The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

Jeff Compton
  • 4.6 (43)
  • AUTOMOTIVE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

My name is Jeff, and I'd like to welcome you on a journey of reflection and insight into the tolls and triumphs of a career in automotive repair. After more than 20 years of skinned knuckles and tool debt, I want to share my perspective and hear other people's thoughts about our industry. So pour yourself a strong coffee or grab a cold Canadian beer and get ready for some great conversation.

  1. 3H AGO

    His Son Told Him to Leave the Dealer | David Kline

    Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Register NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HERE In this episode, Jeff welcomes David Kline back to talk about his transition from dealer tech to independent. David shares what it was like sticking with a job that wasn’t fulfilling and what finally pushed him to make a change. They dive into the ups and downs of flat rate pay, why shop culture makes a big difference, and how open communication and continuous learning can really shape your career. Timestamps:00:00 "Speaking Out Without Boundaries" 20:41 "Finding Joy in Connection" 25:32 "Frustrations of Senior Techs" 41:28 "Matco Boxes Prove Durable" 49:38 "Collaborating in a Family Business" 54:06 Dealership Team Dynamics and Impact 01:10:48 "Effective Management and Workplace Challenges" 01:13:41 "Warranty Pay vs. Retail Time" 01:33:34 "Value, Pricing, and Customer Trust" 01:43:13 "Service Delays and Training Issues" 01:48:54 "Inspection Ownership and Miscommunication" 02:02:17 "The Humility of Learning" 02:10:08 Balancing Integrity and Corporate Influence02:24:08 "Mechanic's Challenges and Tools" 02:26:03 "It's Who You Know" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

    2h 34m

  2. FEB 10

    The Truth About Diag, Flat Rate Pay, and Shop Culture with Josh Whiteman

    Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Register for Tektonic HERE! In this episode, Jeff is joined by Josh Whiteman to discuss his role as an instructor with Garage Gurus which offers automotive training. Josh talks about the importance of ongoing education and adapting diagnostic processes to real-world conditions. They also speak on industry challenges, from technician pay structures to fostering a culture of compassion and mentorship within workshops. Timestamps:00:00 Life as a Full-Time Instructor 10:30 "Importance of Transparent Auto Repair" 15:43 "Skill Gaps and Training Challenges" 16:51 Trade Education Builds Knowledge 24:59 "Learning Through Osmosis Everywhere" 27:55 "Efficient Module Testing Insights" 33:15 "Diagnostic Tools and Strategies" 38:41 Resistance Testing Flaws and Tools 45:37 Managing Customer Expectations 52:13 "Flat Rate Tech Efficiency" 55:39 "Pay Over Hours: A Debate" 01:01:36 "Listening vs Distraction at Work" 01:07:29 "Dealing with Difficult Techs" 01:14:32 Engine Diagnostics and Pressure Analysis 01:16:09 "Practical Testing and Tools Guide" 01:22:00 "A-Techs vs. Specialists: Shop Roles" 01:28:16 "Free Training Event Explanation" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

    1h 36m

  3. FEB 3

    Dealer Tech Fluffy Mexicanik Talks Shop Culture and Burnout

    Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Wanna go to Tekmetric's first ever industry training event Tektonic? Register HERE In this episode, Jeff welcomes back Fluffy Mexicanik. They discuss the realities of working as a dealership technician. Fluffy shares his reasons for leaving a dealership after nearly 13 years, stressing the importance of shop culture and the challenges of flat rate. Together, they talk about how labor times are set and the impact of dealership processes on technician efficiency. Timestamps:00:00 Efficient Transmission Repair Practices 15:01 Slashed Labor Times Impact Profit 30:38 "Service vs. Sales Priorities" 40:57 "Frustrations with Inefficient Procedures" 46:50 "Incentivized Pay vs. Flat Rate" 56:22 Reflecting on Expertise and Humility 01:12:39 "Uconnect Reliability vs. Durango Issues" 01:24:02 "Car Not Designed for Winter" 01:35:36 "Chuck's Truck Troubles Explained" 01:45:48 "Brake Jobs: Quality vs. Speed" 01:57:02 Defending Industry Workers’ Rights Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

    2h 3m

  4. JAN 27

    Why Does Your Best Tech Leave With TobaTech

    Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Register NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HERE In this episode, Jeff is joined by Mark Elliott, also known as TobaTech on social media. They discuss what drives top technicians to leave their jobs and why it's rarely just about money. TobaTech shares his experiences at his previous shop, describing how the loss of training opportunities and an overwhelming shift in responsibilities led to his decision to move on. They also speak on the importance of investing in staff development, maintaining a supportive shop culture, and recognizing technician contributions beyond financial incentives. Timestamps:00:00 "Why Top Technicians Leave" 08:48 "Developing Skills Beyond Expectations" 12:50 "Reflections on Trade Expectations" 20:40 "Improve Training for Better Sales" 21:31 "Questioning Career Fulfillment" 26:48 "Amazon Gadget Fail Turns Lesson" 35:16 Trusted Technicians and Transitions 38:11 Impact of Leadership Departure 43:57 "You're Not Family" 52:51 Shop Upgrades and Improvements 54:15 Truck Vibration Causes & Solutions 01:03:30 "Clarifying Misunderstood Podcast Context" 01:05:15 "Work-Life Balance Challenges" 01:11:44 "Skills Gap and Expectations" 01:16:18 "Awkward Reunion with Former Boss" 01:21:48 "DBI: Key to Customer Loyalty" 01:26:48 "Proving Work Isn't Distracted" 01:35:38 "Unfair Performance Bonus Policy" 01:37:03 "Navigating Unfair Work Dynamics" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

    1h 44m

  5. JAN 20

    Is Communication What’s Failing the Auto Repair Industry? | Eric Sprague

    Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Register for Tektonic HERE! In this episode, Jeff welcomes Eric Sprague from L&N Performance Auto Repair. Eric stresses the need for improved shop culture and mentorship to support new technicians entering the field. Jeff and Eric also talk about the importance of thorough communication between support staff and technicians to ensure safe, accurate repairs and customer education. Timestamps:00:00 "TPMS and Car Safety Standards" 10:39 TPMS Regulations and Nanny State 16:53 Empty Promises and Abandoned Projects 18:46 "Hybrid Trucks and Northern Infrastructure" 25:11 "Youth, Effort, and Clear Guides" 32:40 "Electronic Parking Brake Discussion" 34:33 "Teaching Safe Methods First" 43:32 "Trust and Prioritization at Work" 48:54 "Challenges of Losing Key Talent" 54:35 "Shifting from Dealership Culture" 55:46 "Accountability and Proper Checks" 01:04:10 "Challenges of Independent Auto Shops" 01:09:28 "Challenges in Automotive Repair Access" 01:12:15 "Industry's Tipping Point on Regulation" 01:17:24 "Importance of Vehicle Safety Systems" 01:25:59 "Tool Standards and Calibration Issues" 01:27:30 "Understanding the Entire System" 01:34:24 "European Cars and Sunroof Issues" 01:42:24 Regulations, Qualifications, and Future Standards 01:45:58 "Teamwork Overcomes Chaos" 01:48:47 "Monthly Collaborative Conversations" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

    1h 53m

  6. JAN 13

    Technician Turnover Is More Than It Seems with Promotive

    Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Wanna go to Tekmetric's first ever industry training event Tektonic? Register HERE Today, Jeff get's to catch up with Lisa Coyle and Sam Freeman from Promotive. They discuss the challenges of recruiting and retaining automotive technicians and service advisors. The team explores why job hopping is often misunderstood, saying that it’s frequently due to industry conditions rather than technician performance. They highlight the importance of building mentorship and supportive shop cultures, revealing how both technicians and advisors benefit from ongoing training and honest communication.  Timestamps:00:00 Changing Hiring Dynamics 09:17 "Diagnostic Tech Misalignment" 14:45 Employee Growth and Retention Strategies 19:06 "Show Me the Proof" 22:23 "Workplace Dynamics and Expectations" 26:34 "Underpaid Service Advisors Debate" 32:14 "Bridging Advisor-Technician Divide" 37:29 "Incentivizing Flat Rate Pay Notifications" 42:30 "Harbor Freight Tools Debate" 50:42 "Be the Person Who Inspires" 57:07 "Flat Rate Payment Inequity" 01:00:50 "Consumer Expectations and Instant Gratification" 01:04:12 "Treat Others with Courtesy" 01:08:42 "Top Accomplishment Interview Question" 01:14:57 "Qualified Teachers Matter" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

    1h 22m

  7. JAN 6

    Life-Changing Work in the Accessible Vehicle Industry with Bob Leonard

    Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Register NOW for Tekmetric's Tektonic Conference coming up HERE In this episode, Jeff Compton sits down with Bob Leonard from Mobility Works to delve into the specialized world of vehicle modifications for people with physical disabilities. Bob shares insights into the unique regulatory landscape and technical requirements affecting mobility vehicle conversions, including the importance of following strict certification rules and working closely with certified evaluators. The conversation highlights the technician shortage in the mobility industry, the blend of mechanical and electrical skills required, and the impactful difference these vehicles make in the lives of customers. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to The Jaded Mechanic 00:40 Live at ASTA 2025: Meet Bob Leonard from Mobility Works 01:59 What is Mobility Works? The Mission and Services Explained 03:13 Types of Modifications: Minivans, Hand Controls, and High-Tech Installs 05:58 Certification and Audit Processes in Mobility Vehicle Service 08:46 Repairing or Correcting Others’ Work: Challenges in Mobility Vehicle Service 11:22 Prescriptions, Regulations & Working with Certified Evaluators 14:19 How Modifications Affect Standard Vehicle Repairs 16:35 Diagnosing Issues When Factory Systems and Modified Controls Meet 19:06 Adapting to EVs and Hybrids in the Mobility Industry 22:04 The Human Side: Fittings, Customer Stories & Building Trust 25:48 Technician Shortages & The Specialized Skills Required 29:08 Training, Following Procedures, and the Role of Inspections 32:38 Troubleshooting Wiring, Diagnostics, and Common Mistakes 36:58 Customer Impact: Independence, Freedom, and Lasting Relationships 41:12 Insurance, Rentals, and the Cost of Mobility Vehicle Ownership 45:42 Body Shop Challenges: Repairs, Estimating, and Crash-Tested Parts 51:02 Advice for Technicians: Approach, Caution, and Knowing When to Call Experts 54:59 The Growing Mobility Market & Emerging Trends 57:01 Life-Changing Mobility Solutions: Why This Work Matters 01:02:57 Wrap-Up: Spreading Awareness & Educating Technicians Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

    1h 12m

  8. 12/30/2025

    Sherwood II Says We MUST Find Better Ways to Recruit Talented Techs

    Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE Register for Tektonic HERE! In this episode, Jeff welcomes back Sherwood Cook II of Royalty Auto. Sherwood talks about the challenges he's had with technician recruitment and stresses the importance of inspiring young techs through programs like their Junior Technician Night. Jeff and Sherwood also talk about industry-wide issues with parts quality, availability, and the increasing difficulty of repairs. Their conversation highlights how these factors impact shops and customers. Timestamps:00:00 Preserving the Legacy & Striving for Excellence00:33 Christmas Break & Personal Reflections02:21 Surviving Canadian Winters: Funny Stories03:30 Junior Tech Night: Growing the Next Generation04:48 New Stations & Engaging Kids in the Trades05:55 Making Electrical Training Fun for Kids07:19 Spotting Future Superstars at Tech Night09:03 Giveaway Stories: Toolkits, Nerf Guns & Kids Negotiations13:00 The Decline of Hands-on Skills & Why It Matters16:20 Trades Skills Shortages: Opportunities and Concerns18:41 The Role of AI: Is It Replacing Technicians?20:14 Shop Pricing, Value, and Why Craftsmen Stand Out27:04 OE vs. Aftermarket Parts: Quality and Supply Issues32:06 Parts Availability Crisis: ABS Modules & TipM Odds36:17 Aftermarket Solutions: Salvaging Unrepairable Cars42:08 TRP Parts: Challenges with Used Components46:32 The Hackers Behind Module Repairs: Sharing Knowledge51:11 True Value in the Repair Industry: Pricing Your Work54:39 Learning to Charge Appropriately for Your Service59:11 Side Work: Garage Repairs vs. Shop Experience1:01:46 Shop Insurance & Customer Protections1:03:17 Nuggets for Shop Owners: Value, Markup, & Relationships1:08:06 Building Value: Pickup, Washes, Roses & More1:11:42 Price vs. Craftsmanship: Which Arena Will You Play In?1:18:14 Goals for 2026 & Launching a Training Website1:20:11 Training Events: Vision, Asta, and Promotion Strategies1:29:22 Social Media’s Role: Reaching the Next Wave of Techs1:33:20 Never Stop Learning: Lessons for Young and Veteran Techs1:34:57 Final Messages: Legacy, Responsibility, and Growth Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

    1h 38m
See All (149)

4.6
out of 5
43 Ratings

About

My name is Jeff, and I'd like to welcome you on a journey of reflection and insight into the tolls and triumphs of a career in automotive repair. After more than 20 years of skinned knuckles and tool debt, I want to share my perspective and hear other people's thoughts about our industry. So pour yourself a strong coffee or grab a cold Canadian beer and get ready for some great conversation.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeff Compton
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    149
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jeff Compton

You Might Also Like