Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, host Pat Finley dives deep into the unique career path of Nick Pattas, a seasoned technician from Toronto, Canada. 🇨🇦 Starting in the back of house in his family’s restaurant, Nick ventured into residential HVAC before discovering his passion for foodservice equipment repair and refrigeration.

🔥 Tune in as Nick shares:
✅ His transition from the kitchen to refrigeration.
✅ Challenges of working with strict regulations in Canada versus the “Wild West” of the U.S. 🇺🇸
✅ Insights into handling R290 refrigerants and advanced refrigeration tools.
✅ Hilarious and gritty stories from the field, from grease-laden kitchens to the world of fryers, grills, and dishwashers.

Whether you're a tech, a trainer, or simply fascinated by the world of foodservice repair, this episode is packed with tips, stories, and laughter. 😄

👉 Follow Nick on LinkedIn for more of his inspiring work!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-pattas-a1a51b1a2/

This episode is brought to you by RIDGID.

https://www.ridgid.com/

 Some invent to change the world, at RIDGID we invent for those who build it. In 1923, we invented the modern pipe wrench and since then everything that carries the RIDGID name has been designed and crafted for strength, effectiveness and legacy. We’ve made it our mission to build for the world's expert tradespeople – those who know the limits of the job and how to exceed them. These tools are known the world over as industry-leading products that allow professionals complete jobs more quickly and reliably. We celebrate our shared dedication to the trades. And promise, as long as you keep going we’ll keep building the tools of performance your work demands.

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

In this lively, no-holds-barred episode of *Commercial Kitchen Chronicles*, Pat and Rich dive into an unscripted chat with Bryan Sanders about life, work, and the quirks of fixing commercial cooking equipment. 🎉

We're also joined by Matt and Megan from Mechanical Environments for a deep dive into the unique challenges of running AC calls with snow on the ground 🌨️ and tackling cannabis-specific HVACR issues 🌿. Expect laughs, real-life stories, and insights into the unique hurdles HVACR pros face every day!

If you love unfiltered, wide-ranging discussions about life on the job in the foodservice and HVACR world, this one's for you. Tune in for good company, a few laughs, and a glimpse into the day-to-day of those who keep the heat (and cool) in the kitchen!

Brought to you by the crew over at 🐍Viper and Refrigeration Technologies.

Ever wonder what makes 🐍Viper🐍 different? It’s not just coil cleaning products—it’s chemistry you can trust, created by a tech, for techs. With over 35 years in the industry, Viper helps keep HVACR systems in top shape.

https://www.refrigtech.com

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com

Catch up with us as we sit down with Jarett Neuenfeld, better known as #HVACArmy on TikTok! 🚀 With over 20 years in the HVACR industry, Jarett's journey is full of passion, grit, and a commitment to excellence that’s hard to match. From day one, he fell in love with the industry, and he’s never looked back. Every job, every repair, every project—it’s all about doing what’s right for the customer, no matter what. 💯

Recently, Jarett took a bold step and launched his own business, building it on the values that define him: honesty, hard work, and customer-first service. 🔧 But that’s not all! We dive into how he built his #HVACArmy presence on TikTok 📱, where he’s created a tight-knit community of HVAC pros and fans alike. You’ll get the inside scoop on his social media journey, the inspiration behind his content, and the amazing friendships he’s made within the HVAC Army. 🤝

If you’re looking for a mix of industry insight, social media savvy, and some great stories about the real lives of HVAC pros, this episode is a must-listen! 💥 Tap in to hear Jarett’s tips, triumphs, and what’s next for him and the growing #HVACArmy community. 🎧

Check out Jarett on TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@tiktokhvaclife?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

This episode is brought to you by Viper and Refrigeration Technologies.

Ever wonder what makes Viper different? It’s not just coil cleaning products—it’s chemistry you can trust, created by a tech, for techs. With over 35 years in the industry, Viper helps keep HVACR systems in top shape.

https://www.refrigtech.com

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com

🎙️ Episode Spotlight: Loretta Mealer - From Family Values to Industry Leadership! 🎙️

Join us on The Commercial Kitchen Chronicles as we dive into the inspiring journey of Loretta Mealer 🌟, co-founder of Auston Mealer’s Restaurant Equipment Services 🛠️ and a dedicated CFESA Board member. Loretta, alongside her husband Auston, has built their company from the ground up 🏗️, fostering a true "family first" culture 💙 that extends to every technician and team member.

Loretta believes in investing in her technicians right from the start 🚀. New team members are often sent to training within weeks of joining 📚, setting them up for success from day one! This proactive approach, paired with their deep-rooted family values 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, has helped them grow to a thriving team of 17 technicians 👷‍♂️👷‍♀️ and an incredible office staff. Loretta’s commitment to the craft didn’t stop there; in 2022, she joined CFESA’s training committee 🔧, where her passion for technician development quickly led her to a Co-Chair role 🎖️.

Now, as a member of the CFESA Board 💼, Loretta’s ready to make an even bigger impact in the industry 🌎. Hear her share insights on building a people-first company 💪, the importance of continuous training 📈, and her vision for the future of foodservice equipment repair 🔮.

🔊 Tune in to hear how Loretta Mealer is making waves 🌊 and leading with heart ❤️!

This episode is brought to you by RIDGID

Some invent to change the world, at RIDGID we invent for those who build it. In 1923, we invented the modern pipe wrench and since then everything that carries the RIDGID name has been designed and crafted for strength, effectiveness and legacy. We’ve made it our mission to build for the world's expert tradespeople – those who know the limits of the job and how to exceed them. These tools are known the world over as industry-leading products that allow professionals complete jobs more quickly and reliably. We celebrate our shared dedication to the trades. And promise, as long as you keep going we’ll keep building the tools of performance your work demands.

⁠https://www.ridgid.com⁠

Check out Loretta on LinkedIN

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/loretta-mealer-amres/⁠

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/amresllc/⁠

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

⁠https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com⁠

🎙️ Episode Alert: Zac Hampton – A "Can-Do" Attitude That’s Changing the Game

Zac Hampton isn’t the kind of guy who backs down from a challenge – in fact, he seeks them out 💪. That fearless mindset is what brought him into the world of Foodservice Equipment Repair. When he saw a problem and a chance to make a difference, Zac took the plunge, embraced a new trade, and hasn’t looked back since 🔧🚀.

In just a short time, he climbed the ranks from tech to lead tech and trainer, proving that determination pays off 📈. But Zac's story doesn’t stop there – now he’s making an impact beyond the service floor, representing the industry on the Young Professional Committee (YPC) at CFESA.

🏆 Oh, and did we mention? Zac took home the Outstanding Tech Award at the 2024 CFESA conference – an honor only given to the best of the best! 🌟

Tune in to this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles to hear Zac's incredible journey, his insights on our amazing industry, and why he’s only getting started 🔥.

🔊 Don’t miss this one – listen now and get inspired by Zac's unstoppable drive!

🚨 This episode is sponsored by Viper! 🐍 From Refrigeration Technologies

Viper’s got your back with NSF-registered coil cleaners, the legendary Nylog for sealing threads and gaskets 🔧, and heat protection solutions like WetRag 🔥. These products are made by techs, for techs—so you know they mean business 💼. Plus, with non-toxic solutions, Viper proves that performance doesn’t have to compromise safety 💪🌱. Keep your systems cool and running smooth with Viper! ❄️

https://www.refrigtech.com/

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com

Zac Hampton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/zac-hampton-baa54225b/

🎙️ We’re back with another exciting Young Gun segment! This time, I’m thrilled to bring on Korbin Finley—a name that might ring a bell. Why? Well, he’s not just one of my recent apprentices… he’s also my son! 👨‍👦

But don’t let his quiet demeanor fool you. This kid is a stone-cold killer when it comes to fixing commercial cooking equipment 🔧🔥. With an unshakable passion for learning, Korbin dives into every challenge and refuses to give up, no matter how tough things get 💪.

📜 He’s recently earned certifications in Alto Shaam and Rational, and he’s been tackling combi oven repairs like a pro. Korbin’s commitment is unstoppable, and he’s just getting started 🚀.

Tune in to hear what drove him to choose the foodservice equipment repair industry, how he's embracing this fast-paced field, and much more! 🎧 You won’t want to miss this episode!

🚨 This episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles is brought to you by Viper! 🐍

Viper has your back with NSF-registered coil cleaning products, the legendary Nylog for sealing threads and gaskets 🔧, and heat protection solutions like WetRag 🔥. Designed by HVAC technicians for technicians, you know these products mean business 💼.

But that’s not all—Viper believes in non-toxic solutions because performance shouldn’t come with compromise 💪🌱. So keep your systems running smooth and maintain your cool with Viper! ❄️

https://www.refrigtech.com

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

🔥 Look Who's Joined the Dark Side of HVACR! 🔥

In this episode, we welcome none other than Bryan Sanders, who's made the leap into the world of foodservice repair! 🚀 If you haven't heard, Bryan has joined our friends over at RED LLC and is diving headfirst into the cooking side of the industry. 🍳🔥

We dive deep into his transition, exploring what he loves (and maybe doesn't love as much) about this new chapter. 🛠️ Plus, Bryan shares his least favorite piece of equipment to work on—bet you can’t guess what it is! 😉

Like many of us in the skilled trades, Bryan can't sit still. If you're someone who thrives on variety and loves staying on the move, you'll definitely relate to his story. In fact, we talk about how the foodservice repair industry is perfect for people with ADHD, where every day brings a new challenge to keep you on your toes! 🏃‍♂️💨

🎧 So tune in to hear all about Bryan’s big leap into the fast-paced world of foodservice repair and find out why this industry is perfect for those who need constant motion! You won’t want to miss it! 🙌

This episode is sponsored by Viper HVACR products. Did you know that Viper's NSF registered coil cleaners are a must-have for kitchen maintenance? No rinsing required. Plus, Viper's HVACR products were created by technicians, for technicians, ensuring top-notch quality. Viper believes in performance without hazardous ingredients.

Huge shout out to Refrigeration for supporting us and helping promote the Foodservice Equipment Repair Industry

https://www.refrigtech.com

Bryans links

LinkedIN

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-sanders-a75b349b/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/304_hvacr_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Commercial kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com

We had the pleasure of talking with Preston Collier from JB Industries, and it's an episode you don’t want to miss! 🇺🇸

🔧 We dove deep into JB Industries' legacy of crafting high-quality, made-in-America products. From their renowned Platinum Pro Vacuum Pump to the innovative Climate Class line, we covered it all! 💨❄️

Preston shared insights into what makes these tools essential for technicians everywhere, the importance of reliable equipment, and how JB Industries stays ahead in the game with cutting-edge solutions.

Whether you're a tech geek 🔌 or just love hearing about the latest in HVACR 🔥❄️, this episode has something for you. Tune in now and get the inside scoop on the tools that are transforming the industry!

🎧 Listen Now and get inspired! #CommercialKitchenChronicles #MadeInUSA #HVACR #FoodserviceRepair #JBIndustries #VacuumPump

Check out all of JB Industries products

https://www.jbind.com

Commercial kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com

We've all seen recruiters, and let's be honest, most of us have a pretty negative view of them 🤔. I know I did. I've watched friends get talked into changing careers or moving for “better” opportunities, only to find out it wasn't all it was cracked up to be 💼💥.

That all changed when I met Michael. Until then, I’d never come across a recruiter who actually came from a blue-collar background 🛠️. I first saw him in a Facebook group—and no, it wasn’t love at first sight 💬. In fact, I gave him the riot act, trying to scare him off because he was recruiting for a company I knew, and I wanted to protect the industry 🛡️.

But Michael didn’t take the bait. Instead, we talked things out, and eventually, I even joined a video chat with his team. That’s when I realized—they're different 💡.

Tune in to this episode to hear about what they offer, who they are, and how they’re doing recruiting better 🔍.

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com

Blue Collar Talent Scouts

https://www.bluecollartalentscouts.com

🔥 Commercial Kitchen Chronicles Podcast: Nick Cribb Edition 🔥

Get ready for an episode packed with inspiration, transformation, and some serious foodservice industry vibes! 🎙️ We’re thrilled to welcome Nick Cribb, a guy with a true gift for lighting a fire in anyone he meets. Whether it’s motivating teams or steering the ship at SAM Service Inc., Nick brings passion and drive to everything he does. 💥 Oh, and did we mention he’s been President of CFESA for the past two years? 🙌

Nick’s story isn’t just about business success—it’s a journey of redemption. From battling a painkiller addiction to getting a life-changing opportunity from his church, Nick turned his life around and dove headfirst into the foodservice repair world. 🚀 From raising a family in Southern Georgia to becoming a powerhouse in the industry, Nick’s ride has been nothing short of wild. And we’re beyond proud to call him a friend and ally in this amazing industry. 🤝

Don't miss out on this incredible story! 🎧 Make sure to rate, review, and leave a comment to help us grow the show! And if you or someone you know has a passion for foodservice repair, we’d love to hear from them. 💬

🔧 And a shoutout to CFESA—they’ve got your back with classes, mentoring, and all the support your foodservice repair biz needs. If you connect with them, let them know Commercial Kitchen Chronicles sent you! 👏

🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and join the conversation!

#FoodserviceRepair #PodcastEpisode #NickCribb #Inspiration #Leadership #CFESA #SAMServiceInc #CommercialKitchenChronicles #RedemptionStory #FoodIndustry #Mentorship #CareerJourney #StayInspired

\Make sure to check out our friends over at CFESA

https://cfesa.com

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com