The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERECurtis Gardner is an Audi Master Guild technician. Today he joins Jeff to talk about his perspective on flat-rate pay, emphasizing both its financial upsides and its negative impact on technician mental health and work-life balance. They also share stories of the challenges and drawbacks of dealer politics, as well as the undervaluing of skilled problem-solvers—known as the "Jims" of the shop—who often keep shops running but aren’t compensated accordingly.00:00 Chrysler: Embracing Opportunity for Growth15:41 Rear Alignment Challenges and Costs28:59 Flat Rate vs. Guaranteed Pay Debate39:23 Prioritize Addressing Urgent Issues48:11 Auto Repair Estimate Dilemma54:00 Unwanted Vehicle Inspection Alerts01:04:53 Need for Persistent Problem Solvers01:18:40 Entrepreneurial Journey: From Gym to Business01:24:38 Technician Money Management Struggles01:41:41 "Advice for Unfulfilled Tech Workers"01:49:23 Advocating Conversations for Technicians01:56:35 Balancing Work and Family Struggles Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by Dory Carlin, co-owner of a two-bay independent shop in Western Pennsylvania. Dory shares his unconventional journey into automotive repair, reflecting on lessons learned from both good and bad management throughout his career at dealerships. They discuss the challenges of growing a small shop, emphasizing the importance of valuing diagnostic expertise and standing firm on pricing, and touch on the evolving roles and support needed for young technicians entering the trade. 00:00 Jeff can't take the heat!06:20 Valuing the Auto Industry Fairly13:02 Reflections on Childhood Acquaintances19:32 Dealership Dynamics and Challenges25:55 Customer Choice in Service Quality27:16 Shop Owners' Part Choices Critique34:11 Luxury Brands Use Flat Rate42:18 "CSI: The Imaginary Priority"44:43 Success Depends on Team Dynamics51:07 Collaborative Learning Boosts Business58:00 Customer Satisfaction: Word-of-Mouth Impact01:00:35 Public Transit: A Modern Solution01:05:34 Closer Job for Family Time01:12:04 "My Ex-Girlfriend, My Wife"01:17:51 Industry Dynamics and Control Shift01:25:31 "Vehicle Repair Access Concerns"01:27:27 Tesla: Pioneering Car Subscription Features01:33:51 Hiring Biases Against Young Workers01:39:14 Car Troubleshooting Conversation01:45:27 "Navigating Automotive Service Rates"01:50:18 Car Sales: Prioritize Quality and Integrity01:57:35 Understanding Trauma in Different Professions Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by his longtime friend and colleague Bryan Pollock. Bryan remembers stories of diagnostic mishaps and stresses the importance of following proper service information and thorough quality control processes. Together, they highlight the critical need for ongoing technician training, investing in apprenticeship programs, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in the shop. 00:00 Jade Mechanic Podcast: Frustration Episode10:26 Accountability in Automotive Repairs12:00 Cost of Staff Training Commitment20:59 "Diagnostic Limits in Auto Shops"25:37 "Effective Group Communication Tip"29:13 Nissan Programming Challenges33:58 Tool Investment Strategy39:02 Flaws in Production-Based Pay44:57 Multiple Children Shadowing Experience50:13 "Social Media & Royalty Auto Insights"53:15 Training and Career Progression Importance59:21 Delayed Realizations and Regrets01:05:02 Chrysler Pacifica Clutch Issue01:09:39 "Identifix: Underappreciated Diagnostic Tool"01:20:02 Mystery of the Lake's Knowledge01:21:02 Cost-Effective Local Training Option Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by Lance Mechanics (lancemechanics10 on TikTok), a technician and content creator who has made waves online for his outspoken views on the automotive industry. Lance details his late entry into the trade, shares the cultural and financial differences he experienced between independent shops and dealerships, and discusses why he ultimately left the dealership world for underground mining. The conversation also takes a critical look at the realities of flat-rate pay, the lack of mentorship for new technicians, and why Lance now advises aspiring techs to consider fleet or heavy equipment work over traditional automotive roles.Timestamps: 00:00 Hybrid Systems & Dealership Challenges10:48 Job Manipulation Frustrates Shop Workers28:03 Misunderstood Automotive Challenges35:54 Chrysler Techline and Winter Gas Issues46:31 Dealer Experience: Easier Than Expected56:16 Safety Checks at Used Car Lot01:11:26 Christmas Eve Reflections on Auto Work01:13:55 Dealer Work: Challenges and Learning01:31:40 "Real-World Advice for Aspiring Mechanics"01:36:19 Tesla Wear and Diagnostic Stigma01:50:32 "Warranty: A Sales Strategy Insight"01:56:12 "When Regulations Lose Meaning" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff welcomes Christopher Delprete, lead tech at Ace Truck Body and Trailer Repair in Georgia. Christopher talks about growing up in a family-run business in Massachusetts to his current role in heavy truck repair. He emphasized the rapid evolution of truck technology and the need for technicians to continually update their skills. Together, they discuss the critical role of mentoring and training the next generation of technicians, highlighting the importance of supporting young people and women in the trade.00:00 Guiding Brother's Biggest Bass Catch06:50 Waste Management Business Collapse10:47 Classic Car Memories16:36 Women Excel in the Heavy Truck Industry26:04 Brand Variety Keeps Job Exciting29:22 "NPR Frame Swap Process"33:46 Commitment to Quality and Safety39:22 Mutual Expertise Acknowledgement45:22 Truck Idling Workarounds Insights52:16 Montreal's Aggressive Drivers' Reputation56:36 Old Trucker's Tales01:00:50 Mechanic Video: Embracing Mistakes01:05:30 Highlighting Professionalism's Evolution01:09:55 OBD2 Tech Evolution Insights01:19:06 Widening Income Gap Motivation01:22:28 Toolbox Purchase Regret01:25:10 "Open-End Wrench Debate"01:30:48 Growing Up a Hot Rod Enthusiast Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by Kevin Brown, a multi-shop owner and technician from Michigan with over 35 years of experience in the industry. Kevin shares candid insights on what it takes to run a profitable repair business, emphasizing the importance of charging for diagnostic work and paying technicians fairly for their time and expertise. The conversation delves into the challenges of managing people and processes, fostering a strong company culture, and establishing sustainable business systems for long-term success.00:00 "Podcast Clash with Kevin"08:32 Charging for Diagnostic Time15:43 "Reflecting on Past Mistakes"19:45 Brake Troubles and Customer Dilemma26:57 Brandon Sloan: Expert in Shop Economics28:00 "Mechanic's Guide to Business Success"36:05 "Value and Pay for Wiper Service"41:59 DVI and Customer Follow-Through Issues49:01 Tech Reluctance Delays Customer Service50:38 Streamlined Repair Order Process58:53 Reconsidering Technician and Advisor Pay01:02:57 Toxic Work Environment Reflection01:10:55 Road Force Balancing Importance01:15:55 Why I Question Automotive Needs01:18:22 Complimentary Diagnostics to Reduce Costs01:25:24 High Labor Rates Impact Efficiency01:28:42 Faulty Brake Promo Issues01:35:44 September Event Invitation Reminder01:38:53 Networking Opportunity for Experienced Professionals01:47:52 Finding Work-Life Balance01:52:06 Retail Industry's Youth Crisis01:55:25 "Building Respectful Connections" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by Frank Wiebe of 3D Auto in Elmer, Ontario. Frank shares his experiences with Ontario’s new digital vehicle safety inspection program and how it has impacted his business, leading to a significant increase in inspection volume as other shops opted out. They also discuss the importance of integrity in safety inspections, emphasizing why they hold higher standards than the minimum regulations require. Lastly, Frank reflects on his journey from technician to shop owner, highlighting the challenges and rewards of running a family business in a changing industry.00:00 Adapting Safety Protocols with Technology10:36 Busy Used Car Lot Success13:36 "Bilingual Hire: Six-Year Apprenticeship"18:13 Family-Run Business Dynamics22:21 "Privileges vs. Hero Complex in Auto Shops"29:19 Tie Rod Dilemma: Pass or Fail?35:58 Regulating Safety Standards Concerns42:39 Motorbike Dispute and Indifference46:08 Faulty Car Repair Issues53:00 Lesson Learned: Consistent Rotor Replacement58:41 "Hands-On Learning: Beyond Floor Sweeping"01:00:53 Early Trade Reality Check01:07:18 Lost Art of Hands-On Learning01:14:01 Understanding Shop Hiring Challenges01:15:20 Mentorship Shapes Technician Skills01:21:14 Realizing Electrical Concepts Simplified01:30:25 Investing vs. Expanding Decisions01:34:40 Faulty Auto Parts Frustration01:39:11 "Industry Accountability and Safety" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with technician Bryan Bueckert to talk through career challenges and the realities of working in the automotive repair industry. Brian shares his journey of entering the trade later in life, including the financial sacrifices and steep learning curve involved in switching from a call center job to turning wrenches. The discussion highlights key issues like low shop door rates and reluctance to charge for diagnostic labor, which make it difficult for technicians to earn a livable wage.00:00 "Subaru Enthusiast's Job Search"05:39 Skilled Trade Pay Disparity Debate13:47 Mastering European Car Systems20:00 Space Dilemma and Hiring Needs21:55 "Challenges of Small Auto Shops"29:51 Proper Oil for Euro Cars33:44 "No Tolerance for Customer Abuse"41:41 Final School Day in Windsor43:11 Subaru Salary Insights49:42 Oil Change: More Than Routine55:45 Revamping Traditional Auto Service Methods01:00:27 Quality Parts Ensure Trust01:06:57 Subaru CVT Fluid Maintenance Advice01:10:48 Car Service Decisions Explained01:18:08 Spare Key Programming Challenges01:22:40 Efficient Airbag Installation Story01:28:57 Considering Teaching High School Shop01:33:10 Pursuing Passion After Mortgage Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by David Kline, a seasoned technician with over 25 years of experience. David shares eye-opening stories from his time in both dealership and independent shop environments, highlighting the grind of flat rate, toxic workplace cultures, and the impact these have on mental health and work-life balance. Together, they explore the need for genuine recognition of technicians’ expertise, discuss the failures of current compensation structures, and emphasize why reshaping how techs are valued is critical for the entire industry.00:00 Vehicle Safety Standards Concerns20:07 Work Dispute With Service Manager23:34 Trust and Accountability in Dealerships41:16 "Value Proven, Stress Unnecessary"49:00 Dealer Talent Drain: A Cautionary Tale01:01:38 "Diagnosing Chrysler EGR Valve Issues"01:08:08 Tool Troubles and Young Technicians01:21:45 Invest in Quality Tools01:23:19 Competitive Mechanic Memories01:43:45 "Personality Type and Customer Challenges"01:50:16 Benefit of the Doubt in Industry01:54:44 Valuing Co-Worker Relationships Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Juwan Fields, a young field service forklift mechanic seeking to transition back into the automotive industry. Juwan opens up about his dissatisfaction with the repetitive and unstimulating nature of equipment repair, contrasting it with his early passion for automotive diagnostics and electrical work. Jeff and Juwan talk about the challenges technicians face in finding fulfilling work that balances intellectual curiosity with financial stability.00:00 Career Shift: Equipment to Automotive04:43 Automotive Challenges and Reflections08:27 Job Transition: Oil Changing Experience10:38 Seasonal HVAC Job Experience15:26 Balancing Passion and Providing18:17 Choosing Stability Over Entrepreneurship20:16 "Keith Perkins: Expert Car Diagnostician"23:17 Networking with Industry Leaders27:51 "Skepticism of 'Specialty' Shops"30:33 Prefers Diagnostic Programming Over Key Work36:20 Brian Pollock's Repair Expertise38:35 "Job Satisfaction Over Money"39:59 Shop Struggles: Pay and Solutions45:40 "Aftermarket Parts: Unreliable Choice"46:34 Efficient On-Site Auto Technician Guidance52:29 Life-Changing Networking Events Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff welcomes Ford Tech J Cole to the show to talk social media influence and the changing auto repair industry. Both Jeff and J Cole have a love-hate relationship with life in the dealership, and shared similar thoughts and feelings about the repair industry as a whole. Hot takes galore on this episode! Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff and fellow Canadian shop owner Mike Pereira discuss industry challenges, such as the flat-rate pay system at dealerships, emphasizing how it discourages teamwork and impacts job satisfaction. Both Jeff and Mike highlight the importance of ongoing technical and business training in today’s rapidly changing industry and discuss the need for better collaboration and transparency among local shop owners.00:00 Some Sports Take WAYYYY Too Long10:25 Unfair Work Distribution Observed11:50 Turn Up the Radio Solution16:02 Flat Rate Challenges in Learning22:29 Shared Experiences in the Industry30:46 "Highly Recommend Brian's Class"34:48 Valuing Time Over Money38:23 Supportive Owners Embrace Change45:26 Selective Customer Intake Strategy49:10 Evaluating Vehicle Part Quality57:10 Car Enthusiast's Euro Car Insights01:01:08 Unfair Work Conditions at Dealership01:05:20 Proactive Work Culture Insights01:08:18 Training Adjustments at Work01:18:02 Digital Tread & Rotor Measurement01:20:28 Vehicle Inspection Photo Transparency01:25:41 Trust Car Claims Carefully01:30:41 Focus on Business Skills, Not Tech Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREToday, Jeff sits down at Tools 2025 with Paul Danner (ScannerDanner), Keith Perkins, and Check Engine Chuck. Paul shares updates on the SD Charities initiative and highlights the importance of giving back to the community, including a tool auction supporting an auto tech school in Senegal. Keith and Chuck discuss the challenges and rewards of growing their businesses, from shop expansion to personal journeys in technical skill development. The group engages in an honest conversation about industry image, the need for higher labor rates, and the vital role of technician recognition and continued networking.00:00 "Tools 2025: Meeting Success"05:24 Supporting Solar for African Schools12:01 "Striving for Effective Communication"20:58 Promotional Shorts and Circuit Troubleshooting24:27 Accountability in Vehicle Repairs27:36 Online Creators' Ethical Responsibility33:19 "Revamping Labor Rates in Trades"40:18 "Profitability of Brake Suspension Work"47:15 Seeking Appreciation and Change50:32 "Rethinking Industry Value Perception"57:21 Paul's Dubious Car Flipping Tactics58:35 U-Haul's Business Model Explained01:08:00 Mutual Respect and Encouragement01:14:01 "Collaborate Beyond Platforms" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff talks with Donald Tyrone to discuss burnout in the auto repair industry. Donald shares his experiences working for a large rental fleet in Savannah, Georgia, contrasting it with his past life at Toyota dealerships and the struggles he’s faced finding fulfillment in his work. Together, they examine issues like toxic workplace culture, the pitfalls of flat-rate pay systems, and the importance of genuine recognition and mental health among technicians.00:00 Inefficiency and Transparency in Work06:46 Finding Reliable Service Managers13:04 "Dealerships: Profit Over People?"16:00 Automated System Challenges at Work23:27 Service Department Concerns30:35 "Job as Retreat from Home"36:15 Work Smarter, Not Harder38:07 Aftermarket Parts: Worth the Hassle?46:01 Brake Wear and Rotor Issues51:01 Struggling to Find Balance53:38 Teaching Barriers in Automotive Education01:02:21 Confidence, Questions, and Feedback Dynamics01:06:13 Overworked Saturdays, Unappreciated Efforts01:13:15 Seeking Understanding and Purpose01:14:10 Reach Out with Good News Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff and Fluffy Mexicanik talk through their ups and downs in their automotive repair careers. They both get pretty raw about dealership life, touching on topics like flat-rate pay, the challenges of warranty work, and the growing influence of social media for technician networking and learning. Follow Fluffy on TikTokSubscribe to Fully on YouTube00:00 Unfriendly Service Manual Navigation06:19 Faulty Deliveries: CVT Issues Occurring12:11 Vehicle Repair: Diagnosing to Maximize Time16:57 Power Probe Tools Misdiagnosis Issue23:02 Seam Sealing for Leak Prevention29:13 "Engine Troubles Due to Timing"34:17 "Service Integrity vs. Profit"37:24 Recycled Auto Parts Controversy47:24 Jaded Perspective on Car Guarantees49:09 Guaranteed Pay Requires Presence54:29 "Frustration Over Unpaid Labor Time"59:03 Uncertain Pay and Motivation01:09:16 Dead Battery Dilemma01:12:37 Unpaid Diagnostic Time Issue01:18:32 "Wind Noise Repair Challenges"01:24:44 Dealership Challenges with Older Cars01:31:07 Augmented Reality Auto-Repair01:35:12 Honda-Focused Business Success01:38:04 Networking for Business Success01:42:23 "Social Media's Impact on Mechanics"01:52:01 "Redraw Industry Boundaries"01:56:10 Discovering Deeper Connections Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Liz Tate, partner at Level 5 Drive, an ADAS calibration company in southern Ontario. Liz discusses her unconventional path into the automotive industry and the challenges she encountered working as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. She shares candid experiences from her time in both dealership and aftermarket environments, highlighting issues such as poor management, internal politics, and the difficulties around proper vehicle safety and used car inspections. 00:00 "Jaded Mechanic: Celebrating 100 Episodes"08:47 High School Educational Tracks Divide12:41 "Balancing Podcast Dreams and Career"19:00 Mentorship vs. Efficiency Conflict26:01 Customer Complaints Post-Oil Change30:52 Parts Pricing and Accountability Issues32:22 Dealership Service Frustrations41:31 Catalytic Converter Solutions in Canada47:28 Dealership Culture and Resistance to Change52:22 "Challenges in Car Shop Margins"54:30 "Beware Unlicensed Car Technicians"01:03:00 "Flawed Program Lacks Accountability"01:06:08 Industry Evolution and Innovation Insights01:10:26 ADAS Calibration Challenges in Aftermarket01:18:47 Decaying Truck Neglect01:24:58 Communication Breakdown in Auto Repairs01:26:39 Insurance Struggles in Auto Repairs01:32:52 3D Puzzle vs. Road Map Understanding Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by Lisa Coyle and Joelle Pollak from Promotive! Lisa emphasizes the importance of choosing a workplace based on people and culture, not just pay, while Joel shares insights on the multi-step vetting and placement process Promotive uses to ensure strong fits between shops and technicians. Jeff also reflects on his career journey, highlighting how finding the right shop culture made all the difference in his job satisfaction and performance.We're so thankful for the support of Promotive as a sponsor of the podcast! Show your support for this show by thanking them for their sponsorship. And use them if you're looking for a job!00:00 Work's Impact on Personal Life06:09 Discover Interests Beyond Resume11:20 "Impact of Declining Practical Skills"19:47 "Challenges in Attracting Talent"25:58 "Unicorns: The Elite Problem Solvers"27:31 Value Beyond the Job37:11 Rejecting the Flat Rate Work Model39:03 Unicorn Diagnostic Tech Traits47:07 "Work Boot Replacement Benefits"49:54 Beer Exchange Rumor at Shops56:31 "Challenges of Working Interviews"01:00:53 "Honeymoon Phase in Dealerships"01:07:17 "Quirky Industry Changes"01:09:09 Consider Job Fit Before Switching01:17:30 "Tire Tech Job Dilemma"01:19:42 Mechanic's Seasonal Job Struggle Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by Tom Schearer of Schearer Sales and Service. Tom talks about the complexities of used car sales, emphasizing the importance of honest communication with customers and building long-term relationships over short-term profits. The conversation also touches on investing in specialized tools and training to stay competitive, and the value of strong shop culture and effective team collaboration.Want to go to TOOLS? Register HERE00:00 Challenges in Used Car Dealership08:34 "Dealers Prefer Used OEM Brands"12:13 Limited Used Car Warranty Realities19:53 "Tackling Car Repairs Holistically"22:58 "Leadership Transition and Delegation"26:16 Inconsistent Terminology Causes Confusion35:17 Post-Warranty Car Maintenance Shift38:33 Dealerships: Balancing Sales and Relations45:36 Employee Transition Concerns47:25 Chrysler Dealers' Hiring Agreement56:23 Recognition Over Pay: Valuing Appreciation01:01:36 Overcoming Fear: Embrace Collaboration01:06:14 "Collaborative Collision Repair Insights"01:12:32 "Importance of Knowledge Sharing"01:14:50 Retirement and Mentorship Goals01:18:49 Apology and Anticipation Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton and Lucas Underwood get real about the realities of shop ownership and the repair industry. Lucas harps on why you need to build better systems and processes, mainly to avoid burnout. They both get heated about the technician pay structure, industry culture, and the crucial need for personal fulfillment and meaning beyond monetary success.00:00 Intense Storms, Tornado Near Miss06:15 "True Champions Plan for Success"10:49 Complex Challenges in Industry Dynamics20:06 Self-Reflection and Employee Turnover25:07 Owner's Struggles with Management30:23 "Chaotic Kitchen Reflections"31:12 Automotive Industry Training Challenges41:23 Welfare System Critique: Misallocation Concerns45:03 Track and Tax Unbilled Services47:12 Business Finance Transparency Needed56:07 Rethinking Success Beyond Money59:04 Career Pathing Concerns Discussed01:03:14 Fishing: A Passionate Escape01:12:29 Navigating Professional Boundaries01:14:36 "Embracing Emotional Connections"01:20:59 Helping Each Other: A Pipe Dream?01:27:13 Eco Diesel Truck Dilemma01:32:17 Online Complaints Over Car Repairs01:38:54 Unnecessary Changes Disrupt Growing Shop01:40:52 Emotion-Free Decision Making01:46:20 "Challenging Stagnant Business Practices"01:52:54 Building Character Through Purposeful Work Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Brett T. Fadley to discuss the upcoming TOOLS training event in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Brett shares how TOOLS got started and how far it's come, but then gets into the challenges the auto repair industry has today. To get where the industry needs to be, events like TOOLS are critical. Sign up for TOOLS here!00:00 Understanding Financial Struggles of Shop Owners05:46 In-Person Networking's Hidden Value12:37 Business Challenges and Implementing Processes19:56 Improving Shop Efficiency Discussions23:38 Rust Advisory for Ontario Car Sales29:48 Mechanics' Career Transition Paths34:50 Car Repair Recommendations Debate39:44 Changing Industry Perceptions Needed47:55 Exit Scheduling Success in Auto Services51:37 "Networking: Reducing the 'Suck' Factor"54:46 Grateful for Career Purpose59:28 Engine Installation Decisions in Shops01:08:17 Limited Podcast Space Allocation01:12:26 Summer Event Invitation Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232