The PowerHouse Cool Collabs

Wendy Cohen
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The PowerHouse Cool Collabs Podcast (collaborators/collaborations) features interviews with the coolest leaders in luxury design, build, development, and real estate, who live with an attitude of gratitude and give back to help humanity. CEO Wendy Cohen will select and interview special guests, exploring their success stories, philanthropic efforts, and innovative collaborations. Three pillars: Coolest Leaders, Attitude of Gratitude, Helping Humanity

  1. Water Is Life: The Hidden Power of Water in Building Healthier Homes with Tina Timm

    MAR 26

    Water Is Life: The Hidden Power of Water in Building Healthier Homes with Tina Timm

    In Episode 36 of the PowerHouse Cool Collabs Podcast, Wendy Cohen sits down with Tina Timm, Builder Development Manager at Water Doctors, to explore one of the most essential—yet often overlooked—elements of the home: water quality. With over 35 years in the building industry, Tina shares her evolution from working alongside builders to becoming a passionate advocate for healthier water systems—an advocacy deeply shaped by her personal journey as a cancer survivor. What began as professional insight has become a mission rooted in awareness, prevention, and care for others. In this meaningful and eye-opening conversation, Wendy and Tina explore: • Why water quality is emerging as a critical pillar in high-performance, wellness-focused home design• The hidden issues in municipal and well water that can impact everything from plumbing systems to long-term health• How builders, architects, and designers can integrate water solutions early—avoiding costly post-close corrections and elevating client trust• What homeowners can do today to better understand, test, and improve the water they live with every day• The difference between point-of-use and whole-home systems—and why both matter• How simple awareness can lead to more intentional living, better outcomes, and a higher standard of care in the built environment Beyond the technical, this episode is also deeply human. Tina shares her heartfelt involvement with the This Time Tomorrow Foundation, where small, meaningful acts of kindness bring light to individuals and families navigating cancer—reminding us that impact extends far beyond the work we do. As the luxury design-build community continues to embrace healthier, more holistic living environments, this episode offers a powerful and timely perspective: Water isn’t just something we use—it’s something we live within. “Look for the pony.”A simple yet profound reminder that even in the unseen, there is opportunity, awareness, and hope. Where to Find Tina Timm Email: tina@h2odoctors.comPhone: (414) 292-7924Address: 901 N. Grandview Blvd., Waukesha, WI 53188 Website: https://www.h2odoctors.com/ LinkedIn (Tina): https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinatimm/LinkedIn (Water Doctors): https://www.linkedin.com/company/water-doctors/posts/?feedView=all Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/h2o_doctors/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/H2ODoctors/ This Time Tomorrow Foundation: https://www.thistimetomorrow.org/ Check Your Local Water Quality (EWG): https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/ WICIW – Women in the Construction Industry Wisconsin:https://www.womeninconstructionwi.com/

    23 min
  2. Rory Rubin on Purpose-Driven Modular Building & the Future of Housing

    MAR 20

    Rory Rubin on Purpose-Driven Modular Building & the Future of Housing

    Wendy Cohen welcomes Rory Rubin, Founded and CEO, S.I. Container Builds Inc., to the PowerHouse Cool Collabs podcast for a powerful conversation on purpose-driven leadership, modular construction, and the future of housing. In Episode 35, Wendy sits down with Rory to explore modular construction, container-based building, and the opportunities this innovative model creates for developers, nonprofits, municipalities, and other mission-driven industry leaders. Rory shares how her company repurposes one-trip shipping containers into code-compliant homes, supportive housing, wellness pods, and other structures built faster and more efficiently than traditional on-site construction. She also explains why quality, licensed trades, engineering, and architectural integration are essential to doing modular building the right way. If you are passionate about housing innovation, economic development, resilient building, sustainability, or scalable solutions for the “missing middle,” this episode is a must-listen. Rory is not only rethinking how we build — she is helping reshape how we serve communities through smarter, faster, and more resilient construction. After listening, be sure to explore her website, view the incredible range of projects, and connect directly with Rory to continue the conversation and discover how you can collaborate. Where to Find Rory Rubin Founded and CEO, S.I. Container Builds Inc Website: https://www.sicontainerbuilds.com/ Email: rory@sicbs.com Phone:(866) 629-8251 LinkedIn (Rory):https://www.linkedin.com/in/roryrubin LinkedIn (Company):https://www.linkedin.com/company/sicontainerbuilds/posts/?feedView=all Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sicontainerbuilds/ TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@sicontainerbuilds YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6AFbNY8t-zQ1HyT9yTg2Ug

    24 min
  3. Wisdom from a Well-Being Intelligence Expert Featuring Nikki Peters on Healthy Homes, Mindful Leadership & the Future of Wellness

    MAR 6

    Wisdom from a Well-Being Intelligence Expert Featuring Nikki Peters on Healthy Homes, Mindful Leadership & the Future of Wellness

    In Episode 34 of the PowerHouse Cool Collabs Podcast, Wendy Cohen sits down with Nikki Peters, Well-Being Intelligence Expert, to explore how wellness is transforming the built environment, workplace culture, and leadership. With a background in kinesiology, yoga, and entrepreneurship—including leadership roles with CorePower Yoga and founding Studio 9 to 5—Nikki brings a unique perspective on how human health, performance, and environment are deeply connected. In this thoughtful conversation, Wendy and Nikki discuss: • What Well-Being Intelligence really means for organizations and leaders• How wellness principles are shaping the future of real estate and design• Why healthy indoor environments improve focus, performance, and quality of life• Nikki’s work helping companies integrate wellness into everyday spaces• The inspiration behind her upcoming book Know Thyself As the luxury design-build community increasingly embraces health-focused living environments, this conversation offers powerful insight into how leaders can create spaces—and cultures—where people truly thrive. Where to find Nikki Peters: Email: nikki@studio9to5wellness.com Website: studio9to5wellness.com  Blog: https://www.studio9to5wellness.com/blog LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkipeters/ LinkedIn Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/studio9to5/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nikki.peters.772410/ Facebook Company: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560474264625 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikki_peters_barrett/ Instagram Company:  https://www.instagram.com/studio9to5 Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/NikkiPeters Purchase Nikki's Book: Know Thyself 100 Courageous Questions Where to find the Host: PowerHouse Companies: Visit PowerHouse Companies Website: www.powerhouse-co.com Podcast on the Website: https://www.powerhouse-co.com/podcast Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERf8rk0auNk&t=4s Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LTIH1m5yc3ajMSp2n0UM2 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-cool-collabs/id1792238056 PowerHouse SMART Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerhousesmart/ PowerHouse SMART Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/powerhousesmart/ Wendy Cohen LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/

    26 min
  4. Builder Marketing Starts Before Dirt Moves Featuring Lynn Walsh, Founder & CEO, Walsh Communications

    FEB 26

    Builder Marketing Starts Before Dirt Moves Featuring Lynn Walsh, Founder & CEO, Walsh Communications

    In Episode 33 of PowerHouse Cool Collabs, host Wendy Cohen welcomes Lynn Walsh, Founder & President of Walsh Communications, one of the most trusted PR and marketing leaders in the IL/WI building industry. Together they explore why builder marketing starts long before construction begins, how to find the true “hook” that earns media placement, and why reinvention, gratitude, and authentic relationships remain the foundation of long-term success. Together, they unpack what’s changed in today’s media landscape, how to identify the real hook that gets stories placed (without blasting 100 editors), and why marketing success begins before a spoon of dirt is moved, with community acceptance, trust, and legacy in mind. It’s also a heartfelt conversation on gratitude, generosity, and the synchronicities that guide meaningful business relationships. Want clarity on your marketing plan? Lynn welcomes a no-cost introductory call to help you quickly discern what you need, and what will truly move the needle. In this commutable episode, Lynn shares: ·  Why you should expect to reinvent yourself multiple times throughout your career ·  What effective PR looks like today for builders, architects, designers, and real estate leaders ·   How to identify the “hook” that earns visibility and credibility ·   How media and editorial have changed, and how to navigate it wisely ·   Why marketing often begins with community relations during zoning and public meetings ·   The biggest mistake leaders make: committing to marketing on a cold call without a strategy Practical, inspiring, and rooted in relationship, this is one you’ll want to share with a builder colleague. Where to find Lynn Walsh: Email: lynn@walshcommunications.com Website: walshcommunications.com  Blog: https://www.walshcommunications.com/blog-1 LinkedIn, Lynn Walsh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-walsh-b3a8487/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063800791738#   Where to find the Host: PowerHouse Companies: Visit PowerHouse Companies Website: www.powerhouse-co.com Podcast on the Website: https://www.powerhouse-co.com/podcast Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERf8rk0auNk&t=4s Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LTIH1m5yc3ajMSp2n0UM2 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-cool-collabs/id1792238056 PowerHouse SMART Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerhousesmart/ PowerHouse SMART Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/powerhousesmart/ Wendy Cohen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerhouserecruiting/

    22 min
  5. Begin With the End in Mind: The Contracts, Foundations & Conversations That Prevent Costly Disputes — with Jim Dash

    FEB 19

    Begin With the End in Mind: The Contracts, Foundations & Conversations That Prevent Costly Disputes — with Jim Dash

    In Episode 32 of PowerHouse Cool Collabs, Wendy sits down with longtime business friend and Carlson Dash Attorneys Founder/Principal Partner Jim Dash for a grounded, insightful conversation about protecting the business behind the passion. With more than 40 years of experience, Jim advises owners, designers, builders, and leaders across the construction and design industry. In this episode, Wendy and Jim explore what many founders avoid until it’s too late — the business foundation beneath the craft. Jim shares why dispute resolution is often financially and mentally destructive, and how clear agreements, aligned expectations, and early conversations can keep you out of the courtroom and focused on what you do best. From protecting your entity properly to preparing for a meaningful exit strategy, this conversation offers practical legal wisdom for building a business designed to last. Along the way, Jim introduces a powerful Stephen Covey exercise — Begin With the End in Mind — inviting us to reflect on legacy, leadership, and what it truly means to live and work with purpose. If this conversation resonates, you’ll find Jim’s contact links below. He has always made himself available to PowerHouse SMART® members and colleagues, generously sharing his time, education, and wisdom to help others build stronger businesses and meaningful careers. Where to find Jim Dash: Email: JDash@carlsondash.com Phone: (866)216-6066 Website: https://carlsondash.com/ LinkedIn Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carlson-dash-llc/ LinkedIn – Jim Dash: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-dash-361aa733/

    29 min
  6. Inside Luxury Home PR: Jennifer McGraw on Getting Published, Growing Visibility & Giving Back

    FEB 5

    Inside Luxury Home PR: Jennifer McGraw on Getting Published, Growing Visibility & Giving Back

    In this inspiring episode of the PowerHouse Cool Collabs Podcast, host Wendy Cohen welcomes the lovely and talented Jennifer McGraw, Principal & Founder of Jennifer McGraw PR, a leading publicist in the luxury home and design industry. Jennifer shares her journey from working at Rolling Stone Magazine in New York City to building a thriving yet boutique PR firm that serves bespoke interior designers, showrooms, and luxury brands across the country. Together, Wendy and Jennifer dive into: • What PR really means today (beyond just submitting projects to magazines)• How designers and brands can know when they’re ready to invest in PR• The powerful relationship between social media, online features, and traditional press• Why industry recognition is just as important as consumer visibility• How emerging designers can grow through online editorials and “evergreen” features Jennifer also opens her heart about living with an attitude of gratitude — from mentoring emerging designers and empowering small artisan brands, to her deep passion for animal rescue and fostering dogs. This commutable, feel-good episode is packed with real-world insight, encouragement, and inspiration for anyone in the luxury design, build, real estate, and home space who believes in collaboration, giving back, and building a brand with purpose. Whether you’re a designer, brand owner, builder, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation will leave you energized and informed.

    21 min
  7. Art-to-Life: Life as a Masterpiece with Philip Sassano

    12/18/2025

    Art-to-Life: Life as a Masterpiece with Philip Sassano

    In this episode, Wendy Cohen, Founder of PowerHouse Companies and host of PowerHouse Cool Collabs, sits down with Philip Sassano, Founder and Principal of The Design Coach, for a soulful, 25-minute conversation designed for your daily commute. Cool Collabs invites you inside Wendy’s trusted inner circle — a curated community of the coolest, most thoughtful leaders in design, build, and real estate — to explore creativity, connection, and living beautifully. Philip Sassano, Founder and Principal of The Design Coach, is a formally trained fine artist with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts whose creative journey has evolved from canvas to interiors, from design-build to the stewardship of luxury homes as places meant to be fully lived. An entrepreneurial visionary at heart, Philip approaches design as a lifelong partnership — coaching clients, teams, and collaborators toward what he calls Creative Outcomes. His work goes far beyond creating beautiful spaces. Instead, he helps clients design homes for a lifetime — environments that evolve over years, are thoughtfully layered with art and furnishings, carefully maintained, and intentionally used to foster connection, hospitality, and meaningful moments. In this conversation, we explore how Philip bridges art and life, transforming homes into living masterpieces that support relationships, memory-making, and a life well lived. This episode is an invitation to rethink design not as a transaction, but as a creative practice — one that shapes how we gather, celebrate, and experience our lives. Philip Sassano also hosts a live weekend radio show broadcast from Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and available on Spotify, where he continues inspiring listeners to live beautifully through creativity and intention.

    25 min
  8. Designing a Life of Meaning: A Soul Conversation with Raad Ghantous

    11/21/2025

    Designing a Life of Meaning: A Soul Conversation with Raad Ghantous

    In this heart-opening episode, Wendy Cohen sits down with longtime friend, designer, and creative force Raad Ghantous to explore what it truly means to live — and lead — from wholeness. Together, they journey through themes of collaboration, gratitude, intentional living, and the courage it takes to keep evolving in a world that’s always changing. Raad shares the personal and professional path that led to the launch of The Rad Life Magazine, and his belief that joy — not productivity — is our truest compass. With humility, humor, and soulful presence, he reflects on design as the creation of human experience, the beauty of chosen family, and why embracing discomfort may be one of the greatest gifts of growth. He also opens the door to the often-untold side of leadership: the evolution of identity, the necessity of reinvention, and the deep human longing for belonging. Drawing from his transitions — economics, marketing, interior design, creative mentorship, and now the birth of The Rad Life — Raad offers timeless wisdom for anyone navigating their next chapter. This conversation explores: collaboration as the new currency of leadershipthe difference between happiness and joybuilding meaningful connection in a digital-first worldthe importance of stillness, curiosity, and chosen familydesign as a medium for creating experience, purpose, and impact

    37 min
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The PowerHouse Cool Collabs Podcast (collaborators/collaborations) features interviews with the coolest leaders in luxury design, build, development, and real estate, who live with an attitude of gratitude and give back to help humanity. CEO Wendy Cohen will select and interview special guests, exploring their success stories, philanthropic efforts, and innovative collaborations. Three pillars: Coolest Leaders, Attitude of Gratitude, Helping Humanity

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