Advertise on podcast: Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast, we speak to Stuart and Janine from TyreSafe about tyre safety, the risks of poorly maintained tyres and why keeping your tyres in good condition is a responsibility that lasts all year round.   Marking Tyre Safety Month, the conversation explores the importance of tyre maintenance, the potential consequences of driving on illegal tyres and how the automotive aftermarket can help raise awareness and make our roads safer.   Guests: Stuart Lovatt: Chair, TyreSafe Janine Danha: Communications Manager, TyreSafe   We talk about: Why tyres are so important for grip, steering and braking, and why drivers can underestimate their role in road safety The importance of regular tyre checks, particularly before long journeys and when driving in changing weather conditions The potential fines, penalty points and legal responsibilities associated with driving on illegal or poorly maintained tyres The responsibilities of employers and employees when it comes to tyre safety and work vehicles TyreSafe's year-round campaigning and its mission to reduce harm caused by illegal and poorly maintained tyres How independent garages, retailers and technicians can help raise awareness in their local communities The free resources available from TyreSafe to help garages support tyre safety campaigns   This episode is sponsored by BM Catalysts. 📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast, we sit down with professional darts player James Wade, better known as The Machine, for a conversation that goes well beyond the oche.   James has been playing darts since he was 7 and has spent 25 years as a professional, but his other great passion has always been cars. From helping out in his dad's workshop as a young child to working on cars and bikes himself today, the automotive world has remained a big part of his life.   Guest: James Wade: Professional darts player   We talk about: James growing up around cars, his early experiences in the workshop and why he's still passionate about the aftermarket His journey from playing darts as a child to becoming one of the sport's established professionals Life away from the oche, including family, friendships and the people closest to him His experiences with bipolar and ADHD and how they've shaped different parts of his life How professional darts has changed over the years and where he thinks the sport is heading Why he's keen to get back into the automotive industry and what life in the workshop gives him that darts doesn't   It's an honest, funny and occasionally very candid conversation with a man who has spent decades at the top of professional darts, while maintaining a genuine connection with the automotive world.   Content warning: James openly discusses his experiences with bipolar, ADHD and periods of poor mental health during the episode. If you or someone you know works or has worked in the automotive industry and needs support, help is available through Ben's Support for Life on 0808 131 1133 or via their website.   This episode is sponsored by BM Catalysts.   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: @garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Amanda Webb from FixMyCar to discuss the changing automotive aftermarket and what the future holds for independent garages.   Amanda talks about the recent management buyout of FixMyCar and how it has shaped the direction of the business, with a greater focus on building-term partnerships between the platform and the garages on its network.   The conversation also looks at the pressures facing independent garages, from squeezed profit margins and changing customer expectations to the growing need to invest in electric vehicle (EV) skills, equipment and facilities. Amanda considers some of the difficult decisions garages face as the aftermarket continues to evolve.   Vicky and Ben also explore how FixMyCar's two-sided marketplace works, connecting motorists with garages while giving customers the trust and choice they need when deciding where to have their vehicle repaired or serviced.   With more motorists becoming comfortable with searching, booking and paying for vehicle work online, the conversation turns to the role technology and AI could play in changing the way people find and choose a garage.   Amanda also shares her ambitions for the future of FixMyCar, including growing its garage network and continuing to increase the value it provides to independent garages.   Guest Amanda Webb – CEO, FixMyCar   What you'll learn How the management buyout has changed the direction of FixMyCar The challenges facing independent garages as the automotive aftermarket evolves Why partnerships are becoming increasingly important in the aftermarket How garages can adapt to the growth of electric vehicles What motorists are looking for when choosing a garage How FixMyCar connects motorists and garages through its two-sided marketplace How technology and AI could change the way motorists find and choose a garage Amanda's ambitions for the future of FixMyCar   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Alex Guslisty, Founder and CEO of Big Atom, to take a closer look at one of the automotive aftermarket’s biggest, and often overlooked, waste challenges: what happens to tyres once they leave a garage?   Around 50 million waste tyres are generated in the UK every year, but how much do garages really know about where those tyres end up?   Alex explains what happens to a waste tyre after collection, why the cheapest collection quote isn't necessarily the safest option for a garage, and what responsibilities garages have when it comes to choosing waste carriers and keeping records.   The conversation also looks ahead to a major change coming in October 2026, when the DEFRA Digital Waste Tracking system is introduced. Alex explains what the new requirements mean for both independent garages and larger tyre businesses, why compliance matters and whether the industry is ready for the change.   Vicky, Ben and Alex also explore the wider future of tyre recycling, including the role of pyrolysis, construction materials and energy recovery, and ask whether the UK needs a more mature and transparent approach to dealing with its waste tyres.   Guest Alex Guslisty – Founder & CEO, Big Atom   What you'll learn What actually happens to waste tyres after they leave a garage Why the cheapest tyre collection option may carry the biggest risk What garages should know about waste carriers and record keeping What the October 2026 DEFRA Digital Waste Tracking mandate means for the automotive aftermarket The risks of non-compliance How the UK currently deals with millions of waste tyres The role of pyrolysis and other methods of tyre recycling Why garages need to start thinking differently about tyre disposal   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Ross Toomey and Martin Turner from Intermotor Group to explore how rapidly changing vehicle technology is reshaping life for independent garages.   The conversation begins with Intermotor's return to its original name after operating as SMP Europe. Ross and Martin explain the thinking behind the change and what it means for garages and technicians.   From there, the discussion turns to the increasingly complex world of engine management systems. Are modern repairs genuinely more difficult, or are technicians simply facing a different set of challenges?   They also look at some of the biggest issues facing workshops today, including diagnosing modern vehicles, emissions technology and the growing need for specialist knowledge.   The conversation then moves into OE quality, product testing and validation, and the challenge of balancing cost with quality and reliability when choosing components.   And with electrification, connectivity and software-driven vehicle systems continuing to change the automotive landscape, what challenges and opportunities lie ahead for independent garages?   Guests: Ross Toomey: Managing Director, Intermotor Group Martin Turner: Marketing Director, Intermotor Group   In this episode we discuss: Why Intermotor returned to its original name How engine management systems have changed over the last decade Whether modern vehicles are genuinely more difficult to repair The challenges facing garages when working with increasingly complex vehicles The growing importance of emissions-related technology What "OE quality" really means in the aftermarket Balancing cost with quality and reliability The role of product testing and validation How electrification, connectivity and software are changing vehicles What the next five years could look like for independent garages   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Tim Guidotti of Ferdotti Motor Services, a garage with a rich history dating back to 1977.    Tim shares insights into the evolution of his family-run garage, the significance of training and equipment investment, and how these elements contribute to a successful workshop.    We also speak to "The Fleet Guy" himself about the world of fleet vehicles, which now make up nearly 60% of all new vehicle sales, including challenges and rewards of transitioning into fleet work, and how garages can enhance their profitability by understanding the unique needs of fleet customers.   Tim emphasises the need for garages to adapt to the changing landscape of vehicle ownership, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles and the shift towards mobility as a service.   Guests: Tim Guidotti - The Fleet Guy   What you’ll learn: How garages can diversify their income through fleet work The significance of training and preparation for servicing fleet vehicles Insights into The Fleet Guy initiative and its offerings The impact of electric vehicles on the future of the automotive industry How important networking and relationship building is    This episode is a must-listen for garage owners looking to tap into the fleet market.   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben welcome Eleanor Baker Barnes from Apprenticeship Central to discuss the pressing need for young talent in the automotive aftermarket and how to effectively attract apprentices.   Eleanor talks about common misconceptions surrounding the interest of young people in the automotive industry, explaining that they are eager to join but require the right encouragement and opportunities. We explore the significant challenges garages face in recruiting apprentices and the vital role of mentorship in shaping a successful apprenticeship experience.   Gain insights into the importance of creating a welcoming environment for apprentices, including effective onboarding processes and the need for clear communication regarding expectations. Eleanor also highlights the evolving landscape of apprenticeship roles, particularly in light of advancements in electric vehicles and the diverse opportunities available within the industry.   Guests: Eleanor Baker Barnes - Commercial Director, Apprenticeship Central What you’ll learn: The importance of attracting young talent to the automotive aftermarket How to create an inviting and supportive environment for apprentices The role of mentorship in successful apprenticeship programmes Current trends in apprenticeship roles and the impact of EV technology Dispelling myths about the automotive industry among young people and their parents   This episode is essential for anyone in the automotive sector looking to foster a new generation of skilled professionals and ensure the industry's future success.   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, we sit down with Ellen Plumer from Ben, the charity dedicated to supporting those in the automotive industry. Ellen sheds light on the vital services Ben provides, emphasising that help is available to anyone who has worked in automotive (and their families), regardless of their circumstances.   The discussion dives into the mental and physical challenges faced by individuals in the automotive sector, including highlighting the impact of stress and anxiety compounded by the ongoing cost of living crisis. Ellen shares insights into how Ben offers holistic support, from mental health resources to financial assistance, and the importance of early intervention before issues escalate.   Listeners will learn about the historical evolution of Ben, its mission to raise awareness within the industry, and the significant role that peer support plays in encouraging individuals to seek help. Ellen also addresses the growing need for a more inclusive environment that acknowledges mental health, particularly in a traditionally male-dominated field.   Guest: Ellen Plumer - Head of Awareness & Experience, Ben   What you’ll learn: The range of support services available through Ben for automotive workers and their families Common mental health challenges faced in the automotive industry How to identify early warning signs of stress and burnout The importance of fostering a supportive workplace culture Ways to raise awareness and support the charity’s mission   This episode is essential listening for anyone in the automotive industry, offering valuable insights into mental health support and the importance of community within the sector.   📻 We're proud to be supporting Ben with a 24-hour live radio show on 20th August to help raise funds for this fantastic charity. If you'd like to support the challenge, you can donate here: 24 Hour Radiothon - Garage Talk Online   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Henry Bisson, Marketing Director at Ring Automotive, to discuss the latest developments in automotive lighting, vehicle safety and the aftermarket.   Henry shares his insights on the importance of quality bulbs, highlighting how poor choices can lead to costly repairs and safety issues. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of vehicle lighting, including the differences between brightness and glare, and the implications of using LED bulbs. As the darker months approach, Henry emphasises the need for consumers to be educated about their choices, especially as modern vehicles become increasingly complex.   The conversation also touches on the relationship between Ring Automotive and OSRAM and how they work together. Henry reflects on the changing dynamics of the aftermarket, the significance of battery health, and the impact of seasonal changes on vehicle performance.   Guests: Henry - Marketing Director, Ring Automotive   What you’ll learn: Why choosing quality lighting products matters The difference between brightness and glare What drivers need to know about modern lighting technology How battery health affects vehicle performance, especially as the seasons change Why consumer education is becoming increasingly important   Whether you're an aftermarket professional or simply interested in the latest vehicle technology, this episode offers practical insights into lighting, safety and the trends shaping the automotive industry.   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Toby Whewell, Sales and Marketing Director, and Holly Brailsford, Marketing Manager at Fras-le Mobility UK. Together, they delve into the world of braking systems, bearings, and the evolving landscape of the automotive aftermarket.   Fras-le Mobility UK may not be a household name for every garage, but the brands under its umbrella, including Juratek, Abtex, and Nakata, certainly are. Toby and Holly discuss how these brands integrate and the challenges garages face in choosing the right components, particularly in the competitive braking market. They also explore the impact of electric vehicles (EVs) on braking systems and the importance of understanding the nuances of product quality versus price.   Throughout the episode, they highlight the significance of proper installation processes and the need for garages to adapt to the increasing complexity of modern vehicle technologies, including the integration of advanced sensors and the implications for diagnostics.   Guests: Toby Whewell - Sales and Marketing Director, Fras-le Mobility UK Holly Brailsford - Marketing Manager, Fras-le Mobility UK   What you’ll learn: The challenges garages face when selecting braking and bearing components The role of electric vehicles in shaping braking system requirements Why understanding product quality is crucial in a competitive market The importance of installation processes and diagnostics in ensuring safety How marketing strategies are adapting to the evolving automotive landscape   This episode offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of braking and bearing components while preparing for the future of vehicle technology.   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, we welcome Quentin Le Hetet from GiPA to discuss the evolving landscape of the UK’s automotive aftermarket.   Quentin shares insights on how the pandemic has dramatically altered the car parc demographics, with a significant drop in new car registrations leading to an ageing fleet. He explains the implications for garages, particularly as vehicles move into the 5-9 year age bracket, which typically sees increased mechanical issues.   We also discuss the importance of understanding customer preferences when it comes to parts and services, highlighting the need for garages to engage in meaningful discussions with their clients about quality versus price. Quentin touches on the growing significance of tyres in the market, especially as electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent and require specific maintenance approaches.   Additionally, we explore the challenges of diagnostics in workshops, the need for training and proper tooling, and the rising importance of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration as the industry adapts to new technologies.   Guest: Quentin Le Hetet - Country Director UK, GiPA   What you’ll learn: The impact of COVID-19 on car registrations and the subsequent effects on the automotive aftermarket Why understanding customer needs is crucial for garages The role of tyres in the maintenance of EVs and traditional vehicles Challenges and opportunities in diagnostics and ADAS calibration The importance of ongoing training and investment in the garage sector   If you're a garage owner or involved in the automotive industry, this episode provides valuable insights into navigating the current market challenges and preparing for the future. 📩 Get in touch: [email protected]   ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben sit down with Neil Grant, Managing Director of HELLA Ltd, the UK arm of a major global automotive supplier with a long-standing presence in lighting and electronics.   From OE lighting and electronics through to diagnostics, ADAS and workshop equipment, HELLA is more than a parts supplier. Neil explains how the business supports the independent aftermarket with OE-quality products, technical information, training resources and remote diagnostic support designed to help workshops keep vehicles moving.   This conversation looks at how HELLA operates across a wide and complex product range and what that means when supporting garages in a rapidly changing industry. Neil also shares his perspective on the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, and why access to diagnostics capability, training and technical support is becoming increasingly important for workshops.   He also discusses HELLA’s significant growth in electronics, the return to thermal management, and the company’s “360 degree solution” approach for supporting garages across diagnostics, equipment and parts.   Guest: Neil Grant - Managing Director, HELLA Ltd   In this episode you’ll hear about: How HELLA has evolved from lighting specialists into a wider workshop and aftermarket solutions provider Why electronics has become one of HELLA’s fastest growing product areas Neil’s view on how future vehicle technologies may shape the industry The return of thermal management and why it is important for HELLA How diagnostics, remote support and ADAS equipment fit into workshop support Why training and technical information are increasingly important for technicians   If you work in the automotive aftermarket, run a workshop, or are responsible for repairing and maintaining vehicles, this episode provides insight into how a major OE supplier is supporting the independent garage network.   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Ben and Vicky sit down with Jo Knowles, Event Director of Automechanika UK and the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event.   Register for the UK Garage and Bodyshop Event here: https://forms.reg.buzz/uk-garage-and-bodyshop-2026/garage-talk   Jo talks about how she ended up in the events world, originally aiming for festivals before moving into automotive, and why properly understanding the aftermarket matters when putting on events for the industry.   We get into what actually makes people turn up to events, the role exhibitors really play, and what’s changing in the way shows are run.   There’s also a look ahead to this year’s UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, including new features, more focus on education, and how the industry can do a better job of bringing new people through the door.   Guest: Jo Knowles – Event Director, Automechanika UK   What you'll learn: How Jo went from festivals to automotive events What makes people actually attend shows Why exhibitors matter more than we think What’s changing at UK Garage & Bodyshop Event this year The ongoing battle to bring new people into the trade   If you’re involved in the automotive industry or planning to attend the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, this episode gives you a proper look at what’s happening behind the scenes and what to expect.   🎟️ Register here: https://forms.reg.buzz/uk-garage-and-bodyshop-2026/garage-talk 📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben sit down with Tony Yates from Schaeffler.   Tony shares his journey from a difficult start in his school life to becoming a driving force behind a fantastic training initiative in the aftermarket, Wrenches & Wisdom. It’s an honest conversation about confidence, careers, and why the industry needs to do more to support the next generation.   The discussion tackles the real reasons garages hold back from taking on apprentices, from time pressures to past bad experiences, and why that mindset needs to shift. Tony explains how Wrenches & Wisdom is helping bridge the gap between suppliers, colleges and workshops, giving apprentices practical knowledge from day one.   Guest Tony Yates: Digital Marketing, Schaeffler   What you’ll learn Why garages struggle to take on apprentices and how to overcome it How Wrenches & Wisdom supports real-world training What makes a good apprentice Why ongoing training matters for technicians too How personal experience can drive change in the industry   📩 Get in touch: [email protected] ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Prashant Chopra from Autogem, a company leading the way in tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) since 2007. Prashant shares his expertise on the realities of TPMS and why thorough vehicle inspections are more important than ever for garages and technicians.   During the conversation, Prashant unpacks the common challenges surrounding TPMS, highlighting the importance of getting inspections right and keeping customers properly informed. He explains how missed checks can lead to issues down the line and ultimately damage a garage’s reputation. Prashant also underlines the value of training and ongoing support to help technicians confidently manage TPMS work.   Guests: Prashant Chopra: Managing Director, Autogem   What you’ll learn: Why accurate vehicle inspections are key to avoiding TPMS issues How to communicate effectively with customers about TPMS The impact of legislation and battery failure on TPMS systems How better training and support can improve service quality The benefits of taking part in Autogem’s Under Pressure competition   If you’re looking to strengthen your garage’s approach to TPMS and deliver a better customer experience, this episode is packed with practical insight.   Get in touch: [email protected]   Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline