This podcast is dedicated to changing the automotive industry for the better, one conversation at a time.
Whether you're a technician, vendor, business owner, or car enthusiast, we hope to inspire you to improve for your customers, your careers, your businesses, and your families.
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Details about Changing The Industry Podcast, a podcast by David Roman & Lucas Underwood
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Discover shows related to Changing The Industry Podcast, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
Episode 293 - Are Industry Events Worth It? Debating Costs, Culture, and Team Growth With Limitless Leadership
Episode 293
Monday, November 2, 2026 • Duration 01:05:31
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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
Episode 292
Monday, October 26, 2026 • Duration 01:02:56
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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.
Episode 291 - Pricing for Profit and Purpose in the Modern Auto Shop with Josh & Pixi Pickthall
Episode 291
Monday, October 19, 2026 • Duration 01:13:51
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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.
Episode 290 - ADAS Calibrations, Shop Liability, and the Role of Industry Associations With Tom Elder & Joe Ocello
Episode 290
Monday, October 12, 2026 • Duration 01:11:11
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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.
Episode 289 - Rich Fasulo aka Check Engine Chuck Talks Shop Failure to Mobile & Social Media Success
Episode 289
Monday, October 5, 2026 • Duration 54:48
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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.
Episode 288 - Transitioning from Finance to the Garage with Lance Lupi of Lee Myles Auto Care
Episode 288
Monday, September 28, 2026 • Duration 01:00:35
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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.
Episode 287 - Overcoming Rust Belt Challenges With Colin Thielman
Episode 287
Monday, September 21, 2026 • Duration 53:28
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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.
Bonus Episode - Navigating Trade Shows and AI Hype with Cavan Robinson & Tony Mercury
Episode 286
Wednesday, September 16, 2026 • Duration 01:04:35
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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.
Episode 286 - Building a Mobile Auto Shop With A Full-Time Job with Jim Montagner
Episode 286
Monday, September 14, 2026 • Duration 59:49
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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.
Episode 285 - Bad Reviews Can Lead To Better Practices With Brett Hunziker
Episode 285
Monday, September 7, 2026 • Duration 01:11:27
Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life. Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE
Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable. Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability
Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
00:00 Evaluating trade show expenses
10:25 Finding the right trade show staff
14:31 Attending the Northeast Show and Milwaukee Event
