🎙️ 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.

🎙️ 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

🎙️ 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

🎙️ 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

🎙️ 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

🎙️ 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

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 184

Most Contractors Don’t Have a Lead Problem… They Have an Offer Problem

A lot of contractors think they need more marketing…

But what if the real issue is that their offer simply isn’t compelling enough?

In this episode, Rhydon sits down with legendary direct-response marketer John Dwyer, founder of The Institute of Wow, to break down the psychology behind marketing that actually gets attention—and drives action.

With more than 30 years of experience helping major brands like McDonald’s, KFC, and 7-Eleven, JD brings a completely different perspective to the trades world: why some businesses become unforgettable while others blend into the noise.

Together, Rhydon and JD dive into what contractors can learn from major consumer brands, how to create “wow factor” marketing, and why standing out today requires more than just running ads or posting on social media.

This conversation is all about understanding what makes customers pay attention—and what actually motivates them to buy.

For the #TradeCrew, this episode is a masterclass in positioning, branding, and building a business people remember.

Whether you’re HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or anywhere else in the skilled trades, this episode will challenge how you think about marketing, differentiation, and customer experience.

🔧 In this episode, we cover:

• Why most contractors misunderstand marketing
• The difference between advertising and creating a compelling offer
• What the trades can learn from global consumer brands
• How “wow factor” creates word-of-mouth growth
• Standing out in crowded local markets
• Why great service alone is no longer enough
• Building customer experiences people actually remember
• The psychology behind marketing that converts

🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop.🙏 Thank you to our partners:

DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • RLS Rapid Locking System • Resideo • MANN+HUMMEL • True Nature Meats Co.

🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl
🌐 www.hvacrnd.com

HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 183

The Follow-Up Problem Costing Trades Contractors Thousands with CHIIRP CEO Ryan Fenn

Most Contractors Don’t Need More Leads… They Need Better Follow-Up.

Most contractors think they have a lead problem…

But in reality, they have a communication and follow-up problem.

In this episode, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Ryan Fenn from CHIIRP to talk about how automation, texting, and smarter customer communication are changing the way trades businesses grow.

From missed calls and cold leads to follow-up systems that actually create conversions, Ryan breaks down why speed and consistency are becoming some of the biggest competitive advantages in the trades.

Together, Rhydon and Ryan dive into how contractors can create better customer experiences without adding more chaos to the office—and why modern communication tools are helping businesses close more work while reducing stress on their teams.

This episode isn’t about replacing people with automation.

It’s about making sure opportunities stop falling through the cracks.

For the #TradeCrew, this conversation is a real-world look at how technology can support growth without losing the human side of the business.

Whether you’re HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or any other service trade, this episode will challenge how you think about lead management, customer communication, and scaling efficiently.

🔧 In this episode, we cover:

- Why follow-up is one of the biggest weaknesses in the trades

- The hidden cost of missed calls and delayed responses

- How texting and automation improve customer experience

- Creating systems that increase conversions without overwhelming staff

- Where contractors lose leads without realizing it

- Balancing automation with real human connection

- How communication speed impacts close rates

- Building scalable customer communication processes

🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop.

#HVAC #ELECTRICAL #PLUMBING #GARAGEDOORS #TRADES #ROOFING #CHIIRP #AI #AUTOMATION #LEADGENERATION #LEADMANAGEMENT

🙏 Thank you to our partners:

DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • RLS Rapid Locking System • Resideo • MANN+HUMMEL • True Nature Meats Co.

🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl

🌐 www.hvacrnd.com/where-to-listen

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 182

The Next Generation of Smart Controls with Rami Noueir of Verdant #HVAC #CONTROLS #VERDANT #TECHNOLOGY

 Smart controls aren’t just about comfort anymore…

They’re quickly becoming one of the most overlooked opportunities for contractors to create recurring value, better customer experiences, and stronger long-term relationships.

In this episode, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Rami Noueir from Verdant to break down how smart thermostats and energy management systems are reshaping the way buildings are operated.

From hospitality and multi-family to commercial applications, Rami shares how connected controls are helping property owners reduce energy costs, gain visibility, and take control of their HVAC systems like never before.

Together, Rhydon and Rami dig into how contractors can position themselves not just as installers—but as technology partners delivering smarter, more efficient buildings.

This isn’t about selling a thermostat.

It’s about unlocking a new layer of value inside the systems you’re already installing.

For the #TradeCrew, this episode is a look at where HVAC is headed—and how to stay ahead of the curve by offering more than just equipment.

Whether you’re HVAC, electrical, or working in building systems, this episode will challenge how you think about controls, efficiency, and long-term customer value.

🔧 In this episode, we cover:

• What smart controls and energy management really mean today
• Where Verdant fits into the evolving controls landscape
• How contractors can create new revenue streams with smart thermostats
• The role of controls in hospitality, multi-family, and light commercial
• How energy savings drives ROI for building owners
• Why data and visibility are becoming essential in HVAC systems
• Positioning yourself as more than just an installer
• The future of connected buildings and system optimization

🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop.🙏 Thank you to our partners:DiversiTech • LiveSwitch • RLS • Resideo • Mann+Hummel • True Nature Meats Co.

🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl
🌐 www.hvacrnd.com/where-to-listen

🎙️ HVAC R&D Podcast — Episode 181

Why Most Contractors Think They’re Profitable… But Aren’t with Sam Miles of CFO and More, LLC

If your business is busy… your trucks are rolling… and money is coming in... why does it still feel tight?

In this episode, Rhydon Atzenhoffer sits down with Sam Miles to break down one of the biggest blind spots in the trades—thinking you’re profitable when you’re actually leaking cash.

Sam works directly with contractors across HVAC, plumbing, and electrical to help them understand their numbers, clean up their financial systems, and build businesses that don’t just generate revenue—but actually create real, sustainable profit.

Together, Rhydon and Sam dig into the gap between revenue, profit, and cash flow, and why so many trades businesses get stuck in the cycle of working harder without truly getting ahead.

This conversation pulls back the curtain on what your numbers are really telling you—and how to start using them as a tool instead of a stress point.

For the #TradeCrew, this is one of those episodes that can fundamentally change how you run your business.

Whether you’re an owner, service manager, or future business leader, this episode will challenge how you think about money, margin, and what “success” actually looks like in the trades.

🔧 In this episode, we cover:

- The difference between revenue, profit, and cash flow (and why it matters)

- Why many contractors look successful but struggle financially

- The most common financial mistakes in trades businesses

- How poor job costing quietly kills profitability

- Understanding your numbers without becoming an accountant

- What healthy margins actually look like in HVAC and trades

- Building financial systems that support growth—not chaos

- Turning your numbers into a decision-making tool

🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you never miss a drop.

🙏 Thank you to our partners:

DiversiTech Corporation • LiveSwitch • RLS Rapid Locking System • Resideo • MANN+HUMMEL • True Nature Meats Co.

🎵 Music credit: Alex Grohl

🌐 www.hvacrnd.com