Show Information

Episode Number: 106

Date: September 15, 2025

Duration: 26:50

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Billy Gregus

Company: Integrity Refrigeration & HVAC

Guest Website: https://www.integrityrefrigerationandac.com/

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin sits down with Billy Gregus, owner of Integrity in Winter Haven, Florida. Billy shares his inspiring journey from helping a friend with HVAC installs to becoming a licensed refrigeration expert and business owner. He opens up about building a company culture that prioritizes family time, mental well-being, and customer service over chasing revenue at all costs.

Billy explains why he avoids the 24/7 grind, how specializing in refrigeration sets his business apart, and why dominating your local market is often more powerful than expanding too quickly. He also reflects on the lessons he’s learned about leadership, work-life balance, and being present—plus, he recommends a book that’s been a game-changer for his personal and professional growth.

Takeaways

• How refrigeration work differs from HVAC and why it can be more profitable
• The importance of protecting your team’s time and avoiding burnout
• Why focusing on your local community can build a stronger, more loyal customer base
• Leadership lessons from the trenches: leading by example and rotating on-call shifts
• Why “being present” is one of the most valuable skills for a business owner
• Book recommendation: Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction

01:40 – Billy’s Start in HVAC and Refrigeration

04:58 – Specializing in Refrigeration and the Profit Potential

06:25 – Protecting Your Team from Burnout

10:28 – Competing in Today’s Gig Economy

11:14 – Focusing on Local Market Dominance

12:27 – Founding Integrity and Taking the Leap

14:47 – Building a Strong Company Culture

16:20 – Redefining Success Beyond Revenue

18:32 – Advice to the 2015 Version of Billy

20:25 – Book Recommendation: Buy Back Your Time

23:26 – Final Leadership and Life Lessons

Keywords

#FreedomBlueprintPodcast #JustinDeese #BillyGregus #HVAC #Refrigeration #Leadership #BusinessCulture #WorkLifeBalance #BuyBackYourTime #DanMartell #LocalBusiness #EntrepreneurJourney #TeamBuilding #ContractorLife #HVACBusiness #TradesBusiness