Changing The Industry Podcast

David Roman & Lucas Underwood
  • 4.7 (79)
  • MANAGEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

This podcast is dedicated to changing the automotive industry for the better, one conversation at a time. Whether you're a technician, vendor, business owner, or car enthusiast, we hope to inspire you to improve for your customers, your careers, your businesses, and your families.

  1. 8H AGO · BONUS

    Bonus Episode - Breaking Down Industry Silos: Collision and Mechanical Unite at the Northeast 2026

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Ken Miller to preview the Northeast Trade Show and discuss the growing intersection between the collision and mechanical segments of the automotive industry. Ken highlights the expanded focus on mechanical education at this year’s show, emphasizing the importance of ADAS calibrations and the need for proper training and documentation. The discussion also covers the challenges created by industry consolidation, different approaches to compensation and workflow, and the shared responsibility for safety and professionalism in both mechanical and collision repair. 00:00 "Discovering the Northeast Show" 05:13 Real-World Expertise in Training 08:42 "Lessons from Collision Experience" 10:42 Aviation Error and Accountability 16:30 "Calibration Challenges in Repair Shops" 19:30 "Collision Shop Negligence and Exploitation" 23:22 Documentation: Key to Authentic Calibration 26:26 Dangerous Counterfeit Airbags Warning 28:58 TPMS Sensors and Dealer Liability 34:01 Collision Industry Consolidation Insights 34:58 "Understanding Business Value and Protection" 41:09 ADAS Reducing Accidents and Claims 43:52 "Value of Networking at Events" 45:19 Bridging Gaps in Automotive Teams 50:45 "Collaborating to Share Industry Knowledge" 52:18 "Empowering Industry Through Education"

    59 min

  2. 2D AGO · BONUS

    Bonus Episode - Investing, Adapting, and Leading with Purpose in Auto Repair With Nelson Tavarez

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Nelson Tavarez, owner of Austin's Auto Service. Nelson shares his inspiring journey from working in telecommunications to becoming a successful shop owner, emphasizing the importance of discipline, saving, and seizing opportunities. The conversation delves into the impact of technology like Shop-Ware on shop efficiency and customer experience, as well as strategies for building wealth and financial security for both owners and technicians. 00:00 "Growth, Discipline, and Adapting" 04:53 "Taking a Gamble on Change" 07:20 "Trading Success Leads to Ownership" 13:16 Seamlessly Adopting Shopware Technology 16:19 Targeted Growth for Specialty Auto Shop 18:30 "Shopware's Future is Revolutionary" 22:23 "Personalized Service, Small-Shop Feel" 26:45 Trust, Change, and Lost Security 29:35 Generational Wealth Over Instant Gains 34:12 Maximizing Savings for Children 35:37 "From Rent to Ownership" 40:32 "Delayed Gratification and Society" 41:59 "Rethinking the Grind Mentality" 44:26 Sell What People Want 49:53 "Resilience and Team Effort" 51:33 Employee Prioritizes Family Over Career

    58 min

  3. 4D AGO

    Episode 256 - Why Most Shops Miss Out on Profits With Eric Joern of Kaizen CPAs

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Eric Joern for a deep dive into the realities of small business financial management in the auto repair industry. Eric stresses the importance of starting with a plan and leveraging professional guidance, rather than relying on risky trial-and-error approaches. The discussion highlights why using proper shop management systems and separating business finances is critical for long-term success. 00:00 "Valuable Business Advice and Insights" 10:15 Sales Tax Responsibilities Explained 15:34 Simple Budgeting for Profit 17:02 "Essential Shop Management Systems" 21:40 Shop Parts Tracking Essentials 29:56 "Seeking Proactive Tax Guidance" 35:04 "Importance of a Knowledgeable Accountant" 38:10 "Proactive Tax Planning Conversations" 43:34 "Inventory's Tax Impact Explained" 49:10 "Smart Tax Strategies Explained" 55:24 Focus on Strengths, Delegate Tasks 01:02:42 Excited for Business Improvement

    1h 7m

  4. FEB 9

    Episode 255 - Tailoring Training for Automotive Technicians in a Rapidly Changing Industry with Andy Tirado

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Andy Tirado, co-founder of the ADAS Network. Andy discusses the challenges of delivering relevant, effective technical training across the automotive industry, highlighting the critical need for trainers to adapt content to local cultures and shop-specific needs. The conversation also explores the complexities of ADAS calibrations, from misinformation in service procedures to pressure from insurance companies. 00:00 Struggles with Local Training Participation 08:25 Improving Training Accessibility and Retention 10:24 "Training, Culture, and Communication" 20:09 "Missed Details in Calibration Procedure" 23:44 "ADAS Resource and Referral Network" 28:45 Greed, Insurance, and Right to Repair 33:43 "Taking Control of Business Processes" 40:54 Braking System Safety Concerns 46:09 Counterfeit Parts and Industry Issues 52:21 Car Alignment and Calibration Costs 53:56 "Trusting My Chosen Shop" 01:00:05 "ADAS Insights and Validation" 01:03:33 "Aligned for Selfless Collaboration"

    1h 9m

  5. FEB 2

    Episode 254 - Grit, Growth, and Genuine Leadership in the Diesel Industry with Chris Gayne

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Chris Gayne, owner of Dale County Diesel. Chris shares his unique journey from Army attack helicopter pilot to diesel shop owner, highlighting the importance of leadership and integrity in building his team. The conversation covers why prioritizing people and culture over technical skill is critical, the value of honest customer communication, and the ongoing challenge of maintaining passion while running a successful business. 00:00 Garage Trouble Without License 06:19 "Learning Through Experience" 09:39 Truck Repairs and Industry Journey 12:59 "Results Over Passion" 15:55 "Passion and Honesty in Selling" 17:05 "Transparent Auto Repair Process" 20:52 "Morals Over Money" 25:31 "Passing the Torch" 26:24 "Plans for Business Continuity" 29:31 "Failed Recruitment Due to Diploma" 33:14 "Lessons on Hard Work" 37:25 "Maximizing Growth Within Business" 42:09 "Shifting Passion and Letting Go" 45:17 "Work-Life Balance Struggles" 46:32 "Guidance Counselor Tension Escalates" 51:01 "Unexpected Apology on Facebook"

    57 min

  6. JAN 26

    Episode 253 - Small Town Shop Ownership, Family Dynamics, and Overcoming Resentment with John Presnell

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by John Presnell, a shop owner from North Carolina, who shares his journey in taking over the family business. John discusses overcoming personal and professional resentments as he transitioned from working under his parents to owning the shop. Key topics include the challenges of shop growth and efficiency, strategies for training and developing a younger team, and the importance of personal growth through forgiveness and mentorship. 00:00 "Florida Drivers in Mountains" 04:44 "Slow, Stressful 27-Mile Drive" 08:23 Frustration Over Van Repairs 12:17 "Engine Coolant Leak Fail" 13:43 Flatlands Pickup Talk 19:18 "Overcoming Negativity and Growing" 21:26 "Parables as Framework for Success" 24:34 "Career Choices and Challenges" 28:52 "Family Dynamics and Influence" 33:02 "Accident Leads to Lasting Injury" 34:52 "From Porta Potty to Upgraded Space" 39:05 "Reflections on Growth and Work" 42:51 "Start at the Beginning" 44:59 "Keeping Business Decisions Private" 48:35 "Community Action and Attendance" 50:15 "Over a Barrel Moment" 55:24 "Sense Trade-off in Marriage" 56:09 "Affirmative Response"

    1h 1m

  7. JAN 19

    Episode 252 - Can You Transform Automotive Inspections with AI with Uwe Kleinschmidt

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, David and Lucas are joined by Uwe Kleinschmidt of AutoTechIQ. Uwe explains how AI-powered tools are revolutionizing the Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) process, highlighting how annotated photos and captions can help customers better understand repair recommendations. The discussion also explores industry coaching advice on customer communication, with Uwe challenging traditional authority-based approaches by emphasizing transparency and customer empowerment. 00:00 AI Streamlines Automotive Service Communication 06:39 "DVI: The Ultimate CRM Tool" 10:11 "Streamlining Auto Flow Processes" 11:51 "Routine Inspections for Vehicle Health" 15:18 "Optimal Vehicle Maintenance Decisions" 18:23 "Transparency Builds Trust in Service" 24:39 "Tech8IQ Delays Dispatch Process" 27:37 "AI Fixing Cost Discrepancies" 30:18 "Autonomy Issues in Service Inspections" 32:48 "Coaching Pushback on Customer Calls" 36:24 "Key KPI: Customer View Rate" 39:25 "Improving Customer Interaction Metrics" 44:27 Shopware Weakness and DVI Feedback 47:05 "Gen Z's Communication Preferences" 51:28 Embedded Comparison Video Idea 53:08 "AI Image Stirs Debate"

    1 hr

  8. JAN 12

    Episode 251 - Implementing Unreasonable Hospitality and Customer Success at Your Shop With Ruth Wisniewski

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE Don't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026 Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros Shop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing. Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform. Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today! In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Ruth Wisniewski, Senior Director of Customer Success at Vehlo. Ruth shares how her team at Vehlo elevates client experience by helping shops leverage software to meet their goals, from boosting efficiency to increasing car count. The discussion explores the importance of building a favorite brand through “moments of truth” in the customer journey, and the role company culture plays in delivering exceptional service. 00:00 "Vehlo Customer Success Leadership" 03:48 "Streamlining Your Shop's Experience" 07:40 "Building Culture Around Experience" 10:46 "DIY Car Fixer Fails" 15:14 "Creative Problem-Solving Improves Outcomes" 18:13 "Sales vs. Customer-Centric Approach" 20:30 Shady Shopware Setup Concerns 25:25 "Customizable Customer Experience at Vehlo" 26:56 "Empowerment Through Vehlo's Support" 31:08 "Customer Experience: A Guided Reflection" 35:50 "Cost of Goods Discrepancy" 36:44 "Reading Release Notes Religiously" 42:16 "Lion's Mane and Nerve Healing" 45:49 "Recovering Without Surgery" 47:06 Lion's Mane for Focus? 52:14 "Best Banana Pudding Ever" 53:18 Raleigh's Amazing Food Scene

    1 hr
See All (311)

4.7
out of 5
79 Ratings

About

This podcast is dedicated to changing the automotive industry for the better, one conversation at a time. Whether you're a technician, vendor, business owner, or car enthusiast, we hope to inspire you to improve for your customers, your careers, your businesses, and your families.

Information

  • Creator
    David Roman & Lucas Underwood
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    311
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023 Changing The Industry Podcast
  • Show Website
    Changing The Industry Podcast

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