Episodios

  • Is Brown Really the Color of 2026? PLUS: Six Checks to Save Your Roof

    Is Brown Really the Color of 2026? PLUS: Six Checks to Save Your Roof
    Nov 1 2025
    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.Episode Timeline00:00 — Introduction and overview00:16 — The debate over Benjamin Moore’s new Color of the Year02:18 — A personal story: discovering a basement leak04:47 — Six preventative maintenance tasks for a healthy home10:33 — Roof inspection essentials16:24 — When to call a professional18:05 — Understanding the “Silhouette” reveal20:13 — Why brown is timeless (and not boring)22:56 — How deep colors create sophistication25:53 — Escaping micro-trend fatigue29:57 — Practical ways to use Silhouette in your home34:16 — The 2026 Color Trends palette36:44 — Contest details and closing thoughts
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    38 m
  • BONUS EPISODE: Pugin, Barry, and the Origins of Gothic Revival Architecture

    BONUS EPISODE: Pugin, Barry, and the Origins of Gothic Revival Architecture
    Oct 28 2025
    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architectural history—the 1834 fire that destroyed London’s Palace of Westminster.What began as the simple burning of outdated tally sticks—wooden accounting tools used by the British Treasury—ended with a blaze that consumed centuries of political history.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.Episode Timeline00:00 — Introduction and Recap01:39 — The Fire at the Palace of Westminster02:02 — The History and Significance of Tally Sticks04:55 — The Aftermath of the Fire10:51 — The Architectural Partnership of Barry and Pugin21:23 — The Legacy of Victorian Architecture25:54 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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    26 m
  • Victorian Architecture: The Age of “More is More”

    Victorian Architecture: The Age of “More is More”
    Oct 25 2025
    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.Episode Timeline00:00 — Introduction and Overview00:07 — Victorian Architecture: An Era of Styles01:52 — The Great Fire of 1834: A Turning Point02:54 — The Industrial Revolution and Its Impact04:57 — The Rise of the Middle Class and Architectural Changes07:36 — The Gothic Revival and Its Champions12:38 — John Ruskin: Beauty as a Moral Good17:14 — From Philosophy to Painted Ladies18:24 — Ruskin’s Influence and High Victorian Gothic19:45 — Ornamentation and the Machine Age20:44 — Queen Anne: Victorian Eclecticism at Its Peak23:39 — Inside the Victorian Home: Layers of Luxury27:54 — The Decline of Victorian Design32:24 — The Lasting Legacy33:59 — Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Color of the Year and Contest
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    36 m
  • West Michigan Real Estate in 2025: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

    West Michigan Real Estate in 2025: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
    Oct 18 2025
    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.Episode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction: The Unpredictable Housing Market00:46 – Meet the Experts: Sue Prins and Ginger Herman02:25 – Current Market Trends and Buyer Behavior04:52 – The Lock-In Effect and Seasonal Shifts08:14 – Market Dynamics: Pricing and Inventory15:16 – Design Trends: Colors and Styles18:32 – What’s In, What’s Out: The Return of Warm Tones19:07 – Advice for Homeowners and Sellers20:27 – Changing Buyer Preferences20:46 – The Impact of Interest Rates22:59 – Winter Buying Strategies24:31 – Navigating Home Warranties and Escrow26:55 – Mistakes to Avoid for Buyers and Sellers29:50 – Bridge Loans and Equity Forward Programs Explained35:04 – Encouragement for Buyers and Sellers36:44 – Closing Thoughts
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    39 m
  • Hue and You: The Meaning Behind 2026’s Color Trends

    Hue and You: The Meaning Behind 2026’s Color Trends
    Oct 11 2025
    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.Episode Breakdown00:00 — Introduction and Overview00:23 — Why the Color of the Year Matters01:06 — How Psychology and Culture Shape Color04:18 — A Look Back: Historical Color Trends07:23 — The Influence of Marketing16:02 — Designers’ Perspectives on Trends25:29 — The Role of Color in Interior Design26:57 — The Emotional Impact of Color31:21 — Predictions for 202633:51 — Earthy, Natural Tones on the Rise44:49 — Practical Tips for Using the Color of the Year49:11 — Conclusion and Contact Information
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    51 m
  • Kitchen Makeovers Made Easy: Cabinet Refinishing & Refacing with Shelly’s Kitchens

    Kitchen Makeovers Made Easy: Cabinet Refinishing & Refacing with Shelly’s Kitchens
    Oct 4 2025
    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.Resources
    • Shelly's Free Quote form
    • Envirolak's Durability Videos
    • Robotic Spray System

    Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Overview01:14 Meet Shelly Kuper02:54 From Wallpapering to Kitchen Cabinetry04:21 Step-by-Step Refinishing Process04:58 How Quotes & Estimates Work06:56 Color and Hardware Consultations10:13 In-Home Prep and Painting13:17 Robotic Spraying Explained16:46 Durability Tests (Including the Weed Wacker!)22:43 Client Success Stories25:55 Fast & Efficient Reinstallation29:29 Tackling Oak Grain32:47 The Benefits of Refacing36:53 Custom Modifications & Hardware44:13 How to Get a Quote & Service Area47:29 Wrap-Up & Contact Info
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    48 m
  • Early Fall Home Maintenance, Pet Odor Fixes, and the Powers of Scuff-X

    Early Fall Home Maintenance, Pet Odor Fixes, and the Powers of Scuff-X
    Sep 27 2025
    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.Resources Mentioned:
    • My Dog Hair Removal Rake

    Episode Breakdown00:00 – Welcome to Home in Progress00:36 – Teasers: what’s ahead in this episode01:36 – Early autumn home maintenance must-dos02:15 – Gutter cleaning tips and tricks09:52 – Snowblower prep & chimney care14:00 – Pet odor solutions19:09 – Why cat urine smells so strong19:31 – Listener question: sealing subfloors against odor21:22 – The chemistry behind cat urine21:56 – Recommended products for odor sealing24:39 – Extended warranties: a personal anecdote30:37 – The benefits of SCUFF-X paint34:20 – SCUFF-X in commercial spaces38:06 – October SCUFF-X sale announcement39:11 – Conclusion & how to connect with the show
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    40 m
  • Is Your Bathroom Fan Enough? Plus: Peeling Paint and Stump Removal Made Simple

    Is Your Bathroom Fan Enough? Plus: Peeling Paint and Stump Removal Made Simple
    Sep 20 2025
    In this heartfelt episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, Dan shares a personal story about his father’s recent minor stroke, the challenges of the week, and the flood of childhood memories it brought back. He reflects on the importance of cherishing family moments and encourages listeners to preserve their own stories and memories.From there, the episode shifts into practical home improvement advice—covering everything from bathroom fan adequacy to fixing peeling paint in bathrooms and the most effective stump removal methods. Dan also takes time to clarify earlier stump removal tips and answer listener questions, making this episode both moving and highly informative.Episode Guide00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:07 A Tough Week: Dad’s Health Scare02:26 Memories of Dad: From Eye Patches to Invisible Friends08:25 Cherishing Memories and Making Changes12:28 Home Improvement Tips: Paint Failures and Bathroom Fans13:25 Clarifying Stump Removal Techniques18:57 Listener Questions: Peeling Paint in the Bathroom21:32 Understanding the Importance of a Bathroom Fan21:54 Calculating the Right Size for Your Bathroom Fan24:09 Ensuring Proper Fan Operation26:06 The Role of Prep Work in Preventing Peeling Paint29:43 Steps to Fix Existing Peeling Paint32:34 Choosing the Best Paint for Bathrooms33:29 Testing Your Existing Bathroom Fan37:32 Troubleshooting Fan Performance Issues39:16 Conclusion and Final Tips
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    40 m