Boxcar Universe

I state that converting a backyard into a tiny home or ADU can provide extra living space, rental income, and a prudent investment. I speak with Brad Jones of Tiny Homes of Tucson about how to navigate design, permits, utilities, and construction. We outline typical timelines, finishes, and quality standards, and we stress a turnkey approach that delivers a move‑in ready dwelling. I counsel homeow...

The salient focus of this podcast episode revolves around the burgeoning trend of tiny homes, particularly emphasizing the innovative concept of container home living. Our esteemed guests, Jonathan Palley from Clever Tiny Homes and Renee Sievers from Tiny Fest, illuminate the evolution of shelter from primitive structures to contemporary, sustainable solutions. We engage in a comprehensive discuss...

The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the invaluable lessons gleaned from 35 years of experience in the remodeling industry, conveyed through an exploration of the trials and tribulations encountered along this professional journey. I, as your host, delve into the myriad mistakes and unexpected challenges that shaped my career, emphasizing the importance of communication and tr...

The salient point of today's discussion revolves around the intricacies of building a tiny home, particularly the guidance provided by Damon Deschamp of Trailer Made Custom Trailers. He elucidates the process of constructing a tiny home, whether through their services or via DIY kits that are equipped with essential materials and expert advice. Throughout our dialogue, we delve into the evolution...

This podcast episode delves into the evolution of human shelter and the pressing need for sustainable living, particularly through the lens of container home living. As we explore the journey from primitive shelters to contemporary constructions, we emphasize the significance of adopting a more sustainable lifestyle to mitigate environmental impact. Our esteemed guest, Kerstin Lindquist, a health...

The exploration of sustainable living through the innovative use of shipping containers serves as the focal point of our discussion today. We delve into the transformative journey of Andy Anderson, who has ingeniously integrated these containers into a unique pickleball facility known as Dinks and Dingers. This venture not only addresses the need for recreational space in Michigan's colder months...

Boxcar Universe commemorates Memorial Day by honoring the valiant warriors who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. In this poignant episode, we are privileged to converse with the esteemed Sgt. War Dawg, a retired U.S. Marine and infantry rifleman, who shares his profound experiences of service, sacrifice, and the ongoing mission to support America's veterans. The discourse delves into the pre...

The future of housing may very well be encapsulated in the concept of micro homes, which promise to be smaller, smarter, and constructed with unprecedented efficiency. In this episode of Boxcar Universe, we engage in an enlightening dialogue with Rob Goldman from Woodstock Micro Homes, a company at the forefront of revolutionizing modern living through innovative micro dwelling solutions. These ho...

This podcast episode delves into the evolution of human shelters, highlighting the transition from primitive structures to contemporary designs, with a particular emphasis on the burgeoning trend of sustainable living through container homes. We explore the motivations behind the increasing adoption of tiny homes, articulated by our esteemed guests, Gail Kingsbury from United Tiny Homes and Kevin...

This episode of Boxcar Universe delves into the pressing topic of sustainable living within the realm of home improvement, particularly focusing on the importance of electrical safety and aesthetic enhancements for residential properties. I engage with Sean Lapointe from Mr. Electric to discuss the escalating power demands as we transition into the warmer months, emphasizing the necessity for home...

The primary focus of this podcast episode centers on the intricacies of constructing container homes, as elucidated by Luke Crosthwaite, an esteemed authority in this niche. As the owner of Crosthwaite Custom Construction, Luke differentiates himself by not only overseeing the physical construction of these homes but also adeptly navigating the complex permitting process that often complicates suc...

Shipping containers are increasingly being repurposed as innovative living spaces, evolving beyond their traditional role in cargo transport. In this episode of Boxcar Universe, we engage Evan Glickman along with the team from Tectume Adv, who are pioneering the concept of prefab living through intelligent design and expedited construction processes. Their approach not only promises to enhance the...

The primary focus of this podcast episode is to elucidate the essential do's and don'ts of flipping houses, a venture that, if approached naively, can lead to substantial financial losses. I, Steve Dubell, alongside my esteemed colleagues Kevin Fulkerson and Jennifer Abbs, aim to equip our listeners with the requisite knowledge to navigate the complexities of real estate investment. We shall delve...

The salient point of this episode centers around the evolution and increasing popularity of container home living as a sustainable lifestyle choice. Throughout the discourse, we delve into the historical progression of human shelter, from primitive structures to modern container homes, which epitomize innovative residential solutions. Our conversation features Burton Cardwell II, an esteemed contr...

This podcast episode elucidates the pivotal aspects of preparing one’s home heating system for the impending winter months. I am joined by Don Wade from Pro Solutions Air, who possesses extensive knowledge regarding HVAC systems and their maintenance. We engage in a thorough discussion about essential preparatory measures, which encompass what homeowners should inspect, repair, and avoid to ensure...

The discourse presented herein delves into the burgeoning phenomenon of modular living, prominently featuring insights from the esteemed Shed Gal, Susan Frayer. We explore the transformative potential of sheds and modular homes, highlighting their rapid evolution and increasing relevance in contemporary society. The conversation extends to encompass crucial electrical readiness and safety protocol...

The primary focus of this special Halloween episode revolves around the harrowing realities of home renovation nightmares, as experienced by homeowners. We delve into chilling true stories that range from disappearing contractors to unsettling encounters with mold and poorly executed DIY projects. I am joined by esteemed guests David Dion Whole Home Inspections and Dan Hayden, both of whom possess...

A new epoch of homeownership is on the horizon within the Boxcar universe, heralded by the visionary efforts of Dr. Velma Trayham, the esteemed founder of Home Access America. As we delve into this episode, we explore her groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing affordable housing across the nation, particularly in Arizona, where the urgent need for sustainable living solutions is palpab...

The salient point of this podcast episode is the critical inquiry every homeowner must undertake regarding the potential health hazards present within their living environments. We explore the various products and materials commonly found in homes—ranging from flooring and paint to cleaning agents—that may inadvertently compromise our well-being. Our esteemed guest, Russell Olinsky, renowned as th...

The episode prominently features Luke Crosthwaite, a distinguished expert in the realm of container construction, who elucidates the multifaceted advantages of container homes. With a wealth of experience in custom building and innovative design, Luke articulates how these structures not only offer a sustainable alternative to traditional housing but also provide flexibility and cost-effectiveness...

The salient point of today's discourse revolves around the innovative application of cork as a sustainable material in construction, specifically as articulated by Randy Bailey from Green Cork Products. We delve into the transformative potential of cork beyond its conventional use in wine stoppers, revealing its remarkable ability to enhance the thermal efficiency and fire resistance of residentia...

The salient point of this podcast episode centers on the imperative of ensuring the integrity of one's roof, particularly in light of the impending monsoon season which poses significant risks to residential structures. As we explore the evolution of shelter from primitive constructions to contemporary container homes, we emphasize the growing necessity for sustainable living practices amid the cu...

Container home living is rapidly gaining traction as a sustainable lifestyle choice, prompting a significant shift in how we conceive of personal space and outdoor leisure. In this episode, we delve into the innovative realm of container pools, a phenomenon that has emerged as a compelling alternative to traditional swimming options. Our esteemed guest, Matt Walton from ContainUR Pools, elucidates...

The salient point of today's discussion revolves around the profound synergy that exists when exemplary interior design is harmoniously complemented by professional photography. In our conversation, I am joined by the esteemed Christine Archer of Christine Archer Interiors and the talented Carmen Garza from Gig Shots. Together, we explore the intricate dynamics of contemporary design trends and th...

In today's dialogue on Boxcar Universe, we delve into the pivotal strategies for conserving energy during the scorching summer months, featuring insights from Sean LaPointe of Mr. Electric. He elucidates practical measures that homeowners can adopt to mitigate their energy expenditures, particularly relevant in the context of the relentless heat afflicting the Southwest. Furthermore, we engage in...