Check Engine Chuck and Ryan Mullen Talks the State of Auto Repair
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 HEREWanna go to Tekmetric's first ever industry training event Tektonic? Register HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Check Engine Chuck and Ryan Mullen for a conversation about the realities of working in automotive diagnostics. Ryan tells the story of being homeless and in addiction to becoming a sought-after diagnostician, emphasizing the importance of networking and community for professional growth. Check Engine Chuck highlights the power of persistence in tackling complex vehicle problems and the need to continually invest in skills and tools. They also talk about shop politics, technician shortages, and the rewards—and challenges—of building a career in the modern auto repair industry.Timestamps:00:00 The Power of Networking07:13 "Homelessness to Triumph Story"14:42 Valuing Talent in Industry18:04 Balancing Work and Family Time25:23 DRB3 vs. Y Tech Challenges30:59 "Frustration, Help, and Connection"36:37 "Patent Dispute and YouTube Fallout"37:18 "My Tool is the Best"43:58 "Discovering His Channel Journey"49:55 Building Connections Through Snapchat58:33 Addiction, Trauma, and Crime Connection59:17 Changing Perspectives on Redemption01:09:09 "Duralast Crank Sensor Solution"01:12:05 Sequoia Airbag Sensor Fix01:19:43 "Elite Techs Gather at Vision"01:21:40 "Adapting Business for Success"01:28:44 Diagnostic Tech Shortage Crisis01:32:16 "No Ceiling for You"
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Don't Stay at a Toxic Shop! | David Peacock
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 HERERegister NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HEREIn this episode, Jeff is joined by David Peacock, a mobile mechanic based in Calgary, Alberta. David talks about his life as a subcontractor, pointing out it's pros and it's cons. He's had plenty of run-ins with harsh Canadian winters and long commutes. They also bring up the current tech shortage and what needs to happen to see it improve.Timestamps:00:00 Fort McMurray: Canada's Boom Town08:28 Leaving Toxic Work Environments13:57 "Embracing Mobile Work Independence"17:29 "Automotive Collaboration Challenges"25:32 Fleet Operating Costs Insights30:14 Truck Inspections and Frame Issues35:05 Dealer Warranty Issues Persist38:22 "Commission-Based Confusion in Charges"46:06 "Vacation Saved, Gratitude Earned"52:41 Oil Change Frustrations57:27 Autel Remote Shop Experience01:01:35 TPMS Tool Usage Tips01:07:15 "Low-Maintenance Generational Drivers"01:10:31 Miscommunication Leads to Customer Frustration01:20:38 "Advisor Weakness in Auto Industry"01:23:41 Understanding Oil Leak Perceptions01:27:49 "Choosing Stability Over Ambition"01:36:03 Experience Doesn't Guarantee Mastery01:39:20 Start Small, Build Understanding01:43:13 "Technician Time and Process"
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Auto Repair MUST Modernize! | A Conversation with Tekmetric
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 HERERegister for Tektonic HERE!In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Amber Wright, VP of Business Development at Tekmetric, and Aaron Szafran, a former shop operator now with Tekmetric. Amber and Aaron share firsthand insights on how shop management software like Tekmetric can transform daily operations—emphasizing the importance of embracing change, streamlining shop processes, and building trust with customers through transparency and modern technology like DVIs (Digital Vehicle Inspections).Timestamps: 00:00 "Community and Growth in Industry"06:40 Shop Efficiency and Cost Challenges14:53 Building Trust Over Efficiency20:29 Adapting to New Shop Systems21:59 Cloud Transition and Data Security31:02 Proactive Customer Care Benefits36:46 Enhancing Customer Journey Communication38:03 Overbooking Risks in Auto Shops46:59 Defining "Fair" in Business Pricing51:42 "Decisions Driving Customer Experience"53:59 "Powerful Customer-Focused Tech Support"01:01:47 Truthful Advocacy Without Tough Spots01:08:03 Seamless Business Transition Process
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
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1:17:27
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1:17:27
The Sherwood's from !! ROYALTY AUTO SERVICE !! Talk the Future of the Industry
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 HEREWanna go to Tekmetric's first ever industry training event Tektonic? Register HEREIn this episode, Jeff welcomes Sherwood Cook II and Sherwood Cook III of Royalty Auto for an in-depth conversation at ASTA 2025. The trio highlights the importance of advocacy in the automotive industry, emphasizing honest communication and putting the customer’s safety and best interests first. They discuss the current challenges facing independent shops, from the technician shortage to the escalating costs of tools and access to training, and explore ways to attract and retain the next generation of technicians.Timestamps: 00:00 "Safety Over Inconvenience Prioritized"05:41 "Rapid Channel Success Explained"11:12 "Sharing Training for Struggling Techs"18:27 "Passion for Lifelong Training"22:16 Micah's Creative Remote Control Hack30:24 Streamlined Auto Service Conversations35:31 "Assessing Vehicle Needs Insightfully"39:45 The Dilemma of Discounting43:11 "Practical Repairs Over Perfection"48:44 Passionate Mechanic's Reflection57:09 "Mentors, Survival, and Tool Humor"01:00:51 "First Tools and Truck Shop"01:04:14 Budget Tools vs Premium Quality01:08:34 Bought Used Scanner, Regret Depreciation01:14:47 Tech Industry Workforce Shortage01:22:30 Hands-On Summer Skills Camp
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
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1:33:27
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1:33:27
DO NOT Work a Job You Hate! Promotive Will Help You Be Happy at Work
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 HERERegister NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HEREThis episode was recorded at the ASTA Expo in Raleigh, North Carolina. You should go next year! Jeff Compton, Ethan Whidden and Stacy Black from Promotive have a conversation about how Promotive is now using AI with their virtual recruiter, Paige, to pre-screen candidates around the clock and ensure no great technician is unhappy at work. They also talk about how both shop owners and technicians need a good shop culture, continued training, and flexibility in benefits like PTO and four-day workweeks. Timestamps: 00:00 Recording at ASTA Expo - Looking Forward to AAPEX08:02 Shop Culture and Expectations15:29 "Missing the Shop Dogs"18:13 Embrace Continuous Technical Training25:55 Headset Restrictions Spark Workplace Debate29:52 "Prioritizing Safety Under Pressure"36:01 Shop Owners' Hiring Frustrations37:06 Hiring: Reputation and Compatibility Insights45:46 Decision-Making and Consultation Process47:27 Balancing Tech and Shop Perspectives54:44 "Service Advisors Need Empathy Training"58:27 Effective Brake Maintenance Communication01:03:38 Aligning for Industry Improvement
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My name is Jeff, and I'd like to welcome you on a journey of reflection and insight into the tolls and triumphs of a career in automotive repair.
After more than 20 years of skinned knuckles and tool debt, I want to share my perspective and hear other people's thoughts about our industry.
So pour yourself a strong coffee or grab a cold Canadian beer and get ready for some great conversation.
USA