Gain Traction

Kermit Pridemore is Co-owner of Smoky Hill Auto Service in Aurora, Colorado, bringing years of family business experience into his own venture. Kermit's approach to business is heavily influenced by his father's lessons on identifying important priorities, championing impeccable customer service and trust-building in the automotive industry. With a keen interest in multi-store operations and staff training, he aims to expand his business while maintaining high service standards. He is also a coach, involved in peer groups and provides SWOT analyses nationwide. Kermit is dedicated to improving the reputation of auto services by focusing on genuine customer care.

In this episode…

The automotive service industry thrives on trust and relationships between businesses and their customers. How can auto service shops build and maintain this trust while providing exceptional service?

According to Kermit Pridemore of Smoky Hill Auto Service, building trust with customers is paramount. He emphasizes the importance of being honest, taking care of people, and offering advice without pressuring them to make immediate repairs. Kermit believes in creating a relational experience for the customer rather than a transactional one, focusing on community trust and delivering the highest level of service in the industry.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge chats with Kermit about his family's history in the auto service industry, the story of how he met his wife, and his approach to running Smoky Hill Auto Service. They discuss the importance of soft skills in customer service, learning from successful businesses outside the automotive industry, and Kermit's plans for future expansion.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [01:29] How Kermit Pridemore's family business legacy shapes his approach to auto service
• [02:25] Kermit's daring story about how he met his wife
• [03:36] The importance of creating lasting relationships with customers for multi-generational business success
• [04:16] Why Kermit believes community trust is the cornerstone of a successful auto service business
• [11:19] How personalizing service based on customer needs leads to business growth
• [21:12] “One more,” Kermit’s favorite motivational tactic
• [28:06] Expansion plans and the road ahead for Smoky Hill Auto Service

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

• Kermit Pridemore on LinkedIn 
• Smoky Hill Auto Service 
• Chris Barry on LinkedIn
• Independent Tire Dealer Group
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

• “You start at the bottom; you work every single position in this company if you want to get to the top."
• "It's all about people. Why can't we look at what Walmart does, or what Chick-fil-A does?"
• "I'd say it is even more valuable, now that service is so much harder to find anywhere."
• "I left an outfit that had changed after it was sold because it turned into almost transactional versus relational."
• "The terminology my father uses quite often is, 'Hey guys, let's go do this. We can't screw it up any more than the people we've worked for.'"

Action Steps:

1. Identify what is the most important task at the moment: Prioritizing tasks helps maintain focus and prevents being overwhelmed.
2. Establish trustworthiness in your business operations: Trust is the backbone of customer retention.
3. Embrace and maintain high standards across all business locations: Consistency ensures customer satisfaction and sets the stage for expansion.
4. Personalize services based on customer needs and expectations: Adapting services based on customer profiles can lead to business growth.
5. Adopt the 'one more' philosophy in daily tasks: The idea of doing 'just one more' can result in significant incremental growth over time.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

Chris Barry is Vice President of Sales at Independent Tire Dealer Group. Since 1998, Chris has significantly contributed to the company's growth. He started his career selling incense door-to-door and later managed an athletic shop frequented by celebrities in Southern California. Chris transitioned into the tire industry with AKH Discount Tires, gaining comprehensive knowledge. At ITDG, he’s played a pivotal role in expanding the group from regional to nationwide, overseeing the introduction of new programs and partnerships. Chris' deep commitment to customer relationships is evident as he continues to drive sales and promote dealer success.

In this episode…

The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with new challenges and opportunities emerging for independent tire dealers. How can these dealers stay competitive and profitable in today's market?

According to Chris Barry of Independent Tire Dealer Group, joining a buying group can provide significant advantages. By pooling resources and purchasing power, independent dealers can access container-level pricing, exclusive manufacturer programs, and increased profit margins. Chris emphasizes the importance of market protection, collaborative relationships among members, and the "band of brothers and sisters" mentality that fosters a family-like atmosphere within the group.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Chris to discuss his career journey, the growth of Independent Tire Dealer Group, and the benefits of membership. They explore ITDG's expansion plans, the importance of personal relationships in business, and Chris' approach to customer service.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [01:20] How Chris Barry got started in sales by selling incense in his neighborhood
• [03:35] Chris discusses his unique experiences, including his first job parking cars for celebrities
• [04:46] How Chris transitioned from retail management to the tire industry
• [09:57] Independent Tire Dealer Group’s beginnings and growth from $16 million to hundreds of millions
• [11:11] The regional opportunities and market protection ITDG provides its members
• [13:13] Why the strength of ITDG lies in the collaborative power of its members
• [17:44] Chris outlines the one-, three-, and five-year outlooks for ITDG's expansion
• [19:36] How ITDG focuses on member education to maximize their success
• [22:52] Chris shares a surprising personal connection to Wayne Gretzky and the NHL

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

• Chris Barry on LinkedIn
• Independent Tire Dealer Group 
• Darren McLea on LinkedIn 
• Logan Wilks on LinkedIn
• Mike Burns on LinkedIn
• Jason Rook on LinkedIn
• Hercules Tires
• Wayne Gretzky
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

•  "When you’re out there selling hoops and meeting people, just kill them with kindness."
• "Treat people the way that you expect to be treated."
• "My father owned an incense company, and we didn't have a lot of money — he’d give me packs of incense and say, ‘Go sell these if you want money for baseball cards.’"
• "We knew it was Thursday nights, and me and the guys would always bring a football, playing catch, and Jim Plunkett would tell us to run routes."
• "If you work together, you accomplish a lot."

Action Steps:

1. Embrace the “kill them with kindness” approach: Emphasizing positivity and kindness in interactions can lead to better relationships and unexpected opportunities.
2. Collaborate and share resources: Leveraging collective resources enables smaller businesses to compete more effectively via cost-saving and value creation.
3. Prioritize market protection for stability: Implementing a strategy that respects territorial boundaries establishes a fair and predictable competition field.
4. Develop versatility and deeper industry knowledge: Expanding one’s understanding of products and services enhances the ability to serve diverse customer needs effectively.
5. Cultivate a family-oriented culture in business: Building a business environment that values camaraderie and mutual support leads to a more engaged and committed team.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

David Brandenstein is the Key Account Manager at Prism Worldwide. Originally from Evansville, Indiana, David boasts a rich background in the chemical materials industry. He retired a few years ago before being lured back into the workforce by Prism. His career has been dedicated to supplying raw materials for daily-use products, leading him to pursue impactful recycling technology projects.

Mark Kinkelaar is the Chief Commercial Officer at Prism Worldwide. An Ohio native and Ohio State alumnus, Mark has had a long career in the chemical industry, with a focus on designing materials for automotive applications and green technology. Currently, he operates at the intersection of commercial and technical operations at Prism, where he is instrumental in leading the company's efforts to repurpose end-of-life tires into valuable new products.

In this episode…

The automotive industry is increasingly focused on sustainability efforts, including finding innovative solutions for end-of-life products. What happens to worn-down tires when they are no longer usable on vehicles, and how can they be repurposed?

According to David Brandenstein and Mark Kinkelaar of Prism Worldwide, approximately 300 million tires are disposed of annually in the US alone, equating to about 10 billion pounds of material. While many of these tires are burned or chopped up in landfills, Prism is working to reverse the vulcanization process and transform this waste into valuable raw materials. They are developing technologies to incorporate recycled tire content into new products, such as car mats, thermoplastic elastomers, and even back into new tires — effectively creating a circular economy for tire materials.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes David and Mark to discuss tire recycling and sustainability. They explore the challenges of repurposing tire materials, innovative technologies for reversing vulcanization, and potential applications for recycled tire content in various industries, including automotive, construction, and consumer goods.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [02:27] David Brandenstein's journey from materials supplier to tire recycling innovator
• [03:36] Mark Kinkelaar’s transition from automotive seating materials to leading the charge in tire sustainability
• [04:29] The unique process Prism Worldwide uses to repurpose end-of-life tires into new products
• [05:17] Challenges faced with recycling tires due to the vulcanization process
• [06:28] How a single used tire can be turned into multiple useful products
• [12:18] Opportunities for dealers to brand and sell sustainable car mats
• [18:29] How Prism stays committed to the "green without the green premium" philosophy
• [25:51] The importance and personal significance of contributing to a sustainable future

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

• David Brandenstein on LinkedIn 
• Mark Kinkelaar on LinkedIn 
• Prism Worldwide
• Bob Abramowitz on LinkedIn
• WeatherTech
• US Tire Manufacturers Association
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

• "The secret to doing it is you have to reverse the polymerization, and that's something that's over 100 years in the making." - Mark Kinkelaar.
• "There are two kinds of people — those who are takers and those who try to make the world a better place." - David Brandenstein.
• "It's green without the green premium; that's the key." - David Brandenstein.
• "We're solving some pretty big problems in a lot of different ways." - Mark Kinkelaar.

Action Steps:

1. Support sustainable products: this encourages manufacturers to follow green practices, reducing environmental impact.
2. Encourage transparency. This will pressure companies to improve their sustainability efforts and can boost the demand for recycled materials in new products.
3. Collaborate for sustainability: Collaboration can scale the use of sustainable materials, significantly reducing waste.
4. Educate on what’s possible: education helps build consumer confidence in recycled products, driving market demand and inspiring further innovation.
5. Practice daily sustainability. Individual action can inspire others, creating a collective effort that can have a significant positive environmental impact.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

Eric Gill is the President and CEO of Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service. A seasoned entrepreneur, Eric masterminded the expansion of Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service from a solitary tire store to 71 locations across 24 years. His background includes a marketing and accounting degree, state tax return filing for Weyerhaeuser’s corporate department and an impactful tenure as a manager for Target stores. At a young age, Eric pivoted to the tire industry through a merger that set the stage for his current success.

In this episode…

The tire and auto industry constantly evolves, with businesses needing to adapt and grow to remain competitive. How do some companies manage to expand from a single location to a large chain in this dynamic environment?

According to Eric Gill of Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service, the secret to his business’s growth lies in focusing on people and seizing opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent from within, which allows for organic expansion by promoting capable individuals to managerial positions. Additionally, strategic partnerships and acquisitions, such as purchasing stores from retiring owners, have expanded the business while maintaining a strong team culture. This approach has enabled Eric to grow his business from a single store to a network of 71 locations over 24 years.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Eric to discuss his journey from managing a single tire store to overseeing a network of 71 locations. The conversation touches on Eric’s initial steps in the industry and his strategic approach to growth. They also explore the importance of company culture, mentorship, and the challenges of managing a rapidly expanding business. Eric shares how collaboration and shared values have been instrumental in his success in the tire industry.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [00:03] Eric Gill details his transition from filing tax returns to steering a multi-location tire business
• [02:32] How Eric’s early family ties to the tire industry influenced his career
• [03:03] The valuable management and retail skills Eric honed working at Target
• [05:12] Eric’s strategic approach to business growth and acquisition
• [10:43] The importance of creating opportunities for employees within an expanding organization
• [16:47] How Point S Tire’s co-op model benefits independent tire dealers
• [23:34] The unconventional path to corporate growth and the down-to-earth moments that keep the tire business real

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Eric Gill on LinkedIn
• Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service
• Craig Bruneel on LinkedIn
• Phil Wick 
• Les Schwab 
• Nick Fox on LinkedIn 
• Northwest Retreaders
• Weyerhaeuser
• Nokian Tyres
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

• “If you look back at the end of the day, week, or year, it’s amazing how much stuff we do right.”
• “The door is always open, but I want everyone to find their own path.”
• “Enjoy all of it — enjoy that journey and create fun memories for everyone that’s around you.”
• “Our focus is just making it fun and enjoying what we’re doing.”
• “Once you take that leap of faith, the next steps aren’t so scary.”

Action Steps:

1. Seek out seasoned professionals who can serve as mentors to learn from their wisdom and experience: This exposes you to invaluable insights and shortcuts which can help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve your goals more efficiently.
2. Embrace a people-first approach to business, investing in relationships with both employees and customers: Strong relationships build loyalty and create a collaborative environment that can drive sustainable growth.
3. Cultivate adaptability and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone, just as Eric transitioned from the corporate retail world to the tire industry: Being open to change can present unexpected opportunities that spark significant development in your career or business.
4. Leverage your experience from other industries, applying those principles to build a successful model in a new field: Eric’s retail expertise from Target enabled him to create an effective business and growth strategy for his tire stores.
5. Identify and focus on your strengths while delegating tasks that are outside your expertise: Recognizing your strong suits and trusting others with tasks they are skilled at can improve your business efficiency and performance.

Brandon Tracey is the President and Co-owner of Bay Area Point S Tire & Auto Service, which he started working for at the age of 16, initially sweeping floors at Yingling Tire Service before it was acquired by Bay Area. Under his leadership, Bay Area Point S grew and became part of the Point S network, significantly expanding its buying power and industry influence. Brandon's success is built on a foundation of customer care and employee respect, values instilled in him from early mentors in the industry. He leads with a vision that prioritizes quality customer interactions over mere pricing competition. Brandon’s motivational leadership style mirrors the proactive spirit he's fostered throughout his career.

In this episode…

The tire and auto repair industry faces a significant challenge with the low expectations customers have regarding service quality. How can businesses in this sector elevate their customer service to exceed these expectations and foster lasting relationships?

According to Brandon Tracey of Bay Area Point S Tire & Auto Service, the key to addressing this issue lies in adopting a customer-centric approach that emphasizes hospitality and consistent communication. He suggests that businesses should focus on treating customers with respect and gratitude, ensuring they feel valued for choosing their services. By prioritizing customer satisfaction, maintaining open lines of communication, and leveraging tools like Google reviews to gauge and improve service quality, businesses can effectively raise the bar in an industry where customer service expectations are traditionally low.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Brandon joins Mike Edge to discuss his journey from sweeping floors at Yingling Tire Service to becoming the co-owning Bay Area Point S Tire & Auto Service. They explore the importance of mentorship, the value of trade schools, and strategies for finding and nurturing talent within the industry. Brandon shares insights on transforming customer service expectations and emphasizes the significance of a hospitality-driven approach in tire and auto repair.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [1:29] How Retread, a program by Tread Partners, contributes positively to customer returns and business relationships
• [3:43] Brandon Tracey shares his journey from a floor sweeper to General Manager to Co-owner and President
• [6:35] The value of treating employees and customers well and how it impacts on business growth
• [7:56] How Brian's hands-on experience in various roles contributes to his understanding and leadership of the business
• [19:14] Why Bay Area joined Point S and how the network has provided an advantage to compete in the market
• [23:49] How Brandon’s personal taste in movies reflects his interest in history and leadership
• [24:43] The importance of customer service and the principle of setting fair prices in the auto service industry
• [26:35] Why employee autonomy and creativity contributes to better business outcomes

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

• Brandon Tracey on LinkedIn 
• Bay Area Point S Tire & Auto Service 
• Craig Bruneel on LinkedIn
• Bruneel Point S Tire & Auto Service
• Seth Sands on LinkedIn
• Goodturn Tire & Auto 
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

1. "I think a lot of people sometimes don't take that chance — that opportunity to learn from people, to take everything in.”
2. "You can teach people tires, you can teach people everything about them, but you can't teach that work ethic."
3. "We can be seven locations in Maryland, but we have the power of over 350 Point S dealers in the US."
4. "Customers today are definitely different. They're all worried about, 'Are they going to call me when it's done? Are they going to keep me informed'?"
5. "If they write me a big fat check, the least I can do is try to make them laugh today and walk them to their car."

Action Steps:

1. Prioritize customer service: Improving interactions and communication with customers can set your business apart, as satisfaction often outranks pricing concerns.
2. Learn from industry veterans: Aspiring leaders can seek mentorship and absorb wisdom from established business figures for long-term career advancement.
3. Embrace strategic partnerships: Joining networks like Point S can amplify your market presence and fortify your operational capabilities.
4. Nurture employee autonomy: Granting team members the freedom to innovate can yield superior strategies and forge a stronger, more adaptable organization.
5. Reinforce the value of work ethic: Recognize that beyond skills, cultivating a strong work ethic in employees is fundamental to delivering the exemplary service your customers deserve.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

Seth Sands is the Co-CEO of Good Turn Tire & Auto, a company with a portfolio of 14 brands and 35 locations across four states, including Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, and Michigan. With an early career in finance, investment banking, and private equity, Seth shifted gears to focus on family- and founder-owned businesses. He and his partner leveraged their financial expertise to fill a gap in the tire and auto space by utilizing technology and customer-centricity to grow Good Turn Tire & Auto into a substantial platform.

In this episode…

The tire and auto repair industry is undergoing significant changes as businesses adapt to new technologies and customer expectations. How can companies in this sector enhance their growth by focusing on technology and customer experience?

According to Seth Sands from Good Turn Tire & Auto, the key to success in the tire and auto repair industry is leveraging technology to provide a superior customer experience while maintaining a strong focus on both employees and customers. Seth notes that the industry has traditionally been fragmented and has suffered from a lack of scalable technology solutions, which has contributed to a negative reputation. By addressing these challenges, his company has been able to expand from three to 35 locations across four states. Their strategy involves preserving the local brand identity of acquired shops while offering essential support in areas like financial management, marketing, and recruitment, thus enabling these businesses to thrive.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Seth to discuss the intricacies of the tire and auto repair industry. They explore maintaining local brand identities, managing front and back shop operations, and the importance of customer service. Seth shares his journey from finance to the auto industry, emphasizing empathy and honesty in customer interactions. The conversation also covers market expansion strategies and the importance of succession planning for business owners.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [1:44] How Seth Sands' journey took him from finance to the fragmented tire and auto industry
• [3:46] The “platform” approach that allows local auto brands to thrive under Good Turn's umbrella
• [5:25] Why preserving local brand names can be key to retaining customer loyalty
• [7:40] Good Turn's strategy for geographic expansion and market density
• [9:28] The importance of differentiating the front shop from the back shop to optimize customer experience
• [12:07] How a consumerization focus is changing auto shop customer service expectations
• [18:15] Insights into employee empowerment and open communication with management
• [20:47] Seth discusses his hobbies, including fishing and flying airplanes

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Seth Sands on LinkedIn
• Good Turn Tire & Auto
• James O'Reilly on LinkedIn
• Trail Tire
• Mavis Tires & Brakes
• Tire Choice
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

1. "It's not price, at the end of the day, that people generally care about; it's the experience and how they are treated."
2. "The hardest thing we can do, or we try to avoid, is to enter a market and get stuck with one or two locations."
3. "If there's some reason I need to understand something technical, we've got a lot of people that can dumb it down to a way that I can understand."
4. "The only thing you have is your name and your word — make sure you approach business from doing the right thing."
5. "Ultimately, it's going to work out. As long as everyone knows that there's this, we're all playing by the same rules of the road."

Action Steps:

1. Focus on customer experience in every aspect of your business: It creates loyalty and differentiates your offerings.
2. Prioritize honesty and integrity in all internal and external dealings: This creates trust and builds a solid reputation.
3. Optimize the alignment between front-end and back-end operations of your business: Strengthening communication between customer-facing employees and technical staff is essential for seamless service delivery.
4. Develop a clear succession plan or exit strategy long before it's needed: Proactive planning prevents haste and helps maximize value.
5. Embrace technology and innovative practices to stay competitive: Adopting new technologies enhances customer engagement and business efficiency.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

James O'Reilly, the Vice President of Trail Tire, is a second-generation tire industry professional with 23 years of experience. With much of his career spent in wholesale, James has navigated the industry waters, inheriting his passion for the business from his father, who clocked in 43 years. He played competitive golf with dreams of turning pro but found his true calling in the tire industry. James has been instrumental in Trail Tire's growth, overseeing the expansion to 63 stores and the addition of a digital e-commerce division. His leadership style emphasizes relationships, strategic partnerships, and adapting to change, which have been integral to Trail Tire's success in Western Canada.

In this episode…

The tire industry in Western Canada is a dynamic and evolving market. How does one company navigate growth and expansion in this competitive landscape?

According to James O'Reilly of Trail Tires, the company has experienced significant growth since its inception in 2019, expanding from six corporate stores to 63 stores across Western Canada. This growth has been achieved through a combination of strategies: acquiring existing businesses, partnerships with existing dealers, forming relationships with established dealers, and organic expansion.

On this episode of Gain Traction, James joins Mike Edge to chat about his journey in the tire industry, Trail Tire's growth strategy, the importance of relationships in business, and the company's approach to balancing corporate and associate stores. They also discuss Trail Tire's brand portfolio, their commitment to supporting their dealers, and James' personal insights on leadership and self-improvement.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [1:47] James O’Reilly's transition from the golf pro dream to tire industry leader
• [3:47] Why effective sales techniques are vital in the tire business
• [6:40] The expansion strategy that aligns Trail Tire's growth with market demands
• [10:34] The role of a balanced product portfolio in Trail Tire's success
• [16:08] How Trail Tire cultivates trust and community among its dealers
• [20:07] Books James has found valuable for self-improvement
• [23:00] James’ movie recommendation for all entrepreneurs

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• James O’Reilly on LinkedIn 
• Trail Tire
• Mike Graber on LinkedIn
• Green Lights by Matthew McConaughey
• Ray Kroc
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

• "I liked the people — I had a ton of guys I looked up to in the business that were a little bit older than me, that had successful careers."
• "When you look back on the relationships, they're the biggest thing."
• "We grow as the business allows us to grow, ensuring it makes sense with our strategy and supports our dealers."
• "The last thing you want to do is sign somebody on board and then suddenly, you buy a store within their area."
• "It's all tied into the partnership, we're really lucky with the dealers we have."

Action Steps:

1. Focus on building strong relationships within your industry. Relationships can become the backbone of business sustainability and opportunities for growth.
2. Be open to change and diversification within your business strategy. Flexibility in business practices allows for adaptation to market changes and can lead to profitability.
3. Develop a carefully curated product portfolio that aligns with your business's strategic goals. A focused selection can streamline operations and enhance brand strength.
4. Cultivate long-term partnerships by prioritizing trust and clear communication. Building lasting connections with associates can bring stability and foster a community-driven business model.
5. Invest in continuous learning and self-improvement, both personally and professionally. Embracing knowledge and new perspectives can fuel innovation and personal growth, ultimately benefiting leadership and business development.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

Craig Bruneel is the Owner of Bruneel Point S Tire & Service, which operates 13 shops across Idaho, and holds the position of Chairman of the Board of Point S Tire & Service. Craig's tenure in the tire and auto service industry began in childhood, where his early exposure to the family business instilled a passion for entrepreneurship and service. His experience encompasses every aspect of the tire business, from creating swim tubes for sale as a young entrepreneur to expanding his family's legacy through the adoption of the Point S co-op model. Craig's leadership has propelled not only his own shops, but also the growth of Point S across the nation.

In this episode…

The tire industry has a rich history of entrepreneurship and family-owned businesses. How can a family-owned tire business thrive across multiple generations?

According to Craig Bruneel of Bruneel Point S Tire & Service, the key to their success lies in hard work, innovative business practices, and a willingness to adapt and take risks. Craig shares how his father started in the tire industry and grew the business despite numerous challenges, emphasizing the importance of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. He also discusses the value of learning from every experience, whether it's dealing with partnerships, navigating non-compete agreements, or managing a unionized workforce.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Craig joins Mike Edge to chat about the importance of customer service, the evolution of the tire industry, and the role of family in business. Craig discusses maintaining a competitive edge, the significance of community involvement, and the benefits of continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly changing market. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Craig offers advice and inspiration for achieving long-term success.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [2:27] Craig Bruneel shares the story of his great-grandfather's immigration from Belgium to Idaho during World War I
• [10:23] How Craig’s father resolved a business partnership dispute by flipping a coin
• [10:30] How Craig's father managed to start his own tire business while facing a 250-mile non-compete clause
• [14:31] Why Craig decided to pursue a college degree despite planning to take over the family business right away
• [18:37] The similarities between running a landscaping business and a tire business
• [20:10] The impact of Craig’s father’s involvement in the Idaho legislature on his own role in the family business
• [20:29] The importance of competition, efficiencies, and industry changes in running a successful business
• [21:06] Future plans for Point S, including national expansion

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

• Craig Bruneel on LinkedIn
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Bruneel Point S Tire & Service
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

1. "My dad was kind of a farm boy, and he decided he wanted to be in his own tire business."
2. "An owner of a business has partners if they either don't have any money or don't have any guts."
3. "Business is business — the same principles apply to us in our little landscaping business."
4. "Never make a deal that you wouldn't want to be on the other side of."
5. "If everybody's goal is to solve a problem, to sell a product, to buy a product, those goals stay congruent."

Action Steps:

1. Embrace your background to inform your business approach: understanding your roots can provide unique perspectives and strengths.
2. Execute fair business practices by ensuring mutually beneficial transactions: integrity in deals fosters long-term relationships and respect in the industry.
3. Consider the benefits of cooperative models to bolster your independent business: joining a co-op can provide the support and competitive edge needed for market success.
4. Continuously learn and adapt, allowing personal growth to impact professional progression: education can broaden your skill set and increase your effectiveness as a leader.
5. Balance professional drive with personal fulfillment: cultivating hobbies and spending time with family enhances overall well-being.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

Mike Allen is the entrepreneurial owner of Carfix, a three-shop operation in Raleigh and Garner in North Carolina. Serving as the President of the Board of Directors for the Automotive Service and Tire Alliance and hosting the annual ASTA Expo, Mike embodies third-generation excellence in the auto repair industry. With his grandfather founding a multifaceted auto repair business in 1937, Mike was born into an environment where the industry was a staple at home. After taking the helm, he expanded his family legacy, demonstrating growth in both his business and his passion for the automotive service community.

In this episode…

The automotive industry is evolving with new strategies for managing and growing repair businesses. What are the key techniques for increasing customer satisfaction and boosting revenue in the automotive industry?

According to Mike Allen of Carfix, implementing a customer-first approach is crucial for long-term success in the automotive repair business. He emphasizes the importance of transparency, clear communication, and reliable service to build trust and loyalty among customers. Additionally, Mike discusses the significance of adopting the latest technologies and training staff to stay updated with industry advancements, which can lead to more efficient operations and higher customer satisfaction.

On this episode of Gain Traction, host Mike Edge welcomes guest Mike Allen to discuss various strategies for enhancing business performance in the automotive repair sector. They cover topics such as effective marketing techniques, the benefits of investing in staff development, and the role of innovative tools in streamlining repair processes. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by automotive repair businesses and practical solutions to overcome them.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [0:12] How automotive entrepreneur Mike Allen expanded his family's legacy to three successful shops
• [2:12] Mike shares his journey from being a child in the car business to a leader shaping the industry's future
• [2:46] Why community involvement and customer service are important in building a lasting automotive business 
• [4:45] The effective growth strategies of acquiring existing businesses and integrating them into a larger operation 
• [9:00] How to elevate your automotive company with a focus on relational rather than transactional business models
• [25:08] The simple yet powerful core values that drive the business and personal life of a seasoned entrepreneur

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Mike Allen on LinkedIn
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Carfix
• Automotive Service and Tire Alliance
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

1. "You're a dumbass if you don't go back to the business and take it over from dad because it's such a great operation."
2. "He trained me to negotiate with vendors and how to read financial statements and how to try to recruit, hire, retain, that kind of stuff, which I'm very thankful for."
3. "We're in the hospitality business. It just so happens that the product we sell is fixing cars, right?”
4. "If somebody calls looking for tires, they're not going to get tires anywhere other than here."
5. "Be nice, tell the truth, have fun, and be thankful."

Action Steps:

1. Harness legacy knowledge: embrace and leverage the experience and insights from previous generations to inform modern business practices.
2. Prioritize relational business models: shift the business focus from mere transactions to nurturing long-term relationships, ensuring repeated business and customer loyalty.
3. Broaden skill sets in business: focus on understanding broader business skills like vendor negotiations and financial management rather than just technical expertise.
4. Expand strategically via acquisition: explore the acquisition of existing businesses as a growth strategy to increase market share efficiently.
5. Foster core values: embed the company culture and personal life with essential principles such as integrity, gratitude, and enjoyment of work, leading to a complimenting and balanced lifestyle.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

E. Red is the enterprising force behind the TV hit show Muscle and Classics, where he serves as producer, director, and star. Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, E. Red grew up in a large, car-loving family which set the foundation for his passion for the automotive industry. He has garnered extensive knowledge in car restoration and motorsports, leading him to create content that educates and inspires fellow car enthusiasts. E. Red’s dedication to the craft has resulted in a thriving TV show that resonates with viewers of all backgrounds.

In this episode…

Growing up in a big family in Savannah, Georgia, E. Red was surrounded by cars and motorsports from a young age, which instilled in him a passion and knowledge for classic muscle cars. But where did this journey take him, and how did he become a successful producer, director, and star of his own TV show, Muscle and Classics?

E. Red’s family and exposure to motorsports at a young age led him to develop a strong work ethic and a variety of skills, including framing houses, working as a longshoreman, and eventually creating his own TV show. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, determination, and adapting to changes in the industry. Through his show, E. Red shares his passion for cars and motorsports, interviewing experts and enthusiasts from all walks of life.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes E. Red to discuss his journey from Savannah to TV stardom. Starting with his childhood love of cars and influenced by family traditions, he shares personal stories of multi-generational car enthusiasm and how he created Muscle and Classics, which airs on Tubi, Paramount, Fox Soul, and Joy TV. Facing personal challenges head-on, E. Red discusses the show's evolution, his battle with cancer, and his vision for the future of the show.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [00:18] How E. Red began his journey in the automotive industry 
• [03:14] E. Red’s multifaceted work experience prior to starting Muscle and Classics
• [06:03] The sentimental value of family, vehicles, and the impact on E. Red's life and career
• [08:49] Where to watch Muscle and Classics and what the show offers
• [11:45] The importance of storytelling and letting people share their unique automotive experiences
• [16:35] E. Red's strong support for veteran recognition and their contribution to motor history
• [21:17] The meticulous process of auto restoration featured on Muscle and Classics

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

• Earl “E. Red” Redmond on LinkedIn 
• Muscle and Classics on tubi
• Traction Summit
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments:

• "If you keep God first and stay in your lane, life's journey becomes a route worth navigating."
• "Family is like the engine of a car; it's the power that drives you forward."
• "Restoring a classic car is like restoring a piece of history — one that tells a story and revs the soul."
• "Motorcycles and classic cars aren't just machines; they're vessels of freedom and memories."
• "By involving my family in my work, I not only pass down knowledge, but fuel their passion for creation."

Action Steps:

1. Involve family in your passions: Family unity amplifies success and makes the journey more rewarding; it builds a robust support system.
2. Embrace change in the industry: Being agile in business strategies ensures long-term sustainability and capitalizes on evolving consumer preferences.
3. Recognize and honor veterans: Veterans have played a crucial role in shaping industries, and recognizing their service fosters a more appreciative community.
4. Educate and inspire through media: Providing educational content through media empowers audiences and fills knowledge gaps in niche interests.
5. Persevere through personal challenges: Personal resilience leads to professional success, demonstrating that determination can overcome the toughest obstacles.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.