The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

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In this episode, Jeff is join by Adam Matz to discuss challenges facing dealership mechanics today. They talk about stagnant wages, rising labor rates, and management practices that impact technician morale and retention. The conversation also brings up the growing technician shortage and the need for better support and fair compensation to sustain the industry.
Timestamps:
09:42 Starting in the car industry
11:42 Challenges with car repairs
20:53 Training and mentoring younger workers
27:00 Challenges with customer feedback
31:44 Talking about car audio setups
36:44 Warranty pay limits for repairs
42:57 How mechanics are paid
44:26 Mentoring young mechanics and mistakes
52:25 Feeling undervalued at work
55:47 Generational views on mental health
59:39 Keeping technicians happy
01:07:38 Challenges of modern living
01:13:47 Struggles of young adulthood
01:20:13 Building trust with employees
01:23:10 Frustrations with dealership management
01:27:47 Challenges in fair technician pay
01:36:00 The value of trade education
01:38:05 Challenges in industry and workforce
01:44:04 Dealing with toxic employees

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TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - 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 HERE
Register NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HERE
Launch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Josh Fowler, a shop foreman at a Chrysler dealership in Adams, New York. Josh talks about how tough it’s been to find good technicians, especially with changing job trends and not much local talent to pull from. He and Jeff swap ideas on how to bring people in and keep them around, like offering signing bonuses and bumping pay as techs level up their training.
Timestamps:
00:00 Fuccillo's influence and radio presence
08:58 Discussing repair workflow challenges
12:30 Using signing bonuses to attract talent
19:20 Exploring high school co-op opportunities
23:42 Employee training and probation process
30:55 Addressing incentive structures for young workers
32:53 Developing mentorship and skill-building plans
41:36 Building confidence through experience
45:55 Developing practical mechanical expertise
52:37 Addressing car maintenance and trade-in options
54:57 Challenges driving service advisors to leave
01:00:16 Technician networking and collaboration
01:05:01 Encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing
01:10:26 Evaluating roles in auto repair
01:20:02 Selecting appropriate diagnostic tools
01:21:23 Addressing wages in the auto industry
01:26:20 Addressing technician problem-solving skills

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - 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 HERE
Register for Tektonic HERE!
Launch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Bret T. Fadley to discuss the upcoming TOOLS training event in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Bret talks about why it’s so important to keep learning and stay connected in the automotive world, and how events like this help you build strong relationships that benefit both you and your shop. Jeff also shares some of his past experiences, highlighting the super welcoming vibe at TOOLS and how these events leave you with fresh ideas and a boost of confidence heading back into your business.
Timestamps:
00:00 "Reflecting on TOOLS Event Vibes"
08:32 Albert's Process and Event Bonds
13:57 "Diagnosing Cylinder 2 Misfire"
20:12 "Connecting Friends and Mentors"
26:54 "TOOLS: Intimate, High-Quality Training"
29:52 Networking Drives Automotive Inspiration
34:11 "Canadian Caravan to Tools Event"
38:56 "Casual Meet and Greet"
48:46 "Enhancing Team Communication Skills"
59:03 "Dealer Techs and Industry Perspectives"

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - 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 HERE
Wanna go to Tekmetric's first ever industry training event Tektonic? Register HERE
Launch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Eric Pagliughi, Senior Vice President of Launch Tech USA. Eric talks about his journey from shop owner and distributor to leading product development at Launch Tech USA, emphasizing the importance of direct technician feedback in tool innovation. They speak on the company's commitment to quick software updates based on user input, navigating the challenges of manufacturer security requirements, and building strong industry relationships to increase access to OE information.
Timestamps:
00:00 "Journey from Mechanic to Dealer"
10:03 "Global Silos and Business Growth"
13:38 "Right Tools, Right Market"
19:14 Tech Efficiency and OE Challenges
22:48 "Responsibility in Automotive Ethics"
30:39 Evolving Automotive Data Accessibility
35:41 "Cloud-Dependent Vehicle Repairs Emerge"
41:17 Dealership Security Concerns and Limitations
43:55 "Industry Costs and Responsibility"
53:29 "Building Relationships Through Innovation"
57:29 "Streamlined Updates with Tech Tips"
01:04:05 ADAS Impact on Auto Repairs
01:05:34 ADAS Calibration and Liability Risks
01:11:22 "Commitment to Craft and Community"
01:18:50 "Space-Saving Touchless Alignment Solution"
01:25:04 Empowering Technicians Through Innovation

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - 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 HERE
Register NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HERE
Launch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by JeanAnn SaintGrace, host of the BRAND NEW podcast in the Changing the Industry Network "Shop Talk Her Way". She's also an automotive shop coach and former shop owner. JeanAnn shares her journey from accidental shop ownership to building a business focused on profitability, people, and succession planning. Together, they discuss the importance of protecting technicians' pay and treating them like "racehorses," strategies for consistent profit to secure employee futures, and the emotional realities behind leadership and preparing for unexpected life events.
Click here to listen to JeanAnn's podcast "Shop Talk Her Way"
Timestamps:
00:00 "Envying the Natural Puzzle Guys"
19:50 "Managing Reputation in Business"
25:14 Husband-Wife Power Dynamics in Business
32:37 Technician Dynamics and Customer Communication
41:43 "Survival Mode and Unequal Pay"
57:25 "Challenges of Running a Shop"
01:03:40 "Challenges of Transparency in Sales"
01:14:02 "Proof Her Method Works"
01:29:25 "Have a Plan for Uncertainty"
01:42:32 Work-Life Balance Perspectives
01:49:59 "Finding Purpose Through Positivity"
01:58:19 "Resilience, Connection, and Legacy"

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232