Podcasts about Moisture

Alright guys, this one is mind-blowing. I know Mark Livesay is talented — you all know him from Treeline Academy, the best e-scouting course on the planet — but I was not ready for what he showed me on this episode. Mark's been locked in a cave for six months building something called Hunt Research IQ, and he brought it to the Elk Hunt Podcast for the very first reveal. First show. Nobody's seen this yet. This isn't a draw odds app. This isn't a spreadsheet. This is 20 years of harvest data for elk and deer across 11 Western states, run through AI, and turned into heat maps, custom scoring sliders, unit comparisons, moisture tracking, remote-core calculations, and print-ready reports that make every other research platform out there look like it's stuck in 2005. We get into how the scoring system works, why averaging three, five, and twenty years of data matters more than looking at last year's numbers, why Montana's fractional bonus points might be sabotaging your odds without you even knowing it, and how Mark's moisture-tracking tool is already changing how he plans hunts around drought years and burns. Then we shift gears and talk burns, same-year fire strategy, moisture-driven elevation shifts during the rut, and Mark's own busted rotator cuffs — which means he might be strapping a crossbow to a llama this September. You don't want to miss this one. Take a listen, then go dig into Hunt Research IQ yourself. Links below, and use code TRO for a discount from our guy Mark. Brought to You By onX Hunt This episode is brought to you by onX Hunt. If you've been through our free four-hour e-scouting course over at elkhunt201.com, you know I preach building color-coded waypoints, markups, and tracks for every hunt. Building a folder, building a plan — that's the difference between showing up and figuring it out versus showing up ready. This is what onX is superior at: hunt planning. If you're not an Elite member yet, Elite has a ton of tools to help you plan better. onxmaps.com Use code TRO when you upgrade to Elite for a special discount. Maven Optics This episode is also brought to you by the good folks over at Maven Optics. Direct-to-consumer optics company right out of Wyoming, and I've been using them for years. My favorite thing is watching people get their hands on a Maven for the first time and go, "Oh man, these are actually really good." Yeah — I told you. From binos to rangefinders to rifle scopes, Maven is the best bang for your buck out there, because you're not paying the big box store markup. mavenbuilt.com Use code TRO at checkout for a special gift. Chapters Time Segment 0:00 Intro & sponsor reads (onX Hunt, Maven Optics) 4:30 Welcome Mark Livesay — the big reveal, first show, six months in build mode 8:15 Elevator pitch: what is Hunt Research IQ? 12:00 Why averaging 3/5/20-year data beats single-year snapshots 17:30 Building custom scoring sliders and unit health trends 23:00 The heat map: dragging, hovering, live data pulls 28:45 Comparing units side by side & the "unit profile card" 34:15 Rankings tab, health trend colors, and finding sleeper units 40:00 101 / 201 / 301 hunter framework — what stats matter at each level 47:00 Print reports, unit briefs, and AI-written unit descriptions 53:30 Montana's fractional bonus point trap explained 58:00 Remote core, road density, and what "remote" really means 1:03:00 Bull-per-square-mile harvest density and reading hunting pressure 1:09:00 Moisture tracking tool & elevation focus bands 1:14:00 Hunt planning suite, checklist tool, and hike time calculator 1:18:30 Talking burns: mosaic vs. straight-edge fire boundaries 1:24:00 Live demo — analyzing a current Utah fire for same-year burn potential 1:29:00 Mark's Island Park story: why elk drop elevation in dry years 1:34:00 Rut timing shifting later into September 1:37:00 Mark's rotator cuff injury, crossbow talk, and this year's hunt plan 1:39:30 Pricing, free trial, and where to find Hunt Research IQ 1:40:30 Outro & free hunt planner (Timestamps are approximate — built from transcript flow, adjust to actual audio if needed.) Three Key Takeaways Averaging beats snapshots. A single year of harvest data can be wildly skewed by a low tag allocation or a random survey year. Looking at 3-year, 5-year, and all-time averages side by side — and watching whether a unit's score is trending up or down — tells you far more than last year's numbers alone. In Montana, buying a bonus point can hurt you. Mark's tool surfaced something almost nobody talks about: hunters with zero points had roughly a 53% draw chance in some units, while hunters with a single fractional point dropped to 0%, because a set percentage of tags are reserved specifically for zero-point applicants. Understanding your state's fractional point system can change your entire application strategy. "Go high" isn't a universal rule — moisture matters more. The common advice to push to the highest elevation in September doesn't always hold. In dry years, the grass at the top dies off first, and cows follow the moisture downhill toward better feed. Tracking soil moisture data for a basin can tell you more about where elk will actually be than elevation alone.

Original Air Date: August 16, 2025 Re-Air Date: August 15, 2026 Episode Number: 471Episode SummaryFour topics this week. Dan opens with a segment on AI, the trades, and why professional painters are on the safe list of jobs that technology won't replace. Then a deck safety segment covering what actually causes collapses and a quick inspection checklist you can run through today. After that, a breakdown of efflorescence -- the white powdery stuff on basement walls that looks like mold but isn't -- including what causes it, why painting over it doesn't work, and how to actually fix it. The episode closes out a multi-week series on room exposures with a full guide to choosing paint colors for west-facing rooms, including eight to nine specific Benjamin Moore recommendations.Timestamps[00:00] -- Welcome and Preview[00:50] -- AI and the Trades[03:07] -- Why Painting Matters[07:11] -- Deck Safety Basics[10:03] -- Deck Failure Causes[14:08] -- Quick Deck Inspection[18:41] -- Basement White Powder[19:33] -- Efflorescence Explained[21:19] -- Fix Moisture and Repaint[24:47] -- West-Facing Color Guide[34:05] -- Best Colors and Samples[38:06] -- Wrap UpAI and the Trades [00:50]Dan opens with a Microsoft study ranking the top 40 jobs most at risk from AI and the top 40 considered safest. The at-risk list included customer service reps, writers, paralegals, web developers, and some programming roles. The safe list: caregivers, cleaners, roofers, pipe fitters, plumbers, plasterers -- and right in the middle of the mix, professional painters.The common thread across all the safe jobs is that they require hands-on work, real skill, human judgment, and a physical presence on site. No matter how capable the technology gets, it can't paint a house.Dan talks about his son Andrew, now in his second summer on a painting crew. He came in with no experience. Within a few weeks he was confidently working off extension ladders. By the end of that first summer he could handle almost anything thrown at him. What struck Dan wasn't just the skill -- it was something Andrew said about how satisfying it is to finish a job and stand back and see the actual before and after. A faded house that looks good again. That's different from the kind of satisfaction Dan gets at work, where some days it feels like moving digital ideas from one folder to another.The broader point: trades are going to keep requiring real people. Dan thinks the human touch is only going to become more valuable as more of the world goes digital. AI might help a plumber or electrician diagnose a complex issue, but somebody still has to show up and do the work.What Causes Deck Collapses [10:03]Deck collapses are genuinely rare -- the US Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates around 6,000 injuries per year tied to deck, porch, stair, and balcony failures. But because decks are elevated, when something does give way, injuries are almost guaranteed.One of the most well-known incidents was a 2003 Chicago collapse where a third-story wooden deck gave way under a group of people. The weight brought two lower decks down with it. Thirteen people died and 57 were injured.The most common failure point is the ledger board -- the board that connects the deck directly to the house. If flashing wasn't installed correctly or has failed over time, water gets behind the ledger and starts rotting the rim joist it's fastened to. Once the rim joist softens, the bolts anchoring the ledger can pull free. The ledger can look completely solid from the outside while the wood it's bolted into is already compromised.In older decks -- especially those built before building codes were updated in the early 2000s following the Chicago collapse -- the ledger board may have been fastened with plain nails rather than bolts or lag screws. Over time those nails can loosen or rust, leaving a deck looking solid while hiding a serious structural weakness.Other common failure points:Railings that aren't fastened into proper framing -- these tend to fail when someone leans their full weight against themPosts that are buried directly in soil rather than resting on concrete footings, where they can rot from below without showing any visible signMetal connectors -- joist hangers, bolts, screws -- that are rusted, missing, or weren't installed correctlyA deck that looks perfectly fine on the surface can be hiding significant problems underneath all of these.Quick Deck Inspection Checklist [14:08]This takes 10 to 15 minutes and is worth doing today if you haven't done it recently. Ideally it's an annual spring task, but any time works.Walk the deck surface. Pay attention to how it feels underfoot. Do boards bounce or feel springy? Are any warped, uneven, or soft?Test the railing. Give it a firm push -- don't lean your full weight on it as the test, but put enough pressure to check whether it's solid. Wobbling or creaking means it needs attention.Check the ledger board. If you can get safely underneath the deck, look where it connects to the house. Is the flashing intact? Are there signs of rot, water damage, or staining on the house wall or the ledger itself? And look at how it's attached -- if you see only nails and no bolts or lag screws, that connection should be reinforced.Probe suspicious wood. A screwdriver or small awl pressed into any wood that looks questionable -- joists, posts, the ledger -- will tell you a lot. If the tip sinks in a quarter inch or more with light pressure, that indicates rot and warrants further investigation.Check the posts. Make sure they're sitting on concrete footings, not buried directly in soil. Look for cracking, shifting, or movement at the base.Inspect the hardware. Look for rusted or missing screws, nails, or joist hangers. Anything corroded should be tightened or replaced with corrosion-resistant hardware.If the deck is over 15 to 20 years old, or was built before the 2003 code updates, or if anything in the inspection looks questionable, bring in a licensed contractor for a closer look. And if the deck just needs a refresh -- cleaning and a coat of wood protector -- stop into any RepcoLite and they'll walk you through the right products.Efflorescence: The White Powder on Your Basement Walls [19:33]If you've noticed white chalky streaks or fuzzy white buildup on your basement's concrete block or poured concrete walls, it probably startled you a bit. It looks like something is growing. It's not mold. It's efflorescence, and it's actually pretty common.What it is. Efflorescence is salt deposits forming on masonry surfaces. Water moves through the wall, picks up mineral salts from the concrete or block as it travels, and when it reaches the surface and evaporates, it leaves those salts behind. Sometimes it's a light dusting. Other times it's streaks or crusty fuzzy buildup that looks pretty alarming.What causes it. Moisture. If you have efflorescence, there is a moisture issue somewhere. It could be coming from outside -- poor drainage, clogged gutters, improper grading around the foundation. It could be coming from inside -- vapor movement through the space. Wherever it's coming from, the moisture has to be addressed or the efflorescence will keep coming back.Dan's own situation: his house had no gutters, so rainwater poured straight off the roof at the foundation. Once he installed gutters, the moisture problem went away and the efflorescence stopped.How to clean it. A stiff brush and plain water handles mild cases. For stubborn buildup, a diluted solution of white vinegar or a masonry cleaner specifically formulated for efflorescence will get it off. Follow the label directions and wear protective gear -- some of these cleaners are acidic.The critical mistake to avoid. Cleaning is only treating the symptom. If you paint over active efflorescence without fixing the moisture source, the moisture and salt will continue working toward the surface and will bring the paint with them. Blistering, peeling, paint failure. Dan learned this firsthand -- he painted over it the first time thinking it might solve things. It did not. He had to deal with peeling paint on top of the original problem.The right sequence. Fix the moisture source first. Then clean the efflorescence completely. Then let everything dry thoroughly. Then repaint.For bare, never-painted concrete or block walls: WaterBlock from Insl-X is worth knowing about. It's a water-blocking product that, when applied to unpainted masonry under the right conditions, can prevent a certain level of moisture from working through the wall. Stop into RepcoLite and ask about it -- there are specific application conditions that have to be met for it to work correctly.Choosing Paint Colors for West-Facing Rooms [24:47]This is the final installment of a series on how room orientation affects paint color. Previous episodes covered north-facing, south-facing, and east-facing rooms.The challenge with west-facing rooms. They're cool, shaded, and a little flat in the morning -- the sun is rising on the opposite side of the house. By mid-afternoon and into early evening, dramatic warm golden light pours in, carrying strong amber and orange undertones. That subtle beige you loved at noon might look...

Moisture getting deeper....  

In this CIRS Group Podcast episode, hosts Jacie and Barbara interview Brian Tinker, founder of Breathe Well Homes and a master builder with 30+ years of experience, whose work became personal after his wife's CIRS diagnosis revealed their home's role in her illness. Brian explains how moisture control is the core issue behind mold problems and why modern “tighter” energy codes can create sick homes without proper ventilation. He highlights common high-risk materials and methods (e.g., OSB, MDF, spray foam off-gassing, flex ducting, traditional grout), shares practical strategies for moisture management, wall assemblies that can dry, and using ERV/HRV systems to keep homes breathing. He discusses cost increases (about 35–45%), his course and consultations, remote build guidance, and his newer Breathe Well Vans concept, plus interest in manufactured homes for faster, lower-cost options. For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Timestamps 00:00 Intro and disclaimer 02:00 Brian's CIRS-aware home building journey 04:52 Why modern homes are so prone to getting mold 07:34 Common building materials that promote mold and trigger CIRS 10:58 Brian's opinion of the best era for older homes 13:14 Moisture management for the modern home 17:19 Is there a compromise between energy efficiency and clean air? 21:40 What is a passive house? 23:39 The cost of building a CIRS-aware home 28:32 The Breathe Well Homes mission, and vans! 35:05 Post-interview wrap up For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: Brian's website: https://breathewellhomes.com/ Breathe Well Vans: https://www.instagram.com/breathewellvans Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie's book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

Farming in the northeast corner of Montana means living with a simple truth: you are always about one week away from a drought. Between wide-ranging soil types — from loamy soil to sandy ground — and unpredictable weather, saving moisture is a non-negotiable priority. For brothers Brady and Bailey Berntson, conserving moisture pushed them to... Read More

Tess Hilmo on MCAS Recovery, Low Histamine Nutrition, and Building Consider This Nutrition BarsTess Hilmo, founder of Consider This Nutrition Bars, joins Dr. Stephanie Peacock to share the personal health crisis that led her to create low histamine bars for people with MCAS and histamine intolerance. This conversation covers her diagnosis journey, the role of gut health and nervous system regulation, and how she built a product grounded in lab testing and ingredient transparency. We also discuss why many low histamine food lists are outdated, how to use the SIGHI list more effectively, and what Tess has learned about reducing flares without over-restricting food.Key topicsTess shares how COVID triggered severe MCAS symptoms for her, including asthma, dysautonomia, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, brain fog, bradycardia, and halted speech.In this episode, Tess outlines her recovery foundations: low histamine eating, 30 plant points per week, nervous system work, trigger avoidance, and careful supplementation.Tess breaks down why many histamine food lists are outdated and why the SIGHI list is the most science-based, current resource for food ratings.Tess goes deep on how her bars are formulated with low moisture ingredients, independent lab testing, histamine and tyramine checks, and ingredient sourcing that avoids mold risk and heavy metals.Tess talks about how the bars are meant to support microbiome diversity, with 8 to 10 plant ingredients per bar and nearly 40 percent of daily fiber in some varieties.She discusses the nicotine patch therapy that helped her brain fog, energy, and nervous system stability, and how a microdose GLP-1 has further improved her baseline.Stephanie and Tess discuss mindset during flares, including the idea that healing is a ladder, not a straight line, and that progress should be measured over time.Timestamps0:00 — Opening / casual intro and setting the tone1:08 — Utah, California, and moving for family/work6:16 — Tess's personal journey and why she was drawn into this work10:09 — Introduction to Tess and Consider This Nutrition Bars10:53 — MCAS onset and the early health crisis13:30 — Getting the MCAS diagnosis14:22 — What “halted speech” means15:15 — The anniversary trip that sparked the company idea17:04 — 30 plants a week and gut support19:12 — Dreaming up the bar and starting the business20:39 — How the product was formulated with expert help22:37 — Other foundational supports that helped Tess improve25:09 — Nicotine patch therapy and how it helped32:22 — GLP-1 microdosing and inflammation support39:59 — Histamine food lists and the SIGHI list48:28 — What makes the bars different50:07 — Plant diversity, fiber, and why the bars support the gut51:07 — Moisture content, mold risk, and shelf stability57:19 — Ingredient sourcing, testing, and heavy metals61:58 — Advice for handling flares and staying hopeful70:49 — Final takeaways and encouragement71:17 — Where to buy, coupon code, and what's coming nextUse code NEWFRIEND for 20% off these bars!Tess's links:Website: https://www.considerthisnutrition.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/considerthisnutrition/?hl=enStephanie's links:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drstephpeacockInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstephpeacock/Website: https://stephaniepeacock.com/Substack: https://substack.com/@holistichubcommunityRetreat in November: https://www.vitalresetretreat.com/

In this short episode, Bryan and Roman talk about the psychrometrics of a hidden moisture failure... behind the drywall. Roman had an indoor air quality and mold assessment in his own home, and he learned that there were active mold spores in his home; he shares what he learned from the experience. Roman had a bulk water issue from plumbing (though bulk water issues can also occur outside the building or from condensate drainage problems). Walls are NOT solid; they have plumbing and insulation inside, and the air spaces between the walls support a microclimate when moisture is in there, regardless of whether it's water vapor or bulk water. In Roman's case, the bulk water failure came from the plumbing leak; it saturated the slab for half the house. The water was absorbed by the concrete, and any surface that touched the concrete transferred that water over time.  The mold assessor used two different devices. The pin-type meter punctured the surface of wood or drywall and measured the resistance between the probes (water transfers electrons between them); the measurement revealed the water quantity. A pinless meter determined the source of the failure via high-frequency radio waves, and it measured the capacitance to determine whether moisture was present within or behind the surfaces. The results showed that water was behind tile, baseboards, and drywall. Thermal imaging has also proven to be a useful tool to see the cooling effect that occurs when water evaporates from liquid to vapor inside a wall, but the cold spots go away when the space thermally equalizes. While HVAC professionals cannot assess mold, we can use tools like thermal imaging to help determine when it's time for a customer to call someone who can help; we are still responsible for our customers' health and comfort in their homes.   Learn more about building science concepts, especially moisture and its effects on buildings and comfort, from the Building Science Corporation's many great resources at https://www.buildingscience.com/.  Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 8th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Water is the number one enemy of building durability—and the first control layer every builder, architect, and designer needs to understand. In Part 1 of a four-part Back to Basics series, Steve, Jake, and Pete break down the principles of water management that every high-performance building depends on.The conversation starts where most rain begins: the roof. From roof design and drainage to flashing strategies and capillary action, the crew explores how liquid water moves through buildings and why good design is the first line of defense. They also discuss how patterns of water damage in both historic and modern buildings reveal timeless lessons about moisture management.One of the episode's most interesting discussions comes when building science theory meets real-world practice. Steve approaches water management from an architect's perspective, while Jake explains the practical realities builders face every day. The result is a thoughtful conversation about balancing ideal building science with constructability in the field.This is Part 1 of a four-part series covering the four fundamental building control layers: Water, Air, Vapor, and Thermal.Pete's Resources:Joe Lstiburek – Moisture Control for BuildingsEPA – Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction, and MaintenanceWater in Buildings: An Architect's Guide to Moisture and Mold

Back in early spring Montana's summer drought conditions were expected to be a lot worse than they currently are. June storms brought some relief, but the long-term outlook is less encouraging.

This NDSU Ag Minute features Monica Fitterer, NDSU Extension Ag and Natural Resources Agent in Kidder County. Fitterer provides a moisture and crop update from the central part of the state. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A tornado can leave a farm standing and still prevent the next crop from going into the ground. North-central Oklahoma farmer Karen Eifert Jones shares what happened after the April 23 tornado passed over her family's headquarters near Enid and tracked across five of their farms. Barbed wire, lumber, shingles and household belongings covered fields and pastures that needed to be planted within days. Karen explains how more than 150 volunteers, neighbors and emergency crews helped locate equipment, wind-damaged fence and walk fields shoulder to shoulder before the next rain. She also shares practical lessons about disaster donations, community shelters, farm mental health, USDA fence assistance, crop decisions and the local relationships that make agricultural recovery possible. Key takeaways: Tornado debris can create serious hazards for planters, combines, livestock and vehicle tires long after the storm. Local emergency coordinators can help farmers locate highly specialized equipment such as hydraulic wire winders. Flexible cash donations allow trusted local groups to purchase the tools and supplies survivors actually need. Community recovery must address mental health, livestock losses, warning communication, and access to safe shelter. Long-term crop rotations still require flexible decisions based on moisture, weeds, labor, cattle, and planting windows. Detailed timestamped rundown 00:00–02:47 — Episode introduction Dave introduces Karen Eifert Jones and the episode's central story: recovering farmland after a tornado scattered fences, construction material and household debris across multiple farms.02:47–03:55 — What is growing on the farm Karen reviews millet planting, completed canola harvest, nearly completed wheat harvest, full-season corn, soybeans, grain sorghum, double-crop soybeans and the cattle operation.03:55–05:04 — Making annual crop decisions The discussion turns to balancing a five-year operating plan with short-term field conditions, rainfall and individual farm constraints.05:04–06:52 — Why millet fits one difficult farm Karen explains how access limitations make hay the only practical option on one rented farm and why millet has become its most profitable use.06:52–07:11 — Hay sales build new relationships A wheat field overtaken by rye was harvested as hay, creating a relationship with a drought-stricken customer who later subleased pasture.07:11–08:49 — Canola's place in the rotation Canola may only break even in some years, but Karen values it as a rotation tool that can improve the following wheat crop.08:49–09:33 — Wheat and canola yield losses Both crops produced roughly one-quarter of expected yields because the moisture needed during production did not arrive.09:33–10:57 — Why the farm still double-crops Double-cropping helps keep the soil covered, manage weeds and provide an opportunity for revenue rather than leaving ground idle.10:57–12:06 — Soybeans, sorghum and weed pressure Moisture, broadleaf weeds, grasses and Johnson grass influence which crop goes into each field.12:06–12:56 — Why double-crop corn does not fit The family has considered double-crop corn but regards the timing and production potential as too marginal.12:16–12:56 — Connecting crops and cattle Corn and sorghum residue can be grazed, so water access, fencing and planned cattle locations also influence crop choice.13:03–15:10 — Buying equipment versus hiring custom work Karen describes how labor availability, machinery costs, custom rates and cooperation with neighboring operations shape equipment decisions.15:10–16:34 — Preparing for generational transition Her son is working as an hourly employee before purchasing shares in the operation, while the family expands primarily through rented land.16:44–19:23 — Remembering the April storm Dave recounts watching tornadoes near Braman and Enid before realizing one was approaching Karen's farm and Vance Air Force Base.19:23–20:28 — Karen watches from Stillwater Karen was attending an Oklahoma State University event and sheltered in the student union after discovering her friend's hotel lacked an adequate tornado plan.20:28–21:43 — The tornado crosses the operation A neighbor sent video showing the funnel over Karen's house. The path crossed the headquarters and continued along five farms.21:43–22:56 — Debris blocks spring planting Four fallow farms were filled with wire and wreckage just as full-season planting needed to begin.22:56–24:29 — The search for wire winders After two unsuccessful days, Karen asked the local emergency command center for help locating a hydraulic wire winder. Within minutes, one was found—and a neighbor located another.24:29–25:06 — One request produces two crews Karen's church planned to send volunteers, while emergency coordinators arranged an additional crew.25:06–26:29 — Walking fields shoulder to shoulder Volunteers searched the ground systematically. One 20-acre field contained so much material that workers could barely take a step without encountering debris.25:30–26:29 — Returning personal belongings Crews recovered photographs, checks, certificates and named clothing that could be cleaned and returned to tornado survivors.26:29–27:29 — More than 150 people volunteer Volunteers came from Enid, Tulsa, Wichita, Oklahoma City, Woodward and surrounding communities, representing many ages and occupations.27:29–28:13 — The Oklahoma Standard in action The hosts reflect on the rural instinct to ask what work needs to be done and then show up to do it.28:13–28:59 — Clearing the final field before rain A second crew completed debris removal around 3 p.m. The planter was already waiting, and the field was planted by 5 p.m.29:14–30:06 — A growing crop becomes a thank-you Karen's son arranged for a roadside banner thanking donors and volunteers. Grain sorghum growing behind it demonstrates what their work made possible.30:08–32:45 — Community shelters and warning access Karen argues for more public shelter options, particularly for lower-income residents, immigrants, apartment residents and people who may not receive or understand warnings.32:45–34:41 — Livestock losses and mental health The group discusses the emotional consequences of losing animals, homes and personal security, including anxiety that can return during later storms.34:41–35:34 — Surviving more than one disaster Karen recounts the story of an elderly couple who lost a home in the 1973 Enid flood and then lost its replacement in the 2026 tornado.35:34–37:51 — What disaster survivors really need Water, snacks, gloves and flashlights were useful, but excess or poorly matched donations created storage and distribution challenges.37:51–38:31 — Cash purchases specialized equipment Local coordinators used donated funds to buy tow-behind magnetic sweepers for collecting nails and other metal from fields and properties.38:31–40:10 — Keep donations close to the community Karen recommends working through trusted local organizations, churches, Extension offices or other groups that understand immediate needs.40:10–40:39 — Leftover supplies become emergency trailers Unused water, first-aid materials, gloves and tools were stored in trailers that can be deployed during the next tornado, fire or emergency.41:14–41:58 — USDA assistance for damaged fencing Karen used her previous USDA experience to help neighbors find the appropriate forms and ask about cost-share support.41:58–43:02 — Previewing an Enid canola meeting The conversation shifts to an Aug. 4 producer meeting focused on canola production, harvest methods, varieties and market opportunities.43:02–44:16 — Comparing canola harvest strategies Wind damaged windrowed canola, while rain complicated desiccation, illustrating that no harvest approach eliminates every weather risk.44:16–45:40 — Canola's renewable-fuel market Karen explains that much of the region's canola enters a specialized market connected to renewable jet fuel, carbon ratings and energy policy.45:40–46:14 — Final reflections The hosts thank Karen for sharing both the tornado recovery story and her perspective on the future of canola.46:14–46:56 — Closing and listener invitation Dave directs listeners to Red Dirt Agronomy for guest information, resources and future episodes. RedDirtAgronomy.com

We've got another potent summer weather maker heading our way. Anticipate heavy rain, humidity, and a few severe storms. Much of the week will be unsettled and muggy with a front nearby.

On this episode of the Moisture Festival Podcast we welcome back Paul Magid. This is the first part of a three part conversation with this new vaudeville Pioneer. We discuss Paul's creative process, how he writes shows and learn more about The Flying Karamozov Brothers. A wonderful conversation with one of the most prolific variety acts ever.

Monsoon storms have improved surface moisture in southwest Colorado, but low streamflows, dry deeper soils and weak snowpack impacts remain.

In this episode of Fire Ecology Chats, Fire Ecology editor Bob Keane speaks with Peter Breigenzer and Jay Wason about using terrestrial lidar (TLS) to better understand how forest cover influences understory temperature, relative humidity, and dead fuel moisture in mesic forests in the north-east US. Full journal article can be found at https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42408-026-00480-w

Moisture returns... DayWeather Plus is your insider weather advantage for the Rockies and High Plains. Through exclusive members-only videos on the DayWeather YouTube channel, you'll get more frequent updates, deeper analysis, and longer-range weather insights tailored specifically for agriculture, ranching, transportation, water management, construction, and other weather-sensitive industries. For just $9.99 per month, members receive detailed forecasts, weather risk assessments, seasonal outlooks, and direct access to customer Q&A sessions with the DayWeather forecasting team. Why Become a DayWeather Plus Member? Stay ahead of the weather, not behind it. Make better decisions before storms, heat waves, freezes, drought, or heavy precipitation impact your operation. Local expertise you can't get from national weather apps. Our forecasts focus specifically on the Rockies and High Plains where weather can change quickly and dramatically. Protect your bottom line. Better weather intelligence can help reduce risk, improve planning, and save time and money. Ask the experts. Members get opportunities to submit questions and receive direct insight from professional meteorologists. Know what's next. Gain access to deeper analysis and outlooks that go beyond the daily forecast. Weather affects your livelihood—DayWeather Plus helps you stay one step ahead.

Original Air Date: 07/25/26 Episode Number: 469Episode SummaryA listener question about painting aluminum siding kicks off the show, and Dan splits the answer across two segments with a detour in the middle: a full conversation on how to identify and safely clean biological growth off the exterior of your home -- algae, mold, mildew, moss, and lichen. The aluminum siding answer wraps up at the end with product recommendations and a strong case for always doing two coats. Moss and lichen get their own episode next week.Timestamps[00:00] -- Show Kickoff[00:30] -- Listener Question: Aluminum Siding[01:44] -- Oxidation and Prep Basics[03:58] -- Wash, Scrub, Rinse[05:42] -- Hand Test and Inspection[07:21] -- Primer or Not[08:11] -- Switch to Algae Topic[08:53] -- Brick Recap and What Triggered This[12:20] -- What Growth Is It?[13:32] -- Algae, Moss, Lichen, Mold[16:16] -- Efflorescence Sidebar[17:29] -- Moisture Causes First[19:01] -- Cleaning Safely Tease[20:01] -- Moss vs. Mold Distinction[21:00] -- Golden Rule: Gentle Cleaning[22:47] -- Pick the Right Cleaner[25:50] -- Prep Before Repainting[27:09] -- Hose, Not Pressure Washer[29:53] -- Why Not Straight Bleach[31:22] -- Protect Plants from Runoff[32:41] -- Fix the Moisture Root Cause[33:56] -- Aluminum Siding Paint Picks[34:45] -- Two Coats Really Matters[36:33] -- Best Benjamin Moore Options[38:54] -- Temperature and Wrap UpListener Question: Aluminum Siding [00:30]A listener wrote in asking about painting their tan aluminum-sided house a darker blue. They wanted to know what prep was involved, whether one-coat coverage was possible, and what products to use.Dan splits the answer into two segments. The short version on the one-coat question: two coats, always. The longer version on everything else follows below.Oxidation and Prep Basics [01:44]The single most important thing to understand about painting aluminum siding is oxidation. If you've ever rubbed your hand across older aluminum and ended up with white chalky powder on your palm, that's the original factory finish breaking down from years of sun, rain, and weather. That chalk has to come off before any paint goes on.Paint bonds to a surface. If that surface is a loose layer of chalk sitting on top of old factory finish, the paint is bonding to the chalk -- not to the siding. When the chalk lets go, the new paint goes with it. This is the most common reason aluminum siding paint jobs fail, and it's entirely avoidable.A pressure washer alone won't get you there. It'll knock off dirt and cobwebs, but it doesn't automatically remove oxidation. Dan compares it to washing your car with only a pressure washer after an entire Michigan summer of construction zones and dirt roads -- you'll get some of it, but you won't get all of it.Wash, Scrub, Rinse [03:58]Start with a good exterior house cleaner that's built to break down dirt, grime, mildew, and oxidized residue. Apply it, and then physically scrub the surface -- a soft-bristle siding brush on an extension pole makes this manageable. Work in sections so you can scrub and rinse before the cleaner dries on the siding.You can use a pressure washer for rinsing, but keep the pressure reasonable and always direct the spray downward the way rain would naturally hit the siding. Shooting water upward beneath the panel laps can drive moisture into the wall. The pressure washer is a rinsing and help-with-cleaning tool. The scrubbing still has to happen.Hand Test and Inspection [05:42]Once the siding is dry, perform the hand test: rub your palm firmly across the surface. If it comes away clean, you're good to move on. If there's still a chalky residue on your hand, keep cleaning. The surface doesn't need to be microscopically perfect, but you should not be able to casually wipe your hand across it and look like you've been handling powdered sugar.While you're working your way around the house, inspect as you go. Look for peeling paint, corrosion, bare aluminum, dents, damaged panels, and failed caulk around windows, doors, and penetrations. Bare or corroded areas may need spot priming before finish paint -- bring photos into RepcoLite and they'll point you toward the right primer. Loose paint should be scraped away and edges feather-sanded so they don't telegraph through the new finish.Primer or Not [07:21]If the original factory finish is clean, intact, and firmly bonded, you do not need to prime the whole house. No matter what you read online. A high-quality exterior acrylic straight over a clean, sound factory finish is the right call. Primer is for bare spots and problem areas only.Biological Growth: What Are You Actually Looking At? [12:20]Dan took a walk around his own house after mentioning offhand on last week's show that brick doesn't need much maintenance -- "every now and then you clean the algae off." That comment nagged at him all week until he went and looked. His back wall, under two old maple trees, was covered in green growth on both the brick and the vinyl siding on the addition. This week's middle segment covers what to do about it.Before you clean anything, figure out what you're actually dealing with. The growth type matters, and the surface it's on matters just as much.Algae is the most common. Thin, flat, greenish film, usually on shaded or damp areas. Feels slick when wet. Spreads across the surface rather than growing in clumps.Moss is thicker and softer -- you know what it looks like. It holds moisture against the wall, which creates problems depending on what the wall is made of. On vinyl it's mainly a staining and maintenance issue since vinyl doesn't rot, but on wood siding or shingles it can contribute to paint peeling, decay, and eventually rot. On brick, stucco, or stone it keeps mortar joints and damaged areas wetter longer than they should be.Lichen is crusty and firmly attached -- it can be gray, yellow, pale green, orange, or black. It's the toughest of the group to remove because it grips the surface aggressively. On soft brick or old mortar, scraping it off can pull part of the surface along with it. Lichen on roofs gets its own conversation next week.Mold and mildew tend to appear darker, blotchy, fuzzy, or powdery.Efflorescence -- the white, fuzzy stuff sometimes seen on brick or concrete -- looks biological but isn't. It's salt deposits left behind by moisture moving through the masonry. Address the moisture source; don't just clean it off and move on.Dan is covering algae, mold, and mildew this week. Moss and lichen get their own episode next week, including how to deal with them on the roof.Fix the Moisture Problem First [17:29]Cleaning is not a permanent fix if you don't address why the growth is there. Moisture is the cause of all of it.Before mixing any cleaner, look at what's creating the damp conditions: overflowing gutters, a downspout dumping water next to the wall, a sprinkler hitting the siding, shrubs growing too tight against the house and blocking airflow, mulch or soil piled high against the brick, or heavy shade from tree canopy keeping the wall from drying out. If you clean the wall and leave the moisture problem in place, the growth is going to come back -- sometimes pretty quickly.Cleaning Safely: JoeMax [22:47]Start with the gentlest method that will get the job done. Don't reach for the strongest chemical available or fire up the pressure washer first.Inspect the surface before you do anything. On brick, check the mortar joints -- is it solid or loose and powdery? On siding, look for loose panels, open caulk joints, peeling paint, or damaged edges. The condition of the surface determines how carefully you have to work.Also confirm you're actually dealing with biological growth and not just dirt or pollen. If it's just a surface film of grime, mild dish soap, a scrub brush, and a hose will probably handle it without any specialty product.If it's actual biological growth, the product Dan recommends is JoeMax House Cleaner and Mildew Killer. It's a concentrate that combines a mildewcide, bleach activator, and detergents. You mix it with household bleach and water. It kills mold and mildew and lifts dirt and staining at the same time, and it's rated for virtually every surface on the outside of a house -- vinyl, aluminum, painted or stained wood, trim, fences, stucco, concrete, and brick. One product covers everything. For Dan's situation with both brick and vinyl on the same house, that matters.Using it is straightforward: mix per the label, spray on, give it about five minutes to work, and rinse off. Most smooth surfaces won't need scrubbing. Textured surfaces like brick may need a light scrub. Mix only what you'll use in the next few hours -- once bleach is added, it's only good for a short time and can't be saved.Why Not Just Use Straight Bleach? [29:53]Bleach is not a great cleaner on its own. It beads up and runs off rather than wetting the surface and lifting residue. It also flashes off quickly -- it can lighten a mildew stain and evaporate before it actually kills the growth, so the problem comes right back. JoeMax has detergents that let it wet the surface, carry the contamination away, and stay active long enough to do the job properly.Hose, Not Pressure Washer [27:09]For the actual cleaning, a garden hose with a...

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Send us Fan MailThe Truth About Pool Coatings, Surface Preparation, and Why Failures Really HappenEveryone wants to know which pool paint is the best.Wrong question.In this episode of Talking Pools, Rudy Stankowitz takes listeners far beyond the paint can and into the science of coating failures, adhesion, compatibility, moisture, and surface preparation. Using the recent attention surrounding the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as a jumping-off point, Rudy explains why nearly every coating failure investigation asks the same question:What happened before the paint ever touched the surface?From chlorinated rubber and acrylics to epoxy and high-build epoxy systems, this episode explores the strengths, weaknesses, and proper applications of today's most common swimming pool coating systems. More importantly, it explains why even the most expensive coating in the world can't overcome poor preparation.If you've ever wondered why one painted pool lasts fifteen years while another begins peeling after a single season, this episode connects the dots between chemistry, application, environmental conditions, and good old-fashioned craftsmanship. Along the way, Rudy shares real-world stories, practical advice, and plenty of his signature Gen X humor.Whether you're a pool service professional, contractor, facility manager, or simply fascinated by how coatings succeed—or fail—this is one of the most comprehensive discussions on swimming pool coatings ever presented on the Talking Pools Podcast. In This Episode Why asking "What's the best pool paint?" is the wrong question  The lessons every pool professional can learn from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool  Why compatibility between coating systems matters  Understanding chlorinated rubber, synthetic rubber, acrylic, epoxy, and high-build epoxy coatings  Why surface preparation determines the success or failure of almost every coating system  How to properly inspect an existing painted pool before recoating  The importance of documenting coating failures before disturbing the evidence  Mechanical adhesion vs. chemical adhesion explained in plain English  Why moisture remains one of the biggest enemies of successful coating applications  Proper cleaning, sanding, acid washing, and contamination removal  How silicone contamination, chalking, oils, and residue interfere with adhesion  Why weather, humidity, dew point, and curing conditions matter  Understanding recoat windows and why missing them creates problems  Common causes of blistering, peeling, and coating delamination  Adhesive failure vs. cohesive failure vs. substrate failure  ASTM testing methods used during professional coating failure investigations  Why coating failures should be investigated—not guessed Key Takeaways✔ The most expensive coating cannot overcome poor surface preparation.✔ Compatibility between existing and new coating systems is critical.✔ Surface contamination is often invisible but can completely prevent proper adhesion.✔ Moisture inside concrete can remain long after the surface appears dry.✔ Proper environmental conditions are just as important as choosing the right coating.✔ Good investigators document the failure before removing any evidence.✔ Most coating failures begin long before the pool is filled with water.✔ Successful coating jobs are built on preparation—not luck.Memorable Quotes"Surface preparation isn't part of the job. Surface preparation is the job.""Compatibility matters. Chemistry matters. Guessing doesn't.""Painting a pool isn't hard. Knowing when not to paint—that's what separates a guy with a roller from a pool professional."Featured SponsorsBlu-Ray XLReduce chemical usage, lower labor costs, and improve profitability with Blu-Ray XL's mineral purification technology for pool professionals. Jacks MagicProfessional stain identification, removal, and prevention products trusted throughout the pool industry. AquaStar Pool ProductsLearn about AquaStar's innovative Pipeline cartridge filters featuring NSF-tested performance and simplified maintenance. Service Industry NewsStay informed with nationwide pool and spa industry news, technical articles, and the famous Horror File. Subscribe free at Service Industry News. Listen If You... Paint or recoat swimming pools  Service painted pools  Investigate coating failures  Work with commercial aquatic facilities  Want to better understand adhesion and coating science  Enjoy deep technical discussions presented in plain English  Like your pool education served with a healthy dose of Gen X sarcasm Connect With Talking PoolsQuestions about coatings, chemistry, troubleshooting, or a future podcast topic?

In this episode of WSTR Galactic Public Access, Todd Hoffman explores the galaxy's most undesirable jobs, ranking them based on danger, respect, smell, and survival chances. From Death Star trash compactor technicians to dangerous bounty hunters, discover which roles are truly the worst in Star Wars and why. Main Topics & Insights: Overview of the criteria for ranking worst jobs in Star Wars: danger level, respect, smell factor, and survival odds Deep dive into the most unpleasant jobs: Death Star Trash Compactor Technician: dangerous, high smell, and thankless Rancor Keeper: high emotional and physical risk, street cred included Sarlacc Pit Maintenance Crew: treacherous, with extreme danger and smell issues Droid Oil Bath Attendant: mundane but essential, with low risk Dangerous jobs that command respect: Stormtrooper on door duty: boring but risky with force, blasters TIE Fighter Pilot: high risk due to no shields and space combat Imperial Bridge Officer: high stakes with potential for mistakes under Vader Bounty Hunter rival to Boba Fett: high danger, low survival, and mixed respect Thankless roles: Moisture farmer on Tatooine: tough environment, low respect Gonk Droid: basic power source, very low respect Jabba Palace Musician: risky, possibly degrading Boredom versus danger: which is worse for job satisfaction? Audience engagement: what jobs in Star Wars would you take or avoid? Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome & topic introduction: ranking the galaxy's worst jobs 00:26 - Solo podcast setting, quick personal updates 02:17 - Main theme: ranking worst Star Wars jobs with criteria 03:15 - Death Star Trash Compactor Technician: dangerous and smelly 04:14 - Rancor Keeper: high risk, street cred 08:12 - Sarlacc Pit Maintenance: very dangerous and unpleasant 09:36 - Droid Oil Bath Attendant: mundane but necessary 11:11 - Stormtrooper Door Duty: boring yet risky 12:41 - TIE Fighter Pilot: high danger, no shields 16:16 - Imperial Bridge Officer: stressful, high stakes 19:07 - Bounty Hunter Rival: dangerous, respect, and high risk 21:01 - Moisture Farmer: hot, dusty, less respect 23:21 - Gonk Droid: low respect, power source 24:24 - Jabba Palace Musician: high risk, potentially degrading 25:47 - Boredom vs risk: which job seems worse? 26:32 - Death Star Trash Compactor takes the cake as the worst 27:28 - Audience call to share your worst Star Wars jobs 28:53 - Upcoming topics: worst vacation spots, next news 29:19 - Star Wars news highlights: Mandalorian, anime projects, exhibits 36:16 - Personal discussion on movies & entertainment 42:48 - Closing thoughts: share your worst jobs and stay positive Email us ~ mailbox@wstrmedia.com What is the worst job in the Star Wars galaxy? Let us know! Join us next time as we explore the best vacation spots and dive deeper into Star Wars lore.

Original Air Date: July 18, 2026 Episode Number: 468Episode SummarySome exterior surfaces are one-way doors. You can paint them -- but once you do, something changes permanently, or close enough to it that you should know what you're signing up for before you start. Dan opens with a story about a pair of jeans he turned into extremely short shorts without measuring first, and uses it to frame a conversation about five exterior surfaces where the same logic applies: brick, foundation, natural stone, decks, and vinyl siding.Timestamps[00:00] -- Points of No Return[00:56] -- Jorts Origin Story[02:31] -- Cut Once, Regret[06:06] -- Neighbor Catches You[07:30] -- Painting One-Way Doors[10:40] -- Brick Painting Reality[14:03] -- Brick Breathability and Options[15:17] -- Foundation Paint Tradeoffs[17:00] -- Moisture and Cracks Warning[18:54] -- Natural Stone Teaser[19:38] -- Natural Stone Risks[21:33] -- Updating Dated Stone[22:40] -- Resale Impact Warning[24:04] -- Why Deck Paint Fails[25:18] -- Stain vs. Paint[27:32] -- Removing Deck Paint[28:57] -- Vinyl Siding Setup[31:58] -- Color, Heat, and Warping[35:04] -- Vinyl Safe Colors[36:41] -- Best Practice Checklist[37:28] -- Get Expert Help[38:21] -- Car Show Wrap UpThe Jorts Story [00:56]Dan had a pair of blown-out jeans he decided to cut into work shorts. He eyeballed the cut instead of measuring. Part of his brain told him not to. He ignored it. The resulting shorts were dramatically too short -- Daisy Dukes, his word -- and he wore them up a ladder in the backyard because there was no other option. His neighbor appeared, smirked, and delivered the full measure-twice-cut-once speech. No photos exist.Brick [10:40]Painted brick is permanent for all practical purposes. Stripping paint off brick is expensive and usually damages the face. That means when you paint brick, you're not just picking a color -- you're becoming a painted brick house, likely forever.Two other things to keep in mind: you're creating maintenance that didn't exist before (a painted surface will need refreshing every 5-10 years), and you need the right product. Standard paint can trap moisture inside the masonry, and in Michigan winters, freeze-thaw cycles can cause spalling -- the face of the brick literally flaking off.For a better option, RepcoLite carries Roma Bio Limewash and Roma Bio Mineral Paint. Both are breathable and bond with the brick rather than sitting on top of it. They create a great old-world look and mostly sidestep the moisture problems. Still a point of no return, but a much lower-maintenance one.Foundation [15:17]Same logic as brick. Concrete block and poured concrete are porous and move moisture. Once you paint them, you're on a maintenance cycle. Before painting, address any efflorescence (white, fuzzy salt deposits), persistent peeling, or visible water intrusion -- paint won't fix those, it'll just cover the symptoms. And don't paint over foundation cracks without understanding what caused them. Ayers Basement Systems can evaluate for free in most cases.Natural Stone [19:38]What makes natural stone beautiful is the variation -- every piece is different, the light catches the texture differently, it has depth. Painting it covers all of that. The texture stays, but the richness is gone. Sometimes painted stone looks great. Sometimes it ends up looking a little fake. Worth thinking about before you open the can.If the stone is genuinely dated and you want to update it, a solid color is a reasonable fix -- but if you're planning to sell the house soon, be cautious. There's a portion of buyers who will see painted-over fieldstone as a problem. Since getting that paint back off is essentially the same story as brick, it's their problem too.Decks [24:04]A deck is one of the harshest environments on a property. Rain, snow, sun, foot traffic, patio furniture -- it's brutal on a film-forming coating like paint. When deck paint eventually fails, it chips, cracks, and peels, and refreshing it means scraping and sanding before you can recoat. It's a much harder maintenance cycle than most people expect going in.For most decks, a quality deck stain is a better answer. It wears out by fading, and when it's time to refresh, you clean and recoat. For decks in rough enough shape that you need solid coverage, look at WoodLux or RepcoLite WoodMaster -- both deliver an opaque look but form a thinner, more breathable coating than paint that handles the wood's expansion and contraction better.If you've already got paint on a deck and need to remove it, RepcoLite rents a floor sander that's built for the job. It's still not fun, but it's the best option available.Vinyl Siding [28:57]The point of no return here is color. Darker colors absorb more heat. If the new color you choose is significantly darker than the original vinyl color, the panels can absorb enough heat to expand beyond what they're designed for -- causing warping, buckling, or sagging. Once that happens, it's permanent. Repainting lighter can slow or stop it from getting worse, but won't undo what's already warped. This is not rare. Look at houses in your neighborhood and you'll find examples.Benjamin Moore has a collection of about 75 vinyl safe colors formulated with pigments that reflect more infrared heat, so a darker-looking color doesn't absorb heat the same way a standard formula would. These are a real step forward -- but they're not a blank check. The quality and thickness of your vinyl, your sun exposure, and whether you're using the right paint product all factor in. Vinyl safe colors are intended for use in Regal Select, Aura, or Element Guard specifically.Dan's checklist: check your vinyl manufacturer's repainting recommendations, use a Benjamin Moore vinyl safe color, use it in Regal Select, Aura, or Element Guard, and don't push dramatically darker than the original color if you can help it.Bottom Line [37:28]For any of these surfaces, stop into any RepcoLite before you start. Bring pictures, bring samples, bring whatever you've got. The staff can help you work through the right product, the right color, and the right approach so you're not finding out what you didn't know on the back end of a project you can't undo.EventsCar show at Lakewood RepcoLite -- July 18, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, and the Corvette Club. Free admission, Hudsonville ice cream while it lasts. Some construction out front but you can get through. Dan will be there.Products MentionedRoma Bio Limewash -- Breathable masonry finish for brick; available at RepcoLiteRoma Bio Mineral Paint -- Breathable mineral-based option for brick; available at RepcoLiteAyers Basement Systems -- Foundation crack evaluation (typically free)WoodLux -- Solid color deck stain; available at RepcoLiteRepcoLite WoodMaster -- Solid color deck stain; available at RepcoLiteRepcoLite floor sander rental -- For removing deck paint; ask in storeBenjamin Moore vinyl safe color collection -- ~75 colors formulated for vinyl siding; available at RepcoLiteBenjamin Moore Regal Select, Aura, Element Guard -- Products where vinyl safe formulations are availableFind the ShowEpisodes available anytime at repcolite.com -- click the On the Radio tab.Home In Progress | RepcoLite Paints | Sponsored by Benjamin Moore

Over the last decade of living in Iceland, I've taken numerous solo trips around the country, including several solo camper van adventures. My very first solo camper van trip was a two-week Ring Road journey in May 2022, and it taught me more than I ever expected. I was excited, nervous, anxious, and completely ready to see what Iceland would feel like on my own. Since then, I've helped countless travelers plan their Iceland adventures through private consultations, and I've noticed the same questions and concerns come up repeatedly for people considering solo camper van travel. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or simply looking for practical advice, these are 21 of my biggest lessons, mistakes, tips, and honest thoughts after years of exploring Iceland on my own. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVLaVg5G618 The 21 Tips I Share About Taking a Solo Camper Van Trip in Iceland Why a Heater Is Essential in an Iceland Camper Van How to Keep Yourself and Your Belongings Safe The Security Mistake Most Travelers Don’t Think About Why Good Insurance Can Save You Thousands Don’t Forget a Portable Charger Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases Before You Go Master the Art of Layering for Iceland’s Weather Packing Cubes Are a Camper Van Game-Changer Choosing the Right Camper Van Size What Comes Included in Most Iceland Camper Vans Surviving Middle-of-the-Night Bathroom Runs Why Water Shoes Deserve a Spot in Your Bag Bring Your Favorite Snacks From Home Not All Iceland Campsites Are Created Equal Visit Local Swimming Pools for Relaxation and Connection Cooking in a Camper Van Is Better Than You Think How to Avoid Expensive Speeding Tickets Check Weather and Road Conditions Every Day Exploring Iceland’s Highlands as a Solo Traveler Where You Can (and Can’t) Camp in Iceland Why Solo Travel in Iceland Is Truly Transformative Resources for Planning Your Iceland Camper Van Trip The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland  Iceland Discount Code Bundle – save loads while exploring Iceland The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland Private Iceland Trip Consultations 1. Rent a Camper Van with a Heater Even during summer, Iceland can get surprisingly cold at night. A heater can make the difference between a miserable night and a comfortable one. I personally use the Go Lite Camper from Go Campers, and I run the heater almost every trip, even in July and August. Since you’re traveling alone, you don’t have another person helping generate body heat inside the van, so staying warm becomes even more important. 2. Always Lock Your Van Iceland is incredibly safe, but that doesn’t mean you should be careless. Whenever I left my van, even for a quick bathroom run, I locked it. I also locked it while sleeping at night. Most thefts are avoidable by keeping valuables out of sight and securing your vehicle properly. 3. Protect Your Personal Belongings While camper van break-ins are uncommon, pickpocketing can happen in busy tourist areas such as Reykjavík and popular Golden Circle attractions. It’s sad to say that pickpocketing has increased in recent years, so you have to be vigilant with securing your personal items in your backpacks or pockets.  Keep your bag zipped, valuables secure, and never leave important items visible.  This doesn’t happen on a massive scale in Iceland but it is happening enough that I have to talk about it. As a solo travel, you don’t have anyone else to look out for you, which can make you an easier target. 4. Get the Best Insurance You Can Afford This is one area where I recommend not cutting corners. Sand and ash protection is especially important in Iceland. Strong winds can cause serious damage to vehicles, and repairs can become very expensive if you aren’t properly covered. While this does apply to everyone who rents a car or camper van in Iceland, I feel it is very important for solo traveling because you are bearing the full cost on your own if something happens to the vehicle. Better to be protected than to be surprised with a big bill later on for damage that was not covered. Check what your credit card covers, but don’t assume it includes Iceland-specific risks.  Save Money on Your Iceland Camper Van Rental You can use my discount link to save 7% on your camper van rental with Go Campers and receive a free sleeping bag. I use their cars and campers when I travel around Iceland, and I've partnered with them for over 4 years now. The main reasons? Their customer service is amazing, and they have a wide range of vehicles to choose from. When you click on my discount link (https://www.gocampers.is/?ref=allthingsiceland), choose the dates for your travel and the 7% discount will automatically be applied. Choose a sleeping bag under the “extras” section, and the total price won't increase. And just so you know, using my link gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's one of the ways you're supporting All Things Iceland and the content I create. Thank you in advance for that. 5. Bring a Portable Charger Your phone becomes your camera, GPS, communication device, and safety tool while traveling. A portable battery pack (power bank) has saved me numerous times when filming content or spending long days on trails. Plus, it is always necessary to have a charged device just in case you need to call for help, especially when traveling solo. Here is an affordable power bank option. 6. Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases Even simple phrases like: Góðan daginn (Good day) Takk fyrir (Thank you) can create meaningful interactions with locals. One of my favorite memories was chatting with a farmer in North Iceland who was genuinely excited that I was attempting to speak Icelandic. It certainly is not necessary to do this but a little goes a long way, in this instance. It was nice to be able to connect with Icelanders along the way, when I felt uop to socializing. 7. Learn How to Layer Properly Iceland’s weather changes constantly. A proper layering system should include: Moisture-wicking base layer Insulating layer Windproof and waterproof outer layer Hiking pants Sturdy boots This helps you stay comfortable without overpacking. You can find all of the essentials to pack in my free Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland. 8. Use Packing Cubes Packing cubes completely changed my camper van experience. Instead of digging through piles of clothes, everything stays organized and easy to find. When you’re living in a small space, even on your own, organization matters. My trip felt much more enjoyable because I could easily find clothes when I needed to, so I could continue on my adventure. These packing cubes are great! 9. Choose the Right Size Camper Van In my opinion, the size of your camper van does matter. Just because you are one person, doesn’t mean that the smallest size is the most suitable. I personally prefer a mid-sized camper van because it offers enough space to be comfortable while remaining easy to drive and park. I absolutely loved the ability to convert the bed into a table is especially useful during bad weather. It is work to make the conversion but it is totally doable as a solo traveler. 10. Know What Equipment Comes with Your Van Many camper vans already come with many things you need. The Go Lite Camper  that I frequently used and the other camper vans from Go Campers include: Portable stove Pots and pans Plates and utensils Electric cooler Running water sink Knowing what’s already included prevents unnecessary packing, and makes your solo traveling experience much easier. 11. Prepare for Cold Middle-of-the-Night Bathroom Runs This might be the least glamorous part of camper van life. I dreaded getting out of the van in the middle of the night to use the bathroom but I couldn’t avoid it. For those who don’t know, summer in Iceland can mean a high of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The evenings are normally chillier, so I figured out a strategy that works for me when it comes to these late night bathroom runs. Being warm and cozy inside your sleeping bag makes those late-night bathroom trips feel much harder. My solution: Park close to the bathroom Keep shoes near the door Have a sweater ready Bring your keys and phone I always locked my van when I left it, even in the middle of the night. Once, I got back in the van, I locked it again, because it made me feel secure knowing no one can get in the van while I slept. 12. Pack Water Shoes I learned this lesson the hard way. While visiting a hot spring in the Westfjords, I slipped and cut my toe. That was in the beginning of my first solo travel journey, and it sucked! It is not fun for that to happen, in general, but as a solo traveler, I was the only one there to take care of me. Yes, accidents can happen but some can be avoided. Bringing water shoes is added in protection from the elements, especially in natural hot springs. Water shoes provide: Better grip Foot protection Added safety at natural hot springs They’re now a permanent part of my packing list. Here are some water shoes that work well for Iceland. 13. Bring Your Favorite Snacks Travel fatigue is real. As a solo traveler, you are the only one making all of the decisions, cooking all the meals, doing the driving, and so on. Sometimes, you are too tired to make a full meal and if the weather is acting up, you might be in your van for a while. Having familiar snacks helps when you’re tired, hungry, or simply don’t feel like making another decision. Some of my favorites include: Protein bars Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches Instant meals – like Ramen Trail mix These were life savers during or after a long drive when I didn’t have the energy or time to cook a full meal. 14. Research Campsites in Iceland Before You Go Not all campsites are equal in Iceland. Some offer: Hot showers Laundry facilities Kitchens Electricity Amazing views Others provide only the basics in Iceland, and the price can still be the same! I like to use tjalda.is to search for camp sites all over Iceland that have the amenities that I want. If I found one that suited my needs, like a shower and laundry facilities, I would look up the Google Reviews for the place to see what others have said about it. Sometimes, I was willing to stay at a basic campsite because of its proximity to the attraction I was going to next, but I at least knew before I arrived that it was a basic campsite. It’s also helpful to know that in summer, all campsites in Iceland are open, but during fall, winter, and spring A little research ahead of time can significantly improve your trip, and help you manage expectations. 15. Use Local Swimming Pools to interact with Icelanders Because almost every town, even really small ones, have a  swimming pool in Iceland, there are over 100 of them to choose from.  They are fantastic places to: Relax Shower Meet locals Enjoy hot tubs and saunas They’re also one of the most authentic Icelandic experiences you can have. Whether you feel like socializing or just having a relaxing soak, add some local swimming pools to your itinerary. 16. Cooking in Your Camper Van Is Surprisingly Cozy One of my favorite discoveries was how enjoyable it is to cook inside the camper van during rainy or very windy weather. It’s comfortable, practical, and often much cheaper than eating out every day. Plus, in the Go Lite camper, there are vents in the ceiling and it is easy to open the doors for ventilation  17. Watch Your Speed or Potentially Bust Your Budget Iceland takes speeding seriously. Fines can be extremely expensive. I’ve heard of travelers paying: $500 or even over $900 As a solo traveler, those type of fines can completely bust your budget. Since that is totally avoidable, stick to the speed limits and enjoy the scenery instead. 18. Check Weather and Road Conditions Daily Conditions can change dramatically across Iceland, even within the same day. I remember driving in an area with blue skies and a completely clear road to then encounter snow on the road and cloud coverage. That all happened within an hour in East Iceland. Granted, I was driving higher up in elevation, but those conditions are entirely possible in Iceland. You can be prepared for them by checking the weather ahead of time. My go-to resources before heading out for the day in Iceland are: SafeTravel.is Road.is 19. Be Careful When Exploring the Highlands Solo The Highlands are incredible, but they require extra preparation. There are many places in the highlands that are not great for solo travel because the roads are intense due to deep river crossings. If you’re new to Highland driving, a beginner-friendly area I highly recommend is Hveradalir geothermal area in the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range. I have been there many times and it’s an incredibly beautiful place. The road can get a little rough but it doesn’t require a river crossing, which is a big relief for anyone traveling there. Before going there, make sure your camper van is approved and insured for driving on F-roads. 20. Camp Only at Designated Campsites Wild camping with a camper van is not allowed in Iceland. Following the rules helps protect Iceland’s nature and avoids costly fines. You must stay at an official campsites. I think this an especially positive law for solo travelers because you are at a spot where others are around in case you need help, it is safe, and there are facilities around for you to use. As I mentioned in #14, not all campsites in Iceland are created equal, so please do your research on which campsite suits you before going there. You normally do not need to pre-book a campsite. However, I highly recommend doing so, if you plan to camp during two occasions in Iceland. The first is Versulnarmannahelgi (Shop Keeper’s weekend). It’s always the weekend that includes the first Monday in August. During that weekend, many Icelanders go camping around the country, so the popular campsites get booked up. The second occasion is specific to 2026, which is the Total Solar Eclipse on August 12th. The prices for hotels and accommodations are thousands of dollars per night. Even camper van prices have increased for that week due to demand. It is worth booking campsites for at least the 11th and 12th. 21. Solo Travel in Iceland Is Truly Transformative This might be the most important lesson of all. Traveling alone gives you space to think, reflect, and experience Iceland at your own pace. Some of my favorite memories are simply standing in nature, listening to the wind, watching the landscape, and appreciating the freedom that comes with solo travel. It’s not always comfortable, but it is incredibly rewarding. Resources for Planning Your Iceland Camper Van Trip If you’re planning your own adventure around Iceland, these free resources can help: Ultimate Iceland Packing Checklist Know exactly what to pack for every season. Iceland Discount Code Bundle Save money on: Camper vans Car rentals Tours Activities Accommodations Iceland Car Rental Guide Learn about: Road signs Driving rules Insurance Road conditions Common mistakes visitors make Need Personalized Help? I also offer a limited number of private trip consultations where I help travelers create an itinerary, choose the right route, and maximize their time in Iceland. Happy travels, and I hope your solo Iceland adventure is as memorable as mine has been. Random Fact of the Epiosde During one of my camper van trips, I actually got stuck in the mud and had to get help getting out. Thankfully, someone kind helped because rescue services in Iceland can sometimes cost close to $1,000 depending on the situation. Icelandic Word of the Episode Húsbíll – camper van Hús means House in Icelandic and bíll means car, so it is literally a house car. Share this with a Friend Facebook Pinterest Threads Email Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega. Thank you for listening and see you soon.

On this episode of the Moisture fest we welcome in Paul Magid. This is the first part of a three part conversation with this new vaudeville Pioneer. We discuss Paul's early life and learn about the origins of one of the most successful variety acts ever, The Flying Karamozov Brothers. In this conversation, we discuss the early years of the group and learn a bit about Paul's writing style. A wonderful conversation with one of the most prolific variety acts ever.

Did you make it through the record-breaking heat over the weekend? Here in Salt Lake City, we shattered the all-time high of 107… topping out at 109° Fahrenheit. We're set to see a bit of a cool-down over the next few days, with more and more monsoonal moisture in the forecast. But the dry heat this weekend contributed to more fire growth in the state and the incoming rain could cause some serious flooding. July heat wave -- KSL Meteorologist Matt Johnson joins Inside Sources with special coverage of the weather.

Sources: President Trump will sign EO shrinking size of controversial Utah monuments A new opponent emerges in fight against data centers President Trump says U.S. Navy blockade on Strait of Hormuz will go back into effect New York Times say DOJ has subpoenaed reporters over Air Force One reporting Sen. Graham's death contributing to a changing Congress Ask the Attorney: KSL legal analyst answers listener questions on Robinson preliminary hearing Bison attacks visitor at Yellowstone National Park

In the latest episode of Public Power Now, Barry Johnson, a Fire Mitigation Specialist at Arizona public power utility Salt River Project, discusses SRP's recent announcement that it is working with Northern Arizona University to install new wireless moisture sensors designed by a company called Growvera to improve how wildfire risk is monitored in the Tonto National Forest in Arizona. The pilot project is testing new technology from Growvera that enables continuous, real-time tracking of forest fuel and soil moisture conditions.This episode is brought to you by Caterpillar Energy Services. Energy costs are rising -- and municipalities are feeling the pressure to do more with less. Cat AMP from Caterpillar Energy Services gives utilities and communities a powerful way forward.

Drought still has the Four Corners in its fiery grip, but forecasters are hopeful that a good monsoon season may be coming.

In this episode, Bryan sits down with compressor teardown specialist Ty Branaman for a deep dive into what really kills refrigeration and AC compressors. After some lighthearted banter, the conversation quickly turns technical: Ty has spent years cutting apart failed compressors on video, and he explains why that practice matters so much. As he puts it, he is "all about making the invisible visible" — once a technician actually sees what happened inside a dead compressor, vague explanations like "it just got old" stop holding up. Bryan and Ty establish that a properly maintained compressor should essentially last forever, since it is a sealed system with no external contaminants — unlike an engine. The catch is that installation and service mistakes introduce the very contaminants that shorten its life. Copper plating tops Ty's list of the most common findings: moisture combines with POE oil to form acid, which etches copper that then plates onto moving parts, thickening them and eventually causing hard starts that get mistaken for a "tired" compressor. They also trace how a shorted or seized compressor is usually the end result of an earlier root cause, not the cause itself. The two work through the major categories of contamination one by one: solid debris from unswept lines and copper shavings left behind during deburring; moisture, which requires a proper pressure test, deep vacuum, and decay test to remove, plus heat to actually drive water molecules out; and non-condensable gases like oxygen and nitrogen, which throw off pressure readings and, with flammable A2L refrigerants, introduce real fire risk. Ty shares a memorable story about a compressor shell that ripped open after being left pressurized with nitrogen, and both discuss the surprisingly common problem of "wet" nitrogen and poorly maintained recovery tanks. The conversation closes on flooded starts — a hazard Ty considers hugely overlooked — where migrated liquid refrigerant mixes with crankcase oil and violently flashes to vapor on startup, often shattering scroll plates. They cover practical prevention methods, including crankcase heaters, pump-down solenoids placed ahead of the metering device, and reduced refrigerant charges, before wrapping up with Ty's quick field technique for cutting the top off a failed compressor to get an on-the-spot diagnosis rather than waiting on a full teardown back at the shop. Topics Covered Why compressors fail from external contamination rather than simply "wearing out" Copper plating as the most frequently found problem inside failed compressors Solid contaminants: dirt, copper shavings, and proper deburring technique Moisture control: pressure testing, deep vacuum, decay testing, and heat-assisted evacuation Wet nitrogen and poorly maintained recovery tanks Oxygen and nitrogen contamination, including flammability risks with A2L refrigerants Flooded starts, crankcase heaters, and pump-down solenoids Superheat measured at the compressor versus at the evaporator outlet Ty's quick-cut technique for on-the-spot compressor diagnosis in the field   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool. Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 8th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Picture this: two old pals, Eric and William, catching up over a podcast about all things tile prep and the magic of American manufacturing. In this episode of the Made in America 250 special, we dive deep into the world of Ardex Americas and the fascinating products they whip up right here in the good ol' USA. William White, the tile guru from Ardex, brings his expertise to the table, sharing insights that go beyond just laying tiles. We discuss the importance of substrate prep, how moisture can wreak havoc on your flooring dreams, and why the right adhesive can be the unsung hero of a flawless installation. It's not just about slapping some tiles on a floor; it's a whole science! From the bustling manufacturing facilities across the country to the nitty-gritty details of modern installation techniques, this episode is packed with golden nuggets of wisdom. Plus, we sprinkle in some humor because, let's face it, who doesn't love a good laugh while learning about grout? So, whether you're a DIY warrior or just curious about what goes into those gorgeous floors, this chat with William is a must-listen!Takeaways:William White from Ardex Americas emphasizes the importance of proper tile prep to ensure successful installations, as every job can present unique challenges.The podcast highlights Ardex's commitment to manufacturing products in the USA, which not only supports local jobs but also allows better quality control.Moisture management in tile installations is crucial, especially as materials evolve; Ardex offers innovative solutions to tackle moisture issues effectively.Training contractors through Ardex Academy is essential, as it helps professionals stay updated with the latest technologies and installation techniques for better results.The conversation dives into the technical expertise behind Ardex products, showcasing how their innovations can simplify complex installations and reduce callbacks.A strong relationship between manufacturers, distributors, and contractors is vital for success in the industry, creating a collaborative environment for growth.Companies mentioned in this episode:Ardex AmericasThanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listenIf you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.Mentioned in this episode:Whether you're camping, tailgating, or running backup power near the RV, weather can change fast. A generator still needs to run outside, but rain and snow can put your power plan at risk. GenTent helps protect your portable generator while it's running, without blocking airflow or access to controls. Keep your power ready for the trip, no matter the weather. Visit gentent.com/ericg.Gentent 2026Check out the smartest hardware with Baldwin Baldwin Hardware, known for its luxurious solid brass craftsmanship, has partnered with Level, an ASSA ABLOY Group brand that combines advanced technology with timeless design. This collaboration pairs Baldwin's iconic style with Level's innovative engineering—featuring a hidden battery housed within the bolt— to set a new standard in secure, stylish, smart-living.Baldwin Hardware Love Around the House? Leave Us a 5-Star Review — Here's Why It MattersProducer Jim steps up to the mic with one quick ask: if Around the House with Eric G has ever helped you tackle a remodel, dodge a contractor nightmare, or just make smarter decisions about your home, take 30 seconds and leave the show a rating and review on your favorite podcast player. Reviews are the number one way new listeners discover the show — and they keep the free home improvement advice from Eric G coming every single week. Open Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, tap five stars, and tell us about your favorite episode or your latest project. Rate it, review it, and share it with a friend or neighbor who's got a project on the horizon. Thanks for being part of the Around the House community!Evolve Stone We tell the story of Evolve Stone and how they are made in the USA. To listen to the complete episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/ef96f15d-b960-44a8-9522-1c3fa56c7cb7/ To find out more and order your free samples with promo code ATH26 head to EvolveStone.com Evolve Stone

In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Dwain Bunting from Barentz Animal Nutrition North America discusses how summer humidity affects the stability of potassium carbonate, mineral buffers, and dairy concentrate mixes. He explains ingredient reactivity, moisture risks, formulation considerations, and practical strategies to improve mix stability during periods of hot, humid weather. Listen now on all major platforms!"Summer humidity raises the reactivity of potassium carbonate and mineral buffers, making chemical stability a serious concern inside dairy concentrate mixtures during the hottest months."Meet the guest: Dr. Dwain Bunting is a ruminant nutritionist with more than 27 years of industry and academic experience across dairy and beef systems. He holds a PhD in Nutrition and Biochemistry and has worked in research, teaching, product development, and global technical support roles. Currently serving as a Technical Service Dairy Nutritionist at Barentz Animal Nutrition North America, he focuses on applied dairy nutrition and formulation strategies. Listen to Dr. Dwain Bunting on The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms.Liked this one? Don't stop now — Here's what we think you'll love!Dr. Dwain Bunting: DCAD And Palatability | Ep. 121Dr. Frank Delfino: Potassium Strategies & Heat Stress | Ep. 132What will you learn: (00:00) Highlight(01:42) Introduction(02:17) Summer humidity(04:24) Mineral risks(06:26) Potassium buffers(07:41) Moisture control(08:42) Summer caution(09:32) Closing thoughtsThe Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:* Barentz* Adisseo* Fortiva* Kemin* Vetagro- DietForge- Esmilco Inc.- Virtus Nutrition

This time in Strangerville, Eli needs to stop reading reviews of his book Stitched online because they are stressing him out, Meg likes to text her body parts to Eli's husband allegedly for medical reasons, and two stories about Skylar's dermatology residency.StoryDermatology, by Eli McCannProduction by Eli McCann and Meg WalterJoin our Patreon!Find Eli's book We're Thankful for the Moisture and novel STITCHED.

On this episode of The Moisture Festival Podcast, we welcome Keara Scannell of Tumbleweed Circus. We talk about her upbringing skating in her parents' shop, where the name Tumbleweed came from, and how she turned those early influences into a one-of-a-kind career. Keara shares her journey to becoming a performer and how having a broken ankle early on didn’t stop her.  She also tells us who belongs on her Mt. Rushmore of trick roping. It's a great conversation with a multifaceted variety artist.

A hard wheat year can still teach Oklahoma producers something useful about risk, timing, and variety decisions. In this episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast, Dave Deken, Brian Arnall Ph.D., and Josh Lofton Ph.D. talk with Amanda Silva Ph.D., Oklahoma State University Extension small grains specialist, about the 2026 Oklahoma wheat crop. They discuss drought stress, scattered rainfall, early crop development, planting date decisions, test weight, wheat streak mosaic virus, and what variety trials can still tell farmers in a difficult year. Key takeaways: Rain timing drove much of the difference between fields, even within the same county. Earlier crop development, warm winter conditions, and a cooler grain-fill period shaped yield and test weight outcomes. Planting date can be used as a risk-management tool, especially when paired with different maturity groups. Wheat variety trials are still valuable in stressful years, but researchers must carefully judge data quality, CV, blocks, and field variability. OSU research continues on late-planted wheat, seeding rates, nitrogen management, forage production, coleoptile length, and deeper planting to chase moisture. Detailed timestamped rundown 00:00–02:14 — Intro and setup Dave opens Episode 514 by framing the conversation around the Oklahoma wheat crop and why a hard year can still shape decisions for future crops. He also promotes the Summer Crop Demo Day near Chickasha and introduces Brian Arnall Ph.D., Josh Lofton Ph.D., and guest Amanda Silva Ph.D.02:17–06:19 — Field-tour context and statewide wheat observations The group talks about seeing wheat across Oklahoma through field tours, Oklahoma Wheat Commission work, and research stops from Apache and Greenfield to the Panhandle and northeast Oklahoma. Dave notes how seeing the crop in person gave a fuller picture than just looking at numbers.06:27–09:10 — A hard, variable wheat season Silva describes the season as one of the hardest since she started at OSU. She explains that southwest and western Oklahoma were especially rough, while some locations saw enough rain to produce pockets of better wheat. Rainfall patterns created major differences, even between fields in the same county.09:11–12:02 — Stand establishment, planting timing, and grain fill Josh compares the wheat variability to what he saw in canola. Silva and Arnall discuss how some locations benefited from earlier establishment, while others struggled with stands and canopy closure. Cooler weather during grain fill likely helped preserve some grain quality and test weight.12:04–15:17 — Why wheat matured early Arnall asks why wheat was running ahead of schedule across a broad region. Silva points to warm late-winter and early-spring temperatures that moved the crop through growth stages quickly. The group also compares how those conditions affected canola and freeze risk.15:17–17:40 — The critical period for yield Silva explains that the jointing-to-flowering period is especially important because key yield components are being set. Moisture or stress during that window can strongly shape final yield.17:45–20:35 — Diversifying planting dates Arnall raises the idea of spreading planting dates as another form of risk management. Silva agrees that stacking planting dates could help, especially when combined with different variety maturities. She clarifies that “early” for grain-only wheat may still mean mid-October, not September.20:36–23:53 — Dusting in wheat and chasing moisture Dave asks when dusting in becomes worth the risk. Silva explains that farmers and researchers both have acreage and time constraints, and sometimes planting dry is a practical choice. The group also discusses deeper planting, coleoptile length, and whether Oklahoma could learn from dryland systems in the Pacific Northwest and Australia.23:54–28:13 — How much water does wheat really need? Dave asks whether researchers can determine a minimum moisture requirement for wheat in a controlled setting. Arnall and Lofton explain why lab or pot-study answers do not always translate well to field decisions because soil, temperature, humidity, wind, rooting environment, and other factors change the outcome.29:09–32:19 — Silva's research program Silva outlines current OSU wheat work, including planting date, variety maturity, nitrogen management in late-planted wheat, seeding rates, forage response, grazing recovery, nitrogen uptake, protein, and nitrogen-use efficiency. She notes new forage-focused seeding-rate work at El Reno and possibly Chickasha.32:20–36:47 — Variety trials and disease pressure The group discusses OSU's wheat variety trial network, the number of varieties being evaluated, and the inclusion of irrigated wheat work in the Panhandle. Silva notes wheat streak mosaic virus pressure in irrigated plots and explains that water alone does not remove the impact of disease.36:48–45:45 — How researchers judge trial data Arnall asks Silva and Lofton to explain how they decide whether trial data is trustworthy. They discuss CV, blocks, reps, averages, plot-by-plot review, field notes, drone imagery, canopy gaps, and the challenge of publishing fair comparisons when field variability is high.45:46–49:10 — Lessons from a stressful wheat year Silva's big takeaway is the resilience of wheat and Oklahoma producers. The group points out that hard “scientist years” can reveal useful information about stress tolerance, variety response, and management, even when they are not the years producers hope for. RedDirtAgronomy.com

We have several problems, Neighbor--and all of them involve moisture. Cooincidence?! We think not! THEN: The Peaches learned a new term, and it will either help you become a better comedian or drive you crazy. Proceed with caution. LATER: John shares a story about when he realized his bi-polar father was losing touch with reality. But, on the plus side, he almost became the heir of an Aloe Vera Farm! Contact the Comedian's family at nextdoor@johnbranyan.com and let us know if you tend to be a bit of a conspiracy theorist.

We have several problems, Neighbor--and all of them involve moisture. Cooincidence?! We think not! THEN: The Peaches learned a new term, and it will either help you become a better comedian or drive you crazy. Proceed with caution. LATER: John shares a story about when he realized his bi-polar father was losing touch with reality. But, on the plus side, he almost became the heir of an Aloe Vera Farm! Contact the Comedian's family at nextdoor@johnbranyan.com and let us know if you tend to be a bit of a conspiracy theorist.

We have several problems, Neighbor--and all of them involve moisture. Cooincidence?! We think not! THEN: The Peaches learned a new term, and it will either help you become a better comedian or drive you crazy. Proceed with caution. LATER: John shares a story about when he realized his bi-polar father was losing touch with reality. But, on the plus side, he almost became the heir of an Aloe Vera Farm! Contact the Comedian's family at nextdoor@johnbranyan.com and let us know if you tend to be a bit of a conspiracy theorist.

The rain begins unexpectedly as you walk through the forest. What starts as a few scattered drops soon becomes a gentle shower, carrying the fresh scent of damp earth through the woodland. Ahead, a large tree spreads its branches wide, offering a welcome refuge. From here, the weather feels different. Moisture filters through the layers of leaves overhead, creating a soft pattern of sound that mingles with the woods' quiet atmosphere. Beyond the branches, distant birds call. Many people find natural soundscapes calming because they offer a steady acoustic backdrop that can mask distractions and encourage a slower, quieter state of mind. Beneath the sheltering branches, there is no destination to reach and no schedule to follow—only the forest's soothing presence and the passage of time. Download the Your Sleep Guru™ app for exclusive guided meditations, sleep stories, nature soundscapes, courses, and bonus episodes, all in one ad-free place. Creating these sleep stories and soundscapes is truly a labour of love. If you'd like to support the podcast with a donation, you can do so here: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/S9D8B33QVSJJU Your kindness helps me continue creating new episodes and bringing more peaceful places from around the world to your ears. If you enjoy the podcast, please consider following, rating, reviewing, or sharing an episode with someone who could use a better night's sleep. Every bit of support helps this independent podcast reach more listeners. Thank you so much for listening! Sweet dreams.

Hardwood flooring may seem like a straightforward topic, but as Eric G sits down with Kelly Ragalie Titus Regalie from Treadline Construction, we dive deep into the nuances that make it anything but simple. From the distinct charm of hardwood to the potential disasters of DIY refinishing, this episode is a feast of knowledge for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike. We kick things off by discussing the common fears surrounding flooring; it's not just about picking a pretty wood and slapping it down. Oh no, the devil is in the details! Kelly and Titus shed light on the craftsmanship that goes into proper installation and maintenance, revealing the shocking truths behind those “easy” home improvement projects that often turn into epic fails. Ever tried sanding your floor and ended up with something that looks like a wave pool? Yeah, we've all been there. So, what's the secret sauce for a flawless finish? We explore different types of finishes, their pros and cons, and how the right choice can make all the difference. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, this episode offers a treasure trove of tips to ensure your hardwood floors not only look fabulous but stand the test of time. Trust me, you'll want to take notes!Takeaways:Hardwood flooring isn't just a weekend project; it requires technical finesse and knowledge.Choosing the right finish can drastically affect the durability and look of your hardwood floors.Moisture levels in your home can make or break your hardwood flooring experience, so keep them in check!It's critical to choose the right type of flooring based on your lifestyle, especially if you have pets or kids.Old floors can have hidden surprises like asbestos or tar mastic; always test before you start sanding!Pre-finished versus site-finished hardwood: it's not just about looks, but longevity and maintainability too.Companies mentioned in this episode:Treadline HardwoodHome DepotTreadline Construction https://treadlineconstruction.com/Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listenIf you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.Mentioned in this episode:Around the House 2026 YouTube! Make sure and Subscribe to our YouTube page! Around the House YouTube Take a second and leave us a review on your favorite podcast player! Quick favor—if you're enjoying the show, the absolute best way you can support us is by leaving a quick review on your favorite podcast player. Around the House 2026 YouTube! Make sure and Subscribe to our YouTube page! Around the House YouTube Gentent Generator Giveaway 2026Summer storms can knock out your power for days — but not if you win this incredible generator package from our friends at GenTent and Westinghouse! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Enter now for your chance to win a Westinghouse 6,500-watt dual-fuel portable generator with CO sensor, plus a full GenTent Safety Canopy kit, clear apron, storage bag, and 30-amp extension cord — total value over $1,900! Open to legal residents of the 48 contiguous United States and DC, 18 and older. Go to AroundTheHouseOnline.com or www.gentent.com/giveaway for full official rules and to enter today. Sweepstakes ends July 13th. Enter now — stay powered up with Around the House!Generator Giveaway Made by Contractors for Contractors check out Instabid.pro Turn 3 hours of manual estimating into 5 minutes. Real material prices. Real labor rates. Professional PDF quotes delivered instantly. To find out more head to https://instabid.pro/ InstabidWhether you're camping, tailgating, or running backup power near the RV, weather can change fast. A generator still needs to run outside, but rain and snow can put your power plan at risk. GenTent helps protect your portable generator while it's running, without blocking airflow or access to controls. Keep your power ready for the trip, no matter the weather. Visit gentent.com/ericg.Gentent 2026Check out the smartest hardware with Baldwin Baldwin Hardware, known for its luxurious solid brass craftsmanship, has partnered with Level, an ASSA ABLOY Group brand that combines advanced technology with timeless design. This collaboration pairs Baldwin's iconic style with Level's innovative engineering—featuring a hidden battery housed within the bolt— to set a new standard in secure, stylish, smart-living.Baldwin Hardware Subscribe to the podcast Make sure and Subscribe on your favorite podcast player or the link below! 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Oklahoma summer crops may look smaller than usual, but that does not automatically mean yield potential is gone. Dave Deken talks with Brian Arnall Ph.D. and Josh Lofton Ph.D. about how timely June rains, cooler temperatures, and still-uncertain July weather are shaping corn, soybeans, grain sorghum, hay, and double crop decisions across the Southern Plains. The conversation covers why smaller soybeans can sometimes offer better yield stability in dryland Oklahoma, what corn needs during pollination, how growers are thinking about double crop acres after an early wheat harvest, and where fertilizer dollars may be best spent with current nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and lime prices. Brian also shares lessons from Brazilian row crop systems, and the team previews a hands-on OSU Extension summer crop field day in Chickasha. Key takeaways June rain changed the summer crop outlook. After a dry start, many Oklahoma fields caught enough rain to germinate and carry crops forward. Smaller crops are not automatically bad. In dryland Oklahoma, shorter soybeans and sorghum may use less water and hold up better if July turns hot and dry. Corn is in a critical window. Cooler temperatures in the 70s and 80s could help early planted corn during pollination. Soybeans are already moving. Some April-planted soybeans are flowering, but wide-row fields that have not canopied may face more weed pressure. Double crop decisions remain complicated. Moisture is favorable in places, but prices, risk, and plans for next wheat crop are slowing some decisions. Some growers may invest in existing acres first. Instead of adding more double crop acres, producers may spend fertility dollars on full-season corn, sorghum, or soybeans. Hay and forage acres may increase. Hay grazer could see more interest as producers rebuild hay supplies for winter. Potassium and lime may deserve attention. Brian points to K and lime as places to invest where soil tests show a need, while staying cautious on expensive N and P. Fertilizer markets are global. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potash prices are being shaped by international demand, freight, geopolitics, and timing. Brazil offers useful contrasts. Brian's trip highlighted major differences in soils, rainfall, row crop systems, planter setup, fertility, and crop disease pressure. Detailed timestamped rundown 00:00–01:43 — Episode setup and introductions Dave introduces episode 513 and frames the discussion around moisture, cooler weather, wheat harvest, summer planting, and what has changed across the Southern Great Plains.01:48–04:55 — Weather whiplash and wet wheat harvest areas The group jokes about June feeling like winter and discusses wet conditions in northeastern Oklahoma, including areas where wheat harvest had been delayed by repeated rainfall.04:55–07:18 — “Weird things called rain” Josh explains that after a very dry early spring, rain finally arrived. Instead of one big soaking event in many areas, crops benefited from more spread-out rainfall.07:18–09:37 — Double crop decisions and crop progress The group discusses wheat coming off, double crop choices, cooler temperatures, corn approaching pollination, and early planted soybeans beginning to flower.09:37–13:10 — Josh's research projects Josh outlines current work, including crabgrass and small grain rotations, nitrogen management, forage production, soybean and sorghum herbicide work, and pigweed control research.13:10–14:16 — How research programs evolve Brian and Josh talk about how Extension research shifts through phases based on grower needs, student interests, funding, and emerging problems.14:16–17:02 — Summer crop acreage trends Josh says corn interest increased after strong performance last year, soybeans remained steadier than expected, and marketing conditions have made decisions feel like choosing the least bad option.17:02–18:40 — Early wheat harvest and double crop caution Brian notes how early wheat harvest was in some areas. Josh says some growers are considering whether to double crop or prepare ground for wheat again.18:40–19:44 — Fertility and hay grazer decisions Josh says some growers may spend money on full-season acres instead of double crop acres, while also considering lime, phosphorus, potassium, and hay grazer needs.19:45–20:55 — Bermuda grass and hay outlook Brian notes Bermuda grass started slowly because of the dry, cool start, but second cuttings may look stronger. Josh adds that eastern Oklahoma avoided some flooding problems seen in previous years.21:08–22:23 — Dry planting, then June moisture The group compares expectations at planting with current field conditions and notes that Oklahoma growers would rather have moisture in June than early growth with no rain later.22:23–24:02 — Why small crops may be okay Josh introduces the idea that smaller soybean and sorghum plants may offer yield stability in Oklahoma by lowering water demand.24:02–26:21 — Soybean height, canopy, and weed pressure Josh explains that large soybean plants can support more yield in unlimited conditions, but they also require more water. Shorter plants may protect yield if July dries out, though wide rows that have not canopied may face weed pressure.26:21–27:09 — Grain sorghum size and drought fit Josh says sorghum is smaller than recent years but is beginning to boot in some places, which may be a good fit if heat and dryness return.27:09–30:27 — Corn's narrower flexibility Brian and Josh compare soybeans, cotton, sorghum, wheat, and corn. Corn can handle cool conditions well, but it has less flexibility than indeterminate crops once it commits to yield structure.30:27–33:24 — Data behind small-crop thinking Josh explains past soybean work with plant growth regulators and crop topping. In stressful years, smaller crops protected yield; in non-limiting years, taller crops could have an advantage.33:24–36:02 — Why topping soybeans is not a recommendation Josh clarifies that physically topping soybeans is not a recommended practice. Instead, planting date, irrigation, and system fit are better levers for managing crop size.36:02–37:38 — Double crop soybeans west vs. east Josh explains that farther west, double crop soybeans can sometimes compare more favorably with full-season soybeans because shorter vegetative growth may better match moisture limitations.37:38–39:24 — Weather pattern uncertainty Dave asks about changing weather patterns. Josh says producers should not overhaul whole-farm practices based on one season, but repeated issues with overly tall crops may justify revisiting planting windows.39:24–42:03 — Wheat harvest and fertility strategy Brian says many wheat fields under-yielded and fertilizer spending was down. He recommends looking at current prices and soil needs instead of assuming last year dictates this year.42:04–47:17 — Fertilizer markets and geopolitics Brian discusses urea, phosphorus, potash, lime, international fertilizer movement, and why nitrogen prices do not respond instantly to shipping news.47:17–48:40 — Brazil's role in fertilizer demand The group discusses how Brazil's crop demand, transportation constraints, tariffs, and global trade shape fertilizer movement and pricing.48:40–52:17 — Brian's Brazil agronomy trip Brian describes visiting Pará, Brazil, where row crop systems are relatively new, soils are deep and highly weathered, rainfall is extreme, and soybean systems depend heavily on fungicide.52:17–54:06 — What Oklahoma can learn from Brazil Brian reflects on how newer production regions may be more open to ideas, while also facing unproven products and unique fertility, soil, and equipment challenges.54:06–57:27 — Chickasha Summer Crop Demo Day Brian previews the July 27 producer event at the Chickasha research station, including hands-on stops for crop staging, scouting, soil pits, irrigation, spray nozzles, nitrate testing, alfalfa, and summer crop management. The related OSU event listing describes hands-on demonstrations from soil pits to crop scouting to improve summer crop productivity.57:27–59:32 — Wrap-up The group closes with the show website, resources, and a reminder for listeners to send questions through Red Dirt Agronomy. RedDirtAgronomy.com

Send us Fan MailDr. Dave Walton from TF Voodoo joins Aaron and Peaches to break down how to actually train for rucking without wrecking your body.Dave is a retired Green Beret, doctor, rucking coach, and the brain behind TF Voodoo. In this episode, he explains why most people train for rucking wrong, why “just ruck more” is one of the fastest ways to get injured, and how to build real load carriage performance through Zone 2 cardio, strength training, progressive ruck programming, foot care, boot selection, sock selection, posture, breathing, pacing, and misery management.This episode is especially important for anyone preparing for Air Force Special Warfare, Special Forces Assessment and Selection, military selection courses, long rucks, heavy rucks, or tactical load carriage events.Dave lays out what candidates should do months before a ruck, how to build a base before adding load, why short intense rucks beat long junk-mile rucks, how to manage blisters, what to eat and drink before and during a ruck, and how to survive if you have a hard ruck coming up with limited time to prepare.Find Dave and TF Voodoo:TFVoodoo.comCheck out Tasty Gains:TastyGains.comTrain with Modern Athlete Strength Systems:OnesReady.comOperator Training Summit:OperatorTrainingSummit.comChapters:00:00 - Ones Ready Intro01:05 - Tasty Gains and Modern Athlete Strength Systems03:11 - Welcome Dr. Dave Walton from TF Voodoo03:30 - Dave's Background in Rucking and Special Forces04:00 - Why “Just Ruck More” Is Terrible Advice05:00 - The Three Parts of Rucking Performance05:53 - Fitness, Technique, and Misery Management06:39 - Start With Zone 2 Running Before Rucking07:30 - Why Zone 2 Builds the Engine08:55 - Build to 90 Minutes of Zone 209:14 - Why Zone 2 Is Boring but Necessary10:00 - Strength Training for Rucking10:55 - Bench Press and Squat Standards11:30 - Upper Body and Lower Body Strength for Load Carriage13:00 - When to Start Actual Rucking13:30 - Field-Based Progressive Load Carriage14:28 - How Often Should You Ruck?15:00 - Start With 10 Percent of Body Weight15:56 - Short Intense Rucks Beat Long Junk Miles16:50 - Why Long Rucks Increase Injury Risk18:22 - Shut Up and Ruck and TF Voodoo Resources19:20 - Load Carriage Training Circulars20:00 - Foot Care for Tactical Athletes20:46 - Dave Does Not Have a Foot Fetish21:20 - Skin, Boots, Socks, and Insoles22:12 - Old Boots vs. Modern Rucking Boots23:00 - Heat, Friction, Moisture, and Blister Formation24:00 - Finding the Right Sock and Boot Combination25:00 - Foot Conditioning Takes Time26:00 - Mobility Screening and Ankle Mobility26:55 - Taylor Starch Is Somewhere Punching the Air27:30 - Flexibility vs. Mobility28:00 - Ruck Selection and Frame Use29:00 - Posture Under a Ruck29:30 - Strength Exercises That Actually Matter30:00 - Six Main Lifts for Tactical Athletes31:25 - Functional Strength vs. Bodybuilding32:30 - Shoulders Back and Down33:15 - Head Up and Eyes on the Horizon34:15 - Breathing Under Load35:00 - Leaning From the Ankles36:00 - Walking Fast vs. Running With a Ruck37:00 - The Ruck Shuffle38:21 - Misery Management and Strap Adjustment39:30 - Hip Belt, Waist Belt, and Load Transfer40:43 - Why You Should Use the Hip Belt42:02 - How to Find Your Iliac Crest42:30 - Sternum Strap and Shoulder Strap Management44:00 - Why Ruck Setup Is Individual44:44 - Unit Ruck Training and Avoiding Injuries46:22 - Free TF Voodoo Training Circulars47:00 - What to Do If You Have a Ruck Tomorrow47:30 - Hydration, Fueling, and Carbs48:30 - Nerd Clusters and Snickers for Ruck Fuel49:30 - How Much Water to Drink During a Ruck50:39 - Fueling During a Zulu Course Refire51:23 - Eat and Drink Before You Think You Need It51:45 - Warm Up Before the Ruck52:20 - Cadence and 180 Beats Per Minute53:15 - Music, Pacing, and Ruck Rhythm55:34 - Liner Socks, KT Tape, and Hot Spots56:30 - Why Duct Tape Is a Bad Idea57:47 - Taping Feet Before Blisters58:23 - Moleskin, Donuts, and Blister Management01:01:16 - Boot Lacing for Hot Spots01:02:20 - Packing the Ruck Correctly01:03:20 - Mental Prep and Not Quitting01:04:10 - Ruck Pacing Strategy01:04:37 - Don't Start Too Fast01:05:00 - Physiological Sigh and Breathing Reset01:07:00 - Arm Swing and Maintaining Pace01:08:30 - Shuffle, Fast Walk, and When Not to Run01:10:21 - Why Stopping Can Break Momentum01:10:55 - Final Thoughts from Dave01:11:41 - TF Voodoo Resources and Rucking Handbook01:12:40 - ClosingSupport the showJoin this channel to get access to perks: HEREBuzzsprout Subscription page:  HERERegister for our Operator Training Summit:  OperatorTrainingSummit.comFind an Air Force Recruiter: AirForce.comCollabs:Ones Ready - OnesReady.com 18A Fitness - Promo Code:  ONESREADY ATACLete - Follow the URL (no promo code):  ATACLeteDanger Close Apparel - Promo Code:  ONESREADYDFND Apparel...

Harvesting, Milling, and Cooking with Arizona's Native SuperfoodIn this episode we explore mesquites as a desert food source, hosted by Romey Romero & Farmer Greg. This episodes guests are Peggy Sue Creekmore and Mike Clow and we explore one of the Sonoran Desert's most abundant and overlooked food sources: mesquite beans. The conversation covers how to identify quality mesquite trees, harvest pods safely, dry them properly, and turn them into nutritious mesquite flour using a community hammer mill. Listeners learn why mesquite has been a staple food for centuries, how it compares to conventional flour, and how to transform this free local resource into delicious baked goods, drinks, and snacks. The episode also highlights educational workshops, harvesting walks, and community milling opportunities.Key Topics & EntitiesMesquite bean harvestingMesquite flour productionCommunity hammer mill projectNative desert food systemsPeggy Sue CreekmoreMike ClowFarmer Greg PetersonSonoran Desert edible plantsPalo verde beansCarob podsIronwood seedsAflatoxin preventionBruchid beetlesUrban Farm mesquite milling eventsKey Questions AnsweredWhy is mesquite considered a valuable food source?Mesquite pods are highly nutritious, naturally sweet, gluten-free, and rich in protein. Indigenous peoples and desert communities have relied on mesquite as a staple food across the Southwest and northern Mexico for centuries.Do all mesquite trees produce good-tasting pods?No. While all mesquite pods are technically edible, flavor varies significantly from tree to tree. Some are sweet and pleasant, while others can be chalky or have an unpleasant aftertaste. Tasting pods before harvesting is essential.What does mesquite flour taste like?Mesquite flour has a naturally sweet flavor often compared to graham crackers, caramel, or malt. Many recipes require little or no additional sugar because of the flour's natural sweetness.When is mesquite harvesting season?Mesquite pods typically begin ripening in June, although weather and elevation can shift timing earlier or later. Pods should be fully tan, dry, and free of green coloration before harvesting.How should mesquite pods be harvested?Harvest pods directly from the tree rather than from the ground. Many harvesters use a tarp and gently shake or tap branches to collect ripe pods.Why shouldn't pods be collected from the ground?Ground-harvested pods can develop mold and aflatoxins, which may contaminate community milling equipment and reduce food safety.How can harvested pods be stored properly?Pods should be dried thoroughly in shallow boxes, baskets, dehydrators, ovens, or even a parked vehicle. Moisture is the primary cause of spoilage and milling problems.What is a mesquite hammer mill?A hammer mill is a specialized machine that pulverizes entire mesquite pods, including seeds and pod walls, into flour. Traditional grain mills cannot process mesquite effectively because its natural sugars gum up the machinery.What can be made with mesquite flour?Mesquite flour can be used in cookies, muffins, crepes, breads, energy balls, beverages, and other baked goods. It works particularly well in low-temperature baking and gluten-free recipes.What happens to the material that doesn't become flour?The coarse material, often called "chunky bits" or chaff, can be used to make tea, brewing mash, and other food products.Episode HighlightsMesquite flour is naturally sweet enough to reduce or eliminate added sugar in many recipes.Flavor quality varies dramatically between mesquite trees, making tasting an important step before harvesting.A mature mesquite tree can produce more than 100 pounds of pods in a season.Harvesters should only collect pods directly from the tree to prevent mold contamination.Proper drying is the single most important factor for successful milling.The Urban Farm community hammer mill converts harvested pods into food-grade flour.Mesquite flour is gluten-free and requires binders such as eggs, chia, or applesauce when baking.Desert trees such as palo verde, carob, ironwood, and mesquite offer significant edible resources often overlooked by modern food systems.Calls to Action & ResourcesMesquite Harvesting Walks — https://urbanfarm.org/mesquiteMesquite Milling Appointments — https://urbanfarm.org/mesquiteUrban Farm Educational Programs — https://urbanfarm.orgDesert Food Tree Guide — https://learn.desertkitchen.net/treesVisit www.UrbanFarm.org/990 for the show notes and links on this episode!Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

On this episode, we welcome Oroki. We discuss the many aspects of Oroki’s performance life. We learn how it started on a date to an aerial class and how that led to producing theatrical shows all over Seattle. We dive into Oroki’s background in dance, choreography, and a little parkour. A great conversation with a fantastic performer.

Advertising SponsorWant to join our Map It Forward Monthly Community Discussion Group? Head to https://patreon.com/mapitforward to join the community by signing up to the "Roasted Coffee" tier for 20 USD per month. Find other like-minded people in the coffee industry.Episode DescriptionThis is episode 3 of a 5-part series with agro-tech company cofounder and CEO, Ciro Gelvez from WSeeds and Map It Forward Founder, Lee Safar. In this series of The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward, we're discussing technology and the coffee supply chain, and what becomes possible when farm-level data is captured, managed, and used in ways that actually help coffee farmers make better business decisions.In this episode, Lee and Ciro examine how technology can help trace coffee quality as it moves through the supply chain, and where the limits of that traceability begin.Ciro explains that quality consistency starts long before coffee leaves the farm. Farm activities, fertilization, pest and disease pressure, post-harvest practices, milling, fermentation, drying, and logistics can all affect the final cup. When those steps are recorded and correlated, farmers can better understand what produced a strong result and how to repeat it.Lee pushes into the harder question: quality is not only objective. Moisture, defects, residue limits, and transport conditions can be tracked more clearly, but sensory quality depends on the person cupping the coffee and the standards they use.Connect with Ciro Gelvez and WSeeds here:https://wseeds.co/en/https://www.instagram.com/wseeds_col/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cirowseeds/If you found this episode valuable, make sure you're subscribed to the podcast and follow along for the rest of this 5-part series. In the next episode, we explore how global geopolitics is impacting food supply chains.***************************************About Map It Forward The Daily Coffee Pro is produced by Map It Forward, supporting coffee professionals globally across the supply chain.Website: https://mapitforward.coffeeMailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglistPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforwardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mapitforward.coffee/Contact: support@mapitforward.org

Advertising SponsorWant to join our Map It Forward Monthly Community Discussion Group? Head to https://patreon.com/mapitforward to join the community by signing up to the "Roasted Coffee" tier for 20 USD per month. Find other like-minded people in the coffee industry.Episode DescriptionThis is episode 3 of a 5-part series with agro-tech company cofounder and CEO, Ciro Gelvez from WSeeds and Map It Forward Founder, Lee Safar. In this series of The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward, we're discussing technology and the coffee supply chain, and what becomes possible when farm-level data is captured, managed, and used in ways that actually help coffee farmers make better business decisions.In this episode, Lee and Ciro examine how technology can help trace coffee quality as it moves through the supply chain, and where the limits of that traceability begin.Ciro explains that quality consistency starts long before coffee leaves the farm. Farm activities, fertilization, pest and disease pressure, post-harvest practices, milling, fermentation, drying, and logistics can all affect the final cup. When those steps are recorded and correlated, farmers can better understand what produced a strong result and how to repeat it.Lee pushes into the harder question: quality is not only objective. Moisture, defects, residue limits, and transport conditions can be tracked more clearly, but sensory quality depends on the person cupping the coffee and the standards they use.Connect with Ciro Gelvez and WSeeds here:https://wseeds.co/en/https://www.instagram.com/wseeds_col/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cirowseeds/If you found this episode valuable, make sure you're subscribed to the podcast and follow along for the rest of this 5-part series. In the next episode, we explore how global geopolitics is impacting food supply chains.***************************************About Map It Forward The Daily Coffee Pro is produced by Map It Forward, supporting coffee professionals globally across the supply chain.Website: https://mapitforward.coffeeMailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglistPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforwardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mapitforward.coffee/Contact: support@mapitforward.org

This time in Strangerville, Jolyn joins Eli to talk about Eli's attendance at a Real Housewives party, Jolyn's updates, and a woman details the feelings she had when she unexpectedly lost her mother last year.StoryGenerations, by Sam, AKA Mrs. Chaos (music by ⁠Austin Moffa⁠)Production by Eli McCann & Meg WalterJoin our ⁠Patreon!⁠And ⁠FIND ELI'S NEW BOOK, We're Thankful for the Moisture⁠!

This time in Strangerville, we don't know if recycling is real, Meg says goodbye to Strangerville All-Star Grandpa Boyd, and a few stories from Eli about early parenthood.StoryParis and Other Stuff, by Eli McCann (music by ⁠Austin Moffa⁠)Production by Eli McCann & Meg WalterJoin our ⁠Patreon!⁠And ⁠FIND ELI'S NEW BOOK, We're Thankful for the Moisture⁠!

In this action-packed live stream episode of HVAC School, host Bryan is joined by Eric Kaiser, Ty Branaman, and Roman Baugh for a continuation of a deep-dive conversation on vacuum practices — picking up where a previous episode left off with Andrew Greaves and Jim Bergmann. The team sets out to both reinforce the foundational best practices every HVAC technician should follow and to explore some genuinely uncharted scientific territory around how vacuum gauges actually work, how refrigerant contaminates micron gauge readings, and what really happens to moisture inside a system when temperatures drop below freezing. A central revelation of the episode is Eric's explanation that modern electronic vacuum (micron) gauges do not actually measure pressure directly — they measure heat transfer and translate it into a pressure reading. Because these gauges are calibrated to nitrogen or air, the presence of refrigerant vapor in a system (which has roughly three times the heat conductivity of nitrogen) can cause the gauge to display a falsely high reading. This means a technician could believe the system still has poor vacuum when it may actually be further along than indicated — or, more concerning, that a system appears to have passed vacuum when contamination is still present. The team acknowledges that controlled experiments are needed to quantify exactly how much refrigerant affects the reading, and they commit to designing those tests. The conversation then pivots into the physics of water at the triple point — the precise pressure (4,580 microns) and temperature (32°F) at which water can exist simultaneously as solid, liquid, and vapor. Eric walks the audience through a phase diagram built from International Association for the Properties of Water and Steam data, explaining that once pressure drops below the triple point, liquid water no longer exists. Any moisture in the system either sublimes directly from solid ice to vapor or remains frozen. This has major practical implications: a system with ice inside can still pull down to a very deep vacuum, but will not pass a decay test until that ice is fully sublimated — which requires both sufficient vacuum depth and available heat energy. The colder the ambient environment, the deeper the vacuum must go to create the temperature differential needed to drive sublimation. The episode wraps with an illuminating discussion on refrigerant oils — specifically the differences between POE (polyolester) and PVE (polyvinyl ether) oils and how each interacts with moisture in fundamentally different ways. POE chemically bonds with water through hydrolysis, breaking down into acid and alcohol and permanently degrading the oil. PVE, on the other hand, physically traps moisture through surface tension and can hold up to twice as much water as POE, but remains chemically stable. This distinction affects vacuum strategy, dryer sizing, and long-term system reliability — particularly in VRF and cold-climate heat pump systems where compressor oil management is far more complex. Topics Covered Core vacuum best practices refresher: large hoses, removing valve cores, skipping the manifold, using clean pump oil, micron gauge placement, and decay testing Why micron gauges measure heat transfer — not pressure — and how refrigerant vapor causes false-high readings on the gauge The impact of refrigerant retained in compressor oil on vacuum accuracy and the potential role of nitrogen sweeps in displacing refrigerant molecules Triple point science: what happens to moisture when pressure drops below 4,580 microns and why liquid water no longer exists below that threshold How ice inside a system can allow a deep vacuum pull-down while still failing a decay test, and what that means for cold-climate HVAC work The role of heat during evacuation: why adding heat accelerates moisture removal and how deep vacuum increases temperature differential to drive sublimation Cold-climate challenges: vacuum pump limitations, micron gauge accuracy at low temperatures, and the physics of dry air in freezing environments Triple evacuation and nitrogen purging: whether nitrogen disrupts oil pockets, displaces refrigerant, or both — and why the team wants to test it Nitrogen tank quality concerns: the possibility that low-grade nitrogen could introduce moisture and whether an inline dryer would help Using system flush chemicals: why Ty cautions against flushing agents and the risks of adding additional chemicals that break down oil POE vs. PVE oil chemistry: how POE undergoes hydrolysis when exposed to moisture (creating acid) versus how PVE physically traps water without chemical breakdown Dryer strategy for large commercial systems, VRF, and VRV: filter dryer sizing, core pulls, oil sampling, and why an "oil dialysis machine" would be a game-changer Plans for future controlled experiments: testing refrigerant effects on micron gauges, ice behavior at various temperatures, and vacuum performance in cold climates Industry influence over time: how community-driven knowledge sharing has already shifted vacuum and refrigerant practices over the past decade Whether you're a residential technician looking to sharpen the fundamentals or a commercial refrigeration specialist wrestling with VRF oil contamination, this episode delivers both practical takeaways and a front-row seat to the scientific inquiry that drives best practices forward. As Bryan puts it: "Don't wait for us — if you want to do the experiment, be part of the conversation."   Have a question that you want us to answer on the podcast? Submit your questions at https://www.speakpipe.com/hvacschool. Purchase your tickets or learn more about the 7th Annual HVACR Training Symposium at https://hvacrschool.com/symposium. Subscribe to our podcast on your iPhone or Android. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Check out our handy calculators here or on the HVAC School Mobile App for Apple and Android.

Beau Martonik sits down with Brad Watts, a 15-year muzzleloading hunter and precision rifle competitor who works at CVA, recorded live at the NWTF show. They break down everything a hunter needs to know about muzzleloaders — how to choose the right one for your hunting situation, the difference between pellets, loose powder, and Blackhorn 209, how to properly clean and maintain your gun, and what actually causes misfires in the field. Brad also explains how competing in long-range precision rifle has made him a more confident hunter at every distance, and why that same mentality applies to how you should be practicing with your bow. If you've been intimidated by muzzleloaders or feel like you're missing something, this one clears it up. Topics: 00:00:00 — Intro 00:04:24 – Growing Up Hunting in PA 00:07:03 – Muzzleloader Seasons and Opportunities by State 00:09:30 – Getting Into Muzzleloading 00:13:53 – How Brad Got Into Muzzleloaders Through the Industry 00:15:03 – Keeping It Simple vs. Going Down the Rabbit Hole 00:17:51 – Precision Rifle and How It Makes You a Better Hunter 00:23:24 – The Importance of Practice 00:30:57 – Understanding Calibers, Bullets, and Powder Charges 00:36:47 – Pellets vs. Loose Powder vs. Blackhorn 209 00:42:05 – Cleaning and Maintenance 00:53:00 – Moisture, Misfires, and Storing Your Muzzleloader 00:59:32 – Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 01:07:43 – New CVA Products — Endura, Optima XP, Cascade Rimfire 01:15:16 – Closing + Where to Find CVA Save 10% on CVA muzzleloaders, rifles, and accessories at ⁠bpioutdoors.com/cva⁠ — use code EASTMEETSWEST10 Instagram:   ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@eastmeetswesthunt⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@beau.martonik⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook:   ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠East Meets West Outdoors⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Shop Hunting Gear and Apparel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.eastmeetswesthunt.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: Beau Martonik - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQJon93sYfu9HUMKpCMps3w⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Partner Discounts and Affiliate Links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.eastmeetswesthunt.com/partners⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Poncho Outdoors - Poncho Outdoors makes tough, sharp-looking, no-BS apparel for hardworking outdoorsmen who put in the time year-round. Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ponchooutdoors.com/EASTMEETSWEST⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save $10 and free shipping Amazon Influencer Page ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/beau.martonik⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices