Our Parking Industry®

TPN - The Parking Network

In this podcast The Parking Network will go behind the scenes and talk to industry professionals about all things parking. From the horizon of evolving technology and even stories of the old days. We hope to encourage and inspire Operators and Property Managers alike to look at parking through a new lens!

  1. 3D AGO

    You Can’t Rely on Hardware Alone: The New Parking Reality

    Summary In this roundtable discussion, Krista Olien is joined by Clyde Wilson and Leigh Thomas to reflect on their recent conversation with Patrick Dolan of Task Force Services. The group dives deeper into the realities of modern parking system installations, emphasizing how precision, planning, and coordination between civil work, technology, and operations are more critical than ever. As parking systems evolve from mechanical hardware to data-driven digital environments, the discussion highlights why power, connectivity, and infrastructure must be considered early in the process to avoid costly challenges later. The conversation also explores how rapid technological advancement is reshaping installation expectations, including the growing role of cameras, license plate recognition, and integrated systems. The team discusses the importance of thoughtful RFP development, selecting the right equipment for each environment, and adapting to industry changes that require both technical knowledge and operational awareness. Throughout the episode, the hosts share real-world examples and emphasize problem-solving, collaboration, and long-term planning as key drivers of successful parking implementations. This episode offers practical insights for owners, operators, and industry professionals navigating new technology, highlighting how careful planning and adaptability can turn complex installations into reliable, future-ready parking solutions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Parking Industry Podcast 02:59 The Evolution of Parking Installations 05:06 Challenges in Camera Placement and Technology 07:56 The Importance of Problem Solving in Parking Management 10:08 Adapting to Changes in the Parking Industry 12:39 Choosing the Right Equipment and RFP Process 15:06 The Shift from Mechanical to Digital Parking Solutions 17:52 The Role of RFPs in Modern Parking Installations 20:06 Real-World Examples of Parking Challenges 22:39 Conclusion and Key Takeaways 28:48 Our Parking Industry Podcast Wrap-Up

    29 min
  2. APR 9

    Installing the Future of Parking: Patrick Dolan on Power, Data, and Doing It Right

    Installing the Future of Parking: Patrick Dolan on Power, Data, and Doing It Right Summary In this episode of the Our Parking Industry podcast, Krista Olien and Leigh Thomas interview Patrick Dolan from Task Force Services. Patrick shares his unique journey into the parking industry, starting from his military background to becoming a key player in parking installations. He discusses the evolution of parking systems, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the challenges faced during installations. The conversation also highlights the significance of teamwork, customer service, and adapting to new technologies in the parking sector. Takeaways Patrick's journey into the parking industry began unexpectedly after his military service. Task Force Services specializes in installation for parking systems, focusing on blue-collar work. Understanding customer needs is crucial for successful installations in modern parking systems. Navigating nationwide installations requires strong local partnerships and resourcefulness. The parking industry is evolving with new technologies, including camera-based systems. Preparation and knowledge of site-specific challenges are essential for efficient installations. Different sectors within the parking industry have unique needs and challenges. Customer service is a key focus for Task Force Services, aiming to make clients look good. Team dynamics and communication are vital for successful project execution. Humor and camaraderie are important in the workplace, especially when facing unexpected challenges. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome + Guest Intro: Patrick Dolan (Task Force Services) 00:47 – Patrick’s Career Path: Military to Parking + Early Install Days 02:27 – Growing in Texas: From Technician to Business Builder 04:22 – Task Force Services Today: The Installer Partner Role 07:39 – What They Install + Who Should Call Them 10:18 – How Nationwide Installs Work: Tools, Rentals, and Field Execution 15:24 – What Operators/Vendors Miss: Power + Data Planning for New Tech 26:31 – The Future of Installs + Funny Service Stories + Wrap-Up

    34 min
  3. MAR 19

    Human at the Wheel: Keeping Service at the Center of Tech

    Summary In this episode of the Our Parking Industry Podcast, Krista Olien, Clyde Wilson, and Leigh Thomas discuss the key themes from their interview with Rafael Abanilla from Parking Concepts Incorporated. They explore the importance of a people-centric philosophy in parking management, emphasizing customer service and the evolution of the industry from lease management to technology-driven operations. The conversation also highlights the significance of mentorship and the challenges posed by partnerships with equipment vendors. The hosts reflect on the future of parking solutions and the personal growth that comes from stepping away from work to recharge. Takeaways The parking industry benefits from a people-centric philosophy. Customer service is crucial in technology-driven businesses. Valet parking experience shapes successful leaders in the industry. Management styles differ significantly between lease and management contracts. Mentorship plays a vital role in career development in parking. Technology should enhance, not replace, customer service. Partnerships with equipment vendors can complicate operations. A full stack solution could streamline parking management. Understanding customer needs is essential for success. Taking breaks can improve job performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to People-Centric Philosophy 05:18 Lease vs. Management: Understanding the Business Models 09:31 The Evolution of Parking Operations and Technology 14:45 The Future of Parking Operations 28:34 Our Parking Industry Podcast Wrap-Up

    29 min
  4. MAR 12

    Leadership Built from the Frontline with Rafael Abanilla

    Summary In this episode of the Our Parking Industry podcast, host Leigh Thomas and Clyde Wilson engages with industry veteran Rafael Abanilla to explore the evolution of the parking industry. Raf shares his journey from a valet to a senior VP, emphasizing the importance of frontline experience in management. The conversation delves into the balance between technology and customer service, the significance of mentorship, and the common pitfalls young professionals face. They discuss the industry's current challenges and opportunities, the future of parking technology, and the need for collaboration among operators. The episode concludes with reflections on work-life balance and the passion that drives them in their careers. Takeaways Raf Abanilla has 25 years of experience in the parking industry. Frontline experience is crucial for effective management. Technology should enhance, not replace, customer service. Choosing the right vendors is essential for success. Mentorship plays a significant role in professional growth. Young professionals often overlook the importance of relationships. The parking industry is facing challenges in delivering consistent experiences. Collaboration among industry players is necessary for progress. Work-life balance is vital for long-term success. Passion for the industry drives innovation and improvement. Chapters 00:00I ntroduction to the Parking Industry Podcast 01:25 Raf Abanilla's Journey in Parking 04:37 Clyde Wilson's Early Experiences 09:11 The Core of the Parking Business 16:55 Customer Experience in Valet Services 20:19 Technology vs. Customer Focus 22:54 The Role of Facial Recognition in Parking 24:10 Collaboration in the Parking Industry 26:10 Shifts in Business Focus Over Decades 28:10 The Evolution of Customer Communication 33:51 Our Parking Industry Podcast Wrap-Up

    34 min
  5. FEB 26

    Inside The Lane Featuring: Delaware Valley Paving

    Inside The Lane: Featuring Delaware Valley Paving Summary In this episode of Inside the Lane, Leigh interviews Adam Fisher from Delaware Valley Paving, a national company specializing in asphalt and concrete maintenance and construction. Adam discusses the company's history, services, and customer base, emphasizing their commitment to quality and innovation. He explains the onboarding process for new customers and highlights the use of advanced technology in project management. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to reach out for their paving needs. Takeaways Delaware Valley Paving is a national company, not just local. They handle a variety of projects from small repairs to large constructions. The company has been family-owned since 1989 and is now in its third generation. They work with property owners, management companies, and land developers. Emergency maintenance services are crucial after winter weather. They utilize advanced technology for project management and communication. The onboarding process involves a request for proposal (RFP) from customers. Project managers oversee jobs to ensure they meet client standards. The company is committed to staying ahead with new technology and practices. No project is too big or too small for Delaware Valley Paving. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Delaware Valley Paving 01:30 Services Offered by Delaware Valley Paving 03:08 National Reach and Major Projects 05:09 Onboarding New Customers 06:33 Technology and Communication in Services 07:43 Commitment to Innovation and Quality 08:31 Inside The Lane Wrap-Up

    9 min
  6. FEB 19

    Automation Without Alienation: Protecting the Customer in a Digital Parking World

    Summary In this episode of the Our Parking Industry podcast, Krista Olien, Clyde Wilson, and Leigh Thomas discuss the insights gained from their interview with Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrimetti. They explore the transformational changes in the parking industry, the emotional experiences of customers, the role of technology in customer service, and the challenges posed by gateless parking solutions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs and rights, and the necessity of providing excellent customer service amidst technological advancements. Takeaways The parking industry is undergoing significant transformation due to new technologies. Understanding customer emotions is crucial in the parking experience. Customers often feel trapped in parking situations, which heightens their emotional responses. AI and technology should not replace human customer service entirely. Gateless parking solutions present unique challenges for customer service. It's essential to know your customers to provide tailored service. Legal and ethical considerations are vital in the parking industry. Generosity in customer service can enhance customer satisfaction. Communication strategies can impact customer perceptions and penalties. The parking industry must adapt to technological changes while prioritizing customer service. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Parking Industry Podcast 02:45 Transformational Changes in the Parking Industry 05:28 Understanding Customer Emotions in Parking Experiences 08:02 The Role of Technology and AI in Customer Service 10:28 Challenges with Gateless Parking and Penalties 12:58 Customer Service Lessons from Other Industries 15:27 The Importance of Knowing Your Customers 17:56 Legal Implications and Customer Rights 20:28 Conclusion and Future Considerations 25:31 Our Parking Industry Podcast Wrap-Up

    26 min
  7. FEB 12

    Consumer Protection Meets Parking: A Conversation with Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti

    Consumer Protection Meets Parking: A Conversation with Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti Summary In this episode, Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti discusses the intersection of consumer protection and the parking industry, highlighting a significant settlement against Metropolis for deceptive practices. The conversation explores the importance of transparency in pricing, the role of technology in customer service, and the need for accountability in automated enforcement. The discussion emphasizes the impact of good parking on local economies and tourism, and the necessity for clear communication between parking companies and consumers. Takeaways Consumer protection is a priority for the Attorney General's office. Complaints about parking services often lead to legal action when transparency is lacking. Technology in parking must be accompanied by effective customer service. Clear pricing and transparency are essential for consumer trust. Automated enforcement requires robust accountability measures. Consumers need easy access to recourse when issues arise. The human element in customer service is crucial, even with technology. Clear communication helps distinguish parking companies from government entities. Good parking services can enhance local tourism and economic activity. The parking industry must adapt to local needs while implementing new technologies. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Parking Industry Podcast 02:50 Consumer Protection in the Parking Industry 06:43 The Role of Technology in Parking 10:53 Transparency and Customer Experience 14:56 Accountability in Automated Enforcement 19:16 Distinguishing Communications in Parking 21:27 Impact of Parking on Tourism 22:39 Our Parking Industry Wrap-Up

    23 min

About

In this podcast The Parking Network will go behind the scenes and talk to industry professionals about all things parking. From the horizon of evolving technology and even stories of the old days. We hope to encourage and inspire Operators and Property Managers alike to look at parking through a new lens!