Wrench Turners Podcast

"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

Wrench Turners Merch

Wrench Turners Website

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

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

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

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 need to earn their trust."

10 Mill Mastery - Wrench Turners Podcast

Series 9, Episode 6

How to Build Your Shop Influence

The Lads:

Marshall Sheldon

Stephan Dos Santos

Richard Mueller

Russell Wickham

Summary

In this conversation, we discuss the challenges faced by leaders in the automotive industry, particularly in mentoring younger technicians. Exploring generational differences in work attitudes, the importance of building trust and influence within teams, and strategies for effective communication. Our dialogue emphasizes the need for leaders to understand their team's dynamics and to foster an environment where younger technicians feel supported and motivated to learn.

Chapters

00:00 Stephan Dos Santos

02:18 Marshall Sheldon

07:22 Russell Wickham

09:20 Richard Mueller

15:44 Joshua Taylor

Takeaways

👉 Don't beat yourself up too much

👉 You need to adjust your approach to connect

👉 Building influence starts with being approachable

👉 Trust is essential for effective leadership

👉 Recognize and reward positive behaviors

👉 Understanding the pulse of the shop is crucial

👉 Not everyone is suited for the automotive industry

👉 Morale boosters should align with the team's preferences

👉 Leadership requires autonomy and authority

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]

Wrench Turners Podcast on YouTube

https://youtu.be/FOlB2NS0YgY?sub_confirmation=1

Wrench Turners Merch

https://mr-joshua-taylor.creator-spring.com/

Wrench Turners Website

https://wrenchturners.online

Business Focused Content

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

Fun Content

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

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

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 shut up and listen."

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,

Mechanic and Assitant Service Manager

https://www.scottautogroup.com/

Brooklynne Morse

As an assistant service manager and former mechanic, Brooklynne shares her journey in the automotive industry and offers advice for mechanics to be happier, healthier, and more productive. We chat and emphasize the importance of attention to detail and the ability to adapt to different tasks.

We also discuss the significance of making mistakes and learning from them, the value of effective communication with customers, and listening to their concerns. The key point is finding the silver lining in challenging situations and we encourage mechanics to always strive for improvement and to find joy in their work.

Let’s get into it.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:39 Starting in Automotive

02:17 Spatula's to Hammers

03:01 Consistency in Automotive

03:56 Learning from Mistakes

05:28 Importance of Detail

06:46 Transitioning from Culinary to Automotive

08:30 First-Year Challenges

10:52 Training and Income

11:25 Specializing in Unpopular Tasks

12:00 Income Potential

14:18 Challenges in Automotive

16:05 Super Tech Program

17:08 NVH Tools and Techniques

18:06 Water Leaks

20:32 Challenges with Specific Models

21:28 Leadership Aspirations

23:08 Customer Interaction

24:36 Importance of Listening

26:01 Key Skills for Mechanics

27:07 Mechanics Aspiring to Leadership

28:15 Conclusion

J.

Wrench Turners Podcast on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@wrenchturners

Wrench Turners Merch

https://mr-joshua-taylor.creator-spring.com/

Wrench Turners Website

https://wrenchturners.online

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

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

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

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK

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 have to make decisions and whether the decision leads you down the correct path or not, you don't know until you start walking it."

Click for YouTube

"It's 10 times harder than it's portrayed on social media."

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,

Entrepreneur and owner of Vehicle Reman

Jonathan Carr

https://www.vehiclereman.com/

We cover topics such as entrepreneurship, the benefits of vehicle remanufacturing, the importance of repair and remanufacturing in the automotive industry, urban development, property appreciation, the importance of communication between technicians and service advisors, and the resurgence of the trades.

Jonathan and I also touch on the nostalgia of repairing rather than replacing, the personal motivations behind starting a business, the potential for growth in Automotive Leadership, and success in the industry.

Let’s get into it.

J.

—-

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Riverside recording platform

00:55 The mission of the Wrench Turners Podcast

13:26 The importance of clear communication

21:03 The challenges and expertise of technicians

23:51 The Challenges of Running a Service Center

28:26 Delegation, Automation, and Deletion

40:14 The Joy of Working on Motorcycles

45:51 The Need for Vocational Training

53:13 Catalyst for Vehicle Reman

54:16 Vehicle Remanufacturing Process

57:49 Repair vs. Replacement

01:00:43 Repair and Remanufacturing

01:04:54 Nostalgic Appeal of Repair

01:07:46 Vocational Training and Business Ownership

01:16:09 Fostering a Positive Work Environment

01:21:27 Advice for Technicians

01:26:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

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

Wrench Turners Merch

https://mr-joshua-taylor.creator-spring.com/

Wrench Turners Website

https://wrenchturners.online

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

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

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

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK

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

"If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough."

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,

Mechanic and Content Creator

David Crossland aka Mechanic Mouse

Summary

In this episode, David and I discuss his journey as a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) Technician and content creator. He shares insights on the importance of mentorship in the trade, the challenges and benefits of creating online content for mechanics, and the significance of maintaining a work-life balance. David emphasizes that being a mechanic is not just a job but a lifestyle and highlights the value of passion and continuous learning in achieving excellence.

Key Takeaway's

👉 Prioritize your health and life

👉 Be passionate to excel in your work

👉 Start with basic human decency

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guidelines

02:59 Journey into the Automotive Trade

09:46 From Fabricating to Diagnostics Technician

16:37 The Role of Mentors in Skill Development

22:12 Content Creation and Knowledge Sharing

24:47 Simplifying Concepts: Understanding and Explaining

26:55 The Value of Continuous Training

27:57 Respect and Camaraderie in the Workshop

29:22 Building a Supportive Online Community

42:58 Finding a Work-Life Balance

Let’s get into it.

J.

—-

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

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

Wrench Turners Merch (supports my addiction to Motorcycles)

https://mr-joshua-taylor.creator-spring.com/

Wrench Turners Website

https://wrenchturners.online

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

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

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

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK

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

"Look at the overall picture. Don't focus on individual days."

10 Mill Mastery - Wrench Turners Podcast

Series 9, Episode 5

Auto Industry Poison: How to Keep It from Affecting You as a Mechanic

The Lads:

Marshall Sheldon

Stephan Dos Santos

Richard Mueller

Russell Wickham

Our conversation revolves around the topic of staying positive in the automotive industry despite the negativity we Mechanics feel every day. The lads and I discuss various strategies to avoid becoming poisoned by the negativity. The conversation also touches on the importance of leadership in creating a positive work environment.

Takeaways

👉 Look at the overall picture

👉 Avoid getting overwhelmed by negativity

👉 Use daily affirmations to stay positive

👉 Set goals and create action steps to stay focused

👉 Avoid using negative language

👉 Focus on the positive aspects of your work

👉 Stack wins by completing small tasks every day

Chapters

00:00 Elevating the Quality of Narratives

00:05 Avoiding Negativity in the Industry

03:41 The Power of Self-Talk and Daily Affirmations

06:54 Setting Goals and Taking Action Steps

08:37 Staying Positive in a Challenging Industry

11:00 Using Writing to Overcome Negativity

14:53 The Influence of Language on Mindset

Let's get into it.

j.

-------

Mechanic? Want to Lead? Free Webinar

Check out: https://www.thesweatyleader.com

Developing Technicians into Leaders

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

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

Wrench Turners Merch (supports my addiction to Motorcycles)

https://mr-joshua-taylor.creator-spring.com/

Wrench Turners Website

https://wrenchturners.online

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

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

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

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK

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

"The more you put into [education], the more you get out of it."

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast, 

Technician at Elgin Toyota

Jake Pratt

Jake, a seasoned mechanic, talks about his journey into the automotive industry, his education at UTI, and his recent work at a Toyota dealership. They emphasize the importance of continuous learning, the benefits of working on reliable vehicles, and the need for a supportive work environment. The conversation also covers troubleshooting complex issues, the value of service contracts and wear package insurance, and the necessity of teamwork and accountability in the automotive field.

Let’s get into it.

j.

—-

Mechanic? Want to Lead? Free Webinar

Check out: https://www.thesweatyleader.com

Developing Technicians into Leaders

Wrench Turners Podcast on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@wrenchturners?sub_confirmation=1

Wrench Turners Merch

https://mr-joshua-taylor.creator-spring.com/

Wrench Turners Website

https://wrenchturners.online

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

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

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

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

"Do you start them with once upon a time?"

10 Mill Mastery - Wrench Turners Podcast

Series 9, Episode 4

Elevate your RO Stories

The Lads:

Marshall Sheldon

Stephan Dos Santos

Richard Mueller

Russell Wickham

Summary

The conversation revolves around the use of specific words and details in narratives and stories in the field service industry. Marshall shares his practice of using words like 'interface' and 'adjust' to elevate the professionalism of his stories. Russell emphasizes the importance of simplicity and conciseness in narratives. Joshua discusses the relevance of including specific torque specs and contextual information in stories. Richard shares his approach of using document IDs and tag words to provide relevant information in his narratives.

Key Takeaways:

👉 Use specific words like 'interface' and 'adjust'

👉 Simple, clear, and concise

👉 Relevance over detail

Remember:

Negative Pushes,

Positive Pulls,

and always clean your toys before you put them away.

Let's get into it.

J.

—-

Mechanic? Want to Lead? Free Webinar

Check out: https://www.thesweatyleader.com

Developing Technicians into Leaders

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

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

Wrench Turners Merch (supports my addiction to Motorcycles)

https://mr-joshua-taylor.creator-spring.com/

Wrench Turners Website

https://wrenchturners.online

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

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

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

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK

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

Daily:

2015 Hyundai Sonata

(Shopping for an old Chevy Truck atm)

The innovation that happens post-crisis, is vital to the progress of our industry.

This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,

Market President at Dynatron Software, Inc.

Brad Paschal

Brad Paschal is a lifelong learner and key "giver of documents" as Dynatron. Brad shares his unique insights on the automotive industry, emphasizing the importance of problem-solving and innovative thinking in dealership management. Brad provides actionable advice for improving dealership efficiency and customer satisfaction, from leveraging big data to enhancing dealership operations to his impactful role during crises like the CDK cyber issue—a must-listen for professionals eager to push the boundaries of traditional dealership management.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Host and Guest

05:05 Discussion on Cybersecurityy

10:08 Brad Paschal’s Journey

15:57 Leveraging Data

21:30 Significance of Relationships

26:14 Importance of Creativity

31:08 Impact of Mentorship and Innovation

36:25 Cross-training Staff

41:43 The Role of Technology

47:17 EVs and New Technologies

52:12 Brad's Transition

57:35 Utilizing Innovative Marketing Tactics

1:03:56 Finding Fulfillment

Let’s get into it.

J.

—-

Mechanic? Want to Lead? Free Webinar

Check out: https://www.thesweatyleader.com

Developing Technicians into Leaders

Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify

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

Wrench Turners Merch (supports my addiction to Motorcycles)

https://mr-joshua-taylor.creator-spring.com/

Wrench Turners Website

https://wrenchturners.online

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

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

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

https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK

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