About this episode

The episode explores the debate between gas and charcoal grilling, personal stories of returning home, and the history of electric light.

Gas or charcoal…which really makes for a better barbecue? James Beard Award-winning chef J. Kenji López-Alt settles the debate and shares the grilling techniques that can make a difference no matter which fuel you choose. Abbott Elementary showrunner Justin Halpern returns to the San Diego house where he grew up and recalls how moving back home after a breakup helped change the course of his life. Plus, we reveal the cutthroat (and sometimes deadly) battle that gave us electric light, and drywall expert Lydia Crowder shares the pro techniques that can make patches virtually disappear. On this episode you’ll learn: * What to prioritize as a 50-year-old home starts needing major maintenance, and how to tell when an aging roof really needs replacement. * How to build a long-lasting brick patio, from preparing the gravel base to getting the drainage and slope right. * How to save money on a full bathroom remodel by tackling some of the work yourself and what plumbing is better left to a pro. * Whether upgrading the electrical service in a century-old home means you also need to replace old knob-and-tube wiring at the same time. All of this, plus we’re answering your home improvement…

People in this episode

Guests: J. Kenji López-Alt, Justin Halpern

Topics covered

• barbecue techniques
• home improvement
• grilling debate
• personal stories
• history of light bulbs
• home maintenance

Keywords

• grilling
• home maintenance
• barbecue
• light bulb history
• bathroom remodel
• roof replacement
• brick patio

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Abbott Elementary

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