Contractor Ryan's Blueprint Banter

In this episode, Ryan sits down with Calgary legend Pete the Plumber, whose name has become synonymous with quality plumbing in the city. With over 25 years in business, Pete reflects on his journey from starting out in Ontario to building a company with 60 trucks and 80 employees in Calgary.

He shares candid stories of:

• How a recession pushed him west and why Calgary has never let him down for work.

• Lessons learned from the schoo...

Not all moving companies are created equal — here’s how to spot the difference.

In this episode of Blueprint Banter, Ryan sits down with Slava Kashaev, founder of Sparta Movers and part of the Baeumler Approved network, to uncover what really makes a moving company trustworthy. From local moves across Calgary to overseas relocations, Slava explains the systems, certifications, and customer-first mindset that set his team apart.

You’l...

What really adds value to your home — and what secretly takes it away?

In this episode of Blueprint Banter, we sit down with Chris Audette, a Baeumler Approved real estate agent, to pull back the curtain on the buying and selling process. From why you should call your realtor six months in advance to the real ROI of kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, Chris shares candid insights that homeowners and contractors alike need to hear.

Yo...

Triple-pane efficiency. A 25-year warranty. Windows built to last.

As a Baeumler Approved company, GreenFox Windows & Doors has built a reputation across Alberta for custom-manufactured windows, high-efficiency triple-pane designs, and an unmatched 25-year warranty that covers both product and installation. 

In this conversation, Max Artemenko explains what makes their approach different — from the science behind proper insulati...

Mortgages Decoded: Credit, Contractors & Clean Conscience Lending - With Salimah Nanji

In today’s episode, Ryan is joined by RBC Mortgage Specialist Salimah Nanji — a 23-year industry veteran who doesn’t just talk mortgages, she breaks them down for real life. 

This one is packed with practical insights for first-time buyers, trades professionals, and anyone trying to navigate Canada’s tricky mortgage landscape. 

You’l...

Landscaping isn’t just about plants and patios — it’s about planning, precision, and people. 

In this episode of our Blueprint Banter mini-series featuring Baeumler Approved members, Ryan visits Calgary’s Home Depot to chat with Thomas Rochow, founder of Oasis Landscaping. With nearly two decades of experience, Thomas shares how his team transforms outdoor spaces — from sod-covered lots to fully custom yards complete with patios, po...

Is spray foam worth the cost? How does it actually work? And can it really lift concrete slabs?

In this episode of Blueprint Banter, Ryan sits down with Kurt Janzen, founder of Beyond Spray Foam Insulation, to break down the facts, myths, and money-saving potential of spray foam. With nearly 20 years in the business, Kurt shares practical insights that every homeowner and contractor should hear — including how to avoid costly insula...

Eddie Conlin started roofing at 18 and built Total Roofing from the ground up—focusing on safety, service, and treating his crew like family.In this episode, Contractor Ryan talks with Eddie about what it takes to run a top-tier roofing company, why going above code matters, and how he's earned the trust of homeowners across the region—one roof at a time.#BlueprintBanter #TotalRoofing #EddieTheRoofer #BaeumlerApproved #RoofingDoneR...

In this special episode of Blueprint Banter, Contractor Ryan visits rural Quebec to sit down with Emma Terrell—better known as The Urban Botanist. Emma shares her journey as a botanist, moss wall artist, and passionate educator on the importance of native plants and biodiversity.

Recorded inside the off-grid home that serves as the backdrop for her Rewilding YouTube series, this conversation explores the beauty of bringing nature in...

In this special Baeumler Approved mini-series episode of Blueprint Banter, filmed inside a bustling Home Depot in Winnipeg, Contractor Ryan sits down with Kyler Bergen, owner of Rockridge Interiors. Kyler shares his expertise on high-quality window coverings that add style, privacy, and comfort to any home. He discusses his passion for providing affordable solutions while ensuring that every client feels satisfied with the transfor...

In this inspiring episode of Blueprint Banter, recorded inside a busy Home Depot in Winnipeg, Contractor Ryan sits down with Shoshana Coodin, Senior Marketing Manager at Raising the Roof.

Shoshana shares the incredible work that Raising the Roof is doing to combat homelessness across Canada, from innovative programs to creative partnerships that raise awareness and create lasting change. If you’re interested in how communities can c...

Recorded live at the Ottawa Home and Remodelling Show, this episode of Blueprint Banter features a conversation with Steve Weir, the driving force behind Baeumler Approved. Steve breaks down what the program is all about, how it connects homeowners with trusted contractors, and the key things to look for when hiring a pro for your next project. Whether you're planning a renovation or just want to make sure you're working wi...

In this special Baeumler Approved mini-series episode of Blueprint Banter, filmed inside a busy Home Depot in Winnipeg, Contractor Ryan sits down with Jeremy Mathison, President and CEO of Western Marble Granite & Tile.

With 47 years of experience, Western Marble Granite & Tile has built a reputation for top-quality countertops and backsplashes, serving Winnipeg and beyond. Jeremy shares his expertise on balancing client exp...

In this special Baeumler Approved mini-series episode of Blueprint Banter, filmed inside a busy Home Depot in Winnipeg, Contractor Ryan sits down with Tim Jablonski, owner of Jablonski Carpentry.

Raised in the trades by his father and working alongside his brothers, Tim developed a passion for craftsmanship that led him to specialize in custom homes and unique additions in Saint Jean Baptiste, Manitoba. He shares his journey, his ap...

In this special Baeumler Approved mini-series episode of Blueprint Banter, filmed inside a busy Home Depot in Winnipeg, Contractor Ryan sits down with Genevieve Krahn, the talented general contractor behind Jane of All Trades Inc.

With a passion for carpentry, design, and architecture, Gen is known for her high-quality basement renovations that prioritize function just as much as aesthetics. She shares her philosophy on smart, prac...

In this episode of Blueprint Banter, we’re joined by Troy Thompson from Affordable Concrete Services. With over 30 years of experience and 2,500 satisfied customers, Troy shares his expertise on everything from foundation repair and waterproofing to grading, landscaping, and structural services. Featured as part of the Diamond Project on The Contractor Ryan Show, Troy discusses what it takes to pour strong foundations— both in cons...

Get to know Dustin Slegtenhorst, the new site supervisor for Contractor Ryan. With years of industry experience, an unstoppable drive, and a reputation as an all-around great guy, Dustin has quickly become an integral part of the team. In this episode, Dustin shares his journey, his approach to running a job site, and what keeps him motivated in the ever-evolving construction world. Tune in to hear how Dustin is bringing leadership...

In this episode of Blueprint Banter, we’re joined by Duane from PROVA to explore the game-changing waterproofing systems that have made PROVA a trusted name in tile installation. Duane walks us through the innovation behind their products, with live demonstrations that showcase just how effective and user-friendly PROVA systems are.

Contractor Ryan also shares his experience visiting PROVA headquarters, where he got hands-on traini...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jen Rossides, a mortgage broker with 20 years of experience helping clients achieve their home-building and renovation dreams. Jen dives into construction mortgages, purchase-plus-improvement loans, and essential advice for managing your budget effectively. Whether you’re building a new home or tackling a renovation, this episode is packed with expert tips to help you finance your vision with confid...