Kings Of Cold Podcast

About Kings Of Cold Podcast

Kings of Cold is the unfiltered refrigeration podcast for techs and contractors who want straight talk, big laughs, and real industry insight. We interview the people who’ve been in the trenches: tradesmen, business owners, engineers, teachers, and serious technical minds. Fun, informative, and never boring — and if someone drops an F-bomb… well, that’s real life. Kings of Cold — The real-deal show for real-deal refrigeration pros.

Publisher

Brad Gates

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

12 Dec 2025

Latest episode

23 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   23 Jun 2026

   Mike Pastorello: Building a Culture of Quality & Innovation

   In this episode, Brad Gates sits down with a true industry leader: Mike Pastorello, President of Refrigeration Technologies. Mike shares his journey growing up as a second-generation tradesman, starting out sweeping floors and driving forklifts before eventually paving his own path as a master automotive mechanic. He eventually returned to the family business in 2003, taking over operations in 2018 and launching a massive rebrand that catalyzed unprecedented growth. Brad and Mike dive deep into what it really takes to scale a trade-focused business, the unique challenges and strategies of leading a family enterprise, and why Refrigeration Technologies prioritizes creating "safe chemicals that do the job right." They also discuss the vital importance of listening to technician feedback from the field, how to foster an authentic and engaging company culture, and why maintaining extreme ownership is essential when you're the top dog. Whether you are a seasoned HVAC/R contractor, an aspiring trade entrepreneur, or a technician out there breaking your back in the field, this conversation is packed with invaluable lessons on leadership, business growth, and staying true to the community. Show Notes & Key Takeaways – Brad introduces Mike Pastorello, President of Refrigeration Technologies. – Growing Up in a Family Trade Business Mike shares his background as a second-generation business leader, learning to drive a forklift at age 11 and spending his early years tinkering in the garage. The reality of starting from the bottom—sweeping floors, fixing toilets, and grinding it out in the warehouse. – Rebranding and stepping into Leadership Taking over operations in 2018 and navigating the low success rate often faced by second-generation family businesses. Implementing a complete brand overhaul, introducing vibrant packaging, and creating the iconic "Viper" logo. – By Techs, For Techs: The "Bloody Knuckles" Philosophy How Mike’s background as a master automotive mechanic and his father's history as a professional HVAC technician shape their "by techs, for techs" corporate identity. The strategy behind engaging authentically with the technician community on social media. – The History of Innovation: Big Blue Leak Detector The story of Mike's father inventing Big Blue in the late 1980s as a sprayable leak detector that wouldn’t trigger false readings on electronic devices. The evolution of their product line into coil cleaners, sealants, Nylog, and the Wet Rag line. – Safe Chemicals That Do the Job Right Why trade professionals shouldn't have to compromise their health or safety to get a high-quality result on the job. Shifting the industry standard toward safer chemical alternatives. – The Product Development & Field Vetting Process How Refrigeration Technologies uses a multiphase vetting process, placing prototype samples into the hands of respected field technicians for honest feedback before a mass launch. Teaser: A sneak peek at a highly anticipated product release slated for late June. – The Realities of Scaling & Leadership Challenges Managing the massive scaling shift from doing a certain volume per year to achieving that same volume in a single month. The critical importance of role separation in a family business to avoid internal conflict and fumbling tasks. Finding the right people who care about the business culture and company health as much as the founders do. – Extreme Ownership & Taking Care of Your People Bridging corporate growth with workplace culture, including unique incentives like tying additional warehouse vacation hours and quarterly bonuses directly to monthly company growth The stress of high-level leadership and adopting a "captain goes down with the ship" mindset to ensure your employees and their families are fully supported

2. 

   9 Jun 2026

   The story of @HVACSavier

   Join us on the Kings of Cold Podcast as we dive into the world of HVAC with Savion Williams, also known as HVAC Savier! Discover how Savion transitioned from a young technician to a social media sensation, sharing his journey, challenges, and the importance of a positive mindset in the trade. Key takeaways: The value of learning from mistakes and embracing failure. How to effectively communicate with customers and build trust. The significance of having a mentor in the HVAC field. Tips for creating engaging content on social media. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:57 Savion's journey into HVAC 02:40 The importance of mindset 05:15 Learning through mistakes 10:00 Communicating with customers 15:30 Creating content for social media 20:00 Advice for new technicians 25:00 The future of HVAC What's your biggest challenge in the HVAC trade? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for more insights and stories from the HVAC world! #HVAC #HVACSavior #KingsOfColdPodcast

3. 

   26 May 2026

   Camping with the crew!

   From Industrial Plants to Mastering the Trade: Insights from the Kings of Cold. Get ready for an episode packed with raw, real talk from seasoned pros and eager newbies alike. Whether you're grinding in the trenches or just starting out, this episode is loaded with stories, lessons, and a whole lot of honesty straight from the tradesmen who live it every day.In this episode: The journey of a young industrial refrigeration technician and what it takes to grow in the trade Crazy stories from the field—liquid in the vessel, plant shutdowns, and freezer nightmares Tips for rookies: patience, humility, and the importance of customer relationships How technology is changing the game—computer controls and the evolution of HVAC and refrigeration The importance of mentorship, respect, and a little tough love in climbing the ranks OG wisdom—lessons from a 36-year veteran who’s seen it all and still keeps it real Remember, rookies—patience, humility, and a little hustle will take you far in this trade. And for the love of all that’s holy, pick up your trash, leave the job better than you found it, and stay hungry. Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome to Kings of Cold: Campfire chat with old boys and young guns 02:52 - Justin Mix’s journey: From rookie to industrial refrigeration pro 17:41 - The value of seasoned mentorship and dropping the tough love 23:45 - Dane Wilcher’s advice for young bucks: start early, be patient, and stop leaving your trash behind 36:09 - Celebrating the OGs: Dennis Pyle’s 36 years of hard knocks and tough lessons 41:07 - The evolution of tech: from manual controls to computer-based systems 42:23 - Final words: Keep grinding, stay hungry, and respect the tradeResources & Links:Connect with our young pros:Special shoutout:This show is made by tradesmen, for tradesmen. No fluff, just real talk. Thanks for listening, and keep those beers cold and the refrigerants colder.

4. 

   12 May 2026

   Rudy Vargas: Part 1. From Leap of Faith to Legendary.

   (This episode was cut short by a glitch in my recording program, so we decided to post the short version and do a follow up with Rudy at the end of Summer to see how much has changed with him and his team.) In this episode, Rudy Vargas shares his journey from HVAC apprentice to business owner and social media influencer. He discusses building a community, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of sharing knowledge in the trades. HVAC, social media, entrepreneurship, HVAC education, trade community, business growth, HVACGoon, Legendary Air, HVAC tips Social media's impact on HVAC trades Building a trade community and recruiting platform Transition from technician to business owner The importance of education and sharing knowledge Overcoming challenges in entrepreneurship Rudy Vargas "Social media became a recruiting platform." "Word of mouth and online presence are key." "The sign was the sign I needed to leap." Legendary Air Heating and Air Conditioning - https://legendaryair.com HVACGoon TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@hvacgoon Legendary Air Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/legendaryair/

5. 

   5 May 2026

   Queens of Cold: An Inside look at life behind the trade

   In this heartfelt interview, Alexis Mix shares her experiences as a refrigeration wife, the challenges and rewards of supporting her husband's career, and insights into the industry’s dangers and camaraderie. Discover the realities behind the trade, the importance of strong partnerships, and the future of refrigeration careers. keywords refrigeration, refrigeration wife, industry safety, work-life balance, refrigeration careers, industry camaraderie key topics Life as a refrigeration wife Industry safety and emergencies Career growth and industry camaraderie guest name Alexis Mix sound bites "The work ethic in this trade is insane" "Mike's passion for refrigeration is what drives him" "Support your partner and stay strong in this trade" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Queens of Cold Podcast 01:08 The Journey of Refrigeration Wives 03:05 The Challenges of Being a Refrigeration Partner 05:57 Reflections on Growth and Change 07:43 Understanding the Trade: Knowledge and Safety 09:29 The Emotional Toll of the Trade 11:46 Pride in the Refrigeration Trade 15:17 The Benefits of Refrigeration Work 17:49 Family Dynamics in the Refrigeration Industry 19:11 Funny and Crazy Moments in Refrigeration 21:37 Transitioning Roles in Refrigeration 23:10 The Importance of Work Ethic 25:36 Building Relationships in the Trade 26:21 Support Systems Behind the Technicians 27:29 Social Life in the Refrigeration Community 28:19 Generational Changes in the Trade 29:53 Reflections on Career Choices 33:17 Challenges for Women in Refrigeration 34:54 Safety Concerns in the Field 36:58 Future Aspirations in Refrigeration

6. 

   28 Apr 2026

   Andrew James: From 12-Year-Old Shop Helper to Million Dollar Jobs

   Lessons from Andrew James of Cold War Refrigeration: Get ready to hear the real deal on what it takes to step up from technician to owner in the industrial refrigeration game. Andrew James, a seasoned pro with 22 years in the trenches, shares insights on leadership, industry mishaps, and why loving the trade beats chasing a paycheck. In this episode: Andrew’s journey from a young shop helper to handling million-dollar jobs The mindset shift needed to earn respect and build relationships in a competitive market The value of hustle, humility, and knowing your ABCs in troubleshooting and business Lessons learned from career DIY moments—no BS, just real stories Common red flags in potential hires and what makes a tech instantly valuable The importance of communication and going the extra mile for customer trust How to keep your team engaged and aligned with your vision Navigating the chaos of jobsite accidents—like crane mishaps—and turning setbacks into stepping stones Surprising truths about what it really costs to run a business and how inflation impacts project bids Andrew’s advice on starting, scaling, and avoiding pitfalls in your own company Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome to the Kings of Cold: Real Talk for Refrigeration Pros 02:10 - From Tech to Owner: Andrew’s experience and mindset shift 03:28 - Meeting tradespeople where they’re at, not where you wish they were 07:36 - Busting myths: What do owners think technicians misunderstand? 09:00 - Real stories of mistakes and mishaps—learning moments only 11:49 - Recognizing red flags in job interviews and on-site work 13:45 - The basics—ABCs of troubleshooting and maintaining standards 15:16 - What separates top technicians from the pack? 16:33 - The power of communication and transparency with clients 17:54 - Handling major jobsite setbacks: Cranes, water in systems, and more 21:01 - Money talk: How techs can climb the pay scale with hustle 23:41 - Building a team worth top pay: Personality and growth mindset 27:47 - Leadership lessons: Managing individuals and cultural fit 29:03 - The truth about owning a business: commitment, exit plans, and scaling 33:35 - Navigating new regulations: Title 20, 24, and staying compliant 36:46 - Inflating costs: How to bid smart in a crazy market 41:44 - Andrew’s parting words: Work hard, stay safe, and build community 44:46 - Connecting with Andrew: How to follow Cold War Refrigeration. Final thoughts: This episode is filled with straight-up truths, hard-earned lessons, and some good laughs, all made by tradesmen for tradesmen. If you’re thinking about making that leap into ownership or just want to sharpen your skills and mindset, you won’t want to miss this one.

7. 

   21 Apr 2026

   Hector Vidales: From Fast Food To Rising Star

   In this episode, HVAC technician Hector Vidalas, aka @BlueCollarHec, shares his journey from trade school to building a social media presence and running his own business. He discusses the importance of hands-on experience, the realities of the trade, and how to leverage social media for growth. In this episode, @BlueCollarHec shares his insights on the HVAC industry, ethics in sales, the importance of safety, and the value of trades for young people. He discusses his background, the significance of integrity, and tips for the next generation of tradespeople. Keywords HVAC, trade skills, social media, entrepreneurship, HVAC tips, HVAC trade, HVAC business, HVAC social media, HVAC technician, HVAC tools HVAC, trades, sales ethics, safety, blue collar, career advice, industry insights, entrepreneurship, work ethic Key Topics Trade school vs. hands-on experience Social media as a marketing tool for HVAC Building a valuable skill set in HVAC Challenges and rewards of HVAC trade Entrepreneurship and mentorship in HVAC Ethics in HVAC sales Importance of safety and OSHA standards Career growth in trades and HVAC Building trust and relationships with customers Guest Name Hector Vidalas @BlueCollarHec "Trade school helps you understand theory" "Old equipment is built to last decades" "Safety on job sites is no joke." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Kings of Cold Podcast 03:27 Hector's Journey into the Trades 11:24 Building a Business in HVAC 16:35 Challenges of Being Available in the Trade 20:52 Understanding the Importance of Licensing and Insurance 23:48 The Journey of HVAC Challenges 26:26 Navigating Manmade Problems in HVAC 29:07 Ethics and Morality in the HVAC Industry 31:42 Building Trust with Customers 34:40 The Meaning of Blue Collar Work 37:27 The Importance of Skills and Knowledge in HVAC 43:10 Growing Up in the Trade 45:43 The Importance of Learning Processes 50:08 Providing Value in Service 55:30 The Role of Integrity in Business 58:09 Advice for the Next Generation Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluecollarhec/

8. 

   14 Apr 2026

   Mitch Noto: Licensed HVAC Contractor at 23

   Licensed Contractor at 23: The HVAC Journey of Mitch Noto. In this episode, we sit down with young HVAC pro Mitch Noto, who started his journey in the trades early and quickly learned that experience is the best teacher. Mitch shares insights on social media, the importance of experience, and how adversity (including a major accident) shaped his career and outlook. If you're looking for a no-BS perspective on growing in HVAC, and how to leverage social media to showcase your skills, this episode is for you.In this episode: Mitch's background and how his dad influenced his career path The impact of social media on HVAC growth and reputation building Lessons learned from working in residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC How a car accident changed Mitch’s life and his outlook Tips on documenting your work and building a social media presence The value of experience, training, and continuous learning Industry challenges like unlicensed work and outdated techniques Tools and gadgets that help make work cleaner and more efficient The role of AI and technology in troubleshooting and learning Advice for newcomers, veterans, and those documenting their journey Timestamps: 00:08 - Introduction and Mitch’s background in HVAC00:40 - How his dad's experience shaped his career01:34 - Growing a customer base in Florida02:06 - The importance of family and mentorship in trades02:50 - Pursuing licensing and future growth plans03:55 - Challenges of expanding the business and trust issues04:41 - Modern technology and software in HVAC business management05:34 - How social media has helped Mitch grow his presence06:11 - Balancing work, social media, and customer trust06:53 - The role of social media content and its impact on professionalism09:08 - Attending industry shows like AHR and Vegas expos09:56 - The value of trade events and networking opportunities10:23 - The challenge of learning HVAC as a hands-on trade11:12 - What separates good technicians from amateurs12:11 - Differences between residential, commercial, and refrigeration work13:11 - Navigating attic and ceiling disasters and crazy stories15:37 - Overcoming a life-changing accident and the journey back17:33 - How social media influences quality and work habits18:08 - Pros and cons of social media in the trade19:42 - Handling criticism and online comments21:05 - Sharing content inadvertently (favorite videos)21:19 - Advice for young and old entering HVAC22:02 - The reality of attics and technical challenges24:59 - Lessons learned the hard way in HVAC26:25 - Overcoming adversity and physical setbacks27:50 - Is the industry creating better or louder techs?28:38 - The importance of training versus experience30:48 - Using AI tools like ChatGPT in troubleshooting32:20 - Documenting your job and the benefits of transparency36:05 - The importance of craftsmanship and pride in your work37:00 - Industry-wide issues like unlicensed work and regulation38:14 - The tools and gadgets Mitch secretly loves41:56 - Advice for technicians considering documenting their journey43:45 - Connecting with Mitch and where to find him This episode offers a raw, real look at what it takes to build a career in HVAC, the importance of continual learning, and leveraging social media to showcase your craft. Mitch’s story proves that resilience and passion go hand-in-hand, and that even when life throws you a major curveball, you can come back stronger than ever—tools in hand and ready to take on whatever comes next.

9. 

   7 Apr 2026

   Anthony Ulloa: Becoming The Best; A Young Technician's Journey To Success

   In this episode, HVAC technician Anthony Ulloa shares his journey from a young age in the trade, the importance of maintenance, content creation, and safety. He discusses industry changes, the value of continuous learning, and advice for aspiring technicians. HVAC, HVAC technician, industrial HVAC, maintenance, social media, trade career, HVAC tools, industry future, HVAC content creation, HVAC safety Anthony Ulloa's background and entry into HVAC The importance of maintenance in industrial HVAC Content creation and social media in the trades Industry trends and future outlook Safety and mindset in HVAC Anthony Ulloa "Always verify what you're working on" "Networking at industry events opens doors" "Respect the trade, safety is paramount" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anthony Ulloa 01:36 Journey into HVAC: A Generational Technician's Path 02:36 The Importance of Maintenance in HVAC Systems 04:18 Exploring the World of Industrial HVAC 05:26 Creating Content: The Birth of an HVAC Influencer 07:39 The Growth of Social Media Presence 08:47 Learning the Ropes: Editing and Content Creation 10:41 Equipment and Techniques for Effective Content 12:19 Handling Criticism and Trolling in the Industry 15:05 Content Creation's Impact on Work 17:53 Recognition and Awards in the HVAC Community 18:57 The Rise of HVAC Community 21:30 The Impact of Social Media on Trades 22:18 Navigating the Challenges of Content Creation 27:33 Ethics in the HVAC Industry 30:07 The Future of HVAC Technology 35:51 Mindset and Success in the Trade 37:26 The Rewards of Trade Work 38:54 The Dangers of Complacency 42:20 Advice for Young Technicians 44:58 The Importance of Networking 47:13 Learning and Growth in HVAC 50:03 Visibility vs. Skill in the Trade 52:31 Final Thoughts for the Next Generation resources Ant_doesHVAC on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ant_doesHVAC/ Brownson Technical School - https://www.brownson.edu/ HVAC Tactical - https://hvactactical.com/ Amalina Technologies Oil Testing Lab - https://amalinatech.com/ guest links Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ant_doesHVAC/

10. 

    31 Mar 2026

    Matt Brandt: Welder to Service Manager

    The conversation covers a range of topics including day-to-day operations, maintaining a tight culture, pre-refrigeration experience, transition to refrigeration, the importance of construction experience, and the significance of consistency and cleanliness in the trade. The conversation covers early challenges in industrial refrigeration, the evolution of the refrigeration industry, the impact of private equity in the trade, and the dangers of complacency and comfort. It also highlights the potential career killers and the ever-evolving nature of the refrigeration industry.Takeaways* Consistency* Importance of Cleanliness Complacency and comfort can be career killers* Private equity firms buying companies can lead to underqualified individuals being paid high salaries* The refrigeration industry is ever-evolving, and the future may bring significant changes in technology and refrigerantsChapters* 00:00 Consistency and Cleanliness in the Trade* 33:39 Early Challenges in Industrial Refrigeration* 45:55 The Evolution of the Refrigeration Industry* 52:00 The Impact of Private Equity in the Trade* 59:50 The Dangers of Complacency and Comfort

11. 

    24 Mar 2026

    Chad Tester: Fire Safety and Wild Times

    The conversation covers the guest's experience in fire protection, the challenges and responsibilities in fire protection, and the importance of life safety and fire protection systems. It also delves into the guest's transition from being a commercial fisherman to a career in fire protection, highlighting personal growth and work ethic. The discussion also touches on fire protection incidents and safety concerns, emphasizing the need for safety measures and concerns in fire protection. The conversation covers various aspects of fire protection, cold storage, and the value of trades and skills. It delves into challenges in fire system inspection, educating building owners, dealing with false alarms, and the impact of fire department response costs. The guest shares insights on working in freezer environments, finding leaks, and innovative tools and solutions. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the value of trades and skills, offering advice for young professionals and ways to connect with the guest. Takeaways Importance of safety measures in fire protection Transition from commercial fishing to fire protection career Importance of educating building owners about fire systems Challenges and solutions in cold storage buildings Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 05:21 Challenges in Cold Storage Facilities 18:20 Life as a Commercial Fisherman 26:13 Work Ethic and Personal Growth 31:58 Safety Measures and Concerns in Fire Protection 37:34 Finding Leaks and Pipe Maintenance 55:16 The Value of Trades and Skills

12. 

    17 Mar 2026

    Bobby Armstrong: The legend of the Double Barrel Banana

    The conversation covers the journey of Bobby Armstrong, AKA Blue Collar Code, in the HVAC industry and his success on social media. It delves into the challenges and opportunities in the industry, the importance of character and relationship skills, and the impact of social media on trade professionals. The conversation covers the importance of building an online presence, the passion for the trade, the significance of quality work and cleanliness, the challenges in the trades, the future of the trades, the importance of taking care of one's body, and the unexpected fame of the 'Double-Barreled Banana Guy'. The conversation covers a range of topics including the physical demands of blue-collar work, the importance of consistency, the impact of corporate culture, and the future of the industry. It also delves into financial advice and the significance of quality tools in the trade.Takeaways* Social media as a platform for trade professionals* The importance of character and relationship skills in the trade industry Consistency in posting content is key* Passion and communication are essential in the trades Consistency* Budgeting* Quality ToolsChapters* 00:00 Introduction and Social Media Presence* 05:33 Getting into the Trade and the Current State of the Industry* 14:07 Viral Social Media Content and Professionalism in the Trade* 22:23 Service Calls and Construction Work* 27:32 Passion for the Trade* 40:23 The Future of the Trades* 45:40 Taking Care of Your Body* 51:40 The Blue_Collar_Code and Social Media Growth

13. 

    10 Mar 2026

    Steve Harrill: From Scraping Gaskets to Industry Leader

    The conversation delves into the guest's early exposure to refrigeration, his transition to industrial refrigeration, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge and training. It also covers his entrepreneurial journey, challenges, and growth of Chiller Services, as well as the future of the refrigeration trade. The guest shares insights on refrigerant reclamation, quality control, and safety in the trade, and explains the role of a refrigeration technician. The conversation delves into the challenges faced in refrigeration work, highlighting technical expertise and industry challenges as key takeaways. The discussion provides valuable insights into the complexities of the trade and the need for specialized knowledge and skills to navigate industry challenges effectively. Key Topics Steve Harrill’s career path in refrigeration Industry innovations in refrigerant recovery and testing Safety practices and lessons in HVAC and industrial refrigeration From Scraping Gaskets to Industry Leader: Steve Harrill’s Refrigeration Journey Refrigerant Recovery and Testing: Insights from Steve Harrill "I didn't want to do this when I was older." "The engineers at Trane are just amazing." "The brotherhood in the trade is incredible." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Trade and Personal Journey 05:05 Career Development and Training 10:25 Overcoming Personal Challenges and ADHD 15:29 Navigating Challenges During COVID-19 20:38 Safety in the Trade and Personal Experiences 27:24 Lessons Learned from Mistakes 31:09 The Importance of Hands-On Experience 35:24 Unexpected Calls in the Field 40:50 Innovations in Refrigeration Technology Resources Chiller Services Refrigerants - https://chillerservicesrefrigerants.com Amalina Technologies - https://AmalinaTechnologies.com National Science Foundation ERC - https://www.nsf.gov AHRI Standards and Technical Committee - https://www.ahrinet.org Guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/steveharrill Website - https://AmalinaTechnologies.com Keywords refrigeration, refrigerant recovery, HVAC, ammonia, industrial refrigeration, safety, innovation, refrigerant testing, HVAC careers, industry future

14. 

    3 Mar 2026

    Robert Kraft: Legendary Tool Inventor and HVAC Visionary

    In this episode of the Kings of Cold podcast, host Brad Gates interviews HVAC innovator Robert Kraft, who shares his journey from a high school dropout to a successful entrepreneur with 14 patents. Kraft discusses his early days in the HVAC industry, the challenges he faced, and the inventions he created, including the Jumper King tool. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, networking, and continuous learning in the trade. Kraft also provides valuable advice for aspiring technicians and reflects on the impact of his work on the HVAC community. Robert Kraft has 14 patents and continues to innovate. His journey into HVAC began at 18, driven by curiosity. The Jumper King was born from a need to improve efficiency. Inventions can significantly impact the HVAC industry. Persistence is key in both business and personal challenges. Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities. Learning all aspects of the trade is crucial for success. Professionalism in appearance and attitude matters. Resilience can lead to greater achievements after setbacks. The HVAC trade offers diverse career paths and opportunities. "I didn't realize how creative my mind was." "I learned a lot about how resilient I am." "Be a sponge and learn as much as you can." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Kings of Cold Podcast 02:13 The Journey of an Inventor in HVAC 05:17 Proud Inventions and Their Impact 09:12 Innovative Tools for HVAC Technicians 13:25 The Three-Port Core Removal Tool 18:43 The Easy Dose and Maintenance Solutions 20:05 Innovative Tool Design and Practical Solutions 26:43 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 35:47 Resilience Through Adversity 38:06 The Freedom of Being Your Own Boss 40:08 Building a Community-Based Business 41:50 The Shift to Invention and Innovation 44:10 The Journey of a Full-Time Inventor 49:01 Advice for New Technicians in HVAC keywords HVAC, refrigeration, inventions, tools, entrepreneurship, resilience, technician advice, Jumper King, Robert Kraft, Cold King Mechanical

15. 

    24 Feb 2026

    Chris Austin: 27 Years of Refrigeration, Innovation, and Real Field Experience

    In this episode of Kings of Cold, I sit down with Chris Austin, a refrigeration professional with 27 years of hands-on experience. We talk about what it really takes to last in this trade — from early lessons in the field, to innovation, problem-solving, and adapting as the industry evolves. This is a straight, honest conversation rooted in real-world experience and earned knowledge. Whether you’re new to the trade or decades in, there’s something here for you. ❄️👑 Kings of Cold — Built by the Trade, for the Trade.

16. 

    17 Feb 2026

    The Backbone of Society: Refrigeration Uncovered

    In the bustling world of commercial refrigeration, there's a trade that quietly supports our daily lives yet often goes unnoticed. In the inaugural episode of the Kings of Cold podcast, Brad Gates takes listeners on a journey through the refrigeration industry, shedding light on its significance, challenges, and the passion that drives those who work in it. A Backbone of Society Refrigeration is not just about keeping your kitchen appliance cold; it's a vital industry that powers large-scale operations. From food warehouses to pharmaceuticals and even morgues, the refrigeration trade plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of essential products. Brad explains that while many think of refrigeration in a limited scope, it encompasses a vast array of facilities that directly impact our lives. Brad Gates shares his personal journey into the refrigeration world, starting as a forklift technician in a refrigerated warehouse. Faced with a career plateau at a young age, he decided to pivot toward refrigeration, utilizing his GI Bill to enroll in vocational school. This decision transformed his life, providing not only a stable career but also a sense of purpose and fulfillment. His story illustrates the transformative potential of vocational trades, especially in times of economic uncertainty. The Reality of Working in Refrigeration Working in refrigeration is demanding. Brad discusses the pressures of being on call, the need for constant learning, and the unpredictability of equipment failures. He humorously recounts early experiences, like the chaos of cleaning massive coils in a fast-food warehouse, which threw him into the deep end of the trade. These anecdotes highlight not only the hard work involved but also the camaraderie and humor that develop in challenging situations. Common Misconceptions about Refrigeration One of the most common misconceptions is that refrigeration technicians merely fix home appliances. In reality, they work on complex systems in commercial settings, managing everything from large cold storage facilities to intricate refrigeration systems in restaurants and gas stations. Brad emphasizes the importance of understanding the scope of refrigeration work and its impact on everyday life, from the cold drinks we enjoy at gas stations to the food served in restaurants. Learning Through Experience Brad shares valuable lessons learned over the years, such as the importance of double-checking work and the realities of working in extreme conditions, like industrial freezers. These stories serve as a reminder of the technical and safety challenges technicians face daily, reinforcing the need for thorough training and ongoing education in the field. The Future of the Kings of Cold Podcast Brad wraps up by expressing his excitement for the podcast’s future, which will feature interviews with industry experts, technicians, and educators. The goal is to share insights, stories, and knowledge that demystify the refrigeration trade and celebrate the professionals behind it. This podcast aims to be both educational and entertaining, fostering a community of listeners interested in the refrigeration world. The Kings of Cold podcast is a heartfelt tribute to the refrigeration industry and its unsung heroes. Brad's journey highlights the significance of vocational trades in providing stable careers and making essential contributions to society. As listeners tune in, they can expect to gain a deeper understanding of refrigeration's pivotal role in everyday life, along with stories that both educate and entertain. refrigeration, vocational trades, Kings of Cold podcast, commercial refrigeration, industrial refrigeration, career transformation, refrigeration technician, podcasting, essential workers

17. 

    12 Dec 2025

    Coming soon. Stay tuned

    This is a quick intro to the Kings of Cold podcast. Full episodes with real tradesmen, experts, and no-nonsense conversations are coming soon, so stay tuned!

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Contact Kings Of Cold Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.