Gearheads n' Gasoline Podcast

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What does it take to turn a passion for cars into one of the most respected custom hot rod shops in the industry?

In this episode of Gearheads n' Gasoline, host Barry Alt of Motorhead Digital is joined by co-hosts Jesse Henke of JH Restorations and Eddy Cebreco of Auto Metal Direct (AMD) for a conversation with Jonathan Goolsby of Goolsby Customs.

Jonathan shares his journey from painting circle track race cars and working in collision repair to building award-winning custom hot rods. He talks about the mentors who encouraged him to take a chance on starting his own business, the challenges of running a successful custom shop, and why he's always pushing toward the next achievement.

The conversation also dives into the growing popularity of classic trucks, S10s, OBS builds, and unconventional custom projects. Jonathan shares his thoughts on what drives automotive trends, the importance of showcasing builds at major events, and how shops can attract, train, and mentor the next generation of automotive craftsmen.

Along the way, the guys discuss the real value of custom builds, the relationships that make the automotive aftermarket industry special, and what success means after decades of turning a passion into a career.

In this episode, we cover:

• Jonathan's journey from collision repair to launching Goolsby Customs
• The advice that inspired him to take a chance on his own business
• Building award-winning hot rods and showcasing them at major car shows
• Why classic trucks, S10s, and OBS builds are gaining popularity
• The challenges of running a custom automotive shop
• Training young talent and preserving automotive craftsmanship
• The importance of mentorship, relationships, and supporting the industry
• Jonathan's favorite builds, automotive events, and lessons learned along the way

Whether you're a custom car builder, restoration shop owner, automotive professional, or simply love hot rods and classic trucks, this episode offers plenty of stories, insights, and laughs from people who live and breathe the automotive aftermarket.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

Guest Bio:
Jonathan Goolsby is a prominent figure in the hot rod industry, celebrated for his exceptional craftsmanship and contributions over the past two decades. He began his career customizing items in his home garage and, driven by his passion, founded Goolsby Customs. Under his leadership, the shop has earned a stellar reputation for building award-winning custom cars and maintaining strong relationships within the hot rodding community. Beyond his professional achievements, Jonathan enjoys circle track racing and is committed to mentoring the next generation of builders.

Guest:
Jonathan Goolsby, Owner, Goolsby Customs

• goolsbycustoms.com
• instagram.com/goolsbycustoms
• facebook.com/GoolsbyCustomsInc
• x.com/goolsbycustoms

Gearheads n' Gasoline is powered by:
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Gearheads n' Gasoline: Fueling Your Success!

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• motorheaddigital.com
• facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Guest Co-Host:
Jesse Henke, JH Restorations

• jhrestorations.ca
• facebook.com/jhrestorations
• instagram.com/jh_restorations
• youtube.com/@jhrestorationsltd

Co-Host:
Eddy Cebreco, Auto Metal Direct

• [email protected]
• autometaldirect.com
• facebook.com/AutoMetalDirect
• instagram.com/autometaldirect
• linkedin.com/company/autometaldirect
• youtube.com/@UC3g-EQlf_d_lD1tpI4vaTiw

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

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What does it really take to build a custom car shop where craftsmanship comes before shortcuts?

In this episode of Gearheads n’ Gasoline, Barry Alt and guest co-host Jesse Henke of JH Restorations sit down with Andrew Harsevoort, owner of Harse Autocraft in Ontario, Canada, to discuss the evolution of his business, the realities of high-end automotive restoration, and what it takes to build a reputation for exceptional quality.

After spending more than a decade in the collision repair industry, Andrew opened his own shop in 2014 with a straightforward mission: bring craftsmanship back to the automotive trade. What began as a focus on quality bodywork and paint has grown into a custom automotive operation tackling complete builds, specialty fabrication, and carbon fiber Alfa Romeo projects.

Andrew shares how his team approaches craftsmanship, why attitude matters more than experience when hiring, and how social media has helped attract both talented employees and new customers.

The conversation also explores the challenges Canadian builders face when sourcing parts from the United States, the true cost of custom paint and restoration work, and why building relationships with other shops is essential to advancing the industry.

From reimagining vintage Alfa Romeos to discussing the next generation of custom cars, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build great vehicles and a sustainable business around them.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

Key Takeaways:

• Craftsmanship is more than a finished product.
• The transition from collision repair to restoration requires a different mindset.
• Hire for attitude, then develop the skills.
• Canadian custom car builders face unique challenges.
• Specialty projects can create unexpected business opportunities.
• Social media is an investment in business growth.
• Custom automotive work requires realistic budgets.
• Technology should support creativity, not replace it.
• Industry relationships help builders improve.
• Building a successful shop takes time.

Guest Bio:
With a love for the trade and a passion for the craftsmanship part of it, the insurance led collision shops were no longer a good fit for me. With a supportive wife, I ventured out on my own in 2014 to redefine the industry by bringing the craft back, focusing on quality and details that last. To invest in clients who understand the value of craftsmanship and creativity. Harse Autocraft has since grown to a spot well beyond what I ever could have imagined, and I am loving the challenges that each new growth brings. We have been blessed with amazing clients who let us showcase our skills and creativity.

Guest:
Andrew Harsevoort, Owner, Harse Autocraft

• harseautocraft.com
• facebook.com/p/Harse-AutoCraft-100060242573992/
• instagram.com/harse_autocraft/

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• motorheaddigital.com
• facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Guest Co-Host:
Jesse Henke, JH Restorations

• jhrestorations.ca
• facebook.com/jhrestorations
• instagram.com/jh_restorations
• youtube.com/@jhrestorationsltd

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• facebook.com/GearheadsNGasoline
• instagram.com/gearheadsngasoline
• linkedin.com/company/gearheadsngasoline
• youtube.com/@GearheadsNGasoline

You can reach us at [email protected]

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What happens when a self-taught hot rodder turns a garage hobby into a 15,000-square-foot fabrication and restoration business?

In this episode of Gearheads n’ Gasoline, Barry Alt and guest co-host Sean Sawyer from Revved Automotive Consulting sit down with Jay Riggs of Riggs Fabrication & Restoration to talk about the lessons behind building great cars, growing a shop, leading a team, and surviving the realities of entrepreneurship.

Jay didn't grow up in a family of classic car builders. His interest started with Hot Wheels, model cars, and eventually a 1929 Model A project he built from the ground up, despite being told to do almost the opposite. That project forced him to teach himself welding, metal shaping, suspension geometry, fabrication, and the skills that would eventually become the foundation of his business.

After being laid off from his sales career in 2012, Jay took a chance on turning those skills into a business. On his first day in the shop, the electricity wasn't even on, so he borrowed a generator and started chopping the roof on a customer's car anyway.

More than a decade later, Riggs Fabrication & Restoration operates from a 15,000-square-foot facility and builds high-level classic cars, customs, hot rods, and award-winning trucks.

But this conversation goes well beyond the cars.

Jay opens up about learning to manage employees, dealing with negativity before it damages shop culture, knowing when to bring new capabilities in-house, making expensive mistakes, developing young talent, and realizing that becoming a successful shop owner requires an entirely different skill set than becoming a talented fabricator.

The guys also discuss the changing technology behind custom fabrication, including CAD, 3D scanning, CNC metal shaping, and the growing opportunity for restoration shops to turn one-off solutions into manufactured aftermarket products.

Through it all, Jay shares the mindset that has kept him moving through the inevitable highs and lows of owning a business: keep learning, keep improving, and keep moving toward the goal.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

Key Takeaways:

• Being great at the craft doesn't automatically make you great at the business.
• Jay's journey required him to continually add new skills. Shop culture has to be actively managed.
• Sometimes entrepreneurship is simply finding a way forward.
• The next generation needs exposure to the industry.
• Automotive careers are changing with technology.
• A custom solution can become a product.
• Success doesn't eliminate problems. It changes the problems.

Guest Bio:
I did not grow up in a car family, but I always loved the classic. I started building my 1st car in my late 30s. All self-taught, in my garage, learning each step along the way. I was doing sheet metal work on the side for experience. I chopped a '49 Shoebox and wanted more. We opened the shop in 2012 and haven't looked back.

Guest:
Jay Riggs, Riggs Fabrication & Restoration

• riggsfabrication.com
• facebook.com/RiggsFabricationRestoration
• instagram.com/riggsfab
• youtube.com/@riggsfabrication4486
• tiktok.com/@riggsfabrication

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• motorheaddigital.com
• facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Guest Co-Host:
Sean Sawyer, Revved Automotive Consulting

• revvedac.com
• facebook.com/revvedautomotive
• instagram.com/ocdcarbuilder

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• facebook.com/GearheadsNGasoline
• instagram.com/gearheadsngasoline
• linkedin.com/company/gearheadsngasoline
• youtube.com/@GearheadsNGasoline

You can reach us at [email protected]

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What does it take to build cars that stand out today without looking dated ten years from now?

In this episode of Gearheads n' Gasoline, Barry Alt and guest co-host Jesse Henke of JH Restorations sit down with Dom Tucci of Tucci Hot Rods to talk about design, fabrication, technology, SEMA builds, industry relationships, and the realities of running a small custom-car shop.

Dom grew up in the shop his father started and later studied industrial design at Syracuse University. Today, that combination of hands-on experience and design education influences everything from the ergonomics and proportions of a build to CAD, CNC machining, 3D printing, and product development.

Dom takes us behind the scenes of Tucci Hot Rods' Ford projects, the Blue Maverick, their Ford Raptor-powered Mercedes build, and the partnerships that have helped make those projects possible.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

We also get into:

• Designing cars to be timeless instead of following trends
• How 3D modeling, CNC machining, and metal 3D printing are changing fabrication
• What it really takes to develop relationships with aftermarket manufacturers
• Using major builds and events as a marketing strategy
• Expanding a custom shop through products and manufacturing
• The story behind a major engine failure in Dom's Mercedes
• Why HOT ROD Power Tour has become one of his favorite events
• How connections led to opportunities with Top Gear and Larry Chen
• Career advice for the next generation of builders and fabricators
• Why hands-on learning still matters in the custom automotive world
• Dom's dream of making it to the Goodwood Festival of Speed

And in the Gearheads n' Gasoline speed round, Dom talks favorite cars, his most valuable shop tool, Gridlife, and one piece of advice from college that has stayed with him throughout his career.

Guest Bio:
Dom’s dad, Dave, started Tucci Hot Rods in 1997 when Dom was 5 years old. Since his mom handled the office side of things, Dom came to the shop every day after school. As a kid, he was always drawing and creating things.

He considered going to college for car design, but ultimately attended Syracuse University for Industrial Design. When he graduated in 2015, he returned to the shop and began integrating what he had learned into the more old-school approach of a hot rod shop. He carved out a perfect combination of design and hand fabrication.

In the decade since joining Tucci Hot Rods full time, Dom and the team have designed and built a number of incredible cars, including six Ford collaboration vehicles for SEMA, a sweepstakes car with a NASCAR driver, and a Mercedes 190E that has taken him places he only dreamed of.

Today, Tucci Hot Rods continues to focus on delivering high-end, driver-friendly hot rods while also expanding into the design and manufacturing of its own parts.

Guest:
Dom Tucci, Tucci Hot Rods

• tuccihotrods.com
• domtuccidesign.com
• facebook.com/TucciHotRods
• instagram.com/tuccihotrods
• tiktok.com/@tucci.hot.rods

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• motorheaddigital.com
• facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Guest Co-Host:
Jesse Henke, JH Restorations

• jhrestorations.ca
• facebook.com/jhrestorations
• instagram.com/jh_restorations
• youtube.com/@jhrestorationsltd

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• facebook.com/GearheadsNGasoline
• instagram.com/gearheadsngasoline
• linkedin.com/company/gearheadsngasoline
• youtube.com/@GearheadsNGasoline

You can reach us at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

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Mark Bowler was building transmissions at 13, teaching his high school automotive class how to assemble them by 17, and eventually transformed his family’s small-town transmission shop into one of the most respected names in the performance automotive industry.

In this episode of Gearheads n’ Gasoline, Barry Alt and co-host Eddy Cebreco of Auto Metal Direct sit down with Mark, CEO and Founder of Bowler Performance Transmissions, to talk about the relationships, risks, hard lessons, and relentless commitment to quality that helped shape the company.

Mark shares how an early opportunity with Troy Trepanier of Rad Rides by Troy helped open doors in the hot rod world, why Bowler went all-in on performance during the 2008 downturn, and why showing up at automotive events continues to be one of the company’s most important marketing strategies.

The conversation also gets into Bowler’s approach to custom-built and dyno-tested transmissions, the development of its Carbon Edition manual transmissions, and why Mark would rather find a failure on the dyno than have a customer discover it on the road or track.

Beyond the business, Mark discusses the Accelerate Foundation, his effort to introduce young people to careers in automotive and the skilled trades, plus the moment his father finally acknowledged that maybe Mark’s crazy idea had worked after all.

It’s an episode about transmissions, but even more about trust, relationships, craftsmanship, taking risks, and doing what you say you’re going to do.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

• Mark built his first transmission at just 13 years old.
• Bowler evolved from a small family transmission shop into a performance-focused brand.
• An early relationship with Troy Trepanier helped open doors in the hot rod industry.
• Bowler went all-in on performance during the 2008 economic downturn.
• Trade shows and face-to-face relationships remain a major part of Bowler’s marketing strategy.
• Social media has helped show a more personal, authentic side of the company.
• Every Bowler transmission is built and tested with real-world performance in mind.
• The Carbon Edition was developed to meet the demands of high-performance and Pro-Touring builds.
• Mark founded the Accelerate Foundation to support skilled trades and future automotive talent.
• Mark’s guiding philosophy: do what you say, be honest, and treat people right.

Guest Bio:
Mark Bowler is CEO and Founder of Bowler Performance Transmissions in Lawrenceville, Illinois. He began building transmissions at 13 and transformed his family’s local transmission shop into a nationally recognized performance brand serving hot rods, Pro-Touring builds, race cars, and custom vehicles. Mark is active with SEMA’s HRIA and founded the Accelerate Foundation to support skilled trades and the next generation of automotive talent.

Guest:
Mark Bowler, CEO and Founder, Bowler Performance Transmissions
https://www.bowlertransmissions.com

🔧 Learn more about Bowler Performance Transmissions:

• bowlertransmissions.com
• facebook.com/Bowlerperformance
• instagram.com/bowlertransmissions/
• linkedin.com/in/mark-bowler44572913/
• youtube.com/@BowlerPerformanceTra nsmissions
• tiktok.com/@bowlerperformance

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• motorheaddigital.com
• facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Co-Host:
Eddy Cebreco, Auto Metal Direct

• [email protected]
• autometaldirect.com
• facebook.com/AutoMetalDirect
• instagram.com/autometaldirect
• linkedin.com/company/autometaldirect
• youtube.com/@UC3g-EQlf_d_lD1tpI4vaTiw

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• facebook.com/GearheadsNGasoline
• instagram.com/gearheadsngasoline
• linkedin.com/company/gearheadsngasoline
• youtube.com/@GearheadsNGasoline

You can reach us at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

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What does 50 years in the automotive aftermarket teach you about building a company, building cars, and keeping the next generation engaged?

In this episode of Gearheads n’ Gasoline, Barry Alt and Jesse Henke sit down with Rick Love, president of Vintage Air, to talk about his path from a young hot rodder in upstate New York to a decades-long career with one of the most recognized names in the aftermarket. Rick shares how he first connected with Vintage Air founder Jack, the family moment that changed the direction of his career, and why simply showing up, asking questions, and building relationships can open doors in this industry.

The conversation digs into the future of hot rodding and restoration, including the challenge of engaging younger enthusiasts, the growing importance of relatable platforms like JDM cars, Fox bodies, OBS trucks, Jeeps, G-bodies, and S-10s, and how Vintage Air decides which vehicles are worth developing new systems for. Rick also walks through the 60-to-90-day development process behind a new SureFit application and explains how market feedback, other manufacturers, shows, and customer demand help guide product decisions.

They also talk about marketing, creators, Cars & Coffee, Vintage Air’s 50th anniversary, road tours, the value of face-to-face connection, and why the best part of owning an old car is still getting out and driving it. Rick closes with two pieces of advice that apply well beyond the garage: make better decisions, and choose your battles.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

Takeaways:

• Relationships create careers. Rick’s path to Vintage Air grew from showing up, helping with R&D, attending events, and building genuine connections.
• Family can clarify your path. A question from Rick’s young son pushed him to rethink a travel-heavy career and ultimately join Vintage Air.
• The aftermarket still runs on mentorship. Experienced builders and manufacturers can have a lasting impact simply by sharing knowledge and helping others learn.
• Youth engagement has to be relatable. Fox bodies, JDM cars, OBS trucks, S-10s, Jeeps, and other familiar platforms can help draw younger enthusiasts in.
• Nostalgia changes with each generation. Tomorrow’s collector cars are often the vehicles people remember from childhood or their early driving years.
• Product development goes far beyond installation. Vintage Air can spend 60–90 days scanning, designing, testing, documenting, and developing a new application.
• The market helps decide what comes next. Vintage Air watches demand, affordability, show trends, and aftermarket support before developing a new application.
• Marketing is now multi-channel. Print, social media, YouTube, creators, email, events, and distributors all play a role in reaching customers.
• In-person interaction still matters. Events give customers a chance to see products, ask questions, meet the people behind the brand, and build relationships.
• The cars matter, but the memories matter more. Rick’s ’39 Ford is special because of the friends, experiences, and decades of memories tied to it.

Guest Bio:
Rick Love is president of Vintage Air and a lifelong hot-rod enthusiast with more than four decades in the automotive aftermarket. He began working with Vintage Air through installations, shows, and R&D before joining the company full-time in 1998. A longtime SEMA and HRIA volunteer, Rick was inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame in 2021 and continues to champion mentorship, product innovation, and driving the cars we build.

Guest:
Rick Love, President, Vintage Air, LLC

• https://vintageair.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/vintageairinc
• https://www.instagram.com/vintageair_
• https://www.youtube.com/user/va197653

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• https://motorheaddigital.com
• https://facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• https://instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• https://linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Guest Co-Host:
Jesse Henke, JH Restorations

• https://jhrestorations.ca
• https://www.facebook.com/jhrestorations
• https://www.instagram.com/jh_restorations
• https://www.youtube.com/@jhrestorationsltd

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• facebook.com/GearheadsNGasoline
• instagram.com/gearheadsngasoline
• linkedin.com/company/gearheadsngasoline
• youtube.com/@GearheadsNGasoline

You can reach us at [email protected]

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Kendra Sommer of CWK Media and Cruising with Kendra joins Barry Alt and Sean Sawyer of Revved Automotive Consulting at Gearheads n' Gasoline to share how she left the entertainment industry, bet on herself, and built a career in automotive media.

From growing up in a family of International Scout enthusiasts to quitting her job and heading to SEMA, Kendra explains how networking, consistent branding, and genuine relationships opened the door to new opportunities. She also breaks down why authentic storytelling often connects better than perfectly polished content, how LinkedIn became a powerful business-development tool, and why confident cold outreach still works.

The conversation also covers international travel and perceptions of America, building trust with automotive brands, managing rejection, protecting your reputation, and the challenges women can face behind the camera. Kendra closes with advice for young professionals entering the industry and shares her goal of expanding automotive storytelling into television and film.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

Key Takeaways:

• Quit her local news job on the spot to chase the SEMA Show, with no backup plan.
• Third-generation International Scout enthusiast; her family has a home Scout museum in NC.
• Went from dangerous, solo local news assignments to building her own media company.
• Built her client network by cold-calling every business card she collected at SEMA.
• Used LinkedIn to warm up relationships before making the call that landed Brunswick/Mercury Racing.
• Has worked with NASCAR, Fox Sports, Discovery, History Channel, Scout Motors, and Walmart.
• Hit 175 mph on the Miami coast riding along with Brunswick's CEO.
• Covered the Saudi Crown Princess Car Show in Riyadh.
• Shares her mindset trick for handling rejection in a brutal industry.
• Talks about what SEMA could do to help young people break into the business.

Guest Bio:
Kendra Sommer is an automotive reporter, producer, and businesswoman known for her brand "Cruisin' With Kendra" and her ad creative agency, CWK Media. She is a distinguished businesswoman, automotive reporter, and producer who has contributed reports to the marine and automotive industries, delivering content ranging from technical reports to lifestyle features. Her coverage has spanned the globe, including the Saudi Crown Prince Car Show in Riyadh, and she has written for Motor Trend publications like Hot Rod, Car Craft, and Mustang Monthly. She has also appeared as a correspondent on automotive TV programs on History Channel, Discovery, MAVTV, and Fox Sports. As a third-generation International Harvester enthusiast, Kendra continues a family legacy; her grandfather worked as an engineer for the company for over 40 years. Before entering automotive media, she built her skills as a news journalist covering stories throughout the Heartland; then, in 2017, she left news reporting to attend the SEMA Show, the world's largest automotive trade show, launching her career in the industry.

Guest:
Kendra Sommer, Owner, CWK Media

• https://www.cwkmedia.net/
• https://www.facebook.com/kendra.sommer
• https://www.instagram.com/kendrasommer
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendra-sommer-a40240138/
• https://www.youtube.com/@KendraSommer⁩ 
• https://www.tiktok.com/ ⁨@cruisinwithkendra902⁩ 

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• https://motorheaddigital.com
• https://facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• https://instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• https://linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Co-Host:
Sean Sawyer, Revved Automotive Consulting

• https://www.revvedac.com
• https://www.facebook.com/revvedautomotive
• https://www.instagram.com/ocdcarbuilder

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• facebook.com/GearheadsNGasoline
• instagram.com/gearheadsngasoline
• linkedin.com/company/gearheadsngasoline
• youtube.com/@GearheadsNGasoline

You can reach us at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

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What does it take to build a successful career spanning more than 40 years in the automotive aftermarket?

In this episode of Gearheads n’ Gasoline, Barry Alt and Jason Chandler sit down with Al “Big Al” Liebmann, marketing director and partner at Turnkey Collector Car Insurance.

Big Al shares how he went from attending drag races at Englishtown in the early 1970s to working with funny car teams, automotive publications, RacingJunk, major automotive events, and collector car insurance customers throughout the country.

The conversation covers the evolution of automotive marketing, the power of face-to-face networking, the importance of listening to customers, and why businesses need to be selective about the events they attend.

Al also explains what builders, shops, and vehicle owners should understand about insuring collector cars during the build process. As parts, labor, and vehicle value increase, the original coverage may no longer be enough to protect the investment.

The group also discusses how the automotive aftermarket can reach younger generations, promote trade careers, and show students that there are opportunities far beyond dealership and collision work.

Whether you are a shop owner, builder, racer, marketer, collector, or young professional looking for a place in the industry, Big Al’s story is a reminder that showing up, building relationships, and following your passion can take you a long way.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

Key Takeaways:

• From an Englishtown drag strip to a 40+ year career in the automotive world
• Full-time job at NEC, 18-19 races a year, how Big Al made it work
• Why the best events feel like an experience, not a vendor booth
• The case for skipping shows and picking your spots instead
• Forget the booth, why walking the floor wins more business
• What's actually changed in automotive marketing (and what hasn't)
• The hidden cost creep in a collector car build — and how to stay covered
• The coverage gap most shop and car owners don't know they have
• Big Al's simple rule for building trust that lasts decades
• The one thing every newcomer to the industry should know before day one
• All the aftermarket careers you never think about — from CAD to 3D printing
• Big Al's advice for a career that doesn't feel like work

Guest Bio:
I've been involved in the automotive industry for more than 40 years. My background includes drag racing, event promotion, automotive marketing, sales, and collector car insurance. Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work with car enthusiasts, dealerships, manufacturers, and industry leaders across the country. Today, I serve as Marketing Director and Partner of TurnKey Collector Car Insurance, where I help collectors protect their classic, muscle, exotic, and specialty vehicles. I'm also a Senior Sales Executive with Internet Brands Automotive Group, representing RacingJunk.com and HotRodHotLine.com, where I help automotive businesses grow their reach and connect with customers. I'm passionate about the collector car hobby and enjoy building relationships within the industry. Whether I'm attending car shows, promoting events, working with clients, or supporting automotive organizations, my focus has always been helping people and contributing to the growth of the hobby I've loved my entire life.

Guest:
Al Liebmann, Turnkey Collector Car Insurance
https://www.tki.llc/
https://www.instagram.com/turnkey_insurance
https://www.facebook.com/TKI.LLC

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• https://motorheaddigital.com
• https://facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• https://instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• https://linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Guest Co-Host:
Jason Chandler, Auto Metal Direct

• [email protected]
• https://autometaldirect.com
• https://facebook.com/AutoMetalDirect
• https://instagram.com/autometaldirect
• https://linkedin.com/company/autometaldirect
• https://www.youtube.com/@autometaldirect

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In this episode of Gearheads n’ Gasoline, Barry Alt and Jason Chandler sit down with Amy Fitzgerald, co-owner of Cool Hand Customs, to talk about the realities of running a small but mighty custom automotive shop. Amy shares how she and her husband, EJ, made the leap from home construction to the automotive customization world during the Great Recession, starting with airbrushed motorcycles in a 400-square-foot garage before growing into the shop they run today.

The conversation covers what it takes to build show-quality drivers, why restoration and hot rodding often overlap, and how SEMA has played a major role in Amy’s business, relationships, and industry involvement. Amy also talks about word-of-mouth marketing, customer trust, youth engagement, women in the automotive aftermarket, and the organized chaos that comes with building vehicles for SEMA year after year.

-- Subscribe for conversations with the best shop owners, builders, manufacturers, and aftermarket pros in the restoration, performance & racing industry. --

Key Takeaways:

• Building a SEMA truck in their first year confirmed they were in the right industry.
• They create “show-quality drivers” that look great and are built to be enjoyed.
• Restoration and hot rodding often overlap, since custom builds begin with a solid foundation.
• Word-of-mouth and car shows remain powerful marketing tools.
• SEMA has helped Amy build valuable industry relationships.
• The automotive industry offers opportunities beyond building, including marketing, media, logistics, and technology.
• Amy encourages women to find strong mentors and ignore outdated attitudes.

Guest Bio:
Amy Fitzgerald is one half of the husband and wife team behind Cool Hand Customs in Middleton, where classic cars and modern performance come together. With nearly 20 years in the automotive industry, Amy brings passion, creativity, and attention to detail to every custom build and restomod that rolls through the shop. When she’s not helping create one-of-a-kind rides, Amy stays active in the automotive community through her involvement with SEMA, volunteering, and youth engagement programs that help inspire future builders and enthusiasts.

Guest:
Amy Fitzgerald, Co-Owner, Cool Hand Customs

• https://coolhandcustoms.com
• https://www.facebook.com/cool.customs
• https://www.instagram.com/customscoolhand
• https://www.youtube.com/@CHCustoms

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• https://motorheaddigital.com
• https://facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• https://instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• https://linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Guest Co-Host:
Jason Chandler, Auto Metal Direct

• Email: [email protected]
• https://autometaldirect.com
• https://facebook.com/AutoMetalDirect
• https://instagram.com/autometaldirect
• https://linkedin.com/company/autometaldirect
• https://www.youtube.com/@autometaldirect

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• facebook.com/GearheadsNGasoline
• instagram.com/gearheadsngasoline
• linkedin.com/company/gearheadsngasoline
• youtube.com/@GearheadsNGasoline

You can reach us at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail

Powered by:
➡️ Red Line Synthetic Oil: redlineoil.com
➡️ AMD: autometaldirect.com

In this episode, Barry Alt and Katie Abraham welcome Cora Jokinen, owner of Torque Master Industries, to share her unconventional journey from studying architecture to becoming a leader in the automotive aftermarket.

Cora discusses her passion for off-roading, her transition into business ownership, and the role community, mentorship, and networking have played in her career. She also shares lessons from navigating the Rebelle Rally, offers her perspective on women in the automotive industry, and explains how strong customer experiences can help brands build lasting connections.

The conversation also introduces Cora’s new product line, Oris Adventure Cooking, and explores how sensory experiences can make customer engagement more memorable. Along the way, the group talks about entrepreneurship, resilience, and finding balance through activities outside of work, including pickleball.

Key Takeaways:

• Cora’s transition from architecture to automotive was fueled by her passion for off-roading.
• Joining a local 4x4 club was a major turning point in her journey.
• Her first Nissan Xterra sparked her interest in vehicle modifications.
• Learning to weld gave Cora the ability to create custom parts for her own builds.
• Her husband played a key role in supporting and shaping her automotive path.
• Buying Torq-Masters Industries came from real-world experience in the off-road and rock crawling community.
• Cora faced a steep learning curve after acquiring the company, especially in business management and operations.
• Mentorship, networking, and SBN involvement have been crucial to her growth in the industry.
• Customer relationships are built through word-of-mouth, reputation, approachability, and helpful video content.
• Cora’s story highlights resilience, community, innovation, and the power of staying open to unexpected opportunities.

Guest Bio:
I’m an original Rebelle Rally participant, finishing 5th in the first year and earning the Team Spirit Award. In 2021, my team won the crossover class in a Ford Bronco Sport. I’ve also raced King of the Hammers twice in a stock-class Jeep and have a deep love for welding, inspired by my grandfather’s advice to “have a career and a trade.” My career was architecture, and my trade is welding.

I’m also a longtime SEMA Businesswomen’s Network member and have served on the SBN Select Committee for the past six years. SBN has been a major part of my life, constantly inspiring and challenging me through its leadership, education, and networking opportunities.

My husband and I live in upstate New York, where we run Torq-Masters, a 100% USA-made manufacturing business we acquired in 2014. We travel across the country for shows and events, and I’m excited for the conversation ahead.

Guest:

Cora Jokinen, Torque Master Industries

• https://torqmasters.com
• https://skottle.com
• https://www.facebook.com/TorqMasters
• https://www.instagram.com/torqmasters
• https://www.youtube.com/@TorqMastersIndustries

Host:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• [email protected]
• https://motorheaddigital.com
• https://facebook.com/Motorhead.Digital
• https://instagram.com/motorhead.digital
• https://linkedin.com/company/motorhead-digital

Co-Host:
Katie Abraham, Falcon Dynamic

• https://www.facebook.com/abeskatie
• https://www.instagram.com/wildkatieabes
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-abraham-b4506580

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• facebook.com/GearheadsNGasoline
• instagram.com/gearheadsngasoline
• linkedin.com/company/gearheadsngasoline
• youtube.com/@GearheadsNGasoline

You can reach us at [email protected]