Gain Traction Neal Maier and Mike Edge

Douglas Kershaw is the Executive Vice President of KAL Group, a freight and truck parts company with numerous divisions. Prior to joining KAL Group, Douglas had an extensive career in the tire industry, previously serving as President of BKT Tires in North America. With his diverse background spanning television broadcasting, the rubber industry, and various leadership roles, Douglas brings a wealth of experience to his current position at KAL Group, where he is responsible for establishing a new wholesale division focused on tires and parts for the agriculture, construction, and truck markets.
In this episode… Launching a successful new wholesale division can be challenging, but it’s certainly possible if you follow the necessary steps and implement key elements.
According to Douglas Kershaw, from the KAL Group, you should start by building a strong, committed team and empowering them to make decisions as if it were their own business. He stresses the need for integrity, clear communication, and continuous improvement, even when facing the challenges of starting a new division. Douglas' five core principles — integrity, commitment, entrepreneurial thinking, teamwork, and never being satisfied — offer a framework for anyone to adopt as they seek to launch and grow a business or a career.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge gets Douglas' thoughts on launching a new wholesale division. Douglas shares his career journey, from a start in TV reporting to pivoting into the rubber industry and eventually becoming president of a tire company. He advocates for empowering a strong, committed team and how his diverse background has provided him with a unique perspective in the tire industry.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  Highlights of Douglas Kershaw’s early career in broadcast journalism interviewing basketball legends like Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson Why Douglas pivoted from TV to the rubber industry, taking a chance with Dayco Products Leading the launch of a new wholesale tire and parts division, Tires and Parts of America The importance of integrity, commitment, entrepreneurial thinking, teamwork, and continuous improvement Why Douglas empowers his team to make decisions as if it were their own business How Douglas leveraged his broadcasting experience to lead and communicate effectively in the tire industry The importance of building a strong, trusted team to achieve success Why Douglas remains committed to continuous improvement, even after achieving success Resources mentioned in this episode: Douglas Kershaw on LinkedIn  KAL Group  Tires and Parts of America Michael Jordan  Clyde Drexler KNF K&N Stripes Mike Edge on LinkedIn Tread Partners Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 
At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 
By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.
We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 
So, what are you waiting for?
Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. 

Cody Hammer is the Area Sales Manager for Trusted Tire and Auto in Bismarck, N.D. Despite not having an automotive background, Cody's career path shifted from construction to sales after being inspired by a radio advertisement featuring the general manager of Trusted Tire. With a natural gift for communication and a deep-seeded desire to positively impact people’s lives, Cody thrives in his role by prioritizing empathy and understanding toward customers, a quality he believes is essential in customer service.
In this episode… In the competitive automotive services industry, building strong customer connections is crucial for success and loyalty. But how can salespeople truly connect with customers throughout the sales and service experience?
According to Cody Hammer of Trusted Tire, connections can be made with customers by empathizing with their stress and anxiety when they need automotive services. He aims to make customers feel at ease by offering transportation options, providing clear communication through digital vehicle inspection reports, and using light-hearted humor to elevate the experience. By aiming to understand each customer's unique driving needs and budget, he is able to recommend the right tires. After making a sale, Cody follows up with customers to ensure satisfaction and create a more personal connection.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge talks to Cody Hammer about creating genuine customer connections through empathy, transportation services, digital inspections, and humor. Cody shares how he tailors recommendations based on driving needs, budget, and lifestyle cues. He highlights follow-ups, thank-you notes, and tells a story about assisting a stranded customer. Other topics include Cody's rural upbringing, his career transition via people skills, and his favorite movie.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  Cody Hammer talks about growing up in rural North Dakota, enjoying outdoor activities like hunting and fishing The value of empathy and understanding customers' anxiety when they need automotive service Why providing alternate transportation options for customers is important Making customers smile to elevate their experience Following up after a sale to ensure customer satisfaction and create a more personal connection The importance of tires as the only contact between the vehicle and road How Cody transitioned from a non-automotive background by focusing on strong people skills Resources mentioned in this episode: About Cody Hammer Trusted Tire and Auto Jarid Lundeen on LinkedIn Mike Edge on LinkedIn Tread Partners Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 
At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 
By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.
We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 
So, what are you waiting for?
Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more.

Brian Quisenberry is Vice President at S&S Tire. Known for his responsive and dependable leadership style, Brian prides himself on his ability to deliver results and fulfill commitments through a blend of enablement and tenacity. With over 25 years of diverse experience, he has honed his skills as a coachable and loyal teammate, always ready to lead his team towards strategic success that brings real value to customers. Beyond his professional achievements, Brian is committed to excellence and humility, with "Dad" and "Husband" being his most cherished titles.
In this episode… Is it possible to combine the expansive service capabilities of a major distributor with the heartfelt, personalized touch of a family-owned business?
According to Brian Quisenberry, S&S Tire — a family-owned business where he is Vice President — is celebrating its 50th year, and has grown from a single retail tire store into a significant player in the tire industry with a vast network across the Southeast and Midwest US. Despite its size, S&S Tire remains committed to offering the personalized, attentive service characteristic of a small, local store. This dedication to nurturing strong, trustworthy relationships with customers, as well as a willingness to adapt and respond to their needs, stands out as a cornerstone of their approach. Brian emphasizes the importance of these connections as fundamental elements that have contributed to the company's longevity and success.
In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge discusses with Brian how S&S Tire marries big-scale service with small-scale warmth. They touch on Brian's personal growth, mentorship's impact, his passion for bass fishing, and S&S's evolution from a local shop to a regional powerhouse. Celebrating 50 years, S&S focuses on customer relationships, cautious expansion, and the importance of a customer-first approach in shaping their future.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  Brian Quisenberry's favorite hobbies How Brian has benefited from building lasting friendships through work How mentoring from industry veterans has provided Brian with invaluable insights S&S Tire's 50th anniversary celebration’s focus on customer engagement Because of a close-knit company structure, family-owned business dynamics offer quick decision-making abilities  Why simplicity in business operations is a core belief for Brian Resources mentioned in this episode: Brian Quisenberry on LinkedIn  S&S Tire  Walter Lybeck on LinkedIn   Point S Tire  Mike Edge on LinkedIn Tread Partners Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 
At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 
By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.
We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 
So, what are you waiting for?
Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more. 

Stephen Kantarze, is the Program Director of The Veterans Trust. He joined the US Army in 2008 as an infantryman, serving his countries in numerous capacities including a tour in Iraq. He was deeply impacted by his role as a casket team leader at Arlington National Cemetery, where conducted over a thousand funerals and ceremonies. As part of The Veterans Trust, Stephen continues to honor his military roots by serving other service members.
Fred Roger is the Executive Director of The Veterans Trust. He began his service journey in high school, spurred by the events of 9/11 and a deep sense of duty to protect his country. Joining the ranks of the US Marine Corps at just 18, he embarked on multiple tours, including in Fallujah, Iraq, where he confronted the challenges of combat head-on. Transitioning into civilian life, he immersed himself in various endeavors, eventually finding his calling in nonprofit work. Through his foundation, Fred merges his love for motorsports with his desire to give back, creating unforgettable experiences for military veterans and first responders.
In this episode… Many service members struggle with a lack of purpose after their service. The importance of providing veterans with opportunities for engagement and purpose after leaving the military cannot be overstated.
According to Fred Roger and Stephen Kantarze of The Veterans Trust, motorsports can play a large role in supporting veterans' adjustment to civilian life. Stephen stresses the significance of finding passion and expressing oneself as a means to combat depression and find fulfillment, while Fred notes the camaraderie and community support veterans experience in response to their motorsports involvement.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Fred and Stephen for a conversation about supporting veterans' transition to civilian life through motorsports. Stephen emphasizes the psychological benefits, highlighting motorsports’ role in providing purpose and self-expression for veterans. They share humorous anecdotes and discuss the program's growth, including partnerships and national expansion.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  Stephen Kantarze highlights the diverse engagement opportunities at motorsport events Why veterans may struggle to find purpose after military service How motorsport can offer a seamless transition for veterans seeking purpose The importance of offering veterans opportunities for self-expression The Veterans Trust's reliance on donations and sponsorships for program support The significance of in-kind donations, volunteerism, and monetary contributions to sustain the initiative Fred Roger says despite mishaps, camaraderie and support among veterans remains strong Resources mentioned in this episode: Fred Roger on LinkedIn  Stephen Kantarze on LinkedIn  The Veterans Trust  Mike Edge on LinkedIn Tread Partners Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 
At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 
By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.
We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 
So, what are you waiting for?
Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more.

David Bennett, Repair Systems Manager at AAA, brings over 37 years of dedicated service to the company. Originally from the Washington DC area, David's career journey began at a young age, marked by early experiences as a paperboy, at a gas station, and in food service. His passion for automotive work ignited during high school, where he received vocational training and honed his skills, laying the foundation for a successful career in the industry.
In this episode… The vast majority of adults in the US own a vehicle, but are they paying attention to the most important maintenance elements? Which often-overlooked parts of a vehicle specifically require proactive attention for safe driving?
According to David Bennett of AAA, tire maintenance is of paramount importance. Drawing from his extensive experience in the automotive industry, David highlights the alarming frequency of tire-related issues among vehicles he has inspected. He emphasizes the critical need for regular tire care, noting AAA's role in promoting roadside safety. Through AAA's network of approved auto repair facilities and roadside assistance services, its members gain access to reliable resources for addressing tire-related emergencies and ensuring safer travel experiences. 
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes David to discuss the importance of automotive education and tire maintenance. David's journey from working at McDonald's and a gas station to becoming a Repair Systems Manager highlights the value of vocational training and hands-on experience in the automotive industry. He cites alarming statistics revealing widespread issues related to tire maintenance.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  David Bennett retells his 37 years of industry experience How vocational training in high school laid the groundwork for David’s automotive expertise How David specialized in engine diagnosis with AAA's Mobile Diagnostic Van Program How the decline of vocational education has impacted the automotive industry The diverse services AAA offers aside from roadside assistance David stresses the significance of tire maintenance, including proper inflation and tread checks Resources mentioned in this episode: David Bennett on LinkedIn American Automobile Association National Air and Space Museum Bureau of Engraving and Printing  Mike Edge on LinkedIn Tread Partners Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 
At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 
By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.
We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 
So, what are you waiting for?
Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more.

Baker Ghanim is the President of Tire Store Service Center in Bedford, Texas. Under his leadership, Tire Store Service Center opened nine locations in its first 10 years, with a goal of ultimately opening 50. Baker is also the Founder of oTo Solutions, where customers can easily order tires online. With his background in business management and customer service, Baker is dedicated to providing top-notch services and solutions to clients.
In this episode… In a rapidly evolving automotive sales and service landscape, innovative management techniques can empower employees and unlock unprecedented levels of success.
According to Baker Ghanim, empowering employees by treating them as store owners fosters a strong sense of ownership and responsibility within them. Implementing performance-based pay and involving managers in decision-making processes leads to increased engagement, loyalty, and accountability among employees. This strategy not only enhances employee satisfaction, but also translates into better customer service and overall business performance, as employees are motivated to excel in ensuring the success of their respective stores.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge talks with Baker about fostering a sense of ownership among employees in the tire industry. They delve into empowering managers, referencing stores by their names, and the benefits of this approach. Additionally, they discuss Baker's entrepreneurial journey, insights from Kent Coleman's book, It’s Not About the Mangos, and the innovative solution for independent tire dealers, oTo Solutions.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  Baker Ghanim learned valuable business lessons from Kent Coleman's book, It’s Not About the Mangos Why Baker values employees as family and focuses on the human side of business How empowering managers to feel like owners fosters a sense of pride and responsibility Baker discusses his belief in personal incentive, aligning employee and company goals for mutual success How the motto "We Don’t Sell, We Service!" guides Baker's business Why Baker views a sale as merely one touchpoint in a customer's journey — all interactions matter  How oTo Solutions streamlines the tire ordering process for independent dealers Resources mentioned in this episode: Baker Ghanim on LinkedIn Tire Store Service Center  oTo Solutions  It’s Not About the Mangos  Mike Edge on LinkedIn Tread Partners Sponsor for this episode... This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 
At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 
By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.
We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 
So, what are you waiting for?
Visit www.treadpartners.com or email info@treadpartners.com to learn more.