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. 1 DAY AGO

    Episode 180:Inside Parts Town: How John Warpinski Is Supporting the HVAC Industry From the Inside

    In this special in-person episode of the Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, recorded at the headquarters of Parts Town, I finally caught up with John Warpinski, the Senior Director of Customer Partnerships – HVAC at Parts Town. John brings a deep background in the HVAC industry, and in this conversation we dive into his journey through the trades before stepping into his leadership role at Parts Town. From the field to the business side of the industry, John shares the experiences that shaped his perspective on HVAC service, technician support, and building stronger partnerships across the trades. We break down what Parts Town is doing for the HVAC community, how they’re supporting contractors and service technicians, and why their approach to OEM parts distribution, supply chain logistics, and technician support is making a real impact in the field. If you’ve ever wondered how a company like Parts Town works behind the scenes to keep restaurants, commercial kitchens, and facilities running, this episode pulls back the curtain. John also shares real-world stories about how fast parts availability, strong manufacturer relationships, and industry partnerships help technicians solve problems faster and take better care of their customers. From emergency repairs to keeping mission-critical equipment running, the discussion highlights how the HVACR and foodservice equipment repair industries rely on strong collaboration between technicians, manufacturers, and suppliers. This episode is packed with insights on: The evolution of the HVAC and HVACR service industry How Parts Town supports technicians and contractors The importance of OEM replacement parts and fast parts distribution Building partnerships that strengthen the skilled trades community Supporting technicians who keep commercial kitchens and facilities operational If you’re a service technician, HVAC contractor, refrigeration tech, or foodservice equipment professional, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the right partnerships and resources can make your job easier in the field. At Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, our mission is to shine a spotlight on the technicians, innovators, and industry leaders who keep the equipment running and the industry moving forward. 🎧 Listen in as we sit down with John Warpinski at Parts Town and talk about the future of HVAC, technician support, and the partnerships that power the industry. https://www.partstown.com/ Commercial Kitchen Chronicles https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

    37 min
  2. Episode 179:HVAC for Cannabis Grow Facilities: Building a Mechanical Niche

    6 MAR

    Episode 179:HVAC for Cannabis Grow Facilities: Building a Mechanical Niche

    In this episode of the Commercial Kitchen Chronicles podcast, Pat Finley and Rich Ortega sit down with Matt Golden and Megan McIntosh from Mechanical Environments to talk about one of the most specialized corners of the mechanical industry — HVAC systems for cannabis cultivation facilities. Grow operations are a completely different animal when it comes to mechanical systems. Temperature, humidity, airflow, and environmental stability are not just about comfort. They directly impact plant health, yield, and profitability. One wrong variable can cost a grower serious money. Matt and Megan walk us through what it takes to design, install, and service HVAC systems in controlled environment agriculture. From dehumidification strategies and airflow management to the challenges of scaling mechanical solutions for cannabis facilities, this conversation dives deep into a niche that is rapidly growing across the HVAC and mechanical contracting world. Megan also shares her journey in the trades after being named Lady of the Trades at the HVAC Tactical Awards, and what it takes to earn credibility in a highly technical and demanding sector of the industry. This episode is packed with real-world insights for HVAC technicians, mechanical contractors, and anyone interested in specialized HVAC design, controlled environment agriculture, and building a niche in the trades. And a big thank you to Viper from Refrigeration Technologies for supporting the show. Whether you're maintaining commercial kitchen equipment, servicing refrigeration systems, or working in precision climate environments, Viper products are built for technicians who demand reliability. From Nylog sealants to coil cleaners and system maintenance products, they help keep systems operating the way they should in the field. https://www.refrigtech.com/ If you're looking to level up your HVAC knowledge, understand the business of specialized mechanical contracting, or explore how controlled environment systems are shaping the future of the trade, this is an episode you don't want to miss. https://mechanicalenvironments.com/ https://linktr.ee/mechanicalenvironments?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=1094bdd6-5840-4b62-a509-b416beb05d92 https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

    1h 13m
  3. Episode 178:Become Who You’re Meant to Be | Josh Zolin on Leadership in the Skilled Trades

    27 FEB

    Episode 178:Become Who You’re Meant to Be | Josh Zolin on Leadership in the Skilled Trades

    What does it really mean to become who you’re meant to be? In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Josh Zolin — CEO of Windy City Equipment, author of Blue is the New White, and a powerful voice for leadership, responsibility, and purpose in the skilled trades. Josh started as a technician working alongside his dad, building a service company from the ground up. Today he leads an 8-figure, multi-market commercial service organization — but this conversation goes far deeper than business growth. We talk about identity.We talk about meaning.We talk about why so many talented people in the trades never step fully into who they’re capable of becoming. If you work in HVAC, refrigeration, foodservice equipment repair, or any blue collar industry, this episode challenges how you define success. We break down: • Why the traditional “white collar” definition of success is broken• How skilled trades build discipline, character, and leadership• What separates technicians who plateau from those who level up• Why responsibility creates confidence and meaning• Leadership under pressure in the field• How to stop playing small in your career Josh reframes the skilled trades not as a backup plan — but as a path to ownership, impact, and self-respect. And speaking of doing things the right way… If you’re out in commercial kitchens, HVAC systems, or refrigeration equipment every day, you already know the difference between cutting corners and doing professional work. That’s why Viper from Refrigeration Technologies supports this show. Their coil cleaners and maintenance products are built for real technicians — non-corrosive, technician-safe, and designed to protect the very systems you’re responsible for keeping alive. When you take pride in your craft, the products on your truck should reflect that. https://www.refrigtech.com/ So here’s the challenge: Are you building a career… or are you building yourself? Are you waiting for someone to promote you into leadership — or are you developing the habits of a leader right now? If you’re a technician trying to grow…A service manager building a stronger team…An HVAC or foodservice equipment business owner developing culture…Or someone who feels like they’re meant for more… This episode is for you. Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway.Share this episode with your crew.Tag someone in the trades who needs to hear this conversation. And ask yourself — are you becoming who you’re meant to be? Learn more about Josh here https://joshzolin.com/ Catch up with the show here https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

    1h 16m
  4. Episode 177: Dominic Furnback with Elite Service Group

    20 FEB

    Episode 177: Dominic Furnback with Elite Service Group

    What happens when a second-generation HVAC technician refuses to follow the “sales first” model and instead builds a company around education, integrity, and preventative maintenance done right? In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat Finley sits down live with Dominic Furnback of Elite Service Group to break down what it really means to build a service business the right way in today’s HVAC and commercial refrigeration industry. From rack refrigeration in supermarkets to light commercial HVAC, residential service, and launching his own company in New Jersey, Dominic shares the raw story of what it takes to walk away from union work, rediscover your passion for the trade, and bet on yourself. This conversation dives deep into: • The difference between real preventative maintenance and “loss leader” PMs• Why $55 tune-ups are hurting the HVAC industry• Private equity in home services — and what it means for technicians and customers• Educating customers instead of pushing sales• Building trust in commercial kitchens and light commercial HVAC• Word-of-mouth growth vs paid marketing• What facilities managers actually look for in service providers• Why integrity and craftsmanship still win If you’re a technician, service manager, business owner, or facilities professional, this episode hits on something bigger than just fixing equipment. It’s about protecting the reputation of the trades, raising the next generation of techs, and making sure the industry is left better than we found it. Dominic also shares insights from launching the Elite Service Group Unfiltered Podcast, where he focuses on customer education in HVAC, refrigeration service, and commercial maintenance strategy. This is an honest, no-fluff conversation about: Commercial HVACRack refrigerationResidential vs commercial servicePreventative maintenance pricingFacilities managementPrivate equity in HVACService integrityBuilding an HVAC company from scratchTechnician development and leadership If you believe in doing the job right the first time…If you’re tired of sales-first service models…If you want to build something that lasts… This one’s for you. And as always — if you’re working in commercial kitchens, grease is everywhere, especially in coils. That’s where Viper Coil Cleaner from Refrigeration Technologies comes in. Non-corrosive, technician-safe formulas that cut through buildup without destroying the equipment you’re trying to protect. No harsh acids. No unnecessary risk. Just systems that run the way they should. Make sure Viper is on your truck. https://www.refrigtech.com/ Subscribe. Share. Leave a review.Let’s keep elevating the trades. Dominic Furnback and Elite Service Group https://www.youtube.com/@EliteServiceGroupHVAC https://www.facebook.com/eliteservicegroupnj/ https://www.instagram.com/elite_service_group?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== https://www.tiktok.com/@elite.service.group?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnZMNu_gIf9CGLZVrcS_2RG7Kb4uSo0tefOcAqT9JXuqDKbidljDtprlwHG_s_aem_AppEqpjPUOtlDFbKJyYI-Q Check out the website to stay up to date on everything going on with Commercial kitchen Chronicles. https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

    1h 6m

  5. 17 FEB

    Episode 176:Flame-Free HVAC? Why Press Fittings Are Changing the Game

    In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we’re coming to you live from the AHR Expo Podcast Pavilion with a deep dive into one of the most talked-about topics in HVAC and refrigeration right now — ACR press fittings. I sat down with Jessica Slaughter from RLS Rapid Locking Systems to talk about how copper press technology is changing the way contractors approach commercial HVAC installs, refrigeration repairs, VRF systems, and even foodservice equipment work. From hospitals and pharmaceutical facilities to stadium projects and walk-in coolers, flame-free connections are quickly becoming a competitive advantage. We break down the real-world differences between brazing and pressing, why proper pipe prep matters, and how installer error — not the fitting — is usually the root cause of leaks. We also talk about A2L refrigerants, labor shortages in the skilled trades, insurance savings tied to flame-free installs, and how press tools can help contractors complete jobs faster without sacrificing reliability. Jessica shares insight into how RLS manufactures their ACR press fittings in St. Louis, Missouri, the engineering behind their 700 PSI listings (and burst tests well beyond that), and how the company has grown globally with over 20 million fittings in the field. We also discuss close-quarter press jaws for tight equipment rooms, tool compatibility with major press platforms, and how press technology continues gaining momentum across residential, commercial, and industrial HVACR applications. If you’ve ever asked:• Is press as strong as brazing?• Can press fittings handle refrigeration pressures?• Is flame-free HVAC installation worth the investment?• How does press impact labor time and safety? This conversation answers those questions from both the manufacturer side and the technician side. A huge thank you to RLS Rapid Locking Systems for supporting Commercial Kitchen Chronicles over the years. Their belief in technicians, training, and the skilled trades has meant a lot to this channel, and it’s been incredible watching their continued investment in innovation, education, and the HVACR community. Whether you’re a contractor, service tech, business owner, apprentice, or just curious about where HVAC and refrigeration installation methods are heading, this episode will give you practical insight into the future of ACR press technology. If you’re enjoying the show, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another tech who’s still dragging a nitrogen tank up three flights of stairs. To learn more about RLS and their braze free options, check out the link below. https://rapidlockingsystem.com/ Check out Commercial Kitchen Chronicles website to stay up to date with everything. https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/ If you’re in the foodservice equipment repair, HVACR, refrigeration, any skilled trades, or commercial kitchen world and you’ve got a story to tell, this is your invitation. Commercial Kitchen Chronicles was built to spotlight real technicians, trainers, manufacturers, and industry leaders who are out there turning wrenches, building companies, launching products, and making this trade better than they found it. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, a rising young gun, or someone who took a leap to start your own shop, your story could be exactly what another tech needs to hear. Know someone who deserves the spotlight? Nominate them. We’re always looking for technicians who go the extra mile, trainers shaping the next generation, and innovators pushing the industry forward. If that’s you—or someone in your circle—reach out and let’s make it happen. This platform is about growing the trade, increasing visibility for our industry, and building something bigger than any one of us. Let’s tell the stories that matter. 🔥🔧

    40 min
  6. Episode 175:Betting on Yourself: Starting a Commercial HVAC & Refrigeration Business from Scratch

    13 FEB

    Episode 175:Betting on Yourself: Starting a Commercial HVAC & Refrigeration Business from Scratch

    Betting on Yourself: Kenny Postlewait on Building Postlewait Refrigeration & HVAC In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat Finley and Rich Ortega sit down with Kenny Postlewait, also known as RefrigerationMan1988 on TikTok, to talk about what it really takes to leave a steady job and launch your own HVAC and refrigeration business. Kenny shares the raw, unfiltered truth about starting Postlewait Refrigeration & HVAC from scratch. From saving startup capital and buying his first service vehicle with cash, to knocking on restaurant doors and building relationships with property management companies, this episode breaks down real-world strategies for launching a commercial HVAC and foodservice equipment repair company. We dive into: • Starting an HVAC business during the slow season• Transitioning from employee to business owner• Building commercial refrigeration clients without undercutting your former employer• Leveraging TikTok and social media marketing to generate service calls• Getting into hot side repair including fryers, ovens, and commercial cooking equipment• Working manufacturer warranty calls and navigating labor rates• The importance of preventive maintenance contracts for steady revenue• One stop shop service for refrigeration, HVAC, and hot side equipment• Setting proper labor rates as a small HVAC business• Mindset shifts from technician to entrepreneur• Why maintenance calls are the foundation of long-term customer relationships Kenny also shares powerful insight into integrity in business, treating customers and competitors with respect, and how communication builds long-term commercial service relationships. But this episode goes deeper than business. Kenny opens up about his past, overcoming addiction, and his long-term vision to launch Prison to Refrigeration, a nonprofit focused on helping formerly incarcerated individuals enter the skilled trades. His mission is to create second chances through refrigeration and HVAC careers, proving that trades can truly change lives. If you are: • Thinking about starting your own HVAC company• A refrigeration technician wanting to go independent• A commercial service tech expanding into hot side equipment• Frustrated with residential sales driven HVAC• Interested in building maintenance contracts• Curious about technician entrepreneurship• Passionate about workforce development in the trades This episode is for you. We also want to thank Viper from Refrigeration Technologies for sponsoring the show. From ice machine cleaner and refrigeration coil cleaner to NSF rated kitchen safe chemicals, Viper helps technicians protect equipment and keep commercial kitchens running safely and efficiently. https://www.refrigtech.com/ Follow Kenny:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@refrigerationman1988?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Follow Commercial Kitchen Chronicles for more real conversations about refrigeration repair, commercial kitchen equipment service, technician training, and building a legacy in the skilled trades. https://www.facebook.com/people/Postlewait-Refrigeration-HVAC/61584630347196/ Follow Commercial Kitchen Chronicles for more real conversations about refrigeration repair, commercial kitchen equipment service, technician training, and building a legacy in the skilled trades. Never stop learning. Never stop building. Bet on yourself. https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

    58 min

  7. 8 FEB

    Episode 174:CFESA Young Professionals Committee and Inside the YPC Symposium

    In this episode, Pat Finley sits down with Olivia Smith, Jimmy Miller, and Ben Neal for a deep dive into the Young Professionals Committee (YPC) of CFESA and the upcoming YPC Symposium. Together, the group breaks down what the YPC is, who it’s for, and why it has become one of the most impactful ways for young professionals in the commercial foodservice equipment industry to grow, connect, and give back. The conversation covers how the committee brings together professionals under 40 from all corners of the industry including technicians, managers, manufacturers, service companies, and office staff to collaborate, learn, and help shape the future of the trade. They also unpack what makes the YPC Symposium different from a typical industry conference. Topics include leadership development, emotional intelligence, mentorship, financial literacy, AI in the workplace, and peer to peer learning. The panel shares real world takeaways from past symposiums, explains how sessions are selected based on feedback from both young professionals and industry leaders, and highlights the strong emphasis on engagement, interaction, and practical growth. Another major focus of the discussion is community service and giving back through CFESA Cares, including hands on service projects tied to the symposium that support local communities and industry scholarships. The group explains why service and purpose matter so much to the next generation of professionals and how companies benefit by investing in their people. Whether you are a technician just starting out, a young leader looking to grow, or a company searching for ways to develop and retain talent, this episode provides a clear look at how CFESA and the YPC are building pathways for long term success in the industry. Learn more about the YPC Symposium and how to get involved athttps://cfesa.com/young-professional-symposium/

    38 min
  8. Episode 173: Viper live from AHR Expo

    6 FEB

    Episode 173: Viper live from AHR Expo

    Recorded live from AHR Expo 2026 in Las Vegas, this episode brings you inside the Viper booth with special guests Becca Stamey and Ashley Lynds from Refrigeration Technologies. We talk all things Viper and Refrigeration Technologies, including the products technicians rely on every day in HVACR and commercial foodservice, new releases like EZ Dose created by Robert Kraft, and what the expanded booth layout means for hands on demos and better tech experiences on the show floor. We also celebrate a huge industry moment with Jon taking home the Lifetime Achievement Award at the HVAC Tactical Awards and discuss how Refrigeration Technologies continues to show up for technicians through innovation, education, and real world support. If you’re a working tech who cares about staying efficient, keeping systems clean, and using products designed for the field, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. 🐍This episode is brought to you by Viper from Refrigeration Technologies. When it comes to cleaning, maintaining, and protecting HVACR and refrigeration systems, Viper delivers technician trusted solutions built for real world conditions. From coil cleaners and drain treatment to specialty products like EZ Dose, Viper helps you work faster, cleaner, and smarter on every call. Backed by Refrigeration Technologies, these are field tested chemicals you can rely on day in and day out. Ask for Viper at your local supply house and keep your truck stocked with products that work as hard as you do. Thanks for listening to Commercial Kitchen Chronicles. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow tech. Drop your favorite Viper products or questions in the comments and let us know what you thought of this live AHR Expo conversation 👊🔥 https://www.refrigtech.com/ https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

    46 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
    181
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Commercial Kitchen Chronicles
  • Show Website
    Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

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