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The All Access From Dent Repair Now
The All Access From Dent Repair Now
Author: Gene Fetty
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Welcome to The All Access Podcast from Dent Repair Now — where the paintless dent repair and automotive appearance industry comes to learn, grow, and level up.
Hosted by Gene Fetty, technician, trainer, and founder of The Institute @ Dent Repair Now, each episode dives deep into the tools, techniques, and business strategies that drive real success in today’s PDR world.
From glue pull repair and estimating to marketing, mindset, and community events — this show gives you full access to the conversations, insights, and stories shaping the industry’s future.
Whether you’re a seasoned tech, a new student, or a shop owner building your brand, you’ll find practical takeaways and fresh perspectives in every episode.
🎧 Subscribe and join the conversation —
Because at Dent Repair Now, the industry learns here.
64 Episodes
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Are You Hail Ready? Preparing Your PDR Business for Storm Season Overview Hail season can change a PDR business overnight. One storm can take you from normal workload to full capacity instantly — and if you're not prepared, you'll lose money and create unnecessary stress. In this episode, Gene Fetty breaks down how local PDR technicians and shop owners should prepare before the first hailstorm hits. From dealership conversations to shop processes and estimating strategies, this episode is a practical guide to storm readiness. Key Topics Preparing Before the Storm Talk to dealerships about hail readiness Review their insurance coverage Position yourself as the hail expert Build trust before competitors arrive Body Shop Planning Discuss: Workflow expectations Repair vs replacement philosophy Where repairs will be performed Scheduling strategies Preparation prevents chaos when claims start rolling in. Equipment Readiness Make sure you have: Glue tabs stocked Cold glue ready Hail lights functioning Hood stands and tools inspected Batteries charged Hail season is not the time to realize something is missing. Estimating Strategy Avoid writing estimates outside with line boards. Proper estimates prevent: Lost revenue Supplements Delays Consider estimating services like DentOps or Claim Connection. Lead Tracking You need a system for: Incoming calls Estimates Follow-ups Closed jobs Consider using a CRM before hail season begins. Shop Systems Important systems include: Vehicle storage Key tracking Paperwork organization Parts management Workflow tracking boards Storm success depends on organization. Hail Expo Replay Course Watch the full Hail Expo training: https://www.dentrepairnow.com/offers/xNd2Gmsy Includes presentations on: Hail marketing Claims handling Estimating strategies Storm logistics Running profitable storms Level Up Training Join the waiting list for the next class: https://www.dentrepairnow.com/level-up Mentioned in This Episode PDR College Podcast Dent Slayer Podcast
Episode 57 – PDR Shop Talk: The Real Rollercoaster of Shop Ownership In this episode, Gene pulls back the curtain on what shop ownership actually looks like. From sliding tool carts down icy Pittsburgh driveways… to Google disasters… to hail storms saving the year… to payroll mistakes… to finally landing the right location — this is a no-fluff breakdown of the evolution of Dent Repair Now. If you’ve ever thought about opening a shop — or you’re in one and feeling the pressure — this one’s for you. 🔥 What We Cover Why Gene finally decided he needed a shop The brutal first year after losing Google traction Why Google Ads “help” can wreck your season The reality of county relocation chaos Hail storms that saved the business (and nearly broke it) Staffing struggles during peak season Over-hiring and payroll lessons learned Why location truly matters Mobile freedom vs. drywall prison Retail vs wholesale strategy Why premium demographics change everything The emotional reality of building something from scratch 📍 Key Takeaway Shop ownership is not “open the doors and they will come.” It’s: Risk Cash flow management Staffing decisions Marketing discipline Weather volatility Emotional resilience But it’s also: Control Growth Bigger repairs Education opportunities Building something lasting 🎓 Level Up – March 5, 6, 7 We sold out the first class in 4 days. We’re trying to run a second class with Žan Vidic the following week. Only 5 students needed to make it happen. 👉 Save your seat here: https://www.dentrepairnow.com/level-up $100 deposit. Fully refundable if the class doesn’t run. If you’ve been thinking about it… this is your shot.
Episode 56 — Gene Fetty with Chase Dolan Where we start Chase’s background: 27 years in autobody, mainly painting First exposure to glue pull at his shop (Keco kit sitting unused) The “whoa” moment when a dent actually moved Training journey 8 months trying to learn mostly online Real World PDR with Jim Mitchell (one week in person) Dent Wizard/Chris/Dave O weekend training Why in-person coaching fast-tracked everything What actually made him better Daily metal time Learning to slow down Cross-checking with light Knowing when to knock down vs. push Finishing vs. “good enough” Big lessons from Level Up Better starts = better finishes Lateral tension concepts Handling stretch metal When to commit to a tough dent instead of quitting Why patience is a superpower in PDR Real-world win The nasty bedside repair he almost gave up on How shrink and glue changed the outcome Why the customer was thrilled not to paint Why he signed up again for Level Up 2026 Small room. Big instructors. Real dents. Training with Gene + Žan = priceless reps Wants to get better at blending and tough rails Advice to newer techs Stop trying to “figure it out alone” Invest in in-person training Practice hard dents, not easy ones Don’t quit when it gets uncomfortable Where to find Chase dolandentrepair.com Facebook: Dolan Dent Repair Level Up 2026 First class sold out fast Second class tentative (March 5–7) if 5 deposits come in 👉 https://dentrepairnow.com/level-up
🔥 LIVE from Radio Row at MTE! 🎙️ Straight from Radio Row at MTE, we sat down with 6 guests for an unfiltered conversation on PDR, growth, and the realities of the trade. Recorded live from the floor of MTE, this podcast brings candid insight, real stories, and actionable takeaways you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you’re a seasoned technician or pushing past your current limits, this episode delivers no-nonsense value from real people doing real work. 🎧 LISTEN & LEARN: 🔗 Level Up Training with Zan Vidic & Gene Fetty: https://www.dentrepairnow.com/level-up This is where experienced techs go to sharpen their skills, refine how they think through damage, and get hands-on guidance that actually moves the needle — limited seats available. 💬 FOLLOW & CONNECT Subscribe for more PDR tips, stories, and training updates! Leave a comment — tell us what part hit hardest or what you want next. 📩 Want to be on the show? Reach out! 🔥 Thanks for watching — and remember: Skill doesn’t come from watching — it comes from doing.
Episode 54: MTE Pregame, Level Up Training, and Education Day Picks
In this episode of The All Access Podcast, Gene Fetty checks in after Snowmageddon 2026 and lays out what’s coming next — from the upcoming Level Up Advanced Training in Pittsburgh to a full breakdown of Mobile Tech Expo (MTE) Education Day.
Gene dives into:
Why this year’s Level Up Training (Feb 26–28, Pittsburgh) may sell out before it ever goes public
What makes Level Up different: real hands-on reps, advanced damage, and real-world application
Deep rails, sharp dents, cold glue evolution, creases, body line tension, shrinking, smash repair, and metal flow
How Gene and Jean approach the same damage differently — and why that matters for your growth
The business side: estimating, selling, marketing, and content creation woven into the class
Gene also previews everything he’s involved in at MTE, including:
Live podcast recording from Radio Row
Beginner Day Glue Pull Training
KECO Education Day presentation on unlocking and keeping metal unlocked
Shop Owners Roundtable discussion
His must-see picks from Education Day, including business, hail, AI estimating, total loss strategies, and production efficiency
If you’re attending MTE, thinking about advanced training, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at what really moves the needle in PDR and business — this episode is loaded.
👉 Interested in Level Up Training?DM Gene or Jean to get early access before it’s released publicly.
In this episode of The All Access Podcast from Dent Repair Now, Gene gets real about discipline, consistency, and showing up even when motivation is nowhere to be found. With MTE right around the corner, he also dives into a deep tool breakdown featuring brand-new releases, updates, and problem-solvers every serious PDR tech should know about. Gene shares behind-the-scenes thoughts on sticking to weekly podcast commitments, why discipline always beats motivation, and how small daily actions compound into real progress — in business, content creation, and repair work. The second half of the episode shifts into full tool-nerd mode, covering new and updated tools from some of the most respected names in the industry, plus a few surprises you’ll want to see in person at MTE. What’s Covered in This Episode: Why motivation fades — and discipline is what actually moves the needle Keeping promises to yourself (even when you don’t feel like it) Encouragement for techs putting themselves on camera for the first time MTE updates and how to get involved with the podcast live from the show New tool highlights and first-hand impressions What’s worth checking out (and testing) on the MTE show floor Tools & Brands Mentioned: Anson PDR https://ansonpdr.com Black Plague PDR https://blackplaguepdr.com Sundial Tool https://sundialtool.com Events & Announcements: MTE 2025 – Live podcast recording, tool demos, and in-person conversations Glue Pull 101 @ MTE – Beginner-friendly, results-driven glue pulling Shop Owners Roundtable – Real conversations with real operators Level Up Training – Limited-seat advanced training (details coming soon)
Episode Summary You can be incredible at what you do — and still be invisible. In this episode, Gene dives into a problem he’s been talking about for nearly a decade: technicians creating amazing repair content without ever putting themselves on camera. The result? Beautiful work… and zero connection. Gene explains why video isn’t about becoming an influencer — it’s about trust. Customers don’t just buy repairs; they buy people. And video is the fastest way to build that connection before a customer ever calls or walks through the door. Along the way, Gene shares real stories from his own business that prove how powerful video can be, even when it’s imperfect. The episode wraps with industry updates, support for a longtime PDR leader, and news from around the PDR world. Key Topics Covered Why silent repair videos are holding techs back The Know–Like–Trust factor and how video accelerates it Simple ways to get on camera (even if you hate it) Using voiceovers and time-lapse as stepping stones Why personality matters more than polish Real customer stories where video pre-sold the job Sharing wisdom beyond dents and repairs A direct challenge to get uncomfortable — and visible Practical Takeaways You don’t need to be a content creator — you need to be seen Your phone is already a professional video tool Voiceover is better than silence Wide shots make getting on camera easier Customers trust familiarity more than perfection Industry Updates & Mentions Mobile Tech Expo (MTE 2026) Gene will be attending MTE with multiple appearances, including Beginner Day focused on Glue Pull Repair, Education Day with KECO, the Shop Owners Roundtable, and a live podcast recording from the show floor. Paul Kordon A foundational figure in the PDR industry and the “PK” behind modern pricing systems, Paul was recently diagnosed with lymphoma. Gene encourages the industry to support Paul however possible — financially, emotionally, or through prayer and positive energy. PDR Universe Podcast A brand-new podcast hosted by Žan Vidic and Zeeshan, bringing global PDR perspectives, competition-level insight, and technician conversations to the community. Call to Action This week: Make one video Put your face or voice in it Tag @DentRepairNow Post it No excuses.
Episode Overview
In this first episode of 2026, Gene breaks down a simple but powerful system for goal-setting and productivity that actually works in the real world. Instead of New Year’s resolutions that fade by February, this episode focuses on daily execution, accountability, and winning the day—one decision at a time.
Gene shares personal lessons, productivity frameworks he’s returning to this year, and a practical way to turn massive goals into daily wins using the Power List concept popularized by Andy Frisella.
Key Topics Covered
Why most New Year’s resolutions fail
Overestimating the year vs. underestimating the day
Quarterly goal check-ins and adjusting the target
The Power List: 3–5 daily actions to win the day
Turning daily wins into weekly, monthly, and yearly success
Focus Finder sessions and deep work
Productivity habits for business and life
Recommended Listen
The episode that inspired this mindset shift:
🎧 “Win the Day” – Real AF with Andy Frisella (Apple Podcasts)👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-af-with-andy-frisella/id1012570406?i=1000377906163
Upcoming Mentions & Events
Ginger Bros Dent Show – Shop Owners Roundtable
MTE 2026:
Beginner’s Day: Glue Pull Repair 101
Keco Talk: Unlocking & Staying Unlocked
Level Up Training – February 26–28, Pittsburgh
Connect with Dent Repair Now
🌐 https://dentrepairnow.com 📲 Instagram / Facebook / YouTube: @dentrepairnow
Episode 50 is a milestone — and it’s also my longest, most tool-packed episode to date.
In this episode of The All Access Podcast, I break down the must-have PDR tools for 2026, along with new tools to watch heading into Mobile Tech Expo (MTE) 2026. This isn’t theory, hype, or “tool influencer” talk — these are real tools I use every day in the shop, on hail cars, door dings, and large collision repairs.
Some of these tools are brand new.Some have been around forever.All of them earn their place in my cart.
This episode is designed to help you:
Build a smarter, more efficient tool setup
Stop over-switching tools mid-repair
Understand why certain tools matter — not just what they are
Prepare for what’s coming at MTE 2026
What We Cover in This Episode
🔧 Must-Have Shop Tools (Old School & New)
Wedges, blocks, and leverage tools that never leave my cart
Why simple tools still matter more than flashy ones
How proper leverage saves time, fatigue, and paint
🔨 Hammers & Paddles I Trust
My go-to blending hammer
Finishing paddles vs. power paddles (and when to use each)
Why handle design and material matter more than most techs realize
🎯 Tips, Precision Tools & Tight-Access Solutions
Small-diameter rods and tight-access tools
Phenolic and specialty tips for clean, aggressive pushes
Why buying all the tips actually saves money long-term
🧲 Knockdowns That Changed How I Work
Shock-absorbing knockdowns vs. traditional styles
Tip materials, weight, and control
Why I stopped switching knockdowns mid-repair
🔥 Glue Guns (Hot & Collision-Grade)
My everyday cordless glue gun setup
High-output collision glue guns for large pulls
When multiple guns beat one “do-everything” gun
❄️ Cold Glue Systems & Slide Hammers
Why I was wrong about cold glue (and what changed my mind)
My finishing-stage cold glue setup
Slide hammers I rely on — and why I own more than one
🔗 Lateral Tension & Large Damage Movement
My preferred tension tools for unlocking repairs
Why lateral tension changes everything on collision damage
Tools that move metal without creating new problems
🌨️ Hail-Specific Tools That Are Non-Negotiable
Carbon fiber rods and extensions
Long-reach knockdown setups
Tools that save your body during large hail jobs
🎓 MTE 2026 Education Day
I also talk about my upcoming Education Day session at Mobile Tech Expo 2026, where I’ll be teaching:
Lateral tension strategies
How to unlock repairs and stay unlocked
Tool setups that expand what’s possible in PDR
Tool Companies Mentioned in This Episode
(Listed for reference — this episode is not sponsored)
Anson PDR
Dent Craft Tools
KECO Tabs
VIP PDR Tools
Dent Slayer / A-1 Tool
Finesse PDR Tools
Black Plague PDR
Dent Vision Tools
Glexo
Perfect Pull Dent Repair
JVF Tools
Fast PDR Tools
CamAuto
Carbon Tech PDR
Willy Quick
Dent Gents
Stuckey Tools
Final Thoughts
Episode 50 isn’t about buying more tools — it’s about buying better, using fewer tools more intentionally, and working smarter instead of harder.
If you’re heading into 2026 feeling overwhelmed by tool options, this episode will help you:
Simplify your setup
Speed up your repairs
Protect your body
And get better results with less effort
🎧 Listen to the full episode📺 Watch on YouTube📍 Join me at MTE 2026 – Education Day
In this episode of The All Access Podcast from Dent Repair Now, Gene dives deep into one of the most misunderstood topics in modern PDR marketing: social media.
While platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are more popular than ever, Gene explains why relying on them as your primary business strategy is a dangerous long-term mistake—especially for local, retail-focused PDR businesses.
Using real-world examples, personal experience, and years of marketing experimentation, Gene breaks down why your website is the asset you actually own, how SEO compounds over time, and how social media should be used as a distribution tool, not the foundation of your business.
Topics Covered
Why social media is “rented land”
The risk of losing years of content overnight
Website-first vs social-first strategies
Local SEO vs vanity metrics
Why content should age like wine, not milk
How YouTube fits into a smart PDR marketing plan
Real examples of long-tail SEO paying dividends for years
Using social media to support—not replace—your website
A practical challenge for local PDR business owners
Listener ChallengeIf you don’t have a website — start one.If you do have a website — publish one piece of content this month that answers a real customer question.
Shout-OutHuge thanks to Cass from CTBodyTech for the thoughtful card and stickers — and for being a great example of implementing training and taking action.
Coming Up NextEpisode 50: 2026 Must-Have PDR ToolsGene breaks down the tools that actually make you money — not hype tools, not drawer-fillers.
Episode Highlights: - Why there is no universal “best” training - The importance of learning style vs teaching style - One-on-one training: fastest results, highest cost - Small group training: best balance of value and access - Why seminars are great for mindset and micro-wins - The NASCAR analogy: chasing 1% improvements - Why online training does work (when done right) - The real problem: techs refusing to commit to anything - Why metal time matters more than format - Upcoming MTE appearances and topics - Possible Level Up class (Feb 2026 – Pittsburgh) Mentioned Events & Topics: - MTE Beginner Day & Education Day - Glue Pull 101 - Unlocking & Staying Unlocked (KECO) - Shop Owner Round Table (MC’d with Matt Moore)
In this episode, Gene sits down at a Pittsburgh cigar bar with long-time friend and industry road dog Jack Bucknell. They dive into what truly changes a PDR technician’s career: relationships, networking, getting off your island, and plugging into the community.
Together they unpack:
Why so many techs feel isolated
How going to events like MTE and PDR College Advanced Skills Seminar changed their lives
How real relationships lead to real opportunities (hail work, retail growth, worldwide travel, and lifelong friendships)
Upcoming highlights for MTE 2026, including new talks, new tools, and what Gene & Jack will be involved in
The newest tools shaking up the PDR world, including:
Reaper Revolver Hood Stand
Keco’s Dent Slayer Panel Stand
Anson Mini Hub
Carbon Tech Light Stand
Shock Blocker
Flip Light / Elimadent Mini Light
Gene’s favorite new tool of the year
Jack’s top three tools of the year
The power of massive action, showing up, and saying yes
Announcements for:
Level Up Training (“If we get enough people, we’re doing it.”)
AAI → Dent Repair Now migration for all students
If you've ever felt like you're “on an island” in the PDR world — this episode is the antidote.
Key Takeaways
You’re only on an island if you choose to be.Getting off your island starts with showing up: MTE, meetups, open houses, toy drives, anything.
Relationships create opportunities you can’t plan for.Jobs, travel, collaborations, tool development, training, masterminds — all of it happens because you meet people.
PDR College was a turning point for many techs.Listening → going to events → taking massive action = career transformation.
Efficiency tools = more cars = more income.The Revolver stand, Carbon Tech light stands, and tension tools are changing how fast techs work.
MTE 2026 is going to be huge.Gene is speaking, co-hosting the Shop Owners Roundtable, and participating in Radio Row along with Jack.
Level Up Training may return.Message Gene or Zan if interested.
The AAI migration to DRN Institute is complete.Students retain full access and can log in at dentrepairnow.com/institute.
Tools Mentioned
(Add your affiliate or shop links here if you want a monetized version)
Reaper Revolver Hood Stand
Keco Dense Layer Stand
Keco K-Power + Tab Straps
Anson Mini Hub
Carbon Tech Light Stand
Elim A Dent Flip Light / Limited Mini Light
Shock Blocker
Industrial Glue Gun (Jonathan’s)
Calls to Action
Watch the video version on YouTube → @DentRepairNow
Log into all AAI courses at → dentrepairnow.com/institute
Message Gene or Zan if interested in Level Up Training (February)
Follow Gene on all platforms → @DentRepairNow
Episode 46 — Tool Talk, Cyber Monday Steals & What’s New Inside DRN
In this solo episode, Gene dives into one of the most tool-heavy years he's ever had — and with Cyber Monday upon us, he walks through the best deals, the tools he picked up, and why they made the cut. From Keco tension systems to Stuckey fade lights, Dent Reaper’s Kratos tips, Dent Vision paddles, and Anson’s newest compact-door tools, Gene breaks down real-world use cases from a working PDR shop.
He also shares listener feedback from the Dent Slayer podcast appearance, reflects on a massive “Dent for Kids” turnout, and previews upcoming training sessions at MTE 2025 — including the return of the Keco shirt, new classes, and co-hosting the Shop Owner’s Roundtable.
What We Cover:
Listener reactions to last week’s episodes
The big “Dent for Kids” update
New software + future plans for multicam tool reviews
Gene’s top Cyber Monday / Black Friday tool picks
Why the Keco K-Power and new tab straps are MUST-own pieces
Dent Reaper Kredo tips and why they’re tool-of-the-year contenders
The new “Zamer” hammer from A-1 and why it belongs in your kit
Dent Slayer course discounts + why instructor connection matters
Get-A-Grip battery-powered suction cups
Dent Vision’s Shock Blockers, wedges, adapters, and more
Big deals from Carbon Tech, Finesse Tools, Anson, and Stuckey
MTE 2025 previews — classes, speakers, and the Shop Owner Roundtable
AAI → DRN migration reminder for all past students
Links to Tools Mentioned:(Full YouTube version below includes all the clickable links)
Follow @DentRepairNow for tool reviews, shop tours, and new training content.
🎙️ All Access Podcast #45
From Collision Repair to Global Innovation: The Jonathan Vandenfontyne Story
In this powerhouse episode, Gene sits down with world-renowned technician, tool designer, and industry innovator Jonathan Vandenfontyne (JVF Tools). If you’ve ever wondered how large-damage glue-pull repair evolved… or how Keco’s collision system came to life… or what it takes to invent next-generation PDR tools… this episode is a must-listen.
Jonathan shares his incredible journey from classic European collision work to becoming one of the most influential minds in modern glue-pull and lateral tension repair. You’ll hear the real stories behind the tools, the breakthroughs, the failures, and the innovations that changed the collision and PDR industries forever.
🔥 Episode Highlights
🔧 How Jonathan Entered the World of PDR
Growing up in Belgium and entering collision work at 16.
Training under specialists who handled massive structural repairs.
Seeing his first PDR tech using handmade tools in an old Peugeot factory.
His obsession with learning anything he didn’t understand — including paying just to watch a tech work.
💡 Early Adoption of Glue Pulling (Before Glue Pulling Worked Well!)
Buying the original Würth glue pulling kit around 2004–2005.
Everyone said: “Don’t waste your money — it doesn’t work.”
Jonathan refused to accept that.
Experimented with cleaners, temperatures, polishing, and techniques until he made the kit perform at a high level.
Discovered glue pull solutions for repairing RVs and mobile homes where pushing wasn’t possible.
✈️ The Trip That Changed Everything — Meeting Keco at MTE
Flew standby thanks to his wife working for United Airlines.
Walks into MTE for the first time — “felt like Disney World for PDR.”
Discovers the first-generation flexible centipede tab.
Immediately realizes:
“This tab is incredible — but where are the tools to actually use it?”
Builds his own prototype pull towers, bridges, feet, and hydraulic adapters at home.
Starts pulling massive dents in minutes instead of hours.
📈 The Viral Video That Changed Glue Pull Repair Forever
Gene and Jonathan discuss one of the most influential glue pull videos ever posted—Jonathan’s 2017 “horse-kicked” van quarter panel repair.
A massive double-wall smash
One Ice Centipede
A hydraulic pull
And the dent walks out in minutes
Jonathan received hate mail claiming the repair was faked
But it became the “aha moment” for thousands of techs (including Gene)
🛠️ The Birth of Modern Collision Glue Pulling
Jonathan collaborates with Chris White, Tim and Jerry at Keco.
Designs early prototypes of:
Centipede tabs
Ice tabs
Large-damage pulling systems
The 7mm Dead Center crease tab (born from grinding down a 12mm tab on a whim!)
This evolves into today’s Keco GPR system used worldwide.
🚀 The Creation of JVF Tools
Jonathan shares why he launched his own brand:
Always operated as a freelancer — never an employee
Wanted to build tools that he believed were missing
Wanted to advance lateral tension and combination pulling
Paired with Barry McKearnan and engineer Jerry Leopold
Their combined thinking leads to the invention of…
🔩 The JVF Retention System
One of the biggest leaps in glue pull tech in the last decade.
Jonathan breaks down:
The science of pulling vs. pushing
Why diving feet were a problem in earlier systems
How retention allows:
Lateral tension
Vertical lift
Or both at once
Why that creates “metal flow” instead of fatigue
Why combining tension with cold glue is so powerful
And how the new Mini Retention System gives PDR techs access to the same concepts in a lighter form
🔥 New Tools & Innovations
Gene and Jonathan discuss:
The JVF glue gun (a game-changer for high-volume glue use)
Glue pellets
The upgraded orange lifter adapters
Cold glue techniques
Prototype testing
And how Jonathan gauges whether a tool is worth producing:
“If I don’t reach for it as my go-to tool… I don’t release it.”
🎓 The European Masterclass: A New Level of PDR Training
Jonathan previewed his upcoming 3-day Elite Masterclass featuring:
Gerson (Brazil)
Martin Suur (UK)
Barry McKearnan
John Vidic (USA)
And Jonathan himself
This event is Europe’s answer to PDR College — built for serious techs seeking elite skills in:
Lateral tension
Smash work
Large damage
Finishing techniques
Metal flow
Panel design and mapping
And advanced glue pulling
A professional videographer is filming the entire event for future release.
⚠️ Jonathan’s Warning to Inventors
He closes the episode with incredibly important advice:
“If you invent a tool, protect it.Get a patent.Even a basic one.We are in a time when everything is copied immediately.”
He shares:
How Alibaba/AliExpress copied his Retention System instantly
How his patent allowed him to have all copies removed
Why new inventors MUST protect their designs
Why copying hurts the entire industry
Why supporting original creators ensures we keep moving forward
💬 Gene’s Closing Thoughts
Gene reminds listeners:
Knockoffs damage innovation
Tool creators like Jonathan, Keco, CamAuto, Anson, etc. push the industry forward
If techs don’t support innovators, the innovations will stop
Invest in real tools from real industry people — not cheap imitations
📌 Links Mentioned
JVF Tools: https://www.jvftools.com
Upcoming European Masterclass: Available on JVF site
Retention Tools available through:
Anson
Keco
Morgan (EU distributor)
🧵 Follow Gene / Dent Repair Now
Instagram: @dentrepairnow
Facebook: Dent Repair Now
Website: dentrepairnow.com
YouTube: @dentrepairnow
🎧 Listen Now
All Access Podcast #45 — “Jonathan Vandenfontyne: The Story Behind the Innovation”
Gene apologizes for not getting this episode out sooner and then talks about how amazing the Seminar was, we also talk about some new tools our Dents 4 Kids toy drive event and much more.
Big news, everyone — The Auto Appearance Institute is officially becoming part of Dent Repair Now! In this special farewell episode, Gene shares the story behind the move and what it means for listeners, students, and the entire PDR community. Here’s what you’ll hear: ✅ Why AAI and Dent Repair Now are merging into one stronger brand. ✅ How The Institute @ Dent Repair Now will simplify your training and access. ✅ What’s changing — and what’s staying exactly the same. ✅ How to keep up with the new All Access Podcast from Dent Repair Now. Your courses, access, and progress are safe and sound. All AAI classes are now hosted inside The Institute @ Dent Repair Now, where you’ll find every course, plus new ones rolling out soon. 👉 Visit www.DentRepairNow.com/Institute to log in and continue learning. 🎧 Follow and subscribe to The All Access Podcast from Dent Repair Now for new episodes, industry stories, and guest interviews.
Just a short show. I am taking a few weeks off and didn't want to leave you all hanging.
Gene gives a recap of how the Cam Auto competition went for him, he talks about the hail expo, and goes over his tool haul from the weekend.
Gene and Danny give you a day by day, play by play from the competition .
An audio only episode today. Gene talks about a couple tools he forgot to mention in the last episode. The Get A Grip with 82" umbrella and the JVF big glue gun. We also cover updates on how things are going, the end of chaos, a new "Dylann", dealing with different types of hail storms and what Gene is thinking about the upcoming GPR PDR competition at Cam Auto!








