In today's dialogue on Boxcar Universe, we delve into the pivotal strategies for conserving energy during the scorching summer months, featuring insights from Sean LaPointe of Mr. Electric. He elucidates practical measures that homeowners can adopt to mitigate their energy expenditures, particularly relevant in the context of the relentless heat afflicting the Southwest. Furthermore, we engage in a comprehensive analysis of the current housing market with Jeff Kadlec from NEXA Mortgage, who prov...
Jul 17, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Season 1Ep. 116
This week's episode of Boxcar Universe delves into the transformative potential of shipping containers in modern architecture, emphasizing their capacity to evolve into extraordinary living spaces. We explore a variety of innovative designs, ranging from sleek casitas to advanced modular offices, showcasing the versatility and functionality that container homes offer. Our esteemed guest, Mike Pearce from Vomae7 and Carbon Vudu, provides invaluable insights into the practicalities of constructing...
Jul 01, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 115
ADU Mania is at the forefront of revolutionizing outdoor spaces, transforming backyards into innovative living environments. This episode delves into the intricacies of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), focusing on their design, functionality, and the significant value they can add to properties. We engage with Ed Reyes from Backyard Living ADU, who shares invaluable insights on the space-saving innovations and modern comforts of these structures, particularly in Arizona. As we navigate the compl...
Jun 25, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 114
The principal focus of this podcast episode is the exploration of sustainable living through the innovative concept of container homes and additional dwelling units (ADUs). As humanity has sought shelter from the elements since time immemorial, the evolution of housing has led us to consider more environmentally conscious alternatives. In our discussion, we engage with Ed Reyes from Backyard Living ADU, who elucidates the myriad benefits of transforming backyards into functional and aestheticall...
Jun 01, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Season 1Ep. 113
This Memorial Day, we pay tribute to the valiant individuals who have served our country, and to that end, we engage with Charlie Ellis of Operation Enduring Gratitude, an organization dedicated to uplifting the lives of veterans. Mr. Ellis articulates the profound impact of his work, which encompasses not only the physical rebuilding of homes but also the restoration of dignity and hope for disabled veterans. Our discussion delves into the myriad initiatives designed to assist those in dire nee...
May 28, 2025•47 min•Season 1Ep. 112
The central focus of this discussion revolves around the commendable initiatives undertaken by the Gary Sinise Foundation, particularly emphasizing their RISE program, which endeavors to provide specially adapted smart homes for veterans and first responders who have faced debilitating injuries. I am privileged to converse with Gib Bosworth, a representative of the foundation, who elucidates the transformative impact of their work, including the construction of mortgage-free homes that cater to ...
May 20, 2025•47 min•Season 1Ep. 111
Boxcar Universe presents an insightful exploration into the innovative realm of container pools, highlighting their transformative potential for sustainable backyard living. At the forefront of this discussion is Matt Walton from ContainUR Pools, who elucidates the compelling advantages of utilizing shipping containers as elegant and practical swimming solutions. We delve into the myriad benefits these pools offer, including their adaptability, ease of installation, and the ability to seamlessly...
May 12, 2025•56 min•Season 1Ep. 110
The principal theme of this podcast episode centers on the importance of evolving one's business identity beyond conventional labels, as exemplified by our guest, Steve Deubel. Throughout our dialogue, we explore the transformative journey of individuals in the home services industry, particularly emphasizing how embracing a broader perspective can lead to enhanced community engagement and personal fulfillment. From discussing Steve's origins as a handyman to his emergence as a celebrated figure...
May 06, 2025•41 min•Season 1Ep. 109
In this discourse, we delve into the burgeoning phenomenon of tiny homes, spotlighting the insights of Gail Kingsbury from United Tiny Homes. The primary focus centers on the myriad possibilities these diminutive dwellings offer, including their capacity to promote sustainable living and address housing shortages. Through our conversation, we explore the distinctions between traditional tiny homes and container homes, elucidating their respective advantages and applications in contemporary socie...
Apr 28, 2025•45 min•Season 1Ep. 108
This podcast episode delves into the intricate dynamics of establishing and funding nonprofit initiatives, particularly within the realm of real estate. Chloe Millard joins us, bringing forth her extensive expertise as a serial entrepreneur and a passionate advocate for innovative housing solutions. We engage in a profound discussion regarding the essential steps required to launch a nonprofit organization, emphasizing the pivotal role of effective marketing in attracting investors and securing ...
Apr 27, 2025•26 min•Season 1Ep. 107
Our Earth Day special boldly addresses the pressing necessity for sustainable living through innovative building practices, specifically in the realm of container home construction. We delve into the potential of green living, exploring how sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices can coalesce to foster a healthier planet. In our discussion, we are joined by Sandra McCullough from Lifestyle Lab and Zach Farren from IFoam, both of whom bring invaluable insights into the importance of ener...
Apr 22, 2025•53 min•Season 1Ep. 106
This podcast episode presents an insightful exploration of sustainable living, particularly through the lens of solar energy and electric vehicles. Our presence at the Electrify Expo in Glendale, Arizona, serves as a platform to showcase innovative home solar systems and EV charging solutions tailored for off-grid living. We delve into the transformative potential of solar technology, emphasizing its capacity to reduce utility costs while promoting environmental stewardship. Furthermore, we enga...
Apr 07, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 105
Chloe Millard from BoxedLuxe Homes expounds upon the pressing issue of domestic violence and introduces the Rose Project, an innovative initiative aimed at providing safe havens for women and children escaping abusive situations. This project seeks to utilize container homes as temporary shelters, offering a secure environment that fosters community support. Each container is designed to house an entire family while also facilitating access to essential services and resources necessary for recov...
Apr 04, 2025•24 min•Season 1Ep. 104
Chloe Millard, the pioneering force behind Boxed Luxe Homes, is reshaping the landscape of modern living through innovative container home solutions that emphasize both luxury and sustainability. In our discourse, we delve into the pressing issues of homelessness and domestic violence recovery, examining how container homes can serve as a viable answer to these societal challenges. Millard's extensive background in entrepreneurship and marketing enables her to effectively communicate the transfo...
Mar 24, 2025•27 min•Season 1Ep. 103
The integral foundation of every residence lies in its heating, cooling, and plumbing systems, which we shall diligently examine in this discourse. Our exploration encompasses the latest advancements in energy-efficient HVAC systems and innovative water solutions, all aimed at enhancing the comfort, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability of modern homes. We invite our audience to engage with the esteemed representatives from Semper Fi Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, who will elucid...
Feb 23, 2025•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 102
The salient point of this discussion centers on the innovative green cork product developed by Randy Bailey, which possesses remarkable fire-resistant properties that could significantly mitigate the risks associated with home fires. As we delve into the intricacies of this revolutionary material, we explore its potential to serve as an effective barrier against fire, thereby providing homeowners with both peace of mind and the possibility of enhanced insurance coverage. The conversation also en...
Feb 16, 2025•41 min•Season 1Ep. 101
Are you contemplating the construction of your very own container home? The complexity and intricacies of such a venture are manifold, encompassing not only the structural challenges but also the financial implications and unforeseen surprises that may arise during the process. In this enlightening discourse, we are privileged to engage with Karl Faust, a distinguished expert from Affordable Container Homes and Integrated Modular Solutions, who will elucidate the myriad considerations one must h...
Feb 09, 2025•57 min•Season 1Ep. 100
The pursuit of sustainable living has led us to explore the intriguing realm of container home living, which serves as a focal point in our discourse today. Steve Deubel engages with industry professionals, including Henry Staggs from Arizona Roofer, who emphasizes the critical importance of roof maintenance as the first line of defense for any home. Further enriching this discussion, we welcome Daniel Zink from Floors-R-Us, who elucidates the latest trends in flooring, catering to the evolving ...
Feb 02, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 99
The latest edition of Boxcar Universe delves into the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles and the inspiring stories of resilience and support emerging from the tragedy. Joe James from Mobile Emergency Housing Corporation discusses his company's efforts to provide temporary housing for displaced homeowners, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated responses in disaster-stricken areas. Alongside him, Pete Sarullo from PM Green Energy shares innovative solutions for off-grid living that can he...
Jan 26, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 98
Discover the essential insights on home inspections and the current mortgage landscape in our latest discussion on Boxcar Universe. David Dion from Whole Home Inspections joins Steve & Melonie to emphasize the importance of understanding your home’s condition before selling, highlighting how pre-listing inspections can prevent surprises during buyer evaluations. As the housing market faces challenges in 2025, including fluctuating interest rates and inventory shortages, Jeff Kadlec from NEXA...
Jan 19, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 97
This podcast episode features an engaging conversation about the growing trend of container homes and their potential as sustainable living solutions. Host Steve Deubel is joined by Shara Terry from Berkshire Hathaway Home Services and Chris Conover from Tiny Custom House, who share insights into the real estate market and the unique design aspects of container living. They discuss the structural integrity and safety of container homes, emphasizing their durability and pest-resistant qualities. ...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 1Ep. 96
Join Steve Deubel and co-host Kimberly Shaw as they explore the world of sustainable living and innovative storage solutions in this engaging episode of Boxcar Universe. Special guest Susan Frair, known as the Shed Gal, shares her journey into the shed industry, highlighting the importance of customer service and proper training in providing exceptional experiences for homeowners. With the holiday season upon us, the discussion also touches on the challenges of managing our accumulated belonging...
Dec 25, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 93
Ginger Martin, founder of the Crafty Carpenter DIY Academy, joins us to discuss empowering women to take on home improvement projects with confidence. The episode highlights the importance of understanding tools and techniques, enabling listeners to tackle DIY tasks effectively. Ginger shares her journey from a family of tradesmen to becoming a skilled carpenter, emphasizing that home improvement is not just for men. She encourages everyone, especially women, to embrace their capabilities and le...
Dec 16, 2024•58 min•Season 1Ep. 92
Join us as we explore the exciting world of solar energy and innovative solutions for sustainable living. Our guests, Brandon V from Reach Solar and Chris Langathianos with Martin Gero from Sunnoo, share their insights on how homeowners can regain control over their energy bills while embracing environmentally friendly practices. Discover how Sunnoo’s groundbreaking portable solar EV charging stations offer a practical solution for off-grid living, making it easier than ever to power electric ve...
Nov 25, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 91
This episode of Boxcar Universe delves into the world of sustainable living, focusing on custom solar systems and backup energy solutions. Host Steve Deubel interviews Adam Johnson from Nirvana Energy, who shares insights on the evolution of solar technology and its applications for both off-grid and traditional homes. The discussion highlights the importance of tailored solar solutions that meet individual energy needs, especially as homeowners seek to reduce reliance on the grid. Additionally,...
Nov 18, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 90
Container pools are revolutionizing outdoor living, offering a unique blend of affordability, sustainability, and style. Join Steve Deubel and co-host Susan Freer as they engage in a dynamic discussion with industry experts Matt Walton and Susan Freer about the latest trends in container pools and their impact on backyards. The episode highlights how container pools not only provide a luxurious swimming experience but also contribute to environmentally friendly practices by repurposing shipping ...
Nov 12, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 1Ep. 89
This episode features a compelling discussion on the innovative approach to addressing veteran homelessness through container homes, led by Tom Zimmerman from Veterans Outreach of Pennsylvania. Tom shares the inspiring journey behind the development of a tiny home community designed specifically for veterans, highlighting the importance of supporting those who have sacrificed for their country. As the conversation unfolds, listeners learn about the project’s milestones, challenges faced during t...
Oct 28, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 88
The episode dives deep into the transformative world of container homes, challenging traditional notions of living spaces and sustainability. Steve Deubel sets the scene by discussing mankind's historical relationship with shelter, illustrating how our homes have evolved over centuries. As the conversation unfolds, co-host Erica Thompson introduces Greg Lawary from Definitive Entertainment, a leader in crafting high-end audio and visual experiences. This segment of the podcast reveals the intric...
Oct 21, 2024•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 87
Andrew Pace, A Healthy Home Concierge and Founder of the Green Design Center. Andrew is an expert in designing & Building Healthy Green Homes. If you have any concerns about the products used in building your home & if they are causing any health issues, Andrew has the answers. Also with us is our local resident healthy home expert Dan Haydon from DEC Inspections. Let’s get your home healthy today!! That and more container home news here in Phoenix and another week closer for our local l...
Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 86
Joshua Grove, Owner of Grove Geodesic Domes. If you are interested in a unique structure for your property then this a great secondary dwelling. Joshua will share all the information you need to know. Also with us is Torsten Coulson, Sales Manager for DDS Renovations, Roofing Division. Here in the southwest haven’t seen much rain this monsoon season but if your roof has a little age on it is time for a roof inspection and evaluation. DDS is the company to call. “All that and more this week on Bo...
Sep 24, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 85
