Written by Daniel Fusch
On June 13, 2025, more than 100 contractors, public adjusters, and claims professionals gathered in Metairie, Louisiana, for the fourth annual Level Up Claims Summit. Hosted by Galen M. Hair, Managing Partner at Insurance Claim HQ (ICHQ), the summit wasn’t just a professional gathering - it was a mission in motion. With hurricane season already underway, the event served as both a strategy session and a call to action for those who help communities rebuild after disaster.
This year’s summit broke new ground. For the first time, attendance was completely free, making the event more accessible to professionals determined to grow their businesses and deepen their impact. From innovative sessions on AI and safety to bad faith laws and marketing, the summit wasn’t just about thought leadership. It was about real leadership, demonstrated in real time.
As Galen puts it, “We’re not just building better businesses; we’re fostering better people. This summit is about creating a ripple effect of growth and excellence across the industry.”
Teaching by Doing: Storm Team in Action
One of the most unforgettable moments of the day didn’t happen on stage - it happened by the food tents. Instead of simply telling attendees about their work in disaster relief, the ICHQ Storm Team showed up in full force and did what they do best: served.
"Instead of just telling our attendees about the amazing work our Storm Team does, we decided to show them firsthand," explained ICHQ Marketing Director, Bobby Childs. "We set up a full-fledged pizza operation right on the event premises, cooking and serving pizza to our guests. It was a hit - people loved being able to experience our disaster relief efforts in real-time."
That authenticity hit home. It wasn’t just lunch; it was a masterclass in leadership through service. Attendees weren’t just there to absorb information - they were reminded that this work is personal. It’s about people who’ve lost their homes, their stability, and sometimes their hope. And it's about showing up for them.
Learning from the Best, Growing with the Rest
The speaker roster this year was curated with one goal in mind: to deliver high-impact, immediately actionable insights. Topics ranged from personal branding and digital marketing to AI applications and safety on damaged property sites.
Scott Tillema kicked things off with a powerful keynote on leading with influence, giving restoration professionals tools to lead through chaos with clarity. Emma Tessler of Ninety Five Media taught attendees how to monetize their social media presence, emphasizing that digital visibility equals trust in today's economy. Josh Thomas delivered a deep dive on AI strategies, unpacking how contractors and adjusters can use automation to speed up workflows and make better decisions.
Meanwhile, panels on bad faith insurance tactics and expert report strategies offered tactical advice on how to win tougher claims cases. These weren't abstract theories; they were battle-tested methods shared by those in the trenches. Kevin Dandridge brought attention to overlooked safety issues on storm-damaged sites. An AI-focused panel led by ICHQ attorneys showcased how the firm integrates cutting-edge tools into its legal practice to better serve clients and streamline recovery efforts.
Galen M. Hair, who not only hosted the event but participated in its programming, emphasized that the summit’s success isn't just measured in attendance numbers - it’s about how much people walk away ready to do better.
“Navigating the complexities of insurance can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, claimants can level the playing field,” Galen explains. It’s a sentiment that came through in every session, every handshake, and every shared meal. While the summit tackled technical skills and legal tactics, it also championed emotional intelligence, resilience, and long-term vision.
Real Change Starts Here
The 2025 Level Up Claims Summit wasn’t about flashy presentations or empty inspiration. It was about giving professionals in the storm restoration industry the tools to do more, be better, and lead with purpose.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the 2025 hurricane season is expected to be especially active, with 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes, and 3 to 5 major hurricanes forecasted, and a 60% chance of an above-normal season. That means the need for highly trained, values-driven professionals is more critical than ever.
By hosting events like Level Up, Insurance Claim HQ ensures that those professionals are not only equipped with legal and technical knowledge but also with a sense of mission.
Judging by the buzz after this year’s event, the ripple effect is already in motion. Attendees have gone home with more than new strategies; they’ve returned to their communities with renewed purpose and stronger networks. Whether it’s a contractor ready to grow responsibly, an attorney pushing for better claims outcomes, or a public adjuster inspired to lead, the message is clear: we rise by lifting others.
Galen’s vision is working. Thanks to events like this, the entire industry is leveling up. To learn more, visit levelupclaim.com.
About Galen M. Hair
Galen M. Hair, Managing Partner at Insurance Claim HQ, is a nationally recognized property insurance attorney known for aggressively representing policyholders across the U.S. With thousands of families helped and a reputation for high-stakes litigation wins, he has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star and one of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100. Learn how to protect your property from disaster at www.insuranceclaimhq.com.
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