In this episode of "HVAC Chats," Sam Wakefield of Close It Now joins Nicole Krawcke, head of content at Contracting Business magazine, to discuss what "Saturday Night Live's" HVAC sales sketch reveals about customer trust and professionalism in the trades. Wakefield examines the challenges associated with high-pressure replacement sales and explains how permission-based selling, authentic communication, and ethical leadership can help contractors build stronger homeowner relationships. The conversation also explores practical ways to improve sales follow-up, coordinate sales and installation teams, evaluate business performance, and develop employees through consistent training. For HVAC contractors and business owners, these strategies offer a framework for improving customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and long-term profitability.

In this episode of "HVAC Chats," Janal Reid, co-owner of Serveway Heating and Air Conditioning, shares her unconventional journey from cosmetology to HVAC business ownership and discusses opportunities for career changers entering the skilled trades. Reid discusses how transferable skills such as communication, customer service and emotional intelligence can help nontraditional candidates succeed, while offering practical advice on recruiting, employee development, and building an inclusive company culture. She also shares her work with the Next Generation of Tradesmen Foundation, which introduces students to career opportunities in HVAC and other construction trades. The conversation explores how investing in employee well-being, professional development, and workplace relationships can support employee retention and long-term business growth.

In the latest episode of "HVAC Chats," Noelle Henry, general manager and comfort advisor at Hesse Heat & Air, discusses her family’s experience rebranding the company after more than 50 years in business. Henry explains why the company returned to the Hesse Heat & Air name, how it introduced its new visual identity and mascot, and how it communicated the changes to customers. She also shares lessons from the roughly 2.5-year rebranding process, including the challenges of managing logistics, overcoming hesitation, and knowing when to bring in outside branding expertise. For HVAC contractors considering a rebrand, the conversation offers practical insight into building recognition while maintaining customer trust and continuity.