Today's guest, Josh Arnold, never planned to be a mechanic. He picked it off a college list like a random raffle number. On day one, his future mentor told him to quit. And honestly, he probably should have. But he didn't.Instead, he worked six days a week at a flat rate, with no shortcuts. Fast-forward, and he is now a Toyota and Subaru Master Tech, a trainer in the shop, and the MyKarma Grand Prix Champion for his top-tier Video MPI skills.In this episode, we cover:Clueless apprentice to award-winning Master TechThe power of doing the jobs nobody wants to doWhy Video MPIs are a game changer How techs can build their careers, increase their pay, and change the industryJosh offers real-world advice for technicians looking to level up. His message is clear: Do things differently, do the work others will not, and watch your career grow.Like, comment, and subscribe to help spread this message and support technicians everywhere.Always looking for guests, please reach out by email to be on the show: [email protected] A Special Thank You

The Wrench Turners Podcast is made possible thanks to the support of our Partners, Sponsors, and Affiliates.

FixedOPS Marketing

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• Changing the game in dealership service marketing.

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• https://www.lionpartnership.com/
• Your go-to for industry connections that matter.

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• Simplifying sales and service communication.

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• Premium beard oils, balms, and mustache waxes for the Blue Collar Man.

We appreciate these partnerships in pushing the industry forward!j.

Chapters00:00 Intro to Josh Arnold

01:21 Josh’s Unexpected Career Start

02:14 Why He Chose Auto Tech

06:05 Toyota T10 Program Entry

09:01 Learning Through Used Cars

13:27 Flat Rate Work Strategy

16:20 Becoming a Master Tech

21:12 Winning My Karma Grand Prix

25:32 Video MPI Importance

27:23 Getting Paid for VMPI

30:49 Continuous Improvement Mindset

33:24 Advice for Technicians

36:03 Service Quality Specialist Role

38:45 Work-Life Balance & Family

41:23 Future Goals in Auto Tech

42:47 How to Change Industry

43:07 Closing Thoughts & OutroListen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 160 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.Wrench Turners Podcast Socialshttps://wrenchturners.onlinehttps://wrenchturnerspodcast.comhttps://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/

Welcome to the FIRST episode of the 10 Mill Mastery Debrief series where we debrief the week's Service Drive Live Topic.

In this episode, I sit down with Marshall Sheldon and Josh Arnold to debrief on Service Drive Live and dig into one of the biggest struggles for technicians: comebacks.

We cover:

✔️ Why technicians do not get paid for comebacks and why that needs to change

✔️ How flat rate and hourly pay affect comeback handling

✔️ The role of service advisors in preventing comebacks

✔️ How to reduce comebacks and improve shop efficiency

If you are a technician, service manager, or dealer principal: this episode is for you

Drop a comment and let me know how your shop handles comebacks. Should technicians get paid for them?

CHAPTERS

00:00 Welcome to the first debrief

00:52 Why comebacks are a big issue

01:50 How flat rate techs lose money

04:10 Why some techs avoid comeback issues

05:30 How managers handle comebacks poorly

07:00 Guilty until proven innocent in automotive

09:25 The real problem with pay plans

11:26 What happens after a comeback

15:48 Why foreman roles really matter

18:24 How senior techs can prevent mistakes

19:25 What advisors can do to help

22:17 The best way to write up jobs

23:39 Why advisors need more training

25:18 Simple ways to improve the process

29:06 Final thoughts on fixing comebacks

💈 SPONSOR: THE BEARDED BROTHERHOOD

🔥 Get 15 percent off on high-quality beard care products for technicians who take pride in their facial hair

🔗The Bearded Brotherhood "WRENCH15"

👉 Follow me for real talk about technician struggles and solutions

If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. With over 160 Episodes, the Wrench Turners Podcast helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.

Business Inquiries:

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Affiliates, Sponsors, and Partnerships

FixedOPS Marketing: Revolutionizing dealership service marketing with innovative solutions.

The Lion Partnership: Your trusted partner for automotive industry connections.

QB Business Solutions: Helping dealerships grow with cutting-edge strategies.

Digital Communication Solutions: Simplifying Sales and Service Location.

Car Biz Done Better: Helping dealerships optimize variable marketing and drive growth.

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Operating Partner, Fixed Operations Director, Coach - David Sparks

Join us as we explore the career journey of David Sparks, a leader whose path in the automotive industry started with detailing, rustproofing, and window tinting and evolved into a deep-rooted passion for technical excellence, leadership, and mentorship.

David’s story is one of continuous learning and adaptation. He transitioned from technician to service advisor, warranty administrator, dispatcher, and ultimately, service manager and fixed-ops director. His experience spans CDJR, Toyota, independent shops, and now Bar Automotive, where he coaches and trains service professionals nationwide.

In this episode, David explains what it takes to thrive in automotive leadership, from technician success to fixed-ops strategy.

He shares practical wisdom on:

👉 Proactive learning is essential: technicians must be responsible for their training and career growth.

👉 Respect and trust fuel operational excellence: leaders who personalize their communication get the best results.

👉 Conflict resolution is a leadership skill: handling technician and advisor challenges effectively builds a stronger team.

This conversation isn’t just about David’s professional journey; it’s a blueprint for automotive professionals looking to turn everyday workplace challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership.

For technicians, mechanics, service advisors, service managers, and fixed ops leaders aiming to increase their impact, develop leadership skills, and improve shop culture, this episode delivers insightful, actionable advice you won’t want to miss.

Let’s get into it.

PS: Always looking for guests and sponsors!

Reach out by email: [email protected]

j.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:30 David Sparks’ Career Journey

05:10 Owning Your Technician Training

08:50 Attitude vs. Aptitude in Growth

12:40 Climbing the Fixed Ops Ladder

17:30 Leadership Through Communication

23:15 Managing Change in the Shop

26:50 Trust and Personal Leadership

29:10 Self-Reflection for Technicians

33:50 90-Day Rule for Career Growth

38:00 Defining Strong Leadership

41:30 Career Planning for Techs

43:10 Final Takeaways and Wrap-Up

David Sparks

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-sparks-b6031119/

Michael Barich

https://www.fixedopsdoc.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-barich-75210648/

All Things Fixed Ops Clubhouse - Wednesdays 9 am EST

https://www.clubhouse.com/house/all-things-fixed-operations

If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 160 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.

Wrench Turners Podcast Socials

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https://wrenchturnerspodcast.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/

https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor

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Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

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General Manager, Fixed Operations Director, Coach - T.C. Coleman

Join us as we delve into the compelling career journey of T.C. Coleman, a seasoned leader whose roots in automotive passion were planted in childhood, nurtured by his father's engineering role at Nissan. T.C.'s early exposure to the mechanics of car maintenance and the automotive industry's inner workings ignited a lifelong passion, steering him away from his initial interest in sports to a dynamic path in automotive leadership.

With over two decades of experience, T.C. reflects on his evolution from an enthusiastic car enthusiast to a revered leader in the automotive sector. His career, marked by significant stints with prominent brands, showcases his adeptness in mentoring, team-building, and strategic leadership.

In this episode, T.C. unravels the layers of effective leadership within the high-stakes environment of automotive dealerships. He shares practical wisdom on:

Takeaways:

👉 Cultivate a culture of proactive learning

👉 Respectful communication achieves operational excellence

👉 Learn conflict resolution to harness individual strengths

This conversation is not just an exploration of T.C.'s professional milestones but also an instructional guide on transforming everyday workplace challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership.

For automotive service professionals aiming to elevate their career trajectory or anyone interested in the nuances of impactful leadership, this episode offers a wealth of insights and actionable advice.

Let's get into it.

PS. Always looking for guests to be on the show. Reach out by email, link in bio!

j.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

03:00 Gearhead to Automotive Leader

08:30 Listening to and Respecting Technicians

14:10 Effective Communication

20:00 Strategies for Building Team Unity

27:00 Insights on Balancing Career

36:20 Empowering Technicians to Speak Up

If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 160 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.

Wrench Turners Podcast Socials

https://wrenchturners.online

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/

https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor

https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4

"Success Leaves Clues"

General Manager,

BMW of West Houston

https://www.bmwwest.com/

Charles Cannon III

In this inspiring conversation with Charles, we explore a career journey that started with a desire to become a veterinarian but took a turn into the automotive world: a move that would shape Charles' life in unexpected ways.

From his humble beginnings in sales to leading both Lexus and BMW dealerships, Charles' story is a testament to the power of adaptability, discipline, and mentorship.

As Charles recounts:

"Success leaves clues. Watch who you hang out with, because you’ll become like them. If you surround yourself with high performers and show you're serious, they’ll help you grow."

He shares insights on how technicians, advisors, and managers can take ownership of their success. From developing structured game plans to fostering genuine relationships, Charles provides actionable steps to level up in any automotive role.

One standout lesson:

"Close mouths don’t get fed. Speak up about your goals, your challenges, and even your solutions. Leaders can’t help if they don’t know what you need."

If you’re looking to climb the ranks or simply be happier and more productive in your current role, this episode is a goldmine of advice and motivation.

Let’s get into it.

j.

If you're interested in being on the show or would like to sponsor an episode, please reach out to me Joshua Taylor by DM or email [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Charles

03:00 From Veterinary Dreams to Automotive Success

08:30 Learning Through Mentorship

14:10 The Value of Discipline and Game Plans

20:00 Becoming a High Performer

27:00 Leading by Example in Dealerships

36:20 Advice for Technicians: Speak Up

If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 150 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.

Wrench Turners Podcast Socials

https://wrenchturners.online

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/

https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor

https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4

Main: Deggy

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R

Crappy Amazon mirrors

Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs

Make-shift trailer plate bracket

Project: (I need a name, help please)

1999 Suzuki SV650S

Still working on the Details

"Training isn't a cost; it's an investment that pays dividends in skills, loyalty, and productivity."

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast

Automotive Trainer & Technician

Toyota Of Puyallup Inc

Wayne Bridges

In this episode, I sat down with Wayne Bridges, a 50-year veteran of the automotive industry who’s worn many hats—technician, service advisor, service manager, instructor, and now dealership trainer. Wayne shares his incredible journey, from falling in love with cars as a kid to shaping the next generation of technicians at a dealership that’s committed to investing in its people.

Wayne doesn’t shy away from tough topics, like why training is often undervalued in the industry and how mentorship programs can reduce comebacks and increase productivity. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to create a thriving culture of learning and growth in a dealership, Wayne’s insights are gold.

Watch now and find out why building a training-focused dealership might be the best way to attract and retain top talent.

Let’s get into it.

j.

If you're interested in being on the show or would like to sponsor an episode, please reach out to me Joshua Taylor by DM or email [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:54 Wayne's Early Passion

06:11 The Importance of Early Experiences

09:04 Lessons from the Lube Rack

11:57 The Evolution of Automotive

14:54 The Shift to Electric Vehicles

18:07 The Role of Training

20:56 The Importance of Continuous Learning

23:50 The Future of Automotive Training

34:02 The Importance of Training

38:13 In-House Training Programs

42:39 Creating a Culture of Learning

49:12 Competing for Talent

54:52 Finding Passion

01:00:13 The Role of Mentorship

Takeaways

👉 The first year on the job is crucial

👉 Learning to overcome complacency is a key to growth

👉 Automotive is currently experiencing rapid advancements.

👉 Training is essential for technicians to stay relevant

👉 Employers should view training as an investment

👉 Mentorship can reignite passions

👉 Technicians should take initiative

If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 150 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.

Wrench Turners Podcast Socials

https://wrenchturners.online

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/

https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor

https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4

Main: Deggy

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R

Crappy Amazon mirrors

Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs

Make-shift trailer plate bracket

Project: (I need a name, help please)

1999 Suzuki SV650S

Still working on the Details

"You are not a leader until you've created a leader who can create another leader."

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,

Mechanic, Enthusiast, and Entrepreneur

Travis Caldwell

In this episode, I sat down with a mechanic who knows firsthand that persistence, a positive culture, and respect are key to success in the shop.

Travis shared how his journey taught him the importance of mentorship and finding a place where you’re valued. We discussed how listening to every team member—and helping them grow—can make a stronger, more successful crew.

His biggest takeaway? Don't let work control your life; invest in mentors who truly support you. It reminds everyone in this industry to keep growing, respect the journey, and lead with purpose.

Let’s get into it.

j.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:59 Travis Caldwell's Journey

06:17 The Importance of Mentorship

12:30 First Year Experiences

16:21 The Role of Leadership

21:17 Favorite Porsche Models

24:07 Lessons Learned from Troubleshooting

26:12 The Challenges of Achievement

29:11 The Importance of Leadership

31:41 Navigating Career Transitions

35:50 The Dynamics of Customer Service

50:05 Balancing Work and Life

56:57 Conclusion

Takeaways

👉 Gratitude is essential in life.

👉 Life experiences shape our growth.

👉 Learning from mistakes is crucial.

👉 Navigating relationships requires effort.

👉 Passion drives our work.

👉 Community service enriches our lives.

👉 Advice from others can guide us.

👉 Reflection helps us understand our journey.

👉 Personal growth is a continuous process.

👉 Embracing challenges leads to wisdom.

----

If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 150 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.

Wrench Turners Podcast Socials

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/

https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor

https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4

Main: Deggy

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R

Crappy Amazon mirrors

Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs

Make-shift trailer plate bracket

Project: (I need a name, help please)

1999 Suzuki SV650S

Still working on the Details

"Once trust is broken, it's hard to recover."

10 Mill Mastery - Wrench Turners Podcast

Series 9, Episode 7

Leading up

The Lads:

Marshall Sheldon

Stephan Dos Santos

Richard Mueller

Russell Wickham

Summary

In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of building and maintaining trust within management and leadership roles. They discuss the challenges technicians face in establishing trust with upper management, the importance of transparency, and the necessity of personal accountability.

The dialogue emphasizes that trust is foundational for effective communication and career growth, highlighting the need for technicians to add value to themselves and their teams. The speakers share personal experiences and strategies for fostering trust, ultimately concluding that trust is the core element in successful professional relationships.

Takeaways

👉 Building trust requires transparency and open communication.

👉 Personal accountability is crucial in establishing trust.

👉 Once trust is broken, it is challenging to regain.

👉 Technicians should focus on adding value

👉 Understand the interests of management

👉 Sharing personal information can be a double-edged sword.

👉 Develop a tight-knit group of trusted colleagues

👉 Training and personal development enhance trust

👉 Trust is foundational for effective leadership

👉 Navigating trust requires careful consideration

Chapters

00:00 Building Trust and Morale

00:29 Earning Trust from Management

05:02 Conflicting Interests and Trust

10:26 Being Brutally Honest

16:15 Adding Value and Gaining Influence

21:52 Transparency and Personal Boundaries

26:49 Trust and Communication with Management

32:31 Building Trust and Fostering Growth

36:38 Trust as the Core Element

Remember:

Negative Pushes,

Positive Pulls,

and always clean your toys

before you put them away.

Let's get into it.

j.

—

Want to be a guest, or sponsor the show?

Email me at [email protected]

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Fun Content

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Main: Deggy

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R

Crappy Amazon mirrors

Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs

Make-shift trailer plate bracket

https://grip-puppy.com/

Project: (I need a name, help please)

1999 Suzuki SV650S

Still working on the Details

“Just because someone can produce doesn’t mean they’re ready to lead.”

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,

Mechanic and Service Manager

Scott Auto Group

Willie Carter

In this episode, I sat down with Willie Carter, a former mechanic turned service manager who knows what it takes to rise in the ranks. Willie shares his journey, from fixing up a beat-up Hyundai Scoupe in high school to leading a team at a major Honda dealership.

He doesn’t hold back on the tough lessons he’s learned along the way—like why taking on the jobs no one else wants can be the key to advancing your career. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to go from the shop floor to management, Willie’s story is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Watch now and find out why “getting comfortable in the uncomfortable” might be the best advice you’ll hear today.

Let’s get into it.

j.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:19 Becoming a Mechanic

06:28 Challenges and Learning

12:10 First Steps in Automotive

18:22 Transitioning to Leadership

26:12 The Importance of Hard Work

32:26 Advice for Aspiring Mechanics

Takeaways

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"True leadership starts when you realize that every person you lead brings their own strengths and stories to the table."

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,

Mechanic, Fixed Operations Director, and Coach

Bozard Ford Lincoln

Jeremy Stephens

In this episode, I got to sit down with a technician-turned-fixed-ops director, who’s proof that grit and character drive success in the automotive world.

Jeremy shared how his journey taught him that the tough experiences—especially those early days on the shop floor—shaped him into the leader he is today. We talked about building a culture where positive energy matters, and where listening to every voice in the shop creates stronger teams.

His biggest takeaway? Invest in yourself every day and don’t shy away from honest feedback. It’s a powerful reminder for anyone aiming to lead with heart and purpose.

Let’s get into it.

j.

Chapters

00:00 Intro and Welcome

01:09 Jeremy’s Start

04:25 Early Days

06:00 Learning the Ropes

10:22 The Value of Tips

13:26 Stepping into Leadership

15:56 Discovering Leadership

18:32 Building a Positive Workplace Culture

21:59 Handling Challenges

26:47 Getting Feedback

29:57 Advice for Young Technicians

35:27 Investing in Personal Growth

37:32 Finding Mentors

41:10 Key Takeaways

J.

Wrench Turners Podcast on YouTube

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Wrench Turners Website

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/

https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor

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Main: Deggy

2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R

Crappy Amazon mirrors

Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs

Make-shift trailer plate bracket

Project: (I need a name, help please)

1999 Suzuki SV650S

Still working on the Details