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 i...
Jul 18, 2025•55 min
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 vul...
Jul 11, 2025•1 hr 23 min
From Farming to Freon: The Refrigeration Journey of Jeremiah Johnson 🚛❄️ In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , Pat Finley sits down with Montana-based refrigeration pro Jeremiah Johnson , who shares his inspiring journey from residential HVAC and construction framing to running his own refrigeration business in rural Montana. 🇺🇸 🔥 Jeremiah talks about: How the 2009 housing crash led him to HVAC school at 30 Making the leap from residential HVAC to commercial refrigeration Life i...
Jul 04, 2025•53 min
In this icy-cool episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , Pat sits down with Stephanie Wall from True Refrigeration to dive into the cutting-edge world of True Ice Machines . From R290 refrigerant and antimicrobial plastics to advanced Time-of-Flight sensors and near-instant harvest cycles, Stephanie reveals how True has engineered a smarter, more efficient, and technician-friendly ice machine that’s ready to dominate the market. We cover: 🧊 Why ice is food — and how True keeps it clean ⚙️ Se...
Jun 27, 2025•39 min
🎙️ Episode Title: "20 Years, 2 Countries, 1 Tech: Aidan Lucey's Journey Through the Trades" In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we sit down with refrigeration pro Aidan Lucey, whose 20-year journey in the trade spans two continents. From humble beginnings in Ireland installing 80 mini splits, to chasing down leaks in Canadian grocery stores, Aidan shares how a twist of fate steered him into the trades—and how that decision shaped his life and career. We talk shop on everything fr...
Jun 20, 2025•48 min
In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we sit down with Seth Hiler , Technical Trainer at Viega , to explore how Viega is reshaping plumbing and mechanical training across North America. From the oilfield and coal mines to Colorado State University and now the classroom, Seth brings real-world experience into Viega’s hands-on, technician-driven programs. 🎯 What we cover: The evolution and impact of Viega’s press technology Viega's national training centers and upcoming Ohio facility...
Jun 13, 2025•32 min
In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat sits down with Bryan O’Hern, owner/operator of Coyle Appliance Repair based in the South Metro area of Minneapolis-St. Paul. Bryan shares his incredible path from aviation mechanic to commercial kitchen lone wolf. After starting in aircraft maintenance, 9/11 changed everything—forcing a pivot that eventually led him into the foodservice repair world. From a stint at Hobart to owning and growing his own shop, Bryan unpacks the highs and lows o...
Jun 06, 2025•1 hr 5 min
In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , host Pat Finley reconnects with Louise Kellar , National Training Manager at UEi Test Instruments and one of the Top 25 Most Influential Trainers of 2025 . Louise shares her unexpected journey from retail management to becoming a nationally recognized leader in HVAC/R education and training , while offering valuable insight into combustion analysis , CO safety , and the real-world applications of test instruments in both commercial kitchens and ...
May 30, 2025•56 min
In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , Pat and special guest cohost Megan McIntosh sit down with Kelsey Whittenberg — better known as The Spicy Sparky — for an unfiltered, powerful conversation about life, the trades, and building a career from the ground up. Kelsey became an electrician at 30 with zero experience, two kids, and no plan — just a willingness to learn and work hard. Now five years in, she owns her own electrical contracting business , volunteers at trade schools, and i...
May 23, 2025•1 hr 6 min
In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , host Pat Finley and co-host Jason Latimer are joined by Stuart Reiman , senior technician and field supervisor at Hagar Restaurant Service in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With over 13 years of experience in the foodservice equipment industry, Stuart shares his incredible journey from managing Tulsa’s longest-running hip-hop and R&B club to becoming a respected leader in commercial kitchen repair and training. We dive deep into: 🔧 His early days as a he...
May 16, 2025•59 min
In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we sit down with Michael Plezia to explore his unconventional journey into the trades . From dropping out of high school and working in retail and foodservice , to discovering a passion for HVAC, plumbing, and commercial kitchen equipment repair , Mike opens up about what led him to his current role as a Hobart Service technician . 🛠️ We talk career pivots in your 30s, the challenges of starting over, and how hands-on training, mentorship, and ...
May 02, 2025•1 hr
🎙️ 35 Years in the Game: Rusty Parke's Legacy in Foodservice Equipment Repair In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , host Pat Finley reconnects with a true mentor and industry legend — Rusty Parke , who has been grinding in the foodservice equipment repair industry for over 35 years . From crawling in attics at age 12 to helping shape companies and careers, Rusty’s story is a blueprint for resilience and growth in the trades. We trace his journey from the early GCS days, where he hi...
Apr 25, 2025•1 hr 6 min
In this inspiring episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we're stepping out of the kitchen and into the world of HVAC! Pat is joined by special guest co-host Megan McIntosh from Mechanical Environments, and together they welcome rising TikTok star and HVAC advocate Katey, better known as HVACGirlie . From bartending in a resort town to rocking rooftops and running calls, Katey shares her honest and empowering journey into the skilled trades. She talks about the moment HVAC clicked , overcomi...
Apr 18, 2025•47 min
🎙️ From Fast Food to Foodservice Pro: Josh Austin’s Journey in HVACR & Refrigeration In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , host Pat Finley sits down with rising HVACR technician Josh Austin—aka @JoshDaBoss on TikTok—for a raw and inspiring conversation about his transition from flipping burgers to fixing walk-ins and RTUs. Josh shares how he stumbled into the trades, his grind through installs in scorching Texas attics, and how he leveled up into service and refrigeration work....
Apr 11, 2025•45 min
🔥 Catching Up with David Jones – New Roles, New Perspectives! 🔥 In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat Finley and Jason Latimer welcome back David Jones , now serving as Director of Sales and Marketing . David shares how he’s handling the new responsibilities, expanding his team, and navigating time management challenges. We also dive into his experiences attending recent industry shows, what he's learned, and how his insights compare to ours. From managing new ASA’s and install...
Apr 04, 2025•1 hr 24 min
This week on Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , host Pat Finley welcomes two rising stars in the HVACR social media scene — Matt and Sean, better known as the HVACR DADS 👨🔧👨🔧. These two techs are not just putting in the work in the field, they’re also using platforms like TikTok to showcase what life in the trades is really like — raw, real, and rewarding. Matt and Sean share how they got started in the HVACR industry, the challenges they’ve faced balancing family life with life on the job, a...
Mar 28, 2025•1 hr 11 min
🎧 Catching Up with Bryan Sanders: Wins, Struggles, and Lessons in Foodservice Repair In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, host Pat Finley reconnects with returning guest Bryan Sanders to dive into his journey after spending eight months in the foodservice equipment repair industry. Bryan, who previously worked in refrigeration, made the leap into this new field, and he's back to share what that experience has been like. During this candid conversation, Bryan opens up about the high...
Mar 21, 2025•1 hr 10 min
In this episode, I'm live from the cafeteria at NAFEM with two special guests: Scott Westbrook and Andre Frenette from Alto-Shaam ! 🌟 Alto-Shaam: A Family-Owned Legacy Founded in 1955 by Jerry Moss, Alto-Shaam has grown into a powerhouse in the foodservice industry. From their innovative heated holding cabinets to their industry-leading combi ovens, Alto-Shaam continues to push the envelope with cutting-edge equipment proudly made in America. Scott and Andre share insights into the company's fa...
Mar 14, 2025•33 min
🎙️ Catching Up: Trade Shows, Growing Pains & Big News! 🚀 The crew is back together for a much-needed catch-up session! In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we dive into the latest happenings in our world—from recent trade show experiences to the growing pains of expansion, and some big news you won’t want to miss. 🔹 Trade Shows – The latest insights from the industry floor🔹 Growing Pains – What it takes to keep moving forward🔹 Big News – A major update that will shake thin...
Mar 08, 2025•56 min
🔴 LIVE from AHR Expo! 🔴 In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we’re joined by Nadeem from Watts Water Technologies to dive into the world of backflow prevention and the latest in connected backflow technology ! 💧🔧 Recorded LIVE at the Podcast Pavilion at AHR Expo , we break down the importance of backflow systems, how connected technology is changing the game, and what techs need to know to stay ahead. If you work in foodservice repair, plumbing, or water management , this episo...
Feb 28, 2025•29 min
🎧 Catching Up with Bryan Sanders: Wins, Struggles, and Lessons in Foodservice Repair 🔧 In this powerful episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , host Pat Finley sits down with returning guest Bryan Sanders to dive deep into his journey after spending eight months in the fast-paced world of foodservice equipment repair. Bryan, known for his strong background in refrigeration, made the leap into the foodservice repair industry — and he’s back to share what that transition has really been like....
Feb 21, 2025•1 hr 10 min
🎙️ LIVE from AHR Expo 2025 – RIDGID Talks Pressing Tech & Big Moves in Manufacturing! 🚀 In this special live episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we’re coming to you straight from the Podcast Pavilion at AHR Expo 2025 in Orlando, Florida! We sat down with Michael Provenzano and Joe DeVries from RIDGID to dive into the world of pressing technology and check out RIDGID’s brand-new RP 251 Press Tool! 🔥 Topics we covered: ✅ The RP 251 Press Tool – Compact, powerful, and designed for eff...
Feb 21, 2025•29 min
In this special on-location episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we’re coming to you LIVE from AHR Expo 2025 in Orlando, Florida! 🎤🔥 We had the chance to sit down at the UEi Test Instruments booth with Louise Kellar to explore some of their latest and most essential HVAC tools. 🚀 What’s Inside This Episode? ✅ Combustion Analyzers – Why regular recertification matters 🔥 ✅ DL599 Volt Meter – A must-have tool for precision diagnostics ⚡ ✅ Manometers – Essential for accurate pressure measu...
Feb 18, 2025•34 min
🔥 LIVE from AHR Expo 2025 – Viper & Refrigeration Technologies w/ Ashley & Becca! 🎙️🔧 We took Commercial Kitchen Chronicles on the road to AHR Expo 2025 in Orlando, FL , recording LIVE from the Podcast Pavilion! 🎤 This episode features Ashley and Becca from Viper & Refrigeration Technologies , where we dive into new products, updates to existing solutions, and their major headquarters expansion project – and what it means for customers and suppliers. 💪 But that’s not all! We als...
Feb 14, 2025•43 min
🔥 HVAC Knights Take Over! | Content Creation, Industry Talk & AHR Preview! 🎙️ In this special episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we’re joined by the HVAC Knights —a trio of industry pros bringing humor, knowledge, and insight into the world of HVAC and foodservice repair. We dive into content creation, industry trends, and what’s in store for AHR Expo ! 😆 Can you ever take them seriously? Maybe… but one thing’s for sure: this episode is packed with laughs and valuable insights! 👀...
Feb 07, 2025•1 hr 10 min
🎙 Behind the Scenes with a Facilities Manager: Insights from Taylor's 14-Year Journey 🏢🔧 In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, host Pat Finley and co-host Jason Latimer dive into the world of facilities management with special guest Taylor Lomberk! Taylor shares insights from his 14-year journey in the field, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, responsibilities, and expectations of a facilities manager. 🔹 What does a facilities manager actually do?🔹 How do they ...
Jan 31, 2025•1 hr 11 min
Get ready for an exciting episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles with your host, Pat Finley, and special guest, Isaac Locke, Director of Training for Middleby Corporation! 🔧🍽️ In this episode, we dive deep into: 🏰 The Middleby Innovation Kitchen (The MIC): Located in Lewisville, TX, this cutting-edge facility showcases over 100 Middleby brands in a fully functional environment, complete with lifts, hoods, and power for hands-on training! 🔍 Training That Transforms Careers: From technician ...
Jan 24, 2025•1 hr
In this episode of The Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we dive into the exciting world of skilled trades training with Ruchir Shah, the founder of SkillCat. 🌟 SkillCat is revolutionizing the way aspiring technicians and professionals gain the skills they need to thrive in industries like HVAC, refrigeration, and more. By combining cutting-edge technology with innovative learning methods, SkillCat is bridging the gap between traditional education and the growing demand for skilled labor. 🚀 Ruch...
Jan 17, 2025•49 min
🎙️ From Army Wrenches to Kitchen Fixes: Lisa Moore’s Inspiring Journey in Foodservice Repair In this compelling episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , host Pat Finley and co-host Jason Latimer are joined by the talented Lisa Moore, a trailblazer in the foodservice repair industry. Lisa shares her remarkable story, starting with her time in the Army, where she honed her mechanical skills and learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, and resilience. 💪⚙️ Transitioning from military serv...
Jan 10, 2025•1 hr 23 min
In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles , we dive into the fascinating world of refrigeration and cold storage with Ty Smith, also known as Ice Master Ty on Instagram! From his late start in the trade to mastering massive cold storage systems, Ty shares his 15-year journey through challenges, lessons, and the unique culture of the industry. 👨🔧 Highlights include: His transition from RV repair to becoming a refrigeration pro. 🚐➡️❄️ Insights into Canada’s four-year apprenticeship prog...
Jan 03, 2025•44 min
