Best Diesel Technicians Podcasts (2025)

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Raising the Standards & Respect for the Repair Industry 1:02:40

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2d ago1:02:40

1:02:40

Ryan Kooiman, Director of Training at Standard Motor Products, joins us to talk about banding together to raise the professional standards in the repair industry. He covers the balance between technical curiosity and shop profitability, the importance of credentials like ASEs, and why mentorship is better for the industry than making young techs le…

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Taking Technical Skills Beyond the Bay 1:02:41

9d ago1:02:41

1:02:41

John Melendez, Owner of JDM Collision, discusses the immense value of carrying technical skills into management and other industry roles. He covers his evolution from technician to industry leader, the lasting impact of effective mentorship on the next generation, and how leveraging certifications directly drives higher pay. Check out the full vide…

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Building Tomorrow’s Diesel Techs: Inside Lincoln Tech with CEO Scott Shaw 32:16

15d ago32:16

32:16

In this episode of NextGen Talks, Lindsey sits down with Scott Shaw, President & CEO of Lincoln Tech, to explore how one of the most established technical schools in the country is preparing the next generation of diesel technicians. Scott shares his unexpected journey from banking and private equity into skilled trades education, and how 25 years …

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Building Trust Between Shops & Customers 59:38

16d ago59:38

59:38

Marc Poulsen, National Accounts Manager, shares how AutoNet TV helps shops build trust with customers and why it’s essential. Learn why showcasing ASE-certified technicians matters, the public’s misconceptions about the technician role, and the challenges of explaining maintenance and complex repairs to customers. Check out the full video version o…

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More Than Just Trucks: ASE Myths 1:06:33

18d ago1:06:33

1:06:33

In the latest episode of "More Than Just Trucks," Bob Cornwell, of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), and Jay Goninen, of WrenchWay, join the podcast. With our host, Ray Clark, the trio discusses misconceptions about ASE certifications, particularly those in the trucking industry. Learn more about Truck Country & Stoops-Freighltiner-Western Star …

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Building Future Technicians with Tom Wood University 59:59

23d ago59:59

59:59

Bill Demaree and Aaron Blount join us to share how Tom Wood University brings high school students into the dealership for hands-on automotive learning. They discuss the “why” behind the program, the importance of ownership support in building a marketplace of future technicians, and how they structure the curriculum to prepare students for real-wo…

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Who Is Jay Goninen? The Man Behind Beyond the Wrench 49:08

1M ago49:08

49:08

In this special episode, the tables turn as Beyond the Wrench host Jay Goninen takes the hot seat! Guest host and longtime friend Josh Arnold, a technician himself, interviews Jay about his roots in the family auto shop, the journey to co-founding WrenchWay, and his favorite memories from the last five years of hosting Beyond the Wrench. Check out …

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Free Soft Skills Training for Future Technicians by RockED + WrenchWay 55:33

1M ago55:33

55:33

Chris Craig from RockED joins WrenchWay to discuss their partnership offering free soft skills training to schools and students. They talk about why soft skills matter for today’s technicians, what training is available on the RockED app, and how schools and students can get free access to the training. View the full webinar video and slides About …

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Fewer Grads, More Demand: Winning the Talent Predicament with Brett Pawlowski from Roundhouse 43:12

1M ago43:12

43:12

In this episode, Lindsey sits down with Brett Pawlowski of Roundhouse Partnerships to unpack his new white paper, Investing in the Future, and why employers must treat early-talent development as a measurable, strategic investment—not a nice-to-have. Brett explains the “black box” between education and employment and lays out a practical, three-pha…

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From Med School to Founding Tekmetric: Lessons in Leadership 58:08

1M ago58:08

58:08

Sunil Patel shares how his path from medical school to shop owner to Founder and CEO of Tekmetric shaped his approach to leadership. He discusses how a personal shop struggle inspired Tekmetric, why staying focused on your vertical drives success, and the leadership lessons he’s learned building a platform for automotive repair shops nationwide. Ch…

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Preview: National FFA Convention & Expo preview 16:04

2M ago16:04

16:04

The recruiting team for Truck Country and Stoops’ parent company, McCoy Group, is heading back to the National FFA Convention & Expo, from Oct. 29-31. In the latest episode of “More Than Just Trucks,” Jenny DeArmond, a corporate recruiter for Stoops, joins us to preview the fun our team has planned for convention visitors both at the show site and …

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Hiring Under 18: Lessons From a Shop That Does It Right 1:02:42

2M ago1:02:42

1:02:42

John Perez, Sr. Director of Talent Acquisition at Sonic Automotive, shares how they built a junior apprenticeship program for students under 18. From earning executive buy-in to keeping kids safe in the shop, John breaks down how they’re developing the next generation of technicians by starting earlier than most. Check out the full video version of…

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Inside the Evolving SEMA Show 2025 1:04:53

2M ago1:04:53

1:04:53

By Jay Goninen

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Building the Next Generation of Diesel Technicians with Jeff Arledge from J&M Tank Lines 22:51

2M ago22:51

22:51

In this special edition of NextGen Talks, host Lindsey Trent sits down with Jeff from J&M Tank Lines to discuss how his company is tackling the diesel technician shortage by partnering with Wallace State Community College through the innovative Diesel by Distance program. Jeff shares his personal journey from mechanic to director, the steps J&M has…

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Milwaukee Pipeline Series: A Look at the New Impact Wrench & Ratchet 27:17

2M ago27:17

27:17

Eric Rusch, Director of Product Marketing at Milwaukee Tool, breaks down two exciting new products technicians will love—the M12 FUEL™ Subcompact Impact Wrench and the M12 FUEL™ Gen 2 Ratchet—live at the Milwaukee Pipeline 2025 event. He shares key product features, how Milwaukee Tool has evolved to meet industry needs, and why it’s so rewarding to…

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Milwaukee Pipeline Series: Solving Shop Lighting Challenges 46:54

2M ago46:54

46:54

Jason Isaacs, Director of Product Marketing at Milwaukee Tool, dives into shop lighting—how Milwaukee Tool develops durable products, key lighting solutions for technicians, and advice on the best lights for those just starting their careers. Check out the full video version of the podcast on YouTube! About the Episode Host: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay,…

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Milwaukee Pipeline Series: Transitioning From Technician to Shop Owner 46:54

3M ago46:54

46:54

Recorded live at Milwaukee Pipeline 2025, Chris Enright—Founder & Owner of Enright Automotive and content creator—shares his journey from technician to shop owner and the lessons learned along the way. In this episode, we dive into making the transition from tech to owner, the ROI of technician training, the power of clear communication, and more. …

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Milwaukee Pipeline Series: Hand Tools Designed with Technicians in Mind 43:53

3M ago43:53

43:53

Recorded live at the Milwaukee Pipeline 2025 event, Leah Balto, Group Manager of Product Marketing at Milwaukee Tool, joins host Jay Goninen to walk us through Milwaukee’s latest hand tool kits, explain how the team studies technicians in real-world settings to inspire smarter innovations, and share how Milwaukee Tool is investing in solutions that…

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Building Careers, Not Jobs: How High Schools Are Preparing the Next Generation for Logistics with Dr. Gina Smith 38:06

3M ago38:06

38:06

In this episode of NextGen Talks, Lindsey Trent sits down with Dr. Gina Smith, an educator leading a Supply Chain and Logistics program at Groves High School in Savannah, Georgia. Dr. Smith shares her personal journey from a 25-year career in the automobile industry to nearly a decade of teaching logistics. She describes how she built the program i…

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Webinar Replay: Building Effective Educational Partnerships 1:02:24

3M ago1:02:24

1:02:24

In this recorded webinar, Tom Wozniak, Diesel Instructor at Madison College, and John Gustafson, Shop Owner at Gustafson Brothers, share both the school and shop perspectives on building stronger partnerships. They discuss where shops should start, how to get the most out of advisory committees, the importance of consistency, and the power of servi…

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When Service Advisors Put Technicians First, Everyone Wins 1:01:36

3M ago1:01:36

1:01:36

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 l…

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How Gen Z is Finding a Place in Trucking: Addison’s Story 30:37

3M ago30:37

30:37

In this episode of NGT Talks, Lindsey sits down with Addison Stout, a 26-year-old from Grand Island Express and a proud member of TCA’s Elevate class, to share her unexpected path into trucking. With a background in business management and no prior knowledge of the industry, Addison took a chance on an interview that launched her career. Four years…

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Leading with Accountability & Influence 59:31

4M ago59:31

59:31

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. Check out the full video versio…

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Turning Wrenches for the Secret Service 1:15:13

4M ago1:15:13

1:15:13

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 s…

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From Setback to Solution: Nicole’s Journey and the Rise of AAWTA 31:29

4M ago31:29

31:29

In this episode, Lindsey talks with Nicole, founder of the African American Women Trucking Association (AAWTA). Nicole transitioned from the insurance industry into trucking, where a failed 3-truck operation and $20,000 loss inspired her to create AAWTA. Now three years in, the organization supports truckers—especially those facing barriers to entr…

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Helping Shop Owners Build Profitable, Fulfilling Businesses 1:07:26

4M ago1:07:26

1:07:26

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 how he now helps shop owne…

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Building the Future Technician Workforce 1:04:59

4M ago1:04:59

1:04:59

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 …

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From Shop Floor to Strategy: Bryan Boyd on Building Talent and Bridging Gaps in Trucking 28:27

4M ago28:27

28:27

In this episode, Lindsey sit down with Bryan Boyd, Senior National Account Manager at Hendrickson, who shares his 26-year journey from the shop floor to managing relationships with top 100 fleets. Bryan reflects on Hendrickson’s "big company, small feel" culture and how training and development—especially for Gen Z—have been vital to retention and …

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Career Survival Tips for New Technicians 1:05:51

5M ago1:05:51

1:05:51

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 matter. Check out…

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Mentoring vs. Training Technicians 1:05:17

5M ago1:05:17

1:05:17

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 takes the right…

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Where Racing Passion Meets Customer Trust 58:00

5M ago58:00

58:00

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 an inside look at…

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Miles of Opportunity: Chris Jones on Training the Next Generation of Drivers at Gateway Technical College 40:42

5M ago40:42

40:42

In this inspiring episode of Next Gen Talks, Lindsey Trent interviews Chris Jones, a commercial driving instructor at Gateway Technical College. Chris shares his powerful journey from facing homelessness to building a successful trucking business and now training the next generation of drivers. He discusses Gateway’s nine-week CDL program, the impo…

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How Mentors & Mindset Unlock Technician Career Growth 1:00:15

5M ago1:00:15

1:00:15

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 …

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Taking Auto Shop Online: How to Reach More Students Virtually 1:09:38

5M ago1:09:38

1:09:38

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 success, and ho…

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ADAS Calibrations Changing Auto Repair 1:02:39

6M ago1:02:39

1:02:39

Joel Adcock, Director of Partnerships & Business Development at Revv, joins us to talk about the growing demand for ADAS calibrations in today’s vehicles. He explains how often calibrations are needed—even after basic repairs—and why prescans should be part of every job. Joel also highlights the need to better educate drivers on what ADAS is and ho…

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Breaking Barriers and Building the Future of Trucking with Melanie Simard from ISAAC Instruments 33:20

6M ago33:20

33:20

In this episode, Lindsey Trent sits down with Melanie Simard, Vice President of Safety Compliance at ISAAC Instruments, to explore her inspiring and unconventional journey through the trucking industry. From starting in logistics to driving heavy loads across tough routes, Melanie broke barriers in a male-dominated field and steadily transitioned i…

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Growing an Auto Shop with Social Media 1:05:09

6M ago1:05:09

1:05:09

Miles Bell, General Manager of Dave’s Auto Center, shares how his family’s shop built a combined following of over 4 million on social media to help grow their independent auto shop. He talks about how he and his dad, Dave Bell, have learned to work together by playing to each other’s strengths, their “secret sauce” for social media success, and th…

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The Many Phases of Shop Ownership 1:00:11

6M ago1:00:11

1:00:11

Dave Bell, Founder of Dave’s Auto Center, joins us to share his real journey from growing up in poverty to starting a successful shop and building a loyal social media following. He walks us through how he made the leap from being an operator in the business to becoming a true owner, why mentorship matters so much to him, and the one quality that s…

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Investing in Technicians Builds Better Shops 58:59

6M ago58:59

58:59

Erik Fagerstrom, Director of Training and Talent Development at GreatWater 360 Auto Care, explains how supporting your technicians’ growth helps the whole shop succeed. He discusses growing your team through regular one-on-one meetings, tackling tough culture challenges head-on, and the value of providing clear career paths with real examples of te…

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Building the Future of Trucking: Tenstreet’s Tools and Talent Pipeline with Christy Choice 26:44

7M ago26:44

26:44

In the latest episode featuring Christy Choice from Tenstreet, Christy shared her journey from healthcare software to the trucking industry, highlighting her passion for the field's regulation and continuous learning opportunities. She discussed Tenstreet's comprehensive fleet management solutions that support the entire driver lifecycle, along wit…

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Beyond the SEMA Show 1:01:15

7M ago1:01:15

1:01:15

Mike Spagnola, President & CEO of Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), joins us to talk about the iconic SEMA Show and the important work the organization is doing behind the scenes to support the automotive, diesel, and parts industries. He covers key issues like tariffs, Leno’s Law, and the political efforts SEMA is driving beyond their…

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WrenchWay and ASE Launch School Assist All-Star Awards 1:01:02

7M ago1:01:02

1:01:02

In this webinar recording, WrenchWay and ASE introduce the School Assist All-Star Awards—a new program recognizing schools and shops making a real impact in promoting automotive and diesel careers. David Johnson, President & CEO of ASE, joins WrenchWay Co-Founders Jay Goninen and Mark Wilson to talk about the award criteria, the importance of stron…

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Inside BMW’s Approach to Developing Top Technicians 1:04:08

7M ago1:04:08

1:04:08

Gary Uyematsu, National Technician Training Manager at BMW North America, joins us to discuss the continuous learning it takes to succeed as a technician and how BMW approaches technician training. He also highlights some industry disconnects, like career counselors not fully understanding technician careers, along with the unique challenges of tea…

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Defending the Drivers: Inside 35 Years of Legal Support with Driver’s Legal Plan 40:01

7M ago40:01

40:01

In this episode of NGT Talks, host Lindsey Trent engages with Brad Klepper and Marilyn Surber from Driver's Legal Plan, who share insights into their 35-year history as a national law firm dedicated to defending CDL drivers and motor carriers. The discussion covers the company's affordable legal services, wherein drivers pay a flat fee of $100 per …

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What Top-Performing Shops Do Differently 59:49

7M ago59:49

59:49

Darin Damron, SE Regional Vice President at Jasper Engines & Transmissions, is back to share what he’s seeing from the highest-performing shops. He highlights the common traits these shops share—like their commitment to continuous learning, focus on hiring and keeping the right people, and putting people first. Darin also covers valuable training r…

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How ASE is Shaping Automotive Education 58:48

8M ago58:48

58:48

Jennifer Holland, Assistant Vice President of Marketing at ASE, walks us through the incredible growth ASE has experienced over the years as a staple in the automotive industry. She highlights how ASE has reimagined its marketing efforts, gives an inside look at the organization today, and shares the impact their annual Instructor Training Conferen…

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The Transport Crisis: Inside the Global Driver Shortage with Natalia Corchado from the IRU 54:53

8M ago54:53

54:53

In this episode, Lindsey talks with Natalia Corchado from the International Road Transport Union (IRU), focusing on the critical issues facing the road transport sector. Natalia highlighted IRU’s role in advocating for trucking, bus, coach, and taxi industries, and discussed the organization’s efforts to tackle decarbonization, driver shortages, an…

1
Habits, Mindset, and Leadership Lessons for Big Growth 1:01:31

8M ago1:01:31

1:01:31

Victoria Thomas, CFO & Owner of Kellymoss Inc., talks about how dreaming bigger has helped drive their business success. She shares her morning routine, why leaders can’t outwork their to-do lists, and how she’s learned to delegate parts of the business to focus on bigger goals. Check out the full video version of the podcast on YouTube! About Our …

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Riding the Wave of EV & ADAS in Auto Repair 1:06:03

8M ago1:06:03

1:06:03

Kurt Fenzel, EV & ADAS Instructor at I-CAR, shares how he's staying ahead of the rapidly evolving automotive technology by providing the right education to technicians. He reflects on his time as a high school automotive teacher, offers tips on managing the challenges of ADAS and other advanced technologies, and discusses the space and equipment ne…

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Dealership Success Through Intentional Leadership 1:00:31

8M ago1:00:31

1:00:31

Bill Demaree, Corporate Director of Fixed Operations at Tom Wood Automotive Group, shares how intentional habits have helped grow their stores. He discusses the importance of hiring and firing based on company values to shape the culture, embracing technology to improve staff efficiency, and how stepping into different roles at stores has helped hi…