Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Lance Mechanics (lancemechanics10 on TikTok), a technician and content creator who has made waves online for his outspoken views on the automotive industry. Lance details his late entry into the trade, shares the cultural and financial differences he experienced between independent shops and dealerships, and discusses why he ultimately left the dealership world for underground mining. The conversation also takes a critical look at the realities of flat-rate pay, the lack of mentorship for new technicians, and why Lance now advises aspiring techs to consider fleet or heavy equipment work over traditional automotive roles.

Timestamps:
00:00 Hybrid Systems & Dealership Challenges

10:48 Job Manipulation Frustrates Shop Workers

28:03 Misunderstood Automotive Challenges

35:54 Chrysler Techline and Winter Gas Issues

46:31 Dealer Experience: Easier Than Expected

56:16 Safety Checks at Used Car Lot

01:11:26 Christmas Eve Reflections on Auto Work

01:13:55 Dealer Work: Challenges and Learning

01:31:40 "Real-World Advice for Aspiring Mechanics"

01:36:19 Tesla Wear and Diagnostic Stigma

01:50:32 "Warranty: A Sales Strategy Insight"

01:56:12 "When Regulations Lose Meaning"

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff welcomes Christopher Delprete, lead tech at Ace Truck Body and Trailer Repair in Georgia. Christopher talks about growing up in a family-run business in Massachusetts to his current role in heavy truck repair. He emphasized the rapid evolution of truck technology and the need for technicians to continually update their skills. Together, they discuss the critical role of mentoring and training the next generation of technicians, highlighting the importance of supporting young people and women in the trade.

00:00 Guiding Brother's Biggest Bass Catch

06:50 Waste Management Business Collapse

10:47 Classic Car Memories

16:36 Women Excel in the Heavy Truck Industry

26:04 Brand Variety Keeps Job Exciting

29:22 "NPR Frame Swap Process"

33:46 Commitment to Quality and Safety

39:22 Mutual Expertise Acknowledgement

45:22 Truck Idling Workarounds Insights

52:16 Montreal's Aggressive Drivers' Reputation

56:36 Old Trucker's Tales

01:00:50 Mechanic Video: Embracing Mistakes

01:05:30 Highlighting Professionalism's Evolution

01:09:55 OBD2 Tech Evolution Insights

01:19:06 Widening Income Gap Motivation

01:22:28 Toolbox Purchase Regret

01:25:10 "Open-End Wrench Debate"

01:30:48 Growing Up a Hot Rod Enthusiast

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Kevin Brown, a multi-shop owner and technician from Michigan with over 35 years of experience in the industry. Kevin shares candid insights on what it takes to run a profitable repair business, emphasizing the importance of charging for diagnostic work and paying technicians fairly for their time and expertise. The conversation delves into the challenges of managing people and processes, fostering a strong company culture, and establishing sustainable business systems for long-term success.

00:00 "Podcast Clash with Kevin"

08:32 Charging for Diagnostic Time

15:43 "Reflecting on Past Mistakes"

19:45 Brake Troubles and Customer Dilemma

26:57 Brandon Sloan: Expert in Shop Economics

28:00 "Mechanic's Guide to Business Success"

36:05 "Value and Pay for Wiper Service"

41:59 DVI and Customer Follow-Through Issues

49:01 Tech Reluctance Delays Customer Service

50:38 Streamlined Repair Order Process

58:53 Reconsidering Technician and Advisor Pay

01:02:57 Toxic Work Environment Reflection

01:10:55 Road Force Balancing Importance

01:15:55 Why I Question Automotive Needs

01:18:22 Complimentary Diagnostics to Reduce Costs

01:25:24 High Labor Rates Impact Efficiency

01:28:42 Faulty Brake Promo Issues

01:35:44 September Event Invitation Reminder

01:38:53 Networking Opportunity for Experienced Professionals

01:47:52 Finding Work-Life Balance

01:52:06 Retail Industry's Youth Crisis

01:55:25 "Building Respectful Connections"

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Frank Wiebe of 3D Auto in Elmer, Ontario. Frank shares his experiences with Ontario’s new digital vehicle safety inspection program and how it has impacted his business, leading to a significant increase in inspection volume as other shops opted out. They also discuss the importance of integrity in safety inspections, emphasizing why they hold higher standards than the minimum regulations require. Lastly, Frank reflects on his journey from technician to shop owner, highlighting the challenges and rewards of running a family business in a changing industry.

00:00 Adapting Safety Protocols with Technology

10:36 Busy Used Car Lot Success

13:36 "Bilingual Hire: Six-Year Apprenticeship"

18:13 Family-Run Business Dynamics

22:21 "Privileges vs. Hero Complex in Auto Shops"

29:19 Tie Rod Dilemma: Pass or Fail?

35:58 Regulating Safety Standards Concerns

42:39 Motorbike Dispute and Indifference

46:08 Faulty Car Repair Issues

53:00 Lesson Learned: Consistent Rotor Replacement

58:41 "Hands-On Learning: Beyond Floor Sweeping"

01:00:53 Early Trade Reality Check

01:07:18 Lost Art of Hands-On Learning

01:14:01 Understanding Shop Hiring Challenges

01:15:20 Mentorship Shapes Technician Skills

01:21:14 Realizing Electrical Concepts Simplified

01:30:25 Investing vs. Expanding Decisions

01:34:40 Faulty Auto Parts Frustration

01:39:11 "Industry Accountability and Safety"

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with technician Bryan Bueckert to talk through career challenges and the realities of working in the automotive repair industry. Brian shares his journey of entering the trade later in life, including the financial sacrifices and steep learning curve involved in switching from a call center job to turning wrenches. The discussion highlights key issues like low shop door rates and reluctance to charge for diagnostic labor, which make it difficult for technicians to earn a livable wage.

00:00 "Subaru Enthusiast's Job Search"

05:39 Skilled Trade Pay Disparity Debate

13:47 Mastering European Car Systems

20:00 Space Dilemma and Hiring Needs

21:55 "Challenges of Small Auto Shops"

29:51 Proper Oil for Euro Cars

33:44 "No Tolerance for Customer Abuse"

41:41 Final School Day in Windsor

43:11 Subaru Salary Insights

49:42 Oil Change: More Than Routine

55:45 Revamping Traditional Auto Service Methods

01:00:27 Quality Parts Ensure Trust

01:06:57 Subaru CVT Fluid Maintenance Advice

01:10:48 Car Service Decisions Explained

01:18:08 Spare Key Programming Challenges

01:22:40 Efficient Airbag Installation Story

01:28:57 Considering Teaching High School Shop

01:33:10 Pursuing Passion After Mortgage

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by David Kline, a seasoned technician with over 25 years of experience. David shares eye-opening stories from his time in both dealership and independent shop environments, highlighting the grind of flat rate, toxic workplace cultures, and the impact these have on mental health and work-life balance. Together, they explore the need for genuine recognition of technicians’ expertise, discuss the failures of current compensation structures, and emphasize why reshaping how techs are valued is critical for the entire industry.

00:00 Vehicle Safety Standards Concerns

20:07 Work Dispute With Service Manager

23:34 Trust and Accountability in Dealerships

41:16 "Value Proven, Stress Unnecessary"

49:00 Dealer Talent Drain: A Cautionary Tale

01:01:38 "Diagnosing Chrysler EGR Valve Issues"

01:08:08 Tool Troubles and Young Technicians

01:21:45 Invest in Quality Tools

01:23:19 Competitive Mechanic Memories

01:43:45 "Personality Type and Customer Challenges"

01:50:16 Benefit of the Doubt in Industry

01:54:44 Valuing Co-Worker Relationships

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Juwan Fields, a young field service forklift mechanic seeking to transition back into the automotive industry. Juwan opens up about his dissatisfaction with the repetitive and unstimulating nature of equipment repair, contrasting it with his early passion for automotive diagnostics and electrical work. Jeff and Juwan talk about the challenges technicians face in finding fulfilling work that balances intellectual curiosity with financial stability.

00:00 Career Shift: Equipment to Automotive

04:43 Automotive Challenges and Reflections

08:27 Job Transition: Oil Changing Experience

10:38 Seasonal HVAC Job Experience

15:26 Balancing Passion and Providing

18:17 Choosing Stability Over Entrepreneurship

20:16 "Keith Perkins: Expert Car Diagnostician"

23:17 Networking with Industry Leaders

27:51 "Skepticism of 'Specialty' Shops"

30:33 Prefers Diagnostic Programming Over Key Work

36:20 Brian Pollock's Repair Expertise

38:35 "Job Satisfaction Over Money"

39:59 Shop Struggles: Pay and Solutions

45:40 "Aftermarket Parts: Unreliable Choice"

46:34 Efficient On-Site Auto Technician Guidance

52:29 Life-Changing Networking Events

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff welcomes Ford Tech J Cole to the show to talk social media influence and the changing auto repair industry. Both Jeff and J Cole have a love-hate relationship with life in the dealership, and shared similar thoughts and feelings about the repair industry as a whole. Hot takes galore on this episode!

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

In this episode, Jeff and fellow Canadian shop owner Mike Pereira discuss industry challenges, such as the flat-rate pay system at dealerships, emphasizing how it discourages teamwork and impacts job satisfaction. Both Jeff and Mike highlight the importance of ongoing technical and business training in today’s rapidly changing industry and discuss the need for better collaboration and transparency among local shop owners.

00:00 Some Sports Take WAYYYY Too Long

10:25 Unfair Work Distribution Observed

11:50 Turn Up the Radio Solution

16:02 Flat Rate Challenges in Learning

22:29 Shared Experiences in the Industry

30:46 "Highly Recommend Brian's Class"

34:48 Valuing Time Over Money

38:23 Supportive Owners Embrace Change

45:26 Selective Customer Intake Strategy

49:10 Evaluating Vehicle Part Quality

57:10 Car Enthusiast's Euro Car Insights

01:01:08 Unfair Work Conditions at Dealership

01:05:20 Proactive Work Culture Insights

01:08:18 Training Adjustments at Work

01:18:02 Digital Tread & Rotor Measurement

01:20:28 Vehicle Inspection Photo Transparency

01:25:41 Trust Car Claims Carefully

01:30:41 Focus on Business Skills, Not Tech

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

Today, Jeff sits down at Tools 2025 with Paul Danner (ScannerDanner), Keith Perkins, and Check Engine Chuck. Paul shares updates on the SD Charities initiative and highlights the importance of giving back to the community, including a tool auction supporting an auto tech school in Senegal. Keith and Chuck discuss the challenges and rewards of growing their businesses, from shop expansion to personal journeys in technical skill development. The group engages in an honest conversation about industry image, the need for higher labor rates, and the vital role of technician recognition and continued networking.

00:00 "Tools 2025: Meeting Success"

05:24 Supporting Solar for African Schools

12:01 "Striving for Effective Communication"

20:58 Promotional Shorts and Circuit Troubleshooting

24:27 Accountability in Vehicle Repairs

27:36 Online Creators' Ethical Responsibility

33:19 "Revamping Labor Rates in Trades"

40:18 "Profitability of Brake Suspension Work"

47:15 Seeking Appreciation and Change

50:32 "Rethinking Industry Value Perception"

57:21 Paul's Dubious Car Flipping Tactics

58:35 U-Haul's Business Model Explained

01:08:00 Mutual Respect and Encouragement

01:14:01 "Collaborate Beyond Platforms"

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232