Beyond the Wrench
254 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 days ago - ★★★★★ - 24 ratingsHow can automotive and diesel shops run a better business and be more profitable? How can we make the aftermarket and dealerships more attractive to younger generations? Each week, Jay Goninen, Co-Founder & President of WrenchWay, will sit down with shop owners, technicians, instructors, and professionals in the automotive and diesel industries to have them share their stories and insights. We’ll dive deep into what’s going on in shops and dealerships and what we can do to help drive the industry forward.
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Episodes
How Do You Define Success?
April 24, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 47.5 MBFernando Miranda, Vice President of Transformers Institute, walks us through how everyone sets their own meaning of success in their career and life. He talks about how to create a positive mindset, ways to stay consistent through the highs and lows of life, and the importance of finding your inspiration. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Fernando Miranda Vice President, Transformers Institute [email protected] Sponsor: Jasper Engines & Transmissions Abo...
The Impact of Digital Tools on Fixed Operations Management
April 17, 2024 05:00 - 57 minutes - 39.5 MBThere is a lot of technology that impacts service departments. The hard part is evaluating what software or digital tool could be useful for your shop. Corey Smith, National Fixed Operations Training Manager for APCO Holdings, LLC, discusses how to get team buy-in for new products, the importance of training on new technology, and how to evaluate post-implementation. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Corey Smith National Fixed Operations Training Manager, APCO Holdings, LL...
Dealership Recruiting w/ WrenchWay & Hireology
April 10, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 45.8 MBWrenchWay partners with Hireology to help dealerships better hire technician talent. Tiffany Czerwinski, Director of Automotive Partnerships at Hireology, discusses the impact this new partnership will have on dealership recruiting. She also addresses several challenges the automotive industry is currently facing, including talent shortages and the absence of clear career paths. Lastly, she offers dealers valuable recruiting tips you won’t want to miss! View the video podcast on YouTube Ab...
Service Department Communication
April 03, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 44 MBChris Craig, the Fixed Operations Content Owner from RockED, is back to talk about service department communication. In this episode, he dives into the current state of the automotive industry, gives various management and communication advice on how to support shop staff, and shares great tips for service advisors. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Chris Craig Fixed Operations Content Owner, RockED Follow Craig on Social Media Chris’ last episode: Making Your Service Adv...
Creating Work-Based Learning Opportunities for Students
March 27, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 43.1 MBSue Dickson, Founder of Give Me Ten, and Jack Wilson, Auto Service Instructor at Lake County Tech Campus, discuss the progress of collaborating with the industry to develop more meaningful work-based learning opportunities for students. Each individual's path in the automotive field varies, and not everyone is suited to become a technician. The Give Me Ten program simplifies the process for students to find a suitable career path and eliminates barriers for shops to invest in the future of t...
7 Tips from a 7-Year Technician
March 20, 2024 05:00 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MBJosh Arnold, Master Technician of Toyota & Subaru Corvallis, is back again to give young technicians seven tips from his seven years as a technician. From focusing on developing skills to never wasting an opportunity, Josh passes along valuable lessons he has learned along the way. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Josh Arnold Master Technician, Toyota & Subaru Corvallis Josh's Last Beyond the Wrench Episode Sponsor: Thermo King About Our Host: Jay Goninen Co-Founder & P...
New Technician Pay Plan at Woody Anderson Ford
March 13, 2024 05:00 - 32 minutes - 22.3 MBWrenchWay’s Co-Founder & CEO, Mark Wilson, covers an exclusive conversation with John Frazier, Service Director of Woody Anderson Ford, to discuss their new technician pay plan. This is a different type of episode for us, but provides great insight and real-world conversation about how one dealership started and implemented a forward-thinking technician compensation plan. We hope you enjoy! View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: John Frazier Service Director, Woody Anderson For...
Philip Austin, Technical Training & Development Manager, Niterra North America
March 06, 2024 06:00 - 1 hour - 44.5 MBLet’s talk about improving the automotive industry and properly training future technicians. Philip walks us through why dedicated training during the day instead of after work can be valuable. He also breaks down the impact of hands-on training, and discusses the importance of teaching the basics. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Philip Austin Manager of Technical Training & Development, Niterra North America [email protected] NGK Shop Squad Sponsor: RepairPal...
Joe McCue, Founder & Partner, Pencilwrench
February 28, 2024 06:00 - 58 minutes - 40 MBHelping technicians quickly write accurate repair event documentation, Pencilwrench allows shops to provide customers with an invoice that is clear, concise, and readable. In this episode, we explore how new shop software can help improve the overall perception of technician careers by bringing professionalism and transparency to the forefront. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Joe McCue Founder & Partner, Pencilwrench [email protected] Sponsor: Universal Technical I...
Jon Belmonte, CEO, AutoVitals
February 21, 2024 06:00 - 1 hour - 44.5 MBTechnician efficiency and productivity are crucial factors in maximizing your shop's profitability. In this episode, we discuss the impact new technology can have on shops, exploring how it can simplify technicians' tasks, improve customer retention, and ultimately boost revenue. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Jon Belmonte, CEO of AutoVitals [email protected] Sponsor: Jasper Engines & Transmissions About Our Host: Jay Goninen Co-Founder & President, Wren...
Matthew Donovan & Craig Misak, SocketTime
February 14, 2024 06:00 - 1 hour - 42.6 MBIs the automotive industry still the only industry that uses faxes? Let’s talk about shop management, scheduling, and improving your shop’s efficiency! In this episode, we'll explore the unique SocketTime software and how it helps shops maximize every technician’s day and every hour, while still allowing flexible scheduling for technicians. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guests: Matthew Donovan Fixed Ops Director, Jay Wolfe Automotive Group Co-Founder, SocketTime Systems, LLC ...
Dr. Thomas Litzinger & James O’Dell, Northwood University
February 07, 2024 06:00 - 1 hour - 43.6 MBLearn the importance of valuing your technicians, discover effective strategies on how to transition out of flat rate, and explore ways the auto industry can improve technicians’ career paths. Immerse yourself in Aleck's passion for the automotive industry in this week's episode! View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guests: Dr. Thomas Litzinger Executive Director, University of the Aftermarket Aftermarket Education Industry Chair, Northwood University [email protected] James O...
Aleck Brownstein, Regional VP, Volvo Car USA
January 31, 2024 06:00 - 1 hour - 45.3 MBLearn the importance of valuing your technicians, discover effective strategies on how to transition out of flat rate, and explore ways the auto industry can improve technicians’ career paths. Immerse yourself in Aleck's passion for the automotive industry in this week's episode! View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Aleck Brownstein Regional Vice President, Volvo Car USA [email protected] Sponsor: Wind River Payments About Our Host: Jay Goninen Co-Founder & Pre...
Jim Phillips, Principal, Training Team USA
January 24, 2024 06:00 - 1 hour - 45.4 MBBorn and raised in a dealership, Jim’s evolving passion for the automotive industry has blossomed into key advice on what it takes to create a great shop. From the importance of evaluating financial statements to the process of rebuilding dealerships in crisis, Jim breaks down his expertise in this week’s episode of Beyond the Wrench. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Jim Phillips Principal, Training Team USA [email protected] Sponsor: Sonic Tools About Our ...
Bogi Lateiner, Host of All Girls Garage on MotorTrend
January 17, 2024 06:00 - 1 hour - 44.4 MBAs a master technician with over 20 years of experience and a public figure within the industry, Bogi has a unique message to share. Discover the challenges she and other women face in the shop, the significant impact respect for technicians can have, and the changes the automotive industry has undergone over the years. View the video podcast on YouTube About Our Guest: Bogi Lateiner Host of All Girls Garage, MotorTrend Bogi's Garage Sponsor: Jasper Engines & Transmissions About Our Hos...
George Russell, Founding Member, Machinery Advisors Consortium
January 10, 2024 06:00 - 1 hour - 45.4 MBDealers come together, share best practices, evaluate each other's businesses, and grow together. Learn how valuable peer performance groups can be to dealers, explore how to support the career development of aging technicians, and dive into the evolution of the equipment industry. View the video podcast on YouTube (1:38) George’s Background (14:46) Performance Dealer Groups (24:30) Evolution of Equipment Industry (35:41) Career Development for Older Technicians (44:57) Motivating Next Gen...
Josh Simons, Instructor at Greenville Technical College
December 20, 2023 06:00 - 1 hour - 43.3 MBWe explore Josh’s career in automotive, discuss his decision to become an instructor, and he shares key advice for young technicians on how to find good managers and mentors. Our team is taking a couple of weeks off the podcast for the holidays. We would like to thank you for all of your support, wish you Happy Holidays, and we will see you in 2024! (3:00) Josh’s Career in Auto (12:51) Diverse Background for Teaching (18:13) Mentors for New Technicians (35:27) Understand Flat Rate (42:06) ...
2023 Voice of Technician Survey Results
December 13, 2023 06:00 - 1 hour - 46 MBEnjoy this previously recorded webinar where WrenchWay Co-Founders, Jay Goninen and Mark Wilson, discussed the findings from WrenchWay’s 2023 Voice of Technician Survey. With over 650 responses from technicians, students, and other industry professionals, the survey uncovered feedback on job satisfaction levels, what individuals look for in an employer, and ways the industry can improve. Links to the full report and webinar are in the show notes. (8:19) What Technicians Want (18:58) Prefe...
Strategies for Small Business Empowerment
December 06, 2023 06:00 - 1 hour - 44.2 MBDon’t miss Lisa McClease-Kelly’s unique advice for small businesses in this week’s episode of Beyond the Wrench. As Co-Owner of Network In Action Oregon and Kelly's Automotive, and with a background in nonprofits, Lisa offers a different perspective on ways shops can serve their community and staff. She also offers some other business advice on how shops can relay their values to their employees, tips on handling bad hires, and so much more! (5:45) Supporting Nonprofits (16:35) Small Busin...
Tool & Career Advice for Young Technicians
November 29, 2023 06:00 - 1 hour - 46 MBWe 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 Ke...
Guide to Online Car Auctions: Operating, Buying, & Selling
November 22, 2023 06:00 - 1 hour - 42.8 MBBob 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 Oppo...
Driving Positive Change in Automotive
November 15, 2023 06:00 - 59 minutes - 41 MBPride 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 Technici...
Bonus Episode: Attracting Military Veterans to Your Shop
November 10, 2023 06:00 - 1 hour - 46.7 MBVeterans 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-Se...
All About Culture
November 08, 2023 06:00 - 1 hour - 45.6 MBCulture 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:...
Financial Transparency and Education in the Shop
November 01, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 43.8 MBShops 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) Advoca...
The Art of Great Shop Culture
October 25, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 43.4 MBArvin 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) Buildi...
Shaping a Better and Brighter Auto Industry
October 18, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 43.1 MBTara 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) Supp...
Career Paths & Expectations for Young Diesel Techs
October 11, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 46.5 MBThis 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 Art of Teaching & Nurturing Technician Talent
October 04, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 42.1 MBBrandon 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. Certificat...
Putting Your Technicians First
September 27, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 42.5 MBAllen 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 Resources: WrenchWay Local Chapters WrenchWay Shop Me...
Growing a High School Auto Program
September 20, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 44.3 MBTracey 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) Runnin...
Building Better Technician Relationships
September 13, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 44.1 MBDavid 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 Tech...
A Young Woman's Automotive Journey
September 06, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 42.5 MBSmall 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 Relationsh...
Bonus Episode: Best Practices for Working with Schools
September 01, 2023 13:00 - 58 minutes - 40.4 MBShops 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 Ca...
Mergers & Acquisitions Process for Shops
August 30, 2023 05:00 - 56 minutes - 38.6 MBThe 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) Im...
Tips for Young Technicians
August 23, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 43.2 MBAdam 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 Y...
Combatting the Technician Shortage
August 16, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 46.5 MBStephanie 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 Be...
Building Trust & Loyalty with Technicians
August 09, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 42.8 MBAs 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 (...
Bonus Episode: Flat Rate’s Contribution to the Technician Shortage
August 04, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 45.1 MBIn 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 ...
Teaching the Autism Community Skilled Trades
August 02, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 42 MBDanny 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 t...
Anniversary Special: An Inside Look at the Good, Bad, & Ugly at WrenchWay
July 26, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 45.2 MBIn 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) B...
Building an Apprenticeship Program
July 19, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 42.9 MBJason 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 Resources: WrenchWay Local Chapters WrenchWay's $1...
Mastering the Art of Communication
July 12, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 44.7 MBGet 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...
Bonus Episode: Flexible Scheduling for Technicians
July 07, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 43.3 MBIn 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 Sc...
Future of the Diesel Industry
July 05, 2023 05:00 - 58 minutes - 39.9 MBHouman “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 Chan...
Moving From Technician to Team Lead
June 28, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 43.9 MBIn 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 Re...
Make Your Shop a Destination
June 21, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 46.7 MBHost 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 Sh...
Industry Gaps in Attracting Gen Z Technicians
June 14, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 44.6 MBThere 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...
Evolving the Technician-Manager Relationship
June 07, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 43.9 MBEmployees 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 Resour...
Lessons in Shop Leadership
May 31, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 41.5 MBWilliam (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...