PODCAST 064

How Jeremy Salzbrun Turned H&S Heating and Air Conditioning Into a Community Powerhouse

SUMMARY 

In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly from Moxie Creative sit down with Jeremy Salzbrun, second-generation owner of H&S Heating and Air Conditioning. Jeremy shares the story behind the family business, how he purchased the company during the recession, and what it takes to grow a trusted HVAC brand in Central Minnesota.

The conversation dives into family business dynamics, entrepreneurship, trades careers, leadership, community involvement, and the importance of building strong customer relationships. Jeremy also opens up about balancing business ownership with family life, raising a son who may become the third generation in the business, and why serving people during difficult moments gives his work deeper meaning.

From lessons learned in the trades to scaling multiple businesses and creating a lasting legacy, this episode is packed with honest insight and practical wisdom for entrepreneurs and small business owners alike.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome to Behind the Brand
01:26 What H&S Really Stands For
03:03 The Start of H&S Heating
04:04 Growing Up in the Family Business
06:05 Building a Career in the Trades
10:49 Knowing H&S Was His Future
11:17 Serving Customers When It Matters
14:08 Buying the Business During Recession
16:00 The Reality of Working With Family
18:34 Lessons From His Parents
21:44 Becoming a Local Community Face
22:30 Marketing Where Competitors Aren’t
24:09 Planning for the Next Generation
29:42 Expanding H&S Through New Services
34:52 Business Advice From Jeremy

Takeaways

  • Why trades careers can create incredible financial opportunities without traditional college debt

  • How Jeremy Salzbrun transformed H&S Heating and Air into a service-first business during the recession

  • The importance of community involvement and relationship marketing for local businesses

Key Topics Covered:

  • Growing up in a family-owned HVAC business

  • Taking over H&S Heating and Air during the recession

  • The value of skilled trades careers

  • Building a service-first company culture

  • Marketing strategies for local businesses

  • Expanding through acquisitions and new service divisions

  • Family business succession planning

  • Leadership, faith, and community impact

  • Creating long-term business growth through relationships