Advertise on podcast: The PartsEdge Podcast

On this episode, Kaylee Felio sits down with industry expert Chuck Hartle to break down the nitty-gritty of parts pricing, inventory sources, and the real value of creative problem-solving at the dealership. From the pitfalls of averaging pricing strategies to why a granular approach to source setup empowers flexibility and innovation, this conversation covers actionable best practices that help parts managers turn inventory faster and unlock growth. Hear real-world stories and insights about bonus structures, collaboration between departments, and the transformative power of dealer communication. If you want to elevate your parts department, this episode is a must-listen! -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Consistent menu pricing for high-volume items simplifies sales and protects gross profit. Setting up granular sources in your DMS boosts flexibility, creativity, and inventory control—letting your system do the heavy lifting. Cross-department bonus incentives encourage true collaboration and improved dealership health; don’t overlook how compensation drives behavior. Chapters 00:00 - Kaylee Felio kicks off with the Parts Edge mission and episode intro. 00:26 - Kaylee Felio asks about the pitfalls of averaging parts prices. 00:33 - Chuck Hartle explains why averaging hurts margins and how menu pricing brings consistency. 02:10 - Chuck Hartle discusses gross profit expectations and departmental motivations. 03:18 - Kaylee Felio raises the topic of cross-department bonus structures. 04:24 - Kaylee Felio and Chuck Hartle dive deep into inventory source strategies and automation. 05:25 - Chuck Hartle details the benefits of granular source setup for pricing, management, and minimizing obsolescence. 07:07 - The grocery store analogy for automated pricing and inventory management. 08:05 - Recent manufacturer changes, source setup wins, and collaborative problem-solving stories. 11:04 - Kaylee Felio highlights dealer creativity enabled by flexible source management. 12:05 - Optimism for the new year and final thoughts from Chuck Hartle. Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com

From Greeter to Multi-Store Service Director: Felicia Barr's candid conversation with Kaylee Felio is a masterclass in how to grow a thriving career and resilient team in automotive fixed ops—from humble beginnings on the service lane to overseeing three stores and a commercial building. Hear how Felicia navigates dealership culture, time management, and community impact, and why creating your own pipeline of talent is the future of our industry. If you’re looking for inspiration on staying teachable, building genuine relationships, and fostering growth opportunities in your dealership (and beyond), this episode is packed with actionable insights. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Remain Teachable Build Your Own Talent Pipeline Relationships Drive Results Chapters 00:00 – Kaylee Felio introduces Felicia Barr, highlighting her unique career trajectory 00:32 – Felicia Barr shares starting as a greeter, her surprise at dealership career diversity 03:05 – Falling in love with customer relationships and learning the ropes 06:07 – Transitioning from single-store manager to overseeing multiple locations—managing fear, self-doubt, and adapting approaches 10:11 – How working side-by-side with staff proved her credibility and built trust 12:06 – Opening a commercial building: pressure, time management, and family support 13:26 – Community involvement, charity events, and teaching kids about hard work 18:12 – Turning to local tech schools for co-op partners after technician shortages 19:27 – Success stories from co-op hires: building skills and long-term loyalty 22:52 – Advocating for sending managers to 20 groups, guilds, and learning from peers 24:02 – Breaking down barriers between service, parts, and sales through empathy and teamwork 29:03 – Mistake management: fixing processes together instead of pointing fingers 32:02 – Felicia Barr shares NAADA speaking plans and excitement for industry networking Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com

In this episode, Kaylee Felio sits down with Gretchen Seidel of NADA for an energetic, insightful conversation covering everything from personal passion for cars, overcoming industry challenges, building meaningful connections, to the mechanics of successful networking. Kaylee and Gretchen discuss the importance of owning your story, women’s leadership, leveraging your circle, and why fixed ops is finally taking center stage in dealerships. Discover how to elevate your career, boost your confidence, and empower the next generation—plus, get an inside look at the Women Driving Vehicle Retail Event at NADA. You’ll also get fun stories about classic cars, organizing obsessions, and using Lego builds to encourage the next wave of automotive techs. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Leverage Your Influence Ask Bold Questions, Start Real Conversations Champion Fixed Ops Visibility Chapters 00:01 – Kaylee Felio kicks off with the Parts Edge mission and intro. 00:37 – Gretchen Seidel discusses her career evolution, influence, and “dream job” at NADA. 03:36 – The ripple effects of impact, mentoring, and expanding your influence. 06:46 – Networking, supporting other women, and why asking for help is powerful. 10:07 – Building genuine relationships: why deeper conversations spark growth and connection. 14:01 – Social media, “vanity metrics,” and authentic engagement in the automotive world. 16:16 – Music, motivation, and event-planning for the Women Driving Vehicle Retail Event. 18:16 – The rise of fixed ops, customer retention, and why dealerships should focus on the service drive. 20:40 – Gretchen Seidel’s hands-on dealership and OEM experience, and how it drives real impact. 22:47 – Innovative networking at NADA, inclusivity, and meaningful connections. 24:02 – Spotlight on keynote speakers and the importance of women’s hard work. 26:24 – Media, best practices, and why fixed ops is finally getting its due. 28:59 – The “Beast” story: dealership service, IRFs, and empathy for the customer. 31:57 – Being a true car lover—stories about dream cars, engines, and heritage. 41:55 – The power of nerdiness: Legos, organization, and creative ways to inspire future techs. 47:47 – Closing thoughts and a call to action: connect, register, and keep driving change. Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com

In this episode, Kaylee Felio is joined by seasoned Fixed Ops leader Kyle Morisette, who shares his 20+ year journey through the dealership world and his transition into tech leadership at Tech Wall. Kyle opens up about his passion for building customer relationships, driving genuine results for service and parts departments, and how stepping onto the "vendor side" is more about partnership than sales. Kyle reveals why customized technology, created by fixed ops professionals for fixed ops professionals, is changing the game in dealership operations—from scheduling to seamless integration across parts, service, mobile operations, and even payments. If you want the inside scoop on how process-driven innovation, empathy, and real-world dealership experience come together to solve everyday dealership problems, this is the episode for you. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Partner, don’t just pitchCustomization is keyEmpathy and continuity matterChapters 00:00 — Kaylee Felio welcomes Kyle Morisette, highlights his two decades in fixed ops 02:34 — Kyle’s journey: From enterprise rental to service advisor to dealership leadership 04:00 — Why personal relationships and transparency keep people in the industry 05:38 — Transitioning from dealership to tech—overcoming the “vendor side” stigma 07:06 — The limits of dealership “bubbles” and lessons learned serving multiple stores 08:07 — Tech Wall origins: Real dealership needs, real tech solutions 09:59 — What makes Tech Wall’s scheduling and parts platform different 11:43 — Seamless DMS integration and adaptability for all kinds of dealerships 13:56 — Leveraging AI for parts departments—finally, technology for the people who need it most 16:26 — How Tech Wall helps bridge the parts-availability and scheduling gap 18:07 — Built by fixed ops, for fixed ops—why team culture matters 21:34 — Partnership beyond the sale: support, accountability, and change management 24:30 — Realities of shifting from dealership to vendor life and building new habits 26:14 — Authenticity and relationship-first selling for tech partners 28:29 — Building for growth: Supporting more stores without sacrificing service 30:18 — Looking ahead to 2026: Growth, expansion, and a renewed sense of energy Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

On this episode, Kaylee Felio sits down with Brian Fox, Director of Parts Operations at Barnes Crossing Auto Group a 16-location powerhouse serving the South. Brian Fox gets candid about his unique journey into automotive, from missionary work in Croatia to entering the car business through marriage (literally). Together, they break down the realities of dealership life, the hidden opportunities in fixed ops, and why process and empowering people—matter way more than job titles. Whether you’re a parts manager, aspiring director, or enthusiast for automotive innovation, this episode is packed with practical playbooks and a few hearty laughs. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Start with Systems, Not Just People Empower at Every Level Slow Down to Speed Up Chapters 00:01 – Kaylee Felio: Intro to the Parts Edge Podcast & fixed ops focus 00:24 – Brian Fox: Welcome, role details, Barnes Crossing’s regional footprint 01:12 – Brian Fox: How he married into auto—mission trips, long-distance, first dealership visit 03:28 – Brian Fox: The “Lion King” moment, inspirational family business story 04:04 – Brian Fox: First exposure was as a vendor & NADA Academy before ever working in a store 06:10 – Brian Fox: Jump to used car manager, Carmigo auctions, then parts—year on the counter 08:42 – Kaylee Felio, Brian Fox: The power and limitations of on-the-counter learning 09:07 – Brian Fox: Discovering the lack of processes—drive for building resources and SOPs 13:19 – Kaylee Felio, Brian Fox: The opportunity in parts, visibility, and Google Drive 14:41 – Kaylee Felio: Tech talk—software, focus, and the limits of current parts tools 15:51 – Brian Fox: Once set up, parts can flow—automation, AI’s potential for accounting 17:19 – Kaylee Felio: AI in shopping, robots delivering parts, and future trends 20:00 – Kaylee Felio, Brian Fox: Brian’s background before auto—philosophy, missionary work, detail training 21:17 – Brian Fox: Applying “min-max” efficiency mindset, gaming concepts to fixed ops 25:13 – Kaylee Felio, Brian Fox: Quirks, languages, wrestling, and family dynamics in the business 26:59 – Kaylee Felio, Brian Fox: What’s next for 2026—system over hustle and the future potential in fixed ops 29:14 – Kaylee Felio: Wrap-up and thanks Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Today, Kaylee Felio sits down with DMS and inventory management expert Chuck Hartle to bust the top myths surrounding DMS setups, parts sources, pricing strategies, and obsolescence in today’s dealership environment. Chuck Hartle draws on real-world dealership experience and PartsEdge’s hands-on work with dealers, uncovering smarter ways to use technology to turn inventory faster, optimize pricing, and crush those old habits holding managers back. Whether you’re wrestling with DMS migrations, struggling to trust your stock orders, or tired of ever-growing obsolete inventory, this episode is packed with gritty wisdom, practical examples, and actionable advice for parts pros. You’ll learn why “more sources” isn’t just an option—it’s essential; how a smarter source setup gives you control over pricing and replenishment; and how to avoid the costly traps that drain department profits. No sugarcoating, just hard-earned lessons and real solutions, delivered with Kaylee Felio’s energy and Chuck Hartle’s battle-tested know-how. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Break Out Your Sources Proactively Manage Obsolescence Leverage Your DMS—Don’t Let It Limit You Chapters 00:00 – Why dealerships need more than a couple sources 01:20 – Common myths: “Manufacturer controls my inventory” 02:34 – How multiple sources enable better pricing and inventory management 03:51 – How many sources can a parts manager realistically manage? 05:12 – Breaking out sources for accessories, menu items, and captive maintenance 07:32 – The “milk and canned asparagus” inventory analogy 08:18 – When DMS setups fail—and how granular sources help 10:11 – Tuning phasing criteria and days supply for profit 13:03 – How to set day supply based on part movement 15:05 – Isolating accessories and tires for smarter stock and returns 16:33 – Trends and realities in manufacturer pricing 18:53 – Gross profit margins and the impact of diminishing discounts 21:04 – The truth about obsolescence and how to really control it 25:45 – Why writing obsolete parts down to a penny is a bad idea 27:10 – What’s an acceptable level of write-offs and obsolescence? 29:02 – The power of tracking and controlling special order parts 30:02 – Market realities: Today’s “normal” for dealership obsolescence rates Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com

When dealer principal Joe Shaker of Shaker Auto Group started digging into customer feedback, he uncovered a hard truth: even loyal, satisfied customers still felt uncertainty about what was happening behind the service doors. That insight sparked the creation of TruVideo, now one of the most widely used communication platforms in automotive. In this episode, Joe walks through the journey — the early “aha” moments, the data that changed everything, the role of AI, and how video has redefined transparency in the modern dealership. He and Kaylee break down why doubt persists, how clear communication transforms revenue and retention, and what dealers can do right now to close trust gaps and elevate the customer experience. If you’re ready to build real transparency, automate stronger processes, and modernize how your parts and service teams communicate, this episode is your roadmap. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Trust needs real action, not buzzwords. Video boosts approvals, sales, and confidence. Use AI to monitor, standardize, and reveal revenue. Chapters 00:01 – Kaylee Felio introduces Joe Shaker, the story behind TRU Video and why trust matters 02:47 – Joe Shaker shares how customer doubt led to video innovation 04:38 – Video’s explosive adoption: Over 24 million media files a month reaching millions of customers 06:31 – Beyond buzzwords: Why transparency must be actionable 07:32 – The #1 driver of customer experience: Communication quality 09:03 – Rethinking declined repairs—fixing the root cause, not chasing after-sales 10:05 – Data reveals 34% of videos are shared, changing decision-making dynamics 13:08 – Impact of technician narrative: Understanding builds trust 17:03 – Using AI to monitor video content, process compliance, and reveal hidden parts sales 19:16 – The filter story: Showing means selling, unlocking millions in untapped revenue 22:20 – Inspect what you expect—process consistency as the heart of dealership growth 25:06 – Meeting customers with video where they are, future tech innovations in AR and messaging 34:58 – Importance of service records, transparency, and maintaining customer safety 36:14 – How Shaker balances multiple businesses, people, and processes 40:29 – Looking 5-10 years ahead: Glasses, rich messaging, and AI-powered concierge 44:38 – Real-world examples of shop scheduling improvements with messaging agents 47:34 – Final thoughts: Upgrading communication, empowering teams, CES-style innovation at NADA Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com Joe Shaker Website: https://truvideo.com/about-truvideo/

Are you a Seasoned Optimizer, Overloaded Operator, Turnaround Artist, or Parts Protégé? In this episode, Kaylee Felio breaks down the brand-new Parts Manager Profile Quiz from PartsEdge—a game-changing tool designed to help parts managers and dealership leaders unlock greater performance, clarity, and team connection. With over 60 responses already, this quiz isn’t just about having some holiday fun (though it’s perfect timing), but about digging deep into how you really lead your inventory—your natural strengths, those sneaky friction points, and what opportunities might be within reach if you get the right support. Kaylee Felio walks you through the four distinct parts manager types, real stories from the case study report, and how the results can spark powerful conversations and growth whether you’re in the hot seat or leading the team. Stay until the end for actionable tips and a nudge to take the quiz yourself! -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗https://www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways 1. Your type reveals strengths. 2. Support shapes success. 3. Tools sharpen leadership. Chapters 00:01 - Kaylee Felio introduces the PartsEdge Podcast and launches the Parts Manager Profile Quiz 00:41 - Why the quiz matters and what you’ll discover about your leadership style 01:07 - The Four Types Explained: Seasoned Optimizer, Overloaded Operator, Turnaround Artist, Parts Protégé 02:41 - Strengths and watch-outs for each manager type 04:15 - Real examples, case study report details, and learning from others 05:57 - Using the quiz for leadership, not labels—sparking key team conversations 06:31 - How PartsEdge supports every manager type for better inventory performance 07:08 - Kaylee Felio’s challenge: Take the quiz and share your results for 2026 goal setting Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com

In today’s conversation, Kaylee Felio welcomes her longtime automotive industry friend Ansley Williams to explore the realities of launching a consulting business in the fixed ops space. From overcoming skepticism to building technology solutions for dealership service departments, Ansley shares the lessons learned from navigating her unique path in automotive—and why embracing authenticity (and a little “sprinkles and glitter” energy) is crucial for long-term success. Hear how a career spent “in the trenches” led Ansley to develop actionable tools for dealerships, and why transparency, grit, and data-driven insights matter in a sector often resistant to outside help. Plus: reflections on raising strong daughters, surviving mom-life chaos, and what it really means to challenge the status quo in a male-dominated field. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Authenticity and resilience matter Data is power—if it’s accessible Support your people Chapters 00:00 Supportive Connections Amid Challenges 05:29 "Improving Dealership Communication Strategies" 07:43 Building Trust as a Consultant 10:38 Leadership Impact and Performance Trends 15:31 "Rebuilding with Passion and Purpose" 16:42 Daughter Inspired by Sales Career 22:00 "Work Ethic and Planning Success" 23:01 Proud of Her Path 27:11 "Facing Struggles, Taking Risks" 29:09 "Thoughtful Questioning and Caution" 32:39 "Consultant Offering Proven Strategies" 35:18 "Grateful for Meaningful Partnerships" 38:51 "Excited for Your Journey" Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com Ansley Williams LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ansleywilliams/ Website: https://pacesetterdealerservices.com/

In this episode, Kaylee Felio chats with MK Valley—CEO and cofounder of SparkServ—about the urgent need for innovation in fixed ops. Together, they unpack why dealerships lag behind other industries in customer experience, and how outdated reliance on phone calls and siloed data stifles growth, profits, and customer loyalty. MK Valley draws from her deep roots in tech and in automotive, recounting her mission to bridge gaps between service, parts, and technology. She shares her journey launching SparkServ—a one-stop solution that proactively connects with customers, improves team efficiency, and empowers dealerships to win back market share. From self-serve scheduling to AI-driven inventory management, Kaylee Felio and MK Valley reveal practical steps any dealership can take to move beyond bandaid fixes and build a resilient, growth-focused fixed ops department. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Integrate service and parts Use AI to improve decisions Engage customers proactively Chapters 00:00 Automotive Scheduling: Fixing Consumer Needs 03:35 "Convenience Over Loyalty Trends" 06:58 Service Advisors' Limited Empowerment 11:55 "Creating Spark: Solving BDC Chaos" 16:20 "Boosting Profit in Auto Deals" 18:55 "Incredible Automotive Industry Insights" 21:38 "Conviction and Curiosity" 25:32 "AI, Efficiency, and Stagnation" 28:27 Service Delays Impact Customer Experience 31:25 Unified Fixed Ops Strategy Connect with Mk Valley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckennavalleyWebsite: https://www.sparkserv.com/ Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com

A special FixedOps Roundtable episode, Kaylee Felio and Ted Ings sit down in Dallas, Texas at Snell Motor Company’s Jaguar Land Rover dealership with parts managers Shawn Cauthen, Romeo Chariez, and Zach Carter.  The team shares practical wisdom on leveraging technology to streamline dealership parts operations, highlighting how PartsEdge optimizes workflows, reduces inventory headaches, and empowers managers to focus on people and growth. Discover firsthand how effective data solutions can transform a typical day in dealership parts management, yielding greater efficiency, profitability, and stronger teams. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Leverage technology and expert support Minimize obsolescence and cut inventory costs Invest freed-up time in coaching and leading your team Chapters 00:00 "PartsEdge Simplifies Parts Management" 03:28 Optimizing Inventory Through Data Tools 08:07 "Streamlining Parts Return Process" 09:53 Fixed Ops Dealer Recognition Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl Website: https://www.partsedge.com

In this value-packed conversation, host Kaylee Felio sits down with industry expert Chuck Hartle to crack open some of the most overlooked costs of running a dealership parts department. From the hidden impact of idle inventory to the real-world strategies for beating manufacturer compliance traps, Chuck shares proven methods for turning your parts department into a lean, profit-driving machine. If you’re a parts manager, fixed ops director, or dealer principal eager to fix your inventory foundation, you’ll walk away with actionable tips to minimize obsolescence, dial in your productive inventory, and get everyone—from staff to body shop managers—rowing in the same direction. Kaylee and Chuck use real calculations, candid examples, and a bit of gritty optimism to show how small adjustments in turns, holding costs, and compliance can result in BIG savings, improved customer satisfaction, and higher dealership profitability. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways 1. Focus on productive inventory 2. Monitor holding costs & turns 3. Compliance strategy matters Chapters 00:00 Optimizing Inventory ROI 05:50 Optimizing Parts Compliance Strategies 07:27 "Profit Margins & Holding Costs" 12:42 Collision Industry Risks Analysis 13:49 Hidden Value in Wholesale Operations 17:01 "Collision Profit Analysis Challenges" 20:28 Optimize Inventory for ROI Boost Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl Website: https://www.partsedge.com

In this special PartsEdge Podcast crossover episode with the FixedOps Roundtable, Kaylee dives deep into why parts managers deserve a bigger spotlight, how dealership leadership can foster real change, and what’s next for the evolution of fixed operations. Learn firsthand how PartsEdge continues to support both seasoned and brand-new parts managers—providing education, empowerment, and the right tools to help dealerships get the most out of their inventory. Kaylee and Ted also reflect on partnership stories (including Snell’s), challenges faced by parts departments, and the importance of having parts leaders join the conversation at every level. Whether you’re a fixed ops veteran or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to run smarter, build culture, and drive dealership success through the parts department. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Empowering parts managers with education and resources drives whole-dealership success. Bringing parts leaders into key conversations fosters culture change and operational growth. Both seasoned and new parts managers benefit from ongoing support and smart inventory strategies. Chapters 00:00 – Kaylee Felio introduces the PartsEdge Podcast and its mission.  00:25 – Ted Ings welcomes Kaylee live from Snell Motor Company in Dallas.  01:09 – Kaylee explains the PartsEdge philosophy: education and support for parts managers.  02:21 – The importance of spotlighting the people in parts, not just service.  03:17 – How the Snell/PartsEdge relationship began and the value of long-term support.  03:57 – The range and growth of parts managers in today’s dealerships.  04:31 – Parts inventory as a core investment and the case for strong management.  04:59 – Kaylee shares her vision, career path, and excitement for the future of PartsEdge.  05:39 – Ted and Kaylee wrap up with thoughts on industry evolution and ongoing innovation. Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl Website: https://www.partsedge.com

In this episode, Kaylee Felio welcomes John Traver of Traver Connect to discuss what “broken” looks like in automotive fixed ops—and more importantly, how leaders and teams can drive sustainable change. John shares frameworks from sports icons, legendary business thinkers like Peter Drucker, and dealership trailblazers such as Ed Roberts to highlight the power of questioning, mission clarity, and process improvement. Tune in for real-world strategies to strengthen your parts and service department—whether it’s redefining your mission, zeroing in on your “primary customer,” or getting honest about what’s not working. As John puts it, “When you get your mission right, you have an unfair advantage.” This episode is packed with actionable insights for parts managers, service leaders, and anyone passionate about moving the dealership world forward. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Start by asking “What’s broke?” Define your mission—the simpler, the better. Document and improve your core processes. Chapters 00:00 "Slowing Down to Go Fast" 04:12 "Mission Before Plan in Business" 09:50 "Patience in Product Development" 11:58 Understanding Automotive Secondary Customers 16:13 Streamlining Appointment Scheduling 19:13 Ed Roberts: Solving Technician Shortage 22:40 Relentless Improvement Competitors 23:32 Embracing Growth and Improvement 26:38 Improving Process Efficiency Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl Website: https://www.partsedge.com

In today’s episode, Kaylee Felio is joined by auto industry leaders Joel Gray and Sheila Pogue for a deep dive into what it takes to build, scale, and energize one of the nation’s most successful wholesale parts operations. Joel shares the story behind managing $9.3M in Ford parts inventory across three locations and a dynamic team of nearly 100 employees. Discover how integrity, creative marketing, and empowering your people can transform a parts department from the inside out. From battling manufacturer pushback and rethinking inventory management to leveraging digital marketing and creating a culture that employees love, Joel unpacks the leadership lessons and operational strategies that set his dealership apart. Sheila jumps in on what it takes to build meaningful digital presence for wholesale and spotlights how human connection – inside and outside your operation – drives business forward. If you want to reimagine your department, empower your team, and tap into new growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights, laughter, and some four-legged support along the way. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Lead With Integrity Empower and Equip Your People Invest in Marketing and Relationships Chapters 00:00 "Honest Operations Foster Respect" 03:13 33-Year Automotive Career Journey 06:36 Insurance-Driven Auto Collision Changes 10:08 Positive Reinforcement Boosts Performance 13:23 Team Leadership and Connection Strategies 18:01 Open-Door Training Approach 21:26 "Enjoying Workplace Connections" 24:33 Custom Software Enhances Store Operations 29:11 Dedicated On-Road Sales Team 30:35 Personal Touch Boosts Customer Relations 34:16 Employee Retention Strategies 37:25 "Importance of Preparedness and Inquiry" 40:18 Incremental Business Expansion 44:56 Learning Ford's Ordering System Quirks 46:13 Embracing Change and Learning Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl Website: https://www.partsedge.com