The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

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In this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Kat Ayers and Brian Burris from Promotive. Kat emphasizes the importance of technicians bringing actual data to interviews to assess their productivity better. Brian discusses the significance of strong relationships between technicians and service advisors and how they impact job success and customer satisfaction. Additionally, Kat highlights the value of total compensation considerations beyond hourly wages, such as paid time off and growth opportunities. 

00:00 Passion for automotive led to a lifelong career.
06:58 Not knowledgeable about my production numbers.
12:59 Flat rate uncommon in non-dealer environments here.
20:02 Relationships with service advisors impact job success.
23:26 Varied trust in advisors, technician pay disparity.
27:38 Document achievements quarterly; use them for reviews.
34:33 Focus on meaningful team collaboration and culture.
39:35 Consider total compensation, paid time off, and growth opportunities.
47:33 Curiosity changes the dynamic of constructive criticism.
51:07 Reluctance to share knowledge due to effort.
54:29 Technicians should negotiate benefits beyond hourly pay.
01:01:40 Career paths without wrench work; matching culture fit.

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Jeff Compton and Metal Man Online from TikTok (Spencer Ellis) delve into challenges that young technicians face in the automotive industry. Metal Man Online shares his frustrations with communication barriers and mistreatment at his previous job, highlighting the necessity for understanding and adaptation to workplace dynamics. They also stress the immense value of networking, ongoing learning, and staying relevant in the ever-changing technological landscape of auto repair.

00:00 Pay dispute led to job search for survival.
06:53 Considering mechanic training due to current constraints.
15:41 Inexperienced attempt to repair the damaged engine.
21:26 Engine warranty work and bolt specification issue.
22:20 Strict policy on engine parts; using Loctite.
30:55 The First anxiety attack at CarMax was overwhelming.
35:45 Loss of trust in business due to inconsistency.
39:15 Technician pledges no attacks but calls out injustice.
45:41 Customers' opinions vary, and integrity and transparency are valued.
52:54 Pride in work, seeking to help others.
56:28 Frustration at work leads to incomplete payment.
59:11 Business owners need to stay involved actively.
01:06:09 Attending roadkill zip tie drags in Tucson.

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Jeff Compton is joined by Metal Man Online (Spencer Ellis) from TikTok, who shares his journey as a mechanic. Metal Man discusses the challenges of inconsistent pay and the pressures of engine rebuilds in a high-demand environment. Jeff expresses concern over content creators relying on platforms like TikTok for income and highlights the expenses often overlooked. 

00:00 Exciting Jada Mechanic podcast introduces Metal Man.
06:11 Hourly setup with the tiered system, and mechanical associates.
08:09 First job: school intern, then mechanic's apprentice.
12:20 "Challenging mechanic jobs can also be beneficial."
15:19 My Cousin worked at Carmax and influenced my hiring.
17:08 Ensured vehicle passed inspection despite motor mount issue.
20:15 Regretted car repair mishap led to injury.
23:27 Neglected maintenance leads to unforeseen mechanical issues.
27:35 I replaced the gas pedal, passed the emissions, and impressed the boss.
31:13 Maintain distance, yet understand their passion.
34:54 Two videos led to a job in industrial equipment.
36:40 Learning and gaining experience in the diesel industry.
42:28 Hired at the new shop with commission pay.
43:29 Initial pay delays; compensation based on completed jobs.
48:18 Engine production slow, delayed payment concerns.
51:13 Rusty bolt needs approval, didn't understand the system.
54:14 Regretting decision, uncertain future, seeing some hope.
57:10 Aspiring to live off video content creation.

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Jeff Compton and Oscar Gomez discuss the value of ASE Certifications and explain how they help technicians identify their specialties and weaknesses, thereby improving through training and learning from failures. They discuss the challenges in the automotive industry, including the misdiagnosis of car issues due to rushing and the need for patience and mentorship for new technicians. As Oscar highlights the importance of motivating and supporting students and entry-level mechanics, Jeff underscores the necessity of properly conveying the worth of technicians' skills to customers.

00:00 Anger about prioritizing emissions over safety inspections.
05:45 Industry needs specific training for bilingual employees.
07:50 Language barriers and cultural resistance to change.
11:27 Disregard EGR fault, focus on the testing limit.
14:51 Understanding principles without scientific physics, is an amazing approach.
17:26 Car troubles? Tapping or diagnosing, I'm flexible.
22:03 Identify weak points and focus on training.
23:51 Enjoyed writing the annual test and showed the importance of feedback.
27:21 California admissions diagnostician process requires alternative education.
30:55 Mentor's tech becomes state rep, mentor cited.
34:26 Advocate advises installing brakes, affecting car mechanics.
38:13 New technicians need patience and understanding.
41:38 Industry lacks patience, hindered quality and diagnosis.
45:55 Car's hood and cowl ducts are plugged with litter.
47:39 Addressing industry change, prioritizing business owner mentality.
51:23 Striving for shop improvement and financial success.
53:36 Supporting affordable tools, not wanting to struggle.

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Jeff Compton is joined by Oscar Gomez, who shares his concerns as a shop owner dealing with the complexities of maximizing profits while maintaining vehicle safety. Jeff discusses a frustrating encounter with a customer who questioned necessary repairs, emphasizing the importance of thorough assessments to prevent dissatisfaction. Oscar highlights the challenges posed by the extreme heat in California and the difficulties of running a shop without air conditioning.

00:00 Thriving in automotive testing and case studies.
09:06 Disbelief over targeting program proponents for non-compliance.
14:01 New safety inspections linked to a government program.
20:03 Seller misleads buyer, car inspection process changes.
23:09 Unmaintained car may fail emission inspection.
29:03 I relate to unfairness in expert consulting.
32:27 Evaluating technicians' performance and suggesting further training.
41:23 Debate over car belt repair at dealership.
47:02 Hyundai Kia check engine, low oil, burning 4 quarts.
49:38 Customers ignoring oil change leads to issues.
56:23 She's upset about other shops' service.
01:00:57 AC maintenance and environmental impact in the industry.

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Jeff Compton is joined by Zeb Beard to discuss crucial aspects of vehicle repair and shop management efficiency. Zeb emphasizes the importance of training technicians well and ensuring everything is set up for them to work efficiently, including pay and housing arrangements. Jeff and Zeb delve into the challenges of diagnosing air conditioning issues, sharing tips on tool usage, and addressing common mistakes. Finally, they discuss the ongoing shortage of skilled technicians and how streamlined shop management can help maintain productivity.

00:00 High school friend's 440 car troubles described.
09:49 Not surprised by the condition of the truck.
14:55 Issues with outboard motor, truck power loss.
16:38 Friend keeps truck, replaces sensor, expresses frustration.
23:23 Frustrating experience with detecting and fixing leaks.
27:52 CO2 sensed in the machine halts refrigerant use.
32:19 Sean Miller's shop has a similar approach.
39:41 Spying on technicians to gather industry information.
43:50 Technician shortage driving up repair costs and wait times.
51:51 Staying focused and unified leads to success.
55:39 Dislike jet skiers in our party area.
59:55 Fish stays put, easy to catch.
01:03:21 Gratitude, requests, and farewells in podcast sign-off.

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In this episode, Jeff Compton welcomes Zeb Beard to discuss the challenges faced with aftermarket parts and customer relations. Zeb recounts the recurring issues he had with fuel lines and how the lack of accountability from the manufacturer left him out of pocket. He also emphasizes the importance of thoroughly researching potential customers and parts suppliers to mitigate problems in the future.

00:00 Aftermarket companies are reluctant to stand behind products.
05:22 The Aftermarket pump caused issues in a diesel engine.
06:36 Girl laughed, symptoms sound like air issue.
11:23 Customer wanted information, not warranty, from the agent.
14:52 Seeking help and not assigning blame.
18:34 Installation procedure: tighten lines gradually to stop leaks.
19:25 Purchased lines for truck, switched to s and skit.
24:31 Techs installed faulty parts, corrected by the owner.
26:08 Struggle with aftermarket parts and technical issues.
31:37 Ordering engines, covers, and oil pans logistics.
33:10 Late-night engine work causes miscommunication.
35:33 Selling engines, warranty, need to align start.
41:18 Engine builder getting own TV show, credibility concerns.
42:49 Sloan finds a compatible part and avoids the front pump.
46:13 Concern over industry reliant on social media.
51:24 Man describes needing more power in the car.
52:10 Issues with ignition and tuning in engines.
55:14 Shop owners face competitive peer pressure.
58:18 Please comment, share, and download this podcast.

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This week, it's part two of a conversation between Jeff Compton and Norm Gieselman from TikTok. Norm discusses the significance of building trust with customers through transparent inspections and visual evidence of necessary repairs. Jeff and Norm critique the quick lube industry's upselling practices and advocate for more value-based, comprehensive services over cheaper, superficial options. They also touch on the increasing presence of female technicians and emphasize the importance of fostering a positive work environment amidst the industry's challenges. 

00:00 Tech could greatly improve scholastic learning systems.
04:25 Apprenticeship transitions from truck shop to automotive.
09:14 TikTok users discuss Canada's influence on trade.
11:13 International competency unit vs. higher education recognition
15:18 Improve mentorship and seek better training for advancement.
18:31 Struggling to understand new HD technology.
20:42 Feeling jilted when invested in mentees.
24:19 Industry conduct prompts frustration and disbelief.
30:09 Cars, knowledge, complexity, sales, tires, agreement.
32:52 Replace transmission fluid for better maintenance.
33:53 Nissan CVTs prone to problems, labor affected.
39:34 Starting business late, body's ability declining.
42:07 Daughter pretends not to know car basics.
46:54 Few women succeed in tech due to bias.
49:46 Toxicity in shop culture affects work efficiency.
50:38 TikTok series on navigating transactions positively.Trust, Certification, and Industry Issues

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In this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Norm Gieselman, known as the "Mechanic of the Stars" on TikTok. Norm and Jeff have a conversation about the complexities of managing a car repair business, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing customer needs through effective intake questions. Norm also shares his experiences with resource constraints, focusing on quick jobs while building capacity for more complex repairs. Additionally, they discuss the growing knowledge gap between customers and technicians due to the increasing technology in modern cars. 

00:00 Discovering TikTok transformed my learning experience.

04:00 Friends engage, share challenges, and understand opinions naturally.

08:31 Business owner transitions to franchise for growth.

11:05 Got into HD due to car repair.

15:21 Contrasting attitudes towards vehicle technology in summary.

18:51 Debate on tire torque and overanalysis in automotive.

20:03 Complaining about high-end truckers and their rattle.

24:37 Transition from project management to business administration.

29:14 Qualifying customers, limitations, and concerns for acceptance.

32:25 Sent car to the tuner, unit malfunctioned, sat.

35:29 The Car part overheats, causing the insulation to melt.

38:06 Understanding leads to practical application and success.

42:10 Learning by observation and apprenticeship for mastery.

45:43 Mechanics diagnose and repair engine issues.

49:12 Consider leasing for fixed costs, not ownership.

50:01 Concerns about the longevity of modern vehicles' features.

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In this episode, Jeff Compton welcomes Greg Buckley to discuss technicians' role in transportation. Greg shares the importance of licensing for technicians to ensure a clear career path and differentiate skilled professionals from untrained ones. They also delve into the significance of industry events for networking and knowledge exchange, sharing personal experiences that highlight their transformative impact. Lastly, Greg emphasizes unity within the automotive industry, advocating for open communication and collaboration to foster a positive work environment.

00:00 Growth from pump jockey to business owner.
07:59 Balancing life is crucial to avoiding burnout.
11:20 Parents sacrificed, work ethics changed, family dynamics changed.
17:04 Industry demands flexibility and impacts work-life balance.
25:28 Considering moving to be a pipe fitter.
28:28 The Car and fishing industry affects focus and patience.
32:58 Value time, collaboration, and business success.
39:12 Challenges dealing with shop dynamics and owner.
46:30 Emphasis on the importance of brand representation in the community.
47:56 Dealership culture change could solve service issues.
53:05 Skilled workers remain vital to transportation infrastructure.
01:01:39 Sacrifices made for equitable table discussions. Ethical.
01:04:42 Industry must prioritize adding security features to technology.
01:10:22 Using numbers and personal conversations to evaluate.
01:18:10 Starting a business, learning from conferences.
01:19:30 Spontaneous trip led to a valuable networking opportunity.

Check out Greg's Shop: https://www.buckleysautocare.com/

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