351 - Plumbing in Slab & Shelf Install

We Built A Thing59mApril 9, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this episode of 'We Built A Thing,' the host reflects on a challenging week marked by illness, a delayed truck repair, and a family emergency that required him to help relocate an elderly relative in Winona, Minnesota. Despite feeling unwell, he managed to complete a significant amount of work, including installing custom 10-foot-long shelves in a newly framed room, using laser-guided precision and L-brackets for secure mounting. He also discusses the ongoing construction of his new home, including the plumber’s rough-in work under the slab and plans for trenching and electrical hookups. The episode delves into practical details like mowing with a zero-turn mower, managing yard debris, and the pros and cons of front-loading versus top-loading washers, culminating in a renovation plan for the outdated laundry room. A highlight is the creation of a custom walnut display rack for his 30-year-old cartridge collection, designed with a clever T-shaped support that angles each cartridge back for stability and visual impact. The episode closes with a lighthearted after-show discussion on Easter candy and gratitude to patrons.

Key Takeaways
1

Use laser-guided alignment and pre-measured L-brackets for precise, secure shelf installation in large rooms.

2

Prioritize safety and recovery—don’t push through illness; it’s smarter to delay projects than risk mistakes.

3

Front-loading washers save water but can be inconvenient; consider platform lifts and accessible storage to improve usability.

4

Repurpose scrap wood creatively—this host built a stunning cartridge display from leftover material using a simple angled T-joint.

5

Plan for future projects during downtime: even when sick, small creative tasks can yield meaningful results.

…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Sick, Truck Breakdown, and Family Emergency

I was watching the clock so I could take my four hourly hit of DayQuil and going through cough drops like crazy. But we managed to get everything done a couple hours short of what they, what I even expected.

Highlight
2:00
8 min

College Memories and the Trampoline Story

While helping with the move, the host revisits his college town and recalls renting a house with a dangerous, homemade trampoline that he reinforced with wire. He reflects on the risks of trampolines, especially for children, and shares how he now uses a pulley system to store his trampoline in the barn.

10:00
10 min

Plumbing, Electrical, and Excavation Plans

The host updates on the progress of his new home’s foundation, including the plumber’s rough-in work under the slab. He discusses the upcoming trenching for electrical service, the need for a 700-foot conduit run, and plans to collaborate with a neighbor who has a mini backhoe to save costs.

20:00
15 min

Zero-Turn Mowing and Yard Maintenance

The host shares his experience with a zero-turn mower, highlighting its superior maneuverability over a pull-behind mower, especially around trees and obstacles. He discusses blade sharpening, grass clumping, and the challenges of mowing in humid conditions, including the use of mulching blades and windrow management.

35:00
15 min

Laundry Room Renovation and Washer Debates

With our front loader, we need to redo our laundry room. It's gross and old and badly designed, but part of that would be building a platform to get the washer and dryer up off the ground a little bit more.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
I just kind of guessed at sizes and dimensions and went for it. It looks good. All but three of the biggest ones I have fit in the space... I'm pretty happy with it, and it was fun to be able to finally get my collection displayed again.
Host56:31
Viral: 85.0
I was watching the clock so I could take my four hourly hit of DayQuil and going through cough drops like crazy. But we managed to get everything done a couple hours short of what they, what I even expected.
Host7:26
Viral: 75.0
I've heard a lot of people say they don't feel like they get them as clean and they can be a little finicky, like you said, if they don't run the full cycle.
Host48:29
Viral: 73.0
Speakers

Host

Host
Topics Discussed
Home Construction Progress90%Woodworking and Custom Builds88%Tool and Equipment Use85%Appliance and Home Renovation82%Yard and Lawn Maintenance80%Project Management and Recovery78%Family and Personal Stories75%Sustainable Practices and Composting60%
People & Brands

Host

person

150xNeutral

Cartridge Collection

other

18xPositive

Zero Turn Mower

product

14xPositive

Truck

product

12xNeutral

Front-Loading Washer

product

11xMixed

Trampoline

product

10xMixed

Top-Loading Washer

product

8xPositive

Katie

person

6xPositive

Goodwill

organization

6xPositive

Barn

other

6xPositive

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