The Beginnings of JRS Heating and Cooling
Many entrepreneurs in West Virginia begin just like Ryan—starting small and juggling responsibilities. They discussed the power of taking small steps, not leaps. Ryan emphasized the wisdom of “going slow” and staying financially secure before diving fully into a new business venture. It’s advice he’s quick to share with other budding entrepreneurs: “Keep your day job until you know your business can stand on its own.”
The Challenge of Finding Customers—and the Power of Word-of-Mouth
In the HVAC industry, most people don’t want to make that call until it’s absolutely necessary. As Ryan put it, “Nobody ever says, ‘I can’t wait to call my HVAC guy today!'” So how does a young business like JRS Heating and Cooling build a customer base?
Ryan relies heavily on word-of-mouth referrals. For him, a satisfied customer is the best advertisement. But this also adds pressure: every job must be his best job, knowing that each client could be the link to the next opportunity. “I’m truly blessed that people call me at all,” he shared humbly. “There are so many options out there, and I’m honored to be trusted with something as personal as someone’s home.”
Growing with Integrity: Leadership and Community Impact
Leadership is one of Ryan’s passions, and he’s invested time in developing his own skills, citing leadership author John Maxwell as an influence. Like Maxwell, Ryan believes “everything rises and falls on leadership.” He envisions a future where JRS Heating and Cooling can grow into multiple locations, not only across West Virginia but perhaps even beyond. His plan is to empower trusted employees to eventually manage these locations, giving them a sense of ownership and investment.
Beyond his business goals, Ryan is committed to giving back to his community. He recently worked with a local youth camp, not to drum up business but to inspire young people to think about their futures and understand that skilled trades can be a rewarding career path. He wants JRS Heating and Cooling to be a company that people miss if it were gone—a pillar in the community, not just a service provider.
Lessons from Ryan’s Journey
Ryan Sargent’s story isn’t just about running an HVAC business; it’s about purpose, patience, and people. His advice to aspiring business owners is clear: go slow, take measured risks, and always be intentional with your growth. Leadership, for Ryan, isn’t just a title; it’s a daily commitment to treating others with respect and kindness.
From learning to get “in front of the customer when they need you” to planning for long-term impact in his community, Ryan’s journey reminds us that small businesses can make big differences, especially when they’re built with integrity.
Tune in to the full episode to hear more of Ryan’s journey, and his vision for JRS Heating and Cooling. To learn more about JRS Heating and Cooling, visit their website at JRS Heating and Cooling.
