Our Parking Industry®

Episode Overview

In the final installment of this three-part series, Krista Olien, Clyde Wilson, and Leigh Thomas focus on solutions to one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: hidden and “camouflaged” fees in parking operations.

After exploring how hidden fees developed and how they show up today, this episode shifts to what can be done about it. The conversation highlights key root causes, including decades of underpriced management fees, the “race to the bottom” in RFP processes, and the shift from cash-based operations to digital, transaction-driven environments.

Using real-world examples, the team outlines how asset owners and operators can move toward a more transparent and sustainable model that supports profitability, accountability, and stronger performance.

Why This Matters

Hidden fees are not just a financial issue. They impact trust, decision-making, and long-term asset performance.

As the industry becomes more digital and data-driven, outdated contract structures are no longer sustainable. This episode highlights why now is the time to rethink how parking services are procured and managed.

What You’ll Learn

How low management fees contributed to hidden fee structures The difference between hidden and “camouflaged” fees How digitization and SaaS models are reshaping revenue streams What asset owners should be asking during the RFP process How contract structure impacts long-term outcomes Practical ways to identify hidden fees in your operation

Key Takeaways

Parking management has historically been undervalued Hidden fees emerged to offset unsustainable pricing Digital platforms introduce new ongoing costs that require scrutiny RFP processes must prioritize quality, not just price Asset owners can demand greater transparency and performance Strong management drives higher revenue and better outcomes It is not too late to shift toward a more sustainable model

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and recap 02:00 From hidden expenses to camouflaged fees 04:00 The race to the bottom in management fees 08:00 Industry perspective on value and performance 12:00 How hidden fees became normalized 18:00 Digitization and reduced on-site staffing 22:00 Why the current model is unsustainable 24:30 Rethinking the RFP process 29:00 SaaS fees and long-term cost impact 33:00 Real-world RFP example 36:00 How to identify hidden fees today 41:00 Following the money 43:30 On-site experience and operations 46:00 Aligning expectations and compensation 47:30 Final thoughts

About the Hosts

Krista Olien President of TPN Consulting and podcast host

Clyde Wilson Founder of TPN Consulting with 40+ years of experience

Leigh Thomas Project Manager focused on data-driven insights

Listen & Follow

Catch the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Connect with TPN Consulting

Visit: https://www.parkingnetwork.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more insights.

Episode Overview

In part two of this three-part series, the TPN team moves from history into the current reality of hidden fees in the parking industry. Building on episode one, this conversation focuses on where hidden fees are showing up today and how they impact both asset owners and operators.

Using real-world audit examples and firsthand observations, the team explains how traditional expense markups have evolved into more complex, revenue-based challenges. As parking operations shift toward digitization and offsite management, new layers of fees are being introduced, often without clear visibility.

This episode is centered on awareness, helping asset owners understand what to look for and why the current structure is creating imbalance in both revenue and operations.

Why This Matters

The parking industry is in a major transition. Technology, e-commerce, and centralized operations are changing how facilities are managed and how revenue is collected.

Hidden fees are no longer limited to expenses. They are now embedded in transactions, revenue streams, and offsite processes. Without clear visibility, asset owners struggle to understand performance, ensure proper revenue flow, and hold operators accountable.

What You’ll Learn

How hidden fees have evolved from expense markups to revenue-based charges Where hidden fees are most commonly appearing today How e-commerce and digitization are introducing new fee structures The impact of offsite management on transparency Why asset owners are often removed from key financial decisions

Key Takeaways

Hidden fees are now embedded in revenue streams, not just expenses Digitization creates both opportunity and risk for transparency Many asset owners are unaware of fees within their own operations Offsite management creates disconnects between data and decision-making The current system no longer aligns with modern parking operations

Notable Quotes

“Hidden fees are an indicator that our agreements have not kept up with the industry.” “We’re not just dealing with expenses anymore. Now we’re dealing with revenues.” “The parker pays the fee, but the landlord never sees the income.”

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and recap of episode one

02:00 Why the industry must evolve beyond outdated agreements

05:00 TPN’s perspective across operators, owners, and audits

08:30 Real audit example and on-site observations

12:00 Pricing decisions and market impact

15:30 Defining hidden fees today

19:00 E-commerce and transaction fee challenges

22:30 Offsite management and data disconnects

26:00 Closing thoughts and preview of solutions

About the Hosts

Krista Olien – President of TPN Consulting and podcast host Clyde Wilson – Founder of TPN Consulting with 40+ years of experience Leigh Thomas – Project Manager focused on data-driven insights

What’s Next in the Series

Part 3 focuses on solutions, exploring how to modernize agreements and improve transparency.

Listen & Follow

Catch the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Connect with TPN Consulting

Visit: https://www.parkingnetwork.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more insights.

Episode Overview

Hidden fees are one of the most debated and least understood topics in the parking industry. In this opening episode of a three-part series, the TPN team takes a candid look at how these practices developed and why they continue today.

Drawing on decades of industry experience and real-world observations from financial and operational reviews, the conversation traces the evolution of parking agreements from high-risk lease models to today’s management agreements. The team explores how those shifts changed incentives, accountability, and revenue practices.

This episode reframes hidden fees as a symptom of a larger challenge: outdated agreements struggling to keep pace with modern operations, technology, and expectations.

Why This Matters

This is not just a conversation about fees. It is about transparency, trust, and performance.

For operators, it is about being fairly compensated for increasingly complex work. For asset owners and property managers, it is about understanding where revenue is going and ensuring assets are performing at their full potential.

What You’ll Learn

How lease agreements created accountability Why management agreements changed risk and incentives How low management fees contributed to non-transparent practices Why hidden fees often point to outdated agreement structures How technology is forcing the industry to rethink parking agreements

Key Takeaways

Hidden fees are often a byproduct of misaligned agreements Management agreements improved scalability but reduced direct performance incentives Many agreements do not reflect the true cost of modern operations Technology is making transparency more important than ever The industry needs collaboration between operators and asset owners

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction to the hidden fees series

02:00 Defining hidden fees and why they matter

09:00 Lease agreements and early parking operations

17:00 The shift to management agreements

24:00 How hidden fees developed over time

29:00 Why agreements need to be modernized

About the Hosts

Krista Olien President of TPN Consulting and host of the podcast, leading conversations around strategy, transparency, and the future of parking operations

Clyde Wilson Founder of TPN Consulting, bringing over four decades of insight into parking operations, contracts, and financial performance

Leigh Thomas Project Manager with a background in mathematics and data analysis, focused on operational clarity and data-driven performance insights

What’s Next in the Series

Part 2 takes a deeper dive into the fee structures seen across the industry today. Part 3 focuses on solutions and what modern, transparent agreements could look like moving forward.

Listen & Follow

Catch the full episode and subscribe to Our Parking Industry Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Connect with TPN Consulting

Visit: https://www.parkingnetwork.com Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for industry insights, podcast updates, and more.

Episode Overview

In this special Inside The Lane episode, Krista Olien sits down with Jonny Velarde, CEO and co-founder of Valet Parking Pros, to discuss entrepreneurship, private event valet, and the realities of growing a service-based business in the parking industry.

Jonny shares how his company, operating in Southern California and Northeast Florida, grew from a family legacy in valet parking. Today, Valet Parking Pros supports private events, shuttle services, and select permanent locations. From weddings and corporate events to restaurants and venues, the company has built a reputation for responsiveness, problem-solving, and reliable service.

This vendor spotlight offers a candid look at growth, operational lessons, and the importance of maintaining quality while expanding.

Why This Matters

Every successful operation must balance service, staffing, relationships, and growth.

This episode provides insight into the realities of building a valet and shuttle business while reinforcing a key truth: reputation, responsiveness, and trust separate good operators from great ones.

What You’ll Learn

How Valet Parking Pros grew from a family foundation What it takes to operate private events and shuttle services Why Southern California is a strong event valet market How the company balances events with ongoing accounts How teams handle unexpected operational challenges Why steady, sustainable growth matters How relationships drive long-term success

Key Takeaways

The business was built on generational industry knowledge Event valet requires speed, flexibility, and problem-solving Unexpected challenges require strong frontline decision-making Reputation is built by showing up when clients need help Growth should not come at the expense of quality Relationships remain one of the highest ROI investments

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and guest welcome

00:45 Jonny’s background and company overview 02:00 Family roots in valet service

02:45 Private events and market focus

04:00 Current accounts and operations

04:45 Stolen vehicle incident and lessons learned

06:20 Training and verification practices

07:25 Growth strategy and priorities

08:30 How to connect with Valet Parking Pros

09:00 Jonny’s podcast and networking insights

10:40 Closing thoughts

About the Host & Guest

This Inside The Lane episode features:

Krista Olien President of TPN Consulting and podcast host, leading conversations that highlight the people and ideas shaping the parking industry

Jonny Velarde CEO and co-founder of Valet Parking Pros, a valet and shuttle company serving private events and select locations in Southern California and Northeast Florida

About Inside The Lane

Inside The Lane is a special segment of Our Parking Industry Podcast that highlights vendors and partners serving the industry. These short episodes give companies an opportunity to share who they are, what they do, and how they support parking professionals.

Listen & Follow

Catch the full episode and subscribe to Our Parking Industry Podcast on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

Stay connected for more conversations shaping the future of parking.

Summary

In this roundtable discussion, Krista Olien is joined by Clyde Wilson and Leigh Thomas to reflect on their recent conversation with Patrick Dolan of Task Force Services. The group dives deeper into the realities of modern parking system installations, emphasizing how precision, planning, and coordination between civil work, technology, and operations are more critical than ever. As parking systems evolve from mechanical hardware to data-driven digital environments, the discussion highlights why power, connectivity, and infrastructure must be considered early in the process to avoid costly challenges later.

The conversation also explores how rapid technological advancement is reshaping installation expectations, including the growing role of cameras, license plate recognition, and integrated systems. The team discusses the importance of thoughtful RFP development, selecting the right equipment for each environment, and adapting to industry changes that require both technical knowledge and operational awareness. Throughout the episode, the hosts share real-world examples and emphasize problem-solving, collaboration, and long-term planning as key drivers of successful parking implementations.

This episode offers practical insights for owners, operators, and industry professionals navigating new technology, highlighting how careful planning and adaptability can turn complex installations into reliable, future-ready parking solutions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Parking Industry Podcast

02:59 The Evolution of Parking Installations

05:06 Challenges in Camera Placement and Technology

07:56 The Importance of Problem Solving in Parking Management

10:08 Adapting to Changes in the Parking Industry

12:39 Choosing the Right Equipment and RFP Process

15:06 The Shift from Mechanical to Digital Parking Solutions

17:52 The Role of RFPs in Modern Parking Installations

20:06 Real-World Examples of Parking Challenges

22:39 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

28:48 Our Parking Industry Podcast Wrap-Up

Installing the Future of Parking: Patrick Dolan on Power, Data, and Doing It Right

Summary

In this episode of the Our Parking Industry podcast, Krista Olien and Leigh Thomas interview Patrick Dolan from Task Force Services. Patrick shares his unique journey into the parking industry, starting from his military background to becoming a key player in parking installations. He discusses the evolution of parking systems, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the challenges faced during installations. The conversation also highlights the significance of teamwork, customer service, and adapting to new technologies in the parking sector.

Takeaways

Patrick's journey into the parking industry began unexpectedly after his military service.

Task Force Services specializes in installation for parking systems, focusing on blue-collar work.

Understanding customer needs is crucial for successful installations in modern parking systems.

Navigating nationwide installations requires strong local partnerships and resourcefulness.

The parking industry is evolving with new technologies, including camera-based systems.

Preparation and knowledge of site-specific challenges are essential for efficient installations.

Different sectors within the parking industry have unique needs and challenges.

Customer service is a key focus for Task Force Services, aiming to make clients look good.

Team dynamics and communication are vital for successful project execution.

Humor and camaraderie are important in the workplace, especially when facing unexpected challenges.

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome + Guest Intro: Patrick Dolan (Task Force Services)

00:47 – Patrick’s Career Path: Military to Parking + Early Install Days

02:27 – Growing in Texas: From Technician to Business Builder

04:22 – Task Force Services Today: The Installer Partner Role

07:39 – What They Install + Who Should Call Them

10:18 – How Nationwide Installs Work: Tools, Rentals, and Field Execution

15:24 – What Operators/Vendors Miss: Power + Data Planning for New Tech

26:31 – The Future of Installs + Funny Service Stories + Wrap-Up

Summary

In this episode of Inside the Lane, Leigh Thomas interviews Henry Broback from Plix AI, a body camera platform designed for parking enforcement and similar fields. They discuss the purpose of Plix AI, its functionality, and the impact it has on safety and documentation in the field. Henry shares insights on how the technology works, its target audience, and the future potential of Plix AI in various industries.

Takeaways

Plix AI is designed specifically for parking enforcement.

The camera serves both as a documentation tool and a deterrent.

There has been an 80% reduction in incidents with Plix AI cameras.

The camera can transcribe audio and automatically start recording during escalations.

Plix AI started with private security before moving to municipalities.

The technology helps document conditions before and after valet services.

Officers can report incidents without using paper and pen.

The camera is lightweight and easy to wear.

Plix AI aims to improve safety for officers in the field.

Henry encourages listeners to reach out for more information.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Plix and Its Purpose

05:41 How Plix Cameras Operate

09:31 Target Audience and Future of Plix

10:24 Our Parking Industry Podcast Wrap-Up

Summary

In this episode of the Our Parking Industry Podcast, Krista Olien, Clyde Wilson, and Leigh Thomas discuss the key themes from their interview with Rafael Abanilla from Parking Concepts Incorporated. They explore the importance of a people-centric philosophy in parking management, emphasizing customer service and the evolution of the industry from lease management to technology-driven operations. The conversation also highlights the significance of mentorship and the challenges posed by partnerships with equipment vendors. The hosts reflect on the future of parking solutions and the personal growth that comes from stepping away from work to recharge.

Takeaways

The parking industry benefits from a people-centric philosophy.

Customer service is crucial in technology-driven businesses.

Valet parking experience shapes successful leaders in the industry.

Management styles differ significantly between lease and management contracts.

Mentorship plays a vital role in career development in parking.

Technology should enhance, not replace, customer service.

Partnerships with equipment vendors can complicate operations.

A full stack solution could streamline parking management.

Understanding customer needs is essential for success.

Taking breaks can improve job performance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to People-Centric Philosophy

05:18 Lease vs. Management: Understanding the Business Models

09:31 The Evolution of Parking Operations and Technology

14:45 The Future of Parking Operations

28:34 Our Parking Industry Podcast Wrap-Up

Summary

In this episode of the Our Parking Industry podcast, host Leigh Thomas and Clyde Wilson engages with industry veteran Rafael Abanilla to explore the evolution of the parking industry. Raf shares his journey from a valet to a senior VP, emphasizing the importance of frontline experience in management. The conversation delves into the balance between technology and customer service, the significance of mentorship, and the common pitfalls young professionals face. They discuss the industry's current challenges and opportunities, the future of parking technology, and the need for collaboration among operators. The episode concludes with reflections on work-life balance and the passion that drives them in their careers.

Takeaways

Raf Abanilla has 25 years of experience in the parking industry.

Frontline experience is crucial for effective management.

Technology should enhance, not replace, customer service.

Choosing the right vendors is essential for success.

Mentorship plays a significant role in professional growth.

Young professionals often overlook the importance of relationships.

The parking industry is facing challenges in delivering consistent experiences.

Collaboration among industry players is necessary for progress.

Work-life balance is vital for long-term success.

Passion for the industry drives innovation and improvement.

Chapters

00:00I ntroduction to the Parking Industry Podcast

01:25 Raf Abanilla's Journey in Parking

04:37 Clyde Wilson's Early Experiences

09:11 The Core of the Parking Business

16:55 Customer Experience in Valet Services

20:19 Technology vs. Customer Focus

22:54 The Role of Facial Recognition in Parking

24:10 Collaboration in the Parking Industry

26:10 Shifts in Business Focus Over Decades

28:10 The Evolution of Customer Communication

33:51 Our Parking Industry Podcast Wrap-Up

Inside The Lane: Featuring Delaware Valley Paving

Summary

In this episode of Inside the Lane, Leigh interviews Adam Fisher from Delaware Valley Paving, a national company specializing in asphalt and concrete maintenance and construction. Adam discusses the company's history, services, and customer base, emphasizing their commitment to quality and innovation. He explains the onboarding process for new customers and highlights the use of advanced technology in project management. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to reach out for their paving needs.

Takeaways

Delaware Valley Paving is a national company, not just local.

They handle a variety of projects from small repairs to large constructions.

The company has been family-owned since 1989 and is now in its third generation.

They work with property owners, management companies, and land developers.

Emergency maintenance services are crucial after winter weather.

They utilize advanced technology for project management and communication.

The onboarding process involves a request for proposal (RFP) from customers.

Project managers oversee jobs to ensure they meet client standards.

The company is committed to staying ahead with new technology and practices.

No project is too big or too small for Delaware Valley Paving.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Delaware Valley Paving

01:30 Services Offered by Delaware Valley Paving

03:08 National Reach and Major Projects

05:09 Onboarding New Customers

06:33 Technology and Communication in Services

07:43 Commitment to Innovation and Quality

08:31 Inside The Lane Wrap-Up