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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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In this episode, Jeff sits down with Sunny Massera. Sunny is a self-taught service manager that went from dabbling with cars to building high-end custom Broncos. He talks about why it's important to seek out people with greater skill to keep growing. Sunny also discusses the challenges of business ownership in the automotive world and talks about lessons learned from running his own shop. Jeff and Sunny also speak on the high expectations and pressures involved in custom car builds and mentoring young technicians.

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Timestamps:
00:00 "Early Passion for Fixing Cars"

09:33 Underappreciated Work and Mismanagement

14:34 "Passion Meets Expectation in Craft"

16:14 From Selling to Building Cars

21:23 "Job Frustration and Judgment"

27:28 Lifelong Learning in Trades

33:17 Distractions and Smoking Breaks

40:36 "From Carburetors to Convenience"

42:58 "GTOs, Broncos, and Value"

50:31 Truck Modification Causes Failure

55:53 "Faulty Steering on Work Vans"

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In this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Check Engine Chuck and Brian Gauthier. Chuck and Jeff talk about the importance of investing in service information and ongoing education. They also speak on how sharpening diagnostic skills can change a technician's role and reputation. Brian also shares his experience transitioning from routine mechanical work to more advanced diagnostics. He also opens up about the challenges of working in a small-town shop with limited resources.

Timestamps:
00:00 "Chuck's Impact on Attendance"

08:13 "Better Than the Dealer"

12:00 "Cost Differences in Workplaces"

19:05 "Learning Effective Car Repairs"

23:23 Shifting Perspectives Shape Outcomes

29:01 "Chuck's Generosity and Frustrations"

32:11 Gatekeeping for Change

38:37 "Growth Through Focused Free Time"

45:06 "No Sleep, Still Driving"

47:48 "Transforming Through Mindset Shift"

54:52 Car Conversion Issues Explained

01:02:01 Daily Learning with Eric O.

01:04:52 Struggles with Subaru Diagnostics

01:12:35 "No Communication, Programming Risk"

01:17:23 Bridging Technician and Management Gaps

01:21:43 "Unexpected Generosity and Change"

01:24:50 "Tech Confusion and Programming Chat"

01:34:17 "Refining a Diagnostic Process"

01:35:04 "Industry Impact"

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In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Tony Martinez who was the AAPEX Technician of the Year. Tony shares his perspective on mentorship in the automotive industry and the importance of team culture over individual performance. He and Jeff talk about the value of constantly learning and ASE certifications. They also discuss the growing need for open access to service information and support for the Right to Repair Act.

Timestamps:
00:00 "Teamwork and Growth Insights"

10:21 "Learning Extreme Ownership"

15:58 "Path to Becoming an A Tech"

20:45 ASE Test Prep Insights

22:32 "Pursuing Manufacturing Apprenticeship Early"

29:11 "Engine Assembly and Keystone Pipeline"

33:52 "Building Mastery Over Quick Fixes"

43:10 "Workshop Workflow and Logistics"

47:58 "Patience and Perseverance in Challenges"

50:29 "Perseverance and Problem-Solving"

59:27 "Company Culture Drives Success"

01:03:59 Sherwood Family: Teaching Automotive Skills

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In this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Dutch Silverstein and his daughter Ana. Dutch brings up the differences of a transaction-based vs relationship-based business model, urging shop owners to pursue what aligns with their personal values and long-term goals. The conversation highlights the need for self-reflection and sacrifice when considering shop ownership, as well as the dangers of lowering standards in the industry.

Timestamps:
00:00 Celebrating Your Return

03:50 Family-Owned Automotive Safe Haven

07:57 Car Repair Frustrations Persist

11:43 Mechanic Reputation and Trust

14:40 Mechanic's Business Growth Journey

16:52 Personal Betrayal in Safe Space

20:25 "Coaching Costs and Industry Influence"

25:51 "Pursuing Integrity Every Day"

28:49 "Sacrifice for Future Success"

31:10 "Boost Productivity, Build Wealth"

35:13 Work Ethic and Presence

37:00 "Training Wheels Off Moment"

42:23 "Self-Reflection for Business Growth"

43:38 Understanding Business Metrics & Decisions

46:31 Avoiding Pitfalls in Business Growth

50:25 "Unpaid Work Clarification"

53:21 Empowering Technicians for Success

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