
How To Handyma’am | A Home Improvement Comedy Podcast
by Samantha Pearl|Lic. Builder, Emily Pearl Reist|Lic. Builder, and Arly Streed
Is this your podcast?Insights from recent episode analysis
Audience Interest
Podcast Focus
Publishing Consistency
Platform Reach
Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
Total monthly reach
Estimated from 1 chart position in 1 market.
By chart position
- 🇺🇸US · How To#1655K to 30K
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
1.5K to 9K🎙 Daily cadence·39 episodes·Last published yesterday - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
5K to 30K🇺🇸100% - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
2K to 12K
Market Insights
Platform Distribution
Reach across major podcast platforms, updated hourly
Total Followers
—
Total Plays
—
Total Reviews
—
* Data sourced directly from platform APIs and aggregated hourly across all major podcast directories.
On the show
Recent episodes
Sidequest 24| The Shocking Medical & Military Origins of Your Tools!
May 26, 2026
Unknown duration
Ep 25: Summer Hosting Hacks & Ladder Safety
May 22, 2026
Unknown duration
Sidequest 23: Welcome to the MDF Hate Club: Sponge Wood, Toxic Dust, and "Smartie Candy" Screws 🪵❌
May 19, 2026
Unknown duration
Episode 24: Fence 101: Digging Deep, Neighbor Etiquette, and Beating the Frost Line 🪵🏗️
May 15, 2026
Unknown duration
Sidequest 22: Deck Staining Secrets, Patio Permits, & Why We Hate Wood Filler 🪵🛠️
May 12, 2026
Unknown duration
Social Links & Contact
Official channels & resources
Official Website
Login
RSS Feed
Login
| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/26/26 | ![]() Sidequest 24| The Shocking Medical & Military Origins of Your Tools! | Welcome back to How-To Handyma’am! This week, Samantha, Arly, and Emily are stepping away from our standard workshop schedules to take you on a wild, chaotic deep dive into the completely bizarre history of the everyday tools sitting in your garage . Emily is feeling sneaky and sharing her inner history nerd as we play a guessing game with the unsettling origins of modern trade tools : 🩸 The Childbirth Chainsaw: Discover why the modern chainsaw was originally engineered in the late 1700s by two Scottish surgeons to cut through pelvic bones during high-risk deliveries long before wood loggers ever touched it . 👗 The Corset Tape Measure: How the flexible, spring-loaded tape measure in your tool belt owes its mechanics to Victorian-era hoop skirts , plus the hidden reason why snapping a 90s snap bracelet might feel painfully familiar . 🔫 The Colt .45 Power Drill: Why your modern cordless drill moved away from painful chest-pressed "breast drills" to a design explicitly modeled after a semi-automatic handgun to maximize manual control . ⚔️ The Battlefield Screwdriver: For over three centuries, the humble flathead screwdriver wasn't a woodworker's tool at all—it was a specialized military weapon maintenance tool engineered to hold plate armor and muskets together . 🛠️ The Truth About Stripping Screws: Why standard Phillips head screws were actually engineered to "cam out" and strip on purpose to preserve armor plating , plus Arly's recent "come to Jesus" love affair with the chunky Phillips 3 (P3) driver bit . We wrap up the episode with some surprising bonus facts about sharkskin sandpaper , the evolutionary perfection of crabs , and our definitive rankings of the best animals on the planet (spicy black bears included). 🔗 Join our $5 Apprentice Patreon Tier to grab exclusive monthly bonus episodes and support our mission to bring more women into the trades: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam Connect with us! Drop your favorite animal in the comments of our social channels so we can tell you their weird evolutionary traits . Find us on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @howtohandymaam (remember, it's ma'am, not man!). You can also share your latest DIY workspace projects directly by emailing hth@myhandyman.com. #HowToHandymaam #ToolHistory #ChainsawOrigin #PistolGripDrill #PhillipsHead #WomenInTrades #HistoryHacks #PatreonApprentice | — | ||||||
| 5/22/26 | ![]() Ep 25: Summer Hosting Hacks & Ladder Safety | Welcome back to How-To Handyma’am, the podcast where we put the handyman in the hosting ! This week, Samantha, Arly, and Emily are bringing you part two of our ultimate summer hosting guide, packed with genius backyard hacks and tactical entertaining blueprints to put even your most introverted guests completely at ease .Before we hit the backyard, we kick off with our Three Minutes of Chaos segment . Emily reminisces about using actual gas leaf blowers to clean movie theater aisles in high school , we launch into the highly controversial French Fry Wars , and Arly recaps her recent Amazon sunscreen crisis . We also break down a terrifying "Field Tale" of a classic mid-century ranch house that was criminally forced into a black-and-white modern farmhouse aesthetic .On a serious note, Emily shares some heavy-hitting safety takeaways from her recent builder’s license continuing education classes . We discuss the critical 3-rung extension ladder rule , why a post-fall rescue plan is just as vital as your harness , and how a simple DIY ratchet strap trick can completely eliminate a terrifying ladder wobble .In the main segment, we map out Emily's Summer Hosting Blueprint :Tactical Bug Defense: Reclaiming your air space with industrial fans and easy DIY plug-in porch ceiling fans .The DIY Food Shield: Building a custom, screened buffet enclosure using a basic 1x lumber box, window screen staples, and a piano hinge .The No-Fumble Party Flow: Why separating food and drink zones prevents bottleneck lines .The Golden Rules of Hospitality: Why you must open every bag of chips before guests arrive , labeling your coolers with painter's tape , and the absolute necessity of a bathroom speaker to mask awkward noise .🔗 Grab all our resources and full build guides here: linktr.ee/howtohandymaamConnect with us! Tag us in your project photos on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @howtohandymaam (remember, it's ma'am, not man!) . You can also send your latest DIY project triumph photos directly to hthm@myhandymaam.com | — | ||||||
| 5/19/26 | ![]() Sidequest 23: Welcome to the MDF Hate Club: Sponge Wood, Toxic Dust, and "Smartie Candy" Screws 🪵❌ | Grab your respirators, folks. In this Sidequest, Samantha, Arly, and Emily officially open the doors to the MDF Hate Club . While medium density fiberboard looks uniform and beautiful on the store shelf, we are here to expose the pros, the cons, and the absolute lies surrounding this compressed wood fluff .In this Sidequest, we break down:What is MDF anyway?: A mid-20th-century invention made from leftover wood chips and sawdust ground into fluff, mixed with wax and resin under intense heat and pressure .The Pros (The Short List): It’s perfectly smooth, doesn't warp or crown in perfect conditions, and cuts cleanly on a table saw—making it the "hot dog of wood products" with one single consistency all the way through .The "Stupid Sponge" Reality: Why making kitchen and bathroom cabinets out of a material that turns completely to mush when exposed to water makes zero sense .Samantha & Emily’s Horror Story: The nightmare of refinishing 35 factory-painted cabinet doors, scraping out wet mush with utility knives, and using Bondo to manually sculpt cabinet profiles back together .The Fastener Fail: Why driving a screw into MDF is exactly like putting a screw into a piece of Smartie candy, and why you only get "one shot" before the hole strips completely .The "Finest Toxin": Why you must wear a respirator when cutting MDF, plus a technical cleanup hack using vinegar to break the static cling of the powder .Don't Hate OSB: Why Oriented Strand Board is layered like a phone book and is actually an incredibly strong, great product, unlike the trap of MDF .Handyma’am Verdict: If you are new to woodworking, do not start your hobby with MDF or you will want to quit . If you must build a heavy-load project (like Samantha and Emily's budget vinyl record bookshelves), skip the MDF and buy cabinet-grade plywood—or be prepared to install a 1x2 wooden skeleton just to keep it from failing .Disagree with our anti-MDF manifesto? Let us know at howtohandymaam.com or find us on socials @howtohandymaam!Find all our links! linktr.ee/howtohandymaam#HowToHandymaam #MDFHateClub #WoodworkingFails #ShopTalk #DIYTraps #WomenInTrades | — | ||||||
| 5/15/26 | ![]() Episode 24: Fence 101: Digging Deep, Neighbor Etiquette, and Beating the Frost Line 🪵🏗️ | We’ve officially hit Episode 24! This week, Samantha, Arly, and Emily are breaking down the essential steps to building a fence that stays level, plumb, and square for years to come. Samantha kicks things off with a heartfelt dedication to her Aunt Annie—the original "master of the chaos" who taught her that getting older means finally being exactly who you are.In this episode, we discuss:The Four-Step Fence: A simple breakdown of the process: dig the hole, set the posts, set the rails, and screw in the pickets.Beating the Frost Line: Why digging 42 inches deep is non-negotiable in the Midwest to prevent "frost heave" from ruining your foundation.Fence Anatomy: Understanding the vertical 4x4 posts, horizontal 2x4 rails, and the "skin" of the fence—your pickets.Choosing Your Style: The differences between Standard Picket, Shadowbox (the "good neighbor" fence), and Board-on-Board for total privacy.Legal & Social Prep: Why you MUST call 811 (MISS DIG), find your survey stakes, and why the "pretty side" usually has to face your neighbor.Hardware Advice: Why interior screws are a "no-go" for fences and how to use a jig for perfectly aligned picket screws.Handyma’am Tip: Don't just eyeball your property line. Verify your survey stakes or you might find yourself moving a whole fence later!Find all our links, resources, and more here:👉 linktr.ee/howtohandymaam#HowToHandymaam #FenceBuilding #DIYHomeRepair #OutdoorLiving #HomeImprovement #WomenInTrades | — | ||||||
| 5/12/26 | ![]() Sidequest 22: Deck Staining Secrets, Patio Permits, & Why We Hate Wood Filler 🪵🛠️ | We’ve officially survived the "22-episode failure zone," and with over 43 total uploads including our Sidequests, we’re just getting started! This week, the studio door is open, and Winnie the dog joins Emily, Arly, and Samantha as we tackle a themed Q&A all about your home's exterior. In this Sidequest, we answer:Staining a Weathered Deck: Is it ever too late to stain a graying deck? Soft Washing 101: Why chemicals, not high-force power washing, are the secret to a clean wood deck. The Wood Filler Trap: Why we suggest avoiding "Deck Correct" and standard wood fillers or Bondo for outdoor projects. Patio Permit Truths: When you need a permit for pavers and why you MUST call MISS DIG before digging. Vinyl Siding Deep Clean: The best solutions for getting rid of algae and mold on your siding. Handyma’am Golden Rule: Before you soft wash your siding, soak your foundation and nearby plants with clean water to protect them from chemical runoff! Check out our Linktree for all our resources, socials, and more:👉 linktr.ee/howtohandymaam#HowToHandymaam #DeckMaintenance #DIYHomeRepair #OutdoorLiving #HomeImprovement | — | ||||||
| 5/8/26 | ![]() Ep 23: Summer Hosting Part 1 — Fire Pits, Lighting, & How Not to Burn a Hole in Your Deck 🪵🔥 | Winter is finally over in Michigan, and the Handyma’ams are ready to head outside! This episode kicks off a two-part summer hosting series designed to help you get your home party-ready and, most importantly, safe for your guests. In this episode, we cover:Memorial for Carla Jean: A special dedication to a "girls' gal" who loved life. The 3-Minute Catch-up: New eyebrow freckles , a heartwarming story about Marshall at Pizza Hut and his wood-crafting daughter , and getting rained on at an Alabama Shakes concert . Tales from the Field: The struggle of replacing niche, patented hinges on a massive glass door . Arly’s Prep Checklist: Why you need to power wash (or soft wash) your surfaces , checking your deck boards for soft spots , and the importance of a working bathroom lock for guest privacy. Backyard Lighting & Pests: Inexpensive solar options , DIY planter light posts , and how to manage standing water to keep mosquitoes away . Samantha’s Fire Pit 101: The 10-foot rule , why wood-burning pits and decks don't mix , and a step-by-step guide to building a stone fire pit with proper drainage . Handyma’am Pro-Tip: Always put a plunger in the guest bathroom so nobody has to die of embarrassment. Check out all our links at linktr.ee/howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 5/5/26 | ![]() Sidequest 21: Reddit Contractor Nightmares, The "Materials Scam," & Unpermitted Disasters 🚩 | Grab your concert tees and get ready to rock, because this is the Sidequest of the 90s! This week, Emily went rogue in the basement office and dug into the depths of Reddit to find some truly unhinged contractor horror stories. Samantha, Arly, and Emily read through four different nightmares and provide their professional commentary on the massive red flags these homeowners missed. In this Sidequest, we react to:A custom window disaster where 3.5-meter tall glass panels were secured with small screws and blew right into the house. A $9,999 defamation lawsuit over a bad review. The all-too-common "Materials Scam," where sketchy crews over-order insulation and lumber to stash for their side gigs. A "somewhat simple" kitchen and double-bathroom remodel that was handed off to an unlicensed subcontractor from Lowe's. Plus, we share essential Handyma'am advice:The Box Store Secret: Why you should never assume a contractor referred by Lowe's, Menards, or Home Depot is vetted or qualified. (Home Depot literally ranks their Pros by how much money they spend on materials! ). License Verification: Step-by-step instructions on how to look up your contractor's license through your state's regulatory affairs website (like LARA in Michigan). The Discount Red Flag: Why a legit business with workers comp and overhead cannot afford to offer you a $5,000 "act today" discount. Did you love this Reddit episode? Search for the How To Handyma'am group on Facebook and let us know if we should make this a regular series! | — | ||||||
| 5/1/26 | ![]() Ep 22: The Price is Right: Hardware Store Edition, Body Positivity, & A Milwaukee Giveaway! 💸🛠️ | Welcome back to How To Handyma'am! This week, Arly survived a brutal bout of food poisoning to bring you an episode packed with chaotic energy, essential life advice, and a hardware store game show. Before we talk tools, Samantha celebrates finding a great new therapist , and then Emily takes the mic for an important soapbox moment about body neutrality, diet culture, and dealing with internet trolls. The ethos of How To Handyma'am is simple: come exactly as you are. Your body is the least interesting thing about you, and we are here to build cool things, not conform to impossible standards! Then, it is time to play The Price is Right: Big Box Store Edition! Arly quizzes Emily and Samantha on the retail prices of everyday DIY materials. We are covering everything from LVP flooring and exterior doors to why a gallon of Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane will cause some serious sticker shock. 🎉 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎉We are giving away a Milwaukee Drill Kit (M18 Drill, two batteries, a charger, and a bag)! To enter, follow us on Instagram (@howtohandymaam) and join our email list before May 8th, 2026 at 12:00 AM. Got a question? Want to join the community? Search for the "How To Handyma'am" group on Facebook, visit howtohandymaam.com, or email us at hthm@myhandymaam.com! | — | ||||||
| 4/28/26 | ![]() SideQuest 20: Deck Permits, Ripped-Out Handrails, & Toxic Lumber 🛠️ | Welcome to another Side Quest! ⚔️ Today, Samantha, Arley, and Emily are tackling your listener questions. We’re covering everything from the legalities of deck building to why poorly installed safety equipment is the absolute worst. In this episode, we answer:Do you need a permit to replace your deck boards? (And why you should never pull a permit for your contractor!) . Can you put mulch over a weed barrier, or will it invite a swarm of cockroaches? 🪳. How to fix a stair handrail that ripped right out of the drywall. Is pressure-treated lumber poisoning your vegetable garden? 🍅. Plus, a terrifying tale from the field involving tick-infested mulch, and a mind-blowing realization about where the word "windmill" comes from. Got a question for us? We want to hear it! Email us at hthm@myhandymaam.com. | — | ||||||
| 4/24/26 | ![]() Ep 21: 48-Hour Curb Appeal, Shutter Crimes, & Neglect-Proof Plants | Welcome back to How to Handyma'am, besties! We missed you. In this episode, we are wrapping up our four-part "Spring is Sprung" series with the ultimate guide to beautifying the outside of your home in 48 hours or less.We are giving you beginner-friendly DIY tips for:Diagnosing your house style: Why you need to lean into the house you have (stop making ranches look like farmhouses!) and the rules for Craftsman, Mid-Century, and Colonial aesthetics.Committing Shutter Crimes: Why undersized, non-functional-looking shutters are a federal crime in our book, and how to remove them and fix the holes.Exterior Paint Prep: Can you paint vinyl siding? (Yes, but you have to use the right stuff so it doesn't melt!) Plus, wood siding prep and when to use a "Paint Eater."Sneaky Exterior Repairs: Using "Siding Band-Aids" (patches) for holes and swapping rotted wood trim for PVC/composite.Landscaping for Real People: How to pick plants based on the person you actually are, not who you wish you were. Hint: Hostas are your friends.This episode is proudly dedicated to Emily’s fierce, intelligent, and effervescent cousin-in-law, LaTonya! Be like LaTonya.Plus, we have your three (nine?) minutes of controlled chaos, featuring:Live otter cameras as stress relief.Florida sunshine as a cure for depression (and laying in it like a lizard).A medium amount of investigation into a tiled shower room that was totally missing waterproofing.A truly horrifying "Tale from the Field" involving contaminated drywall, fecal matter, and handcuffs attached to bolts in the floor. 😱Links & Resources:🌐 Check out our storefront for tools mentioned in this episode: https://shoplowes.me/4i2zfaI•Linktree: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam📸 Follow us on Instagram (help us get to 1,000!): @howtohandymaam💌 Got a DIY question? Email us at hthm@myhandymaam.comMalice in the Mitten, Singly Married, Marci Talks Money (podcasts mentioned). | — | ||||||
Want analysis for the episodes below?Free for Pro Submit a request, we'll have your selected episodes analyzed within an hour. Free, at no cost to you, for Pro users. | |||||||||
| 4/17/26 | ![]() Episode 20: Decks 101 (Permits, Materials & Building It Right) | If you are planning on building, replacing, or resurfacing a deck this summer, you cannot afford to skip this episode! Today, we are starting from the ground up to give you the ultimate Deck 101 survival guide.We talk through the dreaded permitting process and explain exactly when you can legally skip the paperwork. Then, we break down the pros, cons, and hidden costs of the three most common decking materials: pressure-treated lumber, cedar, and composite. Whether you want the cheapest option or a deck that will outlive you, we have the installation secrets you need to know.In this episode, we cover:Why your deck's substructure must always be ground-contact pressure-treated lumber.The 6-to-12-month waiting rule for sealing a pressure-treated deck.Why you need to wear a mask when cutting cedar.The hidden costs of composite decking, including special fasteners and structural framing requirements.A major safety warning about modern cable railings.Connect with us!Got a question or a "Tale from the Field"? Email us at hthm@myhandymaam.com!🔗 All our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam🏡 Check out our website: howtohandymaam.com | — | ||||||
| 4/7/26 | ![]() SideQuest 17: The Ugly Truth About Building a Business (80-Hour Weeks & Therapy) | Welcome back to the Sidequest! This week, Samantha poses a deeply personal question to the group: How do you handle the stress and long hours when you're trying to create something incredibly important, but circumstances make it difficult?If you are currently pouring your heart into a passion project, a small business, or just trying to survive a chaotic season of life, this episode is your official hype squad.In this Sidequest, we cover:Coping Mechanisms & Avoiding Spreadsheets: We share how we actually get things done. From Emily’s hyper-focusing (and literally trading TikTok video creation to get out of building a spreadsheet) to Samantha’s "all the way on or all the way off" lifestyle that requires long, decompression baths.The Importance of Support Systems: We are destigmatizing therapy and talking about why having a solid support system is non-negotiable. Huge shoutout to the partners picking up the laundry and dog-walking slack during 80-hour work weeks!Reframing Disappointment: What happens when your big plan fails? We talk about pivoting our original November podcast launch and reframing that "failure" into building a massive online ecosystem instead.The Ultimate Mission: Why quitting is never an option for us. We are building this community to give women the autonomy, knowledge, and agency to make choices about their own homes.When a project is this important, you aren't just the person who can make it happen—you are the person who cannot not make it happen.Join the Handyma'am Community!🔗 All our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam🏡 Check out our brand new ecosystem: howtohandymaam.com | — | ||||||
| 4/3/26 | ![]() Episode 18: Spring Has Sprung: 10 Exterior Maintenance Tips | Welcome back to How to Handyma'am! It is finally spring, and we are kicking off a four-part series dedicated to all things spring maintenance and landscaping.But first, 3 Minutes of Chaos! We also take a moment to talk about leaning into who you really are and accepting your unique quirks. We also give a shoutout to our favorite med student, Hannah MacArthur!Then, we dive into the Spring Handyma'am Showdown! We go head-to-head to list the top 10 things you need to check outside your house as the weather warms up.Our top 10 spring maintenance tips include:Check doors and windows: Ensure they open, close, and seal properly, and watch for sticky spots.Turn on the power: Find your breaker box and flip the switch to test your outdoor outlets.Test smoke detectors: Make sure you have working batteries (and a carbon monoxide detector!).Change your furnace filter: Get ready for AC season.Inspect the siding: Look for holes, damage, or missing pieces, and fill any gaps.Check for water leaks: Check under sinks, around toilets, and make sure your sump pump is working.Inspect your porch/deck: Look for rotting wood, peeling paint, or loose boards.Check the mailbox: Ensure it's secure, not rotting, and firmly attached to the post.Examine exterior trim: Look for peeling paint or wood rot, which can lead to water and pest issues.Test the outdoor spigot: Turn the water on, attach a hose, and check for leaks.We've got you covered with tips, tricks, and a little bit of chaos along the way. Be sure to check out our website for a printable spring checklist!Join The Community!•Sign up for the newsletter & submit listener questions: howtohandymaam.com•Follow us on social media: @howtohandymaam•All our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 3/31/26 | ![]() SideQuest 16: Concrete Walls, Keypad Codes, & The Stud Finder Mystery | Welcome back to the Side Quest! We kick things off with a truly chaotic (and somewhat mournful) rendition of our theme song, and then dive right into some excellent listener questions.First up, a listener asks a question we've all been wondering: what happens to the painted exterior doors of a house that's been stripped down to the studs and abandoned for years? We break down a few ways to tackle chipping, lifting exterior paint, whether you choose to scrape, use a heat gun, or replace the doors entirely.Next, we address the mystery of the missing studs. What do you do when your stud finder refuses to beep, even after dragging it across an entire wall? We share our favorite tips for finding studs manually (hello, rare earth magnets!) and how to make sure you're using your tools correctly.Finally, we share a major tip from our time working on the VFW: how to hang things on solid concrete walls. We explain what "wall plugs" are, how to use them, and why they are the absolute best way to hang everything from TVs to artwork on concrete.Join The Community!Sign up for the newsletter & submit listener questions: howtohandymaam.comFollow us on social media: @howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 3/27/26 | ![]() Episode 17: You Just Bought a House! Now What? (The New Homeowner Checklist) | Welcome back to How to Handyma'am! We are kicking off today's episode with 3 Minutes of Chaos, featuring Samantha's Victorian romance tv show recommendations, a quick menopause update, and the hilarious story of her cartoon-style wipeout on a loose rug while chasing Winnie the Golden Retriever. (Spoiler: Winnie's response was to sit directly on Samantha to tell her to calm down!)But we're also getting down to business for all of our new homeowners out there! If you just got the keys to your new house, do not move in yet. We are playing a game of "Must Do, Should Do, Nice To Do" to help you prioritize the most important tasks before you start unpacking boxes.We explain why you must change your locks and test your smoke detectors, why you should figure out where your main water shut-off valve is, and why deep-cleaning the fridge is a nice to do before you move your stuff in. We also share a sweet client story featuring Hellboy the rescue Greyhound, and give you professional advice on how to deal with contractors who charge too much (and why it's totally okay to ghost them).Join The Community!Sign up for the newsletter & submit listener questions: howtohandymaam.comFollow us on social media: @howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 3/24/26 | ![]() SideQuest 15: Pushing Through the DIY Wall, Four Seasons Gardening, & Secret Command Strips | Welcome back to the Side Quest! Today, we are skipping the intro and diving straight into some listener questions, ranging from the highly technical to the completely chaotic.We start by helping Sherry F. figure out how to restore the water-damaged fronts of her sink cabinets without totally replacing them. (And yes, we may have gotten a little distracted by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons along the way...). Then, Julie D. asks a great question: why is her grout cracking, and what can she do to fix it? We break down the structural reasons why you can never use grout where there is a change of plane (like where the wall meets the counter), and what you need to buy to fix it.Finally, Tess M. wants to know if Musselbound is actually a legitimate product. We give our honest, professional review of this "giant double-sided sticky tape" and when you should (and shouldn't) use it in your home.Plus, we share our best tips for what to do when you hit the dreaded "DIY Wall" and feel like abandoning your project entirely.Join The Community!Sign up for the newsletter & submit listener questions: howtohandymaam.comFollow us on social media: @howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 3/20/26 | ![]() Ep 16: What to Expect When You’re Expecting a (DIY) Project | Welcome to How to Handyma'am! We are kicking off Episode 16 with a little singing, a sweet dedication to Samantha's sister, Sandy, and a recap of our live TV debut on New Day Cleveland! Fun fact: Samantha and Sandy both have golden retrievers (including Samantha's dog, Winnie the Pearl) and the dogs are actually sisters! We also got to teach an amazing troop of Girl Scouts how to build their own toolboxes this week.For our main topic, we are talking about exactly what to expect when you take on a new DIY project. Whether you are a "Type A" planner who maps out every single screw, or a "Type B" chaos gremlin who just starts ripping things apart (looking at you, Arly), we are sharing our professional process for getting things done. We cover how to define your project scope, why you need to watch tutorial videos just to build your materials list, and why you should always add a buffer to your budget.Plus, we answer a listener question about how to properly repair torn drywall paper from a Command Strip!Join The Community!Sign up for early event access & submit listener questions: howtohandymaam.comAll our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 3/17/26 | ![]() SideQuest 14: Vault Release - Kissing Raccoons, Ankle Monitors, & F*ck Politeness! | Welcome back to a very special Side Quest! We are officially recovering from a wild weekend at the Lansing Home and Garden Show, so we are opening up the vault and giving everyone early access to an episode originally recorded just for our Patreon.This week, we are taking a break from home repair to share our ultimate "horror stories from the field". Warning: this episode is essentially a mother's (and husband's) worst nightmare.In this episode, we confess to:Thinking we have the magical ability to hug wild bears.Picking up a rescued street raccoon and giving it a kiss on the head.Following a man wearing an ankle monitor into the deepest, darkest corner of a basement for an estimate.Picking up a hitchhiker and driving him all the way to Sturgis.Ultimately, we are talking about why women need to embrace the phrase "F*ck Politeness". We put ourselves in dangerous situations because we don't want to be perceived as rude, but remember: you can always apologize later if you were wrong, but you can't fix being murdered!Join The Village!Submit a Listener Question: howtohandymaam.comAll our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaamEmail us: hthm@myhandymaam.com | — | ||||||
| 3/13/26 | ![]() Ep 15: To Fix or Not to Fix | When to DIY vs. Replace 6 Common Home Repairs | Welcome to How to Handyma'am! This week, we are consulting Shakespeare for our home repairs and asking the ultimate DIY question: To fix, or not to fix? But first, we kick things off with a sweet dedication to Arly's grandma, the "OG Handyma'am," and spill the tea on the products we are absolutely loving right now.From navigating the tragedy of dragging a refrigerator across your sheet vinyl floor, to deciding whether you should repair a hollow-core door or just buy a new one, we are giving you the ultimate cost-benefit analysis on common home damage.Episode Timestamps:0:00 - Welcome back! A dedication to Grandma Arlene.3:55 - Product Reviews! We are fangirling over RTA Wholesalers out of Carson, California.9:30 - Our review of Gorilla Glue Two-Part Epoxy (and why you shouldn't set construction adhesive on fire).11:20 - Go-to bonding primer: Valspar Signature.13:00 - The Main Event: To Fix or Not To Fix?15:00 - Ripped linoleum/sheet vinyl floors.21:50 - Punching a hole in a hollow core door.26:00 - Sputtering sinks and cleaning your faucet aerator.28:40 - Broken window panes (Single pane vs. Double pane).31:20 - Broken PVC plumbing pipes.34:30 - Splintered door jambs.Products Mentioned in this Episode:Heads up! Some of the product links below are affiliate links. This means if you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's a great way to support the podcast!RTA Wholesalers: https://rtawholesalers.comGorilla Glue Two-Part Epoxy: https://shoplowes.me/4lqUmoMValspar Signature: https://shoplowes.me/4bi1C1KJoin The Community!Submit a Listener Question: howtohandymaam.comAll our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 3/10/26 | ![]() SideQuest 13: Q&A | Prying Off Paneling, Swollen Shed Doors, & Tub Caulk Talk | Welcome back to another Side Quest! This week, we are answering three of your most pressing DIY questions from the community. If you have a question you want us to tackle on a future Side Quest, you can now submit it directly on our new website: howtohandymaam.com!In this episode, we answer:Amanda's Question: How hard is it to take down old living room paneling, and what do I have to do to the walls underneath? We share the mid-century "plaster board" warning you need to hear before you start prying!Julie's Question: My painted shed door is so swollen it won't shut. How do I fix it? We break down how to trim a swollen door, and why painting the bottom edge is the secret to preventing it from happening again.Maureen's Question: A plumber just replaced my tub faucet, but there is no caulk around it where it meets the tile. Should there be? We settle the debate on whether you need 100% silicone or just a squeeze tube.Join The Village!Submit a Listener Question: howtohandymaam.comAll our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 3/6/26 | ![]() Ep 14: Feeling Safe in Your Own Home: Your DIY Security Checklist | Welcome back to How to Handymaam! 🛠️ This week, we are introducing a brand new segment called "Three Minutes of Chaos" before diving into a highly practical checklist for securing your home. Whether you live alone or just want some extra peace of mind, we are breaking down the easiest, most effective security upgrades you can tackle this weekend.In this episode, we cover:Three Minutes of Chaos: Arly rants about period products, Emily gets excited for spring and the Lansing Home & Garden Show, and Samantha talks about her favorite heavy-duty outdoor builds.Listener Question: Marybeth asks how to paint baseboards without ruining her wood floors. We explain why painter's tape is actually a terrible idea for old hardwood, and share the "plastic sleeve" trick instead.Practical Home Security Checklist: * Doors: Why you need to swap out your tiny latch plate screws for 3-inch screws immediately, and how to reinforce your deadbolts.Windows & Sliders: The simple "dowel in the track" trick for sliding doors, and using privacy window film to keep out prying eyes without losing natural light.Tech & Tools: Integrating motion-sensor floodlights, basic cameras, and exactly what tools you need to get the job done (plus how to borrow them if you don't have a drill!).Big Announcements: Come see us at the Lansing Home & Garden Show, and get ready for our upcoming weekend intensive workshops in June, August, and October!Join The Village!All our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam | — | ||||||
| 3/3/26 | ![]() SideQuest 12: Tales from the Field: Home Depot Audacity & 911 Calls | Welcome back to the Side Quest! 🎧 This week, we are off the leash and bringing you a brand new edition of "Tales from the Field".If you've ever dealt with unwarranted comments in the hardware store or accidentally become the star of your own true-crime podcast, this episode is for you. We are sharing three highly chaotic stories from our day-to-day lives as female contractors.In this episode, we cover:The "What Do You Do With Those?" Incident: Arly’s trip to Home Depot to buy prizes, where a man couldn't fathom that a woman would know how to use pens and measuring tapes.The Concrete Critique: Samantha gets told by a male shopper that "women shouldn't be carrying" 50lb bags of concrete—only for him to immediately walk away without actually offering to help her carry them.A "Tumultuous Tuesday": Emily arrives at a home estimate for a senior grab-bar program, only to find herself in the middle of a neighborhood screaming match. She breaks down the agonizing 911 call, trying to stealthily flee in a branded "How to Handyma'am" vehicle, and ultimately faceplanting into an unplowed snowbank right as the police arrive.Join The Village!All our links in one place: linktr.ee/howtohandymaam•howtohandymaam.comFollow us on Instagram & Facebook: @HowToHandymaamEmail us your stories and questions: hthm@myhandymaam.com | — | ||||||
| 2/27/26 | ![]() Ep 13: The Secret Life of Drywall | Basic Drywall Diagnosis | Welcome back to How to Handyma'am! This week, we are dedicating the episode to the ultimate hype-woman: Grandma Chris. She embodies the true Handyma'am spirit of loving support and "of course you can do that" energy.Before we get into the heavy lifting, we have a very chaotic catch-up session. We’re talking about a "menty b" over a DoorDash order missing its emotional support tater tots, and we reveal our go-to karaoke anthems (from Queen to Hamilton).Then, it’s time for the main event: Drywall 101. Are you committing drywall crimes in your home? We break down the most common drywall issues, how to diagnose the underlying problems, and the exact steps to fix them the right way.In this episode, we cover:Soft Spots & Bubbling Paint: Why this is almost always a water leak, and why you must fix the leak before you fix the wall.Cracks by Doors & Windows: Why caulking or spackling a crack won't work, and how to properly use drywall tape and mud to handle house settling.Nail Pops: The structural reason your drywall screws are popping out, and the simple trick of driving a new screw an inch away to re-secure the board.Peeling Drywall Paper: The absolute golden rule of sealing torn brown drywall paper with a shellac or oil-based primer before applying water-based mud.Patching Holes: From tiny nail holes to the "California Patch" for doorknobs, all the way up to cutting out sections and adding wood backing for massive holes.Join The Village!We are licensed builders teaching you everything we learned the hard way so you don't have to.Visit our new website: howtohandymaam.comFind our socials on our linktree! Linktr.ee/howtohandymaamEmail us your stories and questions: hthm@myhandymaam.com | — | ||||||
| 2/24/26 | ![]() SideQuest 11: The One Where We Just Chat (A Lot) and the Tighty Whitey Incident | 🚨 BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: We have a brand new, dedicated website! Go check out howtohandymaam.com! We officially separated it from our construction page, and we are SO excited for you to see it!Welcome to the official "off-topic" podcast episode! In this highly conversational and chaotic Side Quest, we are running entirely on Sparkling Ice +Caffeine and good vibes.We're taking a break from the heavy maintenance guides to just chat, catch up, and share some hilarious stories from our week. Grab a snack and join the conversation!In this episode, we cover:The Great Candy Debate: From the superiority of unwrapped mini Kit Kats and 100 Grand bars to the absolute crime that is Lemonheads and Hot Tamales.The "Menty B": We talk about Emily's recent "menty b" (mental breakdown) and how the team had to forcefully remove items from her chart to help her out.The Tighty Whitey Incident: We launch into "Tales from the Field" with a story you have to hear to believe—Samantha shares the traumatic experience of showing up to a home estimate only to have the customer answer the door in his tighty whities. (Spoiler: She turned right around and left!)Experiencing the "Female Contractor" Treatment: Arly shares a story about her boyfriend, Jayce, experiencing what it feels like to have your expertise second-guessed when a customer bypassed him to ask a female coworker the exact same question.Next Week's Teaser: Make sure you tune in next week for more "Tales from the Field," where we will find out why Arly had to call 911 and how she got verbally assaulted in a Home Depot!Join The Village! 🛠️✨We are licensed builders teaching you everything we learned "the hard way" so you don't have to. Subscribe to the podcast to help us fund trade education for women.Website: howtohandymaam.comFollow us on Socials: @HowToHandymamContact Us: Have a wild contractor story of your own? Email us at hthm@myhandymam.com! | — | ||||||
| 2/17/26 | ![]() SideQuest 10: Skunk Battles & Sewer Scopes: The Art of Diagnosis | In this milestone 10th SideQuest, Samantha, Emily, and Arly discuss why the "why" is just as important as the "how." From Emily’s late-night war against a neighborhood skunk to a listener’s four-year battle with a mysterious sewer smell, we’re breaking down how to diagnose the root cause of your home’s biggest headaches.Inside the Episode:The "Moby Dick" Moment: Emily recounts her descent into madness trying to outsmart a skunk living under her porch and the low-tech lightbulb solution that finally won the war.The $6,000 Smell: We walk through a FaceTime consultation with a listener who spent thousands on professionals who couldn’t find the source of a sewer smell. Spoiler: Nobody thought to use a camera.Sewer Scope 101: Why you should always ask for the video proof (and a thumb drive) when a contractor scopes your lines. If they won't show you the crack, don't pay for the fix.Settling Houses & Sinkholes: A fascinating (and slightly terrifying) look at how a house settling near an active sinkhole can create a "stinky burger" situation for your next backyard BBQ.The "Handyma’am" Mindset: Why looking at a diagram and understanding how a system should work is the first step to figuring out why it isn’t.The Village ResourcesGot a question? Email us at hthm@myhandymam.com or find us on social media linktr.ee/howtohandymaamJoin the Community: We are nearly at 800 members in our private Facebook group! Join the "Village" to get advice from Samantha, Emily, Arly, and hundreds of other DIY-capable women.Community: Join the How to Handyma’am Facebook Group to ask questions and post your project pics.Products We Love: Find the tools mentioned in this episode at our storefront:Shop the Handyma'am Favorites on Lowe'sFollow the Journey: Catch our older SideQuests now moving to YouTube with full video! | — | ||||||
Showing 25 of 46
Sponsor Intelligence
Sign in to see which brands sponsor this podcast, their ad offers, and promo codes.
Chart Positions
1 placement across 1 market.
Chart Positions
1 placement across 1 market.
