Fixed Ops 5

In this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui break down what dealerships must do to professionalize the service advisor role in 2026 and beyond. From KPI literacy and daily coaching to AI adoption and video multipoint inspections, this conversation outlines a blueprint for transforming service departments into frontline revenue engines.You'll learn:Why one-time training fails and how to build a true practice cultureThe KPIs every service advisor must understand (ELR, approval rate, HPR, declined services)How AI tools like video MPIs and automated scheduling will reshape advisor workflowsWhy service must shift from “after sale” to lifetime ownership experienceHow integrating F&I knowledge into service drives retention and extended warranty revenueThe importance of visible scoreboards, daily huddles, and positive reinforcement coachingIf you want to increase approval rates, raise effective labor rate, improve CSI, and build long-term customer loyalty, this episode delivers the strategy.Service is no longer a back-end department. It is the dealership's competitive advantage.

AI is everywhere in automotive right now, but not all “AI” is the same.On this episode of FWRD, Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Sean Hartman, VP of Sales at Toma, to talk about the practical side of AI for dealerships, especially in service and customer communications. Sean shares how dealers can avoid the hype, start with clear goals, and choose solutions that actually move the needle.You'll learn: The simplest way to think about AI in a dealership: start with the use caseTwo common dealer scenarios where AI delivers fast wins (overwhelming call volume vs. repetitive BDC calls)How to spot real AI vs. advanced IVRThe “Art of AI” framework: Adoption, Resolution, TailoringWhat to ask vendors (learning over time, benchmarks, call-tree placement, integrations)Where the human touch still matters most (status calls, tough conversations, upset customers)What the next 3–5 years may bring: smarter, more dynamic workflows and communicationsIf you are exploring AI, this is a strong starting point to evaluate tools with clarity and confidence.

In this episode of the FWRD Podcast, Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Eric Meahan to explore how data-driven reconditioning helps dealers reduce cycle time, control costs, and protect used vehicle margins.Eric shares how EchoPark cut reconditioning cycle time to five days by improving process visibility, labor allocation, and supplement management. The conversation highlights why idle time between recon steps is often the biggest bottleneck, not technician productivity, and how integrated tools eliminate manual tracking and errors.They also discuss how tighter controls, upstream recon decisions, and mobile repair strategies will become critical as used vehicle market conditions shift. The episode reinforces how aligning people, process, and technology can turn reconditioning into a competitive advantage.

What does leadership look like when profit is no longer the priority?For Brent Smith, it looks like showing up for people who are often forgotten. In this episode, Brent opens up about founding Love's Reflection after years of hospice volunteering and a near-death experience that permanently shifted his perspective on life, death, and purpose.You'll hear how Love's Reflection focuses on fast, meaningful, deeply personal acts of service, from granting final wishes to simply ensuring no one feels alone at the end of life. Brent also shares how a major partnership with Akron Children's Hospital is expanding the nonprofit's reach and why leadership grounded in compassion has reshaped his dealership culture, team morale, and long-term vision.This conversation goes beyond nonprofit work. It's about redefining success, building community when none exists, and understanding how one small act of kindness can impact everyone involved.

In this episode of the FWRD Podcast, Corey Smith sits down with Laurie Halter to discuss why authenticity and clear communication are essential to building trust, culture, and performance in automotive.Laurie explains how brand promises only work when they are consistently delivered at every customer touchpoint. From sales and service conversations to leadership communication, she shares why customers and employees quickly lose trust when words and actions do not align.The conversation explores how understanding emotional drivers helps teams communicate more effectively, improve loyalty, and strengthen internal culture. Corey and Laurie also discuss leadership language, personal brand alignment, and why authentic video and storytelling resonate more in today's digital landscape.They also touch on crisis communication and reputation management, highlighting the importance of transparency, accountability, and follow-through. The episode closes with a reminder that honest, human leadership builds stronger relationships and long-term success.

In this episode of the FWRD Podcast, Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui unpack one of the biggest transitions in fixed operations: moving from service advisor to service manager.Together, they break down what it means to step into leadership, highlighting the importance of shifting from individual performance to team success. The discussion covers key management skills like understanding and teaching metrics, maintaining shop balance, managing inventory, and forecasting effectively.The hosts also explore how to handle tough conversations, set healthy boundaries, and foster a positive team culture built on communication and accountability. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of leading by example and investing in professional development to keep growing as a manager.

In this episode, Matt Raymond, COO of Bowtie Solutions, joins Erick Jauregui to share how dealerships can modernize their service BDCs without sacrificing quality or breaking the budget. Matt explains why his team defines AI as “Actual Individuals,” and how the right balance of people and automation can transform a call center from a cost center into a profit driver.They discuss how customer expectations have evolved, why dealers need to track the right performance metrics, and how outsourcing can fill process gaps while keeping operations scalable. Matt also shares real results, including how one dealership captured 67 missed calls and turned 47 of them into appointments within two days.The conversation wraps with three simple takeaways: if you can't manage it, outsource it; know your numbers and compare results; and stay focused on what your team does best.

What if your dealership website worked like your best employee—always converting, engaging, and selling 24/7?In this episode, Russell Hill returns to the FWRD Podcast to share how Fixed Ops Marketing rebounded from a near acquisition to scale past 600 stores through digital innovation and smarter service strategies. Russell and host Corey Smith dive into:Why 30% of dealership website visitors come for service content—and often leave unsatisfiedThe “three-click rule” and how it impacts engagement and retentionThe growing role of AI in predictive maintenance and mobile serviceHow to reduce customer defection by improving digital transparencyWhy your website deserves the same attention as any employeeRussell also gives a glimpse into his personal journey—building a family compound, slowing down after decades in automotive, and redefining what success looks like after 40+ years in the industry.

In today's digital-first environment, your dealership's long-term success hinges on more than just what you sell — it depends on how you listen.On this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Eric Jauregui sit down with Jeane Reitelbach, a brand strategist with 27 years of marketing experience and over a decade in automotive retail, to unpack how the Voice of the Customer can shape your operations, leadership style, and even your Google rankings.Jeane shares dealership-tested strategies like:How AI and search engines are ranking your dealership based on review sentiment and responsivenessTurning one-star reviews into team-building moments with “lunch and learn” sessionsThe power of asking “Did this feel thoughtful and professional?” as a standard closing questionTracking CSAT, NPS, and market share down to the individual team memberHow professional platforms like LinkedIn influence brand perception — and recruitment — through AI sentimentIf you're a GM, Fixed Ops leader, or anyone focused on retention and reputation, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on using feedback as fuel for growth.

Most customers don't even know dealerships sell tires—and that's a major opportunity. In this episode of FWRD, Corey Smith sits down with Eddie Campbell, GM of Forest Lane CDJR, to break down how they became a top tire-selling store in the CDJR network.Eddie shares how their success came down to three key areas: consistent quoting, advisor certification, and embracing technology like video inspections and advanced tire scanning. You'll also hear why 78% of tire buyers go with the first person who asks, how advisor compensation and showroom displays build tire culture, and how social media can fuel awareness.If you're in fixed ops, sales leadership, or looking to increase service lane profitability—this episode is packed with tactical takeaways.

Mobile service is no longer just a future trend — it's actively reshaping how dealers deliver value, drive retention, and grow their fixed ops revenue. In this episode of FWRD, host Corey Smith welcomes Jeremy Stevens to unpack how mobile service is creating meaningful customer relationships, why dealerships need to go “all in” to make it work, and how to overcome operational hurdles.With over 800 perfect surveys and powerful real-world experience, Jeremy shares what success looks like when mobile techs are trusted, equipped, and empowered to bring the dealership experience straight to the customer's driveway.Whether you're considering launching mobile service or looking to optimize what you've already started, this episode gives you the strategic lens — and the firsthand proof — to get ahead.

With a 49% turnover rate among service advisors, today's fixed ops challenges go far beyond customer satisfaction — they begin with the employee experience.In this episode of FWRD, Corey Smith is joined by Chris Craig — industry trainer, content creator, and author of Becoming a Better Service Professional — to explore how dealership leaders can create stronger, more resilient teams.They dig into the real-world challenges facing service departments: from communication gaps between advisors and technicians, to broken survey practices, to retaining new techs through their first year. Chris also shares actionable ways leaders can create clarity around career growth, improve onboarding, and foster long-term loyalty.Whether you're a GM, fixed ops director, or someone committed to supporting your people, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how better leadership leads to better outcomes — for your team and your customers.

In today's market, attention is currency—and if your dealership isn't showing up online, you're missing the sale before it starts. In this episode of the FWRD Podcast, host Corey Smith sits down with Jordan Cox, a dealership video strategist with 11+ years of experience, to unpack the real strategies that top-performing rooftops are using to win on social.Jordan shares how dealerships of any size can create effective, scalable video content that boosts visibility, drives fixed ops engagement, and builds long-term customer trust—without a full-time video team or fancy production setup.Get actionable guidance on:Creating consistent short-form videos that cut through the noiseTurning your sales and service teams into on-camera brand advocatesShifting from promo-based content to authentic storytellingUsing CRM and social analytics to track ROI from your videosWhether you're a GM, service manager, or marketing lead, this episode gives you a clear, low-barrier blueprint for dealership video success in 2025 and beyond.

In this episode of the FWRD podcast, Christine Vinatieri-Erickson, President of the South Dakota Auto Dealers Association, joins hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui for a wide-ranging conversation on the challenges today's dealers face — and where real opportunities lie. From protecting franchise rights and solving the technician shortage to why EV adoption is lagging in rural markets, Christine shares practical insights every dealership can use. If you're focused on retention, recruiting, or staying ahead of industry shifts, this episode delivers real takeaways to help you strengthen your strategy and stay future-ready.

In Episode 102, Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Sean Reyes, Chief Marketing Officer at Recall Masters, to discuss the untapped opportunity in proactive recall outreach.Reyes shares insights from the 2024 State of Recalls report, highlighting that only 2.5% of recalls are resolved passively through OEM outreach. The episode explores how dealers can lead the way with accurate data, empathetic communication, and a customer-first service approach to improve recall compliance, re-engage lost customers, and drive revenue.Topics include:The impact of live agent outreach versus passive schedulingHow education, not upselling, leads to more customer pay workAligning sales and service to create long-term loyaltyRetention trends as customers keep vehicles longer than everThis is a must-listen for dealership leaders focused on maximizing service opportunities and creating better customer experiences.

On this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Gary Locicero, VP of our sister company Crystal Fusion Technologies, to talk about the science, strategy, and safety behind modern windshield protection.With over a decade at Crystal Fusion and a front-row seat to its growth under the APCO umbrella, Gary shares how a 10-minute product install is transforming visibility on the road and profitability in the dealership.From hydrophobic glass coatings and LED glare reduction to OEM-level warranties and cross-department profit potential, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to bring real value to the customer experience.

On this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Gary Locicero, VP of our sister company Crystal Fusion Technologies, to talk about the science, strategy, and safety behind modern windshield protection.With over a decade at Crystal Fusion and a front-row seat to its growth under the APCO umbrella, Gary shares how a 10-minute product install is transforming visibility on the road and profitability in the dealership.From hydrophobic glass coatings and LED glare reduction to OEM-level warranties and cross-department profit potential, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to bring real value to the customer experience.

In this episode of the FWRD Podcast, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui welcome Ron Overs, Publisher of Fixed Ops Magazine, for a dynamic conversation about the evolving world of fixed operations — and how smart collaboration across departments is key to long-term success.With over 20 years in the industry, Ron shares powerful insights on:How AI is enhancing efficiency in service and BDC departmentsMeeting today's customer expectations for speed, transparency, and personalizationThe power of culture, training, and storytelling in driving retentionHow fixed ops supports lasting customer relationships and repeat salesFrom advisor training to sales-service alignment, this episode offers practical strategies to elevate dealership operations and customer loyalty.Tune in for actionable insights and bold ideas to move your dealership forward.

In this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Brooke C. Furniss—founder of BZ Consultants Group and host of Facts Not Feelings—to explore modern dealer strategy from the inside out. The conversation dives into how service departments play a vital role in long-term customer retention, and why aligning sales and service budgets is crucial for dealership success.Brooke shares actionable insights on cross-training staff, implementing technology more effectively, and meeting today's car buyers' expectations for a seamless, digital-first experience. From improving internal communication to using video for better customer engagement, this episode is packed with strategic takeaways to elevate your dealer strategy.Key Topics Covered:​Smart budget allocation between service and sales​Cross-training to improve team collaboration​Enhancing the customer journey with digital tools​Building trust through transparent communicationTune in for practical tips and bold ideas to strengthen your dealership's operations and future-proof your dealer strategy.

In this episode of the FWRD Podcast, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui welcome Ron Overs, Publisher of Fixed Ops Magazine, for a dynamic conversation about the evolving world of fixed operations — and how smart collaboration across departments is key to long-term success.With over 20 years in the industry, Ron shares powerful insights on:How AI is enhancing efficiency in service and BDC departmentsMeeting today's customer expectations for speed, transparency, and personalizationThe power of culture, training, and storytelling in driving retentionHow fixed ops supports lasting customer relationships and repeat salesFrom advisor training to sales-service alignment, this episode offers practical strategies to elevate dealership operations and customer loyalty.Tune in for actionable insights and bold ideas to move your dealership forward.

In this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Brooke C. Furniss—founder of BZ Consultants Group and host of Facts Not Feelings—to explore modern dealer strategy from the inside out. The conversation dives into how service departments play a vital role in long-term customer retention, and why aligning sales and service budgets is crucial for dealership success.Brooke shares actionable insights on cross-training staff, implementing technology more effectively, and meeting today's car buyers' expectations for a seamless, digital-first experience. From improving internal communication to using video for better customer engagement, this episode is packed with strategic takeaways to elevate your dealer strategy.Key Topics Covered:​Smart budget allocation between service and sales​Cross-training to improve team collaboration​Enhancing the customer journey with digital tools​Building trust through transparent communicationTune in for practical tips and bold ideas to strengthen your dealership's operations and future-proof your dealer strategy.

In this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Shawn Armorer, a BDC consultant with over 24 years of automotive experience—from his early days as a car washer to his leadership in business development.The conversation covers key strategies for boosting fixed ops performance, adopting new technologies like video in service departments, and improving BDC practices to drive traffic and enhance the customer experience. Sean shares valuable insights on the power of emotional engagement, aligning BDC efforts with service goals, and the importance of continuous evolution in customer communication.If you're looking for practical ways to personalize customer interactions, strengthen your BDC, and build a supportive team culture—this episode is for you.Listen now for actionable takeaways and fresh ideas to elevate your dealership's service experience.

In this episode, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Robert Migliaccio of Valley CMA to discuss one of the automotive industry's biggest challenges: the fixed ops talent crisis. With over 25 years of experience and oversight of multiple CMA Value stores, Robert shares hard-earned wisdom and forward-thinking strategies for redefining the service advisor role, retaining top talent, and creating a workplace culture that attracts the next generation. From implementing ESOP-driven pay plans to emphasizing career development and work-life balance, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for dealership leaders looking to build stronger, more sustainable teams. They also touch on how technology and automation are shaping the future of service departments. Whether you're struggling with staffing or looking to elevate your service team, this is one conversation you don't want to miss. Tune in now and take the next step FWRD

In this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Shawn Armorer, a BDC consultant with over 24 years of automotive experience—from his early days as a car washer to his leadership in business development.The conversation covers key strategies for boosting fixed ops performance, adopting new technologies like video in service departments, and improving BDC practices to drive traffic and enhance the customer experience. Sean shares valuable insights on the power of emotional engagement, aligning BDC efforts with service goals, and the importance of continuous evolution in customer communication.If you're looking for practical ways to personalize customer interactions, strengthen your BDC, and build a supportive team culture—this episode is for you.Listen now for actionable takeaways and fresh ideas to elevate your dealership's service experience.

In this episode, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Robert Migliaccio of Valley CMA to discuss one of the automotive industry's biggest challenges: the fixed ops talent crisis. With over 25 years of experience and oversight of multiple CMA Value stores, Robert shares hard-earned wisdom and forward-thinking strategies for redefining the service advisor role, retaining top talent, and creating a workplace culture that attracts the next generation.From implementing ESOP-driven pay plans to emphasizing career development and work-life balance, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for dealership leaders looking to build stronger, more sustainable teams. They also touch on how technology and automation are shaping the future of service departments.Whether you're struggling with staffing or looking to elevate your service team, this is one conversation you don't want to miss.Tune in now and take the next step FWRD

Lights, Camera, Action! In this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui are joined by Joe Shaker, founder of TruVideo, to explore the power of video communication in automotive service departments. They dive into how video communication can increase revenue, improve customer trust, and boost satisfaction. Joe shares how personalized videos are enhancing customer engagement and sales processes, while exciting new technologies like augmented reality are on the horizon. Tune in to learn actionable strategies for integrating video communication into your dealership and driving success in your service department!

Customer retention is more critical than ever in the automotive industry. In the latest episode of FWRD, host Corey Smith and co-host Eric Jauregui, alongside guest Jacob Zachs, CEO of Fasten, break down winning strategies to boost retention and customer loyalty. They explore key topics like dealership pricing perceptions, the power of personalized ads, and how gamification and reward programs—similar to those in airlines and hotels—can drive long-term engagement.Learn how to build trust, enhance transparency, and maximize retention for your dealership. Tune in now!

In this episode, we sit down with Kate Beirowski to dive into the evolving landscape of customer experience in automotive retail and service. From the power of video engagement to the changing expectations of today's consumers, we break down what truly drives loyalty and trust at the dealership level.Key takeaways include:Transparency & education in vehicle repairs—why customers demand itBalancing technology & human interaction in fixed ops for a seamless service experienceActionable strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and retentionKate shares her perspective, offering valuable insights into leadership, industry challenges, and the future of customer-centric dealerships. Plus, don't miss the behind-the-scenes collaboration as we connect industry pros and future guests!

In this FWRD Podcast episode, Corey Smith interviews Alec Ruffini from Fowler Automotive Group to discuss essential automotive management strategies. Alec reveals how to build strong automotive teams through effective communication, knowledge-sharing, and conflict resolution. He emphasizes the importance of managers being accessible to technicians, fostering a culture of accountability, and implementing continuous training and digital tools. Learn how embracing new technologies and improving interdepartmental communication can keep your automotive business competitive. Tune in for expert insights on successful team management in the automotive industry.

In this episode of FWRD Podcast, Corey Smith sits down with Roger Gutierrez, Fixed Operations Director at Biggers Auto Group, to break down what it takes to lead a top-performing service team in 2025. Roger shares game-changing insights on leadership consistency, effective communication, and leveraging technology for stronger customer interactions and team collaboration. Learn how to improve team engagement, streamline onboarding, and use cross-training for a more adaptable workforce. Plus, discover why performance metrics, emotional intelligence, and a clear vision are critical for success in the evolving auto industry. Don't miss these actionable strategies to elevate your service department!

In this Forward episode, Corey Smith chats with Ryan Maher, CEO of BizzyCar, about the company's rapid growth, innovative mobile technician app, and the future of mobile car services in dealerships. Ryan shares insights on customer satisfaction, operational benefits, and overcoming challenges like securing executive buy-in.

In this inspiring episode of Forward, host Corey Smith sits down with Arnold Gacita, President of Petra Automotive Products, to discuss how Petra Cares is transforming the lives of at-risk youth. Arnold shares heartfelt stories of young adults overcoming adversity through Petra Cares' innovative training and mentorship programs while exploring the unique synergy between Petra and EasyCare in delivering value to dealerships and communities. Dive into the details of this strategic partnership, hear success stories that will move you, and learn how Petra and EasyCare are aligned in values to create meaningful change. From improving dealership operations to fostering hope for disadvantaged youth, this episode captures the power of purpose-driven business.

In this episode of FWRD, Corey Smith speaks with Kaylee Felio from PartsEdge to explore the hidden powerhouse of automotive sales: parts departments. They dive into inventory challenges, OEM vs. aftermarket strategies, and share actionable tips and industry insights you won't want to miss. Plus, hear Kaylee's bold plan to revolutionize your inventory health!

In this episode of the FWRD Podcast, host Corey Smith chats with Randy Kobat from Repair on Demand about key trends shaping the used car and parts market. With over 25 years of expertise, Kobat shares insights on innovative reconditioning solutions, the impact of rising interest rates on pricing, and the growing demand for SUVs and trucks. The discussion also dives into future challenges, including EV battery evaluations and safety equipment calibration, offering a must-hear perspective on the evolving automotive landscape. This one's a can't miss - listen now!

In this episode, host Corey Smith chats with cybersecurity expert Kenneth Knapp about critical aspects of modern cyber defense. Drawing from his 20-year Air Force background, Knapp outlines major threats like ransomware, phishing, and natural disasters, while emphasizing their potential impacts on businesses. He stresses the importance of employee training, comprehensive response plans, and staying current with emerging threats and regulations. Listen now to learn more.

In this episode, host Corey Smith chats with Nick Askew all about AI and what it means for the F&I industry. Tune in now!

In this episode, host Corey Smith and guest David Malone discuss evolving employee and customer experiences. They emphasize work-life balance, transparency, and empowerment for employees. For customers, Malone highlights real-time alerts, proactive communication, and multi-channel feedback. He advises focusing on genuine achievements and addressing customer needs to enhance satisfaction in the automotive industry. Tune in now!

In this episode, host Corey Smith chats with Don Andres, owner of Auto SCT Consulting and Training. They discuss challenges in auto service departments and share insights on managing chaos and improving efficiency. You'll also learn strategies for service managers and advisors to reduce stress, increase retention, and boost overall performance in busy service drives. Listen now!

In this episode, Corey Smith and Jim Roche explore how electric vehicles are reshaping service operations. They stress the importance of adapting to new servicing requirements, investing in training for service teams, and modifying facilities to meet EV needs. Tune in now!

Host Corey Smith sits down with guest Earl Sticks Brown to dive into the crucial connection between customer experience and profitability. Learn how focusing on your customers can drive business success. Tune in now!

In this episode, Corey chats with Justin Silver from Modives all about streamlining operations in dealerships to enhance customer experiences. Their conversation also addresses compliance challenges associated with verifying insurance information.

In this episode, host Corey Smith and Joshua Turner talk all about work-life balance, mindfulness, and mental health in the automotive industry. Joshua offers practical tips like the four-eight breathing technique and emphasizes the importance of consistent communication within businesses.

You won't want to miss Corey Smith and guest Jason Harris talk all about customer loyalty. Jason discusses his experience in the automotive industry and how customer loyalty has evolved with digital transformation. He mentions the importance of communication tools like email and live chat in building relationships with customers. Jason emphasizes that personalization is crucial for fostering loyalty and suggests optimizing marketing strategies to make customers feel known. Tune into more episodes of FWRD: An EasyCare Podcast for the latest insight in the industry with experts in the field!

Corey Smith and Kumar Kathinokkula engage in a discussion on the future of AI in the automotive industry, focusing on its impact on customer service, dealership operations, and F&I products. Kumar provides insights on current implementations of AI like chatbots for customer interactions and predicts a transformative shift towards automation in dealerships over the next decade. You won't want to miss them discuss the potential for tailored F&I products using real-time risk analysis and predict changes in dealership operations with fully automated showrooms and virtual customer interactions powered by AI. Tune into more episodes of FWRD: An EasyCare Podcast for the latest insight in the industry with experts in the field!

In this enlightening episode of the Fixed Ops 5 podcast, host Corey Smith is joined by Jerry Davis, a seasoned professional in the automotive service industry, to explore the critical intersection of mental health and workplace performance. The conversation dives deep into the nuances of advocating for mental health awareness and self-care within high-pressure environments.**Chapter Breakdown:**- **Chapter 1: Preparation for Podcast Recording** (00:29 - 12:24)  Jerry sets the stage with his readiness for an in-depth discussion, while Corey expresses gratitude for his participation, setting a tone of mutual respect and anticipation.- **Chapter 2: Understanding Mental Health Impact** (13:38 - 20:24)  The dialogue focuses on mental acuity's role in aiding others, with Jerry emphasizing the necessity of recognizing personal triggers and the power of strategic breaks.- **Chapter 3: Recognizing Signs of Mental Health Strain** (18:32 - 20:24)  Insights into identifying mental health strain through indicators like body language and team engagement are discussed, highlighting the importance of active listening.- **Chapter 4: Managing Stress and Preventing Burnout** (25:47 - 30:32)  Conversations pivot to proactive stress management techniques, the significance of self-improvement resources, and the role of recognition in mitigating burnout.- **Chapter 5: Personal Experiences and Future Trends** (31:34 - 39:26)  Jerry shares poignant personal experiences, reflecting on the evolving dialogue surrounding mental health in the industry and its profound personal and professional impacts.- **Chapter 6: Key Takeaways and Closing** (40:06 - 42:28)  The episode concludes with Jerry offering three key takeaways: the importance of creating a safe space, developing self-awareness, and fostering open communication within teams.**Core Insights:**- **Mental Health Strategies for Service Professionals:** Delve into how mental health directly influences performance and well-being, especially under the pressures inherent to service roles.- **Proactive Measures & Tools:** Explore actionable steps like regular mental health check-ins and utilizing tools such as DISC assessments for better understanding personal and team dynamics.- **Future of Mental Health in the Workplace:** Unpack the significance of integrating mental health considerations into hiring processes and the broader industry dialogue.Join us for this vital conversation that not only sheds light on the often-overlooked aspects of mental health in the workplace but also provides practical advice and real-world experiences aimed at fostering healthier, more productive professional environments.

**Show Notes: "Electrifying the Future: The Impact of EVs on Automotive Service Departments"** In this electrifying episode of the Fixed Ops 5 Podcast, your host Corey Smith, alongside guest expert Andres Pinter, dives deep into the electric vehicle (EV) revolution and its significant impact on automotive service departments. Prepare to charge up your knowledge as we explore everything from the basics of EV charging solutions to the future-proofing of service departments in the face of EV adoption. **Timestamps & Topics:** - **[00:00-08:17] Introduction and Background:** Corey Smith welcomes listeners and introduces Andres Pinter, who shares his journey from investment banking to leading the charge in commercial EV charger installations with Bullet EV Charging Solutions. - **[08:18-14:42] Preparing for the Podcast:** A behind-the-scenes look at the episode's preparation, discussing the podcast's format, expected length, and the conversational tone aimed at geeking out over EV technologies. - **[14:43-25:17] EV Technology and its Impact:** The conversation shifts to the nitty-gritty of EVs - from the simplicity of their drivetrains to the complex challenges of inventory and geographic disparities in adoption. Discover how EVs are reshaping customer expectations and dealership operations. - **[25:18-29:16] Future-Proofing and Training:** Andres emphasizes the critical need for dealerships to adapt by investing in EV charging infrastructure and training staff for EV repairs, ensuring they are prepared for the electric future. - **[29:17-37:57] Lightning Round - Main Takeaways:** A rapid-fire session where Andres distills the episode's insights into three actionable takeaways for service departments: embracing EV technology, prioritizing customer experience, and staying ahead with training and infrastructure. - **[37:58-41:01] Closing Remarks and Contact Information:** Corey wraps up the episode with a thank you to Andres and shares how listeners can connect for more information or follow up on the discussion. **Key Insights:** - **Adapting to EVs:** It's not just about installing chargers; it's about understanding the broader implications of EVs on service departments, from the types of repairs to customer service strategies. - **The Importance of Training:** With EVs requiring less maintenance but more specialized repairs, training becomes paramount to ensure service departments remain competitive and profitable. - **Looking Ahead:** Anticipating future needs, from bi-directional charging to in-road charging technologies, can position dealerships as leaders in the EV transition.   **Closing Thoughts:** This episode serves as a crucial conversation starter for automotive service departments navigating the shift towards electric vehicles. Corey and Andres's discussion sheds light on the challenges and opportunities presented by this transition, emphasizing the need for proactive adaptation and training. Stay tuned for future episodes where we will continue to explore the evolving landscape of the automotive industry.

The transcript is a conversation between Corey Smith, Eric Jauregui, and Jeremiah Shelton about leadership and effective management strategies in the fixed operations industry. They discuss the importance of aligning goals with your team, leading by example, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, tracking progress using data, and focusing on outcomes. They also emphasize the significance of accountability and how education and professional development programs can help individuals develop necessary skills. Challenges mentioned include maintaining a positive mindset and overcoming self-doubt. ● Businesses faced uncertainty and fear during a shutdown, but one industry had a surprisingly successful year. ● Overcoming challenges as a leader involves maintaining a positive mindset and finding inspiration through videos or quotes. ● Successful leaders possess qualities such as humility, gratitude, belief in possibilities, and the ability to learn from others. ● The speaker provides their contact information for further communication. They emphasize the importance of delivering exceptional customer service to encourage repeat business and referrals. They offer tools, knowledge, and training to help dealerships improve their customer service and increase revenue. The transcript concludes with gratitude towards the guests and a request for them to return in the future. Action items: Eric: ● Stay humble. ● Remain a student. ● Listen to motivational videos or podcasts. Jeremiah: ● Invest in your people. ● Be humble. ● Start at the end and focus on what you want to accomplish. ● Both Eric and Jeremiah: ● Provide professional development programs and training for individuals and teams. ● Embrace failure as a learning opportunity. ● Track progress and use data to evaluate the effectiveness of strategies. ● Develop a vision and set goals for the team. ● Create a culture of accountability.