The All Access From Dent Repair Now

  🎙️ 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!

  🎙️ Episode 38: Tool Talk & Big Events on the Horizon – Mid-Season Check-In In Episode 38 of The All Access Podcast, Gene Fetty is back with a laid-back but valuable solo episode packed with gear talk, event previews, and a behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening mid-season at the Automotive Appearance Institute. Gene kicks things off with updates on two major events: Hail Expo in St. Louis (July 18–19): A free-to-attend event featuring a full lineup of speakers, tool companies, and networking opportunities. Reserve your spot at www.hailexpo.com. GPR/PDR Competition at CamAuto in Montreal (July 11–13): Gene is headed north to compete and judge in this prestigious glue pull event, and he shares both his excitement and nerves. From there, it’s a gear-focused deep dive: Gene walks through some of the tools he’s been testing in the shop and during training, including standouts and setups he’s prepping for upcoming live streams. He tests a new overhead camera system, giving listeners a preview of the live stream capabilities for Hail Expo. Throughout the episode, Gene reflects on the evolution of his tool cart, what stays, what gets retired, and how tools impact teaching and real-world results. Whether you’re tuning in for tool talk, event updates, or just want a genuine mid-season pulse check from one of the industry’s top educators, this episode has something for you. 📍 Links mentioned: 🎟️ www.hailexpo.com – Reserve your free ticket 🛠️ www.camautopro.com – Learn more about the GPR competition 🎥 Visit the Automotive Appearance Institute YouTube channel for the video version of this episode

🎙️ Episode 37 – The Hail Expo Live Episode All Access Podcast by the Auto Appearance Institute Host: Gene FettyGuests: Noah from DentOps, Ryan Hampton 🔗 Visit www.hailexpo.com for full event info and updates! 🚨 What’s Inside This Episode? In this special live edition, Gene Fetty is joined by co-organizers Noah (DentOps) and Ryan Hampton to bring you the inside scoop on the return of the Hail Expo for 2025.This is the event that’s reigniting the industry conversation around collaboration, education, and innovation in hail repair. 🧠 Topics Covered [0:00] Welcome & Why We’re LiveFirst-ever live recording for the podcast — bringing fresh energy and real-time engagement. [3:00] The History of the Hail ExpoRyan shares how the idea was born from early technician meetings and events during his time running a hail company in St. Louis. [6:45] Why Bring It Back Now?Discussion on the need for industry connection post-COVID and the new energy in hail-focused PDR. [12:00] What to Expect at the 2025 Hail ExpoDetails on the layout, training sessions, networking, and tool showcases. [19:30] Who This Event Is ForPDR techs, hail chasers, body shops, tool companies, and newcomers — everyone has a place at Hail Expo. [25:00] Building Community in the IndustryA heartfelt conversation on supporting each other, learning together, and lifting the standard of professionalism. 🛠️ Behind the Expo Organizers: DentOps, Auto Appearance Institute, Ryan Hampton Purpose: Bring together top techs, trainers, and tool vendors for a focused, impactful hail-specific experience. Location & Date Info: Head over to www.hailexpo.com for everything you need. 🎯 Final Takeaways The Hail Expo isn’t just an event — it’s a revival of what makes this community great. Whether you’ve been chasing hail for years or just starting, this is your event. You’ll leave better trained, better connected, and more fired up about your business.

🎙 Episode 35 – Hail Storm Management, Burnout, and Business Real Talk In this episode of the All Access Podcast from the Automotive Appearance Institute, Gene Fetty opens up about navigating burnout, the chaos of unexpected hail storms, and the daily grind of running a business when the workload ramps up — but not quite enough to fully scale. Gene reflects on: The recent Pittsburgh hail storm and how it affected the local repair scene How to manage your workflow and mindset during "almost busy" hail events The physical and emotional toll that comes with running both a repair shop and a training organization The importance of staying consistent, even when motivation is low A reminder to all techs and shop owners: you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed 🔥 Whether you're a seasoned PDR tech or just starting out, this episode offers an honest look behind the scenes of the industry.

  🎙️ Episode #33 – LIVE from Anson Open House 2025: Tools, Tech, and the Power of Community We're coming to you straight from the heart of Burleson, Texas, for the legendary Anson Open House 2025! This episode is packed with interviews, product reveals, and insider insights from some of the most respected names in the PDR industry. 💥 We kick off with Christina Seckinger—aka “Miss Anson” herself—on the origins and growth of the open house and a teaser for Anson’s 30th anniversary bash next year. 🔧 Next up, Gene chats with Danny Hacker at the new L2E Premium setup from KECO. From advanced knockdown tools to lateral tension systems and organized drawer layouts, they break down everything you need for next-level glue pull repair. 📱 Eric Garves, founder of Mobile Tech Rx, reveals two powerful new integrations coming soon: Zapier (automation magic!) and BlueDriver OBD-II scanning—both designed to make estimating, diagnostics, and customer communication easier and more efficient. 🛠️ Nick from Dent Vision Tools introduces the innovative new Stormbreaker Slide Hammer, designed to reduce technician fatigue with shock absorption and linear polymer bearings—all at a perfect mid-weight feel. ⚡ Finally, we dive into the Shrinky Box SV4 with Keith Cosentino from Black Plague PDR. Keith demos the system live, explains best practices, and previews what’s coming at the Advanced Skills Seminar this October—featuring elite trainers like Bryce Kelly, Zan Vidic, and international guest Jay Ma. 🎓 Want more education? Explore our entire course catalog at AutoAppearanceInstitute.com and follow us on socials @autoappearanceinstitute. Vendors featured in this episode: Anson PDR Black Plague PDR KECO Tabs Mobile Tech Rx Auto Appearance Institute

  🎙️ Episode 32 – Don’t Sell. Educate. The Price War You Can’t Win📍 All Access Podcast | Automotive Appearance Institute Gene’s back for Episode 32, and even though it’s been one hell of a week (hailstorm chaos, back-to-back glue pull trainings, and a packed schedule), the streak of weekly shows stays alive. 💪 This episode is all about flipping the script when it comes to customer conversations. Are you tired of hearing, “How much to pop this dent out?” You’re not alone. But here’s the truth: the real problem isn’t the customer — it’s what they don’t know. Inspired by the powerful book They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan, Gene dives into how switching from a “look at me” approach to a value-driven educational strategy can elevate your brand, pre-sell your customers, and remove price from the conversation altogether. You’ll hear: Why competing on price is a race to the bottom How to become the authority in your market with educational content Real examples from Gene’s own shop that prove the power of content Smart ways to turn FAQs into video, blog, and social content Tools and tips to make creating that content easy (even if you’re just starting) Plus upcoming events like the Anson Open House, Hail Expo, and PDR College Advanced Skills Seminar 🔥 BONUS: Gene drops tool reviews and shoutouts to the new Dent Reaper tools, Sergio’s cold glue line, and Willy Quick’s Muck Off. Cold glue users — you’re gonna want to hear this. ✅ Your homework:What questions do your customers ask over and over again?Turn them into videos, blogs, social posts — and watch what happens. Let Gene know what you’re planning:📩 DM @autoappearanceinstitute📧 Email: admin@autoappearanceinstitute.com🧠 Follow the conversation & grow at autoappearanceinstitute.com

In this episode Jack Bucknell of Sioux Falls Dent Repair @siouxfallsdentrepair www.siouxfallsdentrepair.com and PDR 20 Group member joins Gene to talk about his experience in the 20 group, and how it has helped to shape his career. Jack and Gene also discuss the importance of accountability and the power of a mastermind.

Join us as we say farewell to Dylann, our Content Manager, and wish her luck on her next adventure! In this episode, we take a trip down memory lane and discuss some of our favorite videos and memories we've made over the last two years together. Don't forget to follow us on social media and check out our online courses! Message from Dylann: I couldn't be more grateful for the people I have met and the memories I have made in this industry. Everyone is genuinely so incredible and I am going to miss it a lot, I am wishing everyone smaller dents and bigger dollars (as Craig Dyer would say). Links mentioned: Masterclass Promo: https://youtu.be/KyBheYm_gyk?si=D2hsgdQsnRosiCzr Black Friday Bundle ft The Other Gene: https://youtu.be/yHpNie1ZIWA?si=dPn56kkTwKFPPr9u KECO L2E Stop Motion: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14aNMRJiBd/ The Other Gene - Halloween: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/164r6FwTG3/ Toyota Carib: https://youtu.be/LDGNi9qGKjA?si=aeS_D88TTiNnmJV- Silverado: https://youtu.be/fW-_8pmj5Ls?si=AvnVgzslocyq_S_B Sandstorm: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DFD7Nb5RQ0G/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Level Up Blooper: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHJYgCexVuT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Trust Me Fall: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DC2qGMGRTTl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

In this episode of The All Access Podcast, Gene Fetty breaks down the highlights from the latest Level Up Advanced Training event and shares exciting updates on the highly anticipated JVF Pro Glue Gun. Whether you're a PDR pro looking to sharpen your skills or a tech curious about new gear, this episode delivers big insights. Gene recaps the advanced training experience, from mastering tension setups to navigating complex repairs with precision tools. He also offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the JVF Pro Glue Gun is evolving—including new features, production timelines, and what makes this tool a potential game-changer in the field. If you're serious about leveling up your glue pull repair game, this is the episode for you. 🎯 Key Topics: Highlights from the Level Up Training event Strategic tension setups and techniques Real-world repair walk-throughs and lessons learned A detailed update on the JVF Pro Glue Gun’s development Why this tool might become a must-have in your kit 🔧 Tools. Training. Mindset. Let’s go!

Get ready for a full-access, no-filter walk-through of what it really takes to launch a high-level training event at the Automotive Appearance Institute. In this episode, Gene is running on fumes but bringing the energy as he shares everything going on behind the scenes of Level Up Week—from prepping gnarly practice panels to testing brand-new tools before students even touch them. You’ll hear about: How Gene and Mack hit the junkyard to find the perfect practice panels (and why that's harder than it sounds) A sneak peek at cutting-edge tools from JVF, KECO, Black Plague, and more—including the beastly 500-watt JVF glue gun and the ultra-compact K-Power First impressions of Secure Tech’s innovative tool mats and armbands The gnarly sharp dents lined up for students to conquer—and why they’re ideal for leveling up skills Why tension is everything in advanced GPR (and how Gene’s using it to reshape nasty aluminum damage) A classroom and shop walk-through, showing off new tech like wireless HDMI camera setups and dual-color lights from Elim A Dent Plus, Gene shares his thoughts on the SB4 “Shrinky Box” from Black Plague, gives a preview of what’s coming up at the PDR College Advanced Skills Seminar, and hints at an upcoming two-day advanced glue pull class for techs looking to go deeper into serious damage. If you're in the paintless dent repair world—or thinking about stepping into it—you don’t want to miss this one. It’s gritty, detailed, and full of the tools and tactics that make high-level training truly next-level. 🛠️ Watch. Listen. Learn. Level up. 🎧 Subscribe to The All Access Podcast🌐 www.autoappearanceinstitute.com📲 Follow us on all platforms: @AutoAppearanceInstitute

In this special on-location episode of All Access, Gene Fetty is live from the Northeast Show in New Jersey with social media powerhouse Stefan from You Break, I Fix! 🚀 Stefan shares his journey from simply showcasing his work to becoming a leading influencer in the automotive repair space. They dive deep into:✅ The power of social media for technicians – and how most people are doing it wrong.✅ Getting started with content creation – No expensive gear needed, just your phone and some strategy!✅ The secret to growing a following – Engagement, authenticity, and not being afraid of the haters.✅ Responding to online criticism – How to prove yourself right without tearing others down.✅ Live streaming and podcasting – Why they’re game-changers for audience connection. Whether you’re a tech looking to grow your presence online, a shop owner wanting to attract more customers, or just someone fascinated by the behind-the-scenes world of auto repair content creation, this episode is packed with insights! 🔥 Follow Stefan:📲 TikTok & Facebook: @YouBreakIFix🎧 Podcast: Smash Masters Podcast Follow Gene:📲 @AutoAppearanceInstitute🎬 Check out the latest live repair streams on YouTube! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇 #AutoRepair #SocialMediaMarketing #ContentCreation #PDR #GluePullRepair #SmashMasters #YouBreakIFix #AllAccessPodcast

In this episode of The All Access Podcast, I’m diving into a hard truth—focusing all your efforts on social media might not be the best way to grow your business. If you've been chasing likes, shares, and followers, but not seeing real results, this episode is for you. I'll break down why social media is just a tool, not the foundation of a successful business, and what you should be doing instead to create long-term, sustainable success. I’ll also share insights from my own experiences and the lessons I’ve learned in the industry. Plus, I’m officially debuting Horse Clamps! I’ll talk about what they are, why I created them, and how they’re going to change the game for technicians. 🎧 Tune in now and rethink the way you approach business growth!