Pints & Polishing Auto Detailing Podcast Nick Walters and Marshall Hill

In this conversation, Marshall and Nick discuss various topics related to car detailing and maintenance. They talk about their experiences at soccer tournaments, the emergence of battery-powered tools, the importance of maintaining tools, and the challenges of dealing with bugs and stains on car exteriors.

They also touch on the use of sandpaper and the need for clear communication with customers about potential risks and outcomes. In this conversation, Marshall and Nick discuss the importance of being upfront with customers about the limitations of their services.

They also talk about the trend of elaborate vehicle setups and the potential pitfalls of investing too much in the appearance of a vehicle. They touch on the topic of taking deposits for work and the need for clear communication and accountability. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the DIY culture and the risks involved in attempting complex tasks without the necessary expertise.

Takeaways



Maintaining tools is important for their longevity and optimal performance.

Bugs and stains on car exteriors should be addressed promptly to prevent damage to the paint.

Using sandpaper and compounds can be effective for removing scratches and stains, but it carries the risk of damaging the paint and may require professional repainting.

Clear communication with customers about potential risks and outcomes is crucial in detailing projects.

Battery-powered tools offer convenience but may not always provide the same level of ergonomics and performance as corded tools. Be upfront with customers about the limitations of your services

Investing too much in the appearance of a vehicle may not always be worth it

Clear communication and accountability are essential when taking deposits for work

DIY tasks can be risky without the necessary expertise



Chapters



00:00 Introduction and Soccer Tournament Experience

09:10 The Importance of Tool Maintenance

31:03 The Risks and Benefits of Using Sandpaper

39:02 Pros and Cons of Battery-Powered Tools

46:13 The Pitfalls of Elaborate Vehicle Setups

59:05 Taking Deposits for Work

In this episode of the Pints and Polishing Podcast, Nick answers questions from listeners about various topics related to the car detailing industry. He discusses podcasts and YouTube channels that cover the new and used car markets, as well as the auction markets.

He also shares his thoughts on the best approach for paint correction on a vintage car, the importance of offering both basic services and ceramic coating installs in a mobile business, and the significance of special teams and plays in sports.

Nick also provides insights on washing cars too frequently, the development of new compound and polish products, and the maintenance of vented floor tiles in a shop. He concludes by addressing questions about glass coatings, uniforms for team members, and the expectations of high-end clients in a detailing shop.

Takeaways

There are limited podcasts and YouTube channels that cover the new and used car markets or the auction markets. Some recommended sources for information on the auction and used car business include Mannheim auction results, the Black Book, and industry publications.

When it comes to paint correction on a vintage car, the approach depends on the condition of the paint and the desired level of correction. A one-step process can be sufficient for most classic vehicles, but a two-step process with a rotary and wool pad may be necessary for achieving a higher level of correction.

In a mobile business, it is recommended to offer a combination of basic services, ceramic coating installs, paint protection film (PPF), and window tinting. Basic services not only generate income but also serve as an opportunity to upsell customers on higher-end services.

Special teams and plays are important in sports and can make a significant impact on the outcome of a game. They add excitement and strategic elements to the sport.

Washing a car too frequently can depend on the individual's washing process. If the process is well-executed, there is no such thing as washing a car too much. However, if there are flaws in the washing procedure, excessive washing can cause damage to the paint.

Developing new compound and polish products requires a balance between cutting power and finishing ability. Many existing products on the market either cut too heavily or too little. The goal is to create products that provide versatility and can achieve both a good cut and a fine finish.

When it comes to uniforms for team members, it is important to provide shirts and hats, but other clothing items such as pants, shorts, and shoes can be the responsibility of the employees. It is essential to be a good employer and create a positive work environment.

High-end clients value convenience and efficiency. They want their car detailing experience to be hassle-free and expect the job to be done as promised. Providing excellent customer service and handling any issues that arise are key to satisfying high-end clients.

The development of non-silica waterless rinseless products is an interesting concept, but it may require harsh chemicals to dislodge embedded contaminants. While it is possible to create such products, claying is still a reliable method for removing contamination from the paint.

The effectiveness of products claiming to eliminate the need for claying is still uncertain. While advancements in chemistry are possible, it is important to approach such claims with skepticism and consider the limitations of these products.

When hiring employees, it is crucial to be a good employer and create a positive work environment. This includes taking responsibility for mistakes, providing fair treatment, and maintaining a strong work ethic. Building a strong team requires effort and dedication from the owner.

In this episode, Marshall and Nick discuss various topics including their recent purchases, their experiences at live events, the use of OEM and non-OEM parts in car maintenance, and the proper process for compounding and polishing.

They also touch on the importance of open-mindedness and communication in the car care community. In this conversation, Marshall and Nick discuss the importance of executing ideas in business and the value of opinions.

They emphasize the need for detailers to focus on sales and marketing, as well as being open to changing their ideas and strategies. They also highlight the significance of putting in the time and effort required for business success, and the need to find where one fits in the marketplace.

The conversation concludes with a reminder to stay adaptable and not get too attached to ideas that may not be working.

Takeaways

Marshall and Nick share their recent purchases and experiences, highlighting the enjoyment they find in simple pleasures like eating naan and drinking coffee while doing a rinseless wash on their cars.

They discuss the use of OEM and non-OEM parts in car maintenance, noting that the choice depends on factors such as the age of the car, the presence of advanced technology, and personal preferences.

The conversation also delves into the proper process for compounding and polishing, with Marshall and Nick discussing the importance of working the compound thoroughly before applying polish.

They emphasize the value of open-mindedness and communication in the car care community, encouraging people to engage in discussions and share knowledge without judgment.

Overall, the conversation highlights the diverse interests and perspectives within the car care community and the importance of finding what works best for each individual. Executing ideas is crucial for business success

Sales and marketing are essential for detailers

Being open to changing ideas and strategies is important

Putting in the time and effort is necessary for growth

Finding where one fits in the marketplace is key

Chapters



00:00 Introduction and Enjoying Simple Pleasures

08:08 OEM vs. Non-OEM Parts

15:08 The Proper Process for Compounding and Polishing

31:07 Trash, right?

44:29 Execution, execution, execution

53:11 Finding your place in the marketplace

In this episode, Marshall and Nick discuss various car-related news and trends. They talk about the release of the new ZR1 Corvette after six years, Kia's announcement of their first truck called the Tasmanian, the decline of mini trucks in the market, the race for the fastest electric vehicle, the drop in resale value of electric cars, and the changing models of the Toyota 4Runner.

They also touch on inflation and the increasing prices of goods. In this conversation, Nick and Marshall discuss the current state of the car market, focusing on the Toyota 4Runner and the pricing and value of new vehicles. They explore the cramped interior of the 4Runner, the high price point of Toyota SUVs, and the comparison between Toyota and Lexus.

They also touch on the trend of overlanding vehicles and the misconception that many owners actually take their vehicles off-road. The conversation concludes with a discussion on why people are buying fewer new cars, including issues with redesigns, high prices, and a disconnect between car manufacturers and car enthusiasts.

Takeaways



Chevy is releasing the new ZR1 Corvette after six years, creating excitement among Corvette enthusiasts.

Kia is entering the truck market with their first truck called the Tasmanian.

The mini truck market is making a comeback, especially in Texas, where many trucks from Asian countries are now legally importable.

The race for the fastest electric vehicle is ongoing, with Porsche claiming to have the fastest EV with their new model.

The resale value of electric cars is dropping, making them a good value for used car buyers.

The Toyota 4Runner has undergone many changes and now offers nine different trim packages, confusing potential buyers.

Inflation is causing the prices of goods, including gas, to increase.

The car industry is constantly evolving, with new models and trends emerging. The Toyota 4Runner has a cramped interior and a high price point, making it less appealing to taller individuals and those seeking a more luxurious experience.

Toyota SUVs are priced similarly to Lexus models, making it more advantageous to purchase a used Lexus with low mileage for a better overall experience.

The trend of overlanding vehicles is often overhyped, as most owners do not actually take their vehicles off-road.

Car manufacturers are losing touch with car enthusiasts and are prioritizing their brand image over the needs and desires of their customers.

The high prices of new cars, coupled with issues with redesigns and a lack of significant improvements, are leading consumers to hold onto their current vehicles or seek alternatives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

07:26 The Race for the Fastest Electric Vehicle

16:30 The Confusing Array of Toyota 4Runner Trim Packages

32:29 Car Manufacturers Losing Touch with Car Enthusiasts

39:10 The High Prices and Lack of Significant Improvements in New Cars

In this episode, Marshall and Nick discuss various topics related to the detailing business. They talk about the importance of building relationships, maintaining good vendor relationships, and the value of networking.

They also discuss the need for regular car maintenance and cleaning, both on the exterior and interior. The conversation touches on the challenges and scams in the industry, such as theft and fraudulent marketing practices. They also share their experiences with different beers and restaurants they visited.

The episode concludes with discussions on license plate jokes, water filtration systems, and dealing with unpleasant smells in cars. In this conversation, Nick and Marshall discuss the challenges and misconceptions surrounding resin systems and water treatment, as well as the spread of misinformation in the detailing industry.

They emphasize the importance of perspective and education in combating false claims and miseducation. They also address the idea of map pricing and its applicability in the ceramic coating industry. Overall, they highlight the need for accurate information and trusted sources in order to make informed decisions in the car care market.

Takeaways

Building relationships and maintaining good vendor relationships are crucial in the detailing business.

Regular car maintenance and cleaning, both on the exterior and interior, are important for a better car experience.

The industry faces challenges such as theft and fraudulent marketing practices.

Exploring different beers and restaurants can be enjoyable.

Using a reliable water filtration system is recommended to avoid issues with water quality.

Unpleasant smells in cars can be addressed with proper cleaning and the use of appropriate products. Resin systems for water treatment can be challenging and require regular maintenance.

Misinformation is prevalent in the detailing industry, and it is important to seek accurate information from trusted sources.

The spread of misinformation is a pandemic in itself, and it is crucial to be cautious of false claims and miseducation.

Map pricing may not be applicable in the ceramic coating industry due to the wide range of products and competition.

Having perspective and understanding the business landscape is essential in making informed decisions.

It is important to avoid talking about things you don't know about and to seek knowledge and education from industry experts.

Chapters



00:00 Introduction and Buy and Sell

02:15 The Importance of Building Relationships

08:04 Regular Car Maintenance and Cleaning

13:58 Exploring Different Beers and Restaurants

21:24 Using Reliable Water Filtration Systems

25:02 Addressing Unpleasant Smells in Cars

29:17 Challenges and Maintenance of Resin Systems

31:13 The Spread of Misinformation in the Detailing Industry

39:40 The Ineffectiveness of Map Pricing in the Ceramic Coating Industry

42:40 The Importance of Perspective and Education

48:38 Avoiding False Claims and Miseducation

56:26 Seeking Knowledge and Education from Industry Experts

The conversation explores the generational shift in car care and the influence of the internet on the industry. It discusses the fear and negativity that some detailers use to push others away and maintain their position. The conversation also highlights the importance of seeking enjoyment and spending free time wisely. It warns against misinformation and the dangers of acting like a know-it-all in the industry. In this conversation, Marshall, Nick, and Brian discuss various themes related to the detailing industry. They explore the desire to belong and the value of sharing opinions. They also discuss the difference between professionals and prosumers, as well as the definition of high-level detailing. The conversation touches on the importance of business ownership and the lack of trust in online detailing communities. They also highlight the opportunity to buy into the detailing industry and the simplicity of selling products. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the fun and fulfillment of selling products and the importance of seizing opportunities.



Takeaways



The car care industry is experiencing a generational shift, with more people caring about cleaning cars and passing down car care knowledge to future generations.

The internet has played a significant role in the growth of the car care industry, with billions of views on detailing-related content on platforms like YouTube and TikTok.

Some detailers use fear and negativity to push others away and maintain their position in the industry, but it is important to take information with a grain of salt and be cautious of misinformation.

It is crucial to spend free time wisely and seek enjoyment in activities like car care, which can be easily done and learned through online resources.

Acting like a know-it-all and spreading misinformation can be detrimental to the industry, and it is important to approach discussions with an open mind and willingness to learn. The detailing industry attracts individuals who desire to belong and be a part of something.

Sharing opinions and engaging in online communities is valuable, but it's important to discern reliable information.

There is a difference between professionals and prosumers in the detailing industry.

High-level detailing can be defined differently based on individual goals and aspirations.

Success in detailing requires a combination of skill, effort, and a willingness to grow.

The internet can be a challenging place to find trustworthy information, and caution is necessary when buying into the industry.

Selling products can be a simple and profitable addition to a detailing business.

Seizing opportunities and taking action is crucial for success in the detailing industry.



Chapters



00:00 Introduction and Springtime

02:15 Generational Shift in Car Care

04:07 Stuck in Old Ways

05:38 Car Ownership and Generational Influence

07:09 Internet and Car Care Content

08:01 Industry Growth and Statistics

09:10 Fear and Negativity in the Industry

11:20 Anxiety and Know-It-All Mentality

16:38 Seeking Enjoyment and Free Time

20:31 Intimidation and Justification

23:01 Fear of Losing Business and Being the Smartest

24:24 Fear, Negativity, and Keyboard Warriors

25:37 Misinformation and Acting Like a Know-It-All

30:29 The Desire to Belong

31:56 The Value of Sharing Opinions

33:17 The Difference Between Professionals and Prosumers

36:06 Defining High-Level Detailing

38:32 The Definition of Success

39:31 The Desire for Growth

42:08 The Importance of Business Ownership

44:06 The Lack of Trust in Online Detailing Communities

47:07 The Challenge of Finding Reliable Information

49:41 The Opportunity to Buy into the Detailing Industry

52:16 The Simplicity of Selling Products

55:48 The Caution of Buying into the Industry

58:18 The Fun and Fulfillment of Selling Products

01:03:41 The Importance of Seizing Opportunities

01:04:16 Preparing for Success