In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie sits down with Jennifer Manzo, a chief trainer for SkillCat and a prominent figure in the HVAC community, known for her commitment to education and empowerment in the field. This is Part 1 of their discussion, focusing on the transformative role of training and community support within the HVAC industry. 

Jennifer shares her experiences and insights into enhancing the skills of both novice and seasoned technicians through specialized training programs and discusses the challenges and opportunities of promoting gender inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated field. The episode covers a range of topics from fundamental HVAC training to advanced diagnostic techniques, all aimed at fostering a more inclusive and skilled workforce. 

Jennifer also highlights the impact of community-driven initiatives like the coalition, which provides free technical support and training, showcasing how collaborative efforts can lead to substantial industry advancements.

Their clients typically fall into two categories:

Educate: Technicians and HVAC professionals seeking to enhance their technical skills and understanding of the industry, from fundamentals to advanced diagnostics, facilitated by expert-led training sessions and community support initiatives.

Empower: Individuals within the HVAC industry aiming to elevate their professional standing, navigate gender dynamics, and contribute positively to the community through inclusive and supportive educational platforms.

Jennifer shares insights on enhancing technician training programs and promoting gender inclusivity in the workplace, highlighting strategies such as community-driven support networks, access to specialized knowledge, and fostering a culture of respect and mentorship. The episode provides actionable advice for HVAC professionals looking to enhance their skills, foster positive community interactions, and prepare for advanced roles within the industry..

Expect to Learn:

1. Key HVAC training methods from SkillCat, covering fundamental to advanced techniques for all technicians.

2. How gender dynamics influence professional growth and community in the HVAC industry.

3. Effective resolution of complex HVAC issues using a specialized expert coalition.

4. The benefits of community initiatives for industry collaboration and educational enrichment.

5. Inspirational personal journeys in HVAC, showcasing the influence of educational platforms like HVAC Know It All.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Introduction to Part 1 with Guest Jennifer Manzo from SkillCat. 

[02:56] - In-depth Discussion on HVAC Training and Industry Trends 

[05:54] - Reinforcing Fundamentals with Experienced Technicians 

[08:17] - Addressing Gender Dynamics and Training Challenges in HVAC 

[14:40] - Balancing Multiple Roles and Expanding the Coalition's Reach 

[19:16] - Growth and Community Support of the Coalition

[22:12] - Expanding Influence and Partnerships in the HVAC Community

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: www.master.ca

Cintas: www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Supply House: www.supplyhouse.com

Cool Air Products: www.coolairproducts.net

Lambert Insurance Services: www.lambert-ins.com

Follow the Guest Jennifer Manzo on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hvachicks-jennifer-206832280/

SkillCat: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skillcat/

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ 

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie sits down with Jennifer Manzo, a chief trainer for SkillCat and a prominent figure in the HVAC community, known for her commitment to education and empowerment in the field. This is Part 1 of their discussion, focusing on the transformative role of training and community support within the HVAC industry. 

Jennifer shares her experiences and insights into enhancing the skills of both novice and seasoned technicians through specialized training programs and discusses the challenges and opportunities of promoting gender inclusivity in a traditionally male-dominated field.

The episode covers a range of topics from fundamental HVAC training to advanced diagnostic techniques, all aimed at fostering a more inclusive and skilled workforce. 

Jennifer also highlights the impact of community-driven initiatives like the coalition, which provides free technical support and training, showcasing how collaborative efforts can lead to substantial industry advancements.

Their clients typically fall into two categories:

Educate: Technicians and HVAC professionals seeking to enhance their technical skills and understanding of the industry, from fundamentals to advanced diagnostics, facilitated by expert-led training sessions and community support initiatives.

Empower: Individuals within the HVAC industry aiming to elevate their professional standing, navigate gender dynamics, and contribute positively to the community through inclusive and supportive educational platforms.

Jennifer shares insights on enhancing technician training programs and promoting gender inclusivity in the workplace, highlighting strategies such as community-driven support networks, access to specialized knowledge, and fostering a culture of respect and mentorship. The episode provides actionable advice for HVAC professionals looking to enhance their skills, foster positive community interactions, and prepare for advanced roles within the industry..

Expect to Learn:

1. Key HVAC training methods from SkillCat, covering fundamental to advanced techniques for all technicians.

2. How gender dynamics influence professional growth and community in the HVAC industry.

3. Effective resolution of complex HVAC issues using a specialized expert coalition.

4. The benefits of community initiatives for industry collaboration and educational enrichment.

5. Inspirational personal journeys in HVAC, showcasing the influence of educational platforms like HVAC Know It All.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Introduction to Part 1 with Guest Jennifer Manzo from SkillCat. 

[02:56] - In-depth Discussion on HVAC Training and Industry Trends 

[05:54] - Reinforcing Fundamentals with Experienced Technicians 

[08:17] - Addressing Gender Dynamics and Training Challenges in HVAC 

[14:40] - Balancing Multiple Roles and Expanding the Coalition's Reach 

[19:16] - Growth and Community Support of the Coalition

[22:12] - Expanding Influence and Partnerships in the HVAC Community

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: www.master.ca

Cintas: www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Supply House: www.supplyhouse.com

Cool Air Products: www.coolairproducts.net

Lambert Insurance Services: www.lambert-ins.com

Follow the Guest Jennifer Manzo on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hvachicks-jennifer-206832280/

SkillCat: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skillcat/

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ 

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his conversation with John Bartlett Founder and CEO of Brentwood Growth, a sell-side M&A advisory and consulting firm specializing in skilled trades businesses such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. Part 2 delves deeper into the critical steps involved in preparing a business for sale, exploring various buyer types and transaction structures.

Brentwood Growth provides expert guidance to business owners across residential, industrial, and commercial sectors, working with service providers and contractors in industries including Boilers & Generators, Cleaning & Janitorial, Electrical, Elevator & Escalator, Fencing, Fire & Safety, Flooring, Foundation Repairs, Garage Door, Heat Pump, Home Appliance Service & Repair, Home Inspections, Industrial Equipment Service & Repair, Irrigation, Lawn Care, Mosquito & Pest, Painting, Paving, Plumbing, Pool Services, Property Management, Refrigeration, Restoration & Remediation, Roofing, Security, Solar Installation, Tank Removal, Waste Removal & Recycling, and Windows & Doors.

Brentwood Growth primarily assists two types of clients:

Sell: Business owners planning to sell in the near future, seeking insights into valuation, potential buyers, and transaction timelines.

Scale: Business owners focused on growing their companies with the goal of increasing value for a future sale or smoother self-management.

In this episode, John discusses effective ways to enhance business value by improving financial performance and mitigating risks. He provides valuable insights on strengthening management teams and shifting focus from project-based work to recurring service and maintenance models. Contractors will gain practical strategies to prepare their businesses for a successful transition.

Expect to Learn:

The step-by-step process of getting a business ready for sale.

Insights into different types of buyers and their acquisition strategies.

Effective financial planning and operational improvements to boost value.

How to identify and select the right buyer for your business.

The impact of various transaction structures on business sales.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Introduction to Part 2 with John Bartlett from Brentwood Growth. 

[01:30] - Why business owners often stay involved after a sale

[03:10] - Preparing a business for sale and steps for retiring owners

[12:12] - Three buyer types: private equity, strategic buyers, and owner-operators.

[15:53] - Message to private equity buyers emphasizing the need for skilled, properly trained technicians

[18:40] - Closing discussion on the importance of selling to the right buyer to maintain client trust

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: https://www.master.ca

Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Supply House: https://www.supplyhouse.com

Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net

Lambert Insurance Services: https://www.lambert-ins.com

Follow the Guest John Bartlett on:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlbartlett/

John Bartlett’s Bio : https://www.brentwood-growth.com/our-team/john-bartlett/

Brentwood Growth: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brentwood-growth/

Phone: 908-377-7807 Email: [email protected]

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ 

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie sits down with John Bartlett Founder and CEO of Brentwood Growth, a sell-side M&A advisor and consulting firm specializing in skilled trades businesses like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. This is Part 1 of their discussion, focusing on how business owners can grow and scale their companies to maximize value.

Brentwood Growth works with business owners in the residential, industrial, and commercial sectors, providing expert guidance for service providers and contractors across various industries, including Boilers & Generators, Cleaning & Janitorial, Electrical, Elevator & Escalator, Fencing, Fire & Safety, Flooring, Foundation Repairs, Garage Door, Heat Pump, Home Appliance Service & Repair, Home Inspections, Industrial Equipment Service & Repair, Irrigation, Lawn Care, Mosquito & Pest, Painting, Paving, Plumbing, Pool Services, Property Management, Refrigeration, Restoration & Remediation, Roofing, Security, Solar Installation, Tank Removal, Waste Removal & Recycling, and Windows & Doors.

Their clients typically fall into two categories:

Sell: Business owners looking to sell soon, seeking insights on valuation, buyer groups, and transaction timelines.

Scale: Business owners aiming to grow their business for a future sale or self-management, focused on increasing value over time.

John shares insights on increasing business worth by improving cash flow and reducing risks, highlighting strategies such as building a strong management team and transitioning from project-based to service and maintenance models. The episode provides actionable advice for contractors looking to future-proof their businesses and prepare for potential sales.

Expect to Learn:

1. How to determine your business's true value through cash flow analysis.

2. The importance of shifting from construction to service and maintenance for Predictable Revenue.

3. Key strategies to remove operational risks and boost marketability.

4. The role of strategic planning in long-term business growth.

5. How Brentwood Growth helps contractors navigate mergers and acquisitions.

Episode Highlights:

[00:33] - Introduction to Part 1 with guest John Bartlett from Brentwood Growth 

[02:28] - Selling a Skilled Trades Business 

[05:15] - Growing and Scaling for a Future Sale 

[08:56]- Increasing Business Value 

[12:59] - Construction and the Economy & Importance of Service and Maintenance 

[16:16] - Small Changes to Increase Business Value 

[20:13] - Consistency and Growth: What We Can Learn from McDonald’s and the E-Myth  

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master:http://www.master.ca Cintas: http://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Supply House: http://www.supplyhouse.com

Cool Air Products: http://www.coolairproducts.net

Lambert Insurance Services: https://www.lambert-ins.com/

Follow the Guest John Bartlett on:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/johnlbartlett/

John Bartlett’s Bio : https://www.brentwood-growth.com/our-team/john-bartlett/

Brentwood Growth: www.linkedin.com/company/brentwood-growth/

Phone: 908-377-7807

Email: [email protected]

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/ 

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie continues his discussion with David Rames, Senior Product Manager at Midea America Corp. This is Part 2 of their conversation, focusing on practical applications of heat pump technology and their performance in cold climates.

David shares insights from a unique case study conducted in Alaska, where Midea's heat pumps were tested under extreme winter conditions. The episode also highlights the importance of addressing building envelopes to optimize HVAC efficiency and includes valuable tips for technicians to ensure high-quality installations.

Gary and David further explore how advancements in heat pump technology have made these systems more reliable, efficient, and accessible, closing the gap between affordability and innovation.

Expect to Learn:

How Midea heat pumps excel in sub-zero conditions, as shown in an Alaska case study.

The impact of building envelope improvements on system efficiency.

Key installation tips to minimize callbacks and improve reliability.

Benefits of Midea’s modular air handlers for quick and easy installs.

How Midea combines affordability with advanced HVAC performance.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction to Part 2 with guest David Rames from Midea America Corp

[01:18] Addressing misconceptions about demand response programs

[04:01] How heat pumps operate efficiently in extreme cold climates

[08:23] Alaska case study: Testing Midea heat pumps in harsh conditions

[11:31] Heating Imbalance in Old Buildings with Radiators and Boilers

[14:19] The Evolution of Heat Pump Technology: Mitsubishi vs. Other Manufacturers

[18:00] Installation Tips for Technicians to Minimize Callbacks

[19:33] Pressure from Management on Technicians and the Importance of Proper Installation

[22:06] Midea’s efforts to support the next generation of HVAC professionals

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Master: www.master.ca

Cintas: www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall

Supply House: www.supplyhouse.com

Cool Air Products: www.coolairproducts.net

Lambert Insurance Services: www.lambert-ins.com

Follow the Guest David Rames on:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-rames-06742814/ 

Midea America Corp: www.linkedin.com/company/midea-america-corp/  

Follow the Host: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ 

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/  

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie sits down with Jesse Stewart, National Training Manager at NAVAC HVAC to discuss the industry's transition to A2L refrigerants and the essential tools for safe and efficient handling. Jesse, a technical trainer with experience in HVAC tools and safety practices, shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of A2L refrigerants. He focuses on debunking myths and highlighting safety measures. Gary and Jesse discuss tool compliance, best practices, and the importance of training in preparing HVAC professionals for upcoming changes.

Expect to Learn: What Are A2L Refrigerants?: Understand what A2L refrigerants are, why the industry is moving toward them, and clear up common misunderstandings. Tools That Get the Job Done: Learn about the tools that are compatible with A2L refrigerants, including vacuum pumps and recovery machines, and what makes them compliant. Staying Safe on the Job: Practical advice on reducing risks by using the right tools and following best practices for handling A2L refrigerants. Recovery Cylinder Basics: How to properly identify, label, and maintain recovery cylinders for safe use with A2L refrigerants. The Value of Good Information: Why it’s essential to rely on trustworthy sources and stay up-to-date through proper training.

Episode Highlights: [00:00] Welcoming Jesse Stewart and introduction to A2L refrigerants [01:42] Jesse’s background and expertise in HVAC tools and safety [01:59] Understanding A2L refrigerants and addressing misconceptions [05:37] Key features of A2L-compliant tools [12:37] Guidelines for marking and maintaining recovery cylinders [14:24] Adapters and hoses for A2L compatibility [17:25] Industry changes and the importance of training

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Master: www.master.ca Cintas: www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Supply House: www.supplyhouse.com Cool Air Products: www.coolairproducts.net Lambert Insurance Services: www.lambert-ins.com

Follow the Guest Jesse Stewart on:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-stewart%F0%9F%94%B8-180054205/  NAVAC HVAC: www.linkedin.com/company/navac-hvac/ 

Follow the Host: Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/⁠ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/  Website: www.hvacknowitall.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes Joshua Souders from Copeland for the second part of their conversation about advanced compressor technology. Josh brings his deep knowledge of HVAC systems to the table, focusing on variable-speed compressors, vapor injection, and how these innovations are changing the game for heat pumps.

They dive into topics like how variable-speed compressors work, the challenges of oil delivery, and why vapor injection is key to making heat pumps effective in extremely cold climates. They also tackle common misconceptions about heat pump performance in freezing temperatures and discuss the DOE Cold Climate Heat Pump Challenge. If you’re in the HVAC industry, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Expect to Learn:

How Variable-Speed Compressors Operate: A clear breakdown of how these compressors adjust to meet heating and cooling demands while boosting efficiency.

The Benefits of Vapor Injection: An explanation of how this technology improves heating capacity and efficiency, especially in colder climates.

Advancements in Heat Pumps: Insights into how today’s heat pumps are designed to perform well, even in extreme cold weather.

Debunking Heat Pump Myths: Addressing the outdated belief that heat pumps can’t function effectively in freezing temperatures.

Practical HVAC Knowledge: Useful advice on understanding, maintaining, and selecting compressors for optimal performance.

Episode Highlights:

[00:32] Welcoming Joshua Souders and Recap of Part One

[02:22] What Variable-Speed Compressors are and How they Work

[04:24] Addressing Oil Delivery Challenges in Variable-Speed Compressors

[08:58] What is Vapor Injection and How It Improves Heat Pump Performance

[13:52] Using Vapor Injection to Keep Heat Pumps Running in Extreme Cold

[17:19] Clearing Up Misconceptions About Heat Pumps in Freezing Weather

[23:35] Heat Pump Costs, Incentives, and Breaking Down Barriers to Adoption

[27:31] Closing Thoughts: What’s Next for Heat Pumps and Compressor Technology

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cool Air Products

Master

Cintas

Supply House

Follow the Guest Joshua Souders on: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-souders-902b448b/ 

Copeland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/copeland/ 

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ 

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/  

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie welcomes Joshua Souders from Copeland for part one of an enlightening two-part series on compressors and their critical role in modern HVAC systems. Josh, a seasoned expert in compressor technology, shares his wealth of knowledge, diving deep into the mechanics and benefits of single-speed, two-stage, and variable-speed compressors.

Gary and Josh discuss how each type of compressor operates, the unique advantages they offer, and their application in heat pumps, particularly in cold climates. They also touch on the challenges and misconceptions surrounding heat pump performance in sub-freezing temperatures. Packed with technical details, and expert advice, this episode is a must-listen for HVAC professionals looking to stay up-to-date with industry trends.

Expect to Learn:

Understanding Compressors: Explore the key differences and benefits of single-speed, two-stage, and variable-speed compressors.

Improving Heat Pumps: Learn how advanced compressors keep heat pumps running smoothly, even in extreme cold.

Clearing Up Misconceptions: Address common myths about heat pump performance in freezing temperatures.

Innovative Solutions: Discover how vapor injection technology enhances heating efficiency in cold climates.

Expert Advice: Get practical tips on choosing and maintaining compressors for better performance and reliability.

Episode Highlights:

[00:33] – Podcast Introduction

[02:05] – Welcoming Joshua Souders and Setting the Stage for Compressor Talk

[03:34] – The Basics: How Single-Speed Compressors Work and Their Limitations

[07:54] – Exploring Two-Stage Compressors: Benefits, Functionality, and Comfort Improvements

[11:21] – Dehumidification and Energy Efficiency with Two-Stage Compressors

[18:56] – Digital Scroll Compressors: Applications and Differences Compared to Two-Stage Models

[21:49] – Variable-Speed Compressors: The Future of HVAC Systems and Global Adoption Trends

This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by:

Cool Air Products

Master

Cintas

Supply House

Follow the Guest Joshua Souders on: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-souders-902b448b/ 

Copeland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/copeland/ 

Follow the Host:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ 

Website: www.hvacknowitall.com 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/hvacknowitall/  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/