John Baranski started as an automotive technician in the middle of the 2008 recession, when shops were closing and layoffs were constant. Instead of quitting, he learned everything no one else wanted to do. Water leaks. Convertible tops. Hybrids. That grit carried him from fixing cars to fixing boats… and eventually, into leadership.
Today, John is a shop foreman in the marine industry, managing a team that repairs some of the most advanced wake and performance boats in the world.
In this episode, we talk about:
👉 How to survive shop closures and layoffs
👉 Turning hard jobs into career opportunities
👉 Building accountability and trust on the shop floor
👉 The difference between working hard and leading hard
👉 What it takes to move from wrenching to leadership
If you’re a mechanic, technician, or service professional who wants to level up, this conversation will hit home.
🎧 Listen to more episodes of The Wrench Turners Podcast
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@WrenchTurners
📌 Like, comment, and subscribe to support the channel
Subscribe for episodes on:
Service advisor training
Technician productivity
Repair order accuracy
Dealership leadership and culture
Fixed Ops coaching and management
Automotive Content Creation
Event Media and Publication
Event Filmography
Listen to The Wrench Turners Podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=26aeb4be65da45eb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
FixedOPS Marketing — Service marketing tools for dealerships
https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
https://www.youtube.com/@fixedopsmarketing
https://www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketing
Chapters:
00:00 – Opening Prayer
01:00 – Who is John Baranski?
03:00 – Discovering a Passion
05:00 – Getting Recruited
07:00 – Surviving the 2008 Crash
09:00 – Learning Work Ethic
12:00 – Accountability, Trust
15:00 – The Power of Great Leadership
18:00 – Finding Culture and Coaching
20:00 – Moving to Florida:
23:00 – Becoming a Master Tech
26:00 – Reaching the Top
29:00 – The Hardest Jobs in the Dealership
31:00 – Transition from Cars to Boats
34:00 – Entering the Marine Industry
36:00 – Learning Boats from Scratch
38:00 – Mentorship, Mindset, and Learning
42:00 – Universal Skills All Mechanics Share
44:00 – Advice for Technicians
47:00 – “Do the Jobs Nobody Wants to Do”
49:00 – The Wildest Customer Stories
51:00 – The Coolest Thing That Ever Happened at Work
52:00 – Final Thoughts and Closing Quote
Technician recruiting is broken, and Sheila Pogue has seen it from both sides.In this episode of The Wrench Turners Podcast, Sheila shares how she went from a parts counter rookie to leading teams across service, warranty, marketing, and now talent acquisition in RV, Marine, Power Sports, and Automotive.She’s placed techs, she’s hired techs, she’s BEEN the tech’s backup when things went sideways. Now, she’s sounding the alarm: if your dealership can’t recruit techs, it’s not a shortage, it’s a systems problem.In this episode:✅ Why most techs don’t even have a resume✅ What top technicians actually want (and what they don’t)✅ How LinkedIn is “word of mouth on wide open throttle” for hiring✅ What shops should be doing right now✅ Why RV, Marine might just be the next big hiring poolWhether you're a GM, Fixed Ops Director, or recruiter trying to fill your bays, or a tech thinking about your next move, this episode will change the way you think about hiring and getting hired.📌 Like, comment, and subscribe to support smarter recruiting and better technician careers.🔧 Follow Sheila Pogue on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilapogue713/🔔 Subscribe to the Wrench Turners Podcast for more in-depth conversations with industry innovators.#morethancarsSubscribe for episodes on:Service advisor trainingTechnician productivityRepair order accuracyDealership leadership and cultureFixed Ops coaching and managementAutomotive Content CreationEvent Media and PublicationEvent FilmographyListen to The Wrench Turners PodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=26aeb4be65da45ebInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/FixedOPS Marketing — Service marketing tools for dealershipshttps://www.fixedopsmarketing.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@fixedopsmarketinghttps://www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketing
Mindy Williams is the definition of a powerhouse. A five-time Subaru Stars winner, Sparkplug Award champion, and the top service advisor at CMA’s Myers team, Mindy knows what it takes to rise from part-time receptionist to full-blown service manager.
In this episode of the Wrench Turners Podcast, Mindy shares her journey into automotive, what it means to lead a team while raising two kids, and the exact customer service mindset that’s built her a loyal customer base.
She talks real talk about selling with heart, parenting while managing a busy shop, and how care—not—commission, is what keeps customers coming back.
🔧 What You’ll Learn:
– Why selling the appointment matters more than selling the repair
– How to build unforgettable customer experiences
– What every manager should learn from CliftonStrengths
– How parenting teaches you to be a better leader and vice versa
– Why trust and laughter are the real metrics of success
💬 Mindy also drops this 🔥 question for the next guest:
"How do you handle negative feedback?"
🔔 Subscribe to the Wrench Turners Podcast for more in-depth conversations with industry innovators.
#morethancars
If this helped, comment with your next video idea or tag someone who needs to press record. Better yet, go make something. I would love to see it.
Subscribe for episodes on:
Service advisor training
Technician productivity
Repair order accuracy
Dealership leadership and culture
Fixed Ops coaching and management
Automotive Content Creation
Event Media and Publication
Event Filmography
Listen to The Wrench Turners Podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=26aeb4be65da45eb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
FixedOPS Marketing — Service marketing tools for dealerships
https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
https://www.youtube.com/@fixedopsmarketing
https://www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketing
ASOTU - More than Cars - Where Innovative Ideas In Auto Are Born
https://www.asotu.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@asotu/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu
Toma - "We care about our customers."
https://www.toma.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/tomavoice/
Chapters
00:00 Intro to Mindy Williams
01:39 Falling into automotive by accident
03:47 What appointment setting teaches you
05:46 Handling objections like a pro
07:39 Why Mindy loves selling
10:00 Relationship-based selling
12:30 Using a calendar to build loyalty
14:34 Customer care beyond the bay
17:33 What parenting taught her about leadership
19:30 What makes CMA different
21:50 How to make your team feel appreciated
23:13 How to find joy in your job
25:41 Advice to technicians: speak up
27:46 Mindy’s take on work-life balance
On this episode of the Wrench Turners Podcast, I sit down with Canadian technician David Rodrigues. For nearly 20 years, David has been mastering his craft on Hondas and Acuras. This is not just a career recap. It’s a deep dive into legacy, leadership, and the reality of working flat-rate.
David shares how he started through co-op, landed a rare apprenticeship, and became the go-to diagnostic tech. But then he left. Why? Leadership that didn’t fight for his time. And when he returned, everything changed.
In this episode, we cover:
🙋♂️ Why being the best technician in the shop can feel like a curse
🙋♂️ How he diagnosed a TLX that only failed in the rain
🙋♂️What real support from a service manager looks like
🙋♂️How a good shop foreman can make or break a dealership
🙋♂️Why boring jobs make the best money
This is for the tech who wants more. More respect. More growth. More meaning in the work. Don't miss this conversation if you’re leading techs or trying to become one worth following.
Chapters:
0:00 The technician’s legacy
3:00 Hot Wheels to Hondas
10:00 Earned Apprenticeship
17:00 Dealership promised everything, delivered nothing
26:00 Diagnosing the impossible TLX
33:00 Shop foremen make or break it
42:00 The boring jobs pay the best
45:00 Best advice for every tech
49:00 Work-life balance isn’t one-size-fits-all
If you're a fixed ops director, service manager, Technician, BDC trainer, SaaS Founder, Service Advisor, or automotive professional looking to understand the future of dealership operations, this discussion offers valuable insights.
🔔 Subscribe to the Wrench Turners Podcast for more in-depth conversations with industry innovators.
#morethancars
If this helped, comment with your next video idea or tag someone who needs to press record. Better yet, go make something. I would love to see it.
Subscribe for episodes on:
Service advisor training
Technician productivity
Repair order accuracy
Dealership leadership and culture
Fixed Ops coaching and management
Automotive Content Creation
Event Media and Publication
Event Filmography
Listen to The Wrench Turners Podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=26aeb4be65da45eb
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
Sponsored by The Bearded Brotherhood
Premium beard care products built for technicians.
Use code WRENCH15 at checkout: https://thebeardedbrotherhood.co
https://www.youtube.com/@TheBeardedBrotherhood
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bearded-brotherhood
Powered by:
FixedOPS Marketing — Service marketing tools for dealerships
https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
https://www.youtube.com/@fixedopsmarketing
https://www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketing
The Lion Partnership — Consulting for service department performance
https://www.lionpartnership.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-lion-partnership
DCS - Digital Communication Solutions — Digital Sales and Service Tags
https://www.dicoso.us
https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-communication-solutions/
ASOTU - More than Cars - Where Innovative Ideas In Auto Are Born
https://www.asotu.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@asotu/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu
Toma - "We care about our customers."
https://www.toma.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/tomavoice/
This isn’t another how-to-fix-a-car video.
This is how to fix yourself in the trade before the trade breaks you.
In this Wrench Turner's Podcast compilation, five technicians and leaders drop hard-earned wisdom, not about tools, not about pay plans, but about mindset, ownership, growth, and survival in the bay.
💬 "No one’s coming to save you."
That’s the wake-up call running through every clip in this episode.
You’ll hear real stories and raw advice from:
Technicians who've fought burnout
Leaders who've turned mistakes into mentorship
Wrench turners who chose growth over gossip
If you’ve ever felt stuck, pissed off, or like you’re the only one who cares, this one’s for you.
j.
Subscribe for weekly episodes on:
Service advisor training
Technician productivity
Repair order accuracy
Dealership leadership and culture
Fixed Ops coaching and management
Automotive Content Creation
Listen to The Wrench Turners Podcast
Spotify: https://wrenchturnerspodcast.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
Sponsored by The Bearded Brotherhood
Premium beard care products built for technicians.
Use code WRENCH15 at checkout: https://thebeardedbrotherhood.co
Powered by:
FixedOPS Marketing — Service marketing tools for dealerships
https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
The Lion Partnership — Consulting for service department performance
https://www.lionpartnership.com
DCS - Digital Communication Solutions — Tools for service and BDC teams
https://www.dicoso.us
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:16 Dealing with Bad Days (Derek Scherer)
06:30 Understand Before You Diagnose (Daniel Lee)
09:14 Take Ownership of Your Training (Clinton Cruz)
11:48 Positivity is a Survival Tool (Brooklynne Morse)
13:22 Invest in Your Growth (Jeremy Stephens)
16:46 Final Message
From Parts Ninja to Shop Coach and Service Director of Multiple stores | Robert Migliaccio | Wrench Turners Podcast
Today’s guest didn’t just work his way up; he built his way up. Robert Migliaccio started as a teenage car detailer, dropped out of high school, and never looked back. With decades in the trenches of fixed ops, Robert’s story is the kind you don’t hear often, and the kind you don’t forget.
He’s run parts counters like a silent assassin, coached technicians with empathy and clarity, and now oversees multi-store service operations across states. And he does it all while mentoring new techs, giving back to local schools, and living what it means to be a leader in the service lane.
💥 Topics we cover:
👉 How Robert found opportunity after dropping out of high school
👉 What it really takes to run a winning parts department
👉 The question every tech should ask during an interview
👉 Why the best leaders treat their stall like a franchise
👉 How to bring entrepreneurship into a dealership
👉 The myth of the “dead-end” parts job
👉 Leading a shop while raising a family on one income
👉 What basketball taught him about leadership and peace
If you’re in fixed ops, this is one of the most well-rounded voices you’ll hear. And if you’ve ever felt stuck in your role, this episode might be the spark you need to keep going.
📌 Don’t forget to:
👍 Like
💬 Comment with your biggest takeaway
🔔 Subscribe for more real, raw conversations from the world of automotive
👍 Work with me:
Want to be on the show, be a sponsor of any show that I host or produce? Do you need a content creator for your business or automotive event filmography? Reach out: joshua@justworkhard.com
🎙️ Listen to The Wrench Turners Podcast
🌍 More episodes and resources:
https://wrenchturnerspodcast.com
https://wrenchturners.online
📸 Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
💼 Connect with Joshua Taylor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
🧔♂️ Sponsored by The Bearded Brotherhood
Premium beard oils, balms, and waxes made for the blue-collar man.
Use code WRENCH15 at https://thebeardedbrotherhood.co for 15% off.
💻 Powered by:
FixedOPS Marketing — Service Department Marketing https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
The Lion Partnership — Strategic Dealership Consulting https://www.lionpartnership.com
DCS - Digital Communication Solutions for Dealerships
https://www.dicoso.us
Connect Convert Close - Sales and BDC Workshop
May 22, 2025
https://www.connectconvertclose.us
Writing accurate, detailed repair orders isn't just paperwork—it's how shops get paid, protect themselves from chargebacks, and deliver exceptional customer service.
In this episode of The Wrench Turners Podcast, host Joshua Taylor is joined by Alec Ruffini, a Navy vet turned Fixed Ops leader, and Clemente Dominguez, a fast-rising shop foreman. Together, they break down why most service departments struggle with RO documentation and how to fix it, starting today.
Whether you're a technician frustrated by bad write-ups or a service advisor getting frustrated with poor "stories" from the shop floor, this episode shows you how to bridge the gap.
In this episode, we cover:
👉 Why a clear customer concern, cause, and correction (3C) matters
👉 How bad RO stories cause warranty claim denials and chargebacks
👉 Why do missing details like location, duplication steps, and verification notes ruin the work
👉 The technician's side of the story and how to fix the "I hate typing" problem
👉 Tools and processes to improve RO writing without slowing down the shop
👉 Real-world examples of bad and better ROs
👉 How to drive better communication between advisors and techs
👉 Voice-to-text workflows to streamline documentation
👉 What a 1% improvement in RO stories means to your bottom line
If you manage, write, or work on repair orders, this is your blueprint for better documentation, fewer comebacks, and higher approvals.
Subscribe for weekly episodes on:
Service advisor training
Technician productivity
Repair order accuracy
Dealership leadership and culture
Fixed Ops coaching and management
Listen to The Wrench Turners Podcast
Spotify: https://wrenchturnerspodcast.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
Sponsored by The Bearded Brotherhood
Premium beard care products built for technicians.
Use code WRENCH15 at checkout: https://thebeardedbrotherhood.co
Powered by:
FixedOPS Marketing — Service marketing tools for dealerships
https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
The Lion Partnership — Consulting for service department performance
https://www.lionpartnership.com
DCS - Digital Communication Solutions — Tools for service and BDC teams
https://www.dicoso.us
Chapters:
00:00 Why repair order writing matters
01:07 RO example: “Customer is here for the recall”
03:33 RO example: “Vehicle is making a whooping noise”
13:07 RO example: "Rough idle and no check engine light"
16:48 What’s missing from most repair orders
17:41 Enforcing better RO habits
23:49 Voice-to-text tips for faster, better documentation
From Navy Veteran to Coaching Service Teams | Alec Ruffini & Clemente Dominguez | Wrench Turners Podcast
Today’s guests didn’t stumble into leadership; they forged their way there. Alec Ruffini, a Navy veteran turned automotive coach, and Clemente Dominguez, a rising shop foreman, join host Joshua Taylor to talk about what it really takes to run a high-performing dealership service department.
From ethical sales and technician development to team dynamics and trust-building, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom. Alec shares lessons from decades of turning around underperforming shops, while Clemente offers a fresh perspective from someone who went from independent repair to managing a 25-person dealership team.
💥 Topics we cover:
👉 Alec’s unexpected career path
👉 Why integrity matters
👉 What Clemente learned
👉 How to build technician trust
👉 What it actually means to be a steward
👉 Communication shapes team performance
👉 The one mindset every technician needs
👉 Managing stress
If you're in Fixed Ops, an aspiring leader, or a technician wondering how to level up, this is your playbook. This is how leaders get built.
📌 Don’t forget to:
👍 Like
💬 Comment with your biggest takeaway
🔔 Subscribe for more real, raw conversations from the world of automotive
🎙️ Listen to The Wrench Turners Podcast
🌍 More episodes and resources: https://wrenchturnerspodcast.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
💼 Connect with Joshua Taylor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
🧔♂️ Sponsored by The Bearded Brotherhood
Premium beard oils, balms, and waxes are made for the blue-collar man.
Use code WRENCH15 at https://thebeardedbrotherhood.co for 15% off.
💻 Powered by:
FixedOPS Marketing — Revolutionizing dealership service marketing. https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
The Lion Partnership — Strategic Dealership Consulting https://www.lionpartnership.com
DCS - Digital Communication Solutions
https://www.dicoso.us
Chapters:
00:00 Leadership that changes Fixed Ops
01:55 Navy to service director
03:45 Clemente’s path
07:26 The big transition: smol vs large
10:10 Coaching culture: “More or better”
12:04 Alec’s leadership test
17:03 Mentorship wins
21:29 How great leaders build trust
27:13 Clemente’s “shop equality”
32:30 Advice for techs
35:46 How Alec and Clemente manage anxiety
The Hard Truth Every Mechanic Needs to Hear in 2025
Feeling stuck in the shop? This video will change how you think about your career.
Auto technician pay is flat. Tariffs are rising. Leadership feels clueless. And you are still expected to fix cars, deal with customers, hit your hours, and somehow stay sane.
In this unfiltered message from the cold seat of his motorcycle, Joshua Taylor breaks down exactly what every automotive technician, service advisor, and tradesperson needs to hear right now.
You will learn:
✅ Why your mindset is the most valuable tool in your toolbox
✅ How to start earning what you are actually worth
✅ What to do when management ignores your value
✅ Why training apprentices is still your responsibility
Whether you are a new tech, a shop foreman, or a veteran mechanic, this video is your call to stop blaming the economy, stop waiting on permission, and start leveling up.
WATCH THIS IF YOU:
Are not making enough money as a mechanic
Feel stuck in your technician career
Want to learn how to communicate better in the shop
Need real talk about pay, training, and leadership
Believe in personal responsibility and growth
Mechanics are the backbone of society. You fix what breaks. But you cannot fix your paycheck, your stress, or your future by complaining. You fix it by getting better. Starting today.
👀 Want to improve but not sure where to start? Drop a comment. I will reply.
💬 Like what you heard? Share this with your team or someone who needs to hear it.
Subscribe for regular episodes on:
Shop Floor Mental Health
Service advisor training
Technician productivity
Repair order accuracy
Dealership leadership and culture
Fixed Ops coaching and management
Listen to The Wrench Turners Podcast
Spotify: https://wrenchturnerspodcast.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
Sponsored by The Bearded Brotherhood
Premium beard care products built for technicians.
Use code WRENCH15 at checkout: https://thebeardedbrotherhood.co
Powered by:
FixedOPS Marketing — Service marketing tools for dealerships
https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
The Lion Partnership — Consulting for Dealerships and Independants, Automotive, Powersports, Motorcycle, Marine, and more. Sales and Service department performance improvements.
https://www.lionpartnership.com
DCS - Digital Communication Solutions — Tools for service and BDC teams
https://www.dicoso.us
Today's guest, Louise Azzopardi, didn’t just fall into the automotive world. She ran toward it, with confidence and clarity most of us didn’t have at 15. From her earliest days wrenching in rail yards and truck shops to standing on the world stage as the first woman to compete (and win gold) at Australia’s WorldSkills nationals, Louise has never followed the conventional path. She didn’t just want to work in the trades; she wanted to change them.
After enduring bullying, sexism, and mental health challenges, Louise stepped into something more powerful than technical mastery; coaching, mentoring, and equipping tradespeople with the emotional tools they were never taught. Now the host of Anxious Tradeswoman (Building Confidence), a life coach, and a global speaker, Louise is on a mission to make the trades a place where everyone, regardless of gender, background, or body size, can thrive.
In this episode, we cover:
👉 Farm girl to award-winning heavy diesel tech
👉 The emotional and physical toll of “toughing it out”
👉 What she means by “There is no tiger”
👉 Boundaries, not bravado, create lasting leadership
👉 Practical tools leaders use to support teams
Louise offers real-world advice for tradespeople who feel like they’re constantly on edge, overwhelmed, or doubting themselves. Her message is simple but powerful: You don’t have to “stay strong” just to survive. You deserve to exist, grow, and feel safe where you work.
🎙️ Listen to Anxious Tradeswoman wherever you get your podcasts
Follow Louise on
https://www.instagram.com/louiseazzopardicoaching
https://www.youtube.com/@louiseazzopardi9275
A Special Thank You
The Wrench Turners Podcast is made possible thanks to our sponsors and partners who believe in supporting the people behind the wrenches.
FixedOPS Marketing
https://www.fixedopsmarketing.com
Changing the game in dealership service marketing.
The Lion Partnership
https://www.lionpartnership.com/
Your go-to for industry connections that matter.
Digital Communication Solutions GmbH
https://www.dicoso.us
Simplifying sales and service communication.
The Bearded Brotherhood
https://thebeardedbrotherhood.co/wrench15
Premium beard oils, balms, and mustache waxes for the Blue Collar Man. Use code WRENCH15 for 15% off. I do get financial compensation when this happens, I appreciate it when it does.
We appreciate these partnerships for helping push the industry forward.
— j.
Chapters
00:00 Intro to Louise Azzopardi
01:21 Starting at 15
03:33 Mechanic rejection and finding HD
06:36 Meeting Sarah; a pivotal mentor
10:34 Gender bias and physical limitations
13:52 Culture, ego, and asking for help
16:07 First-year apprenticeship in a dealership
17:49 Working on diesel trucks and rail
21:02 How Australian apprenticeships are structured
25:37 Trade stacking and EV education
30:37 EV, infrastructure, and future of fuel
33:09 Sexual harassment, bullying, and mental health
35:16 Winning WorldSkills; first woman to do it
36:56 “I’m tired of being strong”
40:28 Coaching tradespeople in mental resilience
42:27 Boundaries and how to communicate discomfort
45:13 Emotional intelligence and leadership
48:51 You are 50% of every relationship
50:18 Louise’s advice: “There is no tiger”
51:36 Question from Josh Arnold: “How will you change the industry?”
52:08 Louise’s answer: “By giving people the tools to change their world.”
52:47 Louise’s question for the next guest: “What do you do to calm anxiety?”
53:01 Where to find Louise & upcoming appearances
🎧 Listen on Spotify:
🔗 Follow Joshua Taylor on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
💬 Like, comment, subscribe, and share to support this mission of turning mechanics into leaders.
🌍 Wrench Turners Podcast Socials:
https://wrenchturners.online
https://wrenchturnerspodcast.com
https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
Today's guest, Josh Arnold, never planned to be a mechanic. He picked it off a college list like a random raffle number. On day one, his future mentor told him to quit. And honestly, he probably should have. But he didn't.Instead, he worked six days a week at a flat rate, with no shortcuts. Fast-forward, and he is now a Toyota and Subaru Master Tech, a trainer in the shop, and the MyKarma Grand Prix Champion for his top-tier Video MPI skills.In this episode, we cover:Clueless apprentice to award-winning Master TechThe power of doing the jobs nobody wants to doWhy Video MPIs are a game changer How techs can build their careers, increase their pay, and change the industryJosh offers real-world advice for technicians looking to level up. His message is clear: Do things differently, do the work others will not, and watch your career grow.Like, comment, and subscribe to help spread this message and support technicians everywhere.Always looking for guests, please reach out by email to be on the show: joshua@justworkhard.com A Special Thank You
The Wrench Turners Podcast is made possible thanks to the support of our Partners, Sponsors, and Affiliates.
FixedOPS Marketing
The Lion Partnership
Digital Communication Solutions GmbH
The Bearded Brotherhood
We appreciate these partnerships in pushing the industry forward!j.
Chapters00:00 Intro to Josh Arnold
01:21 Josh’s Unexpected Career Start
02:14 Why He Chose Auto Tech
06:05 Toyota T10 Program Entry
09:01 Learning Through Used Cars
13:27 Flat Rate Work Strategy
16:20 Becoming a Master Tech
21:12 Winning My Karma Grand Prix
25:32 Video MPI Importance
27:23 Getting Paid for VMPI
30:49 Continuous Improvement Mindset
33:24 Advice for Technicians
36:03 Service Quality Specialist Role
38:45 Work-Life Balance & Family
41:23 Future Goals in Auto Tech
42:47 How to Change Industry
43:07 Closing Thoughts & OutroListen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4
Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 160 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.Wrench Turners Podcast Socialshttps://wrenchturners.onlinehttps://wrenchturnerspodcast.comhttps://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
Welcome to the FIRST episode of the 10 Mill Mastery Debrief series where we debrief the week's Service Drive Live Topic.
In this episode, I sit down with Marshall Sheldon and Josh Arnold to debrief on Service Drive Live and dig into one of the biggest struggles for technicians: comebacks.
We cover:
✔️ Why technicians do not get paid for comebacks and why that needs to change
✔️ How flat rate and hourly pay affect comeback handling
✔️ The role of service advisors in preventing comebacks
✔️ How to reduce comebacks and improve shop efficiency
If you are a technician, service manager, or dealer principal: this episode is for you
Drop a comment and let me know how your shop handles comebacks. Should technicians get paid for them?
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome to the first debrief
00:52 Why comebacks are a big issue
01:50 How flat rate techs lose money
04:10 Why some techs avoid comeback issues
05:30 How managers handle comebacks poorly
07:00 Guilty until proven innocent in automotive
09:25 The real problem with pay plans
11:26 What happens after a comeback
15:48 Why foreman roles really matter
18:24 How senior techs can prevent mistakes
19:25 What advisors can do to help
22:17 The best way to write up jobs
23:39 Why advisors need more training
25:18 Simple ways to improve the process
29:06 Final thoughts on fixing comebacks
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If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. With over 160 Episodes, the Wrench Turners Podcast helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.
Business Inquiries:
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Affiliates, Sponsors, and Partnerships
FixedOPS Marketing: Revolutionizing dealership service marketing with innovative solutions.
The Lion Partnership: Your trusted partner for automotive industry connections.
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SpotifyWrench Turners Podcast on Spotify
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Operating Partner, Fixed Operations Director, Coach - David Sparks
Join us as we explore the career journey of David Sparks, a leader whose path in the automotive industry started with detailing, rustproofing, and window tinting and evolved into a deep-rooted passion for technical excellence, leadership, and mentorship.
David’s story is one of continuous learning and adaptation. He transitioned from technician to service advisor, warranty administrator, dispatcher, and ultimately, service manager and fixed-ops director. His experience spans CDJR, Toyota, independent shops, and now Bar Automotive, where he coaches and trains service professionals nationwide.
In this episode, David explains what it takes to thrive in automotive leadership, from technician success to fixed-ops strategy.
He shares practical wisdom on:
👉 Proactive learning is essential: technicians must be responsible for their training and career growth.
👉 Respect and trust fuel operational excellence: leaders who personalize their communication get the best results.
👉 Conflict resolution is a leadership skill: handling technician and advisor challenges effectively builds a stronger team.
This conversation isn’t just about David’s professional journey; it’s a blueprint for automotive professionals looking to turn everyday workplace challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership.
For technicians, mechanics, service advisors, service managers, and fixed ops leaders aiming to increase their impact, develop leadership skills, and improve shop culture, this episode delivers insightful, actionable advice you won’t want to miss.
Let’s get into it.
PS: Always looking for guests and sponsors!
Reach out by email: joshua@justworkhard.com
j.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:30 David Sparks’ Career Journey
05:10 Owning Your Technician Training
08:50 Attitude vs. Aptitude in Growth
12:40 Climbing the Fixed Ops Ladder
17:30 Leadership Through Communication
23:15 Managing Change in the Shop
26:50 Trust and Personal Leadership
29:10 Self-Reflection for Technicians
33:50 90-Day Rule for Career Growth
38:00 Defining Strong Leadership
41:30 Career Planning for Techs
43:10 Final Takeaways and Wrap-Up
David Sparks
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-sparks-b6031119/
Michael Barich
https://www.fixedopsdoc.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-barich-75210648/
All Things Fixed Ops Clubhouse - Wednesdays 9 am EST
https://www.clubhouse.com/house/all-things-fixed-operations
If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 160 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.
Wrench Turners Podcast Socials
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General Manager, Fixed Operations Director, Coach - T.C. Coleman
Join us as we delve into the compelling career journey of T.C. Coleman, a seasoned leader whose roots in automotive passion were planted in childhood, nurtured by his father's engineering role at Nissan. T.C.'s early exposure to the mechanics of car maintenance and the automotive industry's inner workings ignited a lifelong passion, steering him away from his initial interest in sports to a dynamic path in automotive leadership.
With over two decades of experience, T.C. reflects on his evolution from an enthusiastic car enthusiast to a revered leader in the automotive sector. His career, marked by significant stints with prominent brands, showcases his adeptness in mentoring, team-building, and strategic leadership.
In this episode, T.C. unravels the layers of effective leadership within the high-stakes environment of automotive dealerships. He shares practical wisdom on:
Takeaways:
👉 Cultivate a culture of proactive learning
👉 Respectful communication achieves operational excellence
👉 Learn conflict resolution to harness individual strengths
This conversation is not just an exploration of T.C.'s professional milestones but also an instructional guide on transforming everyday workplace challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership.
For automotive service professionals aiming to elevate their career trajectory or anyone interested in the nuances of impactful leadership, this episode offers a wealth of insights and actionable advice.
Let's get into it.
PS. Always looking for guests to be on the show. Reach out by email, link in bio!
j.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:00 Gearhead to Automotive Leader
08:30 Listening to and Respecting Technicians
14:10 Effective Communication
20:00 Strategies for Building Team Unity
27:00 Insights on Balancing Career
36:20 Empowering Technicians to Speak Up
If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 160 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.
Wrench Turners Podcast Socials
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor
https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify
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"Success Leaves Clues"
General Manager,
BMW of West Houston
https://www.bmwwest.com/
Charles Cannon III
In this inspiring conversation with Charles, we explore a career journey that started with a desire to become a veterinarian but took a turn into the automotive world: a move that would shape Charles' life in unexpected ways.
From his humble beginnings in sales to leading both Lexus and BMW dealerships, Charles' story is a testament to the power of adaptability, discipline, and mentorship.
As Charles recounts:
"Success leaves clues. Watch who you hang out with, because you’ll become like them. If you surround yourself with high performers and show you're serious, they’ll help you grow."
He shares insights on how technicians, advisors, and managers can take ownership of their success. From developing structured game plans to fostering genuine relationships, Charles provides actionable steps to level up in any automotive role.
One standout lesson:
"Close mouths don’t get fed. Speak up about your goals, your challenges, and even your solutions. Leaders can’t help if they don’t know what you need."
If you’re looking to climb the ranks or simply be happier and more productive in your current role, this episode is a goldmine of advice and motivation.
Let’s get into it.
j.
If you're interested in being on the show or would like to sponsor an episode, please reach out to me Joshua Taylor by DM or email joshua@justworkhard.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Charles
03:00 From Veterinary Dreams to Automotive Success
08:30 Learning Through Mentorship
14:10 The Value of Discipline and Game Plans
20:00 Becoming a High Performer
27:00 Leading by Example in Dealerships
36:20 Advice for Technicians: Speak Up
If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 150 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.
Wrench Turners Podcast Socials
https://wrenchturners.online
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor
https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4
Main: Deggy
2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R
Crappy Amazon mirrors
Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs
Make-shift trailer plate bracket
Project: (I need a name, help please)
1999 Suzuki SV650S
Still working on the Details
"Training isn't a cost; it's an investment that pays dividends in skills, loyalty, and productivity."
This week on Wrench Turners Podcast
Automotive Trainer & Technician
Toyota Of Puyallup Inc
Wayne Bridges
In this episode, I sat down with Wayne Bridges, a 50-year veteran of the automotive industry who’s worn many hats—technician, service advisor, service manager, instructor, and now dealership trainer. Wayne shares his incredible journey, from falling in love with cars as a kid to shaping the next generation of technicians at a dealership that’s committed to investing in its people.
Wayne doesn’t shy away from tough topics, like why training is often undervalued in the industry and how mentorship programs can reduce comebacks and increase productivity. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to create a thriving culture of learning and growth in a dealership, Wayne’s insights are gold.
Watch now and find out why building a training-focused dealership might be the best way to attract and retain top talent.
Let’s get into it.
j.
If you're interested in being on the show or would like to sponsor an episode, please reach out to me Joshua Taylor by DM or email joshua@justworkhard.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:54 Wayne's Early Passion
06:11 The Importance of Early Experiences
09:04 Lessons from the Lube Rack
11:57 The Evolution of Automotive
14:54 The Shift to Electric Vehicles
18:07 The Role of Training
20:56 The Importance of Continuous Learning
23:50 The Future of Automotive Training
34:02 The Importance of Training
38:13 In-House Training Programs
42:39 Creating a Culture of Learning
49:12 Competing for Talent
54:52 Finding Passion
01:00:13 The Role of Mentorship
Takeaways
👉 The first year on the job is crucial
👉 Learning to overcome complacency is a key to growth
👉 Automotive is currently experiencing rapid advancements.
👉 Training is essential for technicians to stay relevant
👉 Employers should view training as an investment
👉 Mentorship can reignite passions
👉 Technicians should take initiative
If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 150 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.
Wrench Turners Podcast Socials
https://wrenchturners.online
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor
https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4
Main: Deggy
2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R
Crappy Amazon mirrors
Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs
Make-shift trailer plate bracket
Project: (I need a name, help please)
1999 Suzuki SV650S
Still working on the Details
"You are not a leader until you've created a leader who can create another leader."
This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,
Mechanic, Enthusiast, and Entrepreneur
Travis Caldwell
In this episode, I sat down with a mechanic who knows firsthand that persistence, a positive culture, and respect are key to success in the shop.
Travis shared how his journey taught him the importance of mentorship and finding a place where you’re valued. We discussed how listening to every team member—and helping them grow—can make a stronger, more successful crew.
His biggest takeaway? Don't let work control your life; invest in mentors who truly support you. It reminds everyone in this industry to keep growing, respect the journey, and lead with purpose.
Let’s get into it.
j.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:59 Travis Caldwell's Journey
06:17 The Importance of Mentorship
12:30 First Year Experiences
16:21 The Role of Leadership
21:17 Favorite Porsche Models
24:07 Lessons Learned from Troubleshooting
26:12 The Challenges of Achievement
29:11 The Importance of Leadership
31:41 Navigating Career Transitions
35:50 The Dynamics of Customer Service
50:05 Balancing Work and Life
56:57 Conclusion
Takeaways
👉 Gratitude is essential in life.
👉 Life experiences shape our growth.
👉 Learning from mistakes is crucial.
👉 Navigating relationships requires effort.
👉 Passion drives our work.
👉 Community service enriches our lives.
👉 Advice from others can guide us.
👉 Reflection helps us understand our journey.
👉 Personal growth is a continuous process.
👉 Embracing challenges leads to wisdom.
----
If you found the following insightful, please consider commenting, liking, subscribing, and sharing it as we develop Mechanics into Leaders. Wrench Turners Podcast with over 150 Episodes helps Mechanics become happier, healthier, and more productive.
Wrench Turners Podcast Socials
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor
https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
Wrench Turners Podcast on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/1ScwRP0DFMtDsp83JxPhPK?si=9305ecd058f84eb4
Main: Deggy
2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R
Crappy Amazon mirrors
Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs
Make-shift trailer plate bracket
Project: (I need a name, help please)
1999 Suzuki SV650S
Still working on the Details
"Once trust is broken, it's hard to recover."
10 Mill Mastery - Wrench Turners Podcast
Series 9, Episode 7
Leading up
The Lads:
Marshall Sheldon
Stephan Dos Santos
Richard Mueller
Russell Wickham
Summary
In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of building and maintaining trust within management and leadership roles. They discuss the challenges technicians face in establishing trust with upper management, the importance of transparency, and the necessity of personal accountability.
The dialogue emphasizes that trust is foundational for effective communication and career growth, highlighting the need for technicians to add value to themselves and their teams. The speakers share personal experiences and strategies for fostering trust, ultimately concluding that trust is the core element in successful professional relationships.
Takeaways
👉 Building trust requires transparency and open communication.
👉 Personal accountability is crucial in establishing trust.
👉 Once trust is broken, it is challenging to regain.
👉 Technicians should focus on adding value
👉 Understand the interests of management
👉 Sharing personal information can be a double-edged sword.
👉 Develop a tight-knit group of trusted colleagues
👉 Training and personal development enhance trust
👉 Trust is foundational for effective leadership
👉 Navigating trust requires careful consideration
Chapters
00:00 Building Trust and Morale
00:29 Earning Trust from Management
05:02 Conflicting Interests and Trust
10:26 Being Brutally Honest
16:15 Adding Value and Gaining Influence
21:52 Transparency and Personal Boundaries
26:49 Trust and Communication with Management
32:31 Building Trust and Fostering Growth
36:38 Trust as the Core Element
Remember:
Negative Pushes,
Positive Pulls,
and always clean your toys
before you put them away.
Let's get into it.
j.
—
Want to be a guest, or sponsor the show?
Email me at joshua@justworkhard.com
Wrench Turners Podcast on YouTube
Fun Content
https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor
https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
Main: Deggy
2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R
Crappy Amazon mirrors
Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs
Make-shift trailer plate bracket
https://grip-puppy.com/
Project: (I need a name, help please)
1999 Suzuki SV650S
Still working on the Details
“Just because someone can produce doesn’t mean they’re ready to lead.”
This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,
Mechanic and Service Manager
Willie Carter
In this episode, I sat down with Willie Carter, a former mechanic turned service manager who knows what it takes to rise in the ranks. Willie shares his journey, from fixing up a beat-up Hyundai Scoupe in high school to leading a team at a major Honda dealership.
He doesn’t hold back on the tough lessons he’s learned along the way—like why taking on the jobs no one else wants can be the key to advancing your career. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to go from the shop floor to management, Willie’s story is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
Watch now and find out why “getting comfortable in the uncomfortable” might be the best advice you’ll hear today.
Let’s get into it.
j.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:19 Becoming a Mechanic
06:28 Challenges and Learning
12:10 First Steps in Automotive
18:22 Transitioning to Leadership
26:12 The Importance of Hard Work
32:26 Advice for Aspiring Mechanics
Takeaways
Wrench Turners Podcast on YouTube
"True leadership starts when you realize that every person you lead brings their own strengths and stories to the table."
This week on Wrench Turners Podcast,
Mechanic, Fixed Operations Director, and Coach
Bozard Ford Lincoln
Jeremy Stephens
In this episode, I got to sit down with a technician-turned-fixed-ops director, who’s proof that grit and character drive success in the automotive world.
Jeremy shared how his journey taught him that the tough experiences—especially those early days on the shop floor—shaped him into the leader he is today. We talked about building a culture where positive energy matters, and where listening to every voice in the shop creates stronger teams.
His biggest takeaway? Invest in yourself every day and don’t shy away from honest feedback. It’s a powerful reminder for anyone aiming to lead with heart and purpose.
Let’s get into it.
j.
Chapters
00:00 Intro and Welcome
01:09 Jeremy’s Start
04:25 Early Days
06:00 Learning the Ropes
10:22 The Value of Tips
13:26 Stepping into Leadership
15:56 Discovering Leadership
18:32 Building a Positive Workplace Culture
21:59 Handling Challenges
26:47 Getting Feedback
29:57 Advice for Young Technicians
35:27 Investing in Personal Growth
37:32 Finding Mentors
41:10 Key Takeaways
J.
Wrench Turners Podcast on YouTube
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjtaylor/
https://www.tiktok.com/@mrjoshuataylor
https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuataylor/
Main: Deggy
2024 Triumph Street Triple 765R
Crappy Amazon mirrors
Crappy Amazon Rear Paddock stand Knobs
Make-shift trailer plate bracket
Project: (I need a name, help please)
1999 Suzuki SV650S
Still working on the Details
