Small Business Weekly Podcast — Episode 516 (11:53)
Small business owners know that crises don’t wait for a convenient moment. Whether it’s an unexpected disruption, a major setback, or a situation completely out of your control, leadership is often defined by how you respond under pressure.
That’s the focus of the latest episode of The Small Business Weekly Podcast, where host Michael Rogers sits down with Chris Kushmaul, owner of Restoration 1 of Metro Detroit.
In this episode, Chris Kushmaul shares his experience as a service‑disabled Army veteran and how his military background influences the way he runs his business. His company specializes in water, fire, smoke, mold, and biohazard cleanup—services that place him and his team directly in the middle of high‑stress situations for homeowners and business owners alike.
“What we do isn’t all that different from being in the military,” Kushmaul explains. “You come in the middle of a crisis, and you calm things down and you help.” That mindset—bringing order, clarity, and reassurance when things feel overwhelming—is a lesson that resonates far beyond the restoration industry.
Listeners will also hear about Kushmaul’s recognition as a Veteran Owned Small Business of the Year for 2025 by Michigan Celebrates Small Business, as well as insights into what it takes to build trust, lead with purpose, and help people return to normal after unexpected challenges.
The Small Business Weekly Podcast, produced by the Small Business Association of Michigan, delivers weekly interviews with experienced entrepreneurs and experts, offering practical advice and real‑world perspectives for business owners at every stage.
Listen to Episode 516 now and hear how calm, service‑driven leadership can make all the difference when it matters most.
About the Small Business Weekly Podcast
The Small Business Weekly Podcast, presented by the Small Business Association of Michigan, delivers a new interview with an entrepreneurial expert each week – featuring practical advice and success stories designed to support and inspire Michigan’s small business community.
Visit SBAM’s Media Hub for past episodes of the Small Business Weekly Podcast.