In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, Pat and special guest cohost Megan McIntosh sit down with Kelsey Whittenberg — better known as The Spicy Sparky — for an unfiltered, powerful conversation about life, the trades, and building a career from the ground up.

Kelsey became an electrician at 30 with zero experience, two kids, and no plan — just a willingness to learn and work hard. Now five years in, she owns her own electrical contracting business, volunteers at trade schools, and is using her voice to inspire women and young people to pursue careers in the skilled trades.

We dig into:

• How a working interview changed her life

• The importance of mentorship over gatekeeping in the trades

• Balancing business ownership with single motherhood

• Teaching apprentices through support — not bullying

• Why women belong in skilled trades (and don’t have to give up being feminine)

• How tradespeople can actually support the next generation

If you're looking for inspiration, real talk, and a deeper look into how the trades can change lives, this episode is a must-listen.

Sponsored by TruTech Tools – your source for top-quality HVAC/R instruments, hand tools, and support. Visit https://trutechtools.com to gear up with tools that get the job done right.

Follow Kelsey here!

https://www.tiktok.com/@thespicysparkykelsey

https://www.instagram.com/thespicysparkykelsey/

https://www.thespicysparkyelectrical.com

Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

https://commercialkitchenchronicles.com

🎙️ Guest on Commercial Kitchen Chronicles 🔧
The Commercial Kitchen Chronicles Podcast highlights the people behind the tools — from foodservice equipment techs to pros across all skilled trades. Whether you repair walk-ins, fryers, HVAC, or electrical systems, your story helps inspire, educate, and grow the trades.
🔥 Real conversations. Skilled trades. Industry impact.

Reach out at

Pat@commercialkitchenchronicles.com