The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

Jeff Compton
  • 4.5 (42)
  • 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. 4D AGO

    Is Mentorship the Answer to the Technician Shortage? | Chuck Mitchell

    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 Compton welcomes Chuck Mitchell, this year's APPEX Giveaway Winner from the Changing the Industry Podcast with Lucas Underwood and David Roman. Chuck shares his story of how he got into the industry from fleet management and parts retail to shop ownership. He's passionate about the current technician shortage and helping younger generations. He and Jeff talk about the importance of cross-industry collaboration among local shops, the need for better training and information access, and the value of mentoring new technicians to create a more sustainable future for the automotive industry. Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Chuck Mitchell 06:39 "Friend's Growth in Dealerships" 15:05 Balancing Business and Compassion 17:06 Shop Ownership Challenges 22:58 "Building Confidence Through Understanding" 30:19 Improving Industry and Supporting Workers 34:07 Tech Career Paths in Shops 36:44 "EV Direction and Innovation" 43:25 "Reviving Craftsmanship in Auto Industry" 48:24 "Vehicle Repair Challenges Persist" 52:18 Customer Service and Accountability 01:00:09 "AI, VR, and Cost Challenges" 01:03:39 "Nurturing Young Techs" 01:11:31 "Industry Growth Through Connection" 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 16m

  2. NOV 4

    Check Engine Chuck and Ryan Mullen Talks the State of Auto Repair

    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 Compton is joined by Check Engine Chuck and Ryan Mullen for a conversation about the realities of working in automotive diagnostics. Ryan tells the story of being homeless and in addiction to becoming a sought-after diagnostician, emphasizing the importance of networking and community for professional growth. Check Engine Chuck highlights the power of persistence in tackling complex vehicle problems and the need to continually invest in skills and tools. They also talk about shop politics, technician shortages, and the rewards—and challenges—of building a career in the modern auto repair industry. Timestamps:00:00 The Power of Networking 07:13 "Homelessness to Triumph Story" 14:42 Valuing Talent in Industry 18:04 Balancing Work and Family Time 25:23 DRB3 vs. Y Tech Challenges 30:59 "Frustration, Help, and Connection" 36:37 "Patent Dispute and YouTube Fallout" 37:18 "My Tool is the Best" 43:58 "Discovering His Channel Journey" 49:55 Building Connections Through Snapchat 58:33 Addiction, Trauma, and Crime Connection 59:17 Changing Perspectives on Redemption 01:09:09 "Duralast Crank Sensor Solution" 01:12:05 Sequoia Airbag Sensor Fix 01:19:43 "Elite Techs Gather at Vision" 01:21:40 "Adapting Business for Success" 01:28:44 Diagnostic Tech Shortage Crisis 01:32:16 "No Ceiling for You" 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 39m

  3. OCT 28

    Don't Stay at a Toxic Shop! | David Peacock

    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 David Peacock, a mobile mechanic based in Calgary, Alberta. David talks about his life as a subcontractor, pointing out it's pros and it's cons. He's had plenty of run-ins with harsh Canadian winters and long commutes. They also bring up the current  tech shortage and what needs to happen to see it improve. Timestamps:00:00 Fort McMurray: Canada's Boom Town 08:28 Leaving Toxic Work Environments 13:57 "Embracing Mobile Work Independence" 17:29 "Automotive Collaboration Challenges" 25:32 Fleet Operating Costs Insights 30:14 Truck Inspections and Frame Issues 35:05 Dealer Warranty Issues Persist 38:22 "Commission-Based Confusion in Charges" 46:06 "Vacation Saved, Gratitude Earned" 52:41 Oil Change Frustrations 57:27 Autel Remote Shop Experience 01:01:35 TPMS Tool Usage Tips 01:07:15 "Low-Maintenance Generational Drivers" 01:10:31 Miscommunication Leads to Customer Frustration 01:20:38 "Advisor Weakness in Auto Industry" 01:23:41 Understanding Oil Leak Perceptions 01:27:49 "Choosing Stability Over Ambition" 01:36:03 Experience Doesn't Guarantee Mastery 01:39:20 Start Small, Build Understanding 01:43:13 "Technician Time and Process" 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 50m

  4. OCT 21

    Auto Repair MUST Modernize! | A Conversation with Tekmetric

    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 Compton sits down with Amber Wright, VP of Business Development at Tekmetric, and Aaron Szafran, a former shop operator now with Tekmetric. Amber and Aaron share firsthand insights on how shop management software like Tekmetric can transform daily operations—emphasizing the importance of embracing change, streamlining shop processes, and building trust with customers through transparency and modern technology like DVIs (Digital Vehicle Inspections). Timestamps: 00:00 "Community and Growth in Industry" 06:40 Shop Efficiency and Cost Challenges 14:53 Building Trust Over Efficiency 20:29 Adapting to New Shop Systems 21:59 Cloud Transition and Data Security 31:02 Proactive Customer Care Benefits 36:46 Enhancing Customer Journey Communication 38:03 Overbooking Risks in Auto Shops 46:59 Defining "Fair" in Business Pricing 51:42 "Decisions Driving Customer Experience" 53:59 "Powerful Customer-Focused Tech Support" 01:01:47 Truthful Advocacy Without Tough Spots 01:08:03 Seamless Business Transition Process 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 17m

  5. OCT 14

    The Sherwood's from !! ROYALTY AUTO SERVICE !! Talk the Future of the Industry

    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 Sherwood Cook II and Sherwood Cook III of Royalty Auto for an in-depth conversation at ASTA 2025. The trio highlights the importance of advocacy in the automotive industry, emphasizing honest communication and putting the customer’s safety and best interests first. They discuss the current challenges facing independent shops, from the technician shortage to the escalating costs of tools and access to training, and explore ways to attract and retain the next generation of technicians. Timestamps: 00:00 "Safety Over Inconvenience Prioritized" 05:41 "Rapid Channel Success Explained" 11:12 "Sharing Training for Struggling Techs" 18:27 "Passion for Lifelong Training" 22:16 Micah's Creative Remote Control Hack 30:24 Streamlined Auto Service Conversations 35:31 "Assessing Vehicle Needs Insightfully" 39:45 The Dilemma of Discounting 43:11 "Practical Repairs Over Perfection" 48:44 Passionate Mechanic's Reflection 57:09 "Mentors, Survival, and Tool Humor" 01:00:51 "First Tools and Truck Shop" 01:04:14 Budget Tools vs Premium Quality 01:08:34 Bought Used Scanner, Regret Depreciation 01:14:47 Tech Industry Workforce Shortage 01:22:30 Hands-On Summer Skills Camp 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 33m

  6. OCT 7

    DO NOT Work a Job You Hate! Promotive Will Help You Be Happy at Work

    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 This episode was recorded at the ASTA Expo in Raleigh, North Carolina. You should go next year! Jeff Compton, Ethan Whidden and Stacy Black from Promotive have a conversation about how Promotive is now using AI with their virtual recruiter, Paige, to pre-screen candidates around the clock and ensure no great technician is unhappy at work. They also talk about how both shop owners and technicians need a good shop culture, continued training, and flexibility in benefits like PTO and four-day workweeks. Timestamps: 00:00 Recording at ASTA Expo - Looking Forward to AAPEX 08:02 Shop Culture and Expectations 15:29 "Missing the Shop Dogs" 18:13 Embrace Continuous Technical Training 25:55 Headset Restrictions Spark Workplace Debate 29:52 "Prioritizing Safety Under Pressure" 36:01 Shop Owners' Hiring Frustrations 37:06 Hiring: Reputation and Compatibility Insights 45:46 Decision-Making and Consultation Process 47:27 Balancing Tech and Shop Perspectives 54:44 "Service Advisors Need Empathy Training" 58:27 Effective Brake Maintenance Communication 01:03:38 Aligning for Industry Improvement 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 7m

  7. SEP 30

    DO NOT Discount Your Labor JUST to Get the Job! | Joel McLearn

    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 Compton is joined by Joel McLearn, shop owner from Nova Scotia. Today, he and Jeff get into the nitty-gritty shop management conversation from decisions about hiring and firing, to handling parts quality and pricing, and navigating the emotional side of customer service and business partnerships. And wait till you hear about the car battery incident! Timestamps: 00:00 It's Getting COLD in Canada! 20:26 Confusion in Brake Inspection Practices 30:19 "Effective Rust Prevention Techniques" 31:47 Enduring Ford Engine Issues 51:17 Minimum Charges in Service Industry 56:28 Embarrassing Car Battery Incident 01:12:58 Bridging Dealer-Aftermarket Divide 01:21:30 Choosing Cost-Effective Car Repair 01:24:00 Car Emission Testing Process Updated 01:39:44 Effective Communication Strategies 01:47:40 Misleading DVI Practices at Dealerships 01:56:29 Proving Value Through Repairs 02:06:51 Service Advisor Accountability Required 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 16m

  8. SEP 23

    Should the Auto Repair Industry Take Notes from the Heavy Duty Trucking Industry? | Mathieu Patenaude

    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 is joined by Mathieu Patenaude, a mobile heavy truck technician from the Ottawa area. Mathieu shares his journey from working for a school bus company to running his own mobile diagnostic business, explaining the challenges of adapting to rapidly changing truck technology and industry standards. They both talk about the challenges of working in harsh Ottawa winters, the unique demands of fleet maintenance, and the importance of thorough diagnostics and road-testing in the trucking world. Timestamps: 00:00 Ottawa Business Overview with Matthew 06:08 Old School Car Troubleshooting 13:03 Ottawa's Troubled Transit Project 16:57 Parking Lot Truck Challenges 21:34 Trailer Safety Overload Experience 26:20 Renting Trucks vs. Specialized Equipment 35:11 Pursuing a Career with Mercedes? 37:16 "Tech Diagnostics: Knowledge Builds Over Time" 43:47 Rising Door Rates in Canada 47:29 "Shop Pranks with FUE Cans" 56:12 "Rethinking Trade Apprenticeships" 58:15 "Encouraging Thoughtful Problem Solving" 01:08:05 Importance of Failure Analysis 01:08:43 Incomplete Failure Analysis Practices 01:15:40 Procrastinating Vehicle Maintenance Woes 01:20:54 Changing Car Culture Impacting Youth 01:25:32 Paving His Own Path 01:30:48 Tech Distractions in the Workplace 01:39:01 Transmission Fluid Level Check Process 01:45:46 Handle Both Car Batteries 01:47:07 Critiquing from an Ivory Tower 01:51:39 Hidden Car Defects Dilemma 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 1m
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4.5
out of 5
42 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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    135
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Jeff Compton

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