Around the Bead

The "Best of Series" is born. The tire guys discuss how to define the best-performing truck tire, how to measure the results, and different tiers of winners. Hint: The project is HUGE

Mine Man Mark joins the podcast to break down a specific case that had millions of dollars in value from tire and related decisions. Tire costs, production, downtime, and more were improved.

ROI Rob returns to the podcast to discuss how fleets can learn from their scrap tires. There's almost always a story on why a tire is worn the way it is. There are millions of dollars' worth of answers to be found and learned. If you're a trucking fleet looking to tidy up your budget, this is the episode for you.

Cesar Pirir from Klinge, technician turned trainer, discusses his trips around the world and his view of the industry.

Nathan Laswell, the premier truck aligner in the Western United States and lifetime mechanic shares his insights into heavy trucks and tire wear.

Application is king! Putting the right tires in the right application will garner the best results: wear, performance, and fuel economy. Mine Man Mark discusses dozens of variables to consider when choosing between L3, L4, and L5 treads.

Al Klinge, CEO of Klinge LTD, tells his history from being an ultra-class earthmover tire technician to the modern era of training at the world's largest mining operations.

Jason Fennell gives the insider details of the truck market over the last few years. He also brings his crystal ball to predict 2026 and talk shop with the tire guys.

T&C Site Services is a global leader and United Kingdom staple of the mining tire world. Trevor Adams, Managing Director, joins the podcast to discuss the state of the industry. The tire technician shortage, accreditation, and value of service are big topics that we delve into.

Steve Fossum, a renowned tire industry veteran from Northern California, discusses how the commercial tire industry has evolved over the last three decades.

Joe and John discuss the most commonly requested topics, highlighted by tariffs, supply chain concerns, and new tires such as the FS592 steer tire for class 8 trucks.

Scott Sloan from Titan Intl, the father of LSWs, discusses how the giant flotation tires are solutions for better traction and bigger yields.

Max from Rubber Track Solutions discusses the origins and solutions of rubber tracks for agricultural operations.

VF (Very Increased Flexion) tires are the next evolution. James Crouch discusses how they impact yields, comparing them to LSWs, tracks, and the origins of farming tires.

Solid loader tires are used in a variety of applications. From waste to scrap metal, they are a common choice to improve uptime in harsh applications. Which ones are the best? The tire guys on Around the Bead debate!

Rob Bolduc sits down with Joe to discuss the details of the equipment rental industry, focusing specifically on telehandlers and the tires they use. Foam fill, also known as poly-fil, has been common for decades. Now, solid tires are gaining popularity, and Joe and Rob debate the advantages and disadvantages of both.

The hot topics in tires, trucking, earthmover, and mining are discussed on Around the Bead. Michelin debuts a highly controversial replacement to the XDN2 drive tire: the X Grip D Bridgestone invests in 100-ton haul truck tires, with the new VRDU available in 2700R49s. We chat about the Florida U-Turn tragedy and the liabilities fleets face today.

Rob Bolduc breaks down the latest data from testing Bridgestone Bandag's BRM3 versus Michelin's XZUS. The comparison includes new and retread mileage, as well as wear per 32nd comparisons. Real data, real results.

Brian Boucher, an engineer by trade, joins the podcast and discusses his perspective as a newcomer to the tire industry—the good, the bad, and what keeps him in the industry.

In this episode, Joe discusses the evolving role of data in mining operations with Jesse Nunes and Mark. Theyexplore the importance of data collection, tire inspection techniques, and the challenges faced in the mining industry. Jesse shares his journey as a data technician, highlighting the significance of accurate tire monitoring and the impact of technology on operations. The conversation also...

Rob Bolduc and Dustin Martin join Tire Guy Joe to discuss the ins and outs of data collection and improving trucking fleet performance.

This episode is an introduction to tires for commercial trucking. Rob Bolduc, Strategic Account Manager at East Bay Tire, talks tires with the Around the Bead crew. Data, preventative maintenance, and tire performance are all discussed. Learn how to better manage a fleet and improve your tire performance.

Mark Auvil joins the podcast to discuss off-road tires with the Around the Bead crew. As an OTR specialist at East Bay Tire, he breaks down the basics of safety, forecasting, budgeting, and proper tire application for tires in earthmoving and mining operations.

The crew welcomes forklift tire specialist, Phil Jandrokovic, to the pod to discuss everything, ultimately focusing on forklift tires. Discover key insights about heat, speed, and how to enhance your material handling operations.

OEM and Equipment dealer specialist, Mike Welsh, joins the pod to talk everything farm tires. Joe and Mike chat about the state of the industry, market, and how tires impact farming operations.