This interview is with Christopher Mickey, Owner at Airheads HVAC.

Christopher Mickey, Owner, Airheads HVAC

Christopher, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey in the world of small business and entrepreneurship?

I’m a hands-on entrepreneur from New Port Richey, Florida. My journey started in the restaurant business when I turned a struggling pizza franchise into a top performer. Later, I transitioned to real estate, flipping over 545 homes with my wife. Along the way, I noticed the need for better HVAC services, which led me to start Airheads HVAC. I’ve always been passionate about solving problems and finding better ways to do things, and that’s what drives me.

What key experiences or decisions led you to where you are today in your entrepreneurial career?

The decision to take risks and step out of my comfort zone was key. Turning around a pizza franchise taught me the value of customer service and efficiency. Flipping homes gave me a deep understanding of home systems and how critical HVAC is for comfort and energy savings. Starting Airheads HVAC came from seeing a gap in reliable, customer-focused services. Each step built on the last, and I kept learning and growing.

Can you share a story about a significant challenge you faced in your business, and the valuable lesson you learned from overcoming it?

One big challenge was transitioning from real estate to HVAC. Real estate projects have clear start and end points, but running an HVAC company is about building long-term trust. Early on, I realized I needed to surround myself with a great team and rely on their expertise. The lesson I learned is you.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are hesitant to take the leap and start their own business?

Don’t wait for the perfect moment—it doesn’t exist. Start where you are, with what you have, and learn as you go. Taking that first step is the hardest part, but once you do, things start to fall into place. Also, focus on solving a real problem. If you’re offering value, customers will come.

Building a strong team is crucial for any business's success. How do you approach building and nurturing a high-performing team?

I look for people who share my values—hard work, honesty, and commitment to quality. Skills can be taught, but the right attitude is essential. I also make sure my team knows they’re valued. Whether it’s through clear communication, ongoing training, or simply recognizing their efforts, I try to create an environment where people feel supported and motivated to do their best.

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, how do you stay ahead of the curve and adapt to new trends and challenges?

I stay curious and open to learning. Whether it’s attending industry seminars, researching new technology, or listening to customer feedback, I make it a priority to stay informed. The HVAC industry, for example, is constantly changing with advancements in energy efficiency and smart technology. Staying ahead means being willing to adapt and evolve with the market.

What is your approach to managing risk and making difficult decisions in a rapidly changing market?

I look at the big picture and weigh the potential risks against the rewards. Doing your homework is important—research and data help you make informed decisions. But at some point, you also have to trust your gut and take action. Not every decision will work out, but you can learn from each one and adjust as needed.

What role has networking and building relationships played in your entrepreneurial journey?

Relationships have been everything in my career. From customers to contractors to community leaders, the connections I’ve made have opened doors and built trust. Whether it’s in real estate or HVAC, word-of-mouth and personal recommendations have been some of my greatest assets. Treating people well and maintaining those relationships has made a huge difference.

Looking back on your career, what is one piece of advice you wish you had received when you were first starting out?

I wish someone had told me to trust my instincts more. There were times I overthought decisions or doubted myself, but some of my best moves came from following my gut. Also, don't be afraid of failure. It's part of the process, and every mistake teaches you something valuable.

Thanks for sharing your knowledge and expertise. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I’d just say to anyone reading this—whether you’re starting a business or tackling a tough challenge—stay focused on the bigger picture. Work hard, keep learning, and never lose sight of why you started. And don’t forget to give back. Success is great, but it’s even better when you use it to help others.