The Modern Tire Dealer Show: Recent Episodes
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The Modern Tire Dealer Show is a weekly look at the tire industry with special attention to the independent tire dealer through interviews, conversations and analysis from industry leaders and the staff of Modern Tire Dealer magazine, including editor Mike Manges, senior editor Joy Kopcha and managing editor Ron Ledgard.
How can independent tire dealers and industry professionals effectively utilize AI to help improve service output, build revenue and handle time-consuming tasks? Calum McClelland, chief operating officer of Leverege, outlines a playbook for developing, implementing and tracking new technology to successfully grow automotive operations.
How do you build a successful tire and automotive business that can grow beyond the owner? In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Trevor Jensen, owner of Big O Tires Victoria in British Columbia, expands on strengthening the reputation of his family's 35-year business legacy while creating a service model built on collaboration and trust.
Crystal Forth, regional manager at Cambridge, Ontario-based Protreadz Tirecraft Auto Centre, joins The Modern Tire Dealer Show to share how dealerships can continue supporting women at all levels of the tire industry.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, JP Brooks, chief revenue officer at Fitment Group, discusses retail tire pricing trends and what to expect during the second half of 2026.
Central Tire Manager Jason Sparks joins The Modern Tire Dealer Show to
discuss how tire dealers can prepare for off-road season by stocking the right inventory, guiding
customers through fitment decisions and creating a buying experience that turns enthusiasts
into repeat customers.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, AG Tire Talk's James Tuschner shares best practices for top ag tire performance.
In this episode, Chris Messer, executive vice president of EndeavorB2B's transportation group, and Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership, are joined by Louie Sharp at Sharp Auto Body. Together, they offer valuable tips for pushing ahead of setbacks and creating healthier mindsets for success.
Baqi Syed, project manager for USA Wheel & Tire Outlet Inc., shifted gears to the tire industry after diving into the medical field in college. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Syed explains why he chose a new industry and offers tire dealers insight into attracting Gen Z to their businesses.
From family tragedies to the Los Angeles Riots, Long Beach, Calif.-based Performance Plus Tire has survived it all. For over 50 years, Hank Feldman has continued the legacy of his family's business, which focuses on offering premium tires and custom wheels and specializes in the classic, vintage and hotrod vehicle segments. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Hank recounts pushing through the challenges of his family's dealership and shares how he rose from the ashes to become a national leader in the tire and wheel industry.
Brad Templin, chief operating officer of Scott's U-Save Tires & Auto Repair, discusses his unconventional path to ownership in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this Modern Tire Dealer Show exclusive, John Quirk, executive chairman of VIP Tires & Service, reflects on the dealership's 100-year history and discusses what's next for the company.
As the tire and automotive industry continues to navigate shifting economies, fluctuating demand and changing consumer habits, how are tire dealer program groups stepping up to meet the moment? In this special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's managing editor, Sara Welch, talks with MTD's associate editor, Aden Graves, to break down the latest updates for program groups in 2026 and how tire dealers should best prepare their businesses.
Chris Messer, executive vice president of EndeavorB2B's transportation group, and Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership Training, are joined by James Baxter, founder and CEO of Atlanta, Ga.-based Neighborhood Tire Pros, and Hunter Barton, the dealership's store manager. Baxter and Barton share how the dealership bounced back from selling stores to growing in profitability.
Mike Mooney, a former motorsports executive who is also a professional speaker and coach, joins The Modern Tire Dealer Show to share insights on motivating your teams, navigating industry changes and leading your tire and auto business toward success.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Tony Grace, CEO of Alma Tire Companies, discusses the core values behind his dealership's success.
Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership Training, and Chris Messer, executive vice president of the transportation group at Endeavor B2B, MTD's parent company, are back for another special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show. Today, Chris Jones, editorial director of Endeavor B2B's vehicle service and repair group, joins them to discuss manageable strategies for setting goals and creating a path toward perseverance.
Houska Automotive has hiring down to a science. Jason Lightbody, who runs the company's tire division, shares Houska's secrets of success in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership Training, and Chris Messer, executive vice president of the transportation group at Endeavor Business Media — MTD’s parent company, are back for another special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show. Today, Jones and Messer discuss the importance of eliminating powerless words from a person's vocabulary.
A.J. Nealey, owner of Nealey Tire & Auto, doesn't refer to himself as the CEO or president of his dealership. He calls himself its "chief cheerleader." Find out why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Your dealership's competitive advantage might not be what you think it is, says Dennis McCarron in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership Training, and Chris Messer, executive vice president of the transportation group at Endeavor Business Media, MTD’s parent company, are back for another special podcast episode. This time, they are joined by Randy O'Connor, owner and principal of D2D Development Group and a monthly MTD columnist, to discuss the importance of focusing on outcomes in business.
From tiers to tariffs, Jason Rook, CEO of the Independent Tire Dealers Group LLC, provides his take on tire market trends in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
James O'Reilly, vice president of Trail Tire Group, provides a snapshot of the tire market in western Canada, in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Roy Littlefield IV, vice president of government affairs at the Tire Industry Association, comes on this episode of the Modern Tire Dealer Show to provide an update on the Right to Repair movement and the Repair Act in Congress. Littlefield also shares how technicians can help move this bill to the finish line.
Click here to access TIA's Right to Repair - Report Your Issue.
In this special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Tomo Mizutani, chairman emeritus of Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas Inc., looks back on his 33-year Hall of Fame career.
Retail tire sales and leadership coach Mike Townsend discusses the characteristics of good tire dealership owners and operators in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
As the industry ramps up for the end-of-the-year selling season, Analyst and MTD Columnist John Healy is checking the pulse for the final quarter of 2025. Amid all the tariff talk, economic uncertainty and industry-specific issues at hand, Healy offers what he thinks are the most important factors to weigh as 2025 rolls into 2026.
Wes McAdams, owner of Best-One of Bowling Green, believes in giving people second, third, fourth, fifth and even sixth chances. He explains why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Back again for a special episode are Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership Training, and Chris Messer, executive vice president of the transportation group at Endeavor Business Media — MTD’s parent company. Today, Mike walks Chris through what leading looks like from the frontlines – no matter if you’re in a traditional leadership position or not.
The tire wholesale industry is in the midst of a major shake-up. With market pressures mounting and competition intensifying, how do successful companies stay ahead of the curve? Today, we sit down with Brock Swentzel, president of wholesale at S&S Tire, to break down what's really happening in the wholesale market right now. From navigating supply chain disruptions to adapting business strategies on the fly, Brock shares insider insights on how companies cannot just survive but thrive in these challenging times.
Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership Training, is back on the Modern Tire Dealer Show with Chris Messer, executive vice president of the transportation group at Endeavor Business Media — MTD’s parent company. In this episode, Jones advises listeners on what it takes to be a person who follows up and follows through in a business setting.
Servicing a leaky tire on a dump truck almost brought an end to not just John Melosci’s tire industry career, but his life. Melosci recounts the day he took a shortcut while on a service call. It was 35 years ago. This third-generation tire dealer still confronts the aftereffects of the incident all these years later. He tells his story on this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Marc Pons, president of Chapel Hill Tire, explains how his "Work Happy, Drive Happy" philosophy guarantees success.
For anyone who has ever uttered the words, “failure isn’t an option,” Mike Jones, president and master trainer at Discover Leadership Training, has a message you should consider. Jones talks about leadership and failure in this special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show. He’s joined by Chris Messer, executive vice president of the transportation group at Endeavor Business Media — MTD’s parent company. Jones helps leaders, including many with small- and medium-sized businesses, reframe failure and change their approach.
Kevin Davis, owner of the Fort Worth, Texas-based Cowser Tire and Service, joins this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show to talk about his growth in the commercial and retread tire industry and some of the best lessons he has learned over the years.
Retail tire pricing has been "volatile" and "turbulent," says JP Brooks, chief revenue officer at Fitment Group. He explains why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
The U.S. Senate has rolled back California’s electric vehicle (EV) mandate — so what does that mean for tire dealers amping up their EV service business? Craig Van Batenburg has been in the hybrid and EV world for decades, and he spends his days training technicians how to safely work with high-voltage systems. Craig says tire dealers need to take the politics out of the EV conversation and focus on what really matters — caring for customers and their vehicles.
What does it mean to create a truly customer-centric environment at your tire dealership — and how can it benefit both your business and your team? Randy O’Connor, owner of D2D Development Group and MTD columnist, joins this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show to break it down.
Is the customer always right? "No," says Dennis McCarron. Find out why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
With an uncertain economy, more tariffs and the unpredictability of President Donald Trump, are private equity groups still as interested in tire dealerships as they have been in recent years? MTD’s Mergers & Acquisitions Columnist Cole Strandberg weighs in on the current state of the market in 2025. He says private equity groups are seeking creative ways to join the tire industry.
NAPA Auto Care has a new program that helps technicians purchase the tools they need. Learn more on this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, husband-and-wife duo Ini and Ijeoma Ibanga share their journey from running a traditional brick-and-mortar tire shop to launching their own mobile tire service, I&I Mobile Tire Services. Learn how they’re revolutionizing the industry by delivering tire solutions directly to customers—whether at home, on the road, or on the job site. Tune in to hear how their innovative approach is redefining convenience and customer service in the tire business.
Sponsored Podcast: In this special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, David Henry, sales development manager at Hunter Engineering Co.'s training department, discusses why you should get on-board with ADAS service and what's needed to make that happen.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Aubrey Amborn, director of sales for NetDriven, provides advice on how to keep up with customers' shopping preferences so you can capture more business.
The Right to Repair movement is gaining momentum, and its impact on independent tire dealers is more significant than ever. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association, breaks down the latest legislative updates, what’s at stake for tire dealers and how the industry can take action. Tune in to hear how these changes could affect your business and what you can do to stay ahead.
Following the rules of safety is the best way to ensure tire dealers send their personnel home and in good health at the end of every workday. But Kevin Rohlwing, chief technical officer for the Tire Industry Association, says taking safety seriously also benefits your customers. “It’s not just the health and safety of your employees. It’s the health and safety of your customers.”
We cover some of the basics of safety in a retail tire dealership with Rohlwing on this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
To boost your tire dealership’s safety knowledge even more, visit the TIA website to find the association’s full year schedule of training.
In this special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's editors provide a preview of MTD's 2025 Facts Issue, our exclusive, comprehensive look at the U.S. tire industry.
Operational changes Spencer Carruthers made during COVID-19 have become the "new normal" at his dealership, West Bridgewater, Mass.-based Kenwood Tire - and he couldn't be happier. Find out why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Logan Wilks, vice president of Albertville, Ala.-based Wilks Tire & Battery Service, discusses how having "an infinite mindset" helps his dealership overcome present-day challenges.
Join Larry Sutton, founder of RNR Tire Express, and Adam Sutton, CEO of RNR Tire Express, for an insightful conversation on this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show. This dynamic father-and-son duo shares their experiences navigating the challenges and rewards of working together in a family business. They also discuss how RNR Tire Express stays ahead in the ever-evolving tire industry, offering valuable lessons for dealers and industry professionals alike.
Beth Barron is Modern Tire Dealer’s reigning Tire Dealer of the Year. And in the 30-plus years she’s been working at Chabill’s Tire & Auto Service, the business has undergone plenty of changes. Barron isn’t afraid of change, and shares four key decisions that have helped propel Chabill’s Tire & Auto Service into a more profitable and efficient operation. Learn from her award-winning style on this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this special, post-election episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Roy Littlefield IV, vice president of government affairs for the Tire Industry Association, explains how a second Donald Trump presidency could impact independent tire dealers.
The tire industry seems to be full of disruptions. Randy O’Connor, owner and principal of D2D Development Group, says for the most part disruptions in the tire industry have leveled out. However, there are many things tire dealers can do now to help them get through industry disruptions. O’Connor touches on this and more in the latest episode of the Modern Tire Deale Show.
Sponsored Podcast: In this special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, John Amato, director of training for Autel, answers frequently asked questions about how tire dealers can maximize TPMS profit potential.
David Gray wants his company, Gray's Tire & Service Center, to be "the Chick-Fil-A" of tire dealerships. He explains why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Joe Tomarchio, the man who helped Monro Inc. more than triple in size through 60-plus acquisition deals, doesn’t think tire dealers should fear the growing interest of private equity in the tire industry. He explains the positives he sees for independent tire dealers as they face new competitors, and new buyers in the market.
Join Tomarchio for this exclusive conversation, and learn what he’s doing in retirement, on The Modern Tire Dealer Show. (Hint: he’s not really retired. He’s just slowing down from 90 mph to about 70 mph.)
There’s a lot that can be said about Joe Tomarchio. A co-founder of the Mr. Tire store chain that he and his brother sold to Monro Inc. in 2004, he has spent more than 50 years in the tire industry. He has fine-tuned his retail strategy after also leading more than 1,100 tire and automotive service locations in 27 states for Monro. He sees things as black and white — and that includes everything from the importance of human capital and paying employees well to charging customers appropriately and operating profitably. (He says tire dealers always know prices, but they don’t know their own value.) Tune into this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show for a pep talk, and some tough love, from Tomarchio.
Finding the right vendor is crucial to the success of an independent tire dealership. In this episode of the Modern Tire Dealer Show, Steve Kruse, co-owner of Mitchem Tire Co., a four-location dealership in Springfield, Mo., shares insights on the importance of vendor relationships and how to identify the right partners for your business model.
M&A expert Michael McGregor discusses why smaller tire dealerships are attractive targets for acquisition by private equity groups in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Sponsored Podcast: John Amato, director of training for Autel, explains how TPMS tools have evolved in this can’t-miss episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Complaining about problems in the workforce doesn’t help you fill the open spots on your roster. And strategist Mike Brown says a gift card for lunch or doughnuts for breakfast only goes so far to incentivize team members to do great work day after day. Brown, the founder and CEO of Brainzooming, says tire dealers need to zero in on the critical role their workers play in making their businesses successful and more profitable, and then design compensation packages and incentives that feed into that system.
Employee training is crucial in the automotive and tire industry, but finding time can be a challenge. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Dave Boyes, president of Today’s Class, shares insights on the importance of online training and how it can be the solution.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, JP Brooks, chief revenue officer at Fitment Group, examines retail tire pricing at the mid-year point and provides a preview of what to expect during the second half of 2024.
When it comes to planning for the future of your tire dealership, it can be easy to become overwhelmed with all of the things to consider and prioritize. We talked with Kevin Rohlwing about what tire dealers need to do today to prepare for the tire store of tomorrow, and it surprisingly all came down to one word. Rohlwing, the chief technical officer for the Tire Industry Association, shares his thoughts on The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Sponsored Podcast: Will the future of TPMS be direct or indirect? John Amato, director of training for Autel, explains the differences between direct and indirect TPMS systems, the advantages of each and more.
What's the difference between business intelligence and artificial intelligence? Dave Vogel, general manager, and Jayson Roach, account manager for ASA Automotive Systems Inc., come on The Modern Tire Dealer Show to discuss how utilization of business intelligence can bolster a tire dealer's business. Check out the latest episode now.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, retail tire sales and leadership coach Mike Townsend discusses how making customers feel like they have been served, instead of "sold," can turn them into lifelong ambassadors for your business.
Nick Fox is president of Fox’s Point S, a four-store tire dealership in Great Falls and Helena, Mont. The second-generation tire dealer is working to expand his family’s tire business, and has a goal of doubling his store count in the next four years. He tells his story on the latest episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Sponsored Podcast: In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, John Amato, director of training for Autel, explains how bluetooth TPMS sensors work, the advantages of using them and more.
Employment seems to be a hot topic in every industry now. Kevin Allen, executive coach for the Automotive Training Insitute, comes on the Modern Tire Dealer Show and discusses how to keep current employees engaged – and the difference that engagement will make on your business.
Is discounting the biggest drain on your profitability? Dennis McCarron says no - and explains what you can do to boost your gross profit - in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Industry analyst John Healy covers all corners of the tire industry, and he says the beginning of a new year can set the tone for what’s to come. So what does that mean for tire dealers? Healy believes the end of 2023 has positioned 2024 to be a year of opportunity. And that applies to dealers, but also manufacturers. One tiremaker certainly poised for change is Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. There’s a new CEO. There are changes looming in some of the business units, and the expectation to find $1 billion in savings. Healy breaks down all the details in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this special episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's editors provide an exclusive preview of MTD's 2024 Facts Issue, our in-depth look at the tire industry. Check out MTD's Facts Issue at moderntiredealer.com.
As the tire industry kicks off the 2024 year, Michael Spencer, co-owner of Atlanta, Ga.-based TireSouth Inc., shares his goals and predictions for the coming year. Spencer talks inventory, employment and more in this can't-miss episode of the Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this special, year-end episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's editors review some of the biggest stories and trends of 2023 - and why they matter.
Sun Auto Tire & Service has doubled its store count and revenue over the last two years. Tony Puckett, Sun Auto Tire & Services CEO, discusses what's next for the company in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
As more electric vehicles (EVs) hit the market, tire dealers are going to need to learn how to service EVs and EV tires. Robbie Bushnell, vice president of tire repair products at 31 Inc., comes on the Modern Tire Dealer Show to talk about repairing EV tires.
When Russ Devens helped create the Safety Leadership Summit, he and other organizers agreed on one big principle: “There’s no competition in safety.” And that has guided them through four summits and many hours of conversations. Devens, the director of safety and risk management at McCarthy Tire Service, has helped bring together dozens of safety leaders from some of the largest tire dealerships in the country to help create and share best practices. He talks about the summit, and some of the safety lessons learned along the way, in this week’s episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Jon Langerak, MTD's Tire Dealer of the Year, has successfully employed "patient capital" to build his dealership, Wonderland Tire Co. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Langerak explains what "patient capital" is and how you can apply it to your business.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Phillip Baird, regional sales associate, BKT, shares best practices to help you prepare your customers' tires for winter storage.
Despite continuing consolidation, there's still a place for independent tire distributors. Gabriel Granatstein, CEO of Canada Tire, explains why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
The transition from traditional marketing to digital marketing is getting more popular within the tire industry and it's important for tire dealers to keep up with their online presence. Leeanne Bolger, director of marketing for CJ's Tire and Automotive, comes on the Modern Tire Dealer Show to talk about this transition and offer tips for other dealers.
Thinking about acquiring a single-store dealership? Listen to this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show first. M&A expert Michael McGregor offers some valuable advice.
If the topsy-turvy conditions of tire sellout and worries over inventory levels are leaving you stressed, we have some good news. MTD columnist and industry analyst John Healy breaks down the big issues of the first half of 2023 to help you steer your tire dealership through the rest of the year.
Healy, an analyst from Northcoast Research, rejoins us on the latest episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show to provide an outlook on what’s still to come in 2023.
In this sponsored episode of the NOLN Podcast, Neal McGlinchey, Manager of Field Training, Valvoline Global Operations, spoke with Matt Hudson, Content Director of National Oil & Lube News, about the nuts and bolts of preventive maintenance services and what products and services are most effective for quick lubes to offer.
To find out more, please click here: https://partner.valvolineglobal.com/
Artificial intelligence is becoming a hot topic within the tire industry. Jason Rook, president of the Independent Tire Dealers Group, comes on the Modern Tire Dealer show to discuss how the tire industry will evolve because of AI.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Paschal Dellavedova, Manager, OTR Sales and Service, Western Region, BKT Tires, discusses radial versus bias tires for construction applications, differences between bias and radial tires, how dealers can ensure they are making the right recommendations and more.
With nearly 50 years of experience, Bill Bainbridge is one of the tire industry's most accomplished, successful marketers. He discusses how retail tire marketing will continue to evolve in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's editors break down some of the biggest stories and trends of the first half of the year.
You’ve trained your team to be wholly focused on providing a superb customer experience for every person who walks in the door, but sometimes, things go awry. Whether it’s a customer who has to wait longer than expected, or a vehicle repair that wasn’t performed correctly, these missteps have a real cost. Randy O’Connor, principal and owner of Dealer 2 Dealer Development Group, says dealers can calculate the true cost of these mistakes, and then help their teams understand what the errors mean to the bottom line.
Gone are the days of television and radio ads being the primary advertisement platform for your tire dealership. Now, digital marketing is the new way to highlight your dealership. Andu Miller, owner of Iowa City Tire & Service in Iowa City, Iowa, sat down with MTD to talk about how digital marketing can set your dealership apart from others.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, brought to you by BKT, Mike Manges, Editor-in-Chief of Modern Tire Dealer, sits down with Angel Encinas, regional sales manager, west, for BKT USA Inc., to discuss the critical topic of soil compaction and steps you can take to help minimize it.
Brought to you by BKT. How can you build a winning culture at your dealership? And how can this help you deliver even more value to your customers and employees? Tire industry consultant Greg Ring is here to tell you more in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
When he bought his first Big O Tires location, Kent Coleman admits he knew nothing about tires or running a retail tire store, but in the 17 years since he’s grown to become one of the most successful dealers in the entire Big O Tires franchise. All 11 of his stores outperform the national average, and five are ranked in the country's top 10 sales leaders for all Big O Tires stores.
It’s quite a turnaround, and Coleman has learned plenty about what works, and what doesn’t. And he says it all comes down to the people.
Jamie Hasty, vice president of SESCO Management Consultant - which advises some of the country's leading tire dealerships - dives into tire dealer owner/operator's rights when it comes to marijuana in the workplace.
Brought to you by BKT. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Zach Williamson, manager of OTR tire sales and service, BKT USA, discusses the benefits of proper OTR tire maintenance, steps technicians can take to help customers get the most of their OTR tires and more.
Retail tire sales and leadership coach Mike Townsend says your salespeople need to be more than trusted advisors. They need to be "heroes" and "companions" to your customers. What does he mean and how can they achieve that? This episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show has the answers.
Brought to you by BKT. Cox Automotive predicts electric vehicle sales in the U.S. will surpass one million units for the first time in 2023. Tire dealers that aren’t yet servicing those vehicles are missing out on opportunities to capture new customers, and retain customers who make the switch to a hybrid or EV. Craig Van Batenburg has been teaching others how to work on these vehicles for decades, and says there are baby steps owners can take to get into the high voltage business. He talks about what it takes to get started, and why business owners can no longer afford to look the other way.
Baker Ghanim, president of the eight-location dealership - Ghanim Group dba Tire Store Center - headquartered in Bedford, Texas has created a Point-of-Sales system that utilizes texting and is now availble for other dealerships to buy and utilize in their own stores. Ghanim discusses the importance and benefits of communicating with customers via texting.
Brought to you by BKT. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's editors provide an exclusive, sneak preview of MTD's Facts Issue, our annual, in-depth look at the domestic tire industry.
Brought to you by BKT. Boosting your car count will be one of the most important things you do in 2023. Dennis McCarron explains why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Steve Bourassa, Nokian Tyres' director of products, discusses the dynamics that are driving the rapid growth of the all-weather tire category.
Black’s Tire Service Inc. has developed a scalable training program to help build its next generation of technicians. And it’s building that bench of essential employees with the help of state tax credits and reimbursements.
Gary Collier, a former high school trade educator, is leading the effort at Black’s Tire Service. The tire dealership has developed a pre-apprenticeship program in conjunction with high schools throughout North and South Carolina. And when students complete that program, they can move on to a full state-endorsed apprenticeship.
Students earn school credit, are paid for their time, all the while Black’s Tire Service is helping solve one of its most critical needs – employees to fill the technician gap. Collier shares the details in the most recent episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Photo Credit: Black's Tire Service
Renown tire industry analyst John Healy shares his thoughts on last week's SEMA Show with MTD Editor Mike Manges and MTD Managing Editor Joy Kopcha in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Pam Konde, owner of Mac's Tire Service, located in Washington, D.C., discusses her decision to remain open 24/7, and the impact this decision has on her business, in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Alan Eskow, vice president of agricultural and industrial tires, discusses what hybrid tires are, how they differ from conventional tires and more. Sponsored by BKT.
Are your customers suffering from sticker shock? You're not alone. Retail tire sales and leadership coach Mike Townsend tells you how to overcome price-related objections in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
The motto of Pit Stop Auto Repair, a rapidly expanding tire dealership in Florida, is "give and grow." Joe Ramsay, its owner, discusses how making it easy to give back to the community creates happier, more productive employees.
The motto of Pit Stop Auto Repair, a rapidly expanding tire dealership in Florida, is "give and grow." Joe Ramsay, its owner, discusses how making it easy to give back to the community creates happier, more productive employees.
Jason Roanhouse, executive director, Bandag operations, Bridgestone Americas Inc., explains why we are seeing an “unprecedented increase” in truck tire retread usage. He also discusses new legislation that will incentivize fleets to run retreads and more.
Jason Roanhouse, executive director, Bandag operations, Bridgestone Americas Inc., explains why we are seeing an “unprecedented increase” in truck tire retread usage. He also discusses new legislation that will incentivize fleets to run retreads and more.
The labor shortage is something that dealers have been struggling with for quite some time, and Julie Holmes of Virginia Tire and Auto is trying to recruit more women to decrease this labor shortage and increase the number of women in the automotive industry.
Josh Drown, ag tire expert and regional sales associate for BKT, discusses the differences between bias and radial harvester tires, when to recommend a bias tire or a radial tire, the benefits of IF and VP technology and more.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Mark Pereira, director of marketing for Sailun Tire Americas, discusses the differences between electric vehicle (EV) tires and standard tires, the mentality of EV owners and more.
Can store owners and managers accidentally create disengaged employees? Mike Townsend says yes. He explains why - and what you can do to prevent this from happening - in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Not all salespeople are created equal. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Dennis McCarron tells you how to identify high-potential members of your sales team and then elevate them to the next level of performance.
It's been one year since Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. finalized its acquisition of Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. How is the integration of Cooper into Goodyear going? And what's next? Tire industry analyst John Healy shares what he knows in this edition of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
The North American truck tire market is red-hot right now. Walt Weller of China Manufacturers Alliance/Doube Coin explains why - and what dealers can expect next - in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Tire industry consultant Greg Ring says leadership is "overrated." He explains why - and discusses what true business leadership looks like - in this can't-miss episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Tire dealerships continue to buy other tire dealerships. And more commercial tire operations are getting in on the action. M&A expert Michael McGregor explains why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Dale Donovan, owner of Donovan's Tire & Auto, switched to a five-day work week several years ago. He says it was one of the best business decisions he's ever made. Find out why in this interview.
Scott Holub, manager of technical services, BKT, discusses what to keep in mind when picking and recommending the best OTR tire for customers' applications, why TMPH is important, after-sale service and more.
The good, old-fashioned telephone is still one of the most powerful sales tools in your arsenal. Retail tire expert Mike Townsend explains why in this episode of the Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Are you doing all that you can to optimize your dealership's Google presence? Here are some real-world tips you can implement immediately, courtesy of digital marketing expert Dan MacDonald.
Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J — the joint effort between the largest commercial tire dealership and truck stop chain in the U.S. — has been up and running for more than a year. John Boynton, its president, talks next steps in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Tire dealers, like many small business owners, know setting the right approach with your business requires a lot of assistance from your employees.
Danny Smith of Same Day Tire and Auto Repair with five locations in and around Tulsa, Oklahoma changed his approach with his workers more than a decade ago, and he is still reaping the rewards for that decision.
His business is in a great place, his employees are in a great place and so is he. We talk with Danny about setting that culture and following through in this edition of the Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Demand for auto repair is increasing, but the pool of available technicians is shrinking. Retail tire expert Dennis McCarron discusses how you can build your pipeline of new techs in this edition of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Shipment numbers, buy-outs, price hikes, dealer meetings and more — MTD's editors look back on the month that was in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
When it comes to the shortage of automotive technicians, it's easy to focus on doom and gloom. But tire dealers need solutions to feed and fill their pipeline, and we've got some ideas courtesy of the experts at the TechForce Foundation. In the latest episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, we talk to Mike Pressendo, chief marketing and strategy officer for the TechForce Foundation, the nonprofit that supports and tracks students pursuing a career as an automotive technician. The foundation researches and reports workplace data nuggets like this: there are five empty technician jobs for every tech student who completes a training program. Pressendo offers tips on how to make your tire dealership attractive to those students and prospective employees of all ages.
Jeff Smiley, Regional Sales Manager at BKT, discusses why you should use radial implement tires over bias implement tires.
Tire dealership sales and leadership coach Mike Townsend returns to The Modern Tire Dealer Show to share proven tips for dealing with difficult customers. He also discusses why having a customer experience process at your dealership is important and more.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's editors discuss the top stories of the past month and provide a sneak preview of the 56th edition of MTD's Facts Issue, which contains exclusive data about tire sales, market share, domestic and import tire shipments, retail tire pricing and more.
Tire industry analyst and MTD columnist John Healy has returned to The Modern Tire Dealer show. In this episode, he discusses what tire dealers should prepare for in 2022. Healy also shares his thoughts on Discount Tire's recent acquisition of Tire Rack, the future of tire demand and more.
Korey Cutlip, owner of Regal Auto Care Tire Pros in Auburn, Wash., is an expert at handling online reviews. He shares proven tips and best practices during this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Roy Littlefield IV, the Tire Industry Association's director of government affairs, discusses legislative issues that could impact your business in 2022. From the estate tax to possible fuel efficiency mandates for consumer tires, Littlefield provides updates on several fronts.
The ag tire market is red-hot right now. James Tuschner - the driving force behind AG Tire Talk, which provides technical information to tire dealers and farmers - tells us why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show. If you sell ag tires, this is a can't-miss interview.
This week on the Modern Tire Dealer podcast, we have the good fortune of talking with Mario Isola, Pirelli’s head of Formula One racing operations.
Isola guides us through what a normal F1 race week looks like for him and his team of tire engineers. He describes how tire dealers and regular consumer tires get benefits from the information gleaned from the racing tire and its technology.
Next season, F1 is moving to a bigger tire at 18 inches, and he believes that will provide even more data to non-racing tires than the present 13-inch models.
He even talks about Netflix and F1's successful TV series.
We think you will enjoy this one.
The pandemic forced Spencer Carruthers, owner of Kenwood Tire in West Bridgewater, Mass., to step back and reevaluate his business top to bottom, which led to some tough decisions. He discusses these choices — and the impact they have had on his dealership — in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's editors discuss the biggest news stories of the past several weeks and they also bring you the latest from the recent SEMA Show.
The shipping crisis isn't just impacting tire supply. It's affecting the availability of other auto parts, too. Dennis McCarron of Cardinal Brokers dives into the issue — and provides some practical advice — during this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Having problems finding good people? Don't give up! In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, retail tire expert Jeff Morgan draws upon decades of experience to share proven recruitment strategies that you can put in play at your business immediately.
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD's editors discuss the top stories of the past month — from spiking freight rates and big acquisitions to tire dealer meetings and more. Don't miss this one!
We talk with Ben Grosko of Integrated Wealth Management about setting up retirement plans for any small business, especially tire dealers and their employees, on the Modern Tire Dealer Show.
One of the main points of the conversation is these types of plans also can help in the hiring process. We all know right now, the hiring market is still recovering from the pandemic, so any help is good help. Ben talks about the legacy and retirement for tire dealers, too.
He talks about some interesting numbers, showing how many small businesses offer 401K plans and then how many of their employees actually sign up.
Are you compensating your technicians in a way that reflects today's market realities? In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, retail tire expert Jeff Morgan discusses innovative tech compensation strategies you can implement at your dealership.
At VIP Tires & Service, the executives don’t need to lock themselves in a boardroom to brainstorm the next blockbuster business idea. Thanks to an annual survey of the company’s workforce, the employees provide the roadmap. VIP President and CEO Tim Winkeler says the survey is a critical tool in attracting and retaining employees, and the conversations that follow it are a big part of the VIP culture.
Are your counterpeople "order-takers" or "sales-makers?" Tire dealership sales and leadership coach Mike Townsend teaches you how to spot the difference - and how to transform "order-takers" into true, profit-generating "sales-makers" - during this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
Are you thinking about retirement? What do you need to do in order to prepare your business for a possible sale? Dennis McCarron - a partner at Cardinal Brokers, one of the top tire dealership brokerages in the industry - covers the checklist in this can’t-miss episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show. Some action items he discusses might even surprise you.
COVID-19 isn't going away. Are you prepared to navigate the next phase of the pandemic? In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Mario Barrera, a board-certified attorney who specializes in labor and employment law, discusses whether or not you can force your employees to get vaccinated, why you should consult with an expert before imposing a vaccine mandate, why you need to follow local COVID-19 regulations more closely than ever and more.
Ever wonder if you have the right HR systems and processes in place? In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Jamie Hastings of SESCO Management Consultants - which advises some of the country's leading tire dealerships - offers real-world advice, from how to optimize your employee interview process to compensation plans and more.
Beth Barron has been the CEO of Chabill’s Tire & Auto Service since 2018, but her entire career has been in and around the tire business. In this podcast, Barron talks about the effects of COVID-19 on her business and staffing, the opening of new stores, her family’s legacy in the industry and how women are a big part of how her company is constructed.
Also, this podcast interview was conducted before Hurricane Ida hit Louisiana but Beth and her family are fine.
It’s been an action-packed month in the tire industry. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD’s editors discuss the top stories of August, while providing context and analysis that you will not find anywhere else. There’s a lot going on and you’ll learn all about it right here.
Mergers and acquisitions are in the news again -- and there's a lot to talk about. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, noted M&A expert Michael McGregor discusses recent acquisitions by some of the country's largest tire dealerships, Monro's westward expansion, why wholesale-distributors are ripe for acquisition and economic conditions that will continue to fuel M&A activity.
Pietro Berardi, the CEO of Pirelli Tire North America, has a distinct vision for the company’s strategy in the United States. A big part of that is pursuing more OE fitments in the rapidly growing SUV/CUV/light truck segment, as you will hear on today's edition of The Modern Tire Dealer Show. Berardi also discusses how electric vehicles fit into Pirelli’s strategy and provides his outlook on the state of the U.S. tire market.
Can boosting your hourly minimum wage have a positive impact on your dealership? Kim McMahon of McMahon's Best-One Tire says "Yes." She explains why in this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
With nearly 130 locations across four states, Belle Tire Distributors is one of the biggest - and fastest-growing - tire dealerships in the U.S.. Belle Tire President Don Barnes III discusses his company's rapid growth and his outlook on the retail tire market during this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show.
The MTD 100 is the most comprehensive look at the largest independent tire dealerships in the U.S. In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Mike Manges, Joy Kopcha and Ron Ledgard provide a preview of this year's MTD 100, featured in the July 2021 edition of MTD. Who has the most outlets? Who carries the most brands? Who moved up? Who joined the MTD 100 for the first time? It's all here -exclusively on the Modern Tire Dealer Show!
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, MTD Senior Editor Joy Kopcha takes you on a deep dive into the current tariff situation. From how the Department of Commerce and the International Trade Commission arrived at their recent rulings to what happens next, there's a lot more to the tariff situation than meets the eye. And Joy breaks it all down here.
Now that Goodyear has finalized its buy-out of Cooper, the big question is, "What comes next?" Tire industry analyst John Healy provides his take on the Goodyear-Cooper deal during this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show. How will Goodyear fold Cooper's brands into its product lineup? Will Goodyear dealers carry Cooper tires? Will Cooper dealers have access to Goodyear products? What happens to Cooper's manufacturing facilities? Healy provides insight that you will not find anywhere else!
In this episode of The Modern Tire Dealer Show, Martin Dixon, director of research products for Drewry, a leading provider of consulting services to the global shipping industry, explains why it's taking longer than ever for tires to arrive from Asia and why you're paying outrageously high rates for them. When will the situation improve? Martin covers that, too - and his answer may surprise you.
The editors of Modern Tire Dealer magazine — Mike Manges, Joy Kopcha and Ron Ledgard — review the first six months of 2021 and the happenings of the tire industry. The show includes discussions about the Goodyear-Cooper deal, the shipping issues affecting the industry and other mergers and acquisitions that have occurred this year.