HVAC CHATS

Hosted by Endeavor Business Media

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Welcome to “HVAC Chats,” a series of HVAC podcast episodes by Contracting Business and Endeavor Business Media, hosted by Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business magazine. “HVAC Chats” offers industry and business insights to help heating and air conditioning contractors grow and manage their businesses. In every episode, Contracting Business explores the topics and trends impacting HVAC contracting businesses and considers strategies for success in the ever-changing HVACR market. For more information on Contracting Business, visit www.contractingbusiness.com.

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August 26, 2026Episode 5634 min

Test, Don’t Guess: How to Build a Better HVAC Business

In this episode of "HVAC Chats," Derek Aarstad, owner of DNA Heating and Cooling in Richmond, Virginia, discusses how building science, diagnostics, performance testing, and customer education have shaped his high-performance HVAC business. Aarstad explains why more than half of the comfort complaints he encounters are not actually equipment problems and how heat load calculations, Manual S, commissioning, duct leakage testing, and IAQ assessments can help contractors deliver better-performing HVAC systems. He also shares lessons on intentionally limiting company growth, attracting the right customers through organic digital channels, using AI-driven referrals, and avoiding technician and owner burnout.

August 12, 2026Episode 5528 min

The Case for Putting HVAC Prices Online

In this episode of "HVAC Chats," Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business, talks with Lauren Acosta Huckleberry, president of Acosta Heating, Cooling, and Electrical, about modernizing the HVAC sales process through online pricing and greater price transparency. Acosta Huckleberry explains how her company uses online pricing to meet changing homeowner expectations, generate leads, and provide customers with pricing information outside normal business hours. The conversation also explores how digital tools can support comfort consultants, the importance of proper HVAC system sizing, and the connection between equipment selection, home comfort, and IAQ.

July 22, 2026Episode 5419 min

HVAC Training to Create Day-One Billable Technicians

"HVAC Chats" host Nicole Krawcke, head of content of Contracting Business, sits down with Chris Roth, HVAC contractor, educator, and co-owner of Quality Training Centers, to discuss how contractor-led education can reshape the industry's workforce pipeline. Roth explains why traditional trade school models often fall short of preparing technicians for real-world field performance and outlines a contractor-centric approach focused on producing hire-ready, day-one billable employees. The conversation explores practical strategies for improving workforce development, technician retention, and business growth while addressing the skilled labor shortage facing HVAC contractors.

July 8, 2026Episode 5341 min

Why More Women Are Choosing Careers in HVAC

In this latest episode of "HVAC Chats," Contracting Business Head of Content Nicole Krawcke welcomes Jane Sidebottom, president of Women in HVACR, for a conversation about the growing number of women entering the HVAC industry and what it means for the future workforce. Sidebottom discusses the factors driving increased enrollment in HVAC training programs, the importance of mentorship and professional networks, and practical steps contractors can take to build more inclusive workplaces. The episode also explores workforce development, career pathways, and leadership opportunities, offering actionable insights for HVACR contractors looking to strengthen recruiting, improve retention, and build high-performing teams.

June 24, 2026Episode 5231 min

Don't Let AI Replace the Power of the Human Voice in HVAC Customer Service

In this episode of HVAC Chats, Nicole Krawcke, head of content of Contracting Business, speaks with Erica Leonor, founder and CEO of Voxa, about elevating the role of customer service representatives (CSRs) in HVAC businesses. Leonor explains why CSRs should be viewed as an extension of the marketing team, shares strategies for improving customer interactions through tone and communication skills, and discusses the importance of voice training and accountability. The conversation also explores the growing role of AI in call centers, offering practical guidance on how HVAC contractors can improve efficiency while preserving the human connection that drives customer trust, booking rates, and long-term business growth.

June 10, 2026Episode 5127 min

What HVAC Contractors Can Learn From Chick-fil-A’s Customer Experience

In this episode of "HVAC Chats," Nicole Krawcke, head of content for Contracting Business, speaks with Julian Scadden, president and CEO of Nexstar Network, about what Chick-fil-A’s entry into home services means for HVACR contractors. The conversation explores customer experience, branding, workforce development, technician communication, and the concept of “reverse hospitality” as a competitive advantage in home services. Scadden also shares insights on balancing AI adoption with meaningful human interactions and explains why trust, consistency, and service excellence will become increasingly important as the industry evolves. Contractors will gain practical ideas for strengthening customer relationships, improving operational performance, and differentiating their businesses in a growing market.

May 27, 2026Episode 5024 min

HVAC Contractor Growth Strategies Are Shifting Beyond More Leads

In this episode of HVAC Chats, Nicole Krawcke speaks with Angie Snow of ServiceTitan about findings from the company’s 2026 Residential State of the Trades Report. The discussion explores how HVAC contractors are shifting from lead-volume growth strategies toward operational efficiency, customer retention, and faster response times to meet evolving homeowner expectations. Snow also shares insights on artificial intelligence adoption, leadership development, and the role of automation in improving customer experience and business performance. The episode highlights practical strategies HVACR contractors can use to strengthen operations, improve profitability, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.

May 13, 2026Episode 4924 min

HVAC Strategies to Prepare for a High-Repair Summer Season

In this episode of "HVAC Chats," Nicole Krawcke, head of content for Contracting Business, speaks with Scott Pierson, vice president of HVAC and market strategy at Parts Town, about how contractors can prepare for an expected high-demand summer service season. The discussion explores rising repair-versus-replace trends, parts inventory planning, technician efficiency, smart HVAC technology adoption, and the growing importance of preventive maintenance. Pierson also shares insights on OEM parts strategies, truck stock management, financing trends, and operational practices that can help HVACR contractors improve customer satisfaction and stay competitive during peak demand periods.

April 22, 2026Episode 4826 min

Stop Selling HVAC Add-Ons and Start Selling Comfort Solutions

"HVAC Chats" welcomes Carlos Aponte, business coach with Nexstar Network, for a practical discussion on how HVAC contractors can grow revenue through value-driven sales. Hosted by Contracting Business Head of Content Nicole Krawcke, the episode explores why contractors should rethink “add-on sales” and instead present Indoor Air Quality, filtration, humidification, water treatment, and surge protection as core homeowner solutions. Aponte explains how honest communication, stronger technician training, and consistent presentation can improve close rates, service profitability, and customer trust. The conversation offers actionable strategies for HVACR business owners and managers seeking growth without increasing lead volume.

April 8, 2026Episode 4722 min

Rising HVAC Costs Push Repair-First Strategies and New Technician Skills

In this episode of HVAC Chats, Nicole Krawcke, head of content of Contracting Business, speaks with Peter Capuciati, CEO of Bluon Inc., about the evolving service landscape in the HVACR industry. Capuciati shares insights on the industry’s shift from replacement-driven revenue to repair and retrofit strategies, driven by rising equipment costs, new regulations, and financing challenges. The discussion also explores the growing skills gap, the importance of technician training and diagnostics, and how real-time technical support and artificial intelligence are reshaping service performance. Contractors will gain practical guidance on improving efficiency, reducing callbacks, and future-proofing their workforce in a rapidly changing market.