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HVAC R&D Podcast

HVAC R&D Podcast

Hosted by Atzenhoffer, Inc.

BusinessEntrepreneurshipComedyInterviews guests
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Episodes

193

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN

About the show

HVAC R and D is a conversation-driven podcast exploring the people, ideas, and leadership shaping the skilled trades. Hosted by Rhydon Atzenhoffer, the Ramblin’ Rhyno, the show brings together technicians, contractors, distributors, manufacturers, and business leaders for honest discussions on growth, culture, mental health, entrepreneurship, and real-world lessons from inside and outside the trades. It’s less about hype and more about meaningful conversations that move the industry forward.

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60 recent
August 7, 2026Episode 1941 hr 13 min

Leaving the Industry Better Than We Found It with Don Gillis

Leaving the Industry Better Than We Found It with Don Gillis   🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 194   The greatest legacy in the skilled trades isn't the equipment you install. It's the people you help along the way.   In Episode 194, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Don Gillis, Technical Trainer, consultant, and founder of Gillis Coach, for a conversation about building careers, developing technicians, and preparing the next generation for the future of HVACR.   With more than 35 years in the industry—including 25 years in the field as a licensed HVAC Journeyman, leadership roles in service and sales, and years as a Senior Technical Trainer with Copeland and Chemours—Don has dedicated his career to helping others succeed. Today, he trains 5,000–7,000 HVAC professionals each year and was recognized as one of the Top 25 Most Influential HVAC Educators in 2024.   Together, Rhydon and Don discuss career development, technician shortages, emerging technologies, and why sharing knowledge is one of the greatest responsibilities we have in the trades.   For the TradeCrew, this episode is a reminder that every experienced technician has the opportunity to shape the future—one lesson, one apprentice, and one conversation at a time.   🔧 In this episode, we cover: • Don's 35-year journey through the HVACR industry • Closing the technician shortage through education • Adapting to new technology without losing the fundamentals • Building a career through continuous learning • Why mentorship is essential to the future of the trades • Leaving the industry stronger than you found it   Whether you're just entering the trades or have decades of experience, this episode will challenge you to think differently about learning, leadership, and the legacy you're creating every day.   🎧 Listen now and subscribe to the HVAC R&D Podcast and Ramblin' Rhyno Column on Substack so you never miss and Article or Podcast drop - https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/p/leaving-the-industry-better-than   The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the TradeCrew — bringing together the people, stories, and ideas shaping the future of the skilled trades.   #HVAC #Training #Leadership #Mentorship #TradeCrew   🙏 Thanks to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • DRAIN IV • FieldMind • LiveSwitch • ProIAQ • RLS Rapid Locking System • True Nature Meats

August 1, 2026Episode 19359 min

You Can’t Fix What You Don’t Measure: Building Better HVAC with Bill Spohn

New Podcast Drop! 🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 193 In Episode 193, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Bill Spohn, P.E., CEO and co-owner of TruTech Tools, co-host of the Building HVAC Science podcast, host of RESTalk, and co-founder of the BetterHVAC Alliance, for a conversation about why measurement, diagnostics, and building science are transforming the future of residential HVAC. With nearly four decades of industry experience, Bill has dedicated his career to helping contractors move beyond assumptions and embrace data-driven decision making. From airflow and combustion analysis to commissioning and home performance, he believes the best results begin with understanding what the system is actually doing. Together, Rhydon and Bill explore why better diagnostics lead to better comfort, healthier homes, happier customers, and stronger businesses. For the #TradeCrew, this episode is a reminder that the future of HVAC isn’t just installing equipment—it’s delivering verified performance. 🔧 In this episode, we cover: • Bill’s journey building TruTech Tools • Why measurement beats guesswork every time • The role of diagnostics in modern HVAC • Helping homeowners understand comfort and efficiency • Why contractors should embrace testing and verification • The mission behind the BetterHVAC Alliance Whether you’re a technician, contractor, educator, or distributor, this episode will challenge you to think differently about diagnostics, system performance, and delivering better outcomes for every customer. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe to the HVAC R&D Podcast and Ramblin’ Rhyno Column on Substack so you never miss and Article or Podcast drop - https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/p/you-cant-fix-what-you-dont-measure #HVAC #Business #Leadership #Diagnostics #Tools 🙏 Thanks to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • FieldMind • Asurity • hilmor • RLS Rapid Locking System • True Nature Meats Co. The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the #TradeCrew.

July 25, 2026Episode 1921 hr 21 min

Every Call Makes the Next Tech Better with Fieldmind CEO Ryan Prosser

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 192 Every Call Makes the Next Tech Better with FieldMind CEO Ryan Prosser Technology doesn’t replace experience. It preserves it, shares it, and helps the next technician solve the next problem even faster. On Episode 192 of the HVAC R&D Podcast, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Ryan Prosser, Co-Founder & CEO of FieldMind and host of The Dispatch Podcast, for a conversation about the future of technical knowledge, artificial intelligence, and why the greatest asset in the skilled trades has always been the people doing the work. Rather than replacing technicians, Ryan believes technology should amplify their expertise—capturing the hard-earned lessons from every service call and making them available to the next person facing the same challenge. Together, Rhydon and Ryan discuss how AI, technician-driven knowledge, and connected learning can help close the skills gap, improve troubleshooting, and preserve decades of experience before it’s lost to retirement. For the TradeCrew, this episode is a look at how innovation and human expertise can work together to strengthen the future of our industry. 🔧 In this episode, we cover: • Ryan’s journey building FieldMind • Why AI should empower—not replace—technicians • Capturing tribal knowledge before it disappears • How every service call improves the next one • The future of troubleshooting and technical support • Closing the skilled trades knowledge gap • Innovation through collaboration and shared experience • Why the human element will always matter most Whether you’re a technician, contractor, service manager, or industry leader, this episode will challenge you to think differently about how technology can support the people who keep our industry moving. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe to the HVAC R&D and Ramblin’ Rhyno Substack so you never miss an Article or Podcast drop - https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/p/every-call-makes-the-next-tech-better The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the TradeCrew—bringing together the people, stories, and ideas shaping the future of the skilled trades. #HVAC #AI #FieldService #Innovation #TradeCrew 🙏 Thanks to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • FieldMind • Asurity • hilmor • RLS Rapid Locking System • True Nature Meats Co.

July 21, 2026Episode 1911 hr 2 min

You Don’t Have a Revenue Problem—You Have a Profit Problem with Ben Hansen

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 191   You Don't Have a Revenue Problem—You Have a Profit Problem with Ben Hansen   More sales don't always mean more success.   In fact, many contractors are generating record revenue while watching their profits quietly disappear.   In Episode 191, ⁠Rhydon Atzenhoffer⁠ sits down with ⁠Ben Hansen⁠, Founder & CEO of ⁠Profit Doctor⁠ and self-proclaimed "Chief Peanut Inspector," to diagnose what he calls "Profititis"—the hidden issues preventing business owners from keeping more of the money they work so hard to earn.   Through years of helping contractors improve their financial health, Ben has developed practical systems to identify profit leaks, simplify financial decision-making, and help owners reclaim the business they set out to build.   Together, ⁠Rhydon⁠ and ⁠Ben⁠ explore why revenue is only part of the equation and how understanding your numbers can transform the way you lead your company.   This episode is a reminder that building a successful business isn't just about working harder—it's about building a healthier, more profitable one.   🔧 In this episode, we cover: • Diagnosing "Profititis" in your business • The Profit Prescription™ framework • Ben's 50/20 Rule for healthier businesses • The five hidden Profit Killers • Common profit myths that hold owners back • Why revenue doesn't always equal success • Building financial habits that support long-term growth • Reclaiming the dream that inspired you to start your business   Whether you're just starting out or leading a well-established company, this episode will challenge you to think differently about profit, leadership, and creating a business that works for you—not the other way around.   🎧 Listen now and subscribe to the Ramblin' Rhyno and HVAC R&D Substack so you never miss an Article or Episode drop - https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/   The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the TradeCrew—bringing together the people, stories, and ideas shaping the future of the skilled trades.   #HVAC #BusinessGrowth #Profit #Leadership #Trades   🙏 Thanks to our partners: ⁠DiversiTech Corporation⁠ • ⁠LiveSwitch⁠ • ⁠FieldMind⁠ • ⁠Asurity⁠ • ⁠hilmor⁠ • ⁠RLS Rapid Locking System⁠ • ⁠True Nature Meats⁠ Co.

July 3, 2026Episode 1901 hr 16 min

The Race to the Face: Winning Customer Trust Before You Arrive with James Hatfield

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 190   The Race to the Face: Winning Customer Trust Before You Arrive with James Hatfield   The customer experience doesn't begin when you knock on the door. It begins the moment they reach out for help.   In Episode 190, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer of LiveSwitch, to discuss how technology is reshaping the relationship between contractors and customers—and why trust is becoming the industry's greatest competitive advantage.   Together, they explore how live video communication, remote collaboration, and better customer engagement are helping contractors build confidence, improve efficiency, and deliver a better service experience before the truck even arrives.   This isn't about replacing technicians or adding complexity. It's about using technology to strengthen relationships, reduce uncertainty, and create a better experience for everyone involved.   For the TradeCrew, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on where the skilled trades are headed and how contractors can embrace innovation without losing the personal connection that defines great service.   🔧 In this episode, we cover: • Why customer trust starts before the service call • The "Race to the Face" and why it matters • Using live video to improve communication • Reducing unnecessary truck rolls and delays • Creating better customer experiences through technology • Helping technicians collaborate in real time • Where innovation is taking the skilled trades next • Why relationships will always outperform transactions   Whether you're a technician, owner, service manager, or distributor, this episode will challenge you to think differently about trust, technology, and the future of customer service.   🎧 Listen now and subscribe to the HVAC R&D and Ramblin' Rhyno Substack so you never miss a Podcast or Article drop here - https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/p/the-race-to-the-face   The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the TradeCrew.   #HVAC #LiveSwitch #CustomerExperience #Technology #Leadership   🙏 Thanks to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • FieldMind • Asurity • hilmor • RLS Rapid Locking System • True Nature Meats Co.

June 29, 2026Episode 1891 hr 36 min

Life Begins at 40: Lessons in Leadership, Growth, and Purpose with Josh Zolin

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 189   Life Begins at 40: Lessons in Leadership, Growth, and Purpose with Josh Zolin   40 isn't the finish line—it's the foundation.   The older we get, the more we realize that success isn't measured by titles, income, or accomplishments. It's measured by the people we've impacted, the lessons we've learned, and the legacy we're building along the way.   In Episode 189, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with seasoned podcaster, author, entrepreneur, and industry leader Josh Zolin for a thoughtful conversation inspired by a milestone they're both approaching—Josh having recently turned 40, and Rhydon just months away from reaching the same chapter of life.   Together, they reflect on the experiences, mentors, failures, victories, and relationships that have shaped who they are today. From leadership and entrepreneurship to family, purpose, mentorship, and personal growth, this conversation goes far beyond the skilled trades.   Josh shares the lessons he's learned throughout his career and why the second half of life isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking better questions, continuing to grow, and intentionally investing in others.   For the #TradeCrew, this episode is a reminder that while careers are built one opportunity at a time, character is built one lesson at a time.   🔧 In this episode, we cover: • Josh's journey through entrepreneurship, podcasting, and authorship • The lessons that come with turning 40 • Why mentorship changes the trajectory of a career • Leadership principles that extend beyond the workplace • The importance of lifelong learning and personal growth • Finding purpose beyond professional success • Building relationships that challenge and inspire you • Why giving back is one of the greatest measures of success • Advice for the next generation of trades professionals and entrepreneurs   Whether you're early in your career or reflecting on decades of experience, this episode will challenge you to think differently about growth, leadership, purpose, and the legacy you're creating every day.   🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop.   The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the #TradeCrew—bringing together the people, stories, and ideas shaping the future of the skilled trades.   🙏 Thanks to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • FieldMind • Asurity • hilmor • RLS Rapid Locking System • MANN+HUMMEL • Resideo • True Nature Meats Co. 🌐 https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/podcast

June 21, 2026Episode 1881 hr 9 min

The Legacy We Leave: A Father's Day Conversation with the Next Generation of HVAC

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 188 Drops Now!!!   The Legacy We Leave: A Father's Day Conversation with the Next Generation of HVAC   Most people in the trades spend their lives building businesses, serving customers, and creating opportunities for others.   But the greatest thing we build may not be found on a balance sheet.   In this special Father's Day episode, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Cole Flores and Corinne Flores, the son and daughter of longtime HVAC R&D Podcast guest and industry leader Keith E. Flores of HG Home Services and the creator of HG Home Guardian.   While many in the industry know Keith as an owner, mentor, entrepreneur and advocate, this conversation offers a rare look at the man behind the business through the eyes of two people who know him best.   Together, they discuss growing up in a trades family, the lessons Keith taught them, and the love and respect they have for a father whose impact reaches far beyond HVAC.   For the #TradeCrew, this episode is a reminder that while we work hard to build companies and careers, the true legacy we leave is the example we set for those closest to us.   🔧 In this episode, we cover: • Growing up in a trades family • What it's like having Keith Flores as a father • Lessons learned from watching an entrepreneur at home • The challenges and rewards of balancing family and business • Why character matters more than titles • The importance of legacy and relationships • How the next generation views the trades   Whether you're a technician, owner, parent, or mentor, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that the greatest investments we make are often the ones that never appear on a spreadsheet.   Happy Father's Day to all the dads, mentors, and role models who help shape the next generation of the #TradeCrew.   🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the #TradeCrew.   🙏 Thanks to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • RLS Rapid Locking System • Resideo • MANN+HUMMEL • True Nature Meats Co. 🌐 https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/podcast

June 12, 2026Episode 1871 hr 2 min

From Top Tech to $65 Million: The Blueprint for Building a Trades Business with Victor Rancour

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 187   From Top Tech to $65 Million: The Blueprint for Building a Trades Business with Victor Rancour   Many people enter the trades hoping to build a better life.   Few go from technician to building companies that impact an entire industry.   In Episode 187, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Victor Rancour, CEO of Rocket Group, to discuss his journey from the service truck to building and scaling successful businesses across the trades.   After beginning his HVAC career in 2015, Victor became AirTime 500's top-selling technician, founded Absolute Airflow in Southern California, grew the company to more than $65 million in residential service and replacement revenue, and eventually expanded Rocket Group through partnerships across the country.   Together, Rhydon and Victor discuss leadership, growth, culture, and what it really takes to transition from technician to business owner.   For the #TradeCrew, this episode offers lessons learned from scaling teams, developing leaders, and building companies that can grow beyond the owner.   🔧 In this episode, we cover: • Victor's journey from technician to CEO • Making the leap from field work to ownership • Building systems that support growth • Developing leaders inside your organization • Scaling culture as your company grows • The challenges every growing business faces • Why success requires more than technical skills • Building businesses that outlast the owner   Whether you're a technician with big dreams or an owner trying to reach the next level, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, growth, and what's possible in the trades.   🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the Trade Crew. #HVAC #BUSINESS #GROWTH #ROCKETGROUP   🙏 Thanks to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • RLS Rapid Locking System • Resideo • MANN+HUMMEL • True Nature Meats Co. 🌐 https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/podcast

June 6, 2026Episode 1861 hr 10 min

Stop Giving Away Your Extended Warranty Profits with Tim Byrd

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 186   Stop Giving Away Your Extended Warranty Profits with Tim Byrd   Most contractors sell extended labor warranties…   But very few actually own the profits behind them.   In Episode 186, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Tim Byrd to discuss how contractors can create their own extended labor warranty programs and use reinsurance strategies to build long-term value inside their businesses.   Together, they explore how warranty programs can become more than just a customer benefit—they can become a powerful recurring revenue stream that supports growth, improves customer retention, and creates additional financial stability.   For the #TradeCrew, this conversation offers a completely different way to think about extended labor warranty options, service agreements, customer relationships, and business profitability.   🔧 In this episode, we cover: • How extended labor warranties actually work • Why most contractors don't own the profits they create • Using reinsurance to support your business • Building recurring revenue beyond service agreements • Increasing customer trust and retention • Turning warranty programs into long-term assets • Creating additional value inside your company Whether you're a contractor, owner, or future business leader, this episode will challenge how you think about warranties, profitability, and building wealth inside your business.   🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the #TradeCrew.   🙏 Thanks to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • RLS Rapid Locking System • Resideo • MANN+HUMMEL • True Nature Meats Co. 🌐 https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/podcast

May 30, 2026Episode 1851 hr 8 min

Your People Are the Product: Leadership Lessons from 40 Years in HVAC with Brett Holscher

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 185   Your People Are the Product: Leadership Lessons from 40 Years in HVAC with Brett Holscher   What happens when you spend more than four decades in the HVAC industry—from turning wrenches as a commercial service technician to leading organizations through acquisitions, growth, and industry change? In this episode, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Brett Holscher, a 40+ year HVAC veteran whose career journey has taken him from the service truck to executive leadership.   Brett began his HVAC career in 1984 as a commercial service technician and eventually worked his way into General Manager, regional leadership, national roles, and executive positions through some of the industry's most significant periods of consolidation and change.   Together, Rhydon and Brett dive into the realities of leadership, technician development, company culture, acquisitions, and why the future of the trades depends on investing in people—not just chasing revenue.   One of the most powerful takeaways from this conversation is Brett's belief that technicians and people aren't simply employees—they are the product.   For the #TradeCrew, this episode is packed with lessons learned through decades of success, mistakes, leadership challenges, and real-world experience that can help shorten the learning curve for the next generation.   Whether you're a technician, service manager, owner, distributor, or industry leader, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, culture, growth, and developing people.   🔧 In this episode, we cover: - Brett's journey from commercial HVAC technician to executive leadership - What has changed most in the trades over the last 40 years - Why technician development should be a top priority - The leadership mistakes that hold businesses back - Building culture that survives growth and change - What owners should consider before selling their business - The realities of acquisitions and industry consolidation - Why people and customers matter more than revenue metrics - Creating career paths that keep great technicians engaged - The philosophy behind "Technicians Are the Product"   🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop. https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/podcast   The HVAC R&D Podcast is the Voice of Distribution, Contractors, and the #TradeCrew—bringing together the people, stories, and ideas shaping the future of the skilled trades.   🙏 Thank you to our partners: DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • RLS Rapid Locking System • Resideo • MANN+HUMMEL • True Nature Meats Co. 🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl 🌐 https://rhydonatzenhoffer.substack.com/podcast

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