Claim OwnershipUnder Construction: Renovating A Home, Redeeming An Industry
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Are you a homeowner looking to tackle some DIY renovations, but don’t know where to start? Maybe you’re looking for a contractor, but struggling to find the right person to hire? Introducing Under Construction: Renovating A Home, Redeeming An Industry, your ultimate guide to DIY renovations and finding the perfect contractor for your home improvement needs. Join hosts Erik Dieringer, the seasoned owner of Big Fish Contracting, and Tanya Weltzin, the office manager at Big Fish Contracting, as they share their wealth of knowledge and experience accumulated over their impressive 30-year career in the industry.
Every other week, Erik, Tanya (and the occasional guest!) unveil invaluable tips and tricks that cover a wide range of home renovation topics, from roofing and siding to remodeling and beyond. No stone is left unturned as they reveal the best-kept secrets of the trade, empowering you to tackle your own projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or in search of a trustworthy contractor, this podcast is your go-to resource.
And it doesn't stop there. Erik and Tanya go the extra mile by divulging their personal recommendations for top-notch home construction products and services. From innovative materials to reliable suppliers, They unveil a treasure trove of insider insights that will revolutionize your renovation journey.
What sets Erik and Tanya apart is their unwavering dedication to a people-first approach. They understand navigating the home renovation industry can be overwhelming, which is why they're committed to sharing everything you need to know.
Erik, Tanya, and their expert guests are here to unmask the world of home improvement and empower you to transform your living spaces with confidence. Tune in, subscribe, and let the renovation journey begin!
Every other week, Erik, Tanya (and the occasional guest!) unveil invaluable tips and tricks that cover a wide range of home renovation topics, from roofing and siding to remodeling and beyond. No stone is left unturned as they reveal the best-kept secrets of the trade, empowering you to tackle your own projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or in search of a trustworthy contractor, this podcast is your go-to resource.
And it doesn't stop there. Erik and Tanya go the extra mile by divulging their personal recommendations for top-notch home construction products and services. From innovative materials to reliable suppliers, They unveil a treasure trove of insider insights that will revolutionize your renovation journey.
What sets Erik and Tanya apart is their unwavering dedication to a people-first approach. They understand navigating the home renovation industry can be overwhelming, which is why they're committed to sharing everything you need to know.
Erik, Tanya, and their expert guests are here to unmask the world of home improvement and empower you to transform your living spaces with confidence. Tune in, subscribe, and let the renovation journey begin!
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If you’re curious about what the whole process is like when it comes to remodeling your home, our guest has all of the insights you need. We are joined by Kevin, the sales and remodeling consultant at Big Fish Contracting. Kevin shares his journey going from law enforcement to transitioning into the construction industry, highlighting his passion for helping homeowners transform their spaces. He discusses what the initial consultation will look like, as well as the importance of knowing the budget for your project. He also provides valuable advice on preparing for a remodel, including having patience and a thorough plan. He also gives some typical starting prices for different remodeling projects from kitchens to bathrooms and even basements. Kevin's goal is to make your home renovation experience go as smoothly and successfully as possible. In this episode, we cover: Kevin’s journey from law enforcement to construction His favorite part of the renovation process What the sales process looks like for a home remodeling project Why it’s necessary to be open about your budget The design software Kevin uses and how it benefits the customer The general starting costs of different home projects Remembering to be patient - home renovation projects are a process To contact Kevin directly, you can call him at 262-289-8737 The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Back by popular demand, Heather Henry is joining us again on the show! Last time she was here, we dove into her journey in the real estate world, and she shared tons of helpful tips for anyone buying or selling a home. This time, Heather has some exciting news to share. She’s officially launched her very own real estate company: Henry Real Estate Company! Heather shares her journey of when she first decided she wanted to start her own company, the long journey it took to get to this point, and where she sees the company heading. We’ve seen firsthand just how passionate and knowledgeable Heather is, and if you’re in the market for a trusted real estate pro, trust us, she’s the real deal. Connect with Heather: Website: henryrealestatecompany.com Email: heather@henryrealestatecompany.com Phone Number: 262-617-2725 The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
When it comes to budgeting for your home renovation projects, there can be a lot of different factors that determine the cost. From the size of your house and the pitch of your roof to the type of shingles you choose, every decision plays a critical role in determining the overall budget of your project. In this episode, we unpack some of our biggest budgeting tips, including the importance of planning for any unexpected costs. Even the most experienced contractors may find unforeseen issues behind walls, so having some sort of contingency fund is absolutely essential. We also discuss the significance of having open and honest conversations with your contractor. Sharing with them your budget and priorities is crucial to making informed decisions during the renovation process. Investing in your home isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about the value and enjoyment that come from these projects, so it’s important to make sure that when you spend money on your home renovation projects, you are creating a space that you will love. In this episode, we cover: Factors that can impact the cost of your home renovation projects How materials, including roofing types and window choices, can affect project costs Budgeting for unexpected expenses Having honest discussions with your contractors The long-term value of home renovations The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Buying a home is stressful enough, but throw in a renovation gone wrong, and you have the kind of stories you’ll never forget. Some are a little frustrating, others are shocking, and some are just downright hilarious. We asked our listeners some of their worst home renovation stories, and boy, did they deliver! From mold in walls to a hole in the second-story floor, these stories will make you cringe, laugh, and possibly even have you double-checking your own home. While these stories can definitely be headaches for those who have lived through them, they can also offer valuable insights and lessons for future and current homeowners. Tune in to hear the stories and what you should do to avoid these problems. The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
We are excited to announce the latest update from our team! We are introducing you to Heather Miller, our newest addition to the Big Fish family. Heather not only comes with a ton of experience in project management and design, but her positive energy and passion for her work have already made a huge impact in just a few weeks of being here. Heather shares about her previous work experience and why she decided to apply to work at Big Fish. We also talk about her new role, how she and Tanya have become instant best friends, and what she hopes to bring to the company. Heather’s presence is already proving to be a huge asset to our team, and we know the customers and listeners will appreciate her just as much as we do. The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
We are switching things up just a little bit today and chatting with our incredibly talented friend and artist, Tim Spransy. Years ago, Tim was a musician and even traveled to Belarus with his band. In this episode, he shares what that experience was like, how a major back surgery changed his path, and how it ultimately led him back to art. You’ll hear the story of how we first met, how music played a big role in that connection, and why Tim believes that everyone has the potential to be an artist. We also talk about the role faith and community have played in his journey, and how Tim is preparing for his upcoming one-man show at the Grohmann Museum. Tim’s story is quite inspiring and a reminder that it’s never too late to follow your passions. Connect with Tim: Tim’s Art:.timspransyfineart.com The Grohmann Museum: msoe.edu/grohmann-museum The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
If you’re looking for a roofing contractor who LOVES roofing, then we’ve got the guy for you. We sit down with Cory LeFever, owner of LeFever Roofing and, honestly, one of the most knowledgeable people we know in the industry. Cory has been doing this for over 25 years, and as you’ll be able to see in this episode, he is very passionate about what he does. We cover everything from how he stumbled into roofing during college to the ins and outs of cedar shakes, and to the detail that goes into custom metalwork. Cory is the kind of guy who genuinely cares about doing things the right way. He has built a business on relationships, craftsmanship, and continuous learning. If you’re thinking about a new roof or just want to hear from someone who’s passionate about what they do, this conversation is one you don’t want to miss. Connect with Cory: LeFever Roofing Website: www.lefeverroofing.com Aqua Beauty Lounge & Med Spa: www.aqua-beautylounge.com The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
It can be extremely overwhelming after a hailstorm hits your neighborhood and you have damage to your home. It’s common to see contractor trucks everywhere, doorbells ringing nonstop, and homeowners getting hit with these high-pressure sales pitches before they can even process what just happened. The good news? You don’t have to make any big decisions right away. You’ve got time, and we’re walking you through it all, including what to look for, what your insurance might cover, and how to spot red flags. We also break down what to expect during the claims process, how to find a contractor you can truly trust, and why patience is your best friend after a hailstorm. If you’re feeling unsure about what to do after a hailstorm, this episode is here to help you feel confident and informed about your next steps. The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
How does a guy with a fear of heights end up working in an industry where he has to climb onto roofs? In this episode, we’re chatting with Zack Davis, our exterior sales consultant here at Big Fish, and just an all-around great guy. From coaching lacrosse to being a loving father and chasing some personal goals, Zack brings a ton of heart to everything he does, and it really shines through in this conversation. Zack talks about his family life, including the fact that he has a baby boy on the way this summer! We also dive into how he found his way to Big Fish, what drew him to the team, and how his background in coaching helps him build trust and connection with the homeowners he serves. Zack also opens up about the support he’s received from the team both on and off the job site and the personal growth he’s experienced along the way. Whether you're into roofing, lacrosse, or just love a good story about personal transformation, this one’s worth the listen. Tune in and get to know Zack. The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Home renovations can be an exciting time and can transform your home into the dream space you’ve always wanted. Yet, behind every successful renovation project lies the complex, and sometimes daunting, process of getting building permits. These permits not only ensure that your project adheres to local codes and regulations, but they also protect both the homeowner and contractor from potential legal and safety issues. Luckily for you, here at Big Fish, we know the ins and outs of building permits and we have our permit expert, Kelsey Kasten, to talk all about what goes on with them. Together, we chat through the basics of permits, including what kinds of projects typically require a permit, how skipping this step of getting a permit can get you into trouble, and how permit requirements can vary depending on where you live. We also discuss when and how to know when you should pull a permit, and what the inspection process looks like, so you never get caught off guard mid-project. If dealing with permits leaves you overwhelmed, don’t worry because that’s where we come in. At Big Fish we take care of all the behind-the-scenes logistics so you get to focus on the exciting parts of your reno! Tune in for helpful tips, real talk about common pitfalls, and why working with a contractor who knows the ropes can make all the difference. The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
What does it really take to build a better life from the ground up? Diego, one of our lead siding foremen, knows exactly what it takes. In this episode, Diego shares his inspiring story of growing up in a small town in Guatemala to come to America all on his own and becoming a trusted leader on our siding team. Diego opens up about starting work at the young age of 11 years old, shining shoes to support his family, and making the brave decision to come to the U.S. at 16. The journey was far from easy, but Diego held onto his faith, and thanks to the support of a kind pastor and his determination, he not only found his place in the trades but eventually brought his brothers here to join him. Our conversation is a reminder that there’s so much heart behind the work we do. Diego’s story is one of hope, strength, and the power of believing in something bigger. Tune in to hear his story! The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Today, we chat with AJ Trampe and Mike Baum from 4 Brothers Contracting—and yep, we know what you might be thinking: “Wait, aren’t they your competition?” And you’d be right! But here’s the thing—we truly believe there’s plenty of room for everyone when you lead with integrity. AJ and Mike share how 4 Brothers Contracting came to life and how they’ve stayed grounded in their core values—like honesty, great craftsmanship, and building a team that feels like family. Even in a competitive industry, they’ve stuck to their principles and always put people over profit. Tune in to hear what it means to grow a business with heart, and be sure to follow 4 Brothers Contracting to keep up with their journey! The Big Fish DocuSeries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! Connect with 4 Brothers Contracting: Website | Instagram | Facebook To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Something that we pride ourselves on here at Big Fish is how much we care not only about our customers but also our team, and our next guest is proof of that. In this episode, we sit down with Aaron Schwind, one of our talented carpenters who has been with us for about 2 years. Aaron opens up about his life working in the trades, his passion for working with his hands, and how he ended up at Big Fish. But more than that, his story is one of resilience, hard work, and the power of community. Just a few months after joining the company, Aaron’s world was turned upside down when his wife, Melissa, was diagnosed with cancer. He opens up about navigating that difficult time and the overwhelming support he found in his work family. That kindness and compassion made all the difference in helping him get through it. We also talk about how work became an anchor for him. Being part of a team and doing hands-on work gave him purpose and helped him keep moving forward. His perspective on life, loss, and growth is something we can all learn from, and we’re truly honored to share his story. The Big Fish Docuseries is out now! Check it out on our YouTube channel! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Did you hear that we have a docuseries coming out all about Big Fish Contracting?! In this episode, we sit down with Grant and Taylor, the minds behind Switchback Cinema, who helped us turn our vision into a reality. These two filmmakers have an incredible journey, starting from meeting in film school to launching their own production company. We brought them on to help us create a docuseries that dives right into the heart of our company. It goes beyond just the projects and dives deep into the people who make it all happen. What started off as a simple idea has turned into something much bigger, and we can’t wait for you to see the final product! We chat with Grant and Taylor about the process of making this film, the things that surprised them the most, and the importance of storytelling. In this episode, we cover: The journey of Switchback Cinema Big Fish Contracting’s docuseries Behind the scenes of the docuseries Connect with Switchback Cinema: Website: Switchbackcinema.com Instagram: @switchbackcinema To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting YouTube Big Fish Contracting Facebook
You asked, we delivered! So many of you have been wanting to hear from Wayne VanOoyen, and we’re excited to have him on the podcast to share his journey of 30 years of being in the carpentry industry. From being self-taught to tackling everything from backyard decks to commercial builds, we cover it all. Wayne shares how the industry has evolved over the years, the challenges of working on additions versus new builds, and some of the unexpected surprises that come with older homes. He also dives into the importance of planning ahead and how mentorship has helped shape his career. Whether you’re into construction or just love a good success story, this episode is packed with insights. Tune in for a great conversation with Wayne! In this episode, we cover: How Wayne and Erik met Wayne’s carpentry journey The day-to-day as a carpenter Some of Wayne’s favorite projects he has done in his career The typical steps of a building project and the timeline of different projects How carpentry has evolved over the past 30 years Advice to those thinking of doing a major renovation project The incredible carpentry team at Big Fish Episodes mentioned: Meet Kelsey: Big Fish Contracting’s Newest Project Manager! To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
One of the things we love most about this podcast is connecting with you, the listener. So today, we are answering some of your most burning questions straight from our DMs! We’ve got everything covered: from our favorite project we’ve worked on recently (spoiler alert: it’s my own home renovation) to the dream clients and projects that really get us excited and motivated. But that’s not all! If you’re currently house hunting or thinking about upgrading the exterior of your home, we’ve got some expert advice for you too. Whether it’s how to get the biggest bang for your buck or ways to make your house not as cold in the winter, we dive into it all. Sit back, relax, and hit play now! And don’t forget to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode! Episodes mentioned: Building Relationships: Chad Whelan's Journey with Big Fish Contracting Navigating Real Estate with Heather Henry Breaking Down the Window Installation Process with Expert Paul Unferth Maximizing Home Energy Efficiency with Wisconsin Home Improvement Experts Ice Damming: Causes, Effects, and Solutions Connect with the guests: Chad Whelan - chad@bigfishcontracting.com Heather Henry - www.realtyexecutives.com Paul Unferth - Paul@bigfishcontracting.com Wisconsin Home Improvements - https://www.whiinsulation.com/ To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Garage doors are one of the most important investments you can make when it comes to home renovations and can even boost the value of your home! So, to learn more about garage doors, we have Joe and Chad Lindmark from Hartland Overhead Door. We talk about their journey in the family business that was founded by their dad in 1986. Joe and Chad grew up in the business and eventually took over in 2007. They discuss the evolution of garage door technology, including smart features, security advancements, and the importance of quality materials. Plus, they share some of their most memorable job experiences and how they continue to deliver the best service to their customers. Connect with Hartland Overhead Door: Website: hartlandoverheaddoor.com/ Phone Number: 262-966-9811 To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
2024 was a great year for Big Fish and for us personally! We wrapped up a major home remodel, hosted a company holiday party in the newly finished space, and found new ways to market the business. During this episode, we reflect on how our team has grown stronger, the steps we’re taking to improve communication with homeowners, and why staying connected to the community is so important to us. We’re also sharing how technology is making our work smoother and why capturing before-and-after photos is going to be a big focus in 2025. Looking ahead, we discuss our goals for the year, including expanding services, continuing to give back to the community, and growing our team. To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Happy 2025! It’s hard to believe it’s been about a year since we decided to launch this podcast, and we couldn’t be more grateful for your support and tuning in each week. In this episode, we reflect on the journey so far and why we started this show in the first place: to clear up the misinformation in the construction industry and help build stronger trust with our clients. We also reminisce about some of our favorite episodes and guests who have brought so much value to our listeners. Looking ahead, we’re excited to dive deeper into home remodeling topics, including flooring, tiles, permits, and more. Plus, we’d love to hear from you! What topics or questions are on your mind? Reach out to us and let’s make 2025 a year of even more meaningful conversations and connections. To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com. You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
Winter is here and if you haven’t prepared your home for the challenges it can bring, then it’s time to start now. In this episode, we break down the necessary steps to make your home ready for the winter, including cleaning your roof and gutters, making sure your downspouts are clear, and preparing for potential ice damming. We also go over the importance of detaching your garden hoses, checking your windows, and getting your chimneys inspected, especially if you plan to have a lot of fires during the cold months. And if you’re looking to start planning for spring home projects and want to get on our calendar before prices go up, feel free to give us a call. Listen now to take control of your winter home prep and set yourself up for a stress-free winter season! In this episode, we cover: Roof and gutter maintenance Preparing your windows and siding Show removal and outdoor preparations Chimney inspections Take a listen to Episode 4: Ice Damming: Causes, Effects, and Solutions To connect with Big Fish Contracting, you can check out our website at www.bigfishcontracting.com or give us a call at 262-470-1114 You can also follow us on our social channels: Big Fish Contracting Instagram Big Fish Contracting Facebook
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