Beyond the Wrench

When Service Advisors Put Technicians First, Everyone Wins

Rena Rennebohm, CEO of Empowered Advisor, shares why shops thrive when service advisors put technicians first. With years of experience coaching advisors, Rena explains how stronger collaboration between advisors and technicians leads to better shop culture and performance. She also dives into challenges such as high service advisor turnover, the lack of respect advisors often

2025-09-02T15:40:15-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

Leading with Accountability & Influence

In this episode, Dave Anderson, President of Learn to Lead, gives leaders actionable strategies for handling tough situations while earning trust and respect. He shares practical advice on holding even high-performing team members accountable, making confrontation conversational, and avoiding the loss of credibility. Watch the Full Episode  Show Notes About the Episode Host: Jay

2025-09-02T15:39:53-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

Turning Wrenches for the Secret Service

Lenny Fumarolo shares his journey from working in NASCAR to becoming a Protective Armored Specialist for the United States Secret Service (USSS). He breaks down how others can follow in his footsteps, what daily repairs and maintenance look like in such a high-security role, and how tools, uniforms, and the overall environment differ from typical

2025-09-02T15:39:11-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

Helping Shop Owners Build Profitable, Fulfilling Businesses

Darrin Barney shares his journey from running a family-owned shop with his brother to becoming CEO of Elite Worldwide. He talks about the early struggles of building a profitable business and the importance of having the right team in the right roles. Darrin also opens up about buying the company that changed his life and

2025-08-14T13:24:20-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

Building the Future Technician Workforce

Lauren Reinhold, Director of Training & Education at Kirk NationaLease, shares her journey from technician to teacher to leading a technician training and apprenticeship program. She discusses how connecting with students on a personal level helps them succeed, and she breaks down key parts of the program she's building. Lauren also highlights the disconnect between

2025-08-14T13:24:42-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

Career Survival Tips for New Technicians

Curtis Gardner, Audi Master Guild Technician at Sewell Audi of North Houston and Founder of Gnarred LLC, shares what young technicians need to know to build a respectful and lasting career. With 15+ years of experience, he covers common mistakes, how to survive your first months in the shop, and why discipline and strong workflows

2025-08-14T13:24:47-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

Mentoring vs. Training Technicians

John Roberts, Shop Foreman at Metro Toyota, didn’t plan to be on the podcast—but his insights were too good not to share. In this episode, John breaks down the powerful difference between training and mentoring, shares how he builds confidence in his team, and explains why becoming a top-tier technician takes more than just skill—it

2025-08-14T13:24:51-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

Where Racing Passion Meets Customer Trust

Marc Erickson, National Sales at AutoMeter Products, Inc., grew up in a drag racing family and naturally found his way into the automotive world. Over 20 years ago, he started at AutoMeter, and his passion for the brand has only grown. In this episode, Marc discusses the importance of credibility and honesty with customers, offers

2025-08-14T13:24:56-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

How Mentors & Mindset Unlock Technician Career Growth

In this episode, Dan Aldrich, Director of Automotive Technical Training at Christian Brothers Automotive, dives into what sets top technicians apart—a growth mindset paired with strong mentorship. Dan explores why soft skills are just as crucial as technical skills, how mentorship can transform many careers, and why investing in yourself is key to moving forward

2025-08-14T13:25:08-05:00Beyond the Wrench|

Taking Auto Shop Online: How to Reach More Students Virtually

Bryan Robbins, Owner & Lead Instructor of Hot Rod High School, is bringing auto tech education to students at home through online lessons and take-home kits. What started during COVID now reaches homeschooled students and beyond. Bryan shares his journey of following in his dad’s footsteps as a teacher, how Hot Rod High School found

2025-08-14T13:25:23-05:00Beyond the Wrench|
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