In this episode of "HVAC Chats," host Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business, speaks with Tony Cooper, owner of Cooper’s Plumbing and Air in Bainbridge, Georgia, and Tallahassee, Florida. Cooper shares how leadership development, employee incentives, and phantom equity have supported retention and growth in his HVAC and plumbing business. The conversation explores workforce challenges, hiring leaders from outside the trades, and using structured incentive tools to align employees with long-term business performance. This episode offers practical insights for HVACR contractors focused on retention, leadership, and sustainable growth.

In this episode of "HVAC Chats," Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business, speaks with Brian Beaulieu, chief economist at ITR Economics, about economic trends and business strategies for 2026. They discuss rising material and labor costs, effective pricing strategies, workforce retention, and capital planning for contractors. The conversation provides actionable insights for HVACR professionals seeking to maintain profitability, manage risk, and position their businesses for growth in a cautious but improving market.

In this episode, Editor-in-Chief Nicole Krawcke speaks with Trevor Matthews, founder of Refrigeration Mentor, a provider of refrigeration, CO₂, and HVACR training programs. Matthews shares insights from his career as a commercial refrigeration technician, manufacturer trainer, and industry educator. The discussion explores how artificial intelligence, smart controls, CO₂ systems, and advanced electronics are reshaping refrigeration service, training, and workforce expectations. Contractors and technicians will gain practical perspectives on improving efficiency, troubleshooting, and professional development as commercial refrigeration technology continues to evolve.

In this episode, Trey McWilliams, founder of Blue Cardinal Home Services Group and CEO of McWilliams & Son Heating and Air Conditioning, shares how he transformed his third-generation family business from a small lifestyle operation into a thriving, culture-driven HVAC company, and how those lessons inspired the creation of Blue Cardinal. The conversation explores servant leadership, employee retention, and how HVAC contractors can protect their company’s legacy while pursuing growth or partnership opportunities.

In this episode of HVAC Chats, Contracting Business Editor-in-Chief Nicole Krawcke speaks with Josh Koplin, co-founder of EDEN and a guest contributor to Contracting Business magazine. Koplin discusses how evolving consumer behavior—driven by what he calls the “Amazon effect”—is reshaping how HVAC contractors must market, sell, and deliver services.

In this episode of "HVAC Chats," Nicole Krawcke sits down with Jenny Benbrook, founder and CEO of Powerhouse Consulting Group, to discuss how HVAC contractors can get the most out of their business software. From field service management to CRM and ERP systems, Benbrook explains how the right technology—and the right training—can transform efficiency, boost team performance, and drive long-term growth for HVAC businesses.

On this episode of HVAC Chats, Emily Fleniken, partner and creative director at Lemon Seed Marketing, discusses the importance of building memorable contractor brands. She covers strategies for branding, community engagement, and nurturing existing clients to drive sustainable growth. Emily shares practical tips to humanize your business and stay top of mind with customers.

In this episode, Trevor Bacon, operations manager and vice president of construction at Bacon Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, shares proven strategies for engaging and retaining HVAC talent across multiple generations. From setting clear expectations during onboarding to creating transparent career roadmaps, Trevor explains how contractors can build a culture of growth. He emphasizes the importance of listening to employees, adapting to their needs—whether it’s work-life balance for younger techs or advancement opportunities for seasoned workers—and following through on commitments.