When a build day runs smoothly, it looks effortless. But behind every straight wall and safe ladder, there are guides who turn goodwill into good work.

In Episode 4 of Habitat: Heart, Hammer, and Home, Mark Deal and Pat Fenner step behind the scenes to meet the crew leaders, site supervisors, and coalition chairs who quietly hold the whole project together. From early morning safety briefings to patient lessons in nail patterns and paint strokes, we hear how experienced leaders teach, protect, and inspire, while interfaith partners work behind the scenes to fund and plan each build. It is a story of patience, precision, and purpose, told by the people who spend their Saturdays helping others learn how to build hope.

In this episode

• How crew leaders turn nervous first-timers into confident builders
• Why safety talks, jokes, and clear instructions set the tone for the whole day
• How patient teaching, curiosity, and humor become tools as important as hammers
• The hidden planning, fundraising, and interfaith partnerships that make every build possible
• What long-time leaders hope to pass on to the next generation of guides
• How blessings, signatures, and quiet rituals inside the walls create a lasting legacy

Featured voices

Craig Tucker (Site Leader) • Greg (Crew Leader) • James Hargrett (Crew Leader) • Dale (Crew Leader) • Henry Haney (Co-Chair, Cobb Interfaith Habitat Coalition) • Paul Wilson (Co-Chair, Cobb Interfaith Habitat Coalition)

Take action

Support the people who guide the work, and the families they serve. Donate, volunteer, or explore sponsorship opportunities at PodcastAtlanta.com/Habitat.

Credits

Hosted by Mark Deal & Pat Fenner • Editing & Sound Design: Pat Fenner • Story & Interviews: Mark Deal

A Podcast Atlanta Production

Mentioned in this episode:

ep4 recap

ep4 musical recap