In this episode of the Buying Local Podcast, host Mike Nelson chats with Casey Cornell and Mike Colvett from Cornell’s Auto Parts about growing a second-generation family business, supporting the community through fundraisers like breast cancer awareness, and navigating the challenges of the auto recycling industry. They also discuss company culture, car shows, and the future of vehicles in New York State.

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You can connect with Cornell’s Auto Parts at cornellsusedautoparts.com or on Facebook.

00:00 Welcome & final episode recording from Mike’s kitchen

01:15 Introducing Casey Cornell & Mike from Cornell’s Auto Parts

04:00 History of Cornell’s Auto Parts and Casey’s journey into the business

06:30 Implementing EOS and building strong company culture

10:20 Community involvement and breast cancer awareness fundraiser

13:00 Supporting multiple local charities throughout the year

15:30 Challenges of fundraising and lessons from past events

18:00 Annual car show, Folds of Honor, and weathering tough years

20:00 Behind the scenes of auto recycling and salvage operations

23:00 How vehicles are purchased, processed, and sold for parts

26:00 Scrap markets, byproducts, and environmental responsibility

30:00 Serving wholesale shops, repair centers, and local customers

33:00 Deliveries across NY, MA, and VT – and why no “U-Pull-It” option

36:00 Quality, warranties, and the customer experience

38:30 Engines, transmissions, and why maintenance matters

41:00 Challenges of doing business in New York State

44:00 Staffing, PTO, and evolving workplace expectations

46:30 Biggest lessons learned in 20+ years of business

50:00 Local businesses and community leaders making an impact

53:00 Greenfield events, Lions Club, and local pride

55:00 Where to find Cornell’s Auto Parts