Highlighting the Food Service Repair Industry one episode at a time!
Commercial Kitchen Chronicles is the original Foodservice Repair industry podcast.
Meet The Hosts
Pat Finley
Pat Finley - Host of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles
Pat Finley is an 18-year veteran in the foodservice repair industry, known for his hands-on expertise and relentless drive for excellence. His journey began in high school, where he trained as an electrician, developing skills that he honed further after graduation while working in both union and nonunion sectors.
Driven by a desire for growth, Pat transitioned into the commercial restaurant repair industry, initially focusing on hot-side equipment. After three years of mastering this specialization, he sought to expand his knowledge and took on the challenge of repairing HVAC and refrigeration equipment, becoming a well-rounded professional in the field.
As the host of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat combines his technical expertise with his passion for the industry. He is dedicated to shining a spotlight on the foodservice repair industry while inspiring and mentoring the next generation of technicians. His unique perspective and commitment make him not only a trusted voice in the community but also a staunch advocate for industry growth and recognition.Pat Finley - Host of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles
Pat Finley is an 18-year veteran in the foodservice repair industry with a journey deeply rooted in hands-on experience and a drive for excellence. His career began during high school as an electrician, where he cultivated skills that he continued to refine in both union and nonunion environments after graduation.
Seeking a new challenge, Pat entered the commercial restaurant repair industry, specializing in hot-side equipment. After three years in this role, his curiosity and ambition led him to broaden his expertise into HVAC and refrigeration equipment. This transition marked the beginning of his well-rounded approach to foodservice repair, making him a trusted technician and industry advocate.
As the host of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat brings his passion, experience, and commitment to shining a spotlight on the industry he loves while inspiring the next generation of technicians.
Jason Latimer
Jason Latimer - Co-Host of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles
With over a decade of hands-on experience in maintaining everything from quick-service restaurants to fine dining establishments, Jason Latimer brings unmatched expertise to the Commercial Kitchen Chronicles podcast. A specialist in restaurant maintenance, food equipment service, and Planned Maintenance Management, Jason’s skill set extends across commercial HVAC & Refrigeration, building and property maintenance, restaurant equipment operations, training, and leadership.
Jason’s career is marked by a commitment to safety, equipment reliability, and customer satisfaction. His efforts to enhance team development and drive excellence have earned him multiple service excellence awards, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field.
Before stepping into the technical service realm, Jason accumulated over 18 years of diverse experience in restaurant and hotel hospitality, retail, and customer service. Now, he serves as a regional facilities manager for a global hospitality group, overseeing facilities for over a hundred locations. This combination of restaurant hospitality and technical service expertise has shaped his unique perspective, making him a trusted voice in the industry and a vital part of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles.
Rich Ortega
It was a clear black night, a clear white moon…
Wait, wrong story…Here ya go:
Rich Ortega is a dedicated professional in the foodservice repair industry with a career built on hard work, expertise, and a passion for helping others. As a 3rd-generation technician, his journey began in childhood, inspired by the uniqueness of his father's trade. Rich fondly recalls the pride of sharing his dad’s profession at school, knowing it stood out from the norm.
In 2024, after years of experience and a growing dissatisfaction with the industry’s status quo, Rich founded On The Rock Services Inc. Fueled by a desire to provide superior service, his company is quickly earning a reputation for excellence and reliability in commercial kitchen equipment repair. His vision and dedication have made him a trusted expert among both customers and contemporaries.
Rich’s social media presence reflects his mission to raise the standard for service in the industry. Known for his experience, expertise, and blunt approach, he continues to be a respected voice and leader in the foodservice repair community.
Podcast
I spend countless hours driving between service calls, and during that time, podcasts are my go-to source for learning and growth. From HVAC to entrepreneurship, I’ve listened to podcasts of all kinds. But no matter how hard I looked, I could never find one that focused on exactly what I do—the commercial kitchen repair industry.
Sure, there were podcasts that touched on refrigeration or touched on small parts of the industry, but there was nothing that truly captured the unique challenges, successes, and stories of those of us who repair foodservice equipment. And that’s how the idea for Commercial Kitchen Chronicles was born.
To be honest, the idea was in my head for over a year before I finally decided to jump in and make it a reality. I wanted to create a space for technicians, industry professionals, and anyone curious about this field to learn, share, and connect. Whether you’re looking for stories from the field, insights into the foodservice repair industry, or tips to grow your career, this podcast is made for you.
You can find Commercial Kitchen Chronicles on major podcast platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts, as well as on YouTube, where you can catch video episodes and other engaging content.
What We Believe
We believe that everyone has the potential to achieve greatness. At Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we are committed to the idea that success starts with personal development. No matter where you are in your journey, we know that with the right tools, mindset, and support, you can achieve your goals and create the life you’ve always envisioned.
Our podcasts are more than just conversations; they’re pathways to growth. We aim to inspire, educate, and empower individuals by providing practical insights and real-world advice from industry experts and thought leaders. Whether it’s building technical skills, developing leadership qualities, or shifting your perspective, our content is designed to help you cultivate the habits and mindset needed for success.
Greatness is within your reach, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Together, let’s break barriers, challenge limits, and transform potential into achievement.
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Appearances and Blogs
Thanks for joining us
I will be trying my best for weekly episodes.