The Drywall Podcast - Where the Trade Meets the Craft

Hunter Thome (out of Cleveland, TN) and I have known each other for over a decade, but it wasn't until this conversation that we truly clicked. Hunter’s journey is as raw as it gets—at just 15 years old, he found himself homeless and navigating a tough family dynamic. After taking a stab at fast food and the insulation business, a move to Ellensburg, WA, and a chance connection with an Italian electrician ultimately led him to his real calling: mud.
Starting out young was only part of the battle, though. While working in Washington, Hunter faced a major health scare when a lung tumor left him with limited options for care, forcing him back home to Tennessee. That setback led him to find refuge—and a powerful new chapter—with Wind River Built.
In this episode, we dive into:
Hunter’s early struggles and how he turned his life around in the trade.
His connection with Wind River Built and Fresco Harmony, and how it all came together like a trifecta of good luck.
His thoughts on MuddSkip, his go-to tools, and where he’s at today.
Hunter is doing incredible work now, and this casual, honest conversation is one you don't want to miss. Get to know Hunter on Episode 176 of The Drywall Podcast!
Sponsor: Today’s episode of TDP is brought to you by CanAm Tool. Check out their full lineup of quality drywall finishing tools at www.canamtool.com.

Episode 175: Real Fresco, Sobriety, and Level 5 Perfection with Jake Nilsson
In this episode of The Drywall Podcast, Nick sits down with Jake Nilsson of Nilsson Drywall out of Portland, Maine.
After spotting Jake’s high-quality videos and obvious trade expertise on Instagram, Nick noticed something surprising: Jake had just over 100 followers. Intrigued by hidden talent in the trade, Nick reached out—and discovered there was a lot more to Jake's story than meets the eye.
Broadcasting straight from the stairwell of a massive Portland estate where his crew is applying a traditional, old-school lime fresco (the real Michelangelo-style plaster), Jake dives deep into high-level craft and personal transformation. From master-level plasterwork and Level 5 finishes to finding sobriety and building a business by lifting others up, this is an honest, powerful conversation you won't want to miss. Plus, keep an eye out for a special drop-in visit from Sunil D'Souza, owner of Drywall Master!
Key Topics Covered in This Episode:
Discovering Hidden Gems: How finding low-follower, high-skill trade profiles on social media leads to the best industry conversations.
Traditional Fresco vs. Modern Systems: Jake breaks down traditional lime plasterwork and gypsum based plasters from an on-site historic-scale Portland project.
Hanging, Finishing, & Level 5: What it takes to deliver a true Level 5 finish, modern sanding techniques, and pristine slick finishes.
A Journey Through Sobriety: How meeting a fellow drywall finisher in rehab helped spark Jake’s business and how helping others ultimately saved his life.
Special Guest Drop-In: Sunil D'Souza, owner of Drywall Master, joins the conversation.
Episode Sponsor
This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by CanAm Tools. Upgrade your drywall finish game at www.canamtool.com.

Sometimes you just have to stray off the beaten path! While we usually talk shop with the best drywallers in the game, on this episode of The Drywall Podcast, we are stepping right into the world of paint with our newest friend, Brian Cooney.
Brian is the mastermind behind Pretty Boy Products, showcasing a game-changing, specially designed cleaner and conditioner built specifically for paintbrushes.
Host Nick Harmon first ran into Brian during his recent trip to the Trade Decorator Live show in Bolton, England. Brian was smoking a cigar, seemed to know absolutely everyone in the room, and that distinct American accent made it easy to strike up a conversation. They hit it off immediately, Nick looked into the product, and the rest is history.
Affectionately known as "Uncle Brian" across the pond in the UK, Brian has always had a massive knack for business. He’s the guy who originally started Carb Blast—a product still in heavy circulation today. Now, he’s even coined a brand-new term, the "paintpreneur," and stays busy supplying over 500 stores with his product line. If that wasn't enough, he’s also gearing up to host an epic Paint Fest happening next weekend, sponsored by some of the absolute biggest names in the industry.
One thing is for sure: you are going to love this conversation. Tune in to the 174th episode of The Drywall Podcast!
Connect with our guest:
Learn more about Pretty Boy Products: www.prettyboyproducts.com
This episode of The Drywall Podcast is brought to you by AMES Tools. Discover their incredible lineup of automatic taping and finishing tools to elevate your craft. Find out more at www.shopamestools.com.

On this episode, host Nick Harmon sits down with a long-time friend making her very first appearance on the show: Jacqueline Hesser of Hesser Drywall and CH3 Designs out of Newton, Illinois.
While Jacque and Nick have a deep-rooted friendship, this conversation goes far beyond the surface. They dive into her family dynamics and a unique entrance into the trades—because, believe it or not, drywall wasn't always in the cards for her until about two years ago. From working on grain dryers to being featured in a children’s book, Jacque's journey is anything but conventional.
Nick and Jacque also talk about:
The Power of Community: How a mutual friendship with Kam on the infamous "Effingham Project" pulled everyone closer together.
Next Steps: A children's book featuring Jacquelin.
The Next Evolution: A look into how Hesser Drywall and CH3 Designs are poised for a major shift into the world of decorative finishes.
Jacque is poised for greatness, but her ego remains completely in check. It’s not easy to come on the podcast and tell all, but she pushed through the challenge to give listeners a genuine glimpse into who she is. One thing is for sure—she’ll steal your heart.
Tune in for an episode packed with heart, grit, and the real stories behind the trades!
Connect with our guest:
Jacqueline Hesser: Hesser Drywall / CH3 Designs (Newton, IL)
Listen & Subscribe: Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

The Drywall Podcast — Episode 172: Revisiting The 3way with Royce Lennox & Steve Brown
Can you believe it’s been three years? On this episode of The Drywall Podcast, we are doing one of my absolute favorite things: revisiting past guests to see just how far their journey has taken them. Back in 2023 on Episode 37, I sat down with Royce Lennox and Steve Brown just as they were launching what would become an industry-changing product: the 3way. Now, they are back for their second appearance, and we are diving deep into the grueling, rewarding, and fascinating world of product development and marketing.
Breaking a new product into the drywall space is notoriously difficult. It’s a traditional industry where pros stick to what they know. But Royce and Steve cracked the code. While Royce brings over 40 years of elite, hands-on drywall finishing experience to the table as the brains behind the product, it was Steve’s visionary marketing perspective that changed everything. Steve persuaded them to take a massive leap of faith—not just by taking a financial risk on a new idea, but by essentially giving the 3way concept away to the masses to build an organic, unstoppable movement.
What to Expect in This Episode:
The Blooper Reel: We kick things off a bit differently this time. Enjoy a hilarious montage of technical blunders spliced together into a mosaic of comedy before we dive into the heavy hitting topics.
The Marketing Grind: An honest conversation about the grit it takes to inject a brand-new tool into a stubborn market and win over old-school finishers.
The Leap of Faith: How a brilliant idea transitions from a jobsite hack into a mass-manufactured, international product.
Get Paid to Post: Find out how sharing your own experience with their product on Instagram could land a few hundred dollars in your pocket.
Royce and Steve are truly as nice as they come in this trade, and by the time the credits roll, you might just find yourself planning to have a 3way on your next project.
Tune In & Connect:
Learn more about the product: www.3way.ca
Follow on Instagram: @3way.ca (Keep an eye out for their video posting cash incentives!)
This episode of The Drywall Podcast is proudly brought to you by Fresco Harmony. Discover the future of specialty wall finishes, custom textures, and architectural surfacing at www.frescoharmony.com.

Welcome to the 5th installment of our Pearls of Wisdom series!
In this special compilation episode, we’re looking back over the last 25 episodes to bring you the absolute best insights, advice, and breakthroughs shared right here on the show. We’ve cut out the noise and stacked this episode with pure "pearls" of wisdom from your fellow tradesmen and women.
Whether you're looking for a quick dose of inspiration or trying to decide which full length interview to dive into next, these compilation episodes are the perfect shortcut. It’s a great way to sample the catalog, hear what’s happening across the industry, and find the guests whose stories truly resonate with your own business journey.
🎧 Want More Pearls?
If you love this format, you can go back and listen to our previous breakdown episodes:
Episode 50
Episode 98
Episode 126
Episode 149
🌟 Thank You to Our Sponsor!
This episode of The Drywall Podcast is proudly brought to you by Panel Rey. Innovating the industry with high-quality drywall solutions and building materials. To learn more about their product lines and find a distributor near you, visit www.panelrey.com.
Connect with The Drywall Podcast
Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major streaming platforms.
Share the Wisdom: If a specific clip stands out to you today, take a screenshot, post it to your stories, and tag the show!

Episode 170: From Bolton with Love – Inside the Trade Decorator Live with Paula McIntosh
One phone call can change everything. When Paula McIntosh reached out from across the pond to invite us to Bolton, England, it didn’t take long to realize we were dealing with one of the sharpest minds in the industry. After some quick strategy sessions with Ben Cole at GWI LTD and our partners at Panel Rey, we decided it was time to see the hype for ourselves.
But we didn’t just book a booth—we wanted the story behind the curtain.
In this landmark 170th episode, we sit down with the powerhouse behind Trade Decorator Live. Paula shares her incredible journey from stay-at-home mom to the driving force behind one of the UK’s premier trade shows. We dive deep into:
The Origin Story: How Paula turned a vision into a must-attend industry event.
The Show Dynamics: What to expect on the floor this year and why this isn't just another trade show.
A Special Announcement: Details on a live Fresco Harmony training session that you won’t want to miss.
Industry Trends: How the UK decorating scene is evolving and what North American pros can learn from it.
Whether you're looking to scale your business, master new finishing techniques, or understand the logistics of a world-class trade event, Paula brings the heat.
This episode is brought to you by Panel Rey. Discover their industry-leading solutions and commitment to innovation by visiting www.panelrey.com.
Join us at Stand 28 in Bolton! Get the full scoop on the show and prepare for an episode packed with insight, grit, and a global perspective on the trade.
 

Episode 169: The Brand New World of Rich Allen
In this episode, we sit down with a guest who truly lives up to his title as a "Drywall Extraordinaire." Rich Allen, the force behind BNW Drywall (Brand New World), joins the show to share an incredible journey of transition from skilled tradesman to industry CEO.
The story began when Rich was approached by Miguel, the developer of the Arcuate Drywall Taping Knife, to help market the innovative tool. However, it didn't take long for Miguel to realize that Rich’s vision and leadership capabilities extended far beyond marketing. Today, Rich serves as the CEO of Arcuate Drywall Knives, steering the ship for one of the most unique tools hitting the market.
But Rich isn't just focused on tools; he’s focused on the future of the craft. We dive deep into his latest mission: creating a dedicated class designed to teach up-and-coming professionals the trade the right way. Rich’s passion for elevating the industry standards is matched only by his character—he is genuinely one of the kindest guests we’ve had the pleasure of hosting.
Inside this episode:
The origin story of the Arcuate Drywall Taping Knife.
Transitioning from the field to the CEO chair.
The philosophy behind BNW (Brand New World) Drywall.
Rich’s new educational initiative for the next generation of finishers.
I love what Rich is building, and I know you will too. This is an inspiring look at how one professional is reshaping the trade through innovation and education.
This episode is brought to you by Panel Rey. For high-quality drywall products and solutions, visit: www.panelrey.com

Episode 168: The Art of Innovation and Marketing with James Weihoenig
How do you take a tool into a crowded market and completely disrupt the status quo? In this episode, we are joined once again by James Weihoenig, the visionary behind Morph Sanding Solutions.
Since his first appearance back in November 2024, James has taken the drywall industry by storm. While his innovative corner sander is a game-changer, this conversation dives deep into the "secret sauce" behind his success: unconventional marketing. James shares how he defies industry norms to carve out a massive niche and build a brand that resonates.
In this episode, we discuss:
The Morph Journey: Reflecting on the growth of Morph Sanding Solutions since its Australian debut.
Marketing Mastery: How James uses creative energy to stand out in a saturated market.
Empowering Entrepreneurs: A look at a new platform James is championing to help the next generation of industry innovators find their footing.
The Power of Infectious Ideas: Why thinking differently is the most important tool in your bag.
James is a powerhouse of creativity, and his insights on business and branding are guaranteed to leave you inspired.
This episode is brought to you by Panel Rey. Innovative solutions for the modern professional. Discover more at www.panelrey.com.
Listen now and join the conversation!

 
Guest: Kevin Cost,  of Mudplugz
In this episode, we take a slight detour from our usual industry-insider deep dives to talk with someone who found himself "smack dab in the middle" of the drywall world by sheer necessity. Kevin Cost, the mind behind Mudplugz, joins the show for his first appearance to share how a single moment of inspiration on Christmas Eve 2024 sparked a construction industry sensation.
Frustrated by the eyesore of holes in the wall and the lack of a quick, professional-grade solution, Kevin asked a simple question: Why isn't there a plug for this? Just two weeks later, the wheels were in motion.  Kevin has turned that "lightbulb moment" into a product designed to bring ease and speed to the tedious task of patching drywall.
What We Discuss in This Episode:
The Christmas Eve Epiphany: The origin story of Mudplugz and why the simplest ideas are often the most effective.
From Concept to Launch: How Kevin and his partner moved from a thought to a physical product in record time.
Solving the Patching Problem: How Mudplugz is streamlining the workflow for professionals and DIYers alike by eliminating the "unsightly hole" phase of repair.
A Fresh Perspective: What happens when an industry outsider brings a new solution to a traditional trade
This episode of The Drywall podcast is brought to you by CanAm Tools.  Find out more by visiting www.Canamtool.com