HVAC CHATS

Endeavor Business Media

Welcome to “HVAC Chats,” a series of HVAC podcast episodes by Contracting Business and Endeavor Business Media, hosted by Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business magazine. “HVAC Chats” offers industry and business insights to help heating and air conditioning contractors grow and manage their businesses. In every episode, Contracting Business explores the topics and trends impacting HVAC contracting businesses and considers strategies for success in the ever-changing HVACR market. For more information on Contracting Business, visit www.contractingbusiness.com.

  1. 11 MAR

    How AI Search Is Reshaping the Way Homeowners Find HVAC Contractors

    In this episode of HVAC Chats, host Nicole Krawcke, head of content for Contracting Business, sits down with Colleen Keyworth, director of sales and marketing at Online-Access, to unpack how AI-driven search is transforming digital marketing for HVAC contractors. The conversation explores how tools like Google's AI Overview and large language models are shifting consumer behavior, what that means for local search visibility, and why foundational SEO remains critical even as the landscape evolves. Keyworth offers contractors practical guidance on auditing their online presence, managing third-party directory listings, creating quality content, and building the community trust that no algorithm can manufacture.

    37 min

  2. 25 FEB

    The HVAC Pricing Mindset and Strategies to Drive Growth in 2026

    In this episode of HVAC Chats, Nicole Krawcke speaks with Danielle Putnam, CEO of The New Flat Rate, about pricing strategy, mindset, and profitability for HVAC contractors. Putnam shares insights on resetting pricing through accurate billable hour calculations, overcoming technician discounting habits, and using menu pricing systems to reduce objections. The conversation also explores how branding, scripting, and structured customer journeys support confident price presentation. Together, they outline practical steps contractors can take to price for profit, protect margins, and build sustainable HVAC businesses in 2026.

    25 min

  3. 11 FEB

    How Mentorship Strengthens HVACR Workforce Development

    In this episode of "HVAC Chats," host Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business, is joined by Lori Tschohl and Barbara Pfeiffer from the Women in HVACR Navigator program to discuss how mentorship builds confidence and strengthens leadership pathways in the HVACR industry. Tschohl shares her journey from business ownership into the trades and her long-standing experience mentoring professionals, while Pfeiffer reflects on seeking guidance as she advanced into operations leadership. Together, they explore how structured mentor-mentee relationships support workforce development, career growth, and stronger industry connections—especially for women and underrepresented groups in HVACR.

    30 min

  4. 28 ENE

    Smart HVAC Business Moves That Protect Profit During Soft Markets

    In this episode of HVAC Chats, host Nicole Krawcke, head of content at Contracting Business, sits down with Dustin Guyton, coach and industry expert at Business Development Resources (BDR). The conversation explores how HVAC contractors can recognize early signs of a softening market, set realistic revenue goals using historical data, and stabilize operations through proactive planning. Guyton also discusses why maintenance agreements, disciplined business planning, strategic investment, and technology adoption are critical for navigating economic uncertainty and positioning HVAC businesses for long-term growth.

    34 min

  5. 14 ENE

    Using Data-Driven Marketing to Reach High-Value HVAC Customers

    "HVAC Chats" Host Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business, is joined by Gage Donovan, director of account services at Johnson Media Group, to discuss how HVAC contractors can evolve their marketing strategies for 2026. Drawing on Johnson Media Group’s deep experience in the trades, Donovan explains the growing role of streaming television, targeted media, and data-driven planning in building trust and improving lead quality. The conversation explores how contractors of all sizes can compete more effectively, reduce customer acquisition costs, and strengthen brand recognition in an increasingly crowded HVAC marketplace.

    26 min

  6. 24/12/2025

    Employee Retention Lessons From a Growing HVAC & Plumbing Contracting Business

    In this episode of "HVAC Chats," host Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business, speaks with Tony Cooper, owner of Cooper’s Plumbing and Air in Bainbridge, Georgia, and Tallahassee, Florida. Cooper shares how leadership development, employee incentives, and phantom equity have supported retention and growth in his HVAC and plumbing business. The conversation explores workforce challenges, hiring leaders from outside the trades, and using structured incentive tools to align employees with long-term business performance. This episode offers practical insights for HVACR contractors focused on retention, leadership, and sustainable growth.

    20 min

  7. 10/12/2025

    Capital Planning Tips for HVAC Contractors Amid Economic Shifts

    In this episode of "HVAC Chats,"  Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business, speaks with Brian Beaulieu, chief economist at ITR Economics, about economic trends and business strategies for 2026. They discuss rising material and labor costs, effective pricing strategies, workforce retention, and capital planning for contractors. The conversation provides actionable insights for HVACR professionals seeking to maintain profitability, manage risk, and position their businesses for growth in a cautious but improving market.

    15 min

  8. 26/11/2025

    How AI is Transforming Commercial Refrigeration Training and Service

    In this episode, Editor-in-Chief Nicole Krawcke speaks with Trevor Matthews, founder of Refrigeration Mentor, a provider of refrigeration, CO₂, and HVACR training programs. Matthews shares insights from his career as a commercial refrigeration technician, manufacturer trainer, and industry educator. The discussion explores how artificial intelligence, smart controls, CO₂ systems, and advanced electronics are reshaping refrigeration service, training, and workforce expectations. Contractors and technicians will gain practical perspectives on improving efficiency, troubleshooting, and professional development as commercial refrigeration technology continues to evolve.

    23 min
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Información

Welcome to “HVAC Chats,” a series of HVAC podcast episodes by Contracting Business and Endeavor Business Media, hosted by Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business magazine. “HVAC Chats” offers industry and business insights to help heating and air conditioning contractors grow and manage their businesses. In every episode, Contracting Business explores the topics and trends impacting HVAC contracting businesses and considers strategies for success in the ever-changing HVACR market. For more information on Contracting Business, visit www.contractingbusiness.com.

Ficha técnica

  • Creado por
    Endeavor Business Media
  • Años en activo
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodios
    52
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Derechos de autor
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Sitio web del podcast
    HVAC CHATS