Building Without Boundaries

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What does it take to go from weekend DIYer to HGTV star? Shannon Evans breaks down her remarkable journey and shows us that construction isn't just for those who grew up with a hammer in hand.

Shannon's story begins with a bold move—reaching out to host Chris Kirby and traveling to his Alabama construction sites to learn hands-on building techniques before her television debut. This willingness to seek knowledge and put herself in unfamiliar environments set the foundation for her success. "I knew if I was going to learn the best ways to do it because I knew the platform would be seen by millions, I didn't want to build something incorrectly," Shannon explains, revealing the thoughtful preparation behind her seemingly overnight success.

Her relationship with Ryobi Tools marks another pivotal chapter in her story. As the approachable face of the brand, Shannon found her niche making construction accessible to beginners. This partnership didn't just build her credibility—it aligned perfectly with her mission to demystify building for everyday people. The conversation explores how affordable, user-friendly tools are gateway experiences for those intimidated by construction, with Shannon and Chris agreeing that Ryobi fills a crucial market need.

Now the only female builder on HGTV's "Renovation Resort Showdown" and a build producer for "Rock the Block," Shannon isn't content just breaking barriers—she's determined to hold the door open for others. "Instead of saying 'Hey, I'm the first female,' I want to be like 'Hey, I don't want to be the last. There's room here,'" she shares passionately. Her upcoming speaking tour at home shows across North America aims to inspire more diversity in construction while advocating for making and building as creative outlets that deserve respect as first-choice careers.

Whether you're curious about pathways into construction, wondering how television renovation shows really work, or simply looking for inspiration to tackle your own projects, Shannon's authentic enthusiasm and practical wisdom make this conversation a must-listen for makers and dreamers alike.

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