The Plumbing and Mechanical Podcasts

Reins, joined Kristen Bayles for And So It Flows to discuss how employee retention, leadership development and incentive planning can affect the long-term value of a plumbing business. Reins works with independent business owners, particularly in the trades, to create alternative equity arrangements that help retain key employees and align them with the company’s goals.

On this episode of And So It Flows, Kristen Bayles sat down with Gregg Holladay, business development manager for specialty markets at Bradford White, to discuss the growing role heat pump water heaters are expected to play in the residential plumbing market and why contractors need to start preparing now.

In this episode of And So It Flows, Kristen sits down with Roland Ligtenberg, co-founder of Housecall Pro, to explore how technology, AI and shifting workforce dynamics are reshaping the skilled trades. Roland shares insights on the growing appeal of trade careers —especially among Gen Z! — as economic uncertainty and automation reshape traditional white-collar paths.

Upselling is often seen as a bad word in this business, and even the antithesis of why many people joined the trades. Editor Kristen Bayles spoke with Blake Turner, master trainer at Nexstar, to discuss the misconceptions surrounding "upselling," and how through a few simple steps — focusing on communication, presenting options, and helping customers make informed decisions — contractors can improve both the customer experience and their business outcomes, without ever feeling like a salesperson.

As spring approaches, plumbing contractors across the country are preparing for one of their busiest seasons of the year. In this episode of And So It Flows, Kristen Bayles spoke with Jane Blanchard, head of brand and marketing at Service Forge, about a challenge many contractors underestimate: the true cost of missed calls.

LG Director of Heating Sales Renae’ Turnbaugh outlines how high-efficiency water heating solutions provide an effective means to upgrade today’s homes. She clarifies misconceptions about high-efficiency water heating and explores benefits beyond water savings including smart home integration, aesthetics and user-friendly technology. Sponsored by:

In this episode of And So It Flows, Jennifer Harrison, vice president of merchandising, and Kaytee Gray, vice president of fulfillment operations at SupplyHouse.com, offer a behind-the-scenes look at how digital merchandising and fulfillment strategies are evolving to meet the needs of today’s contractors. Harrison explains how online merchandising removes friction for pros in the field by putting expert-level product information directly at their fingertips. By leveraging customer search behavior, curated product data, and simplified navigation, SupplyHouse.com helps tradespeople quickly identify the right products without becoming overwhelmed — reducing “analysis paralysis” and supporting confident, on-the-job decision-making.

In this episode of And So It Flows, Tim Savage, electrical outside sales representative at Lock Supply Co., shares a ground-level view of how artificial intelligence is actually being used in distribution today. With firsthand experience in the trades — including electrical, HVAC and general contracting — Savage understands the urgency contractors face when materials, answers or substitutions are needed immediately.

In this episode of And So It Flows, host Natalie Forster sits down with Spencer Pope, manager of technical support and training at Bradford White, to explore how education and workforce development are evolving across the plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical trades. Drawing on nearly 15 years with the manufacturer—and a background as a service contractor—Pope outlines the industry’s most pressing skills gaps, particularly the growing shortage of technical expertise as experienced technicians retire and fewer new workers enter the field with hands-on foundations.

How can the plumbing and mechanical industries close the skills gap and build a stronger workforce for the future? In this episode, we talk to SVP of Marketing at Oatey, Katherine Lehtinen, about the power of collaboration: from manufacturers and educators to trade nonprofits and influencers.

Newly inducted into the Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame, Taco's CEO, Cheryl Merchant, tells all in this podcast conversation. From her humble beginnings to working her way up the manufacturing ladder in various industries, her thankful nature and risk-taking business mindset has led the Taco Family of Companies to continued success.

Xylem’s Derrick Oberdorf and Jennifer Freres unpack the trends driving smarter, more sustainable commercial building systems, and the solutions helping design them, including smart pumps powered by Xylem’s hydrovar® X motor. Sponsored by:

Listen as Matt Baranuk, the Portfolio Director at A. O. Smith, discusses the latest trends in commercial water heating and how A. O. Smith is leading the way with upcoming product launches and innovations. Matt is committed to helping the industry, and A. O. Smith deliver hot water to those who need it—whether heating water, driving sustainability, or finding new ways to improve how we all interact with these products daily. Sponsored by:

Plumbing & Mechanical Editorial Director Natalie Forster moderates a discussion on all things radiant with our incredible panel of Radiant All Stars: John Barba, director of sales training at Taco Comfort Solutions; John Siegenthaler, consulting engineer and principal of Appropriate Designs in Holland Patent, New York; Max Rohr, director of marketing and education, Caleffi Hydronic Solutions; and Dave Yates, a former mechanical contractor and owner of F.W. Behler in York, Pennsylvania. ⮞ WATCH THE VIDEO OF THE PODCAST

With demand spiking and over 480,000 skilled trade jobs currently unfilled, plumbing contractors are scrambling to secure qualified talent ahead of peak season. Jessie Barrack, SVP of Business Development at Xplor FieldEdge, speaks about how top contractors are navigating this growing labor crunch—and the smart hiring moves they’re making now to stay ahead.

Stephanie Radel discusses how Uponor AquaPEX® and Uponor ChlorFIT® Schedule 80 Corzan® CPVC (Uponor ChlorFIT) blend flexibility, strength, and chemical resistance to handle high-demand commercial domestic-water applications. Stephanie is the Director of GF’s Hot and Cold Water Category for the Americas, where she leads strategy and product development for plumbing systems that support safe, efficient, and sustainable water delivery. Sponsored by:

IAPMO's Christoph Lohr, PE, vice president of technical services, dives into water safety in heating systems, IAPMO's recent acquisition of ESPRI and what this means for research efforts moving forward, plus changes to be aware of in upcoming code cycles.  

Lisa Lyon, general manager for Webstone, shares her insight on all things leadership and learning new sides of the business as a valve expert who has worked in every facet from marketing and sales, to product management and now general management.

Aware of the industry need for business intelligence training, the PHCC Educational Foundation has partnered with Goalmakers to develop Business Leadership Essentials, a 10-week, peer-based learning program through its online PHCC Academy for current and future managers of plumbing and HVACR businesses. Natalie Forster talks with Dan Quinonez, executive director of the PHCC Educational Foundation and Jeremy Wall, CEO of Goalmakers, to discuss common business management mishaps, success planning and more.

Sustainability is a hot topic in the plumbing industry today, and water reuse is one of many ways that the plumbing industry is innovating to become more sustainable. From graywater reuse to rainwater harvesting, how are experts in the industry incorporating water reuse into their strategies, and why is it important?Associate Editor Kristen Bayles sat down with Christopher Peterson, National Sales Manager of Saniflo, to discuss the major hurdles for water reuse: from cost perceptions, space limitations, regulatory complexity, lack of standardized education/training, and more.

As the Sustainability manager for GF Building Flow Solutions Americas, Chrissie Walsh leverages her climate-focused skillset as an Atmospheric Scientist to help further the company’s vision of becoming the global leader in sustainable water systems. Editorial Director Natalie Forster sits down with Chrissie to chat about the importance of transparency, collaboration and systems thinking in order to reach building sustainability goals.

The plumbing industry is at the forefront of water conservation, safety and quality, with virtually all manufacturers working toward a shared goal of increased efficiency and accessibility to clean water. Even so, the U.S. has an alarming water quality problem. One in four Americans’ water is unsafe to drink and 45% of tap water contains PFAS. As end users become more aware of and knowledgeable on the damaging effects of PFAS, micro plastics, other chemicals and hard water, plumbing professionals must be up-to-date with the latest water treatment and filtration technologies on the market. Plumbing & Mechanical sat down with Sara Krupa, category manager, filtration at Moen to talk all things water filtration. (Image courtesy of Moen)

Plumbing professionals play a vital role in helping homeowners achieve the perfect balance of comfort and efficiency. Grundfos hot water recirculation pumps provide your customers with instant hot water while conserving resources—up to 12,000 gallons of water saved annually per home. Live from the AHR Expo 2025 in Orlando, Fla., Curtis Maderios discusses why plumbers should consider installing hot water recirculation with Plumbing & Mechanical Editorial Director Natalie Forster and longtime columnist Dave Yates. Sponsored by:

With a focus on energy efficiency, continuous improvement, and innovation, Matthew Baranuk, Portfolio Director, Commercial for A. O. Smith, is committed to helping the industry and A. O. Smith deliver hot water to those that need it. Join Matt Baranuk as he discusses the upcoming DOE regulatory changes, and the measures A. O. Smith has put in place to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, learn how much of A. O. Smith's current product line is already compliant with these new standards. Learn More Sponsored by:

Chris Forth, VP of Regulatory Codes and Environmental Affairs at Johnson Controls discusses sustainability trends and decarbonization regulations to keep an eye on.

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke moderates a discussion on all things radiant with our incredible panel of Radiant All Stars: John Barba, director of sales training at Taco Comfort Solutions; John Siegenthaler, consulting engineer and principal of Appropriate Designs in Holland Patent, New York; Max Rohr, director of marketing and education, Caleffi Hydronic Solutions; and Dave Yates, a former mechanical contractor and owner of F.W. Behler in York, Pennsylvania.

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke chats with Michael Conrad, senior technical manager at NSF International. Conrad has nearly 15 years of experience in research and technical roles in the water industry. He is a Professional Engineer and holds a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University of Toronto. His role is to develop risk assessments and optimize water management plans ensuring that they meet regulatory requirements and standard guidelines.

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke had the chance to chat with Jon Dommisse, Bradley Corp.’s vice president of marketing, to discuss how these commercial restroom trends are evolving in 2023, what the hottest products are and how codes are influencing the design of these spaces.

As the United States moves to decarbonize commercial and residential building structures, all eyes turn to heat pumps as a way to increase energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions for not only space heating but domestic hot water as well. This month, Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke had a chance to sit down with Cain White, director of commercial product management for Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC (METUS), about commercial water heating trends, including heat pump water heaters.

The 2024 ASPE Convention and Expo will be hosted in Columbus, Ohio from October 18-23. Join Jennifer Hoff, CEO & Founder of Taffy Event Strategies, as the management company for the ASPE Convention & Expo as she discusses the bi-annual 2024 Expo and what to expect for this year’s event. Jennifer Hoff has been providing show management for the ASPE Convention & Expo since 1994.  In 2014, she launched and is CEO and owner of a full-service trade show and event management company, Taffy Event Strategies LLC.  Taffy Events manages strategy, sales, marketing, operations, content development, and financial management for a variety of tradeshows and conferences.  She serves the Center for Exhibition Industry (CEIR) Research Council chairman. Sponsored by: For more information contact us here.

Live from AHR 2024, Xylem’s Steve Clark, director, intelligent solutions and Jennifer Freres, global product manager, centrifugal pumps discuss the new hydrovar® X-enabled product line – a powerful pump and Smart Motor combination – and their commitment to Building Better Futures. Sponsored by:

As we step into 2024, several key trends are shaping the landscape of plastic pipe usage in commercial markets. Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Lance MacNevin, director of engineering, building and construction division of the Plastics Pipe Institute, to discuss top trends influencing the use of plastic pipes in commercial applications.

PM Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Cindy Sheridan, CEO of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors — National Association (PHCC) to discuss the new and improved CONNECT conference and trade show, which will be held in Birmingham, Alabama, Oct. 7-10.

PM Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Matt Sonnhalter, vision architect at Sonnhalter, a B2T marketing agency, to discuss the 15th annual Tool Drive, held in partnership with Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity. The Tool Drive runs throughout the month of August. Since 2010, Sonnhalter has raised more than $517,000 worth of donations for this cause.

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Paige Bovard, senior vice president of product marketing for Milwaukee Tool, at the company's Pipeline 2024 event in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to discuss the tool brand's success over the years.

Supply House Times Chief Editor Natalie Forster and Marki Huston, COO of Viega LLC, discuss the recent surge of re-investment in U.S. manufacturing facilities and training centers, onshoring and more.

Supply House Times Chief Editor Natalie Forster and Mark Hudoba, vice president of building solutions for the Americas region for REHAU discuss the recent surge of re-investment in U.S. manufacturing facilities and training centers, onshoring and more.

Plumbing & Mechanical and PM Engineer Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Andres Caballero, president of GF Building Flow Solutions Americas, formerly Uponor, to discuss the company's strategy when it comes to American manufacturing and training.

To develop your own workforce, build intentionality into your training blueprint and do not disregard the importance of Field Mentorship. Jeff Atwell and Corinne Hall, Workforce Development Coaches for Nexstar Network's NexTech Academy, crunch the numbers and discuss the benefits – and the what-ifs of not being mindful – with your program. Sponsored by: For more information contact us here. For more information contact us here.

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Jeffrey Johnson, PhD, PE, innovation manager for Oldcastle Infrastructure, to discuss the growing concerns over water scarcity and how Artificial Intelligence and leak detection can help solve this issue.

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Mark Arnold, president and CEO of Arnold & Sons Plumbing, Sewer & Drain, to discuss why plumbers should be doing water quality tests and offering water treatment services to their customers on every call. Sponsored by: For more information contact us here.

Join us on this episode of And So It Flows to learn the secrets of dominating your local plumbing market with Billy Stevens, CEO, Sera Systems. Billy Stevens is founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sera Systems, Inc., a subscription software provider for the home service industry. Billy bought a failing new construction plumbing business in 1996, immediately converted it to residential and commercial service followed by adding HVAC and sold it to a private equity firm for millions in 2011, leading the entry of PE investors into home services. Sponsored by: For more information contact us here.

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Chuck White, vice president of regulatory affairs for PHCC-National Association, to discuss legislative and regulatory actions that PHVAC contractors should be aware of in the coming year.

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Michele Windsor, vice president of training and implementation for Successware, to discuss current trends in contractor software. Sponsored by:

As the head of JJM Alkaline Technologies and an expert in condensate neutralizer solutions, Kyle T. Emmons speaks to the growing popularity of high-efficiency gas-fired appliances, the importance of a condensate neutralizer with such combusting appliance, its role in safeguarding infrastructure and complying with building codes.

After more than 100 years operating at the company’s original foundry in Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina, Charlotte Pipe and Foundry began operations from a new, $460 million state-of-the-art foundry in Oakboro, North Carolina in September 2023. During the grand opening celebration in October, Supply House Times Chief Editor Natalie Forster sat down with Charlotte Pipe CEO Hooper Hardison and Brad Muller, vice president of corporate communications to get behind the scenes details about the move.

Plumbing & Mechanical and PM Engineer Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down Legionella expert Dr. Janet Stout, PhD, executive vice president and founder of Special Pathogens Laboratory, and research associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, to discuss best practices for Legionella prevention and mitigation.

Plumbing Group Editors Nicole Krawcke and Natalie Forster sit down with Group Two’s Mollie Elkman and Oatey’s Katherine Lehtinen to discuss the workforce development movement behind the children’s book, “The House That She Built,” and how it’s generating awareness of the skilled trades for young women. Sponsored by

Plumbing & Mechanical Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Lochinvar Senior Product Manager Dan Rettig to discuss current trends in the combi-boiler market.

Plumbing & Mechanical and PM Engineer Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke moderates a discussion on all things radiant with our incredible panel of Radiant All Stars: Robert Bean, ASHRAE Fellow, lecturer and retired engineering technology practitioner; Mark Eatherton, a retired hydronic heating contractor, educator and columnist, and the former executive director of the Radiant Professionals Alliance; Dan Holohan, founder of HeatingHelp.com, and well-known industry educator and author; John Siegenthaler, consulting engineer and principal of Appropriate Designs in Holland Patent, New York; and last, but certainly not least, Dave Yates, a former mechanical contractor and owner of F.W. Behler in York, Pennsylvania.