Can you imagine integrating passion and fun into all aspects of your life? Join us  as we sit down with Trevor Potter, Chief Product and Marketing Officer at DMA Industries, and JC Washbish, President of Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, to explore their unique philosophies on work-life balance. Trevor, with his adventurous spirit, shares his incredible journey of living in a converted sprinter van with his wife, blending work and leisure seamlessly. Meanwhile, JC, a father of seven, reflects on the joys of maintaining a childlike wonder and prioritizing family moments amidst a demanding career. Their stories illuminate the importance of aligning personal values with life choices and finding harmony in both professional and personal spheres.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

What if your daily drive could be the key to safer roads and smarter cities? Join us as we sit down with Jeff Schlitt from Arity, a subsidiary of Allstate Corporation, to uncover the power of quantified driving data. Discover how Arity collects and analyzes data from connected cars and mobile phones, all while prioritizing consumer consent and transparency. Jeff shares eye-opening insights on how this data enhances safety features like crash detection, boosts fuel efficiency, and even sends you timely oil change notifications—truly revolutionizing the driving experience.We also dive deep into the ethical use of driving data for equitable insurance pricing. Jeff explains how artificial intelligence and machine learning refine actuarial tables, leading to fairer pricing frameworks. We tackle the evolving landscape of driving behaviors post-COVID and the role of advanced automotive technologies in aiming for net zero accidents and deaths. If you’re curious about the future of the automotive sector and how data is shaping safer, smarter roads, this episode is a must-listen.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Get ready to uncover the real reasons behind a surprising trend: nearly half of U.S. electric vehicle (EV) owners are thinking about going back to gasoline or internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. We are joined by Tom Pyle from the Institute for Energy Research (IER), as we dig into the primary issues driving this shift. From unexpected charging challenges to higher costs and limited practicality for long trips, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of why EVs are lingering longer on dealer lots and why some manufacturers are rethinking their fleet electrification plans.We explore the broader implications of governmental regulations on the auto industry and the coalition efforts promoting consumer choice and less government intervention. We highlight the diverse responses from consumers and manufacturers to EV adoption hurdles, including battery expenses and the burgeoning used EV market. You'll hear how industry giants like Toyota are pivoting in response to these challenges, underscoring the necessity of market-driven decisions in the automotive sector's technological evolution.We discover the unique obstacles faced by rural Americans who depend on ICE vehicles for their livelihoods, and the broader economic impacts of potentially mandatory EV shifts. We delve into the emotional ties to traditional car brands and the financial realities automakers face in the EV market. This episode provides a critical look at how automakers are reevaluating their all-electric ambitions and what this means for the future of the automotive industry. Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Behzad sits down with Bill Hanvey, President and CEO of the Auto Care Association, who shares his extraordinary journey from journalism to industry leadership. Hear firsthand how Bill leverages storytelling and effective communication to drive initiatives and lead with purpose. Gain insights into his personal motivations and unique leadership style that emphasizes the importance of understanding the "why" behind every project.We explore Bill’s formative years, highlighting how his disciplined upbringing and experiences at a Catholic military school shaped his professional ethos. Discover how his athletic background and structured educational environment have influenced his approach to leadership, balancing discipline with flexibility to harness his team's diverse strengths. Bill's reflections on his childhood, education, and early career offer a compelling look at the values that drive his success and inform his leadership strategies today.In a time of crisis, true leaders shine, and Bill’s experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic illustrate this profoundly. From navigating industry challenges to making tough, integrity-driven decisions, hear how Bill and his team managed to steer through turbulent times. This episode is packed with lessons on ownership, overcoming adversity, and the enduring impact of personal growth on professional success. Don’t miss out on these valuable leadership insights that could transform your approach to both work and life.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Can understanding your social style improve your work and personal life? Find out as we explore the interaction between introverts and extroverts. Jacki Lutz with co-host, Stacey Miller, share their experiences navigating the middle ground between introversion and extroversion. Our guests, Matt Fowler, an exuberant head of sales at Visual SKUs, and Meagan Moody, the introspective head of customers and strategy for ZF Aftermarket, offer insights from opposite ends of the personality spectrum. We challenge stereotypes and uncover how acknowledging these traits can foster collaboration and personal growth.Engage in our discussion on the complexities of small talk versus meaningful conversations and how each personality type handles these social nuances. We break down the skill required to transition from superficial chit-chat to valuable interactions, especially in professional settings like networking events and conferences. Our conversation highlights common misconceptions, such as the myth that extroverts always need to be talking, and delves into the emotional impact on extroverts when their social efforts fall flat. Learn about the balance introverts seek for comfort and the multitasking tendencies that can either aid or hinder meaningful communication.We also venture into how introversion and extroversion affect relationships, both personal and professional. From forming friendships to managing biases, we discuss the importance of mutual understanding and respect for different social energy levels. Discover how managers can better engage introverted employees and how both personality types can harmoniously contribute to a team. With anecdotes and personal stories, we emphasize the value of a balanced social dynamic. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and those around you, and learn how to create a more inclusive and effective workplace.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Unlock the secrets of consumer behavior in the automotive aftermarket with insights from Nathan Shipley, Executive Director at Circana. Discover how Circana's comprehensive data collection helps retailers and manufacturers comprehend purchasing patterns across industries and the unique nuances that drive consumer behavior in the automotive sector.Ever wondered how rising food prices and macroeconomic shifts influence your spending habits, especially when it comes to essential purchases like tires? Nathan provides a deep dive into how inflation, credit card debt, and declining savings rates are reshaping consumer priorities. Learn about the broader implications of these economic changes, from increased housing costs to the adaptations consumers are making in their shopping choices. This conversation shines a light on the real-world challenges consumers face and the strategies they're employing to navigate them.Peek into the future of consumer behavior tracking and data analysis as Nathan discusses advancements in data collection methodologies and the transformative power of AI in the retail industry. He emphasizes the importance of having clear objectives when analyzing data and ensuring that the data is representative of the target audience. From the evolving landscape of e-commerce to the critical role of accurate data in making informed decisions, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in market intelligence and the ever-changing dynamics of consumer behavior in the automotive aftermarket.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Unlock the details behind the automotive Right to Repair movement with Stacey Miller, Vice President of Communications at the Auto Care Association. Have you ever wondered why independent repair shops struggle to fix modern vehicles? Tune in as we explore the impact of advanced technology and wireless data transmission on these shops, and the critical importance of the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair Act (HR 906). Discover how this bipartisan legislation aims to ensure that both drivers and fleet owners can access high-quality and affordable vehicle repairs and learn why this issue is so vital to the auto care industry and the nation's supply chain.Also, get ready to challenge your perceptions about aftermarket repairs and parts as we dissect key insights from the Auto Care Factbook. We'll dispel common myths and show how aftermarket parts often meet or exceed original manufacturer standards. With the industry employing 4.7 million Americans and contributing nearly 2% of GDP, the stakes couldn't be higher. Listen as we celebrate the tireless efforts of industry leaders advocating for the right to repair and find out how you can join the movement using the hashtag #righttorepair. Stay tuned for a sneak peek at our next episode, which will update you on right to repair developments beyond the automotive sector.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Join Behzad as he chats with Greg Noethlich, CEO of Old World Industries. Greg shares his candid work and life experiences and the backbone of his leadership style. His anecdotes, filled with humor and authenticity, will resonate with anyone juggling professional and personal commitments.Greg walks us through his early days, his unexpected pivot from aeronautical engineering, and the mentorship that propelled him into leadership roles. Along the way, Greg opens up about the impact of frequent relocations on his career and family life, and the unique lessons each move taught him. His reflections on likability and teamwork offer valuable insights for aspiring leaders.Dive into Greg's thoughts on the evolution of corporate culture, the challenges of remote work, and the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interactions. We explore the generational shift towards digital communication and its potential pitfalls, especially for younger workers. Greg's perspective on corporate values, mentorship, and the emotional complexities of career progression is both enlightening and thought-provoking. Wrapping up with a discussion on integrity, energy, and passion, Greg leaves us with powerful lessons on making a lasting, positive impact in the professional world. Don't miss this episode brimming with wisdom and real-life stories from a remarkable career.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Uncover the pressing realities of the Canadian rail labor lockout and its staggering impact on the auto care industry. In this episode of Traction Control, we're joined by Adam Malik from Turnkey Media who sheds light on how this midnight halt has frozen the movement of critical goods, including automotive parts, and even disrupted commuter trains in major cities like Toronto. From soaring prices in the used car market to the insurmountable strain on alternative transportation methods, we provide a comprehensive look at the chaos rippling through the supply chain.We also confront the broader challenges that the auto care industry faces amid unyielding supply chain disruptions. By increasing inventory levels and drawing on lessons from the pandemic, parts suppliers and warehouse distributors are stepping up to navigate this complex landscape. Join us as we discuss the rising costs, the tough decisions drivers must make, and the critical role of strategic planning to ensure continued service and safety. This episode is packed with expert insights and actionable takeaways that you can't afford to miss.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Ever wondered how to sustain a healthy lifestyle when your career keeps you on the go? Join us as we uncover practical tips and strategies with insights from Jason Papillion of SPS Commerce and John Cerveny of Magnaflow. Learn from John’s experience with Magnaflow’s wellness program and their participation in the 75 Hard challenge—a rigorous mental toughness regimen including two daily workouts and strict dietary rules. Discover how small but impactful steps like increasing your water intake and incorporating reading into your daily routine can transform your health.Preparation and commitment are key when taking on significant lifestyle changes. Hear firsthand how planning meals can prevent last-minute scrambles and why the support of loved ones is crucial for maintaining demanding programs. We also discuss the sustainability of new habits and share personal experiences of maintaining fitness routines while on the go, highlighting the energizing effects of regular workouts.For busy parents and professionals, integrating physical activity into daily routines might seem daunting, but we’ve got you covered. Learn creative ways to stay active, from involving your kids in workouts to unconventional methods like wearing a weighted vest while doing household chores. We also highlight the importance of balanced nutrition, mental wellness, and the benefits of varied home gym setups. With actionable advice and personal anecdotes, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you seamlessly integrate healthier habits into your busy lifestyle.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Your right to repair your own devices is under threat. Join Stacey Miller and her guest, Paul Roberts, cybersecurity expert, publisher, and editor-in-chief of The Security Ledger, and founder of Secure Repairs. Paul takes us through his transformative journey from cybersecurity journalism to becoming a leading advocate for the right to repair. We'll explore the critical importance of repairability across industries like automotive, agriculture, and personal electronics while debunking myths surrounding the security risks of repair. Paul’s impactful work, including his contributions at FTC's Nixing the Fix, sheds light on the ongoing fight to ensure repair remains a viable option for all.Our conversation turns to the international stage, comparing the EU's comprehensive right to repair laws with state-level initiatives in the United States. Discover the strengths and limitations of these laws and the broader implications for sustainability and the circular economy. Despite bipartisan support, federal legislation like HR 906 encounters significant roadblocks in Congress. We'll discuss the urgent need for public and political advocacy to move these initiatives forward and emphasize how direct engagement with lawmakers can help ensure legislation meets the needs of constituents.Finally, we tackle the complexities of passing and implementing right to repair laws, particularly in the automotive, electronics, and agriculture sectors. Hear about the challenges posed by industry lobbyists and the difficulties small business owners face in making their voices heard. We’ll also highlight the role of the automotive industry in setting precedents for right to repair laws and discuss the significance of cybersecurity, resilience, and maintainability in modern legislation. Learn about advocacy efforts like SERF and how they aim to ensure manufacturers uphold their responsibilities to consumers. Don’t miss this engaging and enlightening discussion on the future of repairability and secure devices.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Unlock the secrets to mastering data in the auto care industry with our special guest, Daniel Zenko, Director of Data Innovation at the Auto Care Association. In this episode of Auto Care ON AIR's "Indicators," Daniel and host, Mike Chung, dive deep into the realm of data delivery and consumption. We explore the vital role of benchmarking data for sales performance and dissect the historical challenges that have plagued the industry. Daniel demystifies the terms "front-of-the-counter" and "behind-the-counter" data, shedding light on how program groups collaborate to ensure timely part deliveries.Ever wondered how fragmented data sources impact the automotive aftermarket industry? We tackle this head-on by examining the strengths and limitations of US government data and alternative sources like Visa, MasterCard, IMR, and MPD. Our conversation underscores the importance of triangulating data from multiple sources to gain a holistic market understanding. Plus, we introduce you to the TrendLens platform, a revolutionary tool offering nearly 50 economic and industry indicators that can significantly enhance your market analysis prowess.Looking ahead, we delve into the future of data platforms and AI in the auto care industry. They discuss the potential for expanding data coverage to include e-commerce and heavy-duty markets while maintaining high website performance and user experience. We consider AI's role in generating insightful narratives, albeit with necessary human oversight. To round off, we reflect on how economic indicators influence business confidence, stressing the importance of long-term trends over short-term fluctuations. Don't miss this rich episode filled with invaluable insights for industry professionals!Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Ready to transform your professional journey and master the art of advocacy? Join us for an invigorating conversation with Stacey Miller, VP of Communications at the Auto Care Association, and Jessica Toliuszis, VP of Sales for Highline Warren. Listen to Stacey’s inspiring story as she overcomes imposter syndrome and emerges as an industry influencer, emphasizing the necessity of vocalizing accomplishments. With Jessica, we explore the delicate balance between self-promotion and humility, providing you with actionable advice to confidently showcase your achievements without feeling awkward.Discover the transformative power of supporting colleagues and fostering a culture of mutual recognition. Celebrating victories, both big and small, can lead to a more collaborative and appreciative professional environment. Stacey shares her experience of winning the Impact Award and the importance of accepting recognition with grace and gratitude. Stacey and Jessica highlight how advocating for oneself and others on platforms like LinkedIn can significantly boost confidence and career trajectories.We also delve into the importance of building strong advocacy relationships and overcoming societal tendencies to pit individuals against each other. By reflecting on personal stories and wisdom from "The Four Agreements," we emphasize the value of being impeccable with one’s word and the powerful impact of writing affirmations. Tune in for insights on overcoming negative feedback, maintaining confidence, and the crucial role of gratitude and documentation in self-advocacy. This episode promises to uplift and empower you to create a supportive and thriving professional community.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Unlock the secrets to mastering the automotive aftermarket with Nate Chenenko from Ducker Carlisle on this episode of Indicators! We promise you'll gain invaluable insights into the complex world of OEMs, tier suppliers, and service organizations as Nate, with his 12 years of experience, breaks down pricing studies, supply chain strategies, and growth planning. Learn how dealer relationships and strategic foresight are essential to anticipating industry trends and preparing for the next decade.Discover how antitrust considerations are crucial in shaping strategies within automotive and heavy equipment industries. Nate illuminates how data transparency and benchmarking help clients navigate these waters, ensuring compliance while extracting valuable insights. Rethink traditional metrics with us as we dive into the complexities of measuring dealer and service retention. Nate will guide you through the intricacies of data segmentation by vehicle age and type, offering a more accurate picture of service retention. We also explore the shift towards aftermarket service providers and the evolving landscape of dealer service retention.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Unlock the secrets of small talk and transform your networking skills with actionable insights from sales experts Andrew Steczo, Director of Sales at Motorad, and Zenata Perez, Global Head of Sales at Sensata Technologies. Learn how to keep conversations flowing, approach strangers with ease, and find genuine connection points that can lead to unexpected opportunities. Hear personal anecdotes and practical tips that illustrate the power of these seemingly trivial interactions in both personal and professional settings.Discover the art of creating connections through shared interests like sports, hobbies, and even virtual backgrounds during video calls. We explore how casual compliments, strategic positioning, and staying observant of your surroundings can facilitate meaningful conversations. Whether it's through noticing someone's attire or integrating personal items into your environment, these techniques can open doors to networking and business possibilities, showcasing the importance of being genuine and attentive in your interactions.Finally, embrace curiosity, patience, and adaptability to master small talk and networking. From asking engaging questions to pre-event research, this episode provides strategies to navigate social interactions effectively. We share inspiring stories of transformation, practical advice for both introverts and extroverts, and tips on setting achievable goals. You can significantly boost your networking skills and confidence, seizing everyday opportunities to connect with others in our post-pandemic world.Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Can vehicle shortages actually benefit repair shops? Discover how the ongoing UAW strike impacting Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis is reshaping the auto care industry. This episode of Traction Control explores the unexpected silver linings of vehicle shortages, particularly the spike in demand for high-wear parts and maintenance services. We also tackle the effects of severe weather in the South and soaring prices for new and used cars, while shedding light on the expanding electric vehicle market fueled by government incentives and regulatory pushes across the globe. Don't miss insights on how the auto care industry can adapt to these changes by offering both ICE and EV-specific parts and services.Are semiconductor shortages here to stay? Find out how these persistent supply chain disruptions are affecting both new vehicle production and the aftermarket. This episode unravels the complexities of the chip crisis and provides actionable strategies for businesses, from stocking up on critical components to pivoting towards service-based solutions. We also delve into broader economic factors like inflation and the looming East Coast port strike, advising businesses on how to stay resilient. Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

A massive labor strike that could cost the US economy $5 billion daily. Join us on Traction Control as we reveal the staggering impact of 45,000 dock workers walking out at 14 US East and Gulf Coast ports. Beginning at 12:01 am on October 1st, this disruption is shaking up the automotive aftermarket sector, potentially causing daily losses of nearly $340 million. We break down the labor dispute involving the United States Maritime Alliance and the International Longshoremen's Association, providing you with statements from both sides and insights into President Biden's decision not to invoke the Taft-Hartley Act. Tune in to hear how industry experts are navigating the rerouting of automotive parts imports and exports, compounded fees, and what businesses can do to weather the storm. Discover the advocacy efforts of the Auto Care Association and learn how you can contribute your own port strike impact stories to strengthen our collective voice. Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast

Host, Mike Chung and Todd Campau from S&P Global Mobility explore the immense potential of vehicle registration data. You'll uncover how this crucial information not only monitors industry performance but also aids government and insurance sectors in strategic decision-making. Todd shares his unique journey from working directly with manufacturers to providing invaluable data insights, emphasizing the importance of data quality and precision sourcing in driving actionable results.Ever wondered how vehicle registration data evolved from the days of Henry Ford to today's sophisticated systems? We take you on a historical tour, illustrating how state registrations and manufacturer data are meticulously aggregated to ensure accuracy and privacy. Learn about the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) system and its pivotal role in decoding essential vehicle attributes for market trend analysis and vehicle recalls. We'll also dive into the challenges of data management across all 50 states and the burgeoning trends in alternative propulsion vehicles like EVs. Despite some hurdles, discover why EV sales have plateaued yet remain a critical area for industry focus.In our final segment, we shift gears to predictive analytics and the aging vehicle market. Todd sheds light on why the average age of vehicles continues to climb and how economic conditions and consumer hesitancy towards new technologies like EVs contribute to this trend. We'll discuss the implications for the aftermarket, from part proliferation to managing diverse powertrains. Plus, Todd offers invaluable advice for recent graduates aiming to enter this fascinating field—curiosity and challenging the status quo are key. This episode is packed with insights that will transform how you think about the intersection of data and the automotive industry. Join us and stay ahead of the curve!Send us a textTo learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast