Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles
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A look at what it takes to keep a commercial kitchen running. We are going to highlight all of the skilled trades it takes to keep them running.

  1. Episode 189: Starting Over From Scratch: Brent Hall’s Bold Move That Changed Everything

    2 DAYS AGO

    Episode 189: Starting Over From Scratch: Brent Hall’s Bold Move That Changed Everything

    From New York to Atlanta. From established business to starting over from scratch. What would you do? This week on Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat Finley sits down with Brent Hall, founder and owner of Favored Mechanical Solutions (FMS), for an honest conversation about risk, entrepreneurship, commercial foodservice equipment repair, and what it really takes to build a service company people trust. Brent shares his journey of building a successful commercial foodservice equipment repair company in New York, making the bold move to Atlanta, Georgia, and starting all over again. No shortcuts. No guarantees. Just hard work, relationships, and betting on yourself. The crew dives into building customer trust, growing a commercial refrigeration and cooking equipment service business, creating content in the trades, balancing family life with entrepreneurship, and lessons learned from building a company from the ground up. If you own a service company, dream about starting one, or want to level up in commercial foodservice equipment repair, this episode hits home. Topics include:• Building Favored Mechanical Solutions from the ground up• Leaving New York and relocating to Atlanta• Entrepreneurship in the skilled trades• Customer relationships and business growth• Commercial refrigeration and cooking equipment service• Creating content as a technician• Service company lessons learned the hard way• Family, sacrifice, and chasing bigger goals Whether you're fixing fryers, chasing refrigeration calls, working on commercial kitchen equipment, or building your own service business, this episode is packed with insight from someone out there grinding every day. Big thanks to Viper by Refrigeration Technologies for supporting Commercial Kitchen Chronicles. From coil cleaners and leak detection products to trusted chemicals technicians depend on every day, Viper helps keep service professionals working smarter in the field. https://www.refrigtech.com/ Subscribe, follow, and share Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, The Original Foodservice Equipment Repair Podcast built by technicians for technicians. https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/ Drop a comment: If you had to start over tomorrow from zero, would you do it differently? #FoodserviceEquipmentRepair #CommercialRefrigeration #HVACR #SkilledTrades #CommercialKitchenEquipment #Entrepreneurship #RestaurantEquipmentRepair #RefrigerationTech #CommercialKitchenChronicles #FoodserviceIndustry #ServiceTechnician #TradesLife #CommercialHVAC #BusinessGrowth #FavoredMechanicalSolutions

    53 min
  2. Episode 188:

    15 MAY

    Episode 188:

    This week on the Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat sits down with Jay McDonough of Restaurant Appliance Repair out of Kansas City, Missouri for a real-world conversation about what it takes to build a name in the Foodservice Equipment Repair Industry. 🔥 Jay started RAR at just 25 years old and has spent the last 11 years grinding through commercial kitchen equipment repair, refrigeration, walk-in cooler and freezer installs, electrical troubleshooting, equipment sales, and building solutions for restaurants across the KC market. https://www.816kitchen.com/ https://www.instagram.com/restaurant_appliance_repair/?hl=en This episode dives deep into:✔️ Commercial kitchen equipment repair✔️ Refrigeration and HVACR service✔️ Walk-in cooler and freezer installs✔️ Starting and growing a service company✔️ Social media and content creation in the trades✔️ The future of foodservice equipment repair✔️ Building a new line of food equipment products If you’re a technician, business owner, installer, refrigeration mechanic, or someone trying to grow in the skilled trades, this episode is loaded with insight from someone actually out there doing the work every single day. Huge thanks to our sponsor Viper by Refrigeration Technologies 🐍 This episode is brought to you by Viper products built for real technicians. From Big Blu leak detector and Venom packs to Nylog White, Viper continues making products that belong on every service truck. Nylog White is NSF registered and perfect for refrigeration, food equipment, gas piping, water lines, and more. Whether you’re working on restaurant equipment, HVACR systems, or refrigeration repairs, Viper has products designed to help techs work smarter and cleaner. https://www.refrigtech.com/ 🎙️ Watch now and join the conversation. Drop a comment below: What’s the biggest challenge facing the Foodservice Equipment Repair Industry right now? Make sure to like, subscribe, share the episode, and tag another tech who needs to hear this one. Stay up to date with all things CKC related. https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/ #FoodserviceEquipmentRepair #CommercialKitchen #HVACR #Refrigeration #RestaurantEquipment #WalkInCooler #TechnicianLife #CommercialKitchenChronicles #SkilledTrades #HVACTech #RefrigerationTech #KitchenEquipmentRepair

    1hr 3min
  3. Episode 187: Commercial Kitchen Chronicles Goes Off the Rails Again

    8 MAY

    Episode 187: Commercial Kitchen Chronicles Goes Off the Rails Again

    What happens when Pat, Jason, and Rich get together with zero agenda and full permission to go off the rails? This episode right here 🔥 The crew is back for one of the most unfiltered Commercial Kitchen Chronicles episodes yet. We’re talking commercial kitchen equipment repair, HVACR, refrigeration tech life, service call chaos, career moves, burnout, leadership, the realities of the trades, and all the random BS that happens when technicians start talking shop. Jason jumps back in after grinding through his new role, Rich brings the heat like always, and the entire episode feels like hanging out after work with the guys who actually understand what life in the field is like. No corporate filter. No polished nonsense. Just real tech talk from people actually doing the job. If you’re tired of fake trade content made by people who haven’t touched a tool in years, this episode is for you. Huge shoutout to 🐍 Viper from Refrigeration Technologies for sponsoring the episode. If you work in commercial kitchens, you already know grease destroys coils and wrecks efficiency. Viper coil cleaners are technician safe, non corrosive, and actually cut through the nasty buildup without destroying the equipment you’re trying to save. No gimmicks. Just products that work when the pressure is on. https://www.refrigtech.com/ Drop a comment with your favorite part of the episodeShare it with your crew And if this sounds like your kind of chaos, subscribe and join the movement 🔧🔥 https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/ #HVACR #CommercialKitchen #Refrigeration #FoodserviceEquipment #ServiceTechnician #BlueCollar #HVACLife #RefrigerationTech #TradesLife #CommercialKitchenChronicles

    1hr 10min

  4. 1 MAY

    Episode 186: Aaron Jacobitz 💥 Sales, Systems, and Teams: What It Really Takes to Grow

    What’s REALLY holding service companies back? 🤔 In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with 🎙️ Aaron Jacobitz from Refrigeration Heroesto break down the hard truths about sales, team building, and growth in the refrigeration and foodservice repair industry. If you’re a technician, service manager, or business owner trying to level up… this one is going to hit 👇 We’re talking:🔥 Why most service companies stay stuck (and how to fix it)🔥 The real role of SALES in a service business (without being pushy)🔥 How to build high-performing teams that actually produce🔥 Why communication might be more valuable than technical skill🔥 The shift from “just a tech” to a high-value professional🔥 Systems, processes, and leadership that actually scale a company This isn’t theory. This is real-world insight from someone driving growth inside the industry right now. 🐍 Brought to you by Viper from Refrigeration Technologies If you’re still fighting callbacks, dirty coils, or chasing leaks… you’re making your life harder than it needs to be. https://www.refrigtech.com/ From coil cleaners to leak detection and system protection, Viper has the tools techs actually trust in the field.👉 Do it right the first time and keep your callbacks low 🎯 Who this episode is for:✔️ Refrigeration technicians✔️ Foodservice equipment repair pros✔️ HVACR professionals✔️ Service managers and business owners✔️ Anyone trying to grow in the skilled trades 💥 If you’ve ever felt stuck… underpaid… or like your company isn’t moving forward… this episode will challenge how you think about your role in the industry 👉 Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway👉 Share this with a tech or manager who needs to hear it👉 Subscribe for more real-world content from the foodservice repair industry Commercial Kitchen ChroniclesThe original foodservice equipment repair podcastReal techs. Real stories. Real growth. 👊 https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/ Find more out from Aaron https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-jacobitz-94935a199/ https://refrigerationheroes.com

    55 min

  5. 24 APR

    Episode 185:Zero Experience to Regional Supervisor in 5 Years | Clay Hartzog on Winning in the Trades 🔥

    From factory work in the Appalachian Mountains to Regional Supervisor in just five years… this is the kind of story the trades need right now 🔥 In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Clay Hartzog to break down his journey from zero experience to leading operations across Virginia and North Carolina for Archway Service Group. No shortcuts, no fluff… just real-world growth in the foodservice equipment repair and HVAC/R industry. Clay shares what it actually takes to break into the trades with no background, how he accelerated his career faster than most, and the mindset shift required to move from technician to leadership. This is a raw, honest conversation about opportunity, work ethic, and what separates average techs from the ones who rise. If you’re a technician looking to level up, someone thinking about getting into the skilled trades, or a leader trying to develop the next generation, this episode delivers real insight you can apply immediately. In this episode, we cover:• How to start a career in HVAC/R or foodservice equipment repair with no experience• The habits and mindset that drive rapid career growth in the trades• Transitioning from technician to supervisor and leading teams effectively• Common mistakes young techs make and how to avoid them• Why the skilled trades offer massive opportunity right now 🐍 This episode is brought to you by Viper from Refrigeration TechnologiesTrusted by technicians in the field, Viper products like Big Blu leak detector and their full line of coil cleaners are built to perform when it matters. If you’re serious about doing the job right, this is gear you want on your truck. https://www.refrigtech.com/ 👇 Don’t just listen… take action 👇Subscribe to Commercial Kitchen Chronicles on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple PodcastsDrop a comment with your biggest takeaway from this episodeShare this with someone who needs to hear that opportunity in the trades is real The trades aren’t dying… they’re wide open for the ones willing to step in and take it. 🔧🔥 Reach out to Clay Hartzog https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayton-hartzog-9920771a3/ Stay up to date with the crew of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/ #HVACR #FoodserviceRepair #SkilledTrades #TechnicianLife #CommercialKitchen #HVACTech #BlueCollarCareers #TradeLife #CareerGrowth #Podcast

    48 min

  6. 17 APR

    Episode 184: Rack Refrigeration Will Humble You – OEM Junkie Tells the Truth 🔧

    This week on Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we’re joined by Thomas Lisaula, better known as OEM Junkie, to break down the REAL world of supermarket refrigeration—and why rack systems will humble you fast. If you think refrigeration is just “bigger HVAC”… this episode is going to reset your expectations. Thomas works in high-demand environments where uptime is critical, specializing in rack systems, store-level HVAC, and EMS platforms like Emerson and Danfoss. From diagnostics under pressure to navigating complex systems, this conversation is packed with real-world insight you won’t get from a textbook. We dig into:• The reality of rack refrigeration vs what most techs expect• How EMS and controls actually impact troubleshooting• The pressure of working on systems where downtime isn’t an option• Common mistakes techs make early in refrigeration• Transitioning from HVAC into supermarket refrigeration• Developing a strong troubleshooting mindset in the field We also get into Thomas’s personal journey—how he got started, what challenged him early on, and what it really takes to grow in one of the toughest sides of the trade. If you’re a technician looking to level up, or you’ve ever thought about getting into rack refrigeration, this is one you don’t want to miss. If you’re working in commercial kitchens, you already know—grease gets everywhere, especially on coils. That’s where Viper coil cleaners from Refrigeration Technologies come in. Their non-corrosive, technician-safe formulas are built to cut through heavy buildup without damaging the equipment you’re trying to protect. No harsh acids, no unnecessary risk—just effective cleaning that keeps systems running the way they should. If you’re servicing restaurant equipment, make sure Viper is on your truck. https://www.refrigtech.com/ Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more real-world conversations from the field. Drop a comment below—have you worked on rack systems yet, or are you looking to make the jump? Thomas https://www.tiktok.com/@oem_junkie https://www.youtube.com/@oem_junkie 👉 More CKC content lives here: www.commercialkitchenchronicles.com #HVACR #Refrigeration #RackRefrigeration #OEMJunkie #CommercialRefrigeration #EMS #HVACTech #SupermarketRefrigeration

    52 min

  7. 10 APR

    Episode 183: Sally Ray and Why Hoshizaki Is Ahead of the Game Right Now

    In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, I sit down with Sally Ray, VP of Marketing at Hoshizaki America, to talk about where the foodservice equipment industry is headed and what it means for technicians in the field. We dive into the Hoshizaki Alliance and how it’s bringing together multiple brands to create more complete solutions for operators, while also opening the door for better innovation, support, and product development. Sally shares her journey into the industry, what her role really looks like behind the scenes, and how customer feedback is directly shaping the equipment we work on every day. We also get into new product launches, trends coming out of major trade shows, and the ongoing refrigerant transition—including what techs can expect as more R290 and A2L equipment continues to hit the field. This conversation is all about connecting the dots between manufacturers, technicians, and end users—and giving you a better understanding of why things are changing and how to stay ahead of it. This episode is brought to you by Ambro Controls. If you’re doing brazing, nitrogen purging, or precision work in the field, Ambro has the tools built for real-world conditions. From portable torch setups to complete kits, it’s gear designed to give you control, consistency, and cleaner results on every job. https://ambrocontrols.com/ Find out more about Hoshizaki and more here. https://www.hoshizakiamerica.com/ https://hoshizakialliance.com/ Connect with Commercial Kitchen Chronicles here https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/ #hvacr #hvactech #refrigeration #commercialrefrigeration #icemachines #hoshizaki #foodserviceequipment #commercialkitchen #kitchenequipment #restaurantindustry #restaurantrepair #servicetech #fieldservice #skilledtrades #tradeslife #bluecollar #tradesman #hvaclife #refrigerationtech #equipmentrepair #cfesa #foodserviceindustry #kitchenrepair #techlife #toolsandtrades #hvactraining #refrigerationtraining #tradestraining #r290 #a2l #refrigerant #commercialappliances #restauranttech #foodservicepro #kitcheninnovation #hvacrindustry #mechanicaltrades #workforce #tradescareers #learnatrade

    52 min
  8. Episode 182: Johnny Hall: Building the “Let’s Be Techs” Community | Real Talk from the Field

    3 APR

    Episode 182: Johnny Hall: Building the “Let’s Be Techs” Community | Real Talk from the Field

    What happens when a technician with zero formal training, 27 years in the field, and a passion for helping others decides to just… start sharing? You get Johnny Hall — the voice behind Let’s Be Techs. In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Johnny to break down how a simple idea — “let us be techs… let’s learn together” — turned into one of the most authentic, no-BS communities in the trades. This isn’t about polished content or textbook answers. This is about:– Learning the hard way in the field– Figuring things out without a roadmap– Building real skills without formal schooling– And why community matters more now than ever in HVACR and skilled trades Johnny shares his journey from coming up in the trade with no traditional path, to becoming a content creator who’s helping thousands of technicians think differently, troubleshoot smarter, and grow faster. We also get into:– Why too many techs are left to “figure it out” alone– The gap between experience and training– The power of sharing knowledge openly– And what the next generation of technicians actually needs If you’ve ever felt like you were thrown to the wolves in this trade… this episode is going to hit home. 🎧 Listen now and join the conversation👇 Drop your thoughts — are we building better techs, or just hoping they survive? This episode is brought to you by Viper Coil Cleaners If you’re working in commercial kitchens, you already know — grease gets everywhere, especially on coils.That’s where Viper coil cleaners come in.Viper’s non-corrosive, technician-safe formulas are designed to cut through heavy buildup without damaging the equipment you’re trying to protect.No harsh acids, no unnecessary risk — just powerful, effective cleaning that keeps systems running the way they should.If you service restaurant equipment, make sure Viper is on your truck. https://www.refrigtech.com/ Connect with Johnny and Let's Be Techs https://www.facebook.com/letsbetechs https://www.instagram.com/lets_be_techs/ https://www.youtube.com/@LetsBeTechs https://www.tiktok.com/@letsbetechs Commercial Kitchen Chronicles https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/ #HVAC #HVACR #Refrigeration #CommercialKitchen #FoodserviceEquipment #TechnicianLife #SkilledTrades #BlueCollar #TradesLife #ServiceTech #HVACTech #RefrigerationTech #FieldService #HVACTraining #TradeSchoolAlternative #LearnTheTrade #OnTheTools #TechLife #HVACCommunity #BlueCollarLife #WorkInTheTrades #NextGenTrades #ToolsOfTheTrade #ServiceIndustry #KitchenEquipment #FixItLife #NoDaysOff #GrindMode #TradeTalk #LetsBeTechs

    59 min
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About

A look at what it takes to keep a commercial kitchen running. We are going to highlight all of the skilled trades it takes to keep them running.

Information

  • Creator
    Commercial Kitchen Chronicles
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    190
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Commercial Kitchen Chronicles
  • Show Website
    Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

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