0245 minThe Restoration ReportShocking Realities of The Mental Health Crisis (Featuring BioClean)In this episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, sits down with Rhea Toles, owner of BioClean, Inc., to discuss the critical and compassionate work of biohazard remediation. The episode delves into BioClean’s mission to provide professional and empathetic cleanup services for trauma scenes, unattended deaths, hoarding situations, and drug contamination cases. Rhea shares the history of BioClean, which was founded in 1988 by Theresa Boris, a first responder who recognized the need for aftercare following traumatic events. She discusses how she and her husband, Josh, purchased the business and have since focused on ex...
2025-03-1932 minThe Restoration ReportEpisode 7: Mitigation Insights with Adam Runyan (PuroClean)In the latest episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, sat down with Adam Runyan, owner of PuroClean Marysville, to discuss the complexities of home restoration and how homeowners can navigate insurance claims with confidence. Below, we summarize key takeaways from their conversation, offering you expert advice on what to expect when dealing with home restoration.
2025-03-0531 minThe Restoration ReportProject Managers TakeoverHome restoration is a complex process that requires expertise, patience, and a keen understanding of project management. In the latest episode of The Restoration Report podcast, project managers Tyler and Roman, along with guest host Victoria, share valuable insights into what it takes to successfully manage home restoration and remodeling projects. They discuss the importance of communication, trust, and quality craftsmanship in ensuring smooth project execution and customer satisfaction.
2025-02-1931 minThe Restoration ReportMeet the Team | Operations (Caroline)In the world of home restoration, unexpected events like water damage, fire incidents, or tree strikes can leave homeowners overwhelmed. The Restoration Report podcast, hosted by Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, aims to demystify the restoration process and provide homeowners with the guidance they need to make informed decisions. This episode introduces Caroline Jordan, the operations manager at Core Contractors, who plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless project execution.
2025-02-0542 minThe Restoration ReportMeet the Team | Estimation (Josh and Bao)Navigating the world of home restoration and insurance claims can feel overwhelming, especially for homeowners dealing with unexpected damage. However, accurate estimating is a vital part of ensuring smooth project management and timely restoration. As emphasized in a recent episode of The Restoration Report podcast, hosted by Levi Stearns of Core Contractors. Levi sits down with lead estimating team, Josh and Bao, as they share how precise estimates not only streamline the restoration process but also build trust between contractors, insurance adjusters, and homeowners.
2025-01-2232 min
The TennisDay 3: Joao—just wow! Demon delivers on tough day for AussiesATP Next Gen champion Joao Fonseca has produced one of the great Grand Slam upsets knocking out three-time quarterfinalist Andrey Rublev in a stunning major main draw debut. Alex de Minaur has flown the flag for Australia defeating Botic van de Zandschulp, while all of his compatriots — including Alexei Popyrin and Olivia Gadecki — bowed out on a tough day for the local contingent. Gael Monfils has held on against fellow Frenchman Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard to prevail, while Emma Navarro came from behind to beat fellow NCAA champion Peyton Stearns in a marathon three-setter — Mike Cation and Levi Huddleston analyse the re...
2025-01-1434 minThe Restoration ReportMeet the Team | Scoping Supervisor (Daryl)Navigating home restoration and insurance claims can be daunting, especially when unexpected disasters strike. The latest episode of The Restoration Report, hosted by Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, sheds light on the complexities of this process. Levi is joined by Darryl, Core Contractors’ Scope Supervisor, to discuss how their team ensures smooth and stress-free restoration for homeowners.
2025-01-0844 minThe Restoration ReportMeet the Team (Part 2)In the latest episode of The Restoration Report, host Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, dives into the heart of what makes his company stand out in the restoration and remodeling industry—its commitment to core values. Joined by systems manager Anna Holmberg, the conversation sheds light on the company's journey, values, and the people-first approach driving its success.
2024-12-1830 minThe Restoration ReportMeet the Team (Part 1)When disaster strikes—whether through fire, water, or wind—homeowners face a daunting journey of restoration. In the debut episode of The Restoration Report, Levi Stearns, owner of Core Contractors, is joined by Gordy Holmquist to share about their mission to demystify the complexities of the insurance restoration process while empowering homeowners to make informed decisions.
2024-12-0433 min
The IT Privacy and Security Weekly Update.The “They got more breeches than Levi Strauss” Privacy and Security Weekly Update for January 26th. 2021We start with a guy who’s got reporters, lawsuits and a Stock Market darling chasing him, and he didn’t even know it until a reporter from the New York Post told him!
We show you the price you pay for something free. Then we move on to more breeches than Levi Strauss… and a sombre message about trust on the Internet.
We finish with a shocking story about our kids getting hacked. Think it’s implausible? Think again!
This is the best IT Privacy and Security Weekly Update yet, so let’s get goin
2021-01-2724 min
InTheNoInTheNo 6: Conductor Donald NallyDonald Nally left his job as a music professor to found an
all-professional chamber choir; despite overwhelming critical acclaim,
the group was forced to disband within two years. Nearly a decade
later, as Nally prepares to become the Chorus Master of the Lyric Opera
of Chicago, he and his singers have renewed their commitment to the
performance of new and modern choral music as The Crossing. Nally speaks about his experiences, as well as sound, breath, emotion, release, and connection through the human voice.
We touch on numerous topics during this show, including:
Choral Arts...
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