Advertise on podcast: The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff Compton is together with Kent Bullard, John Firm, and Dawn Sloas at ASTA to discuss personal growth, leadership, and building stronger teams. Kent explains why getting uncomfortable is necessary for growth and how hardship can become an opportunity to learn and improve. The conversation explores why money should be a result of good execution rather than the main goal, and why leadership and culture are often the biggest challenges for shop owners. They discuss building trust, encouraging teamwork, asking better questions, and creating an environment where employees can learn from mistakes. They also cover accountability, the risks of micromanagement, letting people experience the consequences of their choices, and building processes with input from the people doing the work. The key takeaway is that real growth comes from ownership, continuous improvement, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. Timestamps: 00:00 Turning Trauma Into Growth00:50 Morning Meetup Banter01:22 Coffee and Cold Brew02:25 Caffeine Toothpick Hack02:51 Kent at ASTA03:46 First Hunting Trip05:20 Nature and Gratitude08:58 Institute Updates09:55 Goals Beyond Money13:54 Execute and Grow16:47 Leading With Encouragement18:52 Culture Starts at the Top21:05 Stop Blame, Start Teamwork22:13 Leaving Doesn’t Fix It22:46 Own Your Choices24:11 Ask Why It Happened25:58 Accountability, Not Micromanaging29:15 How You Ask Matters31:08 Let Consequences Teach34:37 Stress Builds Strength40:19 Comfort Kills Growth41:37 Systems Over Blame45:21 Voice Versus Vote46:50 Wrap Up and Next Guest47:42 Final Thanks and Subscribe Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff is with Josh Farris, a Mini Cooper dealership technician from Grand Rapids, Michigan, to talk about diagnostics, dealership life, flat rate pay, and career growth. Josh shares his journey from working on a 1995 Lumina to gaining experience at independent shops, Volkswagen, Lexus, and Mini. They discuss electrical and CAN bus diagnostics, corrosion, warranty work, dispatching, advisor training, and the impact of low paying work on technician morale. The conversation also covers why technicians should be paid for DVIs and inspections, how tool costs can create unnecessary pressure, and why strong communication and integrity matter in automotive repair. Josh also shares his goal of moving into leadership so he can advocate for technicians while helping shops remain profitable. Timestamps: 00:00 Why Diagnostics Matter00:50 Podcast Intro and ASTA Trip01:18 Josh Joins Mini Dealer Life03:49 Mini Electrical Nightmares04:52 Early Tinkering Origins06:00 First Big Fix: Lumina07:23 Apprenticeship and Licensing Path08:57 Host First Car Story11:51 Mods and CAN Bus Problems13:21 Shop Shutdown to Dealership Track16:27 Pay Gaps and Flat Rate Reality18:51 Lexus vs. German Engineering25:15 Warranty Time Controversy34:01 Advisor Training and DMS Struggles37:31 Advisor Knowledge Gap39:31 Train Advisors First40:50 Bad Explanations Hurt Trust42:52 Selling Without Division45:36 Flat Rate Pay Stress55:21 Stop Doing Freebies58:34 Becoming the Mini Lead01:03:25 Advocacy Through Communication01:05:38 DVIs and Getting Paid01:08:33 Tools Over Toolboxes01:15:15 Warranty and Brand Hype01:19:14 Tool Brand Stigma01:20:05 Removing Tool Barriers01:21:09 Five Year Career Goals01:22:29 Confidence in Diagnostics01:24:09 Getting Humbled01:26:38 Management Stress and Advocacy01:29:31 Customer Communication Matters01:31:54 Dealer vs. Independent Path01:35:11 Training and AI Shift01:38:54 AI Limits and Reality01:44:52 Building Diagnostic Talent01:52:36 Accountability and Integrity01:59:26 Closing Thanks and Sponsors  Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.   Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Zach Fogle, a 26 year old technician from Idyllwild, California, to discuss shop life, training, technology, and the challenges facing modern technicians. Zach shares his experience working at a small multi generation shop with a towing fleet, including the frustrations of being pulled away from repair work, outdated equipment, limited tooling, inconsistent processes, and low labor rates. They also discuss customer supplied parts, diagnostics, programming, ADAS, Tekmetric, documentation, liability, and why investing in the right tools and training can help reduce comebacks and improve productivity. The conversation closes with Zach’s hopes for the shop’s future, the importance of networking, and plans to keep learning through industry events and training. Timestamps: 00:00 Control and Legacy00:51 Podcast Welcome and Weather01:36 California Life and Snow02:52 Zach’s Background in Shops07:45 Towing Duties and Frustrations13:14 Paperwork and Processes22:03 Rates, Pricing and Matrices27:13 Tooling Gaps and ADAS32:54 Right Tools and Liability40:23 Programming and Modern Brakes45:01 Trust and Service Information45:30 Hourly Pay Dynamics46:16 TechMetric Chaos47:56 Paper to Software50:23 Canned Jobs Missing52:19 Older Tech and Tech Gap53:41 Parts and Customer Parts55:13 Know Your Numbers57:20 Tire Plug Interruptions01:01:51 Free Fluid Check Rants01:03:56 Coolant Top Off Liability01:06:51 Charge True Value01:09:26 Wrong Parts and Returns01:11:49 One Caliper Debate01:19:52 Succession and Future01:23:37 Training Investment Mindset01:25:16 Training Cuts Comebacks01:27:01 Self Taught Learning Paths01:28:31 Proving Your Value01:32:06 Shop Culture Inspiration01:34:19 Power of Networking01:38:29 Finding Your Diag Niche01:43:28 Avoiding Project Car Traps01:48:15 Events and Succession Plan01:56:16 Modern Tech Over Old01:58:24 Final Thanks and Sponsor Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with JT the Car Guy, a longtime Chrysler and Stellantis technician and YouTube creator, to discuss dealership life, content creation, and the changing automotive industry. JT shares his journey through two decades in Chrysler dealerships, the value of brand specific experience, and the challenges facing technicians today. They also discuss flat rate, apprenticeships, EVs, MPI videos, service advisors, diagnostic support, OEM parts, and the realities of working in a dealership. The conversation also explores building a YouTube channel, handling criticism, staying anonymous online, sharing knowledge without gatekeeping, and balancing life as a technician with life as a content creator. Timestamps: 00:00 OEM vs. Aluminum Cooler00:57 Podcast Welcome and Guest Intro02:30 Two YouTube Channels Explained04:57 Handling Haters and Censorship05:52 JT’s Origin Story in Dealerships07:28 PT Cruiser Era and Reputation09:45 Filming Limits and Brand Focus13:47 Training Apprentices and EV Shift18:28 Old School Tools and Engine Talk24:02 Flat Rate Pay and Tech Shortage26:37 MPI Videos and Advisor Role31:02 Comebacks and Customer Service33:47 EGR to VVT and Vacuum Pumps35:15 Vacuum Pump Talk35:37 Cousin Pookie Origin37:55 Troubleshooter Life38:57 OEM Parts Only39:40 Dealer Diagnostic Reality43:16 Recalls and Dispatch45:17 Dash Work Nightmares48:03 DIY Comment Wars50:00 YouTube Creator Economics53:58 Early YouTube Influences58:34 Instructor vs. Freedom01:02:10 Sharing Fixes, Not Gatekeeping01:04:22 Forums and Allpar Days01:06:16 AI Customers and STAR Cases01:10:30 Future of Remote Diagnostics01:13:23 Network Fix Saves the Day01:14:18 Toyota Yoda Pay Dispute01:15:48 Staying Anonymous Online01:19:00 Creator vs. Shop Tech01:21:27 Warranty Time Reality01:24:03 Caravan Steering Rack Saga01:26:37 EV Future and Health01:30:15 Training Apprentices Today01:32:39 Tool Trucks vs. Retail01:37:04 Advice for New Techs01:40:30 SEMA and LLC Protection01:42:39 Dorman Cooler Controversy01:46:54 Wrap Up and Channels01:51:07 Final Thanks and Outro Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff and Aniz talk about shop schedules, training, shop culture, and the value of finding the right people in the automotive industry. They discuss why seven day operations are not the right fit for every shop, how technicians should be part of scheduling decisions, and why events like ASTA can provide valuable training, networking, and lasting connections. The conversation also covers customer service, improving shop processes, budgeting for training, raising rates, investing in your team, and making more time for family. Timestamps: 00:00 Seven Days Debate00:48 Why ASTA Is Worth It03:08 Canada Training Gap06:48 This Year’s ASTA Goals08:51 Finding Your People11:30 Culture and Hiring Right12:46 Service Value in Details14:25 Tire Season Efficiency17:08 Training Pays Dividends19:46 Shop Hours and Team Buy In24:13 Time, Family, and Balance26:13 Wealth Versus Regrets27:03 Work Addiction Warning Signs28:47 Generational Wealth Pitfalls30:23 Teaching Kids Money32:17 Nurture Business With Training33:49 Events That Change Lives37:11 Stop Going It Alone38:44 Budgeting for Training Trips40:16 Raise Rates and Value Labor43:31 Give Back and Connect46:10 Their Podcast and Community47:54 Final Push and Thanks Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.   Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Aniz Lavji to talk about shop growth, better workflow, and the value of finding your people in the automotive industry. Aniz shares how hiring a service advisor and adding a second licensed technician helped improve customer service, reduce stress, and give him more time to focus on the business. They also discuss the challenges small shops face when big jobs tie up bays, create delays, and lead to rushed work or comebacks. Aniz also shares how he discovered Jeff’s podcast and why attending ASTA alone became such an important experience. What started as a solo trip turned into new friendships, practical learning, and a stronger connection to the industry community. Timestamps: 00:00 Finding Family at ASTA00:57 Podcast Welcome and Introductions01:26 Jeep Repairs and Shop Chaos02:32 Hiring Staff and Serving Customers05:17 Big Jobs vs. Easy Money09:51 How Anis Found the Podcast11:55 Proactive Ownership and Learning16:05 Why ASTA Changed Everything17:15 Walking In Alone and Meeting Jeff20:41 ASTA vs. Vision and Real Connections22:34 Lobby Talks and Practical Nuggets28:29 Wrap Up and Call to Action Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff sits down with Ben and Jenna of 3Ts Automotive to talk about mobile automotive repair, business growth, marriage, and building a business online. Ben and Jenna share the realities of running a high volume mobile business, from working in extreme heat to managing customer expectations and diagnosing vehicles on camera. They discuss their plans for a future brick and mortar shop, the challenges of growing a YouTube channel, and why staying authentic matters more than chasing views. The conversation also covers pricing, profitability, parts sourcing, scheduling, maintenance, industry misinformation, online trolls, and the importance of supporting technicians who want to do quality work. They also share lessons on working together as a couple, avoiding burnout, staying focused on your own journey, and keeping the business fundamentals ahead of social media. Timestamps: 00:00 Ignore Online Hype00:36 Meet 3Ts Automotive01:02 Heat and Going Brick and Mortar04:23 Working With Your Spouse09:57 Filming Real Diagnostics11:32 Authenticity Over Views14:35 Trolls and Teaching Values19:12 Pricing Labor and Profit23:34 Wild Customer Calls32:16 No Means No Requests33:34 Turbo Noise Request34:14 Why Enthusiast Cars Hurt35:46 The Never Ending Project39:40 Parts Sourcing Reality40:23 Friends and Family Pricing Trap43:56 Home Shop Time Management46:53 Hemi Truck No Start Mystery50:16 Flexible Repair Philosophy54:24 Maintenance First Hard Truths59:42 Social Media Pricing Damage01:08:03 Battery Light Surprise01:08:52 Alternator Fix Then Stalls01:10:42 Cat Converter Root Cause01:11:23 Parts Quality Domino Effect01:14:10 Parking Lot Mechanics Debate01:17:34 Regulation and Certification01:22:24 Building the Skool Community01:28:21 Rage Bait and Misinformation01:34:43 Staying Positive Online01:40:00 Profitability and Public Perception01:42:49 Who to Argue With01:45:14 Quiet Supporters Matter01:46:51 Handling Trolls Online01:48:12 Who Deserves a Platform01:49:57 Internet Outsiders Weigh In01:53:36 Stay the Course01:54:51 Working With Your Spouse01:59:35 Mobile Life and Burnout02:02:14 ADHD, Anxiety and Focus02:06:08 Stop Comparing Journeys02:08:03 Closing Advice and Growth02:10:22 Content Second, Business First02:13:18 Revenue Goals and Training02:16:04 Thanks, Sponsors and Community02:18:23 Final Sign Off and CTA Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff Compton talks with Tanner Waters, a field and shop technician in rural Montana, about his path into the trade and what life is like working on tractors, combines, and hay equipment. Tanner shares his apprenticeship experience, field diagnostics, long drives, and major repairs while comparing hourly efficiency pay with flat rate. The conversation also explores why younger technicians leave the industry, the importance of shop culture and leadership, technician communication, diagnostic time, training apprentices, and the future of agricultural equipment with autonomy, EVs, emissions, and right to repair. Timestamps: 00:00 Shop Culture Wins 00:34 Podcast Intro and Guest Setup 01:45 Montana Life and Fishing Talk 02:43 How Tanner Got Wrenching 03:24 Corvette and Hemi Memories 05:43 Wrangler Ownership and Oil Cooler 08:41 Life as a Field Tech 11:55 Winter Regens and Emissions 13:36 From Kenworth to John Deere 14:32 Old-School Trucks and Cabovers 18:17 Apprenticeship Tools and Toolboxes 22:50 Princess Auto and Canada Road Trip 26:14 MMA Stories 31:02 The Missing Age Group in the Trade 32:00 The Flat Rate Gap 34:48 Recalls and PIPs 36:08 Why Technicians Leave 40:54 Hourly Efficiency Pay 51:18 Workflow Support Roles 55:03 Technicians Selling the Job 59:54 Pre-Authorizing Repairs 01:04:18 Why Diagnostics Take Time 01:09:50 Transmission Service Expectations 01:11:05 Free Diagnostics vs. Evaluation 01:13:08 Asking Better Questions 01:14:07 Intermittent Turbo Faults 01:15:19 Parts Quality Reality Check 01:18:39 Build Quality and Technician Pay 01:20:54 Training Apprentices the Right Way 01:23:27 Motivation and Career Paths 01:27:13 Turnover and Leadership 01:32:56 Ag Tech Levels and Certifications 01:34:08 Autonomy and Electric Agriculture 01:38:29 EVs in Rural Life 01:41:32 Muscle Cars and Collectors 01:44:49 Jeep Ducks Culture 01:45:53 The Top-Off Jeep Debate 01:47:13 Wrangler Tops and Leaks 01:48:26 Refrigerant Changes and 1234yf 01:49:58 AC Repair Customer Headaches 01:52:57 DIY Refrigerant Cans and Regulations 01:57:29 Right to Repair Deere 02:01:26 Technician Shortage and OTA Updates 02:04:36 Self-Driving and Subscriptions 02:08:54 Shop Culture and Career 02:13:35 Events, Sponsors, and Farewell Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.   Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff talks with Oregon technician Sean Pierce about his unconventional path into automotive repair, from car audio and alarms to trade school, ASE certifications, and advanced diagnostics. Sean shares lessons from working on exotic vehicles and Sprinters, explains why process and proper brake work matter, and discusses his shop’s hourly-plus-bonus pay structure and technician development pipeline. They also explore scan tools, hybrids and EVs, ADAS calibration, liability, parts quality, and the challenges of bringing the next generation into the trade. Timestamps: 00:00 Trade School Journey 00:53 Podcast Intro and Wildfires 01:30 Farm Life and Animals 02:58 Toyota vs. Sprinter Shop Specialties 03:44 Sprinter Repair Nightmares 06:55 Car Audio and Euro Roots 10:57 Exotic Car Installs and Ferrari Stress 12:48 Becoming a Technician and Earning ASEs 15:52 Training Technicians the Right Way 18:00 Pay Plans and Shop Culture 20:21 Building a Community Reputation 26:14 Parts Quality and Counterfeit Components 35:26 On-Car Rotor Truing 38:40 Hub Preparation and Brake Vibration 41:28 Flat Rate vs. Quality 43:05 Proper Brake Bedding 45:56 Why Diagnostics Is Addictive 51:33 Setting Diagnostic Expectations 57:44 Audi S8 Diagnostic Nightmare 01:03:49 Scan Tools and Diagnostic Resources 01:08:38 Hybrids and EVs 01:13:03 EV HVAC Safety Warnings 01:14:11 ADAS and Calibration 01:15:53 Tesla and Self-Driving Reality 01:17:25 Calibration Liability and Pay 01:25:07 What Frustrates Technicians Today 01:27:49 How Passion Changes With Age 01:31:22 Side Work and Going Solo 01:40:15 Building the Next Generation of Technicians 01:48:13 Two-Year Goals and Wrap Up Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Dustin Stutzman, a shop foreman and high-efficiency flat-rate technician, shares why he left engineering for the automotive industry and how he became a master technician without a dedicated mentor. Drawing from years in dealership service departments, Dustin explains how flat-rate pay, poor dispatching, and corporate policies often discourage quality repairs and technician development. The conversation explores AI, diagnostic pay, training, dealership culture, and what it will take to retain skilled technicians in the future. Timestamps: 00:00 Learning Without Mentors 00:47 From Engineering to Automotive 01:51 Work-Life Balance and Career Values 04:45 AI and the Future of Service Advisors 07:16 Paying Technicians for Video Inspections 11:45 The Shop Foreman Role 14:07 Dispatching Work by Skill Level 17:19 Solving a Cold-Start No-Start Mystery 23:31 Fighting for Diagnostic Pay 24:50 Feeling Appreciated by Great Leadership 30:00 Leaving After Pay Cuts 34:46 Dealer Groups and Industry Consolidation 39:48 Becoming a Chrysler Master Technician 42:40 Life on the Training Road 43:27 Why Dustin Avoided GM 44:30 Diesel Emissions and Warranty Pay 49:02 Getting Diagnostic Time Approved Upfront 55:40 Quoting Worst-Case Repairs 57:53 Service vs. Parts Department Friction 01:03:41 Dispatch Roulette at Dealerships 01:05:15 Demanding Real Diagnostic Data 01:05:46 The Air Filter Diagnostic Lesson 01:11:25 Old-School Electrical Diagnostics 01:13:57 Chrysler Warranty Pay and the Neon Squeak 01:15:19 The 40-Hour Dash Rattle 01:16:46 Brick Road Dash Rattle 01:17:32 One-Shot Repair Success 01:18:06 Foam-Filled Repair Solution 01:19:25 Why Dustin Praises Chrysler WiTech 01:21:09 Preventive Maintenance Matters 01:22:34 Oil Change Reality Check 01:25:19 The Cost of Oil Neglect 01:29:45 Training Technicians Under Flat Rate 01:33:18 The Missing Career Path for New Techs 01:34:39 Learning by Doing 01:37:45 Advocating for Better Pay and Metrics 01:41:20 Dealer Groups and Technician Burnout 01:45:07 The Technician Shortage and Pay Gap 01:50:16 Keeping Great Technicians 01:53:16 Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Events Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff welcomes Pennsylvania technician Brian DeCesare to discuss how the automotive industry can rebuild customer trust through honest inspections, ethical recommendations, and consistent shop practices. Brian shares his journey from growing up in his father's body shop to working in independent repair shops, reflecting on burnout, poor shop culture, and the challenges of being the only productive technician. The conversation also covers technician training, right to repair, ADAS, TPMS, EVAP diagnostics, mental health, and why industry events are helping create a stronger automotive community. Timestamps: 00:00 Trust and Estimates 00:46 Podcast Introduction and Guest 02:04 Growing Up Around Auto Shops 04:24 Choosing a Career in Automotive 05:59 School, Sales, and Training 07:36 First Shop and Subaru Lessons 11:30 Dealer vs. Independent Shops 14:22 Burnout as the Only Productive Technician 16:47 New Shop, Same Challenges 26:16 Building a Culture of Teaching 32:45 Explaining Diagnostics to Customers 33:39 Training Before the Internet 34:09 Meeting Industry Mentors 34:49 Calling Out Dishonest Shop Practices 38:40 Doing Right by Customers 41:30 The Reality of Dealership Life 44:42 Pay Structures and Incentives 46:38 Recommending Shops and Vehicles 49:13 Jeep Network Diagnostics 52:54 Programming Costs and Risks 57:21 Right to Repair and Over-the-Air Updates 01:03:53 ADAS Investment Challenges 01:05:42 Safety Technology vs. Shop Budgets 01:08:02 Privacy and Customer Trust 01:08:53 Parking Sensors and ADAS 01:09:28 Inspection Rules and Technician Responsibility 01:10:30 The Reality of TPMS Neglect 01:12:53 Self-Driving Vehicle Lockouts 01:13:27 Vehicle Subscriptions and Ownership 01:14:30 The Cost of Right to Repair 01:16:07 Losing Veteran Technician Knowledge 01:19:10 Shop Culture and Burnout 01:23:32 Mental Health and Addiction 01:28:15 The "Second 40 Hours" Trap 01:32:39 Pay Plans and Oil Change Pricing 01:39:56 Licensing and Vehicle Inspections 01:45:00 Safety Standards and Loopholes 01:46:57 Defeating Safety Systems 01:48:18 The Value of TPMS 01:49:20 Selling Tires with TPMS Sensors 01:52:15 Advisor Pricing Mindset 01:53:44 Proper TPMS Testing 01:55:42 Why EVAP Codes Matter 01:57:23 Solving the Technician Shortage 01:59:36 Improving Access to Tools and Training 02:03:37 Industry Events and Community 02:08:45 The Future of the Automotive Community 02:10:16 Reignited by Tools Conference 02:12:15 Final Thanks and Sign-Off Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.   Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff welcomes veteran technician Steve Blanchard to compare Quebec's hourly-pay system with Ontario's flat-rate model. Steve shares his journey from GM dealerships in Quebec to working in Ontario, explaining how different pay structures affect technician morale, quality, and shop culture. The conversation explores leadership, service advisor processes, warranty work, EV technology, right-to-repair concerns, and why rewarding quality—not just billed hours—creates stronger teams. Timestamps: 00:00 Incentives Without Flat Rate 00:46 Podcast Introduction and Guest 02:35 Steve's Early Career in Quebec 05:39 Hourly Pay and Seasonal Layoffs 12:20 Why Quebec Doesn't Use Flat Rate 16:48 Moving to Ottawa 21:03 Red Seal Exam and Flat Rate Shock 22:53 Hands-On vs. Written Testing 28:18 How Flat Rate Hurts the Trade 34:41 Comebacks and Bad Incentives 36:37 Warranty Work and Cutting Corners 39:22 Teamwork vs. Competition 39:49 Training Your Replacement 40:34 Gatekeeping in the Shop 42:32 Dispatch Challenges 44:52 Switching to Hyundai 45:48 Hyundai Failures and Shop Politics 49:31 When Flat Rate Becomes a Punishment 51:40 Warranty Repair Blowup 56:09 Free Labor and Employee Loyalty 01:02:27 DIY Repairs and Safety Risks 01:06:17 EVs and Self-Driving Technology 01:10:12 Vehicle Data and Privacy Concerns 01:14:13 Subscription Features and Paywalls 01:16:52 Software Pricing Challenges 01:17:28 Affordable EV Truck Discussion 01:19:51 EV Charging Reality 01:21:00 EV Lockouts and Liability 01:22:37 The Right-to-Repair Debate 01:25:30 Technician Certification Changes 01:27:11 Remote Vehicle Control and Privacy 01:30:25 Flat Rate vs. Hourly Pay 01:32:18 Leadership and Shop Culture 01:40:04 The Role of Service Advisors 01:43:03 Injury, Career Longevity, and Exit Plans 01:44:45 Better Appointment Preparation 01:55:07 Wrap Up and Closing Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff sits down with technician-turned-shop-owner Caleb Mac to discuss the challenges of leaving the comfort of employment to build a business from the ground up. Caleb shares his journey from dealership lube technician to opening his own repair shop in rural Minnesota, reflecting on poor mentorship, burnout, ethical repair decisions, and the lessons that shaped his approach to business. The conversation also covers pricing strategies, mobile repair, towing, diagnostics, hiring, and balancing entrepreneurship with family life. Timestamps 00:00 Discomfort Drives Growth 00:49 Podcast Introduction and Caleb Returns 02:03 Opening a New Shop in Minnesota 03:51 Mobile Repair During Harsh Winters 05:20 Dealership Lube Bay Challenges 10:43 Learning Without Mentorship 13:08 Why Caleb Chose Automotive Repair 16:27 Fast Learning at a Used Car Dealer 18:27 Safety Standards and Rust Repairs 22:20 Burnout, Pay, and Tool Costs 25:32 Raises, Pay Tracking, and Moving On 34:06 Bad Coworkers and Comebacks 38:06 Road Tests and Accountability 39:53 Coils vs. Spark Plugs Debate 40:48 Looking Beyond the Misfire 41:34 Hemi Lifter Failures 43:47 Ethics of Frame Repairs 49:34 Launching a Solo Business 54:30 Pricing and Parts Matrix Strategies 59:08 The Reality of Mobile Repair 01:02:11 Finding a Permanent Shop 01:17:47 Tour of the New Shop 01:22:23 Adding Towing Services 01:23:25 Insurance and Business Research 01:24:19 Buying a Tow Truck 01:25:19 How Towing Quickly Paid Off 01:25:47 A Challenging Diagnostic Case 01:27:14 Using Brandon Steckler's Resources 01:28:39 Shop Owner vs. Technician Responsibilities 01:31:58 Building a Family Legacy 01:32:53 Farmall Restoration Project 01:35:15 Carburetors vs. EFI Swaps 01:37:42 Hiring During Slow Seasons 01:39:26 The Physical Toll of Mobile Repair 01:42:50 Final Advice and Mindset 01:45:46 ASCA and Industry Networking 01:48:09 Canada Stories and Fishing 01:53:12 Wrap Up and Call to Action Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE Recorded at Tools in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Jeff sits down with Josh Coomes of Auto Shop Therapy and technician Brian Ramsburg to discuss the realities of running a modern repair shop. Brian reflects on more than 18 years in the trade, the challenges of being a solo technician, and why he enjoys variety in his work, while Josh shares his customer-first approach, leadership lessons, and the importance of protecting a shop's reputation. Together, they explore diagnostics, pay plans, hiring, training, and building a culture that values quality over speed. Timestamps: 00:00 Listen or Become a Liability 00:35 Tools in Hershey Introduction 02:37 Brian's Career Journey 04:18 Owning a Job vs. Owning a Shop 07:42 Customer Empathy and Service Standards 09:21 Turning Away Older Vehicles 14:48 Favorite Types of Repairs 18:02 Why They Avoid European Vehicles 19:40 Shop Scheduling and Profitability 21:56 Technician vs. Owner Priorities 25:38 Working Relationship Challenges 28:28 Hiring and Leadership Lessons 36:20 Mentoring and a Proof-Based Culture 40:41 Pay Plans and Team Morale 42:03 The Starter Diagnosis Debate 45:41 The Stress of Being the Only Technician 48:50 Quality Control vs. Book Time 52:40 Shop Standards and Fair Productivity 55:27 Workflow and Imperfect Data 58:51 Flat Rate Pressure Stories 01:05:10 Hiring Through Working Interviews 01:10:23 Charging Properly to Grow 01:12:44 Final Advice and Closing Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.   Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Save 15% on your next Launch Tech USA tool with code Launch15. Use that code at checkout HERE In this episode, Jeff is with Josh Forbes of Maxim Muffler in Winnipeg talks about his unconventional path into the automotive industry. What started with constant breakdowns on his first car—a 1993 Ford Tempo—turned into a career built through hands-on learning, apprenticeship experience, and years of navigating different shop environments. Josh shares lessons from dealership life, the importance of shop culture, why employee appreciation matters, and his concerns about the future of right-to-repair legislation. Timestamps: 00:00 Tools and Debt Lessons 00:45 Podcast Introduction 02:44 Shop Schedule and Weather 03:27 First Cars and Fuel Costs 08:22 Tempo Breakdowns That Started It All 12:24 College Training at Fanshawe 14:17 Choosing the Trade Path 17:54 Ford Dealer Quick Lane Reality 24:19 Book Time vs. Real Repairs 36:41 Why He Left the Dealer 39:06 Finding the Right Shop 41:29 The Culture That Changed Everything 45:21 Appreciation Over Pay 52:17 How Bad Culture Breaks Technicians 55:04 Forever Apprentice Mindset 58:44 Trade Pay Gap Debate 01:02:19 DIY Repair Horror Stories 01:07:54 Training Service Writers 01:16:24 The Right to Repair Fight 01:21:22 Quality Control Basics 01:23:46 Training Instead of Punishment 01:27:35 Oil Leak Case Study 01:31:46 Recognition and Longevity 01:37:35 Smart Tool Buying 01:40:05 Diagnostics, Process, and School 01:47:00 Wrap Up and Final Thoughts Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232