Gain Traction (Mike Edge)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Gain Traction
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 Apr 2024 | Racing Toward a Purpose With Fred Roger and Stephen Kantarze of The Veterans Trust | 00:39:27 | |
Stephen Kantarze, is the Program Director of The Veterans Trust. He joined the US Army in 2008 as an infantryman, serving his countries in numerous capacities including a tour in Iraq. He was deeply impacted by his role as a casket team leader at Arlington National Cemetery, where conducted over a thousand funerals and ceremonies. As part of The Veterans Trust, Stephen continues to honor his military roots by serving other service members. Fred Roger is the Executive Director of The Veterans Trust. He began his service journey in high school, spurred by the events of 9/11 and a deep sense of duty to protect his country. Joining the ranks of the US Marine Corps at just 18, he embarked on multiple tours, including in Fallujah, Iraq, where he confronted the challenges of combat head-on. Transitioning into civilian life, he immersed himself in various endeavors, eventually finding his calling in nonprofit work. Through his foundation, Fred merges his love for motorsports with his desire to give back, creating unforgettable experiences for military veterans and first responders. In this episode…Many service members struggle with a lack of purpose after their service. The importance of providing veterans with opportunities for engagement and purpose after leaving the military cannot be overstated. According to Fred Roger and Stephen Kantarze of The Veterans Trust, motorsports can play a large role in supporting veterans' adjustment to civilian life. Stephen stresses the significance of finding passion and expressing oneself as a means to combat depression and find fulfillment, while Fred notes the camaraderie and community support veterans experience in response to their motorsports involvement. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Fred and Stephen for a conversation about supporting veterans' transition to civilian life through motorsports. Stephen emphasizes the psychological benefits, highlighting motorsports’ role in providing purpose and self-expression for veterans. They share humorous anecdotes and discuss the program's growth, including partnerships and national expansion. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 19 Oct 2022 | Staffing and Branding a Venerable Company With Kate Speelman, Brand Management and Talent Acquisition Specialist at Rice Tire | 00:12:05 | |
Kate Speelman is Brand Management and Talent Acquisition Specialist at Rice Tire, a fourth-generation family-owned independent tire dealership that began as a gas station in 1929. She previously served as Rice Tire’s Marketing Coordinator for 10 years. Before joining the automotive world, Kate worked as a Graphic Design Specialist for Engage USA. In this episode…How does a tire dealer stay in business for nearly a century? How does that business, with 12 different locations managed by 12 different people with 12 potentially different branding messages, stay united over the long term? To hear from Kate Speelman, who manages branding and talent acquisition for Rice Tire, check out this episode of Gain Traction! On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with Kate to discuss the challenges of finding talented employees to work at 12 different tire locations. Kate shares how each location employs different branding and messaging while staying united through the core values espoused by the company. You’ll also hear about the ownership history of the company, which has been in business since the late 1920’s. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 09 Aug 2023 | How To Hire a Great Technician With Chris Lawson of Technician Find | 00:30:39 | |
Chris Lawson is the Founder of Technician Find, which helps independent automotive and diesel repair shops use creative ads and social media marketing to find good techs faster. He is also a digital marketing strategist with Astute Social Media and host of the Technician Find Office Hours podcast. Chris launched Technician Find in 2017 after he was asked to give a social media presentation for ten independent repair shop owners, nine of which became clients. In this episode…If you own a tire or repair shop and need to hire an experienced, qualified technician, what is your process for recruitment? Do you post an ad somewhere online? If so, you may be going about it the wrong way — according to Chris Lawson of Technician Find, even if you have a good ad, it’s probably not being seen by a sufficient quantity of qualified people and you may end up hiring just a warm body. Chris describes the process of finding a good technician as similar to starting out a fishing trip, beginning with the right bait — in this case, a unique ad. Once you have the right bait, you have to go where the fish are — social media. He says Technician Find’s process uses social media marketing and professional copywriting to recruit people who aren’t necessarily looking for new jobs to draw them into a story about how their life can make a transition and how they're the hero of the story. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Chris of Technician Find to discuss the best way for independent automotive and diesel repair shops to find and hire qualified and experienced technicians. Chris shares what makes his process superior to generic job ads and describes how he goes about finding the absolute best technicians to leave their current jobs so they can come and work for his clients. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 16 Mar 2022 | Picking the Right Location for Your Shop | 00:13:01 | |
Neal Maier and David Christopher are Co-founders of Tread Partners; a digital marketing agency focused on using SEO, marketing, and branding to help tire companies and auto-repair shops grow and thrive.
Neal was previously a Partner at 3VE and COO of TexTivia, which rebranded into 3VE. He has worked for multiple automotive companies such as Autoshop Solutions and Auto Pro To Call.
David was previously also a Partner at 3VE and was the Founder of TexTivia, which rebranded into 3VE. He has over 20 years of experience owning and operating businesses, including his family’s auto repair shop. In this episode…Choosing a new location for your shop is a big decision. How can you tell which area will be best for business?
First of all, you have to decide if you’re going to construct a new building or acquire an existing one. Then you have to check out the demographics of the area, competitors nearby, and the existing customer base (if you are acquiring). What are the key indicators for success?
In this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Neal and David share advice for finding the best new home for your business. They talk about locating a place with good visibility and clear signage, tips for merging your company culture with an existing location, and why the demographics of the surrounding area matter. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 10 Aug 2022 | Generating Loyalty and Avoiding Complacency With Steven Stamey, Operations Manager at Maxi Auto Service Centers | 00:23:09 | |
Steven Stamey is Operations Manager at Maxi Auto Service, which has eight locations in the Chattanooga, TN area. He started his career at a Chevrolet dealer in 1999. Steven is also a former college level instructor with ASE L1, L2, and L3 Master Certification. In this episode…What motivates your staff? Is it strictly financial compensation or are there other, less tangible factors? Do your employees stick around for decades or are they here today and gone tomorrow? If you own a tire and auto repair shop and these are some questions you find yourself wrestling with, this episode of Gain Traction is for you! Making your employees feel involved and important through communication and teamwork can be just as effective as wages when it comes to motivating and generating loyalty. According to Steven Stamey, Operations Manager at Maxi Auto Service Centers, “once you get everybody singing the same song, the same tune – and they’re interested in winning – it’s amazing what they can accomplish when they just find belief.” In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Steven to discuss the ways in which building from within can benefit your tire and auto repair shop. He talks about the gains Maxi Auto Service has made from expanding its existing stores rather than adding new stores. Steven shares the ways he gets his employees involved through consistent communication and training. Don’t miss this conversation! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 15 Mar 2023 | Tires and Technology in Tandem With Kevin Marley, Managing Director at E-Solution Professionals | 00:21:04 | |
Kevin Marley is Managing Director at E-Solution Professionals, who has been developing e-commerce software for the tire industry since 2001. He has worked in the tire industry for more than four decades. Throughout his career, Kevin has worked in positions including store manager, warehouse manager, State Manager for Toyo Tires, and Regional Manager for Goodyear Australia. In this episode…In an industry that is slow to embrace it, how has the tire business been changed by technology? In what ways will technology continue to change the tire industry moving forward? For some unique insights on tires and tech, check out this episode of Gain Traction! According to Kevin Marley from E-Solution Professionals, data mobility will be increasingly discussed in the tire industry. He says ESP Solutions continuously transmits data on their clients’ behalf that their clients may not even be aware of. Kevin says there’s a multitude of other ways technology will change the industry. On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier and Matthew Peters talk to Kevin about the ways the tire industry has been improved by technology and the changes that are likely to come in the near future. They discuss tire data, data mobility, electric cars, how to handle differing product codes, and the importance of keeping your word. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 29 Nov 2023 | Optimizing Performance by Committing to Staff Development With Charles Mesones of Cook’s Tire & Service | 00:28:20 | |
Charles Mesones, Partner at Cook's Tire & Service, has been a dedicated professional in the tire and auto repair Industry for over 25 years, following in the footsteps of his father who managed a competing company during the 1980s. Charles' journey began as a teenager, working under his father's guidance, where he learned valuable life and business lessons. Today, Charles proudly continues the family tradition, with his eldest son excelling as a service advisor and his middle son voluntarily contributing on weekends, embodying the family's passion for the industry. In this episode…How do you get the best out of your employees? What type of culture breeds a hardworking staff that prioritizes excellent service? According to Charles Mesones of Cook’s Tire & Service, his goal is to create an environment where employees feel they are part of something meaningful — not just earning a paycheck. While he places a high value on stability, Charles prioritizes development and growth even more. He advocates for continual self-improvement, encouraging his team to become better versions of themselves through small, consistent wins and learning from failures. He stresses the importance of humility in leadership, acknowledging mistakes and correcting them, thus fostering a culture of growth and respect within the business. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Charles for a conversation about an effective approach to staff and culture development. Charles talks about how two of his sons are making their way in the auto industry, why he prioritizes affording his team members with beneficial career experience over employee retention, and the value of difficult conversations between leadership and individual contributors. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 17 Jun 2021 | How Action Gator Tire Increased Leads by Over 276.45% | 00:29:14 | |
Neal Maier and David Christopher are Co-founders of Tread Partners, a digital marketing agency focused on marketing, strategy, and branding for tire dealers and auto-repair shops to help them grow and thrive in an ever-changing landscape. Neal was previously a Partner at 3VE, which rebranded into Tread Partners in 2021. In addition to having owned and operated repair shops, he’s helped to market and grow shops all across the country. David was also previously a Partner at 3VE and was the Founder of TexTivia, which later rebranded into 3VE. He has over 20 years of experience owning and operating businesses, including his family’s collision shop. In this episode…Does your business need a website redesign and updated, consistent brand standards? Are you struggling with generating leads and searches from your marketing efforts? Want to know how you can increase your leads by nearly 300%? Neal Maier and David Christopher are here to tell you. Neal Maier and David Christopher are the Co-founders of Tread Partners, a full-service agency focused on providing digital marketing for tire dealers and auto repair shops. They have over 40 years of combined experience in the digital marketing and auto industries and have merged their powers to create impressive results for their clients. They’re here to share one of their most incredible success stories — and give you marketing tips along the way to help grow your business. On this exciting first episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz discusses with Neal & David their process when working with brands, why revamping your old website matters, tips on increasing paid leads and SEO searches, and much more. Rev your engines and stay tuned! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources Mentioned in this episode
Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 20 Oct 2021 | Acquisition for Exponential Growth with Jeffry Gardner of Sun Auto | 00:19:27 | |
Jeffry Gardner is the Vice President of Marketing for Sun Auto Tire & Service. Jeffry came to GB Auto Service Inc., which is now rebranded to Sun Auto Tire & Service, with the first acquisition of BRAKEmax in late 2017. Since then, he has taken responsibility for the marketing of the entire company and all acquisitions. Before Sun Auto, Jeffry was the Director of Marketing for BRAKEmax and a Store Manager for Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Outside of work, Jeffry loves cycling and cheering for the Denver Broncos, the Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, the Rockies, and all other University of Arizona teams. In this episode…Acquiring businesses can be complicated, so how can you smoothly transition ownership without losing your reputation and valuable talent? Sun Auto has a thriving pattern of acquiring automotive businesses. What started as just 30 stores in two locations has grown into a flourishing chain of over 213 locations across the western US. By preserving each location’s unique reputation and prioritizing employee relationships, Sun Auto has continually grown from year to year. What other strategies have proven essential in their path to growth? On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge sits down with Jeffry to discuss how to successfully acquire businesses for exponential growth. Jeffry also shares with us how Sun Auto finds businesses to acquire, what their process is for integrating company cultures, and why it’s important to respect a brand’s local history. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 29 Mar 2023 | Servicing Your Vehicles Wherever With Angie Oleson, Business Lead at Firestone Direct | 00:29:27 | |
Angie Oleson is Business Lead at Firestone Direct, the largest mobile tire and service company in the United States. She has led and managed its business operations since it was launched by Bridgestone Americas in 2021. With an ability to translate strategic goals into concrete tactics, Angie has a track record of positively impacting business performance. In this episode…Is there a business or type of business who stands to benefit from the emergence of mobile vehicle and tire service? How about any business that regularly utilizes a fleet of vehicles? For some interesting perspective on how fleets gain value from mobile vehicle and tire service, Check out this episode of Gain Traction! According to Angie Olson, from Firestone Direct, mobile vehicle and tire service can help fleets increase their billable hours because fleet members can continue to do their work while a vehicle is being serviced on location. The response from this group, Angie says, is “through the roof positive.” On this episode of Gain Traction, Angie joins Mike Edge to discuss the long-term potential of mobile vehicle and tire service as a mainstay in the industry. They chat about customers who are helped the most by this type of service, the favorable response it has received, the growing need and demand for it, and building a culture of “maniacal” customer service. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 29 Sep 2021 | Preparing for an Exit with Dennis McCarron | 00:26:29 | |
Dennis McCarron is a Partner at Cardinal Brokers. Cardinal Brokers offers full brokering services with a focus on the tire, service, and automotive-related industries. Their partners have over 40 years of combined experience working in the tire and automotive service industry at nearly every level of the business. Dennis is widely known for his teaching on finance, sales, and leadership, as well as his contributions to Modern Tire Dealer magazine. Previously, Dennis was the Executive Director for the DSP Twenty Group and the Senior Development Instructor for Bridgestone Retail Operations, LLC. In this episode…Most independent tire and automotive dealers are experts at selling or fixing cars. But often they're missing the education piece when it comes to exiting their business. So when you’re ready to hang up your keys and retire in Florida, how do you start preparing to sell your business?
Dennis McCarron is an expert at helping automotive business owners get the best offer for their life’s work. Whether the business has five or 15 locations — Dennis is the man for the job. He helps business owners begin the exit process and guides them through the whole checklist. What are his suggestions for business owners?
On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Neal Maier sits down with Dennis McCarron to discuss how to prepare for an exit. Dennis talks about how Cardinal Brokers came into existence, the difference between selling a retail, wholesale, or commercial business, and his best piece of advice for business owners. Resources Mentioned in this episode
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 19 Jan 2022 | From A Mall Basement to Multi-Location Tire Business | 00:19:05 | |
Rob Eskew is the Co-founder and Co-owner of TRUE Automotive in Atlanta, Georgia. Rob has been in the repair business since 2005 — before graduating high school. He performed service and upgrades on BMWs and other European models during college at UGA. After college, he worked in commercial construction, but his true passion was working on cars. This led him to co-found TRUE Automotive in 2012. Rob’s goal is to have over 50 locations by 2030.
Rob is passionate about self-improvement, discipline, and personal growth. He’s an avid reader, race car driver, instructor, and world traveler. In this episode…It’s not easy to leave a comfortable job and follow your passion. How can you begin to build the business you’re dreaming of?
It doesn’t matter where or how you start — all that matters is that you start. When Rob Eskew first began TRUE Automotive with his business partner, they operated from the basement of an out-of-business strip mall. They own multiple storefronts across Georgia, with more locations in the works. How did they get to where they are today?
In this episode of Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge is joined by Rob to discuss the journey of building TRUE Automotive. Rob talks about why he fell in love with the automotive industry, why he quit his job to pursue his dream, and how he persists when the going gets tough. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 14 Dec 2022 | Culture Is Everything With Joe Rush, Owner of Rush Automotive | 00:22:11 | |
Joe Rush is the Owner of Rush Automotive. He opened his first location in Round Rock, TX in 2011 with just three employees. Since then, Rush Automotive has grown to nearly 50 employees across five locations. The motto at Rush Automotive is “Caring for People and Cars.” As a culture-based company, Rush Automotive works hard to live out that motto. In this episode…People often talk about the culture at their workplace. Is it a positive culture? Is it negative or toxic? Can customers notice the culture the minute they walk through the door? Everybody wants to work in a positive culture, but how do you build one? If you’d like to hear an informative and inspiring conversation about culture building, don’t miss this episode of Gain Traction! When it comes to building a positive culture in the workplace, multiple factors are in play. According to Joe Rush, of Rush Automotive, it boils down to “the genuineness of the relationship that my leadership team has with each individual employee, the genuineness that I personally have, in my role, with each employee.” Joe has learned that when you care for your people, they care for the customer. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge and Joe sit down for a conversation all about culture. They discuss the keys to building a positive culture and why it’s important for customer relations. They also talk about a healthy culture’s effect on limiting employee turnover. When people come to work for Joe, he says, “this is the last job they’re ever going to have.” Find out how he makes that happen on this episode of Gain Traction! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 06 Apr 2022 | Cultivating a Culture of Growth | 00:21:45 | |
Beth Barron is the CEO of Chabill’s Tire & Auto Service based in southern Louisiana. Under Beth’s leadership, Chabill’s has grown into a market force with 17 retail locations. Before becoming CEO, Beth spent 26 years as the Vice President for Chabill’s. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and government from Northwestern State University. In this episode…Many business owners are focused on the bottom line. They worry about numbers and work employees to the ground trying to keep the business alive. But not Chabill’s Tire & Auto Service. Chabill’s knows that their employees are their greatest asset. That’s why they make life-work balance a priority. If you take care of your people, they’ll take care of the business. And it shows for Chabill’s — they’ve got 17 retail locations and counting. In this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Neal Maier is joined by Beth to discuss how to cultivate a culture of growth. Beth shares how she makes employees’ well-being a priority — including closing on Saturdays, how she navigated the pandemic, and how to maintain momentum forward. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 04 Jan 2023 | Sticking to What You Do Best With Larry Sutton, President and Founder of RNR Tire Express | 00:24:13 | |
Larry Sutton is the Founder and President of RNR Tire Express, a national tire shop franchise with 155 locations across 26 states. Founded in 2000, the franchise was initially known as Rent-n-Roll. Larry attributes the success of RNR Tire Express to keeping focus on what your shop does well and serving customers — not just providing service. In this episode…As the owner or manager of a tire and auto repair shop, does your store try to be all things to all people? Or does it stick to what it’s good at? According to Larry Sutton, the President and Founder of RNR Tire Express, a key to his shop’s success and longevity is to keep it “as simple as possible and stay focused on what you do really well.” Larry has discovered that messing around in different areas can take your focus off main business and as a result, you won’t be as good at your main business as you want to be. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge discusses the true meaning of customer service with Larry, who says “we're a real proponent of what we call serving our customers, as opposed to just providing service.” Larry says straying from what your shop does well causes your level of customer service to drop from what it could be. Larry and Mike also talk about franchising in the tire industry, generating repeat business, and the best movie of all time. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 24 Jan 2024 | Shaping Pros Through Innovative Training With Scott Blair of T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training and Network | 00:23:17 | |
Scott Blair is the creator, host, and an instructor at T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training and Network. He is also Managing Partner of 2U Tire of Alabama and Co-founder of 2U Mobile Solutions. His automotive journey began in 1993, diving into the industry with American Racing Custom Wheels. In the late ‘90s, Scott developed and patented the Wheel Fit, a specialized aluminum jig for measuring custom wheels. He prides himself as someone who is always learning as he continues to shape his diverse career in the automotive world. In this episode…As more and more automotive employers look to address their onboarding needs, can they be confident that new employees can receive thorough training in a relatively short amount of time? Fortunately, Scott Blair says, training programs in the automotive industry have made significant advancements over the past two decades. Scott's approach combines adaptability, bite-sized content, and real-world applicability, enabling seasoned technicians to experience substantial knowledge gains within 15 minutes. His program starts with a prerequisite class of seven videos, branching into specialized paths for technicians and salespeople. The content caters to both the front and back of the house, and aligns with the demand for immediate and accessible learning. In this episode of Gain Traction, co-hosts Mike Edge and Matt Peters delve into the challenges of auto industry training with Scott. They explore the evolution of training programs and the urgent need for tailored content which addresses both technical aspects and sales. Scott shares valuable perspectives on adapting training methods to novices’ needs and availability, ultimately ensuring consumer confidence in aspiring automotive professionals. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 23 Nov 2022 | Growing Your Tire Business With Judd K. Shader, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Leeds West Groups | 00:22:37 | |
Judd K. Shader is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Leeds West Groups, one of the largest and most-respected leaders in the franchise aftermarket automotive repair space. He founded the company in 2009, when he was a student at the University of Colorado Boulder. Judd is active across various automotive industry boards and organizations and resides in Denver, CO. In this episode…As the owner of a tire and auto repair shop, what will it take to expand your number of stores? Have you thought about growing from two to four locations? How about double-digit locations in multiple states? According to Judd K. Shader, whose company started with two Midas shops and now consists of a combined 121 Big O Tires and Midas locations, a large part of that growth is driven by process. “Anytime you're talking retail, it's process-based. And there's no difference here,” Judd said. “We understood quickly to create the scale we wanted, our processes had to be really tight.” If you’re looking to grow, check out this episode of Gain Traction! On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with Judd to discuss the keys to successful scalability for a franchisee in tire and auto repair. Judd shares how his dad gave him the choice between becoming a business owner or pursuing a graduate degree. He ultimately chose to become a franchisee, so his dad helped fund two Midas shops and now Judd and his team have grown their number of stores into the triple digits, with plans to add more retail locations in markets they already occupy. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 08 Nov 2023 | Recognizing the Good and Fixing the Bad With Randy O’Connor of Dealer to Dealer Development Group | 00:32:10 | |
Randy O'Connor is the Owner of Dealer to Dealer (D2D) Development Group, which offers financial and operational consulting for the independent tire and auto service market in North America. The company's primary offering is a business growth strategy rooted in peer-to-peer networks, specifically the 20 Group format. Randy's strength lies in strategic analysis and process improvement. Drawing from varied roles across diverse industries, he's distinguished himself as an adept operator, crafting long-term solutions for sustained positive outcomes. In this episode…Tire and auto repair shops seem to face increasing difficulty in the way they set up their employee pay structure. As a result, it becomes challenging to explain why an entry-level employee is being paid a certain amount when he or she can drive for Amazon at a higher rate. Does this problem have an easy solution? According to Randy O’Connor, from Dealer to Dealer Development Group, the situation has been complicated. If you can't explain a pay plan in a matter of five to 10 seconds, Randy says, it's not the right pay plan. People have to understand what and how they're getting paid. Commissions should be administered appropriately for general service workers and tire technicians, he suggests, offering accountability for quick work and professional inspections — not for selling oil filters and alignments, commissions that should be reserved for sales pros. On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier welcomes Randy for a conversation regarding the latest trends in the tire and auto repair industry. They talk about both the positives and the negatives, with suggestions for fixing the latter. Randy emphasizes the importance and value of a professional inspection to both the customer and the shop, and he discusses the customer experience advantage independents have over large chains. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 28 Dec 2022 | Growing Your Tire Business With Judd K. Shader, Founder and CEO at Leeds West Groups | 00:22:44 | |
Judd K. Shader is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Leeds West Groups, one of the largest and most-respected leaders in the franchise aftermarket automotive repair space. He founded the company in 2009, when he was a student at the University of Colorado Boulder. Judd is active across various automotive industry boards and organizations and resides in Denver, CO. In this episode…As the owner of a tire and auto repair shop, what will it take to expand your number of stores? Have you thought about growing from two to four locations? How about double-digit locations in multiple states? According to Judd K. Shader, whose company started with two Midas shops and now consists of a combined 121 Big O Tires and Midas locations, a large part of that growth is driven by process. “Anytime you're talking retail, it's process-based. And there's no difference here,” Judd said. “We understood quickly to create the scale we wanted, our processes had to be really tight.” If you’re looking to grow, check out this episode of Gain Traction! On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with Judd to discuss the keys to successful scalability for a franchisee in tire and auto repair. Judd shares how his dad gave him the choice between becoming a business owner or pursuing a graduate degree. He ultimately chose to become a franchisee, so his dad helped fund two Midas shops and now Judd and his team have grown their number of stores into the triple digits, with plans toadd more retail locations in markets they already occupy. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 28 Feb 2024 | Secrets of Exceptional Service With Cristol Duke and Heather Langdon of Gerald's Tires & Brakes | 00:22:40 | |
Heather Langdon is a Customer Service Representative at Gerald's Tires & Brakes. Heather's journey into the tire business began when she applied for a position at Gerald’s to help her husband buy a motor for his trucking company, soon becoming an integral part of the customer service team. Born and raised in Charleston, Heather brings a deep understanding of her community's needs and values, striving to provide not just customer service, but an exceptional experience for every guest. Cristol Duke is a Customer Service Representative at Gerald's Tires & Brakes. Having traded the tranquility of cornfields for the vibrant energy of Charleston over two decades ago, Cristol brings warmth and empathy to her role every day. She understands the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere, especially when customers arrive with concerns or frustrations, and is committed to seeing beyond problems to provide genuine care and support. In this episode…Anyone who takes a job doing customer service quickly learns it can be challenging. How can tire and auto repair shops ensure that customers are treated well without draining the enthusiasm of their team members? At Gerald's Tires & Brakes, customer service isn't just a job — it's a philosophy deeply ingrained in the company's culture. Cristol Duke and Heather Langdon understand the pivotal role they play as the faces of the company, recognizing that customers often arrive with frustrations and concerns, not directed at them personally, but at the situations they face. By putting themselves in the customers' shoes, they aim to smooth over issues and extend a warm welcome to everyone who walks through the door. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge chats with Cristol and Heather about the art of customer service. They delve into the importance of empathy, highlighting how understanding customers' frustrations can turn negative experiences into positive ones. The conversation also touches on the unique morning ritual of cheering for arriving customers and the team's commitment to going above and beyond with small gestures. They also discuss integrating active listening to enhance the customer experience. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 18 Jan 2023 | An Appreciation for Hard Work With Quinton Molnar, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Ward Tirecraft | 00:23:20 | |
Quinton Molnar is the Director of Marketing and Business Development and the Director of Human Resources at Ward Tirecraft. He’s been a management trainee, marketer, and IT guy for Ward Tirecraft, and his unique set of skills comes from performing similar roles across multiple industries. Quinton prides himself on turning an average customer experience into an exemplary one. In this episode…As an owner or manager of a tire and auto repair shop, do you have a true appreciation for the work that your employees do? It’s often said that you can’t appreciate what someone else goes through unless you’ve gone through it yourself. Check out this episode of Gain Traction to hear from someone who considers himself a “company swiss army knife” and can speak from multiple perspectives. Who’s the most important employee in a tire shop? For Quinton Molnar, the Director of Marketing and Business Development at Ward Tirecraft, the answer to that question is easy — “I always say, our tire techs — give them a jack and an impact, and we can make money in a parking lot.” Ward Tirecraft is located in Alberta, Canada, so Quinton has a special appreciation for all the hard work his tire techs do — especially during the winter rush, where they work 12 hours per day at shops working on 90 cars in a day. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Quinton for a conversation on all things tires. Quinton has been a management trainee, marketer, IT guy, and HR director at Ward Tirecraft — so he’s able to provide some unique insights on operations and challenges faced by tire shops. They talk about handling the winter rush in Canada, experiencing exponential growth, reputation management, and more. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 22 Sep 2021 | Building a Thriving Startup with George Fandos | 00:21:52 | |
George Fandos is the Managing Partner of The James Agency, a business consultancy that helps startups and established B2B businesses innovate and bring new ideas to life. They offer strategies, plans, and hands-on assistance for operations, pricing, financial modeling, and more. George has over 30 years of experience as a customer-facing executive and strategic consultant. He brings a unique combination of strategy and practical execution to every situation. In addition to his work at The James Agency, George currently holds executive and leadership roles at Pixmettle, Achieve Health Management, and Blackstone and Cullen. In this episode…Many new companies fail. Sometimes, it’s just the market or the competitors — but more often, it has to do with how a founding team gets started. So, how can you avoid common pitfalls and find success when establishing your business?
George Fandos has been helping startups and B2B businesses launch, expand, and thrive for over 10 years. He teaches new companies to define their purpose, fully understand their customer, target their marketing, and so much more. Learning all of these new skills can seem daunting, but George explains that you don’t need to know everything — you need to know where to find the answer.
On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Neal Maier sits down with George to discuss key principles of building a startup, including strategies for marketing to your ideal customer, how to define your business, and why a work-life balance is necessary. Stay tuned! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources Mentioned in this episode
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 15 Sep 2021 | Hiring and Retaining Quality Employees with Mike Allen | 00:19:33 | |
Mike Allen is the CEO of Carfix, a growing group of auto repair shops in North Carolina. A third-generation tire dealer, Mike grew up working in his father’s auto repair shop and has since grown his own shop into a three-location business. Carfix has been named one of the 10 ‘Top Shops in America’ by Motor Age Magazine twice. Mike is an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified Service Consultant and is also the Director of the Independent Garage Owners Association of North Carolina. Before Carfix, Mike was an Auto Advisor for Auto Pro to Call. In this episode…Are you struggling to hire and retain employees? Are you constantly scheduling interviews, only to find that people either don’t show up or receive a better offer at the last minute?
Let's be real - hiring has changed a lot over the last 10 years. In years prior, most employees felt satisfied with just their paycheck and the feeling of being competent at their job. Now, employees expect benefits like paid time off, clear growth opportunities, involvement in company goals, and a company that cares about them personally — just to name a few. So, how do you stay competitive in today’s tough hiring landscape?
On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Neal Maier sits down with Mike Allen to discuss the best practices for recruiting — and retaining — a top-notch team. Mike talks about the tough competition for finding talented technicians, how employee expectations are changing, his strategies for finding the right employees, and his goals for the culture at Carfix. Stay tuned! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources Mentioned in this episodeSponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 28 Sep 2022 | Minimizing Headaches and Maximizing Efficiency With Crissy Zellers of Accelerate Personalized Sales Solutions | 00:12:14 | |
Crissy Zellers is the Owner of Accelerate Personalized Sales Solutions, which helps tire dealers succeed with retail tire programs. She uses unique tracking tools and detailed program knowledge to help retailers stay focused on their weekly goals, maximize their earnings and prioritize their purchases. Crissy started her own business in September 2020, after 11 years of working in management and sales for tire distributors Max Finkelstein and Tire Centers. In this episode…As a tire dealer, have you found yourself managing multiple programs at once with a particular distributor? What about multiple programs with multiple distributors? If so, your email inbox has probably been flooded with messages and you’ve faced the unenviable challenge of remembering where each distributor is on every program. If you have more than one retail location, the headaches are multiplied. What if there was a way to streamline that process and stay on track? Crissy Zellers of Accelerate Personalized Sales Solutions has a solution on this episode of Gain Traction! On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier welcomes Crissy to discuss the all-inclusive program management tool she developed to make life easier for tire retailers who are managing multiple different programs from multiple distributors. Crissy explains how this new technology keeps managers at tire dealerships on track with what can be an overwhelming amount of information, allowing them to stay on track on a weekly basis. Her tool reports goals, numbers, and potential payouts. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 03 May 2023 | Tackling Tire Industry Software With Jay Adams, President of MaddenCo | 00:26:43 | |
Jay Adams is President at MaddenCo, widely recognized as an industry leader for tire industry software. He started working in sales there in the late 90s after graduating from Wabash College with a history degree. After two years, Jay left for law school and then worked as an attorney for four years before returning to MaddenCo in 2006. In this episode…What should tire and auto repair shops consider when implementing or changing their software systems? Should data collection be a primary factor? What hurdles often come with the switch?
According to Jay Adams of MaddenCo, data collection can be an advantage over the competition — but you have to know how much data you want to collect and when. When switching to different software, Jay says it’s most important to remember you’re changing for a reason — so trust your installer, trainer, and the people you signed with.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier and Matt Peters sit down with Jay for a conversation about all things related to tire industry software. Jay shares his thoughts on what’s ahead for this software, what it can do in real-time, data collection, reporting and KPIs, and essential considerations in switching software. He also gives some great advice on looking for a parking spot. Don’t miss it!
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 23 Jun 2022 | Get Your Old Customers Back with Neal Maier, Co-Founder at Tread Partners | 00:21:51 | |
Neal Maier is Co-Founder at Tread Partners, a digital marketing agency that helps auto repair and tire shops drive success through coordinated marketing strategies. He is a skilled negotiator, salesperson, and business planner with expertise in Search Engine Optimization and Customer Relationship Management. Tread Partners has designed a full-scale reengagement program called ReTread that brings old customers back into auto repair and tire shops. In this episode…If you are the owner of an auto repair or tire shop, have you noticed that you haven’t seen several of your quality, loyal customers in the last 18 months? Maybe it’s time to help them realize they haven’t seen you either! What if there were a way that was almost certain to bring them back to your shop? If you’re ready to start serving your best customers again, you don’t want to miss this episode of the Gain Traction podcast! Just because it’s been a while since you’ve seen someone who was once a regular customer at your shop doesn’t mean you never have to see them again. According to Neal Maier from Tread Partners, good customers often get sidetracked by traveling, quick oil changes, and coupons. It’s not that they don’t like your shop anymore — they just need a gentle reminder that you’re still there for them. In this Gain Traction episode, Neal joins Mike Edge to introduce ReTread, Tread Partner’s reengagement program to win back previous customers. Neal guarantees that any shop owner who uses ReTread to bring old customers back through their doors will see an income of ten dollars for every one dollar spent. Tune in to hear how you can serve some familiar faces once again! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 27 Apr 2022 | Updating Your Tire Data Solutions | 00:17:33 | |
J.P. Brooks is the Chief Revenue Officer at Fitment Group. He’s spent over 15 years in the automotive aftermarket with a focus on the tire and wheel industry. J.P. has worked on many levels within this industry, including software sales, business development, partnership, management, and product development. J.P. lives in Duluth, Minnesota with his wife and daughter. He enjoys spending as much time outdoors with his family as the weather permits. In this episode…The tire industry has traditionally been slow to adopt new technology. But how can new data tools benefit your business? There are many advantages: stocking the right tire sizes and brand models, retail price analysis, and e-commerce strategies. With a stronger online presence, customers are more likely to walk in the door. And if they’re walking in the door — you better make sure you have the product they need at the right price. So, how do you get started? In this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge is joined by J.P. to talk about modern data solutions for your business. J.P. describes the evolution of Fitment Group, the tools they provide that can benefit your customers, and why it’s important to stay up to date with new technology. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 08 Mar 2023 | Successful Franchising With Charles Bonfiglio, CEO at Tint World | 00:29:14 | |
Charles Bonfiglio is CEO at Tint World, a privately-owned window tinting and vehicle accessory center. His areas of expertise include leading automotive companies to maximize profits and market share, along with franchising, e-commerce, web design, software development, and financial management. Charles is also Founder of Cars Cafe and Auto Parts Network, and previously served as CEO and Franchise Developer at Meineke Car Care Centers for over 30 years. In this episode…Have you seen a service in the tire and auto industry that you thought you could turn into a worldwide brand? According to Charles Bonfiglio from Tint World, he purchased a chain of six stores — which focus on tinting car windows — and used his franchising expertise to grow the brand to 120 open locations with about 140 more in development. To hear his amazing story, don’t miss this episode of Gain Traction! On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier and Matthew Peters welcome Charles for a conversation about franchising in the automotive aftermarket. Charles discusses how he became intrigued by a six-location window tinting brand, took the owner to lunch, purchased the brand, started franchising, and grew the brand to hundreds of locations spanning the U.S, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Tune in to hear about this and much, much more! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 05 Jan 2022 | Building a Unified Team Culture | 00:22:43 | |
Tim Winkeler is the President and CEO of VIP Tires & Service, with 63 locations in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Tim is an accomplished, people-focused leader with a track record of building high-performance teams that exceed expectations and are hyper-focused on customer needs and feedback. Tim thrives in helping organizations succeed through strategy, development, and execution. Tim is originally from St. Louis, Missouri but grew up in Oklahoma before moving to Maine. In this episode…There's often an unspoken division between a tire company's office and service teams. Is it possible to help them connect and understand one another?
Tim Winkeler has spent the last decade unifying the team at VIP Tires & Service — and the difference is enormous. He's worked to help people in the office understand the struggles that the store employees go through, and the store employees understand the efforts from the office to support them. He even has everyone in the office wear the store uniform one day a week to remind everyone that they're all on the same team.
In this episode of Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge is joined by Tim to discuss how to create a unified team culture. Tim talks about why he decided to move across the country to join the VIP Tires & Service team, how the company has transformed since he started, and the future of the automotive industry. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 31 Jul 2024 | ITDG Tire Dealer of The Year - Wilks Tire & Battery Service - Logan Wilks | 00:26:40 | |
Logan Wilks is the Vice President of Wilks Tire & Battery Service, a family-owned company with a rich history originating from the post-World War II era. Under his leadership, the company has nearly doubled its locations, expanding their footprint throughout Alabama, Tennessee, and Georgia, including two retread plants and a distribution center. He is known for his forward-thinking approach, balancing aggressive growth with a strong emphasis on taking care of employees and customers. With a background triple-majoring at the University of Alabama and further education in Norway, Logan brings a global perspective fused with deeply rooted familial values into running the business. In this episode…Imagine surviving a World War II plane crash, starting a local service station, and then building a legacy that extends through generations and across state lines. How can one person's miraculous survival and entrepreneurial spirit ignite a family brand that prides itself on extraordinary service and integrity? According to Logan Wilks of Wilks Tire & Battery Service, his grandfather Bill Wilks' survival during World War II and subsequent founding of the company laid the foundation for a thriving family business built on exceptional service and integrity. Bill’s success story has grown from a humble business to a thriving enterprise encompassing 12 locations across three states, two retread plants, and a distribution center. Logan attributes the company's success to a focus on taking care of people, working with integrity, and giving back to the community — values instilled by his grandfather and carried forward by subsequent generations. On this episode of Gain Traction, Logan joins host Mike Edge to discuss the poignant history of a family business forged in the aftermath of World War II, chronicling its growth from a single man's vision to a thriving operation spanning multiple states. Logan shares insights into their expansion strategy, focusing on acquisitions and the intrinsic value of employees and customer service. He highlights the importance of personal growth and its impact on the company's development. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 11 Aug 2021 | Developing Trust in the Automotive Industry with Tommy Gaynor of Gaynor’s Automotive | 00:21:35 | |
Tommy Gaynor is the President and CEO of Gaynor’s Automotive, a full-service auto repair facility located in Vancouver, Washington. The business started with his parents, and now there are five locations across the state. He has over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry and has a proven track record of being a multi-business entrepreneur, problem solver, and leader. When Tommy is not spending time with his family, he can be found drag racing. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
In this episode…Are you struggling to retain employees? Are you aware of how much employee happiness affects your revenue? Do you know why stability is crucial for success? When it comes to the automobile industry, Tommy Gaynor has it figured out. He knows cars, and he knows the importance of creating a healthy work environment and stability for his happy employees. He has over 25 years of experience, follows the Golden Rule — "treat others how you would want to be treated" — and is here today to reveal his secrets. On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge sits down with Tommy Gaynor, President and CEO of Gaynor’s Automotive, to talk about the driving force of the automobile industry. They discuss the importance of employee appreciation, stability and business development, overcoming the pandemic, and much more. Get behind the wheel and stay tuned! Resources Mentioned in this episode
Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 11 Jul 2024 | Driving Innovation: From a Steel Worker’s Son to an Industry Leader With Mike Graber of Toyo Tires | 00:34:07 | |
Mike Graber is the President and CEO of Toyo Tires, a role he has embraced with vigor since joining the company in 2013. With a foundation in truck part sales and an eight-year tenure in various roles at Michelin, Mike's experience spans across the industry from sales to product development. In addition to a passionate commitment to product quality and customer engagement, Mike’s leadership reflects his belief in the significant role genuine relationships and people play in the success of the tire industry. In this episode…Have you ever considered how the leaders in the tire industry keep their wheels spinning in the right direction? The right blend of leadership, innovation, and community engagement can turn any company into an industry powerhouse. But how does one navigate the intricate paths that lead to success in such a competitive market? Seasoned tire industry professional Mike Graber of Toyo Tires explores the heart of what makes a leader effective in the tire industry. Highlighting Toyo Tire's reputation for high-quality products, Mike shares key strategies for customer re-engagement, emphasizing the role of a passionate team in fostering a high-energy corporate environment. With a career encompassing various roles, his story is a blueprint for embracing change and leveraging partnerships to enhance brand visibility. In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge chats with Mike Graber, the President and CEO of Toyo Tires, about nurturing leadership and growing a quality-centric brand. Mike provides an insider's look into Toyo Tire’s approach to innovation, such as developing an EV tire and enhancing wet traction performance. He also delves into the value of humbly learning from industry role models, balancing a genuine management style, and the symbolic parallels between golfing and leadership. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Companies:Websites:Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 21 Aug 2024 | Craig Bruneel — Chairman of the Board of Point S Dealers and Owner of Bruneel Point S Tire & Auto | 00:31:37 | |
Craig Bruneel is the Owner of Bruneel Point S Tire & Service, which operates 13 shops across Idaho, and holds the position of Chairman of the Board of Point S Tire & Service. Craig's tenure in the tire and auto service industry began in childhood, where his early exposure to the family business instilled a passion for entrepreneurship and service. His experience encompasses every aspect of the tire business, from creating swim tubes for sale as a young entrepreneur to expanding his family's legacy through the adoption of the Point S co-op model. Craig's leadership has propelled not only his own shops, but also the growth of Point S across the nation. In this episode…The tire industry has a rich history of entrepreneurship and family-owned businesses. How can a family-owned tire business thrive across multiple generations? According to Craig Bruneel of Bruneel Point S Tire & Service, the key to their success lies in hard work, innovative business practices, and a willingness to adapt and take risks. Craig shares how his father started in the tire industry and grew the business despite numerous challenges, emphasizing the importance of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. He also discusses the value of learning from every experience, whether it's dealing with partnerships, navigating non-compete agreements, or managing a unionized workforce. On this episode of Gain Traction, Craig joins Mike Edge to chat about the importance of customer service, the evolution of the tire industry, and the role of family in business. Craig discusses maintaining a competitive edge, the significance of community involvement, and the benefits of continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly changing market. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Craig offers advice and inspiration for achieving long-term success. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 01 Mar 2023 | Tires Are a People Business With Kent Coleman, Owner at Big O Tires | 00:25:57 | |
Kent Coleman is the Owner of eleven Big O Tire stores in northern Utah and various other commercial properties. He has the ability to ask the right questions to get to the root of an issue and solve problems. As a result, even though Kent is not an avid car enthusiast, his Big O Tire stores are some of the highest-producing in the nation. Kent is also author of the book It’s Not About the Mangos. In this episode…Is it absolutely necessary to be a car enthusiast to be a successful business owner in the tire and auto industry, or do you just have to be able to understand people? To hear from someone who has a definitive answer to these questions, check out this episode of Gain Traction! If you don’t know the actual size of your car engine, is that a sign you should avoid owning a business in the tire and automotive industry? Not according to Kent Coleman, who owns eleven successful Big O Tire locations and admits that when he bought his first store, he didn’t know there was a difference between a tire and a wheel. Kent says he’s overcome his lack of passion for cars by building a culture centered around people — and it’s worked! On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge is joined by Kent, who shares his unique path into the tire and auto industry. Kent talks about his lack of knowledge and passion for cars and how he worked around it by establishing a culture that attracts employees who work well with customers. As a result, Kent says those customers become friends and want to come back. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 07 Aug 2024 | The Man Behind The Hit Show Muscle & Classics, E. Red | 00:30:42 | |
E. Red is the enterprising force behind the TV hit show Muscle and Classics, where he serves as producer, director, and star. Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, E. Red grew up in a large, car-loving family which set the foundation for his passion for the automotive industry. He has garnered extensive knowledge in car restoration and motorsports, leading him to create content that educates and inspires fellow car enthusiasts. E. Red’s dedication to the craft has resulted in a thriving TV show that resonates with viewers of all backgrounds. In this episode…Growing up in a big family in Savannah, Georgia, E. Red was surrounded by cars and motorsports from a young age, which instilled in him a passion and knowledge for classic muscle cars. But where did this journey take him, and how did he become a successful producer, director, and star of his own TV show, Muscle and Classics? E. Red’s family and exposure to motorsports at a young age led him to develop a strong work ethic and a variety of skills, including framing houses, working as a longshoreman, and eventually creating his own TV show. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, determination, and adapting to changes in the industry. Through his show, E. Red shares his passion for cars and motorsports, interviewing experts and enthusiasts from all walks of life. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes E. Red to discuss his journey from Savannah to TV stardom. Starting with his childhood love of cars and influenced by family traditions, he shares personal stories of multi-generational car enthusiasm and how he created Muscle and Classics, which airs on Tubi, Paramount, Fox Soul, and Joy TV. Facing personal challenges head-on, E. Red discusses the show's evolution, his battle with cancer, and his vision for the future of the show. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 12 Jan 2022 | Continuing Education for Tire Employees | 00:24:39 | |
Scott Blair is the Founder of T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training & Network, which is poised to soon be the premier tire, rim, and chassis training center in the US. Their team serves both the mobile tire industry and traditional tire stores with customers ranging from one-store family-owned to multi-state national chains.
As a 28-year veteran of the tire and custom wheel industry, Scott is passionate about everything related to tires and wheels. He is the Managing Partner of 2U Tire of Alabama, Co-founder of 2U Mobile Solutions, and Inventor of the Wheel Fit and GRYPR System. Scott is also the Creator and Host of T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training & Network on YouTube and Author of the T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training custom wheel and non-OE tire certification program. In this episode…High turnover rates are making hiring and training a challenge for business owners. How can you quickly onboard employees without slowing down your workflow? Once employees are trained, how do you ensure they’ll stay with the company?
Give the employees what they want most: growth. By providing clearly outlined training, employees will thrive. They’ll be up and running in your shop more quickly, they’ll be excited about learning, and they’ll become a valuable asset to your business. How can you find the best training for your employees?
In this episode of Gain Traction Podcast, Neal Maier is joined by Scott to discuss how T.R.A.C.K. Auto Training & Network is empowering employees and businesses. Scott talks about the importance of continuing education, how the T.R.A.C.K. training system works, and why you should never stop learning. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 01 Dec 2021 | Building Better Together with Michael Chung of Auto Care Association | 00:18:56 | |
Michael Chung is the Director of Market Intelligence at the Auto Care Association. Michael has worked in molecular biology research, environmental consulting, marketing and communications, and market research. He writes about industry trends and key factors influencing the health of the automotive aftermarket to help businesses throughout the supply chain make better decisions. In this episode…So much has happened in the auto industry in the last year and a half. How can you make sense of all the information and figure out how it will affect the market?
The Auto Care Association takes care of that. Members across the organization gather relevant research that will help people in every corner of the auto industry. They have parts manufacturers, distributors, manufacturers, representatives, retail operations experts, and more on their team. The Auto Care Association creates an opportunity for collaboration. Together, you can help drive the industry forward.
On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge sits down with Michael to discuss how the Auto Care Association brings people together to build up the auto industry. Michael shares what he loves the most about his work, the type of research the Auto Care Association gathers, and how it’s helping every part of the supply chain.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 06 Nov 2024 | Work Ethic and Success With Dustin Dobbs of Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers | 00:25:42 | |
Dustin Dobbs is the President of Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers, a family-owned business headquartered in Saint Louis, Missouri, specializing in tire and auto repair services. Under his leadership, Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers has expanded to over 50 locations across Missouri, Illinois, and Texas, continuing the legacy started by his grandfather in 1976. Dustin was immersed in the family business from a young age, instilling in him a strong work ethic and commitment to the company's culture and values. In this episode…The automotive industry is built on a foundation of family businesses and strong work ethics. How do successful multi-generational companies maintain their culture while expanding? According to Dustin Dobbs of Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers, the key to maintaining a strong company culture during expansion is employee empowerment. He emphasizes the importance of supporting staff, providing training, and offering opportunities for career growth. Dustin highlights unique initiatives like hand-delivering Thanksgiving turkeys, hosting company-wide events, and taking managers and their spouses on annual trips to Mexico. He maintains that these practices set them apart from larger competitors and are crucial to their success. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Dustin to chat about his family's business history, work ethic, and recent expansion into Texas. They discuss how to approach maintaining company culture during growth, the importance of community involvement, and strategies for empowering employees. Dustin also shares insights on partnering with private equity while preserving core values. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
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Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 23 Oct 2024 | Empowering Leadership and Family Legacy With Reed Parman of Big Chief Tire | 00:31:56 | |
Reed Parman is the President and Owner of Big Chief Tire, a company specializing in tire sales and auto services with five locations in Jacksonville, Florida. Big Chief Tire was founded in 1961, and Reed’s leadership has helped maintain its reputation for excellent customer service and long-term employee retention. Reed grew up in the tire business, starting by changing tires as a teenager, and has been instrumental in modernizing the company by implementing a digital inspection process to enhance customer transparency. In this episode…The automotive industry can be challenging for consumers to navigate, especially with the growth of large chain stores. How can a smaller business stand out and build customer loyalty? According to Reed Parman of Big Chief Tire, transparency is key to building trust with customers. This includes using digital inspections to provide visual evidence of necessary repairs and clearly communicate the overall health of the customer's vehicle. Building relationships with customers is another important factor, which can be achieved by having tenured employees who provide consistent and reliable service. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge talks with Reed about the history of Big Chief Tire, a family-owned business founded in 1961. He shares how his family has shaped the company's culture and values, emphasizing the importance of empowering employees and creating a family-like atmosphere. Reed discusses the challenges and rewards of running a multi-generational business and highlights Big Chief Tire's commitment to transparency and customer relationships as key differentiators in a competitive market. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 20 Jun 2024 | From Family Business to Tire Titans With Joe and John Inchiostro of St. Louis Wholesale Tire | 00:34:37 | |
Joe Inchiostro is the Owner and CEO of St. Louis Wholesale Tire. His cousin, John Inchiostro, is Operations Manager. The company is renowned for providing hard-to-find tires and other specialty products in the automotive industry. Their fathers founded St. Louis Wholesale Tire, which started in their living room and eventually grew into an enterprise serving a national customer base. Together, Joe and John have expanded the company's offerings, introducing their own AIRLOC brand inner tubes and positioning St. Louis Wholesale Tire as a silent partner to wholesalers needing unique tire solutions. In this episode…The story of St. Louis Wholesale Tire is a true testament to the American dream; two brothers steered their business from brokering tires out of their father's living room to leading a tire industry empire. How did these two brothers manage to create a culture that prioritizes people over profits, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends the boundaries of a traditional workplace? According to cousins Joe and John Inchiostro, the secret to St. Louis Wholesale Tire's success lies in the unbreakable bond between the founders and their commitment to treating employees like family. From the very beginning, their fathers — who are the founding brothers — instilled a philosophy of putting relationships first, understanding that money comes and goes, but the connections they forge are invaluable. This mindset permeates every aspect of the business, creating an environment where employees feel supported and valued. Whether it's accommodating family emergencies or celebrating personal milestones, the company's leadership recognizes that a happy and fulfilled workforce is the key to long-term prosperity. In this episode of Gain Traction, Joe and John talk with host Mike Edge about the evolution and modernization of the family tire business. They reveal how they managed to reinvent their business repeatedly to stay ahead of market trends. The cousins emphasize relationships over profits, exceptional service, and the unique products that set them apart. They discuss their approach to customer service, the significance of offering a broad product range, and strategic partnerships with geographic distributors. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Companies:Websites:Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 11 Jan 2023 | Building Long-Lasting Client Relationships With Matthew Peters, Business Development Manager at Tread Partners | 00:23:34 | |
Matthew Peters is the Business Development Manager at Tread Partners. He joined Tread Partners in November 2022 after serving in the same role at Tireweb Marketing for more than three years and at Icon Internet Media for nearly two years. Having worked in the tire industry for more than 30 years, Matthew possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience. In this episode…As a B2B business owner, how do you view your relationships with your clients? Is it a transactional, one-and-done relationship or is it a potential lifelong partnership? For insights on building and maintaining long-lasting client relationships, check out this episode of Gain Traction! What is the benefit of building long-term relationships with your customers? According to Matthew Peters from Tread Partners, it not only results in repeat customers, but new customers as well. “My business, over the last 30 years, has been built on building relationships and a referral system,” Matthew said. “Everything that I generate typically comes through those relationships — it's that referral partnership.” On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier sits down with Matthew to discuss the importance of building long-term client relationships. Matthew says he views his client relationships as partnerships who are likely to result in referrals. “Those are the very best referrals that you can get,” he said. He talks about the effort required to cultivate and develop those relationships and to make sure clients know he is there to help them succeed. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 18 Oct 2023 | The Value of a Long-Term Exit Strategy With Giorgio Andonian of FOCUS Investment Banking | 00:26:09 | |
Giorgio Andonian is the Managing Director at FOCUS Investment Banking. Since joining the company in 2019, he has been instrumental in guiding mergers, acquisitions, recapitalizations, and capital raises for middle-market businesses in the Consumer and Automotive Aftermarket sectors. Prior to FOCUS, Giorgio served as vice president of 55 Inc. in Southern California and has held other roles in the tire industry spanning finance, operations, and supply chain management. He holds a MBA from Pepperdine University and several professional licenses including Series 79, Series 82, and Series 63. In this episode…Are you considering selling your tire and auto repair shop in the near future, or maybe the distant future? How far in advance should you begin planning your exit? According to Giorgio Andonian from FOCUS Investment Banking, it’s never too early to start taking the necessary steps because these transactions often take longer than expected. Giorgio says his company recently played a part in a sale that took three years to complete due to the advanced maturity of the tire industry. Among the questions to start considering now: Are you a C Corp or an S Corp? Are you charging yourself fair-market rent? What will management look like when you are no longer the owner? On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Giorgio for a conversation about the many aspects of selling a tire and auto repair shop. He explains why it’s important to know what type of corporation you are, why you should start planning for a potential sale with your accountants years in advance, and the considerations associated with ownership of the property where the shop is located. Giorgio also talks about what he learned while working at his family’s Discount Tire Centers. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 13 Oct 2021 | Expanding Your Automotive Chain with Jenn Mello of Tire Outlet | 00:18:20 | |
Jenn Mello is the Project Manager at Tire Outlet, a 13 store chain in Jacksonville, Florida. Jenn handles social media, email marketing, website design, strategic management, brand management, promotions, market research, and public relations. Jenn started at Tire Outlet as a Marketing Manager in 2017 and expanded her role as the company grew. Previously, she was a Training Advisor at New Horizons Computer Learning Center and an Advertising Intern at Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center. In this episode…Growing a chain of businesses is a unique challenge. From finding the proper marketing channels to utilize to researching new location opportunities, what are your strategies when it comes to expanding your automotive empire?
Jenn Mello joined the Tire Outlet team when they had just seven locations. Since then, she’s helped them grow into a fleet of 13 stores across Florida. Whether it’s an acquisition or building a brand new location, she helps Tire Outlet market to the local community in unique ways that retain customers. What’s Jenn’s secret to success?
On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge sits down with Jenn to discuss strategies for growing a chain of automotive stores. Jenn talks about how Tire Outlet has used acquisition to grow the company, the renovations they’re doing to connect with the local communities, and how Tire Outlet is upgrading the customer experience. Resources Mentioned in this episodeSponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 04 Dec 2024 | [SEMA Series] At SEMA With Seth Glauberman, Jim Ring, Justin Rae, Brock Swentzel, Mike Graber, and Sonny McDonald | 00:17:14 | |
Seth Glauberman is the President of Malco Automotive. A fourth-generation member of the family company specializing in automotive detailing products, Seth has been with Malco Automotive for 20 years. The company focuses on professional-grade products, while also venturing into products for discerning do-it-yourselfers. Jim Ring is the Owner and Partner at Ringbrothers, a company known for creating custom car parts and restoring and modifying cars. Jim and his brother began their company because they had difficulty finding high-quality, unique car parts. Their passion for cars led them from restoring cars to modifying them and eventually to creating the parts they needed. Justin Rae is the CEO and Co-founder of Cinch, a company that provides data science and automation tools for the automotive service and repair industry. Cinch's software helps shops send service reminders, predict needed services, and understand customer value. Justin has attended SEMA five times, and believes it is an important show for anyone in the automotive space. Brock Swentzel is the President of Wholesale at S&S Tire, a company celebrating its 50th anniversary. Brock comes from a family with a long history in the industry, as his grandfather started the company in 1974. S&S Tire is aiming to expand its business in the Southeast region of the United States. Mike Graber is the President and CEO of Toyo Tires. His experience spans across the industry from sales to product development. In addition to a passionate commitment to product quality and customer engagement, Mike believes genuine relationships and people play a significant role in the success of the tire industry. Sonny McDonald is Sr. National Training Manager at Toyo Tires Corp USA. He has held that position for over 22 years, after working for a decade as a sales representative for The Tire Rack. In this episode…The automotive industry is a dynamic landscape where innovation and collaboration are essential for success. How can industry leaders leverage their experiences to foster growth and adaptability in this competitive environment? According to Seth Glauberman from Malco Automotive, Jim Ring from Ringbrothers, Justin Rae from Cinch, Brock Swentzel from S&S Tire, and Mike Graber and Sonny McDonald from Toyo Tire, building strong relationships and embracing innovation are critical to thriving in the automotive sector. They emphasize the importance of networking at events like SEMA, where connections with customers, partners, and suppliers can lead to new opportunities. Additionally, they note the value of adapting to market changes through innovative products and data-driven strategies that enhance customer engagement and service. On this episode of Gain Traction, join host Mike Edge at SEMA, where he talks to Seth, Jim, Justin, Brock, Mike, and Sonny about the significance of networking and collaboration in the automotive industry. The guests share insights on innovative products, custom parts manufacturing, data-driven customer service tools, and strategies for distributor growth. Their conversations highlight how fostering relationships and embracing change can drive success in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 19 Jul 2021 | Who is the Real Competition to Tire Dealers and Auto Shop Owners? | 00:26:11 | |
Neal Maier and David Christopher are Co-founders of Tread Partners, a digital marketing agency focused on using SEO, marketing, and branding to help tire companies and auto-repair shops grow and thrive. Neal was previously a Partner at 3VE and COO of TexTivia, which rebranded into 3VE. He has worked for multiple automotive companies such as Autoshop Solutions and Auto Pro To Call. David was previously also a Partner at 3VE and was the Founder of TexTivia, which rebranded into 3VE. He has over 20 years of experience owning and operating businesses, including his own family’s auto repair shop. Mike Edge is in Business Development at Tread Partners. He has had a lengthy career in his field, having previously been the Owner and Business Development expert for Resource Connection, Inc., Director of Business Development at Upright Communications, and Owner of T.M. Edge, Inc. In this episode…When it comes to your website, you may think you have it all figured out. You’ve checked all the SEO boxes, have gotten a great logo, and all your contact information is readily available for potential customers. But, like most auto shops and tire dealers, you’re most likely missing some key blind spots that are preventing customer engagement and conversion, despite all the other measures you’ve taken to create a successful online presence. Don’t worry, Tread Partners is here to help. Neal Maier and David Christopher are the Co-founders of Tread Partners, a digital marketing agency focused on using SEO, marketing strategies, and branding to help tire companies and auto repair shops grow and thrive. Along with their Business Development partner Mike Edge, they’re here to tell you everything you need to know about how to make your website shine like a new car. On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Neal, David, and Mike to discuss common mistakes in website design, why website improvement is all about strategy, the importance of conversion and navigation, and much more. Stay tuned! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources Mentioned in this episode
Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 08 Sep 2021 | Changing the Money Conversation with Jeff Tucker | 00:25:34 | |
Jeff Tucker is the CEO of Triple T Tire and Tapps. Jeff grew his family’s tire business from a single location specializing in tires to three full-service auto repair and tire shops. Jeff also developed the Tapps App to help retailers implement payment plans for their customers. Using data, analytics, and customization, the Tapps App helps to improve consumer engagement which allows businesses to flourish. In addition to his roles at Triple T Tire and Tapps, Jeff is also a Business Development Consultant at Molloy Business Development Group. Outside of the tire world, Jeff loves to be at home with his wife, Julie, or outdoors off-roading with family and friends. In this episode…It’s no secret that car repairs often come with a hefty price tag. Unfortunately, most people don’t plan to spend $2,500 on car repairs every month, leaving them woefully unprepared to meet this expense if their vehicle is in need of serious repairs. So, how do you help your customers get the repairs they need while also pricing your services fairly? Jeff Tucker, CEO of Triple T Tire and Tapps, came up with a solution. His invention, the Tapps App, offers simple payment plans for his customers. Rather than spending days trying to find a compatible lender, customers can find a loan almost instantly and get the repairs they need. Not only does this put drivers back behind the wheel of their cars sooner, but it also helps generate more business for your establishment by giving customers a convenient way to pay. On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge sits down with Jeff to discuss how adding customer payment plans can drive your business forward. Additionally, Jeff talks about why he came back to the family business after college instead of pursuing mechanical engineering, the inspiration behind the Tapps App, and how using the app has benefitted his customers. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources Mentioned in this episode
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 20 Mar 2024 | Navigating Auto Repairs With Empathy With Lee McWilliams of Midas | 00:25:12 | |
Lee McWilliams is the store manager for Midas in Eden Prairie, Minn., where he oversees a customer service team in the automotive repair industry. With a keen understanding of the pivotal role customer interaction plays, Lee emphasizes the importance of empathy and adaptability in his role. Raised in a family where small-town values translated to warm customer service, Lee learned the art of building rapport with customers early on, making it easier to navigate conversations and provide effective solutions, whether it's a brand-new BMW owner or someone with a trusty truck of 30 years. In this episode…Customer service, especially in the auto repair industry, can be a draining and difficult job. Customers are never happy when their vehicle has a problem that needs a potentially pricey fix. With these challenging interactions, it’s important to uphold the right attitude According to Lee McWilliams of Midas, maintaining empathy while providing customer service is of paramount importance. Lee stresses the need to build rapport with customers, regardless of their background or vehicle type, by asking questions and communicating in layman's terms. He emphasizes that customer retention is most often driven by fostering trust and providing quality service. On this episode of Gain Traction, Lee joins Mike Edge to discuss the crucial role of customer service in the auto repair industry. Lee emphasizes the need for empathy when dealing with customers, especially considering financial constraints and anxiety surrounding auto repairs. He shares insights on building rapport, educating customers, and the significance of customer retention. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 04 Aug 2021 | Customer Satisfaction, Franchising, and Marketing in the Auto Care Industry with Andy Fiffick of Rad Air | 00:29:54 | |
In this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge talks with President and CEO of Rad Air Complete Car Care, Andy Fiffick, about all aspects of the auto care industry from a management level. They discuss how to ensure customer satisfaction, the benefits of franchising, tips for marketing your auto care company, and much more. For the last 35 years, Andy Fiffick has been the President and CEO of Rad Air Complete Car Care, an auto shop that provides quality auto repairs and was rated number one in Ohio for car repair and customer service. In addition, Andy is also the President and CEO of Rad Air Franchise Systems, the Chairman of the Board and CEO of the Mobile Air Conditioning Society Worldwide, and a Board of Directors Member of the Cleveland Better Business Bureau. Before joining Rad Air, Andy was the President and CEO of A/C Specialty Cars. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
In this episode…Andy Fiffick was practically born into the auto care industry. His father, a truck mechanic, instilled a passion for cars in him that he now passes on to others as President and CEO of Rad Air Complete Car Care. How can you find a quality mechanic? Why shouldn’t you wait until the last minute to get your car serviced? What does advertising look like in the auto care industry? Ask Andy, and you’ll find out. Stay tuned! Resources Mentioned in this episode
Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 05 Apr 2023 | Ensuring Customers’ Cars are Safe, Reliable, and Efficient With Craig O’Neill, Vice President of Training at Autoflow | 00:31:50 | |
Craig O’Neill is Vice President of Training at Autoflow, formerly Autotext.me. Starting at a young age, Craig gained priceless experience at his family’s transmission shop, serving in a variety of roles including Service Manager, Technician and Business Manager. Craig’s greatest interest is in technology and since 2018, when he joined Autoflow, he has developed training processes to support shops launching digital systems. In this episode…How can a tire and auto repair shop ensure the safety of a customer’s vehicle while potentially increasing the number of services a customer desires? Is it better to complete a full inspection or simply service the part of the vehicle that the customer says is causing problems? If these questions resonate with you, check out this episode of Gain Traction! Craig O’Neill, from Autoflow, says he was always against completing full inspections of customer vehicles. He thought it was just an underhanded way for shops to upsell additional services, until one day at a tech expo a speaker said the job of every technician is to make sure the vehicle is safe, reliable, and efficient — and the only way to do that is to complete a full inspection. That speaker soon became Craig’s mentor and helped him implement an invaluable digital inspection program which includes sending pictures of vehicle issues to the customer. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Craig for a conversation about the importance of a digital inspection process at tire and auto repair shops — even shops with one primary specialty like transmissions, brakes, or tires. Craig talks about what Autoflow does, how its software enhances customer service, and how it greatly benefits tire and auto repair shops. He discusses the amazing value of sharing photos with customers that highlight issues involving their vehicles. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 31 May 2023 | Selling Tires Without a Sales Pitch With Ron Dolan, President at Sailun Tire North America | 00:32:30 | |
Ron Dolan is President at Sailun Tire North America. He has a demonstrated history working in the automotive industry with developed skills in negotiation, budgeting, business planning, and sales. Sailun Tires are exclusively distributed by TBC Brands in the US and sells over 30 million tires annually in more than 50 countries worldwide. Ron came to Sailun from Dynamic Tire Corp, where he worked for nearly twenty years. In this episode…What makes a salesperson great at what they do? According to Ron Dolan from Sailun Tire North America, it’s not a tried-and-true sales process, it’s your ability to connect with people. Ron says if you genuinely like people, tell them the truth, and treat them the way you want to be treated, you’re going to be effective. On this episode of Gain Traction, Ron joins Mike Edge to discuss the most effective ways to sell tires and retain customers. Ron speaks about his style of selling and how he doesn’t work an angle or come with a sales pitch — he’s even told potential customers to call someone else because he didn’t believe in certain products. Playing the long game is key, Ron says, explaining that he’s had relationships with customers for more than 20 years. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 02 Feb 2022 | Inspiring Success by Sharing Stories | 00:21:40 | |
Bryce Evans is the Vice President of Content and Events at 10 Missions Media. Bryce oversees the company’s six national brands, Auto Service Professional, ADAPT, FenderBender, Modern Tire Dealer, National Oil & Lube News, and Ratchet+Wrench. He also takes care of the live events, marketing department, and additional products. An award-winning journalist, Bryce has produced work in dozens of national and regional publications. In this episode…Starting a business isn’t easy — but it helps to learn from others who have endured similar challenges.That’s why Bryce Evans is working hard to showcase inspiring stories of automotive business leaders through publications like Ratchet+Wrench. Generous shop owners open up about their journeys and share the solutions and strategies they’ve cultivated over the years. The goal is to help others find the same success, build their businesses, and make improvements. In this episode of Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge is joined by Bryce Evans, Vice President of Content and Events at 10 Missions Media, to discuss how he is inspiring automotive business owners by sharing stories. Bryce talks about his background in journalism, major milestones for 10 Missions Media, and future opportunities in the industry — including the ADAPT Summit. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 01 Feb 2023 | Building a Culture and Getting Buy-in With Darren McLea, Business Development Consultant at Molloy Business Development Group | 00:30:56 | |
Darren McLea is a Business Development Consultant at Molloy Sales Development Group, where he consults with business owners to help identify and implement solutions in their business for training, performance, communication, operational standards, and more. After starting out as a “cleanup kid” changing tires and fixing flats in high school, Darren went on to become the Executive Vice President and a Partner at McLea’s Tire. Prior to joining Molloy, he sold the family business to AAA. His purpose is to help people to exceed their wildest dreams and have a ton of fun along the way. In this episode…What’s the best way to earn the respect of your team members as a manager or owner of a tire and auto repair shop? According to Darren McLea of Molloy Business Development Group, the answer is simple: walk a mile in their shoes. “All the pushback, hesitations, or resistance that employees have — I've dealt with that, I've been one of those, I've worked through it,” Darren said. “I think that's why I was always so good at implementing things.” On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with Darren for a conversation about building a positive culture and getting team members to buy into the vision and direction of a shop. Darren says he’s learned to be “very good at coming up with creative ways to incentivize everybody throughout our company.” He emphasizes the importance of being engaged with employee development and making human-to-human connections. Don’t miss your chance to hear these valuable insights! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 01 Sep 2021 | How to Take Strategic Business Risks with Jarid Lundeen | 00:28:18 | |
Jarid Lundeen is the President of Tires Plus of North Dakota. After earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management, Jarid started his career in the hospitality industry. Now, he’s been in the tire industry for over 20 years and currently operates a total of four tire locations and two stores. Outside of the tire world, Jarid enjoys spending time with his family of six children and coaching youth football. In this episode…Are you curious about trying a new career path but feeling fear about leaving the old one behind? Do you have an excellent idea for a business, but you’re not sure if the risk will be worth the potential rewards? Meet Jarid Lundeen, President of Tires Plus of North Dakota. He started in the hospitality industry, transitioned to managing restaurants, and moved into the banking industry before deciding to land in the tire industry where he’s been for the last 20 years. How did he leverage his skills to thrive in three totally different careers? On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge sits down with Jarid to discuss how work ethic, taking risks, and building smart business models got him where he is today. Additionally, Jarid speaks to how he ended up in the tire industry, the milestones he is most proud of, and why he wasn’t afraid to go places where others failed. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources Mentioned in this episode | |||
| 21 Dec 2022 | Building a Positive Work Environment With Al Pridemore, CEO and Co-owner of Pride Auto Care | 00:27:14 | |
Al Pridemore is CEO and Co-owner of Pride Auto Care. He and his brothers became owners in 2005, starting with two shops before growing to six. Pride Auto Care is a full-service tire and automotive center focused on putting their employees first. Their philosophy is that building relationships and leadership, within all of their ranks, results in great service for the customer. In this episode…As any tire and auto repair shop owner knows, building a positive workplace culture can be challenging. What about turning a negative workplace culture into a positive one while keeping most of the same staff? According to Al Pridemore of Pride Auto Care, it can be done — his company purchased an existing shop with a negative atmosphere and completely reversed the culture. Are you curious how this happened? Don’t miss this episode of Gain Traction! On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Al for a conversation about building a positive culture in a tire and auto repair shop. Even if you have a lot of factors working against you, with a people-focused culture, Al says you’ll “parlay that thought and that feeling into the customers — they want to be where they're appreciated, where there's a relationship.” He shares how he’s built that type of culture in his company. Tune in! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 27 Mar 2024 | From Food to Tires: A Customer Service Journey With Brooke Johnson of McMahon's Best-One Tire | 00:21:33 | |
Brooke Johnson is a dedicated Customer Service Representative at McMahon's Best-One Tire. With a prior background in the food industry which spanned a decade, Brooke brings a refreshing perspective to her role, marked by honesty and a strong work ethic. Despite her initial unfamiliarity with the tire industry, Brooke's commitment to learning and serving customers has made her an invaluable asset over her three-year tenure. In this episode…Is it necessary to be a lifelong “car person” in order to provide outstanding customer service in the tire and auto repair industry? Is it possible for a novice with a strong work ethic to learn about tires through experience? Brooke Johnson's journey exemplifies resilience and adaptability in the face of career change. Transitioning from the demanding food industry to McMahon's Best-One Tire, Brooke was undeterred, committed to personal growth and connecting with customers. Through proactive initiatives like digital vehicle inspections, Brooke ensures transparency and trust with customers, empowering them to make informed decisions about their vehicle maintenance. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Brooke to reflect on her journey from novice to proficient in tire sales. They explore her honest interview, which has led to a fulfilling role at McMahon's. Brooke reflects on similarities between industries and her skills that recently led to her promotion to store manager, as well as McMahon’s proactive approach to customer service and supportive workplace culture. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 16 Oct 2024 | Overcoming Entrepreneurial Challenges With Jared Kugel of Tire Agent | 00:30:51 | |
Jared Kugel is the CEO and Founder of Tire Agent, an innovative e-commerce platform revolutionizing how consumers purchase and install tires across the US. Tire Agent has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies, ranking #936 on the Inc. 5000 list, with Jared himself being a 2024 finalist in the New York area's Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. An expert in automotive, e-commerce, and fintech, Jared is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and fostering strong partnerships within the tire and automotive industry. In this episode…The automotive industry is known for its tight-knit community and loyal professionals who often spend their entire careers in the field. How did one entrepreneur leverage this industry culture to build a successful e-commerce tire business from scratch? According to Jared Kugel, Tire Agent started with a simple LinkedIn message and evolved through multiple iterations before finding its footing as an online tire retailer. Jared faced numerous challenges, including financial hardships and countless rejections from investors, but persevered through sheer determination and the support of industry connections. His journey highlights the importance of adaptability, resilience, and building solid relationships within the automotive sector. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Jared to discuss his entrepreneurial journey in the tire industry. They discuss Jared's background, the inception of Tire Agent, early challenges in fundraising and business development, and the company's growth into a successful e-commerce platform. Jared also shares personal anecdotes that illustrate the dedication required to launch a startup in the competitive automotive market. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 16 Aug 2023 | How Core Values Enhance Credibility With John Repp, Sales Manager for Dunlap & Kyle Co. | 00:34:27 | |
John Repp is Sales Manager for Dunlap & Kyle Co., one of the leading tire distributors in the nation. John got his long-sought start in the automotive industry by taking a job at a National Tire Wholesale in Nashville, TN while working a second job to make ends meet. He worked several roles with Bridgestone for nearly 20 years before joining Dunlap & Kyle. In this episode…What’s the secret to building a long-term foundation of credibility for your business? Start by establishing core values and getting your team to buy in. According to John Repp from Dunlap & Kyle Co., his company’s core values are ingrained into its culture. When team members come to work, they live by the following mantras: Go Big, Champion Your Customer, Give a Damn, Get Your Hands Dirty, and Have Their Back. The mindset gained by upholding these values, John says, has yielded results that keep customers coming back. On this episode of Gain Traction, John joins Mike Edge to discuss the benefits that come from implementing core values that are straightforward, recognizable, and demonstrable. They talk about how to make core values a deep-rooted part of your company culture, reflected in both internal and external relationships. John also praises the impact made by Dunlap & Kyle founder Bob Dunlap who, despite being over 90 years old, still comes into the office every day. Check it out! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 27 Jul 2022 | Finding the Best Tires at the Best Price With Tim Shaffer, CEO and Co-Founder of Search Tires | 00:22:33 | |
Tim Shaffer is Co-Founder and CEO of Search Tires, also known as searchtires.com, the world’s first price comparison search engine. He is also President of YENT, a subsidiary of Prepared Patriot Brands. Tim is a leader, an innovative thinker, and a trusted advisor who excels at guiding businesses from multimillion-dollar start-ups to established companies. In this episode…Have you ever tried shopping for tires online? Did you just find the first set you found or do you search on different sites to compare prices? What if you could find the right tires and get them for the lowest price all at one site? If you’d like to learn more about a website that allows you to find the best deals on tires, don’t miss this episode of Gain Traction! What if there were a legitimate site where you could find the best deals on tires in the same way Priceline helps you find the best deals on travel? According to Tim Shaffer of Search Tires, that service exists in Florida and is likely headed to other markets soon. Are you ready to change how you shop for tires online? In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Tim for a conversation about searchtires.com, a website where you can find the right tires for your vehicle at the lowest price. It helps you find the right size tires, shows where they’re offered near you, and displays the price at each location. Tim talks about how he came up with the idea, the process for a tire customer to find the right fit, and how Search Tires makes sure it has the most accurate and up-to-date information at all times. Tune in! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 20 Apr 2022 | Building Outstanding Business Relationships | 00:17:36 | |
Chris Pazderny is the Vice President of Operations at Caliber Auto Care in Texas. He has been in the automotive industry for 30 years, starting at age 16. Chris began his career as a part stocker at a Ford dealership in Texas. Eventually, he was hired to get Service First Automotive off the ground, opening the first shop in July 2011. He helped develop multiple stores until 2017, when they signed a joint venture agreement with Caliber. Since then, they have expanded to 32 locations in Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, and San Antonio.
Chris and his wife Melinda have four kids, ages 10 to 27. When Chris isn't working, he enjoys hunting, fishing, beach vacations, and disc golf. He and Melinda also love eating out and enjoying a nice bottle of wine. In this episode…Relationships should be one of your top priorities when it comes to business, even in the auto industry.
That includes relationships with other business owners and with your customers. Would you be willing to fly to another state to help a client with a broken-down truck? How about buying a rotisserie
That includes relationships with other business owners and with your customers. Would you be willing to fly to another state to help a client with a broken-down truck? How about buying a rotisserie chicken for a lady whose car stalled on the way to the grocery store? Whether your actions are big or small, going the extra mile can differentiate between a one-time customer and a customer-for-life.
In this episode of the Gain Traction podcast, Mike Edge is joined by Chris to talk about the importance of building relationships. Chris shares examples of going above and beyond for customers, how they build consumer trust, and his vision for the future of Caliber Auto Care. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 15 May 2024 | Discussing Generational Tire Shops With Randy O'Connor, Bobby Gillespie, Kyle Moore and Kayla Heiar | 00:46:27 | |
Randy O'Connor, Owner of Dealer to Dealer Development Group, is a strategic specialist known for his prowess in analyzing and enhancing processes. With a track record spanning roles at Colony Tire, American Tire Distributors-Tire Pros, DSP20 Group, and Big Brand Tire and Service, Randy brings a wealth of experience to the table. He leverages his expertise to empower independent businesses in the tire and auto service industry, guiding them toward long-term success and excellence as best-in-class operators. Bobby Gillespie carries on his family's long-standing tradition as the current manager of Gillespie Tire and Automotive Service in Prattville, Alabama. After his father became the city's mayor in 2011, Bobby stepped up to lead the family business, drawing on his diverse responsibilities to steer the team toward continued success and growth. As a third-generation manager, Bobby has proven adept at upholding his family's legacy while adapting to new challenges in the local tire and automotive industry. Kyle Moore is the Owner and Regional Manager of Moore Tires, a tire and automotive chain with six locations in Illinois. He oversees multiple stores while working alongside his sister Kayla, who is his business partner. Kyle takes immense pride in his family's business, which was started by his parents in 1991 — he is driven to continue its growth and success in the future. Kayla Heiar, Chief Administrative Officer at Moore Tires, has been an integral part of the family business since her early years, taking pride in its growth from a two-bay pole barn to a six-store operation. Her biggest accomplishment has been leading the company through a successful total software change after over 20 years on the same systems, showcasing her exceptional planning and organizational skills. In this episode…Transitioning leadership from one generation to the next within a family-run tire business often leads to conflicts and resistance, as the founders may have a tight grip on the company they built from the ground up. How can generational businesses navigate this transition smoothly? According to Randy O’Connor from Dealer to Dealer Development Group, Bobby Gillespie from Gillespie Tire and Automotive Service, and Kyle Moore and Kayla Heiar from Moore Tires, it’s important to lean on open communication, mutual respect, and an understanding of each other's perspectives. The younger generation must approach change with diplomacy and recognize that their fresh ideas, while valuable, should complement the legacy and wisdom of their predecessors. Conversely, the founders must be willing to let go, trust their successors, and embrace adaptability to foster growth and evolution within the company. Striking this balance through effective dialogue and a willingness to compromise on both sides is crucial for a seamless generational shift in leadership. On this episode of Gain Traction, Randy, Bobby, Kyle, and Kayla join host Mike Edge to discuss their experience with generational tire shops. Key lessons include navigating the transition between generations through open communication and respect, embracing fresh ideas while honoring the legacy, building trust and earning respect from employees and customers, upholding core values across generations, and seeking guidance from industry groups and mentors. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 19 Jul 2021 | Franchising in the Auto Care Industry with Bill Snow of Rad Air | 00:22:54 | |
In this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge talks with Vice President of Marketing and Franchise Development at Rad Air Complete Car Care, Bill Snow, about franchising in the auto care industry. They discuss tips on crafting an impactful customer experience, the trade secrets behind franchising, building your network in the industry, and much more. Buckle up and stay tuned! For many years, Rad Air has provided quality auto repairs for customers and was rated number one in Ohio for car repair and customer service. Prior to joining Rad Air in 2014, Bill worked at companies including Sprint Nextel, Robert Half International, and XO Communications. He has also volunteered at Neohio Region’s Sports Car Club of America and the Ohio Bicycle Federation. Bill is a car enthusiast, and when he’s not working, you can find him at the racetrack or spending time with his family. In this episode…What does franchising look like in the auto care industry? Why is it beneficial to expand your network of referral partners? How can you create a positive customer experience? Bill Snow shares his expertise in all things automotive. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources Mentioned in this episode
Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 24 Apr 2024 | Providing Large-Scale Service and Small-Scale Care With Brian Quisenberry of S&S Tire | 00:20:28 | |
Brian Quisenberry is Vice President at S&S Tire. Known for his responsive and dependable leadership style, Brian prides himself on his ability to deliver results and fulfill commitments through a blend of enablement and tenacity. With over 25 years of diverse experience, he has honed his skills as a coachable and loyal teammate, always ready to lead his team towards strategic success that brings real value to customers. Beyond his professional achievements, Brian is committed to excellence and humility, with "Dad" and "Husband" being his most cherished titles. In this episode…Is it possible to combine the expansive service capabilities of a major distributor with the heartfelt, personalized touch of a family-owned business? According to Brian Quisenberry, S&S Tire — a family-owned business where he is Vice President — is celebrating its 50th year, and has grown from a single retail tire store into a significant player in the tire industry with a vast network across the Southeast and Midwest US. Despite its size, S&S Tire remains committed to offering the personalized, attentive service characteristic of a small, local store. This dedication to nurturing strong, trustworthy relationships with customers, as well as a willingness to adapt and respond to their needs, stands out as a cornerstone of their approach. Brian emphasizes the importance of these connections as fundamental elements that have contributed to the company's longevity and success. In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge discusses with Brian how S&S Tire marries big-scale service with small-scale warmth. They touch on Brian's personal growth, mentorship's impact, his passion for bass fishing, and S&S's evolution from a local shop to a regional powerhouse. Celebrating 50 years, S&S focuses on customer relationships, cautious expansion, and the importance of a customer-first approach in shaping their future. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 05 Mar 2025 | From Oil Changes to Leadership With TJ White of Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care | 00:22:27 | |
TJ White is the General Manager of Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care, a company with six locations in the Canton and Akron, Ohio area that specializes in tire and auto repair services. Under TJ's leadership, Tire Source has maintained strong community relationships and a reputation for customer loyalty, stemming from its innovative and efficient service practices. TJ grew up in Akron and has been part of the family business since he was 16, having worked his way up from changing oil and tires to his current managerial role. In this episode…Operating a tire and auto repair business with multiple locations presents an abundance of challenges and opportunities. What are some key strategies that contribute to success and growth? According to TJ White of Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care, the company has several key strategies. Tire Source focuses on being innovative and efficient, staying up-to-date with technology, and investing in training and equipment. It takes a step-by-step approach to implementing new technologies, testing them at one location before rolling them out to all locations. Transparency with employees is a priority, leading to a low turnover rate. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes TJ for a conversation about Tire Source, family history with Goodyear, business growth and strategy, and a memorable story about finding drugs in a spare tire. They also discuss the importance of efficiency and process, as well as the value of transparency and a positive work environment. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 26 Feb 2025 | Adrenaline, Autos, and Achievements With Cory Brown of Cory's Point S Tire | 00:23:57 | |
Cory Brown is the Owner of Cory's Point S Tire in Rapid City, South Dakota. Under Cory's leadership, the business has expanded to two locations, employing 35-40 staff members. Outside of business hours, Cory characterizes himself as an adrenaline junkie who enjoys car racing, snowboarding, motocross, and mountain climbing. In this episode…As any industry veteran can attest, the automotive field is an immensely competitive one. What makes a business thrive in a competitive sector, and how do leaders overcome the challenges posed by rapid growth and changing market dynamics? Cory Brown of Cory’s Point S Tire shares how he tackled these challenges head-on through a combination of grit, dedication, and strategic alliances. Raised in South Dakota, Cory took an unconventional path to success by embracing opportunities to learn and lead from a young age. His story unfolds with trials, triumphs, and the pivotal moment he joined Point S, a cooperative network that transformed his business landscape. Cory’s passion for cars and commitment to excellence, coupled with the support of a like-minded community, helped him build a business that stands out. Cory reveals how the Point S network not only provided tangible business benefits, but fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Cory Brown to chat about the journey from an independent tire shop owner to a respected member of the Point S network. They delve into the intricacies of growing a family business in the tire industry and provide valuable insights into the power of building relationships, relentless work ethic, and leveraging the support of a cooperative network to achieve business goals. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 02 Jan 2025 | Core Values Drive Success With Dave Christopher, Co-founder and Co-owner of Tread Partners | 00:24:52 | |
Dave Christopher is Co-founder and Co-owner of Tread Partners, a leading digital marketing agency specializing in tire and auto repair operations with locations spanning from five to hundreds. Under his leadership, Tread Partners’ success and reputation has flourished over the past 14 years. Dave grew up immersed in the automotive industry, as his father owned a repair shop — where Dave himself became a passionate advocate for the industry’s growth and development. In this episode…The automotive repair and tire service industry faces unique challenges in fostering company culture. What role do core values play in shaping a business that thrives in this competitive space? According to Dave Christopher, who co-founded Tread Partners in 2010, core values are the foundation of a thriving company culture. He emphasizes the importance of aligning these values with daily operations, from hiring to customer interactions. By living out principles like excellence, humility, and growth, companies can create a cohesive team environment and make impactful decisions, even amid challenges. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Dave to discuss how core values shape company culture, empower teams, and foster success in the tire and auto repair industry. Dave shares his experiences as a shop owner, insights into building strong partnerships, and the transformative power of community involvement. Mike and Dave highlight actionable steps for businesses aiming to build a culture rooted in integrity and growth. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 26 Oct 2022 | Family and Fun + Tires and Cars With Rick Benton II, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BTS Tire & Wheel Distributors and Black’s Tire and Auto Service | 00:31:28 | |
Rick Benton II is Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BTS Tire & Wheel distributors and Black’s Tire and Auto Service. Rick is in charge of wholesale distribution, logistics, and purchasing, among many other responsibilities. Rick and his brothers, Ron and Jeremy, are second-generation tire dealers. In this episode…As anyone who has been in the tire and auto repair business for a considerable period of time can tell you, it’s not easy. It takes a special place with a unique culture to sustain a tire and auto business through multiple generations. How can that type of culture be built and sustained? Tune into this episode of Gain Traction to find out! At Black’s Tire and Auto Service in Whiteville, NC, a family culture is what you’ll find when you first walk through the front door. According to Rick Benton II, who has worked there in some capacity since he was five years old, “at the end of the day, we really care so much about family, we want to help. We've been put here, and we've been blessed — so we feel like we've been blessed to help other people.” On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier sits down with Rick to discuss the business and culture elements that have sustained BTS Tire & Wheel Distributors for more than 90 years. Rick says maintaining their family culture can be challenging, but they make it happen by prioritizing events, community, charity golf tournaments, and relationships as highly as selling tires, products, equipment, and supplies. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 23 Mar 2022 | [Year in Review] Connecting Pioneers Across the Automotive Industry | 00:35:15 | |
Neal Maier is the Co-founder of Tread Partners; a digital marketing agency focused on using SEO, marketing, and branding to help tire companies and auto-repair shops grow and thrive. Neal was previously a Partner at 3VE and COO of TexTivia, which rebranded into 3VE. He has worked for multiple automotive companies such as Autoshop Solutions and Auto Pro To Call.
Mike Edge is in Business Development at Tread Partners. He has had a lengthy career in his field, previously being the Owner and Business Development expert for Resource Connection, Inc., Director of Business Development at Upright Communications, and Owner of T.M. Edge, Inc. In this episode…How can your brand be a model for growth and employee respect in an industry that is changing?
For Neal Maier and Mike Edge, interviewing pioneers in the auto industry provides the opportunity to connect with others. Neal and Mike highlight innovative ways to improve marketing tactics, customer interactions, and employee relations this week.
In this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Rise25 Co-founder Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with hosts Neal and Mike to discuss their favorite past episodes and purposeful conversations. Together, they discuss the importance of community, marketing, and education in the auto industry, cultivating a workplace based on mutual respect, and some of the challenges owners and customers face. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 01 Nov 2023 | Reacting to Changes in the Marketplace With Michael Chung of Auto Care Association | 00:35:24 | |
Michael Chung is the Senior Director of Market Intelligence at Auto Care Association, where he spearheads market research initiatives for the automotive aftermarket sector. He plays a pivotal role in keeping industry members informed about market trends, primarily through monthly content, the promotion of a comprehensive industry data platform, and the publication of an annual factbook. Before joining the association, Michael co-led a market research consultancy, focusing on client relationships and strategic planning. Outside of his corporate responsibilities, he also serves as an adjunct professor, teaching environmental health and water quality to Master of Public Health students. In this episode…The tire and auto repair industry has recently encountered some unwelcome marketplace changes: Inflation has increased, interest rates have been hiking up, the cost of capital has risen, and the pandemic led to supply chain issues that have persisted to this day. How does that impact the price of goods and services? Is it all being passed along to the customer? The Auto Care Association has conducted a member survey, according to Market Intelligence Director Michael Chung, asking executive-level managers about excess inventory, inventory management, and price changes. They found that product, customer, and market strategies have shifted quite a bit over the past several years and some had to find different suppliers. Stocking up on key and critical input materials has been common, Michael says, along with the diversification of supply sources. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Michael to chat about the strategic shifts executives and managers in the tire and auto industry have made as a result of increased interest rates, inflation, and supply chain difficulties. Michael shares some key takeaways from a recent survey which revealed changes in consumer driving habits and frequency of service. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 26 Dec 2024 | Revolutionizing Tire Service With Derek Naidoo, CEO of USA GoMobile | 00:23:26 | |
Derek Naidoo is the Founder and Owner of USA GoMobile, a company that offers convenient mobile tire, oil change, and battery services to customers at their preferred locations. Since its inception in 2018, GoMobile has expanded to 48 franchises, overcoming challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain issues, and establishing a significant presence in the automotive service industry. Originally from South Africa, Derek has spent over 35 years in the automotive field, specializing in engine management systems and diagnostic tools before turning to entrepreneurship. In this episode…The automotive industry is rapidly evolving to meet changing consumer demands for convenience and efficiency. How are mobile tire services transforming the way people maintain their vehicles? According to Derek Naidoo, CEO of USA GoMobile, mobile tire services are revolutionizing vehicle maintenance by bringing convenience directly to customers. The company offers on-site tire replacements, oil changes, and battery services at locations convenient for the customer, including homes, offices, golf courses, and even hotel parking lots. This approach not only saves time for individual consumers, but also caters to the growing last-mile delivery sector by servicing fleet vehicles that provide these convenient delivery services. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Derek for a conversation about the rise of mobile tire services, the challenges of growing a franchise during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the logistics of operating a mobile tire business. They discuss the types of customers served, the design of specialized service vehicles, and the various challenges faced in different weather conditions. Derek also shares insights on franchisee profiles and the future of automotive maintenance. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 20 Jul 2022 | Providing Great Car Care in Tough Economic Times With Brian Sump, Owner and President of Urban Autocare | 00:23:06 | |
Brian Sump is the Owner and President of Urban Autocare, Klasse Auto Rentals, and Avalon Motorsports. His passion is to transform the automotive industry through innovation and training and to create opportunities for his team to grow. Brian has an engineering degree from the Colorado School of Mines, played for the St. Louis Rams, and is currently a Co-pastor at a church in Westminster, CO. In this episode…If you own or manage a tire and auto repair shop, what’s your biggest challenge? Is it overcoming mistakes — dealing with customers? What do you do when you tell customers that the cost of necessary repairs are higher than what they can afford? If these are questions that resonate with you, you won’t want to miss this episode of Gain Traction! Difficult customers are often not particularly difficult people, according to Brian Sump of Urban Autocare — they’re just people who may be going through a difficult time. It can be necessary to play the role of psychologist or psychiatrist because in difficult times, people are hurting emotionally and spiritually. They need their cars but may not be able to afford the cost of repairs. What’s an auto repair shop owner to do? In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with Brian Sump of Urban Autocare for a thoughtful discussion about what customers really want. They may say they want things like trust, quality, and integrity, but Brian says they really want two things: to not have come to a repair shop and to not get ripped off when they do. He talks about the importance of communicating with customers the consequences of not getting a repair, and a game plan for efficient use of their vehicle. Tune in! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 24 Jul 2024 | Ownership, Acquisitions, and Mergers With Tommy Gaynor and Chris Garman of Sun Auto Tire & Service | 00:34:58 | |
Chris Garman, Vice President of Business Development at Sun Auto Tire & Service, built up his family's auto service business from three to nine stores before selling to Sun Auto in 2019. He leads the company's mergers and acquisitions, significantly expanding its footprint. Tommy Gaynor, Director of Mergers and Acquisitions at Sun Auto, joined the company after acquiring his family's successful auto repair shops. With a history in 20 groups and a deep understanding of the industry, Tommy works closely with Chris to grow Sun Auto across various markets. Together, they share a passion for auto service excellence and helping business owners transition smoothly through acquisition. In this episode…Are you an auto service business owner mulling over an exit strategy but wondering if you're "big enough" for acquisition? Is there a strategy that guarantees the continuity of your legacy and provides growth opportunities for your team? Could you envision a future where your hard work pays off for everyone involved? According to Tommy Gaynor and Chris Garman of Sun Auto Tire & Service, there are significant opportunities for owners of single stores and small chains to sell their businesses to larger companies like Sun Auto. They emphasize that while major acquisitions often make headlines, they are equally interested in purchasing individual stores or smaller groups, especially if they have strong teams. Chris and Tommy stress the importance of having an exit strategy and encourage owners to start thinking about preparing their businesses for sale well in advance, even if they're not ready to sell immediately. They also highlight the value of retaining existing teams during acquisitions, viewing the employees as a crucial asset. On this episode of Gain Traction, Chris and Tommy join host Mike Edge to delve into the intriguing world of business acquisitions within the auto service industry. They discuss their journeys from running family-owned shops to becoming drivers of Sun Auto's dynamic expansion, helping owners navigate the exit process. With a people-first strategy and a track record of employee growth and retention, Chris and Tommy highlight the win-win scenarios they strive to create in every deal. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 25 Jan 2023 | Culture Eats Strategy for Lunch With Kim McMahon, President at McMahon's Best-One Tire | 00:27:17 | |
Kim McMahon is the President of McMahon's Best-One Tire, which has five locations, one distribution center and one retread facility. She is one of just a few top female executives at tire dealerships in North America and recently won the Humanitarian of the Year award from Tire Business Magazine. She has a banking and financial background and believes culture is more valuable for a company than strategy. In this episode…What’s your strategy when your business is expanding, adding locations and entering new markets? What about your strategy when it comes to implementing new services? Is strategy the most important thing, or could the culture of your company trump your strategy? For some great insight on this topic and more, check out this episode of Gain Traction! According to Kim McMahon from McMahon's Best-One Tire, getting your team members to buy into what you’re doing is more important than strategy. She has a sign in her office that states, “Culture eats strategy for lunch.” The executive committee at McMahon's Best-One Tire, Kim says, is committed to getting the right culture for the company before it worries about anything else. On this episode of Gain Traction, Kim joins Mike Edge for a wide-ranging discussion about being a female working as a top executive in the male-dominated tire industry. She talks about her transition to a family-owned tire shop after 17 years in corporate banking, the obstacles she has faced, and the importance of building the right culture in your organization. When it comes to strategy, Kim says, “if you don't have the people that buy into what you're doing, it's not worth anything.” Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 09 Oct 2024 | Navigating the Road to Trust With Kermit Pridemore of Smoky Hill Auto Service | 00:28:34 | |
Kermit Pridemore is Co-owner of Smoky Hill Auto Service in Aurora, Colorado, bringing years of family business experience into his own venture. Kermit's approach to business is heavily influenced by his father's lessons on identifying important priorities, championing impeccable customer service and trust-building in the automotive industry. With a keen interest in multi-store operations and staff training, he aims to expand his business while maintaining high service standards. He is also a coach, involved in peer groups and provides SWOT analyses nationwide. Kermit is dedicated to improving the reputation of auto services by focusing on genuine customer care. In this episode…The automotive service industry thrives on trust and relationships between businesses and their customers. How can auto service shops build and maintain this trust while providing exceptional service? According to Kermit Pridemore of Smoky Hill Auto Service, building trust with customers is paramount. He emphasizes the importance of being honest, taking care of people, and offering advice without pressuring them to make immediate repairs. Kermit believes in creating a relational experience for the customer rather than a transactional one, focusing on community trust and delivering the highest level of service in the industry. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge chats with Kermit about his family's history in the auto service industry, the story of how he met his wife, and his approach to running Smoky Hill Auto Service. They discuss the importance of soft skills in customer service, learning from successful businesses outside the automotive industry, and Kermit's plans for future expansion. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 13 Mar 2024 | Keys to Customer Engagement With Jason Widmer of AAA Auto Repair and Darren McLea of DJM Solutions | 00:26:46 | |
Darren McLea is a tire sales trainer and the Founder of DJM Solutions, specializing in tire sales, repairs, and elevating the customer experience within the tire and auto repair industry. With a passion for fostering growth in automotive businesses, Darren provides comprehensive sales and operational training while delivering consistent coaching feedback. His dedication lies in helping business owners forge enduring connections with both employees and customers, ultimately fostering loyal long-term relationships and increasing tire sales. Previously, Darren was the Executive Vice President of McLea’s Tire and Automotive Service before selling the 41-year-old business to AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah. Jason Widmer of AAA Auto Repair brings a unique blend of comedic flair and intuitive sensitivity to his role. Jason has mastered the art of connecting with customers whether they walk in feeling downtrodden or jubilant. His ability to read situations and body language allows him to effortlessly strike up conversations and lift spirits, turning routine interactions into memorable experiences. With a keen sense of timing and a gift for knowing when humor is and isn’t appropriate, Jason creates a welcoming atmosphere where customers feel understood and appreciated. In this episode…Maintaining a positive demeanor plays a vital role in customer service and effective communication, particularly within the automotive industry. How do seasoned professionals approach interactions with unhappy customers? From personal experience, Jason Widmer and Darren McLea have learned how humor and adaptability can be powerful tools in navigating stressful scenarios with customers. They underscore the significance of establishing rapport and finding common ground with customers to enhance their overall experience. Additionally, Jason and Darren emphasize the impact of positivity on team morale and productivity, and highlight the importance of not allowing negative encounters with customers to dampen future interactions. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Jason and Darren to discuss the importance of maintaining positivity in customer service. Drawing from their extensive experience, they share anecdotes illustrating how utilizing humor and building rapport can enhance customer interactions. The conversation also touches on practical strategies for handling challenging customer encounters and the value of finding common ground with customers. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 25 Sep 2024 | Tires Transformed For Sustainability With David Brandenstein and Mark Kinkelaar of Prism Worldwide | 00:29:58 | |
David Brandenstein is the Key Account Manager at Prism Worldwide. Originally from Evansville, Indiana, David boasts a rich background in the chemical materials industry. He retired a few years ago before being lured back into the workforce by Prism. His career has been dedicated to supplying raw materials for daily-use products, leading him to pursue impactful recycling technology projects. Mark Kinkelaar is the Chief Commercial Officer at Prism Worldwide. An Ohio native and Ohio State alumnus, Mark has had a long career in the chemical industry, with a focus on designing materials for automotive applications and green technology. Currently, he operates at the intersection of commercial and technical operations at Prism, where he is instrumental in leading the company's efforts to repurpose end-of-life tires into valuable new products. In this episode…The automotive industry is increasingly focused on sustainability efforts, including finding innovative solutions for end-of-life products. What happens to worn-down tires when they are no longer usable on vehicles, and how can they be repurposed? According to David Brandenstein and Mark Kinkelaar of Prism Worldwide, approximately 300 million tires are disposed of annually in the US alone, equating to about 10 billion pounds of material. While many of these tires are burned or chopped up in landfills, Prism is working to reverse the vulcanization process and transform this waste into valuable raw materials. They are developing technologies to incorporate recycled tire content into new products, such as car mats, thermoplastic elastomers, and even back into new tires — effectively creating a circular economy for tire materials. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes David and Mark to discuss tire recycling and sustainability. They explore the challenges of repurposing tire materials, innovative technologies for reversing vulcanization, and potential applications for recycled tire content in various industries, including automotive, construction, and consumer goods. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 05 Feb 2025 | Tire Shop Lessons With Dustin Dobbs, Hunt Demarest, Walter Lybeck, Steven Fafel, and Ron Dolan | 00:15:02 | |
Dustin Dobbs is the President of Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers, a family-owned business headquartered in St. Louis. Under his leadership, Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers has expanded to over 50 locations across Missouri, Illinois, and Texas. Dustin was immersed in the family business from a young age, instilling in him a strong work ethic and commitment to the company’s culture and values. He believes in empowering employees rather than micromanaging them. Hunt Demarest is a Senior Accountant at Paar, Melis & Associates, an accounting and tax firm specializing in automotive repair shops. He believes that accounting should always be made easy to understand for business owners. Hunt also hosts the Business by the Numbers podcast, where he shares financial advice and accounting insights. Walter Lybeck is the CEO of Point S Tire and Auto Service, a member-owned cooperative with hundreds of independent tire dealers across the country. He believes in building relationships and camaraderie among employees. Walter stresses the importance of saying "yes" to opportunities, even when hesitant, and turning those opportunities into successes. Steven Fafel is co-founder of AutoOps, an online scheduling tool that integrates with most shop management systems. Steven believes that all marketing efforts in a shop should include the option for online scheduling. He also believes that good customer service is key to customer retention, even more than online scheduling. Ron Dolan is the President of Sailun Tire North America. He believes the key to success in sales is connecting with people, telling the truth, and treating them the way you want to be treated. Ron worked his way up in the industry by proving himself as a salesman, earning the trust of his customers with honesty — even turning down sales if he didn't believe in a product. In this episode…The tire and auto repair industry is a competitive market where businesses are constantly looking for ways to stand out and attract customers. How can shops build a loyal customer base and achieve long-term success in such a demanding industry? According to Dustin Dobbs of Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers, Hunt Demarest of Paar, Melis & Associates, Walter Lybeck of Point S Tire, Steven Fafel of AutoOps, and Ron Dolan of Sailun Tire North America, the keys to success in the tire and auto repair industry include exceptional customer service, employee empowerment, transparent and honest sales practices, and a focus on building long-term relationships rather than just chasing quick profits. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge looks back at conversations from past episodes that featured Dustin, Hunt, Walter, Steven, and Ron. Listeners will learn how these industry leaders have achieved remarkable success in the tire and auto repair industry by focusing on company culture, customer retention strategies, the importance of online scheduling, analyzing gross profit per hour, and the power of building strong relationships with both customers and employees. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 21 Sep 2022 | Profit Sharing Increases Caring With Dick Erickson, Founder of Sun Tire and Author of How the Rubber Meets the Road. | 00:26:04 | |
Dick Erickson is the Founder of Sun Tire and author of How the Rubber Meets the Road: A Blue-Collar Roadmap to Success for Business Owners and Entrepreneurs. He opened his first Sun Tire store in Orange Park, Florida in 1981, and added ten more stores over the next few decades. Dick sold the business to a national chain of tire stores in 2018. His book details his journey from rural North Dakota to flying helicopters in the Marine Corps in Vietnam and covers four key business topics: customer service, profit sharing, mentoring, and profitable growth. In this episode…How do you motivate your customer service team to reach the highest levels of service possible? What are the best ways to keep frontline staff motivated and pushing in a positive direction? If you own a tire and auto repair shop, you’ve probably asked yourself these questions more than once. For insight on this topic, don’t miss this episode of Gain Traction! Can profit sharing among employees positively affect customer service? Dick Erickson says he implemented profit sharing for every employee and it changed how everyone behaved at work. They treated the equipment with more care and the quality of customer service went “above and beyond.” In this episode of Gain Traction, Dick joins Mike Edge for a captivating conversation about what he learned from attending a Les Schwab training program for 19 consecutive years and how his Sun Tire stores benefitted after he implemented profit sharing among all employees. Dick speaks on the topic of profit sharing and how it revolutionized the culture at Sun Tire. Tune in to hear how profit sharing could potentially change your business! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 22 Jan 2025 | From Tires to Touchdowns With Jack Limbaugh, President of Jack’s OK Tire Service | 00:27:29 | |
Jack Limbaugh is President of Jack's OK Tire Service, a family-owned tire service business based in Algona, Iowa. Under his leadership, the company has expanded significantly, now operating multiple locations and providing exceptional customer service to agricultural and commercial customers. Jack is passionate about college football, with a rich family history of involvement in the sport, including his sons and grandsons playing at the university level. In this episode…What does it take to transform a small-town tire service into a flourishing multi-location business? How can a commitment to community and a strong family legacy guide success over decades? According to Jack Limbaugh of Jack's OK Tire Service, his family's business, founded in 1952, expanded through strategic growth and strong community ties. Jack describes how his father's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach set the foundation for their success. His father empowered employees to take ownership of new locations, fostering a culture of opportunity and loyalty. Jack highlights how the business has adapted over the years, embracing technology and expanding service offerings to meet the evolving needs of their agricultural and commercial clients. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge chats with Jack about the evolution and legacy of a family-owned tire service. He offers insights into navigating growth in a small-town business. Jack shares personal anecdotes, such as his father’s participation in key historical events and strategies for expanding the business while maintaining a family-oriented approach. He discusses the challenges and rewards of running a multi-generational enterprise and the role of faith and community in driving success. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 18 May 2022 | Growing and Sustaining a Family Business | 00:19:53 | |
Brian Lenhardt is the Owner and Vice President of Operations at Fat Boys Tire & Auto in Wyoming. Fat Boys has provided services to the tri-state area for over 50 years and now operates five locations.
Brian is the third generation in the business and has been in the automotive industry since 15 years old. He now has 17 years of experience in the industry and oversees corporate, national, and government accounts while managing Fat Boys’ outside sales team. Brian lives in Wyoming with his wife and four kids, and he loves fishing, playing softball, hockey, and golf. In this episode…Many companies don’t succeed past the third generation when it comes to family businesses. Do you have what it takes to bring your family business to the next level?
Gain your insights from Brian Lenhardt, a true family man with a trusted family business. As a third-generation business owner, Brian is committed to ensuring that his company, Fat Boys Tire & Auto, can continue to expand while providing customers with superior service and high-quality tires. Listen in as Brian shares the key to Fat Boys’ success over the course of 50 years.
On today’s episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, host Mike Edge sits down with Brian to talk about the history and expansion of Fat Boys Tire & Auto. Brian talks about his journey within the company, the future growth of Fat Boys, and the importance of employee loyalty and customer trust in growing and sustaining a family business. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 22 Mar 2023 | Using Technology To Increase Your Shop’s Efficiency With James Krakower of JMK | 00:31:36 | |
James Krakower is the Director of System Development at JMK Computerized Tire Dealer Information System. He has an extensive background in technology, and his operations experience has provided him with the ability to discern what works and what doesn’t work on a day-to-day basis. James started his career in academics leading a graduate course on how to market tires. In this episode…Are tire and auto repair businesses lagging behind other industries when it comes to the effective use of technology? According to James Krakower from JMK Computerized Tire Dealer Information System, many owners of tire and auto repair shops are not utilizing various forms of technology that would make their lives abundantly easier. How can you utilize technology and the latest software to maximize the efficiency of your operation? On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal Maier and Matthew Peters welcome James for a conversation about how available software and technology can benefit tire and auto repair shops. They talk about how their industry has been slow to embrace software that can ease the process of tire and auto repair shops’ customer service, inventory tracking, accounting, and other aspects of operations. Don’t miss this enlightening and informative discussion! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 26 Jan 2022 | Top-Notch Training for Hybrid and EV | 00:20:02 | |
Craig Van Batenburg is the CEO and Chief Technical Officer of ACDC Hybrid EV Training Resources. Craig has worked as a tech since 1968, a shop owner since 1977, a management trainer since 1997, and a technical trainer since 1999. In 2014, he added a research and development center to his facility. He's deeply interested in the EV space and training those curious and willing to learn. In this episode…Electric cars might seem like a mystery if you've been working on traditional vehicles for years. Where can you learn the secrets of the trade?
ACDC Hybrid EV Training Resources has the answers you need. Founder and CEO Craig Van Batenburg says he's not an automotive instructor — he's a trainer. What's the difference? His job is to do three things: make you faster, better, and safer as quickly as he can. He's not just helping people learn how to work on cars — he's helping employees in the trade upgrade their abilities.
In this episode of Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge is joined by Craig to discuss why he created ACDC Hybrid EV Training Resources and how he's saving the planet one car at a time. Craig talks about why he loves electric vehicles, how he's helping mechanics across the country, and what he teaches at ACDC. This episode is a must-listen if you're not up to speed on hybrid and EV! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 13 Nov 2024 | Focusing on Helping Independent Tire Dealers With Mike Burns of ITDG | 00:31:34 | |
Mike Burns is the Sales Director at Independent Tire Dealers Group, a company that supports independent tire dealers across the US by providing competitive buying power and networking opportunities. Under Mike's leadership, ITDG has achieved a 40% increase in locations over the past four years, expanding to 1,174 points of sale. Originally from New Jersey, Mike's career in the tire industry began at a Pep Boys store. He now resides in Houston, Texas with his wife and four daughters. In this episode…In an industry where competition is fierce, how does one independent tire dealer stand out and thrive? What strategies can turn a set of challenges into stepping stones for growth? Is there a way to leverage collective experience and resources while maintaining one's independence? Mike Burns, the Sales Director for the Independent Tire Dealer Group, offers insights into these questions by sharing his own journey from dishwashing at Boston Market to a leadership role in the tire industry. Through his career progression — from working at Pep Boys and Bridgestone Firestone to eventually joining ITDG — Mike underlines the importance of real-world experience, networking, and continuous learning. He emphasizes how ITDG helps independent dealers by providing a platform for growth, offering competitive programs, and fostering a network of like-minded professionals to share knowledge and support. The discussion also delves into the importance of balancing professional demands with personal growth, highlighting how skills learned in retail environments can translate to executive management. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge talks to Mike Burns about empowering independent tire dealers. They discuss ITDG's growth strategy, the significance of next-gen initiatives, and how Mike advises and supports ITDG members. The conversation paints a vivid picture of the tire industry, emphasizing the importance of relationships, adaptability, and strategic growth. With anecdotes from his personal and professional life, Mike highlights the value of community and collaboration in a competitive market. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 08 Jun 2022 | Maximizing Customer Retention with Clare Hetherington of DriveRightData | 00:20:49 | |
Clare Hetherington is the Marketing Manager at DriveRightData. She is a data-driven marketer who is passionate about customer relationship management and the results that strategic marketing and marketing automation can deliver. At DriveRightData, Clare takes ownership of all global marketing activities from branding, strategy, and value proposition building to lead generation and data insight. In this episode…Are you a tire manufacturer or tire retailer with a website showcasing your products? Do you include product and pricing information on your website, or do you ask that the customer call you to find out that information? If you require a call, you’re probably costing yourself business. Check out this episode of Gain Traction to learn more! Buyer behavior is always evolving and has changed even more drastically since the start of the pandemic. As people have shifted to working from home, more and more shopping is being done online. According to Clare Hetherington from DriveRightData, customers who are willing to call for information only constitute about half of the average customer base. The other half is searching for information online, and if they have to make a call to find it they’ll probably just shop somewhere else. Are you keeping as many online customers as possible? On this episode of Gain Traction, Clare joins Neal Maier for a discussion about buyer behavior among those shopping for tires. They talk about customers who are and are not interested in calling about information. Many online customers want information immediately. If those online customers can’t easily find the product and pricing information they’re looking for, it’s likely they’ll go elsewhere to do their shopping. Don’t miss this informative episode! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 25 May 2022 | Communicating With Customers About Car Repair | 00:21:27 | |
Chan Patel is Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Autotext.me. His passion and energy is focused on making Autotext.me the leader in digital inspections and workflow solutions for the automotive industry. The company has been experiencing record growth — Chan’s deep experience and proven track record has been the catalyst behind that success. In this episode…As an owner or manager of an auto repair shop, do you find it frustrating communicating with your customers about recommended service after they’ve dropped their car off? Do they take forever to return your call? Do they trust you when you recommend certain repairs? If these are questions you can relate to, you don’t want to miss this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast! In this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Mike Edge welcomes Chan Patel for a discussion about the multiple ways Autotext.me can make communication between auto repair shop owners more detailed and efficient while increasing the amount of trust a customer has in service recommendations. Chan tells Mike where the idea for Autotext.me came from and how it gives customers the confidence to succeed. Tune in! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 22 May 2024 | Small Beginnings, Big Success With Nick Fox and Vanessa Larson of Gills Point S Tire & Auto | 00:30:07 | |
Nick Fox is the Regional Manager of Gills Point S Tire & Auto, holding the role for over nine years. His dedication to continuous improvement, coupled with a strong work ethic and self-motivation, sets him apart. Nick's profound product knowledge and customer-centric approach foster unparalleled loyalty and satisfaction, reflecting his commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. Vanessa Larson is the Marketing Manager of Gills Point S Tire & Auto. She has been with the company since 2020, initially starting as an office manager and bookkeeper before being promoted in 2022. Vanessa previously worked as a project manager with Iron Forge. In this episode…The tire and auto repair industry is full of inspiring stories and innovative ideas. But how can shop owners build thriving businesses while staying connected to their local communities? According to Nick Fox and Vanessa Larson of Gills Point S Tire & Auto, the ideal business strategy involves thinking outside the box and creating unique marketing campaigns that bring people together. Their annual soapbox derby in Helena, Montana is a prime example — it started as Nick's idea to do something different, but Vanessa's implementation skills turned it into a massive community event. With live music, food trucks, and creative car designs, the derby engages customers, attracts sponsors, and showcases the personalities behind their shops. It's this kind of authentic community involvement that helps Point S stand out and attract top talent who want to be part of something fun and impactful. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Nick and Vanessa to chat about their innovative soapbox derby event. They also discuss the recent merger between their company and Gills, finding an "implementer" to turn ideas into reality, and discuss key principles like focusing on your strengths. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 13 Jul 2022 | Thriving in Difficult Times With Doug Miller, President of St. Lucie Battery & Tire | 00:25:31 | |
Doug Miller is President of St. Lucie Battery & Tire, which has 15 locations on the central east coast of Florida. He has taken over operations from his father, Joey — the founder of the company. Doug looks to expand St. Lucie Battery & Tire, which has been in business for more than fifty years, with a focus on integrity and serving the community with honesty and reliability. In this episode…Are you a tire and auto repair shop owner whose business has been affected by the pandemic or supply chain issues in today’s economy? Are you taking a lean approach to inventory or are you heavy on inventory? If these are scenarios you deal with on a regular basis, you’ll want to hear this episode of the Gain Traction podcast! In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Doug Miller for a wide-ranging conversation about the issues facing auto repair, battery, and tire shops in today’s marketplace. Doug talks about how St. Lucie Battery & Tire has survived a fire, navigated its way through the pandemic and overcome supply chain issues that are common throughout the industry. He also shares how long-term customer relationships can end up being your best marketing source. You’re sure to learn something from this discussion! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 11 May 2022 | Introducing Floww Digital | 00:26:56 | |
Keith Heavilin is the President of YellowFin Digital, a full-service creative design and digital marketing agency based in Texas that provides comprehensive website and digital marketing services. Keith is also the Co-founder of Floww Digital, a company that provides digital marketing solutions for independent auto repair and tire shops across the United States. Keith’s management portfolio includes the development of four unique businesses in four distinct industries, which he led from initial startup to maturity and acquisition. In this episode…Are you an independent tire and automotive repair shop hoping to achieve straightforward yet powerful marketing solutions?
Floww Digital believes there are a thousand different ways to spend money on digital marketing to increase traffic. You've got to do paid ads for the small, one-man, or one-location shop because that's the fastest and most impactful way to get a return. Later, you can take the profits you’ve made, put them into your website and SEO, and grow the overall size of your operation. You also have to understand what drives traffic and moves your business. If you follow these simple yet highly effective digital marketing tips, you’ll be successful.
In this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Neal Maier is joined by Keith to introduce Floww Digital and the marketing services they offer. Keith explains how Floww Digital was formed, its core services, the proper process to follow when undertaking digital marketing, and the challenges Floww Digital is facing as a marketing agency in the automotive industry. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 13 Sep 2023 | Revolutionizing Tire Sales With George Silagadze, Vice President of TireConnect | 00:37:16 | |
George Silagadze is the Vice President of TireConnect, a company that has revolutionized the way tires are sold. He founded the company in 2013 and it was acquired by Bridgestone in 2015. George has worked with Bridgestone to transform the tire sales landscape, revolutionizing the practice through direct referrals and online platforms. In this episode…The true definition of entrepreneurship is the ability to recognize a gap in the marketplace, fill it with your own ideas and abilities to satisfy the desires of the consumer. There’s no better example of this than the story of George Silagadze, who combined his background in digital marketing with his frustration getting quotes on tires for his wife’s car. This led him to launch TireConnect, which started as a website called Get New Tires and quickly evolved into a valuable entity that was acquired by Bridgestone. On this episode of Gain Traction, George Silagadze, Vice President of TireConnect, joins Neal Maier and Matthew Peters to talk about his amazing entrepreneurial journey born out of frustration with a common problem in the tire industry. George tells the origin story of TireConnect, discusses its evolution and how it eventually came to be acquired by Bridgestone. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 19 Apr 2023 | The Fruits of Being a Franchisee With Brian Beers, President at Prenlyn Automotive | 00:24:17 | |
Brian Beers is President at Prenlyn Automotive and the podcast host of Business with Beers. He has grown his small family franchise auto repair business into an enterprise with thirty locations. Currently, Brian’s mission is to teach people how to create freedom and build wealth by owning franchises. In this episode…For those interested in becoming an automotive industry franchisee, what are some initial barriers they’ll have to overcome? What are advantages to becoming a franchisee as opposed to starting your own business from scratch? What do franchisors look for in a potential franchisee? According to Brian Beers of Prenlyn Automotive, the benefits of becoming a franchisee in the automotive industry are numerous. For starters, you join a network of other franchisees who have likely experienced and solved the same problems you may face. Additionally, you reap the benefits of national advertising already built in with known brands that offer franchise opportunities. Finally, sellers are more likely to sell to you if you already have franchisee experience. On this episode of Gain Traction, Brian joins Mike Edge for a conversation about all things related to franchising in the tire and auto repair industry. Brian talks about the benefits of being a franchisee as opposed to starting your own business, why you become an attractive buyer for additional stores if you already have franchisee experience, and how franchising in tire and auto repair can be easier than owning a franchise location in food and beverage. Don’t miss this informative discussion! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 06 Mar 2024 | Nurturing Organizational Cohesion and Camaraderie With Walter Lybeck of Point S Tire | 00:33:06 | |
Walter Lybeck is the CEO of Point S Tire and Auto Service. Originally from McMinnville, Oregon, growing up in a tight-knit community instilled in Walter a strong work ethic from a young age, starting with his first paying job mowing lawns. His path eventually led him through various roles in the service industry, including a memorable stint at Burger King. Though he initially stumbled into the tire industry by chance during a housing downturn, Walter found himself drawn to the dynamic challenges and opportunities it presents. In this episode…Company culture has taken center stage when it comes to the overall value, reputation, and desirability of a workplace. In reality, how important is that culture and camaraderie to the value of a tire business? According to Walter Lybeck, a supportive work culture and tight-knit community have proven to be invaluable for Point S Tire. His commitment to creating a familial atmosphere among team members reflects not only in his leadership style, but also in the strong bonds formed within the organization. By prioritizing collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose, Walter has proven that an emphasis on building relationships and camaraderie among employees can have a profound impact on employee morale, productivity, and overall organizational cohesion. On this episode of Gain Traction, Walter joins Mike Edge to discuss the importance of company culture. Walter shares how to engender a familial closeness among team members and how those efforts have paid off, both day-to-day and in the big picture. He also discusses his accidental journey into the tire industry and why he’s happy it happened, and recalls an embarrassing story as a testament to poise under pressure. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 29 May 2024 | From New Leads to Loyal Customers: Marketing Insights With Neal Maier, Co-Founder of Tread Partners | 00:24:56 | |
Neal Maier is Co-founder of Tread Partners, an agency that specializes in marketing for the tire and auto repair industry. With a history of running shops and an entrepreneurial spirit, Neal has developed a nuanced understanding of the challenges businesses face in customer acquisition and retention. His expertise is in creating tailored marketing strategies, particularly leveraging a unique framework named DRIVE, helping businesses engage with customers at every lifecycle stage. Neal offers a blend of practical experience and innovative solutions to foster growth and longevity in the automotive market. His insights have been transformative for many multi-location operations seeking to navigate the complex landscape of digital marketing. In this episode…Imagine being able to pinpoint exactly why customers keep coming back to your business – or why they don't. What if there was a way to align every marketing dollar with a clear goal across your company's entire lifecycle? According to Neal Maier of Tread Partners, the innovative DRIVE framework can revolutionize how tire and auto repair businesses approach customer engagement and marketing. DRIVE entails visually mapping all the different marketing tactics and activities a business engages in, and understanding where they fit in the customer lifecycle. It involves laying out all the marketing pieces on a board and identifying where there might be blind spots. The framework allows businesses to evaluate their marketing efforts every 90 days and make informed decisions about where to allocate their marketing budget. The DRIVE process is meant to be a quick 15-minute exercise, but it provides a comprehensive view of a business's marketing efforts and helps identify areas for improvement or new tactics to try. On this episode of Gain Traction, Neal joins host Mike Edge to talk about a fine-tuned approach to marketing within the tire and auto repair industry. He shares how the DRIVE framework streamlines marketing efforts and ensures that no customer is left behind. Neal also discusses the importance of human connection in an increasingly automated world and provides a glimpse into the future of industry-specific marketing at the Traction Summit. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Special Mentions:Related Episodes:
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Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 08 Jan 2025 | Rolling Into the Future: The East Bay Tire Legacy and Vision With Joseph Pehanick | 00:28:48 | |
Joseph Pehanick is the Co-owner and incoming CEO of East Bay Tire, a family-owned independent tire distributor and commercial service provider for over 75 years. Under his leadership, East Bay Tire has expanded its reach with multiple locations in California, Arizona, and Hawaii and has been recognized for its low employee turnover rates and robust community culture. With a background in agriculture and experience working internationally in Uruguay, Joseph brings a unique perspective to the tire industry. As he prepares to take on the CEO role in January 2025, Joseph is focused on growing East Bay Tire's presence in the mining and agricultural sectors through both organic growth and acquisitions. In this episode…What does it take to sustain and grow a multi-generational family business? How does a company manage to thrive across different markets and withstand the test of time while continually expanding its operations? A tire industry veteran delves into the fascinating journey of a tire business that has achieved just that. Joseph Pehanick shares insights on how East Bay Tire has not only survived, but flourished in the competitive tire industry. He recounts his experiences growing up in the business, from working in the warehouse in his early teens to his travels and work experience in South America. Joseph delves into the company’s strategy for successfully managing its operations across various locations, including California, Hawaii, and Arizona. By focusing on niche markets like agriculture, mining, and fleet solutions, East Bay Tire’s growth demonstrates how heritage, adaptability, and strategic vision can propel a business to new heights. In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge chats with Joseph Pehanick, Co-owner and incoming CEO of East Bay Tire, about sustaining and evolving a family business in the tire industry. Joseph discusses the company’s ambitious growth plans, his approach to managing employee retention, and how East Bay Tire’s innovative strategies have kept them at the forefront of the industry. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, the impact of family legacy, and the creation of lasting memories for employees. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 22 Nov 2023 | Using Technology To Establish Customer Trust With Keegan Wentz, President of McMahon Tech Center | 00:24:34 | |
Keegan Wentz is the President of McMahon's Automotive Technology Center, a family-owned service and repair shop based in Fort Wayne, Indiana. His vision and dedication have transformed the company into a pioneering institution for automotive technician training and career development. Under his leadership, McMahon’s has implemented a comprehensive training program that not only imparts technical skills but also focuses on professionalism and ethics. An ASE Master Tech with a rich background in training others in Original Equipment technology, Keegan has significantly enhanced the service quality and customer experience at McMahon's. His commitment to staying abreast of emerging vehicle technologies, including electric vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems, positions McMahon’s at the forefront of the industry. In this episode…When a customer brings a vehicle to your shop for repair, do they automatically believe you’ll figure out the problem? How do you establish that trust between customers and repair technicians? According to Keegan Wentz from McMahon’s Best-One Tire and Auto Care, a Digital Vehicle Inspection serves as a transparency tool, bridging the knowledge gap between the workshop and the people in the waiting area. A DVI is akin to a vehicle's report card, detailing its condition with supportive photos and videos, enabling customers to see exactly what the technicians see. Using DVIs, Keegan points to McMahon's emphasis on openness, using it to document, recommend, and transmit vehicle information to customers via email or text. Keegan notes that it’s part of a broader commitment to professionalism in the automotive industry, aiming to combat its negative reputation by fostering trust and transparency, one customer at a time. On this episode of Gain Traction, Keegan joins Mike Edge to discuss the importance of establishing trust between the repair technicians and customers — and utilizing technology to build that trust. Keegan reveals his method for maintaining a lean and efficient operation while recognizing deficiencies in his team’s process and fixing or improving them. He talks about the value of technological advancements in tire and auto repair and goals for his company moving forward. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 18 Sep 2024 | It’s All About The People With Eric Gill at Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service | 00:24:18 | |
Eric Gill is the President and CEO of Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service. A seasoned entrepreneur, Eric masterminded the expansion of Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service from a solitary tire store to 71 locations across 24 years. His background includes a marketing and accounting degree, state tax return filing for Weyerhaeuser’s corporate department and an impactful tenure as a manager for Target stores. At a young age, Eric pivoted to the tire industry through a merger that set the stage for his current success. In this episode…The tire and auto industry constantly evolves, with businesses needing to adapt and grow to remain competitive. How do some companies manage to expand from a single location to a large chain in this dynamic environment? According to Eric Gill of Gills Point S Tire & Auto Service, the secret to his business’s growth lies in focusing on people and seizing opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent from within, which allows for organic expansion by promoting capable individuals to managerial positions. Additionally, strategic partnerships and acquisitions, such as purchasing stores from retiring owners, have expanded the business while maintaining a strong team culture. This approach has enabled Eric to grow his business from a single store to a network of 71 locations over 24 years. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Eric to discuss his journey from managing a single tire store to overseeing a network of 71 locations. The conversation touches on Eric’s initial steps in the industry and his strategic approach to growth. They also explore the importance of company culture, mentorship, and the challenges of managing a rapidly expanding business. Eric shares how collaboration and shared values have been instrumental in his success in the tire industry. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
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| 26 Nov 2024 | [SEMA Series] Roy Littlefield IV, Sam Felberbaum, Lance Bullock, Norris Marshall, and Michael Mathis | 00:17:05 | |
Roy Littlefield IV currently serves as Vice President of Government Affairs for the Tire Industry Association. He currently works on both state and federal legislation and has testified and submitted testimony on a variety of issues impacting the industry. Roy also helps to publish a variety of legislative newsletters for the Tire Industry Association. Sam Felberbaum is the President of Prinx and Fortune brand tires. He has over 20 years of experience helping companies grow and improve customer retention and revenue. He has spent the last two years in his role at Prinx Chengshan Tire and previously worked for eight years at Toyo Tires. Lance Bullock is the President of OE Wheels, 4PLAY Wheels, and Defiant Wheels. Lance has contributed to the modernization, direction, and growth of OE Wheels for over two decades. The company’s Defiant Wheel recently won a SEMA design award. Norris Marshall is Co-founder of Blueprint Engines and serves on the board for SEMA. His company manufactures crate engines for a variety of makes and models and strives to make it easier for enthusiasts to modify their vehicles. Michael Mathis is the President of Atturo Tires. Atturo had a record-breaking year, increasing brand awareness through sports sponsorships and a national TV campaign. The company is launching the Trailblade HT, a new all-weather tire, and adding 20 new sizes to their A810 performance tire. In this episode…The automotive aftermarket industry is facing challenges and opportunities as technology evolves and consumer preferences shift. How are industry leaders addressing issues like right to repair, product innovation, and market expansion? According to Roy Littlefield IV, Sam Felberbaum, Lance Bullock, Norris Marshall, and Michael Mathis, the industry is actively working on several fronts. They emphasize the importance of right to repair legislation, with efforts being made at both state and federal levels to ensure independent repair shops can access vehicle repair information. Product innovation is also a key focus, with companies developing new tire designs, wheel styles, and engine solutions to meet changing consumer demands. Additionally, these leaders highlight the significance of trade shows like SEMA for networking, showcasing new products, and building relationships with customers and partners. On this episode of Gain Traction, join host Mike Edge at SEMA, where he talks to Roy, Sam, Lance, Norris, and Michael about right to repair legislation, new product launches, the importance of face-to-face interactions at trade shows, sports marketing strategies, and the value of industry associations like SEMA. They also discuss market trends, product innovations, and strategies for growth in the automotive aftermarket industry. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 10 Apr 2024 | Tread Carefully: Ensuring Roadside Safety With David Bennett of AAA | 00:33:21 | |
David Bennett, Repair Systems Manager at AAA, brings over 37 years of dedicated service to the company. Originally from the Washington DC area, David's career journey began at a young age, marked by early experiences as a paperboy, at a gas station, and in food service. His passion for automotive work ignited during high school, where he received vocational training and honed his skills, laying the foundation for a successful career in the industry. In this episode…The vast majority of adults in the US own a vehicle, but are they paying attention to the most important maintenance elements? Which often-overlooked parts of a vehicle specifically require proactive attention for safe driving? According to David Bennett of AAA, tire maintenance is of paramount importance. Drawing from his extensive experience in the automotive industry, David highlights the alarming frequency of tire-related issues among vehicles he has inspected. He emphasizes the critical need for regular tire care, noting AAA's role in promoting roadside safety. Through AAA's network of approved auto repair facilities and roadside assistance services, its members gain access to reliable resources for addressing tire-related emergencies and ensuring safer travel experiences. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes David to discuss the importance of automotive education and tire maintenance. David's journey from working at McDonald's and a gas station to becoming a Repair Systems Manager highlights the value of vocational training and hands-on experience in the automotive industry. He cites alarming statistics revealing widespread issues related to tire maintenance. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 29 Jan 2025 | Revolutionizing Auto Repair Using AI With Linda Gray of Mastertech.ai | 00:25:52 | |
Linda Gray is Co-founder of Mastertech.ai, an innovative company that is leveraging the power of artificial intelligence to transform the auto repair industry. Linda brings a wealth of experience from her time at Microsoft, where she was a principal engineer and led teams on major products like Outlook, Teams, and Xbox Live. Now, Linda is applying her expertise to create cutting-edge solutions that empower auto repair shops and technicians. In this episode…The auto repair industry is facing a growing challenge with the ever-increasing complexity of modern vehicles. How can shops keep up with the latest technology and ensure their technicians have the knowledge and tools to effectively diagnose and repair these sophisticated machines? According to Linda Gray of Mastertech.ai, artificial intelligence could play a crucial role in addressing these challenges. Mastertech.ai's innovative software analyzes a shop's historical repair orders, leveraging AI to identify patterns and trends. This data-driven approach empowers technicians to quickly pinpoint the most likely causes of vehicle issues, streamlining the diagnostic process and reducing repair times. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Linda to discuss the revolutionary impact of AI on the auto repair industry. Linda highlights how MasterTech.ai empowers shops to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and profitability by harnessing the power of shop-specific data and AI-driven insights. The conversation delves into the software's capability to enhance shop productivity, reduce repair times, and improve accuracy — ultimately increasing profit margins. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:Quotable Moments:
Action Steps:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 14 Feb 2024 | Exceptional Tires, Equal Treatment With Charles Vickery of Beggs Tire & Wheel | 00:19:50 | |
Charles Vickery brings over a decade of tire expertise to his role as Store Manager at Beggs Tire & Wheel. Hailing from Prineville, Oregon, his journey in the tire industry began in the small town where the choices were clear-cut: either work at a mill or dive into the world of tires. Inspired by the legacy of Les Schwab, Charles started as a tire tech at Beggs in 2010. He quickly showcased his unwavering commitment to the job and has since climbed the ranks to his current role. In this episode…Consumers typically have plenty of options when tire shopping, from the store down the street to a multitude of websites at their fingertips. In a world where online comparisons and price competition are prevalent, what can a store manager do to set a location apart from the rest? According to Charles Vickery, his team at Beggs Tire & Wheel is focused on providing top-notch customer service, evident in its 4.9-star rating from over 3,200 reviews. Beggs Tire takes pride in treating every customer with equal respect, and Charles prioritizes the importance of creating a positive experience for everyone who walks through the front door, whether they have $1 or a million dollars. The team goes beyond mere transactions, ensuring that customers understand the value they receive when purchasing tires. Charles is committed to educating the younger generation on the long-term value of their purchases. To be able to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape, he emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing customer preferences. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Charles to discuss the intricacies of customer service in the tire industry. Charles emphasizes the importance of providing quality service and fostering a positive customer experience. They explore the challenges of explaining value in a market driven by online comparisons and the evolving preferences of a new generation. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 15 Dec 2021 | Building Up the Automotive Community with Tricia Sauls of ASTA | 00:15:44 | |
Tricia Sauls is the Executive Director of Automotive Service and Tire Alliance (ASTA). Her breadth of experience lays within the fields of data management, finance, and branding, specializing in social media and creative marketing. Previously, she was the Office Admin of Marketing for Unity of the Triangle and a Project Manager for Atlanta Business Technology. In this episode…It’s easy to feel isolated as a small business. Day after day, you see huge companies reaching new pillars of success and wonder, “Will I ever get there?”
The truth is, people at the top got "there" by supporting each other. Successful people band together with ideas to make things happen. While you certainly can accomplish great feats on your own, it doesn’t happen as easily when you're forced to wear too many hats. When you join a group where everyone is excited to see new ideas come to fruition, you’ll find yourself growing in ways you never thought were possible.
On this episode of the Gain Traction Podcast, Neal Maier sits down with Tricia to discuss how the Automotive Service and Tire Alliance (ASTA) is building up the automotive community. Tricia talks about the merger between IGONC and NCTDA that created ASTA, the organization's main goals, and their mutually beneficial apprenticeship program.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||
| 17 May 2023 | Promoting a Tire Brand by Sponsoring a Sport With Samuel Felberbaum, President at Prinx Chengshan Tire | 00:26:54 | |
Samuel Felberbaum is President at Prinx Chengshan Tire. He came to Prinx from Toyo Tires, where he was the Director of Sales for eight years. His passion is in helping companies set up and implement marketing initiatives that increase customer growth, improve retention, and drive revenue. Samuel is a big sports enthusiast, especially when it comes to the New York Yankees. In this episode…What is the best way to reach your target customer demographic? Is it always through social media, or could there be another effective way? What if it was to be the main sponsor of an event that features an increasingly popular activity? According to Prinx Chengshan Tire’s Samuel Felberbaum — whose company promotes the Fortune tire brand and targets business-to-business, regional wholesalers — his executive team has recently signed a multi-year deal to be the official tire of USA Pickleball. Samuel said it was a good fit for Fortune and his team is hopeful that this will be a great way to gain new customers and expand the brand. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge is joined by Samuel to discuss marketing a tire brand to business-to-business wholesalers. Samuel speaks about his past experiences which have proven to be valuable in his current position, becoming the official tire of USA Pickleball, the region of the U.S. where the Fortune brand is particularly strong, ways customers can find Fortune tires, and upcoming challenges and goals. Don’t miss it! Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sponsor for this episode...This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays. We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. So, what are you waiting for? Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. | |||