ACHR News Podcast

Another great episode for Chill! Doug Smiley, Manager of the Lennox Training Locations joins us today to share some awesome opportunities in the works for Lennox. Thanks for taking the time to hang out with us today, Doug! Learn more about the Lennox Friends and family programSponsored by:

In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, PHCC Indiana’s Chuck Gillespie (right)  and PHCC Foundation’s Dan Quinonez (left) discuss a new re-entry training program at the Hamilton County Jail. The pilot program uses PHCC Academy’s HVAC pre-apprentice curriculum, along with hands-on press training, to help inmates build skills, earn certificates, and prepare for guaranteed job interviews after completing the course. Quinonez and Gillespie also discuss why the trades are well-suited for second-chance opportunities, how the program could help address workforce shortages, and what success might look like as the initiative grows.

Selling a business can look like a straightforward financial win, but Matt Michel says the reality is often far more complicated. In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, Michel discusses the emotional ups and downs covered in The Business Exit Roller Coaster, from the first decision to sell through life after the deal closes.

In this episode of Beyond the Wrench, Branden Dickey of Conejo Services shares how the company moved from instinct-driven operations to a more disciplined, structured business model. Dickey discusses the role of financial planning, leadership talent, data, and automation in building a stronger organization. He also explains how Conejo’s diversified home service model helps smooth demand, lower customer acquisition costs, and keep teams busy year-round.

Danfoss Application Engineering Manager Chris Brown discusses the company’s recent whitepaper, “Danfoss Multi Ejector High Pressure (HP): Unlocking 21% Savings over Traditional CO₂ Booster Systems,” which details how Danfoss’ Multi Ejector HP, in conjunction with parallel compression, can result in significant energy savings, particularly in warm climates. Sponsored by Danfoss.

In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, Jeff Ponce, category director at Malco, stops by to talk about the changing role of condensate management in HVAC installations. Ponce discusses how mini pump technology is advancing, why biofilm and drain issues remain major contractor concerns, and how capacitive sensors are bringing smarter performance to condensate pumps.

On this debut episode of Beyond the Wrench, Chris Lollini speaks with Cody Damp, owner and president of American Home Pros, a Tulsa-based HVAC and plumbing company with 17 trucks on the road. Damp breaks down the company’s approach to marketing, including a major push to dedicate 40% of marketing spend to brand recognition.

Housecall Pro’s Roland Ligtenberg joined the Newsmakers Podcast to discuss a new report tracking HVAC repair economics from 2021 to 2025, and the message was clear: repair is taking a larger role in contractor revenue.

In this episode of The Newsmakers Podcast, Jacob Guest (left) and Ryan Kauffman (right) of Ferris State University discussed the gap between what the HVAC industry needs and what the talent pipeline is currently producing.

In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, Tracy Paul, founder and principal of Cornerstone Advertising, explains the difference between local and hyperlocal marketing for contractors. He argues that the most effective strategy often starts with focusing on the zip codes closest to the shop, where brand recognition, referrals, and operational efficiency are strongest. Paul also discusses how trucks, yard signs, sponsorships, local SEO, and paid search all work together to improve visibility and click-through rates.

Jamie Adams, CRO at Scorpion, explains how homeowners are now frequently turning to AI tools, and prioritizing the online reputation of HVAC contractors before booking.

Sara Adams of Aaron Services discusses the company’s launch of a custom AI assistant and Alexa tool designed to help homeowners troubleshoot DIY projects and also book more jobs.

What’s really changing in HVAC sales? Pricing pressure, efficiency shifts, and why financing matters more than ever. Sponsored by Watercress Financial.

As contractors prep for ACCA 2026 in Las Vegas, don’t miss two powerful sessions on stopping revenue leaks and building an ownership mindset in the field. In this interview, industry leaders share what attendees can expect and how the right strategies can drive lasting performance and results. Sponsored by Nexstar Network.

In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, Jackie Sponsler, master advisor at CEO Warrior, unpacks the real story behind today’s labor shortage. Sponsler argues the issue isn’t just a lack of workers, but a shortage of skilled, accountable, revenue-producing technicians, and explains why retention, incentive pay structures, and clear career paths are the true competitive advantages. The conversation also dives into material price volatility, labor efficiency benchmarks, and why contractors must build disciplined budgets before attempting to scale.

As contractors juggle more digital tools than ever, software companies are rethinking how, and where, those tools show up. On this episode of the NEWSMakers Podcast, Bluon CEO Peter Capuciati breaks down why embedding functionality directly into platforms like ServiceTitan may be the key to real technician buy-in.

Parts Town’s Scott Pierson breaks down what actually slows contractors down during major winter storms — and how smarter parts strategy can reduce downtime, stress, and lost revenue.

Unlock the future of HVAC with Ecoer’s IoT-powered heat pumps, industry-leading efficiency, and a 10-year warranty that changes the game. Learn how Ecoer helps distributors boost margins and stay ahead! Sponsored by Ecoer.

The HVACR industry is navigating a dynamic period of transformation. Market dynamics, evolving regulations, and transition to low-GWP refrigerants are driving distributors and contractors to adapt in a changing industry. How do contractors, distributors, and suppliers work together to meet evolving industry needs? In this episode ACHR News talks with industry experts Christina Spalding (right) and Vicky Helinski (left) from Chemours about two critical topics: R-454B in HVAC, and A2Ls technology in commercial refrigeration. Sponsored by Chemours.

As the industry moves past the A2L transition, the conversation is shifting from compliance to innovation. In this webinar, we’ll highlight our latest advancements—including our dual refrigerant technology—designed to give contractors, distributors, and OEMs more flexibility and efficiency. Learn how to leverage these solutions to stay competitive in a changing repair vs. replace market and prepare for what’s next. Sponsored by ADP

In this episode, Building Decarbonization Coalition Founder Executive Director Panama Bartholomy breaks down the rapid rise of heat pumps, the policy landscape shaping the transition, and why contractor confidence is the most important factor in the years ahead.

In this NEWSmakers episode, BDR’s Jay Crowe details how inventory planning, strong maintenance programs, strategic financing, and careful tracking of PACE metrics can help contractors maximize every call in a soft market marked by refrigerant transition challenges and cautious homeowners.

Engineered Systems caught up with Laura Michel, Trane® Ductless Portfolio Manager. Hear current VRF and Ductless HVAC trends and discover how innovative solutions and updated standards are driving the next phase of VRF. Sponsored by Trane.

Scott Harkins, SVP of Sales for Resideo, explores how Resideo is addressing HVAC contractors’ three biggest challenges with its latest smart solutions. Sponsored by Resideo.

In this episode, Marc Racine, Senior Product Manager at Trane Technologies, shares how AI-driven tools like the Tech Assistant are transforming HVAC service. Learn how this innovation helps dealers and technicians streamline troubleshooting, boost efficiency, and deliver faster, smarter support in the field. Sponsored by Trane Technologies.

Ben Phillips (Eden) on shrinking the gap from first click to booked install with instant, transparent quotes.

In this episode of the Newsmakers Podcast, we speak with Tray McWilliams, a third-generation HVAC operator who scaled a family business to five locations before founding Blue Cardinal Home Services.

How do pros actually fix comfort issues? David Richardson, director of technical curriculum and instructor at the National Comfort Institute (NCI), answers: measure first, then act—starting at the equipment, moving through the ducts, and finishing with the building. He covers hot/cold rooms, central return headaches, and homeowner-friendly ways to explain airflow.

Kris Crosby, Forane® Tech Tips author and Arkema Sr. Business Development Engineer, discusses the latest lower GWP refrigerants and the impact of Forane® 1233zd production in North America. Sponsored by Arkema.

Leadership members of TACCA, Brittany Doering and Ben Stark, join the podcast to talk about how HVAC contractors can network properly.

There is power in planning. When business leaders chart out where they’re going, they win. Tune in as two Nexstar Network coaches – Business Coach Carlos Aponte (left) and Marketing Coach Jeff Wright (right) – share their playbook to help contractors set their businesses up for success ahead of 2026. Sponsored by Nexstar Network.

What is a tuck in business and how do HVAC contractors handle them? David Katz from Redwood Services stops by the podcast to answer our questions.

While sometimes overlooked, leadership is an important aspect of running an HVAC business. Chris Morin from HVAC Pro Blog joins the podcast to provide some leadership tips.

Roy White, owner of Fixed Right and Guaranteed HVAC, recently won the Service Nation Contractor of the Year Award. Find out the great things this contractor is doing.

With the innovative inverter heat pump, not only did you get to enjoy superior heating and cooling performance under extreme weather, but also saving energy and money. Sponsored by Midea.

On this episode, Nathaniel “Than” Hancock, chief operating officer at Podium (right), and Keith Massey, strategic partner manager, Podium (left), join us to explore how AI is transforming customer communication in the HVAC industry.

In this special 10th anniversary episode, Consultant and coach Tom Peregrino and the Director of Affiliate Relations Carol Longacre reflect on a decade of innovation, collaboration, and community in the residential contracting industry. From the show’s humble beginnings to its current national impact, hear how leadership and affiliate partnerships have shaped a one-of-a-kind experience for contractors. Sponsored by Service World Expo.

Now that Google is producing an AI overview at the top of search results, what should HVAC contractors do to be discovered? Michelle LaFrance stops by the podcast to provide some advice.

HVAC contractors are dealing with the R-454B refrigerant shortage. Nick Arch from Carrier joins the podcast to identify the problem and possible solutions.

Join expert “Geo Joe” to explore the past and future of geothermal heat pumps—decarbonization, workforce growth, and where the industry is headed. Sponsored by ClimateMaster.

With the R-454B shortage affecting the HVAC industry, it is more important than ever for contractors to keep an eye on their refrigerant. This is where refrigerant management systems come in handy. To help educate us on this topic, we talk with Adam Dykstra from FM Hero.

ACHR NEWS Editorial Director Kyle Gargaro attended the Rheem Pro Partners Conference. Gargaro talks with Rheem’s Randy Roberts about both the conference and the HVAC issues of the day.

Branding is important for HVAC contractors. Lemon Seed Marketing realizes that and is hosting “The Next Great American Brand” contest. Crystal Williams from Lemon Seed Marketing stops by the podcast to fill us in.

With the news coming out of Washington, D.C., the question is what will the 2025 HVAC commercial market look like? Mike Cox from Crete United stops by the podcast to let us know.

The A2L refrigerant transition is a hot topic. Nexstar Network Coach and seasoned HVAC Technical Trainer Joe DeLong encourages contractors to be proactive and lead the way by prioritizing training, keeping safety top-of-mind, and educating your customers on the changes. Sponsored by Nexstar Network.

Billy Marshall from ServiceTrade talks with The ACHR NEWS about how HVAC contractors can get the most out of their technicians.

Carrier’s Gaurang Pandya talks about sustainability in the commercial HVAC market.

Anthony Abate from AtmosAir joins the podcast to discuss IAQ issues after the Los Angeles wildfires.

SMACNA and HVAC lobbyist Stanley Kolbe lets us know what to expect out of Washington D.C. in 2025.

Raj Midha from Redwood Services joins the NEWSmakers podcast to give us a cheat sheet on how to advertise with Google.