From Oil Changes to Leadership With TJ White of Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care
Épisode 166
mercredi 5 mars 2025 • Durée 22:27
TJ White is the General Manager of Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care, a company with six locations in the Canton and Akron, Ohio area that specializes in tire and auto repair services. Under TJ's leadership, Tire Source has maintained strong community relationships and a reputation for customer loyalty, stemming from its innovative and efficient service practices. TJ grew up in Akron and has been part of the family business since he was 16, having worked his way up from changing oil and tires to his current managerial role.
In this episode…
Operating a tire and auto repair business with multiple locations presents an abundance of challenges and opportunities. What are some key strategies that contribute to success and growth?
According to TJ White of Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care, the company has several key strategies. Tire Source focuses on being innovative and efficient, staying up-to-date with technology, and investing in training and equipment. It takes a step-by-step approach to implementing new technologies, testing them at one location before rolling them out to all locations. Transparency with employees is a priority, leading to a low turnover rate.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes TJ for a conversation about Tire Source, family history with Goodyear, business growth and strategy, and a memorable story about finding drugs in a spare tire. They also discuss the importance of efficiency and process, as well as the value of transparency and a positive work environment.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
[02:24] TJ White discusses his deep-rooted community connections and customer relationships
[03:08] The White family's unwavering loyalty to Goodyear tires
[08:07] Tire Source's innovative approach to staying tech-savvy
[09:37] The strategic, step-by-step business improvement process used by Tire Source
[11:29] How Tire Source's employee turnover stays low
[13:24] TJ's philosophy: Efficiency and action drive success in business
"I've never entertained anything else. I grew up wanting to go to work with my dad every day."
"Efficiency is something that drives me to become efficient in every way that I do anything."
"We try and make it very clear what we can offer to you, what you can offer to us."
"Everything can be fine-tuned, and then once you fine-tune it, you can fine-tune it again."
"I like to think of us as innovative, efficient, and always trying to stay up with the times."
Action Steps:
Focus on building strong community relationships: Engaging with the community and fostering trust can lead to long-term loyalty and customer retention, helping to stand out in a competitive market.
Embrace technological advancements: Investing in technology improves efficiency and service quality, providing a competitive edge and meeting modern customer expectations.
Implement a phased approach to new investments: This minimizes risk and allows for adjustments based on real-world feedback, managing resources and reducing potential waste.
Prioritize transparency in employment practices: By clearly communicating expectations and company values, businesses can foster a positive work environment and improve employee satisfaction.
Commit to continuous improvement: Address inefficiencies and seize opportunities for growth and development.
Adrenaline, Autos, and Achievements With Cory Brown of Cory's Point S Tire
Épisode 165
mercredi 26 février 2025 • Durée 23:57
Cory Brown is the Owner of Cory's Point S Tire in Rapid City, South Dakota. Under Cory's leadership, the business has expanded to two locations, employing 35-40 staff members. Outside of business hours, Cory characterizes himself as an adrenaline junkie who enjoys car racing, snowboarding, motocross, and mountain climbing.
In this episode…
As any industry veteran can attest, the automotive field is an immensely competitive one. What makes a business thrive in a competitive sector, and how do leaders overcome the challenges posed by rapid growth and changing market dynamics?
Cory Brown of Cory’s Point S Tire shares how he tackled these challenges head-on through a combination of grit, dedication, and strategic alliances. Raised in South Dakota, Cory took an unconventional path to success by embracing opportunities to learn and lead from a young age. His story unfolds with trials, triumphs, and the pivotal moment he joined Point S, a cooperative network that transformed his business landscape. Cory’s passion for cars and commitment to excellence, coupled with the support of a like-minded community, helped him build a business that stands out. Cory reveals how the Point S network not only provided tangible business benefits, but fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Cory Brown to chat about the journey from an independent tire shop owner to a respected member of the Point S network. They delve into the intricacies of growing a family business in the tire industry and provide valuable insights into the power of building relationships, relentless work ethic, and leveraging the support of a cooperative network to achieve business goals.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
[02:00] How Cory Brown's three sons keep him on his toes
[02:29] Family dynamics and their role in toughness
[03:14] Why Cory never backs down in arm wrestling
[08:20] The benefits of attending Point S Tire Conference
[09:08] Cory discusses his leap from sales to store management
[10:38] The secrets behind Cory's successful store leadership
[11:27] What made Cory skeptical about joining Point S?
Resources mentioned in this episode: Quotable Moments: Action Steps: Sponsor for this episode...
Transforming the Tire Industry With Ryan Ragan of Automotive Service & Tire Alliance
Épisode 156
mercredi 18 décembre 2024 • Durée 29:49
Ryan Ragan is the Executive Director of the Automotive Service & Tire Alliance, where he focuses on enhancing value to members through innovative programs and training in the tech and tire sectors. Under his leadership, ASTA aims to expand its reach with events and educational initiatives, fostering greater involvement from the tire industry in addition to its strong mechanical service foundation. Ryan's background is rich with experience in international trade associations and nonprofits, and he brings a unique blend of business acumen and passion to his role at ASTA.
In this episode…
The automotive industry is undergoing significant transformations, with emerging trends and challenges shaping its future. How can industry leaders adapt to these changes to ensure continued growth and success?
According to Ryan Ragan, Executive Director of Automotive Service & Tire Alliance, adapting to changes in the automotive industry requires a focus on innovation and collaboration. He emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for networking and deal-making, particularly through events that bring together decision-makers and vendors. By facilitating interactions between key players, the industry can foster partnerships that drive growth and address common challenges.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Ryan to discuss the future of the automotive service industry. They explore topics such as the expansion of industry events, strategies for increasing vendor engagement, and efforts to integrate tire services more comprehensively. Ryan shares his vision for enhancing member benefits through educational programs and networking opportunities, aiming to strengthen community ties and support business growth within the sector.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
[01:55] The Wild West origins of Ryan Ragan's hometown
[02:45] How wrestling shaped Ryan's discipline and resilience
[04:36] The future of Automotive Service & Tire Alliance’s big events
[05:49] Why networking with decision-makers is game-changing
[06:07] How ASTA enhances business deal opportunities
[11:55] The innovative educational tools ASTA provides for members
Resources mentioned in this episode: Quotable Moments: Action Steps: Sponsor for this episode...
Sticking to What You Do Best With Larry Sutton, President and Founder of RNR Tire Express
Épisode 66
mercredi 4 janvier 2023 • Durée 24:13
Larry Sutton is the Founder and President of RNR Tire Express, a national tire shop franchise with 155 locations across 26 states. Founded in 2000, the franchise was initially known as Rent-n-Roll. Larry attributes the success of RNR Tire Express to keeping focus on what your shop does well and serving customers — not just providing service.
In this episode…
As the owner or manager of a tire and auto repair shop, does your store try to be all things to all people? Or does it stick to what it’s good at? According to Larry Sutton, the President and Founder of RNR Tire Express, a key to his shop’s success and longevity is to keep it “as simple as possible and stay focused on what you do really well.” Larry has discovered that messing around in different areas can take your focus off main business and as a result, you won’t be as good at your main business as you want to be.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge discusses the true meaning of customer service with Larry, who says “we're a real proponent of what we call serving our customers, as opposed to just providing service.” Larry says straying from what your shop does well causes your level of customer service to drop from what it could be. Larry and Mike also talk about franchising in the tire industry, generating repeat business, and the best movie of all time. Don’t miss it!
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Larry Sutton explains why he brought the rent-to-own concept to the tire industry
How Larry got into the tire business
What it was like to open the first store
Larry’s philosophy for achieving business success
The rate of return customers for RNR franchisees
Why Top Gun: Maverick is Larry’s favorite movie of all time
Growing Your Tire Business With Judd K. Shader, Founder and CEO at Leeds West Groups
Épisode 65
mercredi 28 décembre 2022 • Durée 22:44
Judd K. Shader is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Leeds West Groups, one of the largest and most-respected leaders in the franchise aftermarket automotive repair space. He founded the company in 2009, when he was a student at the University of Colorado Boulder. Judd is active across various automotive industry boards and organizations and resides in Denver, CO.
In this episode…
As the owner of a tire and auto repair shop, what will it take to expand your number of stores? Have you thought about growing from two to four locations? How about double-digit locations in multiple states? According to Judd K. Shader, whose company started with two Midas shops and now consists of a combined 121 Big O Tires and Midas locations, a large part of that growth is driven by process.
“Anytime you're talking retail, it's process-based. And there's no difference here,” Judd said. “We understood quickly to create the scale we wanted, our processes had to be really tight.” If you’re looking to grow, check out this episode of Gain Traction!
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with Judd to discuss the keys to successful scalability for a franchisee in tire and auto repair. Judd shares how his dad gave him the choice between becoming a business owner or pursuing a graduate degree. He ultimately chose to become a franchisee, so his dad helped fund two Midas shops and now Judd and his team have grown their number of stores into the triple digits, with plans toadd more retail locations in markets they already occupy. Don’t miss it!
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Judd K. Shader explains how his dad gave him the choice between earning a MBA or starting a small business
Why Judd ended up choosing Midas as his initial business
How Judd went from owning two Midas shops to getting heavily involved with tires
The importance of process for scalability in the tire and auto repair business
How the acquisition of Big O Tires stores led to the formation of Leeds West Groups
Why real estate is a great long term investment for Leeds West Groups
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...
Building a Positive Work Environment With Al Pridemore, CEO and Co-owner of Pride Auto Care
Épisode 64
mercredi 21 décembre 2022 • Durée 27:14
Al Pridemore is CEO and Co-owner of Pride Auto Care. He and his brothers became owners in 2005, starting with two shops before growing to six. Pride Auto Care is a full-service tire and automotive center focused on putting their employees first. Their philosophy is that building relationships and leadership, within all of their ranks, results in great service for the customer.
In this episode…
As any tire and auto repair shop owner knows, building a positive workplace culture can be challenging. What about turning a negative workplace culture into a positive one while keeping most of the same staff? According to Al Pridemore of Pride Auto Care, it can be done — his company purchased an existing shop with a negative atmosphere and completely reversed the culture. Are you curious how this happened? Don’t miss this episode of Gain Traction!
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Al for a conversation about building a positive culture in a tire and auto repair shop. Even if you have a lot of factors working against you, with a people-focused culture, Al says you’ll “parlay that thought and that feeling into the customers — they want to be where they're appreciated, where there's a relationship.” He shares how he’s built that type of culture in his company. Tune in!
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Al Pridemore shares how he ended up in the auto repair business
How Al and his brothers have grown Pride Auto Care over the past 15 years
The biggest turning point as Pride Auto Center grew
Changing a negative culture after buying an existing shop and retaining most of the staff
Culture Is Everything With Joe Rush, Owner of Rush Automotive
Épisode 63
mercredi 14 décembre 2022 • Durée 22:11
Joe Rush is the Owner of Rush Automotive. He opened his first location in Round Rock, TX in 2011 with just three employees. Since then, Rush Automotive has grown to nearly 50 employees across five locations. The motto at Rush Automotive is “Caring for People and Cars.” As a culture-based company, Rush Automotive works hard to live out that motto.
In this episode…
People often talk about the culture at their workplace. Is it a positive culture? Is it negative or toxic? Can customers notice the culture the minute they walk through the door? Everybody wants to work in a positive culture, but how do you build one? If you’d like to hear an informative and inspiring conversation about culture building, don’t miss this episode of Gain Traction!
When it comes to building a positive culture in the workplace, multiple factors are in play. According to Joe Rush, of Rush Automotive, it boils down to “the genuineness of the relationship that my leadership team has with each individual employee, the genuineness that I personally have, in my role, with each employee.” Joe has learned that when you care for your people, they care for the customer.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge and Joe sit down for a conversation all about culture. They discuss the keys to building a positive culture and why it’s important for customer relations. They also talk about a healthy culture’s effect on limiting employee turnover. When people come to work for Joe, he says, “this is the last job they’re ever going to have.” Find out how he makes that happen on this episode of Gain Traction!
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Joe Rush shares how and when he knew he would be an owner in the automotive industry
What it means to be a culture-based company
How Rush Automotive’s culture is noticeably different
Why Rush Automotive stores are closed on weekends
What Joe learned from hiring someone who ended up being a bad cultural fit
The dynamics necessary to keep long-term employees
Implementing a Strategic Process With Randy O’Connor of MTD TEN
Épisode 62
mercredi 7 décembre 2022 • Durée 27:26
Randy O'Connor is the Executive Director of MTD TEN. He is a strategic specialist with a talent for analyzing and improving process and procedure. Randy has held a variety of roles in the tire business, from retail to distribution. He maintains a long-range perspective and thrives when he’s in position to handle a problem.
In this episode…
How are you preparing your tire and auto repair shop for 2023? In the past two years, we’ve seen record-breaking car counts, revenues, and units sold. Unfortunately, according to Randy O’Connor, Executive Director of MTD TEN, “not every independent takes the time to sit down this time of year and make sure they're working through the system of business planning for 2023.” He continued, “if you don’t take the first steps forward, you’re never going to get there.” Randy says it’s time to have meetings with vendors and figure out where your biggest gaps and opportunities are. Hear more of his perspective on this episode of Gain Traction!
On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier welcomes Randy for a conversation about best strategic business practices for managing a tire and auto repair shop. Randy emphasizes the importance of planning for 2023 a few months before it hits. He also talks about his primary KPI — mix of business — and how understanding it is key. Randy says focusing on gross profit dollars per invoice will allow you to figure out if you need to change a behavior. Gain wisdom by hearing this informative episode!
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Randy O’Connor explains how he found his way into the tire industry
The importance of partnering with like-minded people to tackle bigger challenges
Why having a set process and procedure can lighten your workload
Randy talks about his plans for 2023 after the crazy past two years in the automotive industry
Why it’s important to decipher your strengths from your weaknesses
How a focus on gross profit dollars over percentage can motivate the right behaviors
Randy’s best piece of advice to shop owners looking to 2023
Working Your Way From Lube Tech to Owner With Brad Updegraff, Owner of Dave's Ultimate Automotive
Épisode 61
mercredi 30 novembre 2022 • Durée 22:31
Brad Updegraff is the Owner of Dave’s Ultimate Automotive, which has six locations in Texas. He started as a lube technician in a small, Austin-based gas station and repair shop in 1998, and moved into the front office as an advisor in 2001. Brad worked his way up to being manager, acquired his ASE certification and started working for Dave’s Ultimate Automotive as an advisor in 2010. He bought the original location in 2012 and expanded to six locations by 2016.
In this episode…
If you’re an employee at a tire and auto repair shop, you probably enjoy what you do. Have you ever thought about moving up within the industry? Are you a good technician? Do you like communicating with people? If so, you may have what it takes! To hear the story of someone who successfully navigated his way to the top, check out this episode of Gain Traction!
Brad Updegraff of Dave’s Ultimate Automotive started as a lube technician and now owns six locations. He said he had been working in the industry for about two years and one day, “I just remember stopping when I was under the hood and realizing that I actually understood more of the mechanics than I had in previous days, and it gave me this confidence that I needed to continue to build on this, and move forward and see what that turned into.” Brad built on his passion for helping people solve their car problems.
On this episode of Gain Traction, you’ll hear from Brad, who joins Mike Edge for a conversation about advancing through the automotive industry. He shares how he got his start, gained confidence in his abilities, embraced his passion for helping people, and developed his skills as a leader — “I was the first to show up and the last one to leave. I was accountable for everything” — shaping the culture of his shop. Tune in to hear Brad talk about how a positive environment can impact a customer’s day!
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
When Brad Updegraff knew he wanted to own his own tire and auto repair shop
How a robbery at a pizza restaurant motivated Brad to work in the automotive industry
Why each Dave’s Ultimate Automotive shop is in its specific location
How leadership can positively impact business culture
Resources mentioned in this episode: Sponsor for this episode...
Growing Your Tire Business With Judd K. Shader, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Leeds West Groups
Épisode 60
mercredi 23 novembre 2022 • Durée 22:37
Judd K. Shader is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Leeds West Groups, one of the largest and most-respected leaders in the franchise aftermarket automotive repair space. He founded the company in 2009, when he was a student at the University of Colorado Boulder. Judd is active across various automotive industry boards and organizations and resides in Denver, CO.
In this episode…
As the owner of a tire and auto repair shop, what will it take to expand your number of stores? Have you thought about growing from two to four locations? How about double-digit locations in multiple states? According to Judd K. Shader, whose company started with two Midas shops and now consists of a combined 121 Big O Tires and Midas locations, a large part of that growth is driven by process.
“Anytime you're talking retail, it's process-based. And there's no difference here,” Judd said. “We understood quickly to create the scale we wanted, our processes had to be really tight.” If you’re looking to grow, check out this episode of Gain Traction!
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with Judd to discuss the keys to successful scalability for a franchisee in tire and auto repair. Judd shares how his dad gave him the choice between becoming a business owner or pursuing a graduate degree. He ultimately chose to become a franchisee, so his dad helped fund two Midas shops and now Judd and his team have grown their number of stores into the triple digits, with plans to add more retail locations in markets they already occupy. Don’t miss it!
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Judd K. Shader explains how his dad gave him the choice between earning a MBA or starting a small business
Why Judd ended up choosing Midas as his initial business
How Judd went from owning two Midas shops to getting heavily involved with tires
The importance of process for scalability in the tire and auto repair business
How the acquisition of Big O Tires stores led to the formation of Leeds West Groups
Why real estate is a great long term investment for Leeds West Groups
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...
[19:08] How Cory balances family and adrenaline-fueled hobbies
"Even though it's home, the Black Hills is one of my favorite places."
"I have one button, and it's on. I don't really know how to play very well."
"I was the youngest guy in the shop, which was so weird."
"You gotta maintain that mental top position."
"I think my favorite part is seeing the inter-family relationships."
Foster open communication within the team: Building a culture of open communication encourages sharing of ideas and concerns, which can lead to innovative solutions.
Embrace a collaborative environment: Fostering camaraderie within the workplace allows individuals to learn from one another and share different perspectives.
Inspire a strong work ethic: Demonstrating commitment and diligence can motivate the rest of the team to follow suit.
Leverage mentorship opportunities: Seeking guidance from more experienced individuals can provide valuable insights and help avoid common pitfalls.
Prioritize work-life balance: Engaging in fulfilling activities outside of work can improve overall well-being and job satisfaction.
"Your ego is the most expensive thing you own. If you want to go broke, just keep following that ego."
"I want you to be able to come there and do business. I want you to be able to close deals."
"It's always the older generation, the next generation, how they view things and how they see things."
"We're not going to lose our southern charm. It's still going to be very accessible, very down home."
"I've seen a lot of good, I've seen a lot of bad."
Engage in industry networking events: Attend industry-specific trade shows and networking events to meet decision-makers and potential partners.
Utilize educational resources: Leverage member-exclusive educational programs and webinars to stay updated on industry best practices and innovations.
Implement digital visual inspections: Adopt DVI technology to increase transparency with customers, fostering trust and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Participate in community support initiatives: Get involved in industry charity events or local support efforts to strengthen community ties and improve public perception.
Seek feedback and adapt to market needs: Regularly conduct surveys and hold town hall-style meetings with industry peers to understand the challenges and needs within the market.
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