The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

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In this episode, Jeff Compton and the Mileage May Vary Podcast welcome Sunny Massera from Portland, Oregon. Sunny shares his experience transitioning from a Bronco specialty shop to a performance and used car dealership, emphasizing the importance of shop culture and personal growth. The conversation also covers key topics like performance shop pricing strategies, the critical role of communication and customer education, and how strong service processes—especially handling warranty issues—can set a shop apart.

00:00 Talking about a big meal

04:53 Considering job opportunities

07:21 Discussing HP Tuners class

12:40 Transitioning to Modern Car Work

15:12 Bundling accessories into payments

18:06 Challenges with car repair enthusiasts

22:47 Pricing strategy for the West Coast

23:06 Balancing customer types and rates

29:18 Employee's caravan maintenance story

31:53 Discussing transparency in auto repairs

33:32 Understanding automotive service pitfalls

38:06 Handling Warranty Issues at the Shop

40:16 Handling customer complaints

43:52 Handling difficult customers

47:00 Discussing parts markup and labor costs

49:05 Comparing service rates and customer care

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Handling a Jasper transmission failure is frustrating, but knowing how to navigate the warranty dispute process is essential.

When a part fails immediately after installation, the tension between the shop and the provider often centers on compensation. We break down the realities of a warranty claim when the payout doesn't match the effort required to fix the vehicle. It is not just about the failed part; it is about protecting the shop's bottom line.

00:00 Learning to communicate effectively

05:44 Staff accountability practices

08:28 Handling employee mistakes

12:11 Handling a unique warranty case

13:04 Effective communication for technicians

18:04 Resolving a process issue

21:47 Communicating with parts department staff

23:37 Software feature wish list

27:47 Discussing staff accountability

29:56 Discussing engine parts returned for analysis

35:30 Buying brake pads in 1999

38:07 Dealing with VIN number issues

41:51 Technicians' career aspirations

44:14 Challenges of becoming a shop owner

46:19 Improving counter efficiency

51:22 Discussing warranty opportunities

52:10 Wrapping up with gratitude

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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 Growth
00:50 Morning Meetup Banter
01:22 Coffee and Cold Brew
02:25 Caffeine Toothpick Hack
02:51 Kent at ASTA
03:46 First Hunting Trip
05:20 Nature and Gratitude
08:58 Institute Updates
09:55 Goals Beyond Money
13:54 Execute and Grow
16:47 Leading With Encouragement
18:52 Culture Starts at the Top
21:05 Stop Blame, Start Teamwork
22:13 Leaving Doesn’t Fix It
22:46 Own Your Choices
24:11 Ask Why It Happened
25:58 Accountability, Not Micromanaging
29:15 How You Ask Matters
31:08 Let Consequences Teach
34:37 Stress Builds Strength
40:19 Comfort Kills Growth
41:37 Systems Over Blame
45:21 Voice Versus Vote
46:50 Wrap Up and Next Guest
47:42 Final Thanks and Subscribe

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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 Matter
00:50 Podcast Intro and ASTA Trip
01:18 Josh Joins Mini Dealer Life
03:49 Mini Electrical Nightmares
04:52 Early Tinkering Origins
06:00 First Big Fix: Lumina
07:23 Apprenticeship and Licensing Path
08:57 Host First Car Story
11:51 Mods and CAN Bus Problems
13:21 Shop Shutdown to Dealership Track
16:27 Pay Gaps and Flat Rate Reality
18:51 Lexus vs. German Engineering
25:15 Warranty Time Controversy
34:01 Advisor Training and DMS Struggles
37:31 Advisor Knowledge Gap
39:31 Train Advisors First
40:50 Bad Explanations Hurt Trust
42:52 Selling Without Division
45:36 Flat Rate Pay Stress
55:21 Stop Doing Freebies
58:34 Becoming the Mini Lead
01:03:25 Advocacy Through Communication
01:05:38 DVIs and Getting Paid
01:08:33 Tools Over Toolboxes
01:15:15 Warranty and Brand Hype
01:19:14 Tool Brand Stigma
01:20:05 Removing Tool Barriers
01:21:09 Five Year Career Goals
01:22:29 Confidence in Diagnostics
01:24:09 Getting Humbled
01:26:38 Management Stress and Advocacy
01:29:31 Customer Communication Matters
01:31:54 Dealer vs. Independent Path
01:35:11 Training and AI Shift
01:38:54 AI Limits and Reality
01:44:52 Building Diagnostic Talent
01:52:36 Accountability and Integrity
01:59:26 Closing Thanks and Sponsors

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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 Legacy
00:51 Podcast Welcome and Weather
01:36 California Life and Snow
02:52 Zach’s Background in Shops
07:45 Towing Duties and Frustrations
13:14 Paperwork and Processes
22:03 Rates, Pricing and Matrices
27:13 Tooling Gaps and ADAS
32:54 Right Tools and Liability
40:23 Programming and Modern Brakes
45:01 Trust and Service Information
45:30 Hourly Pay Dynamics
46:16 TechMetric Chaos
47:56 Paper to Software
50:23 Canned Jobs Missing
52:19 Older Tech and Tech Gap
53:41 Parts and Customer Parts
55:13 Know Your Numbers
57:20 Tire Plug Interruptions
01:01:51 Free Fluid Check Rants
01:03:56 Coolant Top Off Liability
01:06:51 Charge True Value
01:09:26 Wrong Parts and Returns
01:11:49 One Caliper Debate
01:19:52 Succession and Future
01:23:37 Training Investment Mindset
01:25:16 Training Cuts Comebacks
01:27:01 Self Taught Learning Paths
01:28:31 Proving Your Value
01:32:06 Shop Culture Inspiration
01:34:19 Power of Networking
01:38:29 Finding Your Diag Niche
01:43:28 Avoiding Project Car Traps
01:48:15 Events and Succession Plan
01:56:16 Modern Tech Over Old
01:58:24 Final Thanks and Sponsor

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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 Cooler
00:57 Podcast Welcome and Guest Intro
02:30 Two YouTube Channels Explained
04:57 Handling Haters and Censorship
05:52 JT’s Origin Story in Dealerships
07:28 PT Cruiser Era and Reputation
09:45 Filming Limits and Brand Focus
13:47 Training Apprentices and EV Shift
18:28 Old School Tools and Engine Talk
24:02 Flat Rate Pay and Tech Shortage
26:37 MPI Videos and Advisor Role
31:02 Comebacks and Customer Service
33:47 EGR to VVT and Vacuum Pumps
35:15 Vacuum Pump Talk
35:37 Cousin Pookie Origin
37:55 Troubleshooter Life
38:57 OEM Parts Only
39:40 Dealer Diagnostic Reality
43:16 Recalls and Dispatch
45:17 Dash Work Nightmares
48:03 DIY Comment Wars
50:00 YouTube Creator Economics
53:58 Early YouTube Influences
58:34 Instructor vs. Freedom
01:02:10 Sharing Fixes, Not Gatekeeping
01:04:22 Forums and Allpar Days
01:06:16 AI Customers and STAR Cases
01:10:30 Future of Remote Diagnostics
01:13:23 Network Fix Saves the Day
01:14:18 Toyota Yoda Pay Dispute
01:15:48 Staying Anonymous Online
01:19:00 Creator vs. Shop Tech
01:21:27 Warranty Time Reality
01:24:03 Caravan Steering Rack Saga
01:26:37 EV Future and Health
01:30:15 Training Apprentices Today
01:32:39 Tool Trucks vs. Retail
01:37:04 Advice for New Techs
01:40:30 SEMA and LLC Protection
01:42:39 Dorman Cooler Controversy
01:46:54 Wrap Up and Channels
01:51:07 Final Thanks and Outro

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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 Debate
00:48 Why ASTA Is Worth It
03:08 Canada Training Gap
06:48 This Year’s ASTA Goals
08:51 Finding Your People
11:30 Culture and Hiring Right
12:46 Service Value in Details
14:25 Tire Season Efficiency
17:08 Training Pays Dividends
19:46 Shop Hours and Team Buy In
24:13 Time, Family, and Balance
26:13 Wealth Versus Regrets
27:03 Work Addiction Warning Signs
28:47 Generational Wealth Pitfalls
30:23 Teaching Kids Money
32:17 Nurture Business With Training
33:49 Events That Change Lives
37:11 Stop Going It Alone
38:44 Budgeting for Training Trips
40:16 Raise Rates and Value Labor
43:31 Give Back and Connect
46:10 Their Podcast and Community
47:54 Final Push and Thanks

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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 ASTA
00:57 Podcast Welcome and Introductions
01:26 Jeep Repairs and Shop Chaos
02:32 Hiring Staff and Serving Customers
05:17 Big Jobs vs. Easy Money
09:51 How Anis Found the Podcast
11:55 Proactive Ownership and Learning
16:05 Why ASTA Changed Everything
17:15 Walking In Alone and Meeting Jeff
20:41 ASTA vs. Vision and Real Connections
22:34 Lobby Talks and Practical Nuggets
28:29 Wrap Up and Call to Action

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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 Hype
00:36 Meet 3Ts Automotive
01:02 Heat and Going Brick and Mortar
04:23 Working With Your Spouse
09:57 Filming Real Diagnostics
11:32 Authenticity Over Views
14:35 Trolls and Teaching Values
19:12 Pricing Labor and Profit
23:34 Wild Customer Calls
32:16 No Means No Requests
33:34 Turbo Noise Request
34:14 Why Enthusiast Cars Hurt
35:46 The Never Ending Project
39:40 Parts Sourcing Reality
40:23 Friends and Family Pricing Trap
43:56 Home Shop Time Management
46:53 Hemi Truck No Start Mystery
50:16 Flexible Repair Philosophy
54:24 Maintenance First Hard Truths
59:42 Social Media Pricing Damage
01:08:03 Battery Light Surprise
01:08:52 Alternator Fix Then Stalls
01:10:42 Cat Converter Root Cause
01:11:23 Parts Quality Domino Effect
01:14:10 Parking Lot Mechanics Debate
01:17:34 Regulation and Certification
01:22:24 Building the Skool Community
01:28:21 Rage Bait and Misinformation
01:34:43 Staying Positive Online
01:40:00 Profitability and Public Perception
01:42:49 Who to Argue With
01:45:14 Quiet Supporters Matter
01:46:51 Handling Trolls Online
01:48:12 Who Deserves a Platform
01:49:57 Internet Outsiders Weigh In
01:53:36 Stay the Course
01:54:51 Working With Your Spouse
01:59:35 Mobile Life and Burnout
02:02:14 ADHD, Anxiety and Focus
02:06:08 Stop Comparing Journeys
02:08:03 Closing Advice and Growth
02:10:22 Content Second, Business First
02:13:18 Revenue Goals and Training
02:16:04 Thanks, Sponsors and Community
02:18:23 Final Sign Off and CTA

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Recorded at the TOOLS in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Jeff sits down with Canadian shop owners Frank and Margarita Wiebe of 3D Auto to share their first destination training event and the lessons they're bringing back to their shop. They share how the welcoming community helped them build new relationships, the value of technical and service advisor training, and why effective customer communication starts with selling value—not price. The conversation also covers diagnostics, shop processes, professionalism, preventive maintenance, and building a culture focused on continuous learning and integrity.

Timestamps:
00:00 Honesty With Customers
00:46 Meet Frank and Margarita Wiebe
01:42 Road Trip to Hershey
03:39 First Destination Training Event
04:26 Finding Community at TOOLS
06:30 Women's Dinner Experience
08:34 Their Podcast Journey
09:38 Tire Lifting Tips
11:12 Women in the Shop
13:18 Safety and Leadership Lessons
15:09 Favorite Training Sessions
21:11 Hershey Lodge Experience
23:32 Improving Customer Estimates
27:50 Building a Professional Shop Brand
29:48 Training Technicians and Using Lab Scopes
33:41 Battery Testing Best Practices
34:55 Preventive Maintenance Mindset
36:12 Doing Maintenance the Right Way
37:26 Advocating for Customers
39:04 Fleet Maintenance Success Stories
41:41 Why Phone Estimates Don't Work
43:51 Diagnose Before Replacing Parts
46:14 Handling Difficult Customers
51:39 Pricing and Setting Priorities
54:05 Free Services and Due Diligence
01:00:22 Tekmetric Experiences
01:04:13 A/C Season and Fleet Planning
01:06:31 Final Takeaways and Wrap Up

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Recorded at Tools Pennsylvania 2026, this discussion brings together Jeff with Bryan Pollock, Tonnika Haynes and Braxton Critcher to talk about the realities of growing a podcast and business through social media. They explore why short-form content and reels are essential for reaching new audiences, the downside of viral clips attracting negative comments, and the challenge of balancing attention-grabbing content with long-term brand integrity. The conversation also covers dealing with online criticism, protecting your mental health, and staying focused on helping people make meaningful changes instead of chasing internet arguments.

Timestamps:
00:00 Do You Focus?
01:34 Disc Golf Banter
01:52 Emotional Support Wiener
02:10 Tools PA Roundtable Introduction
02:30 Group Chat Chaos
03:32 Reels Are the Devil
05:05 Why Social Media Matters
06:51 Viral Reels and Online Hate
09:29 Deleting Ignorant Comments
11:01 Rage Bait vs. Clickbait
15:00 Shop Rates and Industry Reality
16:24 Producer Clip Strategy
20:58 Can You Change the Industry?
23:53 Choosing Positivity
29:34 Why Good Content Still Gets Hate
32:42 The "Must Be Nice" Mindset
34:40 Handling Large Audiences
35:53 Protecting Your Peace
36:16 Keyboard Warrior Stories
38:34 Why Viewers Get Angry
41:01 You Can't Save Everyone
42:30 The Highlight Reel Trap
48:24 Stop Complaining—Start Changing

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In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Kansas technician Eric Schoenberger of Holt Motor Company. Having grown up around Chrysler dealerships alongside his father, a veteran drivability and transmission specialist, Eric shares his experiences in dealer life and why he ultimately transitioned to the independent repair world. The conversation explores flat-rate frustrations, warranty and recall work, shop politics, diagnostic strategies, transmission repairs, evolving technology, and the value of ongoing training. Eric also discusses how independent shops offer less stress, and a different approach to customer service and technician growth.

Timestamps:
00:00 Podcast Welcome and Holiday
00:45 Kansas Guest and Vision Talk
01:30 Shop Intro and Dealer Roots
06:03 Family Influence and Career Path
08:12 Flat Rate and Recall Frustrations
17:25 Favorite Dealer Work and Transmissions
23:03 PT Cruiser Love-Hate Jobs
25:35 Diagnostics and Techline Support
27:49 Dealer Life and Shop Politics
32:37 Misfires, Burnt Valves, and Borescopes
36:31 Pentastar Problems and Tips
41:26 Diesel Disasters
44:04 Recall Work Realities
49:21 Hybrid Battery Discussion
52:37 Leaving the Dealer World
55:47 Advisors, DVI, and Communication
01:01:38 Training Great Advisors
01:08:35 Transmission Service Debate
01:14:38 Moving to Independent Shops
01:16:27 Learning Through Service Information
01:18:46 Oddball Repairs and Old Mopars
01:27:05 Caravan Rear A/C Repairs
01:33:05 Training Events and Mentors
01:38:49 Shop Culture and Dispatching
01:40:44 A/C Diagnostics and Leak Testing
01:47:37 Parts Support Challenges
01:54:02 Technician Pay and Flat Rate
01:56:23 Gravy Work vs. Diagnostics
02:02:27 Independent Shop Mindset
02:12:28 Training and Networking
02:20:06 Final Thanks and Wrap Up

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