The Hidden Cost of Going Gas

Jon and Anthony break down the real tradeoffs behind choosing a gas dryer. This episode goes beyond utility bills to expose unexpected installation costs, restrictive venting requirements, and the long-term service risks most buyers never hear about upfront.

It Didn’t Work the First Time – Now What?

Jon and Anthony walk through what happens when a gas dryer fails out of the gate. From misfired installs to unclear error codes, they reveal how gas-specific complications can stall fixes—and why standard troubleshooting often isn’t enough.

Worse Than What I Had Before?

Jon and Anthony examine why some gas dryer upgrades feel like a step backwards. This episode explores lower-than-expected performance, delayed dry times, and user frustration that sets in when a new machine underdelivers—especially after a high-efficiency electric unit.

Recap: Gas Dryers - The Clear Winner, or Are We Overlooking Something?

Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap up the week by cutting through the hype around gas dryers. From confusing performance differences to unexpected install headaches, this week’s clips lay out exactly when gas makes sense—and when it just creates more problems.

“It Shouldn’t Break If I Paid This Much”

Jon and Anthony expose why premium refrigerator failures feel like betrayal. This episode breaks down the mismatch between high price tags and real-world reliability—and why failure rates alone don’t tell the whole story when expectations are sky-high.

“Why Can’t They Fix It Right the First Time?”

Jon and Anthony dig into the service breakdowns that frustrate premium buyers. From part delays to inconsistent technician training, they reveal why even luxury brands struggle to deliver a seamless post-sale experience—and what retailers should prepare customers for.

“Where Are They When You Need Them?”

Jon and Anthony explore the brand silence that drives high-end buyers crazy. This episode tackles the lack of clear communication, support follow-through, and brand accountability that turns minor issues into loyalty-killing nightmares.

"The Machine Thinks It’s Smarter Than Me"

Jon and Anthony take on the growing frustration with so-called smart appliances. This episode explores what happens when laundry algorithms overcorrect, ignore user intent, and create more problems than they solve—especially when “personalized” cycles feel anything but personal.

“Why Is This Taking Longer?”

Jon and Anthony explain why intelligent wash cycles often feel anything but efficient. From auto soil sensors to temperature ramp-up delays, they unpack the disconnect between promised speed and real-world time—plus what manufacturers aren’t explaining well enough.

Smart Features, Dumb Experience

Jon and Anthony expose how some brands confuse added tech with added value. This episode breaks down the difference between genuinely useful features and those that just get in the way—especially when users are left guessing how to get a reliable wash every time.

Recap: Smart Wash Cycles - A Smarter Way to Do Laundry or Just More Complexity?

Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap up the week with a clear-eyed look at whether personalized wash cycles actually deliver on their promise. From frustrating menus to cycles that overthink the basics, this week’s clips call out what works, what doesn’t, and why some smart features might need a reset.

My Convection Oven Doesn’t Cook Evenly

Jon and Anthony break down why not all convection is created equal. From fake fan systems to missing third elements, they explain why “true convection” matters, how airflow design makes or breaks performance, and why user habits like pan placement and rack position still matter more than most people think.

Convection Oven Cooking Times Are Inconsistent

Jon and Anthony unpack why standard advice like “reduce time and temp” doesn’t always apply. From fan speed differences to system design and recipe mismatch, they explain why your oven might not match the assumptions built into most convection instructions—and what to do about it.

Convection Feature Seems Like a Gimmick

Jon and Anthony reveal, the issue isn’t the technology—it’s the lack of proper execution and explanation. This episode dives into what real convection is supposed to do, why some systems fall flat, and how using it correctly can unlock dramatically better results, from baking to roasting to multi-rack cooking.

Recap: Convection Ovens - Why Do Some Cook Better Than Others

Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap up the week by unpacking one of the most over-promised—and under-explained—features in modern ovens: convection. From uneven cookies to raw chicken to “why does this even exist?” skepticism, this week’s episodes cut through the fan noise to reveal what convection is really supposed to do—and why most people never see the benefits.

My Oven’s Air Fryer Doesn’t Crisp Like My Countertop One

Jon and Anthony break down why full-size oven cavities can’t match the high-speed convection of compact fryers, and what you actually need to do—like preheating, spacing, and using airflow baskets—to get the results you're hoping for.

Air Fry Mode Takes Forever and Still Doesn’t Cook Evenly

Jon and Anthony explain how oven air fry modes get undermined by airflow physics, oversized trays, and poor accessories. If your customers are getting half-crispy, half-soggy results and wondering what they paid for, this is the episode they need to hear.

Oven Air Fry Feature Is Just a Gimmick

Jon and Anthony dive into the marketing gap between how oven air fry features are promoted and how they actually perform. From misnamed convection modes to missing accessories, this episode strips away the hype and shows what it really takes to get air fry results in a full-size oven.

Oven Air Fry – A Game-Changer or Just Another Overhyped Feature

Anthony and Jon wrap up the week by cracking open the reality behind built-in oven air fry features. From soggy fries and uneven cooks to mislabeled buttons and missing accessories, this week’s episodes break down what oven air fry really is—and what it absolutely is not.

I Paid Extra for a Premium Refrigerator — It Broke in 6 Years

Jon and Anthony unpack the myth that “premium” always means longer-lasting. From voltage fluctuations to added complexity, they explore how high-end materials don’t always guarantee high-end lifespan—and why the real value might lie in the day-to-day experience, not just the timeline.

My High-End Dishwasher Needed Repairs Within 2 Years

Jon and Anthony walk through why top-tier machines still share common failure points with entry-level models, and how increasing complexity—from sensors to smart tech—is driving more service calls across the board.

Premium Washer Repair Cost Me More Than Expected

Jon and Anthony dive into why servicing a premium appliance can cost more than expected, how limited service networks and proprietary parts drive up downtime, and what buyers should research before investing in the top tier.

Premium Appliances – Do They Really Last Longer?

Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap up the week by confronting a brutal reality in the world of premium appliances: expensive doesn’t always mean durable. From early failures in refrigerators and dishwashers to eye-watering repair costs on high-end washers, this week’s episodes reveal why premium often means better performance—not longer life.

Why Your Dishwasher Leaves Grit on Dishes

Jon and Anthony explain why pre-rinsing confuses your machine’s turbidity sensor, deactivates enzyme-based detergents, and leads to gritty plates and wasted water. If your dishwasher isn’t performing, it might be doing exactly what you told it to.

Cloudy Glassware? The Pre-Rinse Mistake You’re Making

Jon and Anthony break down how spotless pre-rinsing leads to detergent attacking the glass itself—causing permanent etching, streaking, and mineral haze. If your crystal is coming out cloudy, it’s not the detergent. It’s the chemistry you triggered by trying to help.

The Real Reason Your Dishwasher Smells Bad

Jon and Anthony reveal how spotless pre-loading actually leads to odor, mold, and bacterial buildup. Learn why skipping the rinse, running full loads sooner, and letting detergent do its job are the keys to keeping your dishwasher clean and fresh.

Pre-Rinsing Dishes: Necessary or Wasteful?

Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap up the week with a brutal takedown of one of the most common “good habits” in American kitchens: pre-rinsing. From cloudy glasses to gritty plates to that mysterious dishwasher funk, this week’s episodes uncover how rinsing before you load isn’t just unnecessary—it’s actively making everything worse.

Why Clear Ice Disappoints More Often Than It Should

Jon and Anthony break down the science behind ice clarity, why most machines are set up to fail, and how the shape, freeze method, and water quality all conspire to ruin your drink experience. If your clients are blaming the machine, they might just be blaming the wrong thing.

You Don’t Have an Ice Problem. You Have a Storage Problem.

Jon and Anthony reveal why that “80 pounds per day” rating rarely tells the whole story, how ambient heat quietly erodes ice before it's even used, and why understanding storage capacity and meltback is critical to delivering a system that actually performs under real-world conditions.

Why a Gravity Drain is a $4,000 Mistake Waiting to Happen

Jon and Anthony explain why trusting gravity in a built-in kitchen is a costly gamble. Learn how shifting floors, settling cabinets, and overlooked install details can wipe out a machine—and why you should never spec an undercounter unit without a drain pump, period.

How to Spec the Right Ice Machine

Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap up a chilling week in undercounter ice education with real talk about the biggest mistakes customers (and sometimes pros) make when choosing ice machines.

Wine Storage Isn’t Just About Setting the Right Temp

Wine coolers aren’t failing because they can’t get cold — they’re failing because they can’t stay stable. In this episode, Jon breaks down how temperature swings and poor humidity control silently destroy wine over time, and why most units aren’t built to handle either.

The Quiet Details That Protect Wine—and Get Overlooked

Most wine units don’t fail loudly — they fail quietly. From invisible UV damage to subtle vibrations that ruin flavor, Jon explains how light and movement affect wine preservation, and why the best protection starts with what you can’t see or hear.

Undercounter Wine Week

Anthony and Jon wrap the week on undercounter wine — breaking down why most units fall short, even when the specs look strong. From silent temperature swings to invisible UV damage, this episode uncorks the truth about what really protects wine, and what gets completely overlooked.

Why Beverage Centers Keep Getting Misused in Kitchen Design

They’re everywhere — but almost always used wrong. This episode explains why beverage centers fail when treated like refrigerators, and how to steer customers toward the right solution based on use case, not just aesthetics.

The Undercounter Fridge Mistake That Kills Cooling Performance

It’s not the fridge — it’s the install. This episode uncovers why even premium undercounter refrigerators fall short, and how airflow, clearances, and design assumptions silently destroy performance.

Fridge Drawers vs. Doors: Why Most People Regret Their First Choice

On paper, it makes sense. In practice, it causes problems. This episode explores why drawer refrigeration often delivers better access, organization, and satisfaction — especially in high-use prep zones.

Undercounter Clarity Week: Beverage, Fridge, Drawers

Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap the week on undercounter refrigeration — tackling the biggest mistakes in kitchen layout, airflow, and storage strategy. From misused beverage centers to drawer regret, this wrap-up shows why “what looks right” is often the wrong call.

Humidity Control

Most crisper drawers don’t preserve anything — they just look like they should. In this episode, we unpack the myth of the humidity slider and show what actually keeps produce fresh, crisp, and structured beyond a few days.

Stability Over Cold

Cold isn’t the goal — control is. In this episode, we break down why temperature swings silently destroy food quality, and how true preservation systems protect structure, flavor, and longevity.

Filtering Isn't Just About Smell

Air that smells clean doesn’t mean food is safe. In the final episode, we expose the real role of filtration in food preservation — and why most systems are just circulating invisible decay triggers.

Do Food Preservation Claims Hold Up?

Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap the week on food preservation — tackling why so many fridge claims fall flat and what most sales pros still miss when talking freshness. From fake humidity sliders to misunderstood filtration, this episode breaks down what actually preserves food and how to explain it without losing the customer.

The Best Hood Can Fail

A hood with bad ducting is like a sports car stuck in traffic—it won’t go anywhere. Even the most powerful ventilation system can fail if it’s not installed correctly. This week we’re covering the biggest mistakes that kill performance: restrictive ducting, incorrect mounting height, and ignored makeup air requirements. Learn how to spot and prevent these issues before they turn into customer complaints.

Top 4 Most Versatile Range Hoods for Installation

This week on Top X, we mention the most installer-friendly range hoods across premium, mid-tier, and budget categories. Whether you’re dealing with complex remodels, tricky ducting, or fast-moving projects, this episode highlights the hoods that deliver clean installs, flexible configurations, and zero headaches.

Wrapping Up Ventilation Install Week

This week on Steel Cod Live!, Tom returns to close the loop with Anthony and Jon on Ventilation Install Week — breaking down the biggest lessons, surprises, and questions from the field. They revisit what makes an install truly smooth, which hood designs consistently deliver, and what pros wish they knew before day one.

Beyond the Blower

A powerful blower isn’t enough. If your customer thinks CFM is the only thing that matters in a range hood, they’re missing the bigger picture. From filter design to hood size and airflow efficiency, the right setup makes all the difference. This week we break down what actually determines hood performance — and why a well-matched system always beats just chasing the highest CFM number.

Top 5 Features to Look For in Range Hoods

Not all range hoods are created equal — and in this episode of Top X, we break down the five most important features to look for when choosing ventilation. From blower efficiency and filter technology to smart automation and ultra-quiet performance, we spotlight the technologies that actually matter in real kitchens.

The Ventilation Deep Dive: What Matters, What Doesn’t, and How to Sell It

This week on Steel Cod Live!, Anthony, Tom, and Jon close the loop on one of the most overlooked categories in appliance sales — range hoods. They dive into what actually makes a ventilation system effective, how different brands prioritize performance versus aesthetics, and why most reps are missing the mark when pitching air movement.

Steam Cycles

Steam isn’t just another setting — it’s a game-changer for cleaning. This week we uncover why steam cycles in laundry, dishwashers, and ovens deliver better stain removal, sanitization, and easier maintenance.

Top 5 Steam Features That Actually Make a Difference

From wrinkle reduction to no-pre-rinse dishwashing, this week’s Top X dives into the steam features that aren’t just marketing fluff — they’re real performance drivers. We’ll break down how steam improves cleaning, protects fabrics, and simplifies oven maintenance, while spotlighting the brands that are putting it to work in smart, practical ways.

Steam Week Wrap-Up: What We Learned, What to Sell

This week on Steel Cod Live!, Anthony and Jon close the loop on steam — breaking down everything we’ve covered across laundry, dishwashers, and ovens. From what steam actually does to where it truly makes a difference, we’re turning product knowledge into real-world selling strategy.

BTU Ratings

This week we challenge one of the most overused selling points in the appliance industry: BTU output. We’ll unpack what those numbers actually mean (and don’t), explore how burner design affects cooking results, and give you the insights you need to shift the conversation from spec-chasing to real performance.

Top 5 Burner Performance Drivers

From flame shape to fuel efficiency, this week’s Top X breaks down the five most important factors drive burner performance. We're spotlighting the brands that deliver power with purpose — not just raw BTUs, but smart engineering that makes heat usable. If you're still selling off spec sheets, you're missing the point. This is where real cooking performance begins. [Updated: May 7, 2025 at 2:41pm ET]

Beyond the Burners: What BTU Ratings Don’t Tell You

This week on Steel Cod Live!, Anthony, Tom, and Jon wrap up the burner performance conversation with a real-world look at BTUs, flame design, and what actually matters at the point of sale. From spec myths to simmer stability, this episode brings the whole week into focus — and gives you the talking points to turn raw numbers into smarter sales.

More Watts, More Power

Higher wattage doesn’t always mean better performance — so why do so many customers (and salespeople) assume it does? This week we break down why not all induction cooktops are the same and what truly defines performance.

Top 3 Induction Performance Drivers

There’s a lot of noise in the cooktop and range conversation — wattage claims, boost modes, flashy features. But when it comes to real performance, only a few things actually move the needle. In this episode, we reveal the top 3 core drivers of induction performance.

More Watts, More Sales? Rethinking Induction Power on the Floor

This week on Steel Cod Live!, Anthony, Tom, and Jon close the loop on induction wattage—and put everything we’ve covered into real-world selling context. From how to explain boost modes without getting buried in specs to helping customers understand sustained power versus short-term heat, we’re showing you how to take the mystery out of induction and turn it into clearer, more confident conversations on the floor.

Smart Ovens

Smart ovens promise convenience, precision, and better cooking results, but not every customer is convinced. Some wonder if smart features actually make cooking easier or just add complexity to something that used to be simple. This week we separate gimmicks from game-changers and uncover what truly makes a smart oven worth it.

Top 5 Smart Oven Features That Make Cooking Easier

Not all smart ovens are created equal — and not every “smart” feature makes life easier. In this episode, we cut through the noise and spotlight five smart features that deliver real, measurable value. From temperature sensors that adjust heat in real time to guided cooking systems that set everything for you, this Top X gives you the tools to start better conversations on the floor.

Making Smart Ovens Make Sense

This week on Steel Cod Live!, Anthony, Tom, and Jon close the loop on smart ovens—and are putting everything we’ve covered into real-world selling context. From how to explain precision temp control to decoding the difference between guided programs and gimmicks, we’ll show you how to take what you’ve learned and turn it into stronger conversations on the floor.

Automatic Detergent Dispensers

Most shoppers overlook detergent dispensers — but how detergent is released can make or break cleaning performance. This week we break down why automatic dispensers aren’t just a convenience, they’re essential. Learn how this one feature impacts results, protects clothes, and prevents long-term issues with both fabric and machines.

Top 5 Ways to Sell the Value of Auto Detergent Dispensers

This episode breaks automatic detergent dispensers down into five measurable performance categories — showing where they differ, and which brands stand out in each area. From capacity to rinse results, these comparisons are designed to help salespeople start better product conversations, explain features with confidence, and match solutions to real customer priorities.

Dosing Smarter: Wrapping Up Automatic Detergent Dispensers

This week on Steel Cod Live!, Anthony, Tom, and Jon close the loop on automatic detergent dispensers — and are putting everything we’ve covered into real-world selling context. From common objections to in-store talking points, we’ll show you how to take what you’ve learned and turn it into stronger conversations on the floor.

Speed Ovens vs. Steam Ovens

You’ve heard the debate — speed ovens vs. steam ovens. But here’s the thing: They’re not even designed to do the same job. So why are customers constantly comparing them? This episode reveals why stacking them head-to-head is a huge mistake—and how to guide the conversation the right way.

Speed Ovens & Steam Ovens: Top 3 Places to Start the Conversation

In this episode of Top X, we break down the top three places to start the conversation when it comes to speed ovens and steam ovens. Whether it’s fast, efficient cooking or precision steam performance, these options give you a solid foundation to help customers find the right solution for their needs.

The Speed Oven & Steam Oven Breakdown – What Salespeople Are Saying

This week on Steel Cod Live!, Jon, Anthony, and Tom are recapping the week’s hottest topics: speed ovens and steam ovens. We’re diving into how salespeople are approaching these conversations, what’s working, what’s not, and the biggest takeaways from the week.

Counter Depth Refrigerators

This week we’re tackling one of the biggest misconceptions customers have about counter depth refrigerators: capacity. While everyone’s focused on storage space, there’s a lot more to consider. We’re breaking down what truly matters when guiding capacity-focused customers and how to steer the conversation toward what really makes a difference.

Top 4 Features in Counter Depth Refrigerators

In this episode of Top X, we’re breaking down the top 4 features customers should be looking for when shopping for counter depth refrigerators. From food preservation to smart connectivity, we’re giving you the essential talking points to start the conversation and guide your customers to the right choice.

The Week That Was: Unpacking Counter Depth Refrigerators

Anthony, Tom, and Jon break down everything we covered about counter depth refrigerators: from the features that truly matter to why capacity isn’t the only thing customers should care about. Plus, during The SoundOff, we highlight your best insights from this week’s survey and dive into the Pro Perspective to showcase how you’re handling these conversations on the sales floor.

Washing Machine Cycles

Most customers think all washing machines work the same, but cycle selection directly impacts cleaning performance, fabric care, and efficiency. In this episode, we break down how cycles actually work, why most people use them wrong, and how understanding them can transform customer perception—and sales.

Top 6 Washing Machine Cycles

With so many models and features on the market, it’s not always clear which machines offer which cycles—or where to start the conversation. In this episode of Top X, we follow up on this week’s The Inside Edge by breaking down six key wash cycles, highlighting examples of front load, top load, and compact washers that feature specialized settings. Instead of broad comparisons, we focus on standout innovations in each category, giving sales professionals a clear reference point to confidently guide customers.

Washing Machine Cycles

Jon, Anthony and Tom wrap up the week by answering all your burning questions about washing machine cycles!

Dishwasher Cycles Uncovered

Customers blindly pick cycles without understanding how modern dishwashers optimize cleaning based on load type. The problem? Salespeople aren’t explaining it either. In this episode, we’ll help you decode dishwasher cycles, educate customers, and prevent post-purchase complaints.

Top 6 Dishwasher Cycles

Understanding dishwasher cycles can be overwhelming — for both customers and sales professionals. In this episode of Top X, we follow up this week's The Inside Edge by presenting the top six dishwasher cycles with highlighted examples of premium, mid-tier, and budget dishwashers that feature specialized cycles.

Dishwasher Cycles Uncovered

Customers blindly pick cycles without understanding how modern dishwashers optimize cleaning based on load type. The problem? Salespeople aren’t explaining it either. In this episode, we’ll help you decode dishwasher cycles, educate customers, and prevent post-purchase complaints.

Microwave Myths Exposed

Microwaves are always bought on price — because no one has ever told customers why they shouldn’t. Wattage, sensor cooking, and inverter technology completely change performance. We’re breaking down how these features impact daily use and why selling beyond price is easier than you think.

Microwave Myths Exposed

This week Jon, Anthony and Tom talked more about inverter technology -- what it is and what it isn't -- and their earliest microwave memories. Grab your popcorn for this one!

Heat Pump Dryers

Most customers don’t know what a heat pump dryer is — let alone why it could be a game-changer for efficiency, fabric care, and energy savings. If you’re not selling them, you’re missing out. We’ll show you exactly how they work and how to make customers see their value — fast.

Heat Pump Dryers

Is the water captured in the closed-loop system of a heat pump dryer actually potable? Find out as Jon, Anthony and Tom discuss that and more in this week's review of heat pump dryers! (Spoiler: it's not potable! Don't drink it!)

Oven Settings Decoded

Bake, broil, convection—oven settings aren’t all the same, and neither are the results. Yet most salespeople skip over them, assuming “bake is bake.” It’s not. Learn how oven modes truly impact cooking and why educating customers on heat distribution can drive bigger sales.

Oven Settings Decoded

Fans of prop comedy will love our helpful chart for remembering the characteristics of each oven cycle, this week on an all-new Steel Cod Live!

The Sound of Silence

Customers chase the lowest decibel number, but do they really know what it means? In this episode, we expose the myths behind sound ratings, what actually impacts noise levels, and how to shift the focus to what truly matters.

The Sound of Silence

What are the tradeoffs between noise and speed when it comes to dishwashers? Is noise-cancelling technology the next step in making your kitchen even quieter? Jon, Anthony and Tom discuss that and more on this week's Steel Cod Live!

Basic and Advanced Features

Jon Beresford, VP of Sales for Steel Cod

Jon Beresford, VP of Sales for Steel Cod, joins Steel Cod Spotlight to share his perspective on building high-performing sales teams in a rapidly evolving industry. In this episode, he speaks directly to salespeople and appliance pros about earning trust, fixing communication gaps, and handling the unexpected with professionalism.

P.S. Did his father-in-law inadvertently turn him from son-in-law to appliance competitor...tune in to find out!

Garth Blackburn, Builder Sales for The Jarrell Company

Garth Blackburn of The Jarrell Company joins Steel Cod Spotlight to offer a rare dual-perspective on the appliance industry—builder sales pro and professionally trained chef.

In this episode, Anthony puts Garth in the hot seat with questions every appliance pro should hear — from building influence on the sales floor to earning trust after the sale, knowing when to splurge, and what separates a good rep from a great one.

P.S. Ever wonder what happens when a chef starts selling the tools they once cooked with? You’re about to find out.

Stephan Byns, Director of Sales for Midland Appliance

In this episode of Steel Cod Spotlight, Anthony Fors sits down with Stephan Byns, Director of Sales at Midland Appliance, for a wide-ranging conversation on what drives real success in the appliance industry. From showroom strategy to post-sale relationships, Stephan shares hard-earned insights for salespeople, field pros, manufacturer reps, consumers, and design influencers alike. Whether you’re guiding a customer, supporting a brand, or planning a kitchen, this episode delivers practical takeaways on building trust, avoiding costly mistakes, and adding real value at every stage of the process.

Plus, Stephan drops a hot take: laundry stylers might be one of the most underrated appliances out there.

Mike Rounds, General Manager for Appliance Gallery by Faucets N Fixtures

In this episode of Steel Cod Spotlight, Anthony Fors sits down with Mike Rounds—co-founder of Native Coast Appliance and now General Manager at Appliance Gallery by Faucets N Fixtures—for a wide-ranging conversation rooted in real experience from the showroom floor to the jobsite.

Mike shares practical advice for designers, salespeople, brand reps, and appliance pros alike—covering common myths, emerging trends, and what separates good from great at every level. Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to sharpen your edge, this episode delivers clear takeaways on building trust, avoiding costly pitfalls, and creating value that lasts.

Plus, find out why Mike and Anthony agree a steam oven is the one thing their kitchens are missing.