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True Tales From Old Houses

Podcasts

True Tales From Old Houses is a light-hearted, entertaining, and educational show for lovers of old houses and buildings, DIYers, history buffs, and restoration and preservation junkies. Available weekly, hosts Stacy Grinsfelder and Daniel Kanter share personal project updates, listener Q&A, and interviews with engaging old house owners, restoration professionals, and craftspeople.

Location:

United States

Genres:

Podcasts

Description:

True Tales From Old Houses is a light-hearted, entertaining, and educational show for lovers of old houses and buildings, DIYers, history buffs, and restoration and preservation junkies. Available weekly, hosts Stacy Grinsfelder and Daniel Kanter share personal project updates, listener Q&A, and interviews with engaging old house owners, restoration professionals, and craftspeople.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Bonus Minisode: Moving Updates & More

4/30/2024
It's a bonus mini! In this minisode, Stacy and Daniel catch up after a three-month hiatus. First, Stacy offers an update about moving to Salt Lake City. Is that ever going to happen? Then, Daniel chats about his timeline for listing the cottage for sale. He follows up with updates about his vacation to Barbados (sun poisoning!), lake cottage ceiling repairs (light drama!), and antiquing. Finally, Stacy and Daniel discuss the difference between hand-knotted and machine-knotted rugs and a fun fact about wool fibers. Season 11 of True Tales From Old Houses begins Monday, May 6, 2024. Mentioned in this Episode: Travel to England with StacyLearn to Restore WindowsChoose your weekend: July 19-21 or July 26-28

Duration:00:30:29

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Tara Mangini & Percy Bright of Jersey Ice Cream Co Design

2/5/2024
In today's episode, the finale of Season 10, Stacy and Daniel discuss best practices for a clean, healthy, and mostly dry basement. Then, Stacy and Daniel welcome Tara Mangini and Percy Bright, the legendary design team behind Jersey Ice Cream Co. Tara and Percy have traded their nomadic lifestyle for an 1880s farmhouse in upstate NY and most recently starred in their own TV show, The Story of Home on Magnolia Network, now streaming on Max and Discovery+. Mentioned in this Episode: Travel to England with StacyThe Story of HomeJersey Ice Cream Co. Design WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:56:46

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Minisode: The Last Mini of Season Ten

1/29/2024
This week, during the last minisode of season ten, Stacy and Daniel offer plenty of edutainment as they chat about their current projects. Stacy recently wrapped up a hall painting project, so she asks Daniel how he chooses paint colors. Then, Stacy and Daniel talk about their color choices as children, and they agree that one of the perks of becoming an adult is not having to live with painting mistakes. They also touch on Daniel's upcoming vacation plans, why New York State has two school breaks during winter, the Buffalo Bills, and the next season of True Tales From Old Houses. Mentioned in this Episode: A Dictionary of Color CombinationsColour Confident Stitching WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:29:23

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Minisode: Tangents, Travel, and Trying New Things

1/23/2024
This week, Stacy is waylaid in Salt Lake City as back-to-back storms turned a long weekend into an 8-day trip. Soon after Stacy's travel update, Daniel apologizes for not correctly crediting architect Christopher Brandt for the information on Rochester Carpet we discussed during episode #108. Then, tangents abound during a conversation about enjoying Christmas decor well into January and bread baking. Finally, Daniel explains how his trip to a saltwater deprivation chamber went and whether or not it helped him "get back in his body." Old house chat is sprinkled in there, too, we promise! WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:26:01

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A Cottage Built From Architectural Salvage + Smoothing Lumpy Plaster

1/15/2024
In today's episode, during listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel answer a question about smoothing lumpy plaster in preparation for wallpaper. Later, they welcome Kylie McKay. Kylie is turning a 1940s garage into a cottage that blends well with the rest of the houses in her historic neighborhood. She is using architectural salvage for all of the windows, doors, and finishes. Kylie talks about her favorite finds and the challenge of hiring contractors who know how to work with salvaged materials. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page. Mentioned in this Episode: Travel to England with StacyPlaster-Weld bonding agentFibaFuseKylie's project WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:48:52

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Minisode: Ready for the New Year

1/8/2024
This week, Stacy and Daniel usher in the new year by discussing how they wrapped up 2023. First, Stacy talks about her holiday trip to Palm Springs, California and Joshua Tree National Park. In true Daniel fashion, he explains how he once ended up in Palm Springs reassembling stage props from Mad Men, including Don Draper's credenza. Then, Daniel celebrates the end of the duplex remodel. It is officially listed on Zillow. He also offers a potentially controversial way of washing paintbrushes and rollers. Finally, Daniel ends with a story about throwing a holiday party in one of his favorite land bank houses. 2024 is looking bright as Stacy and Daniel consider what's next. WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:27:34

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Training Future Preservation Tradespeople + One Tool We Can't Live Without

1/1/2024
In this episode, Daniel offers a fascinating follow-up on the thin wood flooring Brenden mentioned during episode #108. Then, during listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel discuss the one tool they can't live without. Later, they welcome Chris Iannelli to the podcast. Chris heads up an inspiring program that trains 18-24-year-olds in preservation masonry while addressing their physical, emotional, and social needs. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page. Mentioned in this Episode: Oscillating toolWoodlawn Preservation Training ProgramDoor.orgTravel to England with Stacy WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:56:06

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Minisode: Goodbyes and Bathrooms

12/18/2023
This week, Daniel begins with a sad story about saying goodbye to his beloved dog, Mekko. Then, Stacy offers a positive update about her bathroom remodel, and Daniel explains the expensive boiler project going on at the cottage. Finally, Daniel talks about his last meeting as chairman of the board for the Kingston City Land Bank and the literal and figurative gifts he received after five years of volunteer service. WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:29:03

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Hardwood Floor Talk with Brendan Brody of Queen City Restoration

12/11/2023
In today's episode, Daniel shares some good news about his work with the Kingston City Land Bank. Then, Stacy and Daniel wrap up their deep dive into floor restoration and the Young Tradesperson Series by welcoming floor restoration pro, Brendan Brody of Queen City Restoration. Brendon shares the story of his path to the trades and offers excellent advice for young people facing education and career uncertainty after high school. He also provides valuable tips for operating a successful business. This is a must-listen episode for students, parents, and educators. Finally, Brendan answers the remaining floor restoration questions submitted by listeners this season. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page. Mentioned in this Episode: www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/giveawayCheap Old Houses: An Unconventional Guide to Loving and Restoring a Forgotten HomeQueen City Restoration *No purchase required. The giveaway runs from November 27, 2023, to December 18, 2023. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:55:42

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Minisode: Our Plumber is a Saint + Cute Dog Antics

12/4/2023
This week, Stacy's husband Andy fills in as co-host during Daniel's absence. First, Stacy discusses Millie's trip to the vet, and she explains the crafty way Millie managed to gain nine pounds even though she is on a carefully balanced eating and exercise schedule. Then, Andy and Stacy talk about the upstairs bathroom remodeling project. Stacy expresses her gratitude for the plumber and contractor's problem-solving skills and attention to detail. When BHH threw them a curveball, they installed the clawfoot tub in a very unique way. Finally, Stacy and Andy chat about holiday decorations and Stacy's fascination with corgis. WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:28:15

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Passive Floor Restoration + Matthew Reibs

11/27/2023
In today’s episode, during listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel discuss the passive refinishing method for wood floors. Later, as part of the ongoing young tradesperson series, Stacy and Daniel chat with Matt Riebs from Fort Wayne, Indiana. Matt does a little bit of everything related to old houses. He began dabbling in the trades as a child, and a chance to meet Nicole Curtis, his HGTV idol, further set him on his current path. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page. Visit www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/giveaway and enter to win* a copy of Cheap Old Houses: An Unconventional Guide to Loving and Restoring a Forgotten Home by Elizabeth and Ethan Finkelstein. *No purchase required. The giveaway runs from November 27, 2023 to December 18, 2023. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:54:40

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Minisode: Daniel's Mom Sets the Record Straight

11/20/2023
In today's very special "Momisode," Stacy and Daniel welcome Daniel's mom, Ricki. First, Stacy chats a little about a very confusing experience at the opera. Then, Daniel's mom joins them to set the record straight about one of Daniel's first sewing projectswhat really happened to Fidget the chinchillathe traits that make Daniel good at DIY and much more! The first Momisode featuring Stacy's mom, Vera, is available now: Stacy's Mom is in the House WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:40:38

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Minisode: Stacy's Mom is in the House

11/13/2023
In today's very special "Momisode," Stacy and Daniel welcome Stacy's mom, Vera. First, Daniel talks a bit about how his idea to bring volunteer designers to the Kingston City Land Bank has not gone according to plan. Then, Stacy's mom joins them to share more information about her than you ever wanted to know, including but not limited to: and The second Momisode featuring Daniel's mom, Ricki, drops next week. You won't want to miss it. WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:37:56

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Andrew Wing + Tips for Choosing New Flooring for Your Old House

11/6/2023
In today's episode, during listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel offer tips for choosing new wood flooring for your old house. And later, as part of the Young Tradesperson Series, they chat with window restorer and all-around nice guy Andrew Wing. Many people first became acquainted with Andrew three years ago through Laine and Kevin Berry of Our Restoration Nation. He was restoring the windows of a house dubbed Louise when tragedy struck. Louise's last gift was a new beginning for Andrew that changed the trajectory of his life and career. Visit True Tales From Old Houses for more information about this episode. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:49:35

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A Very Haunted Minisode

10/31/2023
This week, Stacy and Daniel revisit the topic of burnout. Stacy is feeling better, but Daniel is still struggling to push through the overwhelm to complete the duplex and the cottage. Then, because bad tangents happen to good minisodes, they discuss their thoughts about life after death. Finally, Stacy and Daniel read leftover ghost stories submitted by the Instagram audience and share some unexplained happenings they have experienced in their homes. WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:30:56

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A Missing Photo + Family Secrets

10/24/2023
In today's podcast, Stacy and Daniel devote the entire episode to spooky old house tales. First, Joe Peterson is back with a wild story about a photo missing from his home in New Brunswick. Later, a special guest reveals some Blake Hill House family secrets. In between, Stacy and Daniel read plenty more ghost stories submitted by the Instagram audience. From missing items to taps on the shoulder, They'll share your stories of the unsettling and the weird. Visit True Tales From Old Houses for more information about this episode, including the photos from Joe's story. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:51:14

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Minisode: On the Fast Track Toward Burnout

10/16/2023
This week, Stacy and Daniel start with an update about their accountability partnership and the state of their current projects. Then, Daniel shares his feelings about training for a 5k and running in general. Later, Stacy and Daniel get brutally honest about how unrelenting deadlines and house projects have been leading them both toward the fast track to burnout. Something has to give. Finally, Stacy explains how forcing herself to take two days off per week from BHH projects and social media has worked wonders for her work motivation and overall well-being. WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:31:45

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The Family Ghost + Wood Floor Finishes and Dogs

10/9/2023
In this episode, during listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel discuss the best hardwood floor finishes for dog owners. Not all types of wood and floor finishes hold up well against scratches from dog claws. Stacy and Daniel share their experiences to help homeowners make a floor finish choice that is right for them. Later, homeowner Amanda kicks off spooky season with a story about buying back her ancestral home. Soon after, Amanda began experiencing things she couldn’t explain. Could it be one of her ancestors gently communicating, or is it all merely coincidence? You decide. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:47:14

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Minisode: Unexpected Demo + Behind the Scenes of In With the Old

10/2/2023
Oops! They did it again. In today's episode, Stacy and Daniel discuss some recently planned simple maintenance tasks that turned into near-total demolition and deconstruction projects. Stacy discovered catastrophic rot on her sleeping porch while Daniel pulled off an alarming amount of ceiling layers in the duplex. Then, Stacy and Daniel offer a humorous behind-the-scenes look at filming an episode of In With the Old featuring Brad's cottage at Silver Lake, NY. They lift the veil on the magic of television, what got left on the cutting room floor, and what they were really drinking from those champagne flutes during the party scene. Silver Lake, New York Cottage aired on the Magnolia Network September 20, 2023, and is currently streaming on Discovery+ and Max. (In With the Old - Season 4, Episode 4) WE LOVE OUR SPONSOR Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page.

Duration:00:33:57

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Refinishing Wood Floors with Tung Oil + Designer Reagan Leslie

9/25/2023
In this episode, Stacy and Daniel continue their deep dive into floor restoration by chatting with Rob Cagnetta from Sutherland Welles. Rob explains why tung oil is a good choice for floor refinishing, how it is made, and how Sutherland Welles makes their products smell so good. Later, Stacy and Daniel have a conversation with designer and preservationist Reagan Leslie. Reagan is taking Peoria, Illinois, by storm with her unstoppable drive to improve housing within her community and preserve old homes. Reagan was also part of season one of Cheap Old Houses on HGTV, and she recently bought a house from the newly formed Peoria land bank. To request a transcript of this episode, please reach out via the contact page. WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog. The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales. Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales.

Duration:00:56:22