The PartsEdge Podcast with Kaylee Felio

Chuck Hartle is the Founder and President of Parts Edge, a company helping to increase DMS utilization, improves efficiency, accuracy, and profitability with solid and consistent plans for eliminating all types of idle inventory in a Parts Operations. In this Summer Camp Series episode of the Parts Girl Podcast, we are joined by Chuck Hartle, an experienced professional in the automotive industry, specifically in the parts and service sector. Chuck Hartle shares valuable insights into inventory control, pricing strategies, and the challenges faced by parts managers in today's competitive market. Chuck Hartle emphasizes the importance of understanding the rules and policies set by manufacturers. While dealerships play a crucial role in holding inventory and meeting compliance, manufacturers often control the inventory and hold dealers accountable for carrying it. However, Chuck encourages dealerships to be efficient and not solely rely on manufacturers, ensuring their bottom line is protected and expenses are effectively passed on to customers. Another significant aspect Chuck Hartle touches upon is the need for effective inventory management and accurate record-keeping. Being organized not only helps in providing excellent customer service but also maximizes profits and reduces holding costs. Chuck's favorite stress relief activity is organizing and straightening inventory, a testament to his dedication and expertise in this field. Furthermore, Chuck advises parts managers to pay attention to special orders and maintain good communication with customers. By focusing on controlling special orders and identifying wholesale clients who frequently return parts, dealerships can achieve success in parts management. Additionally, pricing adjustments, especially on wholesale items, can help increase gross profit figures, allowing dealerships to navigate the increasing costs of doing business. Join Kaylee and Chuck as they delve into the intricacies of parts management, pricing strategies, and the importance of efficient inventory control. This episode is packed with practical advice and real-life experiences that will benefit anyone in the automotive parts industry. Takeaways Understand the rules and policies. Control special orders and communicate effectively. Make pricing adjustments and increase gross profit figures. Quote “Know the rules based on your manufacturer. Know them in-depth." -Chuck Hartle Connect Chuck Hartle LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-hartle-1923ab14 Website: www.partsedge.com Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl Website: www.partsedge.com

Meet James Holloway, After Sales Business Development with Swickard Auto Group. James brings over 35 years of parts automotive experience. He has coached and mentored hundreds of Dealerships with business development, eCommerce sales platforms, best practices , wholesale growth strategies and value proposition. In this episode we discuss what Dealerships be should focusing on, in their PARTS DEPARTMENTS. Get to know Mr. Holloway as we get into the details of inventory management and creating culture to be a great leader.

I had the opportunity to meet with Kate Beirowski, Sales Director of Wrenchway. Her story and how she got into auto is absolutely amazing!! She shines bright in her mission to solve the technician shortage. Kate is an all around great person and inspires many of us to make a difference in the auto business. We get into topics like women in automotive, who inspires her and what Dealerships can change to attract technicians. You won’t want to miss this one!!

I’m so excited to announce my first episode of The Parts Girl podcast is with Russ Mann of Salt Automotive!! I can’t express how kind and humble of a person he is. We discuss his journey throughout the car business. The lows and the inspiration that has led him to the limitless opportunities to impact dealerships across the country today. He is a one of a kind type of person and would urge you to listen to his story and be inspired just as I was when I got the chance to really get to know his story.

In this value-packed conversation, host Kaylee Felio sits down with industry expert Chuck Hartle to crack open some of the most overlooked costs of running a dealership parts department. From the hidden impact of idle inventory to the real-world strategies for beating manufacturer compliance traps, Chuck shares proven methods for turning your parts department into a lean, profit-driving machine.If you’re a parts manager, fixed ops director, or dealer principal eager to fix your inventory foundation, you’ll walk away with actionable tips to minimize obsolescence, dial in your productive inventory, and get everyone—from staff to body shop managers—rowing in the same direction.Kaylee and Chuck use real calculations, candid examples, and a bit of gritty optimism to show how small adjustments in turns, holding costs, and compliance can result in BIG savings, improved customer satisfaction, and higher dealership profitability.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------Takeaways1. Focus on productive inventory2. Monitor holding costs & turns3. Compliance strategy mattersChapters00:00 Optimizing Inventory ROI05:50 Optimizing Parts Compliance Strategies07:27 "Profit Margins & Holding Costs"12:42 Collision Industry Risks Analysis13:49 Hidden Value in Wholesale Operations17:01 "Collision Profit Analysis Challenges"20:28 Optimize Inventory for ROI BoostKaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

In this special PartsEdge Podcast crossover episode with the FixedOps Roundtable, Kaylee dives deep into why parts managers deserve a bigger spotlight, how dealership leadership can foster real change, and what’s next for the evolution of fixed operations.Learn firsthand how PartsEdge continues to support both seasoned and brand-new parts managers—providing education, empowerment, and the right tools to help dealerships get the most out of their inventory. Kaylee and Ted also reflect on partnership stories (including Snell’s), challenges faced by parts departments, and the importance of having parts leaders join the conversation at every level.Whether you’re a fixed ops veteran or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to run smarter, build culture, and drive dealership success through the parts department.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysEmpowering parts managers with education and resources drives whole-dealership success.Bringing parts leaders into key conversations fosters culture change and operational growth.Both seasoned and new parts managers benefit from ongoing support and smart inventory strategies.Chapters00:00 – Kaylee Felio introduces the PartsEdge Podcast and its mission. 00:25 – Ted Ings welcomes Kaylee live from Snell Motor Company in Dallas. 01:09 – Kaylee explains the PartsEdge philosophy: education and support for parts managers. 02:21 – The importance of spotlighting the people in parts, not just service. 03:17 – How the Snell/PartsEdge relationship began and the value of long-term support. 03:57 – The range and growth of parts managers in today’s dealerships. 04:31 – Parts inventory as a core investment and the case for strong management. 04:59 – Kaylee shares her vision, career path, and excitement for the future of PartsEdge. 05:39 – Ted and Kaylee wrap up with thoughts on industry evolution and ongoing innovation.Kaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

In this episode, Kaylee Felio welcomes John Traver of Traver Connect to discuss what “broken” looks like in automotive fixed ops—and more importantly, how leaders and teams can drive sustainable change. John shares frameworks from sports icons, legendary business thinkers like Peter Drucker, and dealership trailblazers such as Ed Roberts to highlight the power of questioning, mission clarity, and process improvement.Tune in for real-world strategies to strengthen your parts and service department—whether it’s redefining your mission, zeroing in on your “primary customer,” or getting honest about what’s not working. As John puts it, “When you get your mission right, you have an unfair advantage.”This episode is packed with actionable insights for parts managers, service leaders, and anyone passionate about moving the dealership world forward.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysStart by asking “What’s broke?”Define your mission—the simpler, the better.Document and improve your core processes.Chapters00:00 "Slowing Down to Go Fast"04:12 "Mission Before Plan in Business"09:50 "Patience in Product Development"11:58 Understanding Automotive Secondary Customers16:13 Streamlining Appointment Scheduling19:13 Ed Roberts: Solving Technician Shortage22:40 Relentless Improvement Competitors23:32 Embracing Growth and Improvement26:38 Improving Process EfficiencyKaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

In today’s episode, Kaylee Felio is joined by auto industry leaders Joel Gray and Sheila Pogue for a deep dive into what it takes to build, scale, and energize one of the nation’s most successful wholesale parts operations. Joel shares the story behind managing $9.3M in Ford parts inventory across three locations and a dynamic team of nearly 100 employees. Discover how integrity, creative marketing, and empowering your people can transform a parts department from the inside out.From battling manufacturer pushback and rethinking inventory management to leveraging digital marketing and creating a culture that employees love, Joel unpacks the leadership lessons and operational strategies that set his dealership apart. Sheila jumps in on what it takes to build meaningful digital presence for wholesale and spotlights how human connection – inside and outside your operation – drives business forward.If you want to reimagine your department, empower your team, and tap into new growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights, laughter, and some four-legged support along the way.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysLead With IntegrityEmpower and Equip Your PeopleInvest in Marketing and RelationshipsChapters00:00 "Honest Operations Foster Respect"03:13 33-Year Automotive Career Journey06:36 Insurance-Driven Auto Collision Changes10:08 Positive Reinforcement Boosts Performance13:23 Team Leadership and Connection Strategies18:01 Open-Door Training Approach21:26 "Enjoying Workplace Connections"24:33 Custom Software Enhances Store Operations29:11 Dedicated On-Road Sales Team30:35 Personal Touch Boosts Customer Relations34:16 Employee Retention Strategies37:25 "Importance of Preparedness and Inquiry"40:18 Incremental Business Expansion44:56 Learning Ford's Ordering System Quirks46:13 Embracing Change and LearningKaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

Kaylee Felio sits down with Steve Fishel, Parts Manager at Titus-Will Toyota in Tacoma, WA, for a deep-dive into the evolving world of dealership parts departments. With nearly four decades in the business—most of it with the Toyota brand—Steve shares his journey from his early days after the Air Force to leading inventory parts operations through massive industry and technology shifts.In this episode, Steve discusses the importance of adapting to change, embracing new inventory management tools, and building trust in both technology and your team. He explains the transformative impact of expanding from a handful of inventory “sources” to a data-driven, multi-source approach—saving time, money, and stress, while dramatically improving efficiency, stock order review, and returns.Steve also opens up about the realities of department culture, why collaboration with service and sales teams is vital, and how embracing outside expertise (like PartsEdge) brought fresh energy and measurable results to his operation.Whether you’re a seasoned parts manager or new to dealership operations, Steve’s story offers actionable insights on thriving amidst change and unlocking the full potential of your parts department.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysLeverage Technology & DataTrust the SystemCollaboration Drives ResultChapters00:00 "Toyota Enthusiasm in Diverse Dealership"05:27 Adapting to Changing Car Parts08:45 Optimizing Inventory through Dynamic Coding10:40 "Outsourcing Tech: A Game Changer"14:11 Optimizing Inventory for Efficiency18:20 Streamlined Stock Ordering Process20:09 Trusting Chuck's System24:44 "Teamwork and Management Alignment"28:10 Reflecting on Self and Progress32:41 Inventory Management Efficiency Boost35:14 "Highlighting Parts Pros"Kaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

Kaylee Felio, the dynamic and relatable host known as "the parts girl," steps out from behind her usual interview format for a heartfelt solo episode. In this candid conversation, Kaylee shares her personal journey of balancing motherhood, sales leadership at PartsEdge, and life’s messy realities—yes, even poopy diapers in between Zoom calls! She dives into the unique pressures of running sales and marketing for a growing business, the “imperfect balance” of work and life, and what it truly means to operate with an owner’s mindset—even if you don’t own the company.Kaylee also recounts memorable client stories and unexpected wins, like landing a referral-driven client from a webinar she thought had flopped due to a time zone error. This episode is a must-listen for anyone leading from the trenches in fixed ops, juggling the demands of family and career, or craving a little honest encouragement on their own journey.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysThere’s no perfect work-life balanceOperate with ownershipDon’t fear misstepsChapters00:00 – Kaylee’s solo debut: nerves, encouragement, and mindset pep-talk01:28 – Juggling leadership, marketing, motherhood, and the illusion of balance02:17 – Candid stories: webinar listening, diaper changing, and parent guilt03:01 – Running things “like you own it”: misconceptions and reality at PartsEdge03:38 – Fix Ops Roundtable highlights, parts managers getting out to network04:06 – ChatGPT assists with self-interview questions; the chaos of back-to-school05:15 – Lessons from Kaylee’s mom: gratitude and emotional support06:47 – Unexpected wins: client referral story from a “flopped” webinar08:04 – Client signs up live in the meeting—unique experiences in sales08:40 – Closing thoughts: The messy, rewarding journey of growth at PartsEdgeKaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

Today, Kaylee Felio interviews Sheila Pogue, who shares her journey from working in restaurants to becoming a parts manager and eventually transitioning to a vendor role at Dealer OMG. Together, they take on one of the industry’s big conversations: why fixed ops is treated like the “redheaded stepchild” of dealerships, and how better marketing, internal buy-in, and creative partnerships can help change that. Sheila draws on her deep boots-on-the-ground experience to share practical strategies for getting buy-in from decision-makers, why being vendor-savvy pays off, and the overlooked potential of accessories and wholesale parts.If you’re looking for real talk and actionable ideas to empower your parts team—and maybe a laugh or two about dealership life—this episode delivers. Whether you’re on the counter, in the GM’s chair, or working to support the automotive world, Kaylee and Sheila’s conversation will remind you why the parts department is really the flywheel that keeps the dealership engine running.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysFixed ops drives dealership success.Customer service is a key focus.There are many opportunities within fixed ops that dealerships often miss.Chapters00:00 Mentorship and Success in Dealership03:35 Transitioning to Remote Work07:19 Strategizing Dealer Operations Relationships11:14 Meta Founder Recalls Early Recruitment13:48 Passion for Automotive Client Support18:00 "Unique Store Branding Focus"19:41 Maintaining Customer Engagement in Auto Sales24:36 Boosting Service Revenue Strategies26:44 "Maximize Budget with Petty Card"30:35 Dealership Leadership and Inventory Changes35:17 PartsEdge: Streamlining Parts Management36:45 "Direct Approach to Self-Solutions"42:06 NCM Bender 20 Group Overview42:59 Vetted Vendor Association's Impact

Kaylee Felio sits down with Christian Lafferty and Cliff Honeycutt from the Chris Collins Group—industry thought leaders, coaches, and co-hosts of the Parts Hold Podcast. Kaylee, Christian, and Cliff dive deep into the evolving dynamics of dealership fixed operations, uncovering what makes parts managers uniquely equipped for leadership, how to break down dealership silos, and why embracing new sales channels like Amazon is a must for forward-thinking auto dealerships.Along the way, they draw thought-provoking parallels between parenting and leadership, highlight the power of exceptional customer experiences, and unpack the shifting dynamics of fixed operations. Blending industry insights with personal stories, offering a well-rounded look at today’s automotive world and the exciting opportunities ahead.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------Takeaways1. Parts managers: the unsung heroes driving dealership success2. Strong parts–service teamwork boosts performance3. Parts departments hold untapped sales potentialChapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview01:41 Meet the Hosts: Christian and Cliff03:29 The Importance of Parts Managers06:29 Bridging the Gap: Parts and Service Collaboration11:12 Understanding the Parts Department's Role14:33 Positive Trends in the Industry19:58 Parenting and Management: Similarities Explored24:07 Opportunities in the Automotive Industry26:10 Wrestling Memories and Industry Insights28:14 Amazon's Impact on the Automotive Industry31:57 The Evolution of Customer Experience34:02 Fixed Operations: A Growing Focus38:51 Creating Raving Fans and Generational Value41:14 Fun Questions and Hidden TalentsLike what you hear? Review the show for us: https://ratethispodcast.com/ratethepartsedgepodcastKaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

Jim Oliveri, Parts Director at West Herr Auto Group. With 31 years at the 75-year-old company, he promotes empowerment, operational excellence, and profitability through logistics, people, and metrics. Jim mentors leaders, drives performance via structure and wholesale strategies, and prioritizes local ownership and customer satisfaction. He balances financial success with employee well-being, cherishing their career growth.Jim Oliveri discusses his automotive industry experience, focusing on parts operations, dealership challenges, customer service, inventory management, and fixed operations opportunities. He offers advice for new leaders, emphasizing collaboration and learning. The conversation ends with insights into the evolving automotive industry.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysDealership success hinges on often-overlooked parts operations.Customer service is a key focus.There are many opportunities within fixed ops that dealerships often miss.Chapters:00:00 Unexpected Career in Park Services05:56 Automotive Repair Challenges Today06:32 Supply Chain Challenges in Snowbelt10:54 "Monthly Internal Inventory Audits"12:57 Fred Beans: Different Warehouse System16:22 "Maximize Profit Within Your Business"21:54 Lifetime Lessons on Friendship & Growth25:18 Challenging Year but Staying Strong25:44 Leases Returning in BuffaloKaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

Brian "Mac" McIntosh joined an established group and recognized a desire for change alongside comfort in the familiar. He understands that change can be unsettling but values supportive colleagues in easing transitions, encouraging growth despite discomfort.Together, Kaylee and Mac explore why dealership parts operations often resist change and how bringing in solutions like PartsEdge helped Mac’s team regain clarity, reduce obsolescence, and shift from survival mode to growth-focused leadership. You’ll hear straight from Mac about the challenge of tracking inventory health, the value of dynamic problem-solving (versus cookie-cutter consulting), and how empowering your parts team can truly move the needle for the whole dealership.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like behind the parts counter—or you’re looking for fresh strategies to lead your department through industry shifts—this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Let’s dive in!--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysAdaptability is keyData clarity mattersClear, actionable reporting saves time, reduces obsolescenceChapters00:00 "Brian's and Auto Journeys"06:03 Embracing Change Amid Comfort07:36 Navigating Career Overhaul Challenges11:23 "Obsolescence Challenges and DMS Transition"14:59 Return Policy Confusion Issues16:53 Assessing Inventory Obsolescence20:15 Dynamic Problem-Solving Over Textbook Approaches22:17 "Successful Translation and Impact"Kaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

With over 30 years of experience in the automotive parts industry, Mike Kraft is a seasoned Parts Manager at Suburban Chevrolet in Minneapolis. He recounts his journey from manual parts management to overseeing a thriving department that boasts over 100 employees and more than $90 million in annual sales.In today’s episode, Mike shares the evolution of his dealership’s parts operations, how technology has transformed his daily workflow, and the pivotal role PartsEdge plays as an “assistant manager” in the background. Together, they dig into lessons from decades in the business, the impact of automation and expert support, and creative strategies for managing a fast-growing parts department.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysAutomate to elevate.Delegate for accuracy and peace of mind.Continuous improvement and collaboration is a must.Chapters00:00 – Mike Kraft’s backstory and evolution as a parts manager01:05 – How PartsEdge automates daily reporting and “takes the work out of the work”03:02 – The push to adopt PartsEdge and handling dealership growth04:34 – Real-world impact of automation and PartsEdge support during CDK outages06:39 – The value of delegating routine tasks for accuracy and peace of mind08:25 – Customizing inventory sources for creative strategies09:40 – Reflecting on the comfort blanket of having PartsEdge in the background12:11 – Integrating with RIM and the challenges of system alignment15:00 – Opportunities for further automation and partnership innovation17:05 – Mike’s advice and humorous metaphor for ongoing process improvement (“bald tires”)Kaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

Mitch Brady partnered with PartsEdge to refine his company’s parts inventory. He uncovered and resolved issues with broad phase-in/phase-out criteria by customizing categorization for each part. This optimized stock, improved team clarity, and fine-tuned parts management.Together, Kaylee and Mitch dive into how using PartsEdge not only enhanced inventory efficiency at Ressler Toyota but also uncovered hidden challenges and gave Mitch the tools to be creative with inventory management. Hear about actionable strategies for reducing obsolescence, tailoring phase-in and phase-out criteria, and leveraging data to make smarter decisions—all while maintaining a perfectly balanced inventory.If you’re a parts manager looking for practical insights and real-world success stories, you won’t want to miss Mitch’s honest take on the impact of PartsEdge and the value of having a true partner in your corner. Let’s get into it!--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysCustomize inventory processesActionable reporting mattersCollaboration fuels creativityChapters00:00 Optimizing Inventory with PartsEdge05:07 Optimized Phase In/Out Strategy06:50 Customized Parts Source Management10:13 Managing Obsolescence in Inventory Returns13:22 Custom Reports on Obsolete Parts16:30 Effective Collaboration in Service ManagementConnectKaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com

Courtney Paschal is the Client Success Manager at Ellison Automotive Strategies and a seasoned automotive professional who began her career at Street Toyota in 2013. A passionate leader in both the automotive industry and her Amarillo community, Courtney is a Top 40 Under 40 honoree in Automotive News and actively serves with No Boundaries International. She’s also a proud dog mom to Cash, Tipper, and Penny.Brad Paschal is the Market President at Dynatron Software and President of Brad Paschal Consulting. Starting his career in sales at Street Volkswagen, he worked his way up to e-Commerce Director before moving into consulting. Brad has spent the last 8+ years solving complex challenges across both variable ops/sales and fixed ops sides of the automotive business.In today’s episode, they discuss the challenges and rewards of sharing both a home and career in auto retail, the importance of charity and giving back, and the unique dynamics of running dealership ops with a partner. Listeners get an inside look at vendor management best practices, the vital role of service and parts departments, and why gratitude and perspective matter for long-term success.-------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysWork-life balance boundaries matterRecognize & empower parts/service teamsGratitude & community givebacksChapters00:00 Navigating Work-Life with Three Dogs03:51 Mindset Anchors for Productivity06:20 "Building Community Through Dealership Events"11:20 "Highlighting Courtney's Career Achievements"14:23 Lead Quality and Quota Concerns16:52 "Sales vs. Service: Industry Divide"19:49 Building Relationships with Service Teams24:20 "Effective Communication in Relationships"27:21 "Building Customized Workflows with AI"31:58 Secret Floor Renovation Plans35:41 Empowering Through Financial Growth36:27 Passion for Problem-Solving in Dealerships40:29 Walking Away from Success43:52 "Helping Anytime, Anywhere"Quote“If you focus on helping people, all other stuff comes.” – Brad Paschal“Survey your dealership and include everyone in the conversation—parts and service especially.” – Courtney PaschalConnectCourtney Paschal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-paschal-39bb5a23/Brad Paschal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bpaschal/Kaylee FelioLinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirl⁠Website: ⁠https://www.partsedge.com⁠

Chuck Hartle is the President and co-founder of PartsEdge, with over 42 years of experience in the automotive industry. Starting as a parts delivery driver, he rose to Fixed Operations Director and has since led over 300 seminars, including workshops for the National Auto Dealers Association. Chuck’s deep industry knowledge helps PartsEdge tackle key dealership challenges. Outside of work, he’s a dedicated family man, marathon runner, and loyal Seattle Seahawks fan.Chuck breaks down the real challenges dealerships face with source management, why most DMS vendors fall short in education and default settings, and how properly leveraging sources can drive smarter parts inventory control, more accurate accounting, and easier pricing strategies.Kaylee and Chuck also unpack the origin story of PartsEdge—why the platform was built, what it aims to fix, and how it takes the heavy lifting and guesswork out of inventory management.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Their strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com.--------------------------------------------TakeawaysDon’t fear more sourcesEducation is powerManage Your Inventory, Don’t Work Around ItChapters00:00 "Source Management & Pricing Strategies"05:43 Parts Management Requires Organization06:31 "Tire Source Management Challenges"10:30 Optimizing Inventory Management14:37 Intentional, Structured Development Yields Success18:09 Managing Aging Special Orders19:56 Techeon's Inventory Misunderstandings23:34 Embrace Improvement Through EducationQuote"Accessories, you know, nobody matrixes accessories. If you do, you don't sell them.""The biggest failure for most parts managers and their fear of adding a new source to their system is it's just not as easy as, oh, I want to copy this to this. And you know, it takes some work.”ConnectChuck HartleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-hartle-1923ab14Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chuck.hartle.39/Kaylee FelioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlWebsite: https://www.partsedge.comKaylee FelioWebsite: https://www.partsedge.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/partsedgeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlPhone Number: (800) 825-7562Email: info@partsedge.com

It all started with one small change. He thought his DMS setup was fine—until he tweaked a phase-in criteria and suddenly realized how much he was missing. This week on the PartsEdge Podcast, we sat down with Zach Don, a Toyota parts manager who took that moment of chaos and turned it into a better system. He shares what broke, how he fixed it, and why he’s now running a smarter, more controlled department. Zach also talks about bringing in team members with different backgrounds, the value of having a “co-pilot” on the reporting side, and how these changes are not only improving efficiency but making his conversations with upper management more impactful.Together, they explore how data-driven decision-making and personalized support have helped shift inventory from inactive to active, and freed up valuable time to focus on growing the business.Tune in for practical insights, relatable moments, and actionable tips for anyone looking to up their game in fixed ops and parts management!--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com--------------------------------------------TakeawaysDon’t fear change—embrace tools.Actionable reporting is critical.Diverse experience builds better managers.Chapters:00:00 - Intro01:41 - Expanding Inventory Breadth  03:21 - Keeping Up with Inventory Adjustments  05:01 - Shifting Strategies into Action  06:43 - Easy Tools That Simplify the Process  08:24 - Transition to Service Advisor Role  10:04 - Ideal Personality for the Parts Counter  11:55 - Managing Multiple Roles and Maintenance  13:43 - Key Considerations for Parts Managers  15:34 - Simplifying Complex Reports  17:14 - Embracing the Learning Curve  19:04 - Kaylee Reflects on the Experience  20:54 - Team Collaboration and Inventory Analysis  22:43 - Final Thoughts and Summary  Kaylee FelioWebsite: https://www.partsedge.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/partsedgeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gotopartsgirlPhone Number: (800) 825-7562Email: info@partsedge.com

In this episode, Kaylee talks with Alex Hines, VP of North America at Eccentric, about one of the biggest missed opportunities in automotive: accessories. With only 5% of a $50B market flowing through franchise dealers, Alex shares how Eccentric is helping stores win back sales using 3D visualization, early intent capture, and smarter upsell tools.They dive into:Why accessories don’t get soldHow tech is removing friction from the processThe impact on parts inventory and dealer profitabilityFrom lead to post-sale, Alex lays out a bold vision for bridging the gap between consumer desire and dealership execution.🔗 Learn more about Eccentric: weareeccentric.com