Changing The Industry Podcast

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Cole Tanner, a veteran technician, who shares his journey through family business transitions, personal struggles, and the realities of working in the automotive industry. Cole opens up about overcoming addiction and trauma, emphasizing the importance of honest conversations about mental health in the trades. The group discusses technician frustrations regarding compensation, shop inefficiencies, and the vital need for support structures within the industry.00:00 Frustrating restaurant wait experience06:25 Growing up with my parents08:11 Discussing childhood challenges12:51 Breaking cycles of family trauma16:25 Losing friends to addiction19:34 Discussing compensation challenges22:25 Consistent vs erratic performance26:35 Running an efficient repair shop27:42 Technicians disconnected from inspection value33:12 End-of-month sales pressure36:27 Improving communication and accountability37:58 Discussing future plans and concerns41:13 Finding balance and past experiences46:02 Struggles with drinking habits47:53 Hitting rock bottom moments50:40 The dangers of addiction53:47 Pushing for constant improvement56:52 Taking responsibility after prison

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Matt Clarke of Clark Automotive. Matt shares his journey back to his family's auto repair business, emphasizing the importance of refining operations and focusing on delivering high-quality service rather than chasing high car counts. The group discusses the evolving role of business coaching and training, including the value of accountability partners and the need to adapt to new technology in the industry.00:00 Trade Show Costs Are Ridiculous03:47 Union Inefficiency and Consequences09:13 "Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity"11:58 "Evolving Business Learning Challenges"14:35 "Epiphany in Management Training"18:14 "Refining Craft, Scaling Doubts"22:03 Choosing the Right Coach24:48 "Struggling with Accountability"28:06 "Unexpected Family Connections"33:15 "AI-Generated Estimate Dispute"37:26 "Balancing AI and Personal Touch"39:32 "Fitness, Gear, AI, and Darkness"44:37 "Unfiltered Critique of a Guru"45:20 "Mastery vs. Fake Expertise"48:44 "Adapting Teaching to Audience"54:39 "EV Market Resistance Analyzed"56:42 "Building Growth and Connections"58:38 "Vespa Culture: New York Only"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by David Veldman, who shares his personal journey coping with the recent loss of his father and its impact on his direction and motivation in the automotive repair business. The conversation explores how major life events, such as grief or health struggles, can affect business owners, especially those without strong support systems or sustainable operations. David Roman provides a contrasting perspective, emphasizing the importance of shifting focus toward the next generation and building a business that can survive without constant owner involvement.00:00 "Grieving Without a Rudder"10:05 "Finding Aim Through Adversity"12:08 "Finding Direction and Motivation"17:14 "Dad's Varied Career Path"24:37 Machine Shop Succession Challenges30:13 "The Box That Changed Me"34:50 Efficient Flywheel Machining Strategy39:58 "Importance of Knowledge and Processes"47:09 "Pay Taxes Like an Employee"51:14 "Tax Payment Delays Explained"57:40 "Sad Start, Weird Ending"01:03:03 Lakeside Anniversary Offer01:04:49 "Possible Marijuana Overdose"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Darryl and Jackie Beech to explore the dynamics of running and transitioning a family-owned automotive business. Darryl reflects on the importance of having strong business processes and work-life balance, sharing his motivation to set Jackie up for long-term success as she steps into a larger leadership role. Jackie opens up about the challenges—and privileges—of carrying forward her father's legacy, focusing on the value of maintaining strong customer relationships while preparing for inevitable changes.00:00 "Doubting His Radio Future"04:40 "Family, Loss, and Betrayal"08:19 "Mismanagement and Lack of Structure"10:42 "Shopware's Lifesaving Support"14:53 Forensic Analysis in Auto Failures18:21 "Tailored Vehicle Maintenance Advice"21:31 Transitioning Business Leadership and Operations23:38 "Balancing Business and Social Hurdles"28:52 "Senior Tech Rejects Management Training"31:54 "Saving a Family Legacy"35:02 Navigating Tough Clients Effectively38:49 "Embracing Leadership Humility"40:32 "Early Career Diversification Needed"44:45 "Growth Through Decisions and Challenges"48:08 Managing Stress and Support Systems49:55 "Overcoming Recession and Struggle"53:34 "Navigating Family Life and Struggles"56:48 "Childhood Memories: The Good Side"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Kevaughn Williams, Operations Manager at 360 Payments. Kevaughn underscores the importance of company culture in building a motivated, accountable team, highlighting how 360’s values of transparency and peer-to-peer accountability support both employees and customers. The discussion covers practical strategies for automotive shops to protect themselves from payment chargebacks, with Kevaughn outlining red flags to watch for and offering tips to improve payment security. 00:00 "360 Culture and Leadership"04:28 "Honesty and Accountability Matter"08:13 "Impactful Workplace Culture Insights"11:16 "Towing Office Experience Reflection"14:50 Car Rental Customer Support Journey15:54 Rental Car Upgrade Mishap21:08 Mandatory Work Schedule Change24:40 Building Youthful Team for Success27:58 "Disney Trip as Life Milestone"28:40 Prioritizing People Over Business34:51 Preventing Text-to-Pay Fraud38:11 Fraud Awareness and Payment Precautions39:06 DocuSign ID and Card Verification44:24 Chargeback Fraud at Local Shop48:02 "High-Risk Account Threshold Explained"50:23 Transparency and Informed Decisions53:22 "David's CSP Concerns"56:19 "Buttoning Debate Unresolved"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Australian shop owners Kosta Ka and Peter Leondis. The group explores the differences between the Australian and American auto repair industries, focusing on challenges with access to technical information, parts quality, and emerging certification hurdles for EVs. Kosta and Peter share insights on the importance of clear communication with clients and building strong shop cultures, while Lucas and David reflect on succession planning and the risks of lacking a solid business exit strategy.00:00 Generational Gaps in Apprenticeships05:39 "OnlyFans: Limited Choices Commentary"15:31 Repair Shops Face Ebb and Flow20:31 Aftermarket vs. Dealer Parts Pricing23:47 "Licensing Drives Underground Competition"31:33 Cultural Differences in Communication Styles36:57 "Planning Beyond Fixing Cars"40:20 Business Succession and Exit Challenges47:01 Overcoming Founder Syndrome50:49 "Core Values Drive Business Success"55:13 Australian Auto Training Revolution

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Mike Allen to preview the Vision KC conference and share industry stories. Mike recounts his challenges recording at the Elite Ignite conference and the ongoing technical mishaps that come with capturing live content. The hosts dive into shop pricing strategies, including how costs like diagnostics and amenities are often rolled into the final bill for customers. Plus, David gives a local's guide to the best food options in Kansas City, breaking down must-try barbecue, tacos, and team-dinner spots as Vision attendees prepare for their trip.00:00 "Improper Merging Rant"06:29 "Chicago Shop Success Story"08:20 "Advisor's Hilarious Customer Story"10:38 David's Intense Pre-Workout Effects16:26 "Misheard Conversation in Restroom"17:24 "Facebook: Scroll and Toilet Talk"22:43 Kansas City Dining Overview23:29 Alternative Dining Options Near Vision28:33 Restaurant Struggles Amid Tight Margins32:49 Rare 9+ Pizza Reviews38:10 Jack Stack Barbecue Recommendation40:46 "Bananas and Rice Identity"46:18 "Manscaping Mishap and Spider Trap"54:24 TPMS Law and Repair Ban56:57 "See You at Vision"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Tyler Wonderlic from Steer and AutoOps. Tyler explains the value of a CRM for shop owners, emphasizing its role in centralizing customer communication and improving retention. David shares his frustrations with customer miscommunication and online reviews, sparking a conversation about managing reputation and crafting thoughtful responses. Lucas and Tyler also discuss the importance of segmenting customer experiences to meet diverse expectations.00:00 "Realizing Athletes Are Kids"09:11 "Save $1,300 or Time?"12:24 Steroid Loopholes Exploited by Chemists20:41 "Bad Reviews, Full Parking Lots"24:36 Learning from Criticism Strategically26:42 "CRM Value and Subscriptions"35:58 "Customizing CRM for Business Goals"41:09 "Challenges with Accurate Data Analysis"43:04 "Customer Service Expectations Rant"51:51 "David's Family and Loss"57:35 "Balancing Service and Spending"59:34 "iPhone Over Safety Concerns"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Ken Miller to preview the Northeast Trade Show and discuss the growing intersection between the collision and mechanical segments of the automotive industry. Ken highlights the expanded focus on mechanical education at this year’s show, emphasizing the importance of ADAS calibrations and the need for proper training and documentation. The discussion also covers the challenges created by industry consolidation, different approaches to compensation and workflow, and the shared responsibility for safety and professionalism in both mechanical and collision repair.00:00 "Discovering the Northeast Show"05:13 Real-World Expertise in Training08:42 "Lessons from Collision Experience"10:42 Aviation Error and Accountability16:30 "Calibration Challenges in Repair Shops"19:30 "Collision Shop Negligence and Exploitation"23:22 Documentation: Key to Authentic Calibration26:26 Dangerous Counterfeit Airbags Warning28:58 TPMS Sensors and Dealer Liability34:01 Collision Industry Consolidation Insights34:58 "Understanding Business Value and Protection"41:09 ADAS Reducing Accidents and Claims43:52 "Value of Networking at Events"45:19 Bridging Gaps in Automotive Teams50:45 "Collaborating to Share Industry Knowledge"52:18 "Empowering Industry Through Education"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Nelson Tavarez, owner of Austin's Auto Service. Nelson shares his inspiring journey from working in telecommunications to becoming a successful shop owner, emphasizing the importance of discipline, saving, and seizing opportunities. The conversation delves into the impact of technology like Shop-Ware on shop efficiency and customer experience, as well as strategies for building wealth and financial security for both owners and technicians.00:00 "Growth, Discipline, and Adapting"04:53 "Taking a Gamble on Change"07:20 "Trading Success Leads to Ownership"13:16 Seamlessly Adopting Shopware Technology16:19 Targeted Growth for Specialty Auto Shop18:30 "Shopware's Future is Revolutionary"22:23 "Personalized Service, Small-Shop Feel"26:45 Trust, Change, and Lost Security29:35 Generational Wealth Over Instant Gains34:12 Maximizing Savings for Children35:37 "From Rent to Ownership"40:32 "Delayed Gratification and Society"41:59 "Rethinking the Grind Mentality"44:26 Sell What People Want49:53 "Resilience and Team Effort"51:33 Employee Prioritizes Family Over Career

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Eric Joern for a deep dive into the realities of small business financial management in the auto repair industry. Eric stresses the importance of starting with a plan and leveraging professional guidance, rather than relying on risky trial-and-error approaches. The discussion highlights why using proper shop management systems and separating business finances is critical for long-term success.00:00 "Valuable Business Advice and Insights"10:15 Sales Tax Responsibilities Explained15:34 Simple Budgeting for Profit17:02 "Essential Shop Management Systems"21:40 Shop Parts Tracking Essentials29:56 "Seeking Proactive Tax Guidance"35:04 "Importance of a Knowledgeable Accountant"38:10 "Proactive Tax Planning Conversations"43:34 "Inventory's Tax Impact Explained"49:10 "Smart Tax Strategies Explained"55:24 Focus on Strengths, Delegate Tasks01:02:42 Excited for Business Improvement

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Andy Tirado, co-founder of the ADAS Network. Andy discusses the challenges of delivering relevant, effective technical training across the automotive industry, highlighting the critical need for trainers to adapt content to local cultures and shop-specific needs. The conversation also explores the complexities of ADAS calibrations, from misinformation in service procedures to pressure from insurance companies.00:00 Struggles with Local Training Participation08:25 Improving Training Accessibility and Retention10:24 "Training, Culture, and Communication"20:09 "Missed Details in Calibration Procedure"23:44 "ADAS Resource and Referral Network"28:45 Greed, Insurance, and Right to Repair33:43 "Taking Control of Business Processes"40:54 Braking System Safety Concerns46:09 Counterfeit Parts and Industry Issues52:21 Car Alignment and Calibration Costs53:56 "Trusting My Chosen Shop"01:00:05 "ADAS Insights and Validation"01:03:33 "Aligned for Selfless Collaboration"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Chris Gayne, owner of Dale County Diesel. Chris shares his unique journey from Army attack helicopter pilot to diesel shop owner, highlighting the importance of leadership and integrity in building his team. The conversation covers why prioritizing people and culture over technical skill is critical, the value of honest customer communication, and the ongoing challenge of maintaining passion while running a successful business.00:00 Garage Trouble Without License06:19 "Learning Through Experience"09:39 Truck Repairs and Industry Journey12:59 "Results Over Passion"15:55 "Passion and Honesty in Selling"17:05 "Transparent Auto Repair Process"20:52 "Morals Over Money"25:31 "Passing the Torch"26:24 "Plans for Business Continuity"29:31 "Failed Recruitment Due to Diploma"33:14 "Lessons on Hard Work"37:25 "Maximizing Growth Within Business"42:09 "Shifting Passion and Letting Go"45:17 "Work-Life Balance Struggles"46:32 "Guidance Counselor Tension Escalates"51:01 "Unexpected Apology on Facebook"

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/IFORABEShop-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/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform 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 In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by John Presnell, a shop owner from North Carolina, who shares his journey in taking over the family business. John discusses overcoming personal and professional resentments as he transitioned from working under his parents to owning the shop. Key topics include the challenges of shop growth and efficiency, strategies for training and developing a younger team, and the importance of personal growth through forgiveness and mentorship.00:00 "Florida Drivers in Mountains"04:44 "Slow, Stressful 27-Mile Drive"08:23 Frustration Over Van Repairs12:17 "Engine Coolant Leak Fail"13:43 Flatlands Pickup Talk19:18 "Overcoming Negativity and Growing"21:26 "Parables as Framework for Success"24:34 "Career Choices and Challenges"28:52 "Family Dynamics and Influence"33:02 "Accident Leads to Lasting Injury"34:52 "From Porta Potty to Upgraded Space"39:05 "Reflections on Growth and Work"42:51 "Start at the Beginning"44:59 "Keeping Business Decisions Private"48:35 "Community Action and Attendance"50:15 "Over a Barrel Moment"55:24 "Sense Trade-off in Marriage"56:09 "Affirmative Response"