The technician shortage isn’t just about a lack of interest or younger generations turning away from the trades. It’s about years of failed leadership, broken promises, and workplaces that left passion out in the cold.

This week on Wrench Nation we dig deep into one of the industry’s most pressing crises—and we’re not pulling punches.

We’re joined by special guest Josh Parnell of Limitless Leadership , a voice that’s challenging the status quo and calling out the cultural rot from the top down.

From toxic shop environments to outdated mindsets that value profit over people, Josh helps us unpack how bad leadership has driven good techs out of the bays—and how real, intentional leadership can bring them back.

If you’ve ever wondered why the tools are there but the hands are missing, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Reach out to Josh Parnell : Limit Leadership

Our special guest is Gus Kozarzewski, a Consignment Agent with Mecum Auctions, who helps us navigate it all! 

SPECIAL TRIBUTE HONORING  “JK” JOHN KRAMAN;THE PROFESSOR 

Discover the most common reasons behind failed emissions tests in this insightful episode of WrenchNation. From faulty oxygen sensors to leaky exhaust systems, we’ll break down the most common culprits and how they impact your vehicle’s performance and the environment. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or a curious car owner, tune in for practical tips to keep your ride running clean and passing with flying colors & how to navigate check engine light causing failures.

(Apologies for the delayed upload; please make sure to catch 2025 Fuel Fest Events coming to a city near you )

Join host Frank Leutz as he sits down with special guest Cody Walker to discuss the highly anticipated FuelFest 2024 in Scottsdale, AZ! Cody shares insights into this epic celebration of cars, music, and culture, paying tribute to the legacy of his brother, Paul Walker, star of the Fast & Furious franchise. Discover how FuelFest combines automotive passion with giving back, supporting Reach Out Worldwide (ROWW), the charity Paul founded to provide disaster relief. Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation about cars, community, and carrying on a powerful mission.

Welcome! You’ve landed at Busted Knuckle Garage, an automotive lifestyle brand with a story like no other. Founder Warren Tracy dreamt up this idea years ago while living deep in the Grand Canyon—an unlikely place for a car enthusiast, but that’s exactly where the vision was born. One morning, Warren woke to find a rough cartoon sketch of a garage he’d drawn in his sleep, without any memory of doing it. That sketch soon became a reality, and after twenty years of passion, dedication, and grit, every piece of Busted Knuckle Garage merchandise you see today comes straight from that dream. No corporations, no assembly lines—just one guy, a love for classic cars, and a trusty wrench.

Join us as Warren pitstops on the show to share is incredible journey !

Educating consumers properly about vehicle service and purchasing is crucial to ensure they have the best possible experience.

With the right knowledge, consumers can make informed decisions, avoid being overcharged or misled, and feel confident when negotiating prices or choosing the right vehicle.

Proper education also empowers them to understand essential aspects like maintenance schedules, warranties, and repair options, ultimately saving time and money while prolonging the life of their vehicle.

A well-informed consumer is better equipped to handle unexpected challenges and make smarter investments, leading to a more satisfying vehicle ownership experience.

An honor to have special guests Cathy Droz & Dave Ware of Raise A Hood 

Join us as we take a deep dive into consumer behaviors and how we can accomplish consistent stellar service under hood or on the new \used car lot when it comes to vehicle purchases.

Robots are transforming the automotive service industry by assisting technicians with precision tasks and improving efficiency.

Richtech Robotics is revolutionizing the automotive service industry by integrating advanced robotics solutions to streamline operations. Their robots assist with various tasks, such as handling routine maintenance, inspecting vehicle components, and conducting precise diagnostics. Richtech’s robots enhance efficiency and reduce downtime in service shops by automating repetitive tasks . They also help ensure higher accuracy in repairs, allowing technicians to focus on more complex issues, ultimately improving service quality and productivity in the automotive industry.

Join us as Stephen Deperte of Richtech Robotics reveals the latest in robot technology!

Article : Mercedes Benz Dealership Utilizes Robot in Service Bays 

TOPDON USA VP Chad Schnitz

For an automotive technician, deciphering data is crucial, but understanding which diagnostic tool works best for each unique scenario that may arise in a service bay is equally important. Vehicles today are equipped with increasingly complex computer systems that generate vast amounts of data related to engine performance, emissions, and other critical functions. This data provides essential clues about the vehicle’s condition, but knowing how to interpret it effectively requires skill and experience.

Technicians must be able to distinguish between normal and abnormal readings, identify patterns in the data, and trace the root cause of a problem. Decoding this information is foundational to accurate and efficient vehicle repairs.

However, deciphering data alone is not enough.

Different vehicles, makes, models, and even specific systems within those vehicles may require specialized diagnostic tools. What works for a particular brand’s transmission issue may not be suitable for diagnosing a complex electrical problem in another car. Selecting the right diagnostic tool ensures that the technician can access the most relevant and detailed information, reducing the chance of misdiagnosis and increasing the speed and accuracy of repairs.

TOPDON USA VP Chad Schnitz joins us for an in-depth conversation, offering valuable tips on how to succeed in the service bays by selecting the right test equipment for each specific diagnostic procedure.

Craig Jackson is the Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, a leading auction house specializing in collector cars. Under his leadership, Barrett-Jackson has become renowned for its high-profile auctions and its role in the classic car market. Jackson’s expertise and passion for automobiles have significantly contributed to the company’s growth and prominence in the industry.

Craig stops by the WrenchNation show to share the details of the upcoming Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction !

Patrice Banks, the dynamic force behind Girls Auto Clinic, is revolutionizing the auto repair industry with her passion and drive. As a former engineer turned auto mechanic, Patrice recognized a gap in the industry—women were often overlooked and underserved in car care. Fueled by a deep desire to empower women, she took matters into her own hands, trading her corporate career for a pair of coveralls.

Patrice’s passion is palpable in every aspect of Girls Auto Clinic. She’s not just fixing cars; she’s breaking down barriers. Her mission goes beyond routine maintenance—she’s on a crusade to educate and empower women, ensuring they feel confident and knowledgeable about their vehicles. Patrice’s enthusiasm for her work is contagious, inspiring a new generation of women to take control of their automotive needs.