From Runway to Renovation: Joanie Sprague’s Inspiring Journey in Home Improvement

In the dynamic world of home improvement and reality television, certain personalities carve out a niche that is truly their own. Joanie Sprague is undoubtedly one such individual, a remarkable woman whose journey from the high-stakes world of fashion modeling to the hands-on realm of licensed contracting and television hosting is as inspiring as it is unique. Our first encounter with Joanie took place several years ago on the vibrant set of Built to Shred, a show renowned for its audacious and often gravity-defying skate ramp constructions. This serendipitous meeting offered a glimpse into the genuine passion and talent of a woman who would soon become a familiar face on screens nationwide, particularly with her pivotal role in the much-anticipated return of TLC’s iconic series, Trading Spaces.

A Glimpse Behind the Scenes: The Built to Shred Encounter

The atmosphere on the Built to Shred set was electric, charged with the ambitious spirit of innovation. The crew had pushed the boundaries of design and engineering, crafting what they proudly called a “spiral of death ramp”—a structure so intricate and daunting it seemed only the most fearless daredevils would brave its twists and turns. As a spectator, I was captivated by the sheer complexity and architectural ingenuity that went into constructing these elaborate skate ramp structures. Amidst the flurry of activity, a tall, poised blonde figure stood out. Unlike many others who were engrossed in the skaters’ daring antics, she seemed singularly focused on the precise construction details of the ramps, exuding an air of quiet determination and expertise.

Curiosity piqued, I introduced myself. Our conversation flowed easily, and as we discussed the intricate work happening around us, Joanie humbly revealed that she was, in fact, the host of her own television show. It was a revelation that underscored her unique authenticity. In an industry often populated by personalities more interested in self-promotion, meeting someone like Joanie—a legitimate licensed contractor deeply invested in the craft of building cool, innovative things—was a truly refreshing experience. Her genuine enthusiasm for construction, rather than just the celebrity aspect, left a lasting impression. But Joanie’s story, as it turns out, only gets more fascinating from there.

For those eager to dive deeper into Joanie’s insights and experiences, we had the privilege of hosting her on our podcast. Listen to our full podcast with Joanie on Tool Crave here.

From Fashion Runway to Home Renovation: A Unique Pedigree

While Trading Spaces marks an exciting new chapter, it is far from Joanie Sprague’s first foray into the world of home improvement television. Prior to her involvement with the beloved TLC series, she co-hosted Run My Renovation on the DIY Network, where her practical skills and engaging personality shone brightly. What makes Joanie’s trajectory particularly compelling, however, is her unexpected origin in the entertainment industry: she was the runner-up on Cycle 6 of America’s Next Top Model. This unique blend of high fashion glamour and hands-on construction acumen is a pedigree rarely seen among licensed contractors, and it’s precisely this intriguing background that prompted us to sit down with her for an in-depth interview.

Joanie’s ability to pivot from the catwalk to the construction site speaks volumes about her drive and commitment to following her true passions. Her story is a testament to the idea that passion, coupled with hard work, can bridge even the most seemingly disparate worlds. We were eager to understand how she navigated this extraordinary path, transforming her dreams of building from a childhood hobby into a thriving career and a prominent television presence. As you continue reading, you’ll discover how she meticulously crafted her journey, successfully transitioning from the demanding world of modeling to the gratifying realm of home renovations.

An Exclusive Interview with Joanie Sprague

We had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Joanie about her experiences, her motivations, and her vision for the future of DIY.

C&H: How has your experience been working on your own DIY Network show, Run My Renovation?
Joanie: Working on the DIY Network has been nothing short of incredible. It’s been an absolute blessing. I genuinely couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to work with—individuals who are not only incredibly talented but also immensely supportive of me and, more importantly, of each other. The camaraderie on set is truly special.

Everyone involved, from the crew to my co-hosts, is so patient, genuine, and dedicated. Of course, shooting a TV show comes with its share of stresses, and we’ve certainly had our ups and downs. But without fail, every time I know I have to go back to work, a huge smile automatically lights up my face! I’ve learned an immeasurable amount, and I’m confident that I will continue to learn and grow with every new project. It’s a truly rewarding environment.

C&H: Your transition from a Top Model contestant to a DIY Network TV personality is quite remarkable. Can you share the story of how that came about? And has your modeling experience proven beneficial in your current role on the show?
Joanie: A model turned contractor… I often say stranger things may not have happened, but for me, it felt incredibly natural, like it was perfectly aligned with who I am. You could say it was truly meant to be.

I’ve always been handy, ever since I was a little girl. My father didn’t have any sons, so I essentially became his “little boy,” accompanying him everywhere. I learned everything I could from him, often involuntarily, just by being present and observing. Now, I’m incredibly grateful for every skill and piece of knowledge he imparted to me. Beyond my TV work, I also run a small business called Neat Freaks LA, where I specialize in closet organization, home styling, and various “handy girl” jobs for clients.

The combination of my hands-on experience and the unexpected notoriety I gained from America’s Next Top Model proved to be a unique advantage. A friend of mine, seeing my passion and skill, put together a tape of me working on a project and took it directly to the DIY Network. A few months later, I was auditioning, and the rest, as they say, is history!

As for whether modeling has helped, it primarily comes into play when we’re showcasing the finished product. There’s a certain ease with presentation and camera awareness that definitely carries over. I sometimes feel a bit “Vanna White-ish” when I’m highlighting elements of a completed renovation, but honestly, it’s a perfect fit for that part of the job!

C&H: Looking beyond Run My Renovation and even Trading Spaces, what are some of your short-term or long-term goals and aspirations?
Joanie: Ideally, my ultimate goal is to have my own show that truly reflects my vision. I’m particularly passionate about empowering women, inspiring them to take on home improvement projects, and educating themselves on the true ins and outs of doing it yourself. My dream is to help them feel confident and capable in every step of the DIY process. If I could achieve a “Martha Stewart-like status”—minus, of course, the convicted felon part—that would be absolutely awesome! Additionally, I’d love to start a women’s workwear brand. There’s a real need for stylish, durable, and functional workwear designed specifically for women. And, alongside that, creating a line of truly lady-friendly tools would be fantastic!

C&H: For DIY enthusiasts who are inspired by your shows, what do you consider the best ways for them to learn new skills and deepen their knowledge?
Joanie: I think the DIY Network’s how-to videos are an excellent starting point—they provide clear, concise instructions. But it doesn’t stop there. Many local hardware stores, like Lowe’s and Home Depot, offer free classes and workshops that are absolutely fantastic resources for hands-on learning. And in this digital age, there’s always Google! Seriously, the internet is an incredible library of knowledge. Even I still turn to YouTube when I find myself in a pinch or need a quick refresher on a specific technique. The key is to be curious and persistent in your learning journey.

C&H: What are some of your interests and passions outside of the world of home improvement?
Joanie: Oh, I have quite a few! I absolutely love video editing. I consider myself a tech-savvy, Mac-loving, Final Cut Pro-using chick. The process of shooting, editing, and creating visual stories is incredibly fulfilling for me. If I had more time, I would definitely pursue it full-time.

Beyond that, I also enjoy cooking, expressing myself through painting, and playing the piano. Traveling is another huge passion of mine—exploring new places and cultures recharges my spirit. Recently, I’ve started doing Crossfit, and it’s been amazing to be part of such a cool community of athletes and friends. And, without a doubt, I love going to see live concerts and shows. There’s an undeniable energy and excitement in anything live that I find incredibly captivating.

C&H: Thank you so much, Joanie, for sharing your incredible story and insights with us! It’s truly been a pleasure.

The Legacy Continues: Joanie Sprague on Trading Spaces

Joanie Sprague’s journey is a powerful narrative of embracing one’s true calling, demonstrating that a background in high fashion can indeed pave a unique path into the practical world of construction and design. Her authentic approach, combined with her genuine skill and a desire to empower others, makes her a standout figure in the home improvement landscape. As a key member of the new cast, Joanie brings her distinctive blend of style, expertise, and down-to-earth charm to the revitalized series. You can catch Joanie as she showcases her talents and inspires homeowners across the nation when Trading Spacesreturns on April 7 on TLC.

Beyond her television appearances, Joanie continues to pursue her passion through her contractor business, Neat Freaks LA, offering practical solutions and creative design for homes. To stay connected with her ongoing projects and daily inspirations, you can also follow Joanie on Facebook and Twitter, where she frequently shares updates and interacts with her growing community of fans and DIY enthusiasts.

Joanie Sprague: A Mini-Profile of Passions and Preferences

To give you an even closer look into the multifaceted personality of Joanie Sprague, here’s a quick glimpse at some of her favorites:

• 1. Favorite Designer: This is a tough one, as I appreciate so many different styles! I really enjoy modern design, drawing inspiration from pioneers like Le Corbusier, Gropius, Oppenheim, Isozaki, and, of course, the enduring legacy of the Wrights. Growing up near Fallingwater definitely shaped my appreciation for architectural innovation. However, I’m also constantly captivated by so many new designers who are bringing fresh, innovative ideas to home aesthetics! Right now, I’m particularly loving cottage-style living and the unique charm of reclaimed wood. On the fashion front, that’s an easy choice: I adore Ksubi for denim, Future Heretics for unique LA local designs, Yves Saint Laurent for timeless sunglasses, Gucci and Valentino for exquisite handbags, and Bulgari for truly stunning jewelry (which I wish I could afford more often!).
• 2. Coveted Tool: My Makita Impact Driver. Absolutely love it, absolutely need it for just about every project. It’s an indispensable part of my toolkit.
• 3. Best Meal: Nothing beats fresh sushi, or a perfectly grilled salmon paired with roasted sweet potatoes. I generally follow the Paleo lifestyle, so these are always delicious and satisfying choices. 🙂
• 4. Dream Car: An Audi A8, black on black, embodies sleek sophistication. Alternatively, a Porsche Panamera, white with a tan interior, offers a different kind of elegant sportiness.
• 5. Memorable Book: “The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success” by Deepak Chopra. Without exaggeration, no other book has had such a profound and positive impact on my life and perspective.
• 6. Favorite Film: I have two that hold a special place: “Ciao Manhattan” for its unique artistry, and “Love Me If You Dare” for its compelling story.
• 7. Ultimate Travel Destination: High on my list are the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu. Another dream destination would be the breathtaking underwater hotel in Dubai—a truly unique experience.
• 8. First Thing You Ever Built: When I was a kid, I built an epic fort. It wasn’t just a simple structure; it had multiple rooms and doors, ingeniously crafted from random pieces of wood and whatever materials my friends and I could scavenge. It was absolutely awesome, a true testament to my early passion for building!