What separates a struggling detailer from a thriving business owner?In this episode of the Detail Bookie Podcast, we sit down with Tony Pando to break down the mindset, strategy, and real opportunities most detailers overlook.This conversation goes beyond detailing—it’s about thinking like a business owner.We dive into:• How paint chip repair can become a high-profit add-on• Why most detailers are leaving money on the table• The difference between being an artisan vs. an entrepreneur• How to approach dealerships and create consistent income• The truth about pricing, upsells, and volume vs. luxury work• Why fear holds most people back—and how to overcome itIf you’re serious about growing your detailing business, increasing revenue, and building something sustainable… this episode will challenge how you think.This isn’t just about cleaning cars.This is about building a business that works.Guest:Tomy PandoDr. Color Chiphttps://drcolorchip.com/Host:Rod Puzey and Jody SedrickRoadFS/DetailBookie Podcast👉 Like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear this.Auto Detailing CRMRoadFS.comDetailbookie.com

Industry veteran Chris Metcalf sits down with the Road to Detail Bookie podcast to talk about his big career move — leaving Flex after 17+ years to join Sonax USA.

Chris opens up about why he made the switch, what drew him to Sonax's century-old legacy and German engineering, and what his new B2B role looks like.

We also dive into the exciting return of Detail Fest (June 20th at the Petersen Auto Museum in LA!), the Sonax partnership with the Petersen, polishing Steve McQueen's personal Jaguar and the James Hetfield collection, Sonax's diminishing abrasive technology, the new CC Wheel Coating, Auto Geek's rebrand and new product launches, and advice for new detailers just getting started.

Plus — weenie mobiles, the Indy 500, and a whole lot of laughs.

🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss next week's guest: Tony Pando from Dr. Colorchip

Guest:

Chris Metcalf

Sonax USA

What really separates marine detailing from automotive detailing?

In this episode of the RoadFS / Detail Bookie Podcast, we sit down with Ken Mercer, President of Stark Yacht Care to talk about the realities of the marine detailing industry, from heavy oxidation removal and rotary polishing to marine abrasives, ceramic coatings, and running a successful detailing business.

Ken breaks down why marine detailing requires a completely different mindset than automotive work, why test spots matter, and how professional detailers can avoid costly mistakes when working on boats, RVs, and gel coat surfaces.

We also dive into:
• Marine vs automotive polishing
• Why rotary polishers dominate the marine world
• Boat correction techniques
• Gel coat restoration
• Marine ceramic coatings
• Stark Yacht Care products and training
• Business growth in the detailing industry
• The importance of sharing knowledge in the detailing community

If you’re a detailer looking to expand into marine detailing, this episode is packed with practical insight, real world experience, and industry gems you can immediately apply.

Subscribe for more conversations with detailers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders shaping the future of detailing.

Chapter Timeline00:00 Introduction to the Detail Bookie Podcast
00:31 Meet Ken Mercer from Stark Yacht Care
02:04 The Origin of Stark Yacht Care
04:25 Building a Marine Detailing Brand
06:06 Transitioning from Automotive to Marine Detailing
08:02 Why Feedback Matters in Product Development
10:20 Working on Large Yacht Surfaces
12:07 The Importance of Proper Test Spots
14:15 Common Boat Detailing Mistakes
17:25 Marine vs Automotive Abrasives Explained
19:08 Why Marine Products Must Be More Aggressive
22:16 Why Boats Destroy Automotive Products
24:00 Biggest Mistakes Auto Detailers Make in Marine Detailing
25:47 Rotary vs Dual Action Polishers in the Marine World
29:23 Can You Finish with a Rotary Polisher?
35:52 Best and Worst Boat Manufacturers for Detailing
37:25 The Physical Demands of Marine Detailing
38:41 Why Marine Detailers Work Together More
41:55 Sharing Knowledge in the Detailing Industry
43:54 Stark Yacht Care’s New Packaging & Systems
49:29 New Stark Products & Sandpaper Technology
53:52 Stark Marine Certification Courses
56:50 Final Thoughts & Industry AdviceGuest:Ken Mercerhttps://starkeyachtcare.com/Hosts:Jody Sedrick & Rod PuzeyRoadFS/DetailBookie PodcastRoadFS CRM - https://roadfs.comDetailBookie CRM - https://detailbookie.com

This week, we sit down with Paul Assuncao, owner of Owner’s Pride Canada, to explore the latest innovations in automotive protection.

If you’re in the detailing industry and serious about growth, this is a conversation you need to hear.In this episode, we break down Peel Clear. Peel clear is a product that sits right between traditional paint and paint protection film—and why it has the potential to reshape how detailers approach protection, wraps, and even full vehicle services.

We didn’t just talk about it… we tested it.

From spraying a full panel on a 1955 Chevy to evaluating prep time, cost, durability, and real-world application, this episode gives you an honest, hands-on look at what this product can—and can’t—do.

We cover:

• What Peel Clear actually is and how it compares to PPF and paint• Real application process, including prep, spraying, and finishing
• Cost breakdown vs traditional paint and wrap solutions
• Where this fits in your business (and where it doesn’t)
• Why experienced shops should be paying attention right now

This isn’t for beginners—it’s for operators looking to elevate their services, increase efficiency, and stay ahead of where the industry is going.If you’re serious about staying competitive… this is your edge.

⏱️ Timeline (Chapters)

00:00 – Introduction & Episode Setup00:01 – Introducing Peel Clear

00:02 – What Makes Peel Clear Different (Paint vs PPF)

00:04 – First Test Application (1955 Chevy Panel)00:06 – Prep Process & Setup Explained

00:08 – Paint Booth Setup & Safety Considerations

00:10 – Application Process (Base Coat & Top Coat)

00:12 – Spray Technique & Adjustments00:14 – Airflow, Equipment & Environment

00:16 – Real Results & First Impressions

00:18 – Cost Comparison vs Traditional Paint

00:20 – Scratch Filling & Self-Leveling Results

00:22 – Peeling, Scoring & Application Tips

00:24 – Where This Product Wins (Bumpers, Curves, Complex Surfaces)

00:26 – Limitations & Learning Curve

00:28 – Business Opportunity for Detailers

00:30 – Comparing Peel Clear vs Wraps & PPF

00:32 – Material Cost vs Profit Potential

00:34 – Longevity, Warranty & Durability

00:36 – Who Should Use This Product

00:38 – Final Thoughts & Industry Direction

Guest:Paulo Assuncao

PeelClear

https://peelclear.com/

Hosts:

Jody Sedrick and Rod Puzey

RoadFS / DetailBookie Podcast

Auto Detailing CRM

RoadFS - https://roadfs.com

DetailBookie - Https://detailbookie.com

If you’re in the detailing industry—or even thinking about stepping into it—this conversation is one you cannot afford to miss.In this episode, we sit down with Russ Urmston, founder of Invisible Patterns, to unpack how he turned a niche idea into a global opportunity. From starting with just £12 in his account to building one of the most innovative paint protection solutions for motorcycles, Russ breaks down the mindset, strategy, and skill behind it all.We dive into:• Why motorcycle PPF is one of the most overlooked opportunities in the industry• The difference between DIY installs and professional application• How patterns are changing the game and saving installers hours of work• The realities of PPF—what YouTube doesn’t show you• How you can turn this into a profitable service or even a full businessThis isn’t just about detailing—it’s about seeing opportunity where others don’t.If you’re serious about growth, positioning yourself differently, and building something sustainable… this conversation will challenge how you think.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear this.Timeline (Chapters)00:00 – Introduction & Industry Changes00:01 – Meet Russ Urmston (Invisible Patterns)00:03 – How He Got Started in PPF00:06 – From Small Kits to Full Motorcycle Coverage00:08 – DIY Kits vs Professional Installs00:10 – The Value of Patterns in PPF00:12 – Customer Experience & Global Reach00:14 – Why Motorcycle Protection is Essential00:16 – Turning PPF Into a Business Opportunity00:18 – Industry Culture: Cars vs Motorcycles00:20 – Expanding Into New Markets (Boats, Snowmobiles, etc.)00:22 – Funny & Real Customer Stories00:26 – Training, Skill Development & Industry Growth00:30 – Personal Motorcycle Stories & Passion00:33 – Time Savings: Pattern vs Bulk Install00:36 – Why PPF is a Craft (Not Easy as It Looks)00:40 – Pricing, Value, and Customer Expectations00:43 – Avoiding the “Race to the Bottom” in Detailing00:47 – The Future of Invisible Patterns (Software & Expansion)00:54 – Final Thoughts & ClosingGuest:Russ Urmstonhttps://www.invisiblepatterns.co.uk/Hosts:Rod Puzey & Jody SedrickRoadFS / DetailBookie PodcastRoadFS CRM - https://youtube.comDetailBookie CRM - https://detailbookie.com

We’ve had some of the best boat detailers in the industry on the RoadFS/DetailBookie Podcast—and this week is no exception.Join us as we sit down with Angela Gilham, owner of Elite Marine Protection, who’s making serious waves in the marine detailing space.We’ll dive into:Her journey working on boats and yachts of all sizesThe challenges of building a successful marine detailing businessHow she approaches pricing—and whyCeramic coating vs. PPF: which does she prefer?And we’ll take a moment to celebrate her being named the 2025 IDA Boat Detailer of the YearThis is going to be a great conversation—you won’t want to miss it.

This week we drop in a detailing shop in Rio de Janiero to explore what's happening in the World of Detailing across the world.Paulo Asuncao and Felipe join us to talk about detailing, business, the IDA, and life in Brazil for a business owner.

In this episode, we go behind the scenes of a professional detailing training and break down what separates average detailers from elite operators.From color-coded chemical systems to structured workflows and pricing strategies, this conversation reveals how detailers can work smarter, not harder—and actually build a profitable business.Whether you’re just getting started or already running a shop, this episode will challenge how you think about your process, your pricing, and your growth.Topics we explored:Why having a system changes everything in detailingHow to price your services the right wayThe role of efficiency in scaling your businessHow the right products can save time and increase profitWhy mindset and discipline matter more than toolsFeaturing insights from live training at MVPD Supply during TRC Week.GuestDiego@diego_kcxKochChemie USAHost:Jody SedrickRoadFS/DetailBookieDetailBookie CRM - https://detailbookie.comRoadFS CRM - https://roadfs.com

What does it take to go from losing millions in real estate… to building a product that dominates an industry without spending a dollar on marketing?In this episode, we sit down with the founder of Solution Finish to break down the real story behind the product—how it started in a garage, the science behind why it works, and the mindset it takes to build something that lasts.This conversation goes beyond detailing. It’s about innovation, pricing strategy, customer loyalty, and what happens when you focus on solving real problems instead of chasing money.If you’re a detailer, entrepreneur, or someone building something from the ground up—this is one you don’t want to miss.Key Takeaways:Why most products fail (and how to avoid it)The science behind restoring plastic vs. masking itHow pricing psychology can drive long-term growthBuilding a business without ads or marketing spendThe power of staying authentic in your laneGuest:Chris WestSolution Finishwww.solutionfinish.comGot questions about Solution Finish? Reach out directly:[email protected]:Jody Sedrick & Rod PuzeyRoadFS/DetailBookie PodcastDetailing CRMsRoadFS CRM - https://roadfs.comDetailBookie CRM - https://detailbookie.com⏱️ Chapter Timelines00:00 – Intro & Why This Episode Had to Be Redone01:00 – From Small Inventory to Massive Demand03:00 – The Real Estate Crash That Changed Everything05:00 – The Idea That Started 18 Years Earlier06:00 – Garage Experiments & The “Eureka” Moment07:30 – Innovation Comes from Solving Real Problems08:30 – Why People Overcomplicate Simple Solutions10:00 – The Truth About Plastic Oxidation (Science Breakdown)13:00 – Why Most Trim Products Don’t Actually Work14:30 – Scaling the Product from Shot Glass to Production16:00 – Building a “Pure” Company Model18:00 – Using the Product the Right Way (Common Mistakes)20:00 – From Solo Founder to Building a Team22:00 – Efficiency vs Waste (Owner vs Employee Mindset)25:00 – Pricing Strategy That Built the Brand27:00 – The Psychology Behind Getting Customers Hooked30:00 – The $125 Price Tag Strategy (And Why It Worked)33:00 – Why Big Companies Won’t Copy This Product35:00 – Customer Service as a Competitive Advantage37:00 – Maturity, Ego, and Business Growth41:00 – Letting Logic Beat Emotion in Business Decisions44:00 – From Financial Pressure to Freedom47:00 – Building Success Without Marketing49:00 – When You Realize You’ve Built Something Real51:00 – Trade Shows, Lessons Learned, and Strategy54:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Connect

In this episode of the Road Detail Podcast, we sit down with Justin Walmsley, owner of Eco Shine Detailing and Detail Supply Depot, to break down what it really takes to build a successful detailing business—from starting with nothing to creating a business that provides true freedom.Justin shares his journey from detailing cars out of a Dodge Charger to running multiple operations, along with the hard lessons that shaped his mindset—including a $75,000 lawsuit, scaling mistakes, and why growing too fast can actually hurt your business.This conversation goes beyond detailing. It’s about entrepreneurship, leadership, discipline, and building a life—not just a business.If you're a detailer, entrepreneur, or someone looking to grow without burning out, this episode will challenge how you think about success.Chapter Timeline00:00 – Introduction & Podcast Kickoff00:02 – Meet Justin Walmsley (Eco Shine Detailing)00:03 – How It All Started (Paying for a Wedding)00:04 – The Real Meaning of Freedom in Business00:05 – Growing from a Car to Multiple Shops00:06 – Lessons from Scaling Too Fast00:07 – Launching a Detail Supply Business00:09 – Running Lean & Smart Growth Strategy00:11 – Products, Pricing & Industry Positioning00:13 – Biggest Early Mistakes in Business00:14 – The $75,000 Lawsuit Lesson00:16 – Protecting Your Business (Insurance & Structure)00:20 – Marketing Without Spending Money00:23 – Why Relationships Beat Ads00:25 – Understanding Your Market (Not Copying Others)00:27 – Adapting to Seasonal Business Challenges00:31 – Expanding Services (PPF & Training)00:34 – Freedom vs. Growth: Knowing When to Scale00:36 – Leadership, Culture & Managing Staff00:38 – Customer Experience & Owning Mistakes00:42 – Do What You Say You’re Going to Do00:43 – Balancing Business and Family Life00:47 – Why Presence Matters More Than Hustle00:50 – Final Advice for Business Owners00:51 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find JustinGuest Justin WamsleyEco Shine DetailingDetail Supply Depothttps://www.detailsupplydepot.com/Hosts:Jody Sedrick & Rod PuzeyRoadFS/DetailBookie PodcastCheck us out atRoadFS CRM - https://roadfs.comDetailBookie - https://detailbookie.com