In this episode of the Cool Times Podcast, host Vince and Jenna Free interviews Russell Leo, CEO of RLS Logistics. They discuss the current state of the logistics industry, the growth and services of RLS, and the importance of family legacy in business. Russell shares insights on the challenges and opportunities in the cold storage sector, as well as his personal journey in the family business. The conversation also touches on future plans for RLS, advice for the next generation, and the significance of being a family-owned business in today's market.

Story Notes:

❄️ Russell Leo: Background and Family Business

❄️ RLS Logistics: Services and Growth

❄️ Cool Moments in the Industry

❄️ Future Plans for RLS Logistics

❄️ Family Legacy and Business Philosophy

❄️ Advice for the Next Generation

❄️ Recognition and Differentiation in the Market

❄️ The Long Game: Business Strategy and Legacy

❄️ Rapid Fire Questions: Personal Preferences

Sponsored by Vapor Armor

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

In this episode of Cool Times Podcast, Bobby Degregorio, VP of Business Development at ESI Group Design Build, discusses his background in the military and his transition to the cold storage industry. He highlights the importance of relationships and integrity in the industry and shares his experiences and challenges in business development. Bobby D emphasizes the need for a positive attitude, discipline, and realistic expectations in the long sales process. He also talks about the strong culture and community in the cold storage industry and the importance of face-to-face interactions. Bobby D shares his cool moments in the industry and the lessons he has learned from being out of his comfort zone. Bobby D discusses his superpower, why people should choose ESI, the importance of communication, and his core values of commitment, integrity, and relationships.

Story Notes:

❄️ ESI Group Design Build

❄️ Military Background and Connection with Brett

❄️ Utilizing Military Experience in Construction

❄️ ESI Group's Focus and Culture

❄️ Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

❄️ Bobby D's Superpower: Invisibility

❄️ Why Choose ESI: Commitment, Transparency, and Communication

❄️ The Importance of Effective Communication

❄️ Bobby D's Legacy: A Positive and Caring Individual

❄️ Core Values at ESI: Commitment, Integrity, and Relationships

Sponsored by Ritech High Performance Doors

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

Burnie Taylor, Chief Development and Solutions Officer at Arcadia Cold, joins the Cool Times podcast hosted by Jenna and Vince Free, to discuss the new age of cold storage construction. Arcadia Cold is a growing cold storage company that focuses on customer service and building a strong culture. Burnie shares insights into their strategy for selecting facility locations, their approach to building design, and the importance of people and processes in delivering exceptional customer service. He also highlights the role of the Control Environment Building Association (CEBA) in standardizing the industry and developing professionals. Burnie emphasizes the value of networking and mentorship in the cold storage industry and encourages those interested in the field to gain hands-on experience in the field. He also shares information about upcoming industry events and where to find more information about Arcadia Cold.

Story Notes:

❄️ The New Age of Cold Storage Construction

❄️ Selecting Facility Locations and Building Design

❄️ The Importance of People and Processes in Customer Service

❄️ The Role of CEBA in Standardizing the Industry

❄️ Networking and Mentorship in the Cold Storage Industry

❄️ This or That Questions

❄️ Conclusion and Closing Remarks

Sponsored by Rytec High Performance Doors

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

In this episode of the Cool Times podcast, Hosts Vince and Jenna Free interviews Dwight Clark, the President and CEO of Jamison Door Companies. They discuss Dwight's background, the history of Jamison, and the various products the company offers, including cold storage doors, high-speed roll-up doors, and specialty doors for performing arts centers and jet engine test cells. Dwight also talks about his involvement with the Global Cold Chain Alliance and the importance of staying current with industry trends and advancements in technology. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire round of fun questions.

Story Notes:

❄️ Introduction and Background of Dwight Clark

❄️ The History and Products of Jamison Door Companies

❄️ Staying Current with Industry Trends and Technology

❄️ The Global Cold Chain Alliance and Industry Associations

❄️ Energy Surveys and Studies for Optimal Cold Storage

❄️ The Importance of Customer Service and Manufacturing Accuracy

Sponsored by Jamison Doors

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

In this episode, Hosts Vince and Jenna Free interviews Vince Humphreys,Senior Construction Sales at J.F. Ahern Co. about fire protection in cold storage construction. They discuss the history and background of Ahern, the different types of fire protection systems, and the importance of product classification and flu spacing. They also touch on the challenges of protecting different types of products and the impact of thermal issues in cold storage facilities. The conversation covers market trends in the controlled environment industry, the importance of working with trusted partners, and the legacy of honesty and teaching. The main market trends discussed include the growth of the industry, the use of very narrow aisle racking systems, and the rise of fully automated ASRS buildings. The conversation also touches on the importance of safety in the industry and the value of Ahern's in-house capabilities. Vince Humphreys shares his journey into the industry and highlights the expertise and dedication of Ahern's field team.

Story Notes:

❄️ Introducing Vince Humphreys and Ahern

❄️ Understanding Fire Protection Systems in Cold Storage Construction

❄️ The Importance of Product Classification and Flu Spacing

❄️ Challenges in Protecting Different Types of Products

❄️ Collaboration with End Users, General Contractors, and Fire Departments

❄️ Introduction and Market Trends

❄️ Very Narrow Aisle Racking Systems

❄️ Fully Automated ASRS Buildings

❄️ Safety and In-House Capabilities

❄️ Legacy of Honesty and Teaching

Sponsored by Iceberg Mechanical

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

In this episode of The Cool Times Podcast, hosts Vince and Jenna Free welcome the team from Weiland Doors, including Carl Weiland, Calvin Mueller, and Christina Sirek, to discuss the company's recent growth and developments. They highlight Weiland Doors' focus on meeting the specific needs of the cold storage industry, emphasizing the introduction of CS grade hardware. The team shares success stories and reflects on the company's supportive and collaborative culture, emphasizing gratitude and teamwork. They also discuss their unique approach to celebrating successes and commend the Weiland Doors team for their dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Story Notes:

❄️ Growth and Evolution

❄️ Product Differentiation

❄️ Team Dynamics and Culture

❄️ Leadership and Humility

❄️ Customer Satisfaction and Rapid Response

❄️ Reflecting on Success and Challenges

Sponsored by Iceberg Mechanical

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

Nelson, Principal Investment Portfolio Manager at BGO. Will discusses BGO's focus on cold storage investments globally, highlighting their approach and motivation. He explains the process of partnering with localized development teams and the factors influencing project locations.

The conversation delves into assessing viability and returns on investment, considering rising costs and market uncertainties. Will shares insights on the impact of macroeconomic factors like interest rates and the potential challenges ahead. He emphasizes the importance of humility, respect, and collaboration for newcomers entering the industry. Overall, the discussion offers valuable perspectives on navigating the dynamic landscape of cold storage construction investments.

Story Notes:

❄️ Introduction to BGO and Cold Storage Investment

❄️ Collaborative Partnerships and Project Involvement

❄️ Determining Project Locations

❄️ Assessing Viability and Return on Investment

❄️ Market Trends and Future Outlook

Sponsored by VersaFoam and Vapor Armor

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

In this episode of The Cool Times podcast hosted by Vince and Jenna Free, they welcome guest Colin Williams from Williams Company, a project manager in the cold storage industry. Colin discusses his company's journey from its founding in 1920 to its recent resurgence in the cold storage sector. He highlights pivotal projects, including a major renovation for Sysco after a tornado, showcasing their ability to thrive in operational facilities.

The conversation delves into industry dynamics, the importance of conferences like CEBA and GCCA, and the significance of Williams Company's ESOP structure, emphasizing employee ownership and commitment to client relationships. Discussions extend to future industry trends, including the growing demand for cold storage facilities near ports due to changing agricultural practices. Throughout, anecdotes and insights into the unique challenges and successes of the cold storage construction industry are shared, offering listeners a deeper understanding of this niche but vital sector.

Story Notes:

❄️A Journey into Cold Storage
❄️Navigating Operational Challenges
❄️The Rise of Cold Storage
❄️The ESOP Advantage

Sponsored by Rytec High-Performance Doors & Versi-Foam

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com