HVAC R&D Podcast

Atzenhoffer, Inc.
  • 4.1 (13)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

HVAC R and D is a conversation-driven podcast exploring the people, ideas, and leadership shaping the skilled trades. Hosted by Rhydon Atzenhoffer, the Ramblin’ Rhyno, the show brings together technicians, contractors, distributors, manufacturers, and business leaders for honest discussions on growth, culture, mental health, entrepreneurship, and real-world lessons from inside and outside the trades. It’s less about hype and more about meaningful conversations that move the industry forward.

  1. APR 24

    Why Most Contractors Think They’re Profitable But Aren’t with Sam Miles

    🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 181 Why Most Contractors Think They’re Profitable… But Aren’t with Sam Miles of CFO and More, LLC. If your business is busy… your trucks are rolling… and money is coming in… why does it still feel tight? In this episode, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Sam Miles to break down one of the biggest blind spots in the trades—thinking you’re profitable when you’re actually leaking cash. Sam works directly with contractors across HVAC, plumbing, and electrical to help them understand their numbers, clean up their financial systems, and build businesses that don’t just generate revenue—but actually create real, sustainable profit. Together, Rhydon and Sam dig into the gap between revenue, profit, and cash flow, and why so many trades businesses get stuck in the cycle of working harder without truly getting ahead. This conversation pulls back the curtain on what your numbers are really telling you—and how to start using them as a tool instead of a stress point. For the #TradeCrew, this is one of those episodes that can fundamentally change how you run your business. Whether you’re an owner, service manager, or future business leader, this episode will challenge how you think about money, margin, and what “success” actually looks like in the trades. 🔧 In this episode, we cover: The difference between revenue, profit, and cash flow (and why it matters) Why many contractors look successful but struggle financially The most common financial mistakes in trades businesses How poor job costing quietly kills profitability Understanding your numbers without becoming an accountant What healthy margins actually look like in HVAC and trades Building financial systems that support growth—not chaos Turning your numbers into a decision-making tool 🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. 🙏 Thank you to our partners: DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • RLS • Resideo • Mann+Hummel • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl 🌐 www.hvacrnd.com

    1h 12m

  2. APR 17

    The Parts Problem No One Talks About and Why It’s Costing Contractors Millions

    🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 180 The Parts Problem No One Talks About — and Why It’s Costing Contractors Millions What does it take to win in the evolving world of HVAC parts, supply chains, and contractor support? Well that is what Scott Pierson and Rhydon Atzenhoffer are talking to figure out. In this episode, Rhydon sits down with Scott, Vice President of HVAC and Market Strategy at Parts Town, to break down how the parts ecosystem is transforming—and what that means for contractors, distributors, and the entire #TradeCrew. With over 20 years of experience across the HVAC industry, Scott brings a deep perspective on market strategy, supply chain innovation, and the growing role of technology in parts distribution. Together, Rhydon and Scott dive into how speed, availability, and digital experience are reshaping expectations—and why contractors who understand the parts side of the business are positioning themselves for long-term success. From inventory strategy to customer experience to the future of contractor support platforms, this conversation highlights how the right systems—and the right partners—can unlock serious growth. Whether you’re in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or distribution, this episode will challenge how you think about parts, process, and performance in modern service businesses. 🔧 In this episode, we cover: Scott’s journey and role in shaping HVAC strategy at Parts Town The evolution of the HVAC parts and supply chain ecosystem Why speed and availability are now competitive advantages How digital platforms are transforming contractor expectations Inventory strategy: what contractors get wrong (and how to fix it) The role of distribution vs. direct-to-contractor models Creating a seamless parts experience that drives loyalty Where technology and data are creating the next wave of growth 🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. 🙏 Thank you to our partners: DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • RLS • Resideo • Mann+Hummel • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl 🌐 www.hvacrnd.com

    56 min

  3. APR 10

    Building the Future of Contractor Independence with Julian Scadden of Nexstar Network

    🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 179 Building the Future of Contractor Independence with Julian Scadden of Nexstar Network What does it really take to help independent contractors win in a rapidly changing trades landscape? In this episode, Rhydon sits down with Julian Scadden, President & CEO of Nexstar Network, to talk about leadership, workforce development, contractor stewardship, and what it means to protect independence in a private-equity-driven era. With a journey that began in the field and grew through technician, management, ownership, and executive leadership, Julian brings a rare full-spectrum perspective on the trades. Together, Rhydon and Julian unpack how training, culture, leadership development, and long-term stewardship create stronger businesses — and why the future belongs to contractors who invest in people before profits. For the entire #TradeCrew, this conversation is a blueprint for scaling the right way while keeping your values intact. Whether you’re an owner, service manager, technician, distributor leader, or someone building the next generation of your business, this episode will challenge how you think about growth, succession, and contractor freedom. 🔧 In this episode, we cover: Julian’s journey from the field to leading Nexstar Network Why contractor independence matters more than ever Building leadership pipelines inside service businesses Workforce development and the future talent shortage Long-term stewardship vs short-term profit decisions How great contractors scale culture across multiple teams The biggest operational blind spots holding companies back Why ownership mindset starts long before ownership 🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. 🙏 Thank you to our partners: DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • RLS • Resideo • Mann+Hummel • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl 🌐 www.hvacrnd.com #HVAC #Plumbing #Electrical #NexStar #Business #Trades #PersonalGrowth #Community #Collaboration #Network

    1h 9m

  4. APR 3

    The Trades Are for Losers: From Doubter to Red Seal Electrical Contractor with Cory Byron

    🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 178 The Trades Are for Losers? From Doubter to Red Seal Electrical Contractor with Cory Byron Cory Byron once believed the trades were a dead-end path… until he realized the kind of life, freedom, and business you can build with your hands, your systems, and your work ethic. Today, Cory is the co-owner of Van City Electric, one of the most trusted electrical companies in Vancouver, British Columbia, and the founder of Next Step Systems, where he helps trades businesses modernize operations, simplify their tech stack, and scale without burning out. As the first electrical contractor ever featured on HVAC R&D, Cory opens up a whole new side of the trades for the TradeCrew — from building a multi-million dollar company to creating systems technicians actually follow. Rhydon and Cory also dive into their shared journey as LiveSwitch ambassadors, how technology is changing the race to the face, and where AI is creating real leverage inside modern service businesses. 🔧 In this episode, we cover: Why the trades can be the ultimate long-term career path Building an electrical company from the ground up Creating systems your team will actually use Using AI and video tools to speed up quoting and improve customer experience The fastest ROI systems for growing trades businesses How to scale without sacrificing quality control Winning credibility before you ever step through the door Building a tech stack that scales beyond the owner Whether you’re HVAC, electrical, plumbing, or anywhere else in the skilled trades, this episode will challenge the way you think about growth, systems, and the future of service businesses. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. 🙏 Thank you to our partners: DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • RLS • Resideo • Mann+Hummel • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl 🌐 www.hvacrnd.com

    1h 6m

  5. MAR 27

    AHR Reflections: More Than a Tradeshow with Ramblin Rhyno

    🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 177 AHR Reflections: More Than a Tradeshow with Ramblin' Rhyno This one’s a little different… No guest. No script. Just me—reflecting on what was one of the biggest weeks of the year at the AHR Expo and taking a step back to talk about what it really meant to me. From the HVAC Tactical Awards to four live podcast recordings with RLS, Resideo, HARDI, and Mann+Hummel, to moderating an AHR panel and leading workforce development tours… this year hit different. But this isn’t just a recap. This is about: The conversations that actually matter What the next generation of the trades really needs And how HVAC R&D is evolving beyond just a podcast We’re talking about the launch of the Resource Hub, the return of the Ramblin’ Rhyno column, and why I’ve been showing up more on social—because the mission is bigger than just hitting record. If you were at AHR, this will take you back. If you weren’t, this will bring you into it. And either way… this is one of those episodes that defines where we’re going next. 🎯 In This Episode: Why AHR is about people, not products Behind the scenes of the live shows (RLS, Resideo, HARDI, Mann+Hummel) HVAC Tactical Awards – “Blue Collar Goes Black Tie” Moderating an AHR panel (by the seat of my pants) Workforce Development Tours (Carrier, DiversiTech, Shurtape, Resideo) Crawlspace Confessions & real conversations from the floor The evolution of HVAC R&D #HVAC #TradeCrew #AHRExpo #RamblinRhyno #Reflections    🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. 🙏 Thank you to my partners who make this show possible: DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • RLS – Rapid Locking System • Resideo • Mann + Hummel • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl Visit our website ⁠www.hvacrnd.com

    39 min

  6. MAR 13

    AHR Live: Filtration and the Future of Clean HVAC with Kurk Wilks of Mann+Hummel

    🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 176 Live from AHR: Filtration, IAQ & The Future of Clean HVAC | Kurk Wilks (MANN+HUMMEL) Episode 176 of HVAC R&D was recorded live from the AHR show floor with Kurk Wilks, U.S. CEO of MANN+HUMMEL. MANN+HUMMEL is a global leader in filtration with deep German engineering heritage and a growing presence in the HVAC and indoor air quality space. In this conversation, we zoom out and look at filtration not just as a component, but as a critical piece of the HVAC system. In this episode, we cover: Why filtration is often misunderstood in HVAC system performance How filtration impacts airflow, comfort, and equipment longevity The growing importance of indoor air quality in residential and commercial spaces Sustainability and regulatory pressures shaping filtration innovation The challenge of balancing global engineering with local market needs Kurk also shares his perspective as a CEO leading in the U.S. market — including how global companies navigate evolving industry expectations and where filtration fits into the future of HVAC. Because as HVAC systems evolve, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: Air quality, filtration, and system performance are more connected than ever. #HVAC #FILTRATION #MANNHUMMEL #TradeCrew #HVACR #AHRExpo   🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. 🙏 Thank you to my partners who make this show possible: DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • JPL Flex • RLS – Rapid Locking System • Resideo • Mann + Hummel • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl Visit our website ⁠www.hvacrnd.com

    25 min

  7. MAR 7

    AHR Live: Refrigerants, Policy and Regulation coming to HVAC with Todd Titus of HARDI

    🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 175 Live from AHR: Policy, Refrigerants & Regulation — What’s Coming in HVAC | Todd Titus (HARDI) Recorded live from the AHR show floor, this episode dives into the policies and regulations shaping the future of the HVACR industry. I sat down with Todd Titus, Director of State & Public Affairs at HARDI (Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International), to talk about the state-level advocacy work happening across the country — and why it matters to contractors, distributors, and manufacturers alike. In this episode, we cover: The biggest state advocacy issues facing HVACR in 2026 What ultra-low GWP refrigerant policies could mean for the industry How PFAS discussions intersect with HVACR equipment and materials Fossil fuel bans and NOx emission regulations at the state level Why grassroots advocacy is becoming increasingly important Todd also shares how HARDI is expanding its public affairs efforts to ensure the voices of distributors, contractors, and industry partners are represented when policy decisions are being made. Because the reality is this: Many of the biggest changes affecting HVACR are being shaped long before they reach the jobsite. Understanding those conversations is key to preparing the industry for what comes next.   #HVAC #Refrigerants #A2L #TradeCrew #HVACR #AHRExpo #IndustryLeadership #HARDI 🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. 🙏 Thank you to my partners who make this show possible: DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • JPL Flex • RLS – Rapid Locking System • Resideo • Mann + Hummel • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl Visit our website ⁠www.hvacrnd.com

    42 min

  8. MAR 3

    AHR Live: Training, Tech Confidence & The Future of Intelligent HVAC with Jamie Quanrud

    🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 174 Live from AHR: Training, Tech Confidence & The Future of Intelligent HVAC with Resideo's Jamie Quanrud Recorded live from the AHR show floor, this episode dives into one of the most important conversations happening in HVAC today — training as the real adoption engine for intelligent systems. I sat down with Jamie Quanrud, Learning Solutions Manager at Resideo (Honeywell Home), to talk about how technician confidence and evolving training is shaping the future of connected HVAC and IAQ. In this episode, we cover: Why training drives adoption of intelligent HVAC systems The technician confidence gap — and how it limits innovation How modern training has evolved over the past 15 years Workforce development and preparing “intelligence-ready” techs Where connected IAQ and smart systems are headed next I also shared my own experience attending Honeywell Home training back in 2012 in Minneapolis — and we discussed how much it has changed since then. During this show two things became very clear: Technology doesn’t slow down and Confidence has to catch up. If you're a contractor, distributor, tech, or leader trying to navigate connected systems, IAQ, and the next generation of HVAC intelligence — this conversation is for you. Follow, subscribe, and share with someone in the trades who needs to hear it. #TradeCrew #HVAC #HVACR #AHRExpo #Resideo #ElitePro #ConnectedHVAC #Training #HoneywellHome 🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. 🙏 Thank you to my partners who make this show possible: DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • JPL Flex • RLS – Rapid Locking System • Resideo • Mann + Hummel • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl Visit our website ⁠www.hvacrnd.com⁠

    41 min
See All (180)

Ratings & Reviews

4.1
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

HVAC R and D is a conversation-driven podcast exploring the people, ideas, and leadership shaping the skilled trades. Hosted by Rhydon Atzenhoffer, the Ramblin’ Rhyno, the show brings together technicians, contractors, distributors, manufacturers, and business leaders for honest discussions on growth, culture, mental health, entrepreneurship, and real-world lessons from inside and outside the trades. It’s less about hype and more about meaningful conversations that move the industry forward.

Information

  • Creator
    Atzenhoffer, Inc.
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    180
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Atzenhoffer, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    HVAC R&D Podcast

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