Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff welcomes back James Paden, Chief Product Officer at Parker Technology. Brian and James celebrate two years since James joined the company, and they unpack the AI products James and his team launched.  Brian and James dig into the actual mechanics of a voice AI call, the five different AI models a single call runs through in about a second, and why building AI for parking is a challenge. James walks through Parker Technology’s newly launched AI agent, Ambassador, which comes in two powerful solutions. Ambassador Live provides AI-powered assistance, with human back-up always available. Ambassador Assist tackles a market Parker has never been able to serve at scale before - the everyday phone calls that flood parking offices.  The conversations get into the guardrails behind the technology: the quality that Tammy Baker, COO, and her team had already established for Parker’s CSRs, and how that became the standard AI had to meet before it could go live.  Key Takeaways 1. AI is built to augment humans, not replace them.  AI can handle the fast, repetitive questions so human agents can focus on the complex, high-empathy situations that require more thought.2. Building Voice AI in parking is a harder problem than most voice AI. Outdoor speakers, background noise, and real-time facility data (broken equipment, special event pricing) make the acoustic challenges far tougher than a cell phone call.3. Ambassador’s guardrails were built by the Parker Standard. Tammy Baker, COO of Parker Technology, and her team have set existing quality standards for CSR’s. Ambassador was built with the same high standards, with a hard rule that any uncertainty routes straight to a human.4. AI opens markets Parker couldn’t serve before. Ambassador Assist is built for high-volume, unpredictable call environments that were too complex to staff profitably in the past.  Episode Highlights  [01:00] James reflects on two years at Parker and how his outside perspective sharpened once he started paying attention to parking as a technology problem. [06:00] Why James and Brian believe capital and attention are flowing into the parking industry. [10:00] How Ambassador Assist opens a market Parker hasn’t been able to serve at scale – starting with university parking offices. [14:00] James walks through what happens during a Voice AI call: audio cleanup, voice activity detection, speech-to-text, the language model, and text-to-speech, all in about a second. [18:00] The hardest parts of building voice AI for parking: the noisy outdoor acoustic environment and the deep facility-specific knowledge required to answer correctly. [21:00] How every AI interaction gets tested, graded by other AI systems, and run through the same quality assurance process as human agents. [23:00] Why Parker is investing in AI even with two strong call centers already in place: speed multilingual support, and staffing flexibility. [29:00] The philosophy behind Ambassador: making it easy to reach a human and treating AI as expansion. [35:00] How Tammy Baker’s existing quality standard became the bar Ambassador had to meet, including the rule that any uncertainty transfers straight to a human. [44:00] Parker’s pricing approach for Ambassador Live and Ambassador Assist, and why alignment drives both models. [54:00] James previews his NPA Las Vegas session on the four levels of AI for building a parking roadmap, and where to find the Parker team at Booth 400. Notable Quotes “AI’s not there to replace. It’s there to augment, to expand, to make the environment faster.” – James Paden “Ambassador Assist meets our customers in an area where we haven’t been able to meet them before.” – James Paden “When I joined Parker, there was already an established bar that the AI had to meet.”  – James Paden  About the Guest James Paden is the Chief Product Officer at Parker Technology, where, for the past two years, he leads the product and engineering teams behind the company’s parking support platform, including its new AI agent, Ambassador. James brings more than 25 years of software and product development experience, including leading SaaS strategy at small companies, working at a startup later acquired by Oracle, and founding and successfully selling his own company. James will be presenting “Operational AI Maturity: 4 Levels of AI to Build Your Parking Roadmap” on Wednesday, September 16th at 11:00 AM. Additionally, the Parker Technology team can be found at Booth 400 at NPA this year.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Melissa Jones, PTMP, Director of Customer Experience at TEZ Technology.Melissa’s road into parking wound began with a career in counseling and crisis work with at-risk kids and families. That work taught her how to sit with people in the middle of a crisis, big or small, and help them work through it. These skills ended up translating directly into leading teams and supporting customers who call in with their own version of an emergency. Counseling and parking kept pulling her back and forth until it finally stuck for good, taking her through managing parking at Class A office buildings, a stint at Parking Soft that turned into a decade at T2, and now her role at TEZ. Melissa and Brian dig into how that unlikely combination of backgrounds quietly built the leader she is today. The conversation covers building trust quickly in high-pressure environments, creating health conflict without ill will, what it takes to lead technically strong but low-EQ team members, and how the industry’s growing number of strong woman leaders are changing the game. Key Takeaways1. Your background is never wasted. Melissa’s years in counseling and crisis management, and her work as a fitness coach, translate directly into how she leads teams and supports customers today.2. Bedrock leadership is about openness, not skill. Melissa can teach anyone the software or the job. What she can’t teach is flexibility, empathy, and a willingness to learn. Those traits must come from the person.3. Healthy conflict starts with relevance.  Melissa’s approach to hard conversations is simple: make it relevant to the person in front of you and ask how you’d want someone you love to be treated. 4. Trust is built by walking the walk. Having answered the phones and taken the heated calls herself, Melissa leads by showing up in the lane, owning it when things go sideways, and never throwing her team to the wolves.5. The industry has changed – and so have the leaders. As From hauling a coin canister through snowy parking lots to today’s technology and customer experience standards, Melissa has watched the industry raise its bar, along with a growing wave of strong women leaders shaping its future.  Episode Highlights[02:00] Melissa shares how she got started in counseling and how a friend first talked her into taking a parking manager job at a community college. [04:00] The career pull between parking and counseling, with a journey through both.[06:00] A move to a Class A office building in downtown Atlanta reintroduces Melissa to parking, this time falling in love with the managerial and people side of the work.[9:00] Melissa’s journey from Mardi Gras parking to T2.[12:00] Melissa lands at TEZ Technology as Director of Customer Experience, overseeing implementation and customer experience.[14:00] Brian and Melissa discuss leading technically strong but low-EQ team members, and the importance of meeting people where they are.[24:00] The story of a tough property manager in Atlanta who became Melissa’s best friend, and the servant leadership lesson she taught Melissa.[32:00] Melissa’s 20-year parking journey, and the lessons she’s learned by being a woman in parking leadership.[38:00] Lightning round: Melissa’s go-to phrase, the hardest thing she’s ever done, and what she’s most proud of. Notable Quotes“I can teach anybody the software. I can teach anybody the job. What I can’t teach you is to be flexible and empathetic and open to learning. – Melissa Jones“If I rise because of you, then that means somebody else can rise because of me.” – Melissa Jones“We’re never going to be alone and trying to figure out things. That’s work or personal. I’m right there… you can’t get rid of me.” – Melissa JonesAbout the GuestMelissa Jones, PTMP, is the Director of Customer Experience at TEZ Technology, where she leads the implementation and support teams. She is a PTMP member and an active contributor to multiple IPMI communities. Melissa’s career spans more than 20 years across account services, and customer support, including roles on community college campuses, in Class A office buildings, at events, and in valet services. She joined Parking Soft’s training department before its acquisition by T2 in 2017, where she spent multiple years before moving to TEZ Technology.Before her parking career, Melissa worked in counseling, supporting at-risk youth and families through behavior management and substance abuse challenges. She is also a fitness coach and CrossFit instructor, drawing on both backgrounds to build empathetic, resilient teams.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by Peter Sherwill, Chief Public Parking Officer for the City of Jacksonville, the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States. Peter brings more than two decades of parking and mobility experience spanning valet, event parking, municipal operations, and private sector contracts, and now oversees a system of garages, surface lots, on-street parking, and enforcement across 850 square miles.Peter walks Brian through his winding path into parking, starting as a high school valet attendant and working his way through event parking at venues like Red Rocks Ampitheatre, municipal operations in Denver, and a private sector stop in Fort Myers before landing in Jacksonville. Brian and Peter dig into how Peter keeps a lean 40-person team motivated without a formal appreciation budget, how the department earned a seat at the table for major city projects, and how Jacksonville is modernizing decades-old technology while preserving the ambassador-like role of enforcement staff. They close with a look at the next big challenges facing curb management as downtown Jacksonville grows.Key Takeaways1. Motivation doesn't require a big budget. Without funds for employee perks, small gestures, such as dedicated a employee break room, new uniforms, "Win Wednesday" recognition meetings, have transformed a once-fragmented enforcement team into one that has each other's backs.2. If you want a seat at the table, you have to take initiative. Parking teams are often the last to know about city projects that affect the curb. Peter changed that in Jacksonville by proactively reaching out to other departments and showing up as a problem solver, not an afterthought.3. Modern technology should remove friction, not remove people. Jacksonville is rolling out multi-space meters, online permitting, and updated LPR systems, while intentionally keeping staff visible and approachable so automation doesn't replace the human side of the customer experience. 4. The Curb is everchanging. As downtown Jacksonville adds housing, a rebuilt stadium, and more nightlife, the parking team expects to expand enforcement hours, add residential permit programs, and manage rising demand from rideshare and delivery traffic. Episode Highlights[02:00] Introducing Peter Sherwill and his origin story.[04:00] Learning municipal parking in Denver and expanding paid parking in Fort Myers, Florida.[06:00] The surprise twist that turned a different job interview into an offer for Chief Public Parking Officer.[12:00] Keeping a lean team motivated without an appreciation budget - break rooms, new uniforms, and "Win Wednesday".[17:00] A technology rundown: multi-space meters, online permitting, new LPR systems, and upgraded garage equipment.[19:00] Stakeholder stories: booting a city council member's car and creative curb solutions for a century-old downtown business.[30:00] Cross-departmental collaboration on downtown revitalization, the new Jaguars stadium, and micro-mobility expansion.[36:00] How Peter earned parking a seat at the table early in major city projects.[38:00] Balancing automation with a human touch by turning enforcement staff into downtown ambassadors.[43:00] Looking ahead: curb demand from deliveries and rideshare, micro mobility, and expanding enforcement hours.[48:00] Lightning round: Peter's go-to phrase, hardest career challenge, and what he's most proud of.Notable Quotes"It's just parking, it's not rocket science. We can figure anything out." - Peter Sherwill"I will carry the baton for whatever project it is as far as I must, to hand it off to the next person. I don't just wait for that baton to come back - I take the next one." - Peter Sherwill"If you need something to be successful at your job, let us know what it is. As long as it's reasonable, we're going to get it for you. I don't think I've said no once." - Peter SherwillAbout the GuestPeter Sherwill is the Chief Public Parking Officer for the City of Jacksonville, overseeing a comprehensive system of parking garages, surface lots, on-street parking, and enforcement across 850 square miles - the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States.Peter has more than 20 years of experience in municipal and private sector parking operations, including event parking for sports and entertainment venues, short-term garage and valet operations at Denver International Airport, and municipal parking leadership in Denver and Fort Myers. He is recognized for optimizing revenue, developing high-performing teams, enhancing the customer experience, and advancing smart mobility technologies.Additionally, Peter currently serves as Secretary for the Florida Parking and Transportation Association.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Benito O. Pérez, AICP, CTP, CPM, PTMP, Section Chief for Transit Capital Statewide at the Illinois Department of Transportation.Benito’s career has moved through urban planning, civil engineering, transportation policy, curbside management, accessibility, and transit capital planning. But the common thread through all of it is connection: connecting planners and engineers, connecting agencies and advocates, connecting infrastructure decisions to real human experience, and connecting today’s transportation choices to the communities we want in the future.The conversation also gets into the curb: why it is one of the most contested and misunderstood spaces in transportation, how accessibility has to go beyond the parking space, and why public agencies need to think more intentionally about every user who interacts with streets, sidewalks, transit, bike lanes, parking, and the curb.Benito also shares what he’s working on now at IDOT, helping transit agencies across downstate Illinois access capital funding for buses, maintenance facilities, transfer centers, and long-term infrastructure needs. His advice is simple but important: don’t just plan for what you need today. Think about what your system needs to become.Key TakeawaysTransportation problems are rarely siloed. Parking, transit, biking, walking, land use, accessibility, and curbside management all intersect. The best solutions come when agencies and stakeholders stop treating them as separate conversations. The curb is where everything comes together. Benito describes the curb as a friction point where transportation systems meet land use, access, mobility, policy, and real-world user needs. Accessibility has to be built into the whole journey. Accessible parking matters, but the experience does not stop once someone gets out of the vehicle. Streetscapes, crossings, bike lanes, transit access, and signal timing all shape whether a place is truly accessible. Long-term planning requires more than today’s need. Benito encourages agencies to think about their 20-year buildout, especially when funding is available, so they do not solve today’s problem only to create tomorrow’s constraint. Public agencies and advocates need each other. Benito makes the case that advocates and practitioners are often working toward the same goals, but they need better communication, transparency, and trust to move things forward. Episode Highlights[02:00] Benito shares how growing up in a Navy family exposed him to transportation systems in Europe and shaped the way he thought about cities.[03:00] Why Benito first thought he wanted to be an architect, and how an advisor helped him realize he was more interested in the “architecture of space.”[06:00] A pivotal meeting with planners and engineers helped Benito realize he wanted to become a translator between disciplines.[09:00] Brian and Benito discuss why transportation, housing, land use, and parking have historically been siloed.[11:00] Benito explains how the rise of the car shaped zoning, street design, transportation policy, and the way communities developed.[20:00] Benito explains his current role at IDOT, overseeing transit capital funding outside of metro Chicago.[22:00] Why rural transit is often lifeline transportation for seniors, people with disabilities, and people accessing healthcare, food, and other essential services.[24:00] Benito explains why agencies should plan for their 20-year buildout, not just what they need right now.[30:00] Benito discusses the challenge of integrating ADA and accessibility into long-range transportation planning.[36:00] A powerful example of how flashing traffic signals can unintentionally create barriers for people with cognitive disabilities.[39:00] Where public sector leaders and operators should start if they want to do better around accessibility.[43:00] Why curbside management needs to be treated as a regional issue, not just a local one.[49:00] Lightning round: Benito’s go-to phrases, including “Curbside management is not a sprint, it’s a marathon.”Notable Quotes“Curbside management is not a sprint, it’s a marathon.” – Benito Pérez“It’s not a war on cars, it’s a war on the idea that car is the only option.” – Benito Pérez“We need to take a step back and think about both the infrastructure side of things and the operational side of things.” – Benito PérezAbout the GuestBenito O. Pérez, AICP, CTP, CPM, PTMP, is the Section Chief for Transit Capital Statewide at the Illinois Department of Transportation, where he helps oversee capital funding and support for transit agencies across Illinois outside of metro Chicago.His career has spanned urban planning, civil engineering, transportation policy, curbside management, accessibility, and multimodal transportation planning. Before joining IDOT, Benito served as Transportation Policy Director at Smart Growth America and held multiple roles at the District Department of Transportation in Washington, D.C., including work focused on curbside management, operations planning, data, and policy development.Benito earned both a Master of Arts in Urban Planning and a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida. Known for his ability to connect disciplines, translate across technical and policy audiences, and bring stakeholders together, Benito is passionate about building transportation systems that are more accessible, multimodal, practical, and people-centered.Episode SponsorsThank you to our sponsor of today’s episode, IPS Group. Visit ipsgroup.com to learn more about their mobility solutions.  Thank you to Rytec Doors for sponsoring today’s episode. Visit rytecdoors.com to learn more about their energy-saving solution.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by David Weber, Head of National Business Development for Parking at SWTCH Energy. David brings more than two decades of experience across the parking industry, starting as a valet at a Las Vegas casino before moving into operations, digital parking, business development, and now EV charging infrastructure.David’s path through parking has taken him across the parking industry. Along the way, he learned how to handle people, solve operational challenges, say yes to new opportunities, and build a career in an industry that has a way of pulling people back in.Brian and David dig into what parking operators and asset owners need to understand about EV charging: the misconceptions, the real costs, the role of incentives, load management, uptime, and why chargers should be treated as part of the broader parking ecosystem.David also explains why EV charging is less about becoming a major revenue stream and more about serving tenants and customers, and preparing parking assets for the future of mobility, including fleets and autonomous vehicles. Key TakeawaysEV charging is not plug-and-play.  Installing chargers requires understanding power availability, building infrastructure, load management, incentives, customer needs, and long-term operational goals.EV charging is an amenity and a competitive advantage. For garages, office buildings, multifamily properties, and urban parking assets, EV charging is increasingly becoming something customers expect.Operators need to cut through misinformation. David addresses common misconceptions around EV fires, vehicle weight, charger placement, and whether existing garages can support EV adoption.The real cost is often infrastructure, not the charger. Chargers themselves have become more affordable, but electrical work, conduit, transformers, and power capacity can drive the true project cost.Parking assets are well-positioned for the next wave of mobility                                  With the growing trend of EV drivers, autonomous vehicles, and electric fleets, parking operators already control valuable real estate that could become essential charging and mobility hubs.  Episode Highlights[02:00] David shares his career story, from growing up near Buffalo to starting as a valet at The Mirage in Las Vegas.                                            [05:30] What David learned from working at the ground level of parking operations                                                                                           [11:00] Why EV charging is “much harder than it looks” and what parking operators often underestimate.                                                                  [13:00] Brian and David discuss misinformation around EVs, including fires, vehicle weight, and garage placement. [20:00] The EV charging checklist: budget, incentives, site walks, electrical capacity, and load management.                                                          [25:00] The future opportunity around electric fleets, self-driving cars, and overnight charging.                                                                     [30:00] What installing EV chargers really will cost operators.[34:00] David gives a snapshot of EV adoption in the United States and where he thinks the market is headed.Notable Quotes:“If you’re just getting started out in any business and it’s a little over your head, go for it.”   – David Weber“EV charging is an amenity that has to be there now. If someone has an EV car, they aren’t even looking at an apartment or a complex that doesn’t have EV charging.”    – David Weber“You could put four chargers in for under $10,000 and get them paid off in a couple years no problem.”     – David WeberAbout the GuestDavid Weber is the Head of National Business Development for Parking at SWTCH Energy, where he helps parking operators and asset owners integrate EV charging into their facilities and broader parking ecosystems.David has spent more than 25 years in the parking industry, beginning his career as a valet before moving into supervisory, district management, operations, and business development roles. He has a practical understanding of how parking operations work on the ground, how technology gets adopted in the field, and what operators need from partners introducing new solutions.At SWTCH Energy, David focuses on educating the parking industry about EV charging infrastructure, incentives, uptime, load management, and the future role parking assets can play in EV development and mobility operations. Known for his operational background, direct communication style, and resilience, David brings a practical perspective to one of the industry’s fastest-evolving opportunities.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by Jake Miller, Co-Founder and CEO of ZIVIS, to explore what happens when software evolves into intelligence and what it really takes to trust it. With a career spanning large scale platforms, startup innovation, and now AI security, Jake brings a systems level perspective to one of the fastest moving shifts in technology.Jake’s journey started in networking and software engineering and expands into linguistics, entrepreneurship, and ultimately AI. He shares how thinking in systems shaped his career and the why the future belongs to those who can navigate and manage intelligent systems rather than just build them. Brian and Jake dive into ambient intelligence, the changing nature of work, and why discernment is becoming one of the most valuable skills in the AI era. They also tackle a critical topic for any operator adopting AI: trust. Jake explains why security is no longer a one-time checkbox and must become a continuous discipline.The adoption of AI is a direct challenge facing our industry today. As systems grow more complex and data becomes more abundant, the opportunity shifts from managing tools to interacting with intelligence.Key TakeawaysAI is changing how we interact with technology. The shift is moving from structured tools to natural language interaction, where systems respond more like collaborators than software.Discernment is the new competitive advantage.  AI can generate outputs at scale, but human judgment determines what is useful, accurate, and valuable. Start small with AI by improving your workflow. Your inbox, calendar, and daily processes are the easiest entry points to begin realizing immediate value.Existing companies have an advantage in AI adoption.  Even messy data is valuable. Organizations that already have data can reverse engineer insights and accelerate faster than starting from scratch.Trust in AI must be continuous, not static. AI is changing how we interact with technology.        Security, governance, and ethical use require ongoing monitoring, testing, and adaption as AI continues to evolve.  Episode Highlights[02:00] Jake shares his early career in networking and software engineering and his fascination with systems thinking. [06:30] How a background in linguistics unexpectedly became foundational in the age of generative AI.                                                                                                                                     [10:30] The shift from traditional SaaS tools to conversational, AI driven workflows.                [15:00] Why discernment and “taste” matter more as AI generates more content. [20:00] What ambient intelligence looks like in practice and how it changes data interaction. [27:00] Where to start with AI adoption using your inbox and daily operations.                         [34:00] The difference between AI native companies and those adapting existing systems. [36:30] Why AI security requires continuous testing and new approaches like threat modeling. [41:00] Real world examples of prompt injection and how vulnerabilities can persist across systems. [45:00] Practical advice for parking operators looking to adopt AI responsibility. Notable Quotes“Don’t limit limit yourself and edit yourself while you are working. Let it all out. Then go back and apply judgment.  – Jake Miller“Don’t write it. Reverse engineer it. Go to your data and say ‘I need a modern version of this output, how it works today.’”– Jake Miller“If you’re starting out and you’re asking yourself the question ‘What do I do with this AI thing?’ My very first answer would be ‘How do you improve your personal workflow?’”     – Jake MillerAbout the Guest:Jake Miller is the Co-Founder and CEO of ZIVIS, where he is building the next generation of AI trust and security systems for organizations operating in real world environments.Jake has 25+ years of experience in software engineering and product development. He has led teams at ExactTarget Salesforce Marketing Cloud and has helped dozens of startups bring products from ideas to market. Known for his systems thinking and deep technical expertise, Jake focuses on helping organizations navigate the complexity of AI while maintaining trust and security.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Shareena Sandbrook, Chief Commercial Development Officer at Towne. Shareena was the Co-Founder and CEO of Frogparking, a global parking technology company she co-founded with her father, Don Sandbrook, in 2009.How do you build a global parking company from a small town in New Zealand? For Shareena, the answer involved a lot of plane rides, a lot of late nights, and a willingness to back herself. She left her young daughters at the airport more times than she can count, installed sensors herself in downtown LA in heels and a suitcase, and closed her first city deal (4,500 spaces) before her team really knew what they were doing. Sixteen years later, that first client is still with her.Shareena grew up entrepreneurial. Her father is a self-described "crazy inventor" who pulled her into the workshop early and taught her to chase ideas no one else was working on. Before Frogparking, she sold satellite tracking software to aviation customers back when prospects would squint at the sky and ask, "Where is the cloud?" When she and her dad turned their attention to parking, the industry was still chalking tires. They saw an opening.In 2025, Frogparking was acquired by Towne, where it became the foundation of Nexity by Towne, the industry’s first fully integrated parking and mobility platform delivered by a single provider. Shareena now leads design and development, integration, and ongoing growth, with her sights set on what she calls "world domination" and a billion-dollar company.Key Takeaways1.     Solve real problems, and growth follows. Frogparking grew because it spotted clear gaps: wardens chalking tires, clunky access control, vendor stacks duct-taped together. The team built technology that answered customer pain directly.2.     Focus beats everything. Shareena’s playbook is relentless focus on the right strategic deals, the right customers, and a reputation worth protecting. Reputation, she says, is "absolutely critical."3.     Integration is the future of parking. A patchwork of disconnected systems is holding the industry back. One end-to-end platform from a single provider wins day in and day out: faster operations, less revenue leakage, better user experience.4.     Leadership is about shared purpose. Treat your team like family, bring them into the goal, and connect their work to a bigger mission. Nobody is above the job, including the CEO with a suitcase in downtown LA at midnight.Episode Highlights[01:00]  Meet Shareena Sandbrook and the road that led her to Towne[02:10]  Growing up entrepreneurial in New Zealand and selling SaaS before the cloud was a thing[04:20]  The first big city deal: 4,500 spaces, a public-private partnership, and a client still with her 16 years later[05:00]  Pushing into the U.S. and spending half her life on a plane[09:30]  Where the name Frogparking actually came from (hint: a sensor that looked like a frog)[10:40]  Building reputation through relentless focus on the right strategic deals[12:30]  Pivoting during COVID: cashless, ticketless, and patented gates that reset on impact[17:00]  Extending the platform into parking guidance, access control, valet, enforcement, and permitting[19:30]  Why a patchwork of fifty clunky systems is finally on its way out[21:50]  The Towne rebrand and the launch of Nexity by Towne[24:30]  How the team uses AI internally and in product, without making it a buzzword[27:00]  Managing a tight, eclectic developer team (Monster energy and potato chips included)[29:30]  What end-to-end actually looks like at Irvine Spectrum, Laguna Beach, Nike, and USC[33:30]  Six months in: the contrast between scrappy startup life and life inside Towne[35:30]  Leadership philosophy: family first, no titles above the work[39:00]  Lightning round: the hardest things, the magic wand, hunting on horseback, and what she is most proud ofAbout the GuestShareena Sandbrook is the Chief Commercial Development Officer of Towne. Formerly, Sandbrook was the Co-Founder and CEO of Frogparking, a global parking technology company she co-founded with her father, Don Sandbrook, in 2009.Under her leadership, Frogparking expanded into the U.S. and grew into one of the industry’s most advanced parking platforms, with a portfolio of over 30 patented technologies serving cities, airports, universities, and private operators across North America and Australasia.In 2025, Frogparking was acquired by Towne, where it became the foundation of Nexity by Towne, Towne’s next-generation, end-to-end parking technology platform. Sandbrook continues to lead design and development, integration, and ongoing growth.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by Karen Mangia, SVP of Global Customer Success at Bazaarvoice. Karen is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a proven customer experience expert. Karen’s career spans leadership roles at Salesforce, Cisco, and now Bazaarvoice, where she helps brands harness the authentic voice of their customers to drive loyalty and growth. From her early days as a research assistant to leading global customer success teams, Karen shares how listening – really listening – can transform business. The conversation dives into where companies fall short in customer feedback, how reviews influence behavior more than ever, and what service-based industries (including parking) can learn from world-class customer experience programs. Karen also shares what attendees of FUSION26 can look forward to in her keynote presentation, including strategies to take control of reviews with proactive growth tools, leverage user-generated content to build trust and visibility, and how to convert it all into measurable revenue and business impact. Key Takeaways Customer success is the purpose of the business. Every role contributes to delivering value to the customer, not just a designated team. Negative Feedback is one of your most valuable assets. Unhappy customers reveal gaps in execution and often point to simple fixes with big impact. Reviews are a powerful driver of trust and conversion. More reviews increase credibility, visibility, and ultimately influence purchasing behavior. Action matters more than insight.  Collecting feedback is meaningless unless it leads to consistent, repeatable improvements. Small, intentional changes can shift perception quickly. Simple actions can dramatically improve customer sentiment. Episode Highlights [00:18] Introduction to Karen Mangia and her background in customer experience. [02:30] Early career roots in research and understanding human behavior.     [6:30] Transition from sales leadership into customer experience. [08:30] Why customer success is everyone’s responsibility.  [11:30] Inside Bazaarvoice: capturing, verifying, and scaling customer reviews. [18:30] Why negative reviews matter and how responses build trust. [21:30] Unlocking the “stranded value in customer feedback”. [24:00] Practical ways to capture feedback in service-driven environments.  [27:30] The risk of relying on a single metric like NPS. [29:00] Why repeatability is the real measure of success. [31:00] Case study: how fast response times changed customer perception. [34:00] Balancing automation with human connection in customer experience.  [39:00] The future: shifting from volume work to value-driven activities. [41:30] What to expect from Karen’s keynote at FUSION26 Notable Quotes “Unhappy customers will tell you everything you need to fix it, if you’re willing to hear it” – Karen Mangia Don’t let your learning lead to knowledge. Let your learning lead to action. – Karen Mangia Sometimes the best experience is the one the customer doesn’t even notice. It just works”– Karen Mangia About the Guest Karen Mangia is the Senior Vice President of Global Customer Success at Bazaarvoice and a recognized leader in customer experience strategy. With a career spanning more than two decades, Karen has held leadership roles at some of the world’s most influential technology companies, including Cisco, AT&T, and Salesforce, where she built and scaled customer experience and voice-of-the-customer programs at a global level. In addition to her corporate leadership, Karen is a sought-after keynote speaker and TEDx presenter, recognized for her ability to connect customer experience strategy with real-world execution. She has been named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of Indiana. Karen brings a unique blend of research, sales, and operational expertise along with a deep belief that when organizations truly listen to their customers, they unlock powerful opportunities for growth, trust, and long-term success. 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Neil Hart, Vice President of University Operations at Reimagined Parking. With more than 30 years of experience spanning private parking, healthcare, and higher education, Neil brings a rare, full spectrum perspective on leading in a service industry. People don’t often plan on starting out in our industry, but once they get in, it’s hard to get out. Neil planned on being a sportswriter, but an assistant manager job at a valet parking operation in college introduced Neil to the parking industry. Now, after 30 years, Neil shares the lessons learned from saying “yes” to the right opportunities. Neil and Brian discuss the intricacies of managing massive auxiliary operations – including parking, food service, housing, and transportation. Through all his experiences and all his teams, Neil explains why success ultimately comes down to people, process, and technology. Neil brings calm leadership under pressure, a servant’s heart, and commitment to success in every opportunity faced over his career. Key Takeaways Careers aren’t linear – lean into opportunity. Neil’s path in and out of parking shows that diverse experiences often create the strongest leaders. People, process, and technology are the foundation of great operations. No matter the scale, these three pillars keep everything running. You don’t get thanked in this business – and that’s okay. Success in parking and auxiliary services requires internal motivation, not external validation. Short-term clarity beats long-term guessing.   Neil emphasizes focusing on 2–3-year planning cycles rather than overly rigid 10–15-year forecasts. Leadership is about positioning, not controlling everything. Understanding priorities from both above and below determines where leaders should focus their energy.    Episode Highlights [02:18] Neil shares how he accidentally entered the parking industry through valet operations. [03:48] Neil leaves the parking industry – and gets pulled back in (twice).       [6:18] The transition to MD Anderson and the stark differences between entertainment parking and healthcare. [07:48] Expanding into auxiliary services: food, housing, transportation, and more. [10:18] Neil’s return to parking leadership at the University of Houston.                                [18:48] How Neil manages large teams (200+ employees) and complex operations.               [22:18] Neil’s leadership philosophy: listening, prioritizing, and aligning with organizational goals  [29:18] Why long-term planning often fails – and what to do instead. [31:48] The importance of hybrid operating models in parking and auxiliary services. [36:48] Retirement, reinvention, and joining Reimagined Parking. [36:48] Neil’s new role and his approach to learning the industry from a national perspective. Notable Quotes “Every decision you make today affects years down the road.” – Neil Hart “I never want to be the smartest person in the room. I want to be surrounded by people who challenge.” – Neil Hart “You can’t fall out of a basement.”  – Neil Hart  About the Guest Neil Hart is the Vice President of University Operations at Reimagined Parking, bringing over three decades of leadership experience in parking, healthcare, and higher education.  He has held senior roles at MD Anderson Cancer Center, the University of Texas Medical Branch, and the University of Houston, here he oversaw large-scale parking and auxiliary operations including transportation, food service, housing, and recreation. Known for his operational expertise and people-first leadership style, Neil is passionate about building strong teams, improving processes, and helping organizations navigate the evolving landscape of parking and mobility. 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Keith B. Jones, Chairman and Owner of ACE Parking – the largest family-owned parking and mobility company in North America.  Founded in 1950 by Keith’s grandparents in San Diego, ACE Parking began as a dirt lot charging 25 cents for a parking spot. Today, the company operates across the country and stands as one of the most respected organizations in the industry. Keith shares his journey, beginning with an early interest in customer experience. From directing traffic in stadium parking lots at 10 years old to leading ACE for more than two decades, Keith has a lifelong fascination with parking. The conversation shifts to servant leadership, defining and living by true integrity, navigating technological disruption, and balancing innovation with the long-term responsibility of a family-operated company. Keith leads ACE Parking by effectively balancing future ambition with current realities, while ensuring ACE Parking remains a strong pillar of the San Diego and other communities. Key Takeaways Family businesses are built on responsibility. Keith reflects on ACE Parking’s origins and the responsibility of leading a business so ingrained in a city’s fabric for generations. Innovation must balance vision with reality. Keith's “Today, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow Land” framework highlights the challenge of deploying technology with benefits today while still preparing for what may come. Technology is only as good as the people behind it. AI may automate operations, but trained humans remain essential to making technology work effectively. Integrity creates long-term stability.Keith emphasizes structural soundness to build organizations that can withstand disruption and continue serving clients. Culture and leadership shape the future of organizations. Companies must remain nimble, adaptable, and grounded to thrive in the coming future.  Episode Highlights [02:45] ACE Parking’s origins beginning with a dirt lot to a national mobility company. [06:30] Keith’s first job in parking: directing traffic at an NFL stadium as a child. [10:30] Learning servant leadership while navigating the challenges of joining a family business.[15:00] How ACE evaluates technology partners and the importance of long-term commitment. [18:00] The importance of building a “long road play” organization focused on stability and integrity. [21:00] Early innovations that transformed operations down the road                    [36:00] The “Today, Tomorrow, Tomorrowland” framework [41:00] AI’s impact on parking and how technology must enhance, not replace, the human experience [46:30] What separates companies that will survive the next decade and those that won’t. [53:00] The story behind ACE Parking’s “Park for Pink” program and the personal journey that inspired it. Notable Quotes “Integrity to me means structural soundness.” – Keith Jones “We need to solve the world of tomorrow while pointing toward Tomorrowland.” – Keith Jones “We’re not in the customer service business – we’re often in the customer service recovery business.” – Keith Jones  

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, guest host Heidi Barber sits down with Dr. Tanara Teal-Tate, Executive Director of Parking & Transportation at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville – a leader overseeing a $24M+ auxiliary enterprise serving more than 50,000 campus community members. With responsibility for 18,000+ parking spaces, 10 garages, 34 bus transit systems and a 60+ person team, Dr. Teal-Tate understands firsthand that parking and transportation is mission-critical infrastructure. Dr. Teal-Tate brings a 25-year journey shaped by grit, data-driven leadership, cross-campus collaboration, and a commitment to student success. From earning three degrees to leading a dynamic team, rolling out transformational parking changes, and defining mobility at a flagship university, Dr. Teal-Tate shares what it takes to lead a complex operation in higher education. Key Takeaways Parking is the first and last impression of a campus. Dr. Teal-Tate shares the importance transportation plays in enrollment, research, athletics, and overall student experience. Engineering mindsets change leadership decisions. Dr. Teal-Tate’s mechanical engineering background enables data-driven data, financial modeling, and strategic master planning. Challenges universities face: real estate and costs. Land constraints and cost realities make expanding and decision making a planned action. Change requires both courage and communication. Leaning on a team and prioritizing innovation and technology will benefit the student experience. Vulnerability is a leadership strength. Dr. Teal-Tate shares why humility and mentorship are central to her growth. Episode Highlights [03:30] Dr. Teal-Tate shares her entry into parking started at a booth. [06:30] How mechanical engineering shaped her analytical leadership style. [10:45] The moment of realization that parking is mission-critical infrastructure. [12:45] Operating at 30,000 feet while empowering her team to lead. [17:45] Managing large campus events through real-time command posts and adaptive strategy. [26:00] Why “just build more garages” isn’t financially simple. [32:00] Transformational changes that reduced garage congestion. [35:45] The lightbulb moment: campus leaders didn’t know what parking already offered. [39:30] The nine-year doctoral journey and rewriting 200 pages in six months. [42:00] Lightning round: hardest life challenges and magic wand fixes. Notable Quotes “Parking and transportation is the first and last impression of the campus experience.” – Dr. Tanara Teal-Tate “In order for me to grow, I have to let myself know that it’s okay to not know.” – Dr. Tanara Teal-Tate “No problem is beneath me. I’m here to tackle this problem.” – Dr. Tanara Teal-Tate 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Kevin Uhlenhaker, CEO & Publisher of Parking Today Media. Kevin shares insight from his first year as the CEO & Publisher of Parking Today Media, including the innovations made to PIE 2026. PIE 2026 is held in Dallas, Texas, from March 30th- April 2nd. Kevin and Brian discuss the challenges associated with taking over an established media publication, and how Kevin’s idea of honoring legends of the parking industry will create a legacy for years to come. Kevin isn’t afraid to admit that his journey with Parking Today Media has been an uphill battle. However, his grit and determination have fueled the many successes Parking Today Media has enjoyed over the past two years. Tune in to learn more about the Kevin’s leadership mindset, and the can’t miss action that will take place at PIE 2026.  Additionally, listeners of Harder Than It Looks can use the code HTIL100 to get 100% off a standard registration for PIE 2026. Key Takeaways Success takes time Although Kevin is experienced in the industry, Parking Today Media still experienced challenges and growing pains. A notable shift in a legendary tradeshow PIE 2026 will be held in Dallas, Texas, this year. It will feature many new characteristics while still honoring the legacy that PIE has. Staying impartial as a media company Parking Today Media works hard to be purely informative in its copy and deliverables, focusing on giving parking professionals a reliable source of news. Trusting team members  Kevin acknowledges the hard and diligent work of his team and how bringing on key personnel has improved team dynamics and Parking Today Media output. Episode Highlights [00:00:00] Brian introduces Kevin Uhlenhaker and reflects on his first full year leading Parking Today during its 30th anniversary milestone. [00:01:31] Kevin admits, “It really has been harder than it looks,” describing the steep learning curve of running a media company. [00:04:00] The surprising reach and personal impact of Parking Today across industry careers. [00:05:00] Reframing parking for outsiders: worst parking experience vs. best parking experience. [00:09:00] The weight of visibility: why leading Parking Today carries higher stakes than past ventures. [00:10:00] Responsibility of independence—tackling hard industry conversations. [00:18:00] Leadership lessons: making hard decisions, evolving skill sets, and understanding industry nuance. [00:21:00] Modernizing Parking Today while honoring its legacy—new editor, tech stack overhaul, and integration of ParkNews. [00:27:00] Why Dallas? Accessibility, neutrality, affordability, and thoughtful event design. [00:31:00] New PI content structure—segment-focused tracks and curated industry-wide topics. [00:37:00] What success looks like for PI 2026: feeling welcome, connected, and among “parking family.” [00:41:00] How Hall of Fame inductees are selected—rubric, independence, and impact. [00:49:00] Startup mode: why there’s little spare time during this reinvention phase. [00:52:00] What Kevin is most proud of—his family’s support and shared sacrifice behind Parking Today. [00:54:00] Special offer: PI 2026 promo code (HTIL100) for Harder Than It Looks listeners.  Notable Quotes “Some of the strengths that allow you to lead at one stage become the weaknesses at the next”– Kevin Uhlenhaker “We’re not on anyone’s side. We’re on everyone’s side – Kevin Uhlenhaker “We want PIE to be something you experience because you’re there – Kevin Uhlenhaker About the Guest Kevin Uhlenhaker is the CEO & Publisher of Parking Today Media. He brings 25+ years experience in the parking industry to the table. An accomplished entrepreneur, Kevin has co-founded and led multiple parking technology companies through inception to acquisition. He has been the CEO & Publisher of Parking Today Media for two years, taking the company, and the Parking Industry Expo (PIE) to new levels. 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, host Brian Wolff sits down with Maggie Vercoe, COO of TEZ Technology and a 30-year veteran of the parking industry.From starting in a parking booth at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee to helping build T2 Systems during its high-growth years - and now leading professional services, support, account management, and marketing at TEZ - Maggie shares the leadership lessons that shaped her journey.This conversation dives deep into adaptive leadership, managing complex implementations, staying calm in conflict, and why collaboration isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a survival skill in parking.Key Takeaways from this Episode:Adaptive Leadership Is Non-Negotiable:There’s no such thing as one leadership style. The best leaders flex between servant, democratic, transformational, transactional, and even autocratic styles depending on the situation and the people involved.Collaboration Drives Culture:Maggie believes collaboration is the engine behind high-performing teams. Breaking down silos - especially between client-facing departments - is essential for delivering exceptional customer experiences.Complex Projects Require Grit and Structure:Successful implementations hinge on change management, clear expectations, strong project ownership, and customer buy-in. Without those, even the best technology can struggle.Calm Is a Leadership Superpower:From handling parking ticket appeals to managing executive-level conflict, Maggie shares why staying centered under pressure often determines the outcome.Parking Is Bigger Than People Think:Over three decades, Maggie has seen the industry evolve from hanging meters and coin payments to mobile apps and AI-driven systems - and she believes the next wave of innovation will further transform the customer experience. Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Meet Maggie Vercoe – COO of TEZ Technology and 30-year parking veteran[00:02:00] From parking booth to T2 Systems: the unexpected career path[00:04:00] Building culture at T2 – what made it special[00:06:30] Why “being present” is the secret ingredient of leadership[00:11:00] Handling conflict at the counter – lessons in staying calm[00:14:00] Adaptive leadership: the six styles every leader should know[00:19:00] Managing client-facing departments without silos[00:23:00] Why Maggie loves complex implementations[00:24:45] The biggest mistakes organizations make during major rollouts[00:28:30] Women in Parking, Allyship, and industry leadership[00:33:00] Technology trends – AI, mobile, and the evolution of customer experience[00:35:00] What’s new at TEZ – platform upgrades and a major valet innovation at DFW[00:39:00] Lightning Round – collaboration, brisket, and eliminating parking metersNotable Quotes:“If you have one leadership style, you’re probably not a very good leader.”“You almost want to be ignored in parking. If you’re being ignored, it means you’re doing a good job.”“You have to be comfortable in the uncomfortable to get to what’s on the other side.”About Maggie Vercoe:Maggie Vercoe is the Chief Operating Officer at TEZ Technology, where she oversees professional services, support, account management, and marketing. With over 30 years in the parking and mobility industry, Maggie began her career at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee before joining T2 Systems in 1999, where she helped shape customer experience and organizational growth during a pivotal era in parking technology.Maggie is actively involved in industry leadership initiatives, including IPMI’s Allyship Committee, Women in Parking, Women in Technology, and the National Parking Association Board of Directors.Connect with Parker Technology:Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com or email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Susan Cole, Founder & CEO of Cole Ticket Solutions (CTS) – a woman-owned business reshaping consumables, automation, and supply chain efficiency across the parking industry.One night at 3 a.m., overwhelmed and searching for answers, Susan pressed play on an episode of this podcast featuring SBA lending expert Sue Malone. What she heard changed everything. That moment set her on a path to secure SBA funding, grow CTS, and redefine what’s possible in credentialing and consumables for airports, municipalities, universities, manufacturers, and operators nationwide.Her story is one of grit, reinvention, technical ingenuity, and unwavering resilience. From her early career in Spain to building CTS during the pandemic to pioneering Cole Cube – an automated on-site supply solution – Susan takes us inside the innovations and mindset that fuel her success.Key TakeawaysA single moment can change the trajectory of a business.Susan’s 3 a.m. discovery of Sue Malone sparked the SBA funding journey that kept CTS alive and growing.Consumables aren’t commodities – they’re a service.Susan explains how CTS reframes tickets and credentials as an ongoing service model, not a one-off product.Innovation is born from necessity.Cole Cube, her automated on-site ticket supply room, was created to solve supply chain chaos during the pandemic.Relationships built over decades matter.Susan credits much of CTS’s early success to the trust she developed throughout her 20 years in parking.Persistence and patience are powerful business tools.Her path through fear, self-doubt, and uncertainty shows what happens when you refuse to give up.Episode Highlights[00:00:21] Brian opens with the story of how Susan found the Sue Malone episode in the middle of the night.[01:31] Susan begins her story – from Spain to software to an unexpected entry into parking.[02:27] How a headhunter, a misspelled “Azusa,” and a manufacturer changed her career path.[06:11] Building 20 years of relationships across airports, municipalities, and operators.[07:42] The 2019 company sale and early pandemic layoffs.[09:21] Becoming a full-time homeschool teacher while job hunting in a frozen market.[10:01–12:16] The decision to take control and start CTS during the pandemic.[12:16–17:40] The 3 a.m. night, the Harder Than It Looks episode, and connecting with Sue Malone.[18:56] The emotional weight of the SBA approval and what it unlocked.[21:50–23:03] Supplying the Embarcadero garages and SFMTA’s 21 San Francisco locations.[25:34] Signs of life for CTS during the pandemic: airports, hospitals, and essential services.[27:19] Why CTS is different – consumables as a managed service.[29:53] Cole Cube: the automated, on-site ticket supply room.[33:10–35:13] How Cole Cube was conceived by examining empty server rooms in garages.[35:45] What’s next: an LA-based Cole Cube, robotics, and credentialing technology.[37:40] Why small business partnerships matter in the industry.[39:29] What experience has taught her about solving big problems.[42:02–49:30] Lightning round: favorite phrases, hardest moments, proudest achievements.Notable Quotes“I wasn’t sleeping. I couldn’t get funding. But I wasn’t giving up. I’ve never given up.” – Susan Cole“You can’t just deliver a product. There has to be a service behind it.” – Susan Cole“There are many roads to Rome - you just have to stick to one and keep going.” – Susan ColeAbout the GuestSusan Cole is the Founder & CEO of Cole Ticket Solutions (CTS), a woman-owned, ACDBE-certified business providing tickets, credentials, and consumables for airports, municipalities, operators, manufacturers, and transportation systems across North America.With 20+ years in the parking industry and deep experience in supply chain, credentialing, and automation, Susan is known for pushing boundaries - from launching CTS during the pandemic to creating the innovative Cole Cube supply model in San Francisco and Los Angeles. 

In this episode, host Brian Wolff sits down with Jeff Siegler, author, urbanist, and founder of Revitalize or Die, for a candid conversation about civic pride, apathy, and how an overemphasis on parking might actually be holding our communities back. Jeff brings a unique perspective - challenging the idea that “more parking” equals “more progress.” He shares lessons from two decades helping towns revitalize, the emotional roots of civic decline, and why action is the antidote to apathy. The discussion touches on leadership, walkability, car culture, and how the health of a place directly impacts the health of its people. Whether you agree or disagree, this episode will make you rethink what really makes a city thrive. Key Takeaways: Apathy, not infrastructure, is often the real cause of civic decline. Parking is a utility, not a destination. Cities thrive when they build for people first, not cars. “Raise your standards” - better places begin with higher expectations from leaders and residents alike. Action cures apathy. Real progress starts with simple, visible change - planting flowers, picking up trash, cleaning sidewalks. Good design is good health. Where we live shapes our physical and mental well-being more than we realize. Main Topics & Timestamps: [3:30] Jeff's background growing up in a struggling rust belt town [8:45] Career path from Main Street director to revitalization consultant   [12:20] Signs of community health vs. decline [16:15] Root causes: Apathy vs. technical problems [22:30] Breaking through apathy with small actions [28:45] The problem with obsessing over parking  [35:20] Why great places don't need abundant parking [42:10] How cities should think about parking as a utility [48:30] New urbanism and walkable communities [52:15] Community transformation success stories [58:40] Design principles for parking in cities [64:20] What separates progressing vs. stuck communities [68:30] Hope for the future of towns and cities  About Jeff Siegler: Jeff Siegler is an urbanist author and founder of Revitalize or Die; a consulting firm focused on helping revitalize struggling towns and cities. Jeff has been working in revitalization for the past two decades, including time serving as a Main Street as well as a statewide Main Street coordinator. He is also an elected commissioner in Pennsylvania, serving Pittsburgh proper. Jeff published his first book, “Your City is Sick” in 2023. 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by Dave Mueller, President of Parking Concepts Inc. (PCI), and Rafael Abanilla, Senior Vice President of Operations and Innovation at PCI.  These industry veterans share insights on leadership, technology integration, and maintaining company culture in the evolving parking industry. Key Takeaways:1. Technology should enhance, not replace human service2. Consistency in leadership builds trust and predictability3. An agnostic technology approach provides flexibility to adopt best solutions4. Front-line experience shapes better leadership decisions5. Preserving company culture during growth requires intentional effort Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction and guest backgrounds[00:03:06] Dave's career journey from car rental to parking[00:08:28] Rafael's parking career beginning at age 17[00:12:00] Leadership lessons from customer service industries[00:20:00] PCI's "AI plus human touch" philosophy explained[00:27:00] Overview of PCI's Breeze technology platform[00:36:00] Leadership principles and managing change[00:41:00] Next generation leadership requirements in parking[00:47:00] Lightning round of personal questions[01:00:00] What Dave and Rafael are most proud of professionallyAbout our Guests:Dave Mueller is President of Parking Concepts Inc. (PCI), bringing over 40 years of experience in the car rental and parking industries. He joined PCI in 2006 and has been instrumental in the company's growth and cultural preservation. Rafael Abanilla is Senior Vice President of Operations and Innovation at PCI, with 25 years of experience in parking and mobility. He oversees high-profile portfolios and drives PCI's innovation strategy through their proprietary Breeze technology suite.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by Dean Ahmad, Vice President of Parking and Transportation at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport (DFW).  Dean shares his remarkable journey from entrepreneurial beginnings to leading a team of over 300 employees at one of the busiest airports in the world. Dean offers insights on building organizational culture, driving innovation, and developing employees. His people-first leadership approach has resulted in the highest engagement scores at DFW, despite overseeing some of the lowest-paid frontline workers.Key Takeaways:1. Hire for heart first, skills second2. Build strong cross-functional relationships before you need them3. Empower employees through voluntary engagement teams and peer recognition4. Implement one-on-one development conversations at all levels5. Align innovation with both customer experience and employee focus Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction and Dean Ahmad's background[00:02:49] Dean's entrepreneurial beginnings in antiques and furniture[00:08:00] Career transition to airport parking industry[00:14:00] Leadership philosophy and importance of relationships[00:19:00] Organizational alignment strategies and town halls[00:25:00] Hiring philosophy and employee development approach[00:28:00] Implementation of frontline development plans[00:33:00] Employee engagement programs and Emmy Awards[00:39:00] Innovation approach and cashless implementation[00:43:00] Lightning round questions[00:47:00] Dean's vision for improving public perception of parking[00:52:00] What Dean is most proud of in his career About Dean Ahmad:Dean Ahmad is the Vice President of Parking and Transportation at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport (DFW). With over 27 years of experience in customer service and marketing, Dean leads a team of 300+ employees, overseeing strategic direction and customer service efforts within the airport. His accomplishments include implementing the first yield management system in a US airport and creating the world's largest valet parking operation.

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Gabe Mendez, PTMP - Director of Transportation Operations at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.   Gabe brings over two decades of experience in the parking and transportation industries. Gabe shares insights from his time in commercial parking operations to leading transportation services at one of America's largest universities. He offers a candid look at the challenges and opportunities facing parking professionals today, from event management to embracing new technologies.  Key Takeaways: 1. Leadership in parking requires taking responsibility for team failures while celebrating collective successes 2. Customer experience should drive operations, not the other way around 3. Effective event parking management requires equal focus on ingress and egress  4. The role of parking directors is evolving to include multimodal mobility, real estate management, and broader business operations 5. Hiring practices in the industry need modernization to attract and retain talent  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction and Gabe's background [00:03:33] Gabe's career journey starting in 2001 [00:08:00] Transition from Arizona State to UW Madison [00:15:30] Early leadership challenges and lessons learned [00:20:00] Overview of UW Madison parking operations [00:28:00] Event parking strategies and innovations [00:34:00] Balancing operational efficiency with customer experience [00:36:00] Universities' role in smart mobility technology adoption [00:39:00] Industry challenges: succession planning and hiring [00:43:00] The future of parking director roles [00:47:00] Lightning round questions  About Gabe Mendez: Gabe Mendez, PTMP, has served as the Director of Transportation Operations at the University of Wisconsin-Madison since August 2020. With a career spanning over two decades in the parking, transportation, and mobility industry, Gabe brings experience from commercial, municipal, and academic sectors. He is an active member of several professional organizations including the International Parking and Mobility Institute (IPMI) where he serves on the board of directors. 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks Parking Uncovered, host Brian Wolff sits down with Bob Murray, CTO at CampusParc, and James Paden, Chief Product Officer at Parker Technology. These tech veterans share their experiences transitioning into the parking industry and offer insights on how outside expertise is driving innovation in parking operations. Bob and James discuss the challenges of integrating modern technology into legacy parking systems, the potential of AI in improving customer service, and why pairing tech innovators with parking industry veterans is crucial for success. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of parking technology and operations. Key Takeaways:1. Pairing outside tech talent with parking industry veterans is essential for successful innovation2. The parking industry still relies on outdated technologies, creating challenges for modernization3. AI implementation should be problem-focused, not just adopted for the sake of being trendy4. Integration between parking vendors remains a significant challenge due to incompatible systems5. Data quality and governance are critical for successful AI implementation in parking operations Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction and guest backgrounds[00:03:41] The importance of pairing outside talent with parking expertise[00:04:10] Technology gaps and legacy systems in parking[00:06:22] Integration challenges between parking vendors[00:13:00] Managing gaps between parking solutions[00:18:05] AI implementation philosophy and strategies[00:20:00] Ohio State's complex parking system as an AI use case[00:24:00] James's AI experimentation and platform changes[00:27:42] Business cases for AI in parking operations[00:35:28] Optimism about parking technology's future"If you're the parking person, get the non-parking person. If you're the non-parking person, think about getting a parking person. Really that combination can help us grow." - Bob Murray For more information, visit www.parkertechnology.com 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks Parking Uncovered, host Brian Wolff sits down with Greg Brewer, the newly appointed President and CEO of Amano McGann, Inc. Greg shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to leading one of the parking industry's top technology providers. He offers insights on authentic leadership, company culture transformation, and balancing technological innovation with essential human interaction in parking operations.  Key Takeaways: Authentic leadership rooted in diverse industry experience builds credibility and relatability Unifying company culture requires breaking down silos between branches and corporate Empower employees to make customer-centric decisions based on empathy While technology streamlines operations, human interaction remains crucial for customer satisfaction Personal and professional growth comes from embracing mentorship and new challenges  Episode Highlights: [00:02:29] Greg's childhood and early career path [00:08:00] Entering the parking industry under mentor Henry Allen [00:14:00] Joining Amano McGann and rising through the ranks [00:18:00] Navigating company restructuring and COVID-19 challenges  [00:20:00] Vision for continuous improvement as new CEO [00:28:00] Balancing innovation and customer experience [00:39:00] Community involvement with Bridge of Unity nonprofit [00:46:00] Lightning round questions on leadership and life  Notable Quotes: "Nothing happens till somebody sells something." - Greg's signature phrase  "When the magic really happens is when folks that aren't on your payroll start selling for you." - On building customer advocacy  Resources Mentioned: - Amano McGann, Inc. (AMI) - www.amanomcgann.com - Bridge of Unity nonprofit About Greg Brewer: Greg Brewer is the President and CEO of Amano McGann, Inc., a leading provider of parking access and revenue control systems. With over 20 years of experience in the parking industry, Greg has worked his way up from service technician to sales roles to executive leadership. He is passionate about authentic leadership, continuous improvement, and giving back to his community.  Contact Information: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Greg Brewer  To learn more about Parker Technology, visit parkertechnology.com 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by James Paden, Chief Product Officer at Parker Technology. With 25 years of software experience, James shares his insights on the rapidly evolving world of AI in the parking industry. From the challenges of implementing voice AI to the future of customer service, this conversation explores how parking is both leading and adapting to technological change. Guest: James Paden, Chief Product Officer at Parker Technology Key Takeaways: AI is transforming parking, but still faces hurdles, especially in voice/audio applications Parking is surprisingly cutting-edge in some AI applications like license plate recognition AI will augment rather than fully replace human customer service in parking Successful AI implementation requires balancing speed, accuracy, and user experience Rapid technological change in parking is creating new opportunities for innovation  Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Introduction to James Paden and his background [00:04:08] James' journey to Parker Technology [00:07:00] The unique position of Parker in the AI landscape [00:11:24] Challenges of implementing voice AI in parking environments [00:15:40] The state of AI in the parking industry [00:21:16] How AI is changing software development and business operations [00:25:00] The future of license plate recognition and ticketing [00:30:24] Will AI replace customer service reps? [00:33:41] Lightning Round Q&A [00:54:13] James' vision for improving parking garages [00:58:46] The importance of company culture in retention Notable Quotes: "AI's not going to replace you, but somebody else using AI will." "I think people overestimate what AI can do today when they talk about sprinkling magic AI fairy dust on top of things. And then simultaneously there's a whole bunch of people who underestimate what is actually possible and where that technology is." "We're uniquely placed to be able to do that. And yes, I think AI will get to a point where AI can assist with 80% of frontline parking problems someday. You know, or, or maybe it's 60% or maybe it's 90, I don't know, right? But a high percentage. But what that means is there's still a decent chunk left over and you have to have a person to assist with that." Contact James Paden: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamespaden/ Learn more about Parker Technology: Website: www.parkertechnology.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/parker-technology-llc/ 

In this special episode, recorded live on the expo hall floor at IPMI 2025, Brian Wolff, Heidi Barber, Tina Gray, and Courtney Cooper talk to 9 parking leaders about what’s working, what’s not, and what they’d change with a magic wand. From drones and data to broken gates and customer confusion - it’s a rapid-fire tour of the industry's most pressing challenges. Key Takeaways AI, LPR, and cashless tech are gaining momentum Small operators are creating big impact with service and speed Public education is key to addressing parking complaints Drones, signage strategy, and predictive analytics are shaping the future Featured Guests: 00:54 – Tiffany Wells (Bethlehem Parking Authority) 03:16 – Larry Cohen, PTMP (Lancaster Parking Authority) 11:03 – Haas Khalfan (Signs and Decal Corp)  14:50 – John Morgan (PMT Consulting) 25:40 – Corinne Zurcher (Pivot Parking) 29:14 – James McDyre, MPA, PTMP (Penn State) 30:39 – Luke Anderson (Penn State) 33:46 – Gabe Mendez, PTMP (UW-Madison, IPMI Board) 40:14 – Marlene Cramer, PTMP (Cal Poly SLO, IPMI Board) Subscribe and Stay Connected: Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YouTube  Connect with Parker Technology: Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com Or email us: [email protected] 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff sits down with Jeff Pinyot – the President of ECO Parking Technologies.  Jeff’s journey started in Pittsburgh and evolved from air conditioning sales to pioneering lighting solutions – and finally to developing the world’s first fully integrated wireless parking guidance system. With multiple patents, a knack for invention (yes, even soda packaging), and a passion for helping others grow, Jeff opens up about the risks, the pivots, and the purpose that drive his work.  This conversation is packed with practical wisdom on engineering innovation, entrepreneurial perseverance, and the power of staying focused when the world says to diversify.  Key Takeaways: How failure, tariffs, and COVID unlocked ECO’s best years The value of in-person collaboration in tech innovation What Google saw in ECO Parking Tech – and why they bet on it Leading with faith, humility, and a problem-solver’s mindset  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Meet Jeff Pinyot – president, engineer, and ECO Parking Tech founder [00:02:00] From Pittsburgh to Pitt to patents – Jeff’s early life and path [00:03:30] Launching Level Solutions and discovering the future in lighting [00:05:10] The pivot to parking: listening to the market, but building it better [00:06:45] How tariffs and Chinese imports forced a strategic shift [00:08:00] Going wireless: the thinking behind Falcon Vision [00:10:10] The power of being in-person: collaboration as a secret weapon [00:13:30] LED isn’t magic – it’s math and laser-like focus [00:14:30] Patents, IP strategy, and why software is the soul of the product [00:16:00] The “two-can” patent – and a (literally) sticky pitch to Pepsi [00:18:00] Leadership style: deep-end learning and leading by watching [00:20:00] Winning Fountainbleu with humility – and bringing his son [00:22:00] Writing 150+ “Marketing Minutes” – and why his first kiss article stands out [00:26:30] Jeff’s approach to faith, business values, and ethical competition [00:28:30] Working with Google and building the backbone for national parking tech [00:31:30] Pittsburgh pride, the Steelers, and what it means to stay loyal  About Jeff Pinyot: Jeff Pinyot is the president and co-founder of ECO Parking Technologies, creators of the Falcon Vision guidance system – the world’s first wireless, integrated light-based parking guidance solution. A civil engineering graduate from the University of Pittsburgh, Jeff is a serial innovator, author of over 150 articles, and a proud family man. His faith-driven leadership style and collaborative mindset have helped ECO grow through adversity into one of the most respected names in parking tech.  Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com Contact: [email protected] 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by Kenzie Coulson, Parking and Mobility Consultant at Walker Consultants, known for leading high-stakes projects like Park City's paid parking rollout and Salt Lake City's City Creek parking overhaul. Kenzie shares behind-the-scenes stories about transforming emotionally charged parking environments, navigating complex municipal politics, and balancing leadership with vulnerability. Listen in to learn why "parking is never just about parking," and how understanding human dynamics can drive operational success. Key Takeaways: How to successfully introduce paid parking despite public resistance Navigating politics and internal silos within municipal projects Balancing decisive leadership with openness and vulnerability Strategic planning tactics to define clear measures of success How to empower your team by connecting daily actions to larger goals Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Meet Kenzie Coulson – parking innovator and mobility consultant [00:02:31] Kenzie's unexpected start in parking management in Alaska [00:05:18] Leading transportation logistics for Sundance Film Festival [00:08:25] How Park City launched paid parking amid heavy resistance [00:11:13] Overhauling City Creek's massive 13,000-space facility [00:13:22] Navigating the challenge of introducing emotionally charged change [00:16:06] Effective strategies for breaking down organizational silos [00:18:09] The surprising power of vulnerability in leadership [00:20:07] Frameworks for successful strategic planning and implementation [00:22:37] Defining success in parking: deciding what matters most [00:26:06] Techniques to reduce negativity and boost team morale [00:32:30] Why great leaders redefine timelines and success metrics [00:34:25] Leadership vs. management – and why you need both [00:36:44] Empowerment in action: connecting frontline decisions to the big picture [00:42:08] Lightning Round About Kenzie Coulson: Kenzie Coulson is a Parking and Mobility Consultant at Walker Consultants, with over 25 years of experience transforming complex parking operations. She led groundbreaking projects including Park City Municipal’s paid parking implementation and Salt Lake City’s City Creek parking facility overhaul. Known for her strategic acumen and empathetic leadership style, Kenzie empowers municipalities and private operators nationwide to turn parking challenges into success stories. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com Contact: [email protected] 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, host Brian Wolff is joined by the extraordinary Sue Malone - the first woman to operate a parking garage in the U.S., and the nation’s most prolific small business lender. After being denied a loan for her own business, Sue took matters into her own hands. The result? Over 41,000 SBA loans funded to date - with a mission to reach 100,000. She shares unfiltered stories from her early parking days (car thefts, Bondo, and FBI calls), her journey into small business advocacy, and why she’s built a career on empowering veterans, women, and underrepresented entrepreneurs. This conversation is a masterclass in grit, civic leadership, and the power of saying “yes” when the world says “no.” Key Takeaways: Turning Loan Rejection into a Scalable Lending Model Identifying Underserved Markets at Scale Building Infrastructure for Capital Access Strategic Investment in High-Impact Startups Influencing Policy for Entrepreneurial Growth Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Meet Sue Malone - SBA legend & parking pioneer [00:02:36] Childhood obsession with how business works [00:04:08] Running garages & launching a nonprofit ice cream stand [00:05:00] Russian car thieves and the “Killer Car” story [00:06:13] Denied a loan - and built a lending movement [00:09:00] Collaborating with local banks to expand access [00:10:56] SBA loans: What they are & why they matter [00:11:16] How she discovered Ocra and fought for their spot [00:15:40] Appalachia success stories: looms, knitwear, Greek food [00:17:34] Launching businesses for veterans - including a tattoo shop [00:19:40] Sue’s philosophy on fear - and how it limits us [00:21:16] Getting bipartisan legislation passed behind the scenes [00:23:32] Pushing to fix the R&D tax credit [00:25:00] Queen of Bondo: wild garage stories & labor negotiations [00:28:00] Her biggest missed deal - and why she’ll never play it safe again [00:30:24] Civility in business: competitors, kindness & professionalism [00:33:41] Lightning Round About Sue Malone: Sue Malone is President of Strategies for Small Business and one of the most impactful SBA lenders in America. Since 2001, she has funded over 41,000 loans and helped entrepreneurs across all 50 states - with a mission to support underserved, minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses. She is also the founder of NationalLienLaw.com, co-founder of VetPower.org, and sits on national boards including the Long Beach Accelerator, Ocra, and the National Forum on Diversity in Construction. A former commercial real estate executive and parking operator, Sue holds an MBA from St. Mary’s College and is a fierce advocate for entrepreneurs who are willing to work for their dreams. Resources: Strategies for Small Business National Lien Law VetPower.org Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com Contact: [email protected]    

In this special live episode recorded at PIE25, Brian welcomes Andrew Bess, Managing Director at TrueNorth Capital Partners. With over two decades of experience in strategic advisory and corporate finance, Andrew has advised industry-shaping companies like Icon Parking, The Car Park, Oobeo, Valet Manager, On Air Parking, and CurbTrac.  He shares why parking is far more complex than most outsiders realize—from its operational intricacies to the data and tech gaps that still challenge operators today. Whether you're a municipal leader, tech innovator, or operator navigating consolidation, this episode delivers deep insights into the evolving world of urban mobility and smart city infrastructure.   Key Takeaways The Real Complexity of Parking: Why 80% of the business is accounting—and how that drives tech adoption. From Geology to Deal-Making: Andrew’s fascinating route from mobile labs in Europe to New York boardrooms. Why Tech is Still Catching Up: Parking’s fragmentation is a barrier—but also a massive opportunity. Trends Reshaping the Industry: Curb management, EV charging, AI, and what the next wave of change looks like. Smart Growth Through Consolidation: Why private operators are being scooped up—and what buyers are really looking for.   Episode Highlights [00:00:20] Welcome from PIE25 – Brian introduces Andrew and kicks off the live podcast. [00:02:55] Andrew’s career journey: from geology to investment banking to parking tech. [00:05:05] Running cross-border deals, founding firms, and falling in love with negotiation. [00:06:50] Inside the Icon Parking transaction—and how it exposed a massive tech opportunity. [00:09:20] Why most of parking is accounting—and how that complicates software. [00:12:50] Real-world complexity: one person, three parker identities in a day. [00:14:20] Parking tech: where we are now and what the next evolution looks like. [00:17:30] AVs, Waymo, and how autonomous trends intersect with Gateless and LPR. [00:21:30] The curb is calling: congestion pricing, regulations, and infrastructure gaps. [00:24:50] Tech consolidation and the inflection point for small providers. [00:26:20] Why small private operators are ripe for acquisition—and what’s driving the wave. [00:29:20] The role of generational change in ownership transitions. [00:31:20] Parking demand isn’t dying—why trips still require a place to park. [00:32:50] The truth about EV charging: it’s an amenity, not a cash cow. [00:34:35] AI in parking: real innovation or just a fancy label for BI? [00:36:50] Lightning Round: running the Grand Canyon, favorite phrases, and what Andrew’s most proud of. [00:42:20] Audience Q&A: dynamic pricing, RFP bottlenecks, and the power of standardization.  Subscribe and Stay Connected Never miss an episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered. Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YouTube  Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com Contact: [email protected]  

Recorded live from the PIE 2025 Show Floor, this special episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered brings you 18 unique voices from across the parking industry. Host Brian Wolff and producer Courtney Cooper team up to capture candid conversations with parking pros from across the country — covering everything from on-the-ground challenges to big-picture trends. You’ll hear directly from the people shaping the future of the industry — and get a fast-paced, honest look at what it really takes to keep parking moving. What You’ll Learn: The biggest operational headaches — and how companies are adapting How leaders approach staffing and workforce retention in a changing labor market What new technology is exciting (and what’s overhyped) How people are thinking about AI, LPR, and customer communication What keeps parking professionals motivated — and why they stay in the industry Featured Guests & Timestamps: [00:01:05] David Weber – Umojo [00:03:32] Elliot Uhlenhaker – Parking Today [00:07:46] Emma Ulmer – Offstreet [00:11:48] Sarah Choops – CampusParc [00:16:48] Kevin Uhlenhaker – Parking Today [00:25:55] John Conway – PRRS [00:34:12] Nick Nicholas – Seal Beach Police Department [00:39:54] Raf Abanilla – Parking Concepts Inc [00:47:16] Fonda Moyers – Bird X [00:52:09] Brian Wolff – Parker Technology [01:00:56] Amanda Zimmer – IPS Group [01:06:12] Garrett Hofeld – Risetek Global [01:10:46] Serena Pollack – Interstate Parking [01:15:07] Heidi Barber – Parker Technology [01:18:00] Jordan Weiss – Umojo [01:22:47] Amanda Duffy – TagMaster North America [01:26:37] Robert Wilson – Parking Pin [01:32:33] Wes Bain – FAAC Subscribe and Stay Connected: Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YouTube  Connect with Parker Technology: Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com  

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, Brian Wolff sits down with Rob Zuritsky, President and CEO of Parkway Corporation, and Chairman of the Board of the National Parking Association (NPA). Rob shares how he’s carrying forward a 100-year family legacy while pushing Parkway into its next chapter through billion-dollar real estate projects, parking innovation, and bold leadership at the NPA.  From childhood shifts in garages to billion-dollar towers and nationwide partnerships, Rob gets real about what it takes to lead in both the parking and real estate industries.  Rob also opens up about family business dynamics, his vision for elevating the image of parking nationwide, and why the next ten years will be pivotal for the industry.  Key Takeaways from this Episode: From Garage to Boardroom: How growing up in the business shaped Rob’s leadership today. Strategic Tech Transitions: Lessons from moving Parkway to a single, modern platform. Legacy & Leadership: What it takes to keep a third-generation family business thriving. Changing the Narrative: Rob’s mission to reshape the public image of the parking industry. What’s Next for Parkway: Land carry funds, real estate reinvention, and national expansion.  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Meet Rob Zuritsky: CEO, legacy leader, and real estate visionary.   [00:02:47] Parkway’s origin story: From film reels to parking lots.   [00:06:20] Building billion-dollar projects on old parking sites.   [00:10:31] Family business dynamics and generational leadership.   [00:16:00] Standardizing tech: How Parkway chose a unified platform.   [00:22:27] Gateless vs gated: Where the industry is heading (and why context matters).   [00:24:03] Rob’s 10-year mission to rebrand parking through NPA.   [00:30:08] Best practices, policy, and elevating the conversation.   [00:33:23] Real estate outlook: Parkway’s new fund and what’s ahead.   [00:35:57] Lightning round: Poker, pride, and parking frustrations.  Subscribe and Stay Connected: Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YouTube   Connect with Parker Technology: Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com  Or email us: [email protected]  

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, our host Brian Wolff sits down with Joe Galeas, CEO of the Parking Solutions Division of Scheidt & Bachmann (S&B), and Hector Miranda, VP of Product and Marketing at S&B.  With a combined 40+ years in the parking industry, Joe and Hector break down how Scheidt and Bachmann, a 150-year-old global leader, is shaking up parking with data-driven leadership, digital transformation, and open-system integrations.  Throughout the show, Joe Galeas shares how analytics and process optimization are driving S&B’s future. Hector, a parking veteran and S&B’s first U.S. employee, reflects on how the company has evolved from closed systems to an open, customer-first approach.  They also discuss the biggest shifts in parking technology, the push for frictionless experiences, and the leadership principles that turn teams into powerhouses.  Key Takeaways from this Episode: Data-Driven Leadership: How numbers drive better business decisions. The Evolution of Parking Technology: From closed to open systems. Customer Expectations Are Changing: The rise of frictionless parking. Culture & Longevity Matter: Why S&B thrives after 150 years. The Future of Parking: AI, automation, and smarter integrations.  Episode Highlights:  [00:00:00] Introduction to Joe & Hector. [00:02:22] Joe’s journey from telecom to parking. [00:06:52] Hector’s 30-year career at S&B. [00:10:56] S&B’s growth and company culture. [00:15:26] Data-driven leadership and decision-making. [00:20:06] Mentorship, collaboration, and company success. [00:26:28] Digital transformation and customer expectations. [00:31:38] Open systems and industry partnerships. [00:37:02] The future of parking technology. [00:42:10] Lightning round: leadership, hobbies, and home renovations.  Subscribe and Stay Connected:  Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YouTube  Connect with Parker Technology:  Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com or email us at [email protected]. 

 In this special episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, host Brian Wolff, CEO of Parker Technology, welcomes Heidi Barber, VP of Marketing at Parker Technology, and Courtney Cooper, Events & Community Manager at Parker Technology, to discuss FUSION25 - Parker Technology’s first-ever user conference.  Heidi and Courtney share the vision behind FUSION25, how it was designed to bring customers, partners, and industry leaders together, and what attendees can expect from this highly curated, customer-focused experience. Unlike traditional conferences, FUSION25 built around real-world learning, innovation, and community, offering actionable insights into getting the most out of Parker Technology’s solution. Attendees will engage in expert-led sessions, hands-on technology deep dives, and networking opportunities - all designed to elevate the role of customer experience in parking operations.   Key Takeaways from this Episode: The Origins of FUSION25 What Makes FUSION25 Unique Session Highlights & Keynotes The Future of FUSION25  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Heidi Barber and Courtney Cooper [00:02:00] How Heidi & Courtney started their careers in parking and marketing [00:08:00] The vision for FUSION25 and what sparked the idea [00:15:00] The importance of customer engagement and creating a valuable experience [00:22:00] What makes FUSION25 different from other parking conferences [00:28:00] Key sessions a FUSION25 [00:35:00] Fun networking events: Speed networking, customer awards, and exclusive social gatherings [00:42:00] The broader impact of FUSION25 on the parking industry [00:48:00] Looking ahead: The future of FUSION and what to expect in the coming years  Register for FUSION25 – Special Code for Podcast Listeners Parker Technology invites customers and partners to FUSION25 on May 27-29, 2025, in Indianapolis, IN. Listeners of this podcast can save 25% on registration with the promo code HTIL at checkout.  🔗 Register now at www.parkertechnology.com/Fusion25  Subscribe and Stay Connected 🎧 Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect with Parker Technology: Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com or email us at [email protected]. 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, Brian Wolff sits down with Cindy Campbell, Senior Training Development Specialist at the International Parking and Mobility Institute (IPMI). With over 40 years of experience spanning law enforcement, parking, and training, Cindy shares her inspiring journey from policing to becoming one of the parking industry's most passionate educators.  Cindy’s story is one of resilience, humility, and growth - her candid reflections on her career on this episode mirror the authenticity she’s known for in the industry… one of the many reasons she’s widely respected and admired by those who learn from her experiences.  Key Takeaways from this Episode: Lessons in humility: recognizing when you’re the problem and how to grow from it. Why active listening and empathy are essential in customer service. The role of parking professionals as “chaos preventers” and their impact on public perception. Strategies for managing difficult customer interactions with professionalism.  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Cindy Campbell and her role at IPMI. [00:02:00] Cindy’s beginnings in law enforcement and her unexpected shift to parking. [00:05:30] Early challenges and misconceptions about parking enforcement. [00:14:30] The pivotal moment that reshaped Cindy’s approach to customer service. [00:24:45] Tips for handling rude or abusive customers with grace and professionalism. [00:35:10] Observations on post-pandemic shifts in customer behavior. [00:44:00] Advice for young and mid-career professionals in parking: never stop learning and always listen actively.  Subscribe and Stay Connected: Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music  Connect with Parker Technology: While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected] 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, host Brian Wolff welcomes Kevin Uhlenhaker, CEO and Publisher of Parking Today Media. Kevin’s remarkable journey spans from his early days as a developer to becoming a pivotal voice in the parking industry, with two successful company exits and the recent acquisition of Parking Today Media.  Kevin shares his insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the challenges of reshaping the narrative around parking. This episode dives into his passion for fostering innovation, the importance of standards in the industry, and the exciting future of the PIE 2025 Conference under his leadership.  Key Takeaways from this Episode: The value of understanding industry nuance for business success. Leadership lessons: empowering teams and navigating tough decisions. The role of AI in reshaping parking and media industries. Kevin’s vision for transforming Parking Today into a digitally-forward platform while honoring its legacy.  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Kevin Uhlenhaker and his diverse background in parking and technology. [00:01:20] Kevin’s journey from Texas Tech University to co-founding NuPark and OmniPark. [00:08:00] Building and selling successful parking technology companies: Challenges and lessons learned. [00:15:30] The acquisition of Parking Today Media: Kevin shares the story behind the deal and his plans for modernizing the publication. [00:25:00] Embracing AI in parking and media: Kevin discusses the tools and opportunities shaping the future of both industries. [00:32:00] Standards and connectivity in parking: Why creating industry-wide standards is critical for innovation and growth. [00:42:00] Behind the scenes at PIE 2025: Kevin teases the exciting new format, activities, and opportunities attendees can expect. [00:47:00] Reflections on parking's future: Kevin explains how the industry will become more connected and seamless while maintaining its critical role. [00:52:00] Kevin’s personal journey and leadership lessons: Insights on empowering teams, overcoming challenges, and maintaining a family-work balance.  Upcoming Event – PIE 2025 Conference Highlights: The Parking Industry Expo (PIE) 2025 Conference is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event for anyone in the parking industry. Under Kevin’s leadership, PIE 2025 has been reimagined as the friendliest and most forward-thinking show in parking. Here’s a taste of what you can expect: Innovative Tracks and Sessions ParkFlix – A Parking Film Festival Networking Opportunities Galore Live Podcast Row Real Talk Sessions Accelerate – The Parking Pitch Competition  Subscribe and Stay Connected: Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music  Connect with Parker Technology: Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com or email us at [email protected].  

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, Brian Wolff interviews Rick Serra, Vice President at Premium Parking and co-founder of Allpro Parking. With over 50 years of experience in parking, Rick shares invaluable insights, anecdotes, and his journey from radio broadcasting to becoming a parking industry leader. From his early days as a parking attendant in Boston to building Allpro Parking into a trusted brand, Rick’s career exemplifies how hard work, strong relationships, and a focus on quality can create a lasting legacy. Key Takeaways from this Episode: Hands-on leadership and treating employees with respect. Transitioning from a corporate role to starting a business Why curb appeal and first impressions matter Evolving technology and customer expectations in parking Tips for fostering meaningful industry relationships Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Rick Serra and his 50-year parking career. [00:02:51] Rick’s journey from radio broadcasting to parking. [00:10:12] Lessons learned from working at Allright Parking and Allpro Parking. [00:22:00] The decision to sell Allpro Parking to Premium Parking. [00:29:45] Rick's love for Corvettes and how passion drives personal success. [00:35:30] Reflections on the evolution of the parking industry and its future. Connect with Parker Technology.  While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected] 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, Brian Wolff interviews Todd Tucker, Chief Operating Officer of PRRS Parking/Asura Technologies, whose impressive 31-year journey in the parking industry spans operations, technology, and leadership. From humble beginnings in West Virginia to becoming a Marine Corps veteran and earning multiple advanced degrees, Todd brings unparalleled insights into the evolution of parking and its future. Todd shares pivotal moments from his career, including his transition from parking operations to technology and his passion for innovation. His candid reflections on challenges, leadership, and the importance of relationships in the industry offer listeners valuable lessons and inspiration.   Key Takeaways from this Episode: The critical role of relationships in parking and technology sales. How Todd’s military service shaped his discipline and leadership approach. The journey from parking operations to guiding tech innovations The importance of supporting veterans in the workplace and beyond. A vision for the future of parking: digitization, customer-centric solutions, and collaborative innovations.   Episode Highlights: [00:00:26] Introduction to Todd Tucker [00:02:52] Todd’s journey from West Virginia to the Marine Corps [00:10:13] Pursuing advanced degrees while working in parking operations [00:20:53] Challenges of selling technology in a fragmented parking market [00:29:10] Reflections on the importance of relationships in business [00:37:21] Supporting veterans: the mission of Veterans in Parking. [00:51:36] Todd’s thoughts on the future of parking and technology. [00:54:23] Lessons learned from union negotiation.   Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

In this episode, Brian interviews Mike Simmons, the Chairman and CEO of Tez Technology, discussing his remarkable journey from a farm kid in Indiana to leading significant technology transformations in the parking industry. Mike shares insights from his early career at IBM, PepsiCo, and GM, and provides a unique perspective on his successful ventures, including founding T2 Systems.In Segment 2, Brian switches gears to talk with Parker’s new Chief Product Officer, James Paden. James discusses the future of parking technology and how AI can enhance customer service. He highlights the evolution of the parking industry, the importance of integrating various systems, and the role of generative and agentic AI in providing proactive solutions.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:The value of hard workDiversity in experienceWorking with integrityParker Technology’s vision of AIBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Mike Simmons:00:26 Mike Simmons' Career Journey04:30 Early Life and Engineering Passion07:57 Transition to IBM and Sales13:17 Entrepreneurial Ventures and T2 Systems40:17 Philanthropy and Community Involvement43:25 Passion for Cars and Silo Auto Club48:55 Professional Challenges and Triumphs51:36 Impact of the Pandemic on Parking53:14 The Future of Parking TechnologySegment 2 with James Paden:59:06 Introducing James Paden: New Chief Product Officer01:01:16 James Paden's Vision for Parker Technologies01:02:55 Innovations in Parking01:17:26 The Role of AI in Enhancing Customer Service01:26:14 The Importance of Industry Knowledge01:33:26 ConclusionConnect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, Brian sits down with Brandon Lauterbach and Wade Hiner. In segment one, Brandon Lauterbach, CPP, Co-founder and EVP of Pivot Parking, talks about his extensive experience, career journey, and the growth of Pivot Parking. Brandon shares insights into the importance of technology, employee satisfaction, diversification, and how Pivot Parking stands apart in the industry. Brian switches gears to talk with Wade Hiner, President of Destiny Homes, who shares powerful stories about the unexpected life lessons learned, from answering cold calls, platforms, perspective shifting, and a roadside encounter. Wade discusses how these experiences shifted his perspective on life, emphasizing empathy, engagement, and finding true fulfillment by helping others.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:How diversification is importantHow to define culture and valuesTechnology’s role in parkingCareer perspectives changeEveryone has a platformThere is purpose in everythingBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Brandon Lauterbach:01:48 Brandon's Early Life and Start in Parking03:52 College Years and Valet Experience05:43 Transition to Sales and Return to Parking07:51 Joining Lanier and Career Growth11:59 Founding Pivot Parking18:59 Building the Pivot Team27:34 Pivot's Culture and Values33:20 Technology and Future Aspirations39:48 Lightning Round Questions41:03 Heartfelt Stories of Pet Rescues43:49 Challenges in the Parking Industry46:34 Solutions for Parking47:30 Life Beyond Parking: Family and Hobbies48:34 Pride in Professional AchievementsSegment 2 with Wade Hiner:51:02 Introduction to Segment Two: Wade Hiner52:42 Wade Hiner's Inspirational Journey57:44 The Power of Answering Cold Calls01:14:35 A Life-Saving Cold Call01:14:56 Changing Perspectives on Life01:15:38 Helping Others Through Shared Experiences01:18:43 The Power of a Smile01:20:05 A Roadside Encounter01:28:46 Reconnecting with Impactful People01:31:39 A Special Birthday Surprise01:40:40 Long-Term PlansConnect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, Brian sits down with Max Yoder and Tiffany Sauder. In segment one, Max Yoder (author, entrepreneur, and CEO) shares his repertoire of experiences, from co-founding Lessonly in 2012, to sharing personal stories from his upbringing, including his parents' divorce and remarriage and his motivations rooted in financial security. Max also dissects the importance of company culture, core values, and vulnerability in leadership.To explore the medicinal retreat in Vermont that Max referenced, visit their webpage.Brian switches gears to talk with Tiffany Sauder, CEO of Element Three and host of Scared Confident, along with five other commitments.Tiffany discusses how she balances several high commitment and high-stress roles, including motherhood, entrepreneurship, leadership, public speaking, and her podcast (which highlights lessons learned through her first 20 years in her career) through effective prioritization and outsourcing.Scared Confident is available on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Podcasts, as well as on her website https://www.tiffanysauder.com/podcastHere are some key takeaways from this episode:The importance of company culture and valuesLeadership is vulnerabilityLiving with compassion, balance, and purposeImproving time managementHow strategies in business and life can overlapLearn to “make friends with hard”Be sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Max Yoder:00:00 Introducing Max Yoder00:32 Max Yoder's Background and Achievements03:16 Personal Insights and Early Life06:28 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned14:23 Core Values and Company Culture32:33 Post-Lessonly Life and Personal Growth41:16 Transition to Lightning Round41:34 The Concept of 'See It, Be It'41:54 Embodying Virtues and Self-Compassion43:42 The Complexity of Parking44:44 Charity and Grace47:16 Lightning Round Begins47:59 Facing Fears and Personal Growth51:03 Selling a $30 Million Software Company52:44 Helping Others and Family LoveSegment 2 with Tiffany Sauder:55:50 Introducing Tiffany Sauder01:00:16 Balancing Family and Career01:12:37 Funny Laundry Episode01:13:07 Outsourcing Household Chores01:15:21 Handyman Hacks01:17:20 Financial Choices and Support01:19:28 Journey to Element Three01:23:50 Leadership Lessons01:39:44 Transitioning Roles01:42:56 Making Friends with HardConnect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, Brian Wolff sits down with Nicole Hankins, a Women in Parking Impact Award recipient who has lived all around the contiguous and non-contiguous United States! She shares her transformative career journey, underscoring the importance of team collaboration, people-centric leadership, and diversity initiatives.Then our very own Courtney Cooper, Events + Community Manager at Parker Technology, sits down with rising entrepreneur Ava Wettrick where she offers insights into overcoming challenges and creating networks through curiosity and persistence. Ava recounts her experiences producing podcasts early in her career, and the upcoming podcast for VETPAW, an anti-poaching non-profit in Africa, emphasizing adaptability and the value of mentorship. Both guests highlight the significance of enthusiastic leadership, with discussions on leadership philosophies, entrepreneurial ventures, and the dynamics of Gen Z in the workforce.To check out Stephynie Malik’s amazing story and follow what she's posting, visit her LinkedIn. To follow Ava and her co-host Meg on their journey with the VETPAW Podcast, visit their website.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:How to Prioritize Inclusion and MentorshipCareer Advancement and the Power of MotivationGen Z’s Impressive Impact on Technology and the WorkforceThe Power of Following PassionBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Nicole Hankins:01:57 Nicole's Career Beginnings03:49 Relocations and Family Support05:45 Operational Excellence and Team Building08:06 Leadership and Mentorship23:55 Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives36:03 The Importance of Showing Up36:32 Planning the Next Chapter37:14 Career Choices and Soul Searching38:13 Embracing Change and Opportunities40:36 The Power of Teamwork44:06 Challenges and Growth in the Parking Industry46:35 The Value of the Parking Industry48:37 Balancing Work and Personal LifeSegment 2 with Ava Wettrick:53:38 Meet Ava Wettrick: A Journey in Podcasting01:01:03 Challenges and Misconceptions of Gen Z01:11:21 Mentorship and Personal Growth01:12:10 Family Influence and Aspirations01:14:03 Networking and Professional Connections01:16:27 Entrepreneurial Journey and Challenges01:21:06 Creating the VETPAW Podcast01:29:48 Lightning Round and Personal Insights01:43:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Harder Than it Looks: Parking Uncovered', our host, Brian Wolff, CEO of Parker Technology, dives into the transformative journeys of two servant leaders. Alejandra 'Alex' Argudin, MBA, CAPP, discusses her rise from a young city worker to leading Miami Parking Authority as the CEO, as well as becoming Chair of IPMI, tackling challenges like the pandemic, advancing parking technology, and being a woman in a male-dominated industry.We then speak with Barby Valdes McDaniel, Associate Director of the WOW Center, who brings her 30-year career to light, advocating for adults with special needs.In segment one, Alex Argudin emphasized her leadership philosophy of empowering her team and promoting collaboration between the parking industry and urban planning sectors. As the new chair of the International Parking and Mobility Institute (IPMI), Alex aims to drive legislative changes and technology advancements in parking, all while remaining committed to community service.In segment two, we sit down with Barby Valdes McDaniel, who shares her lifelong dedication to serving adults with special needs, inspired by her early experiences. She detailed her impactful work at the WOW Center, providing life skills, community education, and employment opportunities for individuals with special needs, as well as the importance of family support.To learn more about and/or contribute to Barby and Alex’s work with the WOW center, visit their website https://wowcentermiami.org/Here are some key takeaways from this episode:Empathy and Leadership in the Parking IndustrySmart Cities & LegislationThe Power of Personal Connection and Community SupportServing the Special Needs CommunityBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Alex Argudin:00:21 Meet Alejandra “Alex” Argudin02:02 Alex's Early Career Journey04:28 Transition to the Parking Industry07:31 Challenges and Growth in the MPA11:43 Leadership and Modern Management12:43 Innovations and Future Plans20:11 Expanding Services and Partnerships32:00 Smart Cities and Technological Advancements34:43 The Curb and EV Challenges35:40 Micro Freight Solutions39:10 Legislation and Policy Hurdles40:41 Smart City Initiatives44:30 WOW Center: Supporting Adults with Disabilities49:54 Balancing Work and Family52:10 Lightning Round: Personal InsightsSegment 2 with Barby Valdes McDaniel:01:05:06 The Beginning of a Powerful Partnership01:09:19 A Life-Changing Experience01:13:45 Daily Operations at the WOW Center01:19:49 The Impact of Special Needs Individuals01:21:51 Personal Stories and Inspirations01:25:30 The Hospice Detour01:29:32 Supporting Special Needs Families01:33:50 How to Get Involved with the WOW Center01:37:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

To kick off the episode Brian invites Dani Crain and John D. Conway, industry legends and podcast hosts of ‘All Things Parking with Dani and John,” to share their experiences, hot industry takes, and diversity and supporting women in parking. In Segment 2, Heidi Barber, our VP of Marketing, sits down with Kyle Lacy, CMO of Jellyfish, who shares his journey in marketing growing and scaling leading tech companies. In his segment, we discuss balancing creativity with revenue, the alignment between marketing and sales, personal branding, and strategies to avoid burnout. Here are some key takeaways from this episode:Hot takes and controversy in the parking industryHow “All Things Parking with Dani and John” came to beThe value of marketing and sales alignmentStrategies to level up your personal brandBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Segment One: Dani & JohnDani's Dog Axel (02:37)Dani's Career Path: From Radio to Parking (05:04)John's Career Path: From Military to Parking (11:23)The Origin of 'All Things Parking' Podcast (19:05)Challenges and Sacrifices in the Parking Industry (35:45)Hot Takes: Smart Cities and EVs (41:56)Empowering Women in Leadership (50:47)Addressing Industry Biases (51:32)Personal and Professional Struggles (56:14)Podcast Crossover and Future Goals (01:05:36)Segment Two: Kyle LacyMarketing Insights with Kyle Lacey (01:09:16)Sales and Marketing Alignment (01:20:28)Personal Branding and Writing (01:24:00)Lightning Round (01:35:11)​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker TechnologyWhile delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

In segment one of this episode, Brian sits down with Ross Allanson, CAPP, CPP, who is the Director of Parking at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus. Ross is an industry veteran, having been in parking since 1989. He shares his wisdom on alternative transportation, micro-mobility, and efficient event parking.Then in Segment two we invite Kathy Wellik, CAFM and Senior Client Success Manager of Agile Fleet to talk about her experience in fleet management. Kathy and Brian discuss her career transition from banking to fleet management, emphasizing continuous learning and participation in professional organizations. We will also dive into her personal journey navigating male-dominated industries, overcoming gender biases, and restoring a classic 1969 Camaro.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:Cutting edge innovations in parking and transportationThe value of trusted peersElevating women’s voices in male-dominated industriesBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Segment One: Ross AllansonMeet Ross Allanson: Parking Expert (00:21)Ross's Early Life and Career Beginnings (02:20)Transition to University of Minnesota (05:15)Event Parking Insights (10:11)Leadership and Team Management (22:10)Technological Changes in Parking (28:23)Personal Stories and Reflections (35:30)Lightning Round Questions (41:40 )The Hardest Thing You've Ever Done (44:06 )Empathy in the Workplace (44:55)Parking Challenges and Solutions (47:21)Hobbies and Personal Life (48:40)Proudest Achievements (49:54)Segment Two: Kathy WellikFleet Management Insights (54:41)The Importance of Professional Organizations (01:11:03)Women in a Male-Dominated Industry (01:15:18)Fun and Travel Stories (01:20:15)​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker TechnologyWhile delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

This episode is a deep dive into the world of transportation and personal development.In segment one, we welcome Kenyata Smiley, Transportation Planning Department Manager at HNTB, who shares her inspirational journey from Chattanooga to leading multimodal transportation projects, emphasizing strategic planning, equity, and community engagement. She also discusses her work with the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials and Delta Sigma Theta sorority.In segment two, Nikki Miller, Executive Coach at Kairos Consulting, explores Enneagram types, recounts her decade-long experience homeschooling, her transition to public schooling, and her insights on executive coaching, personal growth, and maintaining a growth mindset. This episode is filled with relatable anecdotes and crucial takeaways on public participation and continuous self-improvement.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:How to build, manage, and leverage the communityInnovative ways to implement technology in the parking industryWorkplace communication and collaboration based on personality typesBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Segment One: Kenyata SmileyKenyata's Early Life and Career Beginnings (01:52)Transition to Public Administration (04:05)Career Growth and Public Sector Experience (05:25)Current Role and Responsibilities (08:36)Equity and Community Engagement (22:25)Challenges and Success Stories (27:33)Life Legacy and Appreciation (45:03)Segment Two: Nikki MillerNikki's Journey to Executive Coaching (48:16)The Enneagram and Personal Growth (57:16)Meditation and Mindfulness Techniques (1:03:46)Homeschooling and Parenting Insights (01:12:42)​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker TechnologyWhile delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

We had seasoned parking professional Brandy Stanley, CAPP on the show to share her incredible ascension within the parking industry. Brandy, with over 30 years in the parking industry, shares her journey from a valet to a VP role at FLASH, discussing industry challenges, technological advancements, and community importance.In segment two, Toph Day highlights Rally (use code: rallytoph to get a discounted ticket) and all the things that make this conference one-of-a-kind. He also shares insights into cross-sector collaborations, education shifts, and Indiana's new growth-stage fund supporting scaling companies.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:Innovative ways to implement technology in the parking industryTips and tricks to building and leveraging communityCross-sector collaboration and creative convergence and why it mattersBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Segment One: Brandy StanleyMeet Brandy Stanley (00:21)Brandy's Career Journey (01:52)Valet Stories and Career Reflections (05:22)Challenges in the Parking Industry (08:52)Engaging with Elected Officials (13:55)Technology and Parking (18:31)Personal Stories and Fun Questions (23:30)Lightning Round and Final Thoughts (29:31)Discovering Passion and Career Reflections (40:58)Gratitude for the Parking Industry (41:13)Acknowledging Contributions and Closing Remarks (42:17)FUSION25 User Conference Announcement (43:08)Segment Two: Toph DayToph’s Entrepreneurial Journey (45:52)Elevate Ventures and Indiana's Innovation Ecosystem (48:27)The Importance of Community and Acceleration (54:31)Challenges and Strategies in Venture Capital (01:00:31)Rally Innovation Conference Highlights (01:07:54)​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker TechnologyWhile delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

Today we welcomed Joseph R Madison II, Associate Director of Parking Operations at Kennesaw State University.In the episode, Joseph shares his urban planning expertise, managing parking for over 43,000 students and staff, as well as his experience connecting students with new opportunities.The conversation also delves into Joseph's involvement in IPMI's Allyship and Equity Advisory Group, as well as the anticipated impact of the World Cup on KSU.In the second segment, we explore crucial golf fundamentals with Todd Firestone, Head Golf Professional at Meridian Hills Country Club. Todd talks about his experience embodying servant leadership, and provides key tips about the importance of the starting position and large muscle engagement in golf swings.He also shares personal anecdotes, including his experiences with singing and the balance of work-life dynamics. Here are some key takeaways from this episode:Explore steps to become a leader and ally in your communityNeed for change on consumer perspective in parkingQuick tips to improve your golf gameThe importance of service-oriented approaches and leadershipBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Introducing Joseph Madison: Parking Operations at KSU (00:26)Joseph's Journey: From Urban Planning to Parking Professional (02:27)Challenges and Innovations in Parking Management (04:54)World Cup and Parking: Preparing for Major Events (06:16)KSU's Parking Layout and Technology (08:10)Communication and Enforcement Strategies at KSU (14:31)Joseph's TED Talk: We Are the Neighbors, We Are the World (18:32)Personal Stories and Advocacy for Equity (22:47)The Future of Parking and Community Engagement (36:12)Joseph's Personal Interests and Volunteer Work (40:01)Reflections on Career and Personal Growth (43:56)Joseph's Appreciation and Episode Hopes (46:15)Segment 2 with Todd Firestone:Todd's Journey to Becoming a Head Golf Professional (48:22)The Player Ability Test and the Grind (50:02)Balancing Golf and Professional Responsibilities (50:52)Managing the T Sheet and Member Experience (56:02)Building a Servant Leadership Culture (01:05:53)Golf Lessons: Starting with the Basics (01:14:16)Todd's Musical Talents and Personal Interests (01:22:20)The Importance of Self-Care and Balance (01:25:25)Strength Under Control and Final Thoughts (01:28:46 )Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks.To subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered please use the links below:Click Here to Subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click Here to Subscribe via SpotifyClick Here to Subscribe via Amazon Music If you have a chance, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts by clicking here. Thank you so much!​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

In this episode of 'Harder Than It Looks,' we delve into the intricacies of the parking industry and the entrepreneurial world. We first sit down with Joaquin Rojas, Director of Parking for Bal Harbour Shops and owner of Parking Guy consultancy.With two decades of experience, Joaquin shares his journey from parking cashier to managing significant parking operations, highlighting technological innovations and the importance of customer service in reshaping the industry. Next, we explore the entrepreneurial landscape with Steve Morrell, Managing Director of ContactBabel, a leading research and analysis firm for the contact center industry. For more information about ContactBabel, visit: https://www.contactbabel.com/Steve has written hundreds of research reports and his opinion on contact centres has been featured on the BBC, ITV, Sky, the Guardian, Forbes.com and the Financial Times. He has also advised the UK government on the effect of offshoring on the UK economy.In his segment, we discuss the value of focusing on established successes and features insights on the contact center and customer experience industry.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:How to implement technology to improve valet services and customer experienceTips on hiring and managing employees in the parking industryCustomer experience best practices for call centersHow to use AI and machine learning in customer serviceBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Joaquin Rojas:02:12 Joaquin's Early Career and Growth05:15 Challenges and Innovations at Bal Harbour Shops11:06 Event Parking and the Miami Marlins19:02 Hiring and Managing Parking Staff25:42 Technology in Parking Operations31:29 Lightning Round: Personal Insights34:42 Building Relationships in the Parking Industry35:22 Magic Wand: Fixing Tailgating in Parking36:21 Balancing Work and Family Life37:57 Pride in Helping Others SucceedSegment 2 with Steve Morrell:41:14 Steve Morrell's Journey into Contact Center Research44:09 The Importance of Customer Experience50:03 Challenges in Contact Centers and Offshoring52:59 The Role of AI in Contact Centers59:29 Funny and Challenging Parking Stories01:03:21 Lessons from Starting Multiple Businesses

We sat down with parking veteran Roamy Valera, the President of Automotus, to chat about trends and innovations popping up in parking, and what it really takes for industry outsiders to get a foothold in parking. For segment two we sat down with Amy Brown, the CEO of the fastest-growing privately-held company in Indiana, Authenticx. Amy shared insight into the challenging feat of building a venture scale high growth healthtech company while also raising 4 children. In this episode, Roamy shares insights on curb management, the gig economy, and the need for equity in parking policies. We also dive into his immigration from Cuba and how he balances work and family life. Then we talk tech with Amy Brown, who has been working in the AI space since 2017 and is an expert when it comes to this innovative technology. Her company Authenticx uses conversational artificial intelligence to help healthcare executives make valuable business decisions. Here are some key takeaways from this episode:The truth about outsiders innovating in parking and mobilityHow Automotus is monetizing the “dumbest piece of real estate in the world” Bringing patient voices into the healthcare boardroomBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Roamy's Parking Journey (02:07)Evolution of Parking Technology (05:52)Challenges in Policy Changes (15:22)Automotus Curb Management Solution (18:05)The Equity of Parking Tickets (20:39)The Challenge of Physical Parking Fines (21:39)Innovative Parking Solutions in Smaller Towns (23:27) Transition to a Scale-Up Company (32:36)Privacy Concerns and Camera-Based Solutions (28:46)Personal Hardship and Family Separation (39:10)Challenges in Policy Changes (40:16)The Need for Faster Go-to-Market Time Frame (41:17)The Adoption Curve (41:42)Procurement Process in the Govtech Space (42:54)Coaching Tree and Leadership Style (46:42)Segment 2 with Amy Brown:Authenticx Growth and Customer Impact (53:29)Bringing Customer Voices to the Boardroom (55:20)Challenges in Marketing AI Technology in Healthcare (58:58)The Hardest Part of Building and Scaling a Company (01:01:51)The CEO's Journey (01:03:55) Building a Mission-Based Culture (01:05:23)Navigating Business Challenges (01:07:12)Summiting Mount Shasta (01:10:44)Parenting and Balancing Work (01:19:45)Reflections on Overcoming Hardships (01:25:22)Adversity and Success (01:26:47)Gratitude and Recognition (01:28:20)Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks.To subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered please use the links below:Click Here to Subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click Here to Subscribe via SpotifyClick Here to Subscribe via Amazon Music If you have a chance, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts by clicking here. Thank you so much!​​Want to help the show?Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, Sarah Blouch dives into the journey of managing parking solutions at CampusParc and The Ohio State University. We’ll discuss challenges from stakeholder management, the integration of environmental initiatives, and get into what concession agreements look like from negotiation to execution. Then we explore the significance of customer centricity beyond typical service teams, detailing a universal five-step model. In Segment 2, guest host Claudia Lopez, Client Success Manager at Parker Technology, interviews Jyo Shukla, author of “Customer Success Mindset: Building Customer-Centricity into the DNA of your Growth Strategy,” advocates for empathetic engagement and the creation of raving fans through exceptional service and strategic communication.This convo does a really good job of breaking down complex parts of parking like concession agreements and customer experience into easy-to-understand ideas and tactics  Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:The pros and cons of a Concession AgreementHow Sarah Blouch is breaking down diversity barriers in parkingHow Jyo Shukla turns customers into raving fans Be sure to check out these great clips from the show:Sarah's Career Journey (00:03:02)Transition to Ohio State University (00:05:00)Transition to a Concession Agreement (00:07:13)Managing the Transition (00:10:56)Understanding Concession Agreements (00:15:20)The University's Financial Gain (00:20:18)Challenges Faced During COVID-19 (00:21:05)Navigating the Arm's Length Relationship with the University (00:23:12)Adapting to Technology Changes (00:26:20)Managing Parking Rules and Regulations (00:27:44)Addressing Customer Frustrations (00:29:15)Navigating Campus Politics and Decision-Making (00:30:04)Challenges of Operating within a Concession Agreement (00:35:06)Perspective on Diversity and Inclusion in the Industry (00:39:55)Segment 2: Jyo ShuklaFostering Customer Sucess and Advocacy (00:57:16)Takeaways from “Customer Success Mindset” (01:06:30)Embracing Change and Overcoming Adversity (01:19:25)Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks.To subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered please use the links below:Click Here to Subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click Here to Subscribe via SpotifyClick Here to Subscribe via Amazon Music If you have a chance, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts by clicking here. Thank you so much!​​Want to help the show?Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

This episode is a masterclass in parking marketing or “Parketing.” We sat down with 3 incredible marketing leaders in parking, RJ Juliano, Sarah Becherer, and our own Heidi Barber. You are going to learn actionable tips that you can use to improve the marketing function at your company immediately. In segment two, we sit down with Casey Crouse to dive into some of the intricacies that make running Ultra Marathons even harder than they look. We compiled an all-star panel of “parketers” to dive deep into a topic typically overlooked in our industry. RJ Juliano, is the CIO, CMO, and Senior Vice President at Parkway Corporation, a Philadelphia-based leader in real estate and parking development that operate nearly 21,000 parking spaces. Sarah Becherer is the VP of Marketing at Ocra, you might remember our episode with their CEO, Ethan Glass. Sarah has over 15 years of experience in demand generation, brand awareness, and customer acquisition. In 2018 she was selected to the NPA’s 40 Under 40 list. Heidi Barber is the VP of Marketing at Parker Technology and also a member of the NPA 40 Under 40 list. She has over a decade of B2B Marketing experience and sits on the steering committee for Women in Parking. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:The Connective Power of Marketing between product, sales, and customer experienceHow to build your parketing team from the ground up. The village it takes to cross the finish line of an Ultra MarathonBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:The Parketing Collective (00:04:44)Transition from CIO to CMO (00:08:24)The importance of a distinct brand for parking operators (00:10:55)Challenges in marketing (00:16:17)Discipline and benchmarks in marketing (00:21:37)Science of Marketing (00:22:32)Consistency in Marketing (00:23:02)Effective Marketing Tactics (00:24:56)Brand Establishment and Thought Leadership (00:27:29)Humanizing the Brand (00:30:52)Digital PR and Blogging (00:33:53)Data and Analytics Investment (00:38:00)Building a Marketing Team (00:41:28)Product Marketing and Differentiation (00:42:44)Brand Ambassadors and Leadership (00:43:50)Outsourcing and Resource Allocation (00:44:18)Joining the Parking Collective (00:45:03)Challenges in Parking Jobs (00:49:16)Wishful Changes in Parking (00:51:56)Professional Achievements and Parketing Collective Call (00:55:59)Segment 2: Casey CrouseUltra Distance Running (01:05:20)Running a 100-Mile Race (01:08:01)Adversity in Ultra Distance Running (01:11:15)Nutrition and Preparation (01:14:48)Lessons Learned and Finish Rates (01:16:08)New Shoe Day (01:19:14)Measuring Success (01:24:47)The Mission of Providing New Shoes (01:24:50)Fundraising and Challenges (01:26:05)Cost of Providing Shoes (01:26:53)Becoming a Board Member (01:28:29)Leadership and Fundraising (01:31:31)Meaning in the Struggle (01:34:10)Empathy in Customer Service (01:36:55)Balancing Work and Family (01:39:06)Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks.To subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered please use the links below:Click Here to Subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click Here to Subscribe via SpotifyClick Here to Subscribe via Amazon Music If you have a chance, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts by clicking here. Thank you so much!​​Want to help the show?Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected]

Today we talk to Walt Gray, Director of Parking and Transportation for George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Houston Hobby Airport, and Celeste Ching, founder and CEO of C Three Partners.We start by diving into Walt’s journey through the transportation industry from Arabian Horses, to cars to parking. Walt recounts his journey from the automotive industry to parking management, detailing the challenges and successes he faced, including the evolution of parking technology and the implementation of automated systems to enhance customer experience. Additionally, Celeste Ching shares her experiences in the parking industry, the rewards of investing in employee training, and the personal side of balancing work with homeschooling her four children. Everything’s bigger in Texas… including the parking. Walt Gray manages over 39,000 spaces between Houston Hobby and George Bush Intercontinental Airports and he has the stories to match.Throughout this episode, he discusses the difficulties of balancing limited parking resources and the emotional aspects of relocating employees for space optimization. The episode also touches on the complexities of parking management and people's misconceptions about the industry. For part two Celeste Ching joins us to talk about two things that are both harder than they look, starting a company and homeschooling 4 kids. She shares some incredible lessons she learned from her career in market research that she applies to both of her companies today. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:Using technology to innovate on customer experienceThe security shift post 9/11Work-life and personal life are less of a balance and more of a blendBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Houston Airports Passenger Records (00:02:13)Walt Gray's Journey into Parking (00:03:48)Impact of 9/11 on Parking Operations (00:13:53)Walt Gray's Experience in Arabian Horse Business (00:17:05)Technology in Parking Operations (00:21:21)Automating Transaction Processing (00:21:36)Customer Feedback and Lessons Learned (00:23:02)Incorporating Advanced Technology (00:24:13)Transition to Fully Automated Parking (00:25:20)Security Measures and Homeland Security Regulations (00:29:06)Scope of Parking Operations (00:30:40)Limited Resources and Prioritization (00:37:22)Fresh Eye Approach and Inspection (00:40:25)Personal and Professional Challenges (00:41:16)Moving Employees and Parking Equipment (00:44:28)Complexity of Parking (00:46:27)The Hardest Thing in Parking (00:48:21)Transition to Professional Life (01:00:18)The Startup Challenge (01:03:29)Success Stories (01:04:15)Understanding the Parking Industry (01:07:27)Juggling Two Businesses (01:09:06)Homeschooling and Parenting (01:11:09)Teaching and Learning (01:12:49)Parenting and Recognizing Strengths (01:14:36)Recruiting and Coaching (01:19:13)Pride in Leadership and Parenting (01:22:29)Building and Training Teams (01:23:23)Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks.To subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered please use the links below:Click Here to Subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click Here to Subscribe via SpotifyClick Here to Subscribe via Amazon Music If you have a chance, please leave an honest rating and review on Apple Podcasts by clicking here. It will help the show and its ranking on Apple Podcasts incredibly! Thank you so much!​​Want to help the show?Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected].

Andrew Sachs is not your typical parking industry professional. With a background that spans commercial real estate, venture capital investment, and digital media, Andrew brings a unique perspective to the table. As the owner of Harbor Park Garage and the founder of Gateway Parking Services, he has successfully connected the dots between providing excellent customer service and leveraging the power of search engine optimization (SEO) to enhance the parking experience.Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:Business lessons learned from Andrew’s time in the regional theater. Embracing change and innovation. Challenging the status quo. Advice on painting a vision for your team. Be sure to check out these great clips from the show:SEO and Connecting to the Community (00:09:35)Andrew discusses the importance of search engine optimization (SEO) in connecting parking facilities to the community and the significance of positive reviews.Community Connection (00:22:05)The conversation shifts to the importance of connecting to the community and the significance of having a clear vision for success.Attention to Details (00:23:11)Andrew emphasizes the importance of paying attention to details in the parking business and other industries.Communicating Vision (00:23:52)The importance of communicating a clear and active vision for success in business is highlighted.Creative Chaos (00:25:33)The concept of creating creative chaos and incorporating fun and engagement in business interactions is discussed.Problematic Partnerships (00:30:22)We share experiences of dealing with difficult partners and the impact on business success.Diverse Business Experiences (00:34:07)The importance of diverse business experiences and the value of bringing different perspectives to the parking industry are explored.Technology and Thought in Parking (00:37:41)The discussion revolves around the evolving trends in parking technology, the shift towards AI, and the importance of integrating parking facilities with the surrounding community.Adapting to Demographic Shifts (00:45:01)Exploration of the impact of demographic changes on the parking industry and the need to consider future needs and relevance.Challenges of Parking Operations (00:46:34)The difficulties faced by parking operators in managing on-demand services and balancing current demands with future planning.Evolving Roles in Parking (00:47:29)The evolution of parking jobs, from basic tasks to complex responsibilities, and the need for support and training.Customer Service in Parking (00:56:06)The importance of customer service in the parking industry and the need for improvement.Surviving and Adapting (00:58:25)Andrew's pride in surviving, improvising, and adapting in life and business.Challenges of Leadership (01:17:46)Nate discusses the challenges of checking his ego and managing a team of coaches.Painting a Vision (01:19:48)We talk about the difficulty of inspiring a team to believe in a vision they have never seen before.Leading by Example (01:24:35)Highlights the coach's commitment to leading by example and building strong individuals in addition to great wrestlers.The Value of Hard Work (01:27:36)Discusses the importance of hard work, celebrating the process, and the reward of achieving difficult goals.Balancing High Expectations and Fun (01:37:35)Addresses the challenge of balancing high expectations with maintaining a fun and engaging environment for the wrestling team.Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to [email protected].