Salute of Appreciation for Notes and Messages

It’s been a decade since I was in the TV phase of my career. Back then, I had no way of knowing what was around the corner, how the shows would be received or considered, and then in what ways they would pop up beyond HGTV and the DIY network. Even now, the reach of American Rehab Charleston and Restoring Charleston is surprising. And yet, since I still receive notes and messages from viewers, I’m reminded that they’re out there and inspiring viewers who find ways to contact me.

The time taken to watch, but also then to reach out with questions or comments is always appreciated and marks my day, whether positive or not. More than once, I’ve discovered a dusty DM, sometimes years after it was written. I make an effort to respond to everyone, but I’m steadily learning new things about my smartphone, stumbling onto emails or inboxes that are off my radar. And if I’ve missed a message, haven’t written someone back, I’m truly sorry.

Motivation for those reaching out seems to vary. Sometimes people have a question about a scene in one of the episodes. Other viewers ask for advice or my two cents. Some have a great home they think I should take a look at, a house with potential and too special to not save. There are also folks curious about how it happened for me, my background leading to an opportunity to renovate with the film crews. Many are interested in being on television themselves, either they’d like to get into the action with me or want to know if I can help them land shows of their own.

And I’ve also heard from people from my past, kids I grew up with who now have families and careers of their own. They’ve contacted me saying, “I recognized your voice,” or “I saw your name on the screen and told my family, ‘I know that guy!” Old co-workers now in other parts of the country have also written to tell me similar stories of the moment of them discovering me on TV.

However, there have also been disappointed viewers, underwhelmed to a point that they’ve spent time letting me know how they feel and what was not right.

As much as I enjoy writing about renovating, sharing stories or offering encouragement, I think it makes some sense to dig deeper and lay out some answers for those who remain curious.