Explore every episode of the podcast Custom Built

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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, mutual respect, paying on time, showing appreciation, and never underestimating the human side of this work.

I’ll walk you through how to keep these relationships strong, why they matter way more than you think (even if you’re “just” a homeowner), and what to do if a working relationship goes south. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your trades happy to pick up your call months down the road — this one’s for you.

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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 drawers that won’t open. Yikes.

We’ll dive into the magic that happens when design and construction marry early, saving you time, money, and stress. From thoughtful lighting and furniture placement to the often-overlooked importance of outlet locations and plumbing layouts, I’m giving you the power moves you need to create a home that truly works with you—not against you. This episode is a must-listen if you want your next build or renovation to be smoother, smarter, and way more YOU.

Join the waitlist for The Blueprint Collective, my step-by-step experience designed to help you create a home that fits like a glove, go here: https://www.katiego.com/joinus 

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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 with boundaries, fear, and stepping into my role as a new licensed home builder, I’m sharing the messy, raw truth behind growth. You’ll hear how I learned to tune into my body’s cues, move through fear with intention, and start recognizing that growth isn’t about a single leap—it’s the small choices that stack up over time.

This episode isn’t just for entrepreneurs or home renovators. It’s for anyone navigating change, fighting through imposter syndrome, or wondering if they’re “too emotional” to be taken seriously in business or life. You are not alone. You are evolving. And you are custom built for this.

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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’re constantly pivoting—you’re not alone.

I’m sharing a bit of my own journey through loss, motherhood, business building, and personal transformation. There’s beauty in the messy middle, and sometimes the strongest thing we can do is take a breath and honor how far we’ve come. So let this episode be your permission to pause, to reflect, and to celebrate yourself. You are custom built—and you’re doing better than you think.

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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 give you one or brush it off with "I've done this a hundred times"— red flag.

I’m also getting real about the variables your contractor can’t control—permits, inspectors, manufacturing delays—and what a good contractor does to plan for those. You’ll hear stories from the field, tips on how to spot BS, and why open, two-way communication is everything. This isn’t just about a timeline—it’s about partnership. So if you’re planning a renovation (or in the thick of one), this episode is your reminder to ask more questions, trust your gut, and never settle for less than clarity. Let’s get you back in control.

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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 wasn't flaky—I was just growing.

We’ll also explore how your home reflects your inner transformation. Is your space keeping up with the version of you you’re becoming? I’ll guide you through identifying the friction points in your life, recognizing when a pivot is needed, and how to do it with intention—not fear. This episode is your permission slip to change course, shift directions, and design a life (and a home) that fully supports who you are today. 

Want to keep this conversation going? Let’s connect on Instagram @hellokatiego and don’t forget to share, rate, and review!

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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 can — and should — be an extension of your values. From picking durable finishes that fit your lifestyle to letting go of gifts or decor that no longer serve you, I walk you through building a space that feels true to who you are. If you're planning a renovation or just dreaming of one, this episode will get you thinking deeper before you ever pick up a paintbrush. Let’s build something that’s not just beautiful, but custom-built for you.

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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 emotional boundaries, the shifts I’ve experienced in just a few months are massive—but when it comes to business and purpose, the pace feels so much slower. Sound familiar?

I get into why I believe change happens when we’re actually ready for it—not just when we want it. Sometimes we’re being tested. Sometimes we’re being prepared. And sometimes, we’re just not meant to force it. Whether you’re in the thick of it or waiting for your moment, this is your reminder to stay open, stay aware, and stop letting fear dictate your next move. Because the biggest, boldest changes usually come right after the scariest decisions. Let’s build something beautiful—even if the timing’s not what we expected.

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Hey, it’s Katie Go! In this episode of Custom Built, I’m diving into the age-old renovation question: Should I do it myself or hire it out? I’ve been seeing so many DIY wins on Instagram—especially from some badass women stepping into power tools for the first time—and I love that energy. But here’s what no one’s talking about: time. Sure, you saved a few hundred bucks, but how many hours did it take? What did it cost you in weekends, missed moments, and mental load? I’m not saying one way is better, I just want us to start looking at the real currency—our time.

I’m sharing my own porch reno story (spoiler: it’s still not done), the lessons I’ve learned about managing time vs. money, and the mindset shift from “I should do this because I can” to “I want to do this because it brings me joy.” Whether you’re laying tile, project managing trades, or just figuring out your next home move—your time is valuable, and so are you. Tune in for a real-talk breakdown of how to choose your projects with intention and energy that fuels you, not drains you.

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Hey, it’s Katie! In this soul-level episode of Custom Built, I’m sharing a really raw and real conversation inspired by some amazing women I met at a business conference. We talked about how often we sideline our own well-being to manage everyone else’s emotions—and y’all, it hit me hard. I dive into why happiness isn’t a checklist (house, marriage, job, kids) but a daily choice, and how boundaries, self-awareness, and emotional ownership are key to living a life that actually feels good, not just looks good on paper.

I also opened up about a recent, eye-opening convo with my husband where we realized we’ve both been quietly consumed by each other’s emotional states—not because we were asked to, but because we thought we should. That people-pleasing, emotion-gatekeeping cycle? It’s exhausting. If you’re a fellow empath, overthinker, or just someone trying to reclaim your joy, this episode is for you. Let’s stop stewing in other people’s energy and start choosing happiness—on purpose.

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In part two of my conversation with Rachel Squire of Inner Connections Healing, we dig even deeper into the emotional and energetic journey of entrepreneurship. Rachel opens up about the unexpected but powerful support she's found along the way—from close friends to complete strangers—and how asking for help became a game-changer in scaling her spiritual wellness business. We also talk about the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, especially those who have walked the path before you and can reflect back your potential. It’s real, raw, and full of heart.

We also touch on what it really means to custom build your life—hint: it starts with knowing your “why” and giving yourself permission to take up space, even when it feels scary. Rachel’s daily work with energy healing, holding space for clients, and now mentoring others is nothing short of beautiful. And hearing her vision for what’s next with Inner Connections? Inspiring. I’m so grateful to share part two of this story with you—it’s all about building a life that feels like home.

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In this very first guest episode of the Custom Built podcast, I sit down with the radiant Rachel Squire of Inner Connections Healing in Charleston, South Carolina. Rachel is a Reiki master, tarot reader, and yoga teacher who shares the powerful story of how she transitioned from managing Starbucks for 10 years to launching her own spiritual wellness business. From the clarity she found at a music festival, to the life-changing decision she made in an airport, Rachel opens up about what it looked like to bet on herself—raw, real, and totally inspiring.

We dive into how entrepreneurship became a spiritual journey, how anxiety and surrender coexist, and why sometimes you have to “panic when the disco starts.” This conversation is full of heart, healing, and reminders that the path you're called to might just be the one that scares you most. I’m so honored Rachel is the very first guest on the podcast—her story deserves to be heard. This is just part one, so don’t miss what’s coming next week! 

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Hey there, and welcome back to the Custom Built Podcast! Today, I’m diving into the tiny but crucial details in home design that often get overlooked—until it’s too late. Ever had a kitchen where drawers crash into each other, or a light switch ends up awkwardly behind a cabinet? These little design misses can cause major headaches (and expenses) down the line. I share real-life examples of tricky cabinet installations, misplaced outlets, and overlooked lighting that could have been avoided with better planning. Trust me, you don’t want to realize your fridge blocks the walkway after it’s installed!

So, how do you avoid these costly mistakes? I walk you through simple ways to visualize your space before it’s built—whether that’s taping out layouts, using 3D design tools, or just imagining how you move through a room. From cabinet hardware placement to smart lighting decisions, I cover it all. If you’re planning a renovation or new build, this episode will save you stress, time, and money. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if this episode was helpful! See you next week!

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Hey, friends! In this quick but super important episode, I’m diving into homeowner’s insurance—because if you’re renovating or dealing with home repairs, this is something you need to have on your radar. I’ve had my fair share of experiences with insurance claims during reconstruction projects, but after chatting with a homeowner’s insurance expert, I realized there’s even more to it than I thought! Do you know if your insurance actually covers the full cost of repairs? Are you updating your policy when you renovate? What about those sneaky coverage gaps, like only paying for one coat of paint? These are things that can make or break your budget when disaster strikes.

I’ll walk you through why it’s crucial to double-check your policy, make sure your coverage matches your home’s current value, and call your insurance provider before starting any renovations (seriously—some policies won’t cover accidents during a reno if they weren’t notified!). Plus, I’m sharing real-life lessons I’ve learned from homeowners who got stuck with unexpected costs. This is my non-expert but very real advice to help you avoid major headaches down the road. Tune in now, and let’s make sure your home—and your wallet—are protected!

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Hey friends! In this episode, I’m diving into a crucial but often overlooked step in designing your home—concepts. And when I say "we," I mean me and Samson, who insists on making an appearance today! A concept is just an idea—imperfect, unfiltered, but essential. Whether you’re dreaming of reworking an older home that no longer fits today’s lifestyle or tweaking a brand-new space that just doesn’t flow, the first step is simply getting your ideas out of your head. No judgment, no overthinking—just sketch, jot, or even cut out pieces of paper to visualize how your home could work for you.  

Flow is everything. How do you move through your home? Does your kitchen feel disconnected from your entertaining spaces? Are you constantly bumping into awkward walls? By mapping out spaces in the simplest way—no walls, no measurements, just function—you get a clear idea of what needs to change. And trust me, action creates clarity! So grab a pen, let your creativity loose, and start imagining your dream space. I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a review, follow me on Instagram @hellokatiego, and let’s make your home truly custom-built for you!

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In this episode of Custom Built, I'm tackling a topic that really grinds my gears—designing your home for resale value instead of designing it for you. I get it, we’ve been conditioned to think about the next homeowner, but why should that dictate how you live in your space? From kitchen layouts to paint colors to loft beds that evolve as your family does (trust me, I’ve built a few!), I break down why making your home work for your life right now is the best investment you can make. Because, let’s be real—your home should be a reflection of you, not just some future buyer.  

I also share real-life examples of how my family has continuously adapted our home to fit our needs—transforming bedrooms, repurposing furniture, and even rethinking how we use entire rooms. And guess what? Not once did I stress about resale value! It’s time to ditch the “what ifs” and start designing a space that actually supports the way you live. Tune in for all the details, and don’t forget to hit subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Let’s build the custom life you deserve!

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Welcome back to the Custom Built Podcast! Today, we’re diving deep into something that’s been a game-changer for me—mindset and the power of words. Whether you believe in manifestation or not, the way we think and speak about ourselves matters. I’ve seen it firsthand, not just in my own life but even on job sites. If you’re constantly expecting things to go wrong, guess what? They will. But when you shift your perspective—when you start asking what if this actually works?—that’s when the magic happens. Our thoughts create our reality, and today, I’m sharing how you can take back control of yours.  

We’ll talk about breaking free from negative thought patterns, setting boundaries with energy-draining people, and how making small shifts in your daily mindset can change everything. And trust me, this isn’t about “toxic positivity”—it’s about making intentional choices that align with the life you want to build. If you’re ready to stop letting fear and self-doubt hold you back, this episode is for you. And if this message resonates, let’s keep the conversation going—follow me on Instagram and YouTube at @HelloKatieGo. See y’all next time!

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Today, we’re diving into the one thing that makes or breaks any home renovation—MONEY. No matter how big or small your project is, having a solid financial game plan is crucial. I’m sharing my own experiences—yes, including my many rounds of loft bed indecisiveness—so you can learn from my mistakes. We’ll cover how to stretch your budget wisely, avoid common financial pitfalls, and make sure you’re hiring the right contractors (spoiler: the cheapest option isn’t always the best). Plus, we’ll chat about the emotional side of money—because let’s be real, home renos are a rollercoaster, and financial stress only adds to the ride.  

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a better understanding of how to budget smart, plan for the unexpected, and make confident decisions without second-guessing every detail. If you’re ready to tackle your reno with clarity and peace of mind, you won’t want to miss this one! And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and Facebook at @HelloKatieGo for more reno tips, and to be the first to hear about my upcoming Blueprint to Build course. See y’all next time!  

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Renovating your home? Exciting—until the unexpected hits! In this episode of Custom Built, we’re diving into the mistakes that can drain your budget and the hidden costs no one warns you about. I’ve seen it all—from nightmare contractor situations to last-minute expenses that completely derail a project. But don’t worry—I’m here to help you navigate the process with confidence.

Before you swing that sledgehammer, make sure you’re not setting yourself up for stress, delays, or wasted money. I’m sharing real-life lessons, hard-earned wisdom, and the one thing you must do before starting any renovation. Trust me, this could save you thousands! Tune in now and let’s make sure your dream home doesn’t turn into a renovation horror story.

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In today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s been a game-changer in my own life—boundaries. I used to think I was great at setting them, but turns out, I had a lot to learn! Boundaries aren’t just about saying “no” to others; they’re about saying “yes” to yourself. Whether it’s protecting your energy, standing firm in your values, or learning when to walk away, setting clear, unwavering boundaries is one of the highest forms of self-love. And trust me, when we fail to hold our boundaries, frustration, burnout, and resentment are right around the corner.

In this episode, I get real about my own struggles with keeping firm boundaries, especially in business and personal relationships. I share the moments where I compromised when I shouldn’t have, the lessons I learned the hard way, and how I’ve redefined boundaries as a non-negotiable in my life. If you’ve ever found yourself overextending, people-pleasing, or feeling drained by certain relationships, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about why boundaries matter, how they empower us, and what it looks like to fully own our space. DM me—I’d love to hear your own experiences with setting (or breaking) boundaries. Let’s do this together!

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EP8: In this episode of Custom Built, I delve into the world of bespoke interior design—what it is and why it’s a game-changer for your home. Bespoke, simply put, means custom-tailored for you and your lifestyle. Whether it’s designing a storage solution for your vinyl collection, creating an efficient closet system for a smaller home, or building an entertainment center that seamlessly integrates your sound system, bespoke design is about crafting spaces that serve your unique needs while adding a personal touch. 

I share my journey with custom-built concepts and how I’ve used them to make our 1,300-square-foot home work for our family of four (plus pets!). From cutting into walls for built-in shelving to creating furniture that accommodates both aesthetics and functionality, I’ll walk you through practical ways to bring bespoke design into your life—whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or working with a professional. Let’s rethink how we use our spaces and design homes that truly feel like they’re built for us. Tune in and let’s get creative together!

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EP7: In this episode of Custom Built, I dive into the realities of handling unexpected challenges during a renovation. From mismatched grout colors to buckling floors, I share stories from my own projects to illustrate the importance of staying calm, prioritizing craftsmanship, and taking swift, decisive action when things don’t go as planned. You’ll hear why communication and collaboration with your trades are key, and how to know when it’s time to part ways and bring in a new team.  

I also explain the value of draw schedules and regular walkthroughs to keep your project on track, protect your budget, and maintain high-quality results. Mistakes happen—it’s how you respond that makes the difference. Whether you’re managing your own renovation or overseeing one as a contractor, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate any hurdles with confidence.

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EP6: In this episode of the Custom Built Podcast, I’m diving deep into the power of taking a chance on yourself. Have you ever felt a pull to do something that feels risky but right? I share my personal journey of resigning from a stable job to pursue my dreams, and the range of responses I’ve received—from encouragement to fear-based skepticism. You’ll hear why I chose to trust my instincts, how I’ve gained clarity through action, and the role confidence plays in building the life you truly want.  

This episode is a heartfelt reminder that change is scary, but staying stuck can be even scarier. Whether you’re dreaming of starting your own business, seeking a promotion, or simply making changes to align your life with your values, this conversation will inspire you to trust your intuition and take bold steps forward. You are worth the risk, and your dreams are worth the effort. Let’s build the life we deserve—together.

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EP5: In this episode of the Custom Built Podcast, I’m sharing the story behind one of the biggest decisions of my life: quitting my job. This isn’t just about walking away—it’s about trusting your gut, honoring your instincts, and making space for the life you truly want. I talk about the internal battle of stepping away from a secure paycheck, the fear of the unknown, and how I reframed my thinking to view challenges as opportunities rather than failures. If you’ve ever felt the pull to let go of something to make room for something greater, this episode is for you.

I also explore the synchronicities that lined up once I made the leap, including unexpected opportunities that affirmed I was on the right path. From designing kitchens to planning my Airstream renovation, I’m excited to dive headfirst into projects that truly light me up. Tune in to hear how I’m navigating this transition, the lessons I’ve learned about prioritizing time and energy, and why taking a risk on yourself is always worth it. Let’s build the life we deserve—together.

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EP4: In this deeply personal episode of the Custom Built Podcast, I share my journey from feeling like a passive passenger in my own life to taking full control and building the life I truly deserve. I open up about hitting rock bottom, the anger that fueled my transformation, and the pivotal moment that made me realize I needed to stop relying on others and start advocating for myself. From stepping into the world of house flipping to redefining my career goals and finding my passion in project management, this episode is packed with real-life lessons about growth, resilience, and self-discovery.

I also dive into the importance of setting boundaries, building confidence, and embracing the discomfort of standing up for yourself to live authentically. Whether you’re navigating a challenging relationship, reevaluating your career, or just trying to figure out the next step, this episode offers actionable advice and relatable insights to inspire your own transformation. If you’ve ever felt stuck or powerless, tune in to learn how to take back your power and design a life that aligns with who you are and what you truly want. Let’s build something beautiful—together.

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EP3: In this episode of the Custom Built Podcast, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about hiring the right general contractor to bring your home renovation dreams to life. From understanding the importance of licenses, insurance, and permit requirements to determining whether your contractor hires subcontractors or works with in-house crews, I’ll walk you through the key questions to ask during the interview process. I’ll also dive into how to spot red flags, why trusting your intuition is vital, and how to ensure your contractor is solution-oriented and communicative throughout the project.

We’ll also discuss how to research contractors through reviews, social media, and community recommendations, as well as the importance of aligning personalities and communication styles for a successful partnership. Hiring the right general contractor is about building a relationship based on trust and clarity, so I’ll share tips to ensure your expectations are clear and your renovation runs smoothly. If you’re planning a home renovation, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you make confident decisions from start to finish. Let’s make your home renovation a success! 

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EP2: In this episode of the Custom Built Podcast, I’m walking you through the five must-have essentials to prepare for a home renovation—plus five bonus tips to make your project as smooth as possible! Whether you’re tackling a small refresh or a large-scale overhaul, getting these steps right before you start will save you time, money, and stress. From defining your concept and setting a realistic budget to understanding your jurisdiction’s rules, I’m covering all the foundational pieces that will set you up for success. I also share insights on building strong relationships with your contractor, setting boundaries, and making your selections early to avoid costly delays.  

But I’m not stopping there—I’ve got five bonus tips to take your renovation to the next level! We’ll discuss everything from trusting your instincts during the hiring process to understanding the difference between cost-plus and fixed-rate estimates. If you’re planning a renovation, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you navigate the process confidently and avoid common pitfalls. Tune in to hear how you can create a home renovation experience that aligns with your vision and delivers the space you’ve always dreamed of. Let’s get started!

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EP1: In this episode of the Custom Built Podcast, I’m diving into what it means to truly feel at home. Your home should be your sanctuary—a place where you can recharge, shed the layers you wear throughout the day, and just be yourself. But what happens if your home isn’t meeting your expectations? Today, I’m sharing tips and personal insights to help you get clear on how your home makes you feel and what you can do to create a space that works for you, whether you thrive in calm or crave energy and movement.

I’ve worked with homeowners going through some of their toughest moments, and it’s taught me how important it is to have a space to decompress. In this episode, I talk about why finding your calm (or your chaos!) is key to recharging and how to work around the needs of others in your home. From carving out a quiet corner to creating a system that works for everyone, it’s all about designing a home that supports your best self. Take a moment to think about how you feel when you walk through your door, and let’s make sure your home feels like home.