Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Changing The Industry Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 294 - Balancing Technician Pay and High Cost of Living in California Auto Repair With Kobi Meyer | 10 Nov 2026 | 01:01:57 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the conversation focused on Kobi Meyer's experience taking over his family's shop, Dana Meyer Auto Care, a San Francisco Bay Area staple for over 50 years. The discussion explored challenges unique to family-owned businesses, including the struggle to maintain a legacy while adapting to modern systems and higher costs of living. Several points came up, including the difficulty of paying competitive wages in an expensive market, the importance of a clear long-term vision for the business, and how coaching and software upgrades have helped strengthen shop operations. 00:00 Struggling with finding passionate hires 06:42 Streamlining operations and systems adjustments 15:13 Buying in a gentrifying area 18:38 Perception of others' earnings 27:31 Living in a paradoxical paradise 33:19 Midwest versus Coasts in Real Estate 38:15 Stopping for Fried Chicken Lunch 41:30 Reckless driving in the Midwest 49:10 Discussing future expansion plans 53:47 Planning for the Future 58:30 Planning for the future 01:01:32 Finding guidance is tricky | |||
| Episode 293 - Are Industry Events Worth It? Debating Costs, Culture, and Team Growth With Limitless Leadership | 02 Nov 2026 | 01:05:31 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David welcome Josh Parnell, founder and CEO of Limitless Leadership, and leadership coach Bret Beitler. The conversation focuses on leadership development in the automotive industry, with Josh highlighting the importance of empowering team members and building a culture of coachability and accountability. The group explores the value and return on investment of team engagement at industry events, discussing both the benefits and the practical challenges of shutting down a shop for staff training. 00:00 Concerns about closing the shop 06:17 Employee engagement and productivity 15:31 Previewing industry trends and vendors 21:25 Encouraging team feedback and ideas 26:20 Coaching through questions and discovery 31:59 Embracing a coachable mindset 35:02 Critiquing Social Media Consumption 38:50 Conceptualizing Hypotheticals on Instagram 46:46 Empowering leadership and team development 48:58 Discussion on Milwaukee Pipeline Event 59:06 Building a Future in the U.S. 01:02:25 Awkward store encounter 01:05:16 Wrapping up the discussion | |||
| Episode 292 - Unlocking Employee Potential and Navigating Turnover With Brian Zemba | 26 Oct 2026 | 01:02:56 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman join Brian Zemba, founder of CHG Leadership Consulting. Brian Zemba highlights the lack of leadership training among shop owners and the resulting impact on workplace culture and employee satisfaction. David Roman offers a counterpoint, questioning whether employees truly know what they want and emphasizing the challenges of motivating and retaining talent. Together, the trio explores the concept of "positive turnover"—helping employees find roles that fit their strengths, even if it means moving on—which can ultimately strengthen a shop's culture and success. 00:00 Auto repair pricing and convenience 09:40 Importance of Leadership Training 13:25 Mechanics as consumer advocates 17:56 Employee dependency and retention 27:51 Using emotional intelligence 32:25 Discussing effective communication and culture 34:22 Understanding Positive Turnover 42:48 Teaching kids entrepreneurship skills 45:06 Coaching and wisdom in leadership 50:34 Generational differences and workforce quality 59:51 Being curious in business relationships 01:01:18 Seeking understanding and ending conflict | |||
| Episode 291 - Pricing for Profit and Purpose in the Modern Auto Shop with Josh & Pixi Pickthall | 19 Oct 2026 | 01:13:51 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, David and Lucas welcome Pixi Pickthall and Josh from Mesa, Arizona. Pixi and Josh share their unique approach to shop ownership, blending Josh’s decades of industry experience with Pixi’s social work background to create a highly personalized customer experience. The conversation dives deep into the challenges of setting proper labor rates, the importance of understanding financial metrics, and the need to balance quality service with fair profitability. 00:00 Managing warehouse logistics 09:25 Name change and market saturation 12:50 Observations from working at dealership 17:16 Challenges in hiring skilled technicians 22:29 Implementing DVX for consistency 29:16 Improving client experience 36:25 Handling customer complaints 39:22 Court warranty responsibility discussion 45:55 Talking auto shop math basics 49:50 Struggling with car ownership choices 59:17 Financial stability and customer selection 01:02:01 Seeking expert financial advice 01:09:12 Auto Repair Shop Basics series 01:10:48 Facing challenges and setbacks | |||
| Episode 290 - ADAS Calibrations, Shop Liability, and the Role of Industry Associations With Tom Elder & Joe Ocello | 12 Oct 2026 | 01:11:11 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David sit down with Joe Ocello and Tom Elder from AASP New Jersey to discuss the state of the mechanical and collision repair industries. Tom shares his perspective on the growing need for specialized education and proper documentation as vehicles become more technologically advanced. Joe emphasizes the importance of ongoing technical training and communication to keep independent shops competitive and safe. 00:00 Teaching and building a skilled team 08:22 Ignoring safety instructions 14:35 Discussing mechanical challenges 19:55 Dealership service concerns 26:33 Replacing a deformed metal line 28:52 Carrying on the industry's legacy 34:24 Importance of business education 42:42 Dealing with repair mishaps 46:03 Discussing lawsuit strategy and repairs 49:57 Used car ADAS diagnostic work 58:46 Maryland ADAS certification debate 01:00:51 Discussing automotive repair regulations 01:08:25 Engaging shops beyond North Carolina 01:10:31 Staying focused on future goals | |||
| Episode 289 - Rich Fasulo aka Check Engine Chuck Talks Shop Failure to Mobile & Social Media Success | 05 Oct 2026 | 00:54:48 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the conversation focused on Rich Fasulo's career journey, also known as Check Engine Chuck, as he shared his path from mobile diagnostics to shop ownership and back. One concept discussed was the importance of charging appropriately for diagnostic and repair work, with a strong emphasis on valuing your time and not giving away discounts out of pocket. A key theme that emerged was the struggle to balance caring for customers with running a profitable, sustainable business—highlighting how industry integrity depends on both technical skill and smart business decisions. 00:00 Choosing between shop and mobile business 06:56 Failing van inspection in New York 08:19 Fixing my car with a friend 11:42 Fixing a wheel balance issue 14:25 Learning from Scannerdanner videos 19:54 Writing detailed explanations for claims 23:37 Ensuring quality and reputation 25:38 Frustration with lack of effort 27:23 Frustration with tech industry's focus 30:26 Reflecting on past business failures 35:51 Explaining billing to customers 38:59 Realizing a Habitual Pattern 42:03 Learning from industry peers 44:34 Sharing videos for personal reasons 48:38 Diagnosing and strategizing module repairs 51:47 Troubleshooting a no-crank issue 53:37 Bringing in more mechanical vendors | |||
| Episode 288 - Transitioning from Finance to the Garage with Lance Lupi of Lee Myles Auto Care | 28 Sep 2026 | 01:00:35 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the conversation focused on transitions into shop ownership, the challenges of maintaining industry standards, and planning for long-term success. The discussion explored how entering the automotive industry from a corporate background can offer a unique advantage, especially in management and process implementation. A key theme was the importance of building a strong shop culture rooted in quality and integrity, even when customer awareness often hinges more on convenience than craftsmanship. Lastly, several points highlighted the need to prepare exit strategies and succession plans early, ensuring shop owners are ready for both expected and unexpected changes in their business journeys. 00:00 Airport confusion during an emergency 05:04 Visiting the 9/11 Memorial Museum 07:52 The importance of personal artifacts 13:07 Struggles with delegation in auto shops 16:44 Starting coaching with confidence 17:18 Embracing Change to Drive Growth 21:54 Father-in-law's car passion 26:27 Long-term planning for business owners 28:20 Learning about health savings accounts 33:01 Attending a life-changing class 36:53 Working in car parts sales 38:18 Realizing customers don't notice quality 43:06 Proper car wheel maintenance 45:12 Ensuring job tasks are completed 49:19 Discussing shop culture impact 53:38 Workplace culture and technician skills 57:05 Values and integrity in coaching 58:52 Building a supportive team | |||
| Episode 287 - Overcoming Rust Belt Challenges With Colin Thielman | 21 Sep 2026 | 00:53:28 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Colin Thielman, owner of Thielman's Auto Repair in Pemberton, New Jersey. Colin shares his journey from running a busy home-based garage to opening a dedicated shop, emphasizing the steep learning curve and the importance of building out documentation and management systems. The conversation also covers adapting to new automotive technologies and the need for continuous training, as well as the crucial role of detailed financial tracking in scaling a business. 00:00 Facing tough feedback and growth 03:43 Managing workflow and staying busy 09:25 Checking vehicle calibration needs 12:39 Discussing insurance coverage options 13:55 Insurance issues with car lifts 19:14 Adjusting labor rates 21:11 Analyzing car sales and costs 24:42 Prius ABS module recall 27:04 Discussing client concerns and liabilities 29:23 Diagnosing car start issues 35:31 Planning for retirement 36:49 Discussing a faulty Chevy Avalanche 39:47 Documenting vehicle condition with photos 42:39 Hershey management training advice 45:24 Training a New Employee 51:10 Getting into diesel truck repair 51:43 Balancing finances for survival | |||
| Bonus Episode - Navigating Trade Shows and AI Hype with Cavan Robinson & Tony Mercury | 16 Sep 2026 | 01:04:35 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Cavan Robinson and Tony Mercury of Vehlo from STX 2026. Cavan and Tony explore the evolving trade show landscape, discussing how rising costs and market saturation have changed their approach to event participation. They also dive into the growing influence of AI in the industry, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges it brings to shop management and marketing. 00:00 Evaluating trade show expenses 10:25 Finding the right trade show staff 14:31 Attending the Northeast Show and Milwaukee Event 17:37 Improving event attendance strategies 25:47 Issues with recurring trade shows 30:12 Questioning Technical Training Value 35:21 Lunch with Margaret discussing retirement 38:42 Advice for growing your business 46:56 AI's impact on SEO strategies 53:41 Managing AI Data and Partnerships 57:36 Using GuestX for call issues 01:00:29 Catfish leads to divorce | |||
| Episode 286 - Building a Mobile Auto Shop With A Full-Time Job with Jim Montagner | 14 Sep 2026 | 00:59:49 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Jim Montagner, a traveling GM world-class tech and owner of Valley Motor Auto and Truck, shares his unconventional entry into the automotive industry, beginning as a Vo-Tech student and eventually moving from independent shops to dealerships. Jim details the challenges of transitioning to mobile diagnostics, emphasizing the importance of sound business practices, such as bookkeeping and proper pricing, to sustain and eventually grow his business. The conversation explores the necessity of ongoing education in both technical skills and business management, highlighting the critical balance between delivering quality repairs and ensuring business profitability. 00:00 Choosing a career path 06:27 Discussing the cost of living 06:56 Finding inspiration from others 10:44 Expanding from diesel to general repairs 15:28 Customer perceptions of mobile repair costs 18:39 Talking to shop owners 20:10 Pricing strategy challenges 25:04 Unqualified mechanics hurting reputation 28:38 Managing inconsistent work hours 31:56 Navigating business start-up challenges 33:27 Check Engine Chuck's viral success 36:58 Finding first big job by chance 41:49 Pricing for profitability in auto shops 45:30 Learning ECM and EEPROM Programming 48:39 Vacation scheduling challenges 49:26 Making weekend plans 55:33 Understanding Business Profit Margins 57:27 Reading business books for success 59:39 Planning future recording session | |||
| Episode 285 - Bad Reviews Can Lead To Better Practices With Brett Hunziker | 07 Sep 2026 | 01:11:27 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the conversation focused on real-world challenges faced by shop owners and technicians, including the complexities of managing customer expectations and navigating negative reviews. One concept discussed was the need for transparent diagnostic processes and detailed communication, especially when customers question pricing or feel they already know the issue with their vehicles. A key theme that emerged was the importance of accurate shop management—covering everything from parts inventory to internal controls in software like Shop-Ware—to ensure profitability and reduce clerical errors. 00:00 Out-of-province vehicle inspections 06:53 Florida driver's license language law 15:54 Construction mistake with leaning structure 16:42 Visiting the 9/11 Memorial Museum 23:08 Challenges of Replacing Headlights 27:58 Car repair frustration and miscommunication 32:35 Discussing diagnostic trouble codes 37:32 Introducing Whisperflow for Note-Taking 47:24 Customer dissatisfaction with tire pricing 50:29 Dealer pricing and customer experiences 56:11 Adjusting labor rates and pay structure 01:01:02 Evaluating Business Efficiency and Labor 01:09:15 Old machinist's inventory strategy 01:09:52 Buying and selling steel | |||
| Episode 284 - Managing Stress and Leading a Young Team in the Automotive Industry With Trey Holley | 31 Aug 2026 | 00:50:08 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Trey Holley, a shop owner from Thomaston, Georgia. Trey shares his journey from being a lifelong mechanic to learning the ropes of business ownership, highlighting the unique challenges faced in small Southern towns. The conversation touches on the importance of supporting fellow shop owners rather than viewing them purely as competitors, and Trey offers insight into the work-life balance struggles that led him to prioritize both his health and the building of a strong, supportive team. 00:00 Atlanta airport's massive scale 03:41 Long walks at airports 06:27 Thunder Valley racetrack experience 10:30 Southern business challenges with generosity 13:29 Overwhelmed by business demands 19:09 New guy in town setting up 20:59 University town business challenges 22:34 Building Industry Relationships 26:46 Discussing business challenges with spouse 31:14 Discussing labor cost strategy 35:32 Quality control and final checks 38:55 Balancing work and family time 40:33 Dealing with family anxiety 44:57 Balancing multiple responsibilities 47:21 Discovering the Enneagram for Communication 49:12 On choosing the right people | |||
| Episode 283 - Revamping Trade Shows While Building Industry Community with Tonnika Haynes | 24 Aug 2026 | 00:56:09 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Tonnika Haynes. Tonnika shares her experiences navigating trade shows like Vision and ASTA, highlighting the challenges of scaling events while maintaining their community feel. The conversation touches on the struggle to balance profitable training with meaningful content for shop owners. They also discuss the importance of grassroots networking and accountability within industry associations, emphasizing the need to evolve while remembering what made previous events special. 00:00 Trade show insights and takeaways 04:45 Struggling to secure instructors 09:25 Improving trade show quality 11:08 Evaluating training investment costs 15:18 Investing in employee training 18:21 Challenges in Automotive Training 22:41 Getting great deals at the show 23:30 Boosting vendor sales at trade shows 27:40 Considering a move to a convention center 30:58 Regional networking events in Asheville 35:07 Adjusting content for wider appeal 37:22 Demand for hands-on Tesla class 41:53 Early board experiences discussed 42:36 Addressing organizational dysfunction 46:57 Launching the new podcast 52:03 Discussing video production deadlines 53:03 Braxton starting a media company 56:04 Introducing the next topic | |||
| Bonus Episode - Emily Oliver On Keeping It in the Family While Facing Challenges and Growth at a Small Auto Shop | 19 Aug 2026 | 01:03:28 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Emily Oliver joins the podcast to share her journey of taking over a small family auto repair shop in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Emily talks about the challenges of modernizing operations, from adopting new software like Shop-Ware to implementing more thorough documentation and communication processes with customers. The conversation also highlights the complexities of hourly billing in auto repair, the challenges of managing family roles in business, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation as the shop grows. 00:00 Family auto shop's history 08:56 Simple billing system explained 10:55 Tracking time in auto repair bays 19:04 Standardizing Inspection Processes 23:10 Issues with technician pricing 30:07 Convincing family about car maintenance 36:33 Communicating with customers 39:47 Dealing with other mechanics' issues 46:27 Early challenges and learning curve 54:21 Managing finances and staying focused 56:10 Discussing parts pricing strategy 01:01:21 Gaining insights from peer feedback | |||
| Episode 282 - AI, Recruiting, Shop Culture, and the Drive for Better Hires with Promotive | 17 Aug 2026 | 01:09:09 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Sam Freeman, Alexandra Pare, and Daniel Ekstrand from Promotive. The group demos “Paige,” Promotive’s AI-powered virtual recruiter, showcasing how AI is transforming the hiring and prescreening process in the automotive industry. The conversation dives into current industry trends, including why technicians are leaving dealerships for independent shops and the top reasons candidates are looking for new positions. They also get candid about the frustrations of online reviews, sharing stories and strategies shop owners use to respond to feedback—both good and bad. 00:00 Overview of Promotive's Services 11:55 Managing morning priority calls 15:43 Handling Language and Mumbling Issues 18:44 Automated messaging for applicants 27:21 Icy disaster during bachelor party 32:58 Early adoption of Facebook and DVI 37:41 Missed email confusion 42:59 Hotel room negotiation challenge 44:38 A quick conference trip 52:30 Challenges of running a car shop 59:36 Trying the Worst BBQ in KC 01:03:25 Handling negative feedback 01:07:19 Feedback on Uber improvements | |||
| Episode 281 - Tackling Mental Health and Generational Challenges in Automotive Shops | 10 Aug 2026 | 00:57:52 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the conversation focused on the realities of technician mental health in the automotive industry. Several points were raised, including the lack of resources and support for young technicians, the stigma among men around discussing feelings and seeking help, and the crucial role that perspective and mentorship play in navigating workplace stress. 00:00 Wearing outfits for a photo 06:15 Hiring someone with unusual past jobs 08:04 Sourcing clean, pure meth 12:49 Understanding indica and sativa effects 14:40 Dealing with smoke smell in cars 19:36 Dealing with unresolved personal issues 20:24 Helping employee with health issues 26:30 Defining happiness with Rick White 28:45 Learning about cars before the internet 33:08 Understanding Mental Health Challenges 34:07 Tech industry mentorship challenges 39:51 Judging parents and kids' behavior 41:10 Childhood playground altercation 46:38 Being transparent about business struggles 47:59 George's life-changing discovery 52:51 Understanding the need for help 53:57 Managing negative thoughts 57:11 Discussing consequences of inaction | |||
| Episode 280 - Forgiveness, Mentorship, and Saving Lives in Shops With Tyler Steever | 03 Aug 2026 | 00:56:19 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Tyler Steever, a technician from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Tyler Steever shares his path into the industry, highlighting how mentorship and hands-on learning shaped his career. The conversation delves into the importance of good shop culture and personal development, with Tyler Steever emphasizing the impact of teaching others and building supportive relationships. The episode also addresses mental health in the industry, as Tyler Steever openly discusses his personal struggles and the need to break the stigma around seeking help. 00:00 Getting into vehicle repair 05:03 Team cattle sorting challenge 06:51 Learning from a mentor 10:02 Rodeo scene and local issues 12:59 Changing jobs in the auto industry 16:34 Teaching horse training clinics 21:28 Reflecting on family and self-worth 23:33 Marriage as a lifelong commitment 26:01 Communication in Marriage 30:32 Warren Buffett's best advice 32:21 Struggling with mental health at school 36:21 Growing up with a religious dad 40:39 Technician's unexpected promotion story 41:51 Quitting a job rashly 46:39 Sharing personal goals and vision 49:38 Dog comforts during a breakdown 52:10 Discussing family and Ziploc bags 56:10 Spreading awareness and support | |||
| Episode 279 - The Real Coach Alex On Fixing Industry Communication and Shop Management | 27 Jul 2026 | 00:56:01 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the conversation centers around Alex DeSantis's journey from working in auto repair shops to becoming a coach for auto shop owners. The discussion explored the importance of clear communication and establishing standard operating procedures in the industry, highlighting how many shops still struggle with basics like proper onboarding and workflow organization. Several points were raised, including the value of sharing business data transparently with employees, practical benefits shop owners can offer beyond health insurance, and the crucial role of teaching both technical and communication skills to the next generation of technicians. 00:00 Empowered Advisor journey 06:17 Starting part-time coaching with Rena 08:31 Getting business coaching advice 13:29 Neglecting business investments and maintenance 15:56 Discussing employee benefits options 18:31 Complaints about AI-generated content 23:05 Frustrations with shop inefficiency 26:59 Improving communication with clients 29:30 Changing Views on Trade Education 31:18 Future-proofing with human expertise 34:42 Dealer advisor training issues 38:44 Encounter with silent shopkeepers 42:45 Office space changes 47:17 Talking about the mysterious fire 49:55 Local tales and warnings 53:04 Getting pitched SEO on podcasts 55:02 Preparing for 2027 expansion | |||
| Episode 278 - Can You Create A Disney World Experiences in Auto Repair With Bret Beitler | 20 Jul 2026 | 00:58:47 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, David & Lucas are joined by Brett Beitler to discuss the challenges and rewards of leadership in both family entertainment centers and the auto repair industry. Brett shares his experience in turning around struggling businesses, highlighting the importance of strong leadership, employee empowerment, and cultivating a culture of unreasonable hospitality. The conversation also explores the differences in leadership needs between industries, emphasizing the value of coaching, communication, and continuous personal growth for business success. 00:00 Setting up automatic audio switching 09:40 Inspiration to join preschool industry 10:28 Expanding business in Houston 16:37 Forming a Leadership Partnership 23:16 Improving airport bathroom satisfaction 27:04 Issues with Accountant and Bookkeeping 35:00 Dealing with customer feedback 40:18 Finding the Right Coaching Clients 43:05 Practicing effective leadership skills 53:33 Teaching Leadership to the Next Generation 58:29 Empowerment in the Workplace 01:01:37 Keeping up with rapid tech changes | |||
| Episode 277 - Building Better Workflows and Navigating AI With Ash Kaplan of Golden Hour Garage | 13 Jul 2026 | 01:04:25 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Ash Kaplan, owner of Golden Hour Garage. Ash shares her journey growing up in the automotive industry, how she built her niche helping struggling shops streamline workflow, and why process consistency is essential for shop success. The conversation also explores the impact of AI and automation in automotive repair, emphasizing the ongoing need for human expertise and genuine customer relationships. 00:00 Visual calendar time zone issue 10:32 Building workflows for struggling shops 12:27 Finding a solution for consistency 17:50 Explaining the company name 25:15 Documenting a car recall dispute 30:36 Employee motivation and compensation issues 32:59 Overcoming belief in others 39:15 Lessons on gullibility from father 47:26 Weekly and Quarterly Accountability Meetings 52:34 Building internal talent for growth 56:56 Discussing AI sustainability issues 59:31 AI's Impact on Job Markets 01:07:20 AI in automotive service shops | |||
| Episode 276 - Navigating Apprenticeships With Angela Mitchell & Shop-Ware Scholarship Winner Kaitlyn Schave | 06 Jul 2026 | 01:01:03 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the conversation focused on the experiences of an apprentice technician who won the Shop-Ware scholarship. One concept discussed was the importance of standardized processes in the shop to ensure consistent work quality and reduce customer complaints. A key theme that emerged was the value of mentorship and hands-on learning, with support from experienced technicians helping apprentices gain skills and confidence. The discussion explored how exploring diverse training resources, including online courses and technical classes, can accelerate professional growth for new technicians. 00:00 Brake pad inconsistencies and complaints 05:44 Cleaning caliper brackets 16:24 Bringing Kaitlyn on board 17:54 Training and skill progression 27:40 Learning electrical diagnostics skills 31:43 Talking about tough car repairs 33:59 Discussing employee pay incentives 42:57 Choosing the right conference sessions 48:07 Learning diagnostics through videos 52:21 Testing car battery voltage 58:50 Dealing with difficult customers | |||
| Episode 275 - Trying To Elevate Automotive Training with Trevor Schlientz of Autonerdz | 29 Jun 2026 | 01:16:29 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the conversation focused on the evolution of diagnostics in the automotive industry and the transition from technician to business owner. One concept discussed was the value and limitations of certifications such as ASE, with a candid look at how credentialing and industry standards affect technician growth. A key theme that emerged was the importance of community-based training and support, emphasizing how shop owners and technicians can elevate industry standards by hosting and attending collaborative training events. 00:00 Identifying and fixing a valve issue 08:12 Early influence of my dad 14:32 Debating test competency methods 17:00 Discussing ADOS legislation requirements 24:41 Criticizing school accreditation practices 29:29 Continuous education in auto care 36:00 Community troubleshooting and collaboration 38:59 Getting support for Pico tools 46:38 Getting help from friends 52:22 Building community through hosting 53:43 Collaborating with suppliers for training 01:01:59 Advantages of live streaming 01:08:14 Marketing strategy for 2026 01:14:30 Improving industry skills through content 01:15:01 Getting started with the scope | |||
| Episode 274 - Can The Automotive Service Industry Be Saved? With Cecil Bullard and Wayne Marshall | 22 Jun 2026 | 01:06:30 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Cecil Bullard and Wayne Marshall discuss the challenges facing the automotive industry today. They examine the complexities and controversies surrounding technician licensing and certification, highlighting the need for industry-wide standards. The conversation also addresses the importance of financial literacy and measurable productivity in running a successful shop. 00:00 Debating dealership licensing issues 10:17 Balancing employee pay and motivation 13:05 Building Employee Loyalty 18:33 Improving employee wages and management 23:01 Business fundamentals and financial ratios 29:03 Planning an Exit Strategy 35:00 Chris Enright on industry frustration 41:01 Need for sophisticated testing 46:14 Importance of unique selling proposition 51:13 Importance of inclusivity and differentiation 54:12 Challenges with membership relevance 01:03:44 Young talent and enthusiasm 01:04:15 Recruiting a young car enthusiast | |||
| Episode 273 - Learning from Mistakes and Building Stronger Businesses With Tara Topel | 15 Jun 2026 | 01:01:51 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Tara Topel to dig into the challenges facing shop owners and the broader automotive industry. They examine the importance of building businesses that can run independently of their owners, emphasizing the need for processes, standards, and effective delegation. The conversation also highlights a lack of engagement with valuable industry resources, such as the Auto Care Association, underscoring the need for greater awareness and participation among shop owners. Finally, they discuss the shifting landscape of automotive technology—from EVs to ADAS calibrations—and the risks and responsibilities that come with staying current. 00:00 Handling online criticism 07:36 Balancing business and family time 11:22 Trading our souls for convenience 18:10 Preparing for business contingencies 26:12 Joining a National Auto Association 30:40 Helping People Who Want Change 32:37 Importance of labor in auto shops 40:45 ADAS calibration cost concerns 46:05 ADAS system calibration advice 48:59 Pilot and maintenance disagreement 56:20 Traffic control and roundabouts 59:47 Distracted driving habits | |||
| Episode 272 - Mentoring the Next Generation of Techs with Luke Murray and Charles Burke of Worldpac | 08 Jun 2026 | 00:43:02 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Charles Burke and Luke Murray from the Worldpac Training Institute. The conversation focuses on the importance of mentorship and structured apprenticeship programs in the automotive industry, the challenges of reaching and engaging more shop owners with effective training and business resources, and the personal impact of mentorship—both in the industry and in personal life. 00:00 Transitioning from technical to business training 05:42 Grounded from flying career 09:44 Choosing movies before streaming 12:41 Becoming a BMW instructor 14:04 Focus on mentor training 18:43 Mentorship and training apprentices 19:46 Creating a custom apprenticeship program 23:10 The importance of effective mentorship 28:29 Building ASTA through community sharing 31:50 Explaining profit margins simplistically 33:25 Helping others with industry insights 38:01 Funny story about Chris Chesney 39:21 Spreading the word about free training 42:11 Passion-driven learning benefits | |||
| Episode 271 - Training New Technicians and Building a Lasting Automotive Business With Charles Mitchell | 01 Jun 2026 | 01:02:11 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, listeners hear the story of a small-shop owner’s journey to purchase and grow TenPin Motors in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. The conversation focused on the challenges of transitioning from technician to owner, including finding and training quality staff. A key theme that emerged was the importance of building lasting customer relationships and delivering a superior client experience to stand out in a competitive market. The discussion also explored the realities and concerns of scaling to multiple locations, highlighting industry trends toward consolidation and the difficulty of maintaining quality and culture as shops grow. 00:00 Buying the dealership 08:21 Discussing small town expansion plans 14:49 Transitioning from technician to business management 16:35 Realizing the need to plan 22:32 Creating a welcoming atmosphere 27:13 Adjusting Services After Technician Left 35:03 Focusing on customer care in auto shops 40:14 Upgrading marketing and customer service 45:41 Increasing Profit While Managing Costs 49:17 Planning Future Business Growth 53:24 Concerns about expanding quality 01:00:47 Fostering positive industry growth | |||
| Episode 270 - Overcoming Shop Owner Struggles: Hiring, Training, and Shop Management With Shaun Tipton | 25 May 2026 | 01:01:27 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas Underwood is joined by Shaun Tipton, who shares his 28-year journey from technician to shop owner. Shaun Tipton discusses the common pitfalls technicians face when transitioning to ownership, emphasizing the importance of understanding financials and setting fair labor rates. The conversation also highlights the critical role of workplace culture and effective leadership in building a successful, ethical shop. 00:00 Advice for aspiring shop owners 09:04 Understanding fair pricing for clients 13:46 Recognizing the need for help 15:51 Red flags in job histories 24:19 Fair employee compensation discussion 30:04 Balancing personal values and money 32:43 Flaws in metro coaching models 40:49 Switching to a single software system 43:49 Benefits of using Shop-Ware 48:09 Focusing on personal interests 53:42 Importance of leadership in ownership 59:46 Long-term life planning advice | |||
| Episode 269 - Lessons Learned From Custom Car Builds and Business Ownership With Sunny Massera | 18 May 2026 | 00:59:44 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Sunny Massera, a custom car and truck builder from Oregon. Sunny Massera shares the hard lessons he learned from business ownership, including the importance of choosing the right business partner and the unexpected realities of running a shop versus working for someone else. The conversation also covers the challenges of building custom and performance vehicles—from managing customer expectations to dealing with unreliable aftermarket parts. 00:00 Moving between New Mexico and California 04:19 From flat rate to custom cars 07:30 Realizing business complexities 09:46 Deciding not to work alone 13:05 Getting hired at second Bronco shop 16:22 Discussing how to fund a startup 20:36 Partner's role in business growth 23:18 Revamping old Broncos 28:11 Understanding the engine issue 31:14 Working at custom car shops 33:21 Learning through hands-on projects 36:45 Test driving vehicles before ordering 40:00 Restoring a 59 Ranchero 41:33 Future of classic car market 46:46 Challenges finding car parts 50:09 Troubleshooting transmission issues 53:35 Fixing ongoing installation issues 56:10 Tuning engine installations 59:15 Advice for young professionals | |||
| Bonus Episode - Handling Customer Complaints and Raising Industry Standards in Auto Repair | 14 May 2026 | 00:41:44 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, David and Lucas discuss the challenges of handling difficult customer complaints, specifically a negative review following a diagnostic process and the denial of repair work. They dive into the importance of clear communication, setting expectations with consumers, and defending the value of professional diagnostic procedures. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the need for industry-wide improvement, highlighting how prioritizing quality repairs and properly educating both staff and customers can help move the automotive industry in a better direction. 00:00 Client disputes repair charges 04:23 Diagnostic process and repair decision 06:32 Challenges of Dealing with Customers 12:13 Discussing steak pricing strategies 14:11 Handling customer expectations 16:25 Discussing repair pricing strategy 22:10 Ensuring quality car repairs 24:46 Surrounding yourself with success 26:35 Frustrations in the auto repair business 32:03 Challenges of business growth 35:45 Focusing on quality and process 37:05 Why we started the show 40:35 Technician frustrations over pricing | |||
| Episode 268 - Mastering Shop Management and Technician Relations in Today’s Auto Industry | 11 May 2026 | 01:15:15 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Austin joins the Changing The Industry Podcast to discuss his journey from dealership technician to shop owner in South Carolina. Austin shares the challenges of buying a shop as a young technician, including navigating the SBA loan acquisition process and building a reliable team after early hiring struggles. The conversation covers practical strategies for technician management and compensation, as well as the importance of professional bookkeeping and mentorship as a shop grows. 00:00 Navigating industry-exclusive groups 08:31 Hiring the first technician 13:09 Starting the podcast idea 20:25 Cost transparency with manufacturers 23:02 ETI's role in tool manufacturing 27:38 Managing car programming and updates 34:15 Car's auto-braking false alarms 39:15 Quick and safe control arm repair 44:53 Building a strong technician team 52:07 Technician attendance and bonus policy 55:11 Dealing with difficult coworkers 58:51 Growing with business mentors 01:05:03 Evaluating business coach effectiveness 01:12:50 Importance of clean financial records 01:14:53 Wanting a strict accountant | |||
| Episode 267 - Building and Scaling Auto Shops: Culture, Challenges, and the Drive to Grow With Arun Coumar | 04 May 2026 | 01:03:49 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Arun Coumar joins Lucas Underwood and David Roman to discuss the challenges and rewards of multi-shop ownership. Arun highlights the critical role of shop culture and management in shop performance, emphasizing how the right team can make or break operations. The conversation also dives into the evolving automotive industry landscape, touching on consolidation trends and the necessity for adaptability in both business structure and mindset. 00:00 Implementing an alternative work week schedule 10:26 Considering leaving a job 13:46 Realizing success isn't easy 19:57 Logging mileage for efficiency 26:01 Focus on local expansion first 29:37 Considering sole ownership vs. growth 33:54 Finding purpose after life challenges 42:44 Creating and defining meaning 45:40 Talking about single life challenges 53:06 Choosing your life's challenges 58:51 Challenges in the parts distribution industry 01:00:58 Discussing future market changes | |||
| Episode 266 - Building Shop Efficiency and Team Culture with Greg Miller of Figs Auto Repair | 27 Apr 2026 | 01:12:27 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, David and Greg dive into the realities of shop ownership, growth, and staffing challenges in the auto repair industry. Greg shares his journey from IT business owner to owner of Figs Auto Repair in Charlotte, highlighting the importance of adapting processes for efficiency and using tools like Shop-Ware. The conversation also covers practical hiring lessons, including the need to hire and fire quickly and the value of connecting technicians with the broader industry through training events to improve retention. 00:00 Blood draw complications 05:28 Comparing safety of substances 13:13 Navigating traffic delays 18:35 Challenges with new hires 24:24 Handling tough diagnostic jobs 29:03 Adjusting pay for evaluation tasks 36:10 Discussing car repair estimates 40:51 Learning from industry veterans 41:52 Community engagement in North Carolina 49:25 Improving employee efficiency 52:56 Customer communication and follow-ups 01:02:58 Cooking steak tableside 01:04:43 Discussing conference networking opportunities 01:10:37 Networking and local support connections | |||
| Episode 265 - Modern Pay Plans and Efficiency Tips To Fix The Tech Shortage With Eric Svedberg | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:57:10 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Eric Svedberg of European Autowerks. Eric shares his journey from starting in the gas station business at 16 to owning and growing a successful automotive shop. The conversation dives deep into the persistent technician shortage, with Eric outlining the challenges in attracting and retaining skilled talent and the evolving pay structures needed to stay competitive. The hosts and Eric also explore strategies for fair compensation, diagnostic testing systems, and the importance of shop culture and communication in bridging the divide between owners and technicians. 00:00 Starting at a gas station job 04:49 Rebranding to Automotive Specialists 09:29 Mac and cheese cart setup 11:26 Bellman warns about minibar sensor 15:40 Salary expectations for auto techs 18:05 Explaining the three-level system 21:04 Handling customer pushback 25:35 Technician pay discussions 26:54 Negotiating a technician's pay raise 30:33 Paying employees more than expected 34:26 Explaining the production bonus system 37:27 Growing demand for skilled technicians 41:53 Ensuring seamless parts distribution 44:01 Discussing social media dynamics 48:42 Dealing with unreliable workers 52:06 Understanding different industry perspectives 55:27 Dealing with technician issues 56:07 Discussing employee accountability | |||
| Bonus Episode - Vehlo CEO Reveals What's Actually Changing the Automotive Industry in 2026 | 15 Apr 2026 | 00:23:31 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, the Changing The Industry Podcast team sits down with Josh Weiss, CEO of Vehlo, to discuss company culture, leadership, and the rapidly evolving automotive industry. Josh shares his philosophy on servant leadership and the importance of fostering a high-performance, low-ego environment at Vehlo. The conversation highlights how open communication and feedback fuel trust and engagement within the organization. Finally, the group explores the challenges of constant innovation in automotive service, emphasizing the critical role technology and adaptability play in shop success. 00:00 Building a winning team culture 04:44 Team communication and weekly updates 09:41 Joining the company journey 12:34 Rapid innovation in auto industry 14:05 Shopware's unique customer experience 19:35 Choosing shopware for its ease 22:35 Listening to customer feedback 23:22 Thanking the guest or speaker | |||
| Episode 264 - The Value of Diagnostics, Hands-On Classes, & Finding Happiness With Tim Iezzi & Ira Waldman | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:54:32 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Ira Waldman and Tim Iezzi, who share their experiences with technical training and diagnostics in the automotive industry. Ira Waldman explains the value of comprehensive accident investigations and how data pulled from vehicles is increasingly crucial for liability and repairs. Tim Iezzi and Ira Waldman detail their hands-on training classes, emphasizing the importance of practicing with equipment to build real skills. Throughout the conversation, the group discusses challenges facing trainers—including undervaluation and barriers to fair compensation—while reflecting on what true success looks like in the industry. 00:00 Consulting work and accident investigations 04:58 Calibration data and liability concerns 08:48 Lab scope training launch 11:32 Practicing lab scope basics 15:25 Common mistakes using scopes 19:03 Importance of planning and tools 20:10 Teaching procedural oil change steps 24:46 Improving technician education 27:00 Training value and budget changes 32:48 Challenges faced by fitness trainers 36:16 Launching the training company 39:46 Impact of low-cost car markets 41:29 Covid’s impact on auto repairs 47:30 Troubleshooting equipment issues 50:25 Defining personal success 52:21 Interviewing successful people 54:28 Thanking the audience | |||
| Episode 263 - Overcoming Addiction and Trying To Find Purpose in the Automotive Industry With Cole Tanner | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:59:10 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Cole Tanner, a veteran technician, who shares his journey through family business transitions, personal struggles, and the realities of working in the automotive industry. Cole opens up about overcoming addiction and trauma, emphasizing the importance of honest conversations about mental health in the trades. The group discusses technician frustrations regarding compensation, shop inefficiencies, and the vital need for support structures within the industry. 00:00 Frustrating restaurant wait experience 06:25 Growing up with my parents 08:11 Discussing childhood challenges 12:51 Breaking cycles of family trauma 16:25 Losing friends to addiction 19:34 Discussing compensation challenges 22:25 Consistent vs erratic performance 26:35 Running an efficient repair shop 27:42 Technicians disconnected from inspection value 33:12 End-of-month sales pressure 36:27 Improving communication and accountability 37:58 Discussing future plans and concerns 41:13 Finding balance and past experiences 46:02 Struggles with drinking habits 47:53 Hitting rock bottom moments 50:40 The dangers of addiction 53:47 Pushing for constant improvement 56:52 Taking responsibility after prison | |||
| Episode 262 - When Generations Collide - Growing an Auto Shop with Family Values With Matt Clarke | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:59:45 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Matt Clarke of Clark Automotive. Matt shares his journey back to his family's auto repair business, emphasizing the importance of refining operations and focusing on delivering high-quality service rather than chasing high car counts. The group discusses the evolving role of business coaching and training, including the value of accountability partners and the need to adapt to new technology in the industry. 00:00 Trade Show Costs Are Ridiculous 03:47 Union Inefficiency and Consequences 09:13 "Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity" 11:58 "Evolving Business Learning Challenges" 14:35 "Epiphany in Management Training" 18:14 "Refining Craft, Scaling Doubts" 22:03 Choosing the Right Coach 24:48 "Struggling with Accountability" 28:06 "Unexpected Family Connections" 33:15 "AI-Generated Estimate Dispute" 37:26 "Balancing AI and Personal Touch" 39:32 "Fitness, Gear, AI, and Darkness" 44:37 "Unfiltered Critique of a Guru" 45:20 "Mastery vs. Fake Expertise" 48:44 "Adapting Teaching to Audience" 54:39 "EV Market Resistance Analyzed" 56:42 "Building Growth and Connections" 58:38 "Vespa Culture: New York Only" | |||
| Episode 261 - Navigating Grief, Taxes, and Machine Shop Dreams in the Auto Repair Industry With David Veldman | 23 Mar 2026 | 01:05:12 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by David Veldman, who shares his personal journey coping with the recent loss of his father and its impact on his direction and motivation in the automotive repair business. The conversation explores how major life events, such as grief or health struggles, can affect business owners, especially those without strong support systems or sustainable operations. David Roman provides a contrasting perspective, emphasizing the importance of shifting focus toward the next generation and building a business that can survive without constant owner involvement. 00:00 "Grieving Without a Rudder" 10:05 "Finding Aim Through Adversity" 12:08 "Finding Direction and Motivation" 17:14 "Dad's Varied Career Path" 24:37 Machine Shop Succession Challenges 30:13 "The Box That Changed Me" 34:50 Efficient Flywheel Machining Strategy 39:58 "Importance of Knowledge and Processes" 47:09 "Pay Taxes Like an Employee" 51:14 "Tax Payment Delays Explained" 57:40 "Sad Start, Weird Ending" 01:03:03 Lakeside Anniversary Offer 01:04:49 "Possible Marijuana Overdose" | |||
| Episode 260 - Navigating Family Legacy and Change in the Automotive Business With Jackie & Darryl Beech | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:58:26 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Darryl and Jackie Beech to explore the dynamics of running and transitioning a family-owned automotive business. Darryl reflects on the importance of having strong business processes and work-life balance, sharing his motivation to set Jackie up for long-term success as she steps into a larger leadership role. Jackie opens up about the challenges—and privileges—of carrying forward her father's legacy, focusing on the value of maintaining strong customer relationships while preparing for inevitable changes. 00:00 "Doubting His Radio Future" 04:40 "Family, Loss, and Betrayal" 08:19 "Mismanagement and Lack of Structure" 10:42 "Shopware's Lifesaving Support" 14:53 Forensic Analysis in Auto Failures 18:21 "Tailored Vehicle Maintenance Advice" 21:31 Transitioning Business Leadership and Operations 23:38 "Balancing Business and Social Hurdles" 28:52 "Senior Tech Rejects Management Training" 31:54 "Saving a Family Legacy" 35:02 Navigating Tough Clients Effectively 38:49 "Embracing Leadership Humility" 40:32 "Early Career Diversification Needed" 44:45 "Growth Through Decisions and Challenges" 48:08 Managing Stress and Support Systems 49:55 "Overcoming Recession and Struggle" 53:34 "Navigating Family Life and Struggles" 56:48 "Childhood Memories: The Good Side" | |||
| Episode 259 - Building Company Culture and Beating Chargebacks in Automotive Shops With Kevaughn Williams | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:57:24 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Kevaughn Williams, Operations Manager at 360 Payments. Kevaughn underscores the importance of company culture in building a motivated, accountable team, highlighting how 360’s values of transparency and peer-to-peer accountability support both employees and customers. The discussion covers practical strategies for automotive shops to protect themselves from payment chargebacks, with Kevaughn outlining red flags to watch for and offering tips to improve payment security. 00:00 "360 Culture and Leadership" 04:28 "Honesty and Accountability Matter" 08:13 "Impactful Workplace Culture Insights" 11:16 "Towing Office Experience Reflection" 14:50 Car Rental Customer Support Journey 15:54 Rental Car Upgrade Mishap 21:08 Mandatory Work Schedule Change 24:40 Building Youthful Team for Success 27:58 "Disney Trip as Life Milestone" 28:40 Prioritizing People Over Business 34:51 Preventing Text-to-Pay Fraud 38:11 Fraud Awareness and Payment Precautions 39:06 DocuSign ID and Card Verification 44:24 Chargeback Fraud at Local Shop 48:02 "High-Risk Account Threshold Explained" 50:23 Transparency and Informed Decisions 53:22 "David's CSP Concerns" 56:19 "Buttoning Debate Unresolved" | |||
| Episode 258 - Global Supply Chains, Tariffs, and the State of Parts Quality | 02 Mar 2026 | 01:02:49 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Australian shop owners Kosta Ka and Peter Leondis. The group explores the differences between the Australian and American auto repair industries, focusing on challenges with access to technical information, parts quality, and emerging certification hurdles for EVs. Kosta and Peter share insights on the importance of clear communication with clients and building strong shop cultures, while Lucas and David reflect on succession planning and the risks of lacking a solid business exit strategy. 00:00 Generational Gaps in Apprenticeships 05:39 "OnlyFans: Limited Choices Commentary" 15:31 Repair Shops Face Ebb and Flow 20:31 Aftermarket vs. Dealer Parts Pricing 23:47 "Licensing Drives Underground Competition" 31:33 Cultural Differences in Communication Styles 36:57 "Planning Beyond Fixing Cars" 40:20 Business Succession and Exit Challenges 47:01 Overcoming Founder Syndrome 50:49 "Core Values Drive Business Success" 55:13 Australian Auto Training Revolution | |||
| Bonus Episode - Every Episode Failed For Mike Allen - Here's Why And How Vision KC Will Fix It | 25 Feb 2026 | 00:57:03 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Mike Allen to preview the Vision KC conference and share industry stories. Mike recounts his challenges recording at the Elite Ignite conference and the ongoing technical mishaps that come with capturing live content. The hosts dive into shop pricing strategies, including how costs like diagnostics and amenities are often rolled into the final bill for customers. Plus, David gives a local's guide to the best food options in Kansas City, breaking down must-try barbecue, tacos, and team-dinner spots as Vision attendees prepare for their trip. 00:00 "Improper Merging Rant" 06:29 "Chicago Shop Success Story" 08:20 "Advisor's Hilarious Customer Story" 10:38 David's Intense Pre-Workout Effects 16:26 "Misheard Conversation in Restroom" 17:24 "Facebook: Scroll and Toilet Talk" 22:43 Kansas City Dining Overview 23:29 Alternative Dining Options Near Vision 28:33 Restaurant Struggles Amid Tight Margins 32:49 Rare 9+ Pizza Reviews 38:10 Jack Stack Barbecue Recommendation 40:46 "Bananas and Rice Identity" 46:18 "Manscaping Mishap and Spider Trap" 54:24 TPMS Law and Repair Ban 56:57 "See You at Vision" | |||
| Episode 257 - Responding to One-Star Reviews in the Automotive Industry With Tyler Wonderlic of Steer | 23 Feb 2026 | 01:01:07 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Tyler Wonderlic from Steer and AutoOps. Tyler explains the value of a CRM for shop owners, emphasizing its role in centralizing customer communication and improving retention. David shares his frustrations with customer miscommunication and online reviews, sparking a conversation about managing reputation and crafting thoughtful responses. Lucas and Tyler also discuss the importance of segmenting customer experiences to meet diverse expectations. 00:00 "Realizing Athletes Are Kids" 09:11 "Save $1,300 or Time?" 12:24 Steroid Loopholes Exploited by Chemists 20:41 "Bad Reviews, Full Parking Lots" 24:36 Learning from Criticism Strategically 26:42 "CRM Value and Subscriptions" 35:58 "Customizing CRM for Business Goals" 41:09 "Challenges with Accurate Data Analysis" 43:04 "Customer Service Expectations Rant" 51:51 "David's Family and Loss" 57:35 "Balancing Service and Spending" 59:34 "iPhone Over Safety Concerns" | |||
| Bonus Episode - Breaking Down Industry Silos: Collision and Mechanical Unite at the Northeast 2026 | 20 Feb 2026 | 00:53:37 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Ken Miller to preview the Northeast Trade Show and discuss the growing intersection between the collision and mechanical segments of the automotive industry. Ken highlights the expanded focus on mechanical education at this year’s show, emphasizing the importance of ADAS calibrations and the need for proper training and documentation. The discussion also covers the challenges created by industry consolidation, different approaches to compensation and workflow, and the shared responsibility for safety and professionalism in both mechanical and collision repair. 00:00 "Discovering the Northeast Show" 05:13 Real-World Expertise in Training 08:42 "Lessons from Collision Experience" 10:42 Aviation Error and Accountability 16:30 "Calibration Challenges in Repair Shops" 19:30 "Collision Shop Negligence and Exploitation" 23:22 Documentation: Key to Authentic Calibration 26:26 Dangerous Counterfeit Airbags Warning 28:58 TPMS Sensors and Dealer Liability 34:01 Collision Industry Consolidation Insights 34:58 "Understanding Business Value and Protection" 41:09 ADAS Reducing Accidents and Claims 43:52 "Value of Networking at Events" 45:19 Bridging Gaps in Automotive Teams 50:45 "Collaborating to Share Industry Knowledge" 52:18 "Empowering Industry Through Education" | |||
| Bonus Episode - Investing, Adapting, and Leading with Purpose in Auto Repair With Nelson Tavarez | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:52:56 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Nelson Tavarez, owner of Austin's Auto Service. Nelson shares his inspiring journey from working in telecommunications to becoming a successful shop owner, emphasizing the importance of discipline, saving, and seizing opportunities. The conversation delves into the impact of technology like Shop-Ware on shop efficiency and customer experience, as well as strategies for building wealth and financial security for both owners and technicians. 00:00 "Growth, Discipline, and Adapting" 04:53 "Taking a Gamble on Change" 07:20 "Trading Success Leads to Ownership" 13:16 Seamlessly Adopting Shopware Technology 16:19 Targeted Growth for Specialty Auto Shop 18:30 "Shopware's Future is Revolutionary" 22:23 "Personalized Service, Small-Shop Feel" 26:45 Trust, Change, and Lost Security 29:35 Generational Wealth Over Instant Gains 34:12 Maximizing Savings for Children 35:37 "From Rent to Ownership" 40:32 "Delayed Gratification and Society" 41:59 "Rethinking the Grind Mentality" 44:26 Sell What People Want 49:53 "Resilience and Team Effort" 51:33 Employee Prioritizes Family Over Career | |||
| Episode 256 - Why Most Shops Miss Out on Profits With Eric Joern of Kaizen CPAs | 16 Feb 2026 | 01:01:30 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Eric Joern for a deep dive into the realities of small business financial management in the auto repair industry. Eric stresses the importance of starting with a plan and leveraging professional guidance, rather than relying on risky trial-and-error approaches. The discussion highlights why using proper shop management systems and separating business finances is critical for long-term success. 00:00 "Valuable Business Advice and Insights" 10:15 Sales Tax Responsibilities Explained 15:34 Simple Budgeting for Profit 17:02 "Essential Shop Management Systems" 21:40 Shop Parts Tracking Essentials 29:56 "Seeking Proactive Tax Guidance" 35:04 "Importance of a Knowledgeable Accountant" 38:10 "Proactive Tax Planning Conversations" 43:34 "Inventory's Tax Impact Explained" 49:10 "Smart Tax Strategies Explained" 55:24 Focus on Strengths, Delegate Tasks 01:02:42 Excited for Business Improvement | |||
| Episode 255 - Tailoring Training for Automotive Technicians in a Rapidly Changing Industry with Andy Tirado | 09 Feb 2026 | 01:04:03 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Andy Tirado, co-founder of the ADAS Network. Andy discusses the challenges of delivering relevant, effective technical training across the automotive industry, highlighting the critical need for trainers to adapt content to local cultures and shop-specific needs. The conversation also explores the complexities of ADAS calibrations, from misinformation in service procedures to pressure from insurance companies. 00:00 Struggles with Local Training Participation 08:25 Improving Training Accessibility and Retention 10:24 "Training, Culture, and Communication" 20:09 "Missed Details in Calibration Procedure" 23:44 "ADAS Resource and Referral Network" 28:45 Greed, Insurance, and Right to Repair 33:43 "Taking Control of Business Processes" 40:54 Braking System Safety Concerns 46:09 Counterfeit Parts and Industry Issues 52:21 Car Alignment and Calibration Costs 53:56 "Trusting My Chosen Shop" 01:00:05 "ADAS Insights and Validation" 01:03:33 "Aligned for Selfless Collaboration" | |||
| Episode 254 - Grit, Growth, and Genuine Leadership in the Diesel Industry with Chris Gayne | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:51:39 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Chris Gayne, owner of Dale County Diesel. Chris shares his unique journey from Army attack helicopter pilot to diesel shop owner, highlighting the importance of leadership and integrity in building his team. The conversation covers why prioritizing people and culture over technical skill is critical, the value of honest customer communication, and the ongoing challenge of maintaining passion while running a successful business. 00:00 Garage Trouble Without License 06:19 "Learning Through Experience" 09:39 Truck Repairs and Industry Journey 12:59 "Results Over Passion" 15:55 "Passion and Honesty in Selling" 17:05 "Transparent Auto Repair Process" 20:52 "Morals Over Money" 25:31 "Passing the Torch" 26:24 "Plans for Business Continuity" 29:31 "Failed Recruitment Due to Diploma" 33:14 "Lessons on Hard Work" 37:25 "Maximizing Growth Within Business" 42:09 "Shifting Passion and Letting Go" 45:17 "Work-Life Balance Struggles" 46:32 "Guidance Counselor Tension Escalates" 51:01 "Unexpected Apology on Facebook" | |||
| Episode 253 - Small Town Shop Ownership, Family Dynamics, and Overcoming Resentment with John Presnell | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:56:13 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by John Presnell, a shop owner from North Carolina, who shares his journey in taking over the family business. John discusses overcoming personal and professional resentments as he transitioned from working under his parents to owning the shop. Key topics include the challenges of shop growth and efficiency, strategies for training and developing a younger team, and the importance of personal growth through forgiveness and mentorship. 00:00 "Florida Drivers in Mountains" 04:44 "Slow, Stressful 27-Mile Drive" 08:23 Frustration Over Van Repairs 12:17 "Engine Coolant Leak Fail" 13:43 Flatlands Pickup Talk 19:18 "Overcoming Negativity and Growing" 21:26 "Parables as Framework for Success" 24:34 "Career Choices and Challenges" 28:52 "Family Dynamics and Influence" 33:02 "Accident Leads to Lasting Injury" 34:52 "From Porta Potty to Upgraded Space" 39:05 "Reflections on Growth and Work" 42:51 "Start at the Beginning" 44:59 "Keeping Business Decisions Private" 48:35 "Community Action and Attendance" 50:15 "Over a Barrel Moment" 55:24 "Sense Trade-off in Marriage" 56:09 "Affirmative Response" | |||
| Episode 252 - Can You Transform Automotive Inspections with AI with Uwe Kleinschmidt | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:54:31 | |
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, David and Lucas are joined by Uwe Kleinschmidt of AutoTechIQ. Uwe explains how AI-powered tools are revolutionizing the Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) process, highlighting how annotated photos and captions can help customers better understand repair recommendations. The discussion also explores industry coaching advice on customer communication, with Uwe challenging traditional authority-based approaches by emphasizing transparency and customer empowerment. 00:00 AI Streamlines Automotive Service Communication 06:39 "DVI: The Ultimate CRM Tool" 10:11 "Streamlining Auto Flow Processes" 11:51 "Routine Inspections for Vehicle Health" 15:18 "Optimal Vehicle Maintenance Decisions" 18:23 "Transparency Builds Trust in Service" 24:39 "Tech8IQ Delays Dispatch Process" 27:37 "AI Fixing Cost Discrepancies" 30:18 "Autonomy Issues in Service Inspections" 32:48 "Coaching Pushback on Customer Calls" 36:24 "Key KPI: Customer View Rate" 39:25 "Improving Customer Interaction Metrics" 44:27 Shopware Weakness and DVI Feedback 47:05 "Gen Z's Communication Preferences" 51:28 Embedded Comparison Video Idea 53:08 "AI Image Stirs Debate" | |||