In this episode of 'Chicks and Construction,' host Mikki Paradis, with co-hosts Jessica Abreu and special guest Nicole Fella, jump into the communication challenges that arise in construction projects. The episode highlights the importance of clear communication between homeowners, project managers, and contractors to achieve better outcomes and fewer disputes. Nicole shares her unique experience as an interior designer and general contractor, emphasizing the significance of setting clear expectations and understanding communication styles. The discussion covers practical advice for homeowners, including the necessity of asking questions and ensuring detailed, specific contracts. Listeners are encouraged to use tools like DISC survey to improve their communication understanding. The episode underscores that respectful and clear communication is essential for successful renovation projects.

00:00 Introduction to Communication in Construction

00:23 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest

01:30 Nicole's Background and Expertise

02:54 The Importance of Communication in Construction

04:31 Common Communication Pitfalls

06:33 Setting Clear Expectations

10:09 Effective Communication Strategies

14:24 Managing Client Expectations

17:06 Balancing Communication and Flexibility

19:51 Handling Communication Challenges

24:18 Establishing Reasonable Communication Expectations

28:23 The Stress of Late-Night Texts

28:43 Respectful Communication in Business

30:12 The Mosquito Service Incident

32:55 Handling Disrespectful Clients

38:16 The Importance of Clear Contracts

40:08 Advice for First-Time Renovators

44:28 Understanding Quotes and Allowances

52:25 The Value of Professionalism

53:41 Conclusion and Final Tips

In this episode of The Chicks in Construction, hosts Mikki Paradis and Jessica Abreu discuss crucial red flags, do's and don'ts in the construction industry. Inspired by a serendipitous airplane chat, Mikki shares insights from a fellow passenger who had a positive experience building a dream home. The discussion emphasizes the importance of doing extensive research, hiring an independent interior designer, and avoiding bundled services with general contractors. They also encourage listeners to share both their construction horror stories and wins to help others navigate the complex world of home renovations and new builds. Catch all this and more as they dive deep into ways to ensure a smooth and successful construction project.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Inspiration

01:53 Purpose of the Podcast

03:25 Neighborhood Anecdotes and Real Estate Insights

10:04 Homeowner Wins and the Value of Interior Designers

21:29 The Value of Spending on Renovations

22:10 The Importance of Functionality in Home Design

22:42 Budgeting and Hiring for Home Renovations

24:44 The Role of Interior Designers

25:55 Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Home Renovations

32:25 Research and Contracts: Key to Successful Renovations

36:39 The Importance of Independent Professionals

44:08 Final Tips and Encouragement

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The Shocking Tale of a $300k Dream Home Scam | Chicks in Construction

In this episode of The Chicks in Construction, hosts Mikki Paradis and Jessica Abreu dive into a devastating homeowner horror story in North Carolina where a homeowner's dream home project turned into a nightmare. After paying over $300,000, the homeowner was left with an unfinished lot and no house, due to a series of events involving shady contractors, deceitful actions, and unfulfilled promises. The hosts break down the red flags that were missed and provide vital advice for anyone considering building or remodeling their home. Tune in for detailed insights and tips on protecting yourself from fraudulent practices in the construction industry.

00:00 Introduction to a Homeowner's Nightmare

00:55 Meet the Hosts and the Story Unfolds

02:16 The Shocking Discovery

03:17 The Unraveling of a Scam

05:09 The Aftermath and Legal Loopholes

08:19 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

24:01 Uncovering Hidden Judgments

24:44 The Shady Tactics of a Fraudster

26:03 The Role of Licensing in Construction

30:41 The Importance of Research and Due Diligence

32:32 The Aftermath and Legal Struggles

38:34 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

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Welcome back to the Chicks in Construction! In this episode, hosts Mikki Paradis and Jessica Abreu kickstart their tool talk series - aiming to save you from buying unnecessary tools and helping you choose the ones that deserve a spot in your truck. They delve deep into the differences between power drills and impact drivers, offer tips for proper drywall anchoring, and share humorous anecdotes from their DIY experiences. Plus, they touch on New Year's words instead of resolutions and the importance of focusing and aligning goals. Tune in for an informative and entertaining session that blends practical advice with real-life stories!

00:00 Introduction to Tool Talk

00:30 Meet the Hosts: Mickey and Jessica

01:58 New Year Resolutions and Words of the Year

13:11 Tool Talk: Power Drills vs. Impact Drivers

20:56 The Best Stud Finder: Stud Buddy

21:36 Understanding Screws and Studs

24:16 Drill vs. Impact Driver: Key Differences

30:44 Choosing the Right Drywall Anchors

34:31 Tips for Using Drills and Anchors

40:54 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement

Kitchen Renovation Nightmare: Avoid These Costly Mistakes

Welcome back to Chicks In Construction! In this episode, we dive into a gut-wrenching homeowner horror story involving a kitchen renovation gone terribly wrong. Hosts Mikki Paradis and Jessica Abreu discuss the dire consequences of hiring a contractor without checking licenses and permits, the importance of having a detailed contract, and why you should get multiple bids before starting your renovation. Learn valuable lessons about contingencies, budgeting, and how to avoid being taken advantage of in your home improvement projects. Plus, we address some spicy comments and provide tips for safeguarding your investment. Don't miss this eye-opening episode packed with essential advice for every homeowner looking to renovate. Like, subscribe, and share your own renovation stories in the comments!

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:25 Food Delivery Shenanigans

06:00 Homeowner Horror Stories

12:22 The Importance of Checking Licenses

18:56 Breaking Down the Story

26:49 The Reality of Renovation Costs

28:04 Importance of Multiple Bids

28:19 Choosing the Right Contractor

38:16 Understanding Contingency Budgets

45:28 Permits and Inspections: Why They Matter

54:27 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement

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In this week's episode, Mikki and Jess dive into a homeowner's renovation journey that started with a dream of a cozy screened-in porch but quickly turned into an emotional rollercoaster. From weather delays to unexpected structural fixes, learn valuable tips on how to manage a small renovation project, understand the importance of permits, and handle change orders. If you're planning a home improvement project, this episode is a must-watch for keeping your dreams from turning into problems. Tune in for practical advice and a heartfelt homeowner experience!

00:00 A Dreamy Porch Vision

00:53 Meet the Hosts: Mickey and Jessica

01:44 New Year Resolutions and Vision Boards

02:45 The Power of Thumbs Down

11:12 Homeowner Horror Story Introduction

13:23 The Screened Porch Project Begins

24:57 The Unexpected Structural Fix

26:41 Permit Problems and Inspections

27:59 Dealing with Delays and Decisions

45:06 The Emotional Toll of Renovations

46:19 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

50:10 Conclusion and Call to Action

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Builder of the Year Disaster: Homeowner Horror Story

In this episode of Chicks in Construction, hosts Mikki Paradis and Jessica Abreu dive into a startling homeowner horror story involving an award-winning 'Builder of the Year' who quickly turns into the 'Bumbler of the Decade.' From demolished heirloom gardens to an open house during a storm, the mishaps are beyond what any homeowner should endure. The episode also explores the importance of solid contracts, correct supervision, and clear communication in construction projects. Additionally, Mikki and Jessica add a light-hearted segment with a taste test of Shameless Snacks. Tune in for valuable construction insights, homeowner tips, and some much-needed laughs!

00:00 Builder of the Year Disaster

01:05 Meet the Hosts

01:32 New Year, New Us

01:55 Snack Time: Shameless Snacks Review

05:41 Book Recommendations

11:01 Homeowner Horror Story: The Builder of the Year

24:47 Communication Breakdown with Contractors

26:03 Permit Issues and Project Mismanagement

27:02 Emotional and Physical Damages

29:20 Insurance and Accountability

35:16 Contractual Obligations and Compensation

43:16 Ensuring Proper Supervision

52:16 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement

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In this episode of 'Chicks in Construction,' hosts Mickey Paradise and Jessica welcome Maribel Healy from Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of the Triangle. They delve into various DIY plumbing disasters, common homeowner mistakes, and the importance of professional plumbing maintenance. From flooded kitchens to malfunctioning faucets, Maribel shares valuable tips on what homeowners should and shouldn't attempt on their own. Additionally, the discussion covers the benefits of a plumbing membership for maintaining fixtures and the surprising necessity of annual hot water heater flushes. Tune in for laughs, insights, and practical advice to prevent your home from turning into an indoor pool!

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:51 Meet the Hosts and Guest

02:14 How We Met: A Funny Story

06:26 Getting into Plumbing: Maribel's Journey

08:42 Homeowner Horror Stories

10:14 DIY Plumbing Disasters

12:47 The Importance of Knowing Your Water Shutoff

14:03 Shower Head Replacement Gone Wrong

23:25 The Faucet Fiasco

31:29 Spec Sheets and Mixing Parts

32:58 The Pretty Tax: Are Expensive Fixtures Worth It?

33:52 Exploring Popular Plumbing Brands

34:01 The Risks of Cheap Plumbing Fixtures

35:12 Toilet Troubles and Solutions

37:01 Special Trash and Parts Toilets

40:19 DIY Plumbing Cautionary Tales

43:38 Maintaining Your Water Heater

49:57 The Importance of Plumbing Inspections

01:02:08 Smart Plumbing Technology

01:04:39 Conclusion and Contact Information

Contact our Guest, Maribel Healy:
Website:

www.benjaminfranklinplumbing.com/hollysprings-nc

Call 919-999-3649, or visit our website using the book now button or on google clicking book now.

Maribel Healy is the President and Owner of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of the Triangle, proudly serving Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, and the surrounding communities. With nearly two decades in the trades, her journey began in her teens when a mentor recognized her potential and encouraged her to step into plumbing, setting the foundation for a career built on purpose, perseverance, and service.

Under her leadership, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has become known for both its dependable workmanship and its strong community presence. Her team organizes local food drives, sponsors area schools, and actively participates in multiple Chambers of Commerce, supporting local businesses and regional growth.

Maribel leads with a servant’s heart guided by faith, integrity, and a genuine care for people. She lives, shops, and raises her children in the community she serves, investing daily in its growth while inspiring the next generation of women in the trades.

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