Why Your Kids Should Skip College and Join the Trades (Seriously!)
Kicking off the show with a bang, Eric G. and guest co-host John Dudley dive into the wild world of home improvement and the trades. With over 30 years of experience, Eric shares a hilariously cringy flashback to his past television adventures, including a cringe-worthy moment involving producers trying to squeeze drama out of unsuspecting contestants. But the laughs don’t stop there; they take a sharp turn to a serious topic: the lack of emphasis on trades in education. Eric points out that while kids are funneled into college with hefty debts, they could be earning six figures as electricians or plumbers if they’d just learned a skill instead of racking up student loans. It’s a reality check and a call to arms for parents and educators everywhere to rethink how we guide our youth. John chimes in with his own experiences, highlighting the importance of hands-on skills and how they shape personal growth. They explore the stigma around blue-collar jobs and why breaking that barrier is crucial for future generations.Takeaways: In this episode, we dive deep into how the trades are often overlooked by schools pushing traditional college routes, which is just absurd if you ask me. John Dudley shares his wild journey from being a scrawny roofer to a successful contractor, proving that hard work pays off way better than a humanities degree. We chat about the crazy misconceptions around cabinet colors in home design, which can cost you a fortune if you don't get it right – talk about a recipe for disaster! The conversation shifts to the urgent need for tradespeople as the industry faces a massive shortage – seriously, if you can hold a hammer, you're golden! We reflect on the importance of teaching kids practical skills early on, because honestly, who wouldn't want to know how to change a light bulb instead of just scrolling through TikTok? Finally, we emphasize that getting into the trades isn't just about making money – it's about pride, craftsmanship, and the satisfaction of building something with your own two hands. Links referenced in this episode:aroundthehouseonline.comaerobroom.comsitehypedesign.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Paramount Loss HDTV Designer Finals Eagle Hardware and Garden Lowe's Aerobroom Mentioned in this episode:Check out the BEST Trailer in the US! Summit Trailers SiteHype Designs Visit SiteHype Designs and lets build a website that works as hard as you do!
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Coming up Saturday on Around the House Show!
Get ready for a wild ride this weekend as we dive into the chaos of our moving week! Spoiler alert: the audio might sound like we recorded it inside a wind tunnel, but hey, we’re still bringing you the goods. We’re chatting about everything from getting kids into the trades (because who doesn’t want tiny humans wielding tools?) to the hilarious mishaps of hiring contractors. Trust me, you’ll want to hear about the shady characters lurking on those neighborhood Facebook groups—seriously, they’re like the cockroaches of the contractor world. So, grab your favorite beverage and join us for some laughs, tips, and maybe even a few “what was I thinking?” moments. Next week we promise it’ll be all smooth sailing, but for now, let’s embrace the chaos!This weekend's show is a bit of a wild ride, and honestly, what else would you expect when we're in the middle of a studio move? I mean, who doesn't love the sweet sounds of chaos and the occasional echo of a rogue ladder falling in the background? Sure, the audio might not be our best work—let's just say it has that 'authentic' moving week charm—but the content is pure gold. We dive right into some serious trade talk, as Eric G. discusses getting kids involved in the trades. And trust me, it’s not just a boring lecture; it’s filled with personal anecdotes about how he got sucked into the construction world. Spoiler alert: it involves a lot of father-son bonding over TV shows and tools. Yeah, it’s cuter than it sounds. But we don’t stop there! In the second hour, we’ve got the legendary John Dudley dropping truth bombs about hiring contractors. If you've ever thought about getting your kitchen remodeled or your bathroom fixed, you’ll want to hear this. He lays down the law on how to spot the unlicensed, uninsured contractors lurking on social media like they own the place. Seriously, it’s like a horror movie out there with some of these folks. We might even throw in some juicy stories of DIY disasters that’ll make you rethink your next home improvement project. Just remember, if someone suggests using Mrs. Carlson’s Remodeling, maybe do a quick Google search first—your home will thank you later. All in all, it's a fun show with a bit of humor mixed in with the serious stuff, even if we sound like we recorded it while juggling chainsaws. So grab your headphones, brace yourself for the sound of chaos, and let’s dive into the world of home projects together. Just don’t forget to subscribe so you don't miss out when we actually get our audio back in check next week!Takeaways: This weekend's show is a wild ride, despite our audio sounding like a 90s mixtape due to moving chaos. Ever wonder how to get your kids hooked on trades? We spill the beans on that in the first hour. We dive deep into the dodgy world of contractor hiring – spoiler alert: it's a hot mess out there! Turns out, Facebook and Nextdoor are basically the Wild West for unlicensed contractors. What a surprise, right? Join our Around the House insider crew for early episodes, because who doesn’t want to feel special? Moving is a nightmare, but at least we have a fun show to distract from the chaos! Links referenced in this episode:aroundthehouseonline.comMentioned in this episode:Clean up inside and out with AeroBroom The world's first 2-in-1 sweeper broom and cordless leaf blower combined in one convenient tool to clean your outdoor living spaces. With the Aerobroom, you can use it to sweep just like a normal broom, or you can blast debris from hard-to-reach areas.AeroBroom Suscribe to our YouTube Channel Want even more home improvement tips, tricks, and
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Pressure Washers: The Only Thing Exploding More Than My Weekend Plans!
You better duck because we’re diving headfirst into the wild world of pressure washers that can explode! Yep, you heard that right. In this midweek special, we’re tackling the absurdity of pressure washers that not only clean but also have the potential to launch their capacitors like they’re auditioning for a role in a disaster movie. I'll share some juicy updates on my ongoing home projects, including my personal battle with a woodpecker that seems to think my cedar siding is its personal buffet. Plus, we’ll dish out the latest scoop on recalls that’ll make you rethink your tool arsenal. So grab your headphones and get ready for a rollercoaster of laughs and maybe a few eye rolls as we navigate this explosive topic!Takeaways: Pressure washers can explode? Yeah, you heard that right, so let's keep our distance! We shared some wild stories about home improvement gone wrong, and you won't believe the chaos! The crazy world of high mortgage rates is making house selling a real circus act. Our journey through home renovations is like a soap opera, filled with unexpected plot twists! Links referenced in this episode:aroundthehouseonline.comcpsc.govaroundthehouseonline.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Makita Ryobi TTI Outdoor Power Equipment Air Vent To get your questions answered by Eric G give us a call in the studio at 833-239-4144 24/7 and Eric G will get back to you and answer your question and you might end up in a future episode of Around the House. Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listenIf you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show. Mentioned in this episode:Clean up inside and out with AeroBroom The world's first 2-in-1 sweeper broom and cordless leaf blower combined in one convenient tool to clean your outdoor living spaces. With the Aerobroom, you can use it to sweep just like a normal broom, or you can blast debris from hard-to-reach areas.AeroBroom
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Coming up Saturday on Around the House Show!
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and embrace the chaos because this weekend's Around the House Show is all about home maintenance—yeah, I know, super exciting, right? We're kicking things off with Eric G's freshly updated 2025 fall home maintenance checklist, because nothing screams "autumn" like battling a leaf-clogged downspout. Will Eric convince you to caulk your windows, or will we just be doubled over in laughter from his antics? And if you think that’s the climax, wait until John Dudley steps in to help you actually finish those half-baked projects that are currently serving as your personal monument to procrastination. So, grab your toolbelt (or just a snack, I won’t judge) and tune in to find out if your home survives the season or if you’ll be left with a chaotic mess by Thanksgiving!Get ready, folks, because this weekend’s Around the House Show is about to drop some serious home maintenance wisdom straight from the mouths of your favorite home improvement gurus! We’re diving headfirst into the chaos that is autumn, where your house starts throwing tantrums like a toddler that skipped their nap. You know the drill: creaky porches, gutters that could rival the Grand Canyon in depth and dirtiness, and suddenly realizing your windows could use a little lovin’. So, grab your toolbelt and buckle up for Eric G’s freshly updated 2025 fall home maintenance checklist. Because who doesn’t want to spend their weekends wrestling with leaf-clogged downspouts? Will Eric manage to convince you to caulk your windows, or will you be rolling on the floor laughing at his antics? Tune in to find out if your home survives the season or if you’ll just be left with a monument to procrastination by Thanksgiving. It’s gonna be a wild ride, and we’re here for every freakin' second of it!Takeaways: This weekend's show is packed with home maintenance tips, so buckle up for some hilarity! We'll be diving into the absurdity of leaf-clogged downspouts and home chaos by Thanksgiving. Join us as we discuss whether caulking your windows will be a fun project or a disaster. Eric G's updated home maintenance checklist is your new best friend for autumn vibes, trust me. We'll be chatting with John Dudley about turning your half-finished projects into completed masterpieces. Remember, folks, it's all about working smarter, not harder, unless you enjoy DIY chaos. Links referenced in this episode:aroundthehouseonline.comsitehypedesign.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Site Hype Design To get your questions answered by Eric G give us a call in the studio at 833-239-4144 24/7 and Eric G will get back to you and answer your question and you might end up in a future episode of Around the House. Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listenIf you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/...
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Remodeling 101: Where to Start and Why You Shouldn't Wing It
Let's dive into the chaos that is home remodeling, shall we? Picture this: you’ve got a house that’s screaming for a makeover, and you think you can handle it. But hold on to your tools, because things can go sideways faster than you can say, "I should’ve hired a contractor." This episode is all about the oh-so-fun pitfalls of DIY projects. Eric and his buddy John Dudley share stories that’ll make you laugh, cringe, and maybe even cry a little. From that classic moment when you think you’ve nailed the bathroom remodel, only to realize you forgot to plan for the plumbing (oops!), to the horror of discovering that your “perfect” electrical outlet placement is a giant no-no by code, they cover it all. If you’ve ever thought about tackling a home project solo, you better grab your notepad and take some serious notes because they’re serving up wisdom like it’s Thanksgiving dinner. And let’s not forget those classic tales of the well-meaning homeowner who decides to do some “light demo.” Spoiler alert: it never ends well. Seriously, if you think you can just tear down a wall without consequences, think again! You might end up with a hefty bill for someone to fix your “creative” handiwork. They discuss the importance of planning from the first nail to the last coat of paint, because let’s face it, nobody wants to be the person frantically calling the electrician at the last minute because you forgot where the new light fixtures were supposed to go. So, if you’re ready to laugh and learn about the wild world of home improvement, this episode is your ticket to the DIY rollercoaster. Buckle up, folks!Takeaways: Starting any remodeling project without a solid plan is like trying to bake a cake without a recipe; it usually ends in disaster and a mess everywhere. Prioritizing tasks in remodeling is key; nobody wants to redo work because they forgot about plumbing or electrical needs, right? Don't forget to pull permits for your projects; otherwise, you might end up ripping out beautiful work to comply with current codes. DIYing can save money, but sometimes hiring a pro is worth it if you want to avoid a headache and actually enjoy your remodel. Trust your contractor; they’ve seen it all and know how to keep the chaos at bay, so don’t hover and micromanage every little detail. And for the love of all things home improvement, plan the whole project in advance to avoid doubling your expenses due to lack of foresight! Companies mentioned in this episode: Aerobroom Aroundthehouseonline.com Stanley Yeti To get your questions answered by Eric G give us a call in the studio at 833-239-4144 24/7 and Eric G will get back to you and answer your question and you might end up in a future episode of Around the House. Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listenIf you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace...
About Around the House® Home Improvement: A Deep Dive into Your Home
Discover Around the House Home Improvement: A Deep Dive into Your Home, the #1 home improvement podcast of 2025, as ranked by FeedSpot. Hosted by Certified Kitchen Designer Eric Goranson, CKD (“Eric G”), this nationally syndicated radio show and podcast delivers expert advice on home remodeling, DIY projects, construction techniques, and smart home technology. Perfect for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and contractors, this isn’t your typical handyman show—it’s a dynamic blend of practical tips, innovative ideas, and entertaining conversations.
Why listen? Each episode offers actionable home improvement tips, from beginner-friendly DIY hacks to advanced construction insights. Explore the latest trends in kitchen and bath design, sustainable building, and cutting-edge home tech. Enjoy exclusive interviews with celebrity guests, industry leaders, and top professionals, bringing inspiration and expertise to every project. Whether you’re renovating your home, tackling a weekend DIY, or seeking eco-friendly solutions, Eric G’s 30+ years of experience make this podcast your go-to resource.
About the Host: Eric Goranson, CKD, is a nationally recognized home improvement expert, keynote speaker, and former member of the Baldwin Hardware Design Council. With a background in kitchen design, remodeling, and construction, plus a creative edge from his days as a Seattle rock band bassist, Eric delivers engaging, relatable content. Named a Top 50 Innovator by Kitchen and Bath Design News (2019), he’s worked with brands like KraftMaid Cabinetry, sharing his passion for home design with a global audience.
Tune in to Around the House Home Improvement for expert advice, innovative ideas, and fun, relatable discussions. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform, and transform your home with Eric G!
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