ACHR News Podcast

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.

The labor pool is shrinking—but opportunity isn’t. Steffan Busch (left) and Jason Florek (right), Nexstar Network Talent Acquisition Coaches, share how contractors can create a sustainable workforce pipeline through smarter recruiting, standout employer branding, resourceful AI tools, and proven strategies. Join the conversation and begin building your blueprint for success. Sponsored by Nexstar Network.

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.

HVAC construction is going digital, but estimating lags behind. CEO Shiva Dhawan of Attentive.ai shares how AI takeoff is transforming preconstruction. Sponsored by Beam AI.

Cut HVAC install time & boost efficiency! Learn how Ecoer’s automated charging, inverter tech, & IoT solutions are shaping the industry. Sponsored by Ecoer.

When it comes to HVAC service and repair , knowledge matters! And it matters NOW more than ever before. What happens when we make it EASY for HVAC/R technicians to find REAL OEM parts Sponsored by Encompass.

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

Terry Frisenda and Phillip Kriegbaum from LG Electronics USA join The ACHR News podcast to discuss the latest HVAC innovations. Live from the AHR Expo, they explore cold climate heat pumps, low-GWP refrigerants, AI-driven solutions like the Multi V i system and the future of HVAC technology. Sponsored by LG.

Arkema’s Business Manager of Fluorochemicals Scot Swan joins Kyle Gargaro to discuss the latest in the AIM Act, Refrigerants, and the top trends we expect to see in 2025. Sponsored by Arkema.

Chemours is a leader in refrigerant innovation and an integral player in readying the market for A2Ls. This podcast will increase the audience’s confidence in A2L technology while preparing them to thrive in both HVAC and Commercial refrigeration. Sponsored by Chemours.

Decarbonizing existing commercial buildings with air-to-water heat pumps provides an opportunity to drive sustainability and deliver measurable ROI. Sponsored by Johnson Controls.

This episode explores how electrically-enhanced filtration is transforming HVAC efficiency, helping facility managers reduce energy costs, extend equipment lifespan, and optimize building performance—all without compromising occupant comfort. Hear how SecureAire by R-Zero’s advanced technology delivers measurable cost savings and real-world results. Sponsored by R-Zero.

Join Ziehl-Abegg & Q-PAC as they discuss retrofit solutions and innovative fan technology shaping the future of sustainable, cost-effective systems. Sponsored by Ziehl-Abegg.

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.

Lei Schlitz, from Johnson Controls, joins the ACHR NEWSmakers podcast to discuss what is happening in the HVAC commercial market.

Nicole Celiscar, from Service Experts, stops by the podcast to talk about how they lease equipment to homeowners.

Modine Coatings has a proud 50-year legacy of developing and providing the best corrosion resistant coatings to the HVAC industry. With the highest quality standards and most arduous industry testing, we help safeguard coils, components and cabinets against corrosion. Sponsored by Modine Coatings.

Join Advanced Distributor Products and explore the manufactured housing market—why it matters, who it impacts and how it shapes the future of products. Sponsored by Adpnow.com.

Explore heat pump innovations, efficiency breakthroughs, and HVAC’s role in decarbonization with TJ Wheeler of Friedrich AC. Discover what’s next in sustainable cooling. Sponsored by Friedrich.com.

Jim Kornemann, VP of Sales & Marketing at Gastite dives into the evolutionary product line of Python Line Sets. Sponsored by Python Line Sets.

Dick Foster, President of ZONEFIRST discusses HVAC zoning, highlighting industry changes, contractor opportunities and challenges. Sponsored by ZONEFIRST HVAC Zone Damper Products, Control Panels.

John Akhoian, founder of Rooter Hero, has helped staff his business by reaching out to Generation Z. Find out how he is doing it.

Recorded at the annual HARDI Conference, The ACHR NEWS sat down with new HARDI Director of State and Public Affairs to look at legislation affecting the HVAC industry.

ACCA’s Bart James (left) and author Ryan Kiscaden (right) stop by the podcast to talk about a new project to help introduce HVAC at a young age.

David Rames from Midea joins the podcast to talk about the growing popularity of heat pumps.

Learn how AI helps HVAC businesses meet today’s high customer demands for instant, personalized, 24/7 service! Sponsored by Scorpion.

Amy O’Grady from Women in HVACR talks about what needs to happen for more women to get into the HVAC industry.

Frank Bacchetta of Total Comfort Group talks about how his company uses data to improve the customer experience.

Are your accounting and inventory teams in step when it comes to ensuring your inventory is in check? Dive into the importance of inventory control and the impact it can have on your business with two Nexstar Network experts: Daniel Todd (left), Inventory Management Coach, and Shane Rau (right), Accounting Coach. Sponsored by Nexstar Network.

Host Austin Keating talks with Knauf Insulation's Specifications Specialist William “Buddy” Combs on the crucial role of ductwork insulation in high-performance buildings. They discuss fiberglass insulation’s impact on energy efficiency, sound control, indoor air quality and sustainability. Sponsored by Knauf.

Tony Petrossian and Jessica McMillan of Rossi HVAC Hardware join SNIPS NEWS Editor Austin Keating to discuss the company's upcoming presence at the SMACNA Conference in Palm Springs, California. They emphasized the importance of market feedback in product innovation and highlighted Rossi's commitment to American manufacturing. Sponsored by Rossi.

Learn how technology can improve your business by capturing more leads, streamlining communications, and offering easy booking and payment options. Sponsored by Scorpion.

In this episode, The ACHR NEWS speaks with Andre Patenaude from Copeland about some of the current issues that are shaping the commercial refrigeration industry.

Tom Peregrino of Service Nation stops by the podcast to discuss the growth opportunities for HVAC residential contractors. This includes attending events such as Service World Expo. Sponsored by Service World Expo.

Jessie Barrack from FieldEdge joins the podcast to talk about how HVAC contractors can own the home.

The decarbonization trend is growing in the commercial HVAC market. Three leaders from Carbon Reform join the podcast to explain the trend.

Chris Buttenham of Reins joins the NEWSmakers podcast to explain how HVAC contractors can use incentives with their employees.

We sit down with Tim Fisher from HARDI to go over their HVAC state of the industry research.

Social media can be overwhelming for HVAC contractors. How can they stay on top of all the platforms – Linked-In, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others?

Dan Bueschel from Modigent joins the NEWSmakers podcast to provide tips on finding HVAC employees.

Adam Kimmel from Koura stops by the podcast to answer all our questions on the latest refrigerant transition.

The busy summer season is upon us. Find out how HVAC contractors can make the most of this opportunity.

HybridAir, a groundbreaking new technology from Addison, seamlessly merges air, water and refrigeration into an exclusive air handling solution. Aligned with the broader goal of transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, this innovation effectively tackles the toughest hurdles of electrification and decarbonization challenges. Sponsored by HybridAir.

Gen Z is now being called the “tool belt generation.” How did this happen? SMACNA CEO Aaron Hilger explains why young people are joining the HVAC industry.

Marco Radocajs, the owner of Balance HVAC, stops by the podcast to talk about how his company looks at the entire house when coming up with HVAC solution.

Ira Copeland, vice president of marketing at Decon7, joins us to discuss the missing part of indoor air quality (IAQ): disinfecting.

Josh Weiss, a PR expert with 10 to 1 Public Relations, stops by the podcast to talk about how HVAC contractors should have a crisis communication plan.

Frank Favaro, founder and president of ServeCentric Coaching, joins the podcast to provide advice on how HVAC residential contractors can maximize their profitability through enhanced client experience.

Can you operationalize marketing? Yes. But should you? Listen in as Melanie Tauring, experienced Marketing Coach Manager, takes a page from Nexstar’s playbook and brings to light the pros and cons while reminding listeners that marketing is not transactional. Sponsored by Nexstar Network.

The ACHR NEWS sat down with ACCA CEO Bart James(left) and ACCA Vice President of Membership, Advocacy, and Events Sean Robertson (right) at the recent ACCA conference. The trio discussed issues that are affecting HVACR contractors including regulations, legislation, and business management.

New ACCA chair and co-owner of Empire Heating & Air Conditioning in Atlanta talks with The ACHR NEWS about what is happening at ACCA, the benefits of being in a Mix Group, and what is it like for an independent contractor to compete in the ever changing HVAC industry.

Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan is one of the best schools in the country to learn the HVAC trade. Ferris State professor Eric Quilitzsch is a guest on the podcast to let us know what is new in the HVACR education segment of the industry.

There is a lot of information and also disinformation being talked about in the HVACR industry regarding the new refrigerant transition. Don Gillis from Chemours cuts through it all and gives us some straight talk on the new A2L refrigerants. Listen to this podcast to get set for the change.

SNIPS NEWS sat down with David Burd, air distribution products technical manager for North America at Owens Corning, to discuss how costs and benefits break down between duct insulation options.

Opportunities to increase HVAC contractors’ and distributors’ business might be closer than you think. Listen and learn about additional business growth opportunities that might be literally over customers’ heads – in their homes’ attics. Sponsored by Owens Corning.

FAMCO is a manufacturer of roof, wall and dryer vents. Their fast, flexible manufacturing system allows them to make and ship 95% of their products in 5 days or less, allowing their customers to have access to 1000’s of products without having to carry inventory. Sponsored by www.famcomfg.com.

The ACHR NEWS talked with SMACNA president Carol Duncan. She is also the owner of General Sheet Metal in Clackamas, Oregon and has nearly 40 years of leadership and expertise in the sheet metal industry. Duncan talked about the outlook for 2024 and how to bring more talent into the industry.

Kate Houghton of Hudson Technologies discusses what mentorship in the HVACR industry looks like.

Join us for a short discussion with Sauermann Americas' Tyler Nelson, Instrumentation Sales Manager about the next trend in HVAC. Sponsored by Sauermann.

David Quam, Product Director of Connected Services at Resideo, discusses Pro-IQTM Services – a suite of software tools designed to help HVAC contractors transform their approach to customer service from reactive to proactive. Sponsored by Resideo.

Midea joins us to discuss their AHR Innovation Award winning unit, the Packaged Window Heat Pump which won the Sustainable Solutions category. David Leezer, a Louisville based R&D engineer, talks about the future of cold climate heat pumps. Sponsored by Midea.

Discover how Aeroseal’s technology is key to a winning project for stakeholders, the environment, and the grid alike in new and retrofit applications. Sponsored by Aeroseal.

What is in store for the HVAC industry in 2024? AHRI’s Steve Yurek fills us in on all the trends that will be affecting HVAC contractors in the upcoming year. Topics include refrigerant transition, decarbonization, and HVAC sales.

We talk with HVAC contractor Anton Martin of English Air to get his thoughts on minority recruitment.

How should HVAC contractors navigate the world of online reviews? Nexstar Network coach Alicia Johnston fills us in.

Andrew Koukis of Big Ass Fans discusses the HVLS market, IAQ, and more while The NEWS visited their facility in Lexington Kentucky.

METUS recently performed a homeowner heat pump survey. Michelle Robb stops by the podcast to share the results.

Friend of the podcast ACCA CEO Bart James shares his knowledge on the HVAC legislation and residential market.

Joe Parson from ClimateMaster explains the process of selling high-efficiency HVAC equipment to homeowners.

Scott Bohannon of CEO Warrior talks about how HVAC contractors should be using AI in their marketing efforts.

Dallas HVAC contractor and Sera Systems founder Billy Stevens discusses maintenance agreements.

A discussion about how offering financing can be profitable for an HVAC contractor.

Kyle Hatch shares his experience as an FGA Elite Contractor, what it's like going viral on Instagram, and the importance of learning from mistakes to advance in the trade. Sponsored by Fujitsu Airstage.

ACHR NEWS Editorial Director Kyle Gargaro talked with Rodney Koop of the New Flat Rate to understand how homeowners decide to purchase a new HVAC system.