Welcome to 2023! Starting the New Year with something fresh, this episode is entirely different from what NC Shop Talk had ever done. Today, Mal will interview one of the NC Interior of the Year Competition finalists! So don't miss out on this exciting episode. 

You've heard Mal talk about the “Young Guns Challenge,” which intends to highlight new talent by focusing on trimmers with five years or less of experience building complete interiors. This contest aims to encourage the next generation of trimmers to keep pushing the industry forward.

The Hog Ring suggested that Mal interview all the contest finalists and then name a winner LIVE on Instagram. So today, we'll hear from the first of 3 finalists–a father and daughter team, Steve and LiAnn Budy of Budy Built-CA, whose shop is located in Southern California. Their contest entry displays superior craftsmanship, even better than the work done by some of the veterans in the industry. So it's not surprising that they caught the attention of the judges. 

How would you feel if you were picked as one of the Top 3 finalists in a reputable industry competition? Be among the first to hear about it as you listen to today's extra special episode of NC Shop Talk! 

This year’s finalists were selected by the following panel of elite shops, industry insiders, and previous years' winners:

Stitchcraft Interiors

Cato’s Custom Upholstery

Sewn Tight Interiors

Interiors by Shannon

Bux Customs

Customs by Vos

The Hog Ring 

DJ Designs - 2018 Winner

Stitchwurx - 2019 Winner

Brent Parker Motor Trimming - 2020 Winner

RMD Garage - 2021 Winner

“It's a lot of trial and error. I feel like everything we're doing is just brand new. We make mistakes, and I think that's okay.”

– LiAnn Budy

In This Episode:

• How did Budy Built-CA become so proficient quickly, surpassing the quality of output from some veterans in the industry?
• To produce quality work, you need the best materials. Discover Steve and LiAnn's go-to vendors for top quality raw materials
• If you could build your dream car, what would it be? Our father-and-daughter duo dreams of building a Pantera
• Let's hear about their custom-built entry to the NC Auto Interior Young Guns Challenge
• What is it like being picked as one of the finalists of the prestigious NC Auto Interior Young Guns Challenge?

And more!

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet: 

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

Fancy a Classic Ford Bronco or a vintage Camaro? Then this is the place to go; Velocity Restorations stretches out the limits of creativity in giving you the best vintage vehicle, fully restored and customized just the way you want it. The Velocity team breathes new life into vintage trucks of all kinds. Let's learn more about the shop and its award-winning restoration process. 

NC Shop Talk welcomes Cody Dabney, Director of Custom Vehicle Operations at Velocity Restorations LLC, a high-end, classic car restoration center in Pensacola, Florida. The shop specializes in modernizing 1966-1977 Classic Ford Broncos, International Scouts, and a wide range of vintage vehicles. Velocity Restoration has become internationally known for its superior restorations which have collected top awards at the industry’s most significant events.

“If you're going to somebody that has the same passion that you do in the industry, you're going to get a great product. So it makes sense to work with those types of people in the industry. We don't want anything subpar.”

– Cody Dabney

In This Episode:

• How Cody went from being a truck painter to managing shop operations 
• Why continuous learning is a philosophy embodied by Cody and the Velocity team
• Cody discusses how their operations run where everything is made by hand
• What separates Velocity from everyone else in the industry?
• Cody proudly shares the quality of work they do and takes Mal on a test drive aboard a Ford Bronco
• Cody plays the Rapid Fire Hot Seat (time to hear interestingly fun stuff about him!)
• Why Velocity employ Roadster Shop chassis for their custom builds
• Cody talks about their experience joining the 2022 SEMA Battle of the Builders 
• The continuous quest for excellence is part of Cody's long-term plan for Velocity, so we can definitely expect more great things from this shop

And more!

Connect with Cody and Velocity Restorations: 

• Website - https://www.velocityrestorations.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/VelocityRestorations/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/velocityrestorations/
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9JqYc3r3Ab7-QAOYmjHSug

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet: 

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

Since Mal launched this podcast, he has interviewed the best of the best in the field of custom auto upholstery. But in today's episode, Mal flips the mic and allows his good friend Phil Cato to take over the podcast. So if you're interested in knowing more about Mal Maher, his family life, his passion, mission, vision for the future, and many more, this is your chance because Phil is interviewing Mal this time. Phil is a proud USAF Veteran and a well-known Custom Hotrod Interiors Expert based in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

Mal is also encouraging everyone to participate in a worthy cause. In honor of the 75th Anniversary of Mal's family business, he wants to bless a returning Serviceman/ Servicewoman with a business and help them get a fresh start. You can help by sending your nominations to [email protected]

Enjoy the episode!

“Relentless is a good thing to be. It'll drive you nuts, but it's good to be relentless.” (1:08:36, Polished audio)

– Mal Maher

In This Episode:

• What is Mal's morning routine?
• What are some of the things people don't know about Mal?
• What is Mal proud of that he is really good at?
• What inspires and motivates Mal to continue doing what he does?
• The sweet love story of Mal and his wife
• Mal is a Mama's Boy, and he's proud of it
• What's the story behind NC Carpet Binding and its very first owner?
• What sets NC Carpet apart from other shops like it?
• How was Mal chosen to take over the reins of his grandfather's company?
• How to be a part of Mal's mission to help a returning soldier have a fresh start 
• What's the deal between Mal and Richard Rawlings?
• Why should you get your hand on CNC Machines if you're a  custom upholstery business owner?
• Why Mal has grown to hate NC Interior of the Year
• Here's your chance to win the NC Sticker Pack and The Hog Ring sticker
• Did you know that Phil Cato moved again? Here's the story
• What's so special about the Bitchin Stitchin Class, and what does Cato get out of it?

And more!

Connect with Phil Cato: 

• Website - https://www.philcato.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/phillip.cato.5/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/catoscustomupholstery/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet: 

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

America is known as the land of opportunities. So no wonder many people want to take the chance to craft a good life in this land. Today's guest is someone who knows what it's like to live The Great American Dream. NC Shop Talk welcomes Antonio Junior Marquez, best known as Junior of Juniors Custom Upholstery and Golf Cart King in Texas. Junior shares his inspiring story and walks us through his path to success. Junior is one of the hardest-working people in the custom upholstery industry. He is also an uber-talented craftsman, a dedicated father, and an American Patriot who has elevated his game and now runs the production division of a multi-million company. Let's hear more about him in this episode of NC Shop Talk. 

“For those experienced trimmers, if one of these young guys reaches out asking questions wanting to pick your brain a little bit as far as how you do things, take the time to answer. I know everybody's busy, but it goes a long way.”

– Antonio Junior Marquez.

In This Episode:

• Junior talks about his most cherished possessions 
• What was Junior like growing up, and how did he get his first taste of sewing?
• What inspires Junior to push forward and keep getting better at his craft?
• Junior proudly shares his plans for his newly acquired ranch
• Was there a BIG dream in Junior's heart as a kid, and did he achieve it? What is his big goal now?
• The fantastic story of how Junior became a prime mover of the Golf Cart King 
• Why Junior has so much confidence in the ABM CNC Machine, and why he recommends it over other machines
• What revolutionary things can we expect from Golf Cart King?
• Junior gets thrown into the Rapid Fire Hot Seat and plays the Burning House 

And more!

Connect with Antonio Junior Marquez

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jrsupholstery/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ENDIABLADO5.0

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet: 

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

How do you combine traditional and innovative? These two words describe today's guest, legendary hot rod interior guru Sid Chavers. Sid has been in the Custom Upholstery business since February 1976 and has his roots in the traditional school of first-generation interior customizers. However, unlike some people who reach a certain level and are content to stay there, Sid has used this foundation to achieve a higher level, raising the standards of design excellence and craftsmanship. The Sid Chavers Company was founded on these same principles: innovation combined with tradition, a desire to honor the classic while bringing new refinements and style to these same traditional designs. Discover more about this fascinating guy in today's episode of NC Shop Talk. 

“Many times, we try a specific way to do something and it doesn't work. Go on the trash can, start again.”

• Sid Chavers

In This Episode:

• Here's a quick background on Sid Chavers
• How did Sid's parents influence his work ethic?
• After years of being on top, is there anything else that drives Sid to aspire for more?
• What are some of Sid's favorite cars? If he's on the road, would he choose a car or a bike?
• How does Sid feel about the overwhelming response to his instructional videos?
• How has Sid's trimming process evolved over time? 
• Is there anyone else in the industry that Sid relies on?
• What advice does Sid have for guys who don't enjoy working on convertible tops?
• Mal puts Sid on the Rapid Fire Hot Seat
• Does Sid still make mistakes? How does he fix them?
• Where does Sid get his raw materials?
• Sid's advice for young trimmers who aspire to be relevant in the industry
• 
  

And more!

Connect with Sid Chavers:

• Website - https://sidchaverscompany.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/SidChaversCompany/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sidchavers/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

There's no challenge so great for a master craftsman. He always gives his best at whatever task is at hand. That is the mindset of Brent Parker, winner of the 2020 NC Auto Interior of the Year award. He is an elite international trimmer based in Central Coast NSW, Australia. Brent won over other talented and skilled trimmers with his incredibly stunning design and unique leather color. Get ready to meet this man from the Land Down Under and learn more about the thought process behind a winning design. 

“When you try your best, good things happen.” (23:19)

“If I stop thinking about how I can be better, then it's game over.” (23:57)

• Brent Parker

In This Episode:

• The real reason Mal is so “pissed” with Brent winning the 2020 NC Auto Interior of the Year award!
• How Brent chose the colors he used for his designs and why he sent two different entries
• Get to know more about Brent Parker and his journey from childhood to becoming an elite trimmer (and how Hog Ring paved the way for Brent's name to be recognized in the industry)
• Here's what makes Brent's (Green Hides) leather unique 
• Fun facts about Brent (fortunately, he has not had a close encounter with a kangaroo!)
• Brent talks about the challenges in the auto interior industry, especially for trimmers based in Australia
• What would Brent want to be his final project, just before he bid his “last hurrah!”

And more!

Connect with Brent Parker:

• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057219770358
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/brentparkermotortrimming/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

As machines take over production and manual work for many industries, the auto industry still treasures handcrafted interiors. After all, no machine can equal the craftsmanship of a man as skilled as Shannon Walters. NC Shop Talk had him as the featured guest in the June 23, 2021 episode. Today, Mal welcomes back Shannon Walters, owner of Interiors by Shannon, a one-person shop based in Alabama. 

Shannon does not need much of an introduction. His custom upholstery has won Best Interior Awards at shows like GoodGuys, NSRA, and World of Wheels. Interiors by Shannon has also been featured online, in magazines (Auto Trim & Restyling News, March 1999 issue and Southern Rodder, March 2000 issue), and in two "how-to" books ("Standard Guide to Build Street Rods" and "Building Street Rods"). So if you're a fan of the good old way of crafting and designing interiors by hand and learning from a master artisan, you don't want to miss this informative and fun conversation!

“I think it's a great idea to have the younger people flex their muscles a little bit.”

• Shannon Walters

In This Episode:

• A huge change in the 2022 NC Auto Interior of the Year Contest which will showcase the younger talents in the auto industry
• Why is Shannon so inclined to help the industry?
• What's going on with SEMA and other car shows? Let's hear what Mal and Shannon have to say about them. 
• Shannon answers some questions the audience sent in, such as how he learned his craft, what he thinks about electric vehicles, how long it takes him to finish a complete interior, etc. 
• Industry trends and predictions from Shannon
• What can we expect from Interiors By Shannon five or ten years from now?
• Conversations about life and unusual experiences

And more!

Connect with Shannon:

• Website - http://www.interiorsbyshannon.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/InteriorsByShannon
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/interiorsbyshannon/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

In today's episode, Mal speaks with Gil and Linda of Gillin Custom Design, the go-to shop and Orange County's pride in auto and home builds. What makes this shop famous? Let's find out from the owners. 

Gil is one of the original owners of Gillin Custom Design and opened it with Linda in 2006. Thirteen years later, the vision of opening a shop that completed high-end builds from start to finish came to fruition with GCD Auto Studio.

Linda grew up with a love for muscle cars, with the 1967 Camaro as her favorite. She is currently in charge of client relations, operations, and social media and assists with design. 

NC Shop Talk welcomes the power couple behind Gillin Custom Design into the show!

“We're not building a car for just today. We want it to age well.”

- Gil Monge

In This Episode:

• Gil takes us through the first time he came across Mal's company
• How important work dynamics and choosing the right team member in running a successful business? How does it feel to lose valued team members?
• What does Gil have to say about the Orange County Choppers team?
• Services, car types, and scope of work by GCD Auto Studio
• Fun facts about Gil and Linda and how they ended up together
• How Gil leveraged social media to connect with people and grow their brand
• Linda talks about her background before teaming up with Gil 
• The BIG News–this shop makes it to Discovery Channel!

And much more!

Connect with Gil and Linda:

• Website - https://www.gcdautostudio.com/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gcdauto/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

The title of this episode sums up exactly who we have on the show today. Revo Reeves is one of the original big-ticket interior builders in the nation. He was featured in dozens of auto-themed shows and hundreds of magazine covers. This guy has also worked with big-name celebrities. In addition, he is a world-class designer and creator of show-quality automotive interiors. Revo established Stitchcraft Interiors in 1978, and it quickly became known for its innovative and award-winning custom interiors.

NC Shop Talk welcomes Television Royalty & Industry OG Revo Reeves!

“The key word, especially in this world, is knowing how and when to pivot. ”

- Revo Reeves

In This Episode:

• The beginning of Revo and Mal’s friendship
• Revo shares some details about his childhood and how he got into the business
• Discover the many lives of Revo (model, drummer, inventor, etc.)
• Revo talks about how he got the Rockstar Energy drink sponsorship, designing interiors for Ford, fun shows, awards, working with big names in the industry, and other inspiring stories.
• Why is it difficult to find people who are willing to learn the custom interior trade?
• What else is in store for Revo Reeves? Goals, dreams, and aspirations for the next 10 years…
• Mal puts Revo on the Rapid Fire Hot Seat!
• And much more!

Connect with Revo Reeves:

• Website - https://stitchcraftinteriors.wixsite.com/newest/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stitchcraft_interiors/

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/

This episode is a real treat as Mal does a back-to-back interview with two legends in the industry. The first guest is Tom Monahan of Centrum Force, a shop which provides the best equipment, chemistry, and personalized service in the rug cleaning industry. Tom has been in business since 2007. Centrum Force is committed to building machines and furnishing accessories to last the life of your business. 

The next guest is Doug Heiferman, also known as The Cobra. Doug is one of the most sought after instructors in the textile maintenance and restoration industry. He has a unique ability to relay information to students of all skill and experience levels and has been teaching students for more than 20 years.

Tom and Doug works together to facilitate workshops to students who want to learn from the best. And with these two, you will not only learn the skills of the trade, but also get inspired by their excellent work ethics. 

NC Shop Talk welcomes Centrum Force & The Cobra in today’s episode.

“Mechanizing or getting equipment helps one to scale. ”

- Tom Monahan

“The industry is dying for new things. Let’s take the shot at it.”

- Doug Heiferman

In This Episode:

• Let’s hear what other people have to say about Tom Monahan
• The benefits of using mechanical equipment for low skillset tasks 
• Tom walks us through the inspiration behind Centrum Force 
• What skills does Tom have that help him succeed in the industry?
• Are we hearing plans for the next rug summit in 2022?
• Tom talks about how automation can help a business save time and money
• Why should you choose Centrum Force products over other brands?
• Tom narrates an interesting story when Ron Moore chose him as the person to continue the Moore Company legacy.
• Discover the relationship between Tom and Doug “The Cobra” Heiferman and why they work well together
• Doug lets us in on some personal stories about the many hats he wears, in business and in life
• How does Doug solve problems and thrive over the years?
• What is the level of Doug’s expertise in rug identification?
• Doug and Mal exchange stories that capture their “proud dad moments”
• And much more!

Connect with Tom Monahan:

• Website - https://www.centrumforce.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/CentrumForce
• Twitter - https://twitter.com/Centrum_Force
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0p1onh6AbhzSzvsooBvAeA

Connect with Doug Heiferman:

• Website - https://dhseminars.net/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/doug.heiferman

Connect with Mal and NC Carpet:

• Website - https://www.n-ccarpet.com/
• Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/nccarpetmachines/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nc_carpet_binding/