Towing News Now

Get ready to be inspired by the dedication and innovation shaping the towing industry! In our latest episode, we're joined by the remarkable Richard Branch from Rhode Island, who shares his journey from influencing the Rhode Public Tow Association to championing the move over law. Hear firsthand how he's steering new leaders towards the helm of state associations, ensuring a vibrant future for the field. Plus, we recall the good old days of community events that fostered a deep sense of kinship among towing professionals, and why such gatherings are more challenging yet still essential today.

Buckle up for a trip to Columbus, Georgia, where Wes Wilburn leads an energetic class, drawing in 39 eager attendees and exhibiting the industry's passion for growth. We also uncover the compelling story behind the upcoming auction of Tow memorabilia at the ESTRA Tow Show, destined to support the association. But that's not all - we tease a closer look into Big Wheel Recovery's intricate legal journey, a tale filled with more twists and turns than the telemagazines let on. This episode is a treasure trove of stories and strategies for anyone hooked on towing.

Unlock the potential of the towing industry with DJ Harrington, and his co-doctorate of wreckology, Wes Wilburn. Together we dissect the newest innovations sending shockwaves through the field, from the Towman's V-Catalog to the EV App. Our institute is stretching its educational muscles, offering Wednesday webinars and specialized training videos that promise to elevate the skills of towing professionals across the board. Get ready to be schooled in everything from the fascinating history to the nitty-gritty technicalities of chains in towing, a subject we tackle with our signature hands-on style to ensure quality and customization for every client.

Saddle up for a ride through the latest industry buzz with us as we share why Webinar Wednesday is setting the bar for towing education and how we're extending our knowledge lifeline to fire departments at no cost. I'll share reflections on our successful past events and tease what's in store for our upcoming hands-on sessions in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Amidst all this learning, we don't forget to tip our hats to the towing operators out in the cold, emphasizing the importance of self-care. Closing on a note of solidarity, we discuss the legal hurdles faced by Big Wheel Recovery Unlimited and extend an open invitation to our community for support and guidance, because when the roads get tough, we're here to help you navigate through.

Brace yourself for an enlightening trek through the high-stakes world of tow operators as we battle the blizzardy backdrop of the Iowa presidential caucuses. This episode is a treasure trove of anecdotes and insights, where we dig into the vital importance of readiness in severe weather and the unsung heroism of those who keep our roads safe. And that's not all; the American Towing Recovery Institute is rolling out new training opportunities, including a hard-hitting video series on rigging and chain usage that promises to sharpen the skills of industry professionals against nature's fury.

Celebrating four decades In a heartwarming exchange, Adrian Benoit of Elite Service joins us to recount his remarkable journey from family ties to towing triumphs. Tune in as we dissect the power of continuous learning and the impact of one-day classes, all while preparing for events that amplify the prowess of the towing community in safety and service.

When disaster strikes, it's the training that takes the spotlight – and we're dissecting a gripping episode of crisis management from the front lines. Our response to a major track incident is the canvas on which we paint the portrait of preparedness that every tow operator must embody. Later, we sit down with Mike Porter to uncover the transformative effects of his dispatch training and delve into the intricacies of lobbying for fair rates. Wrapping up, we reflect on the communal spirit and economic vitality of Lake Charles, Louisiana, painting a vivid picture of resilience and recovery.

Navigating through blizzards, floodwaters, and treacherous roads, the unsung heroes of towing and recovery don't just keep our highways safe—they keep our lives moving. We kick off our chat by tipping our hats to these resilient operators, sharing vital survival tips that can make all the difference during those relentless shifts. Our hearts also go out to those grappling with the silent battle of prostate cancer, a personal struggle for many in our community. We reminisce on the humble beginnings and transformative journey of a beloved family construction business, appreciating the roots that ground us in times of change.

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we welcome Jared Varnado to the microphone, the third-generation visionary steering Varnado Sons Towing & Recovery. He's not just a towing titan; he's at the forefront of the Towing Association TRPL, fighting for the recognition and fair treatment this hardy industry deserves. Together, we wade through the murky waters of towing permits and public service regulations, shining a light on the challenges and championing the efforts of associations to streamline these processes for the good of all. It's a candid discussion that doesn't just reveal the inner workings of the towing world—it underscores the strength found in unity and persistence.

Embark on a journey through the heart of the towing and recovery industry with us, DJ Harrington and Wes Wilburn, as we unveil the latest in educational advancements and safety protocols. Ring in the new year with a bang, as we highlight our electrifying webinar on electric vehicles and tease our much-anticipated one-day courses, including a hands-on session in Columbus, Georgia with Griffin and Griffin. We're breaking the mold of traditional learning for tow operators with video content and modular courses, ensuring that every piece of critical knowledge sticks.

Chuck and Michelle Griffin from Griffin Towing join the conversation, bringing their heartfelt stories of community service and servant leadership into the spotlight. Experience the Griffin Family's dedication to embedding core values like teamwork and respect into their business, all while maintaining a family-oriented atmosphere. Their commitment to children and organizations like the Boys and Girls Club illustrates the profound link between our work and the communities we serve. 

Wrapping up the episode, we extend an open invitation to our vibrant podcast community to join our monthly training webinars. We also encourage a sense of anticipation for the fresh presentation format we're introducing, designed to foster knowledge sharing and new hire orientation. So tune in, enrich your professional toolkit, and be part of an industry that's growing faster than ever, thanks to the collaboration of tow operators and professionals from an array of fields.

Uncover the insider strategies for closing the year on a high note in the towing industry, as we engage with the legendary Wes Wilburn of the American Towman Recovery Institute. Prepare to have your playbook expanded with tactics that not only provide tax advantages but also enhance your fleet's readiness. We'll share how strategic investments can transform your business.  Join us as we also tackle the life-and-death topic of towing safety, highlighting the recent victory of the Towing Recovery Association  advocacy in the face of the dangers tow truck operators face every day.

As we express our heartfelt thanks to you, our 13,000-strong listening family, we're thrilled to share the rollout of our monthly webinars and the upcoming hands-on experience in Columbus, Georgia. Your support has launched us on an international journey, reaching ears from Europe to our hometown streets. The genuine support of our community, exemplified by the extraordinary efforts of folks like Chuck and Michelle Griffin, fuels our mission to bring you the best content and learning opportunities. From the intricate details of electric vehicle technology to the benefits of cross-training with emergency services, we promise a 2024 brimming with educational growth and camaraderie.

Wrapping up a year of growth and learning, we reflect on the cherished moments and look ahead to the new ventures awaiting us in the towing and recovery landscape. I'm personally committing to further professional development, and I encourage you to set your sights on new heights, too. Our gratitude overflows for your dedication to our seminars, the Institute, and our product offerings. As we send out our season's greetings, let's raise a glass to the achievements of the past and the exciting prospects of the year to come. Stay safe, keep learning, and keep supporting each other in the towing community. Here's to a prosperous New Year!

Step into the world of towing with DJ Harrington, the Tow Doctor, and towing industry giant Wes Wilburn as we unpack the latest evolutions and insider stories that are electrifying the industry. Feel the pulse of innovation as we delve into a heartfelt project with April, get a glimpse of my Tesla-towing escapade, and learn about the educational strides we're making to enhance electric vehicle safety awareness. You won't want to miss the fusion of live and virtual training revelations, our leap into YouTube content, and the excitement brewing over our upcoming collaboration with Sumner that's set to supercharge our channel.

As the holiday season revs up, we're inviting you to be part of our journey towards safer roads and global harmony. We share our latest strategies for training that cater to the modern attention span, including condensed courses and a special two-hour electric vehicle awareness session. Discover our behind-the-scenes efforts to ramp up the audio quality for your listening pleasure and remember, with us, every minute is a mile in the fast lane of towing enlightenment and community. Buckle up for a festive episode where we not only reflect on our progress but also look ahead to the bright, interconnected future of the towing community.

Have you ever encountered a story that mixes family, passion, and a real-life reminder of the risks we take? Today, we bring you the deeply emotional journey of Matt Spencer, a devoted father and second-generation tower, who shares his son Keegan's story. Keegan, a third generation tower, tragically lost his life on the job, despite advocating for safety within the towing industry. Through Matt's words, we hope to spread awareness about the inherent dangers of roadside work and commemorate Keegan's legacy in the industry.

As we continue our conversation with Matt, we delve into the wider implications of such tragedies on the towing industry. They are a testament to the power of community, having rallied around Matt and his family, demonstrating the importance of up-to-date towing equipment and supplies. We also engage in a meaningful dialogue with DJ , Matt and Wes of The American and Towing Recovery Institute and their call for listeners to organize fundraising events serves as a compelling reminder of our collective responsibility towards each other.

Imagine hitting the brakes on the highway because, up ahead, someone is risking their life to assist a stranded dog. This is the tragic story of Keegan Spencer, a tow truck driver we honor in this episode. Join us, DJ Harrington and Wes Wilburn, as we recount his heroic act that sadly ended his life, share heartfelt stories from a close friend, and inspire listeners with his passionate drive. But that's just a part of this emotionally charged journey we embark on.

Are you aware of the life-threatening risks roadside assistance workers face daily? We're shining a light on it, showcasing alarming statistics, referencing a Federal Highway Administration video, and discussing a CNBC study that outlines the shocking mortality rates among tow truck drivers. But it's not all grim. We also celebrate the indomitable spirit of Linda Unruh, a mother who turned her tragedy into a mission to pass a move over law to protect these workers. We close with the touching memory of Keegan Spencer and a massive tow truck procession that shows the unity within our community. Plus, we bring news of an upcoming auction to support Keegan’s family. Buckle up as we take this poignant journey.

You ever wonder what it'd be like to have a life-saving tool that can give you detailed information on over 600 electric, hybrid, hydrogen, and natural gas vehicles? That's what we're unpacking today with our guests and developers, Kim Holcomb and Jake Green, who have created an all-inclusive app, Clever. This Comprehensible List of Electric Vehicle Emergency Response provides 21 categories, covering everything from vehicle images to battery locations and even ways to disable vehicles in emergencies. A standout feature we highlight is how Clever helps identify a vehicle running silently, an important safety concern with electric vehicles.

As we navigate the episode, Kim and Jake highlight the multiple benefits of Clever, notably for towing operators, firefighters, and rescue personnel. The app offers a wellspring of critical information like the manufacturer's instructions for towing vehicles, the right lifting points, and safe securing procedures. But that's not all, Clever also gives access to vehicle manuals in a downloadable PDF format and dishes out vital information under four significant categories: shifting the vehicle to neutral, charge rolling, submersion, and storing the vehicle. As we wrap up, we take a moment to express our gratitude towards our listeners and our team for their unwavering support and dedication. So hey, don't miss out on this enlightening discussion about this clever app that's revolutionizing vehicle emergency response.