Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re breaking down what’s really happening during the pre-construction phase—and why your contractor might seem so quiet. From coordinating with architects, engineers, and trades to validating budgets, sourcing materials, confirming elevations, navigating zoning and permits, and planning for surprises behind walls or under floors, this stage is packed with critical behind-the-scenes work. It may look like “nothing is happening,” but it’s actual...
All content for Custom Built is the property of Katie GO and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re breaking down what’s really happening during the pre-construction phase—and why your contractor might seem so quiet. From coordinating with architects, engineers, and trades to validating budgets, sourcing materials, confirming elevations, navigating zoning and permits, and planning for surprises behind walls or under floors, this stage is packed with critical behind-the-scenes work. It may look like “nothing is happening,” but it’s actual...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re breaking down what’s really happening during the pre-construction phase—and why your contractor might seem so quiet. From coordinating with architects, engineers, and trades to validating budgets, sourcing materials, confirming elevations, navigating zoning and permits, and planning for surprises behind walls or under floors, this stage is packed with critical behind-the-scenes work. It may look like “nothing is happening,” but it’s actual...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re talking about what it really means to go after all of it—the dreams, goals, and changes you’ve been quietly putting on hold. As the seasons shift and nature reminds us to shed what no longer serves us, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we’re showing up in our lives and homes. Are you living intentionally, setting daily intentions, and staying open to opportunities? Or are you just moving with the flow, reacting to what comes your way...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re flipping the script—from spotting red flags to recognizing the green flags that tell you you’ve found the right contractor. Instead of just focusing on what could go wrong, we’ll talk about the five qualities that signal alignment, trust, and craftsmanship. From a contractor who leads with their why before their how, to one who truly listens, sets expectations early, gives honest ballpark estimates, and isn’t afraid to say “this isn’t my e...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re talking about making hard choices that make your life better—the kind that can feel scary but ultimately lead to freedom and alignment. I share my story of walking away from a stable, well-paying job to bet on myself, the guilt that came with it, and how following that inner nudge instead of the fearful voice in my head opened new doors and relationships I never expected. Whether in business, life, or home renovations, sometimes letting go...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, I’m sharing something close to my heart: lessons I learned from my dad—a larger-than-life Navy veteran, woodworker, and the person who taught me what true craftsmanship and joyful living look like. Losing him nine years ago reshaped how I show up as a home builder and designer. We’ll talk about why the energy behind your project matters, the difference between work done out of love versus obligation, and how passion shows up in the details—from ...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re demystifying one of the most daunting parts of a renovation: permits and inspections. If the mere thought of dealing with your local jurisdiction makes you want to hide, this conversation is for you. I’m pulling back the curtain on the entire process to show you why it’s a powerful tool for your project’s success, not just a bureaucratic hurdle. I’ll walk you through the typical inspection sequence—from foundation and framing to MEPs (mech...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re digging into a reality every homeowner feels but rarely plans for: decision fatigue. Between daily life (kids, work, meals, errands) and the dozens of choices a renovation requires—paint colors, trim, flooring, fixtures, tile, even niche lighting—it’s easy to burn out before demo day. I’ll walk you through a calmer way to plan so your project stays on track without draining your energy (or your joy). I’ll share simple tactics to beat overw...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re talking about something that shapes every project—and every part of life: who you surround yourself with. From trades and business partners to clients, friends, and even the media you consume, your circle is a mirror of your standards. I share how I evaluate alignment (communication, problem-solving, growth mindset), why I avoid “that’s impossible” energy, and how choosing forward-thinking collaborators leads to better builds, fewer headac...
Send us a text In this episode of the Custom Built Podcast, we’re diving into the concept of value—what it means, how it shapes our choices, and why it’s critical in both homeownership and everyday life. Katie reflects on recent company strategy conversations and unpacks how aligning values with integrity can make or break not just business relationships, but also personal satisfaction. From choosing the right materials for your home to deciding where to spend your time, money, and energy, th...
Send us a text On this episode of the Custom Built Podcast, we’re diving into the unsexy side of homeownership—the hidden systems and fixtures that keep your house running smoothly but rarely make it onto Pinterest boards. From roofs and HVAC systems to plumbing, electrical, and even proper drainage, these are the investments that protect your home’s longevity and your family’s health. While everyone loves the excitement of a kitchen remodel, ignoring what’s behind the walls can lead to costl...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re tackling one of the most overlooked—but absolutely essential—parts of any home renovation: pre-construction planning. If you skip this step, you’re almost guaranteed to blow your budget, stretch out your timeline, and pile on unnecessary stress. But when you do it right, it’s the secret to a smoother, more successful project. I’ll walk you through what pre-construction really means, from preliminary design and budgeting to permits, surveys...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re talking about one of the scariest words in any renovation: the budget. I know it makes a lot of people uncomfortable, but avoiding it is the fastest way to end up with a stressful, messy project. I’ll walk you through why knowing your budget upfront is non-negotiable, how to separate your feelings about money from the numbers themselves, and what realistic costs look like for kitchens, bathrooms, and other renovations. We’ll also cover how...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re talking about something that doesn’t get enough credit but truly makes or breaks every renovation or build — your relationships with your trades. I share a personal story about stepping back into a project after some time away, picking up the phone to call old trusted trades, and realizing how powerful it is when they still answer right away. That reliability and respect doesn’t just happen overnight — it’s built on clear communication, mu...
Send us a text Hey friends! Today’s episode is all about why design is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. I'm breaking down the myth that design only comes into play at the end of a build or renovation, when in reality, it should be integrated from the very beginning. I’m sharing real-life stories (including a few of my own house headaches!) that show just how costly and frustrating it can be when design is treated as an afterthought—think misplaced light switches, bad lighting, and kitchen drawe...
Send us a text In today’s episode, we’re hitting pause on renovations and diving into something just as transformational—you. I'm talking about the invisible but powerful shift we all go through when we're stepping into the next version of ourselves. How do you know when you've outgrown the old you? How can you tell when it's time to let go of what no longer fits—like your favorite sweater that's just a little too tight? From personal conversations with my husband to real-life experiences wit...
Send us a text Hey friend, today’s episode is a little different. It’s not about renovation tips or design ideas—this one’s about YOU. Life has been heavy lately, and I felt it was time to pause and just speak from the heart. So I’m inviting you into a raw, honest conversation about what it means to keep showing up when everything feels overwhelming. We talk about growth, grief, guilt-free breaks, and those quiet wins that often go unnoticed. If you’ve ever felt behind, burnt out, or like you...
Send us a text If your renovation feels like it’s drifting in limbo—this one’s for you. In today’s episode, I’m breaking down why a project schedule isn’t just helpful—it’s non-negotiable. I dive into how having a clear timeline builds trust, protects your budget, and shows your contractor actually respects your time and vision. A schedule reveals way more than dates—it reflects your contractor’s time management skills, transparency, and willingness to take accountability. If they refuse to g...
Send us a text This week on Custom Built, I’m diving into something that’s been a major theme in both my life and business: pivoting. And I don’t mean flaking or quitting—I mean real, soul-aligned shifts. We’re talking about those subtle (or sometimes seismic) changes that pull you out of autopilot and back into alignment with who you are now. I’m sharing my personal story of evolving from “professional job hopper” to licensed builder and intentional entrepreneur, plus the moment I realized I...
Send us a text In today’s episode of the Custom Built Podcast, I’m diving deep into what it really means to design your home with intention, function, and purpose. It’s not just about pretty countertops or trendy tiles — it’s about creating a home that works for your life and your family. I share personal stories (like my very scratched-up wood floors!) and give you practical ways to think beyond surface-level choices so your renovation stands the test of time. We also explore how your home c...
Send us a text Hey, it’s Katie! In this episode of Custom Built, I’m talking all about change—how it can show up suddenly, flip your life upside down in a moment, or feel like it’s dragging its feet when you’re desperately ready for something to shift. This conversation was sparked during my network spinal entrainment (shout out to Ivy Chiropractic Studio!), where I had this moment of clarity: so much in my life has changed… and yet somehow, it feels like nothing has. From personal growth to ...
Send us a text In this episode of Custom Built, we’re breaking down what’s really happening during the pre-construction phase—and why your contractor might seem so quiet. From coordinating with architects, engineers, and trades to validating budgets, sourcing materials, confirming elevations, navigating zoning and permits, and planning for surprises behind walls or under floors, this stage is packed with critical behind-the-scenes work. It may look like “nothing is happening,” but it’s actual...
