Auto Care ON AIR

Mexico’s vehicle fleet just crossed a milestone that should make every aftermarket planner sit up: 36.1 million vehicles in operation. Stacey Miller sits down with Evaristo Garcia, Founder and CEO of IDF, to unpack the latest Mexico VIO data and what it means for the automotive aftermarket, distribution, and the North American supply chain.They talk through where the growth is really coming from (light vehicles), and why Mexico’s average vehicle age stays high and steady at about 16.2 years. That long-lived fleet is shaped by strong new vehicle sales and by something uniquely important to Mexico’s market: used imports from the United States, often called “chocolates.” If you sell parts, service vehicles, or manage inventory across borders, this mix changes how you forecast demand and how wide your catalog needs to be.Then they dig into the strategic shifts hiding inside the totals. Mexico is still a car-heavy market at roughly 56% of VIO, but trucks and SUVs keep gaining ground as global OEM strategies tilt away from sedans. We also explain IDF’s “modern segment” view: about 14 million vehicles from the last 10 model years, a huge opportunity for aftermarket businesses that want to win on newer applications without ignoring the long tail. Finally, they put Chinese automakers into perspective: more than 10% of new vehicle sales, yet only about 1.2% of the light-vehicle VIO today, alongside bigger penetration in medium and heavy trucks and real-world parts availability lessons.If you found this useful, subscribe, share the episode with a colleague, and leave a rating and review so more autocare professionals can find it.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Most career advice assumes you already know who you are at 18. We don’t buy that, so we sit down for a real talk about uncertainty, pressure, and the messy path that actually leads to work you like. Jacki Lutz is joined by Zoi Holloway, our communications coordinator at the Auto Care Association, and her Gen Z niece Ayla Ross, a high school senior job shadowing for the week, bringing a fresh point of view on what it feels like to stand at the edge of graduation with more questions than answers.We get into college vs trades, community college cost realities, and why a four-year degree can still matter for “getting in the door” even when the work itself is learned through experience. We also talk about the technician shortage in the automotive aftermarket and why workforce development, scholarships, and initiatives to bring more women into automotive are becoming urgent. Along the way, Zoi shares how changing majors and following skills like writing, reporting, and storytelling led her into mass communications and a creative communications career.Then we zoom out to the bigger forces shaping every career decision right now: AI in the workplace, entrepreneurship culture, and the nonstop pull of social media. We ask what companies and associations can do to attract young talent, and why showing the people, the culture, and the “safe to try” environment matters as much as listing job openings. If you’re curious about automotive industry careers, marketing and communications roles, skilled trades, or just figuring out your next step, you’ll leave with a clearer framework and a little more permission to evolve.Subscribe to Auto Care ON AIR, share this with someone choosing a path, and leave a rating and review so more curious listeners can find us.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Inflation is forcing a new kind of creativity in car ownership and the ripple effects are everywhere in the automotive aftermarket. We talk with Rob Pietrowski, VP of Research at IMR, about what the data says when repair bills rise faster than household budgets: where demand stays steady because maintenance is non-discretionary, and where the real movement happens underneath through brand switching, outlet choices, delayed maintenance, and more price shopping.Rob walks us through how IMR measures vehicle maintenance and repairs at scale, including large consumer surveys and monthly repair shop surveying that captures what shops are seeing at the counter. We get specific about the trends that signal financial stress: growing interest in financing major repairs, the “install it for me” path where drivers source parts but pay for labor, and DIY remaining surprisingly resilient thanks to cost pressure and tools like YouTube. We also dig into how shops respond, including reported increases in customer price sensitivity and the reality of entry-level or private-label parts in certain situations.We zoom out to the long game too: high new-vehicle prices, longer loan terms, and an aging vehicle parc are pushing more owners to approve major repairs that might have been avoided years ago. Then we challenge easy assumptions about EV repair with replacement-rate insights across categories like steering and suspension, HVAC, and tires and why “EVs need fewer repairs” isn’t a complete strategy.Finally, we look at AI from two angles: shifting employment uncertainty for consumers and the growing battle to protect market research from AI-enabled survey fraud, plus the controversy around synthetic survey data. If you care about forecasting, consumer behavior, aftermarket trends, or EV repair opportunity, this conversation brings practical signals you can use. Subscribe, share the show with a colleague, and leave a rating and review. What trend are you seeing first hand in your shop or household?Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

A lot of the biggest threats to the automotive aftermarket don’t start in Washington. They start quietly in a statehouse, inside a bill that sounds harmless until you read the fine print.Stacey Miller is joined by Donovan Ringo, our director of state affairs and grassroots at the Auto Care Association, to break down what it really takes to monitor and respond to fast-moving state legislation across nearly every state in session. Donovan shares how his background at NAPA, from emerging EV strategy to hands-on workforce development, shaped the way he thinks about advocacy, training pipelines, and the future of auto repair. We talk about the real-world issues members flag every day, from parts restrictions and insurance steering to apprenticeship programs, scholarships, and state funding that can make or break technician recruiting.You’ll hear concrete examples of what’s happening right now: Utah language tied to OEM procedures that can effectively push OEM-only parts, Kansas momentum that mirrors Maine and Massachusetts right to repair efforts focused on access to OEM data, plus the on-the-ground reality of monitoring similar bills in Iowa and Georgia. We also dig into why “equivalent quality” definitions matter, how we educate lawmakers on certified aftermarket parts, and why a strong grassroots network and the Auto Care PAC (ACPAC) support help the industry show up with clarity and credibility.If you care about right to repair, consumer choice, repair affordability, and a healthy aftermarket workforce, this conversation connects the dots and shows where you can plug in. Subscribe, share this with someone in your state, and leave a rating and review so more people find the show.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

A layoff can feel like a verdict. A tough pivot can feel like proof you failed. We see it differently, and this conversation shows why. From the Women in Auto Care Leadership Conference, we sit down with April Williamson, General Manager at FJC, and Megan Hansen, Category Marketing Manager at NAPA, to talk about perseverance and truth-driven leadership in the automotive aftermarket and beyond.April shares the real story behind a career shift that started with 150 job applications and an interview where she openly admitted she didn’t even know what she applied for. Megan explains why that honesty mattered, how she hires for character over a perfect resume, and what “authentic leadership” looks like when you’re guiding a team through uncertainty. We dig into how trust is built when leaders stop performing confidence and start giving context, transparency, and a clear why.We also get practical about resilience and emotional intelligence at work: the hidden layers people carry, how stress spreads through teams, why high achievers can quietly burn out, and how compassion is a performance strategy, not a soft extra. You’ll hear simple tools you can use immediately, including the “I get to” gratitude mindset, focusing on the next right step, and letting go of old versions of yourself that keep you stuck.If you care about leadership development and building a healthier workplace culture, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a leader who needs it, and leave a rating and review so more people can find the show.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

A single waterway on the other side of the world can quietly rewrite your cost sheet in the automotive aftermarket. Mike Chung sits down with Stephan Keese, Managing Partner for North America at Roland Berger, to unpack what the Iran conflict and the Strait of Hormuz disruption mean beyond headlines and gas station prices. We keep it practical and operational: what gets constrained, how it moves through the supply chain, and when you actually feel it. We dig into why this chokepoint matters for far more than crude oil, including refining outputs and petrochemical byproducts that underpin plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene, plus other industrial inputs that can affect electronics and materials availability. Stefan compares this moment to COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine energy shock, and recent shipping lane disruptions, then explains why this crisis can stack multiple problems at once: higher energy prices, disrupted ocean routes, rising insurance, reduced air freight capacity, and even looming container shortages as equipment gets stuck out of position. Timing is the real trap, so we walk through the lag from oil spikes to resin pricing to finished parts and why the full impact can land months later. From there we get into the hard leadership calls: pricing cadence without killing demand, inventory strategy when transit times stretch, and sourcing choices as companies push toward near shoring and regionalization while still relying on Asia for cost and scale. We also touch on what to watch next, including key indicators like commodity prices, miles driven, point-of-sale signals, and competitor pricing moves, plus how uncertainty can change M&A timing across the aftermarket. This episode was recorded on April 6, 2026.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Gas prices can jump overnight, and when they do, the ripple effects reach far beyond the pump. Stacey Miller unpacks how rising tensions tied to the US Iran conflict could impact the US auto care industry through four pressure points: fuel prices, global supply chains, shipping and logistics costs, and consumer behavior that shifts what drivers fix, delay, or skip.She walks through what higher oil prices can mean for miles driven in the short run and why the medium-term effect often favors the automotive aftermarket as people keep vehicles longer and lean into maintenance and repair. You’ll hear why a disruption near the Strait of Hormuz matters to parts availability, how rerouted cargo and higher insurance can raise freight costs and lead times, and why these dynamics can feel uncomfortably familiar to anyone who lived through COVID-era inventory volatility.We also dig into cost inflation at the product level, since so many components depend on petroleum-based materials like plastics, polymers, synthetic rubber, lubricants, adhesives, and coatings. Finally, we look at how consumers respond when budgets tighten: more demand for essential maintenance categories and less appetite for discretionary accessories and performance upgrades, plus the strategic opportunities that can emerge for independent repair shops, domestic manufacturing, and more resilient regional sourcing.For the latest data, members can check TrendLens at autocare.org/trendlens and qualified manufacturers can use Demand Index at autocare.org/demandindex. Subscribe to the podcast, share this with someone in your supply chain, and leave a rating and review so more industry pros can find the show.This podcast was recorded on March 4, 2026Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Your professional brand is forming right now, in the email you send, the way you show up at a trade show, and how you act when you’re nervous. Jacki Lutz sit down with Northwood University sophomore Caden Olvey and Dana leader and Northwood alum Ryan Devine to talk about what “professional branding” actually looks like inside the automotive aftermarket and heavy duty industry, especially when you’re early in your career and suddenly leading real conversations with real companies.We dig into how Northwood’s student-run auto show creates a fast track for career development: captains, chairs, sponsors, and thousands of real-world touchpoints that build confidence through repetition. From thank-you notes to booth logistics, you’ll hear how small habits become big signals and why first impressions still matter when you never know who you’ll run into at the airport or on the show floor.Then we get practical about reputation and LinkedIn strategy. We talk about consistency as the multiplier that makes your brand believable, how emotional intelligence separates high performers, and why your title is not your identity. We also share best practices for LinkedIn posts, trade show recaps, and staying authentic in an era where AI can easily flatten your voice. If you want a stronger personal brand in the automotive industry, start here, then subscribe, share the episode with a colleague, and leave a rating and review.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Your phone is quietly generating one of the most useful datasets in transportation and auto care, and it’s bigger than most people realize. We talk with Anthony Johnson, solutions engineer at Arity, about how phone-based telematics data becomes mobility intelligence you can actually use, from vehicle miles traveled (VMT) to real-time traffic signals with roughly a 60 second latency.We break down what Arity “sees” at scale: millions of connections, massive daily trip volume, and the ability to translate raw GPS breadcrumbs into road segment analytics like traffic volume, average speed, and speed distribution across time. Anthony explains how the data is captured through an SDK embedded in opt-in apps, how non-vehicular trips get filtered out, and why the output is de-identified and aggregated to protect privacy.Then we get practical. We dig into road traffic analytics for brick-and-mortar decision-making: visitation counts, trade areas, origin insights at the census block group level, dwell time distributions, and even how visitation can serve as a proxy for competitive market share and marketing effectiveness. We also connect risky driving behavior signals like harsh braking, rapid acceleration, speeding, distracted driving, and crash likelihood to real-world planning and forecasting, including what longer commutes and stop-and-go congestion could mean for maintenance demand in the automotive aftermarket.We close with what’s next: intersection analytics, turning counts, queue insights, and richer audience profiling powered by demographic overlays. Subscribe, share this with a data-curious colleague, and leave a rating and review so more listeners can find the show.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

A 6-3 Supreme Court ruling just rewrote the tariff playbook and then a brand-new 15% global surcharge arrived days later. Host Stacey Miller unpacks what fell, what stayed, and what stacked, translating fast-moving trade policy into clear steps for auto parts importers, distributors, and service providers who need answers now.We start with the core shift: IEEPA no longer supports tariffs, wiping out fentanyl-related and reciprocal measures tied to that authority. Then we zoom into what still bites, Section 232 duties on steel, aluminum, and covered auto parts, before walking through the executive order that triggers a temporary 15% tariff under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. You’ll hear how CBP’s effective date creates a bright line for compliance, why the on-the-water window matters, and where exclusions and carve-outs could make or break your landed cost. From pharmaceuticals and critical materials to USMCA-compliant goods and CAFTA-DR textiles, we map the most relevant categories and help you spot potential relief.Next, we get tactical. We outline record-keeping musts, protest and post-summary correction strategies, and when to consider delaying an entry summary on CBP Form 7501. We explain stacking and how Section 122 avoids Section 232 yet piles onto MFN, Section 301, anti-dumping, and countervailing duties—so you can forecast cumulative exposure with eyes wide open. With new Section 301 investigations looming over industrial overcapacity, forced labor, digital trade, and more, plus a continued suspension of de minimis, we highlight the operational ripples that will hit your pricing, procurement, and customer communications.Our goal is practical clarity: align with your customs broker, validate classifications, model scenarios at the SKU level, and prepare for refund pathways once the Court of International Trade and CBP finalize guidance. If you touch import operations in the auto care supply chain, this breakdown will help you prioritize actions in a volatile window. Subscribe, share with your team, and leave a review to help others find these updates—then tell us what trade question you want answered next.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What if the most powerful career move isn’t a promotion, but choosing yourself? Jacki Lutz sits down with two industry powerhouses, Kristine Frost of Shattered Glass Advisory and Tammy Tecklenberg of dott®. to unpack the real story behind career transitions, both planned and unplanned, and how to turn shock into strategy. They explore what it takes to elevate voices historically sidelined and make diversity of thought more than a slogan.They get honest about the emotional rollercoaster of layoffs and pivots: the jolt, the quiet, the self-doubt, and the small daily rituals that bring you back to center. You’ll hear practical tactics that work under pressure, journaling to clear mental noise, crafting a simple morning routine, and asking for 15‑minute coffee chats that turn acquaintances into allies. We dig into the difference between having a big network and having people who would vouch for your character in rooms you’re not in.Titles fade; reputation compounds. That’s why they map a repeatable approach to personal branding with three to four clear themes, so your value follows you across roles and industries. We also tackle the tax of being the only woman in the C‑suite, the tools to navigate decision rooms, and how organizations can prepare to truly welcome new perspectives. Along the way we reframe growth as a lattice, not a ladder: lateral moves, cross-functional projects, and volunteer leadership can unlock more opportunity than chasing a job title ever will.Whether you’re processing a layoff, considering an intentional break, or plotting your next pivot, this conversation offers clear, human steps to move forward with purpose. Subscribe for more candid career strategy, share this with someone who needs a lift, and leave a review to help others find the show.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

The floor at AAPEX buzzed with more than announcements, it pulsed with practical innovation. Stacey Miller sat down with Chris Jones, group editorial director at Endeavor B2B, to unpack what’s actually moving the aftermarket forward right now: AI that coaches advisors in real time, micro-learning that keeps techs sharp in five-minute bursts, and product design that turns raw data into clear decisions for shops and drivers.We dig into how editors and shop owners are using AI as a research partner and workflow accelerator, from prepping smarter interviews to VIN-driven predictive maintenance that helps even new service advisors guide customers with confidence. In Joe’s Garage, we saw education become tactile ADAS demos, calibrations, and real repairs that show how smarter tools translate into safer vehicles and better margins. Chris also shares what readers can’t stop clicking: authentic people profiles, ADAS insights, and AI explainers that pair technology with real-world playbooks.The energy wasn’t just about tools; it was about talent. Student engine-build competitions and TechForce events brought a wave of future pros into the room, reminding us why hands-on wins hearts. We talk workforce development, lowering the barrier to entry, and why micro-learning feels like Duolingo for the bay. On the media side, creative engagement like weekly word games is more than fun, it’s a signal of what audiences value. Chris frames the landscape as “worthy competitors,” a mindset where rising coverage lifts the entire industry with clearer reporting and stronger storytelling.If you run a shop or brand, here’s the ask: share your story, test one new tool, and make learning daily. Subscribe, leave a review, and pass this along to someone building the next great aftermarket career. Your experience could be the insight another listener needs today.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What if the numbers you trust most are telling only half the story? Mike Chung sits down with Ben Orlando, host of The Midnight Library of Baseball, to explore how baseball’s most beloved stats—wins, RBIs, errors—became powerful myths and why context changes everything. This is a conversation for statheads and story lovers alike, where the romance of the game meets clear-eyed analysis.We dive into the 1990 Bob Welch paradox: 27 wins and a Cy Young Award, yet teammates and rivals outpaced him on ERA, strikeouts, and complete games. That puzzle opens a bigger question: which metrics actually isolate individual performance, and which are shaped by teammates, ballparks, and managerial choices? From Joe Carter’s RBI surge behind elite on-base talent to Barry Bonds hitting 73 homers with surprisingly modest RBI totals due to empty bases, we expose how batting order and lineup construction warp the box score.History adds its own twists. The spitball era and Ray Chapman’s tragic death led to cleaner balls and better visibility, boosting offense and safety in one stroke. Ball color experiments—yellow and orange—nearly stuck, while a quiet 1957 innovation, the glove hinge, expanded one-handed range and redefined defense. We also unpack error scoring and how risk-taking can penalize bold fielders while rewarding caution, plus the subtle influence of grounds crews tipping the scales with surface prep.Beyond the diamond, we connect these lessons to smarter analytics in business and life: understand what a metric truly measures, know the system around it, and slow down enough to look beneath the headline number. If you care about performance, incentives, and how tools shape outcomes, this conversation will give you a sharper lens and a deeper appreciation for the game’s soul.If this resonates, subscribe, share it with a friend who loves baseball and data, and leave a review to help others find the show. What stat do you trust the least—and why?Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What if the difference between burnout and breakthrough is choosing the right kind of hard? We dive into the art of challenging yourself with intention, how to spot energizing resistance, build resilience, and grow without burning out. Auto Care ON AIR host Jacki Lutz, sits down with Liz Whalen, Founder and President of Whalen Search Group, and Rick Schwartz, CEO and Managing Partner of Schwartz Advisors at the AAPEX show where they draw on keynote speaker Wayne Gretzky’s take on passion, stories from a rocky business year, and real moments where failure became the hinge for a better path.We begin with the why: boredom and stuckness often mean you’ve stopped stretching. From there, we get practical. You’ll hear how to set clear intentions, write goals you actually revisit, and use reflection to cut time sinks so the meaningful work has room to grow. Then we zoom in on adjacent growth, adding skills that sit next to your core strengths. Think sales learning marketing, product leaning into customer insight, or operators spending time with finance. Lateral moves and cross-functional fluency expand your range and make you more valuable when conditions change.Community is a force multiplier. We talk about joining owner networks, peer groups, and informal circles that challenge your thinking and normalize shared struggles. Inspiration can arrive from anywhere—athletics, concerts, or a novel’s quiet line that lands at the right time. There’s a reason leaders often hire athletes: discipline, recovery, team play, and self-driven accountability translate directly to high-performance teams. Equally important is learning to read the signals: the right challenge leaves you tired but motivated; the wrong one leaves you drained. Use values and intention to decide whether to persist, pivot, or pass.We close with simple systems that work: write it down, track it weekly, ask what to stop, and celebrate small wins. Pay it forward by naming the strengths you see in others-one honest compliment can tilt a career. If you’re ready to trade comfort for progress and choose the kind of hard that builds you up, this conversation will give you the mindset and tools to start today.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—your support helps more curious people find us.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

CES 2026 didn’t just showcase concept cars, it rewired the roadmap for the entire aftermarket. We unpack how software-defined vehicles, AI-first platforms, connected cockpits, and autonomous fleets are transforming everyday service work into high-value, repeatable revenue. From NVIDIA-led AI toolkits and panoramic displays to lidar-heavy ADAS stacks and open-source software initiatives, we explain what matters now and where independent shops can lead.Host Stacey Miller walks through practical moves you can make today: develop multi-OEM software diagnostics training, package safe OTA updates as maintenance, and stock subscription-ready hardware that enables future features. On the cabin side, learn how to turn connected cockpits and voice assistants into install bundles, protection plans, and 30-day digital tune-ups that keep customers loyal. For safety, we outline an ADAS calibration blueprint—facility standards, targets, documentation, and mobile service—that wins insurer trust and creates dependable fleet contracts.Autonomy is closer than hype suggests, and with robotaxis and delivery pilots scaling, uptime-focused service models will be critical. We share how to prepare autonomy bays, manage compute thermal loads, and negotiate SLAs with mobility providers, then look beyond cars to the wider mobility ecosystem: two- and three-wheelers, smart trailers, and new charging accessories that add fresh margin. Open-source collaboration rounds out the trendline, lowering barriers to diagnostics and enabling a more transparent, repair-friendly landscape.If you’re ready to turn CES headlines into a 12-month playbook, this conversation delivers the steps, tools, and language to get your team moving. Subscribe, share with a colleague who leads training or operations, and leave a review to tell us which opportunity you’ll tackle first.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

A revolution is happening in aftermarket marketing: The Automotive Communications Council (ACC) is coming under the Auto Care Association, and with it a stronger community for communicators who turn complex parts and fitment into stories people actually understand. We brought together ACC’s current president, Leyla Saad of ZF Aftermarket, and industry veteran Lance Boldt of AutoNet TV to unpack what works now, what to stop doing, and how to build loyalty without fluff.We start with the real challenges marketers face in the bays and boardrooms: translating dense catalogs and cross-references into quick, useful messages; designing long-form content that fuels search, sales enablement, and social; and choosing the right channels for shop owners, counter pros, and decision-makers. Leyla shares deployment tactics and project management lessons from the trenches, while Lance breaks down a practical storytelling frame that makes the audience the hero and turns complexity and downtime into beatable villains.From ACC’s conference highlights... like making purchasing simpler and auditing what generative AI thinks of your brand... to the daily habits that keep you sharp, this conversation is packed with actionable ideas. We cover loyalty programs that actually matter, planning content for multi-market reuse and translation, and the value of taking tasteful risks to stand out. You’ll also hear why rest and reflection time unlock better ideas, and how treating B2B as B2P helps every message land with a person who needs clarity, not jargon.If you’re ready to level up your aftermarket marketing with smarter content, stronger community, and a clearer voice, you’ll find plenty to put to work today. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a teammate who’s ready to try something bold.Learn more about ACC here: https://www.autocare.org/accSend us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What if vehicles could tell us exactly where congestion starts, which intersections are most dangerous, and how to shave days off fleet delivery timelines? Auto Care ON AIR host, Mike Chung, sits down with Eddie Nath from Stellantis Mobilisights to unpack how trusted, OEM-embedded telematics is powering safer roads, leaner fleets, and smoother trips for everyone from municipal operators to everyday renters.We break down Mobilisights’ four pillars—Smart Fleets, Smart Consumers, Smart Services, and Smart Decisions—and show how 200 high-value signals from the CAN bus translate into real outcomes: proactive maintenance, driver coaching, fuel and energy insights, and verifiable safety metrics. Eddie explains why privacy-by-design and GDPR-level consent are non-negotiable, and how anonymized patterns help cities target potholes, optimize signal timing, and plan around big events without tracking individuals. You’ll hear practical wins like shipment tracking that gets vehicles into service sooner, automated rental returns that cut lines to zero, and digital tolling that kills transponder hassles and surprise fees.We also look ahead. V2X communication promises fewer crashes by letting vehicles, infrastructure, and vulnerable road users “see” each other before humans can react. Video analytics is evolving from incident capture to real-time coaching. EVs introduce new data needs—battery state-of-health, charging availability, and the policy shift toward road usage charging as fuel taxes fade. Throughout, Eddie emphasizes partnership: customers shape which signals matter most, and data teams turn that feedback into clear, consented services.If you care about fleet performance, traffic safety, connected car data, or the future of mobility, this conversation delivers the signal without the noise. Subscribe, share with a colleague who manages vehicles or infrastructure, and leave a review to tell us which innovation you want us to explore next.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Imagine starting your car and realizing the title says you own it, but the software doesn’t. That’s the reality too many drivers face as manufacturers tighten control over diagnostics, data, and tools. We break down what the Federal Trade Commission and the Government Accountability Office now make clear: independent repair is safe, restrictions lack solid evidence, and software locks are driving up costs while shrinking choice.We walk through the FTC’s “Nixing the Fix” findings on repair barriers and warranty myths, including how Magnuson-Moss protects you from being forced into brand-only service. Then we turn to the GAO’s 2024 review of vehicle repair, where rising software complexity and encrypted gateways create real hurdles for independent shops. You’ll hear how these government reports align with what techs see daily: without access to calibration data, security gateways, and update tools, even simple fixes become delays, tows, and bigger bills.From rural drivers who can’t spare a day for dealer appointments to small shops investing in training and certification, the stakes are personal and practical. We connect the dots between policy and your wallet, explaining why enforcement and the Repair Act matter for fair competition, lower prices, and safer roads. If cars are computers on wheels, then access to parts, manuals, diagnostics, and software isn’t a luxury, it’s the only way to keep ownership real.If this conversation resonates, share it with a friend, send a letter to your lawmaker at repairackt.com, and help us keep repair open and competitive. Subscribe for more candid dives into the policies shaping the auto care industry, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

The repair you choose shouldn’t depend on a locked screen. We break down why Right to Repair is reaching a critical moment, how recent state wins in Massachusetts and Maine are reshaping access to vehicle data, and what it will take to secure a national standard that protects drivers, local shops, and fair competition. As vehicles become rolling computers, the question isn’t whether cars can be fixed... it’s who is allowed to fix them.Host Stacey Miller, traces the path from ballot-box victories to courtroom decisions and the realities of implementation, highlighting what equal access to telematics, tools, and software actually looks like for independent technicians. You’ll hear the pressing stats: most shops rank Right to Repair as their top issue, many confront data barriers weekly, and billions are lost each year due to blocked diagnostics and code restrictions. That pain lands on drivers through higher costs and longer waits, and on communities when work gets diverted away from trusted local businesses.With Congress weighing the Repair Act (HR 1566 and SB 1379) amid a tight calendar, silence could mean stalled progress. That’s why a simple action like sending a prewritten letter at repairact.com can shift priorities in Washington. We share how to personalize your message, rally your team, and use ready-made toolkits to scale awareness with posters, flyers, and social graphics. When informed voices speak up in numbers, lawmakers listen, and a patchwork of rules can finally become a clear, secure national standard.If you care about choice, affordability, and keeping skilled repair in your community, take 30 seconds to act at REPAIRAct.com.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Ever feel the sting of “not good enough” right when you need to step up? In this episode we open up about insecurities that stall careers: fear of being judged, comparison traps, and the myth that leaders must know everything. With Stefan Feder of AUMOVIO and Dwayne Myers of Dynamic Automotive, we trade real stories from mentorship circles and shop floors... missed calls, sleepless nights, and the unexpected confidence that shows up when you choose to decide.We dig into the audience poll that revealed a surprising insight: fear of failure ranks low until you add an audience. What most people dread is failing in front of others. From there, we explore how “fail forward” cultures turn mistakes into education and speed up learning. Dwayne shares a pivotal moment early in his career when a boss insisted he make a call and be ready to explain why, a mindset he now teaches to younger technicians struggling with anxiety and decision fatigue. Stefan breaks down how rising in leadership often means knowing less about day-to-day work—and why that’s okay when you build teams who hold the freshest information and you ask sharper questions.We also challenge comparison culture fueled by social media highlight reels. Instead of chasing perfection, we focus on progress and the power of first attempts. The conversation lands on a simple truth: you’ll be judged whether you move or stall, so choose movement. Admire others without copying their timeline. Narrow your circle to the people you serve and the peers who push you forward. Confidence doesn’t come from certainty; it grows from making a thoughtful decision, owning the outcome, and trying again.If this resonates, tap follow, share this episode with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave a quick review so more leaders can find it. Your story might be the spark someone else needs to act today.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Big deals need the right room, the right timing, and the right people and Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) sets the stage. Host, Jacki Lutz, sat down with our Director of Trade Shows, Jessica Finnerty, and our Sr. Director of Meetings and Events, Leah Jones, to pull back the curtain on how HDAW actually works: a sold‑out show floor, targeted one‑on‑one meetings, and a smart schedule that helps you meet more partners without missing the action. From logistics to line dancing, they map out how to prepare, where to network, and which moments can change your year.They dig into what’s new and why it matters. Wild West Wednesday brings the closing party in‑house with live music, games, and late‑night hours so exhibitors can finish teardown and still connect. An official event app returns to centralize maps, agendas, and alerts. The program theme leans into data‑driven decisions, with an AI‑focused keynote from technologist Noelle Russell, connecting practical automation and customer experience to the realities of inventory, forecasting, and service uptime across the heavy‑duty aftermarket.If you’re weighing the value of HDAW, consider the math behind the meetings. Opt‑in one‑on‑ones use mutual selections to create high‑intent schedules, delivering roughly 1,800 focused conversations and eliminating the guesswork of hallway hunting. Trade show hours and meeting blocks avoid overlap, and rooms sit right by the floor to keep momentum high. Add in Leaders of Tomorrow mentoring, the HDA Women gathering, included breakfasts and lunches, and the Auto Care member center, and you’ve got a compact, high‑return environment for building partnerships, spotting trends, and accelerating deals.Ready to make the most of Grapevine? Bring a plan, shortlist targets, line up show specials, and save time for the open mic recordings with Auto Care on Air. If this breakdown helps your team, subscribe, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more heavy‑duty pros can find the show.Learn more at HDAW.org.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Engines came apart. Confidence came together. We brought a brand-new student engine rebuild competition to AAPEX and watched teams tear down and reassemble small block V8s in front of a live crowd, with instructors coaching from the sidelines and shop owners scouting future hires. The stakes were real, the pressure was high, and a high school team shocked the room by taking first place, trophies in hand and tool kits ready for day one on the job.Host Stacey Miller and her guest Bernard Tansey, COO at Euro Clinic, dig into how the competition came to life, from remanufactured engines on stands to an all-star lineup of sponsors who supplied tools, prizes, and the practical support students need to start a career. Beyond the wrenches, we talk about why automotive isn’t “blue collar” anymore: modern diagnostics is code and logic, software meets systems, and the skills translate across robotics, EVs, ADAS, and even specialized roles like the Secret Service’s vehicle teams. You’ll hear how mentorship, real-world wins, and visible pathways beat outdated stereotypes and pull new talent into the aftermarket with pride.We look ahead to scaling this format with livestreams, more schools, regional qualifiers, and earlier outreach that starts in middle school with hands-on demos that spark curiosity. Think BattleBots energy for auto: precision, speed, teamwork, and storytelling that turns a competition into a career funnel. We connect the dots between AAPEX and SEMA, outline practical ways shops and brands can support apprentices with toolkits and scholarships, and share how a single moment on stage can change a student’s trajectory.If you care about workforce development, the future of repair, or just love a good underdog win, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share it with a shop owner or educator, and leave a quick review to help more people find the show.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Ever wondered who actually turns supplier strategy into real shelf space and steady sell-through? Host, Jacki Lutz, rides shotgun with two veteran manufacturer’s reps, Brad Baker, Senior Vice President at Bill Murray and Associates, and Darrell Wade, Senior Director of Organic Growth for N.A. Williams, who explain how agencies power growth across retailers and traditional distributors, why some brands outsource sales entirely, and what it takes to juggle ten-plus product lines without losing focus. The conversation is candid and practical—less pitch, more playbook—covering the hard tradeoffs, the daily fires, and the moments where trust beats a slick presentation.They get into the gritty stuff, too. Changeovers and stock lifts aren’t glamorous, but they’re the engine behind new business. From reboxing parts to coordinating deadlines across dozens of locations, the logistical lift is real and so are the results when it’s planned and executed well. Alongside the field work sits a growing data muscle: training programs, analytics, and tools that help reps prioritize programs, prove ROI, and turn spreadsheets into strategy. The best reps bring type A organization and a calm, human touch... asking smart questions, telling the truth fast, and staying consultative even when the pressure’s on.There’s a generational shift underway, and they talk about how to harness it. New talent brings sharper analytical skills and AI fluency; experienced leaders bring hard-won judgment and deep relationships. The trick is coaching without controlling, letting new reps solve problems their way while reinforcing fundamentals. They also spotlight Right to Repair through the most effective lens: consumer choice. When drivers can choose where and how their vehicles get serviced, the entire ecosystem... from suppliers to shops to reps... wins with better access, better competition, and better outcomes.If you care about sales strategy, channel partnerships, and the future of the automotive aftermarket, this ride delivers. Subscribe, share with a teammate who lives in Excel and on the road, and leave a review to tell us which part of the rep playbook you’re stealing next.If you are a Manufacturers' Rep, you can learn more about the Auto Care Association's Manufacturers' Representatives Community here: https://www.autocare.org/networking-and-development/communities/manufacturers'-representativesSend us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Hydrogen isn’t waiting for someday. It’s already moving freight, carrying riders through winter, and powering the equipment that keeps cities running. We sit down with Christa Harrison of BNG Clean Fuel Corporation to unpack where hydrogen works now, what’s changing fast, and how fleets can navigate costs, infrastructure, and performance with clear eyes.We start with the real-world signals: 50,000 hydrogen forklifts across the U.S., growing fleets of fuel cell buses, and early heavy-duty deployments that keep HVAC humming in subfreezing temps. Christa explains why transit agencies in cold regions are leaning into hydrogen for reliability, how delivery and utility trucks benefit from fast refueling and strong auxiliary power, and why medium-duty routes may be the next big wave. We compare fuel cell and hydrogen internal combustion engines, dig into tri-fuel heavy engines, and explore how drivers report diesel-like torque without the winter range penalty.Hydrogen supply is bigger than many realize. With 10 million metric tons used annually in U.S. industry, the production know-how and safety playbooks already exist. The pivot for transport is about logistics: using modular, above-ground stations, embracing behind-the-fence fueling for predictable fleets, and adding onsite generation to avoid long-haul trucking and boil-off. Christa breaks down unit pitfalls that skew analysis, the total value equation beyond pump price, and the practical path from pilot to scale.Financing and policy round out the roadmap. Investors want credible milestones, offtake commitments, and conservative cash plans. Grants and tax credits help, but resilient models can’t depend on them. We touch on natural hydrogen exploration, retrofit opportunities that extend vehicle life, and how Detroit’s engineering ecosystem accelerates prototyping and partnerships. If you’re evaluating options for buses, Class 5–8 trucks, or mixed municipal fleets, this conversation gives you a grounded framework to decide where hydrogen slots into your energy toolkit.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

A year can change the ground under your feet. We sit down with AIA Canada’s President and CEO, JF Champagne and their VP of Government Relations, Emily Holtby to unpack how Canada moved from talk to traction on Right to Repair, why Quebec’s new consumer-backed law is a true milestone, and what it will take to scale those gains nationally with real enforcement and penalties. If you care about fair competition, consumer choice, and the future of independent repair, this conversation connects the dots from policy to shop floor.We trace the path from Parliament’s C-244 and C-294—key updates to the Copyright Act that enable bypassing digital locks—to Quebec’s adaptation of the Consumer Protection Act, now allowing complaints and fines when automakers block diagnostic data. The ripple effects are spreading as provinces like Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan explore similar moves, while industry pushes for a single federal framework to avoid a patchwork of rules. Along the way, we pull insights from Australia, the EU, and US states such as Massachusetts to show how global coordination strengthens arguments, anticipates OEM counterpoints, and accelerates compliance.Beyond policy, we spotlight the workforce engine that makes access matter: college partnerships in Ontario bringing EV and ADAS training to techs, tool grants for newcomers, and the culture shifts needed to recruit and retain women and underrepresented talent. We talk candidly about flexible schedules, inclusive policies, and early outreach that sparks interest before high school graduation. Then we face the hard edge of geopolitics... tariffs, cross-border supply chains, and the possibility of new vehicle mixes changing parts demand... and explain how shops can adapt stocking strategies and training plans while advocating for stable, harmonized standards.If you want clear steps to help, head to righttorepair.ca to send a letter to your local official, share this episode with a shop owner who’s feeling the pinch, and subscribe for more frontline insights. Your voice moves policy, your team powers access, and together we can secure a fair, innovative aftermarket.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Back by popular demand, Jacki Lutz brings Zenata Perez and Andrew Steczo back together for an encore on small talk that actually leads somewhere: reading the room, using humor without crossing the line, and turning short chats at crowded events into focused follow-up that moves the relationship forward.They start with situational awareness and timing: how to scan energy, spot exit cues, and protect goodwill with clean pivots like “I’ll let you get back to it.” Then we dive into professional humor... light, respectful, and delivered with a smile... so you become memorable without risking credibility. The heart of the episode is a practical playbook for shifting from rapport to business without undoing the trust you just built, including when to avoid the pitch, how to set the next step, and why relationship-first cultures win.You asked for it, so we went deep on remembering names: the three-by-three rule, association tricks, gracious recovery lines, and simple notes that cement faces to context. We also flip the script on being a great receiver of small talk—approachability, yes-and replies that keep momentum, and open questions that spark real stories. Finally, we connect confidence and energy: how short resets make you a better conversationalist, why grace beats perfection, and how small talk, done right, opens big doors in sales, partnerships, and mentorship.If you learned something, follow the show, share this episode with a colleague who dreads networking, and leave a quick review so more pros can find us. Subscribe for more candid Carpool Conversations and power skills that make the auto care world go.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What does it take to stitch 100 years of history into a modern, culture-first powerhouse that most consumers will never recognize on a label? Behzad Rassuli sits down with Highline Warren CEO Darcy Curran to explore how a quiet partner can produce 200 million gallons a year, own a national distribution footprint, and still choose to let the customer’s brand be the hero. The answer isn’t a slogan, it’s the daily work of vertical integration, relentless execution, and a people-powered culture that shows up in small details that matter.Darcy shares how his path from English major to distribution leader shaped a leadership style built on tenacity and intellectual curiosity. They get specific about building one culture from many: town halls at every plant and DC, acting on feedback, fixing what’s broken, and tying every policy change back to what employees said they needed. The same approach extends to vendors and customers: pay on time, grow faster than the market, and get new products to shelf quickly. Decision-making stays collaborative and rigorous, with clear accountability and a tight portfolio of priorities... no silos, no theatrics.The turning point arrives with a 30-year sole-source filter partnership that collapses overnight. Instead of compromising, the team cuts ties and builds a global supply network from scratch. Fill rates return, customer confidence rebounds, and new marquee programs follow. It’s a masterclass in resilience, proving that moats are forged under pressure when culture, operations, and trust align. They close by mapping the road to the next doubling of growth... expanding wallet share with current customers, moving into adjacent categories like household cleaners and industrial lubes, and protecting the moat of manufacturing plus distribution.If you care about supply chain strategy, private label scale, and culture that actually changes behavior, this conversation will stay with you. Follow, share, and leave a review so more builders can find it!Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Engines keep evolving; our service model must evolve faster. From the AAPEX floor in Las Vegas, we sit down with leaders shaping the next decade of repair to unpack a simple truth: customers don’t care which channel fixes their vehicles—they care that someone skilled, trusted, and nearby can. That’s why collaboration between OEMs and the independent aftermarket is no longer optional. We dive into how Alliant Power leverages deep diesel expertise to prepare for hydrogen and EV powertrains, and why right to repair, shared training, and co-competition protect brands while keeping vehicles on the road.We also spotlight Pacer Dynamics, a Canadian brand with manufacturing roots in China, showing how local presence, transparent logistics, and flexible financial terms reduce risk for distributors and shops. When credit tightens and inventories get stuck, a vertically integrated supply chain, with visibility from casting to container, can make all the difference. We explore EV-specific rotor demands, coatings, and heavy-duty requirements, plus how private label programs align with faster cataloging and early part-number readiness.The conversation turns practical on workforce: the technician shortage won’t solve itself. You’ll hear about a free, community-built curriculum for middle and high school clubs and a one-year apprenticeship that any shop can adopt. The plan includes funding pointers, school outreach, and even AI-assisted templates so a two-bay garage can launch a program tailored to its city. If the industry wants capacity tomorrow, we need to welcome students into bays today.Subscribe for more on right to repair, OE–aftermarket partnerships, EV and hydrogen readiness, and the playbooks that actually scale.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Curiosity isn’t a buzzword here; it’s the operating system. We start on the media side of the aftermarket with a candid look at how asking better questions... why, how, and so what... turns complex topics like AI, EVs, and ADAS into clear direction for shops, jobbers, and distributors. When leaders translate without jargon, trust grows. And in a world where institutional trust is shaky, that clarity matters more than ever.We then pivot to the heart of our industry: taking care of our own. The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation joins us to share how they deliver rapid, practical support to people facing life’s hardest moments... cancer, paralysis, disaster, and sudden financial freefall. You’ll hear how a single mom technician kept her home during treatment and how a new father regained independence after paralysis with a custom wheelchair and home modifications. AACF’s new giving circle empowers individuals to chip in monthly, expanding impact beyond corporate sponsors and across both automotive and heavy-duty communities.Finally, we dig into sustainable growth with fractional leadership. Many WDs, suppliers, and tech providers need senior strategy and execution without full-time overhead. Fractional leaders bridge the gap: they build the plan, then own the implementation. We talk about cutting through hype, choosing where to focus, aligning budgets with durable value, and preparing for succession. The throughline is simple and strong... ask better questions, back your community, and execute with discipline.If this conversation resonates, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a review. Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What if warranty approvals took hours instead of days, your bay handled most ADAS calibrations without a remodel, and market chaos actually expanded your margins? From the AAPEX show floor, Auto Care ON AIR hosts sit down with three leaders who are reshaping how shops work, sell, and keep drivers safe.First, Jill Trotta explains how OneGuard’s priority virtual inspections place an ASE Master Tech on a live call to verify VINs, document failures, and move extended-warranty approvals fast, without pulling cars off the rack. She opens the lens on coverage realities, why shops get stuck delivering “not covered” news, and how smarter fraud prevention (image-matching, location checks, VIN verification) protects everyone while cutting wasted time.Next, Rob Blitzstein shares why he launched True North Automotive Aftermarket Consulting to serve Canada right now. We dig into tariffs that won’t sit still, consolidation that feels inevitable, and the logistics puzzle of a California-sized car park spread across a continent. Rob lays out how AI-driven inventory, collaborative freight, and market-acceptable pricing can turn uncertainty into opportunity, and why “people, service, availability” still wins even as playbooks change.Finally, Steve Dawson of Hunter Engineering demystifies ADAS. We break down dynamic vs static calibration, the costly myths about space, and the real triggers you might be missing... like condensers, grilles, or even certain headlamp jobs that require recalibration. Steve’s core message: most shops already own half the tools they need. With training, clear op codes for billing resets and calibrations, and procedures-first habits, you can reduce comebacks, prevent phantom braking and lane-keep confusion, and keep customers safer on the road.If this helped you rethink warranties, ADAS, or your Canada strategy, follow the show, share it with a shop owner who needs it, and leave a quick review so more pros can find these insights.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Recorded from the AAPEX show floor, this episode features Jonathan Larsen, VP of Digital Products & Standards at the Auto Care Association, and Eric Lough, VP of Catalog & Partner Integrations at NexaMotion Group. They broke into the Auto Care ON AIR studio to talk about the AAPEX Show, leadership, and progress over perfection.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Ever wonder why a light box can cost like a cinder block to ship? We pull back the curtain on parcel pricing with freight and parcel expert Mike Mc Donagh, exploring the real mechanics behind “demand season,” dimensional weight, and the stack of surcharges that quietly erode margins. From residential and additional handling to oversize and unauthorized oversize fees, we map how costs spike across a now 111-day window and what levers smart shippers use to fight back.We get tactical with data. Carriers provide invoice files packed with up to 260 fields... far more than most teams use. Mike shows which 30-or-so fields matter for quick wins: spotting where billed weight exceeds actual weight, finding the zones and services that drive spend, and surfacing line-item pitfalls like address corrections and late fees. He breaks down the math of DIM weight with a clear example and shares packaging moves that instantly lower costs, such as right-sizing cartons, splitting shipments to avoid additional handling thresholds, and shifting certain express lanes to ground without sacrificing delivery time.Contracts come under the microscope too. We talk commitments, switching-cost language, and the drift from net 30 to net 15 that pairs with a 9.9% late fee and new processing charges. Mike explains why GRIs consistently beat inflation, how surcharges outpace base rate hikes, and why fuel now behaves like a profit center rather than a pass-through. For ecommerce teams, we connect these realities to checkout: dynamic shipping logic protects conversion and margin when promotions change the order mix. Whether you’re in the automotive aftermarket or any ship-heavy business, you’ll leave with a checklist to reduce spend without cutting service and a clearer sense of when to bring in specialized benchmarking and pricing expertise.If this deep dive helped you see where the money goes, follow the show, share it with a teammate in ops or finance, and leave a quick review so more pros can find it.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

The media landscape is shifting fast, and the smartest brands aren’t just buying placements, they’re becoming broadcasters. We sit down with Simon Shelley, former BBC Studios leader and advisor to media and tech companies, to unpack how audience habits, platform formats, and funding models are changing what effective brand storytelling looks like. From MSNBC’s live events to Mattel launching a full-fledged studio, the writing is on the wall: the path to attention runs through programming, not sporadic posts.Simon shares a practical, viewer-first framework forged inside newsrooms and studios: lead with a strong character, ground the viewer in a clear setting, and take them on a real journey with obstacles and payoff. We explore why emotional connection is a prerequisite for recall, how “solutions-focused storytelling” avoids puff pieces through transparency and evidence, and where long-form content on YouTube can outperform legacy ad buys. For the automotive aftermarket, we connect this to right to repair—showing policymakers the stakes through human stories that resonate beyond a fact sheet.We also dive into the role of AI. Generative tools can speed workflow, but audiences still detect when a voice lacks human texture. That’s where Natter comes in: thousands of simultaneous one-on-one conversations, instantly synthesized into themes, actions, and verbatim quotes. It’s a new way to capture collective wisdom from members, employees, and customers—fuel for content that feels true, useful, and scalable. As streamers tighten budgets, brand studios have a rare chance to make programming that genuinely entertains while advancing core values. Start with the viewer, measure what moves them, and build a catalog worth returning to.If this sparked ideas for your team, tap follow, share the episode with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more industry pros find the show.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

The studio glow-up set the mood: take something proven and make it feel new. That’s exactly where our conversation goes with Delaney and Andrew Kitching of GB Remanufacturing, two paths into the automotive aftermarket that prove this industry is more dynamic, tech-forward, and welcoming than most people expect. From a tech startup and influencer marketing world to finance and sales, they found a resilient ecosystem where listening hard, building mentors, and adding digital fluency turn fresh ideas into real results.We dig into what newcomers wish they knew on day one: how complex the supply chain really is, why AAPEX can change how your entire team sees the business, and how to present ideas without tripping egos. You’ll hear practical tactics for earning trust—document the current state, ask better questions, run small pilots—and for leveling up fast with mentorship, peer feedback, and networking that actually moves careers forward. We also talk about the balance of old school plus new school: keeping quality, relationships, and service at the core while layering in content strategy, SEO, analytics, and digital storytelling that speaks to technicians, WDs, and buyers.There’s candid perspective on family business dynamics... earning respect, protecting legacy, and staying humble while you push for change. If you’re new to the aftermarket, you’ll leave with a clear roadmap: learn the ecosystem, find mentors, walk the trade floor, and pick one process to improve with a trusted partner. If you’re a veteran leader, you’ll hear how to invite new voices without sacrificing what works. Hit play, share this with a teammate who needs the nudge, and subscribe for more candid, practical conversations that help all of us grow. And if you enjoyed the episode, leave a quick review, your feedback helps more curious pros find the show.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What if your repair data actually told you what to do next? We sit down with Austin Ledgerwood, National Director of Sales and Insights at Motor Information Systems, to trace how messy service records become clean, standardized, decision-ready intelligence that changes pricing, warranty calls, stocking, and fleet strategy. From a Mountain Dew green Kia lesson at the auction to AI models that harmonize “OC W32” and “oil change,” we dig into the quiet work that makes insights possible—and profitable.We explore how Motor’s Repair Optics and the Navigator dashboard expose true costs by zip code, break down parts and labor with clarity, and give teams without a data science bench the power to ask sharper questions. Think warranty adjudication grounded in reality, pricing that reflects local markets, and dashboards that surface seasonal and weather-driven shifts in tires, brakes, and routine maintenance. Along the way, we challenge the habit of chasing data that confirms a pet theory and swap it for root cause thinking that actually fixes problems.Then we look ahead: EV cost of ownership at high mileage, rideshare and car-sharing models, fleet maintenance at scale, and why timely, standardized inputs will decide who gets ahead as autonomy and consolidation reshape the aftermarket. The takeaway is simple but urgent—most companies don’t have too much data; they have too much bad data. Clean the inputs, frame the right question, and let the market speak through the numbers.Subscribe for more candid, data-forward conversations. If this helped you rethink a KPI or a model, share the episode with a colleague and leave a quick review—it helps others find the show and fuels future deep dives.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Headlines about a federal shutdown can feel distant until your parts sit at a port, your product launch hits a certification queue, or your customers hit pause on upgrades. We take a clear-eyed look at what a funding lapse really means for the automotive aftermarket and why even a moderate delay can magnify existing pressures from tariffs, EPR, and the fast climb toward EV and ADAS service.Host, Stacey Miller, maps the real fault lines: regulatory approvals that slow when agencies trim operations, customs and import inspections that add days to lead times, and government procurement that postpones orders and payments. Then we layer in the human side—consumer confidence, discretionary spending, and how shops can use simple, respectful communication and flexible financing to keep trust and ticket sizes steady. You’ll hear scenario planning for a two-to-four-week pause vs. a 30+ day stretch, with practical impacts on launches, cash flow, and small-to-mid market resilience. We also dig into quiet risks like policy freezes and federal data delays, and how to replace missing signals with high-frequency operational metrics, from POS and e-commerce conversion to carrier on-time performance.Most importantly, we share a concrete mitigation playbook: buffer critical SKUs, diversify and nearshore where it counts, secure liquidity before you need it, stagger launches to avoid regulatory bottlenecks, and communicate early and often about timelines, options, and offers. We’re tracking which agency functions stay live and how to time submissions, and we highlight the role of industry associations in advocating for clarity and relief. Subscribe, share this with your team, and leave a quick review to help more aftermarket pros find it! Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Tariffs shouldn’t be a guessing game, yet policy shifts are hitting faster than inventory can move. We sit down with Angela Chiang, our Director of International Affairs, to decode what’s real, what’s next, and how to protect your business when 232, 301, and IEPA collide. From the new “inclusion” process under Section 232, where products can be added into tariff coverage, to the tightening landscape around Section 301 exclusions, Angela breaks down the rules, the timelines, and the evidence agencies actually weigh when you push for relief.We also unpack the high-stakes IEPA fight now headed to the Supreme Court and what it could mean for refund rights. If you paid IEPA-based tariffs, tracking liquidation dates and filing timely protests can preserve your claims; miss those steps and potential refunds may be out of reach. And yes, Wall Street has noticed. Investment firms are offering to buy refund rights for cash today, a real option for businesses balancing uncertainty with working capital needs.On the horizon, a possible 25% tariff signal on trucks and truck parts has everyone modeling scenarios. We share a practical playbook: map exposed HTS codes, simulate landed-cost ranges, prepare customer communications tied to official notices, and tighten documentation for melt-and-pour and supply chain traceability. Finally, we highlight tools and resources like our tariff calculator and trade updates hub that translate complex stacking rules into clear numbers you can act on.If your team is wrestling with compliance, cash flow, and pricing in a volatile trade environment, this conversation gives you the steps to move from reaction to readiness. Subscribe, share with your ops and finance leads, and leave a review to help more industry peers find these insights.Tariff Calculator: (https://www.autocare.org/tariff-calculator) Trade Updates: (https://www.autocare.org/government-relations/current-issues/tariffs-and-trade)Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Want to supercharge your career growth? The secret isn't working longer hours or waiting for someone to notice your hard work... it's about strategically creating your own opportunities.In this candid conversation with Matt Fowler of Pivotree and 2025 Auto Care Impact Award winner, Jon Clements of Experian Automotive, we dive deep into proven strategies for advancing your career in the auto care industry and beyond. These industry veterans share how their involvement in professional organizations like YANG (Young Auto Care Network Group) transformed not just their careers but also created lasting friendships that continue to open doors years later.The discussion tackles head-on the challenges many professionals face, particularly the paralyzing effects of imposter syndrome. As Matt points out, "If you're not learning and challenging yourself enough to be like, 'Should I even be here?' then you need to check yourself." This refreshing perspective helps listeners understand that everyone, even industry veterans, experiences uncertainty in today's rapidly changing landscape.We explore the delicate balance between developing specialized expertise and maintaining career flexibility. Jon shares valuable advice he received about avoiding becoming too narrowly focused: "Don't get so pigeonholed that there's no backup plan." This wisdom is particularly relevant in an era where technology and industry needs evolve rapidly.Perhaps most importantly, the conversation emphasizes the power of calculated risk-taking. From accepting speaking engagements to raising your hand for challenging projects, each risk creates potential for exponential growth. As Jacki Lutz notes, "It's not just doing the opportunity, but also letting it live on by talking about it" that truly maximizes career advancement.Whether you're just starting your career journey or looking to reach the next level, this episode delivers actionable insights on networking effectively, leveraging LinkedIn as an "opportunity engine," finding mentors, and confidently stepping into rooms where decisions are made. Subscribe now and discover how to create your own path to success!Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

A neutral ENSO pattern is about to disrupt your winter inventory planning. Are you ready?Former NASA meteorologist Rob Gutro joins Stacey Miller to explore how this winter's unique weather patterns will dramatically impact auto parts demand across different US regions. For the first time in 12 years, we're entering a neutral El Niño Southern Oscillation phase, creating distinct regional weather scenarios that auto parts businesses need to understand.Northern states from Montana to Maine should brace for colder temperatures and increased snowfall compared to recent years, with the Northeast potentially facing more frequent Nor'easters. "Don't expect this winter to be like last winter," warns Guttro, highlighting the dramatic shift from previous patterns. Meanwhile, southern states will likely experience warmer-than-normal conditions, though with potential for extreme fluctuations. The expert meteorologist also notes concerning trends in hurricane intensity, with more Category 5 storms in the past two decades than ever before.These weather patterns create region-specific inventory challenges and opportunities. Cold northern regions will see increased demand for batteries, antifreeze, heating components, winter tires, and traction accessories. The wet Pacific Northwest needs wiper blades, roof racks, and water-resistant accessories. Southern areas should stock emergency supplies for potential hurricane impacts. Beyond inventory planning, safety considerations present additional merchandising opportunities – emergency road kits, reflectors, first aid supplies, and winter emergency items should be prominently featured.The conversation underscores how critical weather forecasting is becoming to auto parts businesses. Tools like the Auto Care Association's TrendLens, which tracks temperature patterns and other indicators, can help businesses forecast regional parts demand based on weather trends. In an increasingly unpredictable climate, the most successful businesses will be those that closely monitor regional weather patterns, stock appropriate inventory, and remain flexible enough to adapt to unexpected shifts.Subscribe to Auto Care ON AIR for more insights on navigating industry challenges and discovering new opportunities in the evolving automotive aftermarket.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

When you open that auto insurance renewal notice and see your premium has increased yet again, what factors are actually driving that change? In this eye-opening conversation, Michel Leonard, Chief Economist and Data Scientist at the Insurance Information Institute (III), takes us behind the scenes of how insurance rates are determined.Insurance might seem mysterious, but Leonard breaks down the actuarial science in refreshingly clear terms. As he explains, your rates aren't set arbitrarily, they're calculated based on statistical data that must prove the connection between risk factors and claims. The industry term is "actuarially sound," meaning any factor used to determine your premium must be demonstrably supported by data. And contrary to popular belief, having a red car doesn't automatically mean higher rates!The conversation takes a fascinating turn when examining recent trends in auto insurance. Following COVID, an unexpected phenomenon occurred: people continued driving faster even as roads filled back up, leading to 2023 becoming the first year in three decades where overall driving safety deteriorated nationwide. Combined with supply chain disruptions that sent replacement costs soaring by 40% over three years, it's created the perfect storm for premium increases.Leonard also offers insights into how modern vehicle technology impacts insurance. Today's vehicles incorporate sophisticated systems that, while making cars safer, also make them significantly more expensive to repair or replace. Something as simple as a headlight is now an integrated system rather than an easily replaceable bulb.Whether you're curious about how telematics might change insurance pricing in the future, why insurance is regulated at the state level, or simply want to understand the factors affecting your own premium, this conversation provides the context you need to make sense of an essential financial product that touches all our lives.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What makes a customer choose your business over a competitor's? According to customer experience expert David Avrin, it's not just about quality or friendly service anymore, it's about being "ridiculously easy to do business with."The stakes have never been higher. As headlines show Salesforce cutting 4,000 customer service jobs in favor of AI and luxury restaurants focusing on data refinement rather than new menu items, one thing becomes clear: customer experience is the new battleground. Avrin, who has consulted with thousands of organizations across 28 countries, brings laser-focused clarity to what today's customers truly value."When everybody's good, when everybody's capable, how is it to do business with you?" Avrin asks, challenging listeners to examine their customer journey through fresh eyes. The conversation dives deep into what frustrates modern consumers, from automated phone systems to rigid policies that haven't changed in decades, and reveals surprising research showing 67% of people prefer convenience over friendliness.The podcast explores the dramatic shift in consumer expectations, where transparency, speed, and multiple engagement options have become non-negotiable. Through compelling examples, including a body shop that texts customers from their car's perspective and the remarkable success of Uber's transparent process, Avrin demonstrates how seemingly small touches create customer advocates who drive business growth.Perhaps most valuable is Avrin's insight on responsiveness: "Harvard Business Review did a study that said there's a hundred times better chance of winning the business with a response within five minutes." In an era where social proof has replaced advertising as the primary driver of customer behavior, creating an "army of fans" through exceptional experiences has become essential for survival.Whether you're running a small shop or managing a large organization, this episode provides actionable strategies to eliminate friction points, offer customer choices, and create the kind of memorable experiences that transform customers into vocal advocates. As Avrin warns, "Every company could go out of business today and we'd be fine, because they'd be replaced very quickly by somebody else who serves their customers better."Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation with host, Stacey Miller, that will transform how you think about your business operations and customer relationships. Visit davidavrin.com to learn more about his approach and his new book "Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With."Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Get ready for a complete unwrapping of the automotive aftermarket's premier event! In this engaging conversation, Mark Bogdansky, Vice President of Trade Shows & Community Engagement, and Ted Hughes, Senior Director of Community Engagement & Executive Director of AWDA, join host Jacki Lutz to reveal the most significant changes coming to AAPEX since the show moved to Las Vegas over 30 years ago.The biggest transformation? A complete floor segmentation by product category that will revolutionize how buyers navigate the show. "There is no back of the hall anymore," explains Bogdansky, as competitors will now be grouped together, making product discovery dramatically more efficient. But that's just the beginning - food trucks are coming to the show floor, addressing the perennial challenge of quick meals without abandoning the action. Meanwhile, a new student engine assembly competition will spotlight emerging talent, and The Great One himself, Wayne Gretzky, will deliver insights on becoming a "Hall of Famer" in your industry as the keynote speaker.The conversation delves deeply into the symbiotic relationship between the AWDA Conference and AAPEX. Hughes shares why face-to-face meetings remain irreplaceable in our digital age: "When you're on virtual calls, you look at your email while on the call. That doesn't happen in person." These high-level, focused interactions between distributors and suppliers kickstart the week with meaningful business conversations that set the stage for a productive show.Both veterans emphasize preparation as the cornerstone of success, whether you're an exhibitor or attendee. Plan meetings in advance, but leave room for serendipitous encounters. Train booth staff properly and position giveaways strategically to maximize engagement. Perhaps most crucially, develop a robust follow-up system - the panel reveals the shocking statistic that 89% of trade show leads are never contacted afterward, representing massive untapped potential.Whether this is your first AAPEX or you are a seasoned vet, this insider's guide offers invaluable strategies to maximize your investment in this industry-defining week. Listen now and arrive in Vegas prepared to work hard, play hard, and build the relationships that drive business forward in the automotive aftermarket.Learn more about the AAPEX Show and register here: https://www.aapexshow.com/Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

The relentless advancement of artificial intelligence is reshaping every industry, raising profound questions about the future of human work and creativity. What happens when technology doesn't just augment our capabilities but potentially replaces human intelligence itself?Mark W. Schaefer, globally recognized marketing authority and author of "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World," joins Stacey Miller to explore this critical inflection point. With striking clarity, Mark articulates why this technological revolution differs fundamentally from those that came before: "Our organizations have been built on scarce intelligence, but now the economic value of intelligence is approaching zero."Rather than offering empty reassurances, Mark provides a compelling framework for thriving amid this disruption. "Competent is replaceable. Competent is ignorable," he warns, before revealing how businesses can tap into uniquely human qualities that no algorithm can replicate. Through vivid examples (from neighborhood cheese shops where elderly customers are greeted by name to the explosive growth of unconventional brands like Liquid Death) Mark demonstrates how authentic connection, community-building, and creative audacity create competitive advantages no AI can match.Most encouraging is Mark's insistence that being audacious doesn't require massive budgets. He shares how his own book features an innovative "infinity cover" QR code that displays AI-generated art based on the book's contents... a cutting-edge innovation that cost relatively little but creates a memorable, shareable experience. For businesses seeking to stand out in what Mark calls "the pandemic of dull" marketing, the path forward lies in rediscovering what makes us uniquely human.Whether you're excited by AI's possibilities or concerned about its implications, this conversation offers practical wisdom for navigating a world where technology and humanity increasingly intersect. Connect with Mark at BusinessesGrow.com to explore his books, blog, and long-running podcast, The Marketing Companion.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Your car is generating valuable data every time you drive, but who owns that information and how can it benefit you? In this illuminating conversation, Alex Rawitz, founder of DIMO, reveals how his company is empowering drivers to take control of their vehicle data.For most of us, our cars represent a significant expense, about $8,000 annually beyond depreciation... yet we rarely leverage the data they generate to optimize these costs. DIMO has created a platform that collects telemetry data from nearly 200,000 vehicles, creating what Rawitz calls a "digital twin" for each car. This information ranges from location and speed to engine performance and diagnostic trouble codes, all stored privately for the owner's benefit.The applications are surprisingly diverse and practical. When combined with AI, this data can help drivers improve fuel efficiency, predict maintenance needs, and even determine the optimal time to sell a vehicle. Perhaps most fascinating is DIMO's research on electric vehicles, which revealed that the average driver with basic home charging would only need to charge away from home once every three months—effectively debunking range anxiety concerns.What sets DIMO apart in our data-hungry world is their emphasis on privacy and user control. Unlike many tech platforms that automatically collect and use consumer data, DIMO users decide exactly what information they share and with whom. This approach recognizes that while connected cars generate valuable information, consumers should maintain authority over how that information is used.Looking toward the future, Rawitz envisions a world where AI becomes proactive rather than reactive, automatically handling routine vehicle maintenance decisions and freeing drivers from having to remember oil changes or registration renewals. For businesses in the automotive aftermarket, these trends represent both challenges and opportunities to create more personalized, data-driven customer experiences.Visit DIMO.co to learn more about how DIMO is helping drivers harness the power of their vehicle data while maintaining privacy and control in an increasingly connected automotive world.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What makes collaboration truly effective? In this eye-opening conversation, the Auto Care Association team explores how physical spaces, team dynamics, and individual mindsets create environments where innovative ideas flourish.Step inside the Association's brand-new office space, purposefully designed with open concepts and glass walls to foster spontaneous interaction. As Stacey Miller, VP of Communications, shares, "We were all separate before. There was this big heavy wooden door and this big heavy wooden furniture, and you never knew if anybody was in the office." The team reveals how this architectural transformation has already sparked increased communication and cross-departmental idea-sharing after just two weeks.The conversation delves into the art of feedback, both giving and receiving it effectively. Graphic designer Erin Wood offers a refreshing perspective: "Trying to center the work helps you de-center yourself and not take feedback personally. They're not a reflection that I'm bad at my job... it's just a point of view I haven't considered." This psychological safety creates space where even "bad ideas" can contribute valuable elements to final solutions.Beyond physical space and feedback mechanisms, the team examines how diversity of thought strengthens collaboration. From varied experience levels to different departmental perspectives, they demonstrate how intentionally building teams with complementary viewpoints creates more comprehensive solutions. As Content Director Jacki Lutz notes, "The whole point of having a diverse team is having different perceptions... it gives you that 360-degree view."Whether you're building a collaborative team or striving to become a better collaborator yourself, this conversation offers practical strategies: shadow colleagues to understand their workflows, be proactive in both teaching and learning, and remember that you were chosen for your unique perspective, so don't hesitate to share it. Discover how the auto care industry itself serves as a model for effective collaboration across sectors toward common goals.What makes someone your favorite collaborator? Listen now and reflect on how you might embody those qualities in your own professional relationships.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

The collision repair industry is undergoing a seismic transformation. Gone are the days when fixing a car meant simply restoring metal and paint. Ryan Mandell, with over two decades of collision industry experience, reveals how today's vehicles demand an entirely new approach to repairs."There's more lines of code in a modern vehicle than there was in the first space shuttle," Mandell explains as he details the technological complexity that has revolutionized collision repair. Modern repair facilities must now conduct diagnostic scans before and after repairs, recalibrate sophisticated safety systems, and understand how different materials respond to damage. What was once primarily mechanical work now requires technicians to function almost as systems engineers.This technological evolution extends to every aspect of collision repair. Mandell describes how specialized equipment, training, and facilities are now essential for properly repairing vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Static calibrations require dedicated bays with specialized targets, while dynamic calibrations involve specific road testing protocols. Even a calibration that's off by just one degree can have "catastrophic effects" on system performance.The changing landscape is driving consolidation and specialization within the industry. While multi-shop operations can spread investments across locations and create centers of excellence, independent shops increasingly need to find specialized niches rather than attempting to repair every make and model. Economic pressures are also pushing shops to explore new service models, including preventative calibration services that could transform the traditional collision-only business model.For aftermarket professionals navigating this rapidly evolving sector, understanding these changes is crucial. Whether dealing with repair versus replace decisions, material composition considerations, or preparing for the growing number of electrified vehicles, the collision repair industry's future belongs to those who can adapt to increasing technological complexity while maintaining the highest repair standards.Check out Mitchell's quarterly reports on electric vehicles in collision repair and explore how data analytics is reshaping this vital segment of the automotive aftermarket.Quarterly Mitchell EV Report: https://www.mitchell.com/plugged-inSend us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Access to vehicle data sits at the heart of the automotive repair industry's future, yet many independent repair shops face growing barriers to the information they need. This eye-opening conversation between host, Stacey Miller, and her guest (and colleague) Mike Tanner, Director of Vehicle Technology and Innovation at the Auto Care Association, reveals how technological advancements like software-defined vehicles, ADAS systems, and electric powertrains are reshaping what it means to "fix a car", and why your local shop might be forced to turn away vehicles they're fully capable of repairing.We dive deep into a surprising victory for repair advocates: the requirement for OBD2 diagnostic ports on electric vehicles. Without this critical access point, independent shops would be completely locked out of servicing EV batteries, a massive segment of future repair work. Meanwhile, battery technology itself is evolving rapidly, with solid-state solutions promising to resolve safety concerns while extending vehicle range and lifespan.The fragmented landscape of vehicle data access creates unnecessary complexity for repair shops. Different manufacturers require different tools, subscriptions, and access protocols, a maze that seems deliberately designed to push consumers toward dealership service. Perhaps most concerning is the disparity in remote diagnostics capabilities, where independent shops are denied the ability to remotely assess vehicle problems, determine severity, and efficiently schedule repairs.These aren't just technical concerns, they directly impact consumer choice, repair costs, and even safety. When technicians must turn away vehicles because they lack access to manufacturer-specific programming tools, everyone loses. With right-to-repair legislation gaining unprecedented momentum at both state and federal levels, now is the critical moment to make your voice heard. Share your repair barriers at autocare.org/cantrepair and join the Legislative Summit to help secure a competitive repair ecosystem for the future.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Have you ever wondered what race car drivers and automotive professionals could teach us about navigating career changes? At the iconic Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, we discovered that the winding roads of this legendary race mirror the twists and turns many of us face in our professional journeys.This episode brings together Rob Tinson of Hella Aftermarket and professional race car driver Robb Holland for a revealing conversation about career evolution, resilience, and finding your path. Holland shares his fascinating journey from competitive cyclist to real estate agent to successful motorsports professional, challenging the notion that career changes must be dramatic pivots. "I don't ever consider them pivots," he explains, "it's just directions I've been led."What makes this conversation particularly valuable is the emphasis on transferable skills and authentic relationship-building. Holland reveals how his cycling experience provided crucial abilities that translated perfectly to motorsports, while both guests discuss the power of genuine curiosity in networking. "I'm fascinated about people and I want to know people," Holland notes, contrasting this approach with transactional networking that rarely leads to meaningful connections.The conversation delves into problem-solving within the automotive aftermarket, the importance of perseverance through challenging times, and finding the balance between passion and business practicality. As Holland puts it when facing obstacles: "It's not okay, this is tough. How do I overcome it?"Don't miss our exclusive bonus segment recorded after Holland's class victory at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, where he shares insights about the race experience and celebration with his team. Whether you're contemplating a career change or simply looking for inspiration to overcome professional challenges, this episode offers actionable wisdom from professionals who've mastered the art of navigating life's hairpin turns. Subscribe now and join the conversation!Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

The AI revolution isn't coming, it's already here, reshaping how businesses operate across every industry. In this enlightening conversation with Clyde Calhoun, founder and CEO of Root Idea, we dive deep into the practical realities of implementing artificial intelligence in today's business landscape."This is a technology that can make you infinitely more valuable in your job if you embrace it," explains Calhoun, addressing the widespread concern about job displacement. Rather than fearing replacement, employees should focus on leveraging AI to enhance their capabilities. With approximately 70% of US employees already using generative AI at work, the value proposition is becoming increasingly clear.For manufacturing and automotive aftermarket companies, AI applications are delivering remarkable results. From demand forecasting that optimizes inventory management to production optimization yielding 10% efficiency improvements, the technology is transforming operations. Looking ahead, manufacturing organizations could see productivity improvements of up to 30% through AI implementation over the next five years.However, successful adoption requires more than just technology investment. Organizations should expect to allocate approximately 5% of revenue to AI technology solutions, with an additional 20% for critical change management efforts. The returns justify this investment—data shows the average ROI for well-implemented AI is around 40%, with most companies experiencing significant revenue increases after successful integration.Whether you're just beginning to explore AI's potential or looking to enhance existing implementations, Calhoun offers this pragmatic advice: "This is a journey. You're not expected to adopt AI overnight, but it is important that as a business leader, you start and get into the pool to test it out." The gap between early adopters and those waiting on the sidelines grows wider each day... where does your organization stand in the AI revolution?Subscribe now to Auto Care ON AIR for more insights on technology trends reshaping the automotive aftermarket industry.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What separates those who achieve their goals from those who merely dream about them? In this illuminating conversation, Jacki Lutz brings together two remarkable individuals from vastly different worlds: Larry Pavey, former CEO of Federated Auto Parts Group, and Alex Weber, American Ninja Warrior competitor and host, to unpack the psychology and practical tactics behind effective goal setting.The discussion reveals a powerful concept both men encountered on their journeys: "the messy middle." This challenging period between initial excitement and eventual achievement is where most people abandon their aspirations. Weber shares his humbling experience of failing repeatedly in Ninja Warrior training despite his prior athletic achievements, while Pavey recounts turning around a struggling business by trusting his team and stepping back. Their stories demonstrate that perseverance through discomfort is the true differentiator in goal achievement."Good things happen when you go all in," Weber explains, challenging listeners to examine whether they've rationalized abandoning goals simply to avoid the difficult growth period. Meanwhile, Pavey offers wisdom from decades in leadership, warning against the complacency that can follow success: "You can't ever get comfortable. You got to get up every day and figure out how to get better."Both guests emphasize that goals often reveal themselves through action rather than advance planning. Weber's initial acting aspirations led him to discover his talent for hosting, while Pavey found opportunities arriving far sooner than he anticipated. This teaches flexibility in goal-setting, sometimes the path becomes clear only after taking the first step.The conversation concludes with actionable advice: create space to articulate what you truly want, move toward it with urgency, find pride in the challenging journey, and continuously seek improvement even after achieving success. As Weber aptly puts it, "Before any goal can be real, it needs a chance to appear."Ready to push through your own messy middle and achieve what others only dream about? Subscribe to Auto Care ON AIR and join the conversation about professional growth in the automotive aftermarket industry.Send us Fan MailTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast