Across The Street, Across The Country

“Season 5, Episode 9 – Helm of Troy”

He’s not the “new guy” by any stretch. Troy MacDonald has been intrinsically tied to DKI – Mecco for decades, as the long-time right-hand man to previous owner Gary Chant who recently retired. And as the new owner, now is Troy’s time as the main man and mentor to his team in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia. Troy tells us what this transition has been like, and what makes it unique. DKI members have always been there to respond to the aftermath of wildfires, helping to restore businesses and homes.  But while one can never predict a wildfire’s impact or reach, there are ways to prepare, as best as one can. Craig Schaeffer, co-owner of DKI – Terrace, DKI – Smithers and DKI – Prince George shares some of the wisdom he’s gained as a resident – and restoration expert  – in an area that’s especially exposed to wildfire season.  Music for this episode is Ghost Stories by Looking For Heather and Small Town by Close Kicks

“Season 5, Episode 8 – DKI + RIA = WIN!”

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.

“Season 5, Episode 7 – Welcome Home”

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.

“Season 5, Episode 6 - A First. But Certainly Not The Last”

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.

"Season 5, Episode 5 – DKI – Barclay Restoration’s Envik Exhibits Unique Stamina for Charity”

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.