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Get ready to hitch a ride with us as we explore the electrifying world of towing and recovery on the American Towing Recovery Institute Podcast. This episode will revamp your understanding of the industry as we celebrate the triumph of Wes Wilburn’s towing class in Kansas City. You'll also hear the enthusiasm from April Wilburne, Wes's wife and co-host, as she discusses the new electric vehicle procured from Paddock's Partner Service in Indiana. Wes's significant influence in the industry has paved the way for more promising collaborations and partnerships, and this is just the beginning.

Switching lanes, we discuss Purpose Wrecker, your go-to distributor in North America for towing and recovery equipment. We also introduce CLEVER, a comprehensive database of electric vehicle emergency response. It’s like having an EV encyclopedia at your fingertips, with 23 categories of information for each vehicle. But we're not stopping at that. Wes Wilburn and his team have developed an innovative app that will change the game for everyone in the towing industry. We’ll share everything you need to know about the app, its features, cost, and even discounts and codes for those eager to join the institute and use the app. So join us on this journey, fuel up on essential industry knowledge, and get a glimpse of the future of towing with the American Towing Recovery Institute Podcast.

Get ready to expand your knowledge of the towing industry! We're energizing our training classes with hands-on experiences. Also a major announcement being made soon, that will be a game changer for Towers and Firefighters

Do you know who is transforming the North American towing and hauling industry? Purpose Record is stepping up the game as a preferred distributor for towing and recovery equipment, and we get into the nitty-gritty of it. We also chat about the American Towing Recovery Institute Podcast, a platform now followed by thousands of subscribers. To top it off, we bring you Wes Wilburn's inspiring quest to unite firefighters and towing operators, with a call for luxury vehicles for his static displays.

As a cherry on top, we delve into the groundbreaking achievements of John Hawkins Jr, the mastermind behind the Towing and Recovering Association of America. You can't afford to miss our ambitious project of transporting a Tesla Model Y across the country with the cooperation of the Towing Retailers Association of Ohio. As a reminder,keep an ear out for our exciting announcement that will revolutionize the towing industry. Dive in with us and discover the significance of networking opportunities, education, and training within the towing industry.

Have you ever wondered how principles of Japanese philosophy could revolutionize business practices in the towing and recovery industry? Join us as we embark on a fascinating journey through the lens of Kaizen, the Japanese concept of constant, never-ending improvement. Drawing inspiration from a powerful keynote speech at an auto recyclers convention and our own experiences, we discuss the transformative power of shifting perspectives and empowering employees to become business partners.

Our special guest is none other than Darrell Henninger, the ingenious mind behind Big D Fabrication. Darrell, a towing industry veteran since the 1970s, regales us with captivating tales from his early days in the business to the creation of Big D Fabrication's innovative dolly product. His relentless pursuit of improvement led him from a 14,000-pound capacity dolly all the way to a groundbreaking 44,000-pound capacity model, changing the game for towing large vehicles like garbage trucks, concrete trucks, and semi-trailers. Make no mistake, this is a story of audacity, innovation, and determination that you wouldn't want to miss! 

Our conversation takes a dive into the value of hands-on education and vocational training, an often overlooked yet essential part of our industry. No theory can replace the gritty experience of shop classes in high schools as they guide the future stars of our business. We also delve into the story behind Big D Fabrication's online inception thanks to a simple social media post by Darrell's son. Tune in for an illuminating dialogue about the marriage of traditional hands-on work and modern digital media, and how it shapes our industry's future. This is not just another podcast episode; it's a glimpse into the heart of an industry on the cusp of change.

Are you aware of the rising dangers in the towing industry? Today's conversation takes us from global concerns about Israel's safety to the safety of towing operators. With road-side accidents involving towing operators on a worrying rise, we delve into the need for heightened attention to safety. We'll share insights and practical advice on staying safe, especially on focusing on the non-traffic side to avoid mishaps.

Excited to introduce our guest, Aaron Custer from Custer Products. On board with us, Aaron offers a fascinating glimpse into their popular tools such as the wireless tow bars and the 36-inch bar with strobe lights. He shares their ongoing innovation, upcoming wireless tow light bars, and sits us down on their relationship with suppliers overseas. A conversation you wouldn’t want to miss as Aaron shares his father's business philosophy that has shaped their approach to customer service.

As we wind up our enlightening discussion, Aaron lights up our understanding of the shift from incandescent lights to LED lights and the advances in wireless tow bar technology. He gives us a sneak peek into an exciting new product they're about to launch. We round off by expressing our appreciation for Custer Products and their unwavering commitment to quality and safety in the towing industry. Tune in, learn, and be inspired by this illuminating conversation on safety, innovation, and industry change.

Ready to get your heart pumping with tales from the Midwest Region Toe Show? We've got the juicy stories from our recent journey to the Midwest Coastale. From the jaw-dropping generosity of Kevin Fox, who selflessly donated $650 to the injured drivers fund to the delightful 'lug nuts' served up at the Roberts Center, we've got you covered. Not to forget our fun-filled Women's Luncheon and a night lit up by a spectacular light show and the toe-tapping tunes of Three Cord Chaos.

Ever wondered how a full-time fireman juggle the demands of a thriving towing business? Meet Hal Watts, owner-operator of Sumnter Records Service, who tells us just how he manages this feat. We delve into the vibrant towing industry of Sumnter County and the secret behind Hal's successful YouTube channel. We explore the sweet and sour of being a content creator and the importance of recognizing the work of Hal's team in the success of his business. From his insights into balancing two demanding careers to his commitment to making his YouTube channel family-friendly, Hal serves up a conversation as refreshing as a cool Midwest breeze. So, buckle up and get ready for a ride through the Midwest towing community that promises to be as enlightening as it is entertaining!

Keep your ears peeled as we dive into the world of light-duty towing with our guest Wes Wilburn. Wes, a seasoned pro from Paddock Tracker Service, will shed light on the challenges faced by tow operators. But that’s not all; we’re also prepping for the Midwest Regional Tow Show where we will host a riveting seminar on exit strategies. Come see us at our booth and maybe join our podcast interview! 

We’ve got some exciting training sessions lined up for our tow operators. We’ll be in Michigan with the Towing Association, Lexington, Kansas, and North Carolina for a two-day firetower cross-training. Electric vehicle training is on the cards too, because the future is here! Plus, we’re proud to honour the contributions of John Hawkins Sr. who played a vital role in shaping Towing Associations in the U.S. Also, watch out for some special treats at the Michigan class, courtesy Lynch Truck Center and the Willards. 

Thirdly, join us as we hear from Rob Miller, the General Manager of AllGrip/Bishop Listing Products. Rob takes us through his journey from a salesman to a top executive, and the changes he’s brought to the table. He will also shed light on the growing trend of synthetic products and why lightweight alloy blocks are becoming a hot favorite in the industry. Not to forget, he’s got some invaluable tips for maximizing value while buying products. Stay tuned, it’s going to be a fun and insightful ride.

Get set to clear your schedules and pack your bags as we navigate through a whirlwind of thrilling events in the towing industry this September. With highlights from the Midwest Regional Tow Show to multiple state association affairs, there's abundant opportunity for all you towing enthusiasts to catch up, network and even star in our podcast. But that's not all! We'll also be shining a spotlight on the private class at Paddock's Wrecker Service in Westfield, Indiana, and can't wait for you to join us for a memorable experience. 

Pressing play on today's episode, you'll be all ears as our guest from Big D Fabrication lays bare the workings of their dolly, a sturdy giant capable of lifting a hefty 25,000 pounds. Not just that, it can also be flipped for use with farm equipment, pneumatic trailers, and park model campers. We're sure you'll find the tale behind Big D Fabrication's origin as gripping as the vibrant range of paint colors their dolly comes in. So buckle up as we journey through an episode that's as vibrant and versatile as the world of towing.

Join us as we uncover the vibrant world of the Midwest Regional Tow Show, guided by none other than the mastermind behind it, Bruce Bender. Bruce takes us on a historical tour of the show, explaining the ins and outs of the towing industry.. Bruce also discloses the new and improved show location, equipped with camping grounds, full hookups, primitive sites, and even mobile bathhouses for your convenience. 

We then shift gears to delve into the fundraising initiatives of the show, where Bruce enlightens us about the significance of industry lobbyists. He emphasizes the essential role the industry plays in providing public services. Uncover the exciting events that the show has to offer, like the beauty contest, light show, safety fashion show, and the candlelight vigil. Experience the energy of live music, and participate in the live auction that aids the injured driver’s fund. 

As we wrap up, we discuss how the Midwest Regional Tow Show is embracing innovation for success. Bruce shares his willingness to accept and implement novel ideas, showing how supporting the show can contribute to the lobbying efforts of the association. We also touch upon the anticipation for the upcoming show that's set to take place on September 21st-24th. Bruce's insights are an invaluable treasure to those interested in the towing industry, and his passion and dedication to the Midwest Regional Tow Show are truly inspiring. Tune in to our podcast for an exclusive behind-the-scenes perspective on the show that's making waves across the Midwest.

Get ready to venture into the fascinating world of the towing industry, as we sit down with seasoned entrepreneur, Fred Schieler, the dynamic owner of Henry's. Fred doesn't just tow the line, he defines it. His journey from a novice in the late '90s to now successfully merging with Road Runner and a family fund reads like an intriguing business novel. One that spans decades and is filled with strategic decisions, competitive moves, and a relentless focus on consolidation. Our conversation taps into Fred's insightful perspectives on how effective communication and rewarding employee benefits can fuel successful acquisitions and significantly cut costs.

Fred gives us an insider's tour into this world, highlighting the significance of adhering to regulations, maintaining accurate books, and offering adequate compensation to employees. He also underscores the importance of quality towing equipment in staying ahead of the game, and sheds light on the comprehensive range of services offered by Towing Equipment Direct.

 Join us for this enlightening journey and gain valuable insights from one of the industry's veterans. Buckle up, it's time to tow!

What can you learn from a towing company that models its business after Chick-fil-A? A lot, it turns out! As we chat with Wes Wilburn, we take you behind the scenes of the Griffin and Griffin towing company in Columbus, Georgia. The company emulates the customer service and attitude of Chick-fil-A, and we touch on how one of their operators, Chuck Griffin, landed in the towing industry through the Boys and Girls Club. Plus, stay tuned for some exciting news from the American Towing Recovery Institute that aims to boost efficiency among towing operators.

Networking is the lifeblood of any industry, and towing is no different. Hear us discuss the benefits of networking, collaboration, and shared learning with guest Michael Lard. Dive into the strong partnership between Michigan's Tom's 24 Hour Towing , illustrating the power of collaboration in the towing field. Michael also shares the importance of maintaining a good relationship with the local fire department and keeping abreast of the latest technology and supplies in the industry.

Finally, we focus on employee benefits at Tom's 24 Hour Towing. Michael shares an inspiring story of a driver who was rewarded with a new Mack truck, emphasizing the importance of appreciating and rewarding hard work. We also remember the late Bill Bottoms and his remarkable feat of building a 16-ton truck with the help of B&B Industries. Wrapping things up, we talk about the significant influence of the RV industry on towing and recovery in Elkhart, Indiana, a hub of factories and manufacturers. So, buckle up for an episode filled with insights, community engagement, and innovative practices in the towing industry.