Across The Street, Across The Country

Every industry, every business, every individual can benefit from a connection to a larger group with shared interests, goals and challenges.It’s why Canada’s leader in property restoration, with outlets all across the country, is a member of the Restoration Industry Association. We speak to two of the leaders of the RIA about what their organization brings to DKI, and how it makes the restoration industry as a whole better, stronger, more united.And Khrista Sampson of DKI – Halifax shares her definition of home.Music for this episode is Kick It Up by Close Kicks and Build A Home by Cassie Noble. 

Amber Marsh and Jeremy Abellera both stepped away, for different reasons, for a short while. And during their time away, they both admit to having missed DKI – and, specifically, the people with whom they’d developed strong bonds. So, it’s understandable why they returned – and why they were enthusiastically welcomed back! Jeremy and Amber are now in different roles with Canada’s leader in property restoration and embracing a new passion in very familiar surroundings. Jeremy, DKI Canada’s National Marketing Manager, and Amber, project office manager with DKI - Pro Pacific, join us to discuss the journey that brought them...home.Music for this episode is, (fittingly) “You Made it Home” and “House We Built ” by Close Kicks and “Build a Home” by Cassie Noble. 

In the month that marks International Women’s Day, PM Jorga Cooper and PMA Mary Goodwin tell us how they broke new ground – and a figurative ceiling – when, together, they became the first all-female project management team at DKI – CRCS. They tell us of this milestone. And, with colleague, PMA Faithann Chininea, they describe some of the wins – and challenges – in establishing their rightful place in a still male-dominated industry. Rita Chen is all-in when it comes to numbers – especially if they translate into her being able to see their direct connection to making people’s lives better. DKI – Canada’s new controller tells us about this about this passion, and why she chose to bring it to DKI. Amber Marsh, DKI – Propacific Project Office Manager, tells us about the sounds and smells that help define home for her. Music for this episode is Brave and Move on Grow by Cassie Noble, and Always Be Alright by Close Kicks. 

As a member of the Restoration Large Loss Team with DKI - Barclay Restorations, Shawn Envik knows all about strength and staying power. It recently served him well OFF the job site, too, when he took part in a charity fundraising contest that had him extend his arm out for what seemed like an hour. (He admits it was only a few minutes, but felt much longer). He and Andrea May, Strategic Partnership Manager with DKI - Barclay Restorations tell us – and demonstrate – how this unique contest played out. Oh, and they talk high stakes musical chairs, as well!Lindsey and Trevor Lynds are two of the newest members of the DKI family. But the owners of DKI - Truro are already earning high praise from peers – to go along with the DKI 2025 Rising Star Award.What’s home mean for Bryan Pereira, DKI - Canada’s VP of Business Operations? He lets us know in our “How I Define Home” regular feature.Music for this episode is Long Way From Home by Close Kicks and Move on Grow by Cassie Noble. 

Two crews that cruise to the challenge of feeding their community’s most vulnerable. Community Crew of Saint-Catharines has been making and delivering lunches to local children in need for more than a decade.It’s an important charity that DKI – Miller stepped up to support – financially, but also by sending its crews to assist with the regular preparations of these lunches. Tracy Holmwood, co-owner of DKI – Miller, tells us how and why their crews stepped up to assist Community Crew.The Fire and Ice Family Festival, which takes place on an Alberta frozen lake, may not be for the faint of heart. But the annual event, which raises big funds for Ronald McDonald House, is a big hit for those with a big heart. Lucas Howes, Business Development Manager with DKI – St. Albert – the event’s long-time organizer, shares how this year’s festival will be even bigger than its previous four incarnations. Music for this episode is Medicine by Cassie Noble and Fix it For You by Close Kicks.

The married couple that becomes equal partners as DKI members: not uncommon. But a DKI power house couple that’s known each other since their early teens? Meet Judy and Julian DiIorio, owner/operators of DKI – North York. They’re new to the family of Canada’s leader in property restoration. But certainly not knew to each other. They met when they were barely teens, eventually married and started a family. That long familiarity has served them well in business, too. They tell us how.Khrista Sampson of DKI - Halifax returns to the show, three years after her first appearance. And this time, she’s back to tell us what being the recipient of the DKI EmpowerHer Award means to her.For Amanda Saunders, DKI Canada’s Senior Manager of Essential Services, home starts with the smell of salt. The Newfoundland native explains in our regular feature, “How I Define Home.”Music for this episode is “Move on Grow” and “Medicine” by Cassie Noble.

From ice storms to wildfires to a major building flood that consumed an entire neighborhood and beyond, DKI members from coast-to-coast met, and conquered, a wide array of restoration challenges. 2025 also saw some genuine celebratory moments, too. New owners came on board, bringing with them new ideas, while sharing in DKI’s mission and philosophy. A high point was, to be sure, the CFL welcoming DKI as a major sponsor. And who can forget all those unique events that helped define DKI as major contributors to their individual communities and national charities? Whether it was a fundraising volleyball tournament in Sudbury, or a friendly wager in support of RMH Canada between two CFL uber fans at the Grey Cup in Winnipeg, DKI members proved that even when they’re (rarely) off the work clock, they’re always on the “helping others” clock.Theme music provided by Cassie Noble, Graham Lindsey and Close Kicks. 

It was ambitious. Especially at a time of year when many might be experiencing donation exhaustion. But DKI Canada felt otherwise - and issued a challenge to prove it.It agreed to match donations to Ronald McDonald House Charities, which ultimately raised a total of $150,000.  DKI Canada CEO, Chris Schmidt, explains how it all unfolded – in record time – and exceeded expectations.Giving back is what DKI does – and not just its corporate head office.We speak to Lori Perizzolo, president and CEO of DKI – Calgary, about the passion he and his teams have for giving back to their city. And what his reaction was upon learning that commitment earned DKI – Calgary the DKI Evolve Community Impact Award.Music for this episode is Medicine and Brave by Cassie Noble. 

In his role as producer and host of Across The Street, Across The Country, Denis Grignon has been asking the questions, getting to know the people of DKI and telling their stories for almost 100 episodes.So, we figured it’s high time Canada’s leader in property restoration – specifically, its leader, DKI Canada CEO Chris Schmidt – turn the table and interview Denis.It’s a fascinating conversation where we learn more about the fella who’s normally the one conducting the interview. Denis’s answers also tell us a lot about those DKI folks from coast to coast whom he’s met, and interviewed, over the past four years. Music for this episode is “The House We Built” and “You Made it Home” by Close Kicks and “Build a Home” by Cassie Noble. 

If you were lucky enough to be one of the tens of thousands of people in the stands watching the recent Grey Cup game, you may not have noticed the dozen or so DKI logos on toques, hats and jackets in that one section. But you certainly wouldn’t have missed the DKI logo on the field during that Canadian classic match. Canada’s leader in property restoration is now partnered with Canada’s leader in professional football. And the people boldly and proudly displaying all that DKI garb (along with the jersey  of their favourite CFL team) were arguably the most excited about being there – as fans, but also because they felt a new and special connection to the CFL. We hear from some of the DKI people who were there and what this game – and this new relationship – means to them.And we talk to two DKI members in that group – who are from opposite ends of the country and who were cheering on their respective team on the field. Can you say…wager? They did. And the benefactor is Ronald McDonald House Charities. Mike Howes and Mario Caetano tell us how that epic game inspired an epic bet for worthy cause.   Music for this episode is Always Be Alright and Kick it Up by Close Kicks  

We’ve all seen pictures. The piles of clutter and debris, piled high to the ceiling and covering virtually every inch of floor. The results of hoarding can be, and typically are, horrifying. At its extreme, professionals are called in to restore the space. And it takes a special person to not only work in oft-times unsanitary and unsafe condition, but to do so knowing the root cause of hoarding – someone with mental health challenges.Kyle and Brennan Foley of DKI - York Region are two restoration experts with deep experience with hoarding claims. They share how they deal with these unique jobs – and how they manage, in their own individual ways, the inevitable emotions these restorations evoke. Registered psycho-therapist, Elizabeth Hepworth, explains how, and why, someone becomes a hoarder – and how those close to them can identify the problem so that they can act on it. Music for this episode is Hard Truth by Close Kicks and Medicine by Cassie Noble

 DKI isn’t just talkin’ the talk when it comes to reducing its environmental footprint. It’s acting on it – with some help from go-green consultant. Carol Aziz. She holds a PHD in environmental engineering and is owner of Achieve Sustainability. She tells us how she’s helping Canada’s leader in property restoration also become a leader in working towards Net Zero.In football parlance, it’s that quarterback instruction to run fast and far to make that touchdown catch. Well, DKI has already earned that winning touchdown, as a new sponsor of the best darn football league in the world, eh – The CFL. Justin Vandenberg, VP of Corporate Partnerships with the CFL joins us to talk about this new sponsorship, where both parties are perfect teammates.And Angela Bergeson, Supervisor with DKI’s Remote Estimating Desk, expounds on how her home is defined, largely, by….sounds!Music for this episode is Coming Up and Kick it Up by Close Kicks.

We dedicate this entire episode to a conversation – (and it moves quickly, cuz it’s super-interesting) – with restoration industry consultant Lukas Szczurowski. It’s a sneak peak, if you will, of what DKI members will hear when the founder and CEO of Sanktum takes the keynote stage at Inspire 2025 in early November.But don’t worry. We make sure the expert doesn’t divulge TOO much from his decades-long tenure in the sales industry. Just enough to have you wanting more from the specialist with a special – and clear – manner of explaining what he’s learned. We do, however, give Lukas a bit of a break between imparting his wisdom – when he enthusiastically participates in our popular regular feature, “How I Define Home.”Music for this episode is “This Is Everything” “You Made it Home” and “Fix it For You” by Close Kicks. 

Golf’s good. Softball is swell. But when DKI - Sudbury looked for a feel-good fundraiser in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities, they hit the beach - (or maybe they trucked in some sand?). Their now annual volleyball tournament is raising thousands for the charity, which DKI Canada is a big supporter of. Jason Gaudet tells how and why he and Alicia Scott-Lajeunesse – co-owners/operators of DKI - Sudbury – went with this kind of net gain.The DKI Canada Resilience Cup honours those who’ve overcome big challenges for big rewards. Lisa and Craig Schaeffer earned it not just with hard word and perseverance, but with genuine humility. The owners of DKI – Smithers, DKI – Prince George and DKI - Terrace share the story behind what motivated them and their teams to achieve those goals.And Lucas Howes of DKI – St. Albert tells us how he defines home.Music for this episode is Small Town Big Dreams by Close Kicks and Ghost Stories by Looking For Heather. 

Gary Chant is ready for retirement. The Cape Bretoner is capping off a career in restoration that spanned almost four decades. And now he’s ready to pass the torch – in the form of ownership of DKI – Meco – to one of his long-time trusted team members: Troy MacDonald.Gary joins us to talk about his past lessons and accomplishments – and the ones that are sure to follow. (He also manages to squeeze in some talk about his beloved Montreal Canadiens). Jeanne McGregor isn’t ready to retire – as co-owner of DKI – Toronto East. But the respected DKI leader is stepping down from her position with DKI’s Board of Directors. The recipient of the 2025 Evolve Recognition of Service Award tells us  what this chapter in her life was like, and the impact she’s hoping she made during that tenure.And DKI Business Development Manager, Ira Brenton, tells us how he defines home.Music for this episode is “Move on Grow,” by Cassie Noble and “Dance with Ya,” by Close Kicks. 

Bryan Pereira wasn’t necessarily unhappy in his previous senior management position in the restoration industry. Indeed, he was beloved by the teams he led. But Bryan longed for a new challenge. And when DKI came calling with an opportunity that would not only meet that yearning, but also make him a top decision-maker - and mentor - with Canada’s leader in property restoration, he knew it was the right move. We sit down, in person, with DKI’s new VP of Business Operations to discuss this new chapter in his career – and life.DKI -  Windsor-Essex specializes in restoration – but also in empathy, kindness and understanding. It earned them the Evolve 2025 Compassionate Restorer Award. Chris Kelly tells us what led to DKI Canada bestowing this honour, and how he, his colleagues and crew practise self-care in the face of a uniquely difficult type of restoration.Music for this episode is Run and Hide, You’ll Find Me and This is Everything by Close Kicks. 

His name has come up, regularly, in interviews, since we launched this show more than three years ago. Indeed, virtually all DKI members across Canada have a story about their CEO and how he helps nurture, guide, inspire them – and how he even expressed genuine excitement to bundle up in a fishing hut with one of those members on a frozen Alberta lake in February!We sit down, in person - (No Zoomin’ here, eh) - with Chris Schmidt to discuss where DKI was, is, and headed. Spoiler alert: The future’s bright, says the CEO who describes himself as an eternal optimist. Chris also expounds on what makes DKI special, and what inspires him in his leadership role – (Spoiler alert #2: it’s the people). Music for this episode is “Coming Up,” “The House We Built” and “Always Be Alright” by Close Kicks.

It’s telling that “Wildfire Season” is now part of our everyday language. And this year it arrived in Western Canada earlier than usual. and with a vengeance. But Jeff Sereda and Neil Thomas were braced and ready with their crews to come to the aid of those affected in their home provinces. We speak to the owners of DKI - Saskatoon Disaster Services and DKI - Winnipeg, respectively, about how they’re meeting these challenges. Which, in some cases, requires long drives through billowing smoke.Music for this episode is "Ghost Stories" by Looking for Heather and "Hard Truth" by Close Kicks. 

Her hand went up – fast and without hesitation. Olivia Smith wasn’t only willing to uproot her life for a few weeks and travel more than 1200 Ks to Orillia to assist DKI crews there dealing with the aftermath of a major ice storm; she was eager! The PM with DKI – Til-ka in Thunder Bay tells us why.DKI is now an official sponsor of the CFL. It’s a good fit, fer sure. Rene Parades would agree. The kicker with the Calgary Stampeders is now also a winner off the field as DKI – RCCN’s new Business Development Manager. The Grey Cup winner and all-star veteran tells why his off-field career is also a great fit – for him and Canada’s leader in property restoration. And one of our resident show musicians, Graham Lindsey, shares how he defines his home.Music for this episode is Always Be Alright and Small Town, Big Dreams by Close Kicks.  

So much for slowly easing into ownership. Trevor Lynds and wife Lindsey recently took over the helm of DKI – Contrast in Nova Scotia. And it wasn’t long before they were deep into a massive claim that even the most seasoned and experienced restoration expert would gasp at. It’s one that grew in scope, involving everything from environmental assessments, to road closures and anxious residents of an affected neighbourhood. Oh, and it all started to unfold on a Friday afternoon – at the start of a long weekend! Was Trevor and their team in Truro up for the challenge? Yup. And he did it while maintaining a confidence and composure that belie the newness of his status with Canada’s leader in property restoration. Music for this episode is “Fix It For You” by Close Kicks and “Move On Grow,” by Cassie Noble. 

It is now official. The most recent ice storm that wreaked havoc and robbed hundreds of thousands of hydro in Central Ontario, was the biggest storm of its kind since 1998.It means Rick Rimkey, Owner of DKI – R&F Construction in Orillia and his crews set aside much of their own personal damage mitigation, to deal with that of their clients.  Because that’s what Canada’s leader in Property Restoration does, but Rick’s not alone. Crews from DKI - Til-ka Construction in Thunder Bay made the lonnnnng trek to come to the aid of Rick and his crew. Because that’s also what DKI does. Rick and Jered Zieroth Co-owner of DKI - Til-ka Construction are on the show to discuss how this all unfolded – and how their combined many hands on deck will bring restoration success.We also check in with Henry Remiz and Eric Cullen of DKI - CRCS, just as they’re getting ready to climb Canada’s largest free standing structure. And again, moments after they’ve completed that colossal vertical trek, in support of The World Wildlife Fund.Music for this episode is Medicine by Cassie Noble and This Is Everything by Close Kicks.

It’s not that she wasn’t truly happy in her position leading DKI’s Remote Estimate Desk. Heck, Amanda Saunders says she loved that job. But when an opportunity arose – one with more responsibility, but also more opportunity to nurture and encourage more people – she couldn’t resist. DKI Canada’s new Senior Manager of Essential Services tells about this new career, and life, transition.DKI - Bravo’s Michael Meinig was full of vigour and positivity when we first spoke to him while he was training for an upcoming 24-hour ski marathon in support of the Kootenay Christian Academy. Well, we caught up to him when he was in hour 20 of that epic ski. And he was...still full of vigour and positivity??!!. What the ?And Mikaela Caetano with DKI - Refexio shares how she defines her homes. Yes, plural. HomeS.Music for this episode is “Always Be Alright” by Close Kicks. 

There’ve been some new faces in the DKI family, recently. Well, not “new” per se. But they’re new in their new roles - as location owners! JP Giroux spent time in DKI head office, before landing as the owner of DKI - Kingston. Neil Thomas was an integral part of DKI - Winnipeg. But he’s now fully in charge of the Manitoba location.Mike Howes is no stranger to being an owner, with DKI locations in Alberta. He’s also no stranger to Saskatchewan, where he grew up. And now he’s the owner of DKI - Regina.And speaking of “landing,” we take a fanciful flight aboard, ahem, “Virtual Airlines Canada” to visit these three forward-thinking entrepreneurs. Okay, it’s a fun, make-believe flight. But the conversations in which they share why they made their respective leaps are very real.Music for this episode is Running Wild and Coming Up by Close Kicks.  

DKI Canada has long been a big supporter of Ronald McDonald House Charities. But members from coast to coast go well beyond just fundraising – (in the thousands and thousands of dollars, by the way!) – for the charity. They roll up their sleeves – literally - don a hairnet, gloves and apron and get to work as part of RMHC’s Meals From The Heart. DKI Canada Business Development Manager Ira Brenton tells us what his recent experience in this very special kitchen was like. Melissa DeMers, RMHC Toronto’s Director of Development, joins us from this special kitchen to explain why volunteers like Ira are so integral to this program – and what it means to the families it serves. And Matt Holmwood, president and GM of DKI – Miller, tells us how he defines home. Music for this episode is by Cassie Noble, Close Kicks and Graham Lindsey. 

It’s the first interview we’ve conducted with a guest in ski boots. And hats off – (or toques off, eh) – to Michael Meinig. The office manager with DKI - Bravo in B.C. slowed his stride (but only slightly) while training for a solo, 24-hour cross-country ski marathon in support of The Kootenay Christian Academy. He explains what inspired him to go without sleep for that stretch  – and how it’ll make turning 60 extra special. Sometimes you have to meet potential employees on their turf – literally. DKI - Pro Pacific’s  Chenoa Findlay tells us why she’s confident her booth at a recent hiring fair in Victoria will bear fruit.And Hannah Holmwood of DKI Head Office tells us how she defines home – for her and her beloved beagle/foxhound cross. Music for this episode is Ghost Stories by Looking For Heather and Move on, Grow by Cassie Noble.

Every team depends on dedicated teammates, playing both ends of the ice – together - to ensure a win. But before that can happen, that team needs a strong and motivating leader. Fatema Hardwarewala is DKI’s expert in budget planning. But she’s also an inspiring leader to the members of her finance team. She shares her story, and what it takes to be a good coach in a game that is as much about people as it is spreadsheets and numbers.We also catch up with Lucas Howes of DKI - Sparklean on an Alberta golf course. Wait, what? A golf course? In the dead of winter? In Alberta?And Hilary Spencer, DKI Canada’s HR coordinator, tells us what home means to her.Music for this episode is Small Town, Big Dreams by Close Kicks and Build A Home by Cassie Noble. 

Who knew there’d still be so many wonderful stories to share, three years later? Well, we did. Because DKI, Canada’s leader in property restoration is, at its core, about people – and how DKI members care about, and for, people. And people have always been a source of great stories. Now a tradition, this end-of-year episode features some of the highlights of episodes in 2024. It includes emotional on-site accounts from the aftermath of massive wildfires in Alberta and major snowstorms in Cape Breton, to the restoration of antique saddles and even a charity climb up the CN Tower.And there’s no doubt we’ll be back 12 months from now, looking back on more great stories from 2025. Music from this episode is Always Be Alright and Coming Up by Close Kicks.  

You’ve heard his name mentioned in each and every one of our near-100 episodes over the past three seasons. Darryl James.In this special Holiday Season episode, we sit down for a one-on-one with the bass player with internationally-acclaimed The Strumbellas, and the creative force behind Close Kicks, Darryl’s solo project that contributes our show’s music. We managed to catch Darryl between concert performances  – and on a short break from renovations to his home. Don’t worry. Darryl pulled down his dust mask so that you can better listen to him expound on what drives his creativity. (And how swinging a hammer helps fuel that creativity). Music for this episode is The House We Built, Fix It For You, Coming Up, You Made It Home and Closer To You – all by, yup, Close Kicks. 

It’s one thing to hear a college administrator extol the virtues of a new course for those looking to enter the restoration industry, or upgrade their existing industry skills. And we did in Episode 6 this season, via John McNeil of Humber College, as well as DKI’s VP of Business Development Adam Tzarik – the latter, along with David Goetz, DKI VP Essential Services, played no small role in helping develop the innovative course. But...what would an actual student, who completed the 14-week course, say? Josh DeFoa  provides us with a first-hand, student-perspective review.Your Team is a new feature that introduces you to the some of the DKI head office people who make DKI the champion of the industry. We meet members of Team RED. And Neil Thomas provides us with a tip for homeowners bracing themselves for – brrrr – the winter season. Music for this episode is Coming Up by Close Kicks and Medicine by Cassie Noble

Food as Fuel. It takes the right kind, and the right amount, for DKI’s teams to do the hard work of property restoration – which often demands long hours. Matt, Kyle and Ryan Douglas know this, and live by it. (Hey, when the brothers and owner/operators of DKI  - CRCS aren’t on the job, there’s a good chance they’re participating in, or leading, a cycling tour for charity). And they want to ensure their teams also have the tools and knowledge to stay fit, and eat right. We sit in on a wellness seminar they hosted, which included a presentation by professional nutritionist Hilary Askew, at their brand new state-of-the-arts headquarters – which, yup, also includes a state-of-the-art gym for its staff. Music for this episode is “You’ll Find Me” and “Hard Truth” by Close Kicks.  

Hey, who among us isn’t carrying a few extra pounds? That's why Matt Holmwood knew he’d have plenty of participants (including himself) when he set up a workplace weight loss challenge. To make it even more motivating, Matt, the president and general manager of DKI – Miller, turned it into a fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada. He tells us how the challenge works – and how the two weight-loss winners will be determined in December.You’d think he’d want a bit of a breather between assuming ownership of DKI locations, but when an opportunity arose in Mississauga for Nathan Hughes to expand – only a few short months after her took ownership of DKI – Al-Care in Waterdown – he seized it. He explains what went into the decision for a quick expansion. We're also introducing a new segment. “Your Team” is about your DKI teammates, who you may not know all that well, but whose roles are integral to DKI being Canada’s champion in property restoration. Music for this episode is “Move On Grow,” by Cassie Noble, and “Dance With Ya,” by Close Kicks.  

Chris Nordyke has spent his career in sales, training, coaching, and consulting – most of it with an emphasis on the property restoration industry, where he also worked. The Oregon-based entrepreneur and his Floodlight Consulting Group co-founder and podcast co-host, Brandon Reece, will be the featured speakers at DKI Inspire in November.In this special episode, Chris joins us for a one-on-one conversation about all things restoration: what he’s learned, what he teaches, where the industry is headed, and why it's a great business - no matter which side of the border you’re on.Dwayne Harpell of DKI - RCCN tells us what home means to him, especially since settling down in his new province.Music for this episode is “Build a Home” by Cassie Noble, along with “This is Everything” and “Fix it For You” by Close Kicks. 

DKI - Rocky Cross Construction owner, Jason Daniels, doesn’t have aspirations of hob-knobbing with Hollywood’s glitterati, but he was more than willing to lend his on-camera skills for a professional video that will do much to help homeowners mitigate the effects of the next major weather disaster. Jason tells us why he travelled to Toronto from his home base in Alberta for the project, and why the insurer that’s producing the video recruited him. The Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction shares the insurance company's (and Jason’s) goal. The non-profit organization does this by dealing directly with home builders, introducing them to ways to lessen the impact of major winds, hail, floods and fires. The ICLR’s Glenn McGillivray tells us of his organization’s challenges – and successes.And DKI Canada’s Director of Human Resources, Alex Defoa, shares what home means to her.Music for this episode is "Long Way From Home" and "Running Wild" by Close Kicks. 

October is Fire Prevention Month and we’re honouring the job that is so much more than simply holding hoses, climbing ladders and entering burning buildings.We sit down for a candid, wide-ranging conversation with Bryan Burbidge, Fire Chief for the City of Richmond Hill, Ontario. The 35-year veteran of fire service tells us how the job of fire fighting – and those who do it – have evolved over the years. One constant, though: it’s always been a career fraught with the prospect of trauma and hardship, which the chief discusses with open honesty. But also, he offers hope and promise! (The chief shares some great take-away tips on fire prevention, too!).Kate Battler is one of DKI Canada’s new and welcome recruits. How did the Director of Performance and Compliance get here? She tells how in the return of our feature, “How I came to DKI.”And we’ve got another tip for you, courtesy of John Soto of DKI - Pro Pacific.Them music for this episode is "Ghost Stories" by Looking For Heather and "Brave" by Cassie Noble.  

A teaser for Episode 17 of Season 3

Ryan Thelwell spent more than 10 years catching hundreds of passes, running thousands of yards and scoring dozens of touchdowns.Today, the former CFL star is channelling many of those skills that come from a storied pro football career and two Grey Cups – the perseverance, hard-work, and team-first attitude – as a leader in the property restoration industry.Thelwell’s new playing field is in Hawkesbury as president of DKI - Thelwell. We head to the Eastern Ontario town to meet up with the former wide receiver with the wide (and totally disarming) smile. Ryan tells us how transitioning to his new role from a successful career with the team at DKI - RCCN in Calgary required some close studying of the playbook. But the touchdowns are already coming quickly for the London, Ontario native – (and member of that city’s Sports Hall of Fame) – who’ll tell you his favourite teammates have always been his wife and four children. Music for this episode is “The House We Built” and “You Made it Home” by Close Kicks. 

Jeanne McGregor is, by all accounts, a veteran of the restoration industry, and a nurturing leader who’s revered – and not just within her ranks of DKI - Con-tech, but across the country. It’s why she was recently honoured with DKI Canada’s first-ever “EmpowerHer” Leadership Award. Jeanne tells us what that climb, over several decades, to such esteemed status was like. It wasn’t always easy, she admits, in an industry that was – and still is, though to a much lesser degree – dominated by men.In so many ways, Jasper, Alberta is Canada’s town, beloved by the millions of people nationwide who’ve visited it.  When recent wildfires destroyed a third of the buildings, the pain and sorrow was felt from coast to coast. Mike Howes, president of DKI - Sparklean, describes the impact of this devastation and how his team is working towards restoring the historic community. And in our continuing series, “What Home Means to Me” we hear from Lindsay Sereda of DKI - SDS in Saskatoon. Music for this episode is Medicine by Cassie Noble, and Ghost Stories by Looking For Heather.

Pretty much every industry of late has been struggling to find the best possible staff. It’s meant extending that search well beyond the local community – and the country, for that matter.Recruiting foreign skilled workers, however, requires more than just hanging a “Help Wanted” sign in their country. DKI Canada’s Director of Human Resources, Alex DeFoa, tells us what’s involved in attracting staff from beyond our borders – and creating a work culture where they feel welcomed. Canada’s biggest city isn’t immune to the impact of a weather catastrophe. And when record rains hit the Greater Toronto Area, Mike Foley of DKI - Foley Restoration was called on for a major – a BIG major – restoration. He tells us what’s involved in a bringing a business back to, well, business – all million square feet of it.We’ve also got another instalment in our “How I Define Home” series. This one is courtesy of DKI VP of Business Development, Adam Tzarik. Music for this episode is “I Cracked,” “Always Be Alright” and “Small Town, Big Dreams” by Close Kicks.

A teaser for Episode 14 of Season 3

TW: The following episode contains content about suicide. Listener discretion is advised.“It’s not for everybody,” warns Chris Kelly of DKI - Parker in Windsor, Ontario. Indeed, the trauma and crime scene restoration specialist has been exposed to work sites that keep him up at night. But a recent one had an especially profound effect on him. It earned him DKI Canada’s Compassionate Restorer Award.Chris joins us to discuss his work, and the job that had him develop a special bond with two grieving parents.If you or someone you know is in crisis, there are ways to get help. If you're in immediate danger or need urgent medical support, call 9-1-1. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.More resources are available here: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/mental-health-services/mental-health-get-help.htmlTheme music is “Medicine” and “Move On, Grow” by Cassie Noble. 

It’s been almost a year and a half since we last spoke to DKI’s Future Council. Its members have gained a lot of wisdom since that time. They also gained a new member. We reconnect with Mikaela Caetano of DKI - Refexio, Alex Holmwood of DKI - Miller and Jessica Bradley of DKI - Highland. We also connect – for the first time – with their new FC colleague, Jordan Mills, of DKI - SDS.Darryl James isn’t just the creative force behind our theme music. He’s also a landlord. And a conscientious one – and, by his own admission, “terrified of water.”  We follow him, and DKI mould expert Daryl Richard, on a mould inspection in one of the musician-come-landlord’s rental properties. We’ve got a BBQ safety tip, courtesy of Neil Thomas of DKI - Winnipeg.Music for this episode is “Fix it for you” and “Coming up” by – yup – Darryl James’s Close Kicks! 

DKI is, indeed, the leader in Canadian restoration. And its members achieve this national goal, by knowing how to deliver that message to their own unique parts of the country. Because what works out west may not necessarily work as effectively out east. Then again, it might. Lindsay Sereda, Marketing Director of DKI - SDS in Saskatchewan can speak to this – and does in our feature interview!Nic Oake took his title as a Red Seal carpenter with DKI - Sparklean in Edmonton to a national skills competition in Quebec City. We speak to him moments after he put his hammer down – and moments before a champion was declared. Did he win? Hmm...And new-to-DKI general legal counsel Diego Cariaga shares what home means to him.Theme music for this episode is “Can’t give it up" and “Dance with ya” by Close Kicks. 

It takes many people with many skills to take on - and successfully complete – a full restoration. That typically requires contracting out one or two (or several) sub-trades. DKI - RCCN, however, found a way to reduce its need to sub-contract. Lory Perizzolo, CEO of the Calgary-based DKI member, tells us how. Cities, neighbourhoods and homes are constantly evolving, adapting to new challenges – from climate change to family needs. How they adapt to, and meet these challenges will depend on that next generation of builders and engineers. Dr Eugene Mohareb, who grew up in Eastern Ontario, has a lot to say on the topic. He’s now an associate professor at The School of Construction Management and Engineering at Reading University in the U.K, helping to train this next gen of construction innovators. What they’re learning, he tells us, is applicable on this side of the pond, too. And we’ve got a tip from DKI - Miller’s Alex Holmwood! Music for this episode is “The House We Built” by Close Kicks and “Brave” by Cassie Noble.

They’re no longer anomalies. Major catastrophes are now regular – even seasonal - occurrences. And they’ve spawned an industry of experts who provide important catastrophe-related data to insurance and public sector stakeholders. CatIQ is leading that charge, with Laura Twidle at its helm. The Chief Executive Officer tells us how CatIQ is meeting this (ever-increasing and ever-evolving) demand for a specialized service.The Foley family of DKI Foley Restoration really stepped up recently – literally. They, along with a small army of other DKI members, all climbed the stairs – so so many stairs! – of the CN Tower in support of the World Wildlife Fund Canada. We speak to Team Foley moments before those first steps, and moments after the last one. And we’ve got another tip, courtesy of Dwayne Harpell of DKI RCCN in Calgary.Music for this episode is “This is Everything” by Close Kicks, and “Ghost Stories” by Looking for Heather. 

They may have big monetary value. Or they may not. And it doesn’t matter. Because to the person who cherishes that item - that piece of jewellery, that garment, that picture, that chair, table or dresser - it’s the emotional value that’s most important. So if it’s been damaged due to catastrophe, restoring it is paramount.Sean Carter, of Calgary Contents, has spent much of his career restoring not so much items, as memories. He shares with us the stories behind some of these special restorations, and what drives him to bring these items back to life. And DKI’s Natalie Rotondo, who’s lived on three continents, tells us how she defines home.Music for this episode is Long Way From Home by Close Kicks and Medicine by Cassie Noble. 

Think of it as a jumbo-sized Play-Doh dispenser. But instead of child’s clay, it squirts out a specially-formulated concrete-like material. And instead of it being used to create a dinosaur or a volcano on the kitchen table, it’s used to build houses on lots – faster, less costly and better able to withstand natural disasters than conventional construction, say its practioners.Three entrepreneurs are betting their backhoe-sized 3D printer - and the unique construction method it’s designed for – is poised to change the way we build homes and, in turn, help solve a housing crisis.We meet Dwight Corcoran – and his 3D printing robot – at his Cormor office in Central Ontario. Music for this episode is “Coming Up” and “You Made it Home” by Close Kicks. 

It’s not that learning-on-the-job can – or should – be replaced. But DKI knows that formal training, in a classroom setting, for its members – present and future ones – also helps to guarantee its standing as Canada’s leader in property restoration. It’s why DKI played no small role in working with Humber College to develop a new 14-week virtual program for those new to the industry, as well as those looking to move up its ranks. Adam Tzarik, DKI Canada’s VP of Business Development, recounts how a chance encounter helped all of this come together – and the role DKI played in designing the course. John McNeil, Humber College professor and course coordinator, shares what students will learn in this innovative Disaster Recovery Manager Program – which they can pursue while still on the job. And Natasha Pinto, DKI’s Senior VP Operations, tells us what home means to her. Theme music for this episode is “Build a Home” by Cassie Noble, and “Coming Up” by Close Kicks. 

The restoration industry will always rely on skilled people using good old-fashioned hand tools. And DKI has those in spades. (Get it?) But Canada’s leader in property restoration also knows it has to be a leader in industry innovation. That demands adapting to, and embracing,  digital technology. DKI’s VP of Software Development, Jason Rosen, tells us how this is being achieved with all its members from coast to coast.Rob MacPherson, DKI’s Manager of Training and Development, shares the detes on a digital method of creating property estimates. Hint: iPad instead of note pad. And DKI - Miller Construction’s Alex Holmwood is our first contributor to a new semi-regular series, where we offer helpful homeowner tips.Music for this episode is “Small Town, Big Dreams” and “I’ll Always Be Alright” by Close Kicks. 

Ryan, Matt and Kyle Douglas weren’t quite satisfied with just one DKI outlet – carrying on a legacy that was built by the Douglas patriarch, Cris, who is also a DKI founder. So the bros headed 80 Ks north east from their Oshawa location to expand their DKI - CRCS in Peterborough. They share their story of expansion, from the site of their new venture – days before its official opening. Gary Chant and his crews with DKI - Meco Construction were still dealing with claims from Hurricane Fiona – when Cape Breton and much of Atlantic Canada got hit with crippling snowfalls. We reach him in his truck to describe the effects of this latest weather disaster.Rack ‘em up, Lucas Howes and Kevin Morris. We check in with the two DKI pool experts – (well, they’re experts at raising funds for a worthy cause, at least) - from a billiard hall in Lloydminster. And we’ve got another instalment of “What home means to me,” courtesy of DKI Canada’s Rob McPherson.Music for this episode is “Medicine” by Cassie Noble, and a new, acoustic version of “The House We Built” by Close Kicks. 

Some DKI business owners thrive, even rely on, that high-energy, never-stop, Go Go Go personality. And then there’s Jason Gaudet. DKI - ER Global’s owner/operator does get the job done – always with precision and deft attention to detail. But there’s a very easy-going, calm, confident and thoughtful manner to Jason that belies his age and his dedication to an industry predicated on the hectic and frenzied. We travel to Sudbury to meet with Jason to learn what drew him to property restoration work – and, specifically, DKI. He’ll even weigh in on whether Sudbury is in Northern Ontario or the  Near North!Music for this episode is “Ghost Stories” by Looking For Heather and “Run and Hide” by Close Kicks.