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Curtis Gardner is an Audi Master Guild technician. Today he joins Jeff to talk about his perspective on flat-rate pay, emphasizing both its financial upsides and its negative impact on technician mental health and work-life balance. They also share stories of the challenges and drawbacks of dealer politics, as well as the undervaluing of skilled problem-solvers—known as the "Jims" of the shop—who often keep shops running but aren’t compensated accordingly.

00:00 Chrysler: Embracing Opportunity for Growth

15:41 Rear Alignment Challenges and Costs

28:59 Flat Rate vs. Guaranteed Pay Debate

39:23 Prioritize Addressing Urgent Issues

48:11 Auto Repair Estimate Dilemma

54:00 Unwanted Vehicle Inspection Alerts

01:04:53 Need for Persistent Problem Solvers

01:18:40 Entrepreneurial Journey: From Gym to Business

01:24:38 Technician Money Management Struggles

01:41:41 "Advice for Unfulfilled Tech Workers"

01:49:23 Advocating Conversations for Technicians

01:56:35 Balancing Work and Family Struggles

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In this episode, Jeff is joined by Dory Carlin, co-owner of a two-bay independent shop in Western Pennsylvania. Dory shares his unconventional journey into automotive repair, reflecting on lessons learned from both good and bad management throughout his career at dealerships. They discuss the challenges of growing a small shop, emphasizing the importance of valuing diagnostic expertise and standing firm on pricing, and touch on the evolving roles and support needed for young technicians entering the trade. 

00:00 Jeff can't take the heat!

06:20 Valuing the Auto Industry Fairly

13:02 Reflections on Childhood Acquaintances

19:32 Dealership Dynamics and Challenges

25:55 Customer Choice in Service Quality

27:16 Shop Owners' Part Choices Critique

34:11 Luxury Brands Use Flat Rate

42:18 "CSI: The Imaginary Priority"

44:43 Success Depends on Team Dynamics

51:07 Collaborative Learning Boosts Business

58:00 Customer Satisfaction: Word-of-Mouth Impact

01:00:35 Public Transit: A Modern Solution

01:05:34 Closer Job for Family Time

01:12:04 "My Ex-Girlfriend, My Wife"

01:17:51 Industry Dynamics and Control Shift

01:25:31 "Vehicle Repair Access Concerns"

01:27:27 Tesla: Pioneering Car Subscription Features

01:33:51 Hiring Biases Against Young Workers

01:39:14 Car Troubleshooting Conversation

01:45:27 "Navigating Automotive Service Rates"

01:50:18 Car Sales: Prioritize Quality and Integrity

01:57:35 Understanding Trauma in Different Professions

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In this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by his longtime friend and colleague Bryan Pollock. Bryan remembers stories of diagnostic mishaps and stresses the importance of following proper service information and thorough quality control processes. Together, they highlight the critical need for ongoing technician training, investing in apprenticeship programs, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in the shop. 

00:00 Jade Mechanic Podcast: Frustration Episode

10:26 Accountability in Automotive Repairs

12:00 Cost of Staff Training Commitment

20:59 "Diagnostic Limits in Auto Shops"

25:37 "Effective Group Communication Tip"

29:13 Nissan Programming Challenges

33:58 Tool Investment Strategy

39:02 Flaws in Production-Based Pay

44:57 Multiple Children Shadowing Experience

50:13 "Social Media & Royalty Auto Insights"

53:15 Training and Career Progression Importance

59:21 Delayed Realizations and Regrets

01:05:02 Chrysler Pacifica Clutch Issue

01:09:39 "Identifix: Underappreciated Diagnostic Tool"

01:20:02 Mystery of the Lake's Knowledge

01:21:02 Cost-Effective Local Training Option

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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"

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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

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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"

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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"

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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

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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

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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

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