Wrench Nation
Frank Leutz
Last episode about 1 month agoCar Talk Radio Show on All things automotive
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Episodes (306)
#293 Cool Talk: Mastering the Use of Refrigerant 1234YF
Now, I know what you're thinking – "Refrigerant? That sounds about as exciting as watching paint dry!" But trust me, folks, this stuff is anything but boring. In fact, the R 1234YF refrigerant has become a hot topic in the automotive industry, with experts and enthusiasts alike debating the best ways to handle it. R-1234yf is a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerant used in vehicle air conditioning systems as a replacement for R-134a. It is a more environmentally friendly option due to its lower global warming potential (GWP) and is therefore becoming increasingly popular in the automotive industry. Special guests Christina Spalding, America's Marketing Manager and Constantine Giannaris Americas Marketing Development Consultant, both representing the Chemours Company ( Opteon refrigerant ), join us to discuss the environmental impact, safety & efficiency of R-1234yf. With over 62 million vehicles on the road today that utilize 1234yf, there is a good chance that your service team will need to be proficient and capable of servicing these vehicles as they arrive in your service bays -grab a beverage and join us as we investigate tips you can utilize for 1234yf!
#291 AC or Bust: Surviving the Summer Heat in Your Car
If you're anything like me, you dread getting into a hot car on a scorching summer day. The thought of having to endure the sweltering heat as you drive to your destination is enough to make you want to stay inside all day. But fear not -we have a great show regarding ac tips that will help keep you cool while cruising down the road.
#290 Latest EV News with Automoblog Chief Editor Carl Anthony & BONUS Industry Thought Leader Lucas Underwood Stops By the Show
The Latest in EV News Greetings, fellow earthlings! We are bringing you the latest EV news for the year 2023! First up, we have the big players in the automotive industry going head to head in the EV race. Tesla, Ford, and GM are all vying for the top spot, each trying to outdo the other with their electric offerings. It's like a high-speed game of musical chairs, and the winner takes home the crown of the best EV manufacturer, as Tesla fans will beg to differ ! In other news, there have been some exciting developments in battery technology. Researchers have been working tirelessly to create batteries that are cheaper, smaller, and more efficient than ever before. Did you know that Nike has jumped on the EV bandwagon too? That's right, they've developed an electric car that runs on sweat. Okay, we might be kidding about that last part, but the idea is to use kinetic energy generated from exercising to power your ride. So, lace up your running shoes, and let's hit the road! Last but not least, the world is getting greener every day. Governments around the world are incentivizing EV adoption by offering tax breaks, rebates, and other perks to those who make the switch. So, not only will you be doing your part for the environment, but you'll also be saving some green in the process. Carl Anthony , Editor in Chief of Automoblog , Founder of Auto Vision News, and a serious all-things City of Detroit fan is our special guest as we navigate the latest goings on in the EV space! But first ......Lucas Underwood of the Changing the Industry Podcast & Shop Owner of L & N Performance out of North Carolina sets us up with an incredible announcement of why you really need to take some time out of the garage and attend the upcoming ASTA Networking event bringing both service technicians and service advisors together to discuss the solutions required on both ends for a more productive and positive future of the automotive industry! Grab a beverage for a jam-packed show & remember your comments and input on the topic are always welcomed!
#289 From Inmate to Advocate: A Journey of Reform and Redemption
From Inmate to Innovator: A Story of Prison Reform, Redemption & Advocacy Chris Martin, a former semi-pro baseball player from Virginia who was raised in Kansas, not only infuses for a living but also to keep on living, due to his struggle with Chron’s disease. As the founder of Hempful Farms, Martin is a dedicated family man with five children, including three grown kids, who is determined to end Prohibition by promoting the healing power of hemp to the world. As a 26-year chef, Martin has owned and operated ten restaurants, four of which he co-owned. In 2009, he founded Zonka Bars but encountered legal issues due to unclear medical marijuana laws. This prompted him to shift his focus from product-only to opening a sit-down restaurant. Martin's exceptional culinary skills and diagnosis of Chron's disease inspired him to establish Hempful Farms Cafe in 2014, with the goal of introducing more people to the healing potential of cannabinoid-infused food. Due to Martin's imprisonment, his family was forced to close the cafe and relocate the Hempful Farms production facility and retail store to north Phoenix in 2017. Quickly becoming one of the most prominent producers and processors of hemp-derived CBD, Martin currently offers over 50 items and has established multiple brands, including Weedless, Paw Puddy, and OG Zonka Farms. With an incredible history of so many obstacles and barriers, along with a stint in prison - Chris has been on a mission to kick up the conversation regarding prison reform to higher, more practical, conversations centered around the lack of training programs for inmates as they are released, and in many occasions, because of the lack of skills to re-enter society in a productive manner. We are honored to highlight The Chris Martin Story and discuss how industries & business sectors, including the automotive industry, need to take a closer look at giving opportunities to inmates that are being released with an effective training program and productive future for all sides of the table. Conversations on Criminal Justice As an added bonus political consultant Brian Fox of AZ Valley Consulting stops by the studio to discuss the upcoming panel discussion for an in-depth look at how homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health are criminalized, policed, and handled within Arizona's correctional and re-entry systems of to which many legislators will be in house to discuss solutions. Chris Martin Book : The Chris Martin Story Visit Hempful Farms Panel Discussion Details
#288 Are We Truly Ready for Full Self Driving ?
With so much in the news regarding TESLA Full Self Driving MODE -we are honored to have computer scientist Chris Piche of Smarter AI on today's WrenchNation Show to explore the technology & investigate the current state of the technology. The development of fully self-driving vehicles is still ongoing, and while there has been significant progress, there are still many challenges that need to be addressed before they can become widely available. While some self-driving cars are already on the road today, they typically require a human backup driver to take control in certain situations. There are a number of technical, regulatory, and ethical considerations that must be taken into account before fully self-driving vehicles can be deemed safe and ready for widespread use. For example, self-driving cars must be able to navigate unpredictable and complex environments, such as busy city streets, and they must be able to communicate effectively with other vehicles, pedestrians, and infrastructure. Additionally, regulations and laws will need to be updated to account for the unique challenges and risks associated with self-driving vehicles. There are also ethical questions surrounding the use of self-driving cars, such as who would be held responsible in the event of an accident. Overall, while progress is being made, it may be some time before fully self-driving vehicles are ready for widespread use. What technology is required to keep us safe? The legislation required for mass adaption on our roadways. The biggest shortcomings of FSD currently. Tesla's latest massive over-the-air update -should it be considered a Recall? Join us as we dissect the current state of FSD & decipher the future of autonomous platforms !
#287 Richard Rawlings Gas Monkey Garage History & One Fantastic Giveaway
Richard stops by the show to discuss the history of Gas Monkey, what the team is up to today in the garage, Youtube 1 million subscriber achievement, and that awesome JailBreak giveaway! We also discuss the ridiculous bill being introduced in Florida , which seeks to ban dogs from hanging their heads out of moving vehicle windows and ...yet another catalytic converter stolen, however, this time, it is the American iconic Oscar Meyer Weiner Mobile *This week, Rawlings launched Gas Monkey Garage Giveaway #5: Build Your Own Jailbreak a 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Jail Break Model, with a value totaling $135,000, on his website and social media channels. Details : Fans have until April 20 to enter, and a winner is expected to be selected by May 1, 2023.
#286 Do You Ever Feel Like Your Marketing Efforts Are Going Nowhere?
You're frustrated as recent marketing & brand reach efforts for your auto ops are similar to your go-round at casino penny slots. I have been there, and can totally relate.. after all the costs of bad marketing efforts start to add up and it can truly roll downhill knocking out every single positive detail you have built for your business. What can you trust that will actually perform well ? What does the message really need to say and resonate with your potential new clients ( THIS IS CRITICAL) Why FREE THIS AND FREE THAT offers could be destroying the FUTURE of your business. The talented Mike DelaCruz of Overdryve is our special guest as we dissect areas of brand reach and marketing that you need to pay attention to and what you can do immediately to turn your ship around! WrenchNation Coloring Book Launched!! Combining two great industries: Automotive & Music -get your copy today and help us support the show!
#285 Taking the MYSTERY OUT OF FLUID FLUSHES
We are breaking down the key areas of maintenance, specifically the fluid flushes, while helping you prioritize a plan so you are not stressed out. What services can wait..and what truly needs to be done sooner than later to avoid more expensive repairs in the future.
#284 Why You Utterly Hate Dealing with Vehicle Service -Tips on How to Turn This Around
You have a pretty well-operating automotive service operation, with the latest in technology, and a fantastic team of service advisors and well-trained technicians. Add the glowing reviews that you have worked hard for and VOILA -you have the recipe for success ...UNTIL... .."I don't like going to the mechanic because it always feels like I'm getting taken for a ride! Every time I go, they tell me I need something else fixed and it's never cheap. Plus, I'm always worried that they're going to try to sell me something I don't need. It's like they're trying to take my money and drive away with it!".... Poor communication arises from the vehicle owner or a TOTAL misconception of what vehicle service looks like in their eyes...OR let's just face it ...you totally missed the opportunity to LISTEN carefully and things just rapidly fell apart across the board. Assuming that you're always providing value and training to get better -what the heck is the disconnect ?...and why are consumers SO frustrated when seeking vehicle service and repairs ? .. We tackle a few tips for the consumer on how to stay in control during the service visit which includes what they should expect from your service department and the critical importance of why you must always pay attention to any shortcomings and improve every step of the way for the best service experience to the consumer.
#283 Largest Car Show on The Greens Raising Funds for PCH
Peter Volny is the Founder of the Concours in the Hills which will celebrate its 9th year on Saturday, February 4, 2023, in Fountain Hills, Arizona. Peter’s career included growing one of Canada’s most successful advertising agencies, Griffin Bacal Volny, whose clients include many major players in the automotive field. He’s been an editorial advisor and regular columnist for several magazines. Peter has helped raise over $1 million for Phoenix Children’s over the past nine years through Concours in the Hills. Peter is our special guest today as we discuss what it takes to grow a huge car show like the Concours in the Hills, as well as the unwavering passion to assemble car clubs from across the SW for a great cause!
#282 Connected ,Autonomous ,Shared Mobility ,Electrification & Sustainability ZF North America
We are honored to have ZF VP North America Aftermarket Ben Smart pitstop on the WrenchNation show! We are diving deep into all things connected & autonomous vehicles, shared mobility, electrification & sustainability. A fascinating discussion on vehicle technology & more importantly the incredible workshops & training available at ZF to assist your service operations. For more details regarding training workshops & resources for your automotive service operations visit ZF North America WrenchNation Coloring Book Launched!! Combining two great industries: Automotive & Music -get your copy today and help us support the show!
#281 Open AI ChatGPT Pros & Cons for The Automotive Industry
ChatGPT is huge at the moment. How will it enhance your automotive service operations & what will it absolutely not do? The buzz around Artificial Intelligence (AI) is that it can revolutionize the automotive service industry, by allowing for more personalized and efficient services for customers. AI can empower service teams to quickly diagnose problems, accurately predict future maintenance needs, and provide personalized customer service. AI can also provide predictive analytics insights to help automotive service teams better manage their operations. Kieran O'Brien is an entrepreneur, tech founder, and marketer based in Scottsdale,AZ. At the age of 16, O'Brien started an automotive digital marketing firm and has since founded numerous other brands in the tech and marketing space. Kieran pitstops on the show with a deep background and understanding of ChatGPT, but more importantly, the huge opportunities for the automotive service experience. We are also honored to have Bill Nalu of Interstate Auto Care, Greg Buckley of Buckleys Auto Care & talented underhood driveability technician Robert Stage call in to give us their thoughts on how they may, or may not use ChatGPT in their daily operations. *As discussed on the show, here is the AI resource link with a variety of options for utilizing tools for your benefit. Research it and see what may help your business operations. *Show note : As Todd discussed the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) HS build program - make sure to visit their site to help out
#280 2023 Automotive Industry Outlook & Trends
Happy New Year !! 2022 in general was an incredible year for the automotive aftermarket & all things service and repair....not so much for new and used vehicle sales as the later part of the year started to unfold. With the rise in interest rates and the FED tone of taming inflation, consumer sentiment is starting to warn of caution ahead, as they refine what they will be spending their hard-earned wages on. Join us as we bring in the New Year with a look at the automotive industry trends that we hope you can benefit from!
#279 Can Artificial Intelligence Make a Difference In the Service Bays?
Artificial Intelligence is now being embraced as a key part of the technology services offered across all sorts of industries and the automotive sector is definitely a key player. In fact, AI in the auto world is influencing the future of self-driving cars and robots helping on the manufacturing floor, and also Voice AI in the Service Bays with software products like Hey Ortho ! How does artificial intelligence make its way to your service bays? Productivity and efficiency are critical and voice recognition software ORTHO helps you save time while giving you the critical information you need -simply ask for the repair and service info you need and within seconds receive a response -VISIT HEYORTHO.COM FOR DETAILS Eric Turkington of the RAIN AGENCY stops by the show to discuss the latest in A.I. technology, and as a bonus, Master ASE Technician,and, Instructor Tom Rayk of AVI pitstops with us to discuss all things diesel technology and the upcoming January 2023 AVI Conference Training Conference in Florida
#278 Character. Courage . Class. Are We Losing These Timeless Traits in the Workplace ?
As technology is moving at breakneck speed & the digital realm of communication dictates most of our daily lives -are we losing the very basic timeless traits of character, courage & class? With Over 35 years of experience in human resources, sales & marketing, and organizational development in the automotive industry, as well as being the Author of The Human Side: High-Touch Leadership in a High-Tech World, Dr. Bob Passante brings some well-needed balance and "business fresh air" within the frameworks of teams operating at their peak. Connect with Dr Passante on Linkedin for more book details HERE
#276 Rock A Billy Culture & Pinstripping : Von Hot Rod
A legend within the automotive community, with years of hot rodding running through his veins - Von Hot Rod Valdez can be found at car shows across the country with his distinctive style of pinstriping & lettering details applying that steady hand of gorgeous spectacular art lines on everything from classic cars to bowling pins! With a wide variety of television appearances & travels across the globe, Von is also a sought-after speaker and teacher, dedicating his time to teaching thousands of students at local schools & universities. The master behind some of the most incredible pinstriping performed is a true talent within the automotive industry, but more importantly, his heart is large and his compassion for the community is awesome - catch up with his appearances at car shows and visit his site Von Hot Rod and make sure to catch his annual charity event, Benedict Castle Concours Car Show , where hundreds of thousands of dollars is raised for Teen Challenge. Join us as we explore Von's fascinating entrepreneurial history, dedication to the industry & passion for paying it forward for future generations to come!
#275 The Excitement of EV Tech -But Will it Be Profitable Service Bay Work for The Aftermarket? Pete Gruber of Gruber Motor Company
The Excitement of EV Tech -But Will it Be Profitable Service Bay Work for The Aftermarket? The technology of electrification has taken a foothold as many of us are gearing up with the latest training as "E Techs " ( See ZF North America as an example ). We understand the challenges ahead and are willing to invest both time and money toward the vital skill set that will be required...heck ..we have seen this before right? Maybe? ..Our industry is always transforming and the one thing we do is ...evolve. ...but will it all be profitable as a standalone business model for the aftermarket? Can we look to the pioneers in the automotive space that have successfully launched and profitably operated an EV-based business model as an example? ...(they are not easy to find no doubt at this time)... The first commercial independent Tesla service organization providing engineering and aftermarket support is Gruber Motor Company, led by visionary Pete Gruber, and we are honored to have him on the show LIVE today to pick both his business & tech brain regarding the critical steps required to launching an aftermarket EV service business. If you are like me and wonder what this all looks like from a business perspective -join me today for a fascinating insight into the future of what our service bays will slowly take shape like, but more importantly, how we can sustain a profit doing what we love! Upcoming Automotive Training: AVI Conference 2023
#274 Flying Cars & Driverless Tech : The Future of Mobility
The future of transportation is evolving faster than we know it. In fact, a few renowned innovation and design experts say that some of the most advanced futuristic concepts in mobility will be here in as little as five years because of the lightning-speed technologies currently taking place behind the scenes. Danish design talent, entrepreneur, and author Jens Martin Skibsted has been at the forefront of transportation technologies including the Terrafugia Transition, innovating bike designs & electric vehicles! Join us for a fascinating conversation about the mobility trends that are taking place now and into the future ! Jens Martin Skibsted Book -Expand : Stretching the Future By Design
#273 If You Had To Sell Your Auto Shop ..Are You Truly Prepared ?
After successfully growing from scratch & selling 5 automotive service businesses over the past 25 years ..I can tell you there is an abundance of planning & strategy that not only goes into the numbers ..but into you. Or …let’s switch gears ..are you ready to expand and looking to purchase a business and make it mo’ better with your brand label? Are you truly prepared across the board? My special guest Biz Broker talent Robert Allen stops by WrenchNation to discuss the metrics and details along with tips. Grab a beverage and join us ! INDUSTRY EVENT TRAINING COMING SOON : THE 2023 GROUP TRAINING ACADEMY AVI CONFERENCE
#272 Why Negative Energy is Killing Your Creative Self -Fireball Tim Hollywood Concept Artist & Designer
Responsible for over 400 of Hollywood's most famous movie cars Fireball Tim has the deep spirit of automotive art and design excitement running through his veins. His latest series of automotive-inspiring coloring books with cover guests like Jay Leno, Rob Paulsen, Magnus Walker, Syd Mead, Gene Winefield & many more can be found on Amazon at Fireball Tim Lawrence or on Etsy While reaching over a billion viewers as an award-winning car designer, filmmaker & TV host for TLC, Discovery, Velocity, Speed Channel, and more -Fireball Tim can be found uplifting many creatives and automotive enthusiasts during his Art Talk on FB and has seen all over car shows and events keeping car culture alive. Join us as we dive into Fireball Tim's history, Best of Show Vlog, and why it is critical to keep a positive mindset and stay clear of the negative noise across both the internet & social media.
#271 Why Are Many Automotive Shop Owners Reluctant to Join A 20 Group ?
Are 20 Groups & a Shop Coach a Complete Waste of Time? With the majority of independent shop owners across the country totally removed from any level of coaching or interest in seeking out growth from a 20 Group, we had to ask the logical question....why is this the case? This topic is close to the heart for me personally since many years ago, with my very first operation, ( before I teamed up with a coaching group ) ...I did not believe I needed any help at all and ignorantly had everything under control while I worked 15-hour days to not only lose money..but worse yet...miss the first 5 years of my daughter's life. On this SPECIAL EDITION of the WrenchNation show, we dig deep as to why a large majority of the industry is floating out to sea with very little lifeline to not only measure their business metrics and goals but to have a sounding board regarding decisions they make that could affect the future of their automotive ops service and... quality of life. Renowned industry coach Vic Tasarik of Shop Owner Coach is our special guest as he helps us navigate the topic. Curious about attending Vic & Murray Voth of RPM Training presentation at AAPEX? DETAILS: AAPEX Upcoming Training - Accelerate: A Motor Age Training Event
#270 Latest EV News & ASA Networking Shop2Shop Series : Jeff Buckley Special Guest
This year has been ablaze with EV news and advancements in both legal and consumer adaption. In this edition of the show, we will cover the latest news that looks to be fortifying the future of EV's and also discuss what the modern-day automotive technician will require for a skill set to survive in the future. Additionally, Jeff Buckley of the Automotive Service Association makes a brief call to the show to discuss the upcoming Shop to Shop session covering the topic of recruiting, training, and retention of automotive talents for your service ops facility. Upcoming Training - Accelerate : A Motor Age Training Event
#268 Are We Burning Out Diesel Technicians ?
With the overwhelming amount of technology across the board in the automotive & trucking industry...how are diesel technicians really doing? Do we risk burning out a whole generation of commercial & fleet diesel techs from the advancements of technology underhood & difficulties with modern-day testing pathways to diagnose symptoms properly? CEO talent Tyler Roberston of Diesel Laptops is our special guest. Grab a beverage and join us as we dissect the challenges and configure up some viable solutions for today's diesel technician.
#267 SEMA HS Automotive Build Programs Creating Student Opportunities
SEMA HS Build Program As technology underhood is evolving to what is a serious amount of data to interpret and diagnose, how will the future technician be able to comprehend & successfully repair vehicle platforms of the future? With so many educators and instructors throughout the country teaching both the basics and the very technology of communicating with modules on a BUS system, for example, The SEMA HS Vehicle Program is designed to promote this vital community of students and instructors for an opportunity to highlight their skillset with unique builds, while gaining well-deserved industry exposure. Todd Ramsey, an automotive industry veteran & consultant, stops by the show to discuss the details of the program. Show notes : Why 1 in 5 are trading in EV for Gas: https://bit.ly/3DdUQKX Quiet Quitting: https://bit.ly/3B5q2tj Wrenchway Industry Statistics : https://bit.ly/3TZrI07
#266 Brake Tips You Can Really Use | Dino Crescentini of Dynamic Friction Company (DFC)
We all consider brake systems to be fairly simple and common service in a professional automotive service facility or in your driveway working on a family member's vehicle. With so many different vehicle platforms and more importantly, the way a vehicle is driven based upon loads and demands, are you getting the right type of brake pad and rotor for the very type of driving that is required? We can often take this for granted, and over time create a frustrating comeback by way of a break squeak or worse yet, premature brake pad wear AND additional annoying symptoms. Dino Crescentini " The Godfather of Brakes " President of DFC ( Dynamic Friction Company ) stops by the show to discuss all things brakes and share his incredible journey in the automotive industry. Please support our weekly sponsor of the show: The Parts Authority Training Session Calendar Upcoming Event: ASCCA Educational Conference SEP 16-18th 2022