web02.fireside.fm Fri, 01 May 2026 14:16:51 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Hardworking Happy Hour - Episodes Tagged with “Craftsmanship” https://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/tags/craftsmanship Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Each week Sean and Catherine will break down all things about the trades, entrepreneurship, and turning your creativity into a passion career. en-us episodic Sean and Catherine break down all things about the trades, entrepreneurship, and turning your creativity into a passion career. Hardworking Happy Hour Each week Sean and Catherine will break down all things about the trades, entrepreneurship, and turning your creativity into a passion career. no Hardworking Happy Hour hardworkinghappyhour@gmail.com Episode 158: Adam Santo of Lilly LLC! http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep158 3c9aafdf-7c30-46c2-b27a-b739442f3123 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the journey of Adam Santo and his business, Lilly Design Build. They discuss the transition from fine arts to hardscaping, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the challenges faced as a solo operator. The conversation delves into the personal touch in craftsmanship, the significance of communication, and the value of time in the design process. Adam shares insights on managing client expectations, navigating budgets, and the importance of finding the right client fit. The discussion also touches on the challenges of working with pool companies and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of pool construction, the passion for classic cars, and the importance of mindfulness in a fast-paced world. They discuss the balance between work and personal life, the impact of modern technology on mental health, and the shared experiences of anxiety and stress. The dialogue emphasizes the joy found in hobbies and the need for presence in everyday life. 1:07:28 no ** Editors note: We apologize for the audio quality of this episode, we know it is not up to par. But this conversation was just too good to not post! We will have to have Adam on again to make up for it! In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the journey of Adam Santo and his business, Lilly Design Build. They discuss the transition from fine arts to hardscaping, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the challenges faced as a solo operator. The conversation delves into the personal touch in craftsmanship, the significance of communication, and the value of time in the design process. Adam shares insights on managing client expectations, navigating budgets, and the importance of finding the right client fit. The discussion also touches on the challenges of working with pool companies and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of pool construction, the passion for classic cars, and the importance of mindfulness in a fast-paced world. They discuss the balance between work and personal life, the impact of modern technology on mental health, and the shared experiences of anxiety and stress. The dialogue emphasizes the joy found in hobbies and the need for presence in everyday life. hardscaping, client relationships, craftsmanship, design philosophy, communication, solo operator, construction challenges, landscaping, business growth, pool construction, classic cars, mindfulness, work-life balance, anxiety, modern technology, hobbies, passion, mental health, stress management ** Editors note: We apologize for the audio quality of this episode, we know it is not up to par. But this conversation was just too good to not post! We will have to have Adam on again to make up for it!

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the journey of Adam Santo and his business, Lilly Design Build. They discuss the transition from fine arts to hardscaping, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the challenges faced as a solo operator. The conversation delves into the personal touch in craftsmanship, the significance of communication, and the value of time in the design process. Adam shares insights on managing client expectations, navigating budgets, and the importance of finding the right client fit. The discussion also touches on the challenges of working with pool companies and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of pool construction, the passion for classic cars, and the importance of mindfulness in a fast-paced world. They discuss the balance between work and personal life, the impact of modern technology on mental health, and the shared experiences of anxiety and stress. The dialogue emphasizes the joy found in hobbies and the need for presence in everyday life.

]]> ** Editors note: We apologize for the audio quality of this episode, we know it is not up to par. But this conversation was just too good to not post! We will have to have Adam on again to make up for it!

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the journey of Adam Santo and his business, Lilly Design Build. They discuss the transition from fine arts to hardscaping, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the challenges faced as a solo operator. The conversation delves into the personal touch in craftsmanship, the significance of communication, and the value of time in the design process. Adam shares insights on managing client expectations, navigating budgets, and the importance of finding the right client fit. The discussion also touches on the challenges of working with pool companies and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of pool construction, the passion for classic cars, and the importance of mindfulness in a fast-paced world. They discuss the balance between work and personal life, the impact of modern technology on mental health, and the shared experiences of anxiety and stress. The dialogue emphasizes the joy found in hobbies and the need for presence in everyday life.

]]> Episode 150: Are we even ethical people? Who can be sure. http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep150 ff2a96fe-f673-45c5-9b9f-437153a417c8 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean explore a variety of topics ranging from the dangers of bare-knuckle boxing to the ethical dilemmas surrounding line-cutting in public spaces. They share personal anecdotes about the Super Bowl, travel mishaps, and the moral implications of stealing to feed a family. The discussion also touches on the nuances of ethics in everyday situations, including the treatment of individuals with disabilities and the light-hearted debate over dryer sheets. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine delve into the complexities of ethics in business, particularly in the construction industry. They discuss the balance between profit and quality, the importance of clear communication with clients, and the ethical implications of using lower-quality materials. The conversation then shifts to the topic of historic preservation versus modern development, exploring the community's responsibility in maintaining historical integrity while accommodating new growth. Finally, they touch on the ethics of green building and sustainability, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations in construction practices. 1:08:42 no In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean explore a variety of topics ranging from the dangers of bare-knuckle boxing to the ethical dilemmas surrounding line-cutting in public spaces. They share personal anecdotes about the Super Bowl, travel mishaps, and the moral implications of stealing to feed a family. The discussion also touches on the nuances of ethics in everyday situations, including the treatment of individuals with disabilities and the light-hearted debate over dryer sheets. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine delve into the complexities of ethics in business, particularly in the construction industry. They discuss the balance between profit and quality, the importance of clear communication with clients, and the ethical implications of using lower-quality materials. The conversation then shifts to the topic of historic preservation versus modern development, exploring the community's responsibility in maintaining historical integrity while accommodating new growth. Finally, they touch on the ethics of green building and sustainability, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations in construction practices. Keywords bare-knuckle boxing, Super Bowl, ethics, line cutting, travel woes, disability, stealing for survival, dryer sheets, ethics, business practices, historic preservation, modern development, green building, sustainability, craftsmanship, communication, community responsibility, construction industry In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean explore a variety of topics ranging from the dangers of bare-knuckle boxing to the ethical dilemmas surrounding line-cutting in public spaces. They share personal anecdotes about the Super Bowl, travel mishaps, and the moral implications of stealing to feed a family. The discussion also touches on the nuances of ethics in everyday situations, including the treatment of individuals with disabilities and the light-hearted debate over dryer sheets. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine delve into the complexities of ethics in business, particularly in the construction industry. They discuss the balance between profit and quality, the importance of clear communication with clients, and the ethical implications of using lower-quality materials. The conversation then shifts to the topic of historic preservation versus modern development, exploring the community's responsibility in maintaining historical integrity while accommodating new growth. Finally, they touch on the ethics of green building and sustainability, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations in construction practices.

]]> In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean explore a variety of topics ranging from the dangers of bare-knuckle boxing to the ethical dilemmas surrounding line-cutting in public spaces. They share personal anecdotes about the Super Bowl, travel mishaps, and the moral implications of stealing to feed a family. The discussion also touches on the nuances of ethics in everyday situations, including the treatment of individuals with disabilities and the light-hearted debate over dryer sheets. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine delve into the complexities of ethics in business, particularly in the construction industry. They discuss the balance between profit and quality, the importance of clear communication with clients, and the ethical implications of using lower-quality materials. The conversation then shifts to the topic of historic preservation versus modern development, exploring the community's responsibility in maintaining historical integrity while accommodating new growth. Finally, they touch on the ethics of green building and sustainability, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations in construction practices.

]]> Episode 148: Dan Preston of Hardscape Mentor! http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep148 914c60cf-9553-444f-a4e0-04baacbd0250 Mon, 27 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour In this engaging conversation, Sean, Catherine, and Dan Preston discuss the evolution of Hardscape Mentor over the past two years, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, innovative design, and community building in the hardscaping industry. Dan shares insights on how to teach design principles, the significance of understanding client needs, and the upcoming launch of Hardscape Mentor Studios, a training facility aimed at fostering collaboration and skill development among hardscapers. In this conversation, Sean and Dan Preston discuss the importance of personal branding and marketing in the hardscaping industry. They emphasize the need for contractors to put their faces on camera to build trust with potential clients. The discussion also covers the challenges of scaling a business versus staying small and maintaining quality. Dan shares insights from his experience in the industry, highlighting the significance of craftsmanship and unique design in attracting the right clientele. The conversation concludes with a focus on the value of community and support among contractors. 1:05:39 no In this engaging conversation, Sean, Catherine, and Dan Preston discuss the evolution of Hardscape Mentor over the past two years, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, innovative design, and community building in the hardscaping industry. Dan shares insights on how to teach design principles, the significance of understanding client needs, and the upcoming launch of Hardscape Mentor Studios, a training facility aimed at fostering collaboration and skill development among hardscapers. In this conversation, Sean and Dan Preston discuss the importance of personal branding and marketing in the hardscaping industry. They emphasize the need for contractors to put their faces on camera to build trust with potential clients. The discussion also covers the challenges of scaling a business versus staying small and maintaining quality. Dan shares insights from his experience in the industry, highlighting the significance of craftsmanship and unique design in attracting the right clientele. The conversation concludes with a focus on the value of community and support among contractors. Hardscape Mentor, mentorship, design, craftsmanship, community, outdoor spaces, landscaping, business growth, training, industry trends, personal branding, marketing, business growth, craftsmanship, social media, trust, vulnerability, scaling, unique design, community In this engaging conversation, Sean, Catherine, and Dan Preston discuss the evolution of Hardscape Mentor over the past two years, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, innovative design, and community building in the hardscaping industry. Dan shares insights on how to teach design principles, the significance of understanding client needs, and the upcoming launch of Hardscape Mentor Studios, a training facility aimed at fostering collaboration and skill development among hardscapers. In this conversation, Sean and Dan Preston discuss the importance of personal branding and marketing in the hardscaping industry. They emphasize the need for contractors to put their faces on camera to build trust with potential clients. The discussion also covers the challenges of scaling a business versus staying small and maintaining quality. Dan shares insights from his experience in the industry, highlighting the significance of craftsmanship and unique design in attracting the right clientele. The conversation concludes with a focus on the value of community and support among contractors.

]]> In this engaging conversation, Sean, Catherine, and Dan Preston discuss the evolution of Hardscape Mentor over the past two years, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, innovative design, and community building in the hardscaping industry. Dan shares insights on how to teach design principles, the significance of understanding client needs, and the upcoming launch of Hardscape Mentor Studios, a training facility aimed at fostering collaboration and skill development among hardscapers. In this conversation, Sean and Dan Preston discuss the importance of personal branding and marketing in the hardscaping industry. They emphasize the need for contractors to put their faces on camera to build trust with potential clients. The discussion also covers the challenges of scaling a business versus staying small and maintaining quality. Dan shares insights from his experience in the industry, highlighting the significance of craftsmanship and unique design in attracting the right clientele. The conversation concludes with a focus on the value of community and support among contractors.

]]> Episode 110: Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes! http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep110 f9356236-4d11-4421-b5d4-5ef586ff1646 Mon, 08 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss their week, including the rainy weather and an earthquake. They then shift to talking about Premier's plans to build a new headquarters on his property. After considering a pole barn, Sean decides to go with a prefab option. He explains that the building will be designed and prefabricated off-site, with panels and roof trusses delivered to the site for assembly. This method is expected to save time and make the construction process more efficient. They also briefly discuss Home Depot's acquisition of SRS distributors and the future of construction. The conversation explores the changing landscape of the construction industry, with a focus on the rise of prefabrication and the acquisition of SRS Distribution by Home Depot. The hosts discuss the benefits and drawbacks of prefabrication, including increased efficiency and reduced waste, but also concerns about craftsmanship and quality. They also speculate on Home Depot's strategy and the potential for monopolies in the industry. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted discussion about playing Monopoly and the importance of embracing change and seizing opportunities. 1:01:37 no In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss their week, including the rainy weather and an earthquake. They then shift to talking about Premier's plans to build a new headquarters on his property. After considering a pole barn, Sean decides to go with a prefab option. He explains that the building will be designed and prefabricated off-site, with panels and roof trusses delivered to the site for assembly. This method is expected to save time and make the construction process more efficient. They also briefly discuss Home Depot's acquisition of SRS distributors and the future of construction. The conversation explores the changing landscape of the construction industry, with a focus on the rise of prefabrication and the acquisition of SRS Distribution by Home Depot. The hosts discuss the benefits and drawbacks of prefabrication, including increased efficiency and reduced waste, but also concerns about craftsmanship and quality. They also speculate on Home Depot's strategy and the potential for monopolies in the industry. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted discussion about playing Monopoly and the importance of embracing change and seizing opportunities. Keywords rainy weather, earthquake, new headquarters, pole barn, prefab, off-site construction, efficiency, Home Depot, SRS distributors, construction industry, prefabrication, SRS Distribution, Home Depot, acquisition, craftsmanship, quality, efficiency, waste reduction, monopolies, change, opportunities, Monopoly In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss their week, including the rainy weather and an earthquake. They then shift to talking about Premier's plans to build a new headquarters on his property. After considering a pole barn, Sean decides to go with a prefab option. He explains that the building will be designed and prefabricated off-site, with panels and roof trusses delivered to the site for assembly. This method is expected to save time and make the construction process more efficient. They also briefly discuss Home Depot's acquisition of SRS distributors and the future of construction. The conversation explores the changing landscape of the construction industry, with a focus on the rise of prefabrication and the acquisition of SRS Distribution by Home Depot. The hosts discuss the benefits and drawbacks of prefabrication, including increased efficiency and reduced waste, but also concerns about craftsmanship and quality. They also speculate on Home Depot's strategy and the potential for monopolies in the industry. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted discussion about playing Monopoly and the importance of embracing change and seizing opportunities.

]]> In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss their week, including the rainy weather and an earthquake. They then shift to talking about Premier's plans to build a new headquarters on his property. After considering a pole barn, Sean decides to go with a prefab option. He explains that the building will be designed and prefabricated off-site, with panels and roof trusses delivered to the site for assembly. This method is expected to save time and make the construction process more efficient. They also briefly discuss Home Depot's acquisition of SRS distributors and the future of construction. The conversation explores the changing landscape of the construction industry, with a focus on the rise of prefabrication and the acquisition of SRS Distribution by Home Depot. The hosts discuss the benefits and drawbacks of prefabrication, including increased efficiency and reduced waste, but also concerns about craftsmanship and quality. They also speculate on Home Depot's strategy and the potential for monopolies in the industry. The conversation concludes with a lighthearted discussion about playing Monopoly and the importance of embracing change and seizing opportunities.

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