American Towing and Recovery Institute onThe Go

Discover the intricate world of towing with us as we welcome Jared Varnado, the third-generation owner of Varnado Sons Towing and president of Louisiana's Towing and Recovery Association. Jared shares invaluable insights into the regulatory maze that the Louisiana towing industry navigates, tackling complex issues like non-consensual towing pricing and the controversial towing practices during LSU football games. Hear firsthand about the challenges of balancing profitability with regulatory demands and public scrutiny, and learn what it takes to advocate for fair towing practices in today's ever-shifting landscape.

Safety within the towing industry takes center stage as we recount a troubling incident at an impound lot in Henderson, Nevada. This episode underscores the critical importance of safety protocols in potentially volatile situations, reminding all industry professionals that caution and preparedness can be lifesavers. Wes Wilburn also highlights upcoming training opportunities in diverse locations like Elkhart, Indiana, and Lake Charles, Louisiana, with Oklahoma and North Carolina on the horizon, reinforcing our commitment to safety, education, and professional networking.

Finally, we shift our focus back to Louisiana's towing scene, exploring the efforts to modernize operations and the financial strains many towing businesses face. From advocating for credit card payment acceptance to addressing oversized vehicle storage compensation, the challenges are vast but not insurmountable. Join us as we preview the strategic meeting of Louisiana's Public Service Commission in Baton Rouge, where voices from the towing community will aim to influence future regulations. The episode promises an engaging discussion on the power of collective action and the significance of industry advocacy.

What if the spirit of generosity could drive an entire industry? Join us as we explore the heartwarming stories of kindness and community spirit within the towing industry. We'll take you behind the scenes of a successful coat drive in Western North Carolina, made possible by the collaborative efforts of our dedicated listeners and friends. Alongside my co-host Wes Wilburn, we celebrate the incredible generosity within our community, sharing tales that highlight the industry's unwavering support and camaraderie.

Hear from Wes as he introduces the touching story of Brian Jackson from Missouri, who is donating a well-maintained tow truck to an operator in need. The episode captures the essence of what makes our industry so special—its people. We also share our collaboration with organizations like Tunnel to Towers, focusing on transformative projects aimed at providing wheelchair-accessible vans and innovative housing for veterans. With notable contributions from community champions like Todd Steps, we underscore the power of collective action in making a tangible difference.

Stay engaged as we outline upcoming events and essential training sessions across the country, emphasizing education's critical role in towing and recovery, especially with the rise of electric vehicle operations. From a personal reflection on my gratitude for the Red Cross to the potential of repurposed school buses for veteran support, this episode offers a rich tapestry of stories and initiatives that inspire and uplift. Thank you for being part of our journey, and we look forward to sharing more exciting interviews and insights with our vibrant community.

Discover how towing professionals across the nation are enhancing their skills and ensuring safety on the roads with insights from our special guest, April Wilburn. During our conversation, we explore a variety of upcoming training events, from light and medium-duty classes to specialized electric vehicle sessions, happening in states like Indiana, South Carolina, and Missouri. April shares the importance of these training opportunities and the diverse formats they offer, ranging from single-day courses to immersive six-day events, accompanied by attractive discounts and community support initiatives. You won't want to miss her valuable insights on how these programs are shaping the future of the towing industry.

Join us as we uncover the personal sacrifices and challenges faced by tow operators, especially during natural disasters. Through real-life stories, including a memorable deployment in Texas, we shine a light on the dedication and resilience required to work in difficult terrains and stay away from family for extended periods. This segment highlights the unique camaraderie and collaborative spirit that define the towing industry, where professionals often find themselves working hand-in-hand despite the competitive nature of their jobs.

Celebrate the spirit of community and industry collaboration with us as we recount a heartwarming gathering in Fayetteville, hosted by Phillip Anthony McCorkendale. A beautifully repurposed 120-year-old foundry set the stage for lively discussions and new friendships, with a delicious meal provided by Vicious Pig Catering. This event was a testament to the unity within the towing community, showcasing the strength and support that bind professionals and enthusiasts alike. For a visual treat, be sure to visit our Facebook page, where you can experience the vibrant camaraderie captured in videos from this unforgettable gathering.

Discover the transformative power of community resilience and support in the latest episode of the American Towing Recovery Institute podcast. Join me, DJ Harrington, and towing industry veteran Wes Wilburn, as we promise to equip you with vital insights into safety, education, and networking within the towing and recovery sector. Fresh from our enlightening training session in Medford, Oregon, we shine a spotlight on JT, a promising instructor contributing to our mission. Amidst the backdrop of recent hurricanes ravaging regions from Florida to Tennessee, our thoughts are with those rebuilding their lives. We also share the exciting lineup of upcoming training events on critical topics such as electric vehicles and heavy-duty towing.

Our heartfelt conversations pivot to a remarkable guest, Tabatha from Tabatha's Auto Towing in Hendersonville, North Carolina, whose inspiring story serves as a beacon of hope. After enduring a harrowing 13 days without power, Tabatha has launched a winter clothing drive to support families who have lost everything. Her initiative is a testament to the power of community efforts in times of adversity, addressing challenges like overcrowded shelters and limited FEMA assistance. With a focus on bridging gaps in support, we proudly commit to promoting Kat’s cause, underscoring the profound impact of local action.

Furthermore, we spotlight the commendable outreach work of Tabatha and her husband, who are harnessing the spirit of volunteerism in Hendersonville. Their program, dedicated to collecting clothing and essential items for those in makeshift shelters, exemplifies how individuals can bring about meaningful change. We also delve into logistical challenges in disaster relief, including the importance of ensuring displaced individuals can still exercise their right to vote. As we rally support for these initiatives, our episode offers an earnest appeal to help communities in need, ensuring dignity and basic necessities for children returning to school.

Uncover the secrets of building a robust towing and recovery network with insights from industry experts DJ Harrington and Wes Wilburn, joined by Wes's wife, April. Experience the warmth and familial bonds that define our community as we celebrate the dedication of our listeners and highlight the impressive reach of our podcast and social media platforms. With over 15,000 subscribers and a combined following of more than 30,000 across various channels, our commitment to providing quality content and fostering a supportive community shines through. The INA Towing Network joins us as a sponsor. Dive into heartwarming stories from recent industry events that underscore the camaraderie and resilience of our dedicated team.

Listen in as we reflect on the successes and challenges faced during the recent Tennessee show, where unpredictable storm conditions tested the mettle of our team, including Kim, April, and Margaret. We extend our gratitude to contributors like Misty Scarlett and Michael Lilly for their resilience. Celebrate the spirit of achievement with updates on successful auction benefits and Hall of Fame inductions that highlight the respect within our industry. Plus, get the latest on upcoming training sessions across various states with special advanced-level classes in St. Louis, offering unique opportunities for members of the Empire State Towing and Recovery Association. Don't miss the chance to stay informed and inspired by the towing and recovery community's ongoing journey.

Discover how the revolutionary EV Clever app is transforming the towing and recovery industry in our latest episode! Celebrate with us as we reach an incredible milestone of 15,000  subscribers and explore the enthusiastic feedback from our listeners at the Chattanooga Tow Show. Dive into the world of towing innovations with insights from my co-host, the seasoned trainer Wes Wilburn, as we discuss the captivating mix of new technologies and nostalgic elements, like the beloved vintage Holmes brochures, that are catching the industry's eye. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Chuck Camp, our dedicated producer, for his behind-the-scenes efforts.

Kim and April share their thoughts on the new and improved EV Clever App, live from the Tennessee Tow Show in Chattanooga.

Get an exclusive look at how the EV Clever app is a game-changer for everyone from towing professionals to emergency responders. Simplifying access to crucial vehicle and towing information, this app enhances safety and efficiency on the road with Apple and Google approvals and its distinctive Quick Links feature. Learn about its cost-effective benefits and why it’s a smart choice for those in the industry, offering an incredible deal for just $1.60 a month on an annual plan. Join us for more insights in our upcoming episodes as we continue to deliver valuable discussions and updates from the American Towing Recovery Institute podcast.

Ever lost someone close and felt the weight of carrying on their legacy? Join us as we honor the memory of those we've lost in the towing community, including a heartfelt tribute from Matt Spencer to his late son, Keegan. DJ Harrington and towing industry veteran Wes Wilburn kick off the episode with an impassioned discussion on the critical importance of safety campaigns like "Slow Down, Move Over." Through emotional stories and personal experiences, we underscore the daily risks tow truck operators face and the unwavering support needed from the community to ensure everyone's safety.

Relive the poignant moments as DJ recounts his early days with Jimmy's Towing in Fairfax County and the tragic loss of its owner, Jimmy. We dive deep into a sobering story from Florida involving Kevin Fox and a fatal accident that brought back painful memories of DJ's own father's death. These narratives highlight the gravity of our responsibilities and the ever-present danger on the roads, stressing why drivers must slow down and move over for tow operators.

Celebrate the generous spirit of the towing community with us as we recount the incredible fundraising efforts at the Ohio show. From auctions supporting the Widows and Orphans Fund to the energetic participation of a young child, the event was a testament to our industry’s solidarity. We also preview upcoming highlights like the Chattanooga show, the Wall of the Fallen ceremony, and the relaunch of a comprehensive towing and rescue information app. Stay tuned for details on upcoming training events and make sure to check in with us on the floor in Chattanooga—there's a lot to look forward to!

Ever wondered how towing companies are revolutionizing their operations or how strategic mergers can double a business's footprint? Tune in to hear the latest developments from the frontlines of the towing and recovery industry. We kick off with an in-depth look at the recent training sessions that took us to Rhode Island and highlight some upcoming events, including the Midwest Regional Tow Show in Ohio. From specialized electric vehicle classes to heavy-duty towing training, we discuss the importance of continual education and community support, emphasizing initiatives like the Wounded Driver Fund and cross-training with fire departments.

In our second segment, we dissect the transformative merger between Henry's and Roadrunner in the Washington DC metro area. Learn how syncing GPS and dispatch software through Traxo has led to unparalleled operational efficiency. We also dive into the nuanced world of financial partnerships, contrasting the benefits of family fund investments with private equity. Hear why family funds often provide more robust long-term support, allowing business owners to retain their operational expertise while pursuing strategic growth.

Lastly, we tackle the often complex topic of towing fees and operational best practices. Discover why a flat rate system could be a game-changer for both consumers and towing companies, reducing disputes and ensuring fair pricing. Police-authorized towing contracts in Northern Virginia are highlighted as a model of success. We also explore the legal strategies for recovering costs and the importance of detailed documentation. Wrapping up, we discuss the ethical principles that can benefit every employee and secure generational wealth, offering opportunities for consolidators to collaborate and grow together.

Unlock the secrets to mastering the towing industry's toughest challenges with insights from seasoned experts and industry veterans. Join us as we kick off the episode celebrating Wes Wilburn's remarkable milestone of leading his 940th training class and share valuable feedback from our listeners. As we transition from a bustling summer into a packed fall training schedule, we highlight key events such as the Midwest Regional Tow Show and North Carolina Tow Expo, along with upcoming classes in Rhode Island, Virginia, Tennessee, Oregon, and Indiana. This episode is brimming with details on our comprehensive training offerings, covering vital skills like electric vehicle training and heavy-duty towing.

Get ready for an enlightening discussion with Mike Lard from Tom's 24-Hour Towing in Elkhart, Indiana. Mike takes us through the journey of his company's growth in recovery and transportation services, shedding light on the intricacies of navigating insurance claims. He recounts a compelling case involving a burned load of milk and shares the invaluable strategies he acquired during a Baltimore class to ensure payment from insurance companies. This segment provides a transparent look at the operational and financial hurdles in the towing industry, offering practical solutions for overcoming them.

The spotlight then shifts to the Maggio brothers and their exemplary operation characterized by a well-organized and ready-to-deploy equipment setup. We emphasize the critical importance of equipment preparedness, enhancing efficiency, safety, and minimizing traffic disruptions during recovery operations. The conversation further explores the benefits of networking and continuous learning from industry peers through specialized classes. We conclude with a powerful discussion on maintaining high standards and integrity within the towing industry, featuring Michael's insights on perfecting business practices and staying true to oneself and customers. Tune in for an episode that promises to equip you with valuable takeaways for elevating your towing business.

This is a replay, we are honoring Johnny by sharing his remarkable story
RIP Johnny Grant

What if you could step into the shoes of a towing industry pioneer? Get ready to hear from Johnny Grant, a retired veteran whose career in the towing industry spans over several decades. Starting from his work at a service station in 1955, Johnny operated a variety of wreckers such as the Manley mounted on a Jeep and the Holmes 525. You'll hear firsthand accounts of the challenges and techniques used in those early days, from V-bars and chains to more advanced methods. Johnny also shares his experiences at Morningside Motors and reflects on the industry's evolution before his military draft. 

As Johnny takes us through his post-Army return in 1965, you'll discover how he transitioned from sanding trucks to a significant role in the advertising department following a tragic loss. Johnny's stories shine a light on the changing landscape of towing equipment and practices, including a resurgence in classic tow truck designs. Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our loyal listeners and exceptional podcast team, acknowledging the collaborative spirit that fuels each episode. Join us for this nostalgic and informative journey through the rich history of the towing industry.