The Acorn & Leaf Podcast | by Gastineau Log Homes

Gastineau Log Homes
  • 5.0 (12)
  • Home & Garden
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to our ACORN & LEAF podcast. Tune in as we dive headfirst into the wonderfully woodsy world of log homes!If you've ever found yourself daydreaming about the smell of fresh timber, the crackle of a cozy fire, or whipping up a meal that just tastes better because, well, you're in a log cabin—then you’re in the right place.Each episode, Lynn & others will cover everything from the art of choosing the perfect wood to creating that cabin atmosphere that makes you feel like a lumberjack-turned-gourmet-chef. Whether you’re here for the design tips, the outdoorsy vibes, or just an excuse to romanticize life in the woods, Acorn & Leaf has you covered. Pull on those flannels, kick back, and join us as we explore what makes log home living… unforgettable. 

  1. Jul 3

    Log Home vs. Barndominium: Which Should You Build? | Wine Chats with Lynn & Lacey Ep. 1

    Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the very first episode of Wine Chats with Lynn & Lacey! Pour yourself a glass and join Lynn Gastineau and Lacey as they tackle one of the biggest questions homeowners ask today: Should you build a log home or a barndominium? From construction methods and resale value to maintenance, comfort, and overall lifestyle, they compare the real-world pros and cons of both building styles while sharing decades of experience designing homes for families across America. You'll also get an inside look at The Dutton, Gastineau Log Homes' modern barndo-inspired design that combines spacious, open living with the warmth, beauty, and craftsmanship of natural timber. In this episode, you'll learn: -Why so many people compare log homes and barndominiums -The biggest misconceptions about barndo construction -Long-term resale and maintenance considerations -The science behind why wood interiors make us feel at home (Biophilic Design) -Why windows, porches, and natural materials matter more than you think -How The Dutton blends modern design with timeless craftsmanship -Which style may be the best fit for your family and property Whether you're dreaming of a traditional log home, a modern hybrid, or a barndo-inspired design, this conversation will help you make a more informed decision before you build. Ready to start planning? Download The Gastineau Guide for free and explore our home designs at: https://www.oakloghome.com/ Browse our floor plans, including The Dutton, and discover what's possible for your dream home. www.oakloghome.com FOLLOW US  Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

  2. Jun 20

    250 Years of America, 49 Years of Building American Dreams

    Send us Fan Mail America turns 250, and we're celebrating the best way we know how: talking about the American-made traditions that helped build this country. In this special Born in the USA episode of the Acorn & Leaf Podcast, Lynn Gastineau and Lacey Schmidt discuss the legacy of American craftsmanship, the history of log homes in the United States, and why building with American materials still matters today. From the courage of the Founding Fathers to the hardworking loggers, mill workers, craftsmen, and builders who create homes across the country today, this conversation explores how log homes remain woven into America's story. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why log homes are one of America's oldest housing traditions • How American-made materials support local jobs and communities • The journey from forest to finished home • The importance of responsible forestry and sustainable timber harvesting • Why log homes continue to resonate with families generations later • How Gastineau Log Homes has been helping families build their legacy since 1977 • Details about our special "Born in the USA" promotion Whether you're planning your forever home, researching log homes, or simply appreciate American craftsmanship, this episode is a celebration of heritage, independence, and building something that lasts for generations. Learn more about our Born in the USA promotion: https://www.oakloghome.com/bornintheusa About Gastineau Log Homes: Since 1977, Gastineau Log Homes has helped families across America build custom log homes, hybrid homes, cabins, pavilions, and more using quality American materials and time-tested craftsmanship. Subscribe for more episodes of the Acorn & Leaf Podcast featuring home design, construction tips, customer stories, financing advice, industry experts, and behind-the-scenes conversations from the log home world. www.oakloghome.com FOLLOW US  Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

  3. Jun 6

    He Built 110+ Log Homes: 35 Years of Lessons, Mistakes & Success Stories

    Send us Fan Mail For over 35 years, Jeff Fore has been building custom log homes throughout the Midwest and has completed more than 110 log home projects as a dealer and builder for Gastineau Log Homes. In this episode of the Acorn & Leaf Podcast, Jeff shares how a dream of building a log cabin started when he was just 16 years old, eventually leading him from a career as an X-ray technician to becoming one of the most experienced log home builders in the country. We discuss: • How Jeff built over 110 custom log homes  • The biggest changes in log home design since 1990  • Why open-concept floor plans remain popular  • Oak vs. pine log homes and long-term durability  • Common log home maintenance myths  • Vacation cabins, hunting properties, and second homes  • Lessons learned from decades in construction  • Funny customer stories and unforgettable moments on the job  • Advice for aspiring builders and future log home dealers Whether you're planning to build a log home, researching maintenance requirements, or simply love hearing stories from experienced craftsmen, this conversation offers valuable insights from someone who has spent a lifetime helping families create homes built to last for generations. www.oakloghome.com FOLLOW US  Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

  4. May 23

    Financial Planning for Your Forever Home | Expert Advice from CPA Bert Doerhoff

    Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to financially prepare for your dream home? In this episode of the Acorn & Leaf Podcast, Lynn Gastineau and Lacey Schmidt sit down with longtime CPA, wealth advisor, and business leader Bert Doerhoff to talk about the financial realities behind building a custom log home, hybrid home, or forever home. From credit scores and mortgage planning to retirement strategies, debt management, taxes, and family legacy planning, Bert shares decades of practical wisdom for anyone dreaming about building in the next 1 to 10 years. Whether you're just starting to dream, actively planning, or preparing for retirement, this conversation is packed with honest advice to help you build wisely and avoid unnecessary financial stress. In this episode: • How to prepare financially before building a home • Why credit scores matter more than you think • The hidden costs of custom home building • Financing tips for self-employed buyers • Should you pay cash or finance your retirement home? • Why car payments can hurt your dream home plans • Planning a family legacy property or trust • The importance of long-term financial planning and saving early If you’re considering building a log home, timber frame home, hybrid home, or custom forever home, this episode is a must-watch. Learn more about Gastineau Log Homes: www.oakloghome.com Subscribe for more conversations about log & timber homes, lifestyle, craftsmanship, and intentional living through the Acorn & Leaf Podcast. www.oakloghome.com FOLLOW US  Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

  5. May 9

    She Built Her Dream Colorado Log Home Retreat | A Gastineau Homeowner Story

    Send us Fan Mail What’s it really like to build and own a log home? In this episode of Acorn & Leaf, Lynn and Lacey sit down with Gastineau homeowner Nan to talk through her entire journey, from the early dreaming and planning stages to the emotional experience of finally stepping into her completed Colorado retreat home. For Nan and her family, this isn’t just a vacation home. It’s a place to slow down, reconnect, and experience the peace and tranquility that comes with mountain living in a handcrafted Gastineau home. Living near St. Louis, Missouri, every trip west has become something special — a chance to escape the noise and settle into the warmth, comfort, and atmosphere of their Colorado retreat. They discuss: -The inspiration behind building in Colorado -The planning and design process -What surprised them during the build -The emotional connection that comes with log home living -Why the home feels different every time they return If you’ve ever dreamed about building a log home, this conversation gives a genuine, heartfelt look into what that journey can feel like from a real Gastineau homeowner. Learn more about Gastineau Log Homes: www.oakloghome.com www.oakloghome.com FOLLOW US  Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

  6. Apr 25

    Park Models Explained: Affordable Log Living, Simplified

    Send us Fan Mail Thinking about a log home without the full-scale build? This episode breaks it all down. Lynn, Lacey, and Ryan walk through exactly what a Park Model is, why more people are choosing them, and how they fit into real life. From weekend retreats and hunting cabins to guest houses and full-time living, these homes are doing more than you think. We cover: -What defines a Park Model -Available styles and customization options -Key benefits like cost, speed, and flexibility -The most common (and creative) ways people use them If you’ve been curious about a simpler way to own a log home, this is where it starts. Ready to explore your options? Head to our Log Home 2 Go tab and take the first step toward your Park Model. Visit: https://oakloghome.com/log-cabins-to-go/ Call our team to learn more and find the right fit for you. www.oakloghome.com FOLLOW US  Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

  7. Apr 11

    Real Answers from a Home Builder: Log, Hybrid & Timber Frame Q&A with Brock Harvey

    Send us Fan Mail Building a log, hybrid, or timber frame home comes with big questions and even bigger decisions. So we went straight to the source. In this episode, we sit down with experienced home builder Brock Harvey to answer real questions submitted from people across the country. From timelines and budgets to common concerns and misconceptions, Brock brings clear, honest insight to help you feel confident moving forward. Whether you're just starting to explore or ready to build, this conversation is designed to replace uncertainty with clarity and give you a better understanding of what to expect every step of the way. If you've ever felt unsure about the process, this is the episode you don’t want to miss. www.oakloghome.com #loghomes #cabins #hybridhomes #logandtimberhomes #outdoorliving #construction #homebuilder #questionsandanswers www.oakloghome.com FOLLOW US  Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

  8. Feb 28

    90 Years of Log Home Science: Sashco on Stains, Maintenance & Zero Failures

    Send us Fan Mail Our Website: www.oakloghome.com Sashco's Website: www.sashco.com _____ We've trusted Sashco products for our log homes for years, and we can't wait for you to dive into our recent conversation between Lynn and two of their amazing Team Members – Paul Peebles and Todd McArthur! In this episode, we sit down with Paul and Todd from Sashco, a third-generation, family-owned company celebrating nearly 90 years in business. With decades of hands-on experience in wood science, staining, sealants, and real-world log home performance testing, they break down what actually makes log homes last 200+ years. Inside this conversation: • Why round logs weather differently than flat siding • How extreme exposure testing in Colorado reveals the truth about stains • The real story on maintenance and long-term costs • Energy efficiency, building codes, and mass timber comparisons • Carbon storage and the environmental advantages of wood • The Zero Failures Seminar and why professionals travel nationwide to attend From historic restorations to modern builds, this episode dives into the science, craftsmanship, and heritage behind log homes that truly last generations. Subscribe for more on log homes, wood science, and building something worth passing down. www.oakloghome.com FOLLOW US  Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Welcome to our ACORN & LEAF podcast. Tune in as we dive headfirst into the wonderfully woodsy world of log homes!If you've ever found yourself daydreaming about the smell of fresh timber, the crackle of a cozy fire, or whipping up a meal that just tastes better because, well, you're in a log cabin—then you’re in the right place.Each episode, Lynn & others will cover everything from the art of choosing the perfect wood to creating that cabin atmosphere that makes you feel like a lumberjack-turned-gourmet-chef. Whether you’re here for the design tips, the outdoorsy vibes, or just an excuse to romanticize life in the woods, Acorn & Leaf has you covered. Pull on those flannels, kick back, and join us as we explore what makes log home living… unforgettable. 

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