The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

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In this episode, Jeff is joined by Josh Whiteman to discuss his role as an instructor with Garage Gurus which offers automotive training. Josh talks about the importance of ongoing education and adapting diagnostic processes to real-world conditions. They also speak on industry challenges, from technician pay structures to fostering a culture of compassion and mentorship within workshops.
Timestamps:
00:00 Life as a Full-Time Instructor
10:30 "Importance of Transparent Auto Repair"
15:43 "Skill Gaps and Training Challenges"
16:51 Trade Education Builds Knowledge
24:59 "Learning Through Osmosis Everywhere"
27:55 "Efficient Module Testing Insights"
33:15 "Diagnostic Tools and Strategies"
38:41 Resistance Testing Flaws and Tools
45:37 Managing Customer Expectations
52:13 "Flat Rate Tech Efficiency"
55:39 "Pay Over Hours: A Debate"
01:01:36 "Listening vs Distraction at Work"
01:07:29 "Dealing with Difficult Techs"
01:14:32 Engine Diagnostics and Pressure Analysis
01:16:09 "Practical Testing and Tools Guide"
01:22:00 "A-Techs vs. Specialists: Shop Roles"
01:28:16 "Free Training Event Explanation"

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Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.
Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE
Wanna go to Tekmetric's first ever industry training event Tektonic? Register HERE

In this episode, Jeff welcomes back Fluffy Mexicanik. They discuss the realities of working as a dealership technician. Fluffy shares his reasons for leaving a dealership after nearly 13 years, stressing the importance of shop culture and the challenges of flat rate. Together, they talk about how labor times are set and the impact of dealership processes on technician efficiency.
Timestamps:
00:00 Efficient Transmission Repair Practices
15:01 Slashed Labor Times Impact Profit
30:38 "Service vs. Sales Priorities"
40:57 "Frustrations with Inefficient Procedures"
46:50 "Incentivized Pay vs. Flat Rate"
56:22 Reflecting on Expertise and Humility
01:12:39 "Uconnect Reliability vs. Durango Issues"
01:24:02 "Car Not Designed for Winter"
01:35:36 "Chuck's Truck Troubles Explained"
01:45:48 "Brake Jobs: Quality vs. Speed"
01:57:02 Defending Industry Workers’ Rights

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

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE
Register NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HERE

In this episode, Jeff is joined by Mark Elliott, also known as TobaTech on social media. They discuss what drives top technicians to leave their jobs and why it's rarely just about money. TobaTech shares his experiences at his previous shop, describing how the loss of training opportunities and an overwhelming shift in responsibilities led to his decision to move on. They also speak on the importance of investing in staff development, maintaining a supportive shop culture, and recognizing technician contributions beyond financial incentives.
Timestamps:
00:00 "Why Top Technicians Leave"
08:48 "Developing Skills Beyond Expectations"
12:50 "Reflections on Trade Expectations"
20:40 "Improve Training for Better Sales"
21:31 "Questioning Career Fulfillment"
26:48 "Amazon Gadget Fail Turns Lesson"
35:16 Trusted Technicians and Transitions
38:11 Impact of Leadership Departure
43:57 "You're Not Family"
52:51 Shop Upgrades and Improvements
54:15 Truck Vibration Causes & Solutions
01:03:30 "Clarifying Misunderstood Podcast Context"
01:05:15 "Work-Life Balance Challenges"
01:11:44 "Skills Gap and Expectations"
01:16:18 "Awkward Reunion with Former Boss"
01:21:48 "DBI: Key to Customer Loyalty"
01:26:48 "Proving Work Isn't Distracted"
01:35:38 "Unfair Performance Bonus Policy"
01:37:03 "Navigating Unfair Work Dynamics"

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

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.
Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE
Register for Tektonic HERE!

In this episode, Jeff welcomes Eric Sprague from L&N Performance Auto Repair. Eric stresses the need for improved shop culture and mentorship to support new technicians entering the field. Jeff and Eric also talk about the importance of thorough communication between support staff and technicians to ensure safe, accurate repairs and customer education.
Timestamps:
00:00 "TPMS and Car Safety Standards"
10:39 TPMS Regulations and Nanny State
16:53 Empty Promises and Abandoned Projects
18:46 "Hybrid Trucks and Northern Infrastructure"
25:11 "Youth, Effort, and Clear Guides"
32:40 "Electronic Parking Brake Discussion"
34:33 "Teaching Safe Methods First"
43:32 "Trust and Prioritization at Work"
48:54 "Challenges of Losing Key Talent"
54:35 "Shifting from Dealership Culture"
55:46 "Accountability and Proper Checks"
01:04:10 "Challenges of Independent Auto Shops"
01:09:28 "Challenges in Automotive Repair Access"
01:12:15 "Industry's Tipping Point on Regulation"
01:17:24 "Importance of Vehicle Safety Systems"
01:25:59 "Tool Standards and Calibration Issues"
01:27:30 "Understanding the Entire System"
01:34:24 "European Cars and Sunroof Issues"
01:42:24 Regulations, Qualifications, and Future Standards
01:45:58 "Teamwork Overcomes Chaos"
01:48:47 "Monthly Collaborative Conversations"

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

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.
Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.
Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE
Wanna go to Tekmetric's first ever industry training event Tektonic? Register HERE

Today, Jeff get's to catch up with Lisa Coyle and Sam Freeman from Promotive. They discuss the challenges of recruiting and retaining automotive technicians and service advisors. The team explores why job hopping is often misunderstood, saying that it’s frequently due to industry conditions rather than technician performance. They highlight the importance of building mentorship and supportive shop cultures, revealing how both technicians and advisors benefit from ongoing training and honest communication. 
Timestamps:
00:00 Changing Hiring Dynamics
09:17 "Diagnostic Tech Misalignment"
14:45 Employee Growth and Retention Strategies
19:06 "Show Me the Proof"
22:23 "Workplace Dynamics and Expectations"
26:34 "Underpaid Service Advisors Debate"
32:14 "Bridging Advisor-Technician Divide"
37:29 "Incentivizing Flat Rate Pay Notifications"
42:30 "Harbor Freight Tools Debate"
50:42 "Be the Person Who Inspires"
57:07 "Flat Rate Payment Inequity"
01:00:50 "Consumer Expectations and Instant Gratification"
01:04:12 "Treat Others with Courtesy"
01:08:42 "Top Accomplishment Interview Question"
01:14:57 "Qualified Teachers Matter"

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