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Chicks in Construction
Mikki Paradis
26 episodes
5 days ago
You plan your renovation with excitement, trust your contractor, and hope for the best...until things start going sideways. That’s when most homeowners realize they didn’t know what they didn’t know. From permits that were never pulled to “contractors” who ghost after demo day, the construction world can feel like a maze of hidden costs and shady shortcuts. Too many homeowners end up confused, overwhelmed, and out of a lot of money. The Chicks in Construction Podcast is here to change that. Hosted by Mikki Paradis, a licensed general contractor with 20+ years of experience, and Jess Aper, a homeowner turned construction content creator, this show breaks down real renovation horror stories and teaches you how to protect your time, money, and home This isn’t just another DIY podcast or contractor interview show. Mikki and Jess pull back the curtain on what goes wrong in home projects, translating industry talk into plain English and giving you practical steps to avoid common (and costly) mistakes. After building a multimillion-dollar drywall business and helping countless homeowners recover from construction nightmares, Mikki is on a mission to make sure you go into your next project informed, not blindsided. And Jess brings the perspective of someone who’s been in your shoes and now knows exactly what questions to ask. Want to renovate smarter and spot red flags before they wreck your project? Hit follow and get ready for real talk, expert advice, and stories that will make you say, “Thank God I listened to this first.” Submit Your Construction Horror Story: https://chicksinconstruction.com/
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You plan your renovation with excitement, trust your contractor, and hope for the best...until things start going sideways. That’s when most homeowners realize they didn’t know what they didn’t know. From permits that were never pulled to “contractors” who ghost after demo day, the construction world can feel like a maze of hidden costs and shady shortcuts. Too many homeowners end up confused, overwhelmed, and out of a lot of money. The Chicks in Construction Podcast is here to change that. Hosted by Mikki Paradis, a licensed general contractor with 20+ years of experience, and Jess Aper, a homeowner turned construction content creator, this show breaks down real renovation horror stories and teaches you how to protect your time, money, and home This isn’t just another DIY podcast or contractor interview show. Mikki and Jess pull back the curtain on what goes wrong in home projects, translating industry talk into plain English and giving you practical steps to avoid common (and costly) mistakes. After building a multimillion-dollar drywall business and helping countless homeowners recover from construction nightmares, Mikki is on a mission to make sure you go into your next project informed, not blindsided. And Jess brings the perspective of someone who’s been in your shoes and now knows exactly what questions to ask. Want to renovate smarter and spot red flags before they wreck your project? Hit follow and get ready for real talk, expert advice, and stories that will make you say, “Thank God I listened to this first.” Submit Your Construction Horror Story: https://chicksinconstruction.com/
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Home & Garden
Education,
How To,
Leisure
Episodes (20/26)
Chicks in Construction
DIY Plumbing Disasters & Home Plumbing Tips - With Maribel Healy

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.

Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction

________________

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5 days ago
1 hour 6 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Transform Your Dream Home: Expert Tips on Renovations with Chelsea Combs

Have you ever fallen in love with a house only to fall out of love with its kitchen? Tune into this episode of The Chicks in Construction as hosts Mikki and Jess sit down with Chelsea Combs, owner of Green Hill General Contracting, to discuss transformative renovations that can turn any house into your dream home. Learn about renovation loans, realistic budgets, and avoiding construction chaos. Chelsea shares her insights on the importance of selecting the right general contractor, the significance of genuine reviews and licenses, and practical advice on making informed decisions for high return on investment renovations. Whether you own a home or are planning to buy one, Chelsea's expertise offers valuable guidance on optimizing your space. Plus, discover the inside scoop on why trusting your contractor and doing thorough research is crucial for a successful renovation project!

00:00 Falling in Love with Homes and Kitchens
00:56 Meet Chelsea Combs: The Remodeling Expert
01:17 The Journey of Green Hill Contracting
01:50 Women in Construction: Breaking Barriers
05:31 The Importance of Trust in Home Renovations
12:35 Setting Realistic Expectations for Renovations
21:39 The Southern Toilet Closet Phenomenon
22:30 Cost Considerations in Home Renovations
23:17 High ROI Renovations: Kitchen and Bath
23:49 Adapting Homes to Modern Lifestyles
24:51 The Importance of Pre-Purchase Renovation Planning
28:53 Making Informed Renovation Decisions
33:20 The Ripple Effect of Renovations
34:39 The Value of Trusting Your Contractor
35:40 Understanding the Deposit Process
39:52 The True Cost of Free Estimates
42:27 Final Thoughts and Advice

Link mentioned in the episode: https://linktr.ee/greenhillcontracting?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaeXnsocBchKrsldIgh-9T15zRHHrtCxZ_D0HXM0mfK1fXVkaUe7UZmk3giXiQ_aem_ZMuojH2U6FKantQPjfRyjA

Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction

________________

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1 week ago
44 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Mastering Bathroom Renovations with Expert Nicole Fella

Welcome back to the Chicks in Construction Podcast! In this episode, hosts Mikki  and Jess dive into the world of bathroom renovations with special guest Nicole Fella, an experienced interior designer and licensed general contractor from North Carolina. Together, they explore essential pre-demolition steps, worthwhile splurges, and achieving a spa-like bathroom on a budget. They also discuss the importance of hiring licensed professionals, communicating accurately about project costs, and maintaining a good working relationship between contractors and clients. Don't miss Nicole's expert tips on creating timeless bathroom designs and navigating the renovation process smoothly.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome

00:58 Meet the Expert: Nicole Fella

03:01 The Real Cost of Renovations

05:37 In-House Team vs. Subcontractors

11:01 Client Horror Stories

17:50 Red Flags in Client-Contractor Relationships

24:39 Dealing with Past Traumas in New Relationships

25:18 Handling Difficult Clients and Payment Issues

28:25 Trusting the Process and Communication

29:30 Challenges with Inspections and Fair Season

31:14 Fair Experiences and Family Stories

35:07 Homeowner Tips and HGTV Myths

40:09 Timeless vs. Trendy Design Choices

42:48 Final Advice and Show Wrap-Up


About our Nicole:
Nicole Fella is a seasoned professional in the realm of interior design and construction, with a passion for transforming spaces into exquisite works of art. Having graduated from the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.) in New York with a degree in Interior Design, Nicole honed her skills and expertise in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional environments.

With a dedication to excellence, Nicole pursued further qualifications and became a NASCLA Licensed General Contractor, demonstrating her commitment to mastering every aspect of the construction process. For over 11 years, she had been an integral part of The Bath Remodeling Center,LLC. where her talent and leadership have contributed significantly to the company’s success.

Now, as the proud owner of The Bath Remodeling Center, LLC. (2024) Nicole brings her wealth of experience and creative vision to every project. With an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and a keen eye for detail, she leads her team in delivering exceptional results that exceed clients’ expectations.  Since taking over ownership, The Bath Remodeling Center has been awarded Best Custom Home Builder/Home Renovation Specialist by Cary Magazine, and was recently featured in Architectural Digest.

Nicole’s innovative approach to design, combined with her expertise in construction, allows her to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary havens that reflect her clients’ unique tastes and lifestyles. Her dedication to quality craftsmanship and personalized service sets her apart in the industry, making her a trusted partner for those seeking to elevate their living spaces to new heights.

Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction

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2 weeks ago
49 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Kitchen Renovation Nightmare

In this episode of Chicks in Construction, hosts Miki  & Jess share a spine-chilling story about a homeowner's kitchen renovation gone horribly wrong. Tackling issues from disappearing contractors to hazardous electrical work, they discuss the importance of hiring licensed contractors, securing permits, and getting inspections. Miki also delves into her upcoming travels, the challenges of family life during renovations, and the lessons learned from remodels gone awry. Tune in for expert advice, personal anecdotes, and tips to ensure your next renovation project doesn't turn into a nightmare!

00:00 A Dark and Stormy Renovation
00:48 Meet the Hosts: Mikki and Jess
01:08 Travel Tales and Future Plans
02:40 Living Life Before Retirement
07:34 Homeowner Horror Stories Introduction
09:55 Sarah's Kitchen Nightmare Begins
24:28 Unlicensed Contractors and Inspection Avoidance
25:12 Homeowner Horror Story: The Gutted Kitchen
26:24 Understanding Electrical and Plumbing Issues
29:30 Hiring Licensed Trades to Fix the Mess
30:49 The Cost of Fixing Shoddy Work
32:29 Legal Battles and Small Claims Court
33:47 Avoiding Scams and Checking Licenses
44:28 The Importance of Inspections
52:34 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement

Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction

________________

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3 weeks ago
54 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Expert Tips and Real-Life Stories of Home Organizers

Welcome to another episode of Chicks in Construction! This episode goes deep into the transformative power of home organization. Joined by special guests Maria Butler of Clearly Organized and custom closet designer Sarah Tiani, the discussion highlights the benefits of hiring professional organizers. The hosts share personal stories, including Mickey’s journey through multiple organizers and the impact of finally finding the right fit. Discover how proper organization can save money, reduce stress, and even enhance your overall quality of life. Tips, insights, and real-life examples make this an episode you don’t want to miss. Tune in for expert advice on decluttering, effective organizing strategies, and when to consider professional help. Plus, get a sneak peek into high-end custom closets and practical solutions for everyday clutter. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and visit our website for more homeowner horror stories!


00:00 Introduction to Home Organizers

00:52 Meet the Hosts and Guests

01:18 Mikki's Organizing Journey

05:04 The Importance of Hiring an Organizer

06:52 When to Consider Hiring an Organizer

11:15 Custom Closets and Office Designs

25:10 Common Organizing Mistakes

32:46 First Time Trying Caviar

33:05 Common Closet Misconceptions

33:20 Closet Pricing and Design Options

34:05 Luxury Closet Features

36:17 Organizing Tips and Collaborations

36:41 Container Store and Other Options

42:03 DIY vs Professional Organizing

46:26 The Emotional Impact of Organizing

50:02 The Benefits of an Organized Space

53:10 Hiring Professional Organizers

56:52 Conclusion and Contact Information


Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction

________________

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Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Meet Maria Butler - https://clearlyorganizednc.com - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clearlyorganizednc

I am the owner of Clearly Organized.  It has long been my dream to start my own business.  I have always been a super-organized Monica type (Hello, Friends).  As a family, we have moved 8 times, which helped me hone my organizing and staging skills.  Thus was born Clearly Organized.   I love the relationships we develop with our clients. We walk along beside you in your organizing journey, providing help and encouragement.

I spent many years as an elementary school teacher and then a stay-at-home mom. I am married to my high school sweetheart and am a proud mom of two amazing boys. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, soaking up the sun at the beach, and reading.


Sarah Easterly Tiani - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahtianiclosets/

Stylish storage is self-care! I can create custom solutions to your storage challenges. Working in the triangle for 18 years.

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1 month ago
1 hour

Chicks in Construction
Real Estate & Renovation: Insider Tips from Industry Expert - Lisa Houtman

Welcome back to another episode of Chicks in Construction! In this episode, hosts Mikki and Jess dive into smart renovation decisions with their guest expert, Lisa Houtman from Houtman Home Realty and Heights Construction. Learn how to avoid common homeowner pitfalls and get insider tips on making renovations that actually add value to your home. From spotting red flags in real estate advice to understanding what upgrades are worth your time and money, this episode is packed with practical advice you won't want to miss. Plus, enjoy some fun banter about personal experiences and unique home improvement stories. Don't miss out—subscribe for more insightful and entertaining episodes!

00:00 Introduction to Smart Renovation Decisions
00:55 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest
02:32 Special Trash and Personal Stories
05:57 Winning Raffles and College Memories
10:07 Real Estate and Construction Insights
16:38 Home Renovation Horror Stories
18:16 Tips for Increasing Home Value
23:19 Working Together in Construction
29:38 New Construction Insights
31:38 Crazy Construction Stories
38:37 Homeowner Tips and Advice
44:11 Fridge Scaping and Other Trends
50:11 Holiday Traditions and Tangents
53:15 Final Advice and Wrap-Up

Contact info for Lisa Houtman 

Lisa Houtman is the owner of Home Realty powered by Fathom Realty here in the Triangle and also part of her family company Heights Construction. Together they help homeowners looking to sell get their properties fixed up and sold. 


She came from a construction background has 10 years of experience in both commercial and residential combined, and when she moved to Raleigh 8 years ago, she started right in the residential trades in HVAC. From there, she worked her way up to Purchasing Manager for a local home builder before branching out into her own real estate and construction business. Today more than half of her business is new construction, so she has seen both sides: the builder’s perspective and the buyer’s perspective.


Real Estate Broker | Realtor®
Lisa@houtmanhomerealty.com
www.HoutmanHomeRealty.com
@HoutmanHomerealty

Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction

________________

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Subscribe to Chicks in Construction and share this episode with your friends because every homeowner, builder, contractor, and designer needs to hear this one!

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1 month ago
57 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Fridge Scaping & DIY Disasters

Welcome back to the Chicks in Construction! In this episode, our hosts dive into an exciting mix of leftover audience questions from their 'junk drawer,' explore the fascinating and wildly impractical trend of 'Fridge Scaping,' and share the do's and don'ts of DIY projects. They also cover when you really need a permit for home renovations and the challenges of living through a renovation. Tune in for heartfelt advice, hilarious anecdotes, and practical tips to navigate your construction and home improvement projects. Don't forget to subscribe, comment, and share your homeowner horror stories!

00:00 Welcome to Chicks in Construction
00:56 Introducing New Mics and Subscriber Appeal
01:48 Hot Topic: Fridge Scaping
08:59 Overflow Questions: Do I Need a Permit?
24:23 Unexpected Renovation Challenges
25:14 Living Room Kitchen Setup
25:29 Crockpot Cooking Amidst Chaos
25:48 The Never-Ending Dust Battle
26:41 Managing Renovation Expectations
28:41 DIY Disasters and False Confidence
29:39 Knowing Your DIY Limits
31:35 The Importance of Professional Help
38:08 Painting Nightmares
43:52 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement


Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction

________________

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1 month ago
46 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Decoding Construction Gibberish: Terms You Never Knew You Needed!

Welcome to The Chicks in Construction, the podcast where your hosts decode construction jargon and share laughter-filled stories. In this episode, we take a break from homeowner horror stories to discuss essential construction terms like change orders, submittals, punch lists, allowances, scope of work, and much more. Mickey and Jess humorously navigate through these terms, share personal anecdotes, and emphasize the importance of clarity in construction contracts. Tune in to learn and laugh as they offer invaluable tips for making your renovation projects smoother and more informed.

00:00 Welcome to The Chicks in Construction
00:49 Decoding Construction Lingo
01:57 Dog Tales and Vet Visits
05:46 Beach House Updates
10:19 Special Trash and Marriage Tips
12:59 Understanding Construction Terms
25:55 The High Cost of Kitchen Appliances
27:23 Dishwasher Dilemma: To Trust or Not to Trust
28:41 Understanding Construction Allowances
29:04 The Importance of Schedule of Values
31:59 Drawing Money from Contracts
33:24 Lien Waivers: Protecting Your Property
35:49 Retainage: Ensuring Contractor Completion
39:30 Load-Bearing Walls and Structural Changes
43:06 R-Value: Measuring Insulation Effectiveness
44:41 Scope Creep: Managing Project Expansion
49:32 Conclusion and Call for Homeowner Horror Stories

Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
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www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
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________________

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1 month ago
52 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Bathroom DIY Disaster: Snowballing into a $26K Nightmare!

Welcome back to the Chicks in Construction podcast! In this episode, we unravel a jaw-dropping homeowner horror story that started with a simple bathroom DIY and spiraled into a $26,000 catastrophe. Join us as we dive into the challenges, missteps, and unexpected expenses encountered during this renovation gone horribly wrong. From mold remediation to contractor woes, we share valuable lessons and tips to help you avoid the same pitfalls. Grab your hard hat and tune in for an entertaining and informative discussion that you won't want to miss!

00:00 Introduction to the Renovation Nightmare

00:48 Meet the Hosts: Mikki and Jess do the chitty chat

01:07 Small Talk and TikTok Trends

03:15 Dog Troubles and Vet Bills

08:22 Jessica's Busy Life with Kids and Softball

11:17 Homeowner Horror Story: The Moldy Bathroom

24:42 Wiring Woes and Bathroom Blues

25:57 Dog Drama and Family Tales

27:57 Tile Troubles and Contractor Chaos

30:03 The Costly Contractor Switch

33:11 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

49:08 Engage with Us! It's free!

Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

Follow on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.linkedin.com/company/chicksinconstructionpodcast
www.youtube.com/@ChicksInConstruction

________________

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2 months ago
52 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Building Your Dream Home: Insights from a General Contractor | Allison King

In this episode of Chicks in Construction, host Mikki and guest-host Allison King discuss the challenges and triumphs of working with general contractors (GCs) on home building projects. Allison, from Clarity Design-Build, shares her journey from starting in sales to becoming a project manager, and highlights the importance of knowing what you want in a custom build. They delve into details about site conditions, allowances, and how to protect yourself financially during a construction project. Both hosts emphasize the importance of having everything in writing and controlling the finances to ensure the project's success. Whether you're considering building a custom home or renovating an existing one, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the process smoothly.

00:00 Introduction to Chicks in Construction
00:48 Meet the Co-Host: Allison King
01:20 Allison's Journey in Construction
01:55 The Challenges of Working in Construction
02:39 From Sales to Project Management
07:34 Building Spec Homes and Custom Projects
13:11 Understanding Home Building Costs
28:03 The Importance of Inspections and Surveys
31:28 The Importance of Licensed General Contractors
32:27 Getting References and Vetting Contractors
34:21 Financing and Construction Loans
36:40 Understanding Liens and Waivers
41:40 Managing Expectations and Budgeting
55:42 Custom Building vs. Production Building
01:00:40 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Submit your homeowner horror story:
www.chicksinconstruction.com

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www.facebook.com/chicksinconstructionpodcast
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________________

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2 months ago
1 hour 5 minutes

Chicks in Construction
We Bustin' 12 Common Construction Myths

We debunk 12 common construction myths! From the truth about verbal agreements, exact project completion dates, and new construction home inspections, to whether higher prices always mean higher quality and the myth of being able to knock down any wall, Mikki and Jess have got you covered. They also share a personal project update, discuss the benefits of sourcing materials from local businesses, and dive into the complexities of contractor markups and insurance. Whether you're planning a renovation, building a new home, or just interested in the construction industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Tune in and get the real scoop on these pervasive construction myths!

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:53 Townhouse Painting Project
02:57 Challenges of DIY Painting
05:40 Supporting Local Businesses
07:48 Beach Trip and Shell Collecting
09:51 Debunking Construction Myths
11:27 Budget and Cost Myths
23:05 Timeline Myths
27:38 Quality and Material Myths
28:20 The Illusion of High-End Brands
32:41 The Importance of Home Inspections
33:49 Contractor Licensing and Quality
36:00 Insurance and Contractor Coverage
39:59 The Myth of Verbal Agreements
42:45 Design and Function Myths
50:03 Energy Efficiency: Worth the Cost?
52:27 Final Thoughts and Viewer Engagement

Prism Paint + Design -You’re Triangle, Triad, Piedmont Benjamin Dealer
6 locations - Raleigh - Cary - Chapel Hill  - Greensboro  - High Point - Winston Salem
The products used were Ultraspec 500 low sheen eggshell walls and Door, Trim & Cabinet Satin for the trim.
Contact info
Rich Kipp, Regional Manager
919-268-0935
Rich@prismpaintco.com

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________________

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2 months ago
57 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Nightmare Renovation in North Raleigh: Importance of Licensed Contractors & Permits

In this episode of Chicks in Construction, hosts Mikki and Jess dive into a harrowing North Raleigh renovation story that underscores the importance of hiring licensed general contractors, obtaining permits, and not prepaying large sums of money upfront. They highlight a homeowner's ordeal with a fraudulent GC who left numerous structural and compliance issues unchecked, leading to significant financial and emotional stress. Tune in to learn vital tips on how to protect yourself in construction projects and ensure your renovations don't turn into a nightmare.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:50 Upgraded Studio Setup
04:53 Summer Break and Camp A
05:29 The Nightmare Renovation Begins
07:46 Unlicensed Contractor Issues
08:29 Importance of Permits and Inspections
15:18 The Inspection Fiasco
25:34 Deck Disaster Unfolds
26:27 Crawlspace Conundrum
28:40 Kitchen Catastrophe
30:36 Inspection Issues
33:10 Legal Battles and Resolutions
44:18 Lessons Learned
47:33 Final Thoughts and Farewell

________________

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________________

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2 months ago
51 minutes

Chicks in Construction
The Four-Week Bathroom Project That Took Four Months
What was supposed to be a clean, modern upgrade to the only full bathroom in a 1960s split-level turned into four months of dust, delays, and constant headaches. With a solid budget and a contractor who promised four to five weeks, this Rhode Island homeowner thought they were in good hands. Instead, they found themselves showering in a freezing basement with a garden hose while bills kept piling up. Mikki and Jess walk through every misstep, from shoddy plumbing to crooked tile, and the mone...
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2 months ago
42 minutes

Chicks in Construction
How to Spot a Real Painter vs. Someone Who Just Bought a Paintbrush
Most painters are disasters waiting to happen. They'll destroy your floors, paint over problems instead of fixing them, take your deposit and disappear for weeks, then leave you with a mess that looks worse than when they started. But how do you spot the difference between a real professional and some guy who thinks painting is easy money? Elizabeth Mejía from Top Empire Painting has seen it all, from painters who literally paint over staples sticking out of trim to clients who lock contracto...
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3 months ago
1 hour 4 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Reasonable vs. Unreasonable Renovation Expectations
Mikki and Jess tackle one of the biggest problems in home renovations: homeowners going in completely unprepared for what construction actually looks like. After seeing so many horror stories from listeners, they realized many of the "disasters" could have been avoided if people just knew what was normal versus what was actually worth getting upset about. They delve into common challenges faced during renovations, emphasizing the importance of hiring skilled professionals, anticipating delays...
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3 months ago
1 hour 2 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Insurance Claims Decoded with Public Adjuster Nicolle Bochenski
When your roof leaks, a pipe bursts, or a tree crashes through your house, your first instinct is to call your insurance company. But one wrong word in that conversation can mean the difference between getting fully covered or getting nothing at all. Most homeowners don’t realize how much hinges on the language they use...until their claim is denied. In this episode, Mikki sits down with Nicolle Bochenski of Precision Public Adjusting to expose how often claims are unfairly denied, and what y...
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3 months ago
45 minutes

Chicks in Construction
Top Renovation Budget Tips to Avoid Costly Surprises
Ever wondered what your renovation should cost? In this episode of The Chicks in Construction, Mikki and Jess get real about renovation budget tips that can save your wallet and your sanity. Whether you're upgrading your forever home or prepping a property for Airbnb, this episode is packed with practical advice that every homeowner needs to hear. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Why your renovation goal (sell, rent, or live) changes your budgetThe 50/30/20 rule for dividing your renovatio...
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3 months ago
1 hour 13 minutes

Chicks in Construction
The Facebook Roofer Who Ghosted and Left Them Soaked
After a spring storm, a brown stain appeared in the ceiling. A quick fix felt doable until the roofer vanished, the drywall collapsed, and the insurance company refused to help. What started as one drip turned into a financial gut punch. In this episode, Mikki and Jess unpack every moment of a roof fix gone sideways. From the first red flag to the final invoice, they break down what this homeowner thought he was doing right and how it all went wrong. Inside the Homeowner Horror Story: The sma...
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4 months ago
45 minutes

Chicks in Construction
The Mold Scare Tactics Homeowners Fall For with Danyelle Holland
Mold feels like a silent menace; one whiff of “You’ll need to gut the house” and your budget evaporates. In this episode, Mikki sits down with Danyelle Holland of Atlantic Corp to expose the fear-based sales pitches that can turn a routine remediation into a five-figure panic. When a cough, a crawl-space puddle, or a mysterious odor sends you running to Google, you can end up paying for fixes you never needed. Danyelle explains exactly how real pros separate fact from fright, and why the righ...
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4 months ago
44 minutes

Chicks in Construction
The $2,000-a-Hole Window Myth with Ashley Selzer
Everyone’s heard it: “A quality replacement window should run you two grand per opening, or you’re buying junk.” That pitch (often delivered after hours of kitchen-table arm-twisting) convinces too many homeowners to sign for triple-pane glass and monster price tags they don’t actually need. Mikki’s latest guest, licensed GC Ashley Seltzer of Wallaby Windows, dismantles that narrative, along with the pushy sales tactics behind it, one NFRC label at a time. Ashley explains how quotes bal...
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4 months ago
1 hour 29 minutes

Chicks in Construction
You plan your renovation with excitement, trust your contractor, and hope for the best...until things start going sideways. That’s when most homeowners realize they didn’t know what they didn’t know. From permits that were never pulled to “contractors” who ghost after demo day, the construction world can feel like a maze of hidden costs and shady shortcuts. Too many homeowners end up confused, overwhelmed, and out of a lot of money. The Chicks in Construction Podcast is here to change that. Hosted by Mikki Paradis, a licensed general contractor with 20+ years of experience, and Jess Aper, a homeowner turned construction content creator, this show breaks down real renovation horror stories and teaches you how to protect your time, money, and home This isn’t just another DIY podcast or contractor interview show. Mikki and Jess pull back the curtain on what goes wrong in home projects, translating industry talk into plain English and giving you practical steps to avoid common (and costly) mistakes. After building a multimillion-dollar drywall business and helping countless homeowners recover from construction nightmares, Mikki is on a mission to make sure you go into your next project informed, not blindsided. And Jess brings the perspective of someone who’s been in your shoes and now knows exactly what questions to ask. Want to renovate smarter and spot red flags before they wreck your project? Hit follow and get ready for real talk, expert advice, and stories that will make you say, “Thank God I listened to this first.” Submit Your Construction Horror Story: https://chicksinconstruction.com/