#47 Relationships and Business with Jack Bucknell

In this episode, Gene sits down at a Pittsburgh cigar bar with long-time friend and industry road dog Jack Bucknell. They dive into what truly changes a PDR technician’s career: relationships, networking, getting off your island, and plugging into the community. Together they unpack: Why so many techs feel isolated How going to events like MTE and PDR College Advanced Skills Seminar changed their lives How real relationships lead to real opportunities (hail work, retail growth, worldwide travel, and lifelong friendships) Upcoming highlights for MTE 2026, including new talks, new tools, and what Gene & Jack will be involved in The newest tools shaking up the PDR world, including: Reaper Revolver Hood Stand Keco’s Dent Slayer Panel Stand Anson Mini Hub Carbon Tech Light Stand Shock Blocker Flip Light /  Elimadent Mini Light Gene’s favorite new tool of the year Jack’s top three tools of the year The power of massive action, showing up, and saying yes Announcements for: Level Up Training (“If we get enough people, we’re doing it.”) AAI → Dent Repair Now migration for all students If you've ever felt like you're “on an island” in the PDR world — this episode is the antidote. Key Takeaways You’re only on an island if you choose to be.Getting off your island starts with showing up: MTE, meetups, open houses, toy drives, anything. Relationships create opportunities you can’t plan for.Jobs, travel, collaborations, tool development, training, masterminds — all of it happens because you meet people. PDR College was a turning point for many techs.Listening → going to events → taking massive action = career transformation. Efficiency tools = more cars = more income.The Revolver stand, Carbon Tech light stands, and tension tools are changing how fast techs work. MTE 2026 is going to be huge.Gene is speaking, co-hosting the Shop Owners Roundtable, and participating in Radio Row along with Jack. Level Up Training may return.Message Gene or Zan if interested. The AAI migration to DRN Institute is complete.Students retain full access and can log in at dentrepairnow.com/institute. Tools Mentioned (Add your affiliate or shop links here if you want a monetized version) Reaper Revolver Hood Stand Keco Dense Layer Stand Keco K-Power + Tab Straps Anson Mini Hub Carbon Tech Light Stand Elim A Dent Flip Light / Limited Mini Light Shock Blocker Industrial Glue Gun (Jonathan’s) Calls to Action Watch the video version on YouTube → @DentRepairNow Log into all AAI courses at → dentrepairnow.com/institute Message Gene or Zan if interested in Level Up Training (February) Follow Gene on all platforms → @DentRepairNow