The Home Building and Remodeling Show

Makers, Builders, and DIY Journeys: Conversations with Shannon Evans

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2106853/open_sms] 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 thehomebuildingshow@gmail.com to share your story or ask questions. Remember, the most important step is simply giving yourself permission to begin. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106853/support]

Building Without Boundaries

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2106853/open_sms] 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. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106853/support]

Beyond the Blueprint: Redefining Who Builds Our Homes

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2106853/open_sms] 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 thehomebuildingshow@gmail.com if you have a construction story to share as a potential guest. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106853/support]

Contractors in Crisis: Breaking the Silence

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2106853/open_sms] 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. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106853/support]

She was told she couldn't build homes. Now she manages them.

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2106853/open_sms] 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. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2106853/support]