Why Craftsmanship Still Matters: Robert Chickey on Mentorship, Innovation & Legacy

Why Craftsmanship Still Matters: Robert Chickey on Mentorship, Innovation & Legacy

What if the greatest luxury isn't the finish itself, but the knowledge behind it? In this inspiring episode of the PowerHouse Cool Collabs Podcast, Wendy Cohen sits down with Robert Chickey, President of Bespoke Finish®, internationally respected finishing consultant, educator, inventor, and mentor. With more than two decades of hands-on experience, Robert has dedicated his career to helping architects, interior designers, builders, cabinetmakers, and finishers achieve extraordinary results through education, innovation, and craftsmanship. Together they discuss: • Why authentic craftsmanship begins with education • How mentorship can transform careers and entire industries • The science behind achieving flawless architectural finishes • Why being "comfortable being uncomfortable" is essential for growth • The remarkable possibilities of VeroMetal®, liquid metal finishes, and advanced surface technologies • The Finishers Guild and Robert's mission to preserve knowledge across generations This conversation is about much more than beautiful finishes. It's about creating opportunities, investing in others, and proving that knowledge shared is a legacy that lasts forever. Authorized North American Partner www.verometal.com [http://www.verometal.com] Robert and his team provide professional training for VeroMetal application specialists throughout North America. After completing certification training, participants are invited into the private community: VeroMetal Certified Application Specialists of North America Mission: "We safeguard and share knowledge and wisdom across fields and generations." Website: www.finishersguild.com [http://www.finishersguild.com] Annual Event: The Gathering - Invitation-only gathering bringing together craftspeople, makers, finishers, furniture builders, cabinetmakers, artists and lifelong learners committed to preserving craftsmanship. Next Gathering: September 24–26, Minnesota Where to find Robert Chickey: Bespoke Finish® Website: www.bespoke-finish.com [http://www.bespoke-finish.com] General Inquiries:info@bespoke-finish.com Email:robert@bespoke-finish.com Direct:612-238-0373 Toll-Free: 833-922-2466 Where to find the Host: PowerHouse Companies: Visit PowerHouse Companies Website: www.powerhouse-co.com [http://www.powerhouse-co.com] Podcast on the Website: https://www.powerhouse-co.com/podcast [https://www.powerhouse-co.com/podcast] Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERf8rk0auNk&t=4s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERf8rk0auNk&t=4s] Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LTIH1m5yc3ajMSp2n0UM2 [https://open.spotify.com/show/7LTIH1m5yc3ajMSp2n0UM2] Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-cool-collabs/id1792238056 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-cool-collabs/id1792238056] PowerHouse SMART Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerhousesmart/ [https://www.instagram.com/powerhousesmart/] PowerHouse SMART Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/powerhousesmart/ [https://www.facebook.com/powerhousesmart/] PowerHouse Recruiting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/] PowerHouse SMART LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/powerhouse-smart/?viewAsMember=true [https://www.linkedin.com/company/powerhouse-smart/?viewAsMember=true] Wendy Cohen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/?skipRedirect=true [https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/?skipRedirect=true]

Confidence Through Construction: Sarah Rudy's Unique Approach to Renovation

A cool new approach, where a seasoned custom design build sales leader creates a business centered entirely around client advocacy. In this inspiring episode of PowerHouse SMART Cool Collabs, Wendy Cohen sits down with Sarah Rudy, Founder of SR Design & Renovation, to discuss her unique approach to helping homeowners navigate the often-complex world of remodeling, renovation, and new construction. Drawing upon her extensive background in retail leadership, homebuilding, sales, and client experience—including serving as Vice President of Sales & Marketing for a luxury custom builder—Sarah shares why she chose to launch a business designed to sit "next to the client at the table" rather than across from them. * Together, Wendy and Sarah explore: * The power of client advocacy in design and construction * Why education builds confidence throughout the renovation journey * How strong collaboration creates better outcomes for homeowners * The importance of helping clients feel heard, understood, and supported * Building a business rooted in service, trust, and relationships * Living and leading with an attitude of gratitude Whether you're a homeowner planning a renovation, an industry professional, or an entrepreneur launching a new venture, Sarah's thoughtful insights and servant-hearted approach offer valuable lessons for us all. Because sometimes the greatest transformation isn't just the space itself—it's the confidence people gain along the way. Where to find Sarah Rudy Website: srdesignandrenovation.com [https://www.linkedin.com/safety/go/?url=srdesignandrenovation.com&urlhash=gpUh&mt=oRhI54s0dDVD_piIAjYygzgPKT1YFAfI8J7wregNhXvmkclzALAIp_LU6nZ8lfaJcVPrKUq26tDuNA8_wnRTYUuMWw&isSdui=true&lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BdXvelRgFRBKygreRkFuYFw%3D%3D] Email: sarah@srdesignandrenovation.com Phone: 816-255-0230 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-rudy-299b4a6/ Where to find the Host: PowerHouse Companies: Visit PowerHouse Companies Website: www.powerhouse-co.com [http://www.powerhouse-co.com] Podcast on the Website: https://www.powerhouse-co.com/podcast [https://www.powerhouse-co.com/podcast] Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERf8rk0auNk&t=4s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERf8rk0auNk&t=4s] Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LTIH1m5yc3ajMSp2n0UM2 [https://open.spotify.com/show/7LTIH1m5yc3ajMSp2n0UM2] Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-cool-collabs/id1792238056 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-cool-collabs/id1792238056] PowerHouse SMART Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerhousesmart/ [https://www.instagram.com/powerhousesmart/] PowerHouse SMART Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/powerhousesmart/ [https://www.facebook.com/powerhousesmart/] PowerHouse Recruiting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/] PowerHouse SMART LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/powerhouse-smart/?viewAsMember=true [https://www.linkedin.com/company/powerhouse-smart/?viewAsMember=true] Wendy Cohen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/?skipRedirect=true [https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/?skipRedirect=true]

Where Full Circle, Creativity & Collaboration Meet with Yael Rajstein

Some stories beautifully illustrate the power of connection, community, and what can happen when someone is given an opportunity to shine. Nearly ten years ago, as PowerHouse SMART prepared for its very first Chicago Luxury Conference, we launched a unique initiative to recognize emerging talent within the design, architecture, and construction industries. Out of more than 100 candidates, twenty next-generation professionals were selected and invited to attend the conference, participate in PowerConnect Groups, and build relationships with some of the industry's most respected leaders. One of those exceptional talents was Yael Rajstein. What happened next is exactly why I believe so deeply in the power of community. Following the conference, Yael was hired by one of the PowerHouse SMART member firms in attendance, creating an opportunity that helped shape the next chapter of her professional journey. Today, nearly a decade later, I have the privilege of welcoming Yael back—not as an emerging professional, but as the Founder and Principal of YR Studio, a thriving architecture, interior design, art, and design-build firm serving luxury residential and commercial clients throughout the Chicago area. With a Master's Degree in Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis, more than fifteen years of experience, and a lifelong passion for creativity, Yael brings a unique perspective that blends architecture, interiors, art, construction, culture, and human connection. In this inspiring conversation, we explore: ✨ Yael's journey from Jerusalem to Chicago ✨ The influence of art, music, and travel on her design philosophy ✨ The leap from employee to entrepreneur ✨ Launching YR Studio and building a firm rooted in honesty, creativity, and purpose ✨ Designing hospitality-inspired healthcare environments, including the innovative Crown Concierge Dental Club ✨ Why collaboration and community remain at the center of her success ✨ The lessons entrepreneurship has taught her about patience, gratitude, resilience, and surrounding yourself with the right people Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that a single introduction, a meaningful relationship, or one opportunity can change the trajectory of a career—and sometimes a life. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, gratitude, and the extraordinary ripple effect of community. When we create opportunities for others, we never know how far the ripple effect will travel. — Wendy Cohen #PowerHouseSMART #CoolCollabsPodcast #YaelRajstein #YRStudio #Architecture #InteriorDesign #DesignBuild #Entrepreneurship #Collaboration #Gratitude #LuxuryDesign #WomenInBusiness #HealthcareDesign #CommunityMatters #CrownDentalClub #ConceirgeDentaClub #PowerHouseLuxuryConference #PowerHouse Recruiting #LuxuryArt Where to Yael Rajstein  YR Studio website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yael-rajstein/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yael-rajstein/] Email: yael@yr-studio.com [yael@yr-studio.com] LinkedIn Yael Rajstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yael-rajstein/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yael-rajstein/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yr_studio/ [https://www.instagram.com/yr_studio/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YRStudioLLC [https://www.facebook.com/YRStudioLLC] Crown Dental Club website: https://crowndentalclub.com/ [https://crowndentalclub.com/] Crown Dental Club address: 5215 Old Orchard Rd, Suite 200Skokie, IL 60077 Crown Dental Club telephone: (224) 724-8600 [tel:+12247248600] Crown Dental Club Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/crowndentalclub/ [https://www.instagram.com/crowndentalclub/] Crown Dental Club FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Crown-Dental-Club/61587877153240/ [https://www.facebook.com/people/Crown-Dental-Club/61587877153240/]

Where Beauty, Honesty & Sustainability Meet with Ron Frisk

What happens when a passion for design, a commitment to community, and a belief in doing business the right way come together? In this inspiring episode of PowerHouse SMART Cool Collabs, Wendy Cohen sits down with Ron Frisk, Managing Partner of Fuse MPLS, one of the Midwest's most respected luxury design showrooms and a true gathering place for the design community. Ron shares the remarkable entrepreneurial journey that he and his wife, Christine, embarked upon together—transforming a vision years in the making into a thriving business rooted in three guiding principles: beauty, honesty, and sustainability. Together, Wendy and Ron explore: * The unexpected twists and "Godwinks" that led to the creation of Fuse MPLS * Building a successful family business alongside your spouse * Why beauty, honesty, and sustainability serve as the foundation for every decision * Creating spaces that inspire connection, creativity, and community * Supporting artists, students, and the next generation of design leaders * Family legacy, business evolution, and what it means to build something that lasts * Why relationships, collaboration, and generosity remain the true measure of success Throughout the conversation, Ron reminds us that the most meaningful businesses are not built solely around products and services—they are built around people, purpose, shared experiences, and a genuine desire to elevate others. One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode: "A showroom became a community gathering place." For Wendy, that simple phrase beautifully captures the essence of Ron's story—and why Fuse MPLS has become so much more than a showroom. It is a place where ideas are shared, relationships are nurtured, artists are supported, and community thrives. We are also honored that Fuse MPLS, located within the iconic IMS Design Center in Minneapolis, will serve as the host venue for the 2026 PowerHouse SMART Minnesota Luxury Conference on November 4, 2026, welcoming industry leaders from across the region for a day of connection, inspiration, and growth. A thoughtful conversation about entrepreneurship, family, design, generosity, and the enduring power of creating places where people belong. Where to Ron Frisk with Title: Managing Partner Company: Fuse MLPS Showroom: 275 MARKET ST #265, MINNEAPOLIS, MN, 55405 Email: Ron Frisk, Ron@fusempls.com Phone: 612-345-4833 [tel:612-345-4833]Website: https://www.fusempls.com/ LinkedIn Ron Frisk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-frisk-3137291b3/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-frisk-3137291b3/] LinkedIn Fuse MLPS: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuse-studio-inc/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/fuse-studio-inc/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fusempls Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fusempls Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/FUSEMPLS/ [https://www.pinterest.com/FUSEMPLS/] Inunison Design: https://www.inunisondesign.com/ [https://www.inunisondesign.com/]

Where Architecture, Wellness & Technology Meet: Rob Hull on Designing Homes That Enrich Daily Life

In this inspiring episode of the PowerHouse SMART® Cool Collabs Podcast, Wendy Cohen sits down with Robert Hull, President and Principal Designer of JMAD (James McNeal Architecture and Design), an award-winning residential architecture firm known for creating immersive, wellness-centered luxury homes across the country. With a unique background spanning both architecture and construction, Rob shares how his journey through the design-build world helped shape JMAD’s collaborative, technology-forward, and deeply human-centered approach to residential design. Together, Wendy and Rob explore: • How luxury living is evolving toward wellness, flexibility, and emotional experience• The powerful role of nature, natural light, and indoor-outdoor living in modern home design• How JMAD utilizes virtual reality technology to help clients emotionally experience their homes before construction begins• Why collaboration between architects, builders, interior designers, and specialty experts creates stronger projects and better outcomes• The future of health and wellness design, including circadian lighting, wellness spaces, biophilic architecture, and flexible living environments• Leadership, gratitude, community, and designing homes that genuinely enrich daily life Rob also shares wisdom for the next generation of architects and designers, encouraging young professionals to pursue diverse experiences and discover the areas of design they are most passionate about. This conversation is a beautiful reminder that the future of luxury living is no longer simply about how a home looks — it is about how a home makes us feel, function, heal, connect, and live. About Robert Hull:Robert Hull is President and Principal Designer at JMAD Architecture + Design, specializing in custom residential architecture and immersive 3D visualization. With degrees in architecture from the University of Minnesota and extensive experience in both design and construction, Rob leads projects across the country that thoughtfully blend technology, nature, wellness, and timeless architectural design. #PowerHouseSMART #CoolCollabsPodcast #LuxuryDesign #Architecture #WellnessDesign #LuxuryHomes #BiophilicDesign #JMAD #RobertHull #HumanCenteredDesign #LuxuryLiving #DesignBuild #TechnologyAndDesign Where to Rob Hull Title: President and Principal Designer Company: JMAD, James McNeal Architecture and Design Email: rob@jmad.design [rob@jmad.design] Phone: 877-796-5623 Website: https://www.jamesmcnealarchitectureanddesign.com/ [https://www.jamesmcnealarchitectureanddesign.com/] About Rob Hull - Executive Team: https://www.jamesmcnealarchitectureanddesign.com/meet-the-team LinkedIn (Rob Hull): https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberthull/ LinkedIn (JMAD): https://www.linkedin.com/company/jmadarchitecture/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmadarchitecture/ [https://www.instagram.com/jmadarchitecture/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamesmcnealarchitectureanddesign/ [https://www.facebook.com/jamesmcnealarchitectureanddesign/] Houzz: https://www.houzz.com/pro/jmadarchitecture/james-mcneal-architecture-and-design [https://www.houzz.com/pro/jmadarchitecture/james-mcneal-architecture-and-design] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JMADarchitecture [https://www.youtube.com/@JMADarchitecture] Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/JMADarchitecture/ [https://www.pinterest.com/JMADarchitecture/] Visit PowerHouse Companies Website:www.powerhouse-co.com [http://www.powerhouse-co.com] Podcast on the Website:https://www.powerhouse-co.com/podcast [https://www.powerhouse-co.com/podcast] Podcast on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERf8rk0auNk&t=4s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERf8rk0auNk&t=4s] Podcast on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7LTIH1m5yc3ajMSp2n0UM2 [https://open.spotify.com/show/7LTIH1m5yc3ajMSp2n0UM2] Podcast on Apple:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-cool-collabs/id1792238056 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-cool-collabs/id1792238056] PowerHouse SMART Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/powerhousesmart/ [https://www.instagram.com/powerhousesmart/] PowerHouse SMART Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/powerhousesmart/ [https://www.facebook.com/powerhousesmart/] Wendy Cohen LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/]