Clint and Clay Watts are the third-generation owners of Gerald's Tires & Brakes in Charleston, South Carolina. Their grandfather, fondly known as "Big Daddy," instilled in them the ethos of hard work and adaptability. From their humble beginnings transforming old gas stations into tire stores to evolving with the market's demands, Clint and Clay exemplify a commitment to learning and improving. Their dedication to customer service, ingrained from a young age through teachings of good morals and influential figures like Zig Ziglar, reflects their business philosophy: they're in the customer service business, they just happen to fix cars.

In this episode…

Every tire and auto repair shop prides itself on something — oftentimes, it’s a dedication to serving the customer. What are some ways a shop can make it clear to its customers that their patronage is important?

For Clint and Clay Watts of Gerald's Tires & Brakes, an unwavering commitment to customer service permeates every aspect of their family business. Drawing from the wisdom passed down by their grandfather and influential figures like Zig Ziglar, they have cultivated a philosophy that extends beyond mere transactions, emphasizing genuine care and respect for each customer. From small gestures like placing roses in customers' cars to engaging in meaningful conversations, the Watts family's dedication to service shines through in every interaction. These thoughtful touches, combined with a culture of trust and honesty, ensure that every customer at Gerald’s Tires & Brakes feels valued and appreciated.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Clint and Clay to discuss their multi-generational journey in the tire business. They explore marketing insights received from their grandfather, the evolution of their business, and their commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs through meaningful conversations and honest advice. The brothers emphasize the importance of hard work, continuous learning, and prioritizing customer service.

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

• Clint and Clay Watts talk about how they were born into the tire business
• The lessons of hard work, resilience, and perseverance that they learned from their grandfather
• Why recognizing your own limitations and seeking outside expertise is important
• Clint and Clay emphasize the significance of continuous learning, regardless of age
• How prioritizing customer education and providing tailored solutions demonstrates concern for clients' well-being
• The small gestures that exemplify a dedication to customer service at Gerald’s Tires & Brakes
• Outdoor activities Clint and Clay enjoy for bonding and relaxation

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Gerald’s Tires & Brakes
• Zig Ziglar
• Beggs Tire & Wheel 
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.

Charles Vickery brings over a decade of tire expertise to his role as  Store Manager at Beggs Tire & Wheel. Hailing from Prineville, Oregon, his journey in the tire industry began in the small town where the choices were clear-cut: either work at a mill or dive into the world of tires. Inspired by the legacy of Les Schwab, Charles started as a tire tech at Beggs in 2010. He quickly showcased his unwavering commitment to the job and has since climbed the ranks to his current role. 

In this episode…

Consumers typically have plenty of options when tire shopping, from the store down the street to a multitude of websites at their fingertips. In a world where online comparisons and price competition are prevalent, what can a store manager do to set a location apart from the rest? 

According to Charles Vickery, his team at Beggs Tire & Wheel is focused on providing top-notch customer service, evident in its 4.9-star rating from over 3,200 reviews. Beggs Tire takes pride in treating every customer with equal respect, and Charles prioritizes the importance of creating a positive experience for everyone who walks through the front door, whether they have $1 or a million dollars. The team goes beyond mere transactions, ensuring that customers understand the value they receive when purchasing tires. Charles is committed to educating the younger generation on the long-term value of their purchases. To be able to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape, he emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing customer preferences. 

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Charles to discuss the intricacies of customer service in the tire industry. Charles emphasizes the importance of providing quality service and fostering a positive customer experience. They explore the challenges of explaining value in a market driven by online comparisons and the evolving preferences of a new generation.

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

• Charles Vickery explains his interest in joining the tire industry
• Why customers trust Charles for tire recommendations without price-checking
• How Charles climbed from a tire tech to store manager
• What are Charles’ favorite tires to sell and why?
• The importance of return on investment while offering road hazard programs
• Charles reveals his love for hunting big game in the mountains
• Words of wisdom: know your product and your customer, prioritize their needs over personal interests

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Beggs Tire & Wheel 
• Prineville, Oregon
• Les Schwab
• Danny Smith on LinkedIn 
• Same Day Auto Repair and Tire Pros 
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn

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.

Danny Smith is the CEO of Same Day Auto Repair. With a background in the auto industry that spans over 28 years, Danny's career began in high school, working for Chevrolet and steadily advancing through various roles. Despite his family not being in the industry, Danny's strong work ethic and determination led him to master different aspects of the business, leading to the bold decision to venture into entrepreneurship. Today, as the head of his own shop, Danny navigates the complexities of tax laws, insurance liabilities, and business management.

In this episode…

Can a commitment to creating an extraordinary workplace culture lead to waiting lists of job applicants? Can a workplace philosophy that keeps employees thriving positively impact customer service as well?

According to Danny Smith, prioritizing the well-being of his team directly influences the quality of customer service at Same Day Auto Repair. The ingredients of a top-notch culture include Christmas parties featuring unique themes and substantial bonuses. By creating an environment where employees feel valued and motivated, Danny says it instills a dedication that translates into a superior customer experience.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Danny engages in a dynamic conversation with host Mike Edge. They delve into Danny's rich history in the auto industry and explore his transition from hands-on car repairs to managing a successful business. He discusses the unique philosophy that sets his shop apart, with a focus on customer service, employee well-being, and the pursuit of consistent growth goals.

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

• Danny Smith talks about the evolution of his career, from hands-on car repairs to business management
• The significance Danny places on creating a positive workplace environment and culture
• How work atmosphere can positively affect customer service
• How Christmas parties with substantial bonuses can enhance team performance
• Why Danny works not just for money but for the satisfaction of helping customers
• How the point system at Same Day Auto Repair is intricately tied to employee training and performance bonuses

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Danny Smith on LinkedIn 
• Same Day Auto Repair
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.

Scott Blair is the creator, host, and an instructor at T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training and Network. He is also Managing Partner of 2U Tire of Alabama and Co-founder of 2U Mobile Solutions. His automotive journey began in 1993, diving into the industry with American Racing Custom Wheels. In the late ‘90s, Scott developed and patented the Wheel Fit, a specialized aluminum jig for measuring custom wheels. He prides himself as someone who is always learning as he continues to shape his diverse career in the automotive world.

In this episode…

As more and more automotive employers look to address their onboarding needs, can they be confident that new employees can receive thorough training in a relatively short amount of time? Fortunately, Scott Blair says, training programs in the automotive industry have made significant advancements over the past two decades. 

Scott's approach combines adaptability, bite-sized content, and real-world applicability, enabling seasoned technicians to experience substantial knowledge gains within 15 minutes. His program starts with a prerequisite class of seven videos, branching into specialized paths for technicians and salespeople. The content caters to both the front and back of the house, and aligns with the demand for immediate and accessible learning. 

In this episode of Gain Traction, co-hosts Mike Edge and Matt Peters delve into the challenges of auto industry training with Scott. They explore the evolution of training programs and the urgent need for tailored content which addresses both technical aspects and sales. Scott shares valuable perspectives on adapting training methods to novices’ needs and availability, ultimately ensuring consumer confidence in aspiring automotive professionals.

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

• Scott Blair recalls his entry into the automotive industry, working with American Racing Custom Wheels
• The significance of training to ensure consumer confidence through quality service
• Scott elaborates on the development and patenting of the Wheel Fit
• How a lack of industry standards and budget constraints contribute to the hiring of inexperienced personnel
• Scott shares T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training's four distinct stages of training programs
• Why Scott’s interactive training program is uniquely beneficial for aspiring auto pros

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Scott Blair on LinkedIn 
• T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training and Network 
• The Wheel Fit  
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Matt Peters on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.

Jeff Mullersman is the Midwest Sales Director at ATTURO Tires, with 25 years of experience in the tire industry. Jeff’s automotive career is full of twists and turns, beginning with getting ripped off sweeping a go-kart parking lot. Undeterred, Jeff became a driver for Progressive Custom Wheels before moving on to sales, eventually running his own location in Omaha, Nebraska. When the company went under in 2000, he became a sales manager for Zisser Tire in St. Louis for several years during its gradual decline. Jeff briefly went into restaurateuring before returning to the automotive industry, where he found his home at ATTURO Tires.

In this episode…

Navigating the professional world is no easy feat, and Jeff Mullersman's journey through the tire industry, filled with highs and lows, offers a wealth of lessons. From celebrating milestones to learning from setbacks, his story is a testament to the importance of resilience and adaptability.

As Jeff shares insights from his role at ATTURO Tires, one compelling revelation stands out: the power of humor in navigating professional challenges. Jeff's ability to blend humor with professionalism adds a unique dimension to his approach, providing a valuable lesson for those looking to make an impact in their careers. Through anecdotes and experiences, the episode explores how a lighthearted perspective can be a strategic asset in fostering relationships and overcoming hurdles in the dynamic landscape of sales.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Jeff chats with host Mike Edge about the power of humor in sales. Jeff's unique approach has propelled his career and inspired many of those navigating the complexities of the tire business. His candid reflections provide not only practical advice for those in sales, but also valuable insights for professionals across various fields, emphasizing the significance of authenticity and relationship-building in achieving long-term success.

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

• Jeff Mullersman shares his journey from sweeping parking lots to steering sales strategies
• How managing a restaurant helped Jeff excel in tire sales
• Why honesty, empathy, and relationship-building are invaluable in the tire industry
• Jeff offers a relatable perspective on navigating diverse career landscapes
• Secrets of successful sales strategies and client relationship management
• The valuable blend of humor and professionalism in unexpected workplace situations
• Jeff talks about bridging the gap between his personal and professional life

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Jeff Mullersman on LinkedIn
• ATTURO Tires
• Hunt Demarest on LinkedIn 
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.

Hunt Demarest is Senior Accountant at Paar, Melis & Associates, an accounting and tax firm specializing in automotive repair shops. Hunt is a seasoned CPA with a passion for optimizing team management and development, empowering shop owners with financial insights that drive greater success for their businesses. Armed with an economics degree from Penn State and an accreditation in business valuation, Hunt shares his wealth of knowledge as host of the podcast Business by the Numbers, where he provides valuable insights into the world of finance and accounting. Leveraging his expertise, Hunt authored the book Wrenches to Write Off's, guiding shop owners through the intricacies of tax season preparation and execution.

In this episode…

In the fast-paced world of auto services, understanding the nuanced differences between tire shops and traditional repair establishments is not just a matter of industry insight — it's a key to financial success. The commonly-drawn parallels between the two often overlook significant differences. 

According to Hunt Demarest of Paar, Melis & Associates, tire shops are often compared to traditional auto repair shops without accounting for the significant variations in their revenue streams and profit margins. He explains that understanding the fundamental distinction between the two is crucial for realistic financial expectations. While a classical repair shop might achieve a 20% net income target, tire shops face a more challenging goal due to lower profit margins on tire sales. Hunt argues that a rule of thumb is that it may take about double the sales for a tire shop to achieve the same net income as a traditional repair shop. 

On this episode of Gain Traction, Hunt and host Mike Edge unravel the intricacies of the automotive industry. Hunt's unconventional journey from an engineering major to an accountant sets the stage for a dynamic conversation. They explore the challenges of running an auto repair business, emphasizing the crucial role tires can play. Hunt's expertise shines as he provides practical insights into setting realistic financial targets and highlights the significance of analyzing gross profit in dollars per hour.

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

• Hunt Demarest shares what he learned when he was a snack bar employee
• Why experience working with the general public can be valuable
• What attracted Hunt to become an accountant?
• How Hunt’s accounting expertise can benefit auto shops
• Valuable business advice and observations from Hunt on multiple facets of tire and auto repair 
• The best movie Hunt has seen in the past year
• Why you shouldn’t hire your brother-in-law as your accountant

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Hunt Demarest on LinkedIn
• Paar, Melis & Associates
• Todd Hayes on LinkedIn
• Joe Adams on LinkedIn
• Glenn Piccolo on LinkedIn
• Adams Automotive
• AutoShop Answers 
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.

Todd Hayes is the Chief Operating Officer of Adams Automotive and Co-founder of Auto Shop Answers. At age 26 Todd founded a company, successfully growing it into a chain of stores that he later sold to a venture capital group. Having been perfecting business models since 1986, Todd's expertise led him to coalesce with partners including Perry Adams, Joe Adams, and Glenn Piccolo. Together, they transformed a $3 million-a-year store into a thriving flagship store with a $30 million market value, achieving an average revenue of $1 million per month.

Joe Adams is the Regional Operations Supervisor at Adams Automotive and Co-founder of Auto Shop Answers. Despite growing up with a disinterest in the family's automotive business, Joe's journey took a transformative turn when mentor Todd Hayes introduced him to the intricacies under the hood. Graduating from college during the challenging times of the pandemic, Joe not only found his passion for the industry but, under Todd's guidance, went on to launch multiple Adams Automotive locations and co-founded Auto Shop Answers, showcasing his dedication to shaping the future of the automotive world.

Glenn Piccolo, Managing Partner at Adams Automotive and Co-founder of Auto Shop Answers, began his journey in the automotive industry over two decades ago. Starting as a mystery shopper at the age of 18, Glenn quickly impressed industry leaders and transitioned to management, where he gained a wealth of experience. Glenn's career evolved through various companies, including playing a pivotal role in the expansion of Louetta Automotive, eventually leading him to join forces with Todd Hayes at Adams Automotive, where he continues to contribute to a winning culture and a thriving, dynamic environment.

In this episode…

How do you increase the value of your business? Start by building a great culture that both employees and customers can appreciate.

According to Todd Hayes, Joe Adams, and Glenn Piccolo from Adams Automotive and Auto Shop Answers, building a great workplace culture involves several key elements. First and foremost, they emphasize the importance of having a unique and efficient business model. They advocate for creating a workplace that is not only financially rewarding but also provides a premium service that justifies higher charges. They consider employees to be their most valuable asset. By offering unlimited hours for technicians, maintaining a visually-impressive facility, and fostering a culture of professionalism and customer service, they make their employees "untouchable."

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge chats with Todd, Joe and Glenn about building a culture that positively impacts the value of a business. They say investing in recruitment, training, and continuous support for the team ensures loyalty and long-term commitment, and the business’ value depends upon employee success and satisfaction. Their willingness to stay open seven days a week, achieving record sales during weekends, reflects a dedication to serving customers through a thriving workplace culture.

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

• Todd Hayes details the idea behind Auto Shop Answers
• Why Todd doesn’t believe there’s a shortage of automotive technicians
• Glenn Piccolo explains the incredible lack of staff turnover at Adams Automotive
• Joe Adams reveals why employees don’t want to leave the company
• Adams Automotive team members are called “Professional Business Athletes” and Todd shares the origin of the term
• Todd discusses his brand’s best customer demographic and the importance of catering to them
• Joe emphasizes Auto Shop Answers’ focus on training
• How Adams Automotive continuously prioritizes personalized customer service

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Todd Hayes on LinkedIn
• Joe Adams on LinkedIn
• Glenn Piccolo on LinkedIn 
• Auto Shop Answers 
• Adams Automotive 
• Keegan Wentz on LinkedIn
• McMahon’s Best-One Tire
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.

George Kingman is Founder and CEO of both Advanced Shop Leadership and BlueSky Tire and Auto Service, a burgeoning chain of stores with five locations in under five years. After beginning his journey in the tire and automotive industry as a teenage tire tech, George took a 17-year hiatus where he managed two businesses and held a senior analyst role focused on enhancing operational processes for one of America's largest banks. His passion for the automotive industry eventually drew him back, leading to a successful run in various roles from stores and districts to corporate positions. After briefly overseeing the original 20 Group, George established ASL with a mission to enhance the quality of life for independent tire and automotive service retailers, emphasizing efficient operations, teammate satisfaction, and financial growth.

In this episode…

In an era where independent automotive businesses are easily overlooked, one person has realized the need for a more personal and passionate approach to serving independent automotive businesses — and has acted.

George Kingman founded Automotive Shop Leadership out of a desire to provide a continuously-evolving support system for independent automotive professionals, catering to their unique needs. ASL offers a variety of services including bookkeeping and workshops for store managers, entry-level individuals, and experienced leaders. Its focus is on fostering growth, leadership, and a positive culture within each group. George says ASL’s success lies in the sense of community it fosters, where members become like family, sharing their experiences and understanding the challenges of the automotive industry.

On this episode of Gain Traction, George joins Mike Edge for a conversation about recognizing gaps and common weaknesses for independent businesses in the tire and auto repair industry and creating a service that addresses those. He talks about the areas where consultation and assistance are most often needed, and how his company can help. George also discusses his other business, BlueSky Tire & Auto Service, and shares its origin story.

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

• Why it was urgent for George Kingman to start working at a tire store as a teenager
• Why George is not a believer in implementing a standard system across multiple independent stores
• George explains why he prefers working in the tire and auto repair industry over banking
• BlueSky Tire & Auto Service’s origin story
• Where George first conceived the idea for Advanced Shop Leadership
• The multiple areas of focus and coaching provided by ASL
• Why bookkeeping is often an area in which tire and auto shops need coaching

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• George Kingman on LinkedIn
• Advanced Shop Leadership
• BlueSky Tire & Auto Service
• Bridgestone Tire
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.

Charles Mesones, Partner at Cook's Tire & Service, has been a dedicated professional in the tire and auto repair Industry for over 25 years, following in the footsteps of his father who managed a competing company during the 1980s. Charles' journey began as a teenager, working under his father's guidance, where he learned valuable life and business lessons. Today, Charles proudly continues the family tradition, with his eldest son excelling as a service advisor and his middle son voluntarily contributing on weekends, embodying the family's passion for the industry.

In this episode…

How do you get the best out of your employees? What type of culture breeds a hardworking staff that prioritizes excellent service?

According to Charles Mesones of Cook’s Tire & Service, his goal is to create an environment where employees feel they are part of something meaningful — not just earning a paycheck. While he places a high value on stability, Charles prioritizes development and growth even more. He advocates for continual self-improvement, encouraging his team to become better versions of themselves through small, consistent wins and learning from failures. He stresses the importance of humility in leadership, acknowledging mistakes and correcting them, thus fostering a culture of growth and respect within the business.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Charles for a conversation about an effective approach to staff and culture development. Charles talks about how two of his sons are making their way in the auto industry, why he prioritizes affording his team members with beneficial career experience over employee retention, and the value of difficult conversations between leadership and individual contributors.

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

• Charles Mesones describes the culture at Cook’s Tire and Service
• How Charles ensures that everyone who works for his company grows and develops
• Why difficult conversations with employees shouldn’t be avoided by leadership
• Turning points and accomplishments Charles is most proud of from his time with Cook’s
• How a former employee went from facing homelessness to managing a group of competing stores
• Why Charles has read Atomic Habits by James Clear numerous times

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Cook’s Tire & Service
• Atomic Habits by James Clear 
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.

Keegan Wentz is the President of McMahon's Automotive Technology Center, a family-owned service and repair shop based in Fort Wayne, Indiana. His vision and dedication have transformed the company into a pioneering institution for automotive technician training and career development. Under his leadership, McMahon’s has implemented a comprehensive training program that not only imparts technical skills but also focuses on professionalism and ethics. An ASE Master Tech with a rich background in training others in Original Equipment technology, Keegan has significantly enhanced the service quality and customer experience at McMahon's. His commitment to staying abreast of emerging vehicle technologies, including electric vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems, positions McMahon’s at the forefront of the industry.

In this episode…

When a customer brings a vehicle to your shop for repair, do they automatically believe you’ll figure out the problem? How do you establish that trust between customers and repair technicians?

According to Keegan Wentz from McMahon’s Best-One Tire and Auto Care, a Digital Vehicle Inspection serves as a transparency tool, bridging the knowledge gap between the workshop and the people in the waiting area. A DVI is akin to a vehicle's report card, detailing its condition with supportive photos and videos, enabling customers to see exactly what the technicians see. Using DVIs, Keegan points to McMahon's emphasis on openness, using it to document, recommend, and transmit vehicle information to customers via email or text. Keegan notes that it’s part of a broader commitment to professionalism in the automotive industry, aiming to combat its negative reputation by fostering trust and transparency, one customer at a time.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Keegan joins Mike Edge to discuss the importance of establishing trust between the repair technicians and customers — and utilizing technology to build that trust. Keegan reveals his method for maintaining a lean and efficient operation while recognizing deficiencies in his team’s process and fixing or improving them. He talks about the value of technological advancements in tire and auto repair and goals for his company moving forward.

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

• Keegan Wentz shares how he got started in the automotive industry 
• When Keegan became interested in technology
• Putting McMahon’s Best-One Tire and Auto Care at the forefront of technological advancements in auto repair
• The methodology Keegan uses for implementing and maintaining a lean, efficient operation
• How deficiencies are recognized and improved at McMahon’s
• Keegan’s goals for McMahon’s moving forward

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Keegan Wentz on LinkedIn
• McMahon's Best-One Tire
• Don Detore on LinkedIn
• Kim McMahon on LinkedIn
• Kaizen
• The 5S method
• Autoflow
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

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.