Cool Times Podcast

Nelson, Principal Investment Portfolio Manager at BGO. Will discusses BGO's focus on cold storage investments globally, highlighting their approach and motivation. He explains the process of partnering with localized development teams and the factors influencing project locations. 

The conversation delves into assessing viability and returns on investment, considering rising costs and market uncertainties. Will shares insights on the impact of macroeconomic factors like interest rates and the potential challenges ahead. He emphasizes the importance of humility, respect, and collaboration for newcomers entering the industry. Overall, the discussion offers valuable perspectives on navigating the dynamic landscape of cold storage construction investments.

Story Notes:

❄️ Introduction to BGO and Cold Storage Investment

❄️ Collaborative Partnerships and Project Involvement

❄️ Determining Project Locations

❄️ Assessing Viability and Return on Investment

❄️ Market Trends and Future Outlook

Sponsored by VersaFoam and Vapor Armor

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In this episode of The Cool Times podcast hosted by Vince and Jenna Free, they welcome guest Colin Williams from Williams Company, a project manager in the cold storage industry. Colin discusses his company's journey from its founding in 1920 to its recent resurgence in the cold storage sector. He highlights pivotal projects, including a major renovation for Sysco after a tornado, showcasing their ability to thrive in operational facilities. 

The conversation delves into industry dynamics, the importance of conferences like CEBA and GCCA, and the significance of Williams Company's ESOP structure, emphasizing employee ownership and commitment to client relationships. Discussions extend to future industry trends, including the growing demand for cold storage facilities near ports due to changing agricultural practices. Throughout, anecdotes and insights into the unique challenges and successes of the cold storage construction industry are shared, offering listeners a deeper understanding of this niche but vital sector.

Story Notes:

❄️A Journey into Cold Storage
❄️Navigating Operational Challenges
❄️The Rise of Cold Storage
❄️The ESOP Advantage

Sponsored by Rytec High-Performance Doors & Versi-Foam 

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In this episode of The Cool Times podcast, hosts Vince and Jenna Free sit down with guest McKenna Migas, Project Engineer at Fisher Construction Group to discuss her experiences in the construction industry. McKenna shares insights from her challenging yet exciting job site projects, highlighting the importance of confidence and boldness, especially for women entering the field.

The conversation delves into the unique challenges of construction, including navigating limited space and managing diverse personalities. McKenna emphasizes the need for thick skin and a focus on the end goal, despite the noise and doubts that may arise along the way.One surprising aspect of the industry for McKenna has been its small world nature, where connections and relationships often span across various projects and companies, creating a sense of community akin to a large extended family.

Join Vince, Jenna, and McKenna as they explore the dynamic world of construction and share valuable insights for aspiring professionals in the field.

Story Notes:

❄️Navigating Challenging Job Sites

 ❄️The Importance of Confidence

 ❄️Overcoming Intimidation

 ❄️Dealing with Adversity

 ❄️Skill Building Opportunities

 ❄️The Surprising Connectivity of the Industry

Sponsored by Rytec High-Performance Doors & Versi-Foam 

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In this episode of Cool Times Podcast, hosted by Vince and Jenna Free, Kathryn MacMillan, Director of Business Development at FCL Builders, joins the conversation to share her experiences and insights as a woman in the construction industry. 

Kathryn traces her interest in construction back to childhood experiences with architecture and construction-related activities. She discusses her role at FCL Builders and the company's commitment to customer service and excellence in construction projects. Throughout the episode, Kathryn reflects on the challenges she has faced as a woman in a male-dominated field, emphasizing the importance of confidence, professionalism, and continuous learning. She also highlights the value of communication, honesty, and integrity in navigating the construction industry and building strong relationships with colleagues and clients. 

Kathryn shares inspiring stories from her experiences in the cold storage industry, including interactions with industry partners like ColdPoint Logistics and Yukon Ventures. Overall, Kathryn's insights and advice offer valuable lessons for anyone, especially women, looking to pursue a career in construction. Tune in to Cool Times Podcast for more episodes featuring industry experts and discussions on all things cool in the cold storage construction industry.

Story Notes:

❄️ Kathryn's Background

❄️ About FCL Builders

❄️ Challenges Faced as a Woman in Construction

❄️ Key Strategies for Success

❄️ Memorable Experiences in Cold Storage Construction

❄️ Advice for Women Entering the Construction Industry

Sponsored by Rytec High-Performance Doors & Applied Fabricators

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Sponsored by Versi-Foam Insulation & Jamison Door Company

In this episode of the Cool Times Podcast hosted by Vince and Jenna Free, the hosts reflect on the highlights and takeaways from 2023. They emphasize the importance of reflection and preparation for success in 2024. The episode features a special guest, Joe Jardine, a licensed marriage and family therapist and performance mindset coach. 

Joe shares insights on core values, the equation of wisdom plus activity equals identity, and the significance of a plan and self-talk system for success in the coming year. The hosts discuss the mindset needed for a breakthrough year in 2024 and share gratitude for their sponsors. The episode combines personal anecdotes, industry insights, and practical advice for achieving success in the new year.

Story Notes:

❄️ Joe Jardine's Background

❄️ Preparing for Success in 2024

❄️ Define Core Values and Belief Systems

❄️ Wisdom Plus Activity Equals Identity

❄️ Plan and Practice Self-Talk

❄️ Overcoming Failures and Developing Resilience

❄️ Post-Job Evaluation

Sponsored by Rytec High-Performance Doors

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Welcome to The Cool Times Podcast, hosted by Vince Free and Jenna Free, where they explore all things cool in the cold storage construction industry. In this episode, they are joined by Todd Jessup, the President of FLEXSPACE and Co-founder of FlexCold. The discussion revolves around innovative cold storage solutions, the challenges faced in the industry, and the growth of FlexCold.

Todd discusses the inception of FLEXSPACE around 2014, focusing on introducing innovative technology like mobile racking into the U.S. market. He explains the benefits of mobile racking, including increased storage capacity and operational efficiency.

Todd also talks about the challenges faced in introducing new technology, including resistance from some segments of the industry. He highlights the ongoing resistance from traditionalists, contrasting them with early adopters and innovators in the field.

Story Notes:

❄️ The FLEXSPACE Solution

❄️ Todd's Background

❄️ The Development and Launch of FlexCold

❄️ Future Prospects and Expansion Plans

❄️ Racking Solutions

Sponsored by Rytec High-Performance Doors

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Welcome to The Cool Times Podcast, hosted by Vince Free and Jenna Free. In this week's episode, the hosts sit down with Brian Lynch, the Executive Director of CEBA (Controlled Environment Building Association) and Executive Vice President in GCCA (Global Cold Chain Alliance). Together, they dive into the world of controlled environment building, discussing the history, mission, and impact of CEBA and GCCA. 

They explore the challenges and triumphs faced by the industry during the pandemic, emphasizing the resilience and dedication of its members. Brian shares his extensive background in association management, highlighting the unique journey that led him to CEBA and GCCA. Join us as we uncover the passion and expertise driving the future of controlled environment building.

Story Notes

❄️ Meet Brian Lynch

❄️ CEBA and GCCA Overview

❄️ CEBA Committees

❄️ Bringing Value to CEBA and GCCA

❄️ The Resilience of the Cold storage & Construction Industry

Sponsored by Rytec High-Performance Doors

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com