Home In Progress

In this episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, Dan kicks things off with a lighthearted winter story before diving into two practical, surprisingly connected topics: organizing digital memories and choosing the right wood finish.The first half of the show tackles the growing stress of digital photo overload. Dan breaks down why our phones feel so cluttered, explains the critical difference between syncing and backing up photos, and outlines simple, realistic steps for freeing up storage while keeping important memories safe. Along the way, he introduces the “paradox of plenty” — why having fewer, more meaningful photos can actually help us enjoy our memories more.In the second half, the focus shifts back to the Winter Wood Shop with a deep but accessible look at lacquer and polyurethane. Dan explains how modern wood finishes evolved, the practical differences between oil-based and water-based polyurethane, and how recent VOC regulations have changed what’s available today. He also shares application tips, common mistakes to avoid, and why polyurethane remains one of the most versatile finishes for real-world woodworking projects.The episode wraps up by connecting good materials, good habits, and good outcomes — whether you’re protecting wood or preserving memories.RECOMMENDED READING & RESOURCESIf you want to go deeper, these articles and guides are clear and practical:Practical Guides for Photo Organization & BackupHow to Organize and Protect Digital Photos (The Photo Managers) — A professional’s guide to consolidating, organizing, and backing up your entire library. How to Organize and Protect Digital PhotosHow To Organize And Back Up Digital Photos and Videos (DIY Playbook) — Practical steps for creating a “photo hub,” removing duplicates, and backing up to a cloud or hard drive. How to Organize and Back Up Digital Photos and VideosStep-by-Step Photo Storage Guide (Eyes The Limit) — A straightforward walk through sorting, backing up, and deleting unwanted photos, including folder and tagging tips. How to Organize Your Photo Storage: Step‑by‑Step GuideApple Support — iCloud Photos & Optimize Storage — Official Apple instructions so you can see exactly how iCloud sync, optimize storage, and deletions work (and why synced photos are everywhere). Set up and Use iCloud Photos (Apple Support)Cloud & Phone Backup BasicsGoogle Photos Help — Manage Storage & Cleanup — Official support from Google on how to manage storage, clean up large files, and understand what counting against storage means in Google Photos. Manage Your Storage (Google Photos Help)li...

In this episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, the conversation starts with a teaser from the Winter Wood Shop series—then takes a sharp turn into one of the most unexpected topics we’ve covered yet.The show opens with real-world painting questions from new homeowners, including whether dark paint really covers bright pink walls better, how to temporarily paint a tile kitchen backsplash, and what to consider when tackling large trim projects in older homes where lead paint may be present. Along the way, we break down how paint bases and primers actually work, why the order you choose colors matters, and when extra caution is required for health and safety.From there, the episode pivots into a surprisingly fascinating deep dive on shellac—what it is, how it’s used, and why it’s still relevant today. We explore both clear shellac and white pigmented shellac, its role in woodworking and finishing, and its long, strange history. That includes the origin story most people never hear: shellac’s connection to the lac bug, how it shows up in everyday products, and why it sometimes sparks debate in the vegan world.It’s a practical, informative episode with a twist—grounded in real home improvement advice, but ending with a topic you probably didn’t expect to hear on a painting show.ResourcesMake Your Own Shellac (Video)Episode Timeline00:00 — Introduction & Winter Wood Shop Teaser00:41 — Painting Questions from New Homeowners02:08 — Paint Coverage, Bases, and Primers Explained05:56 — Can You Paint a Tile Backsplash?08:31 — Lead Paint Concerns in Older Homes13:26 — Choosing Paint Colors in the Right Order17:49 — How RepcoLite Helps Homeowners Get It Right18:29 — Meet the Lac Bug19:18 — The Secret Life of Lac Bugs21:28 — Lac Bugs in Everyday Products24:49 — The Vegan Debate25:56 — From Bug Secretions to Shellac27:04 — Shellac in Woodworking32:15 — Shellac’s Historical Role35:58 — Modern Uses (and Limits) of Shellac39:04 — Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up

In the first full episode of 2026, Home in Progress host Dan Hansen takes a fresh look at New Year’s resolutions—why they so often fail, and how a small shift in thinking can make them far more sustainable. Drawing on personal experience, Dan shares a practical, realistic approach to setting goals that actually stick.From there, the episode pivots to a common winter home concern: mold and mildew. Dan breaks down what mold really is, when it’s a health concern, and when it’s more of a maintenance issue. You’ll hear clear, step-by-step guidance on safely cleaning mold, choosing the right products, and preventing it from returning—plus what to do after mold is removed so your repairs last.The episode wraps up with the launch of a new Winter Wood Shop series, starting with one of the most misunderstood finishing products out there: tung oil. Dan explains the differences between pure tung oil, tung oil/varnish blends, and products labeled “tung oil finish,” and compares their real-world performance to polyurethane so you can choose the right finish for the job.Episode Timeline00:00 — Welcome to Home in Progress00:24 — Why New Year’s Resolutions So Often Fail02:06 — A More Sustainable Approach to Goal-Setting07:31 — Introducing the Winter Wood Shop Series08:32 — Mold and Mildew: What Homeowners Should Know12:56 — Understanding Mold in the Home19:34 — Essential Safety Gear for Mold Cleanup20:21 — Effective Mold Cleaning Methods21:39 — How to Know When Mold Is Truly Gone23:01 — Priming and Painting After Mold Removal24:18 — Preventing Mold from Coming Back27:29 — What Tung Oil Really Is (and Isn’t)32:05 — The Three Types of “Tung Oil” Products35:22 — Where Tung Oil Works—and Where It Doesn’t38:25 — Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

In this special Best Of episode of Home in Progress, Dan Hansen blends craftsmanship, practical paint advice, and motivation to kick off your next project with momentum. First, he dives into the story of the legendary H.O. Studley Tool Chest, exploring its remarkable construction and what it can teach us about quality work, organization, and efficiency. From there, Dan shifts into paint know-how—breaking down why dedicated primers still matter, when “paint-and-primer-in-one” products fall short, and how the right prep steps can save time and frustration. The episode wraps with a practical, encouraging segment on setting goals and actually sticking with them long after the initial New Year’s motivation fades.Episode Timeline00:00 — Introduction and 400th Episode Announcement00:32 — Reflecting on 400 Episodes02:56 — Today’s Historical Focus03:37 — The Story of the Studley Tool Chest13:07 — Lessons from the Studley Tool Chest18:59 — Why Primer Still Matters20:24 — Paint + Primer Combo Products: What They Really Do23:23 — The Truth About “Paint and Primer in One”24:20 — When You Need a Dedicated Primer27:02 — Special Offer on Quicksand Primer29:44 — Setting Goals That Actually Stick38:08 — Maintaining Long-Term Success with Goals

In this special Best Of episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, Dan Hansen shares a handful of favorite segments from the past year—perfect for the holiday stretch when you’re tackling projects, relaxing at home, or doing a little of both.The show opens with some weekend chatter (including a nostalgic roller-skating detour sparked by Back to the Future), then into a paint-heavy segment aimed at a classic homeowner problem: how to make a small room feel bigger without remodeling. He breaks down five practical paint strategies, including smart color choices, monochromatic palettes, and “color drenching,” plus a couple of visual tricks that add height and depth.The second half of the show takes a surprisingly fascinating turn into the history of glass—from natural obsidian to early glassmaking legends, Roman breakthroughs like glass blowing and early window panes, and the evolution to modern insulated windows. Dan wraps the episode with a rapid-fire guide to common window issues—drafts, condensation, fog between panes, and windows that won’t operate smoothly—along with realistic fixes and when it’s time to call in a pro.Episode Summary00:00 — Best Of kickoff + holiday-week programming00:16 — Weekend plans and roller-skating nostalgia02:09 — New Year’s resolutions, “Quitter’s Day,” and the mindset reset03:32 — A funny “height hack” detour (and why it secretly sets up the paint point)12:45 — Paint Point: 5 ways to make a small room feel larger17:39 — Two-toned walls and eye-trick design strategies18:30 — Listener emails + how to send topic ideas18:56 — The history of glass: discovery, invention, and innovation20:25 — From early glassmaking to Roman windows26:09 — Industrial-era improvements and modern window evolution30:38 — Window problems homeowners actually deal with (and what to do)39:36 — Wrap-up, where to find the episode, and next week’s preview

In this special annual Christmas episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, Dan Hansen steps away from the usual home improvement topics to celebrate the season—and give back to listeners.This year’s Extravaganza includes a festive giveaway: ten $100 gift certificates, awarded to listeners who share their favorite Christmas songs, memories, or traditions via email.Dan opens the show with a humorous and heartfelt story about a long-ago family Christmas card featuring a screaming toddler—an unexpected reminder of how the most genuine moments often become the most meaningful memories. From there, the episode dives into the fascinating history behind familiar holiday traditions.You’ll hear how Christmas cards originated in Victorian England, why they were once criticized as cold and impersonal, and how they eventually became a beloved seasonal ritual. Dan also explores the birth of Christmas music on the radio, beginning with the groundbreaking Christmas Eve broadcast of 1906, and how radio forever changed the way the holiday is shared and experienced.The episode wraps up with the story of Christmas lights—from the risky early days of candle-lit trees to the invention and widespread adoption of electric lights that transformed holiday decorating. The show closes with warm Christmas wishes and a reminder to enter the holiday giveaway.Reproduction of the First Radio BroadcastEpisode Timeline00:00 — Welcome to the Annual Christmas Extravaganza01:49 — Christmas Card Chaos: A Family Story04:37 — The Controversial Origins of Christmas Cards09:58 — How Christmas Communication Evolved11:25 — The Birth of Christmas on the Radio18:25 — The First Christmas Eve Broadcast (1906)22:32 — Radio’s Impact on Holiday Traditions24:46 — The History of Christmas Lights28:40 — Candles, Symbolism, and Seasonal Danger32:23 — The Rise of Electric Christmas Lights35:16 — Modern Christmas Light Displays35:33 — Final Thoughts, Christmas Wishes, and the Giveaway

In this episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, we take a moment to honor the life and legacy of Frank Gehry—the visionary architect behind landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. Gehry passed away at 96, leaving behind a body of work that continues to reshape how we think about buildings, space, and the creative process itself.Host Dan Hansen reflects on Gehry’s impact and unpacks what made his approach to creativity so powerful. From embracing the unknown to challenging long-held assumptions, Gehry’s mindset offers practical lessons for anyone looking to bring more originality, curiosity, and play into their own projects—whether you're designing a home, solving a problem, or simply trying something new.This episode explores how stepping into uncertainty, allowing yourself to experiment (and even fail), and pushing past convention can unlock refreshing and unexpected possibilities. Along the way, Dan shares examples from Gehry’s career and applies those principles to everyday spaces homeowners often struggle with.Episode Breakdown00:00 Introduction and Tribute to Frank Gehry01:14 The Importance of Creativity04:59 Frank Gehry's Early Life and Influences09:11 The Turning Point: The Santa Monica House12:41 The Bilbao Effect and Gehry's Global Legacy14:12 Unleashing Creativity: What Gehry Teaches Us18:50 Embracing the Unknown and Staying Curious21:10 Applying Design Principles to Everyday Rooms22:15 Challenging Assumptions in Small Spaces23:39 Reimagining the Living Room26:21 Experimenting with Kitchen Cabinets29:00 Learning from Failure and Criticism33:57 Discovering Your Own Creative Signature37:33 How Architecture Shapes Community39:07 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen sits down with Andrea Magno, Director of Color Marketing and Design at Benjamin Moore, for an inside look at the 2026 Color of the Year: Silhouette. Andrea walks us through the behind-the-scenes process of selecting the color, the cultural and design trends that shaped this year’s choice, and why this rich, moody brown feels both fresh and timeless.You’ll hear practical tips on how to use Silhouette throughout your home, how to pair it with the rest of the 2026 palette, and what sets this year’s colors apart from short-lived micro-trends. Andrea also shares stories from her years in color research and design, offering listeners a grounded and inspiring guide to making thoughtful color decisions.Episode Summary00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout00:28 — Meet Andrea Magno02:13 — How the Color of the Year Is Chosen07:28 — The Emergence of Silhouette09:08 — Why Brown Is Back (and Where It Works)16:26 — Micro-Trend Fatigue & the Return to Timelessness20:50 — Do Color Trends Last?22:52 — Fashion, Closets, and Color Inspiration24:56 — Andrea’s Favorite Supporting Colors29:16 — Unexpected Places to Use Silhouette31:45 — Ceiling Painting Disasters (and Lessons Learned)34:07 — Common Color-Choosing Mistakes36:13 — The Many Faces of Silhouette37:14 — Closing Thoughts

In this Thanksgiving special of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen digs into the surprising history of the American dining room and reveals the real science behind what makes a space feel warm, welcoming, and deeply “cozy.” Sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, this episode blends design history, environmental psychology, and practical home advice to help you create holiday spaces people love to linger in.Dan breaks down the elements that truly shape coziness—refuge and prospect, ceiling height, layered lighting, meaningful textures, scent, and even the subtle role of background sound. He also uncovers the unexpected origins of our “traditional” Thanksgiving color palette, showing how 1960s–70s appliance colors quietly shaped our modern holiday aesthetic.Packed with actionable tips and fascinating insights, this episode is your guide to making any room feel comfortable, inviting, and human-centered for the holidays.Episode Breakdown00:00 – Holiday greetings & introduction01:29 – What to expect in this special episode01:40 – The psychology of cozy: how humans experience comfort02:49 – The rise, fall, and reinvention of the formal dining room11:44 – Why our Thanksgiving colors come from mid-century appliances18:36 – The foundations of cozy spaces23:46 – How coziness works in real homes24:57 – Creating intimate zones in open-concept layouts25:56 – How ceiling height shapes emotional comfort28:18 – Layered lighting: the real secret to coziness30:33 – Texture: the “silent” coziness booster32:37 – Scent: the fastest way to create emotional warmth35:34 – Designing for people—not Pinterest39:27 – The surprising impact of sound on mood45:27 – Practical steps for making your home cozier today

In this episode of Home in Progress, sponsored by RepcoLite Paints and Benjamin Moore, Dan tackles one of the most common chimney problems—and it has nothing to do with fire. He explains how water finds its way into brick, mortar, and chimney caps, how to spot the signs early, and what homeowners can do to fix and prevent damage.From there, Dan shifts into the “ghost stories” hiding inside older homes: knob-and-tube wiring, cast-iron plumbing, galvanized supply lines, and those enormous gravity furnaces sometimes called “octopus” systems. He breaks down what they are, why they’re still out there, and what you need to know if you’re buying or renovating an older house.A listener question leads to a practical step-by-step fix for painted-over wallpaper glue, including how to safely prep, clean, and prime the wall for a smooth finish.Finally, Dan shares a few personal ghost stories from his own 1900s home—strange noises, odd shadows, and one unforgettable week of unexplained events—and uses them as a segue into the importance of proper inspections and hiring qualified specialists when working with old home systems.Episode Timeline00:00 Welcome to Home in Progress00:14 The Most Common Chimney Problem00:35 House-Related Ghost Stories01:22 Listener’s Wallpaper-Glue Dilemma02:35 Solving the Wallpaper-Paste Problem06:39 Priming for a Perfect Finish10:22 Real Ghost Experiences18:16 Unexplained Events in the Old House18:43 Transition to Practical Home Improvement20:18 Understanding Knob-and-Tube Wiring25:07 Cast-Iron & Galvanized Plumbing29:22 Gravity Furnaces: The “Octopus” in the Basement32:34 Chimney Maintenance & Water Damage38:57 Final Thoughts

In this episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen kicks things off with his first-snowfall story and a few thoughts on the annual fall battle—leaf cleanup. From there, he shifts gears into two seemingly different worlds that have more in common than you’d think: power tools and personal style.Dan breaks down the circular saw—why it’s one of the most versatile tools a homeowner can own, how to choose the right type, which accessories make the biggest difference, and the key safety habits every DIYer should know.Then, in a surprising but perfectly connected twist, the conversation turns to men’s fashion. Dan explains why dressing well isn’t about having an “eye for style” or chasing trends—it’s about learning skills, understanding fit, and applying timeless principles. Just like home improvement, great results come from practice, patience, and quality materials.From the importance of proportion (in both clothes and color schemes) to the “Swap Trick” for stepping outside your comfort zone, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you look better, build better, and think differently about the connection between craftsmanship and style.Resources:Circular Saw Track GuideEssential Man Clothing ArticleEpisode Timeline00:00 — Welcome to Home in Progress00:11 — First Snowfall and Fall Cleanup01:21 — Why We’re Talking About Fashion02:33 — The Circular Saw: The Most Underrated Tool04:38 — Sidewinder vs. Worm-Drive Saws07:47 — Must-Have Add-Ons and Safety Tips12:08 — Dressing Well Is a Learnable Skill19:43 — The Overlap Between Fashion and Home Improvement22:16 — Challenging the “Eye for Design” Myth26:21 — Fit and Proportion: From Clothes to Color Schemes30:50 — Avoiding Trends: Choosing Timeless Style33:14 — The Swap Trick: Small Changes, Big Impact35:35 — Investing in Quality: Tools, Paint, and Wardrobes36:44 — Final Thoughts and Giveaway Announcement

In this week’s episode of Home in Progress, host Dan Hansen is joined by designer Andy Yates to unpack the biggest ideas and innovations from this year’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS 2025).Even though Andy didn’t make it to Las Vegas in person, he’s got a sharp eye on what’s next in home design—from tech-integrated kitchens to sustainable materials, personalized design choices, and the return of natural warmth and texture in both kitchens and baths. Together, Dan and Andy explore how these trends are shaping the spaces where we cook, gather, and recharge—and why wellness, functionality, and longevity are at the heart of good design.Later in the show, Dan tackles a listener question: Is it too late to paint outside this fall? His answer might surprise you—along with some practical tips and product advice for getting the job done before winter hits.Episode Timeline00:00 – Welcome and Show Overview00:15 – KBIS 2025: The Year’s Biggest Design Themes00:49 – Why Kitchens and Baths Matter Most04:34 – Smarter Homes: Where Tech Meets Design14:01 – Sustainability with Style23:43 – Bringing Smart Features to Everyday Life24:56 – Balancing Privacy and Convenience27:05 – The Rise of Personalization in Design30:23 – Investing in Quality and Longevity32:54 – Designing for Daily Joy and Wellness35:53 – The Power of Functional Spaces41:48 – Listener Question: Late Fall Painting Tips47:29 – Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

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

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.ResourcesShelly's Free Quote formEnvirolak's Durability VideosRobotic Spray SystemEpisode 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

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 RakeEpisode 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

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