The Power of Collaboration and Learning in the Automotive Industry: A Discussion with Jesse Sammons
Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode of the Jaded Mechanic podcast, Jeff is joined by guest Jesse Sammons. They discuss the nerves and self-doubt that can come with being surrounded by impressive individuals in the automotive repair industry. Jeff shares his tactic of surrounding himself with smarter people and how it has benefited his career.We discuss a positive work environment for their employees, drawing from their own negative experiences in previous workplaces, and fostering a growth-minded culture where individuals not only enjoy their work but also find fulfillment in their interactions with colleagues.Additionally, we disucss establishing a space where individuals can enhance their skills and grow professionally and the importance of employees improving their abilities, as this will enable the business to offer higher compensation. The main objective? Cultivate a better work environment and provide learning opportunities, ultimately fostering a positive and growth-oriented culture within our businesses.During the episode, the Jesse reveals that one of their motivations for starting his own business was to enhance the customer experience. He observed numerous instances of poor customer service, lack of transparency, and neglect of minor details, resulting in negative experiences for customers. His aim is to address these issues by ensuring accurate information, professionalism, and transparency in his service.Furthermore, Jesse acknowledges the challenges faced by the industry as a whole, such as rapid technological advancements and a shortage of skilled professionals. They recognize that other industry experts possess valuable knowledge and experience in navigating these challenges. Jesse emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration among professionals to overcome these obstacles and enhance the overall customer experience.Overall, the episode highlights the speaker's commitment to improving the customer experience and addressing common industry problems. They believe that through transparency, professionalism, and mutual support, professionals in the industry can bring about positive change and provide superior services to customers.In this episode, we underscore the significance of collaboration and learning from others as a means to improve and achieve success. They emphasize that other businesses in the industry are not competitors, but rather have their own customer base, clients, and unique approaches. And by assisting one another and drawing from each other's experiences, individuals can learn and reach their full potential. Moreover, when everyone in the industry recognizes the value of collaboration and learning from others, the industry as a whole can undergo a positive transformation.Tune in for an insightful conversation about personal growth and finding your place in the industry. 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
25 Juli 20231h 39min
From GM Dealers to Duramax Specialists: A Journey in Automotive Expertise With Eric Merchant Of Merchant Automotive
In this weeks episode I'm joined by Eric Merchant of Merchant Automotive. We discuss how attending training events and networking opportunities provide a therapeutic outlet for individuals in the industry, allowing them to connect with others who understand their experiences, struggles, and mistakes. This sense of camaraderie and shared understanding is incredibly beneficial, helping individuals feel less alone and providing a support system. The speaker emphasizes that the therapeutic aspect of networking is priceless and cannot be quantified. Furthermore, attending these events can be life-changing, putting individuals on a different path in their careers. Overall, the episode highlights the importance of networking and connecting with others in the industry for personal and professional growth.The episode also discusses the significant impact a skilled technician has on the efficiency of the work environment. When a skilled technician is absent from the shop, it can create backlogs and additional work for other technicians, underscoring the crucial role they play in maintaining a smooth and efficient workflow.Moreover, we discuss the importance of efficiency in the automotive industry. Even small efficiencies, such as knowing how to use an impact with a socket to expedite a job, can make a significant difference in overall productivity. Skilled technicians excel at identifying and implementing these efficiencies, contributing to a more streamlined work environment.This further highlights the value and impact of skilled technicians on the efficiency and success of the automotive business.(01:26) - Slow days and catching up. (06:10) - Allison transmission upgrades. (07:58) - The company's progression. (11:07) - Building transmissions in limited space. (15:56) - Learning at ASTE and AAPEX. (18:01) - SEMA and AAPEX explained. (21:54) - Networking and marketing strategies. (24:39) - Diesel truck reliability. (28:07) - Delegation and perfectionism. (33:06) - The dealer technician experience. (35:29) - Too much politics. (39:07) - Incentivizing people to improve. (40:22) - Independent mindset and secrets. (45:37) - Loyalty and customer experience. (48:47) - Embracing the retainer model. (51:02) - Charging what we're worth. (54:00) - Rising costs and customer reluctance. (00:17) - Charging a fair price. (02:24) - Rewarding loyalty with discounts. (04:43) - Code scans and customer communication. (09:27) - The only industry that does that. (11:59) - Ignoring the importance of warning lights. (15:09) - Dispatched person for service calls. (20:08) - Going to Vision every year. (23:16) - The value of networking. (26:22) - Unwavering convictions in business. (31:23) - Young guy's commitment to ASTE. (34:26) - Saving money for training. (37:59) - Firing up the staff.
18 Juli 20231h 39min
Balancing Company Success and Personal Goals as a Technician With Dutch Silverstein
Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREOn this episode of The Jaded Mechanic podcast, host Jeff welcomes guest Dutch Silverstein, an industry influencer and Jeff's friend. They discuss Dutch's distaste for the metric system and the importance of understanding the value of labor in the automotive industry. Dutch shares a story about a president of an airline who justified paying first officers so little that they qualified for public assistance, highlighting the importance of fair compensation. They also discuss the challenges facing the industry, including the shortage of skilled labor and the need for more diversity and inclusion. Overall, it's an insightful conversation about the state and future of the automotive repair industry.(02:17) - False advertising in marketing. (04:52) - Discovering your gift. (09:03) - Keeping a pilot's logbook. (09:17) - Coaching and earning trust. (10:34) - Transaction vs. Relationship-based models. (12:48) - FAA Regulations and Chemotherapy. (14:25) - Low hanging fruit in business. (16:32) - Bankruptcy and loss of retirement. (17:55) - Coaching companies and sales approach. (20:23) - Aviation's Nomadic Style. (22:25) - Coaching vs. Consulting. (24:18) - Flight pay for pilots. (26:26) - Deferred gratification and retirement. (28:12) - Pilot salaries and working conditions. (30:35) - Financial discipline and planning. (34:40) - Automotive Repair Efficiency. (34:47) - Tools and Productivity. (36:24) - Raising prices and losing customers. (38:11) - The cost of toolboxes. (40:21) - Trust in Car Advocacy. (41:37) - Rough language in blue-collar jobs. (44:21) - Preventative maintenance vs lease compliance. (46:21) - Employee satisfaction and motivation. (47:35) - Recommending car maintenance. (49:54) - Wanting to be taken care of. (51:15) - Two Standards of Behavior. (54:35) - Retirement and owed compensation. (55:46) - Transparency in business practices. (56:20) - Inventorying tools for insurance. (58:47) - Sales techniques in business. (01:00:58) - Embracing honesty and candor. 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
11 Juli 20232h 3min
Trials and Tribulations: The Realities of a Career in Auto Repair With The Flat Rate Master
Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, The Flat Rate Master and Jeff discuss the importance of investing in employee training for shop owners. They note that many shop owners fail to see the benefits of shutting down their shop and taking a loss of income to send their employees to training events. An example of a shop owner who takes his entire crew to training events every year, and the host emphasizes that this is an investment in the business that will result in better technicians who do a better job is discussed. Both Jeff and The Flat Rate Master agree that content creators have a role to play in showing the benefits of investing in training for employees. The Flat Rate Master notes that he has been accused of being negative about the industry lately, but he believes that it is important to highlight the importance of training. Jeff agrees and notes that many mechanics have lost their jobs due to lack of training and that investing in training is a way to ensure employability in the future. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of investing in training for employees as a way to improve the quality of work and ensure long-term success for the business.In this episode, Jeff shares his experience of unburdening his feelings through a podcast and how it helped him turn his life around. He mentions that initially, he was angry, mad, and jaded when he got laid off due to COVID. However, doing a podcast with The Changing The Industry team gave him a voice and made him feel better. He believes that unburdening your feelings through a podcast is healthy and shouldn't be ridiculed. The Flat Rate Master also agrees with this and mentions that it's like therapy. They both encourage people to share their experiences and cautionary tales to unburden themselves, which would be the best thing for all parties, including the industry. Overall, the episode highlights the importance of sharing experiences and unburdening oneself through a podcast, which can have a positive impact on mental health and career growth.In this episode, the importance of mentoring was discussed, but it was also acknowledged that there is no exit strategy for mentors. It was noted that as people age, their brains and bodies slow down, and they may not be as valuable in the workforce as they once were. It was suggested that if a mentor is always giving, they may be essentially creating competition for themselves as the people they mentor become just as valuable as they are. The question of how to approach this was raised, and it was suggested that mentors may need to consider doing things differently to avoid this happening. Additionally, it was emphasized that it's important to have a plan for the end of one's career, as ageism is a problem in the workforce. The episode suggested that having a plan, such as continuing to make content like YouTube videos, can help ensure that one remains employable even as they age. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of mentoring while also acknowledging the need to consider how to avoid becoming replaceable. 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
4 Juli 20231h 35min
From Hating It to Loving It: Mike Allen's Journey in the Auto Repair Industry
Mike Allen, a whiskey lover and multi-shop owner, appears on the podcast to share his stories and perspective. He grew up in his father's shop, which was also his grandfather's, and eventually started his own business with his father's help. Despite attempting to go down other paths, Mike returned to the auto industry and currently has three shop locations with hopes for a fourth.The episode stresses the importance of technicians investing in themselves and their training, rather than just tools and storage. As physical labor becomes more challenging with age, technicians can still earn a living by using their brain and mental skills. They should focus on acquiring knowledge and skills related to emerging technology and using their brain instead of their back. The episode also highlights the shortage of competent technicians, and the definition of "qualified" depends on the expectations of the industry. Therefore, technicians should strive to develop their skills to take on more complex jobs and remain competitive in the industry as they age. The overall message is that technicians should prioritize developing their skills and knowledge for a sustainable career in the long run.The episode also advises technicians who want to own their own business to invest in training and learn about the basics of business operations and human communication. The hosts recommend reading books such as "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie and "Profit First" by Mike Michalowicz. They also suggest finding a trainer that aligns with their values and not waiting until they can afford it. The hosts emphasize the importance of using one's brain instead of relying solely on physical labor, as the body will eventually fail. They also suggest finding peers to communicate with and learn from, such as through private communication channels like Slack. Overall, the hosts believe that owning a successful business requires putting the right people in place, providing them with the right equipment and training, and constantly generating leads.The guest speaker in the episode emphasizes the importance of owners seeking out training to improve their business operations. However, he notes that not all trainers are the same, and owners should find one that aligns with their business goals and values. The speaker suggests that owners should understand how they want to do business and seek out a trainer that aligns with those values. He also emphasizes the importance of learning from the mistakes of others to avoid making those mistakes themselves. The speaker suggests that owners should invest in themselves and their training, rather than just tools and storage. By investing in their knowledge and skills, owners can make better decisions for their business and ensure its success.
27 Juni 20231h 30min
The Future of the Automotive Industry and Burnout Prevention With Tanner Brandt
Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode of the Jaded Mechanic podcast, host Jeff is joined by his friend Tanner Brandt to discuss the challenges of being a mobile diagnostic and programming technician in the automotive repair industry. They talk about the difficulties of diagnosing input problems and the lack of continued certification for doctors and nurses, as well as the lack of stringent requirements for training instructors in ATMC-accredited schools. They also share their perspectives on the industry and invite listeners to join the conversation.In this episode, the Jeff Compton and Tanner Brandt delve into the crucial topic of prioritizing mental health in the automotive industry. They shed light on the high levels of stress and burnout that are prevalent in the industry, particularly among those in diagnostic roles. The guests argue that it is imperative to teach young people how to manage stress and prevent burnout, especially with the increasing demands of technology and automation in the industry. They suggest that changes need to be made to the way shops are run, vacation time is taken, and the overall atmosphere in the workplace to support mental health. They also emphasize the need to pay attention to the mental health of experienced mechanics who may have been working in the industry for many years and may be experiencing burnout as a result. Overall, the guests stress the importance of creating a supportive and sustainable work environment in the automotive industry that prioritizes mental health and well-being.Jeff and Tanner discuss how small changes in the workplace can help alleviate stress and improve productivity. For instance, one technician was stressed out by waiters coming in the morning, which affected his work. Another technician noticed this and decided to come in 20 minutes later to help alleviate the stress. This small change helped the technician and improved productivity. The speakers also highlight the importance of taking breaks and finding stress relief activities. They talk about how fishing helped one of them improve their mental health. The speakers also discuss how teaching young people in the industry how to manage stress and find stress relief activities is important, especially with new technology coming that could increase burnout. The speakers also discuss how workload and stress can lead to high turnover rates in shops and how small changes, such as adjusting schedules or spreading out tasks, can help alleviate stress and improve productivity. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing stress in the workplace and making small changes to improve productivity and well-being.The episode also touches on the mental toll that certain types of work, specifically complex automobile repairs, can have on individuals. Tanner mentions that working six days a week, 10 hours a day may work for a short amount of time, but after 20 years, the person's mental health will likely be terrible. The speaker also talks about how certain cars can keep you up at night and drive you crazy, and how this type of work takes a different toll on a person than just stressing about making hours. The guest suggests that the industry needs to start teaching young people how to unplug and manage stress, or else burnout will become even worse. The mental toll of this type of work is also discussed in the context of differences in working conditions between different regions, such as the difficulty of repairing cars in areas with harsh weather conditions. Overall, the episode highlights the importance of taking the mental toll of certain types of work into account and making changes to address and prevent mental exhaustion.[00:01:36] Diagnostic challenges in automotive repair. [00:04:46] Mobile auto repair business. [00:07:43] Tough work in the north. [00:11:13] Undercoating and mental health. [00:17:08] Dealership culture and experience. [00:18:17] Poor mentorship and toxic culture. [00:21:38] Flat rate technician competition. [00:25:22] Dealership work and low hours. [00:29:08] Management groups in auto shops. [00:33:05] Dealership vs. Independent Shops. [00:35:34] Car troubleshooting struggles. [00:39:28] Late Waiters and Texts. [00:42:12] Surviving politics in the auto industry. [00:45:35] Work-life balance in auto repair. [00:49:19] Coping with job-related stress. [00:53:38] Red Seal certification. [00:57:01] Red Seal certification for technicians. [01:01:32] Automotive recertification and obstacles. [01:04:40] Learning from Mediocre Classes. [01:09:05] Aging out of the industry. [01:12:42] Lack of Code Book in Industry. [01:16:34] Automotive training and education. [01:19:48] Youth apprenticeship programs. [01:24:11] Standardization in the industry. [01:27:26] Specialization in Automotive Repair. [01:30:38] Automotive Specialization. [01:34:08] Nightmare Used Cars. [01:37:33] Diagnostics and customer advocacy. [01:43:09] Shops nearing retirement and acquisition. [01:44:35] Shop matchmaking. [01:49:03] Driving through the mountains. 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
20 Juni 20231h 50min
Surviving the Dog Eat Dog World of Auto Repair With Brandon Dills
Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode of the Jaded Mechanic podcast, host Jeff is joined by his friend Brandon Dills from Jarhead Diagnostics. They discuss the busy year that Jarhead Diagnostics has had, including moving into a larger facility. Jeff shares his experience of seeing car engines with low mileage that have already been damaged. The episode offers insights into the automotive repair industry and the challenges that come with it.Jeff and Brandon delve into the importance of mobile technicians in the automotive industry. They highlight that even the most skilled technicians may encounter a problematic car that requires a fresh perspective. This is where mobile technicians come in, providing invaluable solutions to complex issues. Brandon also noted that customers expect quick and efficient repairs, and mobile technicians can help shops meet these expectations. However, some shops may be hesitant to work with mobile technicians, fearing a loss of business. Despite this, both agree that mobile technicians are essential to the industry, providing a valuable service to both customers and shops.The episode also touches on the shortage of technicians in the industry and the challenges faced by both technicians and shop owners. The guest speaker emphasizes the importance of valuing technicians and treating them as valuable assets, rather than replaceable workers. He suggests that shop owners should pay technicians well and not require them to donate hours or purchase tools that the shop uses. While it is not the shop owner's responsibility to provide retirement benefits, they should cover the cost of specialized tools and diagnostic equipment. By valuing technicians and treating them well, they will be more invested in their work and more likely to stay with the shop long-term.The episode also highlights that traditional retirement benefits, such as a pension and a watch, are not typically provided in the automotive industry. Therefore, technicians need to take responsibility for their own retirement plans. This includes investing in their own future, taking care of their team, and advancing their career. Shops that require technicians to purchase their own tools or do rework are not helping the situation. Shop owners should pay technicians well, so they are not struggling to buy tools that the shop uses. Technicians should also plan for lean times and when they are no longer able to work in the industry. This could involve having a side hustle or a backup plan, such as a YouTube channel or tooling training. Overall, technicians need to take control of their own retirement plans, as traditional retirement benefits are not typically provided in the automotive industry.[00:00:00] Seized engines. [00:03:50] Love for fixing vehicles. [00:07:43] Harrier: A top CAS aircraft. [00:11:35] Military deployments and family sacrifices. [00:15:25] Transitioning from aviation to automotive. [00:19:13] Bad rep of Canadian Tire. [00:22:42] Leaving dealership life. [00:27:50] Engine Recall at Kia. [00:29:39] Engine Recall Headaches. [00:33:23] CVT rebuilds and pricing. [00:36:46] Efficiency in car repairs. [00:40:23] Auto repair and income struggles. [00:45:05] Service advisors' commissions [00:47:01] Finding the right auto shop. [00:50:39] 3D printing for tooling. [00:54:01] Standing up for your worth.[00:57:55] Small business growth. [01:02:44] Mobile technicians vs repair shops. [01:06:39] Intermittent Electrical Issues. [01:11:37] Hourly vs flat rate. [01:12:48] Hourly vs Incentivized Pay. [01:16:39] Slow days affecting productivity. [01:21:15] Utilizing slack time for training. [01:25:06] Two weeks notice. [01:29:22] Leaving a hole. [01:31:23] Valuing technicians in business. [01:37:22] Absentee owners and older techs. [01:40:06] Having a fallback plan. [01:43:24] Job security in the industry. [01:49:28] Soft skills in customer relations. [01:51:14] Career transitions for aging employees. [01:55:13] Selling Tools for Retirement. [01:59:20] Succession planning for business. 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
13 Juni 20232h 1min
The Evolution of Automotive Education: From YouTube to the Classroom With Oscar Gomez
In this episode of the Jaded Mechanic podcast, host Jeff is joined by his friend Oscar Gomez to discuss the automotive industry. Oscar shares his mission to better the industry one technician at a time, while also discussing new EV tools and ADAS equipment. Oscar emphasizes the importance of experienced technicians taking apprentices under their wings and showing them the right way of doing things. He believes that this will help change the industry one tech at a time and encourage more people to join the industry. Oscar also encourages technicians to be good mentors to these apprentices and help them set goals to move up to the next level. He believes that by doing so, we can turn around the trend of people leaving the industry and nobody coming in. Additionally, Oscar suggests that shops should provide consistent training to their technicians as part of the shop's culture, rather than just leaving it up to the individual technician to improve their skills on their own time. By encouraging and teaching others to improve their skills in the industry, we can create a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce.[00:01:54] Bettering the automotive industry. [00:04:38] Starting a training school. [00:08:13] Transitioning from dislike to interest. [00:11:49] Pushing someone to reach potential. [00:17:35] Old technology in the industry. [00:20:27] EV technology and the future. [00:23:02] Tesla's limited driving range. [00:26:01] Inspiring and guiding students. [00:29:41] ASE Certification Importance. [00:34:18] Importance of Automotive Certification. [00:37:19] Specializing in a technical skill. [00:41:05] Value and compensation in work. [00:44:21] Old School Car Diagnostics. [00:48:11] Automotive fundamentals. [00:52:31] Destination events in industry. [00:57:14] Young technician's intelligence praised.[00:59:13] Mechanic's transition to education. [01:03:24] Apprenticeships and mentorship. [01:06:18] Specializing in Auto Shops. [01:10:31] Mentoring and retaining young technicians. [01:13:25] Diagnostic Training Videos. [01:18:40] Expanding into Spanish-speaking market. [01:21:19] Traveling to Canada in Winter.
6 Juni 20231h 22min
