True Tales From Old Houses

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True Tales From Old Houses The Podcast For People Who Love Old Houses

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 bi-weekly, host Stacy Grinsfelder shares personal project updates, listener Q & A, and interviews with engaging old house owners, restoration professionals, and craftspeople.

New Episode! "141: Unexpected Basement Floods and Weather Emergencies"In this episode, Stacy and Daniel revisit some pre...
22/07/2024

New Episode! "141: Unexpected Basement Floods and Weather Emergencies"

In this episode, Stacy and Daniel revisit some previous conversations and swap stories about unexpected basement floods and a wild weather emergency. First, Daniel offers an update about a special Kingston City Land Bank house and shares a...

In this episode, Stacy and Daniel revisit some previous conversations and swap stories about unexpected basement floods and a wild weather emergency. First, Daniel…

New Episode! "140: Behind the Scenes at Taliesin West + The Impact of Ivy on Old Houses"This week's episode begins with ...
15/07/2024

New Episode! "140: Behind the Scenes at Taliesin West + The Impact of Ivy on Old Houses"

This week's episode begins with a book giveaway reminder and quick project updates from Stacy and Daniel. Then, during Listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel address the impact of ivy on old houses. They discuss the different types of ivy and their...

This week's episode begins with a book giveaway reminder and quick project updates from Stacy and Daniel. Then, during Listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel address the im…

New Episode! "139: Minisode - Navigating Home Projects & Real Estate Woes"In this episode, Stacy explains how she is lig...
08/07/2024

New Episode! "139: Minisode - Navigating Home Projects & Real Estate Woes"

In this episode, Stacy explains how she is lightening her DIY load, and Daniel describes a frustrating week. The conversation highlights the low-key crazy of hyper-local Facebook groups, navigating real estate contracts, dealing with contractor bids,...

In this episode, Stacy explains how she is lightening her DIY load, and Daniel describes a frustrating week. The conversation highlights the low-key crazy of hyper-…

Episode  #138 is available now! 🎉This week's episode begins with several book giveaway announcements and quick project u...
01/07/2024

Episode #138 is available now! 🎉

This week's episode begins with several book giveaway announcements and quick project updates from Stacy and Daniel.

Then, during listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel discuss traditional and modern linoleum flooring options. They touch on the history, manufacturing process, and benefits of linoleum and share their experiences using Marmoleum by Forbo.

Finally, Stacy and Daniel chat with Bo Shepherd and Kyle Dubay, the creative duo behind Woodward Throwbacks, a furniture and interior design studio centered around
creating with reclaimed materials. Bo and Kyle share insights into their sustainable approach, transforming a 4,000-square-foot warehouse into their home, and creating their book Throwbacks Home Interiors. They also discuss their journey as artists and business owners.🎉

Listen wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts or via the link below:
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/138-woodward-throwbacks-pioneering-a-fresh-approach-to-adaptive-reuse-and-modern-linoleum-options

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - For 10% off The Window Course, 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.

Abatron - Manufacturer of WoodEpox and LiquidWood, perfect for wood rot repair. Use the coupon code true2024 to save 10% off your order from Abatron.com.

Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today.

New Episode! "138: Woodward Throwbacks - Pioneering a Fresh Approach to Adaptive Reuse + Modern Linoleum Options"This we...
01/07/2024

New Episode! "138: Woodward Throwbacks - Pioneering a Fresh Approach to Adaptive Reuse + Modern Linoleum Options"

This week's episode begins with several book giveaway announcements and quick project updates from Stacy and Daniel. Then, during listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel discuss traditional and modern linoleum flooring options. They touch on the...

This week's episode begins with several book giveaway announcements and quick project updates from Stacy and Daniel. Then, during listener Q&A, Stacy and Daniel di…

My apologies for posting this so late! The episode dropped on Monday, June 24.In this week's episode, Stacy tangles with...
30/06/2024

My apologies for posting this so late! The episode dropped on Monday, June 24.

In this week's episode, Stacy tangles with TSA, and Daniel inches closer to selling the cottage.

First, Stacy and Daniel discuss Stacy's recent trip to Florida and her airport mishaps.

Then, they move on to Daniel's cottage update, including the process of accepting an offer and the potential for the buyer to back out before signing the contract. They also compare their experiences with buying houses and the differences in the process. The conversation ends with their thoughts about the importance of maintaining a good relationship with the buyer.

Next, Stacy and Daniel discuss Daniel's plans for the extra money he will have after selling the cottage. Daniel's first plan is to pay off his debts, which will provide a sense of relief. He also wants to invest in his current house by adding air conditioning, which will increase the value and improve his comfort.

Finally, they talk about different options for air conditioning, including conventional HVAC systems, heat pumps, mini splits, and high-velocity systems. They also touch on the challenges of retrofitting an old house with air conditioning. The conversation ends with Stacy expressing her excitement for Daniel's upcoming house sale.

Listen wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts or via the link below:
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/137-minisode-the-cottage-sale-it-aint-over-til-its-over

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - For 10% off The Window Course, 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.

New Episode! "137: Minisode The Cottage Sale - It Ain't Over 'til It's Over"In this week's episode, Stacy tangles with T...
24/06/2024

New Episode! "137: Minisode The Cottage Sale - It Ain't Over 'til It's Over"

In this week's episode, Stacy tangles with TSA, and Daniel inches closer to selling the cottage. First, Stacy and Daniel discuss Stacy's recent trip to Florida and her airport mishaps. Then, they move on to Daniel's cottage update, including the...

In this week's episode, Stacy tangles with TSA, and Daniel inches closer to selling the cottage. First, Stacy and Daniel discuss Stacy's recent trip to Florida and…

New Episode! "136: A House Restored by Lee McColgan + A Kitchen Window Problem"This week's episode begins with some quic...
17/06/2024

New Episode! "136: A House Restored by Lee McColgan + A Kitchen Window Problem"

This week's episode begins with some quick updates about Daniel's cottage and an announcement from Stacy. Stacy and Scott Sidler are co-authoring a book about energy efficiency and old windows. With the first draft nearly finished, the book is moving...

This week's episode begins with some quick updates about Daniel's cottage and an announcement from Stacy. Stacy and Scott Sidler are co-authoring a book about energ…

New Episode! "135: Minisode Selling the Cottage + A Sad Update on the Aurora Restoration Project"This week's minisode is...
10/06/2024

New Episode! "135: Minisode Selling the Cottage + A Sad Update on the Aurora Restoration Project"

This week's minisode is an emotional roller coaster. First, Stacy and Daniel celebrate that the cottage is now for sale. Despite this exciting news, Daniel feels stressed about what comes next. He laments that while the cottage is now spotless, his...

This week's minisode is an emotional roller coaster. First, Stacy and Daniel celebrate that the cottage is now for sale. Despite this exciting news, Daniel feels st…

This week, a listener who owns a duplex wonders how to improve unsightly exterior paint issues while saving money to hir...
03/06/2024

This week, a listener who owns a duplex wonders how to improve unsightly exterior paint issues while saving money to hire the pros. Stacy and Daniel offer DIY exterior painting tips and their thoughts on getting the job done safely and efficiently.

Later, Stacy and Daniel chat with KariAnne Wood from the long-running Thistlewood Farms blog. KariAnne's special connection to her old house and the town of McKinney, Texas, proves that when the stars align, you actually can go home again.

Listen wherever you enjoy podcasts or via the link below:
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/134-you-can-go-home-again-and-diy-exterior-painting-tips

Sign up for the Wood Window Workshop Weekend Retreat at Silver Lake: July 19-21 or July 26-28, 2024. (New, lower prices!) BlakeHillHouse.com.

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - For 10% off The Window Course, 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.

Abatron - Manufacturer of WoodEpox and LiquidWood, perfect for wood rot repair. Use the coupon code true2024 to save 10% off your order from Abatron.com.

Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today.

New Episode! "134: You Can Go Home Again + DIY Exterior Painting Tips"This week, a listener who owns a duplex wonders ho...
03/06/2024

New Episode! "134: You Can Go Home Again + DIY Exterior Painting Tips"

This week, a listener who owns a duplex wonders how to improve unsightly exterior paint issues while saving money to hire the pros. Stacy and Daniel offer DIY exterior painting tips and their thoughts on getting the job done safely and efficiently....

This week, a listener who owns a duplex wonders how to improve unsightly exterior paint issues while saving money to hire the pros. Stacy and Daniel offer DIY exter…

Episode  #133: Japan Highlights + The Cottage is Finished!In this week's minisode, Stacy offers a few stories from her t...
28/05/2024

Episode #133: Japan Highlights + The Cottage is Finished!

In this week's minisode, Stacy offers a few stories from her trip to Japan, and Daniel reaches a huge milestone with the cottage.

First, Stacy opens up about her connection to Japan and how seeing Mount Fuji nearly brought her to tears.

After a funny interlude about Japanese snacks, Stacy brings it back to old houses by describing a visit to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum. The Edo-Tokyo was established in 1993 to relocate, reconstruct, preserve, and exhibit historical buildings of great cultural value under demolition order in their original locations. Over 30 historic homes and buildings from the Edo and Meiji periods have been moved and reconstructed on the property of this unique museum.

Finally, huge news: Daniel's Bluestone Cottage is finished, and the listing goes live the first week of June! Daniel discusses his method of staging the cottage, which naturally goes against the conventional wisdom of "Keep it neutral." How much is too much when it comes to furnishings and soft goods? According to Daniel, that is of no concern.

Listen wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts or via the link below:
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/133-minisode-japan-highlights-and-the-cottage-is-finished

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - For 10% off The Window Course, 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.

New Episode! "133: Minisode Japan Highlights + The Cottage is Finished!"In this week's minisode, Stacy offers a few stor...
27/05/2024

New Episode! "133: Minisode Japan Highlights + The Cottage is Finished!"

In this week's minisode, Stacy offers a few stories from her trip to Japan, and Daniel reaches a huge milestone with the cottage. First, Stacy opens up about her connection to Japan and how seeing Mount Fuji nearly brought her to tears. After a...

In this week's minisode, Stacy offers a few stories from her trip to Japan, and Daniel reaches a huge milestone with the cottage. First, Stacy opens up about her co…

This week, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about the history of canvas ceilings and the feasibility of rep...
20/05/2024

This week, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about the history of canvas ceilings and the feasibility of repairing them.

Later, Brooke Young Russell from Evergreene Architectural Arts joins Stacy for a fascinating conversation about the technical aspects and limitations of architectural conservation and how her research relates to historic preservation.

Listen wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts or via the link below:
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/132-brooke-young-russell-and-a-canvas-ceiling-question

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - For 10% off The Window Course, 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.

Abatron - Manufacturer of WoodEpox and LiquidWood, perfect for wood rot repair. Use the coupon code true2024 to save 10% off your order from Abatron.com.

Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today.

New Episode! "132: Brooke Young Russell + A Canvas Ceiling Quesion"This week, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's quest...
20/05/2024

New Episode! "132: Brooke Young Russell + A Canvas Ceiling Quesion"

This week, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about the history of canvas ceilings and the feasibility of repairing them. Later, Brooke Young Russell from Evergreene Architectural Arts joins Stacy for a fascinating conversation about...

This week, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about the history of canvas ceilings and the feasibility of repairing them. Later, Brooke Young Russell fr…

This week's minisode is off to a wild start, with Stacy and Daniel discussing their unconventional "words of the year."T...
13/05/2024

This week's minisode is off to a wild start, with Stacy and Daniel discussing their unconventional "words of the year."

Then, Stacy talks about her upcoming trip to Japan and shares a story about Google Translate and bidets.

That segues unnaturally into a discussion about a common old house problem: animals that die in the walls. Daniel's house has largely escaped this issue. So, he has chosen an unusual way to honor the critters he finds during demolition.

Finally, Daniel chats about wrapping up the cottage renovation with a punch list he calls The Apology Tour.

Listen wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts or via the link below:
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/131-minisode-japanese-toilets-and-mouse-mummies.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Travel to England with Stacy and Holiday Vacations in 2024. September 7 - 17, 2024. Discover royal history, magnificent palaces, and England's beautiful countryside--Book by May 18.

Learn to Restore Windows at the Wood Window Workshop Retreat in Silver Lake, NY - Choose your weekend: July 19-21 or July 26-28, 2024.

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - For 10% off The Window Course, 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.

New Episode! "131: Minisode Japanese Toilets and Mouse Mummies"This week's minisode is off to a wild start, with Stacy a...
13/05/2024

New Episode! "131: Minisode Japanese Toilets and Mouse Mummies"

This week's minisode is off to a wild start, with Stacy and Daniel discussing their unconventional "words of the year." Then, Stacy talks about her upcoming trip to Japan and shares a story about Google Translate and bidets. That segues...

This week's minisode is off to a wild start, with Stacy and Daniel discussing their unconventional "words of the year." Then, Stacy talks about her upcoming trip to…

True Tales From Old Houses is back! Season Eleven is off to a good start with a fresh, new logo and an episode packed wi...
07/05/2024

True Tales From Old Houses is back! Season Eleven is off to a good start with a fresh, new logo and an episode packed with old-house fun.

This week, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about public art and painted brick. Are public murals a good idea? How are neighborhoods affected? Is painting a giant orange wizard on a building ever a good idea? Daniel has big feelings about all of it.

Then, Stacy and Daniel welcome Barry + Jordan, better known as The Brownstone Boys. This Brooklyn-based renovation duo quickly fell in love with Brownstones and each other. Their work combines the love of preservation and restoration with functional, modern touches. Since 2018, they have been featured in magazines such as Dwell, Architectural Digest, and House Beautiful. They have also been the focus of two TV shows for the Magnolia Network, The Point of View and In With the Old.

Listen wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts or via the link below:
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/130-the-brownstone-boys-and-public-art-and-painted-brick

WE LOVE OUR SPONSORS

The Window Course from Scott Sidler of The Craftsman Blog - For 10% off The Window Course, use the coupon code truetales. Craftsman Blog

Sutherland Welles - Maker of exceptional polymerized tung oil finishes since 1965. To save 10% on your first order, use the coupon code truetales. Welles Ltd.

Abatron - Manufacturer of WoodEpox and LiquidWood, perfect for wood rot repair. Use the coupon code true2024 to save 10% off your order from Abatron.com. Abatron, A division of U.C Coatings

Noonan Heritage Craftworks - Learn how Noonan Heritage Craftworks can help you with your exterior project using traditional materials. Schedule a phone call, video conference, or email consultation with Joseph Parente today. Noonan Heritage Craftworks

We are so excited to show you our new logo!! True Tales From Old Houses has a new look for Season 11. We’ll see you Mond...
03/05/2024

We are so excited to show you our new logo!! True Tales From Old Houses has a new look for Season 11. We’ll see you Monday!

It's a bonus mini! In this minisode, Stacy and Daniel catch up after a three-month hiatus. First, Stacy offers an update...
30/04/2024

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.

Listen wherever you enjoy podcasts or via this link: https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/bonus-minisode-moving-updates-and-more

Also Mentioned in this Episode:

-Travel to England with Stacy and Holiday Vacations in 2024. September 7 - 17, Discover royal history, magnificent palaces, and England's beautiful countryside.

-Learn to Restore Windows at the Wood Window Workshop Retreat in Silver Lake, NY - Choose your weekend: July 19-21 or July 26-28.
Thank you for listening to True Tales From Old Houses.

Visit BlakeHillHouse.com to learn more.

New Episode! "Bonus Minisode: Moving Updates & More"It's a bonus mini! In this minisode, Stacy and Daniel catch up after...
30/04/2024

New Episode! "Bonus Minisode: Moving Updates & More"

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...

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 ev…

In today's episode, the finale of Season 10, Stacy and Daniel discuss best practices for a clean, healthy, and mostly dr...
07/02/2024

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+.

Subscribe and listen to this episode wherever you enjoy podcasts or via the link below:
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/tara-mangini-and-percy-bright-of-jersey-ice-cream-co-design/

We Love our Sponsors! ❤️

The Craftsman Store - Another excellent resource from Scott Sidler of . The Craftsman Store is a cozy online hardware store full of books, tools, and supplies. For 10% off, use the coupon code truetales.


- 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.

New Episode! "Tara Mangini & Percy Bright of Jersey Ice Cream Co Design"In today's episode, the finale of Season 10, Sta...
05/02/2024

New Episode! "Tara Mangini & Percy Bright of Jersey Ice Cream Co Design"

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....

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 Danie…

New Episode! "Minisode: The Last Mini of Season Ten"This week, during the last minisode of season ten, Stacy and Daniel ...
29/01/2024

New Episode! "Minisode: The Last Mini of Season Ten"

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. ...

This week, during the last minisode of season ten, Stacy and Daniel offer plenty of edutainment as they chat about their current projects. Stacy recentl…

This week, Stacy is waylaid in Salt Lake City as back-to-back storms turned a long weekend into an 8-day trip. Soon afte...
25/01/2024

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!

Subscribe and listen wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts or via the link below.
https://www.truetalesfromoldhouses.com/minisode-tangents-travel-and-trying-new-things

We ❤️our minisode sponsor!
- 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 at TrueTalesFromOldHouses.com.

New Episode! "Minisode: Tangents, Travel, and Trying New Things"This week, Stacy is waylaid in Salt Lake City as back-to...
23/01/2024

New Episode! "Minisode: Tangents, Travel, and Trying New Things"

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...

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 …

Announcement! 🎉It's hard to believe that Season 10 is already coming to a close. There have been a few behind-the-scenes...
22/01/2024

Announcement! 🎉It's hard to believe that Season 10 is already coming to a close. There have been a few behind-the-scenes wobbles, with illness taking out our guests and the weather taking out Stacy! Due to these issues, the last three episodes will be released as follows:
Minisode #16 - Tuesday, January 23 (Regularly scheduled for today)
Minisode #17 - Monday, January 29
Episode #110 (Last one of the season!) - Monday, February 5

Thank you for listening to True Tales From Old Houses and being such a loyal audience. ❤ Be sure to subscribe to the pod, so you'll always know when the latest episode drops.

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