HVAC Know It All Podcast

Gary McCreadie
  • 4.8 (208)
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The HVAC Know It All Podcast, hosted by Gary McCreadie, is an industry leading show that focuses on education within the HVAC and Refrigeration Trade.

  1. Why So Many Blue-Collar Men Stay Silent about Mental Health - Ilija Martinovich's Story Part 1

    3H AGO

    Why So Many Blue-Collar Men Stay Silent about Mental Health - Ilija Martinovich's Story Part 1

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie sits down with Ilija Martinovich to launch a year-long mental health series focused on the trades. Ilija shares his personal journey through the past six years, including working through COVID as an essential worker, being diagnosed with bladder cancer, going through a divorce, and raising his children during a very stressful time. He speaks openly about the dark thoughts he faced, the pressure of staying strong as a father, and the stigma around mental health in blue-collar work. Ilija explains how speaking with a therapist, leaning on trusted people, walking daily, and building simple routines helped him regain control. Together, they highlight the power of honest conversations, healthy outlets, and finding purpose as key steps toward managing stress and protecting mental health. This episode continues the focus on mental health in the trades and the challenges many workers keep to themselves. Ilija joins Gary to share his experience over the past six years, including working through COVID as an essential worker, being diagnosed with bladder cancer, going through a divorce, and supporting his children during a difficult time. He speaks honestly about the dark places his mind went to and the pressure of trying to stay strong as a father. Ilija talks about how therapy, opening up to trusted people, improving his eating habits, and committing to daily walks helped him manage stress. The conversation reinforces the value of speaking up, building healthy outlets, and reminding tradespeople that support is available and they do not have to struggle alone. Expect to Learn: How working through COVID as an essential worker added stress at home and on the job. How a bladder cancer diagnosis and divorce affected Ilija's mental health. Why do many men in the trades stay silent, and the risks of keeping it inside? How therapy, trusted conversations, and crisis resources can provide real relief. How daily walks, better habits, and focusing on family help manage stress long-term. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Ilija Martinovich in Part 1 [01:30] - Why Mental Health Matters [02:42] - Stigma of Mental Health in Trades [04:24] - Old-School Coping: Alcohol & Drugs [08:09] - Ilija's Story: Cancer, COVID & Divorce [12:17] - Importance of Talking to Someone [16:15] - Gary's Experience with Panic Attacks [18:37] - Turning to Food as a Coping Mechanism [21:04] - Finding Purpose to Protect Your Mental Health This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at SupplyHouse! Follow the Guest Ilija Martinovich on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_hvac_foodie/  Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    25 min
  2. HVAC Techs Are Skipping Critical Tests That Cause Dangerous System Failures with Tyler Nelson Part 2

    4D AGO

    HVAC Techs Are Skipping Critical Tests That Cause Dangerous System Failures with Tyler Nelson Part 2

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie wraps up his chat with Tyler Nelson, Master HVACR, Business Development Manager, Sales Manager - Americas, Global Trainer, at Sauermann Group, about Combustion Analysis and why proper testing is critical for safe and efficient equipment operation. Tyler explains how to correctly use a Combustion Analyzer, the importance of testing at light off, steady state, and shutdown, and why commissioning should always be done. They discuss stack temperature, efficiency readings, manifold pressure adjustments, and how measured data helps technicians make better decisions and communicate clearly with customers. The episode highlights the value of understanding the why behind the readings and using data to improve performance and accountability in the field. Gary and Tyler discuss combustion analysis and why proper testing is essential for safe and efficient system operation. They talk about using a combustion analyzer the right way, including finding the correct test location and checking readings at light off, steady state, and shutdown. Tyler explains why commissioning is often overlooked and why equipment must be adjusted to match the environment it is installed in. The conversation also covers stack temperature, manifold pressure settings, and how efficiency readings reflect fuel use, not true system output. They finish by highlighting how measured data builds trust with customers and helps technicians make clear, confident decisions in the field. Expect to Learn: How to properly use a combustion analyzer and understand what the readings mean. Why testing at light off, steady state, and shutdown helps catch hidden problems. How stack temperature and manifold pressure affect efficiency and performance. Why commissioning equipment is critical and often overlooked in the field. How measured data builds trust with customers and supports clear diagnostic decisions.   Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Tyler Nelson in Part 02 [01:02] - Why open-mindedness matters in HVAC [02:23] - Mastering the combustion analyzer: Usage vs. understanding [05:41] - Real case study: The importance of day-one commissioning data [10:06] - Manufacturer's confession: Why commissioning is non-negotiable [13:20] - Fine-tuning equipment: Going beyond the manual's specs [16:16] - Behind the book & what's next for Tyler [18:38] - Wrap-up & where to find the book   This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse! Follow the Guest Tyler Nelson, Master HVACR on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nelson-master-hvacr-9a8a981b/   Sauermann Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sauermann-group/  Get  Tyler Nelson's Book: Tyler's book Combustion Analysis: The Essentials is available now. If you want a practical, field-ready guide to combustion testing and diagnostics, grab your copy here: 👉https://tyty5.gumroad.com/l/zfsmxo Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    19 min
  3. How HVAC Technicians Use the Owner Mindset to Start a Successful Business with Jason Julian Part 1

    5D AGO

    How HVAC Technicians Use the Owner Mindset to Start a Successful Business with Jason Julian Part 1

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes from WorkHero talk with Jason Julian, Small Business Owner at Julian Heat & Air, President at J.G.Wholesale LLC and VP of Operations at Affordable Air McCallum LLC. Jason Julian shares his personal and professional journey from a difficult period of addiction recovery to becoming a successful HVAC business owner. His story highlights the power of perseverance, hard work, and the ability to turn adversity into opportunity. Jason Julian also offers practical advice for technicians looking to transition into business ownership and shares insights on building a positive work culture, navigating local competition, and the lessons learned from his experiences in the HVAC industry. Whether you're an aspiring business owner or just interested in the HVAC world, Jason's story is a must-listen.   Expect to Learn Jason's journey into HVAC after a period of recovery from addiction How he transitioned from a helper to a business owner Why thinking like a business owner early on is key to success The challenges of starting a business with limited resources The importance of building a strong internal culture in your business How Jason Julian navigated competition and created growth despite a tough local market   Episode Breakdown with Timestamps  00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:02 - Jason's Journey Into HVAC 00:04:39 - Thinking Like an Owner Before You Are One 00:05:11 - First Steps into Business Ownership 00:06:10 - Overcoming Challenges and Finding Opportunity 00:14:35 - Building Internal Culture at Julian Heating 00:19:51 - Navigating Local Competition   Follow Jason Julian:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-julian-03530b160/ Julian Heat & Air Website: https://julianheatandair.com/ Julian Heat & Air Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julianheatandair/ Affordable Air McCallum LLC Website: https://www.hotorcoldair.com/hvac/heber-springs-ar/   Follow Gary McCreadie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/     Follow Furman Haynes:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/  WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    20 min
  4. HVAC Techs Use Combustion Analysis to Diagnose Issues & Improve Efficiency with Tyler Nelson Part 1

    FEB 23

    HVAC Techs Use Combustion Analysis to Diagnose Issues & Improve Efficiency with Tyler Nelson Part 1

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Tyler Nelson, Master HVACR, Business Development Manager, Sales Manager - Americas, Global Trainer, at Sauermann Group, about his new book, Combustion Analysis: The Essentials, and the Fundamentals of Combustion Testing. Tyler explains how technicians can better understand oxygen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, excess air, and efficiency readings, and how to use those numbers to diagnose and adjust systems properly. The conversation covers light off, steady state, and high fire conditions, fuel selection in combustion analyzers, and how proper adjustments can improve system performance and save money. Gary and Tyler also discuss why combustion testing is a thinking person's skill and how using the right data can help technicians work smarter and deliver better results for their customers. In this conversation, Tyler talks about the core basics of combustion and why understanding the numbers is key to proper diagnostics. He explains oxygen levels in fresh air, carbon monoxide limits at light off and steady state, and how carbon dioxide is calculated inside a combustion analyzer. Gary and Tyler discuss testing at low fire, mid fire, and high fire on modulating equipment, and why selecting the correct fuel setting matters. They also cover excess air, stack temperature, and how small adjustments can improve efficiency and save customers money. The episode highlights the importance of thinking through the data and using combustion testing as a true diagnostic tool in the field. Expect to Learn: How to understand oxygen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide readings during combustion testing. What happens at light off, steady state, and high fire on different types of equipment? Why is selecting the correct fuel in your analyzer is critical for accurate results? How excess air and stack temperature affect efficiency and system performance. How small adjustments can improve efficiency, reduce fuel use, and help technicians diagnose problems with confidence. Episode Highlights:  [00:00] - Intro to Tyler Nelson & His New Book in Part 1 [01:32] - Book Purpose: A Field Reference, Not Memorization [03:44] - Combustion Basics: O2, CO, and CO2 Explained [09:06] - Why CO2 is a Calculated Reading, Not a Sensor [11:04] - Troubleshooting Modulating Systems at Different Fires [15:49] - Efficiency Explained: Stack Temperature & Fuel Savings   This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!   Follow the Guest Tyler Nelson, Master HVACR on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nelson-master-hvacr-9a8a981b/ Sauermann Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sauermann-group/    Get Tyler Nelson's Book: Tyler's book Combustion Analysis: The Essentials is available now. If you want a practical, field-ready guide to combustion testing and diagnostics, grab your copy here: 👉https://tyty5.gumroad.com/l/zfsmxo Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    19 min
  5. How Service Leaders Use Soft Skills to Keep Culture Strong and Teams Accountable - Josh Zolin Part 2

    FEB 20

    How Service Leaders Use Soft Skills to Keep Culture Strong and Teams Accountable - Josh Zolin Part 2

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, Host Gary McCreadie talks with Josh Zolin, CEO of Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc), Founder of Blue Is The New White, and Director Board of Directors in CFESA, about leadership, accountability, and building a strong culture in the trades. They discuss the difference between being nice and being kind, and how leaders can have hard conversations while still showing care and respect, in Part 2. Josh shares his approach to handling poor behavior, setting clear expectations, and knowing when to let someone go. Gary and Josh also explore flexibility, leverage, motivation, and why increasing your value through soft skills can create more opportunities. The episode highlights how strong leadership is built on communication, honesty, and the smart use of soft skills. Gary and Josh discuss leadership in the trades and how to handle tough situations with employees. They talk about the difference between being nice and being kind, and why hard conversations should be clear, direct, and rooted in care. Josh shares how setting expectations early helps hold people accountable and explains when it makes sense to let someone go, especially when trust is broken. The conversation also covers flexibility, time off, and how company culture can impact honesty and performance. They finish by exploring how building value through soft skills and personal growth can create leverage, motivation, and stronger teams. Expect to Learn: How to handle difficult employees while staying firm and kind at the same time. Why setting clear expectations early makes accountability easier later on. When it makes sense to give someone another chance and when it is time to let them go. How flexibility, time off policies, and culture impact honesty and performance. Why increasing your value through soft skills can create leverage, motivation, and stronger leadership. Episode Highlights:  [00:00] - Intro to Josh Zolin in Part 02 [00:57] - Being "kind" vs. being "nice" as a leader  [03:21] - The magic phrase: "You're better than this"  [05:31] - Debating the "Fire fast" philosophy  [08:13] - Red flags: trusting your gut instinct on new hires  [12:02] - Flexibility & leverage in the workplace  [14:30] - Josh's PTO policy & flexibility value  [18:00] - The power of soft skills in leadership  [21:42] - Wrap-up & guest contact information This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!   Follow the Guest Josh Zolin on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshzolin/   Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc): https://www.linkedin.com/company/wcecommercial/   Blue Is The New White: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-is-the-new-white/   CFESA: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cfesa/  Website:  Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc): https://wcecommercial.com/   Blue Is The New White: https://www.blueisthenewwhite.com/   CFESA: https://cfesa.com/  To learn more about Josh Zolin, BITNW Academy, or his podcast "Everything They Don't Tell You", visit https://joshzolin.com/    Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    23 min
  6. The Overhead Mistakes Business Owners Make to Scale Lean and Boost Profitability - Robyn Hass Part 2

    FEB 18

    The Overhead Mistakes Business Owners Make to Scale Lean and Boost Profitability - Robyn Hass Part 2

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes of WorkHero talk with Robyn Hass, Founder and Fractional CFO of Mainstreet MEP™ by HVAC Office Solutions and Trade Finance in Ten Podcast, and Fractional MEP CFO/CHRO, FP&A and Change Management Consultant of Robyn Hass Consulting. Robyn shares her insights on managing overhead, scaling efficiently in a service business, and the importance of systems and processes in supporting growth without unnecessary expansion. Whether you're a solo operator or scaling a team, Robyn provides practical advice on reducing operational inefficiencies, improving field-to-office communication, and ensuring good financial practices.   Expect to Learn: -Strategies to control overhead as a business grows - The importance of lean processes and how to cut unnecessary complexity - Best practices for ensuring technicians stay accountable and contribute to accurate data collection - How to use data to gain insights into your business's performance and project cash flow - Advice on supporting solo contractors and small businesses - What it really takes to scale and when to keep things small   Timestamps: [00:00] - Introduction [00:59] - Managing Overhead During Growth [03:38] - Tech-to-Admin Ratio in the Field [07:02] - Importance of Field Data and Receipt Capture [08:41] - Managing Cash Flow and Invoicing Best Practices [10:07] - Training Technicians and Software Adoption [28:25] - Ongoing Training and Communication [14:17] - Supporting Solo Technicians and Small Businesses [18:54] - New Business Offerings: Bootcamps & Reporting Tools [20:43] - Final Thoughts   Follow Robyn Hass: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrobynh/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mainstreet-mep  Company Website: https://myhvacoffice.com/    Follow Gary McCreadie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/     Follow Furman Haynes on:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Furmanhaynes/  WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    23 min
  7. The Truth About Tattoos, Soft Skills, and Respect in the Trades with Josh Zolin Part 1

    FEB 18

    The Truth About Tattoos, Soft Skills, and Respect in the Trades with Josh Zolin Part 1

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by Josh Zolin, CEO of Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc), Founder of Blue Is The New White, and Director Board of Directors in CFESA, to talk about the power of soft skills in the trades. Josh explains why communication, body language, and first impressions matter more than appearance alone. The conversation explores how business owners can build strong team culture, coach technicians the right way, and create an environment where people feel useful and valued. Gary and Josh also discuss balancing compassion and honesty in leadership, giving clear feedback, and helping technicians stay motivated and connected to their work. In this conversation, Josh talks about why soft skills are the difference between good and great in the HVAC industry. He explains how first words, body language, and attitude often matter more than clothing or appearance. Josh and Gary discuss the importance of challenging personal bias, giving honest but respectful feedback, and coaching technicians one-on-one. They also share insights on building a strong team culture, helping employees feel useful, and creating an environment where people stay motivated and grow as leaders.   Expect to Learn: Why soft skills like communication and body language matter more than appearance alone. How first impressions are shaped by words, tone, and micro mannerisms. What business owners can do to build a strong culture and unity within their team. How coaching, leading, and managing each play a different role in employee growth. Why balancing compassion and honesty helps technicians improve and stay motivated.   Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Josh Zolin in Part 1 [01:34] - Seven Years Later: Soft Skills Discussion [03:00] - Dressing for the Job: First Impressions [05:18] - Tattoos & Changing Workplace Norms [07:27] - Judging Character Over Appearance [11:17] - What "Soft Skills" Really Mean [15:36] - Employee Rut: Passion vs. Employer [19:02] - Coaching vs. Leading vs. Managing [22:42] - Compassion vs. Candor Balance [25:11] - Why "Candor is Kindness."   This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!   Follow the Guest Josh Zolin on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshzolin/ Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc): https://www.linkedin.com/company/wcecommercial/ Blue Is The New White: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-is-the-new-white/ CFESA: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cfesa/    Website: Windy City Equipment (WCE, Inc): https://wcecommercial.com/ Blue Is The New White: https://www.blueisthenewwhite.com/ CFESA: https://cfesa.com/  To learn more about Josh Zolin, BITNW Academy, or his podcast "Everything They Don't Tell You", visit https://joshzolin.com/    Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    28 min
  8. The Personal Branding for HVAC Techs to Build Freedom and Respect in Trades with Jason Walker Part 2

    FEB 13

    The Personal Branding for HVAC Techs to Build Freedom and Respect in Trades with Jason Walker Part 2

    In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie talks with Jason Walker, National Trainer at HVAC Masters of the Hustle. They discuss entrepreneurship, content creation, and the mindset behind building a brand in the trades. Jason shares how he earned his nickname through sales success and explains the lessons he learned from outsourcing installs and taking on too many podcast sponsors. Gary and Jason also talk about the freedom of business ownership, the challenges of starting out on your own, and the power of creating consistent content to grow your name and opportunities in the HVAC industry. Gary and Jason talk about building a name in the HVAC industry through hard work, business ownership, and content creation. Jason explains how he earned the nickname J Dub Moneymaker and how it shaped his brand, even when facing criticism. They discuss the freedom and stress that come with running your own company, including lessons Jason learned from outsourcing installs and taking on too many podcast sponsors. Gary shares his experience moving from residential to commercial work and the mistakes he made starting out on his own. They close by highlighting the importance of consistent content, learning from failure, and staying true to your values in the trades.   Expect to Learn: How Jason earned the nickname J Dub Moneymaker and built his brand in the HVAC industry. The pros and cons of business ownership and the freedom it can bring to family life. Lessons learned from outsourcing installs and the challenges that came with it. Why taking on too many sponsors can hurt a podcast and turn listeners away. How consistent content creation can grow your reputation and open new opportunities. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Intro to Jason Walker in Part 02 [00:57] - HVAC installs as art and Alex Ivy LED influence [02:10] - Origin of "J Dub Moneymaker" nickname [04:57] - Redefining "hustle" in the trades [06:43] - Gary's biggest failure: waiting too long [07:45] - Jason's failures: outsourcing & over-sponsoring [11:31] - Gary's installation mistake: lack of prep & help [14:40] - Why content creation matters for recognition [19:09] - First viral video & platform preferences [20:34] - Wrap-up & closing thoughts This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/ Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse!   Follow the Guest Jason Walker on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-walker-626409201/  Website:  HVAC Masters of the Hustle: https://hvacmastersofthehustle.com/  Follow the Host: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/

    21 min
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4.8
out of 5
208 Ratings

About

The HVAC Know It All Podcast, hosted by Gary McCreadie, is an industry leading show that focuses on education within the HVAC and Refrigeration Trade.

Information

  • Creator
    Gary McCreadie
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    529
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    HVAC Know It All Podcast

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