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Have you ever stood in front of a home project, tool in hand, and felt that paralyzing fear of making a mistake? Shannon Evans, DIY expert and star of HGTV's Renovation Resort, knows that feeling all too well—and she's here to help you push past it.

In this illuminating conversation with host Chris Kirby, Shannon reveals how growing up in a family where her father ran a plumbing company for over 45 years and her mother was constantly crafting shaped her belief that anything could be fixed or created with your own two hands. "I really didn't know people hired people to fix things," she admits with a laugh. "I just thought you went out and fixed it yourself."

Shannon's journey from someone who loved working with her hands to an HGTV personality wasn't planned or linear. She encourages listeners to embrace the title of "maker" rather than limiting themselves with traditional labels like "builder" or "contractor." This simple mindset shift opens endless possibilities for creation—whether you're building furniture, installing cabinets, or simply fixing something that's broken.

What truly sets this conversation apart is Shannon's refreshing honesty about her own limitations. She freely admits she's not a designer or stylist but understands how homes should function and feel. This authenticity has endeared her to audiences who appreciate seeing someone who doesn't claim to know everything but is willing to learn along the way. As she puts it, "Do little projects at a time until you feel comfortable picking up a tool and building bigger and bigger things."

Ready to start your own maker journey? Follow Shannon on Instagram at "made by Shannon Evans," catch her on HGTV's Renovation Resort Showdown, or email us at [email protected] to share your story or ask questions. Remember, the most important step is simply giving yourself permission to begin.

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What does it take to go from weekend DIYer to HGTV star? Shannon Evans breaks down her remarkable journey and shows us that construction isn't just for those who grew up with a hammer in hand.

Shannon's story begins with a bold move—reaching out to host Chris Kirby and traveling to his Alabama construction sites to learn hands-on building techniques before her television debut. This willingness to seek knowledge and put herself in unfamiliar environments set the foundation for her success. "I knew if I was going to learn the best ways to do it because I knew the platform would be seen by millions, I didn't want to build something incorrectly," Shannon explains, revealing the thoughtful preparation behind her seemingly overnight success.

Her relationship with Ryobi Tools marks another pivotal chapter in her story. As the approachable face of the brand, Shannon found her niche making construction accessible to beginners. This partnership didn't just build her credibility—it aligned perfectly with her mission to demystify building for everyday people. The conversation explores how affordable, user-friendly tools are gateway experiences for those intimidated by construction, with Shannon and Chris agreeing that Ryobi fills a crucial market need.

Now the only female builder on HGTV's "Renovation Resort Showdown" and a build producer for "Rock the Block," Shannon isn't content just breaking barriers—she's determined to hold the door open for others. "Instead of saying 'Hey, I'm the first female,' I want to be like 'Hey, I don't want to be the last. There's room here,'" she shares passionately. Her upcoming speaking tour at home shows across North America aims to inspire more diversity in construction while advocating for making and building as creative outlets that deserve respect as first-choice careers.

Whether you're curious about pathways into construction, wondering how television renovation shows really work, or simply looking for inspiration to tackle your own projects, Shannon's authentic enthusiasm and practical wisdom make this conversation a must-listen for makers and dreamers alike.

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What does it take for a woman to succeed in construction management? This episode answers that question through the remarkable journey of Jan Story, who defied those who told her "women can't be builders" to become an integral project manager at The Kirby Companies.

Jan's path is extraordinary - not only did she learn framing and construction skills, but she actually built her own house from the ground up. Not as a general contractor hiring others, but by physically framing walls and completing construction work herself. Starting as a laborer at the Kirby Companies, Jan demonstrated such exceptional capabilities that she rapidly advanced through positions from crew lead to logistics coordinator before becoming a project manager.

The conversation explores the crucial role of a construction project manager and what sets Jan apart in this position. She masterfully guides clients through decision-making processes, helping them stay within budget while preventing the delays that often plague construction projects. As Chris Kirby notes, Jan's straightforward communication style - honest without being harsh - makes her particularly effective at managing both client expectations and team performance.

Most compelling is the discussion about what makes an effective construction leader. Unlike "paper project managers" with theoretical knowledge but no field experience, Jan's background as a tradeswoman gives her unique advantages. She understands what to look for on job sites, appreciates the physical demands workers face, and approaches leadership with a willingness to listen rather than dictate. This collaborative approach, combined with her frank communication style, creates an environment of trust essential for successful projects.

This episode is part of a special Women in Construction month series featuring inspiring professionals reshaping the industry. Upcoming guests include Shannon Evans, who will appear on HGTV's Renovation Resort Showdown, and Sarah Trop from Flea Market Flip. Reach out to [email protected] if you have a construction story to share as a potential guest.

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Behind every beautiful renovation reveal and perfect new build lies a reality most contractors never talk about—the cash flow nightmares, the endless punch lists, and the crushing weight of running a construction business. Chris Kirby breaks through this wall of silence in this deeply personal episode that speaks directly to the hidden struggles of contractors everywhere.

When a friend shared their business troubles, it struck a chord with Chris, highlighting how contractors battle their challenges in isolation. From clients withholding $75,000 payments over minor caulking issues to weather delays that cascade into financial strain, these universal struggles remain unspoken as contractors maintain polished professional facades. The competitive nature of construction creates an environment where supporting fellow contractors feels risky, yet it's precisely what the industry needs.

This episode serves as both confession and call to action—challenging contractors to find trusted colleagues with whom they can share burdens and celebrate victories. Chris extends a personal invitation to connect with contractors struggling in silence, offering his own experiences as proof that you're not alone. Whether you're a seasoned builder facing cash flow issues or a homeowner wanting to understand what your contractor really experiences, this raw, honest conversation illuminates the human side of construction that social media perfection never shows. Ready to break the silence in your contractor journey? Email the show to share your story or connect with others walking the same path.

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Breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field, Jan shares her remarkable journey from being told "girls can't be builders" to becoming a respected project manager in residential construction. Growing up in England with a builder grandfather, Jan always dreamed of constructing homes despite family discouragement. After establishing a career in nursing, she finally pursued her true passion by taking residential framing courses and boldly approaching construction companies—even offering to volunteer just to gain experience.

Jan's story highlights the power of persistence. After being initially turned down for a position, she continued reaching out until an opportunity opened. Starting as a crew member doing hands-on construction work, she demonstrated exceptional work ethic until a shoulder injury created an unexpected pivot point. Rather than leaving construction, she transitioned to material coordination and logistics, where her nursing background proved surprisingly valuable. The documentation precision required in healthcare transferred perfectly to construction project management.

Now leading teams of men and women alike, Jan embodies how transferable skills, life experience, and sheer determination can overcome industry stereotypes. Her perspective on the complex realities of construction management—balancing client needs, material lead times, and budgets—demonstrates that building homes requires far more than physical labor. For women considering construction careers or anyone facing discouragement in pursuing their dreams, Jan's path from field worker to project manager serves as powerful inspiration to make construction a first choice rather than a fallback option.

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Ever wonder what really happens behind the walls of a renovation project? What contractors actually find during demolition, and why some renovation estimates seem so much higher than expected?

On this revealing episode, we peel back the layers between television renovation fantasy and construction reality. Host Chris Kirby, owner of three construction companies on the Alabama Gulf Coast, shares a valuable recommendation for Fine Home Building Magazine as an essential educational resource for anyone serious about quality construction principles. The magazine's detailed illustrations and expert advice sections make complex techniques accessible to professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The conversation takes an important turn as we discuss the alarming disconnect between homeowner expectations and construction realities. We share a recent experience where a client believed a $130,000 budget would cover extensive renovations, only to discover unpermitted additions, dangerous electrical systems, and code violations that would have doubled the cost. As professionals committed to safety and quality, we explain why walking away from certain projects is sometimes the most ethical choice.

Television renovation shows have created an entertainment-first portrayal of construction that often misrepresents timelines, budgets, and processes. We reveal insider information about how these shows are produced, including the fact that on-camera personalities often arrive after most of the real work is complete. This discussion extends to the challenges of working with clients who've watched countless YouTube tutorials but lack understanding of the comprehensive skills required for successful projects.

Ready to share your own construction journey? We're extending an open invitation to tradespeople, contractors, designers, and DIY enthusiasts to collaborate with us. Whether you have fascinating stories from the field, technical expertise to share, or simply want to document your renovation adventure, we want to help amplify your voice. Connect with us at [email protected] to join our growing community of construction professionals dedicated to honest education and quality craftsmanship.

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Renovation reality checks take center stage as Chris Kirby and co-host Adam pull back the curtain on what really happens behind the scenes of home improvement projects. Ever wonder why your renovation took three times longer than that similar project on HGTV? The answer lies in the dramatic difference between televised renovations and actual construction work.

Drawing from decades of combined experience with their construction companies on the Alabama Gulf Coast, the hosts reveal how an eight-hour workday gets compressed into just 22 minutes of screen time, creating fundamentally distorted expectations. They share stories of homeowners who attempted DIY projects after watching deceptively simple tutorials, only to call professionals weeks later, desperate for rescue from half-completed disasters.

The conversation takes fascinating turns as they discuss the strangest discoveries hidden behind walls during renovations—from antique vanities mysteriously walled up in inaccessible spaces to century-old receipts and the occasional deceased cat. These unexpected findings represent just one category of complications that make accurate timeline estimation so challenging.

Perhaps most valuable is their candid discussion about project timelines and why experienced contractors appear to overestimate project duration. Whether it's material delays, subcontractor scheduling issues, hidden structural problems, or dozens of other variables, the hosts explain why buffer time protects both contractors and clients from disappointment. They even address the surprising phenomenon of homeowners expecting refunds when projects finish early!

Whether you're planning your own renovation, working as a contractor, or simply fascinated by the construction process, this episode offers invaluable perspective on managing expectations, understanding estimates, and approaching renovation with realistic timeframes. Follow along as Chris and Adam share their professional wisdom and amusing anecdotes from years in the business.

Ready to start your renovation journey with clear expectations? Subscribe to our channel, follow us on social media, and visit www.thehomebuildingshow.com for more expert insights on navigating your next home improvement project.

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Building a custom home should be exciting, not overwhelming. Yet many homeowners make critical mistakes that can compromise their satisfaction and investment. In this second installment of our series on custom home building pitfalls, we dig into three crucial areas where proper planning makes all the difference.

The conversation begins with mistake #4: failing to plan for the future. I share why aging in place considerations like wider doorways, seamless showers, and main floor bedrooms aren't just for seniors—they're smart planning for everyone. We explore the importance of strategic placement of electrical outlets, pot fillers, and other conveniences that you'll appreciate for years to come. The walkthrough during the rough-in phase is your golden opportunity to make these decisions before walls go up and changes become expensive.

Quality construction represents mistake #5, where cutting corners to save money upfront often leads to higher long-term costs. For coastal homes, hurricane fortification may seem expensive initially but provides lasting security and potential insurance savings. Energy-efficient windows and appliances similarly pay dividends through lower utility bills and added resale value. The conversation turns to mistake #6—ignoring resale potential—where over-customization and deviation from neighborhood norms can significantly impact your ability to sell in the future.

The Shop Talk segment tackles budget realities, including surprising costs homeowners often overlook, like utility connections and septic systems. We also debunk barndominium myths, explaining why these trendy structures aren't as inexpensive as internet sources suggest unless you're planning substantial DIY work or prioritizing garage/workshop space over living areas.

Whether you're planning your dream home now or considering a build in the future, these insights will help you make informed decisions that balance immediate desires with long-term value. The choices you make today determine not just your satisfaction tomorrow, but potentially your home's adaptability for decades to come.

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You've dreamed about building your custom home for years, but are you prepared for what lies ahead? Before you break ground, learn why the National Association of Home Builders reports that most people exceed their budgets by 10-20% when building custom homes.

The budget represents just the first of ten critical mistakes homeowners make. Hidden costs lurk everywhere – from utility hookups and site preparation to surveys and landscaping requirements. One particularly confusing aspect is understanding the difference between "heated and cooled square footage" versus "under roof square footage." As our expert Adam explains, a home with 1,700 square feet of livable space might actually have 2,500-3,000 square feet under roof when porches, garages, and other non-heated areas are included. This misunderstanding alone can add $100,000 or more to what homeowners expect to pay.

Your choice of builder might be the most consequential decision you'll make. The builder-client relationship can transform your dream home into either your greatest asset or worst nightmare. While budget constraints and timelines matter, that gut feeling when interviewing potential builders shouldn't be ignored. And never select based solely on the lowest bid – there's usually something missing from that estimate.

Communication forms the foundation of any successful building project. Establishing clear expectations about meeting frequency, acceptable contact methods, and communication hours creates a framework for addressing inevitable challenges. When problems arise, measured responses prove far more effective than emotional reactions that can damage the builder-client relationship and lead to avoidance patterns that ultimately hurt your project.

Whether you're a first-time builder, a DIYer seeking tips, or a contractor looking to grow your knowledge base, this episode provides critical insights to help you navigate the complex journey of creating your dream home without it becoming a nightmare. Subscribe to our podcast and follow us on social media to continue learning how to build better.

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Discover the cornerstone of any successful home building project: uncompromising quality. I'm Chris Kerby, your expert navigator in the complex universe of construction, here to arm you with insider tips and tricks in the tile industry that will transform your approach to home remodeling. Whether you're wrestling with the nuances of grout sealing or the precision required for large format tile installation, this episode is your go-to resource. We'll explore how the right sealant can shield your shower from the ravages of discoloration, and I'll shed light on mastering the art of lippage avoidance, ensuring your tile work stands as a testament to craftsmanship.

Prepare to elevate your skill set as we break down the allure and challenges of handling those awe-inspiring 24 by 68-inch tiles. With the right tools and techniques in your arsenal, the fear of breakage and improper installation becomes a thing of the past. We'll delve deep into the desirable properties of porcelain tiles in large formats and forecast the future of this enduring trend. Plus, don't miss the 'Shop Talk' segment where a co-host joins the conversation, dissecting the hottest topics and sparking dialogue that resonates with professionals and amateurs alike. Join us and contribute to the online discussion as we lay the foundation for excellence in home building and remodeling together.

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