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In this episode, Jeff welcomes David Kline back to talk about his transition from dealer tech to independent. David shares what it was like sticking with a job that wasn’t fulfilling and what finally pushed him to make a change. They dive into the ups and downs of flat rate pay, why shop culture makes a big difference, and how open communication and continuous learning can really shape your career.

Timestamps:
00:00 "Speaking Out Without Boundaries"

20:41 "Finding Joy in Connection"

25:32 "Frustrations of Senior Techs"

41:28 "Matco Boxes Prove Durable"

49:38 "Collaborating in a Family Business"

54:06 Dealership Team Dynamics and Impact

01:10:48 "Effective Management and Workplace Challenges"

01:13:41 "Warranty Pay vs. Retail Time"

01:33:34 "Value, Pricing, and Customer Trust"

01:43:13 "Service Delays and Training Issues"

01:48:54 "Inspection Ownership and Miscommunication"

02:02:17 "The Humility of Learning"

02:10:08 Balancing Integrity and Corporate Influence
02:24:08 "Mechanic's Challenges and Tools"

02:26:03 "It's Who You Know"

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In this episode, Jeff is joined by Josh Whiteman to discuss his role as an instructor with Garage Gurus which offers automotive training. Josh talks about the importance of ongoing education and adapting diagnostic processes to real-world conditions. They also speak on industry challenges, from technician pay structures to fostering a culture of compassion and mentorship within workshops.

Timestamps:
00:00 Life as a Full-Time Instructor

10:30 "Importance of Transparent Auto Repair"

15:43 "Skill Gaps and Training Challenges"

16:51 Trade Education Builds Knowledge

24:59 "Learning Through Osmosis Everywhere"

27:55 "Efficient Module Testing Insights"

33:15 "Diagnostic Tools and Strategies"

38:41 Resistance Testing Flaws and Tools

45:37 Managing Customer Expectations

52:13 "Flat Rate Tech Efficiency"

55:39 "Pay Over Hours: A Debate"

01:01:36 "Listening vs Distraction at Work"

01:07:29 "Dealing with Difficult Techs"

01:14:32 Engine Diagnostics and Pressure Analysis

01:16:09 "Practical Testing and Tools Guide"

01:22:00 "A-Techs vs. Specialists: Shop Roles"

01:28:16 "Free Training Event Explanation"

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In this episode, Jeff welcomes back Fluffy Mexicanik. They discuss the realities of working as a dealership technician. Fluffy shares his reasons for leaving a dealership after nearly 13 years, stressing the importance of shop culture and the challenges of flat rate. Together, they talk about how labor times are set and the impact of dealership processes on technician efficiency.

Timestamps:
00:00 Efficient Transmission Repair Practices

15:01 Slashed Labor Times Impact Profit

30:38 "Service vs. Sales Priorities"

40:57 "Frustrations with Inefficient Procedures"

46:50 "Incentivized Pay vs. Flat Rate"

56:22 Reflecting on Expertise and Humility

01:12:39 "Uconnect Reliability vs. Durango Issues"

01:24:02 "Car Not Designed for Winter"

01:35:36 "Chuck's Truck Troubles Explained"

01:45:48 "Brake Jobs: Quality vs. Speed"

01:57:02 Defending Industry Workers’ Rights

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In this episode, Jeff is joined by Mark Elliott, also known as TobaTech on social media. They discuss what drives top technicians to leave their jobs and why it's rarely just about money. TobaTech shares his experiences at his previous shop, describing how the loss of training opportunities and an overwhelming shift in responsibilities led to his decision to move on. They also speak on the importance of investing in staff development, maintaining a supportive shop culture, and recognizing technician contributions beyond financial incentives.

Timestamps:
00:00 "Why Top Technicians Leave"

08:48 "Developing Skills Beyond Expectations"

12:50 "Reflections on Trade Expectations"

20:40 "Improve Training for Better Sales"

21:31 "Questioning Career Fulfillment"

26:48 "Amazon Gadget Fail Turns Lesson"

35:16 Trusted Technicians and Transitions

38:11 Impact of Leadership Departure

43:57 "You're Not Family"

52:51 Shop Upgrades and Improvements

54:15 Truck Vibration Causes & Solutions

01:03:30 "Clarifying Misunderstood Podcast Context"

01:05:15 "Work-Life Balance Challenges"

01:11:44 "Skills Gap and Expectations"

01:16:18 "Awkward Reunion with Former Boss"

01:21:48 "DBI: Key to Customer Loyalty"

01:26:48 "Proving Work Isn't Distracted"

01:35:38 "Unfair Performance Bonus Policy"

01:37:03 "Navigating Unfair Work Dynamics"

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In this episode, Jeff welcomes Eric Sprague from L&N Performance Auto Repair. Eric stresses the need for improved shop culture and mentorship to support new technicians entering the field. Jeff and Eric also talk about the importance of thorough communication between support staff and technicians to ensure safe, accurate repairs and customer education.

Timestamps:
00:00 "TPMS and Car Safety Standards"

10:39 TPMS Regulations and Nanny State

16:53 Empty Promises and Abandoned Projects

18:46 "Hybrid Trucks and Northern Infrastructure"

25:11 "Youth, Effort, and Clear Guides"

32:40 "Electronic Parking Brake Discussion"

34:33 "Teaching Safe Methods First"

43:32 "Trust and Prioritization at Work"

48:54 "Challenges of Losing Key Talent"

54:35 "Shifting from Dealership Culture"

55:46 "Accountability and Proper Checks"

01:04:10 "Challenges of Independent Auto Shops"

01:09:28 "Challenges in Automotive Repair Access"

01:12:15 "Industry's Tipping Point on Regulation"

01:17:24 "Importance of Vehicle Safety Systems"

01:25:59 "Tool Standards and Calibration Issues"

01:27:30 "Understanding the Entire System"

01:34:24 "European Cars and Sunroof Issues"

01:42:24 Regulations, Qualifications, and Future Standards

01:45:58 "Teamwork Overcomes Chaos"

01:48:47 "Monthly Collaborative Conversations"

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Today, Jeff get's to catch up with Lisa Coyle and Sam Freeman from Promotive. They discuss the challenges of recruiting and retaining automotive technicians and service advisors. The team explores why job hopping is often misunderstood, saying that it’s frequently due to industry conditions rather than technician performance. They highlight the importance of building mentorship and supportive shop cultures, revealing how both technicians and advisors benefit from ongoing training and honest communication. 

Timestamps:
00:00 Changing Hiring Dynamics

09:17 "Diagnostic Tech Misalignment"

14:45 Employee Growth and Retention Strategies

19:06 "Show Me the Proof"

22:23 "Workplace Dynamics and Expectations"

26:34 "Underpaid Service Advisors Debate"

32:14 "Bridging Advisor-Technician Divide"

37:29 "Incentivizing Flat Rate Pay Notifications"

42:30 "Harbor Freight Tools Debate"

50:42 "Be the Person Who Inspires"

57:07 "Flat Rate Payment Inequity"

01:00:50 "Consumer Expectations and Instant Gratification"

01:04:12 "Treat Others with Courtesy"

01:08:42 "Top Accomplishment Interview Question"

01:14:57 "Qualified Teachers Matter"

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In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Bob Leonard from Mobility Works to delve into the specialized world of vehicle modifications for people with physical disabilities. Bob shares insights into the unique regulatory landscape and technical requirements affecting mobility vehicle conversions, including the importance of following strict certification rules and working closely with certified evaluators. The conversation highlights the technician shortage in the mobility industry, the blend of mechanical and electrical skills required, and the impactful difference these vehicles make in the lives of customers.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to The Jaded Mechanic 
00:40 Live at ASTA 2025: Meet Bob Leonard from Mobility Works
01:59 What is Mobility Works? The Mission and Services Explained
03:13 Types of Modifications: Minivans, Hand Controls, and High-Tech Installs
05:58 Certification and Audit Processes in Mobility Vehicle Service
08:46 Repairing or Correcting Others’ Work: Challenges in Mobility Vehicle Service
11:22 Prescriptions, Regulations & Working with Certified Evaluators
14:19 How Modifications Affect Standard Vehicle Repairs
16:35 Diagnosing Issues When Factory Systems and Modified Controls Meet
19:06 Adapting to EVs and Hybrids in the Mobility Industry
22:04 The Human Side: Fittings, Customer Stories & Building Trust
25:48 Technician Shortages & The Specialized Skills Required
29:08 Training, Following Procedures, and the Role of Inspections
32:38 Troubleshooting Wiring, Diagnostics, and Common Mistakes
36:58 Customer Impact: Independence, Freedom, and Lasting Relationships
41:12 Insurance, Rentals, and the Cost of Mobility Vehicle Ownership
45:42 Body Shop Challenges: Repairs, Estimating, and Crash-Tested Parts
51:02 Advice for Technicians: Approach, Caution, and Knowing When to Call Experts
54:59 The Growing Mobility Market & Emerging Trends
57:01 Life-Changing Mobility Solutions: Why This Work Matters
01:02:57 Wrap-Up: Spreading Awareness & Educating Technicians

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In this episode, Jeff welcomes back Sherwood Cook II of Royalty Auto. Sherwood talks about the challenges he's had with technician recruitment and stresses the importance of inspiring young techs through programs like their Junior Technician Night. Jeff and Sherwood also talk about industry-wide issues with parts quality, availability, and the increasing difficulty of repairs. Their conversation highlights how these factors impact shops and customers.

Timestamps:
00:00 Preserving the Legacy & Striving for Excellence
00:33 Christmas Break & Personal Reflections
02:21 Surviving Canadian Winters: Funny Stories
03:30 Junior Tech Night: Growing the Next Generation
04:48 New Stations & Engaging Kids in the Trades
05:55 Making Electrical Training Fun for Kids
07:19 Spotting Future Superstars at Tech Night
09:03 Giveaway Stories: Toolkits, Nerf Guns & Kids Negotiations
13:00 The Decline of Hands-on Skills & Why It Matters
16:20 Trades Skills Shortages: Opportunities and Concerns
18:41 The Role of AI: Is It Replacing Technicians?
20:14 Shop Pricing, Value, and Why Craftsmen Stand Out
27:04 OE vs. Aftermarket Parts: Quality and Supply Issues
32:06 Parts Availability Crisis: ABS Modules & TipM Odds
36:17 Aftermarket Solutions: Salvaging Unrepairable Cars
42:08 TRP Parts: Challenges with Used Components
46:32 The Hackers Behind Module Repairs: Sharing Knowledge
51:11 True Value in the Repair Industry: Pricing Your Work
54:39 Learning to Charge Appropriately for Your Service
59:11 Side Work: Garage Repairs vs. Shop Experience
1:01:46 Shop Insurance & Customer Protections
1:03:17 Nuggets for Shop Owners: Value, Markup, & Relationships
1:08:06 Building Value: Pickup, Washes, Roses & More
1:11:42 Price vs. Craftsmanship: Which Arena Will You Play In?
1:18:14 Goals for 2026 & Launching a Training Website
1:20:11 Training Events: Vision, Asta, and Promotion Strategies
1:29:22 Social Media’s Role: Reaching the Next Wave of Techs
1:33:20 Never Stop Learning: Lessons for Young and Veteran Techs
1:34:57 Final Messages: Legacy, Responsibility, and Growth

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In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with the one... the only.... Eric the Car Guy! His YouTube Channel has impacted millions of technicians over the years and one of those was the host of this podcast...Jeff. Today, they talk about Eric's story from dealership technician to YouTuber, highlighting the setbacks that shaped his career and his drive to empower others. They also discuss the challenges facing today's automotive industry, including the need for mentorship and apprenticeship programs, common misconceptions about flat rate pay, and the importance of valuing technicians as professionals.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction – Eric’s Early Shop Life & Pay Structures
02:05 Flat Rate, Shop Culture, and Getting Fired
07:36 The Legend Coupe Story & Being Let Go Over $900
13:00 Teaching Himself Video and Moving into YouTube
19:37 Giving Away the “Secrets” & Empowering Customers
24:13 Burnout, Losing the Shop, and Starting Over
33:35 Dealing with Haters & The Power of the Audience
39:18 Building a Community & Inspiring the Next Generation
46:05 Apprenticeships, Mentorship, and Industry Change
54:10 The Problem with Flat Rate Pay & Technician Expectations
1:02:30 Self-Taught vs. Formal Mentorship in Automotive
1:10:03 What’s Next for Eric The Car Guy? Future Content & Inspiration
1:15:54 Final Reflections and Advice for Aspiring Techs

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In this episode, Jeff is joined by John Firm and Rick White where they discuss growth and success in the automotive industry. Rick talks about the importance of having a coach and staying curious, humble, and open to new ideas. John and Rick also speak on the challenges unique to fleet shops versus traditional retail shops. To help, they share advice on pricing, marketing, and building strong business relationships.

Timestamps:
00:00 "Reflection on Hosting Growth"

04:42 "Ask or Stay Ignorant"

07:05 Car Troubleshooting: Fuse vs. Diagram

10:11 Effective Communication in Auto Repair

12:42 Business Coaching Insights

19:03 "Competing on Price Dangers"

19:26 "Prioritizing Strategy Over Savings"

23:08 Labor Rates and Mix Reevaluated

28:28 "How to Beat AutoZone"

31:47 Survival Over Greed

33:51 "Challenges in European Auto Repair"

38:31 "Maintain Control, Avoid Dealers"

40:08 "Coaching Accountability and Honesty"

44:13 "Helping a Client in Need"

48:02 Advice for New Technicians

51:00 "Integrity in Auto Repair"

53:43 "Talking About John and Canada"

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