https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/enBusinessCopyright Babcox Mediahttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/4cf9e86e8ff15cf58451710ea7e5eff1.jpghttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/Thu, 09 Jul 2026 19:13:47 +0000Babcox MediaBabcox Mediapodcasts@babcox.comThe AMN Drivetime podcast will entertain and educate listeners, conversing with today’s top aftermarket drivers and industry leaders who are having an impact on the automotive aftermarket industry. This bi-monthly podcast offers candid, one-on-one...falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-92-premium-guard-ceo-anan-bishara-on-best-in-class-solutions--72896726
Following Premium Guard's acquisition of key intellectual property and related assets from First Brands Group, Bishara said the company's strategy for revitalizing legacy brands—including Autolite, FRAM, TRICO, ANCO, LuberFiner and StrongArm—was built around three priorities: people, intellectual property and physical assets.

He said PGI began recruiting key engineering, sales and product management talent months before the acquisition closed, ensuring the company had the expertise in place to successfully integrate and grow the brands]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72896726Thu, 09 Jul 2026 19:10:10 +0000Babcox MediaThis episode of DriveTime features Anan Bishara, founder & CEO, Premium Guard, Inc. Following Premium Guard's acquisition of key intellectual property and related assets from First Brands Group, Bishara said the company's strategy for...
Following Premium Guard's acquisition of key intellectual property and related assets from First Brands Group, Bishara said the company's strategy for revitalizing legacy brands—including Autolite, FRAM, TRICO, ANCO, LuberFiner and StrongArm—was built around three priorities: people, intellectual property and physical assets.

He said PGI began recruiting key engineering, sales and product management talent months before the acquisition closed, ensuring the company had the expertise in place to successfully integrate and grow the brands]]>1566drivetime,pgifalse92fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-91-gates-americas-president-tom-pitstick-on-being-driven-by-possibility--71979787https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71979787Tue, 12 May 2026 18:20:25 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Tom Pitstick, president, Americas, Gates Corporation talks about the company’s “Driven by Possibility” motto that influences not only his leadership approach and strategic direction with the aftermarket, but also how his...1296amndrivetime,gatesfalse91fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-90-forvia-hella-president-and-managing-director-mike-dewitt-on-zero-failures-benchmark--71911890https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71911890Thu, 07 May 2026 19:56:50 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Mike DeWitt, president and managing director, FORVIA HELLA, explains that the combination of HELLA with Faurecia under the FORVIA umbrella represents a strategic evolution that brings together two highly regarded Tier 1...720amn,drivetime,forvia,hellafalse90fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-89-d-a-lubricant-company-evp-john-noal-on-synthetic-supply-constraints--71876136https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71876136Tue, 05 May 2026 13:43:46 +0000Babcox MediaD-A Lubricant’s John Noal discusses synthetic shortages, rising costs and how supply chain issues are impacting service and inventory decisions.955amn,d-a,drivetime,lubricantsfalse89fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-88-mema-aftermarket-suppliers-president-emily-poladian-on-driving-value--71855294
On Right-to-Repair legislation, Poladian is seeing stronger momentum than at any point in recent years, though outcomes remain uncertain given competing priorities in Congress. She emphasizes that the issue ultimately centers on consumer choice and affordability. Poladian notes that meaningful progress will require alignment across the aftermarket ecosystem—including suppliers, distributors, retailers and repair shops—to present a unified voice and find a common ground.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71855294Mon, 04 May 2026 13:27:59 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Emily Poladian, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, talks about her admiration for the aftermarket after a successful 27-year career at Bridgestone where she led two different business units. Despite its size and...
On Right-to-Repair legislation, Poladian is seeing stronger momentum than at any point in recent years, though outcomes remain uncertain given competing priorities in Congress. She emphasizes that the issue ultimately centers on consumer choice and affordability. Poladian notes that meaningful progress will require alignment across the aftermarket ecosystem—including suppliers, distributors, retailers and repair shops—to present a unified voice and find a common ground.]]>1439amn,drivetime,memafalse88fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-87-mpa-vp-of-sales-ron-aparicio-on-honoring-the-sales-cycle--71744575DriveTime, Ron Aparicio, vice president of sales, Motorcar Parts of America (MPA) discusses how the company is reinforcing its position in the aftermarket by focusing on relationship-driven sales, customer alignment and product quality rooted in both new and remanufactured offerings. He said success in today’s environment depends on “honoring the sales cycle,” meaning respecting customers’ time, understanding their business pressures and bringing meaningful solutions rather than simply pushing products.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71744575Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:26:47 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Ron Aparicio, vice president of sales, Motorcar Parts of America (MPA) discusses how the company is reinforcing its position in the aftermarket by focusing on...DriveTime, Ron Aparicio, vice president of sales, Motorcar Parts of America (MPA) discusses how the company is reinforcing its position in the aftermarket by focusing on relationship-driven sales, customer alignment and product quality rooted in both new and remanufactured offerings. He said success in today’s environment depends on “honoring the sales cycle,” meaning respecting customers’ time, understanding their business pressures and bringing meaningful solutions rather than simply pushing products.]]>536amndrivetime,mpafalse87fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-86-ntn-bearing-corp-president-and-ceo-tom-mohrdieck-on-premium-brands--71706863https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71706863Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:20:32 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Tom Mohrdieck, president and CEO, NTN Bearing Corporation of America, discusses how the company is leveraging the OEM pedigree it built over 108 years in OEM and industrial markets, according to Tom Mohrdieck. He said the...783amn,drivetime,ntnfalse86fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-85-schwartz-advisors-co-founder-and-ceo-rick-schwartz-on-the-next-wave-of-vio-growth--71678425
Schwartz said simply citing a U.S. parc nearing 290 million vehicles can be misleading without understanding the mix of internal combustion vehicles, hybrids, EVs and eventually autonomous vehicles. While total VIO growth remains modest, the average age of vehicles continues to climb, supporting aftermarket demand. With projections extending to 2050, the report is intended to help executives and investors plan for long-term structural change.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71678425Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:01:51 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Rick Schwartz, Co-Founder and CEO, Schwartz Advisors, talks about Schwartz Advisors’ new VIO forecast report, the SA Mobility Aftermarket Report, is designed to give the industry a clearer picture of where the vehicle...
Schwartz said simply citing a U.S. parc nearing 290 million vehicles can be misleading without understanding the mix of internal combustion vehicles, hybrids, EVs and eventually autonomous vehicles. While total VIO growth remains modest, the average age of vehicles continues to climb, supporting aftermarket demand. With projections extending to 2050, the report is intended to help executives and investors plan for long-term structural change.]]>1312amndrivetime,schwartzadvisorsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-84-nexus-robert-roos-and-thierry-mugnier-on-global-collaboration--71678407
The event brought together hundreds of leaders from around the world, including a larger-than-usual North American presence, allowing distributors and manufacturers to build relationships, compare market challenges and prepare for the future of vehicle service.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71678407Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:59:24 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Robert Roos, president and CEO of the Pronto Network, as well as president of NEXUS North America, and Thierry Mugnier, the co-founder and chief finance and innovation officer at Nexus Automotive International, discuss...
The event brought together hundreds of leaders from around the world, including a larger-than-usual North American presence, allowing distributors and manufacturers to build relationships, compare market challenges and prepare for the future of vehicle service.]]>1258amndrivetime,nexusfalse84fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-83-advance-auto-parts-president-ceo-shane-o-kelly-on-saying-yes-to-customers--71567162Advance Auto Parts President & CEO Shane O'Kelly on Saying 'Yes' to Customers

In this episode of DriveTime, Shane O’Kelly, president and CEO of Advance Auto Parts, discusses how the company's blended box strategy remains central to the company’s direction, serving both professional installers and DIY customers. He said the model is built around three pillars: right parts, right place and right service. The top customer question, he noted, is whether the needed part is in stock, followed by how quickly it can be delivered. Price often becomes secondary to availability and speed.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71567162Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:51:07 +0000Babcox MediaAdvance Auto Parts President & CEO Shane O'Kelly on Saying 'Yes' to Customers In this episode of DriveTime, Shane O’Kelly, president and CEO of Advance Auto Parts, discusses how the company's blended box strategy remains central to the company’s...Advance Auto Parts President & CEO Shane O'Kelly on Saying 'Yes' to Customers

In this episode of DriveTime, Shane O’Kelly, president and CEO of Advance Auto Parts, discusses how the company's blended box strategy remains central to the company’s direction, serving both professional installers and DIY customers. He said the model is built around three pillars: right parts, right place and right service. The top customer question, he noted, is whether the needed part is in stock, followed by how quickly it can be delivered. Price often becomes secondary to availability and speed.]]>2648advance,amndrivetimefalse83fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-82-u-s-senator-bernie-moreno-addresses-right-to-repair-and-first-brands-fallout--70720159https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70720159Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:18:01 +0000Babcox MediaSen. Bernie Moreno, a native of Colombia, and former owner of 15 Mercedes-Benz dealerships, shared his thoughts on the importance of Right to Repair legislation to the automotive aftermarket and how the REPAIR Act (H.R. 1566) could gain more traction....1208amndrivetime,berniemoreno,senatorfalse82fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-81-yang-chair-tanya-hunt-on-being-an-aftermarket-ambassador--70689539https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70689539Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:24:59 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Tanya Hunt, YANG Chair and Commercial Project Manager, TERREPOWER, discussed the features and benefits of Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG) membership. She highlighted how YANG continues to expand networking and...647amn,drivetime,terrepower,yangfalse81fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-80-aacf-executive-director-john-kairys-on-taking-care-of-our-own--70108522DriveTime, John Kairys, executive director, Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation, talks about the AACF’s origin, reach and significance in the automotive aftermarket.

Kairys emphasizes that while the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has evolved significantly since its founding in 1959, its mission remains unchanged: helping industry members facing financial hardship. What began as a small effort to support widows of aftermarket professionals has grown into a structured, well-funded organization serving individuals and families impacted by illness, accidents, death or natural disasters.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70108522Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:34:57 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, John Kairys, executive director, Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation, talks about the AACF’s origin, reach and significance in the automotive...DriveTime, John Kairys, executive director, Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation, talks about the AACF’s origin, reach and significance in the automotive aftermarket.

Kairys emphasizes that while the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has evolved significantly since its founding in 1959, its mission remains unchanged: helping industry members facing financial hardship. What began as a small effort to support widows of aftermarket professionals has grown into a structured, well-funded organization serving individuals and families impacted by illness, accidents, death or natural disasters.]]>1760aacf,amn,drivetimefalse80fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-79-mann-hummel-filtration-director-of-sales-jeff-blocher-on-grabbing-mindshare--68964936Blocher also discussed how the company prioritizes education in the field to ensure customers choose and install the right filters for every application. He referenced the important interaction between the counter professional and the technician; the most important link in the chain of distribution many would agree.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68964936Tue, 09 Dec 2025 19:38:42 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Jeff Blocher, Director of Sales, Traditional Aftermarket, MANN+HUMMEL Filtration, talked about MANN+HUMMEL’s brand lineup (MANN, WIX and Purolator) and the unique brand strengths that differentiate the company’s products...Blocher also discussed how the company prioritizes education in the field to ensure customers choose and install the right filters for every application. He referenced the important interaction between the counter professional and the technician; the most important link in the chain of distribution many would agree.]]>1136amndrivetime,mann+hummelfalse78fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-78-driv-vp-and-gm-of-us-canada-joseph-saoud-on-setting-expectations--68835923It starts with a great team — and how you lead them, how you set the right expectations, how you put the right people in the right role and how you track performance, Saoud explained.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68835923Tue, 02 Dec 2025 18:51:55 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Joseph Saoud, VP and GM of US, Canada at DRiV discussed the principles he believes are most essential to driving growth and delivering exceptional service for DRiV customers. It starts with a great team — and how you lead...It starts with a great team — and how you lead them, how you set the right expectations, how you put the right people in the right role and how you track performance, Saoud explained.]]>1196amn,driv,drivetimefalse78fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-77-morgan-stanley-managing-director-simeon-gutman-on-the-big-getting-bigger--68556968
He also highlights where pricing has already landed, what’s still coming, and why failure-driven categories remain resilient even as discretionary spending shows early signs of softening.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68556968Thu, 13 Nov 2025 19:15:12 +0000Babcox MediaMorgan Stanley Managing Director Simeon Gutman breaks down the real forces shaping today’s automotive aftermarket—from tariff uncertainty and pricing pressure to shifting consumer behavior and the accelerating “big getting bigger” trend. Gutman...
He also highlights where pricing has already landed, what’s still coming, and why failure-driven categories remain resilient even as discretionary spending shows early signs of softening.]]>1756drivetime,morganstanleyfalse77fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-76-sema-pri-ceo-mike-spagnola-on-giving-back--67900491
“We offer a scholarship program for students. I’m really passionate about that. My ability to come through the automotive network really affords me the opportunity to give back now in so many ways.”]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67900491Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:09:58 +0000Babcox MediaMike Spagnola is passionate about ensuring that SEMA gives back to the community by helping bring the next generation of students successfully into the industry. One way is through the SEMA scholarship program that it gives out hundreds of thousands...
“We offer a scholarship program for students. I’m really passionate about that. My ability to come through the automotive network really affords me the opportunity to give back now in so many ways.”]]>1626false76fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-75-ase-president-and-ceo-dave-johnson-on-growing-your-own--67471208
ASE will be restructuring its certifications to better align with where the industry’s going, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) and ADAS categories.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67471208Tue, 02 Sep 2025 11:00:08 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Dave Johnson, president and CEO, ASE discusses how ASE is adapting its certification programs to keep pace with technological advancements in vehicle systems. ASE will be restructuring its certifications to better align...
ASE will be restructuring its certifications to better align with where the industry’s going, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) and ADAS categories.]]>2101ase,certification,drivetimefalse75fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-74-j-b-weld-chairman-and-ceo-chip-hanson-on-answering-market-demand--66931329https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66931329Mon, 04 Aug 2025 11:00:07 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Chip Hanson, Chairman and CEO of J-B Weld Company, discusses the wide appeal of the company’s line of J-B Weld adhesives. Hanson explains how the company is preparing to launch a new adhesives for professionals to meet...1134amn,drivetime,j-bweldfalse74fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-73-stefan-feder-head-of-automotive-aftermarket-north-america-continental-sector-automotive--66840605DriveTime, Stefan Feder discusses Continental Automotive’s new independent company, now called AUMOVIO. He leads the Automotive Aftermarket, North America, for Continental.

Feder explains what the AUMOVIO Continental Spinoff means for the company’s brands and the customers it serves. He believes the automotive industry is undergoing a huge transformation.

“There are a lot of big mega trends which are tackled in this automotive sector, and therefore the company feels that we are much better off independently as a very focused sector on our own because Continental as a whole is covering many different industries,” explained Feder. “Being independent makes us faster and more agile to react to these changes.” ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66840605Mon, 07 Jul 2025 11:30:08 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Stefan Feder discusses Continental Automotive’s new independent company, now called AUMOVIO. He leads the Automotive Aftermarket, North America, for Continental....DriveTime, Stefan Feder discusses Continental Automotive’s new independent company, now called AUMOVIO. He leads the Automotive Aftermarket, North America, for Continental.

Feder explains what the AUMOVIO Continental Spinoff means for the company’s brands and the customers it serves. He believes the automotive industry is undergoing a huge transformation.

“There are a lot of big mega trends which are tackled in this automotive sector, and therefore the company feels that we are much better off independently as a very focused sector on our own because Continental as a whole is covering many different industries,” explained Feder. “Being independent makes us faster and more agile to react to these changes.” ]]>1316aumovio,continentalfalse73fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-72-napa-chief-people-officer-cassie-bell-on-leveraging-collaboration--66313206
Looking ahead to 2027, Bell said the industry lacks about 800,000 techs. “So, if you want perspective that’s about the size of Atlanta and if we think about the population there,” Bell said.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66313206Wed, 28 May 2025 13:57:11 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Cassie Bell, chief people officer at NAPA, discusses the automotive technician shortage. She explains how big of a gap she predicts over the next few years. Looking ahead to 2027, Bell said the industry lacks about...
Looking ahead to 2027, Bell said the industry lacks about 800,000 techs. “So, if you want perspective that’s about the size of Atlanta and if we think about the population there,” Bell said.]]>685false72fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-71-napa-director-of-auto-care-programs-matt-crumpton-on-xr-training--66119534
Crumpton pointed to ADAS as one of the most exciting emerging technologies. “It’s also the fastest growing, even over EVs, because of the amount of saturation in vehicles. It is very lucrative,” he said. According to Crumpton, many NAPA Auto Care centers have invested in ADAS. These centers reported an extremely quick ROI. “We even have one of our former council members that it’s now 20% of his business,” Crumpton said.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66119534Fri, 16 May 2025 14:44:42 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Matt Crumpton discusses his work with 18,000+ NAPA Auto Care centers across the U.S. He serves as director of auto care programs at NAPA Auto Parts. He highlights the most urgent training needs, including ADAS Training...
Crumpton pointed to ADAS as one of the most exciting emerging technologies. “It’s also the fastest growing, even over EVs, because of the amount of saturation in vehicles. It is very lucrative,” he said. According to Crumpton, many NAPA Auto Care centers have invested in ADAS. These centers reported an extremely quick ROI. “We even have one of our former council members that it’s now 20% of his business,” Crumpton said.]]>978napa,training,xrfalse71fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-70-napa-senior-director-of-marketing-emily-schneider-on-getting-back-to-our-roots--66102346
NAPA defines the professional technician as its core customer—the person who throws away the NAPA box every day. This focus on B2B customers sparked a strategy to return to NAPA’s roots with a fresh take on its iconic “NAPA Know How/The Pros That Know” tagline.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66102346Thu, 15 May 2025 15:37:47 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Emily Schneider, senior director of marketing at NAPA Auto Parts, discusses the NAPA Know How Campaign. She also talks about the company's emphasis on B2B customers and its 100th anniversary celebrations this year. NAPA...
NAPA defines the professional technician as its core customer—the person who throws away the NAPA box every day. This focus on B2B customers sparked a strategy to return to NAPA’s roots with a fresh take on its iconic “NAPA Know How/The Pros That Know” tagline.]]>752marketing,napafalse70fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-69-na-williams-president-and-ceo-chris-williams-on-being-best-in-class--66059504
Williams explains what companies must do to stay relevant, engaging and profitable in the current landscape. According to Williams, companies must adapt and focus on basic strategies to reach and stay in front of consumers.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66059504Mon, 12 May 2025 19:52:26 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Chris Williams shares insights on the value of Automotive Aftermarket Brands and their importance in today’s industry. He is the President and CEO of NA Williams, a 4th-generation, family-owned business. Williams...
Williams explains what companies must do to stay relevant, engaging and profitable in the current landscape. According to Williams, companies must adapt and focus on basic strategies to reach and stay in front of consumers.]]>1843amn,drivetime,nawilliamsfalse69fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-68-napa-svp-of-product-marketing-danny-huffaker-on-disrupting-the-market--66021171
“The Carlyle Tool program has been around for a while, but we realized that it was time to really innovate and disrupt the market with this, for lots of reasons,” Huffaker said.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66021171Fri, 09 May 2025 20:17:04 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Danny Huffaker discusses the Carlyle Tools Reimagined campaign and the brand’s bold new direction. He is the SVP of Product & Marketing at NAPA Auto Parts. He talks about how the Carlyle Tool brand is being...
“The Carlyle Tool program has been around for a while, but we realized that it was time to really innovate and disrupt the market with this, for lots of reasons,” Huffaker said.]]>1212carlyle,napa,toolsfalse68fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-67-wells-vp-sales-and-marketing-david-stewart-on-building-brand-awareness--65998992
Reintroducing a Legacy Brand
Stewart said his passion has been to bring the Wells Vehicle Electronics brand to the forefront for technicians and distributors. Some of younger generation may not be familiar with the legacy of the 122-year-old company, he noted. This legacy is what will drive the company forward for years to come, he added.

Driving Brand Awareness Through People
“I think the biggest selling proposition is that you have the right people. We have an amazing team. The sales team is out there driving that, getting in front of the customers, the technicians, bringing that brand awareness back out there.”

Building a Stronger Sales Force
One of Stewart’s goals when he joined Wells two years ago was to deliver professional-grade products and superior service to customers. The first step was to understand and identify the team that was already in place, and then grow and expand it to a much stronger salesforce. The focus was on the team to make sure they had the right assets in the field to go out and drive that relationship with their customers, Stewart said.

To hear more about Stewart’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Wells Vehicle Electronics’ new branding initiative (3:40).
• Delivering professional-grade products and superior service to customers at every level (5:56).
• Most opportunity for Wells’ products with emerging technologies (7:01).
• Outlook for Wells and the aftermarket this year (10:26).
• Lightning Round (12:50).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65998992Thu, 08 May 2025 13:58:37 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, David Stewart, VP Sales and Marketing, Wells Vehicle Electronics, talks about the company's new branding initiative, and how he plans to re-introduce Wells to the aftermarket. Reintroducing a Legacy Brand Stewart said...
Reintroducing a Legacy Brand
Stewart said his passion has been to bring the Wells Vehicle Electronics brand to the forefront for technicians and distributors. Some of younger generation may not be familiar with the legacy of the 122-year-old company, he noted. This legacy is what will drive the company forward for years to come, he added.

Driving Brand Awareness Through People
“I think the biggest selling proposition is that you have the right people. We have an amazing team. The sales team is out there driving that, getting in front of the customers, the technicians, bringing that brand awareness back out there.”

Building a Stronger Sales Force
One of Stewart’s goals when he joined Wells two years ago was to deliver professional-grade products and superior service to customers. The first step was to understand and identify the team that was already in place, and then grow and expand it to a much stronger salesforce. The focus was on the team to make sure they had the right assets in the field to go out and drive that relationship with their customers, Stewart said.

To hear more about Stewart’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Wells Vehicle Electronics’ new branding initiative (3:40).
• Delivering professional-grade products and superior service to customers at every level (5:56).
• Most opportunity for Wells’ products with emerging technologies (7:01).
• Outlook for Wells and the aftermarket this year (10:26).
• Lightning Round (12:50).]]>1037drivetime,wellsfalse67fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-66-napa-auto-parts-vp-of-auto-care-jason-rainey-on-quality-over-quantity--65944701
Rainey described the NAPA NOW event as an educational experience. “So, the thing that I really have liked about this event is it’s truly something you just have to experience. I’ve never seen anything like it in my entire career,” Rainey said. Attendees spend time engaging directly with NAPA’s products, learning about features and benefits. These features and benefits, Rainey added, “truly makes NAPA a differentiated distributor.”

Hands-On Learning and Business Development Opportunities
Attendees also focus on the business side of running their shops. They attend Master classes that cover topics like company culture and succession planning. Attendees meet with the NAPA Auto Care Advisory Council to learn how it supports them. They also observe the council’s ongoing work and interact with NAPA vendor partners. Attendees receive full access to these vendor partners throughout the event.

How NAPA Gold-Certified Shops Set the Standard
The NAPA Auto Care Advisory Council created the Gold-Certified Program to recognize top-performing shops. These shops commit to growth, excellence, and a high-quality customer experience. There will be more than 800 NAPA Gold-Certified shops by the end of 2025, Rainey said. The program defines 10 criteria, and each one connects directly to a specific business benefit. These standards form the foundation of what defines NAPA Gold-Certified Shops.

To hear more about Rainey’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Rainey’s career and how he got his start at NAPA (1:24)
• Goals and overview of the NAPA NOW event (8:24)
• NAPA Auto Care Center profile (12:38)
• Criteria to become NAPA Gold-Certified shop (13:23)
• NAPA Apprenticeship Program details (19:03)
• Lightning Round (26:16).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65944701Tue, 06 May 2025 16:56:41 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Jason Rainey, VP of Auto Care, NAPA Auto Parts, discusses the recent NAPA NOW event and the NAPA Auto Care Center program. He also explains what it takes to become a NAPA Gold-Certified shop. Rainey described the NAPA...
Rainey described the NAPA NOW event as an educational experience. “So, the thing that I really have liked about this event is it’s truly something you just have to experience. I’ve never seen anything like it in my entire career,” Rainey said. Attendees spend time engaging directly with NAPA’s products, learning about features and benefits. These features and benefits, Rainey added, “truly makes NAPA a differentiated distributor.”

Hands-On Learning and Business Development Opportunities
Attendees also focus on the business side of running their shops. They attend Master classes that cover topics like company culture and succession planning. Attendees meet with the NAPA Auto Care Advisory Council to learn how it supports them. They also observe the council’s ongoing work and interact with NAPA vendor partners. Attendees receive full access to these vendor partners throughout the event.

How NAPA Gold-Certified Shops Set the Standard
The NAPA Auto Care Advisory Council created the Gold-Certified Program to recognize top-performing shops. These shops commit to growth, excellence, and a high-quality customer experience. There will be more than 800 NAPA Gold-Certified shops by the end of 2025, Rainey said. The program defines 10 criteria, and each one connects directly to a specific business benefit. These standards form the foundation of what defines NAPA Gold-Certified Shops.

To hear more about Rainey’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Rainey’s career and how he got his start at NAPA (1:24)
• Goals and overview of the NAPA NOW event (8:24)
• NAPA Auto Care Center profile (12:38)
• Criteria to become NAPA Gold-Certified shop (13:23)
• NAPA Apprenticeship Program details (19:03)
• Lightning Round (26:16).]]>1712napafalse66fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-65-gpc-north-america-group-president-randy-breaux-on-defining-a-winning-formula--65792835
“With regard to our vision, we created a new vision and that was to be the trusted provider of automotive parts and solutions. And that remains the vision. And it’s very simple,” said Breaux, pointing to a key word ‘trust.’ “That’s very important in our business because we are in a relationship business in this automotive aftermarket,” he explained.

Trust and Relationships at the Core

Breaux also talked about his belief in how relationships come first and success follows as it relates success. He pointed to NAPA’s 100th anniversary milestone this year. The relationships that matter most are those you have with your employees, customers, stakeholders, and supplier partners, said Breaux. NAPA, he added, has had a 50-plus-year relationship with some of its supplier partners.

High-Performance Team Building

Building a high-performance team that gives 100% effort and is void of complacency is also one of Breaux’s strategies. “What you find is, the best companies have what I call ‘A’ players on the team. And ‘A’ players are players that just are not going to be satisfied with status quo," he said.

Breaux’s winning formula includes stacking his team with ‘A’ players. “When we can do that and they have a clear understanding of what the strategy and the vision are, then you just turn ‘em loose and they go tear it up,” Breaux said. “And, that’s what we try to do. And for me, that’s the winning formula.”

To learn more about Breaux's insights and strategies, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Four key tenets that are essential for a successful business (2:32).
• Relationships come first, and success follows, and how that relates to NAPA’s 100th anniversary milestone this year (4:01).
• Building a high-performance team that gives 100% effort every day (5:47).
• Having a customer-first mindset that drives value and builds lasting partnerships (7:36).
• Focus on B2B growth supporting professional repair shops and fleet managers (9:36).
• Lightning Round (10:37).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65792835Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:47:10 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Randy Breaux, Group President, GPC North America, discusses the four key tenets necesssary for business success and high-performance team building. They are vision, strategy, structure and culture. “With regard to our...
“With regard to our vision, we created a new vision and that was to be the trusted provider of automotive parts and solutions. And that remains the vision. And it’s very simple,” said Breaux, pointing to a key word ‘trust.’ “That’s very important in our business because we are in a relationship business in this automotive aftermarket,” he explained.

Trust and Relationships at the Core

Breaux also talked about his belief in how relationships come first and success follows as it relates success. He pointed to NAPA’s 100th anniversary milestone this year. The relationships that matter most are those you have with your employees, customers, stakeholders, and supplier partners, said Breaux. NAPA, he added, has had a 50-plus-year relationship with some of its supplier partners.

High-Performance Team Building

Building a high-performance team that gives 100% effort and is void of complacency is also one of Breaux’s strategies. “What you find is, the best companies have what I call ‘A’ players on the team. And ‘A’ players are players that just are not going to be satisfied with status quo," he said.

Breaux’s winning formula includes stacking his team with ‘A’ players. “When we can do that and they have a clear understanding of what the strategy and the vision are, then you just turn ‘em loose and they go tear it up,” Breaux said. “And, that’s what we try to do. And for me, that’s the winning formula.”

To learn more about Breaux's insights and strategies, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Four key tenets that are essential for a successful business (2:32).
• Relationships come first, and success follows, and how that relates to NAPA’s 100th anniversary milestone this year (4:01).
• Building a high-performance team that gives 100% effort every day (5:47).
• Having a customer-first mindset that drives value and builds lasting partnerships (7:36).
• Focus on B2B growth supporting professional repair shops and fleet managers (9:36).
• Lightning Round (10:37).]]>1010false65fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-60-filotimo-foundation-founder-pete-proimos-on-cystic-fibrosis-support--65687241DriveTime, Pete Proimos, founder of the Filotimo Foundation, discusses his former aftermarket career at AP Emissions Technologies and the next facet of his life that supports cystic fibrosis.

After Pete finished college, briefly attended law school and quickly realized that career wasn’t for him, his father Vange advised him to work in the company’s distribution center. Pete worked his way up through the ranks, spending a year and a half working through every single department, and eventually landed in sales where he held various roles.

Pete then took his tools and war chest and moved it to another phase of his life, when he founded the Filotimo Foundation for cystic fibrosis support. Pete shares that he was born with cystic fibrosis, which is a genetically inherited disease. He describes the issues of living with cystic fibrosis, medical advancements that have increased life expectancy, and how his foundation was formed to help and support a patient set of 40,000 adults in the U.S. who are living longer with cystic fibrosis, and who now have to figure out how they’re going to survive as adults in society.

The Filotimo Foundation is hosting a gala fundraising event on May 16, 2025, to help create awareness of and support for the disease. The event will raise money for both hardship support and fertility support for cystic fibrosis patients. Every dollar raised is a dollar that goes straight toward those patients, Pete said, such that $2,000 can get one cystic fibrosis patient full hardship support for an entire year.

To learn more about Pete and his foundation, be sure to watch the video above.

To donate, log onto: https://filotimofoundation.org/donate/

Episode Overview:
• Pete describes how he got his start in the automotive aftermarket and provides an overview of his former role at AP Emissions (1:14)
• Pete shares his personal story and how it fostered the creation of a foundation, the Filotimo Foundation, in support of cystic fibrosis (6:48)
• The purpose of the Filotimo Foundation (12:58)
• Details about the upcoming Gala event, and how the industry can support the Foundation (17:10)
• Lightning Round (21:12).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65687241Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:45:03 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Pete Proimos, founder of the Filotimo Foundation, discusses his former aftermarket career at AP Emissions Technologies and the next facet of his life that...DriveTime, Pete Proimos, founder of the Filotimo Foundation, discusses his former aftermarket career at AP Emissions Technologies and the next facet of his life that supports cystic fibrosis.

After Pete finished college, briefly attended law school and quickly realized that career wasn’t for him, his father Vange advised him to work in the company’s distribution center. Pete worked his way up through the ranks, spending a year and a half working through every single department, and eventually landed in sales where he held various roles.

Pete then took his tools and war chest and moved it to another phase of his life, when he founded the Filotimo Foundation for cystic fibrosis support. Pete shares that he was born with cystic fibrosis, which is a genetically inherited disease. He describes the issues of living with cystic fibrosis, medical advancements that have increased life expectancy, and how his foundation was formed to help and support a patient set of 40,000 adults in the U.S. who are living longer with cystic fibrosis, and who now have to figure out how they’re going to survive as adults in society.

The Filotimo Foundation is hosting a gala fundraising event on May 16, 2025, to help create awareness of and support for the disease. The event will raise money for both hardship support and fertility support for cystic fibrosis patients. Every dollar raised is a dollar that goes straight toward those patients, Pete said, such that $2,000 can get one cystic fibrosis patient full hardship support for an entire year.

To learn more about Pete and his foundation, be sure to watch the video above.

To donate, log onto: https://filotimofoundation.org/donate/

Episode Overview:
• Pete describes how he got his start in the automotive aftermarket and provides an overview of his former role at AP Emissions (1:14)
• Pete shares his personal story and how it fostered the creation of a foundation, the Filotimo Foundation, in support of cystic fibrosis (6:48)
• The purpose of the Filotimo Foundation (12:58)
• Details about the upcoming Gala event, and how the industry can support the Foundation (17:10)
• Lightning Round (21:12).]]>1453apemissions,cysticfibrosis,drivetimefalse60fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-61-yang-chairman-matt-fowler-on-making-aftermarket-connections--65687178DriveTime, Matt Fowler, Chairman of the Young Auto Care Network (YANG) and Account Executive at Ubisense, discusses his background in digital assets and then delves into his sales role at Ubisense, which uncovers hidden process data via its tracking technology to boost company productivity.

Fowler says the most interesting, coolest thing about the aftermarket is that it is a very familial type of space. “It is the only industry I’ve worked in… the only space where everyone really is just trying to work well and work together to make everything better.”

Fowler became chair of YANG in July, 2024, which now numbers over 1,600 active members. He describes his role and vision for the organization which involves working with council members to grow these key YANG pillars: networking events, digital engagements, education, sponsorships and scholarships. He also discusses the group’s main programming events: Connect Week, May 12-15, in Phoenix; Fall Leadership Days and the Legislative Summit, Sept. 17-19, in Washington DC; and the AAPEX Show, Nov. 4-6, in Vegas.

To learn more about Matt and his roles at YANG and Ubisense, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Matt’s role at Ubisense (1:21)
• The most interesting thing he’s learned about the aftermarket (3:07)
• Matt’s role as YANG chair and his vision for the organization (5:05)
• YANG’s goals for 2025, with highlights of key events that are in the works (7:48)
• Lightning Round (11:13).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65687178Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:38:08 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Matt Fowler, Chairman of the Young Auto Care Network (YANG) and Account Executive at Ubisense, discusses his background in digital assets and then delves into his...DriveTime, Matt Fowler, Chairman of the Young Auto Care Network (YANG) and Account Executive at Ubisense, discusses his background in digital assets and then delves into his sales role at Ubisense, which uncovers hidden process data via its tracking technology to boost company productivity.

Fowler says the most interesting, coolest thing about the aftermarket is that it is a very familial type of space. “It is the only industry I’ve worked in… the only space where everyone really is just trying to work well and work together to make everything better.”

Fowler became chair of YANG in July, 2024, which now numbers over 1,600 active members. He describes his role and vision for the organization which involves working with council members to grow these key YANG pillars: networking events, digital engagements, education, sponsorships and scholarships. He also discusses the group’s main programming events: Connect Week, May 12-15, in Phoenix; Fall Leadership Days and the Legislative Summit, Sept. 17-19, in Washington DC; and the AAPEX Show, Nov. 4-6, in Vegas.

To learn more about Matt and his roles at YANG and Ubisense, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Matt’s role at Ubisense (1:21)
• The most interesting thing he’s learned about the aftermarket (3:07)
• Matt’s role as YANG chair and his vision for the organization (5:05)
• YANG’s goals for 2025, with highlights of key events that are in the works (7:48)
• Lightning Round (11:13).]]>827drivetime,yangfalse61fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-62-o-reilly-auto-parts-ceo-brad-beckham-on-company-culture-and-staying-grounded--65686610
Preserving a Culture That Started in 1957 
Beckham delves into the O’Reilly culture, which he says is “the most critical factor in the company’s historic and future success.” The team began formally documenting the company culture in 1998, even though the culture started in 1957, the year O'Reilly was founded. “It was important to clearly define and preserve the simple, foundational principles that got us here,” explains Beckham. “If we ever lose this family culture, as we become a public company and we acquire other companies, if we start to dilute the culture that has really built our business, we’re not going to be the same company.”

Promoting from Within and Valuing the Front Line 
The O’Reilly culture prioritizes teamwork, enthusiasm, hard work, excellent customer service, modesty and “promote from within” opportunities. What a lot of people don’t realize, Beckham says, is that all 650 district managers came from inside O’Reilly. “Every one of those district managers came from running a successful O’Reilly store,” he explains. All 75 regional managers, as well, also came from inside the O’Reilly organization. 

Beckham also points to the 93,000 O’Reilly Auto Parts team members, the far majority of whom – 70,000 – are in the stores on the firing line in front of its customers. “They have the most important job in our company,” says Beckham. 

To hear Beckham’s full aftermarket story, be sure to watch the video above. 

 DriveTime Episode Overview:

-Beckham’s aftermarket career and how he landed at O’Reilly Auto Parts (1:16). 
-The value of a dedicated team at the company’s more than 6,300 store locations and 31 distribution centers (23:30). 
-The O’Reilly Auto Parts company culture (27:54). 
-The value of supplier partnerships, especially in today’s competitive market environment (31:52).
-Outlook for O’Reilly and the aftermarket this year (36:02).
-How the famous O’Reilly jingle, Oh, Oh, Oh, O’Reilly….Auto Parts, came to be and other ways O’Reilly is keeping the brand fresh, engaging and top of mind. (41:53).
-Lightning Round (44:30). ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65686610Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:18:52 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Brad Beckham, CEO of O’Reilly Auto Parts, discusses how he got into the business at 17 years old, sweeping floors and putting up stock in an O’Reilly Auto Parts store in Oklahoma. It was 1996 and, at that time, O’Reilly...
Preserving a Culture That Started in 1957 
Beckham delves into the O’Reilly culture, which he says is “the most critical factor in the company’s historic and future success.” The team began formally documenting the company culture in 1998, even though the culture started in 1957, the year O'Reilly was founded. “It was important to clearly define and preserve the simple, foundational principles that got us here,” explains Beckham. “If we ever lose this family culture, as we become a public company and we acquire other companies, if we start to dilute the culture that has really built our business, we’re not going to be the same company.”

Promoting from Within and Valuing the Front Line 
The O’Reilly culture prioritizes teamwork, enthusiasm, hard work, excellent customer service, modesty and “promote from within” opportunities. What a lot of people don’t realize, Beckham says, is that all 650 district managers came from inside O’Reilly. “Every one of those district managers came from running a successful O’Reilly store,” he explains. All 75 regional managers, as well, also came from inside the O’Reilly organization. 

Beckham also points to the 93,000 O’Reilly Auto Parts team members, the far majority of whom – 70,000 – are in the stores on the firing line in front of its customers. “They have the most important job in our company,” says Beckham. 

To hear Beckham’s full aftermarket story, be sure to watch the video above. 

 DriveTime Episode Overview:

-Beckham’s aftermarket career and how he landed at O’Reilly Auto Parts (1:16). 
-The value of a dedicated team at the company’s more than 6,300 store locations and 31 distribution centers (23:30). 
-The O’Reilly Auto Parts company culture (27:54). 
-The value of supplier partnerships, especially in today’s competitive market environment (31:52).
-Outlook for O’Reilly and the aftermarket this year (36:02).
-How the famous O’Reilly jingle, Oh, Oh, Oh, O’Reilly….Auto Parts, came to be and other ways O’Reilly is keeping the brand fresh, engaging and top of mind. (41:53).
-Lightning Round (44:30). ]]>3309drivetime,o'reillyfalse62fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-63-mema-execs-bill-long-and-paul-mccarthy-on-navigating-uncertainty-with-optimism--65686394MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, and Paul McCarthy, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, addressed supplier sentiment about the current state of the aftermarket, describing it as a mix of urgency and cautious optimism. Industry leaders agree there’s never been a more critical time for suppliers to come together, given the wide range of challenges: tariffs, shifting sourcing strategies, profitability pressures, the REPAIR Act, consolidation, and talent and technology concerns. VISION’s mission to clarify what success looks like now — and in the future — has never been more relevant.

Resilience and Opportunity
Despite these challenges, there is strong resilience and opportunity in the aftermarket, stressed Long and McCarthy. While 2024 wasn’t a standout sales year, midterm indicators — vehicle age, miles driven and VIO — remain solid. Technology, especially ADAS, is emerging as a key growth area. New research shared at VISION signals that innovation may soon deliver real gains in efficiency and margin. As near-term disruption continues and long-term strategies evolve, suppliers are relying on collaboration and insight to move forward.

REPAIR Act Automotive Impact: Supplier Sentiment and Industry Outlook

The REPAIR Act (H.R. 1566) is considered essential for the industry’s future, Long and McCarthy stressed. Introduced by Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL-02), this bipartisan bill protects consumer choice, fair market competition and property rights — especially as telematics and over-the-air updates create new barriers. Long and McCarthy emphasized the urgency of passing the bill within this Congressional session — the next 20 months — and underscore that victory will come from continued grassroots action and engagement at the local level.

To hear more details about Long’s and McCarthy’s aftermarket perspective, make sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Supplier sentiment about the current state of the automotive aftermarket (1:10)
• Legislative issues and the impact to supplier member businesses (6:02)
• Current state of affairs of REPAIR Act legislation (12:36)
• Goals of the MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Training Council (19:25)
• Aftermarket Outlook 2025…what did MEMA get right and what did MEMA get wrong? (21:54)
• Lightning Round (32:37).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65686394Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:05:43 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, as the VISION conference kicked off in Chicago, Bill Long, president and CEO of https://www.mema.org/, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, and Paul McCarthy, president of...MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, and Paul McCarthy, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, addressed supplier sentiment about the current state of the aftermarket, describing it as a mix of urgency and cautious optimism. Industry leaders agree there’s never been a more critical time for suppliers to come together, given the wide range of challenges: tariffs, shifting sourcing strategies, profitability pressures, the REPAIR Act, consolidation, and talent and technology concerns. VISION’s mission to clarify what success looks like now — and in the future — has never been more relevant.

Resilience and Opportunity
Despite these challenges, there is strong resilience and opportunity in the aftermarket, stressed Long and McCarthy. While 2024 wasn’t a standout sales year, midterm indicators — vehicle age, miles driven and VIO — remain solid. Technology, especially ADAS, is emerging as a key growth area. New research shared at VISION signals that innovation may soon deliver real gains in efficiency and margin. As near-term disruption continues and long-term strategies evolve, suppliers are relying on collaboration and insight to move forward.

REPAIR Act Automotive Impact: Supplier Sentiment and Industry Outlook

The REPAIR Act (H.R. 1566) is considered essential for the industry’s future, Long and McCarthy stressed. Introduced by Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL-02), this bipartisan bill protects consumer choice, fair market competition and property rights — especially as telematics and over-the-air updates create new barriers. Long and McCarthy emphasized the urgency of passing the bill within this Congressional session — the next 20 months — and underscore that victory will come from continued grassroots action and engagement at the local level.

To hear more details about Long’s and McCarthy’s aftermarket perspective, make sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:
• Supplier sentiment about the current state of the automotive aftermarket (1:10)
• Legislative issues and the impact to supplier member businesses (6:02)
• Current state of affairs of REPAIR Act legislation (12:36)
• Goals of the MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Training Council (19:25)
• Aftermarket Outlook 2025…what did MEMA get right and what did MEMA get wrong? (21:54)
• Lightning Round (32:37).]]>2404drivetime,memafalse63fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-64-phinia-vp-and-gm-russ-stebbins-on-powering-a-carbon-free-future--65685998
From OE Expertise to Aftermarket Agility PHINIA bases its approach on a philosophy of OE expertise and aftermarket agility. “We don’t shy away from the fact that we’re an OE company; rather we embrace it and take that to the aftermarket with the speed that’s needed for our aftermarket channel partners,” Stebbins said.

PHINIA is focused on delivering the right parts at the right time, supported by relevant training and information for its channel partners down to the technician.  Multilingual Support in 2025 PHINIA sees future growth in Canada, Mexico and Central America.

In 2025, it will launch websites for French Canadian and Mexican Spanish-speaking audiences. Additionally, innovation remains a priority, especially through the integration of AI, explained Stebbins.  Driving Global Innovation Through AI Training for Technicians PHINIA is launching global AI-driven training programs. These will let the company create content in one language and translate it easily for global technician education.

 To hear more about PHINIA’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

 Episode Overview: • Stebbins’ career and how he landed at PHINIA (1:10);
• PHINIA’s vision and value proposition to customers across the North American aftermarket (3:22);
• How PHINIA is strengthening customer relationships (6:56);
• Details about how PHINIA is leveraging emerging technologies to become a more recognized and trusted name in the aftermarket (13:36);
• Insights into the Delphi Training Academy (19:14);
• Lightning Round (22:29).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65685998Wed, 23 Apr 2025 19:51:58 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, Russ Stebbins, VP and GM, North American Aftermarket at PHINIA, talks about the company’s vision to lead the transformation toward a sustainable, carbon-free future in the automotive aftermarket. The company has...
From OE Expertise to Aftermarket Agility PHINIA bases its approach on a philosophy of OE expertise and aftermarket agility. “We don’t shy away from the fact that we’re an OE company; rather we embrace it and take that to the aftermarket with the speed that’s needed for our aftermarket channel partners,” Stebbins said.

PHINIA is focused on delivering the right parts at the right time, supported by relevant training and information for its channel partners down to the technician.  Multilingual Support in 2025 PHINIA sees future growth in Canada, Mexico and Central America.

In 2025, it will launch websites for French Canadian and Mexican Spanish-speaking audiences. Additionally, innovation remains a priority, especially through the integration of AI, explained Stebbins.  Driving Global Innovation Through AI Training for Technicians PHINIA is launching global AI-driven training programs. These will let the company create content in one language and translate it easily for global technician education.

 To hear more about PHINIA’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

 Episode Overview: • Stebbins’ career and how he landed at PHINIA (1:10);
• PHINIA’s vision and value proposition to customers across the North American aftermarket (3:22);
• How PHINIA is strengthening customer relationships (6:56);
• Details about how PHINIA is leveraging emerging technologies to become a more recognized and trusted name in the aftermarket (13:36);
• Insights into the Delphi Training Academy (19:14);
• Lightning Round (22:29).]]>1523drivetime,phiniafalse64fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-59-aftermarket-auto-parts-alliance-president-and-ceo-jc-washbish-on-working-hard-and-being-nice--64477833
JC comes from a long lineage in the automotive aftermarket, proudly being the fourth generation involved in the business. His career in the automotive aftermarket began at NGK Spark Plugs, where he managed distribution in the Caribbean, before joining the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance. He was promoted to President of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance on January 1, 2024, and then named both President and CEO in January 2025.

JC said the outlook for 2025 is hopeful. “We are in a really good position as a country to do more, to do better. You can feel the energy that’s out there. Car count is up, miles driven are up – all hopeful for our business, and the economy should be in a better position. I’m pretty excited to see what 2025 brings,” he said.

JC is focused on strategic growth while ensuring the team’s continued success, while sticking to this piece of advice from his uncle, Doug Washbish: "Work Hard, Be Nice."

To learn more about JC and the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• JC describes the esteemed heritage of the familiar Washbish family name, beginning with his great-grandfather who started the business (1:06)

• JC talks about his first aftermarket job, and walks through his aftermarket career (4:13)

• JC describes how he got hired at the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance and what it’s like working with his father, John Washbish, who he said cares deeply about the industry. “My father has done a great job as an icon in the industry. He gets it. He lives the industry,” JC said. (5:05)

• JC was promoted to President of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance on Jan. 1, 2024, and named President and CEO in January, 2025. He walks through year one and describes what year two looks like (12:38)

• The value of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Channel Partner awards program as it relates to importance of partnerships in our business (18:25)

• Details about the Automotive Parts Services Group (APSG) meeting in April 2025, that the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance is planning (22:14)

• The company’s advocacy efforts as it relates to the Right to Repair initiative (24:50)

• Outlook for the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance and the aftermarket in 2025 (32:10)

• Lightning Round (34:23).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64477833Thu, 20 Feb 2025 17:11:34 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of DriveTime, JC Washbish discusses the familiarity of the Washbish name, the esteemed aftermarket heritage that goes along with it and how he got started in the industry. JC comes from a long lineage in the automotive aftermarket,...
JC comes from a long lineage in the automotive aftermarket, proudly being the fourth generation involved in the business. His career in the automotive aftermarket began at NGK Spark Plugs, where he managed distribution in the Caribbean, before joining the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance. He was promoted to President of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance on January 1, 2024, and then named both President and CEO in January 2025.

JC said the outlook for 2025 is hopeful. “We are in a really good position as a country to do more, to do better. You can feel the energy that’s out there. Car count is up, miles driven are up – all hopeful for our business, and the economy should be in a better position. I’m pretty excited to see what 2025 brings,” he said.

JC is focused on strategic growth while ensuring the team’s continued success, while sticking to this piece of advice from his uncle, Doug Washbish: "Work Hard, Be Nice."

To learn more about JC and the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• JC describes the esteemed heritage of the familiar Washbish family name, beginning with his great-grandfather who started the business (1:06)

• JC talks about his first aftermarket job, and walks through his aftermarket career (4:13)

• JC describes how he got hired at the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance and what it’s like working with his father, John Washbish, who he said cares deeply about the industry. “My father has done a great job as an icon in the industry. He gets it. He lives the industry,” JC said. (5:05)

• JC was promoted to President of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance on Jan. 1, 2024, and named President and CEO in January, 2025. He walks through year one and describes what year two looks like (12:38)

• The value of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Channel Partner awards program as it relates to importance of partnerships in our business (18:25)

• Details about the Automotive Parts Services Group (APSG) meeting in April 2025, that the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance is planning (22:14)

• The company’s advocacy efforts as it relates to the Right to Repair initiative (24:50)

• Outlook for the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance and the aftermarket in 2025 (32:10)

• Lightning Round (34:23).]]>2566false59fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-58-nexamotion-group-ceo-neil-sethi-on-keeping-the-world-moving--63549556Drivetime, Sethi highlights NexaMotion Group’s mission to simplify complex vehicle repair and support the broader industry through innovation. At the heart of NMG’s strategy are its core values—commitment, humility, optimism, integrity and respect—which are deeply ingrained in the company’s culture and operations. This commitment to values is reflected in its continuous efforts to evolve as a business, including recent acquisitions and significant expansions in both product lines and team growth. NexaMotion Group has seen notable growth in 2024, with over 1,500 team members, 125 locations and the addition of 30 new locations. Its proprietary e-commerce platform, Transend, has grown significantly, now offering approximately 700,000 SKUs, with plans to reach one million soon, Sethi said. NMG is also focused on developing technology solutions that address industry challenges. “Our goal is to start with what are the problems and what are the challenges of the industry? And can technology be an enabler to help solve those issues,” explained Sethi. As an example, NMG recently launched an AI tool for catalog assistance to improve inventory management, pricing and availability, which demonstrates its commitment to leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency.Looking ahead to 2025, Sethi added that NMG plans to continue expanding its product offerings, especially in undercar products, and further integrate its locations into a comprehensive auto care mindset. The company aims to continue growing through acquisitions, particularly targeting businesses that align with its values and are looking to join a larger organization, Sethi said, and takes the decision to bring in new partners seriously, ensuring that values alignment is a key consideration in any partnership.To hear more about NMG’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Sethi explains NMG’s commitment to serve, passion to innovate and commitment to its core values (0:57)
• Sethi explains the vision behind why the company was created (Transtar Holding Company formed NexaMotion Group in December, 2023), and defines its value proposition to the aftermarket (2:48)
• What NMG “one year later” looks like, and how NMG’s mission statement, “Simplifying complex vehicle repair to keep the world moving,” sets the stage for everything the company does (4:35)
• Sethi provides examples of how NMG is a problem solver, helping customers “navigate a maze of challenges” (6:45)
• How leveraging technology and eCommerce enables NMG to provide next-level service to customers (8:55)
• Overview of NMG experience at AAPEX (10:40)
• Outlook for NMG and the aftermarket in 2025 (11:49)
• Launch of additional product lines across NMG’s entire network and expansion through adding new business partners (12:50)
• Lightning Round (15:00)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549556Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:23:11 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Sethi highlights NexaMotion Group’s mission to simplify complex vehicle repair and support the broader industry through innovation. At the heart of NMG’s strategy...Drivetime, Sethi highlights NexaMotion Group’s mission to simplify complex vehicle repair and support the broader industry through innovation. At the heart of NMG’s strategy are its core values—commitment, humility, optimism, integrity and respect—which are deeply ingrained in the company’s culture and operations. This commitment to values is reflected in its continuous efforts to evolve as a business, including recent acquisitions and significant expansions in both product lines and team growth. NexaMotion Group has seen notable growth in 2024, with over 1,500 team members, 125 locations and the addition of 30 new locations. Its proprietary e-commerce platform, Transend, has grown significantly, now offering approximately 700,000 SKUs, with plans to reach one million soon, Sethi said. NMG is also focused on developing technology solutions that address industry challenges. “Our goal is to start with what are the problems and what are the challenges of the industry? And can technology be an enabler to help solve those issues,” explained Sethi. As an example, NMG recently launched an AI tool for catalog assistance to improve inventory management, pricing and availability, which demonstrates its commitment to leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency.Looking ahead to 2025, Sethi added that NMG plans to continue expanding its product offerings, especially in undercar products, and further integrate its locations into a comprehensive auto care mindset. The company aims to continue growing through acquisitions, particularly targeting businesses that align with its values and are looking to join a larger organization, Sethi said, and takes the decision to bring in new partners seriously, ensuring that values alignment is a key consideration in any partnership.To hear more about NMG’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Sethi explains NMG’s commitment to serve, passion to innovate and commitment to its core values (0:57)
• Sethi explains the vision behind why the company was created (Transtar Holding Company formed NexaMotion Group in December, 2023), and defines its value proposition to the aftermarket (2:48)
• What NMG “one year later” looks like, and how NMG’s mission statement, “Simplifying complex vehicle repair to keep the world moving,” sets the stage for everything the company does (4:35)
• Sethi provides examples of how NMG is a problem solver, helping customers “navigate a maze of challenges” (6:45)
• How leveraging technology and eCommerce enables NMG to provide next-level service to customers (8:55)
• Overview of NMG experience at AAPEX (10:40)
• Outlook for NMG and the aftermarket in 2025 (11:49)
• Launch of additional product lines across NMG’s entire network and expansion through adding new business partners (12:50)
• Lightning Round (15:00)]]>1063false58fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-57-driv-president-chintan-sopariwala-on-making-bold-moves--63549519Drivetime, Sopariwala describes how DRiV, the aftermarket division of Tenneco, is focused on making bold, innovative moves within the automotive aftermarket. A prime example of this is the company’s implementation of cutting-edge automation technology at its AutoStore facility in Smyrna, Tennessee, DRiV’s largest distribution center for the U.S. and Canada. The facility utilizes 125 robots working in harmony to pick and place products at the rate of over 100 lines per hour, demonstrating DRiV’s commitment to exploring the “art of the possible,” Sopariwala explained.

The Tenneco portfolio is comprised of over 32 brands, including Moog, Monroe, Fel-Pro and Champion, many of which are over 100 years old and are market leaders in their categories, according to Sopariwala, who sees strong growth opportunities for DRiV globally, with double-digit growth in many regions. The brands span a range of vehicle components, from suspension and exhaust parts to gaskets, spark plugs and engine oil. “I’m really proud of the DRiV team globally that has delivered year-over-year growth in a down market,” Sopariwala said.As he looks ahead to 2025, Sopariwala said DRiV will continue capitalizing on growth in key markets, including heavy-duty commercial vehicles, which now represent a growing portion of its business. And, while the transition to EVs is accelerating in passenger vehicles, he anticipates a prolonged demand for aftermarket parts for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, likely extending into the late 2040s.To hear more about DRiV’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Sopariwala explains DRiV’s “bold moves” strategy (0:50)
• The details of Sopariwala’s extensive industry background (2:39)
• The relationship between Tenneco and DRiV (4:13)
• Top brands under the DRiV umbrella (4:56)
• Business climate in 2024 and outlook for 2025 (5:58)
• Deeper dive into the DRiV brands (7:20)
• Future of EVs and evolving technology (10:55)
• Heavy-duty segment as an important part of DRiV’s business (13:03)
• How Garage Gurus makes life easier for the installing technician (14:26)
• Lightning Round (16:16)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549519Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:19:52 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Sopariwala describes how https://www.driv.com/our-brands, the aftermarket division of Tenneco, is focused on making bold, innovative moves within the automotive...Drivetime, Sopariwala describes how DRiV, the aftermarket division of Tenneco, is focused on making bold, innovative moves within the automotive aftermarket. A prime example of this is the company’s implementation of cutting-edge automation technology at its AutoStore facility in Smyrna, Tennessee, DRiV’s largest distribution center for the U.S. and Canada. The facility utilizes 125 robots working in harmony to pick and place products at the rate of over 100 lines per hour, demonstrating DRiV’s commitment to exploring the “art of the possible,” Sopariwala explained.

The Tenneco portfolio is comprised of over 32 brands, including Moog, Monroe, Fel-Pro and Champion, many of which are over 100 years old and are market leaders in their categories, according to Sopariwala, who sees strong growth opportunities for DRiV globally, with double-digit growth in many regions. The brands span a range of vehicle components, from suspension and exhaust parts to gaskets, spark plugs and engine oil. “I’m really proud of the DRiV team globally that has delivered year-over-year growth in a down market,” Sopariwala said.As he looks ahead to 2025, Sopariwala said DRiV will continue capitalizing on growth in key markets, including heavy-duty commercial vehicles, which now represent a growing portion of its business. And, while the transition to EVs is accelerating in passenger vehicles, he anticipates a prolonged demand for aftermarket parts for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, likely extending into the late 2040s.To hear more about DRiV’s initiatives, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Sopariwala explains DRiV’s “bold moves” strategy (0:50)
• The details of Sopariwala’s extensive industry background (2:39)
• The relationship between Tenneco and DRiV (4:13)
• Top brands under the DRiV umbrella (4:56)
• Business climate in 2024 and outlook for 2025 (5:58)
• Deeper dive into the DRiV brands (7:20)
• Future of EVs and evolving technology (10:55)
• Heavy-duty segment as an important part of DRiV’s business (13:03)
• How Garage Gurus makes life easier for the installing technician (14:26)
• Lightning Round (16:16)]]>1220false57fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-56-mann-hummel-svp-marco-faulenbach-on-filter-innovation--63549464Drivetime, Marco Faulenbach, senior vice president, aftermarket Americas, MANN+HUMMEL delves into how the company has established itself as a leader in filtration. With an emphasis on advanced engineering, R&D and innovation, MANN+HUMMEL invests heavily in the development of filtration media. Through its global production facilities, MANN+HUMMEL produces 32 filters every second (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) and has 250 global patents alone in media, explained Faulenbach. The company also invests in sustainable practices, including zero landfill operations and environmentally friendly production methods. A commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology has positioned MANN+HUMMEL as a leader in both the automotive and industrial filtration markets, Faulenbach added.Looking ahead, MANN+HUMMEL continues to prioritize innovation and sustainability in its strategy for the aftermarket, focusing on strengthening its key brands WIX, Purolator and MANN-FILTER. The company also is expanding its global footprint through a new joint venture in Malaysia.To learn more about MANN+HUMMEL’s aftermarket strategy, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Faulenbach’s background and how his career in the aftermarket got started (00:56)
• How an investment in R&D, engineering, digitalization and advanced technology support’s MANN+HUMMEL’S market leadership position (4:08)
• Fill rates and the current situation at WIX (7:26)
• MANN+HUMMEL and its prioritization of sustainability (10:36)
• Faulenbach’s vision for the company over the next few years (12:35)
• A new joint venture for a production facility in Malaysia (14.03)
• Lightning Round (15:05)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549464Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:13:43 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Marco Faulenbach, senior vice president, aftermarket Americas, https://www.mann-hummel.com/en.htmlL delves into how the company has established itself as a leader...Drivetime, Marco Faulenbach, senior vice president, aftermarket Americas, MANN+HUMMEL delves into how the company has established itself as a leader in filtration. With an emphasis on advanced engineering, R&D and innovation, MANN+HUMMEL invests heavily in the development of filtration media. Through its global production facilities, MANN+HUMMEL produces 32 filters every second (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) and has 250 global patents alone in media, explained Faulenbach. The company also invests in sustainable practices, including zero landfill operations and environmentally friendly production methods. A commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology has positioned MANN+HUMMEL as a leader in both the automotive and industrial filtration markets, Faulenbach added.Looking ahead, MANN+HUMMEL continues to prioritize innovation and sustainability in its strategy for the aftermarket, focusing on strengthening its key brands WIX, Purolator and MANN-FILTER. The company also is expanding its global footprint through a new joint venture in Malaysia.To learn more about MANN+HUMMEL’s aftermarket strategy, be sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Faulenbach’s background and how his career in the aftermarket got started (00:56)
• How an investment in R&D, engineering, digitalization and advanced technology support’s MANN+HUMMEL’S market leadership position (4:08)
• Fill rates and the current situation at WIX (7:26)
• MANN+HUMMEL and its prioritization of sustainability (10:36)
• Faulenbach’s vision for the company over the next few years (12:35)
• A new joint venture for a production facility in Malaysia (14.03)
• Lightning Round (15:05)]]>997false56fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-55-advance-auto-parts-president-ceo-shane-o-kelly-defines-blended-box-strategy--63549444Drivetime, Shane O’Kelly, president and CEO of Advance Auto Parts, discusses several key strategic moves for the company, most notably the sale of Worldpac and the continuing importance of the Carquest brand. The decision to divest Worldpac allows Advance to focus more directly on its “blended box” strategy, which targets both DIY and professional customers, O’Kelly explained. O’Kelly emphasized the importance of relationships within the aftermarket industry, noting that the strong partnerships between distributors and suppliers are critical for success. He also highlighted the importance of listening to both customers and frontline employees. “People buy from people. And what I love about that is that it’s not a transactional relationship because a transactional relationship lasts for a minute,” he said.Looking ahead, Advance Auto Parts is focused on expanding its footprint, with plans to open up to 100 new stores per year and consolidate its supply chain through a reduction in distribution centers. This will be supported by new “market hubs” designed to offer a greater variety of parts and faster delivery times to customers, meeting rising demands for speed and convenience.To hear O’Kelly’s formula for success in his own words, make sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• O’Kelly discusses Advance’s sale of Worldpac (0:49)
• The Carquest brand and how it fits into the Advance Auto Parts family (2:36)
• O’Kelly discusses his career path to the aftermarket and educational background that started at West Point (4:20)
• Discussion of B2B and B2C and how they play together within Advance (8:52)
• O’Kelly discusses the slogan, “Leaders eat last” (13:19)
• The story of O’Kelly receiving his diploma from Colin Powell, a 4-star general at the time (14:13)
• Advance names Bruce Starnes executive vice president, chief merchant, and what that means for the company moving forward (15:02)
• The symbiotic relationship between distribution and manufacturers (18:15)
• Vision for Advance for the next three years (20:28)
• Lightning Round (23:46)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549444Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:09:42 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Shane O’Kelly, president and CEO of https://corp.advanceautoparts.com/home/default.aspx, discusses several key strategic moves for the company, most notably the...Drivetime, Shane O’Kelly, president and CEO of Advance Auto Parts, discusses several key strategic moves for the company, most notably the sale of Worldpac and the continuing importance of the Carquest brand. The decision to divest Worldpac allows Advance to focus more directly on its “blended box” strategy, which targets both DIY and professional customers, O’Kelly explained. O’Kelly emphasized the importance of relationships within the aftermarket industry, noting that the strong partnerships between distributors and suppliers are critical for success. He also highlighted the importance of listening to both customers and frontline employees. “People buy from people. And what I love about that is that it’s not a transactional relationship because a transactional relationship lasts for a minute,” he said.Looking ahead, Advance Auto Parts is focused on expanding its footprint, with plans to open up to 100 new stores per year and consolidate its supply chain through a reduction in distribution centers. This will be supported by new “market hubs” designed to offer a greater variety of parts and faster delivery times to customers, meeting rising demands for speed and convenience.To hear O’Kelly’s formula for success in his own words, make sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• O’Kelly discusses Advance’s sale of Worldpac (0:49)
• The Carquest brand and how it fits into the Advance Auto Parts family (2:36)
• O’Kelly discusses his career path to the aftermarket and educational background that started at West Point (4:20)
• Discussion of B2B and B2C and how they play together within Advance (8:52)
• O’Kelly discusses the slogan, “Leaders eat last” (13:19)
• The story of O’Kelly receiving his diploma from Colin Powell, a 4-star general at the time (14:13)
• Advance names Bruce Starnes executive vice president, chief merchant, and what that means for the company moving forward (15:02)
• The symbiotic relationship between distribution and manufacturers (18:15)
• Vision for Advance for the next three years (20:28)
• Lightning Round (23:46)]]>1830false55fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-54-dma-s-president-ceo-john-treece-on-being-a-solutions-provider--63549430Drivetime, John Treece, president and CEO of DMA Industries LLC, credits his company’s exponential growth over the last 10 years to his management team and the group of associates who work there. “It takes a collaborative, strong leadership team and everybody being on the same page and focused around the customer,” Treece said. “Our differentiator is being a flexible, nimble company. We’ve had to adapt and modify as the industry has changed, but also as our customers have changed. We don’t sell cookie cutter. Everything in our world is customer specific, very detail oriented,” he explained.Treece also discusses how DMA is a good solutions provider for customers with its focus on being data centric—and continuing to bring innovation and technology into its business. As a way to stay at the forefront, Treece said the company continues to “evolve our internal processes, never becoming complacent, always listening to our customer, and, most importantly, developing what it is, whether it’s a product or a solution to a business problem, and then delivering that with excellence. And that really is where we see our past success and our future success remaining.”To hear Treece’s formula for success in his own words, make sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Treece’s journey to the aftermarket (1:00)
• Treece describes DMA’s exponential growth over the last 10 years (7:02)
• The challenges of workforce development (12:00)
• Current state of the aftermarket and its biggest challenges and opportunities (15:44)
• A quick story about trying to schedule a vehicle repair with a dealership vs an aftermarket shop (20:12)
• Treece’s prediction on what trends will shape the industry in the next five to 10 years (23.33)
• Lightning Round (26:17)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549430Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:07:17 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, John Treece, president and CEO of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/dma-north-carolinas-mid-market-fast-40-list/, credits his company’s exponential growth over the...Drivetime, John Treece, president and CEO of DMA Industries LLC, credits his company’s exponential growth over the last 10 years to his management team and the group of associates who work there. “It takes a collaborative, strong leadership team and everybody being on the same page and focused around the customer,” Treece said. “Our differentiator is being a flexible, nimble company. We’ve had to adapt and modify as the industry has changed, but also as our customers have changed. We don’t sell cookie cutter. Everything in our world is customer specific, very detail oriented,” he explained.Treece also discusses how DMA is a good solutions provider for customers with its focus on being data centric—and continuing to bring innovation and technology into its business. As a way to stay at the forefront, Treece said the company continues to “evolve our internal processes, never becoming complacent, always listening to our customer, and, most importantly, developing what it is, whether it’s a product or a solution to a business problem, and then delivering that with excellence. And that really is where we see our past success and our future success remaining.”To hear Treece’s formula for success in his own words, make sure to watch the video above.

Episode Overview:

• Treece’s journey to the aftermarket (1:00)
• Treece describes DMA’s exponential growth over the last 10 years (7:02)
• The challenges of workforce development (12:00)
• Current state of the aftermarket and its biggest challenges and opportunities (15:44)
• A quick story about trying to schedule a vehicle repair with a dealership vs an aftermarket shop (20:12)
• Treece’s prediction on what trends will shape the industry in the next five to 10 years (23.33)
• Lightning Round (26:17)]]>1851false54fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-53-full-circle-leadership-with-goodyear-ceo-mark-stewart--63549411
Episode Overview

• Stewart’s early experience in the automotive world (1:01)
• Stewart’s passion for DIY work (6:07)
• The impact of BEVs in the tire industry (7:18)
• Lessons in next-generation technology from Amazon (11:19)
• Insights from Stewart’s most recent trip to Asia (13:43)
• Goodyear’s industry focus (15:13)
• Goodyear’s position as a B2B and consumer brand (18:34)
• The latest on the Goodyear blimp (20:24)
• Lightning round (25:42)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549411Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:05:19 +0000Babcox MediaFor Mark Stewart, becoming CEO and President of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company was a lifetime dream realized. Stewart grew up with his father working at the Dunlop Tire plant (owned by Goodyear) and spent his afternoons after school in his...
Episode Overview

• Stewart’s early experience in the automotive world (1:01)
• Stewart’s passion for DIY work (6:07)
• The impact of BEVs in the tire industry (7:18)
• Lessons in next-generation technology from Amazon (11:19)
• Insights from Stewart’s most recent trip to Asia (13:43)
• Goodyear’s industry focus (15:13)
• Goodyear’s position as a B2B and consumer brand (18:34)
• The latest on the Goodyear blimp (20:24)
• Lightning round (25:42)

]]>1811false53fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-52-corteco-s-dr-christian-dickopf-on-keeping-talent-in-the-aftermarket--63549345Drivetime, Dr. Christian Dickopf, senior vice president, Corteco Division at Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies, shared his perspective on the evolving automotive aftermarket industry and the essential factors for career success. With more than 18 years of experience at Freudenberg Group, Corteco’s parent company, his journey from product development to leadership underscores the value of diverse skills and networking in this field. Dickopf highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation, especially as the industry shifts toward electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous technologies. Cortecois actively developing unique aftermarket products tailored to EVs, which have distinct needs compared to traditional vehicles, he said.“There is a slight dip right now. I believe, long-term, we will move toward better electric vehicles. At least that’s what the data indicates today,” Dickopf said.Additionally, Corteco is expanding into the heavy-duty vehicle sector, focusing on providing high-durability parts to meet the demands of commercial vehicles. For aspiring professionals, Dickopf advised building cross-functional expertise and maintaining industry networks to thrive in this competitive market.Make sure to give the video a watch; you can jump to specific topics with the episode overview below.­­­

Episode Overview:

• Dickopf discusses his life experiences in Germany leading to his role at Corteco (0:45)
• Corteco’s role in the aftermarket (7:24)
• How Corteco plans to serve the heavy-duty market  (12:06)
• Prioritizing keeping top talent with the company (15:06)
• Corteco’s recent growth and future outlook (20:09)
• Lightning round (22:06)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549345Thu, 02 Jan 2025 20:54:55 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/, Dr. Christian Dickopf, senior vice president, Corteco Division at Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies, shared his perspective on the evolving automotive...Drivetime, Dr. Christian Dickopf, senior vice president, Corteco Division at Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies, shared his perspective on the evolving automotive aftermarket industry and the essential factors for career success. With more than 18 years of experience at Freudenberg Group, Corteco’s parent company, his journey from product development to leadership underscores the value of diverse skills and networking in this field. Dickopf highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation, especially as the industry shifts toward electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous technologies. Cortecois actively developing unique aftermarket products tailored to EVs, which have distinct needs compared to traditional vehicles, he said.“There is a slight dip right now. I believe, long-term, we will move toward better electric vehicles. At least that’s what the data indicates today,” Dickopf said.Additionally, Corteco is expanding into the heavy-duty vehicle sector, focusing on providing high-durability parts to meet the demands of commercial vehicles. For aspiring professionals, Dickopf advised building cross-functional expertise and maintaining industry networks to thrive in this competitive market.Make sure to give the video a watch; you can jump to specific topics with the episode overview below.­­­

Episode Overview:

• Dickopf discusses his life experiences in Germany leading to his role at Corteco (0:45)
• Corteco’s role in the aftermarket (7:24)
• How Corteco plans to serve the heavy-duty market  (12:06)
• Prioritizing keeping top talent with the company (15:06)
• Corteco’s recent growth and future outlook (20:09)
• Lightning round (22:06)

]]>1482false52fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-51-jayme-farina-on-leadership-mentorship-and-driving-innovation--63549309AP Emissions, to share his career journey and insights into the automotive aftermarket industry. Farina reflects on his upbringing in West Texas, his education at Texas Tech and how he was introduced to the industry. He talks about his early career experiences, highlighting the importance of mentorship and how guidance from others helped shape his path. Farina then delves into AP Emissions’ values, focusing on the company’s core pillars of trust, respect and collaboration. He explains how these principles have been fundamental to the company’s success and how they continue to drive the business forward under new ownership. He also discusses AP’s vertically integrated manufacturing process, which allows the company to respond quickly to market demands and stay at the forefront of product innovation.Farina emphasizes the importance of the automotive aftermarket, encouraging young professionals to consider careers in the industry. He shares his belief in the value of giving back and supporting industry collaboration, which he sees as vital for long-term success.

Episode Overview:

• How Jayme got started in the automotive aftermarket (0:59)
• Jayme talk about impactful mentors in his life (4:09)
• Discussion on the culture at AP Emissions (6:37)
• How a recent buyout has impacted the company (8:33)
• AP Emissions and vertical integration (11:20)
• How Jayme gives back to his community (13:41)
• Lightning Round (17:17)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549309Thu, 02 Jan 2025 20:49:24 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of Drivetime, we welcome Jayme Farina, Executive Vice President at https://apemissions.com/, to share his career journey and insights into the automotive aftermarket industry. Farina reflects on his upbringing in West Texas, his...AP Emissions, to share his career journey and insights into the automotive aftermarket industry. Farina reflects on his upbringing in West Texas, his education at Texas Tech and how he was introduced to the industry. He talks about his early career experiences, highlighting the importance of mentorship and how guidance from others helped shape his path. Farina then delves into AP Emissions’ values, focusing on the company’s core pillars of trust, respect and collaboration. He explains how these principles have been fundamental to the company’s success and how they continue to drive the business forward under new ownership. He also discusses AP’s vertically integrated manufacturing process, which allows the company to respond quickly to market demands and stay at the forefront of product innovation.Farina emphasizes the importance of the automotive aftermarket, encouraging young professionals to consider careers in the industry. He shares his belief in the value of giving back and supporting industry collaboration, which he sees as vital for long-term success.

Episode Overview:

• How Jayme got started in the automotive aftermarket (0:59)
• Jayme talk about impactful mentors in his life (4:09)
• Discussion on the culture at AP Emissions (6:37)
• How a recent buyout has impacted the company (8:33)
• AP Emissions and vertical integration (11:20)
• How Jayme gives back to his community (13:41)
• Lightning Round (17:17)

]]>1360false51fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-50-driving-the-aftermarket-s-digital-future-with-gideon-williams--63549293
Episode Overview:

• How Gideon Williams ‘lucked’ into the aftermarket (0:47)
• RevolutionParts and company culture (4:14)
• RevolutionParts and selling online (6:49)
• Future roles for the company (9:24)
• e-Commerce and parts stores (12:31)
• Lightning Round (16:48)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549293Thu, 02 Jan 2025 20:44:37 +0000Babcox MediaGideon Williams remembers his entrance into the aftermarket world, initially viewing it as a lucky accident. Since then, he has risen to head the Aftermarket Division at Revolution Parts. His experience, he noted, has given him a bird’s-eye view of...
Episode Overview:

• How Gideon Williams ‘lucked’ into the aftermarket (0:47)
• RevolutionParts and company culture (4:14)
• RevolutionParts and selling online (6:49)
• Future roles for the company (9:24)
• e-Commerce and parts stores (12:31)
• Lightning Round (16:48)

]]>1131false50fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-49-driving-mentorship-with-mike-fiorito--63549278
Episode Overview

• Fiorito explains his career path (1:16)
• Fiorito mentions the importance of mentorship (5:25)
• How does KYB differentiate itself in a crowded market? (7:59)
• KYB and sustainability (11:42)
• Lightning Round (15:19)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63549278Thu, 02 Jan 2025 20:40:45 +0000Babcox MediaSuccess in the automotive aftermarket often stems from humble beginnings and a deep understanding of the industry. Mike Fiorito, the current Director of KYB Americas, exemplifies this journey. His career in the aftermarket began unexpectedly when he...
Episode Overview

• Fiorito explains his career path (1:16)
• Fiorito mentions the importance of mentorship (5:25)
• How does KYB differentiate itself in a crowded market? (7:59)
• KYB and sustainability (11:42)
• Lightning Round (15:19)

]]>1080false49fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-48-roger-mccollum-uaf-chairman-talks-education-impact-on-the-aftermarket--63548883Roger McCollum is in his first year as chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. The veteran aftermarket industry executive was elected as chairman in November of 2023, replacing longtime chair Bob Egan, who transitioned to the role of chairman emeritus. Before becoming chairman at UAF, McCollum spent more than three decades with N.A. Williams in a number of roles. He was named vice president in 1990 and went on to serve as President, CEO and Chairman. In 2023, the foundation awarded 378 scholarships totaling more than $640,000. But in order to meet the demand for technicians and other aftermarket professionals, McCollum says additional scholarship funding is needed.“Certainly the students benefit. Certainly the industry organizations get quality people to come to work for them,” said McCollum when discussing who benefits from UAF’s scholarships. “We’re helping to attract talent and bring quality, fresh new young people into our industry. We’re providing the next generation of industry professionals and ensuring a vibrant aftermarket for the future.”In this episode, McCollum addresses the need for more UAF lifetime trustees (a minimum $100,000 donation is required) and other funding for programs to support UAF’s mission.

Episode Overview

• McCollum discusses UAF’s role in the industry and the scholarships the foundation has awarded. (1:09)
• McCollum shares his journey from a UAF board member to becoming chairman. (8:35)
• How people in the aftermarket can help build UAF’s program and expand its reach. (11:40)
• How the investment in aftermarket in education leads to a more skilled workforce. (17:06)
• McCollum discusses the UAF Coffee Club, for smaller donors who contribute monthly. (20:26)
• McCollum talks about the UAF Legacy Club and the goals for its future. (23:06)
• Celebrating Mort Schwartz’s 90th Birthday (26:47)
• Lightning Round (30:24)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63548883Thu, 02 Jan 2025 20:36:46 +0000Babcox Mediahttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/uaf-new-chairman-officers-trustees-2024/is in his first year as chairman of the https://uofa-foundation.org/. The veteran aftermarket industry executive was elected as chairman in November of 2023, replacing longtime...Roger McCollum is in his first year as chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. The veteran aftermarket industry executive was elected as chairman in November of 2023, replacing longtime chair Bob Egan, who transitioned to the role of chairman emeritus. Before becoming chairman at UAF, McCollum spent more than three decades with N.A. Williams in a number of roles. He was named vice president in 1990 and went on to serve as President, CEO and Chairman. In 2023, the foundation awarded 378 scholarships totaling more than $640,000. But in order to meet the demand for technicians and other aftermarket professionals, McCollum says additional scholarship funding is needed.“Certainly the students benefit. Certainly the industry organizations get quality people to come to work for them,” said McCollum when discussing who benefits from UAF’s scholarships. “We’re helping to attract talent and bring quality, fresh new young people into our industry. We’re providing the next generation of industry professionals and ensuring a vibrant aftermarket for the future.”In this episode, McCollum addresses the need for more UAF lifetime trustees (a minimum $100,000 donation is required) and other funding for programs to support UAF’s mission.

Episode Overview

• McCollum discusses UAF’s role in the industry and the scholarships the foundation has awarded. (1:09)
• McCollum shares his journey from a UAF board member to becoming chairman. (8:35)
• How people in the aftermarket can help build UAF’s program and expand its reach. (11:40)
• How the investment in aftermarket in education leads to a more skilled workforce. (17:06)
• McCollum discusses the UAF Coffee Club, for smaller donors who contribute monthly. (20:26)
• McCollum talks about the UAF Legacy Club and the goals for its future. (23:06)
• Celebrating Mort Schwartz’s 90th Birthday (26:47)
• Lightning Round (30:24)

]]>2164false48fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-47-randy-breaux-group-president-gpc-north-america-talks-to-amn-drivetime--60416257Episode Overview

• Randy Breaux discusses his career, starting at NAPA and transitioning into a role with GPC (1:46)
• Breaux shares his philosophies on an effective work environment, also known as ‘Breaux Knows’ (5:10)
• Why Breaux lives by the philosophy “relationships first, success follows” when it comes to business (10:30)
• A focus on customers over competition and why Breaux believes this leads to success (11:22)
• Coming up on a year in his new role, Breaux shares his impressions of the aftermarket (12:35)
• B2B or B2C, Breaux explains NAPA’s main focus (14:07)
• Breaux shares his Charles Barkley story (16:37)
• Lightning Round (19:37)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60416257Mon, 17 Jun 2024 20:40:56 +0000Babcox MediaGrowing up in South Louisiana, Randy Breaux started working young, inspired by his machinist father and grandfather. His formal career began after college, spending 26 years in manufacturing, with 21 of those at Baldor Electric Company. Following its...Episode Overview

• Randy Breaux discusses his career, starting at NAPA and transitioning into a role with GPC (1:46)
• Breaux shares his philosophies on an effective work environment, also known as ‘Breaux Knows’ (5:10)
• Why Breaux lives by the philosophy “relationships first, success follows” when it comes to business (10:30)
• A focus on customers over competition and why Breaux believes this leads to success (11:22)
• Coming up on a year in his new role, Breaux shares his impressions of the aftermarket (12:35)
• B2B or B2C, Breaux explains NAPA’s main focus (14:07)
• Breaux shares his Charles Barkley story (16:37)
• Lightning Round (19:37)

]]>1433false46fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-46-mike-mohler-being-an-aftermarket-catalyst--60273539
Graduating from high school in 1984 and college in 1989, Mohler gained a thorough understanding of how a warehouse distributor operates. This foundational knowledge set the stage for his future success. After college, a pivotal moment came when he joined Federal-Mogul as a territory sales manager, covering a vast region that included East Texas, Northern Louisiana, Southeastern Oklahoma, and Southwestern Arkansas. This role involved calling on warehouse distributors, engine rebuilders, fleets and service dealers, providing him with a comprehensive view of the industry.

His tenure at Federal-Mogul lasted until 2000, during which he rose through the ranks to become a business development manager. This position required him to identify new business opportunities across various sectors, including small OEM, industrial and heavy-duty markets. This experience broadened his perspective on the automotive aftermarket.In June 2000, he transitioned to the National Pronto Association, eventually becoming its Vice President and Director of Product Management. His role at Pronto expanded his understanding of the industry from the distributor's viewpoint, enriching his knowledge and expertise.By 2015, the automotive aftermarket landscape was evolving. The launch of the Automotive Parts Services Group (APSG), a joint venture between Pronto and Federated Auto Parts, marked a significant milestone. The collaboration focused on combining resources for vendor relations, procurement and data management, setting a new standard for co-opetition in the industry.

In recent years, Mohler’s role has involved managing vendor relations for APSG, working closely with suppliers to maintain relevancy and drive strategy. His unique position, balancing responsibilities between Pronto Network and the Federated-Alliance Joint Venture, underscores the collaborative spirit essential to modern automotive aftermarket success.

Episode Overview

• Beginnings in Monroe, Louisiana (1:53)
• Time spent at Federal-Mogul (4:27)
• An overview of what Mohler sees as challenges for distributors (16:10)
• Discussing Section 301 Tariffs and the future of the aftermarket (20:49)
• Procurement and procurement strategies (30:27)
• Mohler's board and organizational involvement (36:47)
• Lightning Round (40:57)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60273539Tue, 04 Jun 2024 13:05:26 +0000Babcox MediaFor Mike Mohler, it all began in Monroe, Louisiana, where he worked for his father, Ray. Throughout high school and college, he honed his skills at the family’s warehouse distribution center, mastering tasks like loading trucks, receiving stock, and...
Graduating from high school in 1984 and college in 1989, Mohler gained a thorough understanding of how a warehouse distributor operates. This foundational knowledge set the stage for his future success. After college, a pivotal moment came when he joined Federal-Mogul as a territory sales manager, covering a vast region that included East Texas, Northern Louisiana, Southeastern Oklahoma, and Southwestern Arkansas. This role involved calling on warehouse distributors, engine rebuilders, fleets and service dealers, providing him with a comprehensive view of the industry.

His tenure at Federal-Mogul lasted until 2000, during which he rose through the ranks to become a business development manager. This position required him to identify new business opportunities across various sectors, including small OEM, industrial and heavy-duty markets. This experience broadened his perspective on the automotive aftermarket.In June 2000, he transitioned to the National Pronto Association, eventually becoming its Vice President and Director of Product Management. His role at Pronto expanded his understanding of the industry from the distributor's viewpoint, enriching his knowledge and expertise.By 2015, the automotive aftermarket landscape was evolving. The launch of the Automotive Parts Services Group (APSG), a joint venture between Pronto and Federated Auto Parts, marked a significant milestone. The collaboration focused on combining resources for vendor relations, procurement and data management, setting a new standard for co-opetition in the industry.

In recent years, Mohler’s role has involved managing vendor relations for APSG, working closely with suppliers to maintain relevancy and drive strategy. His unique position, balancing responsibilities between Pronto Network and the Federated-Alliance Joint Venture, underscores the collaborative spirit essential to modern automotive aftermarket success.

Episode Overview

• Beginnings in Monroe, Louisiana (1:53)
• Time spent at Federal-Mogul (4:27)
• An overview of what Mohler sees as challenges for distributors (16:10)
• Discussing Section 301 Tariffs and the future of the aftermarket (20:49)
• Procurement and procurement strategies (30:27)
• Mohler's board and organizational involvement (36:47)
• Lightning Round (40:57)

]]>2681aftermarket,auto,automotive,cars,distributors,drivetime,federal-mogul,procurement,warehousefalse46fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-45-cal-ganda-s-continental-journey-from-manufacturing-to-aftermarket-leadership--59870038
This marked the beginning of his journey with Continental, where he embraced various roles, from tire assembly to logistics and process engineering.Today, as Head of Aftermarket Distribution at ContiTech Industrial Solutions Americas, Cal embodies servitude leadership, prioritizing team success and customer-centricity. ContiTech’s realignment toward customer-centricity underscores its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Strategic investments, such as the recent hydraulic hose plant in Mexico, highlight Continental's proactive approach to optimizing distribution strategies and enhancing customer proximity. Beyond his professional endeavors, Cal's ownership of Real African Art gallery in Charlotte reflects his commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59870038Mon, 06 May 2024 13:33:30 +0000Babcox MediaCal Ganda’s path from Zimbabwe to leading aftermarket distribution at Continental’s ContiTech Group is a testament to seizing opportunities and embracing change. Arriving in the U.S. in 1998 for university, he ventured into food manufacturing...
This marked the beginning of his journey with Continental, where he embraced various roles, from tire assembly to logistics and process engineering.Today, as Head of Aftermarket Distribution at ContiTech Industrial Solutions Americas, Cal embodies servitude leadership, prioritizing team success and customer-centricity. ContiTech’s realignment toward customer-centricity underscores its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Strategic investments, such as the recent hydraulic hose plant in Mexico, highlight Continental's proactive approach to optimizing distribution strategies and enhancing customer proximity. Beyond his professional endeavors, Cal's ownership of Real African Art gallery in Charlotte reflects his commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement.]]>684false45fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-44-at-the-intersection-of-tradition-and-innovation-with-grace-hovis--59086294
"My father brought me and my brother into the business as soon as we could push a broom," she said. "He had us in the warehouse. We were following around employees. He'd give us a few bucks at the end of the day, and we were thrilled. He made me business cards when I was in preschool. I'd walk around trade shows with him and hand them out to the reps and tell them that I'd be working with them someday."

Today, Hovis is the marketing and training director at Hovis Auto and Truck Supply, and from those traditional aftermarket beginnings, she underscores the significance of digital tools – from e-commerce platforms to CRM systems – in enhancing customer engagement and streamlining processes. The digital transformation of the aftermarket is not just about adopting new technologies, but also about reimagining business models to thrive in a connected world.

 "I think it's always important to look back on where a company started, how it came to be the way it is and why they do things the way they do them," she said. "But I also think that a young, fresh perspective can come in and look at some of those things and say, 'That works great, but why don't we try it this way?' I think another perspective our generation brings is a fresh look on technology."

Hovis noted that young automotive aftermarket professionals, like those involved in YANG, bring invaluable insights into emerging technologies and market trends. Their fresh perspectives are crucial for understanding the implications of advancements such as electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving technologies and AI. By fostering a culture that values innovation and inclusivity, the aftermarket can tap into the potential of the next generation to address future challenges and opportunities.

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Hovis talks through her journey in the automotive aftermarket and highlights the integration of fresh perspectives on automotive aftermarket technology that can significantly impact the industry's trajectory.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59086294Mon, 18 Mar 2024 12:47:32 +0000Babcox MediaGrace Hovis's journey in the family business, Hovis Auto and Truck Supply, highlights the balance between honoring tradition and seeking innovation. Founded in 1952, Hovis Auto and Truck Supply Inc. has evolved from a small operation into a major...
"My father brought me and my brother into the business as soon as we could push a broom," she said. "He had us in the warehouse. We were following around employees. He'd give us a few bucks at the end of the day, and we were thrilled. He made me business cards when I was in preschool. I'd walk around trade shows with him and hand them out to the reps and tell them that I'd be working with them someday."

Today, Hovis is the marketing and training director at Hovis Auto and Truck Supply, and from those traditional aftermarket beginnings, she underscores the significance of digital tools – from e-commerce platforms to CRM systems – in enhancing customer engagement and streamlining processes. The digital transformation of the aftermarket is not just about adopting new technologies, but also about reimagining business models to thrive in a connected world.

 "I think it's always important to look back on where a company started, how it came to be the way it is and why they do things the way they do them," she said. "But I also think that a young, fresh perspective can come in and look at some of those things and say, 'That works great, but why don't we try it this way?' I think another perspective our generation brings is a fresh look on technology."

Hovis noted that young automotive aftermarket professionals, like those involved in YANG, bring invaluable insights into emerging technologies and market trends. Their fresh perspectives are crucial for understanding the implications of advancements such as electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving technologies and AI. By fostering a culture that values innovation and inclusivity, the aftermarket can tap into the potential of the next generation to address future challenges and opportunities.

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Hovis talks through her journey in the automotive aftermarket and highlights the integration of fresh perspectives on automotive aftermarket technology that can significantly impact the industry's trajectory.]]>1204false44fullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/MEMA has evolved from a modest gathering of parts manufacturers in Cleveland, to a pivotal force in the global automotive landscape. In this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Bill Long, president and chief executive officer, discusses MEMA's recent reorganization to better serve its members amidst industry transformations, reflected on his 11 years at MEMA and highlighted efforts in advocacy, sustainability, U.S. manufacturing competitiveness, and global trade expansion. • Introduction to MEMA's 120th anniversary, the founding of MEMA in 1904, and its original directors and members. (00:56)
• Expansion of MEMA's membership and the evolution of its purpose, highlighting key historical moments and contributions to the automotive industry. (02:56)
• Significant milestones in MEMA's history, including the introduction of credit reporting services, co-sponsoring the automotive service industry show, opening the DC office, and the formation of various market segments within MEMA. (04:53)
• Reflections on personal experiences and meaningful moments within MEMA over the past 11 years. (08:05)
• Discussion on the organizational changes in MEMA, aimed at better positioning the association for the future. (11:03)
• Future plans and focus areas for MEMA, including strengthening the supplier voice in Washington DC, addressing manufacturing competitiveness, and expanding global trade. (14:21)
• The "Lightning Round" of quick questions. (19:00)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58919132Mon, 04 Mar 2024 13:51:30 +0000Babcox MediaAs MEMA commemorates its 120th anniversary, it's an opportunity to reflect on the organization's profound impact on the automotive aftermarket industry. Founded on March 2, 1904, https://www.mema.org/ has evolved from a modest gathering of parts...MEMA has evolved from a modest gathering of parts manufacturers in Cleveland, to a pivotal force in the global automotive landscape. In this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Bill Long, president and chief executive officer, discusses MEMA's recent reorganization to better serve its members amidst industry transformations, reflected on his 11 years at MEMA and highlighted efforts in advocacy, sustainability, U.S. manufacturing competitiveness, and global trade expansion. • Introduction to MEMA's 120th anniversary, the founding of MEMA in 1904, and its original directors and members. (00:56)
• Expansion of MEMA's membership and the evolution of its purpose, highlighting key historical moments and contributions to the automotive industry. (02:56)
• Significant milestones in MEMA's history, including the introduction of credit reporting services, co-sponsoring the automotive service industry show, opening the DC office, and the formation of various market segments within MEMA. (04:53)
• Reflections on personal experiences and meaningful moments within MEMA over the past 11 years. (08:05)
• Discussion on the organizational changes in MEMA, aimed at better positioning the association for the future. (11:03)
• Future plans and focus areas for MEMA, including strengthening the supplier voice in Washington DC, addressing manufacturing competitiveness, and expanding global trade. (14:21)
• The "Lightning Round" of quick questions. (19:00)]]>1407aftermarket,aisin,amn,drivetime,mema,washingtondcfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/Jon Owens, national sales manager for Epicor, to find the automotive aftermarket. Jon started out in sales for Timken Roller Bearing in Canton, Ohio, and describes finding the aftermarket after graduating from college as being in the right place at the right time. However, it wasn’t until he took over the NAPA Auto Parts account for Timken and started going to meetings, such as the AWDA Conference, where he truly recognized the power of volunteering for industry committees.

“You’re exposed to industry icons and you just can’t beat that kind of exposure,” said Owens, who just began his two-year stint as president of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), and arguably, has become an industry icon himself. “For me, it all began at AWDA. I was smitten with it and convinced that industry volunteerism benefited not only the industry, but also benefited me personally and whatever company I was going to represent.”

Since then, the list of organizations and committees Owens has served on is too long to publish here. Yet in his time at various automotive aftermarket companies, he has always been sure to remain involved outside of his 9-to-5 and has learned many lessons in business and life from the aftermarket professionals he has volunteered with. In this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Owens delves into those lessons as well as his career trajectory from Timken to Epicor and describes his vision for AACF.

EPISODE OVERVIEW

• How Owens found the automotive aftermarket (0:58)
• His college football career and what he learned most from playing the sport at a high level (3:46)
• Owens’s mentors in the automotive aftermarket (5:06)
• His involvement in the automotive aftermarket organizations and what makes our industry different when it comes to service outside of your day job (10:48)
• His biggest lessons from his involvement in aftermarket committees and organizations (16:32)
• Owens describes his vision for AACF as president for the next two years (22:45)
• How you can help with the AACF’s mission today (29:54)

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58578661Mon, 05 Feb 2024 19:41:13 +0000Babcox MediaSerendipity led https://www.aftermarketnews.com/aacf-elects-jon-owens-as-next-board-president/, national sales manager for Epicor, to find the automotive aftermarket. Jon started out in sales for Timken Roller Bearing in Canton, Ohio, and describes...Jon Owens, national sales manager for Epicor, to find the automotive aftermarket. Jon started out in sales for Timken Roller Bearing in Canton, Ohio, and describes finding the aftermarket after graduating from college as being in the right place at the right time. However, it wasn’t until he took over the NAPA Auto Parts account for Timken and started going to meetings, such as the AWDA Conference, where he truly recognized the power of volunteering for industry committees.

“You’re exposed to industry icons and you just can’t beat that kind of exposure,” said Owens, who just began his two-year stint as president of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), and arguably, has become an industry icon himself. “For me, it all began at AWDA. I was smitten with it and convinced that industry volunteerism benefited not only the industry, but also benefited me personally and whatever company I was going to represent.”

Since then, the list of organizations and committees Owens has served on is too long to publish here. Yet in his time at various automotive aftermarket companies, he has always been sure to remain involved outside of his 9-to-5 and has learned many lessons in business and life from the aftermarket professionals he has volunteered with. In this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Owens delves into those lessons as well as his career trajectory from Timken to Epicor and describes his vision for AACF.

EPISODE OVERVIEW

• How Owens found the automotive aftermarket (0:58)
• His college football career and what he learned most from playing the sport at a high level (3:46)
• Owens’s mentors in the automotive aftermarket (5:06)
• His involvement in the automotive aftermarket organizations and what makes our industry different when it comes to service outside of your day job (10:48)
• His biggest lessons from his involvement in aftermarket committees and organizations (16:32)
• Owens describes his vision for AACF as president for the next two years (22:45)
• How you can help with the AACF’s mission today (29:54)

]]>2333aacf,aftermarket,aisin,amn,automotive,boards,career,cars,charity,committees,donations,drivetime,epicor,giving,networking,president,rewards,volunteeringfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/
Koviak calls that his first official job in the aftermarket, but in reality, his first experience in our industry dates back to his days in vocational auto mechanics class in high school. At the time, Koviak told his teacher he wanted to be involved in cars but didn’t want to work at a dealership or be a technician. That’s when his teacher reached out to Northwood University, where Koviak found a great fit in their automotive aftermarket management program. Since then, Koviak has spent his career in the aftermarket, navigating the changes Tenneco has experienced throughout the years.

Today, Koviak serves as vice president of sales, customer service and sales operations, the Americas, at DRiV, and in this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, he delves into how his role and the company’s strategies have shifted, especially when Tenneco merged with Federal-Mogul in 2018 and formed DRiV, as well as how the company has changed since being bought by private equity in November 2022. EPISODE OVERVIEW

• Koviak’s career trajectory in the automotive aftermarket (0:39);
• Koviak’s thoughts on the “transformational” merger of Tenneco and Federal-Mogul and how he played a role in combining the two businesses (8:01);
• Changes Tenneco/DRiV have experienced since being acquired by private equity and how the company is able to make quicker decisions (11:42)
• DRiV’s plans for 2024- new products and a focus on improved fill rates (15:07)
• Koviak delves into the strategic direction of some of Tenneco’s storied brands and what to expect from them in the future (19:32)
• The importance of giving back to the industry and Koviak’s continued connection to Northwood (25:31)
• Lightening Round questions⚡ (28:57)

Watch more episodes of AMN Drivetime here.]]>Ep. 41 DRiV’s Jeff Koviak: Strategies for a Changing AftermarketTue, 09 Jan 2024 17:32:43 +0000Babcox MediaJeff Koviak describes his “master’s degree” in the automotive aftermarket as owning two muffler shops in Port Huron, Michigan, for a few years. He was at the ripe, young age of 24 and this stint came after he served as a Walker Exhaust territory...
Koviak calls that his first official job in the aftermarket, but in reality, his first experience in our industry dates back to his days in vocational auto mechanics class in high school. At the time, Koviak told his teacher he wanted to be involved in cars but didn’t want to work at a dealership or be a technician. That’s when his teacher reached out to Northwood University, where Koviak found a great fit in their automotive aftermarket management program. Since then, Koviak has spent his career in the aftermarket, navigating the changes Tenneco has experienced throughout the years.

Today, Koviak serves as vice president of sales, customer service and sales operations, the Americas, at DRiV, and in this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, he delves into how his role and the company’s strategies have shifted, especially when Tenneco merged with Federal-Mogul in 2018 and formed DRiV, as well as how the company has changed since being bought by private equity in November 2022. EPISODE OVERVIEW

• Koviak’s career trajectory in the automotive aftermarket (0:39);
• Koviak’s thoughts on the “transformational” merger of Tenneco and Federal-Mogul and how he played a role in combining the two businesses (8:01);
• Changes Tenneco/DRiV have experienced since being acquired by private equity and how the company is able to make quicker decisions (11:42)
• DRiV’s plans for 2024- new products and a focus on improved fill rates (15:07)
• Koviak delves into the strategic direction of some of Tenneco’s storied brands and what to expect from them in the future (19:32)
• The importance of giving back to the industry and Koviak’s continued connection to Northwood (25:31)
• Lightening Round questions⚡ (28:57)

Watch more episodes of AMN Drivetime here.]]>1859aftermarket,auto,automotive,cars,customer,decision-making,driv,fel-pro,koviak,management,mergers,monroe,northwood,parts,tennecofalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/MANN+HUMMEL has prided itself on being family-owned, remaining steadfast to its mission: separating the useful from the harmful with its filtration products. Yet, over the years, its products have evolved as the company has innovated to meet the demands of its customers. About 25 years ago, the innovation and heritage of MANN+HUMMEL attracted its current president and CEO to the company and he hasn't looked back.

Kurk Wilks joined the company in 1998 on the OE side of the business as a senior account manager. Then, he transitioned into sales and took on a global role managing the General Motors account. Over the years, he has held director roles in the areas of sales, engineering and operations on local, regional and global levels. Finally in December 2018, he was named president and general manager of the company's OE business.

"Then, in 2020 I was asked by our chairman to become the CEO. So it's unique. I'm the first American CEO of this German, family-owned business," he explained. "But I think with my 25 years of experience, the deep respect I have for our heritage of what it means to be family-owned and be technology driven, I'm able to take those assets with our people, our most important asset, and make something different for our customers to experience."

Today, MANN+HUMMEL calls itself the leader in filtration, as it continues to invest in R&D, engineering, digitalization and advanced technology.

"We use analytics tools, AI and other processes now to really bolt on and streamline how we run the business," he said. "But in the end, for me it's about reliability and trust that when customers use our product, it'll make their asset perform as desired and as needed." In this episode of AMN Drivetime, presented by AISIN, Wilks delves into:

• His first roles in the automotive aftermarket and what attracted him to MANN+HUMMEL (0:51)
• His career trajectory at the company (2:30)
• Experiences that have shaped his view on the business (4:18)
• How MANN+HUMMEL has benefitted from its expanded distribution strategy after opening a distribution center on the West Coast (8:16)
• The ways the company is innovating in filtration through digital solutions and the importance of its digital hubs (10:12)
• Additional opportunities for the company's growth (14:12)
• What he's seeing as the state of the automotive aftermarket with his role as vice chairman of MEMA (15:01)
• The Lightening Round ⚡

This episode is sponsored by AISIN. To watch more episodes of AMN Drivetime, click here.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57907855Mon, 04 Dec 2023 16:38:50 +0000Babcox MediaIn its 81 years in business, https://www.aftermarketnews.com/mannhummel-rolls-out-print-on-demand-product-catalogs/ has prided itself on being family-owned, remaining steadfast to its mission: separating the useful from the harmful with its filtration...MANN+HUMMEL has prided itself on being family-owned, remaining steadfast to its mission: separating the useful from the harmful with its filtration products. Yet, over the years, its products have evolved as the company has innovated to meet the demands of its customers. About 25 years ago, the innovation and heritage of MANN+HUMMEL attracted its current president and CEO to the company and he hasn't looked back.

Kurk Wilks joined the company in 1998 on the OE side of the business as a senior account manager. Then, he transitioned into sales and took on a global role managing the General Motors account. Over the years, he has held director roles in the areas of sales, engineering and operations on local, regional and global levels. Finally in December 2018, he was named president and general manager of the company's OE business.

"Then, in 2020 I was asked by our chairman to become the CEO. So it's unique. I'm the first American CEO of this German, family-owned business," he explained. "But I think with my 25 years of experience, the deep respect I have for our heritage of what it means to be family-owned and be technology driven, I'm able to take those assets with our people, our most important asset, and make something different for our customers to experience."

Today, MANN+HUMMEL calls itself the leader in filtration, as it continues to invest in R&D, engineering, digitalization and advanced technology.

"We use analytics tools, AI and other processes now to really bolt on and streamline how we run the business," he said. "But in the end, for me it's about reliability and trust that when customers use our product, it'll make their asset perform as desired and as needed." In this episode of AMN Drivetime, presented by AISIN, Wilks delves into:

• His first roles in the automotive aftermarket and what attracted him to MANN+HUMMEL (0:51)
• His career trajectory at the company (2:30)
• Experiences that have shaped his view on the business (4:18)
• How MANN+HUMMEL has benefitted from its expanded distribution strategy after opening a distribution center on the West Coast (8:16)
• The ways the company is innovating in filtration through digital solutions and the importance of its digital hubs (10:12)
• Additional opportunities for the company's growth (14:12)
• What he's seeing as the state of the automotive aftermarket with his role as vice chairman of MEMA (15:01)
• The Lightening Round ⚡

This episode is sponsored by AISIN. To watch more episodes of AMN Drivetime, click here.]]>1265aftermarket,amn,automotive,distribution,drivetime,filtration,germany,industry,innovation,leadership,management,mann+hummel,purolator,wixfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/
"I even learned how to drive a forklift," Palm says laughing, recalling the memories of his various roles at CRP.

After 10 years of working his way up at the company, Palm asked himself, "What's next?" His marketing mastery led him to find a role at Berlitz, a global supplier of language instruction, cross-cultural training and other educational materials, as its director of worldwide marketing. There, he gained experience in consumer marketing, yet always kept in touch with his CRP colleagues. After a decade at Berlitz, Palm, as he describes it, was lured back to the aftermarket by Daniel Schlidge, president and CEO of CRP, who presented a future-looking vision to Mike and told him how he could play a role in developing it.

Since 2005, Mike has been a staple at CRP working his way up to vice president of sales and marketing, leading the company’s aftermarket product management efforts and ensuring that CRP remains a respected brand in the industry.

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, presented by AISIN, find out how Mike and his team are doing that by getting close to the customer and looking ahead at innovations the company will need to produce down the line.

In this episode, Mike shares:

• How he started at CRP Industries and his experiences working at the company in "the early days" (0:40)
• Why he decided to leave the automotive aftermarket and what brought back to CRP from this experience (4:26)
• Why he returned to CRP and why he "wakes up everyday enjoying what I do" (9:18)
• The way his role as vice president of sales and marketing has changed and how he deals with change management both at CRP and in the industry (12:22)
• How CRP's Innovation Council has spurred multiple product innovations for the company (15:09)
• The value that the Innovation Council has brought to CRP's supply chain (19:39)
• Big opportunities for CRP to serve the marketplace in the near future (24:13)
• The Lightening Round ⚡

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here: https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57561496Wed, 08 Nov 2023 16:05:23 +0000Babcox MediaWhen Mike Palm tells you he's a jack of all trades at CRP Industries, he's not lying. Just look at his resume. He started with the company in 1986 as a graduate of Shippensburg University, just outside of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He found a marketing...
"I even learned how to drive a forklift," Palm says laughing, recalling the memories of his various roles at CRP.

After 10 years of working his way up at the company, Palm asked himself, "What's next?" His marketing mastery led him to find a role at Berlitz, a global supplier of language instruction, cross-cultural training and other educational materials, as its director of worldwide marketing. There, he gained experience in consumer marketing, yet always kept in touch with his CRP colleagues. After a decade at Berlitz, Palm, as he describes it, was lured back to the aftermarket by Daniel Schlidge, president and CEO of CRP, who presented a future-looking vision to Mike and told him how he could play a role in developing it.

Since 2005, Mike has been a staple at CRP working his way up to vice president of sales and marketing, leading the company’s aftermarket product management efforts and ensuring that CRP remains a respected brand in the industry.

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, presented by AISIN, find out how Mike and his team are doing that by getting close to the customer and looking ahead at innovations the company will need to produce down the line.

In this episode, Mike shares:

• How he started at CRP Industries and his experiences working at the company in "the early days" (0:40)
• Why he decided to leave the automotive aftermarket and what brought back to CRP from this experience (4:26)
• Why he returned to CRP and why he "wakes up everyday enjoying what I do" (9:18)
• The way his role as vice president of sales and marketing has changed and how he deals with change management both at CRP and in the industry (12:22)
• How CRP's Innovation Council has spurred multiple product innovations for the company (15:09)
• The value that the Innovation Council has brought to CRP's supply chain (19:39)
• Big opportunities for CRP to serve the marketplace in the near future (24:13)
• The Lightening Round ⚡

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here: https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/]]>2294aftermarket,amn,auto,automotive,career,drivetime,industry,management,marketing,parts,salesfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/
Jeff Kritzer, president and CEO of BendPak, is one of those guys.Kritzer started at BendPak, a California-based company best known for its car lifts and wheel service equipment, when he was a 20-something recent college grad. As he describes it, he found out about the job thanks to family connections: Owner Don Henthorn’s daughter was best friends with Jeff’s sister at the time. He knew Jeff was in search of a job, and Jeff soon started in the company’s shipping and receiving department. Thanks to his innovative thinking and hard work, Jeff worked his way up in the company, seeing through dozens of brands, products and industry firsts over the years.

In the latest episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Jeff delves into:

• His “rags to riches” career trajectory at BendPak (1:10)
• Advice and good business practices Jeff has learned from his mentors, including Henthorn (2:54);
• How BenPak’s product lines have evolved over time to meet market demand (4:52);
• How the BendPak name was born and its offerings for the aftermarket today (6:00);
• Innovations around BendPak’s CoolBoss product line (11:51);
• Why BendPak recently opened an industrial complex in Alabama and how it feeds into the company’s strategy (14:17);
• Potetial growth Jeff sees for BendPak and its aftermarket brands (15:51);
• Reasons why the company purchased a new California HQ and wants employees to come into the office each day (17:13);
• How EVs are affecting lifts and wheel service equipment (20:03)
• Rapid Fire Questions (22:23)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57168195Tue, 10 Oct 2023 10:40:02 +0000Babcox MediaWhen you’ve worked for a company for more than 40 years, you certainly know “where the bodies are buried,” as they say. But more fascinating, you’re a walking history book, seeing the company through its ups and downs, successes and flops and stellar...
Jeff Kritzer, president and CEO of BendPak, is one of those guys.Kritzer started at BendPak, a California-based company best known for its car lifts and wheel service equipment, when he was a 20-something recent college grad. As he describes it, he found out about the job thanks to family connections: Owner Don Henthorn’s daughter was best friends with Jeff’s sister at the time. He knew Jeff was in search of a job, and Jeff soon started in the company’s shipping and receiving department. Thanks to his innovative thinking and hard work, Jeff worked his way up in the company, seeing through dozens of brands, products and industry firsts over the years.

In the latest episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Jeff delves into:

• His “rags to riches” career trajectory at BendPak (1:10)
• Advice and good business practices Jeff has learned from his mentors, including Henthorn (2:54);
• How BenPak’s product lines have evolved over time to meet market demand (4:52);
• How the BendPak name was born and its offerings for the aftermarket today (6:00);
• Innovations around BendPak’s CoolBoss product line (11:51);
• Why BendPak recently opened an industrial complex in Alabama and how it feeds into the company’s strategy (14:17);
• Potetial growth Jeff sees for BendPak and its aftermarket brands (15:51);
• Reasons why the company purchased a new California HQ and wants employees to come into the office each day (17:13);
• How EVs are affecting lifts and wheel service equipment (20:03)
• Rapid Fire Questions (22:23)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.

]]>1617aftermarket,aisin,automotive,babcox,bendpak,business,careers,cars,drivetime,equipment,evs,expansion,industry,lifts,wheelsfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/videos/amn-drivetime-video/Ted Hughes has seen change after change in the industry. He's experienced countless technological improvements. During his almost 24 years as head of marketing for MAHLE, he charged head-first into the digital era -- embracing digital media, e-commerce and a "data is king" mindset. Yet despite the evolution of the industry, one aspect has remained true: nothing beats the solid relationships that form long-lasting business partnerships and make this industry strong.

About a year ago, he joined the Auto Care Association as executive director of the Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) and also took on the role of senior director of community engagement for the association, putting his love for the industry and his expertise for creating industry engagement to work. Although challenges abound, Ted looks at them as opportunities.

In this episode of AMN Drivetime with Bill Babcox, presented by AISIN, Ted delves into:

• Making the change to association work and its biggest rewards (0:54);
• How he was fitted for skates at a young age and what playing hockey and other sports taught him that he takes into his career (3:13);
• Ted's career trajectory and how he found the automotive aftermarket (6:54);
• Shifts in the overall business that impacted Ted's roles and how he and his team addressed them (10:36)
• The future of AWDA (15:47);
• The importance of face-to-face interaction (18:39);
• Rapid Fire Questions (24:40)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56867250Fri, 06 Oct 2023 16:47:33 +0000Babcox MediaAs a 30-plus-year automotive aftermarket veteran, https://www.aftermarketnews.com/5-minutes-with-awdas-ted-hughes/ has seen change after change in the industry. He's experienced countless technological improvements. During his almost 24 years as head...Ted Hughes has seen change after change in the industry. He's experienced countless technological improvements. During his almost 24 years as head of marketing for MAHLE, he charged head-first into the digital era -- embracing digital media, e-commerce and a "data is king" mindset. Yet despite the evolution of the industry, one aspect has remained true: nothing beats the solid relationships that form long-lasting business partnerships and make this industry strong.

About a year ago, he joined the Auto Care Association as executive director of the Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) and also took on the role of senior director of community engagement for the association, putting his love for the industry and his expertise for creating industry engagement to work. Although challenges abound, Ted looks at them as opportunities.

In this episode of AMN Drivetime with Bill Babcox, presented by AISIN, Ted delves into:

• Making the change to association work and its biggest rewards (0:54);
• How he was fitted for skates at a young age and what playing hockey and other sports taught him that he takes into his career (3:13);
• Ted's career trajectory and how he found the automotive aftermarket (6:54);
• Shifts in the overall business that impacted Ted's roles and how he and his team addressed them (10:36)
• The future of AWDA (15:47);
• The importance of face-to-face interaction (18:39);
• Rapid Fire Questions (24:40)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.]]>1625aftermarket,association,automotive,awda,data,digital,distributors,drivetime,e-commerce,engagement,evolution,industry,marketing,relationships,technologyfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/
Rick received his MBA from USC's Marshall School of Business, and while his father grew and ran companies in the aftermarket, Rick's career spans multiple industries working in management positions for the likes of Macy's, Nestle and The Upper Deck Company early in his career. He gained C-suite level experience as the COO of a health and fitness company before joining forces with his dad to create Schwartz Advisors, an M&A and growth consultant for companies in the automotive aftermarket.

In 2006, Schwartz Advisors was born, and since then, the firm has added 12 industry experts from different segments to consult on various deals and strategies. In this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Rick delves into:

• The reasons why he initially studied international relations (1:00)
• Lessons he learned from working at large companies in different industries early in his career (1:44)
• How Schwartz Advisors was born (2:54)
• The breadth and depth of Schwartz Advisors' expertise (4:02)
• Trends in M&A in the macroeconomy and the automotive aftermarket (8:02)
• The types of business that are a good fit for the "buy-side" and "sell-side" of acquisitions (10:22)
• Lessons Rick learned from his father, Mort (12:42)
• Rapid Fire questions (14:18)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56713501Wed, 06 Sep 2023 15:45:01 +0000Babcox MediaThe Schwartz name is synonymous with the automotive aftermarket. It started with Mort Schwartz, an engineer by training who served as chairman and CEO of four different automotive aftermarket companies from the 60s to the 90s. Mort's service to the...
Rick received his MBA from USC's Marshall School of Business, and while his father grew and ran companies in the aftermarket, Rick's career spans multiple industries working in management positions for the likes of Macy's, Nestle and The Upper Deck Company early in his career. He gained C-suite level experience as the COO of a health and fitness company before joining forces with his dad to create Schwartz Advisors, an M&A and growth consultant for companies in the automotive aftermarket.

In 2006, Schwartz Advisors was born, and since then, the firm has added 12 industry experts from different segments to consult on various deals and strategies. In this episode of AMN Drivetime, sponsored by AISIN, Rick delves into:

• The reasons why he initially studied international relations (1:00)
• Lessons he learned from working at large companies in different industries early in his career (1:44)
• How Schwartz Advisors was born (2:54)
• The breadth and depth of Schwartz Advisors' expertise (4:02)
• Trends in M&A in the macroeconomy and the automotive aftermarket (8:02)
• The types of business that are a good fit for the "buy-side" and "sell-side" of acquisitions (10:22)
• Lessons Rick learned from his father, Mort (12:42)
• Rapid Fire questions (14:18)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.]]>1045acquisitions,aftermarket,automotive,distributors,growth,manufacturers,mergers,motor,strategy,supplier,trends,vehiclefalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/
In this episode of AMN Drivetime, presented by AISIN, Ceritano describes how he worked his way up in the industry, the ways he has helped grow the GSP North America team and what he feels has been integral to the company's success.

Ceritano delves into:

• His forray into the automotive aftermarket with Chrysler (0:30)
• GSP's key product offerings and its history in North America (3:13)
• Why GSP has been "one of the most rewarding places" he has worked and how he has helped build the current team at GSP North America (5:36)
• The four P's that are driving factors of GSP North America's growth (9:37)
• The lessons he and his team learned during COVID with a majority of their production in China (11:32)
• Why GSP has launched value-added services like training for technicians who use its products (14:56)
• Rapid Fire Questions (16:11)

Find more AMN Drivetime episodes here: https://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/

This episode is sponsored by AISIN. Learn more about AISIN here: https://www.aisinworld.com/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56516485Wed, 23 Aug 2023 10:00:03 +0000Babcox MediaMichael Ceritano's resume includes an array of positions from around the aftermarket: marketing manager, car wash consultant, owner of an auto accessory business, aftermarket sales director and now COO. With a career spanning 30-plus years in the...
In this episode of AMN Drivetime, presented by AISIN, Ceritano describes how he worked his way up in the industry, the ways he has helped grow the GSP North America team and what he feels has been integral to the company's success.

Ceritano delves into:

• His forray into the automotive aftermarket with Chrysler (0:30)
• GSP's key product offerings and its history in North America (3:13)
• Why GSP has been "one of the most rewarding places" he has worked and how he has helped build the current team at GSP North America (5:36)
• The four P's that are driving factors of GSP North America's growth (9:37)
• The lessons he and his team learned during COVID with a majority of their production in China (11:32)
• Why GSP has launched value-added services like training for technicians who use its products (14:56)
• Rapid Fire Questions (16:11)

Find more AMN Drivetime episodes here: https://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/

This episode is sponsored by AISIN. Learn more about AISIN here: https://www.aisinworld.com/]]>1076aftermarket,automotive,axles,business,cars,chrysler,dana,driveline,drivetime,growth,hiring,industry,pandemic,podcast,pricing,selling,strategy,suspensionfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/

While Jim boasts that he is building a “rocket ship” with the great people at Autologue, he is quick to acknowledge that the root of this industry is in relationships–buying and selling parts from your local shop and getting them delivered in 30 minutes or less.“Nobody can compete with that,” Franco says. “Amazon is trying to, but they don’t even come close.” In this episode of AMN Drivetime Quick Hits, sponsored by AISIN, Franco delves into:

• Reflections on his 80th birthday and how his business has evolved (0:46)
• His thoughts on the market today including technology and EVs (4:02)
• His plans for Autologue, including how he and his team are taking PartsWatch to a whole new level and building a “rocket ship” (6:06)
• The “Win the Day” Dashboard and why every auto parts distribution manager should use a tool like it (8:13)
• How Jim creates a culture of taking pride in your work at Autologue (10:32)
• Rapid Fire questions (12:53)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56513260Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:42:22 +0000Babcox MediaUpon celebrating his 80th birthday and 64 years in the automotive aftermarket, Jim Franco is as energized as ever about the business opportunities he sees in the market today. As president and CEO of Autologue Computer Systems, Jim has been in the...

While Jim boasts that he is building a “rocket ship” with the great people at Autologue, he is quick to acknowledge that the root of this industry is in relationships–buying and selling parts from your local shop and getting them delivered in 30 minutes or less.“Nobody can compete with that,” Franco says. “Amazon is trying to, but they don’t even come close.” In this episode of AMN Drivetime Quick Hits, sponsored by AISIN, Franco delves into:

• Reflections on his 80th birthday and how his business has evolved (0:46)
• His thoughts on the market today including technology and EVs (4:02)
• His plans for Autologue, including how he and his team are taking PartsWatch to a whole new level and building a “rocket ship” (6:06)
• The “Win the Day” Dashboard and why every auto parts distribution manager should use a tool like it (8:13)
• How Jim creates a culture of taking pride in your work at Autologue (10:32)
• Rapid Fire questions (12:53)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.]]>871auto,autologue,cars,computer,culture,digital,distribution,ecommerce,evs,industry,inventory,management,marketing,octogenarian,parts,point-of-sale,system,systems,technologyfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/tag/amn-drivetime/Growing up, Travis remembers wrenching with his dad in their garage and being fascinated with cars and racing at a young age. Little did he know that after graduating with a marketing degree from Florida State in 1992, his first job would be with Michelin North America as a customer service representative. He worked his way up at Michelin to become the company’s marketing manager. Soon after, he was recruited by Toyo Tire USA to be its director of marketing. Travis credits his following his passion for automotive and the people in the industry for his “blessed” career.

Travis has worked as the director of marketing for Continental Tire for almost 18 years and manages a team that is responsible for marketing for both the Continental and General Tire brands, including brand development, programs and promotions, product planning, communications and more.

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, hear Travis discuss:

• How Travis’ got his start in the ‘s passion for automotive led him to a career in automotive (0:29)
• Key mentors that helped Travis learn the tire business (4:40)
• Changing moments in Travis’ career, including one that would affect his family (9:00)
• The meaning Continental’s new taglines for its Conti and General brands and the process and research Travis and his team did to change them and make them meaningful (14:27)
• What Travis sees as a few key trends in the tire industry today, from manufacturing to retail (20:54)
• Travis’ proudest career moment (26:50)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.



]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56396011Mon, 07 Aug 2023 18:38:00 +0000Babcox MediaFor many in this industry, the automotive aftermarket is in their blood. They grew up in the business, whether it was wrenching in the summers in high school or hanging out with their parents at their place of work. This was the case for Travis...Growing up, Travis remembers wrenching with his dad in their garage and being fascinated with cars and racing at a young age. Little did he know that after graduating with a marketing degree from Florida State in 1992, his first job would be with Michelin North America as a customer service representative. He worked his way up at Michelin to become the company’s marketing manager. Soon after, he was recruited by Toyo Tire USA to be its director of marketing. Travis credits his following his passion for automotive and the people in the industry for his “blessed” career.

Travis has worked as the director of marketing for Continental Tire for almost 18 years and manages a team that is responsible for marketing for both the Continental and General Tire brands, including brand development, programs and promotions, product planning, communications and more.

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, hear Travis discuss:

• How Travis’ got his start in the ‘s passion for automotive led him to a career in automotive (0:29)
• Key mentors that helped Travis learn the tire business (4:40)
• Changing moments in Travis’ career, including one that would affect his family (9:00)
• The meaning Continental’s new taglines for its Conti and General brands and the process and research Travis and his team did to change them and make them meaningful (14:27)
• What Travis sees as a few key trends in the tire industry today, from manufacturing to retail (20:54)
• Travis’ proudest career moment (26:50)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN. Find more episodes here.



]]>2300babcox,career,continental,customer,drivetime,people,podcast,tiresfalsefullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/
Earlier in his career at Hennessy Industries (parent company of Coats), Pryor spent four months learning lean principles by going to the “gemba” – a Japanese term that refers to the place where the work is done.

Pryor, appearing on “AMN Drivetime” with Bill Babcox, says the four-month lean immersion was “a rich experience” that continues to inform his thinking and decisions. The experience built on his previous exposure to lean while working for a manufacturing business in the St. Louis area earlier in his career.

In this “AMN Drivetime” episode, Ben and Bill also talk about:

• 00:36 – Ben’s path to the automotive aftermarket

• 2:14 – People who have influenced Ben the most during his career

• 4:00 – Life-changing, momentous moments in his career

• 8:16 – Process of company rebranding

• 10:38 – Branching into other service categories

• 11:59 – Coats’ shop-productivity software

• 15:18 – How tire equipment likely will evolve

• 17:25 – The Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56105289Fri, 14 Jul 2023 19:59:13 +0000Babcox MediaContinuous improvement, known as “lean” in the manufacturing world, has been a guiding force for Ben Pryor, vice president of commercial for the Coats Co. Earlier in his career at Hennessy Industries (parent company of Coats), Pryor spent four...
Earlier in his career at Hennessy Industries (parent company of Coats), Pryor spent four months learning lean principles by going to the “gemba” – a Japanese term that refers to the place where the work is done.

Pryor, appearing on “AMN Drivetime” with Bill Babcox, says the four-month lean immersion was “a rich experience” that continues to inform his thinking and decisions. The experience built on his previous exposure to lean while working for a manufacturing business in the St. Louis area earlier in his career.

In this “AMN Drivetime” episode, Ben and Bill also talk about:

• 00:36 – Ben’s path to the automotive aftermarket

• 2:14 – People who have influenced Ben the most during his career

• 4:00 – Life-changing, momentous moments in his career

• 8:16 – Process of company rebranding

• 10:38 – Branching into other service categories

• 11:59 – Coats’ shop-productivity software

• 15:18 – How tire equipment likely will evolve

• 17:25 – The Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN.]]>1242alignment,automobiles,automotive,branding,cars,coats,diagnostics,drivetime,executive,gemba,industry,japanese,lean,manufacturing,marketing,podcast,repair,services,tires,vehiclesfalse32fullhttps://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/
“We’re putting ourselves in a place where we're not only going to be known for our timing belt kits and water pumps, but also for future product categories as well,” explained Larrow Kaufman, senior sales manager for the North American Aftermarket at Aisin World Corp. Of America. “That is going to allow us to be relevant now and in the future for installers and WDs.”

In this AMN Drivetime episode, Dwayne, Larrow and Bill discuss:

• The career paths for Dwayne and Larrow and how both found their way to Aisin (0:29)
• How Aisin expanded its operations and implemented new warehouse software because of the pandemic (4:30)
• The history behind the Aisin Seiki merger with Aisin AW Co. and how the move brought the “best of both worlds” together (7:03)
• Reasons for Aisin’s rebrand in 2021 and how it unites all of Aisn’s business units (11:20)
• Larrow describes Aisin’s biggest growth opportunities (14:17)
• Dwayne explains how Aisin is looking outside the box to service EVs now and in the future (15:57)
• Dwayne and Larrow dig into the marathons and races they’ve participated in (23:09)
• Larrow talks about his collection of Datsun vehicles (28:23)

More AMN Drivetime: https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/

More from Aisin: https://www.aisinworld.com/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56052558Mon, 10 Jul 2023 16:35:32 +0000Babcox MediaIn the last three years, Aisin World Corp. Of America has experienced its fair share of changes. As a result of the pandemic, the company expanded its operations. In 2021, it merged two business units to create Aisin Corp. to better foster synergies...
“We’re putting ourselves in a place where we're not only going to be known for our timing belt kits and water pumps, but also for future product categories as well,” explained Larrow Kaufman, senior sales manager for the North American Aftermarket at Aisin World Corp. Of America. “That is going to allow us to be relevant now and in the future for installers and WDs.”

In this AMN Drivetime episode, Dwayne, Larrow and Bill discuss:

• The career paths for Dwayne and Larrow and how both found their way to Aisin (0:29)
• How Aisin expanded its operations and implemented new warehouse software because of the pandemic (4:30)
• The history behind the Aisin Seiki merger with Aisin AW Co. and how the move brought the “best of both worlds” together (7:03)
• Reasons for Aisin’s rebrand in 2021 and how it unites all of Aisn’s business units (11:20)
• Larrow describes Aisin’s biggest growth opportunities (14:17)
• Dwayne explains how Aisin is looking outside the box to service EVs now and in the future (15:57)
• Dwayne and Larrow dig into the marathons and races they’ve participated in (23:09)
• Larrow talks about his collection of Datsun vehicles (28:23)

More AMN Drivetime: https://www.aftermarketnews.com/category/podcasts/amn-drivetime-podcast/

More from Aisin: https://www.aisinworld.com/]]>1954aftermarket,aisin,automotive,batteries,branding,cars,chasis,coolant,cooling,drivetime,electrification,merger,parts,powertrain,pump,waterfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-30-amn-drivetime-featuring-gb-remanufacturing-s-michael-kitching--53918299GB Remanufacturing was founded by Mike and his father Bill Kitching in 1986. The company remanufactures and distributes premium gasoline and diesel fuel system related products to its customers around the world and is based in Long Beach, California.

“Remanufacturing is the ultimate environmentally friendly type of business,” said Kitching. “We take units that are previously deemed either defective or just used and remanufacture that to OEM specs or better sometimes. It saves the environment, it saves the consumer a lot of money, so yeah, we're proud to be in this industry.” Kitching recently joined Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox in the AMN Drivetime podcast studio to talk about changes in the industry, the story of building a family owned and operated business and much more.

During the interview, Bill and Mike talk about:
0:10: A bit of history about the family business, what the “GB” in the company name stands for and why
01:37 What Mike originally set out to do as a career before joining the family business
03:42 The renewed interest in reman today as a key element of sustainability efforts
06:48 The importance of keeping GB Remanufacturing jobs in the U.S.
08:40 Other critical industry and business issues the company is watching closely right now
11:55 Mike’s diehard love of the Long Beach Grand Prix and how that got started
14:30 Mike’s favorite hobbies (skiing and golfing) and where he enjoys them
16:59 The ever-popular Lightning Round

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53918299Thu, 18 May 2023 13:57:49 +0000Babcox MediaAt the helm of one of the automotive aftermarket’s leading remanufacturing firms, GB Remanufacturing President and CEO Michael Kitching says he’s proud to see remanufacturing getting the attention it deserves as a key player in the growing...GB Remanufacturing was founded by Mike and his father Bill Kitching in 1986. The company remanufactures and distributes premium gasoline and diesel fuel system related products to its customers around the world and is based in Long Beach, California.

“Remanufacturing is the ultimate environmentally friendly type of business,” said Kitching. “We take units that are previously deemed either defective or just used and remanufacture that to OEM specs or better sometimes. It saves the environment, it saves the consumer a lot of money, so yeah, we're proud to be in this industry.” Kitching recently joined Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox in the AMN Drivetime podcast studio to talk about changes in the industry, the story of building a family owned and operated business and much more.

During the interview, Bill and Mike talk about:
0:10: A bit of history about the family business, what the “GB” in the company name stands for and why
01:37 What Mike originally set out to do as a career before joining the family business
03:42 The renewed interest in reman today as a key element of sustainability efforts
06:48 The importance of keeping GB Remanufacturing jobs in the U.S.
08:40 Other critical industry and business issues the company is watching closely right now
11:55 Mike’s diehard love of the Long Beach Grand Prix and how that got started
14:30 Mike’s favorite hobbies (skiing and golfing) and where he enjoys them
16:59 The ever-popular Lightning Round

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by AISIN.]]>1109amndrivetimefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-29-mann-hummel-s-mann-hummel-s-daryl-benton-on-bringing-brand-value-into-the-future--53524421
Starting out his career with a Mechanical Engineering Degree, early on Benton said he decided he would rather work on the growth side of the business than the supply side of the business. This took him on a career transition from working in manufacturing to marketing. Through this professional journey, Benton says he’s accrued skills and experiences he’d like to bring more of to the automotive aftermarket.

As MANN+HUMMEL’s highly regarded Purolator brand celebrates its Centennial this year, Benton shared some helpful insights he gleaned about what customers really value in a brand while working on another well-known name: Guinness.

“I was actually working on the Guinness brand when it crossed over 250 years of Guinness and one of the things that I learned back then from an agency perspective is that people don't mind you patting yourself on the back for reaching a milestone, but what they really want to know is what that means for them in the future and what you're going to do for them now,” said Benton. “One of the important things we want to make sure we're doing is to continue to develop and innovate on this brand for the future of Purolator and also make sure that we are supporting activities to engage our consumers and customers in a meaningful way. That helps them to understand the value that having those 100 years brings …”

Also in the interview, Bill and Daryl talk about:

02:50 His very first job as a young man growing up in Chicago
04:08 The insights Daryl brings to MANN+HUMMEL from his consumer products background
06:11 What it was like joining the company at the height of the pandemic
08:55 Celebrating the Centennial anniversary of Purolator
10:09 The genesis of the Purolator brand name
11:29 Celebrating brand reputation and what it means for the future
15:06 MANN+HUMMEL’s mission and its role in sustainability
19:14 As an avid traveler, some of Daryl’s favorite trips
22:04 The fun and fast Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53524421Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:53:59 +0000Babcox MediaIn this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Daryl Benton, vice president, sales and marketing automotive aftermarket, North America, MANN+HUMMEL, to discuss a wide range of topics, including Daryl’s own career...
Starting out his career with a Mechanical Engineering Degree, early on Benton said he decided he would rather work on the growth side of the business than the supply side of the business. This took him on a career transition from working in manufacturing to marketing. Through this professional journey, Benton says he’s accrued skills and experiences he’d like to bring more of to the automotive aftermarket.

As MANN+HUMMEL’s highly regarded Purolator brand celebrates its Centennial this year, Benton shared some helpful insights he gleaned about what customers really value in a brand while working on another well-known name: Guinness.

“I was actually working on the Guinness brand when it crossed over 250 years of Guinness and one of the things that I learned back then from an agency perspective is that people don't mind you patting yourself on the back for reaching a milestone, but what they really want to know is what that means for them in the future and what you're going to do for them now,” said Benton. “One of the important things we want to make sure we're doing is to continue to develop and innovate on this brand for the future of Purolator and also make sure that we are supporting activities to engage our consumers and customers in a meaningful way. That helps them to understand the value that having those 100 years brings …”

Also in the interview, Bill and Daryl talk about:

02:50 His very first job as a young man growing up in Chicago
04:08 The insights Daryl brings to MANN+HUMMEL from his consumer products background
06:11 What it was like joining the company at the height of the pandemic
08:55 Celebrating the Centennial anniversary of Purolator
10:09 The genesis of the Purolator brand name
11:29 Celebrating brand reputation and what it means for the future
15:06 MANN+HUMMEL’s mission and its role in sustainability
19:14 As an avid traveler, some of Daryl’s favorite trips
22:04 The fun and fast Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1485amndrivetime,filtrationmakesthefuture,mannhummel,sustainabilityfalse129fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e28-university-of-the-aftermarket-s-dr-thomas-litzinger-on-his-passion-for-education--53160751executive director of the University of the Aftermarket at Northwood University in October of 2022.

An accomplished aftermarket executive with more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Litzinger also is a proud Northwood grad. He earned his bachelor of science degree in business administration there, and his master of science degree in organizational leadership from the DeVos Graduate School of Management. He also participated in Leadership 2.0, an executive training program through the University of Aftermarket.

Prior to this appointment, Litzinger served as a fleet relationship manager for Belle Tire Distributors Inc., as well as an automotive and heavy-duty aftermarket adjunct professor for the Adult Degree Program at Northwood University. Previously, he served as senior director of business development for MAS Industries; senior vice president of sales and operations at Advanced Innovative Technologies/Trakmotive; and executive director of Motown Automotive Distributing Inc. After he received his master’s degree, he went on to earn his doctorate in education from Liberty University.

Needless to say, Dr. Litzinger is the on the right seat on the bus, so to speak. Both his educational background and professional experience make this new role a great fit, one that he’s excited about, he says.

“I spent the majority of my career on the distribution side. I was fortunate to spend a few years on the manufacturing side, and then the last five with a tire distribution company. So I've been very fortunate to have a very broad based experience in the aftermarket, which I think contributes to my ability to lead the University of the Aftermarket and to interact with our students. Nothing provides better experience than life. …I'm teaching based on personal experience, and this is real life aftermarket.”

During the podcast, Thomas and Bill also talk about:
04:38 – Growing up in Michigan and his very first job
06:00 – Why Litzinger calls himself a “lifetime learner”
08:42 – His hopes and goals for UofA
11:17 – What makes UofA a unique value proposition for Northwood students?
16:27 – Lastly, the ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53160751Fri, 10 Mar 2023 18:14:31 +0000Babcox MediaIn this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox CEO Bill Babcox sits down Dr. Thomas Litzinger, who was named https://www.aftermarketnews.com/northwood-names-new-university-of-the-aftermarket-director/ at Northwood University in October of 2022. An...executive director of the University of the Aftermarket at Northwood University in October of 2022.

An accomplished aftermarket executive with more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Litzinger also is a proud Northwood grad. He earned his bachelor of science degree in business administration there, and his master of science degree in organizational leadership from the DeVos Graduate School of Management. He also participated in Leadership 2.0, an executive training program through the University of Aftermarket.

Prior to this appointment, Litzinger served as a fleet relationship manager for Belle Tire Distributors Inc., as well as an automotive and heavy-duty aftermarket adjunct professor for the Adult Degree Program at Northwood University. Previously, he served as senior director of business development for MAS Industries; senior vice president of sales and operations at Advanced Innovative Technologies/Trakmotive; and executive director of Motown Automotive Distributing Inc. After he received his master’s degree, he went on to earn his doctorate in education from Liberty University.

Needless to say, Dr. Litzinger is the on the right seat on the bus, so to speak. Both his educational background and professional experience make this new role a great fit, one that he’s excited about, he says.

“I spent the majority of my career on the distribution side. I was fortunate to spend a few years on the manufacturing side, and then the last five with a tire distribution company. So I've been very fortunate to have a very broad based experience in the aftermarket, which I think contributes to my ability to lead the University of the Aftermarket and to interact with our students. Nothing provides better experience than life. …I'm teaching based on personal experience, and this is real life aftermarket.”

During the podcast, Thomas and Bill also talk about:
04:38 – Growing up in Michigan and his very first job
06:00 – Why Litzinger calls himself a “lifetime learner”
08:42 – His hopes and goals for UofA
11:17 – What makes UofA a unique value proposition for Northwood students?
16:27 – Lastly, the ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1165amndrivetime,northwood,universityoftheaftermarketfalse127fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e27-united-motor-products-rick-maxwell-is-an-industry-lifer--52671256
Rick Maxwell is what some in this industry call a “lifer.” He’s been involved in the industry since he was about eight years old, working along his father, who began as an aftermarket salesman in 1965 for the originator of B’laster.

“He worked for a couple other companies in sales, and that's how I got into it,” Maxwell said. “I was on the road with him staying in hotels, doing changeovers. … It was fun. … after that he decided, ‘Hey, since I'm a sales guy, I want to own a parts store.’ So that's what he did. He opened a couple parts stores, so I got into working in a parts store.”

Maxwell described his dad as a “serial entrepreneur” who was always thinking about the next thing, which is how they went from sales to parts store owners to making spark plugs. “I was making spark plug wires by hand, you know, with a vise and putting the terminals on. And we would take the orders in the morning from the customers, I'd build the sets, we'd deliver 'em next day out of our car. So, it was fun. It was working at home and again, hanging out with the family. It was good,” Maxwell said.

After about two years they moved into a small facility and developed a consolidated spark plug wire line, and according to Rick, this is when things took off. “We've kind of just kept moving and morphing into the next thing. So we did that for a while, and then we moved into a little bigger facility, about 10,000 square feet, and we were there for about 10 years and grew the business, and then we moved into where we're at today.”

Today the company has a roughly 20,000-square-foot facility in Cleveland, Ohio, and another 10,000-square-foot facility in Bradenton, Florida, offering an extensive range of engine-centric products.

During the podcast, Rick and Bill also talk about:
0:53 Growing up in the family business
03:26 The origins of United Motor Products
04:41 What running a family business means to Rick
06:11 A look at UMP’s full product offering
07:11 The scoop on Rick’s other roles as partner in Engine Technologies and United Manufacturing Services
07:33 How these three businesses work together
09:14 Changes in the marketplace today
11:43 The importance of staying nimble and agile
13:32 Rick’s take on the EV market
16:03 What’s next for UMP?
18:54 The ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52671256Wed, 08 Feb 2023 15:32:27 +0000Babcox MediaIn this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox CEO Bill Babcox sits down Rick Maxwell, president and owner of Cleveland-based United Motor Products. Rick Maxwell is what some in this industry call a “lifer.” He’s been involved in the industry since...
Rick Maxwell is what some in this industry call a “lifer.” He’s been involved in the industry since he was about eight years old, working along his father, who began as an aftermarket salesman in 1965 for the originator of B’laster.

“He worked for a couple other companies in sales, and that's how I got into it,” Maxwell said. “I was on the road with him staying in hotels, doing changeovers. … It was fun. … after that he decided, ‘Hey, since I'm a sales guy, I want to own a parts store.’ So that's what he did. He opened a couple parts stores, so I got into working in a parts store.”

Maxwell described his dad as a “serial entrepreneur” who was always thinking about the next thing, which is how they went from sales to parts store owners to making spark plugs. “I was making spark plug wires by hand, you know, with a vise and putting the terminals on. And we would take the orders in the morning from the customers, I'd build the sets, we'd deliver 'em next day out of our car. So, it was fun. It was working at home and again, hanging out with the family. It was good,” Maxwell said.

After about two years they moved into a small facility and developed a consolidated spark plug wire line, and according to Rick, this is when things took off. “We've kind of just kept moving and morphing into the next thing. So we did that for a while, and then we moved into a little bigger facility, about 10,000 square feet, and we were there for about 10 years and grew the business, and then we moved into where we're at today.”

Today the company has a roughly 20,000-square-foot facility in Cleveland, Ohio, and another 10,000-square-foot facility in Bradenton, Florida, offering an extensive range of engine-centric products.

During the podcast, Rick and Bill also talk about:
0:53 Growing up in the family business
03:26 The origins of United Motor Products
04:41 What running a family business means to Rick
06:11 A look at UMP’s full product offering
07:11 The scoop on Rick’s other roles as partner in Engine Technologies and United Manufacturing Services
07:33 How these three businesses work together
09:14 Changes in the marketplace today
11:43 The importance of staying nimble and agile
13:32 Rick’s take on the EV market
16:03 What’s next for UMP?
18:54 The ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1301amndrivetime,unitedmotorproductsfalse127fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-26-dave-caracci-from-building-race-engines-to-building-sales-teams--52403025
In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Dave Caracci, longtime aftermarket veteran who currently serves as executive director of the Automotive Sales Council. While he racked up a stellar career as an aftermarket sales professional, Caracci has many skills he has cultivated over his long and successful career. Dave is a guy that can wield a wrench as deftly as he can a sales call.

From a young age, Caracci had his eyes on the end goal. He said he decided in the seventh grade that he was going to become a sports car racer. And so he did. Caracci began is journey in the industry studying to be a diesel mechanic at a trade school. From there, he began building race engines and became fully immersed in the racing world. Eventually, his career in racing led to a job in sales and the rest is a very colorful and exciting history that you don’t want to miss.

During the podcast, Bill and Dave talk about:
02:49 The transition from racing to sales
05:42 Getting a “Business Degree” at the School of Life
13:48: The secret sauce to success in the aftermarket
22:31 Why Dave says this is the money business, NOT the auto parts business
24:30 Dave’s devotion to volunteering in the aftermarket
28:48 Tales from the road – both racing and business
40:44 Dave’s other passion – sailing
43:45 The ever-popular Lightning Round

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52403025Tue, 10 Jan 2023 17:02:05 +0000Babcox MediaDave Caracci is a guy who can wield a wrench as deftly as he can a sales pitch. In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Dave Caracci, longtime aftermarket veteran who currently serves as executive director of...
In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Dave Caracci, longtime aftermarket veteran who currently serves as executive director of the Automotive Sales Council. While he racked up a stellar career as an aftermarket sales professional, Caracci has many skills he has cultivated over his long and successful career. Dave is a guy that can wield a wrench as deftly as he can a sales call.

From a young age, Caracci had his eyes on the end goal. He said he decided in the seventh grade that he was going to become a sports car racer. And so he did. Caracci began is journey in the industry studying to be a diesel mechanic at a trade school. From there, he began building race engines and became fully immersed in the racing world. Eventually, his career in racing led to a job in sales and the rest is a very colorful and exciting history that you don’t want to miss.

During the podcast, Bill and Dave talk about:
02:49 The transition from racing to sales
05:42 Getting a “Business Degree” at the School of Life
13:48: The secret sauce to success in the aftermarket
22:31 Why Dave says this is the money business, NOT the auto parts business
24:30 Dave’s devotion to volunteering in the aftermarket
28:48 Tales from the road – both racing and business
40:44 Dave’s other passion – sailing
43:45 The ever-popular Lightning Round

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>2761amndrivetimefalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-25-mema-leaders-chat-about-the-future--52227766major announcement about a new business structure to better position the organization and the vehicle supplier community for the future. The 118-year-old organization will now operate under one umbrella — MEMA — and will represent automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers with two groups: MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Group and MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers Group. The association will formally kick off the new brand and organizational structure in January 2023, however in the meantime, Bill Long, president & CEO, Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association; Paul McCarthy, president MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers; Marc Blackman, president & CEO, Gold Eagle and Chairman, MEMA Board of Directors; sat down with Bill Babcox to share a few updates on the reorganization.

In this AMN Drivetime podcast, Babcox, Long, McCarthy and Blackman discuss the following: 0:55 Updates on the initial announcement and the significant benefits this realignment will offer MEMA members
02:52 - Who makes up membership in the two new divisions
05:15 – Primary areas of industry disruption the new MEMA will focus on
13:11 – Marc Blackman’s perspective as the leader of a supplier business
15:42 – How issues like Reshoring and Labor Reform impact the vehicle supplier industry
18:25 – How the aftermarket specifically will be strengthened by this realignment and how it offers a stronger voice on Right to Repair
23:43 – Keeping members informed and educated on the latest emerging technologies
26:13 – Expectations for supply chain challenges this coming year
33:01 – What are the MEMA Centers of Excellence

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52227766Mon, 19 Dec 2022 15:28:53 +0000Babcox MediaIn mid-November, the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) made a mailto:%20%20https://www.aftermarketnews.com/mema-announces-plan-to-position-organization-for-the-future/ about a new business structure to better position the...major announcement about a new business structure to better position the organization and the vehicle supplier community for the future. The 118-year-old organization will now operate under one umbrella — MEMA — and will represent automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers with two groups: MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Group and MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers Group. The association will formally kick off the new brand and organizational structure in January 2023, however in the meantime, Bill Long, president & CEO, Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association; Paul McCarthy, president MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers; Marc Blackman, president & CEO, Gold Eagle and Chairman, MEMA Board of Directors; sat down with Bill Babcox to share a few updates on the reorganization.

In this AMN Drivetime podcast, Babcox, Long, McCarthy and Blackman discuss the following: 0:55 Updates on the initial announcement and the significant benefits this realignment will offer MEMA members
02:52 - Who makes up membership in the two new divisions
05:15 – Primary areas of industry disruption the new MEMA will focus on
13:11 – Marc Blackman’s perspective as the leader of a supplier business
15:42 – How issues like Reshoring and Labor Reform impact the vehicle supplier industry
18:25 – How the aftermarket specifically will be strengthened by this realignment and how it offers a stronger voice on Right to Repair
23:43 – Keeping members informed and educated on the latest emerging technologies
26:13 – Expectations for supply chain challenges this coming year
33:01 – What are the MEMA Centers of Excellence

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>2251aasa,automotiveaftermarket,goldeagle,mema,vehiclesuppliersfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-24-tire-industry-icon-john-gamauf-johnny-g--52185182
In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Johnny g for a wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from navigating turbulent career moments to the one piece of advice he would give his younger self. For Gamauf, the greatest lesson he’s learned during his long and varied career is a personal one, he says.

“It’s my gut feeling that goes back to everything that’s all about business and it’s relationships. You know, it doesn’t matter about whether you’re having relationships at home with your wife and your marriage, with your kids, your family, or with your business associates. The core foundation of doing business is relationships,” he shared.

During the podcast, Bill and Johnny g also talk about:

01:44 Career highlights from his 50-year career with Bridgestone-Firestone

05:21 What tire shops were like in the 60s.

06:58 Some of the most fascinating “industry firsts” he witnessed during his career

10:13 The inside scoop on the Johnny g & Friends podcast

12:15 The people you meet in a 5-decade career in the tire business (ever heard of Mario Andretti?)

18:11 How Johnny played a role in the Super Bowl halftime show

25:55 The ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52185182Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:43:39 +0000Babcox MediaJohn Gamauf, president, Consumer Replacement Tires – Retired, Bridgestone-Firestone North America, is a 50-year veteran of the tire industry. Starting out with Firestone as a tire buster in the late 60s, he rose through the company’s ranks working in...
In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Johnny g for a wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from navigating turbulent career moments to the one piece of advice he would give his younger self. For Gamauf, the greatest lesson he’s learned during his long and varied career is a personal one, he says.

“It’s my gut feeling that goes back to everything that’s all about business and it’s relationships. You know, it doesn’t matter about whether you’re having relationships at home with your wife and your marriage, with your kids, your family, or with your business associates. The core foundation of doing business is relationships,” he shared.

During the podcast, Bill and Johnny g also talk about:

01:44 Career highlights from his 50-year career with Bridgestone-Firestone

05:21 What tire shops were like in the 60s.

06:58 Some of the most fascinating “industry firsts” he witnessed during his career

10:13 The inside scoop on the Johnny g & Friends podcast

12:15 The people you meet in a 5-decade career in the tire business (ever heard of Mario Andretti?)

18:11 How Johnny played a role in the Super Bowl halftime show

25:55 The ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1677automotive,automotiveaftermarket,marketingfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-23-motorad-ceo-matt-buchholz-pride-is-unproductive--52185166
“I think the opposite of humility is pride, and I think pride is really unproductive,” Buccholz said. “I learned that years ago. I’ve always had a passion for customers, but maybe my leadership methods needed improvement. And, I had the blessing of feedback. I always say feedback is a gift. Somebody gives you feedback, it might be difficult to hear … but there are a couple of points in my career where I was seeking feedback and receive feedback and the feedback was, ‘you know, that Matt, there’s room for improvement in your leadership. You’re highly competent in all these things, but there’s a little bit of room for improvement.’ So, I started down this journey of trying to become a leader that people wanted to work with.

“There’s lots of surveys out there, and I think typically the surveys say that approximately 70% of employees don’t like who they’re working for. I’d say that’s a crisis, right? It’s a leadership crisis. So, it’s a drive for customer service because I’m very focused on the customer, but in order to have great customer service externally, you have to treat your employees well internally. And it starts with – I think – humility, because when you have pride, you have bureaucracy, politics, mistrust. And so, the opposite of that is when you have high trust, it’s a very efficient business model, and people can transact and work much better to the end result, which is high levels of customer service. So, I think it starts internally and it starts with self.”

In this latest AMN Drivetime podcast, Bill and Matt dive into a number of other interesting topics, including:

2:41 Matt’s career path from changing oil at 17 to ASE certified technician to CEO of MotoRad

4:22 His passion for Servant Leadership

9:29 How MotoRad approaches the EV market

13:19 How MotoRad maintains and measures its company culture

15:58 Why Matt completed an Ironman during the pandemic

24:32 The keys to balancing a busy professional and family life

27:10 The ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52185166Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:41:34 +0000Babcox MediaAt 17, Matt Buchholz got his first job turning wrenches and along the way discovered what he describes as “a passion for high levels of customer service.” In this drive to meet the needs of customers while building his career and developing his...
“I think the opposite of humility is pride, and I think pride is really unproductive,” Buccholz said. “I learned that years ago. I’ve always had a passion for customers, but maybe my leadership methods needed improvement. And, I had the blessing of feedback. I always say feedback is a gift. Somebody gives you feedback, it might be difficult to hear … but there are a couple of points in my career where I was seeking feedback and receive feedback and the feedback was, ‘you know, that Matt, there’s room for improvement in your leadership. You’re highly competent in all these things, but there’s a little bit of room for improvement.’ So, I started down this journey of trying to become a leader that people wanted to work with.

“There’s lots of surveys out there, and I think typically the surveys say that approximately 70% of employees don’t like who they’re working for. I’d say that’s a crisis, right? It’s a leadership crisis. So, it’s a drive for customer service because I’m very focused on the customer, but in order to have great customer service externally, you have to treat your employees well internally. And it starts with – I think – humility, because when you have pride, you have bureaucracy, politics, mistrust. And so, the opposite of that is when you have high trust, it’s a very efficient business model, and people can transact and work much better to the end result, which is high levels of customer service. So, I think it starts internally and it starts with self.”

In this latest AMN Drivetime podcast, Bill and Matt dive into a number of other interesting topics, including:

2:41 Matt’s career path from changing oil at 17 to ASE certified technician to CEO of MotoRad

4:22 His passion for Servant Leadership

9:29 How MotoRad approaches the EV market

13:19 How MotoRad maintains and measures its company culture

15:58 Why Matt completed an Ironman during the pandemic

24:32 The keys to balancing a busy professional and family life

27:10 The ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1748aftermarket,leadership,motoradusa,servantleadershipfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-22-valvoline-s-roger-england-the-road-from-janitor-to-ph-d--52185133
“Heck yeah. I have a great time. I enjoy going to work,” England shares with Bill Babcox in the most recent AMN Drivetime podcast. “I hired into Cummings Technical Center after high school as a janitor. No one in my family really went to college. My high school advisors told me that I wasn’t smart enough to go to college, that I needed to get my butt to trade school. And at the time, that was a union position to be a janitor there and paid pretty good money. My dad ran a garage, so I’d kind of grown up working in the garage and there were a lot of guys who were engineers at Cummins that would work second shift at the garage for my dad. They were really smart guys and I thought, ‘You know, hanging out at someplace like that with a lot of smart people is not a bad idea.’”

Turns out it was not a very bad idea at all. As England shares, he walked into Cummins with a high school diploma and walked out with a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. “When I left, I was leading intellectual property, advanced manufacturing and materials engineering for the corporation. I spent a lot time working – most of my time – working at the R&D Technical Center in Columbus, Indiana.”

In this latest AMN Drivetime podcast, Bill and Roger dive into a number of other interesting topics, including:

01:37 How Roger landed his dream job at Valvoline

02:36 Fun experiences pursuing his other passion – racing

04:49 Scoop on Valvoline’s sale of its Global Products Business to Aramco

08:15 Valvoline’s approach to the EV market and Roger’s take on the market as an “Internal Combustion” guy

11:56 Valvoline’s growth strategy including expanding into the Heavy-Duty segment

15:03 What it’s like to hold 13 patents

16:49 The best career advice Roger ever received from his Grandfather

18:31 The always popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52185133Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:37:26 +0000Babcox MediaWhen asked if he was currently in his “Dream Job,” as VP and Chief R&D officer for Valvoline, Roger England’s response says it all about his infectious enthusiasm for all he does. “Heck yeah. I have a great time. I enjoy going to work,” England...
“Heck yeah. I have a great time. I enjoy going to work,” England shares with Bill Babcox in the most recent AMN Drivetime podcast. “I hired into Cummings Technical Center after high school as a janitor. No one in my family really went to college. My high school advisors told me that I wasn’t smart enough to go to college, that I needed to get my butt to trade school. And at the time, that was a union position to be a janitor there and paid pretty good money. My dad ran a garage, so I’d kind of grown up working in the garage and there were a lot of guys who were engineers at Cummins that would work second shift at the garage for my dad. They were really smart guys and I thought, ‘You know, hanging out at someplace like that with a lot of smart people is not a bad idea.’”

Turns out it was not a very bad idea at all. As England shares, he walked into Cummins with a high school diploma and walked out with a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. “When I left, I was leading intellectual property, advanced manufacturing and materials engineering for the corporation. I spent a lot time working – most of my time – working at the R&D Technical Center in Columbus, Indiana.”

In this latest AMN Drivetime podcast, Bill and Roger dive into a number of other interesting topics, including:

01:37 How Roger landed his dream job at Valvoline

02:36 Fun experiences pursuing his other passion – racing

04:49 Scoop on Valvoline’s sale of its Global Products Business to Aramco

08:15 Valvoline’s approach to the EV market and Roger’s take on the market as an “Internal Combustion” guy

11:56 Valvoline’s growth strategy including expanding into the Heavy-Duty segment

15:03 What it’s like to hold 13 patents

16:49 The best career advice Roger ever received from his Grandfather

18:31 The always popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1265teamvalvoline,usmanufacturingfalse122fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-21-tom-taylor-on-how-rock-auto-grew-to-be-a-diyer-s-1st-call--52185098
“It was really lot of dot com companies in the beginning, like toys.com. They had all this money and felt they had to create everything from scratch. So they would say, ‘let’s build a warehouse and let’s buy all this inventory.’ For auto parts, you didn’t really have to do that. It was the, the perfect timing because the big chain stores had put a lot of the smaller auto parts retailers out of business. So, you had all these warehouse distributors and a lot of name brand manufacturers were looking for ways to sell their product be because the big chain stores had their private label brands. So it was really good timing for us that you had all these experts in warehousing, they had the inventory, and they were looking for new ways to sell their inventory. Some of them were trying to sell direct to consumers and shops and struggling with that. So, we gave them a new way to sell and quickly became their biggest customer for all of them or most of them.

In this latest AMN Drivetime podcast, Bill Babcox and Tom Taylor dive into a number of other topics, including:
1:59 How Rock Auto was formed
5:00 Surviving the Dot Com Bubble and how Rock Auto outlasted many competitors
6:13 Who are Rock Auto’s biggest customers?
7:06 How did the pandemic e-commerce boom impact Rock Auto?
8:03 Just how many cars does Taylor own?
10:19 What does the typical Rock Auto customer “look” like?
13:00 The process for picking the right parts suppliers
15:12 How Rock Auto helps professional techs and DIYers pick the right parts and chemicals
17:24 Pricing and serving the professional tech
21:30 The ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52185098Wed, 14 Dec 2022 14:34:40 +0000Babcox MediaAn Admitted “car hoarder,” Tom Taylor, VP of Marketing and Co-Owner of Rock Auto, says he and his family really lucked out when they founded the online auto parts retailer in the midst of the “Dot Com” bubble. According to their website, Rock Auto’s...
“It was really lot of dot com companies in the beginning, like toys.com. They had all this money and felt they had to create everything from scratch. So they would say, ‘let’s build a warehouse and let’s buy all this inventory.’ For auto parts, you didn’t really have to do that. It was the, the perfect timing because the big chain stores had put a lot of the smaller auto parts retailers out of business. So, you had all these warehouse distributors and a lot of name brand manufacturers were looking for ways to sell their product be because the big chain stores had their private label brands. So it was really good timing for us that you had all these experts in warehousing, they had the inventory, and they were looking for new ways to sell their inventory. Some of them were trying to sell direct to consumers and shops and struggling with that. So, we gave them a new way to sell and quickly became their biggest customer for all of them or most of them.

In this latest AMN Drivetime podcast, Bill Babcox and Tom Taylor dive into a number of other topics, including:
1:59 How Rock Auto was formed
5:00 Surviving the Dot Com Bubble and how Rock Auto outlasted many competitors
6:13 Who are Rock Auto’s biggest customers?
7:06 How did the pandemic e-commerce boom impact Rock Auto?
8:03 Just how many cars does Taylor own?
10:19 What does the typical Rock Auto customer “look” like?
13:00 The process for picking the right parts suppliers
15:12 How Rock Auto helps professional techs and DIYers pick the right parts and chemicals
17:24 Pricing and serving the professional tech
21:30 The ever-popular Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1476autoparts,rockautofalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-20-proof-recruitment-works-in-the-aftermarket-pronto-network-president-robert-roos--50876308“That is 100% the truth,” Roos said. “I got into this industry almost completely by accident. A buddy of mine right after we had graduated high school, the summer after we graduated, he earned his Eagle scout badge and back in those days in the mid 1980s, social media didn't exist. You know the way to get the word out and to congratulate somebody was to put their picture in the paper and an entrepreneurial HR director at a local parts warehouse saw his picture called him and asked him if he would like to have a job working in their warehouse. He took it and evidently made a pretty good impression on him after a couple weeks. They're like, ‘Hey, do you have any friends that might be interested in a job?’ He threw out my name, I got the job and literally have been in this industry ever since.”

Next year will mark Roos’ 40th year in the industry, he said. To evolve and grow from stocking shelves at a parts store out of high school to now leading a national program group, Roos said he’s proud of the journey. “It is very surreal,” he said. “I'm very, very proud of it. I've been very lucky in my career in that I have had a wide variety of opportunities within this industry. I've been on the WD side, working with independent distributors. I've worked with a major chain, a retail chain back in the days, Big A Auto Parts – APS back in those days – and the experiences that I had all along the way. Even eight, nine years ago now coming into program distribution, I've just been able to experience so much and be a part of so much of what this great industry has to offer. When you stop and think about it, it's a pretty incredible journey.”


In this episode of AMN Drivetime, Bill and Robert also dive into the following topics:
0:50 – How Robert was recruited to the aftermarket right out of high school
3:06 – How it feels to go from stocking parts shelves to leading a national program group
5:24 – What Pronto Network members are most focused on today
8:57 – What Roos believes it takes to stay cutting edge and nimble today
12:41 – An update on Supply Chain issues from the distribution perspective
15:24 – Funny memories from the road
18:42 – People who have made a difference in his career
25:34 – The value of daily routines
27:12 – Roos’ responses to the ever-popular Lightning Round!
AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50876308Wed, 10 Aug 2022 15:43:00 +0000Babcox MediaRobert Roos, president of the Pronto Automotive Distribution Network, is proof positive that recruitment and retention works in the aftermarket. As he shared in this AMN Drivetime podcast episode with Bill Babcox, he was recruited right out of high...“That is 100% the truth,” Roos said. “I got into this industry almost completely by accident. A buddy of mine right after we had graduated high school, the summer after we graduated, he earned his Eagle scout badge and back in those days in the mid 1980s, social media didn't exist. You know the way to get the word out and to congratulate somebody was to put their picture in the paper and an entrepreneurial HR director at a local parts warehouse saw his picture called him and asked him if he would like to have a job working in their warehouse. He took it and evidently made a pretty good impression on him after a couple weeks. They're like, ‘Hey, do you have any friends that might be interested in a job?’ He threw out my name, I got the job and literally have been in this industry ever since.”

Next year will mark Roos’ 40th year in the industry, he said. To evolve and grow from stocking shelves at a parts store out of high school to now leading a national program group, Roos said he’s proud of the journey. “It is very surreal,” he said. “I'm very, very proud of it. I've been very lucky in my career in that I have had a wide variety of opportunities within this industry. I've been on the WD side, working with independent distributors. I've worked with a major chain, a retail chain back in the days, Big A Auto Parts – APS back in those days – and the experiences that I had all along the way. Even eight, nine years ago now coming into program distribution, I've just been able to experience so much and be a part of so much of what this great industry has to offer. When you stop and think about it, it's a pretty incredible journey.”


In this episode of AMN Drivetime, Bill and Robert also dive into the following topics:
0:50 – How Robert was recruited to the aftermarket right out of high school
3:06 – How it feels to go from stocking parts shelves to leading a national program group
5:24 – What Pronto Network members are most focused on today
8:57 – What Roos believes it takes to stay cutting edge and nimble today
12:41 – An update on Supply Chain issues from the distribution perspective
15:24 – Funny memories from the road
18:42 – People who have made a difference in his career
25:34 – The value of daily routines
27:12 – Roos’ responses to the ever-popular Lightning Round!
AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1742amndrivetime,prontonetworkfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-19-tendeco-sales-john-lussier-on-the-value-of-made-in-the-u-s-a--50484768
Having been born in Argentina and educated in Venezuela, Lussier says that experience has certainly helped him lead an international business however, he points out that the continued value proposition of the “Made in the U.S.A.” still holds weight around the globe.

“For me personally, in my automotive career, it's helped me a lot into understanding other cultures and how that might benefit and learn to work together. Obviously, it's a very important thing,” Lussier said. Yet he also shared, “… having grown up in South America and then subsequently moved to the United States, I learned early on what it meant to be ‘made in the United States,’ because that translates into quality around the world.”

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, Bill and John also dive into the following topics:
00: 56 Litens history and its involvement in the invention of the tensioner
04:25 The vehicle technologies Lussier is keeping a close eye on today
6:36 How growing up in Latin America informs Lussier’s his role as an international business leader today
8:08 Just how many languages does Lussier speak?
8:10 What “made in the U.S.A.” really means to Lussier
9:23 How Litens manages today’s continuing supply chain challenges
10:55 The importance of R&D and how Litens differentiates itself in the market
13:09 Diving into the details of having “OE heritage”
14:40 Funny stories from the road
16:35 The popular and insightful Lightning Round

The AMN Drivetime podcast entertains and educates listeners, conversing with today’s top aftermarket drivers and industry leaders who are having an impact on the automotive aftermarket industry. This bi-monthly podcast offers candid, one-on-one conversations between Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox and notable figures in the automotive aftermarket, sharing their experiences and life lessons as they have traveled the aftermarket.

Bill Babcox is the third generation to run the Akron, Ohio-based media business and not only has a number of great stories and insights to share, but also has had the good fortune to get to know a number of fascinating people in the automotive aftermarket today. Tune in to these captivating conversations covering topics ranging from key industry issues to the deep personal insights developed over years of experience in this dynamic industry.

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50484768Wed, 06 Jul 2022 15:33:44 +0000Babcox MediaIn this latest episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox sits down with John Lussier, president of Tendeco Sales Inc., under which the Litens brand resides. In the interview, the two executives talk about a variety of important industry...
Having been born in Argentina and educated in Venezuela, Lussier says that experience has certainly helped him lead an international business however, he points out that the continued value proposition of the “Made in the U.S.A.” still holds weight around the globe.

“For me personally, in my automotive career, it's helped me a lot into understanding other cultures and how that might benefit and learn to work together. Obviously, it's a very important thing,” Lussier said. Yet he also shared, “… having grown up in South America and then subsequently moved to the United States, I learned early on what it meant to be ‘made in the United States,’ because that translates into quality around the world.”

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, Bill and John also dive into the following topics:
00: 56 Litens history and its involvement in the invention of the tensioner
04:25 The vehicle technologies Lussier is keeping a close eye on today
6:36 How growing up in Latin America informs Lussier’s his role as an international business leader today
8:08 Just how many languages does Lussier speak?
8:10 What “made in the U.S.A.” really means to Lussier
9:23 How Litens manages today’s continuing supply chain challenges
10:55 The importance of R&D and how Litens differentiates itself in the market
13:09 Diving into the details of having “OE heritage”
14:40 Funny stories from the road
16:35 The popular and insightful Lightning Round

The AMN Drivetime podcast entertains and educates listeners, conversing with today’s top aftermarket drivers and industry leaders who are having an impact on the automotive aftermarket industry. This bi-monthly podcast offers candid, one-on-one conversations between Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox and notable figures in the automotive aftermarket, sharing their experiences and life lessons as they have traveled the aftermarket.

Bill Babcox is the third generation to run the Akron, Ohio-based media business and not only has a number of great stories and insights to share, but also has had the good fortune to get to know a number of fascinating people in the automotive aftermarket today. Tune in to these captivating conversations covering topics ranging from key industry issues to the deep personal insights developed over years of experience in this dynamic industry.

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1219amndrivetime,litensfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-18-transtar-s-neil-sethi-from-healthcare-to-hard-parts--50123803
“The most critical value proposition for us is really to help our customers solve their problems,” said Sethi, adding later in the interview that, “I think what I learned in medical school does translate – believe it or not – into the role that I have [today]. At the end of the day, it's all about working with great teams. It's understanding people and understanding how to work together. It's understanding how to work with people from all types of different backgrounds, with all different types of skill sets. [From] where I sit, it's about really solving problems, finding opportunity and being innovative. And I think that part of what I learned about healthcare and in medical school actually continues with me to this day.”

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, Bill and Neil also dive into the following topics:

00:45 Transtar’s partnership with Blue Point Capital Partners
01:43 The launch of Transtar’s first non-transmission product offering
02:48 New management appointments and what skillsets Neil believes make for a strong leader
04:45 How Neil made the leap from studying medicine as an undergrad to getting an MBA focused on finance and why
09:26 Family business and learning from his father-in-law, successful entrepreneur Monte Ahuja
10:22 What’s next for Transtar
13:56 How Neil defines the Transtar culture
18:00 The inside scoop on Transtar’s collision repair business based in Detroit
20:07 Passion projects: Can you guess what Neil’s hidden talent might be?
22:58 The popular new Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50123803Wed, 08 Jun 2022 14:59:32 +0000Babcox MediaDuring his recent AMN Drivetime podcast interview with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, Neil Sethi, president and CEO of Transtar Holding Company, shares his fascinating journey from studying biology and medicine as an undergrad to shifting gears and...
“The most critical value proposition for us is really to help our customers solve their problems,” said Sethi, adding later in the interview that, “I think what I learned in medical school does translate – believe it or not – into the role that I have [today]. At the end of the day, it's all about working with great teams. It's understanding people and understanding how to work together. It's understanding how to work with people from all types of different backgrounds, with all different types of skill sets. [From] where I sit, it's about really solving problems, finding opportunity and being innovative. And I think that part of what I learned about healthcare and in medical school actually continues with me to this day.”

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, Bill and Neil also dive into the following topics:

00:45 Transtar’s partnership with Blue Point Capital Partners
01:43 The launch of Transtar’s first non-transmission product offering
02:48 New management appointments and what skillsets Neil believes make for a strong leader
04:45 How Neil made the leap from studying medicine as an undergrad to getting an MBA focused on finance and why
09:26 Family business and learning from his father-in-law, successful entrepreneur Monte Ahuja
10:22 What’s next for Transtar
13:56 How Neil defines the Transtar culture
18:00 The inside scoop on Transtar’s collision repair business based in Detroit
20:07 Passion projects: Can you guess what Neil’s hidden talent might be?
22:58 The popular new Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1524amndrivetime,automotive,automotiveaftermarket #transmi,autoparts,driveline,marketingfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-17-apa-president-steve-tucker-and-his-island-of-misfit-toys--49653905
“You spend a lot of time in this business, and you think you know everything, and then, you switch gears and find out you know very little,” Tucker says. “It gave me a great perspective on how the customer thinks. No matter how much time you spend on the other side of the desk, when you get on this side of the desk, you start seeing things with new eyes.”

During his AMN Drivetime podcast interview with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, Tucker also shared that working with the group of people at APA has been “another eye opener” for him.

“We all read about how the aftermarket is shrinking and consolidating and all those things, and the big box guys are taking share – and no doubt a lot of that is true – but what I really find is that all of these independent warehouse distributors are very entrepreneurial. Over here at APA, probably more so than some of the other groups. We have a lot of guys that have found a niche and it's really hard to get people out of that niche. They're high-end European or Asian or tuner specialists or heavy truck specialists. I call us ‘the Island of Misfit Toys.’ We have people who fit in here who may not fit in any other group, and you know, I enjoy being the leader of those ‘Misfit Toys.’”

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, Bill and Steve dive into the following topics:

1:34 How leading APA has been an “eye-opener” after a career on the supplier side
3:47 How Program Groups Stay Competitive
4:28 The critical importance of solid data for program group members
5:29 His passion for finding new brands
7:15 Plans for APA’s future growth: “If you don’t grow, you die.”
8:23 The biggest issues APA members are concerned about today
9:45 A look back at Steve’s career on the supplier side
11:00 Steve’s secret hidden talent (spoiler alert: his go-to karaoke song is … )
12:08: The biggest issues the industry should stay focused on today
13:50 The popular new Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49653905Wed, 04 May 2022 13:40:12 +0000Babcox MediaAfter an extensive aftermarket career working in parts stores, machine shops and with major aftermarket suppliers, Steve Tucker, who was named president of Automotive Parts Associates (APA) in February of 2021, describes moving to the program group...
“You spend a lot of time in this business, and you think you know everything, and then, you switch gears and find out you know very little,” Tucker says. “It gave me a great perspective on how the customer thinks. No matter how much time you spend on the other side of the desk, when you get on this side of the desk, you start seeing things with new eyes.”

During his AMN Drivetime podcast interview with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, Tucker also shared that working with the group of people at APA has been “another eye opener” for him.

“We all read about how the aftermarket is shrinking and consolidating and all those things, and the big box guys are taking share – and no doubt a lot of that is true – but what I really find is that all of these independent warehouse distributors are very entrepreneurial. Over here at APA, probably more so than some of the other groups. We have a lot of guys that have found a niche and it's really hard to get people out of that niche. They're high-end European or Asian or tuner specialists or heavy truck specialists. I call us ‘the Island of Misfit Toys.’ We have people who fit in here who may not fit in any other group, and you know, I enjoy being the leader of those ‘Misfit Toys.’”

In this episode of AMN Drivetime, Bill and Steve dive into the following topics:

1:34 How leading APA has been an “eye-opener” after a career on the supplier side
3:47 How Program Groups Stay Competitive
4:28 The critical importance of solid data for program group members
5:29 His passion for finding new brands
7:15 Plans for APA’s future growth: “If you don’t grow, you die.”
8:23 The biggest issues APA members are concerned about today
9:45 A look back at Steve’s career on the supplier side
11:00 Steve’s secret hidden talent (spoiler alert: his go-to karaoke song is … )
12:08: The biggest issues the industry should stay focused on today
13:50 The popular new Lightning Round!

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>926amndrivetime,automotive,automotiveaftermarket,marketingfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-16-ntn-s-charles-harris-on-developing-strong-leaders--49398530
Harris joined NTN in 2019 as the director of sales – Automotive Aftermarket and in October 2021 was promoted to vice president of sales and marketing. In his tenure with NTN, he has overseen the restructuring of the automotive aftermarket sales team and the growth of NTN’s market share in the traditional automotive aftermarket, heavy-duty, and fleet market channels.

Throughout his career, Charles has focused on the value of people and developing their ability to communicate and execute, which generates organizational growth. In the podcast, Harris shares that his work with his team is his proudest accomplishment: “I think my proudest achievement has to do with my people and the teams that I’ve built. When I look back now on some of the people and how they excelled under my leadership in the business – not only becoming just regional managers, being sales directors, being VPs within the industry – that that’s what makes me most proud.”

In this exclusive AMN Drivetime interview, Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Harris to learn more about what makes a great salesperson successful today, how to stay ahead of the curve, where Charles gets his motivation and more.

In this episode, Bill and Charles talk about:

1:52 What makes a great salesman in the aftermarket today?

2:48 Most memorable story from early days on the road

5:25: How to stay ahead of the curve in today’s fast-evolving industry

6:30: Proudest moments in Charles’ career

8:38 A closer look at the NTN Sales & Marketing team

10:04 What motivates Charles to stay focused (spoiler alert: It’s his grandkids!)

11:05 Drivetime’s new Lightning Round!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49398530Mon, 11 Apr 2022 14:39:54 +0000Babcox MediaA native of “Honeymoon City” Niagara Falls, New York, Charles Harris began his aftermarket career after graduating with degrees in both Business and Marketing from Northwood University in Midland, Michigan. An experienced sales executive, Harris has...
Harris joined NTN in 2019 as the director of sales – Automotive Aftermarket and in October 2021 was promoted to vice president of sales and marketing. In his tenure with NTN, he has overseen the restructuring of the automotive aftermarket sales team and the growth of NTN’s market share in the traditional automotive aftermarket, heavy-duty, and fleet market channels.

Throughout his career, Charles has focused on the value of people and developing their ability to communicate and execute, which generates organizational growth. In the podcast, Harris shares that his work with his team is his proudest accomplishment: “I think my proudest achievement has to do with my people and the teams that I’ve built. When I look back now on some of the people and how they excelled under my leadership in the business – not only becoming just regional managers, being sales directors, being VPs within the industry – that that’s what makes me most proud.”

In this exclusive AMN Drivetime interview, Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox sits down with Harris to learn more about what makes a great salesperson successful today, how to stay ahead of the curve, where Charles gets his motivation and more.

In this episode, Bill and Charles talk about:

1:52 What makes a great salesman in the aftermarket today?

2:48 Most memorable story from early days on the road

5:25: How to stay ahead of the curve in today’s fast-evolving industry

6:30: Proudest moments in Charles’ career

8:38 A closer look at the NTN Sales & Marketing team

10:04 What motivates Charles to stay focused (spoiler alert: It’s his grandkids!)

11:05 Drivetime’s new Lightning Round!]]>756amndrivetime,bearings,ntnfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e15-amn-drivetime-with-ngk-s-brian-norko-identify-the-need-provide-the-solution-podcast--49006227
When Brian Norko, senior vice president - commercial business operations, NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc., interviewed for the management trainee program at Federal-Mogul, he says he “didn't know anything about manufacturing and … wasn't a car enthusiast.” That didn’t slow him down when it came to carving out an incredibly successful career in automotive. Now with roughly 35 years under his belt, Norko says he still lives by the guidance he was given by the mentors he had while just starting out.
“Fortunately, I had an angel in Southfield, Michigan, who was keeping his eye out for me,” said Norko. “His name was Don Thorpe, God rest his soul. He was the national sales manager for the sales division that called on NAPA and every time I would come back to Southfield, he would always look me up and we'd have lunch or have dinner. He wanted me in the sales group and he got his wish and I went into to NAPA sales for Federal-Mogul. I spent some time there and then I went into heavy-duty sales, and then into distribution. Then, they brought me back to be in finance. So, the first eight years, I really got a good dose of being a management trainee in different functional areas from sales to distribution and finance.”
Norko credits another important mentor in his career as helping him learn the key to being a successful sales professional.
"Another strong mentor was Bob Show, God rest his soul as well,” said Norko. “Bob was the national sales manager of heavy-duty sales at Federal-Mogul and really taught [me] the foundation that I still use with my group. The first thing he said to me when I took the job up in Minnesota in heavy-duty sales was, ‘You know, Brian, I really don't care about writing big orders here. The next three or four months, what I care about is you get to know your customers and establishing a very good relationship with your customers. When I come back up in four months, I'm going to talk to some people and see if they know you,’ and he did.”
The experience Norko gained while working in a variety of roles in the Federal-Mogul management trainee program made him a firm believer in the value not only of relationships, but in having a wide variety of skills as an aftermarket executive. When speaking to students about potential career paths in the aftermarket, this is something Norko is passionate about.
“When I speak to classes or I speak to students, the one thing they ask me is how can they find that type of job, and why is it important? And what I always come back to as I deal with this today at NGK is an organization can't have all specialists. They can, but it may make the process of strategy or problem-solving a little bit more cumbersome or time-consuming than having maybe 30-40% of your population that has spent time in sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, finance, etc. By having that background, those people are able to help others understand who the customer is and, and maybe some of the problems or challenges they have with the organization.
“I mentioned Bob Show earlier. Bob always said there's really two functions of a company from his viewpoint. His two focuses of a company were to get a customer – which if you work for a company like NGK or a company that has a lot of strong brands and high market share, that's pretty easy to do because people want your product. Sometimes the more difficult thing to do is to keep a customer,” Norko says. “When you're trying to keep a customer and you have people working in your team who are just not sales people, but also come from the distribution side, the manufacturing side, the finance side, they're able to bring solutions to help you keep that customer. So, I think it's really important to have some generalists within your team and not all specialists. That's a message I share here at NGK all the time as I try to get people to move around within the organization just to become stronger. And really it makes the career more interesting. I've loved my career for the last 30-plus years. I wouldn't change it for anything with the experience that I had and and the people that I've met.”
In this episode, Bill and Brian also dive into:
In this episode, Bill and Brian also dive into:
•8:29 Mentors;
•10:45 Identify the need and provide the solution;
•12:10 The value of brands and quality products;
•12:15 The value of strong brands in making life easier in sales;
•14:35 The technician shortage;
•20:30 AMN Drivetime’s NEW “Lightning Round”]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49006227Wed, 09 Mar 2022 16:51:23 +0000Babcox MediaAMN Drivetime with NGK’s Brian Norko: Identify the Need, Provide the Solution [Podcast] When Brian Norko, senior vice president - commercial business operations, NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc., interviewed for the management trainee program at...
When Brian Norko, senior vice president - commercial business operations, NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc., interviewed for the management trainee program at Federal-Mogul, he says he “didn't know anything about manufacturing and … wasn't a car enthusiast.” That didn’t slow him down when it came to carving out an incredibly successful career in automotive. Now with roughly 35 years under his belt, Norko says he still lives by the guidance he was given by the mentors he had while just starting out.
“Fortunately, I had an angel in Southfield, Michigan, who was keeping his eye out for me,” said Norko. “His name was Don Thorpe, God rest his soul. He was the national sales manager for the sales division that called on NAPA and every time I would come back to Southfield, he would always look me up and we'd have lunch or have dinner. He wanted me in the sales group and he got his wish and I went into to NAPA sales for Federal-Mogul. I spent some time there and then I went into heavy-duty sales, and then into distribution. Then, they brought me back to be in finance. So, the first eight years, I really got a good dose of being a management trainee in different functional areas from sales to distribution and finance.”
Norko credits another important mentor in his career as helping him learn the key to being a successful sales professional.
"Another strong mentor was Bob Show, God rest his soul as well,” said Norko. “Bob was the national sales manager of heavy-duty sales at Federal-Mogul and really taught [me] the foundation that I still use with my group. The first thing he said to me when I took the job up in Minnesota in heavy-duty sales was, ‘You know, Brian, I really don't care about writing big orders here. The next three or four months, what I care about is you get to know your customers and establishing a very good relationship with your customers. When I come back up in four months, I'm going to talk to some people and see if they know you,’ and he did.”
The experience Norko gained while working in a variety of roles in the Federal-Mogul management trainee program made him a firm believer in the value not only of relationships, but in having a wide variety of skills as an aftermarket executive. When speaking to students about potential career paths in the aftermarket, this is something Norko is passionate about.
“When I speak to classes or I speak to students, the one thing they ask me is how can they find that type of job, and why is it important? And what I always come back to as I deal with this today at NGK is an organization can't have all specialists. They can, but it may make the process of strategy or problem-solving a little bit more cumbersome or time-consuming than having maybe 30-40% of your population that has spent time in sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, finance, etc. By having that background, those people are able to help others understand who the customer is and, and maybe some of the problems or challenges they have with the organization.
“I mentioned Bob Show earlier. Bob always said there's really two functions of a company from his viewpoint. His two focuses of a company were to get a customer – which if you work for a company like NGK or a company that has a lot of strong brands and high market share, that's pretty easy to do because people want your product. Sometimes the more difficult thing to do is to keep a customer,” Norko says. “When you're trying to keep a customer and you have people working in your team who are just not sales people, but also come from the distribution side, the manufacturing side, the finance side, they're able to bring solutions to help you keep that customer. So, I think it's really important to have some generalists within your team and not all specialists. That's a message I share here at NGK all the time as I try to get people to...]]>1351amndrivetime,innovation,racing,sparkplugs,theignitionspecialist #ngksparfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-14-aasa-s-paul-mccarthy-it-s-easy-when-it-s-something-you-care-about--48659713
In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, AASA’s Paul McCarthy discusses a range of topics from first jobs to Biden administration policies affecting the aftermarket.

In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, we hear from Paul McCarthy, president and CEO of the Automotive Suppliers Association. A well-known figure on the aftermarket stage, we get to know a little more about Paul’s career path from helping his grandfather work on cars as a kid to now leading one of the aftermarket’s leading trade associations, and the interesting career choices in between.

In the interview Bill and Paul discuss a range of topics from Paul’s natural affable speaking presence to his thoughts on EVs, Right to Repair, Biden administration policies affecting the aftermarket and more.

When asked what the secret is to being such a natural and authentic public speaker, McCarthy’s response only illustrates what a passionate and humble industry servant he is. McCarthy shares that it’s easy to talk about something you care about.

“My great blessing is that I get to work on behalf of the industry. I get to work on behalf of all of you, and this is an industry I'm passionate about. It's a role I take very seriously,” he said. “The downside of course, is that I have thousands of bosses. The upside is that I have real purpose in my work and your listeners are that purpose. And it's very motivating for us to try as a team here at AASA to champion the aftermarket industry, to support the aftermarket supplier community. So, I know I'm very blessed to get to serve in this role.”

In this episode, Bill and Paul dive into:

-How Paul got his start in the automotive industry (00:48)

-What was Paul’s very unique first real, paying job? We’ll give you a hint … can you say, “a hoy matey!” (02:45)

-The secret to being a natural and authentic public speaker (04:08)

-The value of strong relationships in the aftermarket and the mentors he’s worked with (05:44)

-What’s on the horizon for AASA in 2022 and beyond (08:49)

-Paul’s thoughts on the current administration and what policies will impact AASA members (13:25)

-The “million-dollar question:
Paul’s take on EV’s and the aftermarket’s level of preparedness for them (16:00)

-Thoughts on Right to Repair (19:14)

-Impressions from the return to AAPEX in 2020 (22:34)

One hobby Paul has that surprises his team members (24:52)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48659713Wed, 09 Feb 2022 16:20:20 +0000Babcox MediaAASA’s Paul McCarthy: It’s Easy When It’s Something You Care About In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, AASA’s Paul McCarthy discusses a range of topics from first jobs to Biden administration policies...
In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, AASA’s Paul McCarthy discusses a range of topics from first jobs to Biden administration policies affecting the aftermarket.

In this latest episode of AMN Drivetime with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, we hear from Paul McCarthy, president and CEO of the Automotive Suppliers Association. A well-known figure on the aftermarket stage, we get to know a little more about Paul’s career path from helping his grandfather work on cars as a kid to now leading one of the aftermarket’s leading trade associations, and the interesting career choices in between.

In the interview Bill and Paul discuss a range of topics from Paul’s natural affable speaking presence to his thoughts on EVs, Right to Repair, Biden administration policies affecting the aftermarket and more.

When asked what the secret is to being such a natural and authentic public speaker, McCarthy’s response only illustrates what a passionate and humble industry servant he is. McCarthy shares that it’s easy to talk about something you care about.

“My great blessing is that I get to work on behalf of the industry. I get to work on behalf of all of you, and this is an industry I'm passionate about. It's a role I take very seriously,” he said. “The downside of course, is that I have thousands of bosses. The upside is that I have real purpose in my work and your listeners are that purpose. And it's very motivating for us to try as a team here at AASA to champion the aftermarket industry, to support the aftermarket supplier community. So, I know I'm very blessed to get to serve in this role.”

In this episode, Bill and Paul dive into:

-How Paul got his start in the automotive industry (00:48)

-What was Paul’s very unique first real, paying job? We’ll give you a hint … can you say, “a hoy matey!” (02:45)

-The secret to being a natural and authentic public speaker (04:08)

-The value of strong relationships in the aftermarket and the mentors he’s worked with (05:44)

-What’s on the horizon for AASA in 2022 and beyond (08:49)

-Paul’s thoughts on the current administration and what policies will impact AASA members (13:25)

-The “million-dollar question:
Paul’s take on EV’s and the aftermarket’s level of preparedness for them (16:00)

-Thoughts on Right to Repair (19:14)

-Impressions from the return to AAPEX in 2020 (22:34)

One hobby Paul has that surprises his team members (24:52)

AMN Drivetime is sponsored by Litens.]]>1591aapex21,amndrivetime,automotive,righttorepairfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-13-na-williams-roger-mccollum-on-roles-and-responsibility--48178106
Roger McCollum, chairman and CEO of manufacturer’s rep firm NA Williams, began his long career in the automotive aftermarket at Ken Tool Co., in Akron, Ohio, where he served in a variety of sales and management positions, eventually advancing to national sales manager. He joined N.A. Williams Company in 1984 and currently serves as chairman and CEO of the manufacturer’s rep firm.

This past November, the Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) presented its Outstanding Leadership Award to McCollum. Leader of the Year is bestowed upon an aftermarket professional who has contributed to the industry in a unique and significant way. In nearly 45 years of dedication to the automotive aftermarket, starting with his first job at a local parts store when he was a college student, Roger McCollum has distinguished himself as one of the industry’s top leaders and most committed advocates. McCollum joined N.A. Williams Company in 1984, after several years with other aftermarket companies. Over the years, he has held management roles of increasing responsibility and served as the company’s president from 1997 to 2017. He was elected CEO in 2007 and Chairman of the Board in 2014, and currently serves in both positions. McCollum has directed and integrated several mergers and acquisitions which have greatly expanded, diversified and strengthened the company’s business.

McCollum has a long and varied history of volunteer industry service, including positions on the Auto Care Association Board of Directors and Government Affairs Committee. He has also been active in AWDA with a term as Rep Advisor on the Board or Governors, as well as AWDA’s Manufacturers Advisory Council. McCollum has previously served on the Auto Care Association Events Committee and Manufactures’ Representative Council.

Currently, McCollum serves as chairman of the Auto Care Association Audit Committee; Vice Chairman of its Political Action Committee (ACPAC) and is a member of the Auto Care Association Nominating Committee. Importantly, McCollum has encouraged and supported the volunteer activities of many N.A. Williams personnel over the years.

McCollum also serves on the Automotive Aftermarket Association Southeast (AAAS) Board of Directors and the AAAS Employee Benefit Fund Board of Trustees. In addition, McCollum serves on the Board of Trustees of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation and its Executive and Contribution Committees and chairs the Foundation’s Grant Review Committee.

2020 AWDA Award winner, Bill Hanvey said, “For decades, Roger has proven to be a dedicated and universally respected industry leader. I have had the privilege of working with Roger for many years and can say without reservation that his commitment to the aftermarket is second to none and absolutely deserving of being recognized with the AWDA’s Outstanding Leadership Award.”

In this AMN Drivetime podcast with host Bill Babcox, the two CEO’s talk about McCollum’s drive to serve others. McCollum says he doesn’t see the volunteering he does in the industry as philanthropy. Philanthropy is something one does at church or in one’s community, he says. Giving back to this industry is something we should all be taking action on McCollum says. “I see it as a responsibility. I think all of us owe something back to the business where we earn our livelihoods,” he said.

Reflecting back on the host of well-known, influential mentors McCollum has learned from over the years, McCollum said he has been fortunate to work around some really brilliant people who took the time share their knowledge with him, especially as a young professional starting out.

“The thing that helped me the most in those early years was, I learned how to be humble and in my case, I had a lot to be humble about. My most successful sales technique was to just be a young kid who doesn’t know anything, who is looking for a break, and, I found that older people like to help young people. It’s just a natural part of life.”

Babcox and McCollum went on to talk about a number of other compelling topics including the continued value of brand reputation and the fragility of brands.

“I think brands are as important today as they have ever been,” said McCollum. “You have to make sure that the image that you're upholding speaks to what the expectations are of the customers. When that deteriorates it's tough to get it back.”

Podcast Highlights:
•McCollum talks about receiving the AWDA Leader of the Year award (1:08)
•His thoughts on philanthrophy and responsibility (2:11)
•Growing up in Akron, Ohio, where Babcox Media is based and being a lifelong Cleveland Browns fan (5:03)
•First job in the aftermarket (7:03)
•Industry Mentors (11:22)
•Game-changing moments (15:21)
•The value of brands (18:35)
•Funny stories from the Road (23:19)
•The secret to success (28:00)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48178106Wed, 05 Jan 2022 16:32:04 +0000Babcox MediaNA Williams’ Roger McCollum On Roles And Responsibility Roger McCollum, chairman and CEO of manufacturer’s rep firm NA Williams, began his long career in the automotive aftermarket at Ken Tool Co., in Akron, Ohio, where he served in a variety of...
Roger McCollum, chairman and CEO of manufacturer’s rep firm NA Williams, began his long career in the automotive aftermarket at Ken Tool Co., in Akron, Ohio, where he served in a variety of sales and management positions, eventually advancing to national sales manager. He joined N.A. Williams Company in 1984 and currently serves as chairman and CEO of the manufacturer’s rep firm.

This past November, the Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) presented its Outstanding Leadership Award to McCollum. Leader of the Year is bestowed upon an aftermarket professional who has contributed to the industry in a unique and significant way. In nearly 45 years of dedication to the automotive aftermarket, starting with his first job at a local parts store when he was a college student, Roger McCollum has distinguished himself as one of the industry’s top leaders and most committed advocates. McCollum joined N.A. Williams Company in 1984, after several years with other aftermarket companies. Over the years, he has held management roles of increasing responsibility and served as the company’s president from 1997 to 2017. He was elected CEO in 2007 and Chairman of the Board in 2014, and currently serves in both positions. McCollum has directed and integrated several mergers and acquisitions which have greatly expanded, diversified and strengthened the company’s business.

McCollum has a long and varied history of volunteer industry service, including positions on the Auto Care Association Board of Directors and Government Affairs Committee. He has also been active in AWDA with a term as Rep Advisor on the Board or Governors, as well as AWDA’s Manufacturers Advisory Council. McCollum has previously served on the Auto Care Association Events Committee and Manufactures’ Representative Council.

Currently, McCollum serves as chairman of the Auto Care Association Audit Committee; Vice Chairman of its Political Action Committee (ACPAC) and is a member of the Auto Care Association Nominating Committee. Importantly, McCollum has encouraged and supported the volunteer activities of many N.A. Williams personnel over the years.

McCollum also serves on the Automotive Aftermarket Association Southeast (AAAS) Board of Directors and the AAAS Employee Benefit Fund Board of Trustees. In addition, McCollum serves on the Board of Trustees of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation and its Executive and Contribution Committees and chairs the Foundation’s Grant Review Committee.

2020 AWDA Award winner, Bill Hanvey said, “For decades, Roger has proven to be a dedicated and universally respected industry leader. I have had the privilege of working with Roger for many years and can say without reservation that his commitment to the aftermarket is second to none and absolutely deserving of being recognized with the AWDA’s Outstanding Leadership Award.”

In this AMN Drivetime podcast with host Bill Babcox, the two CEO’s talk about McCollum’s drive to serve others. McCollum says he doesn’t see the volunteering he does in the industry as philanthropy. Philanthropy is something one does at church or in one’s community, he says. Giving back to this industry is something we should all be taking action on McCollum says. “I see it as a responsibility. I think all of us owe something back to the business where we earn our livelihoods,” he said.

Reflecting back on the host of well-known, influential mentors McCollum has learned from over the years, McCollum said he has been fortunate to work around some really brilliant people who took the time share their knowledge with him, especially as a young professional starting out.

“The thing that helped me the most in those early years was, I learned how to be humble and in my case, I had a lot to be humble about. My most successful sales technique was to...]]>2092amndrivetimefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-12-dave-marsh-of-acdelco-a-gm-lifer-32-years-later--47869225
In this episode of AMN Drivetime hosted by Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, Marsh shares some of the wisdom he has accrued over three decades in the industry, including how to go beyond being simply competent to becoming an elite performer.

Babcox and Marsh also discuss GM’s recent global rebranding initiative along with new marketing campaigns for the GM genuine parts and ACDelco brands. In addition, they discuss some of the bigger industry challenges being faced today – supply chain challenges, parts proliferation, EVs, technology and innovation, oh and a few favorite funny stories from the road.

In this episode, Bill and Marsh dive into:
-Marsh’s career as an General Motors “lifer,” joining the company right out of college 32 years agao. (01:15)
-The variety of locations Marsh and his family have traveled to and live at during his career at ACDelco (02:08)
-Marsh’s best career advice on how to go beyond being competent to be an elite performer. (04:35)
-Game-changing moments in Marsh’s career (06:42)
-Rebranding efforts for the GM Genuine Parts and ACDelco brands (12:42)
-The value of branding (14:35)
-E-commerce and it’s role during the pandemic (16:46)
-Whether the aftermarket is ready for electric vehicles (18:35)
-Parts Proliferation (19:43)
-Current supply chain challenges (20:32)
-Funny stories from the road (21:36) and more!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47869225Fri, 10 Dec 2021 15:46:58 +0000Babcox MediaFor Dave Marsh, turning personal strengths into something of value as a professional is what has guided him in his 32-year career with General Motors. In his current role as Executive Director for North America, Marsh handles Customer Care and...
In this episode of AMN Drivetime hosted by Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, Marsh shares some of the wisdom he has accrued over three decades in the industry, including how to go beyond being simply competent to becoming an elite performer.

Babcox and Marsh also discuss GM’s recent global rebranding initiative along with new marketing campaigns for the GM genuine parts and ACDelco brands. In addition, they discuss some of the bigger industry challenges being faced today – supply chain challenges, parts proliferation, EVs, technology and innovation, oh and a few favorite funny stories from the road.

In this episode, Bill and Marsh dive into:
-Marsh’s career as an General Motors “lifer,” joining the company right out of college 32 years agao. (01:15)
-The variety of locations Marsh and his family have traveled to and live at during his career at ACDelco (02:08)
-Marsh’s best career advice on how to go beyond being competent to be an elite performer. (04:35)
-Game-changing moments in Marsh’s career (06:42)
-Rebranding efforts for the GM Genuine Parts and ACDelco brands (12:42)
-The value of branding (14:35)
-E-commerce and it’s role during the pandemic (16:46)
-Whether the aftermarket is ready for electric vehicles (18:35)
-Parts Proliferation (19:43)
-Current supply chain challenges (20:32)
-Funny stories from the road (21:36) and more!]]>1502amndrivetimefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e11-vange-proimos-ceo-of-ap-emissions-creating-parts-that-customers-need--47608809https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47608809Mon, 22 Nov 2021 21:53:34 +0000Babcox MediaReturning from the first in-person AAPEX since 2019, AMN Drivetime host Bill Babcox sits down with Vange Proimos, CEO of AP Emissions, to talk about his journey from technician and shop owner to leading a privately owned, family run business. A...1500amndrivetimefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e10-amn-drivetime-with-mema-s-bill-long--47065973https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47065973Wed, 20 Oct 2021 16:56:10 +0000Babcox MediaIn this edition of AMN Drivetime with Bill Babcox, Bill sits down with the MEMA President and CEO to share not only the key mantras he lives by but some incredible memories (and photos!) from his career that spans 30 years in manufacturing, racing and...1579amndrivetime,memaadvocacyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e9-sue-godschalk-lessons-you-can-t-get-from-a-book-or-a-class--46849350https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46849350Wed, 06 Oct 2021 14:32:43 +0000Babcox MediaIn this episode of AMN Drivetime, Sue Godschalk, president of Federated Auto Parts, shares her journey being included in the founding of one of the nation's leading program distribution groups – Federated Auto Parts, which was established in the...1585amndrivetime,federatedapfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e8-bill-hanvey-from-building-exhaust-racks-to-meeting-the-president--46635947https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46635947Wed, 22 Sep 2021 14:41:00 +0000Babcox MediaIn this rich and candid conversation, Hanvey not only shares a little bit about the leaders and mentors who "took a chance" on him at the start of his career but also his most memorable career highlight, sitting down with President George W. Bush.1679aftermarket,amndrivetime,autocare,automotive,yourcaryourdatafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e7-shock-absorbers-and-sales-industry-expertise-with-kevin-judge--46144135https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46144135Tue, 07 Sep 2021 11:00:02 +0000Babcox MediaKevin Judge, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at NTN Bearing, started his journey in the industry without even knowing what a shock absorber was. With the help of his mentors and connections within the industry, Judge was able to work his way up...1710amndrivetime,automotiveaftermarket,ntn,ntnproudfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e6-larry-pavey-automotive-parts-services-group--46203895https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46203895Mon, 23 Aug 2021 13:51:53 +0000Babcox MediaFrom a part-time auto parts delivery driver to leading one of the automotive aftermarket's biggest program groups today, Larry Pavey, CEO of The Group, takes us through his history in the industry in this episode of AMN Drivetime with Bill Babcox.2366amndrivetimefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e5-eric-steinbecher-addicted-to-the-aftermarket--46053425https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46053425Wed, 11 Aug 2021 15:01:09 +0000Babcox MediaOne might think working at Porsche would be the pinnacle of any car lover's career, however Eric Steinbecher, president Automotive Aftermarket - Americas, Scheffler, says it is the automotive aftermarket that he wishes he had found sooner. "Everyone...1449amndrivetime,repxpert,schaefflersolutions,weareschaeffler,wepioneermotionfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e4-entrepreneur-at-heart-jim-franco--45941405https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45941405Mon, 02 Aug 2021 21:01:14 +0000Babcox MediaJim Franco, CEO of Autologue Computer Systems, knew at a very young age that he wanted more out of life. Entering the workforce at age 11, he made money mowing lawns, washing windows and delivering newspapers. In episode 4 of the AMN Drivetime Podcast...2137amndrivetime,autologuecomputersystems,automotiveaftermarketfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e3-aftermarket-auto-parts-alliance-president-ceo-john-washbish--45845471https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45845471Mon, 26 Jul 2021 14:45:17 +0000Babcox MediaBabcox Media CEO Bill Babcox sits down with one of the aftermarket's key leaders – who also just happens to be one of industry's best storytellers – John R. Washbish, president and CEO of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance.1432aftermarketautopartsalliance,amndrivetime,autovalue,bumpertobumperfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e2-catching-up-with-industry-icon-kathleen-schmatz--45694918https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45694918Wed, 14 Jul 2021 16:11:39 +0000Babcox MediaIn episode 2 of AMN Drivetime, Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox talks with industry icon Kathleen Schmatz. The two longtime friends and colleagues chat about Schmatz's remarkable career, with her beginnings writing press releases on a typewriter to...1119amn,amndrivetime,autocareassociationfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e1-six-time-nhra-world-champion-clay-millican-talks-about-his-most-meaningful-race--45508584https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45508584Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:03:13 +0000Babcox MediaIn this inaugural episode of AMN Drivetime, Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox talks with six-time NHRA world champion about his career trajectory from the Kroger warehouse driving forklifts to drag racing, his most meaningful race, "Your Car. Your Data....1430amn,claymillican,drivetimefalsefull