Advertise on podcast: 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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Eric Svedberg of European Autowerks. Eric shares his journey from starting in the gas station business at 16 to owning and growing a successful automotive shop. The conversation dives deep into the persistent technician shortage, with Eric outlining the challenges in attracting and retaining skilled talent and the evolving pay structures needed to stay competitive. The hosts and Eric also explore strategies for fair compensation, diagnostic testing systems, and the importance of shop culture and communication in bridging the divide between owners and technicians. 00:00 Starting at a gas station job 04:49 Rebranding to Automotive Specialists 09:29 Mac and cheese cart setup 11:26 Bellman warns about minibar sensor 15:40 Salary expectations for auto techs 18:05 Explaining the three-level system 21:04 Handling customer pushback 25:35 Technician pay discussions 26:54 Negotiating a technician's pay raise 30:33 Paying employees more than expected 34:26 Explaining the production bonus system 37:27 Growing demand for skilled technicians 41:53 Ensuring seamless parts distribution 44:01 Discussing social media dynamics 48:42 Dealing with unreliable workers 52:06 Understanding different industry perspectives 55:27 Dealing with technician issues 56:07 Discussing employee accountability

Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  In this episode, the Changing The Industry Podcast team sits down with Josh Weiss, CEO of Vehlo, to discuss company culture, leadership, and the rapidly evolving automotive industry. Josh shares his philosophy on servant leadership and the importance of fostering a high-performance, low-ego environment at Vehlo. The conversation highlights how open communication and feedback fuel trust and engagement within the organization. Finally, the group explores the challenges of constant innovation in automotive service, emphasizing the critical role technology and adaptability play in shop success. 00:00 Building a winning team culture 04:44 Team communication and weekly updates 09:41 Joining the company journey 12:34 Rapid innovation in auto industry 14:05 Shopware's unique customer experience 19:35 Choosing shopware for its ease 22:35 Listening to customer feedback 23:22 Thanking the guest or speaker

Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  In this episode, Lucas Underwood and David Roman are joined by Ira Waldman and Tim Iezzi, who share their experiences with technical training and diagnostics in the automotive industry. Ira Waldman explains the value of comprehensive accident investigations and how data pulled from vehicles is increasingly crucial for liability and repairs. Tim Iezzi and Ira Waldman detail their hands-on training classes, emphasizing the importance of practicing with equipment to build real skills. Throughout the conversation, the group discusses challenges facing trainers—including undervaluation and barriers to fair compensation—while reflecting on what true success looks like in the industry. 00:00 Consulting work and accident investigations 04:58 Calibration data and liability concerns 08:48 Lab scope training launch 11:32 Practicing lab scope basics 15:25 Common mistakes using scopes 19:03 Importance of planning and tools 20:10 Teaching procedural oil change steps 24:46 Improving technician education 27:00 Training value and budget changes 32:48 Challenges faced by fitness trainers 36:16 Launching the training company 39:46 Impact of low-cost car markets 41:29 Covid’s impact on auto repairs 47:30 Troubleshooting equipment issues 50:25 Defining personal success 52:21 Interviewing successful people 54:28 Thanking the audience

Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 experience 06:25 Growing up with my parents 08:11 Discussing childhood challenges 12:51 Breaking cycles of family trauma 16:25 Losing friends to addiction 19:34 Discussing compensation challenges 22:25 Consistent vs erratic performance 26:35 Running an efficient repair shop 27:42 Technicians disconnected from inspection value 33:12 End-of-month sales pressure 36:27 Improving communication and accountability 37:58 Discussing future plans and concerns 41:13 Finding balance and past experiences 46:02 Struggles with drinking habits 47:53 Hitting rock bottom moments 50:40 The dangers of addiction 53:47 Pushing for constant improvement 56:52 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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Ridiculous 03:47 Union Inefficiency and Consequences 09:13 "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 Coach 24:48 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Challenges 30:13 "The Box That Changed Me" 34:50 Efficient Flywheel Machining Strategy 39:58 "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 Offer 01:04:49 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Failures 18:21 "Tailored Vehicle Maintenance Advice" 21:31 Transitioning Business Leadership and Operations 23:38 "Balancing Business and Social Hurdles" 28:52 "Senior Tech Rejects Management Training" 31:54 "Saving a Family Legacy" 35:02 Navigating Tough Clients Effectively 38:49 "Embracing Leadership Humility" 40:32 "Early Career Diversification Needed" 44:45 "Growth Through Decisions and Challenges" 48:08 Managing Stress and Support Systems 49:55 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Journey 15:54 Rental Car Upgrade Mishap 21:08 Mandatory Work Schedule Change 24:40 Building Youthful Team for Success 27:58 "Disney Trip as Life Milestone" 28:40 Prioritizing People Over Business 34:51 Preventing Text-to-Pay Fraud 38:11 Fraud Awareness and Payment Precautions 39:06 DocuSign ID and Card Verification 44:24 Chargeback Fraud at Local Shop 48:02 "High-Risk Account Threshold Explained" 50:23 Transparency and Informed Decisions 53:22 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Apprenticeships 05:39 "OnlyFans: Limited Choices Commentary" 15:31 Repair Shops Face Ebb and Flow 20:31 Aftermarket vs. Dealer Parts Pricing 23:47 "Licensing Drives Underground Competition" 31:33 Cultural Differences in Communication Styles 36:57 "Planning Beyond Fixing Cars" 40:20 Business Succession and Exit Challenges 47:01 Overcoming Founder Syndrome 50:49 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Effects 16:26 "Misheard Conversation in Restroom" 17:24 "Facebook: Scroll and Toilet Talk" 22:43 Kansas City Dining Overview 23:29 Alternative Dining Options Near Vision 28:33 Restaurant Struggles Amid Tight Margins 32:49 Rare 9+ Pizza Reviews 38:10 Jack Stack Barbecue Recommendation 40:46 "Bananas and Rice Identity" 46:18 "Manscaping Mishap and Spider Trap" 54:24 TPMS Law and Repair Ban 56:57 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Chemists 20:41 "Bad Reviews, Full Parking Lots" 24:36 Learning from Criticism Strategically 26:42 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Training 08:42 "Lessons from Collision Experience" 10:42 Aviation Error and Accountability 16:30 "Calibration Challenges in Repair Shops" 19:30 "Collision Shop Negligence and Exploitation" 23:22 Documentation: Key to Authentic Calibration 26:26 Dangerous Counterfeit Airbags Warning 28:58 TPMS Sensors and Dealer Liability 34:01 Collision Industry Consolidation Insights 34:58 "Understanding Business Value and Protection" 41:09 ADAS Reducing Accidents and Claims 43:52 "Value of Networking at Events" 45:19 Bridging Gaps in Automotive Teams 50:45 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Technology 16:19 Targeted Growth for Specialty Auto Shop 18:30 "Shopware's Future is Revolutionary" 22:23 "Personalized Service, Small-Shop Feel" 26:45 Trust, Change, and Lost Security 29:35 Generational Wealth Over Instant Gains 34:12 Maximizing Savings for Children 35:37 "From Rent to Ownership" 40:32 "Delayed Gratification and Society" 41:59 "Rethinking the Grind Mentality" 44:26 Sell What People Want 49:53 "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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Explained 15:34 Simple Budgeting for Profit 17:02 "Essential Shop Management Systems" 21:40 Shop Parts Tracking Essentials 29:56 "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 Tasks 01:02:42 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/IFORABE Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/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/PartsTech Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros! Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros  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 Participation 08:25 Improving Training Accessibility and Retention 10:24 "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 Repair 33:43 "Taking Control of Business Processes" 40:54 Braking System Safety Concerns 46:09 Counterfeit Parts and Industry Issues 52:21 Car Alignment and Calibration Costs 53:56 "Trusting My Chosen Shop" 01:00:05 "ADAS Insights and Validation" 01:03:33 "Aligned for Selfless Collaboration"