The Teaching Gene

I got to meet one of my heroes recently at the International Builders Show in Orlando, Florida — Mike Holmes and his son Mike Jr. of Holmes on Homes. Mike is the real deal. The show depicts him exactly as he is: a contractor who loves to teach and has embraced one of the highest callings in the trades — fixing people’s homes and making things right.

After I regaled him with a story about getting into trouble by behaving exactly as he does on TV, he smiled knowingly and said, “Joe, it’s okay to make a mistake — once.” I told him how I learned from it and became a better contractor for having screwed up. That exchange stuck with me, because that’s what good teaching looks like. It doesn’t lecture. It connects.

Could The World Be Telling Me Something?

A friend of mine, Joe Prin, hosts a popular Saturday morning radio show on KBOI. Another friend, Rosie Romero, does one out in Arizona. I’ve been a guest on Joe’s show and even pulled stunt-host duty a few times over the years. Apparently the shoe fit pretty well. So I have to ask — do I have the teaching gene?

The thought of a call-in show about houses has me rolling. Picture this: me in full Ladies Man mode, Tim Meadows-style, caressing a glass of Courvoisier by the fireplace, taking live calls about remodeling. “Caller, tell me more about your moisture problem. I’m intrigued.”

The Fraternity of the Honey-Do List

Much like learning to parent, some new homeowners take home maintenance in stride. Others become regulars at their big box store — “Norm!” — and wouldn’t have it any other way. There’s a real fraternity among people who love their homes and take pride in caring for them. I think about taking Mike Holmes, the radio show format, and that DIY spirit, throwing them all in a blender, and seeing what comes out. My instinct says it’s something worth persuing. It’s probably also what retired guys debate over breakfast at the local diner with endless coffee refills.

You Deserve A Trusted Voice

YouTube should honestly give out awards — call them The Homies — for every 100 hours of DIY how-to video watched. People are hungry for real guidance. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a hardcore DIYer, or someone who just picked up a home improvement flyer and doesn’t want to get burned, the conversation about home maintenance has to start somewhere. Preventive care, honest advice, knowing who to call and why — these things matter.

That’s what I want to offer. A trusted voice in a loud, distracted world where things aren’t always what they seem.

Your comments are welcome. To ask questions or get more information about remodeling, click here to email me directly, or call 208-947-7261

If you or someone you know is considering remodeling or would like to speak with a passionate and trustworthy remodeling contractor, please contact us. You’ll be glad you did.