In this episode of HVAC Chats, Nicole Krawcke speaks with Danielle Putnam, CEO of The New Flat Rate, about pricing strategy, mindset, and profitability for HVAC contractors. Putnam shares insights on resetting pricing through accurate billable hour calculations, overcoming technician discounting habits, and using menu pricing systems to reduce objections. The conversation also explores how branding, scripting, and structured customer journeys support confident price presentation. Together, they outline practical steps contractors can take to price for profit, protect margins, and build sustainable HVAC businesses in 2026.

In this episode of "HVAC Chats," host Nicole Krawcke, editor-in-chief of Contracting Business, is joined by Lori Tschohl and Barbara Pfeiffer from the Women in HVACR Navigator program to discuss how mentorship builds confidence and strengthens leadership pathways in the HVACR industry. Tschohl shares her journey from business ownership into the trades and her long-standing experience mentoring professionals, while Pfeiffer reflects on seeking guidance as she advanced into operations leadership. Together, they explore how structured mentor-mentee relationships support workforce development, career growth, and stronger industry connections—especially for women and underrepresented groups in HVACR.

In this episode of HVAC Chats, host Nicole Krawcke, head of content at Contracting Business, sits down with Dustin Guyton, coach and industry expert at Business Development Resources (BDR). The conversation explores how HVAC contractors can recognize early signs of a softening market, set realistic revenue goals using historical data, and stabilize operations through proactive planning. Guyton also discusses why maintenance agreements, disciplined business planning, strategic investment, and technology adoption are critical for navigating economic uncertainty and positioning HVAC businesses for long-term growth.