Gearbox Podcast

On this episode of The Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy Purdy invites auto repair shop owner Nate Winston, who shares his experiences and future ambitions in the automotive industry. Nate recounts his decision to branch out on his own after a partnership fallout, underscoring the importance of vision alignment and work ethic in business collaborations. As they discuss the evolving landscape of auto repair,...

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Matt Fanslow discuss the intersections of psychology, business strategies, and the nuances of the automotive industry. Matt draws parallels between the strategies used in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and those needed for business success, emphasizing the critical nature of long-term thinking and adaptability. Jimmy explores the concept of networking beyond the industry, rec...

On this episode, Jimmy Purdy welcomes Chris Johnson, a seasoned shop foreman technician from Cobra Mazda. Throughout their discussion, Chris talks about the challenges technicians face in the classic and performance car industries, emphasizing the struggle for profitability despite high customer spending. The pair also tackle the issues of rust and the difficulty in performing alignments on older...

On this episode of The Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy Purdy dives into the high-octane world of drag racing with celebrated driver Ron Capps. With a nostalgic look back at his roots, Ron reflects on his formative years on the central coast and his father's influence on his passion for cars. The conversation shifts gears to the precision and teamwork involved in race car driving: from the importance of a f...

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy welcomes Justin Zupko, an experienced automotive diagnostic specialist. The discussion starts with Zupko sharing his encounter with an incorrectly diagnosed Honda Odyssey, underlining the significance of fresh perspectives in problem-solving. Delving into the economics of car repair, Justin opens up about the hurdles many face in affording diagnostic services. At the s...

In this installment of The Gearbox Podcast, host Jimmy Purdy welcomes Jessa Boyd to the show to delve into the nuances of communication within the auto shop industry.  Jessa Boyd highlights the significance of open and honest dialogue with her team and clientele, particularly when addressing mistakes, and shares a personal anecdote demonstrating the transformative power such transparency can have...

In this installment, Jimmy Purdy welcomes guests Jim Mobley and David Tang to The Gearbox Podcast for a discussion on the evolving landscape of automotive diagnostics. Jim Mobley, brings his extensive background at Sonnax Transmission Company, and shares his insights on the integration of electronics in vehicle transmissions and their impact on the industry's efficiency. David Tang highlights the...

In this installment of The Gearbox Podcast, host Jimmy Purdy welcomes Adam Montiel, a local radio broadcaster renowned for his program “Up and Adam.” They delve into the complexities of automotive repair and the similarities across professions requiring specialized knowledge, such as winemaking and medicine. Jimmy addresses the delicate balance between fair pricing and delivering top-notch service...

In this episode, Jimmy is joined by guest Brian Winograd. An automotive industry stalwart, Brian delves into an array of thought-provoking topics, from the nuances of political stances on election outcomes to crucial discussions on the "right to repair" legislative movements and Winograd's direct involvement in these initiatives. 00:00 Almost died, spent 3 weeks on vent. 09:37 Marketing is key to...

Jimmy Purdy is joined by seasoned transmission specialist Larry Bloodworth for an in-depth discussion on the critical aspects of modern auto repair and business management. This episode delves into the significant challenges of working with newer, cleaner vehicles, confronting parts supply issues, and adapting to the rapid advances in automotive technology. With a deliberate focus on the nuances o...

In this episode, Jimmy is joined by special guest Wain Hickman. They dive into the world of auto technicians, discussing the unjust stigma and the true craftsmanship behind transmission specialty. They also discuss the ins and outs of warranty claims, the truth about “stages” in performance products, and the challenges of finding quality parts.  00:00 Experience with transmissions reveals common m...

Dutch Silverstein from A & M Auto Service in Pineville, North Carolina joins Jimmy in this episode of the Gearbox Podcast. They dive into a conversation about the struggles and triumphs of running an auto repair shop, focusing on the technology and customer service aspects. They analyze the practice of upselling, question the influence of social media and negative reviews, as well as how the d...

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and his wife Leigh-Ann, are joined by Kristin Danner and Paul Danner. They delve into a comprehensive discussion about the pressing issues in the automotive industry, from employee compensation to charge rates for services and more. Hear how missteps, such as a relocated car fuse, can lead to substantial repair hours, showcasing car diagnostics' intricate and often und...

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy sits down with Jeremy Hossler, a seasoned technician and shop owner. They dive into the challenging world of finding parts for newer cars, the importance of expertise in diagnostics, and the frustrations of customers expecting dealership-level expertise without the hefty price tag. 00:03:12 Passionate auto tech with extensive experience. 00:06:09 Industry push and micr...

In this episode, Jimmy is joined by special guest Chris Enright. Chris is a one-person shop owner who shares his journey of growth, learning, and taking responsibility in the automotive industry. He shares valuable insights on handling mistakes, compensating their team, and handling demanding customers gracefully.  00:05:11 Kitchen neglect leads to poor impression. 00:09:39 Transmission shop misdi...

In this episode, Lalo Castro returns to shed some light on some crucial aspects of team management. He shares his team's unique arrangement, where the net profits are divided equally among all members. Lalo explores the potential challenges that could arise if the team had more experienced members and highlights the importance of recognizing and managing employees who may negatively impact team mo...

In this episode of the Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy is joined by the passionate and highly experienced Christian Mercado. With over a decade in the automotive industry, Christian's love for helping others and giving back to the community shines through in every aspect of his work. From shifting his mindset to prioritizing assistance over being the cheapest to going the extra mile to help those in need o...

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy sits down with the incredibly knowledgeable Tyler Henry for their second interview. They dive into various topics, including aftermarket car parts, the importance of vehicle maintenance, the unpredictable nature of the road, and the intriguing concept of subscription-based car services. Topics Discussed: [00:03:57] Out-of-town wedding guests deal with transportation is...

In this episode of the Gearbox podcast, Jimmy sits down with diesel mechanic Cody Wyckoff. They delve into his career specializing in farm equipment. Cody shares his experience attending a sometimes controversial technical school and his decision to pursue working on larger vehicles. Topics Discussed: 00:00:32 Diesel mechanic shares valuable experience. 00:06:29 Shop culture affects job satisfacti...

In this episode of the Gearbox Podcast, Lalo Castro discusses a recent issue he encountered with a Ford F-150. After trying various repairs, including replacing the coils and injectors, they discovered that a broken bolt on the crank was causing the misfires. The vehicle started running smoothly again after replacing the bolt and fixing the crank trigger. The episode highlights the importance of t...

In this episode, Jimmy is joined by Eric Faley, a 40-year automotive industry veteran. They discuss the changing landscape and how it's the same or different from previous changes in the industry.  Topics discussed: 00:06:27 Dealerships facing challenges with electrification. 00:06:48 Jeep and Dodge are expanding their hybrid and electric vehicle offerings. 00:15:32 Changing technology in automoti...

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy speaks with Jed McClure, serial entrepreneur and former wine tour driver. They reminisce about their time working together and discuss the challenges and rewards of buying and owning multiple businesses.  00:04:52 Managing multiple businesses requires multitasking. 00:05:03 Small tasks can feel overwhelming. 00:10:04 Know your internal numbers. 00:14:36 Pricing based o...

In this episode of the Gearbox podcast, Jimmy is joined by Lalo Castro to discuss the challenge of finding good help when you're busy. Lalo shares his experience of having people seem to fall into his lap while Jimmy discusses his struggles with posting ads on job sites and social media. Topics discussed:  00:00:39 Finding good help can be luck. 00:06:00 Hiring people you know works. 00:15:45 Inve...

Jimmy sits down with Travis Smith of Custom Works in Paso Robles, California. Topics Discussed: Introductions. (0:00) It’s like watching paint dry. (3:50) Do it for one reason or another. (5:10) Why is it hard to find welders? (9:38) School of hard knocks and learning. (13:30) The target market of the auto industry. (20:54) Managing time and productivity. (26:34) The problem with the car industry....

Lalo Castro and Jimmy discuss their experiences running a business and even firing customers. They reflect on the difficulties of starting out and attracting clients and the challenges that come with transitioning from the previous owner's habits to their own. Topics Discussed: 00:03:30 Selective clientele brings success. 00:06:49 Standard operating procedures are crucial. 00:11:02 Diagnosing car...