The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

Jeff Compton
The Jaded Mechanic Podcast

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. 1 DAY AGO

    Feeling Burnout? Hear How to Manage It and the Expectations of Customers in Auto Repair

    Thanks to our sponsor Promotive! Find your dream job today: gopromotive.com/jeff  Find The Institute for Automotive Business Excellence Jimmy Lea and Mark Sewell are from the Institute for Automotive Business Excellence. Mark emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations with customers to prevent dissatisfaction and reduce advisors' stress. The discussion further highlights the significance of maintaining personal relationships in customer service rather than relying solely on technology. 00:00 Career journey from demos to coaching and training. 06:34 Successful salesman became corporate trainer, teaching fundamentals. 13:46 Trying to reduce costs, can't understand why. 17:26 Technical team ensures tire specifications aren't modified. 24:30 Technician advocates for durable, cost-effective car repairs. 28:25 People enjoy activities without understanding mechanics. 35:19 Production incentives fail due to inadequate solutions. 41:25 Decide between fixing the car long-term or short-term. 43:32 Lack of empathy due to no prior consultation. 48:41 Industry grind deters shop owners' children's involvement. 52:12 Set code allows advisors and technicians autonomy. 01:02:11 Ensure everyone is clear about the next steps. 01:02:42 Avoid waiting; review and confirm process details. 01:08:32 Engagement requires active communication, not passive waiting. 01:15:14 Jimmy helps with objection-handling techniques. 01:19:07 Comment, share, and download podcast weekly, thanks. 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 21m
  2. 5 NOV

    Communication and Teamwork Between Technicians and Advisors in Auto Repair Shops with Michael Doherty

    Thanks to our sponsor Promotive! Find your dream job today: gopromotive.com/jeff  Hear more from Michael Doherty by listening to AutoFix AdvisorCast here! Jeff Compton is joined by Michael Doherty, a seasoned service advisor eager to share his experiences through his new podcast AutoFix AdvisorCast. Michael details his journey in the industry, highlighting the indispensable role of mentorship in shaping his career. The discussion underscores the importance of efficient communication between service advisors and technicians to ensure smooth workflow and high job satisfaction. Michael also emphasizes the value of creating a welcoming atmosphere for clients, which fosters trust and enhances customer relationships. 00:00 Lack of self-confidence from poor shop treatment.07:22 Ensure key players are prioritized to retain talent.11:04 Building shop culture and communication; no discounts.20:38 Technicians prefer stable pay over uncertain bonuses.24:27 Service manager asked; took role; received mentorship.28:23 Technicians choose roles; advisors influence their choices.36:23 Techs need better support to meet expectations.38:19 Identify marketing sources, then address past bad experiences.47:59 Qualify clients to streamline vehicle diagnostics efficiently.53:35 Ask questions to determine the cause of car issues.56:20 Clear for state inspection; transparency, and time management critical.01:02:40 Revitalizing industry, helping service advisors find connections.01:06:59 Learning to transition, value, and sell oneself.01:10:11 Learn from mistakes; suggest improvements confidently to management. 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 14m
  3. 29 OCT

    Innovative Tools, Industry Networking, and Efficient Toolbox Management with Jimmy Purdy

    Thanks to our sponsor Promotive! Find your dream job today: gopromotive.com/jeff  In this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Jimmy Purdy to dive into the world of toolbox efficiency and innovation. Jimmy shares his philosophy on using a compact toolbox from Harbor Freight to accomplish major projects like building a '68 C10, proving that minimal tools can yield maximum results with the right ingenuity. The duo also discusses the excitement and challenges of attending industry events like SEMA and AAPEX, offering helpful tips for making the most of these experiences. Listen to more of Jimmy Purdy on the Gearbox Podcast here 00:00 Pulling over to confront doesn't end well. 07:00 Stressed but enjoyed SEMA swag and experiences. 10:48 Relatable show with an intriguing backstory intrigues. 19:14 Meeting product creators at SEMA feels starstruck. 21:30 Can't make everyone happy; business replication challenges. 30:32 Programmers innovate by overcoming part shortages creatively. 31:30 Understand the process; don't just seek solutions. 39:58 Discussing redneck style, In-N-Out, Chick-fil-A. 46:22 SEMA Fest: Exciting event but personally exhausting. 47:33 Unexpected discoveries happen when you engage deeper. 56:37 He's successfully monetizing his 3D printing hobby. 58:14 SEMA showcase displays newly developed tools. 01:03:41 Podcasts and events maintain passion and motivation. 01:12:05 Importance of face-to-face interactions despite frustrations. 01:15:37 Networking creates lasting connections through personal interactions. 01:23:38 Group message critical for organizing and meeting. 01:25:58 I watched the event, avoided whiskey, and was exhausted from travel. 01:31:12 Share, subscribe and join again next week. 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
  4. 22 OCT

    Rethinking Wealth and Success in the Automotive Repair Industry with Cody Fallon pt 2

    Thanks to our sponsor Promotive! Find your dream job today: gopromotive.com/jeff  Jeff Compton and Cody continue their discussion on the challenges Cody is facing, including managing the increasing demands of his business and the learning curve of working solo. Jeff shares insights from his experience about striking the right balance between pricing and delivering value, emphasizing the importance of effective customer communication 00:00 Provide for family, community, and customers. 07:19 Called to improve automotive service communication quality. 11:26 Old belt causes AC issues; needs tensioner change. 19:23 Shops should charge and inform about inspections. 25:28 Optimize efficiency to improve service and profits. 28:28 Customers advised against unnecessary early maintenance services. 36:20 Success isn't material, it's about helping others. 38:37 Fearless shop owner, self-belief, legacy, success. 45:02 Struggling to separate work from personal life. 50:44 It's okay to say no sometimes. 57:50 Initial business goals were impractical and unrealistic. 01:01:09 Avoid trades; industry perspectives change frequently. 01:05:36 Please share and auto-download the podcast weekly. 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 8m
  5. 8 OCT

    The Role of Social Media in Modern Auto Mechanic Careers with Angry Bob from TikTok, Part 2

    Thanks to our sponsor Promotive! Find your dream job today: gopromotive.com/jeff  Angry Bob from TikTok joins Jeff Compton for part two of their discussion. Jeff emphasizes the challenges young workers face in the auto industry, highlighting the importance of proper supervision and training. Angry Bob delves into the issues surrounding customer expectations and the often undervalued services provided by mechanics. They also explore the financial and emotional struggles of transitioning from a shop to mobile work, offering valuable insights for those considering a new path in their auto repair careers. 00:00 TikTok enables faster interactions compared to Facebook.06:14 Abused "customer is always right" policy.08:22 It's about the customer's experience and transparency.12:00 Fixing issues requires thorough checks and retainer.14:35 Struggles to find a suitable shop location.16:53 You can succeed with hustle and skill.19:50 Struggling financially but optimistic about new opportunities.24:55 Blueprints aren't perfectly followed; adjustments cause variability.27:41 Understanding individual differences to avoid conflict.31:13 Young people overloaded; oil change time misjudged.33:31 Fix the broken business model and charge appropriately.36:32 High school often wastes time; and lacks financial education.42:36 No regret: different circumstances, lacked guidance, loved Lincoln Tech.43:12 Stayed committed, valuable experience; still connected today.48:25 Customer sees employee upset; bad experience results.50:14 Reluctant to help prioritize personal gain first.52:42 Leave unhappy jobs; don't return to the past.56:06 Please share, comment, and auto-download podcast. 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

    58 min
  6. 1 OCT

    Angry Bob on TikTok Fame and Flat Rate Frustrations, Part 1

    Thanks to our sponsor Promotive! Find your dream job today: gopromotive.com/jeff  Angry Bob from TikTok joins Jeff Compton to dive into the intricacies of modern automotive diagnostics. Jeff and Bob emphasize the importance of understanding basic electrical theory, sharing their experiences with hands-on testing methods that trump classroom instruction. Bob highlights the critical role of practical tools and knowledge, offering insight into how hands-on experience with functional cars can be more beneficial than traditional schooling.  00:00 Avoid unnecessary tests to prevent damage.05:06 You can't always know others' reactions; frustrating.06:52 Delivery impacts how advice is received.10:32 I struggled with circuits and realized the simplicity of the series.15:52 Prioritizing skill over income improved my work.18:31 Doors must be approached differently for techs.19:44 Experience fosters knowledge-sharing and competition among dealership technicians.24:12 Struggling with job expectations and changing roles.27:47 Discovered self-worth through adversity and TikTok creation.29:03 Industry neglects mentorship due to thin profit margins.35:00 Prefer working on cars at home, together.36:10 Bought bad bulbs; taught him troubleshooting steps.40:31 Neglected iconic car models irk nostalgic enthusiasts.44:38 Used Chilton manuals for car repairs pre-internet.46:33 Tune in next week; please like and share. 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

    49 min
  7. 24 SEPT

    The Evolving Role of Technicians in Modern Repair Shops with Brian Burris from Promotive, Part 2

    Thanks to our sponsor Promotive! Find your dream job today: gopromotive.com/jeff  In this episode, Jeff is joined by Brian Burris, an experienced technician from Promotive. Brian discusses the importance of transparency and specialization within automotive workshops. Jeff reflects on the disparities in diagnostic methods between dealership-trained and independent shop technicians. 00:00 Continuing industry conversation: Promotive's Brian, Jeff.04:26 Time-limited service challenges technicians' efficiency perceptions.08:04 Made myself indispensable despite flaws at work.11:14 Diag was easier; now, it's software-dependent.14:35 Not good at mechanical tasks like carburetors.17:50 Best pay raise tactic: submit resignation notice.19:24 A Young, skilled mechanic struggles with constructive criticism.24:57 Seeking exit strategy, can't handle difficult customers.27:23 Beth's car was deemed extremely unsafe initially.29:27 Neglected car due to missed oil changes.32:40 Tech retention suffers due to workload, and low incentives.36:06 Trend of guaranteed 40-hour work weeks now.41:02 Reevaluate the true necessity of hiring an A-tech.43:20 Be honest; aligns perfectly with Promotive's support.44:57 Quality varies; good luck finding ten millimeters. 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

    46 min

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.

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