by HVAC Learning Campus
Jonathan Hoekstra, Vice President of National Accounts at Motili, joins Accelerated HVAC Success to discuss how his role within both Daikin Comfort Technologies and Motili is helping drive the adoption of VRV and inverter-driven technology across the industry. Jonathan shares why he’s seeing a growing demand for VRV solutions, especially as commercial spaces require greater flexibility, agility, and energy efficiency than ever before. He also explains how contractors who embrace VRV technology are opening the door to new business opportunities and positioning themselves ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving market. The conversation also explores how National Accounts is helping blaze a trail for innovation in HVAC, along with the potential advantages AI could bring to the industry in the years ahead. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of being adaptable and willing to embrace change, highlighting how contractors and businesses that stay open to new technologies and evolving customer needs will be best positioned for long-term success.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, we’re joined by Connie Schroder, Director of Ductless Products at Daikin Comfort Technologies, for a deep dive into the evolving ductless market. Connie shares how contractors are leveraging the 115V Daikin Oterra as a flexible, easy-to-install solution that opens doors to new applications and faster installs. She highlights the practical benefits contractors care about most—efficiency, simplicity, and versatility—while also touching on the often-overlooked aesthetic advantages ductless systems bring to homeowners. The conversation also explores the successful launch of Daikin’s first R-32 refrigerant product, how it’s been received in the market, and what the industry-wide transition to R-32 has looked like so far. Looking ahead, Connie discusses the full rollout of Daikin’s multi-zone platforms and what’s next for 2026, including an upcoming air handler designed to integrate seamlessly with multi-zone systems. She also unpacks how Daikin’s control strategies—like the Daikin One thermostat and the Skyport family—are simplifying system management for both contractors and homeowners. At the core of the conversation is Daikin’s strength in system integration, enabling contractors to deliver smarter, more connected comfort solutions. This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to expand their ductless offerings and stay ahead of where the market is heading.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, we sit down with Allen Anaya, a Sales Representative from New Mexico, to explore a grounded, customer-first approach to HVAC sales. Allen shares practical advice for those new to the industry, emphasizing the importance of viewing yourself not just as a salesperson, but as a consultant and coach. By working closely with engineers and customers, his focus is on guiding decisions that align with the building’s true needs—not just closing a deal. Allen challenges the traditional sales mindset by explaining why it’s sometimes better to lose a sale than to recommend the wrong product. He highlights how having a comprehensive product portfolio, like Daikin’s, allows contractors to match the right solution to any application—without forcing a fit. He also underscores the importance of truly knowing your product line—what it excels at and where it falls short—since the most expensive system isn’t always the best choice. His final takeaway is simple but powerful: listen to your customers, because the best solutions start with understanding their needs.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, we sit down with Dana Moffet, Sales Engineer at Air Reps, to explore the growing impact of inverter-driven technology and the evolution of VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) systems. Dana shares insights from his podcast, Inverter Always, which is dedicated entirely to inverter technology, and then breaks down why contractors shouldn’t be intimidated by stepping into the VRV space. He emphasizes that VRV systems offer a level of flexibility that allows contractors and engineers to be creative—designing solutions that truly match the unique needs of each building while keeping systems as simple and efficient as possible. The conversation also touches on value engineering and how a deeper understanding of system functionality helps teams highlight the true value of the equipment to building owners. Dana also offers practical advice for contractors looking to succeed with VRV. He stresses the importance of proper technician training to avoid installation issues and ensure long-term system performance. By focusing on education and collaboration, Dana explains how strong support from manufacturers and reps can make all the difference in contractor confidence and success. Ultimately, the episode reinforces that when contractors are equipped with the right knowledge and backed by the right partners, they can leverage VRV technology not only to solve complex challenges but to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, we sit down with AP Sharma, Director of VRV Products at Daikin Comfort Technologies, to break down what VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) technology is and how it’s transforming the HVAC landscape. AP explains how VRV systems intelligently adjust refrigerant flow to match real-time demand, delivering exceptional efficiency, comfort, and zoning flexibility. He also connects the dots between VRV and Daikin’s core innovations—highlighting how inverter technology, advanced refrigeration control, and heat pump capabilities come together in one integrated solution. The conversation goes beyond traditional commercial applications, exploring how VRV is expanding into the residential market and creating new opportunities for contractors. AP shares how diversifying into VRV can help contractors grow revenue, differentiate their offerings, and meet evolving customer expectations. He also dives into Daikin’s next-generation control systems, including how AI-driven advancements are making VRV smarter, more intuitive, and easier to manage—positioning contractors at the forefront of innovation in a rapidly changing industry.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, host Ben Middleton sits down with Randy Johnson, owner of Randy's Heating and Air Conditioning, who shares the journey behind building a successful HVAC business and the partnerships that helped make it possible. Randy discusses how his long-standing relationship with Thermal Supply Inc. has supported his company’s growth, from technical expertise to business guidance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of integrity in the trades and why identifying—and fully embracing—your company’s primary focus is essential to long-term success. Randy also explains how his company continues to thrive despite today’s economic uncertainty by focusing on customer solutions, including offering financing options that help homeowners move forward with needed comfort upgrades. He reflects on why he chooses to work with Daikin Industries and how the brand aligns with his standards for quality and reliability. The episode concludes with Randy reflecting on one of the toughest challenges he faces as a contractor and the mindset required to keep moving forward while leading a growing team.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, Mary Belden-McGrath, Co-Owner of Driven Leadership, joins the conversation to explore how leaders can effectively guide and motivate their teams during times of constant disruption—from geopolitical conflicts to low consumer confidence. Mary stresses that great leaders focus on what they can control rather than being paralyzed by fear. She draws attention to the importance of developing leaders who can think new thoughts and break out of the ruts many organizations fall into during uncertain times. Through practical tools, she provides ways leaders can interrupt negative cycles, stay grounded, and help their teams remain focused and forward-looking. Mary also highlights the importance of reinforcing vision and purpose—ensuring employees clearly understand the company’s direction, expectations, and how their work contributes to the bigger picture. She shares the powerful concept of “Run to the Roar,” encouraging leaders to face challenges head-on instead of retreating from them, and discusses how periods of “perma-uncertainty” can actually fuel innovation for contractors willing to adapt. The conversation also touches on the importance of celebrating team wins, helping contractors rediscover their “why,” and how the BOLD framework can help leaders level up their mindset, leadership, and business growth in an ever-changing industry.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, Jeremy Chandler, Regional Manager for OPTIMUS, unpacks what’s happening right now in the financing world—and what it means for contractors. From easing interest rates to strategic financing promotions, Jeremy explains how dealers are using today’s lending trends to drive higher close rates and larger tickets. He shares insight into the types of loans homeowners are gravitating toward, why affordability conversations matter more than ever, and how contractors are leveraging OPTIMUS programs to make premium systems feel attainable. The conversation also dives into how successful contractors account for dealer fees, structure blended fee strategies, and protect margin while still presenting compelling monthly payment options. Jeremy also emphasizes the importance of claiming available buydown rebates for Goodman, Amana, and Daikin products—an often-overlooked opportunity that can significantly offset dealer costs. He explores key differences between U.S. and Canadian loan structures, outlines how contractors can quickly get started with OPTIMUS, and explains how the platform consistently delivers approval ratings above 90%. If you’re looking to strengthen your financing game, increase accessibility for homeowners, and confidently present payment options that close, this episode delivers practical strategies you can implement immediately.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, Matt Maleske, owner and founder of CTM (Coach, Train, Motivate), outlines what he sees missing in contractor development throughout the HVAC industry. He highlights the value of a structured Sales & Application course and how technology has simplified key elements of selling—like financing and accurate heating and cooling load calculations—making it easier to present complete solutions with confidence. Matt also addresses the decline in consistently offering financing and load calculations, and why contractors who prioritize both see higher close rates, larger tickets, and stronger profitability. He also unpacks the impact of Daikin’s Energy-Skilled Sales & Application course, where technicians learn to execute every step—from discovery to load calculations to financing—so they can deliver a thorough, professional recommendation. By avoiding assumptions and confidently offering all available options, skilled technicians elevate the customer experience and drive long-term growth.
In this episode of Accelerated HVAC Success, host Ben Middleton sits down with Eric McGrath, co-owner of Driven Leadership, to explore where he’s seeing the biggest waves of change and innovation outside the HVAC industry—and why contractors should be paying attention. Eric discusses real-world stories of clients who found success by failing forward, learning quickly, and intentionally leveraging the expertise of others instead of trying to do everything themselves. The conversation highlights a common thread among high performers: they surround themselves with the right people and aren’t afraid to admit what they don’t know. Eric also dives into what leadership truly means today, emphasizing that it’s not about avoiding mistakes, but about how you respond when gaps and missteps show up. He explains why strong leaders create trust through accountability, curiosity, and growth, and why asking better questions—especially around what’s possible—is no longer optional. As consumers demand a new kind of experience, this episode challenges HVAC professionals to rethink leadership, elevate their teams, and lead in ways that meet the expectations of a changing world.