Design. Build. Better. with Dan Crist

12/11/24 • 74 min

In this episode of the Cool Times Podcast, hosts Jenna, and Vince Free welcome Dan Crist, the President of A M King, to discuss the intricacies of the cold storage construction industry. Dan shares his journey from a large international contracting firm to becoming a key player in A M King, emphasizing the importance of the design-build approach and the challenges faced in cold storage projects. The conversation also delves into the role of technology in enhancing efficiency and safety on job sites, as well as the significance of building trust with clients and subcontractors. In this conversation, Dan Crist discusses the early challenges of building a business, the importance of market forecasting, and the dynamics of client relationships. He reflects on the evolution of cold storage building, offers advice for newcomers in the industry, and emphasizes the significance of community and mentorship. The conversation also touches on balancing personal values with business decisions and the corporate responsibility of giving back to the community. Finally, Dan shares personal insights through a rapid-fire question segment.

Story Notes:

❄️ Meet Dan Crist: President of A M King

❄️ Dan's Journey in the Cold Storage Industry

❄️ The Design-Build Approach in Cold Storage

❄️ Leveraging Technology in Cold Storage Construction

❄️ Challenges in Cold Storage Construction

❄️ Building Trust with Clients and Subcontractors

❄️ Navigating Early Challenges in Business

❄️ Market Forecasting and Client Dynamics

❄️ Evolution of Cold Storage Building

❄️ Advice for Newcomers in the Industry

❄️ The Importance of Community and Mentorship

❄️ Balancing Personal Values and Business Decisions

Previous Episode

Low Ox with Wagner Group!

In this episode of the Cool Times Podcast, hosts Vince and Jenna Free welcome Frank Siedler from Wagner Group, a leading fire protection company specializing in low oxygen systems for cold storage facilities. Frank shares insights into the evolution of Wagner Group, its innovative fire protection solutions, and the challenges faced in the cold storage industry. The conversation delves into the importance of education regarding fire safety, the technical aspects of oxygen levels, and the future of fire protection in an increasingly automated world. Frank emphasizes the need for prevention and adaptation to local markets as Wagner continues to grow globally.

Story Notes:

❄️ Meet Frank Siedler and Wagner Group

❄️ Wagner Group's Fire Protection Solutions

❄️ Challenges in Cold Storage Fire Protection

❄️ Understanding Oxygen Levels and Fire Safety

❄️ Global Operations and Market Adaptation

❄️ Cost Comparison: Low Oxygen vs. Sprinkler Systems

❄️ Future of Fire Protection in Cold Storage

Next Episode

Sponsorship Spotlight with Iceberg Mechanical

In this episode of the Cool Times Podcast, hosts Vince and Jenna Free welcome James Price, a regional sales manager at Iceberg Mechanical. James shares his extensive experience in the refrigeration industry, discussing the growth of Iceberg Mechanical, the importance of custom refrigeration solutions, and the innovations in low charge systems. The conversation also touches on the future of refrigeration technology, including the role of AI, and the significance of relationships within the industry. James emphasizes the need for planning in refrigeration infrastructure to accommodate future expansions and shares personal anecdotes that highlight the familial nature of the industry.

Story Notes:

❄️ James Price's Journey in Refrigeration

❄️ Iceberg Mechanical's Growth and Pivotal Moments

❄️ Refrigeration Systems: Custom Solutions for Clients

❄️ Innovations in Refrigeration: Low Charge Systems

❄️ Planning for Future Expansion in Refrigeration

❄️ The Future of Refrigeration: AI and Technology

❄️ Personal Stories and Relationships in the Industry