In this episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, Dan tackles one of the most common chimney problems—and it has nothing to do with fire. He explains how water finds its way into brick, mortar, and chimney caps, how to spot the signs early, and what homeowners can do to fix and prevent damage.

From there, Dan shifts into the “ghost stories” hiding inside older homes: knob-and-tube wiring, cast-iron plumbing, galvanized supply lines, and those enormous gravity furnaces sometimes called “octopus” systems. He breaks down what they are, why they’re still out there, and what you need to know if you’re buying or renovating an older house.

A listener question leads to a practical step-by-step fix for painted-over wallpaper glue, including how to safely prep, clean, and prime the wall for a smooth finish.

Finally, Dan shares a few personal ghost stories from his own 1900s home—strange noises, odd shadows, and one unforgettable week of unexplained events—and uses them as a segue into the importance of proper inspections and hiring qualified specialists when working with old home systems.

00:00 Welcome to Home in Progress

00:14 The Most Common Chimney Problem

00:35 House-Related Ghost Stories

01:22 Listener’s Wallpaper-Glue Dilemma

02:35 Solving the Wallpaper-Paste Problem

06:39 Priming for a Perfect Finish

10:22 Real Ghost Experiences

18:16 Unexplained Events in the Old House

18:43 Transition to Practical Home Improvement

20:18 Understanding Knob-and-Tube Wiring

25:07 Cast-Iron & Galvanized Plumbing

29:22 Gravity Furnaces: The “Octopus” in the Basement

32:34 Chimney Maintenance & Water Damage

38:57 Final Thoughts

In this episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen kicks things off with his first-snowfall story and a few thoughts on the annual fall battle—leaf cleanup. From there, he shifts gears into two seemingly different worlds that have more in common than you’d think: power tools and personal style.

Dan breaks down the circular saw—why it’s one of the most versatile tools a homeowner can own, how to choose the right type, which accessories make the biggest difference, and the key safety habits every DIYer should know.

Then, in a surprising but perfectly connected twist, the conversation turns to men’s fashion. Dan explains why dressing well isn’t about having an “eye for style” or chasing trends—it’s about learning skills, understanding fit, and applying timeless principles. Just like home improvement, great results come from practice, patience, and quality materials.

From the importance of proportion (in both clothes and color schemes) to the “Swap Trick” for stepping outside your comfort zone, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you look better, build better, and think differently about the connection between craftsmanship and style.

• Circular Saw Track Guide
• Essential Man Clothing Article

00:00 — Welcome to Home in Progress

00:11 — First Snowfall and Fall Cleanup

01:21 — Why We’re Talking About Fashion

02:33 — The Circular Saw: The Most Underrated Tool

04:38 — Sidewinder vs. Worm-Drive Saws

07:47 — Must-Have Add-Ons and Safety Tips

12:08 — Dressing Well Is a Learnable Skill

19:43 — The Overlap Between Fashion and Home Improvement

22:16 — Challenging the “Eye for Design” Myth

26:21 — Fit and Proportion: From Clothes to Color Schemes

30:50 — Avoiding Trends: Choosing Timeless Style

33:14 — The Swap Trick: Small Changes, Big Impact

35:35 — Investing in Quality: Tools, Paint, and Wardrobes

36:44 — Final Thoughts and Giveaway Announcement

In this week’s episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen is joined by designer Andy Yates to unpack the biggest ideas and innovations from this year’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS 2025).

Even though Andy didn’t make it to Las Vegas in person, he’s got a sharp eye on what’s next in home design—from tech-integrated kitchens to sustainable materials, personalized design choices, and the return of natural warmth and texture in both kitchens and baths. Together, Dan and Andy explore how these trends are shaping the spaces where we cook, gather, and recharge—and why wellness, functionality, and longevity are at the heart of good design.

Later in the show, Dan tackles a listener question: Is it too late to paint outside this fall? His answer might surprise you—along with some practical tips and product advice for getting the job done before winter hits.

00:00 – Welcome and Show Overview

00:15 – KBIS 2025: The Year’s Biggest Design Themes

00:49 – Why Kitchens and Baths Matter Most

04:34 – Smarter Homes: Where Tech Meets Design

14:01 – Sustainability with Style

23:43 – Bringing Smart Features to Everyday Life

24:56 – Balancing Privacy and Convenience

27:05 – The Rise of Personalization in Design

30:23 – Investing in Quality and Longevity

32:54 – Designing for Daily Joy and Wellness

35:53 – The Power of Functional Spaces

41:48 – Listener Question: Late Fall Painting Tips

47:29 – Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen explores the practical side of home ownership and the creative side of color. After a surprise discovery of a basement leak, Dan walks listeners through six simple but often overlooked maintenance checks that can prevent costly roof and water issues down the line.

Then, the conversation shifts to design—specifically Benjamin Moore’s newly announced 2026 Color of the Year, Silhouette. Dan unpacks the mixed reactions to this bold, moody brown and explains why it’s far from a dull choice. He discusses how browns are making a comeback as people move away from fleeting micro-trends and gravitate toward colors that feel grounded, warm, and enduring.

Finally, listeners get details on how to enter RepcoLite’s $250 gift card giveaway by joining the Color of the Year conversation online.

00:00 — Introduction and overview

00:16 — The debate over Benjamin Moore’s new Color of the Year

02:18 — A personal story: discovering a basement leak

04:47 — Six preventative maintenance tasks for a healthy home

10:33 — Roof inspection essentials

16:24 — When to call a professional

18:05 — Understanding the “Silhouette” reveal

20:13 — Why brown is timeless (and not boring)

22:56 — How deep colors create sophistication

25:53 — Escaping micro-trend fatigue

29:57 — Practical ways to use Silhouette in your home

34:16 — The 2026 Color Trends palette

36:44 — Contest details and closing thoughts

In this special bonus episode of Home in Progress, Dan Hansen explores one of the most dramatic and transformative moments in architectural history—the 1834 fire that destroyed London’s Palace of Westminster.

What began as the simple burning of outdated tally sticks—wooden accounting tools used by the British Treasury—ended with a blaze that consumed centuries of political history. But from the ashes rose a new vision for British architecture.

Dan unpacks the story of how two remarkable architects—Charles Barry, the classical designer, and Augustus Pugin, the passionate Gothic revivalist—came together to rebuild Parliament and, in doing so, shaped the architectural identity of an entire age. Their work didn’t just redefine the skyline of London; it established the moral and aesthetic principles that would define the Victorian era.

The episode also examines Pugin’s belief that beauty and morality are intertwined—that good design could uplift hearts, civilize minds, and make daily life richer. It’s a story about craftsmanship, faith, vision—and how even tragedy can lay the foundation for beauty.

00:00 — Introduction and Recap

01:39 — The Fire at the Palace of Westminster

02:02 — The History and Significance of Tally Sticks

04:55 — The Aftermath of the Fire

10:51 — The Architectural Partnership of Barry and Pugin

21:23 — The Legacy of Victorian Architecture

25:54 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen explores the rich and intricate world of Victorian architecture—a collection of styles that flourished during Queen Victoria’s reign from 1837 to 1901.

Hansen unpacks the key visual hallmarks of the period—turrets, spindles, gingerbread trim, bay windows, and ornate color schemes—and the social and technological forces that made them possible. He traces how the Industrial Revolution transformed craftsmanship, allowing mass production to bring beauty and ornamentation within reach of the middle class.

Listeners will hear the dramatic story of the Great Fire of 1834 that destroyed the Palace of Westminster and sparked a design competition that launched one of the most influential collaborations in architectural history: Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin. Hansen explains how their Gothic Revival masterpiece reshaped British identity and inspired the exuberant architectural language that became synonymous with the Victorian era.

The episode also highlights the philosophical contributions of thinkers like John Ruskin and Pugin, who saw beauty and ornament as moral imperatives—an idea that spread from cathedrals to cottages. Hansen then follows the movement’s evolution into ever-richer styles like High Victorian Gothic and Queen Anne, before charting its decline under the influence of William Morris and the Arts and Crafts movement.

Finally, the episode reflects on the lasting legacy of Victorian architecture—its optimism, craftsmanship, and celebration of individuality—and concludes with a look at Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Color of the Year and a special listener contest.

00:00 — Introduction and Overview

00:07 — Victorian Architecture: An Era of Styles

01:52 — The Great Fire of 1834: A Turning Point

02:54 — The Industrial Revolution and Its Impact

04:57 — The Rise of the Middle Class and Architectural Changes

07:36 — The Gothic Revival and Its Champions

12:38 — John Ruskin: Beauty as a Moral Good

17:14 — From Philosophy to Painted Ladies

18:24 — Ruskin’s Influence and High Victorian Gothic

19:45 — Ornamentation and the Machine Age

20:44 — Queen Anne: Victorian Eclecticism at Its Peak

23:39 — Inside the Victorian Home: Layers of Luxury

27:54 — The Decline of Victorian Design

32:24 — The Lasting Legacy

33:59 — Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Color of the Year and Contest

In this episode of Home In Progress, host Dan Hansen sits down with West Michigan Realtors Sue Prins and Ginger Herman from the Sue Prins Group, 5 Star Real Estate Leaders, for an in-depth look at today’s unpredictable housing market.

They unpack the realities behind shifting market conditions, including the much-talked-about “lock-in effect,” fluctuating interest rates, and seasonal changes that influence both buyers and sellers. The conversation also explores how buyer and seller psychology has evolved, what’s driving new home design trends, and why warmer, more inviting colors are replacing stark whites.

Sue and Ginger share practical advice for homeowners considering a move—covering everything from timing and financing strategies like bridge loans and equity forward programs to avoiding common mistakes that can cost time and money.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply watching the market, this episode offers a clear, grounded view of what’s really happening in West Michigan real estate—and how to navigate it with confidence.

00:00 – Introduction: The Unpredictable Housing Market

00:46 – Meet the Experts: Sue Prins and Ginger Herman

02:25 – Current Market Trends and Buyer Behavior

04:52 – The Lock-In Effect and Seasonal Shifts

08:14 – Market Dynamics: Pricing and Inventory

15:16 – Design Trends: Colors and Styles

18:32 – What’s In, What’s Out: The Return of Warm Tones

19:07 – Advice for Homeowners and Sellers

20:27 – Changing Buyer Preferences

20:46 – The Impact of Interest Rates

22:59 – Winter Buying Strategies

24:31 – Navigating Home Warranties and Escrow

26:55 – Mistakes to Avoid for Buyers and Sellers

29:50 – Bridge Loans and Equity Forward Programs Explained

35:04 – Encouragement for Buyers and Sellers

36:44 – Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Home in Progress, brought to you by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, host Dan Hansen explores the fascinating world of color theory and design trends.

He’s joined by interior designer Andy Yates for an in-depth conversation about the Color of the Year—why it matters, how it’s chosen, and what it reveals about our culture and emotions. Together, they unpack the psychological and marketing forces behind color trends, trace their historical roots, and share practical advice for bringing them into your own home.

The discussion also looks ahead to 2026, highlighting the growing movement toward earthy, natural palettes that reflect society’s search for comfort, authenticity, and connection to the natural world.

00:00 — Introduction and Overview

00:23 — Why the Color of the Year Matters

01:06 — How Psychology and Culture Shape Color

04:18 — A Look Back: Historical Color Trends

07:23 — The Influence of Marketing

16:02 — Designers’ Perspectives on Trends

25:29 — The Role of Color in Interior Design

26:57 — The Emotional Impact of Color

31:21 — Predictions for 2026

33:51 — Earthy, Natural Tones on the Rise

44:49 — Practical Tips for Using the Color of the Year

49:11 — Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of Home In Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, host Dan Hansen dives into the smartest, most cost-effective ways to give tired kitchen cabinets a fresh new look. Joining him is Shelly Kuper of Shelly’s Kitchens and Designs, a family business spanning three generations.

Together, they unpack the ins and outs of cabinet refinishing and refacing—what the processes involve, how long they take, and what kind of results you can expect. Shelly also shares how her team uses advanced methods like robotic spraying and water-based, low-odor finishes to deliver durable, professional results that stand up to real-world use.

From addressing tricky oak grain to choosing colors and hardware, Shelly explains how her team helps homeowners navigate every step of the project. Whether you’re curious about costs, considering a reface, or just want to know if refinishing is the right fit for your space, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips.

• Shelly's Free Quote form
• Envirolak's Durability Videos
• Robotic Spray System

00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:14 Meet Shelly Kuper

02:54 From Wallpapering to Kitchen Cabinetry

04:21 Step-by-Step Refinishing Process

04:58 How Quotes & Estimates Work

06:56 Color and Hardware Consultations

10:13 In-Home Prep and Painting

13:17 Robotic Spraying Explained

16:46 Durability Tests (Including the Weed Wacker!)

22:43 Client Success Stories

25:55 Fast & Efficient Reinstallation

29:29 Tackling Oak Grain

32:47 The Benefits of Refacing

36:53 Custom Modifications & Hardware

44:13 How to Get a Quote & Service Area

47:29 Wrap-Up & Contact Info

In this episode of Home in Progress, Dan Hansen mixes practical advice with a dose of humor to help you get your home ready for the season. Sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, the show dives into essential early autumn chores — from gutter cleaning and snowblower prep to chimney care and getting your home winter-ready.

Dan also tackles one of the trickiest household issues: pet odors. You’ll hear about simple fixes like carpet rakes for dog hair, plus expert solutions for sealing in persistent cat urine smells that just won’t go away.

And that’s not all. The episode wraps up with a look at Benjamin Moore’s SCUFF-X paint — why it’s a game-changer in both homes and commercial spaces — and a special October sale you won’t want to miss.

• My Dog Hair Removal Rake

00:00 – Welcome to Home in Progress

00:36 – Teasers: what’s ahead in this episode

01:36 – Early autumn home maintenance must-dos

02:15 – Gutter cleaning tips and tricks

09:52 – Snowblower prep & chimney care

14:00 – Pet odor solutions

19:09 – Why cat urine smells so strong

19:31 – Listener question: sealing subfloors against odor

21:22 – The chemistry behind cat urine

21:56 – Recommended products for odor sealing

24:39 – Extended warranties: a personal anecdote

30:37 – The benefits of SCUFF-X paint

34:20 – SCUFF-X in commercial spaces

38:06 – October SCUFF-X sale announcement

39:11 – Conclusion & how to connect with the show