The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

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In this episode, Jeff talks with Jeremiah Hiatt, a mobile mechanic from Montana, about his shift from ranch work to running his own ag repair business. They get into imposter syndrome, pricing your work, balancing family life, and the real challenges of modern diagnostics, plus solid advice for techs thinking about going out on their own.
Timestamps:
05:48 Fixing farm equipment for neighbors
12:26 Issues with new technology durability
17:09 Importance of equipment maintenance
26:33 Discussing work-life balance
27:32 Balancing career and family goals
34:01 Dealing with software updates
41:33 Appreciating Harbor Freight Tools
44:40 Diagnosing and fixing the computer
52:56 Hydraulic equipment repair experience
55:20 Deciding on vehicle investments
01:03:24 Challenges in car maintenance
01:07:46 Discussing automotive customer communication
01:10:18 Deciding between repair options
01:17:47 Discussing truck emission problems
01:23:06 Limitations on job responsibilities
01:27:53 Discussing changes in tech industry
01:35:40 The evolution of diagnostic skills
01:39:19 Diagnosing a car engine misfire
01:47:18 Ideal work-life balance fantasy
01:48:20 Finding balance and unplugging

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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
Launch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HERE

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Riley Spence to talk about his move from the dealership world to working on a fleet for a construction company out in remote Labrador. Riley shares what it’s really like dealing with tough northern conditions, from tracking down parts to handling low-quality fuel. They also speak on mental health, the importance of having a strong community in the industry, and why continuing to learn and connect with others matters so much as a technician.
Timestamps:
00:00 Getting a second chance
09:54 Managing equipment in dusty conditions
12:40 Issues with quick lube services
20:20 Dealing with self-doubt and burnout
23:22 Challenges of being an apprentice
27:34 Managing tough diagnostic situations
36:13 Reflecting on career burnout
37:37 Why I avoid working at dealerships
45:19 Learning from skilled coworkers
49:50 Reality of heavy equipment trades
55:32 Pursuing skills over big money
01:03:27 Outdated info in truck systems
01:05:47 Fleet maintenance and master switches
01:10:14 Frustrations with car parts stores
01:15:45 Auto repair process improvements
01:20:11 Discussing challenges in key programming
01:29:34 Meeting online friends in person
01:31:01 Managing questions during courses
01:36:20 Advice on understanding older people

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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
Launch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HERE

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
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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
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
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
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