ARA Unscripted

The Automotive Recyclers Association

ARA Unscripted is a candid, open-format podcast where I sit down with interesting people from across the automotive recycling industry and beyond. We dive into real conversations about work, life, leadership, challenges, wins, and everything in between. No scripts. No filters. Just authentic stories and insights that inspire, educate, and connect.

  1. قبل ٤ أيام

    Episode 19: DJ Harrington

    In this episode Vince Edivan sits down with longtime industry mentor, trainer and professional speaker DJ Harrington for a conversation that goes far beyond sales and leadership. DJ shares the lessons he learned from his father, growing up one of 12 children, overcoming a speech impediment to become a world-renowned professional speaker, his early career in sales, working with companies including General Motors, Ford, American Express and the PGA, and the unlikely path that eventually brought him into automotive recycling. Along the way, DJ shares stories about relationships, customer service, persistence, honesty and CANI — Constant and Never-Ending Improvement. He also talks candidly about the health challenges he faces today and what he hopes people remember about him. At its heart, this is a conversation about helping people, continuing to improve, and recognizing that sometimes the smallest gesture can change the direction of a career — or a life. 00:00 A Life That Became the Message 01:44 Nordstrom’s Automotive — Episode Sponsor 02:18 Sitting Down with DJ Harrington 04:04 DJ’s Health and the Support of the Industry 09:16 Growing Up One of 12 Children 16:07 The Lesson of 1,800 Families 18:18 From a Speech Impediment to Professional Speaker 20:02 The Monastery, Sales and Uniroyal 25:13 Lessons from DJ’s Father 27:05 The Tugboat Lesson: How to Motivate People 30:21 Humor, Sales and the Famous “ID10T” 32:02 Green Eggs and Ham as a Sales Lesson 35:21 How DJ Found Automotive Recycling 38:35 Scholarships and Investing in People 41:42 Getting One Foot in the Door 44:46 Persistence, a Broken Brick and a Career 51:19 “My Dad Makes People Feel Good” 51:58 AX Payments — Episode Sponsor 53:00 Why ARA Membership Matters 53:40 How DJ Found the Auto Recycling Industry 54:40 The Story That Led DJ to the PGA 59:26 Turning Lessons Into Memorable Experiences 1:00:21 “Don’t Be Bitter — Be Better” 1:01:38 From Seminary to the U.S. Army 1:04:11 Writing a Love Letter for a Wounded Soldier 1:05:02 Why DJ Loves Auto Recyclers 1:07:47 Selling the Bluebird Bus 1:09:20 Relationships and “What’s In It For Me?” 1:11:35 CANI — Constant and Never-Ending Improvement 1:18:34 Sales Mistakes Recyclers Still Make 1:20:21 Listening Is a Superpower 1:25:10 Ask for the Sale 1:26:05 People Buy From People 1:27:42 How Kindness Can Become Good Business 1:31:21 DJ’s Simple Rules for Success 1:31:47 What DJ Wants People to Remember 1:33:49 Character, Habits and Destiny 1:35:13 Faith, Purpose and Using Your Gifts 1:38:26 “Drink, Swear, Steal and Lie” 1:41:03 Looking Back at ARA Unscripted 1:43:09 ARA, URG and Working Together 1:44:45 Why DJ Believes in ARA 1:45:50 A Final Message About Hill Days 1:46:18 Closing SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS Nordstrom’s Automotive — Garretson, South Dakota The Nordstrom’s team has considered DJ a mentor, teacher and friend for years, and they are proud to help bring this episode to the industry. Nordstrom’s Automotive includes full-service auto recycling, U-Pull-It self-service used auto parts and the Under the Hood Show. AX Payments AX Payments is changing credit card processing for automotive recyclers with a transparent, no-fee, no-contract approach, free equipment and technology designed specifically for the industry. Vice President of Automotive Ron Matthews has spent his entire adult life in automotive recycling and understands the challenges recyclers face with processing costs, fraud and chargebacks. Call or text Ron Matthews at (401) 640-3015 to learn more.

    Episode 19: DJ Harrington

  2. ٢٩ يوليو

    Episode 18: Ron Matthews

    Success isn't built through shortcuts—it's built through relationships. In this episode of ARA Unscripted, Vince Edivan sits down with Ron Matthews to discuss the career, relationships, and lessons that have made him one of the automotive recycling industry's most respected mentors. From starting on the parts counter to becoming a consultant, educator, and trusted advisor, Ron shares practical insights on leadership, mentorship, networking, sales, and why helping others succeed has been the key to his own success. Whether you're an automotive recycler, business owner, or aspiring leader, you'll walk away with lessons that apply far beyond our industry. SponsorsARI — Auto Recycler IntelligenceWith live inventory pricing, Hollander interchange, automated freight calculations, and secure payment links, customers can receive a quote and complete a purchase at any time. Learn more at ariintel.com or contact Kirk Monger at kirk@ariintel.com. Mention this episode and receive $195 off your first month. Offer valid for one year from the episode air date. VIN Match ProVIN Match Pro simplifies complex VIN data so teams can clearly understand vehicle details and match information correctly the first time. That means: Fewer errorsFewer credits and returnsMore consistent decisionsLess time spent double-checking workVIN Match Pro brings accurate, easy-to-read information and practical tools together in one place. To schedule a demonstration, email Justin at VIN Match Pro or call (978) 413-7170. Join the Automotive Recyclers AssociationThe automotive recycling industry is stronger when we work together. ARA provides advocacy, education, certification, and resources to help recyclers succeed. Learn more or become a member at www.a-r-a.org. Or, if you want it even shorter: Join ARAStay connected, informed, and ahead of industry changes through the Automotive Recyclers Association. Learn more at www.a-r-a.org. I prefer the second version for YouTube. It gets the point across in two sentences and keeps the focus on the episode rather than the promotion. Chapter Section00:00 Intro 00:55 Sponsor — ARI Sales Professional 01:54 Growing Up in Rhode Island and Discovering Auto Recycling 11:21 From Parts Puller to the Sales Counter 17:21 Accidentally Becoming an Industry Consultant 18:59 How Trade Shows Changed Everything 22:47 The Mentor Who Changed Ron’s Life 31:18 Building a Consulting Business From the Ground Up 33:23 Leadership Lessons and Managing People 44:00 Why Automotive Recyclers Need ARA 44:38 Sponsor — VIN Match Pro 45:37 Why Great Salespeople Don’t Sell 54:54 The Story Everyone Still Talks About 56:23 Joining AX Payments and Protecting Your Reputation 01:03:02 Should Industry Associations Vet Vendors? 01:19:44 Are Trade Shows Losing Their Value? 01:25:28 Why Some Recyclers Thrive While Others Struggle 01:32:32 The Power of Mentorship 01:42:50 Advice for Every Auto Recycler 01:46:30 Final Thoughts

    Episode 18: Ron Matthews

  3. ١٥ يوليو

    Episode 17: Bill Tolpa

    The Legacy of Bill Tolpa | Leadership, Service & the Future of Auto Recycling | ARA Unscripted Ep. 17Some people build successful businesses. Others build better industries. Bill Tolpa has done both. In this episode of ARA Unscripted, ARA Executive Director Vince Edivan sits down with Bill Tolpa to discuss a lifetime in automotive recycling, the evolution of ARA, industry leadership, environmental responsibility, and the personal battle that changed his perspective on life. Along the way, Bill shares stories about: Building one of the industry's most respected businessesBecoming involved with ARA leadershipLessons learned from decades of serviceWhy advocacy mattersHis battle with cancer and the importance of self-advocacyMentorship and giving backWhy professional recyclers have a responsibility to leadWhether you've been in the industry for forty years or forty days, Bill's perspective offers lessons that extend far beyond automotive recycling. This episode is sponsored by ARIYou're already investing in marketing to make the phone ring. ARI Sales Assistant makes sure those calls don't become missed opportunities. Available 24/7, it answers calls, captures leads, and hands qualified customers directly to your sales team. To learn more, contact Kirk Monger: 📧 kirk@ARIIntel.com This episode is also sponsored by Yard SmartBuilt specifically for self-service recyclers, Yard Smart helps your team manage inventory, vehicle photos, yard audits and status changes from anywhere in the yard. Mention this episode and they'll waive the setup fee and give you your first month free. Learn more at: YardSmartApp.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:39 Sponsor: Yard Smart 01:31 Sponsor: ari Sales Assistant 02:24 Meet Bill Tolpa 05:12 Growing Up in the Dairy Business 08:17 Life as a Carnival Worker 14:06 Lessons the Carnival Taught About Business 18:25 Buying a Repair Shop at 18 22:38 A Frustrating Parts Buying Experience 24:02 The Trip That Started a Career 29:45 Building an Auto Recycling Business 34:10 Getting Involved with ARA New York 40:50 Learning to Lead Through Service 49:30 Growing the Business and the Industry 58:10 Environmental Responsibility Comes to Auto Recycling 1:08:30 Mentoring the Next Generation 1:18:45 Industry Challenges Then and Now 1:30:10 Leadership, Integrity, and Reputation 1:38:15 Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders 1:44:30 Leaving the Industry Better Than You Found It 1:46:10 Final Thoughts Subscribe for more conversations with the leaders shaping the future of automotive recycling. #AutoRecycling #Leadership #BusinessPodcast #ARAUnscripted #Automotive #SmallBusiness

    Episode 17: Bill Tolpa

  4. ١ يوليو

    Episode 16: Wally Dingman

    For nearly 40 years, Wally Dingman built and operated one of Canada's respected recycling businesses. Today, as Executive Director of the Automotive Recyclers of Canada, he's working to help shape the future of the industry. In this episode of ARA Unscripted, Wally shares lessons from growing a family business, transitioning into association leadership, navigating government policy, preparing for EV challenges, and why recyclers must be involved whenever legislation affects the automotive lifecycle. Whether you're a yard owner, manager, supplier, or simply interested in where the industry is headed, this conversation offers practical insight from someone who's seen both sides of the business. Special thanks to our sponsors ARI Sales Assistant — Never miss another sales opportunity. Contact Kirk Monger at kirk@ARIIntel.com to learn how AI is helping recyclers answer every call, capture leads, and close more business. YardSmart — Modern yard management software built specifically for self-service recyclers. Visit yardsmartapp.com to schedule a demo and mention ARA Unscripted for the special offer. If you enjoy these conversations, subscribe to ARA Unscripted for more discussions with leaders shaping the future of automotive recycling. #AutoRecycling #Leadership #CircularEconomy #Automotive #EV #BusinessPodcast #ARAUnscripted Chapters00:00 Introduction & Sponsors 02:18 Wally Dingman's Journey into Auto Recycling 06:30 Transitioning from Recycler to Association Executive 14:00 Why Canada Has Two National Recycling Associations 15:58 Cash for Clunkers: Successes, Lessons & Unintended Consequences 17:18 Building Stronger Regional Associations Across Canada 19:25 Why Auto Recyclers Must Have a Seat at the Legislative Table 24:30 Vehicle Donation Programs & Consumer Vehicle Acquisition 30:45 Cross-Border Parts Sales, Tariffs & Canada–U.S. Trade 40:15 EV Batteries, Regulation & Producer Responsibility 54:20 The Public Image Problem Facing Auto Recyclers 01:03:30 Succession Planning & the Next Generation of Recyclers 01:12:45 AI, Technology & the Future of the Industry 01:24:45 Working with Government Without Losing Your Voice 01:33:20 Leadership, Industry Advocacy & Building Consensus 01:40:30 Why Ego Has No Place in Leadership

    Episode 16: Wally Dingman

  5. ١٧ يونيو

    Episode 15: Amber Kendrick

    In this episode of ARA Unscripted, Vince Edivan sits down with Amber Kendrick, owner of Pete's Auto Parts in Michigan and one of the most respected voices in automotive recycling. Amber shares the story of Pete's Auto Parts—from its beginnings as a small towing operation started by her grandfather to becoming one of the industry's highest-performing recycling businesses. Along the way, she discusses leadership, operational excellence, marketing, industry partnerships, and how Pete's continues to thrive in a challenging market. The conversation dives into retail growth strategies, recycler-to-recycler sales, Facebook Marketplace marketing, customer payment policies, quality standards, AI tools, workforce development, and the future of automotive recycling. Whether you're an auto recycler, business owner, or industry professional, Amber offers practical insights on adapting, growing, and staying competitive in a rapidly changing marketplace. Episode SponsorToday's episode is brought to you by ari's Sales Assistant. Every missed call is a missed opportunity. ari's Sales Assistant uses AI-powered voice technology to answer incoming calls, capture customer information, qualify leads, and help your team convert more opportunities—even when your staff is busy or unavailable. The best part? It integrates directly with your existing workflow and ensures every customer inquiry gets the attention it deserves. Learn more by contacting Kirk Monger at Kirk@ariintel.com Connect with ARALearn more about the Automotive Recyclers Association: Automotive Recyclers Association Follow ARA on social media for industry news, advocacy updates, educational resources, and future episodes of ARA Unscripted. Chapters00:00 Introduction & Why Vince Is Recording at Pete's Auto Parts 03:00 The ARTI Scholarship Dinner Experience 05:00 Pete's Auto Parts Hits Another Record Month 06:30 Why Amber Fired Customers Who Didn't Pay On Time 08:00 The Power of Recycler-to-Reycler Sales 09:30 Growing Retail Sales Through Marketing 10:00 Facebook Marketplace Successes and Challenges 12:00 Adapting to Change in Automotive Recycling 13:00 Leadership Lessons and Company Culture 17:00 The History of Pete's Auto Parts 25:00 Building a Business Through Relationships 35:00 Industry Involvement and ARA Leadership 50:00 Technology, AI, and Customer Service 1:02:00 How AI Is Helping Capture More Sales Opportunities 1:10:00 Workforce Development and Team Building 1:17:00 The Importance of State Associations 1:19:00 Music, Concerts, and Life Outside the Business #ARAUnscripted #AutoRecycling #AmberKendrick #PeteAutoParts #AutomotiveRecyclers #UsedAutoParts #Leadership #SmallBusiness #AI #AutomotiveIndustry

    Episode 15: Amber Kendrick

  6. ٣ يونيو

    Episode 14: Rachel Farrar

    In this insightful interview, mental health expert Rachel Farrar discusses the importance of mental health awareness in the workplace, how managers can identify red flags, and practical strategies to support employee well-being. Discover how fostering a supportive culture can enhance productivity and prevent crises. This episode of ARA Unscripted is sponsored by Auto Recycler Intelligence (ari). ari helps automotive recyclers capture more opportunities by ensuring every customer call gets answered — even when your team is busy or your yard is closed. ari's Sales Assistant works 24/7, speaking the language of auto recycling, qualifying leads, and helping recyclers convert missed calls into real revenue. To learn more about how ari can help your business capture more sales opportunities, visit ariintel.com or contact Kirk Monger at kirk@ariintel.com. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in the Workplace 03:04 Understanding the Role of Managers 05:53 Identifying Stress vs. Mental Health Issues 08:44 Coping Mechanisms and Their Importance 11:40 Recognizing Red Flags in Employees 14:54 Approaching Employees with Concern 17:53 Employer Responsibilities and Ethical Considerations 20:41 Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health 23:40 Crisis Management in the Workplace 26:39 Creating a Supportive Workplace Culture 29:38 The Importance of Self-Care for Employers 32:41 Resources for Employers and Conclusion Resources: Surgeon General's Mental Health in the Workplace Guide - https://www.hhs.gov/mental-health-workplace-guide American Psychological Association - https://www.apa.org Mental Health America - https://www.mhanational.org Guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelfarrar Website - https://rachelfarrar.com

    Episode 14: Rachel Farrar

  7. ٢٠ مايو

    Episode 13: Shannon Nordstrom

    Most people in the automotive recycling industry know Shannon Nordstrom as the President of the Automotive Recyclers Association, the owner of Nordstrom’s Automotive, or the voice behind the nationally syndicated Under the Hood radio show. But this conversation goes much deeper than titles. In this episode of ARA Unscripted, Shannon talks about growing up on a South Dakota dairy farm, how his family built Nordstrom’s Automotive through multiple generations of change, and what leadership, faith, responsibility, and service really look like over the long haul. We also dive into: • The origins of Under the Hood • Building a nationally syndicated automotive media brand • The evolution of the recycling industry • Why adaptability matters more than ever • Industry leadership and giving back • Family business dynamics across generations • What Shannon believes the future of automotive recycling looks like This ended up being less of an interview and more of an honest conversation about legacy, entrepreneurship, and building something that lasts. ⸻ Sponsored by Yard Smart If you’re tired of being locked into contracts or being told you need all new equipment, check out Yard Smart — the yard management platform built for self-serve yards. • No contracts • Use your current hardware • Integrated credit card processing available • Retail + scrap point of sale • Native admissions process in one system One of the things recyclers consistently say about Yard Smart is how responsive they are. If your suggestion makes sense, they’ll build it. Learn more or book a demo: https://yardsmartapp.com Mention this episode and they’ll waive the setup fee and give you your first month free. Offer valid for one year from the episode air date. ⸻ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro — Who Is Shannon Nordstrom? 00:51 Sponsor — Yard Smart 01:34 Growing Up in the Automotive Recycling Industry 06:07 The Nordstrom Family Story & Dairy Farm Origins 09:03 Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Family Legacy 20:57 Service, Leadership & Giving Back 23:19 Faith, Responsibility & Perspective 31:45 Building Nordstrom’s Automotive Into a Modern Operation 43:12 Industry Change & Adapting to New Markets 56:36 Why the Repairable Vehicle Business Changed 57:09 The Origins of Under the Hood Radio 58:14 Building a Nationally Syndicated Radio Show 01:17:11 Turning Under the Hood Into a Media Business 01:28:42 Leadership Lessons & Industry Relationships 01:42:30 The Future of Automotive Recycling 01:54:18 Family, Legacy & Multi-Generation Business 02:03:01 Shannon’s Mother’s Book & Preserving Family History 02:08:44 Final Thoughts ⸻ Subscribe for more conversations with the people shaping the automotive recycling industry. #AutomotiveRecycling #AutoRecycling #ARAUnscripted #ShannonNordstrom #UnderTheHood #RecycledParts #SalvageYard #AutomotiveIndustry

    Episode 13: Shannon Nordstrom

  8. ٦ مايو

    Episode 12: Chris Daglis

    Most recyclers think they need more cars. Chris Daglis says you need to get more out of the ones you already have. In this episode of ARA Unscripted, Chris shares real-world insights from decades in the industry—covering everything from insurer partnerships and missed revenue opportunities to how AI is reshaping operations inside the yard. If you’re serious about improving your business, this is one to watch. Chapters: 00:00 – “You’re Not Losing Cars… You’re Losing Value” 02:10 – From Collision Shop to Parts Pioneer 08:00 – The Shift That Changed Everything 13:00 – “Break Your Own Business First” 17:00 – The Insurance Deal That Shook the Industry 24:00 – Industry Backlash & Real Pressure 31:30 – Leaving the Family Business & Starting Fresh 40:00 – What Hasn’t Changed in 30 Years 49:00 – The Biggest Missed Opportunity in Recycling 56:30 – Why You’re Throwing Away Valuable Parts 01:01:00 – AI: What’s Real vs What’s Hype 01:07:00 – The 40% Missed Call Problem 01:13:00 – Using AI to Increase Sales 01:20:00 – Embedded vs Fragmented AI 01:30:00 – Training, Data, and Better Decisions 01:40:00 – Where the Industry Is Headed Sponsored by YardSmart Learn more: yardsmartapp.com/schedule-a-demo Subscribe for more conversations with the people shaping the auto recycling industry.

    Episode 12: Chris Daglis
مشاهدة الكل (١٩)

التقييمات والمراجعات

٥
من ٥
‫٢ من التقييمات‬

حول

ARA Unscripted is a candid, open-format podcast where I sit down with interesting people from across the automotive recycling industry and beyond. We dive into real conversations about work, life, leadership, challenges, wins, and everything in between. No scripts. No filters. Just authentic stories and insights that inspire, educate, and connect.

المعلومات

  • صناع العمل
    The Automotive Recyclers Association
  • سنوات النشاط
    ٢٠٢٥ - ٢٠٢٦
  • الحلقات
    ١٩
  • التقييم
    فاضح
  • حقوق النشر
    © 2025 The Automotive Recyclers Association
  • موقع البرنامج على الويب
    ARA Unscripted