Wrench Nation

Latest Episodes:

#297 Ineffective Auto Shop Websites Unfit for Today’s Consumer Demands Jun 27, 2023

Show notes

One of the key problems with seriously bad websites is poor user experience. If a website is difficult to navigate, cluttered with irrelevant information, or lacks clear organization, consumers will struggle to find the information they need. This can lead to frustration, wasted time, and ultimately discourage them from considering the automotive service provider altogether. It happens more than you think, while you struggle to attract the right type of clientele and remain efficient. With an all-in-one solution that incorporates artificial intelligence, an all-in-one platform is finally here for your automotive service operations. CRM, an incredibly intuitive online scheduler that synchronizes with your operating software & a whole lot more ! Shopgenie.io Ceo & Co-Founder Kieran O'Brien joins us for a special industry edition of WrenchNation where we discuss the ridiculously insane solutions that this new platform offers for automotive service operations. Additionally, industry icon Gregg Buckley of Buckleys Auto Care pitstops on the show to chime in on his experience of frustration from the convoluted structures of many different vendors utilized to keep up with productivity & efficiency, while finally arriving at an all-in-one shopgenie.io platform!

#296 Cool Comfort: AC Systems and AC Kit Options for Classic Rides May 31, 2023

Show notes

As we delve into the world of hot rods, get ready to learn about the unique challenges and innovative solutions for adding AC to these automotive icons. From preserving the original look to incorporating modern technology, Rick Love, President of Vintage Air , will guide us through the delicate balance of customization and authenticity. Bonus: In-studio show contributor Todd Ramsey of Ramsey Consulting will also discuss SEMA HS build student vehicle auction to raise funds for the program coming in June!

#295 Is a USED EV Worth it ? Going Green on a Budget: Tips for Buying a Used Electric Vehicle May 16, 2023

Show notes

Rev up your eco-friendly lifestyle without breaking the bank! Join us as we explore the world of sustainable transportation and discover the hidden gems of the used EV market. We reveal a few insider tips on how to buy a used electric vehicle on a budget. Going green has never been easier or more affordable.

#294 The Power of Diversity in the Workplace: How it Leads to Innovation and Competitive Advantage May 08, 2023

Show notes

I know that some of you may be skeptical about the value of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. You may be thinking, "Why should we care about diversity? Doesn't hiring the best person for the job matter more?" Well, let me tell you, diversity and inclusion aren't just feel-good buzzwords. They're critical components of a successful business strategy. Having a diverse workforce brings together people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This creates a more innovative and creative work environment, where different ideas and approaches can be shared and explored. Studies have shown that diverse teams are more effective problem-solvers, and they're better at generating new ideas and insights. Join us for a deep conversation about the significance of diversity in your workplace, as well as the obstacles that can be surmounted in creating a team environment that values everyone, including ourselves. Special guests CEO Tim Eisenmann,and VP of Business Development Jill Trotta of Torqata

#293 Cool Talk: Mastering the Use of Refrigerant 1234YF May 01, 2023

Show notes

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 Apr 24, 2023

Show notes

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 Apr 07, 2023

Show notes

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 Mar 27, 2023

Show notes

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 ? Mar 07, 2023

Show notes

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 Feb 27, 2023

Show notes

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.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected