Today, Kaylee Felio chats live from the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit with Melissa Terrell, whose company is transforming how dealerships leverage customer feedback. Together, they dig into how online reviews—especially when connected to your DMS data—do more than just boost your Google stars. They become the fuel to fix your foundation, stock smarter, retain more customers, and create winning teams.

You’ll learn why authentic review management paired with smart automation is not just another box to check—it’s the difference between falling behind and being the local leader. Listen in for fresh ideas on turning customer insights into clear, monthly actions that free up parts managers to focus on growth, not just putting out fires.

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Takeaways

1. Feedback is the foundation that drives sustainable growth

2. Actionable intelligence beats data overload

3. Authenticity wins online and in the store

Chapters

00:00 Introduction with Kaylee Felio

04:11 Exploring vendor demos for dealerships

07:12 Handling service advisor calls

09:41 General agreement and acknowledgment

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Kaylee Felio chats live from the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit with Michael Webb of AutoEngage, diving into the fast-evolving world of fixed ops, service scheduling, and customer experience. Michael unpacks how AutoEngage leverages AI to streamline service appointments, minimize manual work, and deliver a true "Amazon-like" experience for dealership customers—all while directly integrating into major DMS platforms. The conversation shines a light on cutting through the digital noise, focusing on automation that actually serves staff and customers, not just tech for tech’s sake.

Along the way, they discuss the unique energy of fixed ops-focused events, the shift from traditional campaigns to real-time, intelligent outreach, and what's next for integrating parts with service scheduling. Michael brings gritty, optimistic insights about making operational processes smoother while nurturing every customer touchpoint in the dealership journey.

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Takeaways

1. Real-time, AI-driven scheduling reduces manual work and elevates the customer experience.

2. Dealerships should treat automation tools as “employees” that need training and oversight.

3. Integrating parts with service scheduling is on the horizon—fix the foundation now to be ready for next-gen efficiency.

Chapters

00:00 AI in auto service scheduling

05:15 Discussing BDC's role in service

06:12 The AI-driven customer experience

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

This episode of the PartsEdge Podcast brings you straight from the NCM “Fuel the Future” Fixed Ops Summit. Kaylee Felio catches up with Kyle Morissette  from Techwall and Jim Boehnlein of UVEye to unpack how collaboration and streamlined technology are making dealership parts and service departments more efficient—and more profitable than ever.

They dive into the importance of integrating systems so dealership teams aren’t juggling endless logins, and share real stories of how automation has taken the busywork out of service lanes (think: automated tire measurements and instant vehicle inspections). Discover how partnering across platforms empowers advisors, technicians, and managers to deliver a faster, more transparent customer experience—and how it’s transforming service lane acquisition into a massive opportunity.

Whether you’re a fixed ops veteran or new to turning faster inventory, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and gritty optimism for the future of dealer operations.

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Takeaways

1. Integrated workflows reduce friction and save serious time for advisors, techs, and managers.

2. Automation transforms the service lane into a profit center—think instant inspections, instant appraisals.

3. Collaborative partnerships across vendors build stronger customer experiences and dealership growth.

Chapters

00:00 Focusing on customer retention

05:59 Improving the customer walkaround process

08:22 Improving workflow with technology

11:43 Streamlining used car readiness

13:20 Reflecting on conference success

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

This episode of the PartsEdge Podcast features a dynamic conversation at the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit, where Kaylee Felio interviewed Beth and Tricia from Herrin Gear Infiniti. Both are newly minted parts and service managers, navigating the challenges of rebuilding their departments, fixing the foundation, and taking their dealership’s performance to the next level.

From learning curves to leveling up with new tech, these leaders share how they're harnessing strong communication, AI tools, and collaborative vendor partnerships to turn inventory faster, support their teams, and keep customer satisfaction at an all-time high. This gritty, optimistic conversation is packed with practical insights for parts managers, service leaders, and anyone ready to stop making inventory a guessing game.

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Takeaways

1. Communication between parts and service is essential to fixing issues and running efficiently

2. Leverage technology and AI tools

3. Invest in networking and partner relationships

Chapters

00:00 Improving customer response strategies

04:03 Power of video reviews

08:42 Recognizing employee successes

10:11 Talking about data fog

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Kaylee Felio joined Maureen Martin, VP of Strategic Alliances at Dynatron Software, and James Grogan, EVP of Client Success at Dynatron Software at the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit. Together, they dig into what it takes to future-proof dealership fixed ops. From data-driven decision-making and industry-wide best practices, to strengthening the partnership between parts and service teams, this conversation is all about actionable steps for turning inventory faster, reducing obsolescence, and maximizing retention.

Learn how embracing data visibility and the right tools can clear the “data fog” that holds departments back, and why marrying parts and service pricing strategies is crucial for results. The team shares how automation, compliance checks, and optimized parts pricing grids empower parts managers and directors to lead with confidence—no more guessing games, no more leaving money on the table.

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Takeaways

1. Fix the foundation

2. Turn inventory faster

3. Collaboration between parts and service leaders, paired with performance insights, reduces friction and boosts overall dealership health.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding dealership data challenges

06:21 Pricing strategy and customer retention

06:56 Discussing fixed operations insights

11:30 Embracing AI in the industry

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

On this episode of Parts Edge Podcast, Kaylee Felio sits down LIVE with Robert Perez, Fixed Operations Director of South Texas Auto Group, at the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit. Robert shares strategies for embracing new technology, tackling obsolescence, and the future of mobile service in dealership Fixed Ops. From maximizing appointment scheduling with AI to streamlining reporting and leveraging PartsEdge as a true co-pilot, this chat is packed with gritty, practical tips for fixed ops leaders looking to turn inventory faster and fix the foundation.

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Takeaways

1. Leverage technology and reporting tools like PartsEdge to run a lean, efficient parts department—you can’t fix what you can’t see.

2. Embrace AI-driven appointment schedulers to maximize service opportunity and keep your bays (and customers) flowing.

3. Start experimenting with mobile service now—customers want convenience, and the dealerships willing to try new models will win.

Chapters

00:00 Importance of consistent service

05:58 Discussing GM mobile service program

06:44 Adopting mobile car services

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Chuck Hartle, parts expert and founder of PartsEdge is back with a special episode: a replay of the hugely popular webinar covering parts pricing strategies—all about how your dealership’s matrix and source structure within the DMS directly affect your margins and control. Chuck breaks down the steps to truly review your pricing foundation, shares real examples from over 300 dealerships, and exposes common pitfalls that are quietly shrinking your profits.

From reviewing your price matrix and recognizing when manufacturers “matrix you” to updating overlooked menu-priced items, this episode is packed with real-world insights that parts managers can take action on today. The conversation covers reporting musts, what to tweak and how, debunks pricing myths, and delivers gritty, optimistic advice for running a lean, high-performance parts department.

If you’re a fixed ops leader or dealership manager looking to turn inventory faster, reduce obsolescence, and stop guessing when it comes to pricing, this replay is your co-pilot.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com

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Takeaways

1. Tweak and review your pricing matrix and menu-priced items regularly: Don’t let outdated menu prices or unchecked DMS categories quietly drain your margins.

2. Analyze gross profit by report, not by guesswork: Running detailed reports to identify low-margin items is the foundation for smarter stocking and stronger profit lines.

3. Small adjustments make a big impact: Incremental price increases on high-volume, low-margin parts (like filters) can push your gross profit margin closer to the magic 40%—without scaring off customers.

   
   

Chapters

00:00 Building an effective pricing strategy

03:18 Evaluating customer pay gross margins

08:44 Evaluating profit margins in sales

11:02 Analyzing profit margins in spreadsheets

16:57 Adjusting profit margins and pricing strategy

20:15 Finding market threshold and pricing strategy

22:59 Analyzing low gross profit parts

27:56 Understanding gross profit strategies

29:07 Adjusting pricing strategies

33:20 Reviewing and fixing accounting issues

38:48 Pricing strategies for auto parts

40:08 Discussing profit margins and pricing strategies

44:38 Discussing OEM online pricing

46:40 Discussing retail pricing strategies

Website: 

https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Joe Castelino is the VP of Fixed Operations for American Motors Group, overseeing a diverse portfolio of twelve dealerships. In this high-energy episode, he dives into the real-world strategies behind launching a massive new GM parts warehouse, scaling mobile service across brands, and why empowering frontline techs is the dealership’s secret weapon.

Joe shares gritty lessons from running fast-moving fixed ops departments—from how he builds business cases for every investment, to the “adapt or die” mentality that's driving innovation at American Motors. With insights on intercompany wholesale, parts sourcing headaches, and memorable moments of customer service (yes, private planes are involved), this episode is packed with candid advice for parts managers and dealership leaders ready to fix the foundation and run lean.

Tune in for warehouse launch details, mobile service wins and fails, and Joe Castelino's take on what parts managers must do to remain growth-focused and competitive in today’s changing market.

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Takeaways

1. Build a strong business case for every investment—track ROI, set clear payoff timelines, and always know what keeps you “in the plus column.”

2. Empower frontline techs and parts managers—let them innovate and weigh in on service delivery for continual improvement.

3. Adapt or die—embrace change, centralize operations where possible, and use data to stay ahead in a fast-moving market.

Chapters

00:00 Talking about vintage brand clothing

05:58 Exploring the GM Powertrain program

09:07 Expanding warehouse operations

11:53 Centralizing wholesale and mobile services

14:16 Offering quick car services

18:04 Team bonding and mentorship moments

21:55 The rise of convenience services

26:01 Streamlining parts procurement process

28:17 Buying stores and learning to fly

31:56 Attending an exciting trade show

35:27 Evaluating potential companies

38:33 Vendor relationships and conversations

41:25 Discussing product trial periods

45:15 Changes in management's role

46:23 Innovative parts management strategy

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Joe Castelino

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joecastelino

Joe Castelino is the VP of Fixed Operations for American Motors Group, overseeing a diverse portfolio of twelve dealerships. In this high-energy episode, he dives into the real-world strategies behind launching a massive new GM parts warehouse, scaling mobile service across brands, and why empowering frontline techs is the dealership’s secret weapon.

Joe shares gritty lessons from running fast-moving fixed ops departments—from how he builds business cases for every investment, to the “adapt or die” mentality that's driving innovation at American Motors. With insights on intercompany wholesale, parts sourcing headaches, and memorable moments of customer service (yes, private planes are involved), this episode is packed with candid advice for parts managers and dealership leaders ready to fix the foundation and run lean.

Tune in for warehouse launch details, mobile service wins and fails, and Joe Castelino's take on what parts managers must do to remain growth-focused and competitive in today’s changing market.

--------------------------------------------

Takeaways

1. Build a strong business case for every investment—track ROI, set clear payoff timelines, and always know what keeps you “in the plus column.”

2. Empower frontline techs and parts managers—let them innovate and weigh in on service delivery for continual improvement.

3. Adapt or die—embrace change, centralize operations where possible, and use data to stay ahead in a fast-moving market.

Chapters

00:00 Talking about vintage brand clothing

05:58 Exploring the GM Powertrain program

09:07 Expanding warehouse operations

11:53 Centralizing wholesale and mobile services

14:16 Offering quick car services

18:04 Team bonding and mentorship moments

21:55 The rise of convenience services

26:01 Streamlining parts procurement process

28:17 Buying stores and learning to fly

31:56 Attending an exciting trade show

35:27 Evaluating potential companies

38:33 Vendor relationships and conversations

41:25 Discussing product trial periods

45:15 Changes in management's role

46:23 Innovative parts management strategy

Kaylee Felio

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Joe Castelino

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joecastelino

Join our Live Webinar Series replay with Chuck Hartle, for a gritty and motivating deep-dive into Parts Reconciliation—one of the most critical (and, let's be real, stressful!) tasks facing dealership parts managers.

From month-end headaches to real-world tales of missing inventory and reconciliation “gotchas,” Chuck Hartle explains how to fix the foundation, turn inventory faster, and give parts managers back control of their numbers. Hear actionable guidance, common pitfalls, and the team’s most powerful tools for reconciling inventory every month, with plenty of energy and collaborative expertise.

Whether you’re proactively dialing in your department or face a surprise shortfall, this episode is your co-pilot to smarter processes, fewer emergencies, and inventory that’s never a guessing game.

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This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.

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Takeaways

1. Monthly reconciliations catch issues early—fix the foundation, don’t fight constant “emergencies.”

2. Keep thorough records for cores, return claims, and work-in-process—missing these can throw off your whole inventory picture.

3. Understand and communicate with accounting—80% of inventory issues are posting problems, not warehouse mistakes.

Chapters

00:00 Handling month end reconciliation

06:43 Investigating inventory discrepancies

09:33 Tracking inventory and credits spreadsheet

13:23 Managing negative inventory issues

16:17 Managing invoiced but unreceived inventory

19:30 Resolving WIP variance issues

22:07 Investigating dealership invoice errors

25:03 Handling warranty and parts billing

27:13 Dealing with inventory discrepancies

31:46 Managing inventory accuracy

34:20 Challenges for controllers at month end

37:44 Monthly inventory and reconciliation tips

41:47 Wrapping up and next steps