In this season 1 finale episode, we take a look back at some of the most memorable stories and insights from our exploration of government surplus auctions. From creative repurposing to community impact, we revisit the fascinating world of Municibid and the unique opportunities it provides.

We heard from Tony Powell about his experience driving a 1969 brush truck won from the Burton Fire Department, highlighting the unique challenges and joys of operating such a vintage vehicle. Ken Johnson and his daughter Tatiana shared their heartwarming cross-country journey in a fire truck they won, complete with impromptu light and siren displays at state lines and a touching tour of a fire station. 

Jackie Blaskovich, Municibid's Director of Customer Success, revealed some of the most unusual items that have appeared on the platform, including Santa's throne and a child-sized suit of armor, showcasing the diverse range of surplus items available. We also delved into how organizations are adapting to supply chain issues, with Troy Bartron explaining Upper Mount Bethel Township's strategy of ordering and then selling a 2025 Mack truck to manage their equipment needs.

The creative repurposing of surplus items was a recurring theme, exemplified by Gavin Lingo's account of how his landscaping company utilizes fire trucks for various purposes beyond their original intent. Lastly, we gained insights into the military surplus world from Adam Hoke, who shared information about the best-selling Mickey Mouse boot at Coleman's Military Surplus, renowned for its extreme cold weather protection.

These stories collectively illustrate the innovative spirit and practical problem-solving that government surplus auctions inspire across diverse sectors and communities.

About the Speaker:
Greg Berry, CEO and Founder of Municibid, is an entrepreneur with a passion for the auction industry, particularly in the government surplus sector. He started the company in 2006 after serving on the town council for the Borough of Pottstown in Pennsylvania. Over the past 17 years, Municibid has grown to serve nearly 6,000 governments across the US and has become a trusted platform for buying and selling government surplus.

Key Takeaways:

• Government surplus auctions provide a win-win situation for municipalities and buyers.
• Creative repurposing of surplus items can lead to innovative solutions for businesses and individuals.
• The impact of these auctions extends beyond financial benefits, fostering community engagement and sustainability.

Looking Ahead:
Stay tuned for the upcoming Season 2, where we'll continue to uncover more fascinating stories from the world of government auctions. Until next time, explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid.

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

Greg Berry dives into the world of retired school buses and explores the creative ways they can be repurposed. From converting them into food trucks or mobile shops to transforming them into RVs known as "skoolies," Greg shares valuable insights on what to consider when purchasing a used school bus at auction.

Greg discusses the benefits of using a school bus, such as ample interior space, abundant natural light from the windows, and the potential for customization. He also addresses the importance of considering factors like size, engine type (front or rear), and the presence of heating or air conditioning when selecting a school bus for your specific needs.

While school buses offer a blank canvas for creative projects, Greg also highlights some potential drawbacks, such as the lack of built-in storage, difficulty in towing, and the need for insulation when converting them into RVs. He provides tips on overcoming these challenges, such as adding storage compartments, replacing windows with double-pane glass, and installing proper insulation.

Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to start a mobile business or an adventurer seeking a unique RV experience, Greg Berry's insights will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a retired school bus at auction.

About the Speaker:
Greg Berry, CEO and Founder of Municibid, is an entrepreneur with a passion for the auction industry, particularly in the government surplus sector. He started the company in 2006 after serving on the town council for the Borough of Pottstown in Pennsylvania. Over the past 17 years, Municibid has grown to serve nearly 6,000 governments across the US and has become a trusted platform for buying and selling government surplus.

Key Takeaways:

• Retired school buses can be repurposed for various applications, such as food trucks, mobile shops, or unique RVs known as "skoolies."
• School buses offer benefits like ample interior space, abundant natural light, and the potential for customization.
• When purchasing a retired school bus, consider factors such as size, engine type, heating or air conditioning, and potential challenges like the lack of built-in storage and insulation.
• With proper planning and customization, a retired school bus can be transformed into a one-of-a-kind mobile business or RV experience.

Additional Resources:

• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• The Different Types of School Buses: https://blog.municibid.com/do-you-know-the-different-types-of-school-buses/
• How to Start a Food Truck: https://blog.municibid.com/how-to-start-a-food-truck-business/

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

A box arrives on your doorstep, labeled "keep frozen." Your well-meaning neighbor, trying to do you a favor, takes the package and puts it in their deep freezer. The catch? The box was recycled to ship a military-grade cold weather parka from Coleman's Military Surplus.

This is just one of the many amusing anecdotes Adam Hoke, the sales manager at Coleman's Military Surplus, shares in today's episode. But the story of this company is much more than a collection of funny tales—it's a testament to the power of adaptation, the thrill of the treasure hunt, and the enduring value of preserving history.

Coleman's Military Surplus has been a fixture in the world of surplus goods for over half a century. What began as a modest operation run out of a chicken coop has evolved into a thriving ecommerce business, continually navigating the challenges of an ever-changing industry.

In this episode, Adam takes us on a journey through the ups and downs of running a surplus business in the digital age. He reveals the strategies that have kept Coleman's Military Surplus competitive in an era where customers expect fast shipping and low prices, and shares insights into the company's best-selling products and most unusual finds.

But more than that, Adam showcases the passion and dedication that drives the team at Coleman's Military Surplus. From the thrill of sourcing one-of-a-kind items at government auctions to the satisfaction of providing value to their customers, the story of this company is one of resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to the treasure hunt.

So join us as we explore the fascinating world of military surplus, where every item has a story and every sale is an opportunity to connect with history. Who knows? You might just be inspired to embark on your own treasure hunt.

About the Guest:
Adam Hoke is the sales manager at Coleman's Military Surplus, a leading retailer of military surplus goods with over 50 years of history. With a decade of experience at Coleman's, Adam has played a key role in the company's transition from a small brick-and-mortar store to a thriving ecommerce business. In his role, he oversees various aspects of the company, including people management, inventory management, and logistics, while remaining passionate about preserving history and providing value to customers by sourcing unique, high-quality military surplus items from around the world.

Chapters:
The Origins of Coleman's Military Surplus (1:56)
Navigating the Challenges of Ecommerce (4:14)
A Day in the Life at Coleman's Military Surplus (6:57)
The Treasure Hunt: Mickey Mouse Boots to an Airplane Propeller (9:19)
Surplus Auctions and Government Contractors for Sourcing Inventory (13:23)
Adam's Love for Auctions (14:48)
Advice for Auction Newcomers (20:00)
The Future of Coleman's Military Surplus (21:10)
Funny Stories and Memorable Moments (22:14)

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about Coleman’s Military Surplus
• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• Learn more about Government Surplus Vehicles: https://blog.municibid.com/the-government-surplus-vehicle-guide/ 

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

Greg Berry shares his insights on purchasing retired ambulances at auction. He explores the various ways these vehicles can be repurposed, from mobile businesses to unique RVs, and provides tips on what to look for when buying a used ambulance.

Greg discusses how ambulances can be converted into mobile workshops, food trucks, or even tailgating vehicles. He highlights the advantages of using an ambulance, such as spacious interiors, built-in storage, power outlets, and temperature control. Greg also shares how ambulances can be transformed into RVs, known as "campulances," for those seeking adventure off the beaten path.

While owning a retired ambulance can open up a world of possibilities, Berry also addresses some potential drawbacks, such as lower fuel efficiency.

Whether you're an entrepreneur looking for a unique mobile business solution or an adventurer seeking a one-of-a-kind RV experience, Greg Berry provides valuable insights to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a retired ambulance at auction.

About the Speaker:

Greg Berry, CEO and Founder of Municibid, is an entrepreneur with a passion for the auction industry, particularly in the government surplus sector. He started the company in 2006 after serving on the town council for the Borough of Pottstown in Pennsylvania. Over the past 17 years, Municibid has grown to serve nearly 6,000 governments across the US and has become a trusted platform for buying and selling government surplus.

Key Takeaways:

• Retired ambulances can be repurposed for various applications, such as mobile businesses, tailgate vehicles, or unique RVs.
• Ambulances offer advantages like spacious interiors, built-in storage, power outlets, and temperature control.
• When purchasing a retired ambulance, consider factors such as previous use, mileage, wear and tear, and potential "remounts."
• Owning a retired ambulance can open up a world of possibilities for entrepreneurs and adventurers alike.

Additional Resources:

• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• The Ultimate Tailgate Vehicle: https://blog.municibid.com/how-one-man-converted-an-ambulance-into-a-tailgate-vehicle-masterpiece/
• Why an Ambulance Makes a Great RV: https://blog.municibid.com/why-an-ambulance-makes-a-great-rv/
• How to Build Your Ambulance Work Truck: https://blog.municibid.com/how-to-build-your-ambulance-work-truck/
• Breaking Down the Cost of an Ambulance: https://blog.municibid.com/breaking-down-the-cost-of-an-ambulance-vehicle/
• Looking to sell your government surplus? Learn more about how to sell: https://municibid.com/sell/ 

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

Gavin Lingo shares his 38 years of experience in building and growing his landscaping and nursery company. He highlights some of his favorite projects, such as a large cobble driveway on a farm, which involved complex elevations, grades, hardscaping, and lighting. He also mentions big pond jobs with walls, retaining walls, and integrated lighting and audio systems. Gavin emphasizes the importance of logistics and coordination in executing these projects successfully.

When it comes to his fleet and equipment, Gavin admits to having a wide variety of trucks and machines, including Mack trucks, Internationals, Freightliners, tractor-trailers, hook trucks, and various trailers. He considers hook trucks and tree spades to be the most essential for his business, as they help move materials and large trees efficiently.

Gavin shares his experience with government auctions, particularly his favorite win on Municibid – a Vermeer trencher with low hours that paid for itself on a single large project. He also mentions purchasing fire trucks, which he uses for watering, advertising, and even birthday parties.

For those starting a landscaping business, Gavin advises controlled growth, focusing on being really good at what they do, and prioritizing customer needs. He emphasizes the importance of personal connections and communication in today's tech-driven world.

Gavin also discusses the challenges and rewards of running a family business, stressing the significance of effective communication among family members working together.

About the Guest:
Gavin Lingo is the owner of Lingo Group Incorporated, a landscape nursery operation that handles various aspects of outdoor projects, including design, build, maintenance, and installation. With 38 years in the business, Gavin has grown his company to 50 employees, 45 trucks, and 22 acres of nursery stock. He runs the business alongside his wife, two sons, and daughter.

Key Takeaways:

• Lingo Group Incorporated offers a wide range of landscaping services, focusing on delivering high-quality work and customer satisfaction.
• Effective logistics and coordination are crucial for executing complex landscaping projects successfully.
• Hook trucks and tree spades are essential equipment for efficiently moving materials and large trees in the landscaping industry.
• Government auctions, such as those on Municibid, can provide valuable equipment and vehicles for landscaping businesses at a fraction of the cost of new items.
• When starting a landscaping business, controlled growth, specialization, and personal connections with customers are key factors for success.
• Running a family business requires effective communication and balance between family time and business responsibilities.

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about Lingo Group 
• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• Learn more about Government Surplus Vehicles: https://blog.municibid.com/the-government-surplus-vehicle-guide/ 
• How Much Does a Fire Truck Cost? https://blog.municibid.com/how-much-does-a-fire-truck-cost/
• Creative Fire Truck Conversions: https://blog.municibid.com/fire-truck-conversions/

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

Troy Bartron and Cindy Beck from Upper Mount Bethel Township share insights into the challenges and successes of managing a rural township's projects and resources. With a strong focus on community development and fiscal responsibility, they discuss Upper Mount Bethel Township's projects, including the restoration of a 60-acre park and the ongoing maintenance of their municipal fleet.

Troy and Cindy highlight the importance of selling government surplus through platforms like Municibid, which has transformed the way they liquidate assets while maximizing returns for taxpayers. Check out the 2025 Mack they sold on Municibid.

About the Guests:
Troy Bartron is an equipment operator and mechanic for Upper Mount Bethel Township, bringing extensive experience from working in various municipalities throughout his career. His expertise in fleet maintenance and project management has been instrumental in the township's growth and efficiency.

Cindy Beck serves as the office secretary for Upper Mount Bethel Township, playing a crucial role in the day-to-day operations and administrative tasks of the municipality.

Key Takeaways:

• Upper Mount Bethel Township is a rural community with a rich history, featuring scenic attractions like the Delaware River, breweries, and vineyards for residents and visitors.
• The township is building a 60-acre park, which includes preserving historical farm buildings and creating new amenities for the community.
• Selling government surplus through Municibid has been a game-changer for the township, providing a cost-effective and efficient way to liquidate assets while ensuring transparency and fairness.
• Effective fleet maintenance and adaptability in the face of challenges, such as supply chain issues and severe weather events, are crucial for the smooth operation of the township's projects and services.

Additional Resources:

• Discover Upper Mount Bethel Township: https://www.umbt.org/
• 2025 Mack sold on Municibid: https://municibid.com/Listing/Details/64616377/2025-Mack-Tandem-Cab-and-Chassis
• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• Learn more about Government Surplus Vehicles: https://blog.municibid.com/the-government-surplus-vehicle-guide/ 
• Looking to sell your government surplus? Learn more about how to sell: https://municibid.com/sell/

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

In this special episode of the Municibid Podcast, the Municibid team comes together to celebrate the company's 18th anniversary. Founder and CEO Greg Berry is joined by Jackie Blaskovich, Jameel Farruk, Sam Penkacik, and Sophie Eden to share their experiences, favorite memories, and dreams for the future of Municibid.

The team reflects on their initial exposure to government auctions and how their understanding has grown over the years. They share stories of memorable items sold on Municibid, from a 1970s Volkswagen Beetle police car to a hovercraft used for water and ice rescue. 

Key moments of pride for the team include Municibid Connect, a free service provided during the pandemic to connect government agencies with suppliers of PPE, and the company's consistent drive to innovate and lead the industry. Looking forward, the team is excited about the potential for further growth, the integration of AI technology balanced with personalized service, and the ongoing mission to support local communities and businesses.

Key Takeaways:

• Municibid's quirky and niche business has led to memorable moments, like Jameel asking about backhoes on his first day and Greg meeting a customer while at an Apple store in Las Vegas.
• The team's favorite Municibid memories revolve around spending time together outside of work, from Jackie's wedding to company retreats filled with adventure (and sometimes mishaps, like a rocky sailboat ride!)
• During the pandemic, Municibid quickly pivoted to create Municibid Connect, a free service connecting government agencies with PPE suppliers, demonstrating the team's adaptability and commitment to doing the right thing.
• The team's diverse backgrounds and personalities contribute to a quirky yet harmonious work environment that fosters innovation and out-of-the-box thinking.

About the Municibid Team:
Greg Berry
Founder and CEO of Municibid, launched the company in 2006 after identifying a need for municipalities to get true market value for their surplus to invest back into their communities.

Jackie Blaskovich
Director of Customer Success, celebrating 8 years with Municibid, has become an expert in government auctions. She manages support and behind the scenes operations that keep the auction process ticking smoothly

Jameel Farruk
Director of Sales, with Municibid for over 6 years, focuses on connecting with government agencies, attending municipal conferences, and expanding Municibid's reach.

Sam Penkacik
Head of Design, recently joined the team, brings fresh perspectives and ideas to enhance the user experience.

Sophie Eden
Director of Marketing, approaching her 4th Municiversary in August, leads initiatives to promote auctions, fine tune item notifications to bidders, and share customer stories.

Additional Resources:

• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• Learn more about Government Surplus Vehicles: https://blog.municibid.com/the-government-surplus-vehicle-guide/
• Looking to sell your government surplus? Learn more about how to sell: https://municibid.com/sell/ 

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

Jackie Blaskovich, Director of Customer Success at Municibid, celebrates her 8th Municiversary (Municibid anniversary). She shares her experiences working with bidders and sellers, the wildest items she's seen up for auction, and her dreams for Municibid's future.

Jackie highlights the excitement of watching auctions heat up in the final minutes and shares stories of bidders addicted to the thrill of winning. She highlights the advantages of online auctions over in-person auctions, such as a wider audience and increased competition leading to higher prices, and shares a recent example of a tub grinder starting at $2,500 and selling for $92,100.

Looking to the future, Jackie envisions continued growth for Municibid, with plans for improved communication among selling agencies, a streamlined payment system, and enhanced customer feedback channels.

Key Takeaways:

• Municibid offers a wide array of unique and interesting items up for auction, ranging from rare vehicles to lost and found items.
• Online auctions provide a broader audience and increased competition compared to in-person auctions, often resulting in higher prices.
• Municibid prioritizes real human interaction in customer support over AI to ensure effective problem-solving and customer satisfaction.
• Streamlining processes, improving communication, and enhancing customer feedback channels are key focus areas for Municibid's future growth.
• Municibid auctions have a direct impact on local communities, with all proceeds going back to the selling agencies.

About the Guest:
Jackie Blaskovich is the Director of Customer Success at Municibid, celebrating her 8th anniversary with the company. With a deep understanding of the auction process and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Jackie plays a vital role in ensuring the success of both bidders and sellers on the Municibid platform.

Additional Resources:

• Connect with Jackie Blaskovich on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-blaskovich-08528411b/
• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• Learn more about Government Surplus Vehicles: https://blog.municibid.com/the-government-surplus-vehicle-guide/
• Looking to sell your government surplus? Learn more about how to sell: https://municibid.com/sell/ 

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

Greg Berry shares his insights on purchasing retired fire trucks at auction. Berry explores the unique features of these vehicles, the reasons fire departments sell them, and what to consider when buying one for personal or business use.

Berry discusses the various types of fire trucks available, from aerial trucks to water tenders, and how they can be repurposed for different applications, such as landscaping, farming, or even converting them into an RV. He also shares tips on inspecting a fire truck before bidding, including key areas to examine and questions to ask the seller.

Whether you're a firefighting enthusiast, a business owner looking for a unique work truck, or simply someone who has always dreamed of owning a fire truck, Greg Berry provides valuable information to help you make an informed decision.

About the Speaker:

Greg Berry, CEO and Founder of Municibid, is an entrepreneur with a passion for the auction industry, particularly in the government surplus sector. He started the company in 2006 after serving on the town council for the Borough of Pottstown in Pennsylvania. Over the past 17 years, Municibid has grown to serve nearly 6,000 governments across the US and has become a trusted platform for buying and selling government surplus.

Key Takeaways:

• Retired fire trucks can be purchased at a fraction of the cost of a new one, with prices ranging from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.
• Fire departments typically use their trucks for decades before replacing them and take great care of their vehicles.
• Fire trucks can be repurposed for various applications, such as landscaping, farming, work trucks, or even converted into an RV.
• Inspecting the fire truck in person before bidding is crucial, with key areas to examine including the frame, suspension, brakes, tires, and engine.

Additional Resources:

• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• Everything You Need to Know to Buy a Fire Truck: https://blog.municibid.com/can-you-buy-a-fire-truck-everything-you-need-to-know/
• Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Fire Truck: https://blog.municibid.com/do-you-need-a-cdl-to-drive-a-fire-truck/
• Learn more about Government Surplus Vehicles: https://blog.municibid.com/the-government-surplus-vehicle-guide
• Looking to sell your government surplus? Learn more about how to sell: https://municibid.com/sell/ 

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]

Jameel Farruk uncovers the trends he’s seeing in government surplus and the services for the public sector. He notes the rapid innovation in technology solutions designed to help governments operate smarter, more efficiently, and cost-effectively. He shares highlights from the government conferences he has recently attended and the ones he is looking forward to in the near future. 

If you’re at the Government Purchasing Association of New Jersey (GPANJ) conference right now, go say hi to Jameel at booth 26!

Jameel recaps his experience at the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors (PSATS) conference, which Municibid has been attending for over a decade. He highlights the opportunity to connect with a majority of Municibid’s Pennsylvania-based customers under one roof and the educational sessions that allow government officials to network, discuss best practices, and learn about new policies.

He’s looking forward to attending the New Jersey Association of Counties (NJAC) event. He emphasizes three core benefits of attending these conferences: connecting with customers face-to-face, learning about their pain points and areas for improvement, and exploring new opportunities to expand Municibid's services.

Jameel shares an anecdote from a previous NJAC conference held at a casino in Atlantic City, where attendees often compare the final two minutes of a Municibid auction to the excitement of watching a horse race or placing bets at a sportsbook. He recounts a story of a John Deere tractor that jumped from $30,000 to over $110,000 in the last half-hour of bidding, greatly exceeding the seller's expectations.

Say hello to Jameel at upcoming municipal conferences. Plus, find out Jameel’s favorite Beatles song.

About the Guest:
Jameel Farruk, Director of Sales at Municibid, regularly attends government conferences to connect with customers and keep a pulse on the trends in government surplus. He has a deep understanding of the government surplus industry and a passion for building relationships. He’s also a Beatles fan.

Key Takeaways:

• The market for surplus government vehicles remains strong, allowing governments to generate more revenue by selling these vehicles at favorable prices.
• Online auctions benefit government surplus by reaching a broader audience, increasing competition, and generating higher revenue compared to traditional methods like sealed bids.
• Government technology innovation is booming, with conferences playing a vital role in showcasing the latest advancements and facilitating collaboration.
• Building connections through government partnerships is essential for municipalities to navigate challenges, expand resources, and improve services for the public.
• The final minutes of a Municibid auction can be as thrilling as watching a horse race or placing bets at a casino, with the potential for greatly exceeding expectations.
• Find out Jameel’s favorite Beatles song!

Additional Resources:

• Connect with Jameel Farruk on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfarruk/
• Explore the wild world of government surplus at Municibid
• Learn more about Government Surplus Vehicles: https://blog.municibid.com/the-government-surplus-vehicle-guide/
• Looking to sell your government surplus? Learn more about how to sell: https://municibid.com/sell/ 

Got feedback or want to be a guest? Email us at [email protected]