NHRA Top Fuel driver Clay Millican joins Driven to Success to share where the obsession began: a tiny family grocery store in Drummonds, TN, a beat-up ’63 Dodge truck, and the day “Big Daddy” Don Garlits set the hook for life. Clay walks us through backyard laps to his first trip down a real strip, the humbling reality of a handwritten time slip, and the sacrifices behind the scenes—marrying his high-school sweetheart, grinding overtime at the Kroger warehouse, and never taking a vacation without racing. He caps Part 1 with the infamous “burnout in reverse” debut at Route 66, and the philosophy that keeps him smiling win or lose: “I got to drive a race car today.” For Clay, focus is about owning mistakes, taking responsibility, and never losing sight of a childhood dream.

Takeaways

• Clay's passion for cars started at a young age.
• His first car was a 63 Dodge truck.
• He traded his truck for a 69 Dodge Charger.
• Clay's first race was a humbling experience.
• He learned the importance of focus in racing.
• Driving a top fuel car is a unique experience.
• Clay emphasizes the need for a positive mindset.
• He believes in taking responsibility for mistakes.
• The thrill of acceleration in top fuel racing is unmatched.
• Clay's journey is a testament to perseverance and passion

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

01:39 Clay Millican's Journey into Racing

06:33 The Transition to Top Fuel Drag Racing

11:47 Experiences and Lessons from the Track

17:42 The Science of Drag Racing

23:27 Focus and Mental Strategies in Racing

29:48 The Importance of Passion and Hard Work

Summary

In this conversation, David Wofford and Vic discuss the critical role of communication in the auto parts distribution industry. They explore common pitfalls in communication, the importance of understanding each other's operations, and how building strong relationships can lead to better service and customer satisfaction. The discussion highlights the importance of establishing realistic expectations and the benefits of collaboration between service centers and distributors.

Takeaways

• Communication breakdowns can lead to significant issues in auto parts distribution.
• Setting realistic expectations is crucial for maintaining relationships.
• Understanding the operations of each side can improve service delivery.
• Overpromising and underdelivering can damage trust.
• Experiencing the other side's challenges fosters empathy and better communication.
• Building strong relationships is key to successful collaboration.
• Every day in a service center presents unique challenges.
• Effective communication leads to quicker vehicle repairs and happier customers.
• It's important to approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset.
• Tomorrow is a new opportunity to improve and learn from past mistakes.

Sound Bites

"You would overdeliver."

"The answer is yes."

"Tomorrow is another day."

Chapters

00:00 Lost in Translation part 2

01:23 Navigating Communication Breakdowns

09:29 The Power of Positive Communication

auto parts, communication, service centers, distribution, relationships, expectations, problem-solving, customer service, industry insights, collaboration

Check out this preview of upcoming episodes, as Clay shows his appreciation for The Parts House and Parts Plus!

The first episode releases in September.

Join David Wofford of The Pronto Network and Vic Tarasik of Shop Owner Coach as they dig deep into one of the aftermarket’s toughest challenges: communication. From parts ordering pitfalls to setting clear expectations, they reveal how assumptions sabotage trust, why listening matters more than talking, and the unseen power of nonverbal cues. You’ll also gain insights into time management, gender dynamics, and the importance of recognition in fostering strong teams. Don’t miss this first installment of a conversation that can transform how you connect and lead in your business.

Sound Bites

• "We hate to share bad news."

• "Assumptions can lead to trouble."
• "Nobody wants to hear bad news."

Chapters

00:00 Communication Breakdown in the Auto Industry

03:27 The Importance of Setting Expectations

06:12 Building Trust Through Communication

08:59 The Role of Nonverbal Communication

12:12 Understanding Customer Needs

14:49 The Value of Listening

17:57 Gender Dynamics in Communication

20:53 The Impact of Assumptions on Communication

23:47 Navigating Difficult Conversations

26:20 The Importance of Communication in Auto Repair

28:54 Setting the Tone: Leadership and Team Dynamics

32:31 Personal Growth Through Public Speaking

39:32 Understanding the Customer's Perspective

In this conversation, Vic Tarasik, known as theShop Owner Coach, shares his journey from a young car enthusiast to asuccessful shop owner and coach. He discusses his early influences, thechallenges he faced in his career, and the lessons learned along the way. Vicemphasizes the importance of mentorship, structure in business, and the valueof taking others along on the journey to success. His story is one ofresilience, growth, and the drive to help others in the automotive industry.

Takeaways

• Vic's early passion for cars was influenced by his father'sskills.
• He faced significant challenges in his early career,including a lack of direction in school.
• Vic's journey included numerous jobs that shaped his skillsand interests.
• He learned the importance of mentorship and guidance inpersonal and professional growth.
• Overcoming adversity, such as a fire in his shop, fueledhis determination to succeed.
• Vic transitioned from being a shop owner to a coach to helpothers in the industry.
• He emphasizes the need for structure and accountability inbusiness operations.
• Personal growth often comes from listening to others andbeing open to change.
• Vic's story illustrates the importance of resilience andperseverance in business.
• He believes in taking others along on the journey tosuccess, sharing knowledge and experiences.

Key Highlights:

Vic's early passion for cars and his firstexperiences with mechanics. Overcoming educational challenges and finding apath in the automotive industry. The pivotal moments that led Vic to become acoach and mentor. Insights into building a successful business and the role ofcommunity and support. The importance of taking someone along on your journeyand sharing knowledge.

Quotes"The journey is muchmore fulfilling when you take somebody with you."

Call to Action:

Listen now to discover how Victurned challenges into opportunities and learn how you can apply these lessonsto your own journey. Subscribe for more inspiring stories and insights.

Call to Action: Listennow to discover how Vic turned challenges into opportunities and learn how youcan apply these lessons to your own journey. Subscribe for more inspiringstories and insights.

Timeline:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction andBackground

03:33 Early Career andPassion for Cars

09:11 Transition toHouston and New Opportunities

14:33 Challenges andResilience in Business

24:46 From Shop Ownerto Coach: A Transformative Call

29:41 The Importance ofStructure in Business

35:12 Learning fromLoss: The Value of Trust and Boundaries

44:21 Key takeaways and advice for listeners. The importance of taking someone with you on yourjourney.

A sneak peek at episode 4, release date 8/15

 David Wofford shares his journey in the automotive industry, detailing how he accidentally entered the field and progressed through various roles. He discusses the importance of building relationships, learning from influential figures, and the challenges faced in management.

Takeaways

• David's entry into the automotive industry was somewhat accidental but ultimately fulfilling.
• Building relationships is crucial in the automotive aftermarket.
• Early management experiences taught David valuable lessons about efficiency and team dynamics.
• Mentorship played a significant role in David's personal and professional growth.
• Efficiency in operations can greatly enhance service delivery in the automotive industry.
• Understanding the pressures faced by warehouse distributors is essential for effective collaboration.
• David emphasizes the importance of enjoying one's work for overall effectiveness.
• The automotive aftermarket offers numerous opportunities for young professionals.
• David encourages young people to seek mentorship and insights from industry veterans.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success in the automotive industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to David Wofford's Journey

07:26 Early Career and Lessons Learned

12:52 Transitioning to Wholesale and New Challenges

15:57 Building Relationships in the Industry

20:08 Building Relationships Through Problem Solving

22:02 The Evolution of Industry Engagement

23:32 Influence and Personal Growth

27:15 Efficiency in Operations

30:26 Leadership Development and Learning

33:26 Understanding Warehouse Distributor Pressures

36:52 Finding Fulfillment in Your Work

Summary

In this engaging podcast episode, Vic and David discuss the diverse range of guests expected on their show, focusing on the service center and auto parts industry. They explore the importance of understanding the dynamics between parts distribution and service centers, the costs associated with returns, and the value of communication and education in building better relationships within the industry. The conversation highlights the wealth of stories and insights that can be shared, aiming to enlighten listeners about the intricacies of the automotive service world.

Takeaways

• Guests will include individuals from manufacturing and service centers.
• There are many interesting stories in the service industry.
• Understanding the service center's journey is crucial.
• The cost of returns can be significant for service centers.
• Communication between parts distribution and service centers is essential.
• Many in the industry have never visited a factory.
• Education on each other's roles can improve partnerships.
• The podcast aims to share valuable insights and stories.
• Building relationships is key to success in the industry.
• The podcast's journey will be enlightening for listeners.

This episode promises engaging conversations with a diverse lineup of guests, from manufacturing experts to service center veterans. Discover the stories behind the parts and the people who keep the industry moving.

Key Points:

Diverse Guest Lineup: Expect to hear from a wide array of guests, including top fuel driver, service center owners, and industry leaders like Clay Millican and Bruce Tartaglione. Each guest brings a unique perspective and story to the table.

Industry Insights: Gain valuable insights into the manufacturing and service center sectors. Learn about the challenges and triumphs faced by those who "bleed oil" and use nitro as a mixer, as well as the logistics behind getting parts to service centers.

Real Stories: Listen to real-life stories from shop owners and service center professionals. Whether they inherited the business or stumbled into it, their journeys are filled with lessons and inspiration.

Bridging the Gap: Vic and David discuss the importance of understanding both the distribution and service sides of the industry. They explore how better communication and education can lead to stronger partnerships and a more cohesive industry.

Behind the Scenes: Get a glimpse into the manufacturing process, from oil filters to complex parts, and understand the intricate steps involved in bringing these products to market.

Hashtags: #AftermarketIndustry #Podcast #DrivenToSuccess #IndustryInsights #RealStories

In this special teaser episode, co-hosts Vic Tarasik of Shop Owner Coach and David Wofford of The Pronto Network give you a quick preview of what’s ahead. From powerhouse shop owners to top-tier parts manufacturers and industry innovators, Driven to Success delivers candid conversations that help you level up your business in the automotive aftermarket.

Get ready to meet the people moving the industry forward, one conversation at a time. Tune in and hear what you can expect !