The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

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In this episode, Marco Palumbo shares his journey from technician to owner of Maxim Tire and Muffler in Winnipeg. He discusses the challenges of adapting to new automotive technologies, such as ADAS and electric vehicles, and the investments required in equipment, training, and staff. Marco also emphasizes the value of transparent customer service and community reputation, demonstrating how taking care of customers builds long-term loyalty and success.
Timestamps:
00:00 Meeting Mark and first impressions
05:28 Importance of mentoring in shops
12:13 Success with TikTok marketing
17:38 Discussing car calibration and trust
21:54 Unexpected car repair costs
29:15 Dealerships vs. aftermarket dynamics
34:45 Engaging waiting customers in showroom
42:20 Oxygen sensor issues and specialization
45:49 Tesla service challenges in smaller cities
52:46 Celebrating Mark's impact
56:16 Challenges with tech skills and training
58:56 Managing training logistics
01:04:09 Troubleshooting car electrical issues
01:10:47 Managing customer service expectations
01:16:04 Challenges with car part repairs
01:24:28 Facing time management challenges
01:28:24 Advocating for customer transparency
01:34:09 Unresolved car maintenance issues
01:37:26 Customer requests and shop policy
01:42:08 Charging for technical auto repairs
01:47:39 Recognizing Marco's passion and impact

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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 sits down with Dealer Plate Guy (Austin Conroy), who has a HUGE following on social media. Austin shares his unconventional career path from sales to service manager, emphasizing the importance of building customer and employee relationships in the dealership environment. They also talk about the most common misconceptions about dealership pricing compared to independent shops and the crucial role of technician career development and mentorship programs in addressing the ongoing technician shortage.

Timestamps:
00:00 International Connections: Jeff & Dealer Plate Guy Meet
02:05 Growing Up Near Purdue & Serving College Town Clients
03:17 From Car Sales to Multi-Store Manager: Austin’s Journey
05:00 First Day as Service Manager: No Wrenching Background Needed
07:10 COVID Resets the Department – Building New Structures
08:53 Why Techs Should Talk To Customers (and Break Out of the Funk)
10:10 Handling Difficult Customers & Flipping the Script
13:36 The Unseen Cost of Long Test Drives & Flat Rate Frustrations
16:28 Why Relationships Matter: Dealer vs. Independent Shop Service
18:31 Career-Oriented Advisors & Building Repeat Business
20:44 Managing Pay, Hours, & Mentality in Service Departments
24:01 Changing Flat Rate Times: Pushback & Tracking Results
29:12 Dealer vs. Aftermarket Parts Pricing: The Real Story
33:43 Should Dealers Offer Aftermarket Parts? Educating Customers
35:16 The Independent Shop Advantage in “Impossible” Diagnostics
38:41 The 20-Minute Battery Draw: Stories From the Bay
42:58 Why Dealers Still Need Flat Rate—With Real Solutions
44:38 Feeding Your Best Techs: Who Should Get The Gravy Work?
46:56 The Reality of Used Car Work, PDI, and Technician Dispatch
49:28 Overpromising Service Times: Collision vs. Dealer Mentality
52:16 Developing the Tech Career Path: Retaining Talent
57:06 Mapping Out Progression Steps & Regular 1-on-1s With Techs
1:02:45 Multi-Point Inspections: Making Video Pay Off
1:09:29 How Social Media Skits Are Changing Dealerships
1:13:42 Bridging the Advisor & Tech Divide: Cross-Training Works
1:17:04 Beyond Money: Finding the Right Role for Each Employee
1:20:17 The Real Fix for the Technician Shortage
1:24:05 Apprenticeship, Dealer Responsibility & Recruitment
1:28:47 Final Thoughts & Where to Find Dealer Plate Guy Online

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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 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

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 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

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 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

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