In this fun and insightful episode, Vince and Jenna sit down in-studio with Marko Dzeletovich, founder of ColdBox Builders, and his son Max to talk about legacy, leadership, and how ColdBox became one of the most respected names in cold storage construction. Marko shares the story of scaling the company through explosive growth, why culture always beats cash, and how to keep things cool—even through the chaos. Max jumps in with fresh energy as the next generation of ColdBox begins to take shape.

From maple syrup candles to rebranding revelations, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and advice for any entrepreneur navigating the cold chain world.

Cool Takeaways:

❄️ From Brick Phone to ColdBox Boss – Marko’s journey from site superintendent to cold storage specialist is filled with grit, growth, and plenty of mentorship moments.

❄️ Scaling Smart – ColdBox grew from 30 to 75 employees in just two years during the pandemic. Marko shares what worked—and what didn’t.

❄️ Culture First – “Love what you do” isn’t just a motto at ColdBox—it’s the foundation. Hear why hiring for heart and passion trumps chasing headcount.

❄️ Rebrand & Refocus – The 2019 rebrand was more than a logo update. It was brand therapy that brought clarity, consistency, and new energy to the ColdBox mission.

❄️ Legacy in Motion – Max Dzeletovich joins the podcast and the business, offering a glimpse at what generational leadership looks like in action.

❄️ Peer Power – Marko reflects on the value of Vistage, mentorship, and real conversations with fellow leaders who’ve been through the trenches.

❄️ No Textbook for This – Entrepreneurship isn’t taught—it’s lived. Marko’s biggest advice? Be patient, and learn by doing.

Don’t miss this conversation on building cool things that last. Tune into the full episode at www.cooltimespodcast.com

Sponsored by:

🌡️ Vapor Armor
www.vaporarmor.com

⚙️ Applied Fabricators (Afab)
www.appliedfabricators.com

In this fun and insightful episode, Vince and Jenna sit down with Sean Gilbert of Saxum Real Estate to talk about how Saxum went from boutique developments to becoming a national leader in cold storage and food processing facilities. Sean shares how strategic focus, smart partnerships (like with Arcadia Cold), and a commitment to team culture helped Saxum scale to over $3 billion in assets. From beard-growing tactics to real estate war stories, this episode is packed with laughs, strategy, and cold hard insights.

Cool Takeaways:

❄️ Niche Expertise Pays Off – Saxum shifted its focus to cold storage, dry industrial, and housing, scaling up with specialized teams in each.

❄️ The Arcadia Partnership – Sean shares how Saxum became the exclusive developer for Arcadia Cold, enabling rapid national expansion.

❄️ Spec Builds in Cold Storage – Sean breaks down the risks, sweet spots, and evolving strategy for spec buildings in cold chain real estate.

❄️ The Power of Thoughtful Design – From port market docks to multi-use cold buildings, smart design choices are critical for longevity and flexibility.

❄️ Culture is Key – Saxum’s slow hiring, team bonding (hello Dirt Dogs!), and shared values keep their team strong and cohesive.

❄️ Tech-Savvy Approach – From AI tools to cold chain logistics systems, Sean explains how Saxum is future-proofing its operations with tech.

❄️ ICON Cold Growth – Sean discusses his role as co-chair of ICON Cold and how the capital markets-focused conference is helping evolve the industry.

Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of cold storage. Chill out with the full episode at www.cooltimespodcast.com

Sponsored by Senneca Holdings

https://www.senneca.com/

Sponsored by VersiFoam

https://www.rhhfoamsystems.com/

In this episode of Cool Times Podcast, Vince and Jenna Free welcome back Brian Lynch for a deep dive into everything happening at CEBA (Controlled Environment Building Association) and the broader GCCA (Global Cold Chain Alliance). Brian shares key updates, insights into strategic growth, member benefits, upcoming events, and how CEBA is shaping the future of controlled environment building through collaboration, education, and leadership.

Cool Takeaways:

❄️ What CEBA Is: CEBA supports experts building controlled environment facilities, from food storage to clean rooms.

❄️ Membership Growth: Nearly 300 companies and a sold-out 550+ attendee conference in 2023.

❄️ CEBA Pro: A 3-day in-person certification program focused on core controlled environment building knowledge.

❄️ Recognition: “Built By the Best” awards honor top projects—new submission categories now live.

❄️ Get Involved: Join committees, attend events, or pursue board roles by staying active and engaged.

❄️ Going Global: New international committee and events expanding CEBA’s reach worldwide.

Event Highlights:

• CEBA Pro Training: April (Atlanta), August (Chicago)
• GCCA Convention: Sept 15–17 (San Antonio)
• CEBA Expo: Nov 3–6 (Las Vegas)

Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of cold storage. Chill out with the full episode at www.cooltimespodcast.com

Sponsored by Jamison Door Company
https://jamisondoor.com/

Sponsored by Fastener Systems, Inc. (FSI)

https://www.fastenersystems.com/

In this special episode of Cool Times Podcast, host Vince Free sits down with his wife, Jenna Free, COO of Freez Construction, to celebrate Women in Construction Week and discuss the evolving landscape for women in the industry. They share personal stories, insights into leadership and business growth, and the progress made in increasing female representation in construction. Jenna reflects on her upbringing in the industry, her leadership journey, and the lessons she would pass on to aspiring women in the field.

Cool Takeaways:

❄️ Family Influence – Jenna shares how growing up in a construction business shaped her career.

❄️ Women in Construction – Female representation has grown by 50% in the last decade but still only makes up 11% of the industry.

❄️ Keys to Leadership – Confidence, skill-building, and communication are essential for women in leadership roles.

❄️ Power of Mentorship – Guidance and networking help more women enter and succeed in the industry.

❄️ Strengths Women Bring – Problem-solving, attention to detail, and adaptability set women apart.

❄️ Work-Life Balance – Setting boundaries is key for maintaining both career success and personal life.

❄️ Future at Freeze – Jenna hints at exciting company growth and upcoming projects.

Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of cold storage. Chill out with the full episode at www.cooltimespodcast.com

Sponsored by Iceberg Mechanical and & Refrigeration
https://icebergmechanicalusa.com/

Sponsored by Senneca Holdings

https://www.senneca.com/

Cold Storage is Going Higher—Literally!

Automation, ASRS, and smart warehouse design are reshaping cold storage—and Steve Wilson of Slate River Systems (SRSI) is at the center of it all. Vince and Jenna Free sit down with Steve to break down how data-driven automation is making cold storage operations more efficient, cost-effective, and ready for the future. From pallet shuttles to warehouse management systems, Steve shares how SRSI is helping businesses build smarter, not just bigger.

Cool Takeaways:
❄️ Why ASRS is the hottest trend in cold storage
❄️ How data (not guesswork) drives smarter automation decisions
❄️ The #1 mistake companies make when planning automation
❄️ Why early collaboration can save $$$ on warehouse design

Don’t miss this deep dive into the future of cold storage. Chill out with the full episode at www.cooltimespodcast.com

Sponsored by Rytec High Performance Doors

https://www.rytecdoors.com/

Learn More about FREEZ Construction:

https://www.freezconstruction.com/

In this episode of the Cool Times Podcast, hosts Vince and Jenna Free are joined by Josh Lewis, President of RL Cold, to discuss the evolving cold storage industry. They explore RL Cold's unique customer-centric approach to developing cold storage facilities, the impact of COVID-19 on the industry, and the importance of sustainability and automation. Josh shares insights on the challenges of growth and execution, key trends in the industry, and valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Story Notes:

❄️ Josh Lewis and RL Cold: A New Approach to Cold Storage

❄️ Diversification in Cold Storage: Beyond PRW

❄️ Impact of COVID-19 on the Cold Storage Industry

❄️ Challenges in Cold Storage: Growth vs. Execution

❄️ Sustainability Trends in Cold Storage

❄️ Cost Management and Consumer Impact

❄️ Automation in Cold Storage: When and How

❄️ Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in Cold Storage

❄️ The Power of Reading and Motivation

❄️ Entrepreneurial Spirit and Career Decisions

Sponsored by Rytec

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

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

Sponsored by Iceberg Mechanical

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com

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

Sponsored by Iceberg Mechanical

Visit: www.cooltimespodcast.com