Explore every episode of the podcast Beyond the Wrench
Dive into the complete episode list for Beyond the Wrench. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
Building Trust Between Shops & Customers
19 Nov 2025
00:59:38
Marc Poulsen, National Accounts Manager, shares how AutoNet TV helps shops build trust with customers and why it’s essential. Learn why showcasing ASE-certified technicians matters, the public’s misconceptions about the technician role, and the challenges of explaining maintenance and complex repairs to customers.
Building Future Technicians with Tom Wood University
12 Nov 2025
00:59:59
Bill Demaree and Aaron Blount join us to share how Tom Wood University brings high school students into the dealership for hands-on automotive learning. They discuss the “why” behind the program, the importance of ownership support in building a marketplace of future technicians, and how they structure the curriculum to prepare students for real-world success in the industry.
Milwaukee Pipeline Series: Hand Tools Designed with Technicians in Mind
10 Sep 2025
00:43:53
Recorded live at the Milwaukee Pipeline 2025 event, Leah Balto, Group Manager of Product Marketing at Milwaukee Tool, joins host Jay Goninen to walk us through Milwaukee’s latest hand tool kits, explain how the team studies technicians in real-world settings to inspire smarter innovations, and share how Milwaukee Tool is investing in solutions that support technicians’ long-term health.
We are proud to welcome Daniel Diaz, Service Technician at Braman BMW Miami (and rising TikTok star)! In this episode, Daniel offers advice to young technicians on purchasing tools, encourages all technicians to keep learning, and emphasizes the importance of finding the right shop management and support as a new technician.
(1:27) Tool Organization for Efficiency (12:51) Keeping Up with Technology & EV (30:45) Having the Right Shop Support (34:32) Shopping Smart for Tools (43:50) Always Keep Learning
Sponsor: Universal Technical Institute: a place that provides opportunity for passion to become purpose. For training to lead toward a career. For over 55 years, UTI’s family of schools has helped students pursue their passion in exciting fields like transportation, skilled trades and energy. There’s a reason why students choose us and top brands hire our graduates. Reputation and commitment. Our relationships with some of the world’s most recognizable brands allow students to gain specific knowledge.
As a student, you’ll train how the industry does. Learning from instructors with real world-experience and training hands-on with industry tools and equipment in the lab. We’re committed to your success – that’s why we’re making $15 million in scholarships and grants available this year alone to those who qualify.
It’s time to invest in you. Get started today at uti.edu!
Disclaimer: UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. Financial aid, scholarships and grants are available to those who qualify. Awards vary due to specific conditions, criteria and state.
Guide to Online Car Auctions: Operating, Buying, & Selling
22 Nov 2023
01:02:16
Bob Gaito, Chief Executive Officer at Auction Central and Principal at Exit5 Auto Group, shares his unique auction and dealership experience in this week’s episode. Bob dives into how online auctions operate and the role of auctions in the automotive industry. He also discusses the different career options available for technicians in the auction world, and provides advice for shops looking to buy and sell inventory.
(9:51) Layout of an Online Auction (26:02) Auction Technician Career Opportunities (31:05) Keeping Buyers & Sellers Honest (38:32) Challenges of Running an Auction (50:28) Advice for Buyers & Sellers (55:14) Future of Auction Business
Sponsor: OK. Your customer’s engine or transmission has failed. But now is not the time for them to trade their vehicle – not without a working engine or transmission. Besides, would they have kept their vehicle another 3-5 years if their engine or transmission had not let them down?
If you answered “yes” then Jasper Engines and Transmissions is your choice to give your customer’s vehicle new life and many thousands of miles of enjoyable driving performance.
When considering the high cost of a new or newer used vehicle, there’s a pretty good case to be made for replacing a drive train component that has failed or is delivering poor performance – rather than trading their car, truck, van or SUV. Install a quality re-manufactured JASPER product for less than your customer would have to invest in a new vehicle or a newer used vehicle.
Check out their website at jasperengines.com to learn more about the money-saving value of JASPER.
Pride in your work and pride in the industry! In this week’s episode, Josh Arnold, Master Technician at Toyota & Subaru of Corvallis, radiates his contagious passion and positive attitude toward the automotive industry. Get an inside look at how to maintain a positive mindset in a challenging industry, the importance of having patience as a young technician, and the power of having a great mentor.
(3:26) Negativity on Social Media (11:35) Subaru Technician Competition (31:12) Young Technicians’ Impatience (36:15) Mentoring & Power of a Mentor (49:37) Flat Rate for Green Technicians
Bonus Episode: Attracting Military Veterans to Your Shop
10 Nov 2023
01:08:00
Veterans who have experience as military technicians offer a unique skill set that can bring significant value to shops and dealerships. In this bonus episode, we cover ways shops can recruit and retain veterans, how to evaluate appropriate pay and skill levels of techs, and offer tips for better communication with veteran techs.
(5:15) Why Recruit Veterans? (11:02) Assisting with Tools (26:32) Communicating with Vets (37:34) Ways to Reach & Recruit Veterans (50:31) Financial Status Post-Service
Culture is a big buzzword, but what does it actually mean? Dan Bredeson, Founder of Lead Front Consulting LLC and Author of the Amazon Bestseller "Seeds of Culture,” defines culture simply as, “how we do things.” In this episode, Dan breaks down all things culture, explains its historical significance, stresses the importance of building your credibility bank as a new leader, and so much more!
(3:39) Dan’s Background (20:46) Summarizing Culture (27:40) New Leadership for a Failing Team (34:56) Creating a Psychologically Safe Environment (42:13) Building Credibility as a Leader (48:58) Climate of Culture
Compare & Explore Technician Pay: View salary information for automotive, diesel, and collision technicians near you at wrenchway.com/pay.
Find Your Ideal Shop or Dealership: Looking for the best places to work? Discover and research the best shop or dealership for you at wrenchway.com/shops.
For Shops & Dealerships
Hire Top Talent & Assist Schools: Connect with skilled technicians, engage with schools, and help elevate the auto and diesel industry with WrenchWay Top Shop Memberships.
For Auto, Diesel, & CTE Instructors:
Support Your Program & Connect with Industry: Get resources and equipment for your program and grow your industry partnerships with WrenchWay's free solutions for schools.
Shops need to be more transparent with their technicians about their financial standing, and technicians need better education on financial management and beyond. In this episode, Matt Fanslow, a Diagnostic Technician and Shop Manager at Riverside Automotive, delves into financial transparency and education, explains how positive technicians are the best salespersons for our industry, and offers guidance to technicians looking to discuss challenging topics with their managers.
(2:40) Advocating for Technician Careers (21:40) Financial Transparency with Technicians (41:16) Financial Education for Technicians (49:48) Navigating Challenging Conversations with Management
Arvin Merino, the Service Director of Toyota of Seattle and Honda of Seattle, joins us to discuss the remarkable shop culture within their shops. Arvin explains how listening to shop staff, fostering relationships outside of the shop, and placing a stronger emphasis on staffing and selecting individuals with the right personalities have contributed to the overall growth of their shop culture.
(4:29) Arvin’s Journey in Automotive (12:37) Listening & Communicating with the Team (28:09) Building Relationships Outside of the Dealership (37:16) Managing Different Shop Personalities (52:53) Flexible Scheduling for Techs
Tara Topel joins us to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Topel's Service Center, Inc.! As a Co-Owner of an independent shop and towing center, Tara brings a unique perspective to the table. During the episode, she covers ways in which shops can support schools, emphasizes the importance of encouraging youth to join the trade, and stresses the significance of taking care of your technicians—paving a brighter future for the automotive industry.
(1:59) About Topel’s Service Center (16:17) Supporting the Community (27:45) Hiring Youth in the Shop (33:30) Servant Leadership (42:18) Communicating with Techs (48:07) Promoting Technician Careers
Career Paths & Expectations for Young Diesel Techs
11 Oct 2023
01:07:39
This week, we welcome Tom Wozniak, Diesel Technology Instructor at Madison College, and two of his current students, Jacob Breunig and Max Richard. Together, they discuss the importance of having confidence and patience as young technicians, express concerns regarding the future of diesel, and emphasize the need for shops to establish career paths to retain technicians.
(1:26) Guest Backgrounds (15:09) Applying School Lessons in the Shop (26:04) Patience & Confidence as Young Techs (39:46) The Future of the Diesel Industry (42:54) Setting a Career Path for Technicians (53:40) Skill Expectations for New Techs
Brandon Steckler, Technical Editor at Motor Age Magazine, takes us on a unique voyage through his automotive career. Moving from a technician role to becoming an instructor and eventually an author has provided Brandon with valuable industry insights. In this episode, he covers how to enhance our technician certification system, ways to gain a deeper understanding of younger technicians, and discusses the significant shortage of educators.
(4:48) Teaching in the U.K. (15:22) U.S. Certifications vs. U.K. Certifications (37:24) Correcting the Instructor Shortage (48:39) Patience With Young Technicians
Sponsor: Since 2015, Fullbay has made life easier for pretty much everyone who works in commercial diesel repair shops. Techs are more efficient and productive, parts managers can keep an eye on inventory, and owners can see exactly what’s going on in the shop at any given time—from just about anywhere.
What does all that mean? Well, Fullbay’s improved workflow leads to more vehicles being worked on—which means more revenue for your shop. And that revenue is easier than ever to collect; you can send estimates with the click of a button.
Shop customers also tend to be big fans of Fullbay—and not just because features like Fullbay Payments and Fleet Payments make it easy for them to settle up. They can authorize work, receive text message updates as work proceeds, and reach out to the shop with questions through their own portal.
Webinar Replay: Building Effective Educational Partnerships
03 Sep 2025
01:02:24
In this recorded webinar, Tom Wozniak, Diesel Instructor at Madison College, and John Gustafson, Shop Owner at Gustafson Brothers, share both the school and shop perspectives on building stronger partnerships. They discuss where shops should start, how to get the most out of advisory committees, the importance of consistency, and the power of serving on school boards to be a voice for the industry.
Allen Turner, Owner of Allen Turner Automotive Group, believes the most important people in his dealerships are his technicians. In this episode, we explore how Allen’s passion for automotive began, what a good shop culture looks like, and how he has grown his own roster of technicians.
(1:06) Allen’s Passion for Automotive (10:49) Prioritizing Technicians (24:48) Good Shop Culture (40:41) Growing Your Own (54:22) Technician Mentorship
Tracey Hicks, Automotive Instructor at Frederick County Public Schools, gives us an inside look at what it’s like to build a high school auto program while gaining industry relationships. Tracey discusses the benefits of working with past graduates, the impact of industry support on his program, and the need to introduce trades to kids at a young age.
(2:38) Tracey’s Teaching Journey (14:12) Benefits of Being Involved with Alumni (20:47) Positive Influence of Industry Support (30:08) Running Effective Advisory Committee Meetings (41:08) Introducing Industry at a Young Age
David Mortlock, the Fixed Ops Director at Sheppard Auto Group, understands the importance of building relationships with his technicians. In this episode, David covers how to manage your P&L statement while growing and keeping techs happy, the importance of getting to know your techs and their goals, and the need to prioritize the technician and service advisor relationship.
(16:55) Treating Technicians Right (20:59) Developing Technician Career Paths (33:42) Managing P&L While Growing Techs (41:49) Better Explaining Pay Structures (50:09) Technician and Service Advisor Relationship
Small but mighty, Madison Andrews, a technician at Group 1 Automotive, doesn't let her gender, size, or age stop her from excelling as a strong technician in the shop. In this episode, Madison discusses her automotive career, the impact good mentors can have on technicians, and what it's like being a female in the industry.
(1:22) Madison’s Journey in Automotive (11:44) Joining Toyota’s T-TEN Program (28:50) Building Trust as a Young Tech (38:15) Having & Creating Positive Mentor Relationships (52:31) Importance of a Defined Career Path
Bonus Episode: Best Practices for Working with Schools
01 Sep 2023
00:58:49
Shops know the importance of working with local schools, and schools need support from industry—yet there is a disconnect. During this bonus episode, we dive into how shops can better grow their relationships with schools, the benefits of working with schools early on, and the importance of setting the right expectations for young technicians.
(5:58) How Industry Currently Supports Schools (10:44) Positive Impact of Working with Schools (21:45) #1 Tip for Shops: Show Up (32:43) Setting a Career Path for Young Techs (40:14) Choosing the Right Techs as Mentors (43:34) Communication Between Shops & Schools
The popularity of merging and selling shops has really grown within the last decade. It can be a scary process for shop owners and their employees, but that is where Cole Strandberg, Principal at FOCUS Investment Banking, and his team come in. Tune into this episode to learn how to attract buyers to your shop and get educated on the merger and acquisition process.
(7:20) The M&A Process (14:26) Guiding Staff During Shop Sale (19:43) How to Attract Buyers (32:25) KPIs to Focus On (39:24) Importance of Proper Communication
Adam Bryant, Shop Foreman of Enxing Kia, makes his second appearance on Beyond the Wrench this week! In this episode, Adam provides simple shop tasks young technicians can do to help make a positive impression. He also discusses why it is important to have confidence as a young tech and shop benefits to look for when seeking employment.
(16:04) Simple Tasks to Increase Shop Efficiency (24:19) Be Patient & Confident (38:21) Shops Investing in Their People (42:15) Pressure & Expectations of Young Techs (53:39) Be Aware of Tool Debt
Stephanie Stanke, Owner of Wooster's Garage, brings a fresh perspective in this week’s episode on how our industry can address one of its most significant shortcomings—the technician shortage. Stephanie discusses the importance of collaborating with local youth and schools, how she has built alliances with her competitors, and ways the industry can attract more female technicians.
(2:07) Stephanie’s Automotive Career (12:56) Getting Involved with Local Schools (29:27) Industry Losing Its Best People (33:52) Working with Other Shops (45:12) Changing the Industry’s Perception (56:47) Attracting More Female Technicians
As a shop manager or owner, it is crucial to establish effective communication and build relationships with your technicians. As a Commercial Supervisor of James Matthews Ford, Jon Boyd understands this task better than most. During this episode, Jon shares how he manages his diverse team and discusses ways shops can improve their technicians’ lives.
(1:46) Jon’s Career (12:22) Getting Honest Feedback from Employees (29:52) Responsibility of Communication (37:09) Becoming a Trusted Leader (41:46) Ways to Improve Techs’ Lives
Bonus Episode: Flat Rate’s Contribution to the Technician Shortage
04 Aug 2023
01:05:35
In this bonus episode, we replay a recent WrenchWay roundtable discussion about flat rate. Our panelists Russel Wickham from Country II and Jon Boyd from James Matthews Ford, LLC. engage in conversation about their opinions on flat rate and how it’s impacting the industry. They also give advice on how to improve the flat rate system along with more insight on how flat rate impacts technicians.
(7:11) Experiences with Flat Rate (13:08) What Does Flat Rate Mean? (22:04) The “Why” Behind Flat Rate (31:04) Flat Rate’s Impact on Technicians (39:50) How to Improve the Current Flat Rate System (50:45) How to Openly Talk About Flat Rate
When Service Advisors Put Technicians First, Everyone Wins
27 Aug 2025
01:01:36
Rena Rennebohm, CEO of Empowered Advisor, shares why shops thrive when service advisors put technicians first. With years of experience coaching advisors, Rena explains how stronger collaboration between advisors and technicians leads to better shop culture and performance. She also dives into challenges such as high service advisor turnover, the lack of respect advisors often face, and why she believes nearly 50% of shops are short-staffed at the front.
Danny Combs, Founder of Teaching the Autism Community Trades (TACT) and father of an autistic child, explains the common misunderstandings of autism and how his team is teaching autistic kids technical skills so they can have a career in skilled trades.
Danny’s passion that he has for his students, the autism community, and skilled trades is truly unmatched. You don’t want to miss this episode and all the great things TACT is accomplishing!
“Anybody that wants to come here and learn has that opportunity.” - Danny Combs, Founder of Teaching the Autism Community Trades (TACT)
(5:00) About Autism (11:48) Common Misunderstandings of Autism (27:48) Building and Growing TACT (36:11) Training, Curriculum, & Safety (51:08) Communicating with Autistic Employees
Anniversary Special: An Inside Look at the Good, Bad, & Ugly at WrenchWay
26 Jul 2023
01:05:42
In this episode, Jay Goninen is joined by Mark Wilson, Co-Founder & CEO, and Sara Kerwin, Director of Marketing at WrenchWay, to discuss the unfiltered truth about WrenchWay’s three-year journey in the automotive & diesel industry. The team discusses lessons they’ve learned, changes they’d like to see in the industry, and some hard truths that shops and dealers need to hear. Plus, they give some shoutouts to some industry all-stars.
(5:48) WrenchWay’s Special Limited Time Pricing (26:23) Biggest Industry Frustration (37:30) How WrenchWay Has Made a Difference (41:49) Industry All-Star Shoutouts (48:56) Future of Technician Recruiting (55:53) Projection of the Industry & WrenchWay
Jason Olinger, Lead Automotive Technician at Gwatney Chevrolet is back on Beyond the Wrench! In this week’s episode, Jason explains how he has helped build and grow his shop’s apprenticeship program and shares key lessons he has learned along the way.
(7:27) Starting an Apprenticeship Program (18:59) Choosing Mentors & Curriculum (25:45) Exploring Different Teaching Methods (37:31) Quarterly Check-ins (49:01) Vetting Out Good Apprentices
Get ready for a jam-packed episode where we talk about the secret weapon of technicians: Communication! Join us as we chat with Zach Espinosa, Automotive Technician at Dolan Toyota. We talk about how he has mastered the skill of communication, the importance of face-to-face interactions with technicians, and how we need to build a technician community.
(2:53) Zach’s Career Progression (16:53) Communication in the Shop (28:17) Techs Talk About Pay (35:41) Importance of Networking Outside of the Shop (50:09) Shortfalls of Technician Surveys (57:31) Building a Technician Community
Bonus Episode: Flexible Scheduling for Technicians
07 Jul 2023
01:03:02
In this bonus episode, we replay our previous roundtable discussion on flexible scheduling in shops. Our panelists, Arvin Marino from Toyota Seattle and Crystal Terrell from Leonard Bus Sales, Inc., explain how effective communication and culture in your shop can create flexible scheduling opportunities. They also discuss the future of flexibility and give tips on how shops can adjust to flexible scheduling.
(5:11) Overview of Flexible Scheduling Types (16:06) Technician Feedback on Flex Scheduling (32:17) Importance of Shop Culture (40:38) Productivity & Crowding (50:29) Future of Flexibility (53:42) How Shops Can Set Up Flexible Scheduling
Houman “HK” Kashanipour, CEO & President of Alliant Power, joins us to talk about the changes and growth diesel shops are facing. HK also discusses the changes Alliant Power has gone through, what it will take to attract future diesel technicians, and how dealers can stay profitable while the industry changes.
(1:32) Growing & Serving Customers (10:46) Rebranding Alliant Power (18:06) Keeping Up With Trends (32:50) Attracting Future Diesel Techs (49:17) Creating a Strong Foundation for Change
Compare & Explore Technician Pay: View salary information for automotive, diesel, and collision technicians near you at wrenchway.com/pay.
Find Your Ideal Shop or Dealership: Looking for the best places to work? Discover and research the best shop or dealership for you at wrenchway.com/shops.
For Shops & Dealerships
Hire Top Talent & Assist Schools: Connect with skilled technicians, engage with schools, and help elevate the auto and diesel industry with WrenchWay Top Shop Memberships.
For Auto, Diesel, & CTE Instructors:
Support Your Program & Connect with Industry: Get resources and equipment for your program and grow your industry partnerships with WrenchWay's free solutions for schools.
In this week’s episode, Jon Olstad from Walser Polar Chevrolet explains lessons he learned as he went from technician to team lead at the dealership where he has been working for 20+ years. Jon also offers interview advice, provides ways technicians can have a growth mindset, and talks about how he mentors his peers.
(1:08) Creating a Team Between Parts & Service (8:17) Two-Sided Technician Interviews (24:17) From Technician to Team Lead (47:12) Growth Mindset (52:16) Leading Your Peers
Host an art gallery at the shop, get food trucks, or even put on a jazz festival!
Shop owners and managers, take your solution-seeking personality of fixing cars and add a community element to your business. In this week’s episode, Frank Leutz who is the Founder of Desert Car Care and Founder & Host of WrenchNation, talks about how to get creative, select a budget, and choose themes to turn your shop into a destination for local events.
(13:12) Importance of a Coach (20:40) Making Your Shop a Destination (36:14) Types of Themes & Events (42:50) Event Planning & Budgeting (59:25) Hiring a Publicist for Brand Reach
There are a lot of gaps in the industry regarding pay, culture, and more that are affecting our ability to attract the next generation of technicians.
In this episode, John Fallows, Industry Development Specialist at the School District of Philadelphia, shares what his students are facing when entering the industry, ways shops can better structure their internship programs, and how he has built credibility with his students.
(8:56) Gaining Credibility with Students (12:25) Future of Post-Secondary Programs (22:03) Importance of Shop Culture (31:43) Pay Gaps (47:49) Structuring Shop Internship Programs
Resources:
Refer your friends to WrenchWay and earn free t-shirts! Learn more.
Employees need the shop and the shop needs employees. Simple as that, right?
In this week’s episode, Fred Gestwicki Jr, President of Fix-it With Fred, LLC, gives examples on the benefits of being flexible with your staff, explains the importance of understanding your employee’s point of view, and shares a number of management stories from over the years.
(5:22) How Recruiting Has Changed (22:57) Bettering Technician Relationships (36:35) Types of Owners (51:17) Building a Top Team
Resources:
Now you have more time to snag free t-shirts! Learn more.
Enter to win $1,000 in WrenchWay’s Monthly Giveaway. Learn more.
In this episode, Dave Anderson, President of Learn to Lead, gives leaders actionable strategies for handling tough situations while earning trust and respect. He shares practical advice on holding even high-performing team members accountable, making confrontation conversational, and avoiding the loss of credibility.
William (Bill) Demaree who is the Corporate Director of Fixed Operations at Tom Wood Group joins us on this week’s episode to walk us through his journey in automotive. He also discusses how his group prioritizes their core values and different ways to recruit shop employees.
“You have to find talent where they’re at.” - Bill Demaree, Tom Wood Group
(1:00) Bill’s Career in Automotive (13:14) Importance of Patience (22:44) Knowing Your Core Values (39:25) Employee Career Plans & Pay (48:35) Recruiting Differently
Resources:
Now you have more time to snag free t-shirts! Learn more.
Access to better data, connect with schools, and improve your technician hiring and retention. WrenchWay Shop Membership.
Victoria Thomas, CFO & Co-Owner of Kellymoss Inc. joins us on this week’s episode to discuss the growth that comes from failure and having the right mindset. Victoria and host, Jay Goninen, also cover the lack of women in automotive, the value of telling your story, and how to overcome the financial barrier of motorsports to get started in racing.
(1:51) Victoria’s Background (16:03) The Story of Kellymoss Inc. (27:38) Growth That Failure Causes (45:03) Lack of Women in Automotive (57:02) Future of Motorsports
Resources:
Refer your industry friends to WrenchWay and earn free t-shirts. Learn more.
Sponsor: OK. Your customer’s engine or transmission has failed. But now is not the time for them to trade their vehicle – not without a working engine or transmission. Besides, would they have kept their vehicle another 3-5 years if their engine or transmission had not let them down?
If you answered “yes” then Jasper Engines and Transmissions is your choice to give your customer’s vehicle new life and many thousands of miles of enjoyable driving performance.
When considering the high cost of a new or newer used vehicle, there’s a pretty good case to be made for replacing a drive train component that has failed or is delivering poor performance – rather than trading their car, truck, van or SUV. Install a quality re-manufactured JASPER product for less than your customer would have to invest in a new vehicle or a newer used vehicle.
Check out their website at jasperengines.com to learn more about the money-saving value of JASPER.
Warning: This podcast covers topics that may be intense to some listeners. Viewer discretion is advised.
Are you happy as a technician? Why or why not? Is it your work environment or personal life affecting your happiness?
In this week’s episode, Joshua Taylor who is the Founder of Wrench Turners Online and Just Work Hard Consulting, dives deep into the mental wellness of technicians. Joshua shares data he has gathered from technician wellness surveys, explains the true costs anxiety can have on the shop, and the value of listening to technicians.
(1:39) Joshua’s Background (18:05) High-Value Leaders (27:31) Costs of Anxiety (38:40) Wellness Survey Results (48:03) Objective vs. Subjective Decisions
Resources:
Refer your industry friends to WrenchWay and earn free t-shirts. Learn more.
Sponsor: Truck Country & Stoops is the largest family-owned and operated freightliner dealer group in the U.S. today, serving customers at locations in Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin. For nearly 60 years, they’ve offered new and used medium and heavy-duty trucks, expert service, an extensive parts inventory, and more. If you are wanting to learn more about Truck Country & Stoops visit truckcountry.com.
We hear a lot of shops say, “For insurance reasons, my shop can’t hire workers who are under 18-years-old.” Our response to them is usually, “Are you sure?”
In this week’s podcast, Matthew White who is the Bureau Director at the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, educates us on how easy it can be to hire youth apprentices, and offers useful employment resources for shops and employees.
(1:37) Matthew’s Role & Background (12:37) Employment Resources for Shops (28:38) Myths & Processes for Hiring Workers Under 18 (46:06) Benefits of Implementing Youth Apprenticeships (54:51) Minors Using Hoists/Lifts
Resources:
Refer your industry friends to WrenchWay and earn free t-shirts. Learn more.
The Zimbrick story began in 1965 when their founder, John Zimbrick, purchased a Buick franchise at the corner of Park and Regent Street in Madison, Wisconsin. John built his dealership around a philosophy he called “Loving Care Service" and the rest is history.
Today the Zimbrick family of dealerships has grown to 16 new car franchises. They have 20 service locations throughout Dane County, an additional store in Milwaukee as well as 3 award winning Body Shops.
Zimbrick is behind every errand, every road trip, every commute, every holiday visit, and every emergency. Their customers rely on them for safe and reliable vehicles to get them there and Zimbrick is always looking for talented individuals to help them in their mission.
Winner of Best of Madison and Madison People’s Choice Awards for 2022, Zimbrick is proud to serve its community. Visit the Zimbrick WrenchWay page at zimbrick.wrenchway.com to find out how you can join their team.
Andrew Batenhorst, Body Shop Manager at Pacific BMW, brings progressive thinking to the collision repair industry. In this episode, hear how he is going above and beyond to improve the industry, the ways he keeps in touch with his staff, and how he introduced meditation at the shop.
(6:29) Andrew’s Background (13:08) Struggling to Find Talent (24:34) Keeping Staff Happy (38:07) Meditating at the Shop (45:27) Manager & Technician Relationships (57:42) Future of the Collision Industry
Fullbay makes life easier for just about everyone in the shop. Its streamlined workflow helps boost tech efficiency and productivity, meaning more vehicles (and more revenue) can roll into the shop. Shop customers are big fans of their software, too, because it gives them their own portal to authorize work, see how things are going, and even communicate with the shop.
Guess what? Owners love Fullbay, as well—but not only because it lets them see how things are going during a day at the beach. The app makes it easy for them to send estimates and invoices. And with Fullbay Payments and Fleet Payments, they’ve made it easier than ever for your customers to pay those invoices.
The Diagnostic Process & Theory of Operation ft. Craig Tomczyk, FirstGroup America
26 Apr 2023
01:07:01
Craig Tomczyk, the Auto/Diesel Technician at FirstGroup America, gets technical in this week’s episode. Listen in as he breaks down his career, covers the importance of understanding and bettering your operational knowledge, discusses his diagnostic process, and much more.
(1:28) Craig’s Journey to Becoming a Technician (13:07) Importance of the Theory of Operation (21:42) Steps in the Diagnostic Process (32:58) Using Schematics (49:47) The Value in Failing
Sponsor: OK. Your customer’s engine or transmission has failed. But now is not the time for them to trade their vehicle – not without a working engine or transmission. Besides, would they have kept their vehicle another 3-5 years if their engine or transmission had not let them down?
If you answered “yes” then Jasper Engines and Transmissions is your choice to give your customer’s vehicle new life and many thousands of miles of enjoyable driving performance.
When considering the high cost of a new or newer used vehicle, there’s a pretty good case to be made for replacing a drive train component that has failed or is delivering poor performance – rather than trading their car, truck, van or SUV. Install a quality re-manufactured JASPER product for less than your customer would have to invest in a new vehicle or a newer used vehicle.
Check out their website at jasperengines.com to learn more about the money-saving value of JASPER.
Shop Leadership & Communication Advice ft. Kathleen Long, RepairPal
19 Apr 2023
00:59:03
Kathleen’s drive and passion are contagious in this week’s episode! Tune in to hear Kathleen Long, Chief Revenue Officer at RepairPal, cover the positive impact of being transparent with your technicians, the true value of networking, and the importance of investing and measuring your business correctly.
(3:03) Kathleen’s Background (12:48) Definition of Networking (26:20) Shops Investing in Their Business (43:36) Building Trust & Communication (53:06) Future of Shop Leadership
Sponsor: WyoTech is one of the nation’s leading automotive, collision, and diesel training schools found in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
With hands-on training 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, their graduates are career-ready in 9 months!
WyoTech offers 3 core programs in automotive, diesel, and collision. WyoTech also offers 6 specialty programs in High-Performance Power Trains, Trim and Upholstery, Advanced Diesel, Applied Service Management, Street Rod, and Chassis Fabrication. Countless opportunities for students to work with their hands, never online.
Check out WyoTech in Laramie, Wyoming by visiting WyoTech.edu
WyoTech starts students four times a year allowing many opportunities for students to start their careers in the trades.
America is built on the trades and needs skilled technicians now! WyoTech is the place to get the training you need for the jobs America needs TODAY.
Foundations for Attracting Technicians ft. Murray Voth, RPM Training
12 Apr 2023
01:12:11
Should shops pay technicians for their inspection time? Tune into this week’s episode to hear Murray Voth, President of RPM Training, answer the “tough” questions, discuss what it means for your shop to be a thought influencer in the community, and cover the importance of identifying your strengths and weaknesses.
(7:57) Identifying Strengths & Weaknesses (14:15) Thought Influencing (23:56) Fear of Training Technicians (35:50) Paying Technicians for Inspection Time (55:44) History of Being a Technician
If you want to train for an exciting career in transportation, skilled trades, or energy…UTI may be the school for you.
You’ll learn how to work with tools and equipment from some of the world’s top brands, like BMW, Ford, General Motors, Daimler (DIME-LER) Trucks and more…that’s why many of these brands recruit UTI grads when hiring. PAUSE
Develop your skills in state-of-the-industry labs. Train in a blended learning format designed to mirror the industry.
You can graduate in less than a year. And their career services department is here to support grads as they launch their careers.
UTI has a national reputation, with a variety of programs to choose from at campuses across the country. You’ll learn the skills you need in a hands-on environment that doesn't feel like a traditional school.
See how you can get started today.
Disclaimer: Some programs may require longer than one year to complete. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
Building a Successful Shop ft. Josh Sellers, Auto Express of Hamilton
05 Apr 2023
01:03:13
As the Owner of Auto Express of Hamilton, Josh Sellers has grown a lot and is still growing from his experiences. Tune into this episode to hear some lessons he has learned during customer interactions, find out the importance of listening to your staff and peers, and gain tips for building an amazing shop culture.
(6:44) Learning from Other Shops (16:47) Good Shop Culture (36:51) Evolving into a Great Place to Work (45:39) Listening to Your Staff
Sponsor: OK. Your customer’s engine or transmission has failed. But now is not the time for them to trade their vehicle – not without a working engine or transmission. Besides, would they have kept their vehicle another 3-5 years if their engine or transmission had not let them down?
If you answered “yes” then Jasper Engines and Transmissions is your choice to give your customer’s vehicle new life and many thousands of miles of enjoyable driving performance.
When considering the high cost of a new or newer used vehicle, there’s a pretty good case to be made for replacing a drive train component that has failed or is delivering poor performance – rather than trading their car, truck, van or SUV. Install a quality re-manufactured JASPER product for less than your customer would have to invest in a new vehicle or a newer used vehicle.
Check out their website at jasperengines.com to learn more about the money-saving value of JASPER.
Becoming a Great Place to Work ft. Eric Chester, The Center for Work Ethic Development
29 Mar 2023
01:02:07
The workforce has changed since generation “why” grew up and stopped conforming to yesterday’s habits. Eric Chester, Founder of The Center for Work Ethic Development and author of several leadership books, understands this more than most. Listen in on this episode to learn more about what it means to be relentlessly recruiting, how to evolve your shop with the changing workforce, and much more!
(1:26) Eric’s Background (6:50) Evolving Workforce (23:28) Becoming Fully Staffed (37:45) Fishing vs. Hunting (45:34) Always be Recruiting
Sponsor: The Zimbrick story began in 1965 when their founder, John Zimbrick, purchased a Buick franchise at the corner of Park and Regent Street in Madison, Wisconsin. John built his dealership around a philosophy he called “Loving Care Service" and the rest is history.
Today the Zimbrick family of dealerships has grown to 16 new car franchises. They have 20 service locations throughout Dane County, an additional store in Milwaukee as well as 3 award winning Body Shops.
Zimbrick is behind every errand, every road trip, every commute, every holiday visit, and every emergency. Their customers rely on them for safe and reliable vehicles to get them there and Zimbrick is always looking for talented individuals to help them in their mission.
Winner of Best of Madison and Madison People’s Choice Awards for 2022, Zimbrick is proud to serve its community. Visit the Zimbrick WrenchWay page at zimbrick.wrenchway.com to find out how you can join their team.
Lenny Fumarolo shares his journey from working in NASCAR to becoming a Protective Armored Specialist for the United States Secret Service (USSS). He breaks down how others can follow in his footsteps, what daily repairs and maintenance look like in such a high-security role, and how tools, uniforms, and the overall environment differ from typical shops.
Journey of an Auto Technician ft. Russell Wickham, Country II
22 Mar 2023
01:03:48
From starting out with a career in journalism to now being a technician, Russell Wickham has had a unique journey. In this episode, Russell breaks down his career path, stresses the importance of having a positive attitude, and offers his advice to shops that are struggling to recruit technicians.
(6:26) Certified Tech vs. Experienced Tech (12:37) Russell’s Background (29:57) Raises & Performance Reviews (38:01) Importance of a Positive Attitude (51:17) Advice to Shops Recruiting Techs
Sponsor: OK. Your customer’s engine or transmission has failed. But now is not the time for them to trade their vehicle – not without a working engine or transmission. Besides, would they have kept their vehicle another 3-5 years if their engine or transmission had not let them down?
If you answered “yes” then Jasper Engines and Transmissions is your choice to give your customer’s vehicle new life and many thousands of miles of enjoyable driving performance.
When considering the high cost of a new or newer used vehicle, there’s a pretty good case to be made for replacing a drive train component that has failed or is delivering poor performance – rather than trading their car, truck, van or SUV. Install a quality re-manufactured JASPER product for less than your customer would have to invest in a new vehicle or a newer used vehicle.
Check out their website at jasperengines.com to learn more about the money-saving value of JASPER.
Females in the Automotive Industry ft. Jessica Toliuszis, Women in Auto Care
15 Mar 2023
01:01:53
Not only do we need more technicians in the industry, but there is also a massive shortage of females working in automotive. In this week’s episode, we are joined by Jessica Toliuszis, Chair of Women in Auto Care, to discuss tips for managing female technicians, barriers to entry in the industry for females, and much more.
(5:21) Jessica’s Career Path (11:14) Automotive Industry & Attracting Females (23:50) Barriers for Females in Auto (35:29) Attracting Young Talent to Independent Shops (44:31) Managing Female Technicians
Sponsor: Truck Country & Stoops is the largest family-owned and operated freightliner dealer group in the U.S. today, serving customers at locations in Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin. For nearly 60 years, they’ve offered new and used medium and heavy-duty trucks, expert service, an extensive parts inventory, and more. If you are wanting to learn more about Truck Country & Stoops visit truckcountry.com.
Insurance for Independent Shops ft. Robert Steele, IGO Benefits
08 Mar 2023
01:06:04
Purchasing insurance is a complex need that the average shop owner doesn’t know enough about in order to make informed decisions.
Tune into this week’s episode as Robert Steele, Founder & CEO of IGO Benefits, shares stories of his time in the NFL, talks about how he got a woman out of $600,000 in medical debt, and how he is helping shops make better insurance decisions.
(2:29) Robert’s Background (14:55) Life Check-in Moment (21:09) Worthy of Your Signature & Time (32:47) Helping Independent Shops with Insurance (47:02) Medical Debt
Sponsor: OK. Your customer’s engine or transmission has failed. But now is not the time for them to trade their vehicle – not without a working engine or transmission. Besides, would they have kept their vehicle another 3-5 years if their engine or transmission had not let them down?
If you answered “yes” then Jasper Engines and Transmissions is your choice to give your customer’s vehicle new life and many thousands of miles of enjoyable driving performance.
When considering the high cost of a new or newer used vehicle, there’s a pretty good case to be made for replacing a drive train component that has failed or is delivering poor performance – rather than trading their car, truck, van or SUV. Install a quality re-manufactured JASPER product for less than your customer would have to invest in a new vehicle or a newer used vehicle.
Check out their website at jasperengines.com to learn more about the money-saving value of JASPER.