Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

Eighteen years old, outdoorsy, and already wrenching on commercial kitchen gear like a pro — meet James McCanless. In this Young Gun Spotlight, James shares how he went from mowing grass and slinging lattes to climbing McDonald’s rooftops and fixing fryers. From being laid off by the city at 15, to landing an apprenticeship through Austin & Loretta Mealer’s program at Dyersburg State, James proves you don’t need a college degree to find a rewarding, hands-on career.

We talk hunting season, getting smacked by a bowstring (ouch), coil cleaner horror stories, airport pat-downs, and what it really feels like to walk into a restaurant knowing the whole place is counting on you. James also lays out why TikTok may be the secret to attracting the next generation of techs (sorry, Loretta — looks like he just volunteered).

👉 He may be young, but James has big goals: become a master tech, keep learning every day, and eventually be one of Austin Miller’s top technicians. With mentors like Corey Miller and Zach Hampton in his corner, and a genuine love for the trade, he’s well on his way.

💡 Pro Tip Break – Brought to You by Viper
This episode is powered by our friends at Viper HVACR cleaners from Refrigeration Technologies. Grease, grime, and coil gunk don’t stand a chance. NSF-certified, safe, and strong — Viper keeps your equipment efficient, reliable, and service-ready. 🐍 Because clean coils = happy techs (and happy restaurants).

https://www.refrigtech.com/

If you’re a young gun thinking about jumping into the trades, or a seasoned tech who wants a reminder of why you fell in love with the work in the first place, this episode’s got it all.

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat Finley sits down with Jay Maiden, Director of Service at Kolpak/RDI and Retired Navy Chief, to cut through the noise surrounding A2L refrigerants in commercial refrigeration. With so much hype, fear, and misinformation out there—especially in the HVAC comfort cooling space—this conversation is all about facts, not scare tactics.

Jay explains Kolpak’s transition to R-454C for PolarPak self-contained units and the upcoming move to R-454A for split systems, breaking down what these changes mean for technicians, contractors, and end users. He shares candid insights into the supply chain struggles with A2L refrigerants, the challenges of getting parts approved, and the practical realities service companies face when refrigerant isn’t readily available.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Kolpak chose R-454C and R-454A for their walk-in refrigeration systems

• The impact of EPA and DOE mandates on manufacturers and technicians

• How refrigerant availability issues are already affecting service calls nationwide

• The role of refrigerant sensors in walk-in boxes and how Kolpak designs them for safety

• What A2L refrigerants really mean for service procedures, training, and safety

• The future of walk-in refrigeration installs, including outdoor-only condensing units and solenoid placement changes

• How service companies should prepare now by stocking refrigerants, updating tools, and training technicians

This episode is packed with insights for anyone in foodservice equipment repair, commercial refrigeration, or HVACR who wants to stay ahead of the A2L curve. Whether you’re worried about safety, curious about regulations, or just want to know how to prepare your service company for the refrigerant transition, Jay lays out exactly what you need to know.

Tune in for real talk, expert perspective, and no-nonsense advice from one of the most experienced voices in the industry.

Brought to you by Viper from Refrigeration Technologies

💡 Quick tip from our friends at Viper!
In commercial kitchens, dirty coils and evaporators mean higher costs and breakdowns. Viper’s NSF-registered cleaners are safe, tough on grease, and designed to keep refrigeration and HVAC systems running smooth.

👉 Trust Viper for professional-grade kitchen maintenance.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

Find Jay Maiden here

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-maiden-13618510/

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

#Kolpak #A2L #Refrigeration #FoodserviceRepair #CommercialKitchenChronicles #WalkInCooler #HVACR

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Mike Horbach to explore his unique journey from the fast-paced life of a chef to building a rewarding career in foodservice equipment repair. Mike’s story proves that your next career opportunity could be right in front of you—and you might not even realize it.

Mike opens up about his years working long, grueling hours in kitchens ranging from concession stands to hotels, and how a simple connection through family and friends led him into the appliance and restaurant equipment repair trade. What started as a chance opportunity turned into a lifelong career, one that gave him better balance, growth, and purpose.

We talk about:

• The reality of burnout and tough schedules in the restaurant industry

• How transferable skills from the kitchen apply to foodservice repair

• Why mentorship and training are key to breaking into a new trade

• The importance of recognizing opportunities when they appear in unexpected places

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your current role or wondered what other opportunities exist in the skilled trades, Mike’s transition is proof that sometimes the best path forward is hidden in plain sight.

🔥 Pro Tip for Commercial Kitchen Pros! 🔥
Brought to you by our friends at Viper HVAC Cleaners — when it comes to keeping your commercial kitchen equipment running at peak performance, clean coils and evaporators are non-negotiable.
That’s where Viper’s NSF-registered cleaning products come in! 🧼
They're safe, powerful, and specifically designed to tackle the grease and grime found in busy foodservice environments. Keep your refrigeration and HVAC systems efficient, extend equipment life, and avoid costly downtime.
👉 Trust Viper — the name the industry relies on for professional-grade kitchen system maintenance.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, host Pat Finley sits down with Mallory David from Parker Sporlan to talk all things ZoomLock MAX and ZoomLock Push fittings—the game-changing press and push technology that’s transforming the HVACR and refrigeration industries.

With the rise of A2L refrigerants (and even A3s on the horizon), technicians are quickly realizing the value of press fittings to save time, reduce leaks, and improve safety on the job. Mallory shares her background as a chemical engineer, her years in the field with Parker Sporlan, and her current role helping contractors, wholesalers, and technicians adopt the latest HVAC press connection technology.

We cover:

• What makes ZoomLock MAX press fittings and ZoomLock Push fittings different

• Why A2L refrigerants are changing how we think about installs and service

• How press connections improve speed, reliability, and safety vs. traditional brazing

• Real technician feedback and lessons learned from the field

• Tips for HVAC and refrigeration pros thinking about making the switch

Whether you’re a foodservice equipment tech, HVAC technician, refrigeration pro, or service manager, this episode gives you the inside scoop on Parker Sporlan’s ZoomLock product line and how it can help your business stay ahead of refrigerant changes and safety standards.

🎧 Tune in to hear how press technology is reshaping the future of HVACR!

To learn more about Parker Sporlan, Zoomlock Max and Push, check them out here

https://discover.parker.com/zoomlockmax

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

In this special Commercial Kitchen Chronicles Live Hangout, Pat Finley is back with Jason Latimer and Rich Ortega for a no-filter, laid-back conversation straight from the heart of the foodservice repair industry. 🍳🔧

This episode isn’t your typical interview—it’s an open mic where we shoot the breeze, talk about the ups and downs of being technicians, running businesses, and balancing the chaos of service calls with real life. From lighting up a cigar after a brutal day to joking about who’s “actually working” when the cameras are off, it’s all about community, camaraderie, and keeping it real.

Listeners will hear behind-the-scenes stories from the world of commercial kitchen equipment repair, HVAC, and refrigeration, plus plenty of laughs, friendly banter, and even some unexpected drop-ins from the audience. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to hang out with the techs after hours—or if you just need a break from your own hectic service schedule—this is the episode for you.

Why tune in?

• Get an inside look at the daily grind of commercial kitchen technicians.

• Hear unfiltered conversations about the realities of the trade.

• Learn how community and connection help keep techs motivated.

• Discover why these hangouts have become a fan-favorite “chill spot” in the industry.

So grab a drink, kick back, and join us as we bring the foodservice repair community together in true CKC fashion. Whether you’re a seasoned HVACR pro, an up-and-coming kitchen cowboy, or just curious about the world that keeps restaurants cooking—this hangout will leave you laughing, nodding, and feeling like part of the crew.

🚀 Quick Kitchen Tip from our friends at Viper! 🚀
If you work in commercial kitchens, you already know — dirty coils and evaporators are the silent killers of performance. Grease, grime, and buildup mean higher energy costs, shorter equipment life, and costly breakdowns.

That’s why the pros trust Viper’s NSF-registered coil and evaporator cleaners. 🧼
Formulated for foodservice environments, they’re safe, powerful, and proven to keep refrigeration and HVAC systems running at peak efficiency. Less downtime, better airflow, and equipment that lasts.

👉 Keep your kitchen running smooth — go with Viper, the industry leader in commercial kitchen coil cleaning and maintenance solutions.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

Check out our website!

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

From starting out in a warehouse at just 18 years old to building a career that’s left a lasting mark on the HVACR and foodservice repair industry, Chris Nixon has seen it all. In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, host Pat Finley and co-host Jason Latimer sit down with Chris to unpack his incredible journey—from humble beginnings, learning the ropes in residential, to becoming a leader in commercial refrigeration and HVAC.

Chris shares the real-life challenges of finding his path, the lessons learned while running his own company, and the transition into larger teams like Tech 24. With more than two decades of experience, multiple mechanical licenses, and a relentless drive to keep learning, Chris opens up about how to build a career in the trades that stands the test of time.

Whether you’re a seasoned technician, a business owner, or just getting started in HVACR, this episode is packed with inspiration, industry insight, and the kind of stories that remind us why the foodservice repair trade is such a rewarding path.

And don’t miss the laughs along the way—we get into the early days, the obstacles, and what it really takes to succeed in a world that’s always short on techs but big on opportunity.

Here’s a quick tip from our friends at Viper and Refrigeration Technologies: In commercial kitchens, clean coils and evaporators are essential—and Viper’s NSF-registered products are the best choice. Safe, effective, and formulated to keep your kitchen systems running smoothly. Trust Viper to keep you efficient on every job.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

Chris Nixon

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-nixon-6511a91a8/

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

#HVACR #FoodserviceRepair #CommercialKitchen #TradesLife #SkilledTrades #HVACTechnician #RefrigerationTech #FoodEquipmentRepair #HVACLife #CommercialHVAC #RestaurantEquipment #TechLife #HVACTools #TradeTalks #RepairLife #HVACCommunity #KitchenEquipment #ServiceTechnician #HVACCareer #FutureInTrades #BlueCollarPride #HVACPodcast #HVACTechTalk

On this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Scott Kline — a seasoned HVACR professional with 18 years under his belt in residential installs, commercial HVAC, and refrigeration. Texas HVACR licensed since 2013, Scott now runs his own company, Authentic HVAC, where he blends hands-on skill with the freedom of self-employment.

Scott’s journey takes us from his early days in Snydertown, Pennsylvania, through years of learning the ropes in the field, to eventually taking the leap into running his own shop. Along the way, he’s seen the industry evolve, tackled the challenges of both hot and cold-side work, and built a reputation on doing the job right the first time.

This episode isn’t just for techs — it’s for anyone curious about where a skilled trade can take you. Scott shares insights on what it’s really like to make a living in HVACR, how to keep growing your skills, and why the trades are still one of the most rewarding career choices out there. If you’ve ever thought about getting into the field or know someone who’s on the fence, this conversation could be the push they need.

Scott Kline

https://www.instagram.com/ayetchvacker/

https://www.instagram.com/authentic_hvac/

💡 Pro Tip from our friends at Viper: In commercial kitchens, clean coils and evaporators are non-negotiable if you want your equipment to run at peak performance. That’s where Viper’s NSF-registered cleaning products shine. They’re safe, powerful, and engineered to blast through the grease and grime found in busy foodservice environments. Keep your refrigeration and HVAC systems efficient, extend equipment life, and avoid costly downtime. Trust Viper — the name pros rely on for professional-grade kitchen system maintenance.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

Want to be a guest?

[email protected]

#CommercialKitchenChronicles #HVACR #TradesLife #HVACTech #RefrigerationLife #CareerInTrades #ViperProducts

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Cody Robinson of AmeriServe — a rising force in the foodservice repair industry. Cody’s journey started behind the scenes as a dispatcher just four years ago, and now he’s leading the charge in operations and shaping the future of the industry through his role as co-chair of CFESA’s Young Professionals Committee.

We talk about:

• His rapid rise from dispatcher to operations and warranty management

• Lessons learned working on a farm and how they apply to service leadership

• The importance of technician advocacy, mentorship, and involvement in CFESA

• Balancing career growth with life on the farm with his wife, kids, and a whole crew of animals 🐐🐓🐴

• Why the next generation needs to step up—and how he’s working to make that happen

Cody shares candid reflections, a few laughs, and a ton of insights for those looking to grow their careers in foodservice or any skilled trade.

👉 Whether you're a tech, a leader, or just curious about the industry, this one's got value start to finish.

Brought to you by Viper from Refrigeration Technologies

🔥 Pro Tip for Commercial Kitchen Pros! 🔥
Brought to you by our friends at Viper HVAC Cleaners — when it comes to keeping your commercial kitchen equipment running at peak performance, clean coils and evaporators are non-negotiable.
That’s where Viper’s NSF-registered cleaning products come in! 🧼
They're safe, powerful, and specifically designed to tackle the grease and grime found in busy foodservice environments. Keep your refrigeration and HVAC systems efficient, extend equipment life, and avoid costly downtime.
👉 Trust Viper — the name the industry relies on for professional-grade kitchen system maintenance.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

Follow Cody here

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-robinson-1b175592/

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

Want to be a guest?

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/want-to-be-our-guest%3F

#CommercialKitchenChronicles
#FoodserviceRepair
#SkilledTrades
#CFESA
#YoungProfessionals
#ServiceIndustry
#TechsOfInstagram
#FoodEquipmentRepair
#TradeCareers
#MentorshipMatters
#RisingInTheTrades
#DispatcherToLeader
#WarrantyLife
#OperationsManagement
#FarmLifeAndFoodservice
#IndustryGrowth
#ServiceTechLife
#FutureOfTheTrades
#TechnicianTalk
#PodcastForTechs

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Stephen Smith, the force behind the Everything HVACR YouTube channel and a seasoned technician with over 20 years in the trade. From commercial installs to becoming a field support manager at KCC Manufacturing, Stephen has seen it all—and he’s not done yet.

We dive deep into:

• His journey through the skilled trades and HVACR industry

• The importance of mentorship and continuous learning

• Why he started his YouTube channel and how it’s helping the next generation of techs

• What “leaving it better than you found it” means in today’s workplace

• The real talk technicians need to hear

Stephen opens up about the value of discipline, pride in workmanship, and the power of sharing knowledge through content creation.

🔥 Whether you're a seasoned pro or just entering the industry, this episode delivers wisdom, motivation, and a few laughs along the way.

🔥 Pro Tip for Commercial Kitchen Pros! 🔥
Brought to you by our friends at Viper HVAC Cleaners — when it comes to keeping your commercial kitchen equipment running at peak performance, clean coils and evaporators are non-negotiable.
That’s where Viper’s NSF-registered cleaning products come in! 🧼
They're safe, powerful, and specifically designed to tackle the grease and grime found in busy foodservice environments. Keep your refrigeration and HVAC systems efficient, extend equipment life, and avoid costly downtime.
👉 Trust Viper — the name the industry relies on for professional-grade kitchen system maintenance.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

Check out Stephen here

https://www.youtube.com/@EverythingHVACR

Commercial kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

#EverythingHVACR #StephenSmith #HVACRPodcast #CommercialKitchenChronicles #HVACLife #SkilledTrades #TradeTalk #HVACTechnician #HVACTips #FieldSupport #YouTubeHVAC #TechTalk #LeaveItBetter #ToolTalk #HVACTraining #HVACMentor #HVACCommunity #HVACYouTube #SkilledTradesMatter #HandsOnLearning

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we’re joined by none other than Chris Stephens, the force behind the massively popular HVACR Videos channel. 🎥 From dissecting complex refrigeration issues to being a voice of honesty and transparency in the skilled trades, Chris has become one of the most respected names in the industry.

Host Pat Finley sits down with Chris for a real and raw conversation about:

• The origin and purpose of the HVACR Videos channel

• What it means to lead with vulnerability and integrity online

• The burnout struggles and how to manage the pressures of running a service business

• Training the next generation and why showing the process (not just the polished outcome) matters

• And how we can all help reshape the public perception of skilled trades

Whether you’re a new tech, a seasoned veteran, or just HVACR-curious, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a few laughs along the way.

🔧 Guest:
Chris Stephens
Owner of a California-based HVACR company | Creator of HVACR Videos on YouTube
📺 youtube.com/@hvacrvideos

🧼 Sponsored by:
Viper from Refrigeration Technologies – Clean coils & evaporators the safe, effective, NSF-certified.

https://www.refrigtech.com/

📲 Follow & Subscribe:
Catch more interviews, repairs, and behind-the-scenes from the foodservice repair world by subscribing to Commercial Kitchen Chronicles on YouTube, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com/

#HVACR #HVACVideos #CommercialKitchenRepair #FoodserviceRepair #RefrigerationRepair #RestaurantHVAC #HVACTech #TradesTalk #ServiceTechnician #SkilledTrades #HVACLife #HVACTips #RepairLife #YouTubeTrades #TechInterviews #HVACInspiration #HVACTools #HVACBusiness #RealTalkHVAC #CommercialKitchenChronicles