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

Arlene Clements, Vice President of Business Development at Dominion DMS, joins Kaylee Felio for a gritty, optimistic conversation on dealership inventory management and data integration. Dominion's Vue DMS was built from the ground up as an open, modern platform—meaning dealerships can actually select their tech stack and integrate best-in-class tools like PartsEdge without the headache.

Arlene breaks down the challenges dealerships face with parts inventory, the urgent need to turn inventory faster, and why bi-directional, real-time integrations are the new foundation for efficient operations. Kaylee shares the day-to-day struggles of parts managers and how this integration finally fixes the disconnect that’s plagued dealerships for years.

We dive into how automated inventory management is revolutionizing parts departments, freeing up capital, reducing obsolescence, and powering customer satisfaction. Plus, get a peek behind the curtain at how PartsEdge is leveraging AI for smarter parts stocking every month.

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Takeaways

1. Open, real-time integrations empower dealerships to choose best-in-class tools and optimize operations.

2. Automated inventory management reduces manual entry, obsolescence, and frees up cash for growth.

3. AI-powered analysis helps parts managers stock smarter and adapt to market changes without the guesswork.

Chapters

00:00 Challenges with DMS integration

06:17 Discussing tech integration challenges

08:31 Optimizing dealer inventory

10:32 Managing inventory and ordering parts

15:49 Building a stable DMS launch

18:28 Training AI for inventory analysis

Kaylee Felio

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

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Arlene Clements
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arlene-clements-9005543

In this month’s live webinar series replay, Chuck Hartle digs deep into the nuts and bolts of inventory sources, DMS best practices, and why source structuring isn’t just a technical detail—it’s your key to better control, profitability, and stress-free reporting. Join PartsEdge’s original founder as he shares 30+ years of real-world expertise, breaking down source myths, and giving you a practical blueprint to turn inventory headaches into data-driven wins.

Whether you're new to the concept or looking to revamp your existing structure, Chuck’s approach demystifies commodity-based sources—from milk vs. canned asparagus (yes, really!) to actionable insights for parts managers who want to spend less time fixing messes and more time driving ROI.

Learn how to set up your DMS to work for you, segment parts smarter, and create a solid foundation for leaner inventory, cleaner books, and happier customers.

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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. Break Down Your Inventory by Commodity

2. Customize Phase-In/Phase-Out and Day Supply

3. Source Structure Powers Accurate Accounting

Chapters

00:00 "Streamlining Inventory for Efficiency"

04:34 "Pricing and Sourcing Dynamics"

08:51 Optimizing Pricing and Sales Overrides

12:26 "Vehicle Accessories Sales Insights"

13:28 "Tire Inventory and Pricing Strategy"

17:14 "Optimizing Bulk Oil Inventory"

21:35 "Managing Unwanted Stock Decisions"

25:45 "Forced Stock Inventory Analysis"

30:02 "Managing Obsolete Inventory Risks"

32:13 "Dynamic Source Structure Benefits"

36:50 "Parts Setup Challenges Explained"

38:56 "Boosting Your Inventory Strategies"

This week, Kaylee sits down with Mark Michalski, seasoned NADA Academy instructor and dealership veteran, for a no-nonsense conversation about what it really takes to thrive in today’s parts departments.

Mark Michalski shares eye-opening stories from decades on the ground in dealerships across the country—digging into the challenges, opportunities, and big changes happening in auto parts management. From the realities of walking into a new department with inherited processes, to actionable advice on fill rates, training, and the future of dealership ops, you’ll walk away with real-world strategies you can use now.

Whether you’re a seasoned parts manager or just stepping into the role, this episode delivers hard-earned wisdom—plus a look ahead at technology, AI, and why parts departments deserve a seat at the table. Don’t miss Mark Michalski's take on empowering employees, modernizing inventory practices, and building a network of support that drives dealership success.

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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. Training and Empowerment Matter

2. Data-Driven Inventory Wins

3. Community and Collaboration Are Game-Changers

Chapters

00:00 Automotive Dealer Training Programs

04:20 "Parts Manager Training Challenges"

09:00 Optimizing Parts Department Operations

10:52 "Building Connections for Success"

14:46 Optimizing Sales Through Data Insights

17:33 "Challenges in Parts Management"

21:37 "Store Individuality and Similarities"

25:12 "Challenges of Vendor-Managed Inventory"

26:08 "Challenges in Parts Management Training"

32:39 "Collaboration Over Competition in AI"

33:42 Lack of Industry Standardization

36:55 Passion for Supporting Students

Kaylee Felio

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

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

Mark Michalski

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

Live Webinar Series replay with Resident parts expert and founder of PartsEdge, Chuck Hartle, dives deep into one of the most crucial—and often overlooked—elements of dealership parts management: pricing strategy for customer pay repair orders. Chuck Hartle shares actionable steps for evaluating, investigating, implementing, and reviewing your pricing approach, revealing how matrix pricing, menu maintenance items, and manufacturer adjustments can make or break your gross profits. Real world stories, straightforward exercises, and a dash of parts department humor make this a must-listen for anyone looking to power up their parts operation.

Discover why your pricing shouldn’t be “set in stone,” how to spot hidden profit leaks, and what automotive dealerships can learn from big retail marketing. Whether you’re a parts manager, fixed ops leader, or dealership principal, you’ll come away with clear steps to unlock better ROI, customer satisfaction, and department health.

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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. Regularly review both matrix and menu pricing to ensure profit margins keep pace with manufacturer cost changes.

2. Simple spreadsheet exercises can reveal where suggested retail falls short and which parts are dragging down gross.

3. Pricing is never set in stone—experiment with incremental adjustments and track how they impact profit and customer response.

Chapters

00:00 Effective Parts Pricing Strategies

06:28 Updating Your Parts Pricing Strategy

07:49 "Matrix and Warranty Markup Strategy"

13:19 Analyzing Manufacturer Profit Margins

15:30 "BMW Pricing and Profit Margins"

19:02 Escalator Categories Explained

21:28 "Optimizing Pricing & Overrides"

26:53 "Boost Gross with Small Tweaks"

29:01 Optimizing Gross Profit Strategies

32:37 "Service Success Through Tweaks"

35:31 "Optimizing Pricing and Matrix Strategies"

39:58 Optimizing Reporting & Inventory Control

42:02 Monthly Meeting Reminder

In this episode, Kaylee Felio sits down with William Demaree, FixedOps Director at Tom Wood Auto Group, to dive into dealership innovation, process accountability, and real-world applications of AI, robotics, and technician development. Bill shares actionable strategies for scaling operations across 30 locations, building a culture of accountability, and leveraging technology to deliver better customer experiences and empower employees.

From developing role-specific handbooks and launching tech training programs to pioneering AI-driven customer communications and video inspection platforms, Bill’s insights are a must-hear for dealership leaders and anyone wanting to drive results in fixed ops.

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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. Documented Processes Drive Performance

2. Tech-Enabled Communication & Training

3. Invest in Your Talent Pipeline

Chapters

00:00 FixedOps Banquet and Strategy Shift

04:30 Service Standards and Accountability

06:55 FixedOps Marketing and Sales Plan

10:44 "PartsEdge Certification and Training Opportunities"

15:03 "AI Transforming Business Operations"

18:21 Customer Alerts via NPS Dashboard

21:20 Improving Industry Operations Over Time

25:42 "Frustration Over Reporting Issues"

28:41 "Snapshot to Process Breakdown"

32:44 UVI Systems Boost Sales Success

35:58 Building Future Through Education

37:52 Tool Trucks Disrupting Auto Shops

Kaylee Felio

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

Website: https://www.partsedge.com

William Demaree

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