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Explore every episode of the podcast PDR Universe

Dive into the complete episode list for PDR Universe. 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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1–40 of 40

TitlePub. DateDuration
Working for Yourself vs a Big PDR Company: Which Is Better?09 oct. 202600:47:34

Should you work for yourself as a PDR technician or work for a large PDR or hail company?

In Episode 40 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan compare two very different paths through the PDR industry.

Žan started his career working for a larger PDR company before eventually building his own business, while Zeeshan has spent most of his career working independently and building his own customer relationships.

We discuss the advantages of working for a larger company — consistent work, structured training, less responsibility for finding customers and the ability to focus primarily on repairing dents.

Then we look at the other side.

Working independently can give you more control, potentially higher earnings and the freedom to choose your customers and the direction of your business.

But that freedom comes with responsibility.

You need to find work, maintain customer relationships, handle scheduling, invoices, marketing and problems — and still repair the cars.

We also discuss training new technicians, people leaving after being trained, non-compete agreements, taking vacations when you're self-employed, long working hours and why even when you're your own boss, you still have a boss: your customers.

There isn't one correct answer.

It depends on the type of technician you are and the kind of life you want to build.

🎓 PDR Training:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

What We Learned Competing at PDR Expo Las Vegas02 oct. 202600:50:45

We're still in Las Vegas, and PDR Expo is officially over.

In Episode 39 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan break down the weekend — the education, tools, people and, most importantly, the competitions.

Zeeshan took 2nd place in Dent Trials 🏆 after facing three extremely difficult dents in only 90 minutes.

We break down what worked, what didn't, where he lost time and what he would change next time.

Žan also competed in the first GOAT Competition, facing a massive hood dent with two hours to complete the repair. He breaks down his approach using tension, cold glue and pushing — and the mistakes that made the repair much harder than it needed to be.

We also discuss Matt Boyette's knock-up class, phenolic tips, Tesa tape, leverage, tool organization, competition nerves and why analyzing your mistakes is one of the best ways to improve as a PDR technician.

And one of the best moments of the entire Expo came from a PDR Universe listener who used advice from the podcast to improve his deep door repairs — then received an honorable mention for the best door repair in Dent Trials.

🎓 PDR Training:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

Why We Travel Across the World for PDR | PDR Expo Las Vegas25 sept. 202600:54:42

Why would two PDR technicians travel all the way from Europe to Las Vegas for a PDR Expo?

In the REAL Episode 38 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan record directly from the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas the day before PDR Expo begins.

We talk about our journey to Vegas, long-haul travel, the cost of attending international PDR events and why we believe expos and competitions are worth the investment.

For us, it's not just about buying tools. It's about meeting technicians from around the world, learning new techniques, testing equipment, building relationships, breaking out of the normal work routine and coming home motivated to improve.

We also share our first impressions of Las Vegas and the new PDR Expo venue at the Rio before turning our attention to the competitions.

Zeeshan is competing in Dent Trials for the first time, while Žan is entering the brand-new GOAT Competition — where previous top-three Dent Olympics competitors will face a completely unknown dent.

We talk about competition nerves, preparation, tool selection, time management and why competing can make you a better PDR technician regardless of the result.

🎓 PDR Training:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

Are New Cars Easier to Repair With PDR Than Old Cars?18 sept. 202600:59:25

Are newer cars actually harder to repair with PDR?

In Episode 37 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan compare working on older vehicles with modern cars — and despite all the additional technology found in today's vehicles, we both think modern cars are generally easier for PDR.

We discuss thick old-school sheet metal vs today's thinner panels, aluminum, high-strength steel, EV systems, laminated glass, huge braces, restricted access and increasingly complicated R&I.

But we also look at what has made PDR easier: thinner metal, dramatically better tools, modern glue pulling techniques and access to PDR education that technicians simply didn't have 15–20 years ago.

We also get into stretched metal, shrinking, plastic panels, broken windows, drilling for access and some of the cars we really don't enjoy repairing.

Old cars or new cars — which do YOU prefer?

🎓 PDR Training:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

PDR Expo Las Vegas 2026: Everything You Need to Know | Sheldon Kaye11 sept. 202600:57:04

PDR Expo Las Vegas 2026 is only two weeks away, so we brought in the man behind the event — Sheldon Kaye.

In Episode 36 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan talk with Sheldon about what PDR technicians can expect from this year's PDR Expo at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas.

Sheldon explains how PDR Expo started, how it differs from Mobile Tech Expo, what goes into organizing an event like this and what's new for 2026.

We talk about vendors, hands-on education, tool testing, networking and why PDR Expo can be especially valuable for technicians who are new to the industry.

Then we get into the competitions: the Beginner Competition, Dent Trials and the brand-new invitation-only GOAT Competition.

Žan also shares his Dent Trials strategy, Sheldon explains how the secret GOAT competition will work, and we find out what happens to the technician who wins it.

Plus: Vegas, speakeasies, handmade trophies, rental cars with competition dents and why PDR technicians are so competitive.

If you're coming to PDR Expo — or you're still thinking about making the trip — this episode is for you.

🎟️ https://PDRExpo.com

🎓 PDR Training:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

PDR Fog vs Lines: Which Is Better for Paintless Dent Repair?04 sept. 202600:59:34

Fog or lines — which is the better way to see and repair dents with PDR?

In Episode 35 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan compare PDR fog lights and line boards and explain how each system helps technicians read dents, locate tool tips and control the metal during a paintless dent repair.

We discuss why lines may initially be easier for beginners to understand, why we prefer fog for fine finishing and paint texture, how natural reflection can be used to check finished repairs, and why experienced technicians can achieve excellent results with either method.

We also cover PDR light selection, damage inspection, hail repair, line thickness, light positioning, Stucky lights, and what beginners should consider when buying their first PDR light.

If you're learning paintless dent repair and trying to decide between fog and lines, this episode gives you two experienced technicians' perspectives on the advantages and limitations of both systems.

PDR training:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

Can Your Body Survive 30 Years of PDR? | PDR Technician Health & Ergonomics28 août 202600:59:46

Can your body survive 30 years of Paintless Dent Repair?


In Episode 34 of the PDR Universe Podcast, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan talk about something every long-term PDR technician eventually has to think about: health, injuries, ergonomics and career longevity.


PDR can be extremely demanding on the body. Long hours pushing dents, working over roofs, reaching into panels, glue pulling and working in awkward positions can lead to problems with the back, shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees and more.


Žan shares his experience with shoulder pain, a torn labrum diagnosis, tennis elbow and physiotherapy, while Zeeshan discusses his own back, neck, knee and wrist issues from years of PDR.


We also discuss practical ways technicians can protect themselves: warming up, strengthening the back, improving muscular balance, listening to pain and using more ergonomic PDR tools and equipment.


Plus, we talk about tool carts, LED lights, mini lifters, cold glue, slide hammers and other developments that could help PDR technicians work healthier for longer.


If you want PDR to be a 20- or 30-year career, your body is your most important tool.


🎓 PDR Training:

https://bestpdrtraining.com/


🎧 PDR Universe — new episodes covering Paintless Dent Repair, hail damage, PDR tools, techniques, business and the PDR industry.


This podcast discusses personal experiences and is not medical advice.

PDR Knocking Up Technique Explained | A Better Way to Repair Dents?21 août 202600:59:31

What is the PDR knocking up technique, and when should you use it instead of pushing a dent?


In Episode 33 of the PDR Universe Podcast, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan take a deep dive into knocking up — a Paintless Dent Repair technique where controlled hammer strikes from behind the panel are used to move a dent instead of relying only on continuous pressure from a PDR rod.


We discuss the difference between knocking up and traditional PDR pushing, why this technique is strongly associated with Brazilian PDR technicians, and why knocking up can sometimes produce a cleaner repair with fewer waves and shoulders around the dent.


Žan also explains how he uses knocking up on deep and sharp hail dents when he is concerned about stretching the metal, which tips he prefers, when he switches back to conventional pushing, and how the technique fits alongside backside blending and hammer-and-dolly methods.


We also get into stretched dents, oil-canning, tip selection, sanding and polishing, and ways to potentially reduce the amount of shrinking required on difficult PDR repairs.


Whether you're learning Paintless Dent Repair, repairing hail damage, or you're an experienced PDR technician looking to expand your techniques, this episode gives you a practical look at another way of moving metal.


🎓 Learn PDR & Hail Damage Repair:

https://bestpdrtraining.com


🎥 PDR Universe on YouTube


Topics: Paintless Dent Repair, PDR knocking up, PDR pushing, hail damage repair, stretched dents, PDR tools, deep dent repair, advanced PDR techniques, dent repair training.

Learn PDR Faster: Why Glue Pulling Should Come First14 août 202600:59:59

Should beginners learn PDR by pushing first — or should they start with glue pulling?

In this episode of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan are joined by veteran PDR technician, trainer and All Access Podcast host Gene Fetty for a deep conversation about learning Paintless Dent Repair and becoming a better dent technician.

Gene explains why he believes glue pulling may actually be the best way for beginners to start learning PDR. Instead of immediately adding the difficulty of controlling a tool underneath the panel, students can first learn how to read the reflection, identify lows and highs, understand metal movement and develop accurate knockdown skills.

We get into:

• Why Gene teaches glue pulling before pushing
• Why DIY Amazon dent pulling kits aren't as simple as they look
• Glue pulling vs. traditional PDR pushing
• "Look, Place, Tap, Check" knockdown technique
• Knock-ups and how striking metal differs from pushing
• Mini lifter vs. slide hammer for beginners
• When students should start learning to push
• "Strongest to weakest, deepest to shallowest" repair theory
• Gene's difficult Ford Explorer dent repair
• Cold glue for hail damage and roof rails
• Choosing the right dents for cold glue
• Cold glue vs. hot glue
• Whether cold glue can replace an induction hot box
• The responsibility professional technicians have to the PDR industry

Whether you're just learning Paintless Dent Repair or you're an experienced technician looking to improve your glue pulling, cold glue, knockdown and metal-finishing skills, there's a lot to take away from this conversation.

🎓 PDR Training:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

🎙️ PDR Universe with Žan Vidic & Zeeshan

New episodes covering Paintless Dent Repair, hail damage, PDR tools, techniques, training, pricing, business and the PDR industry.

How To Repair BIG Dents With PDR – Full Repair Breakdown07 août 202600:58:34

How do you approach a severe PDR repair when the damage crosses a body line, bends the panel edge and locks metal in several different directions?

In Episode 31 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan break down one of Žan’s recent extreme tailgate repairs step by step.

Several technicians had already declined the job. Once the vehicle arrived and the damage was viewed under proper PDR lighting, the repair turned out to be even more complex than the photos suggested.

Žan explains how he read the damage, why he used multiple lateral tensions, how he combined lifting, knockdown work and pushing, why aggressive pulling would have been a mistake, and why the tailgate eventually had to be removed and flipped to finish the hardest section.

Topics include:

• Big dent PDR repair
• Damage mapping
• Lateral tension
• Metal flow
• Body line repair
• Bent edge repair
• Heat and paint protection
• Metal-on-metal pushing
• Tool selection
• Tailgate removal
• Double-panel damage
• Seam sealer
• Whale-tail access
• Repair planning
• Knowing when to walk away and reset

Watch the original repair video:
https://youtu.be/5n7LUzRe8OE?si=VO6Dvq_JLTXcjcF4

Learn PDR:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

How To Estimate PDR Repairs & Get Paid Properly31 juil. 202600:59:46

Estimating is one of the most important skills a PDR technician can learn — and one of the easiest places to lose money.

In Episode 30 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan discuss how to estimate Paintless Dent Repair for parking dents, larger damage and hail-damaged vehicles.

They cover dent size, aluminum, body lines, glue pulling, access, R&I, oversized hail dents, insurance estimating and how to communicate pricing when a repair carries additional risk.

Žan also explains the retail PDR estimating system used at ASIS to create more consistent pricing based on dent size, repair hours and difficulty factors.

Topics include:

• PDR estimating
• Paintless Dent Repair pricing
• Hail damage estimates
• Parking dent pricing
• Aluminum repair pricing
• Oversized hail dents
• R&I charges
• Insurance estimates
• Dealer vs retail pricing
• Avoiding undercharging
• Pricing difficult repairs

Learn PDR:
https://bestpdrtraining.com


#PDR #PaintlessDentRepair #PDREstimating #PDRTraining #DentRepair

Hail vs Retail PDR – Which Should Beginners Learn First?24 juil. 202600:59:19

Should you learn PDR through hail damage or start with retail dents?

In Episode 29 of PDR Universe, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan compare two very different paths into Paintless Dent Repair.

Hail damage gives technicians massive amounts of repetition and teaches efficiency, while retail PDR puts much more pressure on the finish quality of every individual dent.

We discuss which approach is harder for beginners, why hail and retail technicians develop different strengths, quality vs speed, beginner pricing mistakes, and what it takes to become a true hybrid technician capable of doing both.

Topics include:

• Hail vs retail PDR
• Learning Paintless Dent Repair
• Repetition vs repair quality
• Speed for beginner technicians
• Door dings and parking dents
• Hail damage repair
• PDR pricing for beginners
• Becoming a hybrid PDR technician

Learn PDR:
https://bestpdrtraining.com


#PDR #PaintlessDentRepair #PDRTraining #HailDamage #DentRepair

How To Repair Body Line Dents (PDR Tips & Techniques)18 juil. 202600:59:28

Can body line dents actually be repaired?


In this episode, 12-time PDR champion Žan Vidic and Zeeshan discuss one of the biggest myths in Paintless Dent Repair.


They explain why body line dents are more difficult, when glue pulling works, when tool access is essential, how lateral tension has changed modern PDR, and the techniques professional technicians use to repair dents many people believe are impossible.


Topics include:


• Body line dent repair

• Glue pulling

• Lateral tension

• Crown management

• Metal flow

• Aluminum repairs

• Quarter panels

• Rail dents

• PDR finishing techniques


Learn more:

https://bestpdrtraining.com


#PDR #BodyLineDent #PaintlessDentRepair #DentRepair #GluePulling

How Much Does It Cost To Start PDR? (Complete Beginner Guide)10 juil. 202600:59:03

How much does it actually cost to become a Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) technician?


In this episode, 12-time PDR champion Žan Vidic and Zeeshan discuss the real costs of starting a PDR career, including beginner tool sets, online vs in-person training, cheap vs professional tools, and the mistakes that slow new technicians down.


If you're considering a career in Paintless Dent Repair, this episode gives you realistic expectations before investing your money.


Topics include:


• Beginner PDR tool recommendations

• Online vs in-person training

• How much PDR training costs

• Cheap Amazon tools vs professional equipment

• How to avoid wasting money

• Learning PDR faster

• Starting a profitable PDR career


Learn more:

https://bestpdrtraining.com

How To Shrink Stretched Dents Like A Pro (PDR Shrinking Explained)03 juil. 202600:58:59

Stretched dents and oil cans are some of the biggest challenges in Paintless Dent Repair.

In this episode, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan break down everything you need to know about shrinking metal, repairing stretched dents, avoiding common mistakes, and using shrinking boxes effectively.

They discuss why dents stretch, how shrinking actually works, when to shrink during a repair, shrinking aluminum, push-to-paint vs retail repairs, and the lessons they've learned from years of repairing hail damage and oversized dents.

Whether you're an experienced PDR technician or working toward advanced repairs, this episode is full of practical advice that can immediately improve your repairs.

Learn more:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

Listen every Friday for new episodes of the PDR Universe Podcast.

#PDR #PaintlessDentRepair #DentRepair #HailDamage #GluePullRepair #MetalShrinking #ShrinkingDents #PDRTraining #PDRTools #BodyShop

PDR Explained: What Paintless Dent Repair Can & Can't Fix26 juin 202600:56:49

What is PDR?


Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is one of the fastest-growing automotive repair methods in the world, yet many vehicle owners still don't fully understand what it is, how it works, or what types of dents can actually be repaired.


In this episode of the PDR Universe Podcast, Zan Vidic and Zeeshan break down the fundamentals of Paintless Dent Repair, explain the difference between PDR and traditional body shop repairs, and discuss which dents should and shouldn't be repaired using PDR techniques.


They also dive into the progression from beginner to advanced technician, common mistakes that slow down learning, the importance of proper tools and training, and how modern glue pulling and tension systems have changed what is possible in dent repair.


Whether you're a vehicle owner curious about dent repair, a body shop technician looking to learn more about PDR, or someone considering a career in Paintless Dent Repair, this episode provides valuable insight into the craft.


Topics discussed:

• What Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) actually is

• Paintless Dent Repair vs traditional body repair

• Which dents can be repaired with PDR

• Which dents should not be repaired with PDR

• Beginner, intermediate and advanced PDR repairs

• Glue pulling and tension systems

• Large dent repair techniques

• Hail damage repair

• Learning PDR and developing repair skills

• Common mistakes technicians make


🎓 Learn PDR Online:

https://www.bestpdrtraining.com


🎙️ PDR Universe Podcast:

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2aE66hu01Ku6zOUB8FBDvF?si=gfPAMv_oQi-Hgw9dS5VzWQ


Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pdr-universe/id1867287330


If you enjoy the show, follow the podcast and leave a review to help more technicians discover PDR Universe.

Glue Pull or Push First? The PDR Decision Every Tech Must Learn19 juin 202600:58:04

Should you glue pull first or push first?


In this episode of the PDR Universe Podcast, Zan Vidic and Zeeshan break down one of the most important decisions every Paintless Dent Repair technician faces.


The discussion covers cold glue, hot glue, pushing techniques, hail damage repair, parking dents, body lines, roof damage, rail repairs, stretched metal and real-world examples from years of professional PDR experience.


Whether you're a beginner learning PDR or an experienced technician looking to improve efficiency, this episode will help you understand when each repair method makes the most sense.


🎓 Learn PDR:

https://www.bestpdrtraining.com

What Happens At A European PDR Tech Meetup?17 juin 202600:59:58

This week on the PDR Universe Podcast, Žan Vidic and permanent co-host Zeeshan look back at the recent European PDR Tech Meetup held in Slovenia.

From technicians traveling over 1,500 km to attend, to networking, technical discussions, behind-the-scenes stories, and a tour of the new ASIS facility, this episode highlights the passion that drives the paintless dent repair community.

They also share plenty of funny moments—including airport stories, Balkan food, local culture, and one unforgettable lesson: maybe don't drink with Balkans if you're not prepared. 😂

Topics include:
• Europe's growing PDR community
• Networking and business relationships
• The value of in-person meetups
• Competition mindset and motivation
• Behind the scenes of the new ASIS shop
• Funny travel stories and cultural experiences


🎓 Learn more at:
https://www.bestpdrtraining.com

The PDR Technicians Who Changed Our Careers (And Why It Matters)05 juin 202600:59:29

Who helped shape your PDR career?

In this episode of the PDR Universe Podcast, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan discuss the technicians, mentors, competitors, podcast hosts and industry legends who influenced their journeys in Paintless Dent Repair.

From early hail repair days and learning the basics, to discovering PDR College, Bryce Kelly, Sal Contreras, Giedrius, competitions, seminars and online education, this episode explores how knowledge is passed from one generation of technicians to the next.

Topics include:

  • Learning PDR from mentors
  • Early career struggles
  • The impact of competitions
  • PDR education and training
  • Bryce Kelly's influence on modern PDR
  • Why every technician should keep learning

🌐 Learn more:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

🎙️ PDR Universe Podcast Episode 22.

Extreme PDR Competition: Big Dent Repair At The Highest Level29 mai 202600:58:24

In this episode of the PDR Universe Podcast, Zeeshan shares his full experience competing at the CamAuto GPR Competition in Canada — one of the most advanced paintless dent repair competitions in the world.

We discuss:

  • High-level PDR & GPR techniques
  • Large damage repairs
  • Lateral tension & glue pulling
  • Competition pressure
  • Lessons from world-class technicians
  • The future of big dent repair

Featuring discussions about technicians from around the world, CamAuto tools, advanced repair methods, and what it really takes to compete at the highest level in PDR.

If you’re serious about improving your dent repair skills, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

🌐 Learn more:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

How PDR Techs Find Hail FAST In Europe 🌩️ (Hail Signals Europe)22 mai 202600:59:39

How do PDR technicians find hail storms fast in Europe?


In this episode of the PDR Universe Podcast, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan sit down with Bartosz Zawadzki to talk about Hail Signals Europe — a platform designed to help paintless dent repair technicians find hail damage opportunities across Europe faster and more efficiently.


We discuss:

• Hail chasing in Europe

• Real-time hail alerts for PDR techs

• Why speed matters in hail repair

• Fake AI hail reports online

• Networking in the PDR industry

• How Hail Signals Europe works

• The future of hail chasing in Europe


If you are a PDR technician, hail chaser, dent repair tech, or someone interested in paintless dent repair and hail damage repair, this episode is full of valuable insights and real-world experience.


🌩️ Check out Hail Signals Europe:

https://hailsignalseurope.com/


Use code: UNIVERSE


🎓 Learn PDR Online:

https://bestpdrtraining.com


📲 Follow Žan Vidic:

https://www.instagram.com/zan.vidic


⏱️ TIMESTAMPS


00:00 Intro

00:11 Podcast starts

00:41 Bart returns to PDR Universe

01:54 Europe hail season discussion

06:22 Hail Signals Europe explained

10:42 Žan reviews the system after testing

18:43 Why technicians should care about fast reports

29:07 Live demo of the Telegram alerts

31:20 HSE pricing & discount code

42:33 Why speed matters in hail chasing

49:44 Why networking matters more than cold calling

58:32 Final thoughts from Bart

59:15 Outro

Top 5 PDR Mistakes Even Advanced Technicians Make15 mai 202600:53:26

How to improve your PDR skills and avoid the biggest paintless dent repair mistakes.
In this PDR Universe Podcast episode, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan break down the top mistakes even advanced PDR technicians still make during hail damage repair, glue pulling, lateral tension, cold glue work, and large dent repairs.

This episode covers:

  • Why rushing repairs hurts your quality
  • How lateral tension changes dent repair
  • Common glue pulling mistakes
  • Why cold glue is becoming essential in modern PDR
  • Heat management tips for paintless dent repair
  • How top technicians analyze dents differently

Whether you are learning PDR or already repairing dents professionally, these advanced PDR tips can help you become faster, cleaner, and more consistent.


⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

00:11 Intro
00:30 Advanced PDR mistakes explained
01:19 Pancake story & repair mindset 😂
03:25 Zeeshan’s Volkswagen mistake
08:36 Mistake #1 – Not using lateral tension
12:19 Why lateral tension matters in big dent repair
15:49 Mistake #2 – Rushing repairs
17:03 Bryce Kelly’s approach to dent analysis
20:58 Mistake #3 – Not seeing the full picture
23:45 Hidden damage behind panels
27:17 Hail damage perspective mistakes
30:13 Mistake #4 – Not using cold glue
32:01 How cold glue evolved in PDR
35:15 Heating panels for cold glue pulling
39:11 Why many techs ignore cold glue
42:25 USA vs Europe PDR tool mentality
45:15 Mistake #5 – Not using heat correctly
47:03 Hot glue heating trick explained
50:46 Final thoughts
52:14 Martin Sadler surprise appearance 😂
52:51 Outro

🎓 ONLINE TRAINING:https://bestpdrtraining.com/#PDR #DentRepair #PaintlessDentRepair #HailDamageRepair

How To Become A Top PDR Tech (25 Years Experience)08 mai 202600:59:54

🎙️ PDR Universe Podcast Ep. 18 – Martin Sadler

In this episode, we talk with Martin Sadler — one of the most experienced and respected PDR technicians in the industry.

With over 25 years in the field, Martin shares his journey, insights, and lessons learned from years of high-level repairs, competitions, and training.

We cover:

  • The reality of learning PDR

  • How the industry has evolved

  • Tools, techniques, and mindset

  • Competitions and judging at the highest level

  • Why most people underestimate PDR

If you're serious about improving your skills or getting into PDR, this episode delivers real value.

👉 Learn more:
https://bestpdrtraining.com

⏱️ Episode Chapters:

00:11 Intro
01:11 Background & Experience
07:41 Learning PDR
15:41 Training & Progress
22:11 YouTube & Industry Growth
28:11 Challenges in PDR
40:11 Competitions & High-Level Work
52:11 Content & Final Thoughts
59:11 Outro

#PDR #DentRepair #Podcast #AutoRepair #PDRTraining

Life of a Hail Technician 🌍 Real Truth About PDR On The Road (Money, Stress & Reality)01 mai 202600:59:45

What is it really like to be a hail technician?

In this episode, we break down the real life of PDR hail work — from travel and long hours to money, stress, and lifestyle.

If you're thinking about getting into hail damage repair or chasing storms, this is the honest truth from guys living it.

Learn more:
https://bestpdrtraining.com


⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro
00:11 Podcast intro
00:31 What this episode is about
01:13 Reality vs social media
02:07 Why Žan didn’t explore cities
03:06 Work mindset on hail
04:43 Long hours vs smart work
06:38 Daily routine explained
08:19 Nutrition & energy during work
10:57 Traveling & tools setup
13:18 Hail vs retail PDR differences
16:31 Mental challenges of hail
18:22 Turning off your brain
20:13 Dealing with brokers & scams
22:07 Downsides of hail life
25:26 Upsides of traveling for work
28:58 New shop update
32:35 Advice for beginners
41:46 Mental vs physical limits
47:13 Should you chase hail?
58:05 Outro
58:16 Outro ends

CAM Auto GPR Competition Explained | Big Dent Repair with Steven Dyke24 avr. 202600:59:43

In Episode 16 of the PDR Universe Podcast, we talk with Steven Dyke about the CAM Auto GPR Competition, glue pull repair, big dent repair, and where the PDR industry is heading next.


We get into Steven’s PDR backstory, how glue pulling evolved over the years, why GPR is becoming more important, what makes the CAM Auto event unique, and which competitors are coming this year.


If you’re into paintless dent repair, glue pull repair, collision-style PDR, or big dent strategy, this episode is packed with insight.


Training:

bestpdrtraining.com


CAM Auto:

camautopro.com


0:00 Intro

0:13 Welcome back + Steven Dyke intro

0:42 What this episode is about

1:40 Steven’s PDR backstory

4:13 How glue pulling evolved in PDR

8:24 Old-school PDR vs cordless tools today

9:40 What makes the CAM Auto competition different

13:45 Two-day format and how the event works

17:01 Why this event is so educational for techs

18:01 CAM Auto inside scoop: buy one, get one free

19:10 New lateral tension + CAM Auto future plans

21:00 Glue-pull-only competition overview

24:53 Main competition: what to expect

27:14 Why GPR matters more than ever

33:25 How big dent repair changed the industry

35:26 Learning from top-level technicians

42:24 Heat, metal memory & repair strategy

44:21 Glue-pull-only competition recap

46:21 Competitor lineup

52:26 Why this event matters for the whole PDR industry

57:49 Why Žan can’t make it this year

59:16 Final thoughts

59:54 Outro


#PDR #PaintlessDentRepair #GPR #GluePullRepair #CAMAuto

How to Learn PDR - Best Way to Start Paintless Dent Repair17 avr. 202600:59:55

How do you actually learn PDR and get started in paintless dent repair?


In this episode, we break down the best ways to learn PDR, from in-person training and online courses to apprenticeship and self-taught learning.


We talk about:

- how to start paintless dent repair

- the fastest vs cheapest way to learn PDR

- what beginners should focus on first

- how long it takes to become a PDR technician

- what tools you need to get started

- common mistakes when learning PDR


Whether you're thinking about getting into PDR or already starting out, this episode will help you understand the real path to becoming a PDR technician.


Training:

bestpdrtraining.com


0:00 Intro

0:35 How to learn PDR

1:30 Why more people want to get into PDR

4:01 How the PDR industry changed

5:21 Fastest way to learn (in-person training)

8:21 Apprenticeship pros & cons

10:29 Online PDR training explained

12:12 Best beginner path

17:40 Learning analogy (fast vs slow paths)

22:16 Different learning styles in PDR

24:37 Self-taught route explained

27:09 Beginner tools discussion

29:48 Best learning combination

34:44 Why learning alone is slower

36:39 Time vs money in PDR learning

44:56 Real beginner costs

50:29 Why quality tools matter

57:35 Final advice

59:25 Outro

Why PDR Techs Stay Stuck (And How To Break Through)10 avr. 202600:59:43

PDR Universe - Episode 14


In this episode, we talk about why some PDR technicians get stuck in their journey and stop improving.


Maybe the work is still coming in.

Maybe the customers are happy.

Maybe the money is still decent.


But if you stay too comfortable, avoid harder dents, and stop pushing yourself, sooner or later someone else will pass you.


We talk about:

• why comfort can quietly hold you back

• why bigger dents create bigger opportunities

• how body shops and customers start trusting you more when you tackle harder repairs

• why training, repetition, and failure are all part of growth

• how seminars and online training can speed up your progress

• why copied tools and stagnant thinking hurt the whole industry


This episode is all about growth, discipline, and staying hungry in PDR.


Training & tools:

bestpdrtraining.com

Should a PDR Tech Open a Shop?03 avr. 202600:59:59

In Episode 13 of the PDR Universe Podcast, we talk about a big business question for dent techs: should you open your own PDR shop, or stay mobile?

Žan and Zeeshan break down the pros, cons, risks, costs and long-term opportunities of having a shop.

They talk about:
🚗 mobile PDR vs shop life
🏢 buying vs renting
💸 overhead, mortgage and pressure
📈 business growth and long-term thinking
🛠️ adding services like polishing
🔥 why a shop can help you level up

A great episode for any dent tech thinking about the future of their business.

Best PDR training:
https://www.bestpdrtraining.com


How Alex Piven Won DB Expo 2026 (And What It Really Takes to Compete)27 mars 202600:59:56

🎙️ PDR Universe – Episode 12

In this episode, Žan and Zeeshan sit down with DB Expo 2026 Champion Alex Piven to talk about what it really takes to compete and win in PDR.

We cover:
✅ how Alex started in PDR
✅ learning from his father Igor Piven
✅ how he prepared for DB Expo
✅ mindset under pressure
✅ why “slow is fast”
✅ competition strategy, tools and execution
✅ why training never stops, even after 10+ years

We also talk about Zeeshan making another final, the new DB Expo competition dent, and why fitness, discipline and constant learning matter at the highest level.

🎓 Training:

https://bestpdrtraining.com/

How to Talk to Insurance Adjusters (PDR Tips to Get Repairs Approved)20 mars 202600:56:23

In Episode 11 of the PDR Universe Podcast, Žan and Zeeshan talk about how PDR technicians should communicate with insurance adjusters.

Topics include:

• How to justify repair hours
• Why adjusters underestimate PDR repairs
• How to educate insurance companies
• Why speed should not reduce your pay
• The importance of building good relationships with adjusters

If you do hail repair or insurance work, this episode will help you avoid disputes and get repairs approved faster.

🎓 Training:https://bestpdrtraining.com/

Inside IASRE 2026: Competition Changes, Tougher Dents & Live Expo Vibes13 mars 202600:54:44

🎙️ PDR Universe – Episode 10

This episode was recorded LIVE at IASRE 2026 in Germany 🇩🇪

We break down:
✅ the new competition format
✅ tougher dents + less time
✅ why that makes judging better
✅ the growth of the expo
✅ live reactions from organizers and competitors

Guests in this episode:
🔥 Almin – competition organizer
🔥 Freddie – expo organizer
🔥 Bart – competitor fresh out of round one

We also talk about tools, glue, competition pressure, and why events like IASRE, MTE, PDR Expo and CamAuto matter so much for the PDR industry.

🎓 Training:

https://bestpdrtraining.com/

How to Scale a PDR Business Without Burning Bridges (Abundance Mindset)06 mars 202600:59:59

In Episode 9 of the PDR Universe Podcast, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan sit down with Josh Kidd (Canada) to discuss scaling a PDR business with an abundance mindset — without burning bridges. Josh shares his journey from early door ding work to hail operations, partnerships, insurance contracts, merging companies during COVID, running multiple locations, and adding services like ADAS calibrations to stabilize year-round revenue.Training & courses: https://bestpdrtraining.com/

Body Tech ➜ PDR Tech (Stefan’s Transition + Real Advice)27 févr. 202600:59:06

🎙️ PDR Universe – Episode 8


We’re joined by Stefan from the USA 🇺🇸 — an 18-year autobody tech making the transition into full-time PDR.


We talk about the REAL side of switching:

✅ aluminum surprises

✅ underbidding and learning

✅ why R&I becomes a huge advantage

✅ building a PDR business while still working a shop job

✅ fears of leaving W-2 security

✅ the best advice for body techs who want to jump into PDR


🎓 Train with us:

https://www.bestpdrtraining.com


Guest:

Stefan Esche (MyDentShopLLC / UBreakIFix47)

Why You Should Compete in PDR (Even If You Don’t Win)20 févr. 202600:59:41

🏆 Should you compete in PDR even if you don’t win?


In PDR Universe – Episode 7, we recap MTE and Dent Olympics, and break down why competitions are valuable even without a trophy.


Competing helps you:

✅ perform under pressure

✅ handle people watching you (customers, techs, judges)

✅ build confidence (which makes selling easier)

✅ sharpen skills faster

✅ create reputation + open doors for work


We also talk about mistakes, mindset, how to mark your dent, and why MTE dents are on another level.


🎓 Want to get faster + better at hail and real-world PDR?

https://www.bestpdrtraining.com


PDR Burnout Is Real: How to Recover Without Quitting13 févr. 202600:58:24

Burnout in PDR is real—especially in hail season.
What helped YOU the most when you felt burned out: time off, changing environment, changing work type, or something else?

Train with us (Hail + PDR fundamentals): https://www.bestpdrtraining.com 👊
If this episode helped, hit Subscribe and share it with a tech who needs it.

Read Your Customer in 10 Seconds (PDR Soft Skills That Close More Deals)06 févr. 202600:59:43

In this episode of the PDR Universe Podcast, hosts Zan and Zeeshan sit down with Kip (20 years in PDR) to break down the soft skills that matter most in hail towns, dealerships, and body shops: rapport, communication, reading red flags, and adapting your sales approach to different personalities.

We cover practical cues like eyelids/eyes for detail vs big-picture communication, how to avoid “red flag” customers, and why the best tech isn’t always the biggest earner.

🎓 Learn PDR the right way (hail + fundamentals): https://www.bestpdrtraining.com


First Guest – Learning PDR the Hard Way (Hail, Training & Tools)30 janv. 202601:01:33

Episode 4 of the PDR Universe Podcast features our first-ever guest, Jurgen from Estonia.

We talk about learning PDR the hard way, starting with online training, realizing the need for in-person coaching, surviving brutal first hailstorms, and building real-world skill through experience.

Topics include hail chasing, fog vs line boards, shrinking tools, hotbox myths, opening and closing a shop, pricing conversations, and how technicians actually find hail work.

Recorded in Orlando before MTE (Mobile Tech Expo).

Learn faster and improve your hail workflow:

👉 https://bestpdrtraining.com#PDR #PaintlessDentRepair #HailRepair #DentRepair #PDRTraining #PDRPodcast #PDRUniverse #HailDamage #AutoBody #BestPDRTraining

Are PDR Seminars Worth It? (Teacher vs Student)23 janv. 202601:04:37

In Episode 3 of the PDR Universe Podcast, co-hosts Žan Vidic and Zeeshan break down the value of PDR seminars from both perspectives: instructor and attendee. We cover what makes a seminar successful, classroom vs hands-on training formats, why asking questions matters, and how seminars can speed up your learning curve—especially for hail techs wanting to improve at big dents, creases, body lines, smashes, and glue pulling.Learn PDR and level up your skills:👉: https://bestpdrtraining.com

How I Got Into PDR (Žan’s Story) 16 janv. 202601:04:05

Welcome to Episode 2 of the PDR Universe Podcast!
In this episode, Zeeshan interviews co-host Žan Vidic about how he got into PDR—from early jobs and mistakes to learning PDR the hard way, chasing hail, and building a career in the industry. We also talk mindset, “metal time,” competitions, and lessons learned along the journey.

Want to learn PDR (beginner → advanced)? Visit BestPDRTraining.com

Why We Started This PDR Podcast & Zeeshan’s Story09 janv. 202601:02:49

Welcome to PDR Universe — a podcast built by PDR techs, for PDR techs.

In Episode 1, Žan Vidic and Zeeshan explain why they started this podcast and how they want to connect the European PDR scene with the U.S. and the global PDR community.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Why the PDR industry in Europe needs more open conversations

  • Why this podcast is in English (bigger reach, better guests, global mindset)

  • Zeeshan’s origin story: early jobs → detailing → discovering PDR

  • The reality of learning PDR: ego, repetitions, mistakes, and real “metal time”

  • Building a PDR business through body shops, dealerships, and word of mouth

  • Advice for beginners: don’t quit early and listen to experienced technicians

  • What’s coming next: Episode 2 (Žan’s story), future guests, and the MTE 25th anniversary

This podcast is for:

  • Beginner and advanced PDR technicians

  • Anyone considering a career in PDR

  • Techs interested in tools, training, business, hail damage, and mindset

New episodes coming soon.

© My Podcast Data · Independent project · Data from Apple & Spotify