All About the Car: Recent Episodes
Schierl Tire & Service
For this episode Brooklyn and William sit down with two of our Associates with Schierl Tire and Auto Service. We've got Nick Wadzinski and Mark Bergstrom commercial and agriculture tire sales specialists. Learn all about the big tires and what it takes to get farmers back in the field.
Rob joins forces with Bryan and Bill to break down a third round of the more popular Regular Maintenance questions on our Hey Schierl Tire FAQ. Our cars exist to get is from one place to another. It’s rare that we hop in and think “When was the last time I checked my oil level” instead of “Time to get to Grandma’s place – I hope the construction in her neighborhood is done.” When you’re driving, your eye’s on the prize!For the most part, our vehicles are almost comically reliable. But as soon as something goes wrong, one of the first thoughts is: wait, did I forget to check something? Join us for the ride as we break down some easy ways to head off that question – or at least answer it with a “nope, I didn’t forget!”
Join us as we hit the trail with Grant Peterson from the Nokomis ATV Club in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, a town where Northwoods charm meets ATV and UTV adventure. Grant shares insights into the distinctions between ATVs and UTVs, the club’s history, and how Tomahawk’s extensive trail systems provide endless routes for all-terrain and utility vehicles, with most roads open to these outdoor machines. Learn how this close-knit community fosters recreational opportunities for enthusiasts, from trail access to upgraded side-by-side vehicles, making Tomahawk an ideal destination for outdoor explorers.
The origins of winter sports in Wisconsin can be traced back to the early 20th century when Scandinavian immigrants brought their love of skiing and other winter activities to the region. They introduced the local population to cross-country skiing, ski jumping, and other winter sports that were popular in their homelands. Luckily, Wisconsin has plenty of winter to go around!
With millions affected by cancer annually, Cattails Place is committed to creating a welcoming environment where patients can find comfort and community, knowing that they are not alone in their battle against cancer. We sat down with Chief Development Officer Terry Wilczek and Program Director Jana Schmitz from Cattails Place to get the story behind an amazing facility that provides free lodging for cancer patients and their families who have travelled far from home for treatment at the Marshfield Clinic.
People talk about water a lot. That seems a little excessive for something that literally falls from the sky, but as one of (if not the) main elements responsible for life itself, water is important! A community without safe drinking water suffers health issues and added hardship. Farms literally wither up when rainfall is scarce. We should talk about water, but how deep does this well go? We did a deep dive with Sam from Maher Water Care to talk a little about their history in the community, and a lot about how water works!
The Northcentral Technical College in Wausau, WI has been around for over 100 years, operating under its current name for the past 35 years, so it knows a little bit about keeping up with the times. We sat down with Shawn, Kelsey, Brad, and Iain to talk a little bit about the history of this amazing technical school, and a lot about their automotive program. We are All About the Car, after all!
We hear a lot about renewable energy these days – electric vehicles, solar power, and wind power. But apart from catching buzzwords on the news, we don’t usually hear more about what people are really talking about. How is this energy renewable? Who is using it, why has it become a talking point, and most importantly: who do we talk to in order to learn the answers to all of these questions? Well we found just the right organization to clear up the facts and spent an enlightening hour talking to Nick Hyla of the Midwest Renewable Energy Association, or as the locals say, the MREA.
As our global population continues to grow, you might guess that the amount of waste we produce also grows - and you're right! The quantity of waste that we produce today is in fact unprecedented. Responsible waste management has become increasingly more important to aid in assuring a green future for generations to come. With that in mind, we met Amanda, from the Portage County Solid Waste Department to dig into what they do.
Join us for another informative episode of All About the Car featuring Hey Schierl Tire, where we delve into the mechanical side of car maintenance. In this episode, we address some of the most frequently asked questions about vehicle upkeep and repair. From fluid inspections to brake services and battery replacements, we cover it all. Discover the importance of preventative maintenance and learn how to identify signs that your car needs attention. Whether you're a seasoned car owner or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
The team chats with Marshall and Olivia about how (and why) they decided to add a food truck to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point campus, the intricacies of what it takes to run a food truck, and some of the amazing results of a unique MBA fellowship!
Rob, Bryan, and Bill talk to Ray from M&J Marine in Kronenwetter, WI about how they started, what it's like winterizing boats and other marine equipment through a harsh Wisconsin winter, and how to stay safe on your way to the lake. Did you know there's a pontoon boat called a tritoon with 50% more toon for your money? Along the way, they take a trip up north to the Bayfield area to check out the Apostle Islands!
In this episode of All About the Car, Rob, Bryan, and Bill join Zach, the director of business operations for the Wausau Cyclones Hockey! Recording on location inside the Marathon Park Ice Arena in Wausau, WI, where they learn more about Central Wisconsin's hockey team... The Wausau Cyclones!
In this episode of All About the Car, Rob, Bryan, and Bill join Gregg, the director of marketing for the Amherst school system. Recording on location just outside of Amherst, WI, they talk about the newly renovated Heartland Farms Field behind Amherst High School and what it means to the high school, the students, and families in the Amherst area.
One of the most recognizable vehicles on the road is the bright red (and sometimes yellow) fire truck! These specialized trucks are designed to have all the equipment needed to fight fires safely, quickly, and effectively. In this episode of All About the Car, we visit the Wausau Fire Department to talk with Fire Chief Bob Barteck about what it takes to keep these trucks in top shape, as well as a little taste of what it’s like to be a fire fighter.
After over 60 years in the business bringing people the “Best Tire Prices…Period!” we’re a trusted source of information for the communities we serve. This is the first episode covering some of the more popular questions on the “Hey Schierl Tire!” part of our website - and we're starting with one of our favorite topics: Tires! We’ll give you some information on how tires work, what to do if you run into any issues on the road, and how to maintain your tires so they last as long as possible.
We visit the Food+Farm Exploration Center in Plover, WI where we talk to Brittany and Andy about food production and the importance of showing people where their food comes from. Modern farming and agriculture is a high-tech field (heh) that's far more advanced than the classic stereotype of a farmer in bib overalls wearing a straw hat. The Food+Farm Education Center offers an immersive, hands-on experience for students (and adults!) to explore how their food gets from seed to table.During this episode's Road Trip, we visit the Giant Pumpkin Festival in Nekoosa, WI and talk about all the amazing things to experience there - including the sound (and feel) of a 700-pound pumpkin hitting the ground from several stories up.
On this episode of All About the Car, we visit Brian Cummins at Great Northern Distilling in Stevens Point, WI. Great Northern Distilling recently opened its new facility in downtown Stevens Point after calling Plover its home since 2012, when Brian left his career in paper science to see if his chemistry know-how translated to distilling quality handcrafted spirits. Spoiler: it did!
We’ve come a long way from warning lights that were triggered by cables, tubes and floats. Current vehicles can have 20 – 30 different computers monitoring everything from cruise control variables to lane deviation. So, what do you really need to know?
Randy Worzalla at Greeneway RV in Wisconsin Rapids, WI shares details you should consider when purchasing a camper. He explains the history of campers and the different types of campers. He also explains how to narrow down their choices. Randy suggests making a list of items you must have and items that would be nice to have if possible. He also explains the towing capacity of your vehicle and the trailer, hitch, and accessory options that work best with your vehicle and your towing experience. Greeneway RV doesn’t just sell you your dream camper, they provide service as well.
Central Waters Brewing Co. has grown from a small brand based in Junction City, WI to a household name. Co-owners Anello Mollica and Paul Graham join us to talk about where Central Waters started and where they are going.
On this episode of All About The Car, we are joined by Lieutenant Jon Altman from the Fire & Rescue Department in Marshfield, Wisconsin. Jon is one of 5 technicians at the department who inspect child passenger safety seats and provide education to keep kids safe when traveling.
🎧 NEW PODCAST 🎧On this episode, we are joined by Darren Jackson from Darren Jackson Racing. Auto racing is a family affair in Darren’s family. His dad raced the #2 car in the 90s. Now, Darren races #2 with a super late model on tracks like Golden Sands and Marshfield Speedways.Team Schierl Companies and Schierl Tire and Service are proud to sponsor Darren and his team again this year. Learn more about his journey and drive to race here schierltire.com/blog/view/Darren-Jackson-Racing.
Transporting milk is a crucial part of the link between producers and processors. On this episode of All About The Car, the podcast team is joined by Nancy Dick from Nancy Dick Trucking out of Medford, WI. Our Team Leader, Jamie, from the Medford Schierl Tire & Service location also joins us. We talk about how the milk hauling industry has changed in Wisconsin and what it takes to keep dairy trucks on the road.
Driver education has come a long way from sitting at a simulator in a classroom like teens learned years ago. Certified driving instructor and owner of Life on the Road Driver Education, Chuck Scott, joins us to discuss recent changes in Wisconsin’s driver education program on this episode of All About The Car. What does the driver education program look like today?
Commercial cranberry harvesting in Wisconsin goes back to 1860. We met with Mary Brazeau-Brown of Honestly Cranberry and Glacial Lake Cranberry Farm to talk about her family’s history with cranberries and what farming and production look like for them today.
On this episode of All About the Car, the podcast team is joined by Bob Welch. Bob is the Executive Director of Wisconsin Biofuels Association. During Bob’s 20 years working with the legislature, he helped to get the ethanol industry up and running in Wisconsin. After his time in the legislature, one of the first clients he represented was the Wisconsin Corn Growers Association. Their main focus during this time was to further develop the ethanol industry in the state. Bob answers all the questions we had about the ethanol industry – how it is made, environmental and economic impact, and the future of ethanol use in Wisconsin. Listen to the full episode below and wherever you stream your podcasts to get informed!
On this episode of All About The Car, we speak to Certified Motor Vehicle Safety Specialist, Tom Senecal. Tom and the team lead us through the history and major changes in the trucking industry. Tom answers our questions about some confusing areas of commercial and recreational driving.
Conventional petroleum-based oil. Synthetic oil. Synthetic blend. What is the best choice for your vehicle?
On this episode of All About The Car, we were joined by special guest Portage County Sheriff Mike Lukas. Sheriff Lukas had some great information that answered a lot of questions about driving safely.
On this episode of All About The Car, the podcast team welcomes back John Harry, Executive Director of the Portage County Historical Society. John previously joined us to share all he knows about the Stevens Point Brewery and how it had a part in shaping our hometown. This time, we visit John onsite at Heritage Park in Plover, WI to talk about the automotive history of the county. Buckle up and join us for a ride through history!
Countless innovations have come out of the automotive industry and car companies have been quick to jump on tech trends that originated in other industries. Chrysler is no exception. In fact, they have committed to producing only electric vehicles by 2028. The All About The Car podcast team recently visited Owner Shannon Grewe at Colby Chrysler Center in Colby, WI to chat about the advancements in recent history that have increased the level of safety and comfort of our vehicles. We also learn about what is next on the horizon.
Did you know an estimated 60% of roadside breakdowns are due to tire issues? What if getting a flat was no longer something you had to worry about? What if we told you that not all tires have to be filled with air?
This week on All About The Car, the team chats about air conditioning with Jodi – Team Leader at the Schierl Tire & Service in Marshfield. Learn all about this magical feature that keeps your cool on summer road trips when you listen here.
Join the All About The Car team at the Iola Car Show grounds to talk to Joe and Larry about what makes the Iola Car Show unique. There's something for everyone at this show!
Camping season is just around the corner. We can’t wait! But, before packing up and heading out on the open road, there are a few reminders, recommendations, and safety points to consider. Just a little bit of time and effort will go a long way in keeping your family safe, your tow-vehicle running smoothly, and your camper in tip-top condition. To bring you tips straight from a local industry expert, our team met up with Mike Gajewski, Owner of King’s Campers in Wausau, WI. We recorded the information-packed conversation in this All About The Car Podcast episode , so be sure to give it a listen!
On this episode of All About The Car, join Rob and Bryan as they chat with longtime Associates, Doug Eichten and Dennis Adamski, about what it was like to launch the Commercial/Farm division of Schierl Tire & Service.
Car wash facilities have come a long way since the Automatic Laundry car wash was opened in Detroit in 1914! Tommy’s Express brings us into the future and many miles away from manual washes. The All About The Car podcast team visits General Manager Corey Heinz on location at Tommy’s Express in Weston, WI.
On this episode of All About The Car, Scott Ferguson from National Auto Parts Association (NAPA)joins us. Scott helps shed some light on what it takes to succeed as the largest parts distributor in the world and how to meet the needs of such a diverse group of customers. He also guides us through a fun-filled trip down the Crystal River in the Chain o’ Lakes/Waupaca, WI area. Buckle up and join us for the ride!
During this All About The Car episode, we talk to Brian Elza from Stevens Point Brewery and local historian, John Harry. Stevens Point Brewery is part of the rich history of Stevens Point, Wisconsin – to the point that he brewery even pre-dates the incorporation of the city by a year! They have remained deeply connected to the growth of Stevens Point through community events and support. Still brewing at the original location, Stevens Point Brewery has grown to produce 165,000 barrels per year with distribution across the nation. Quite a change from the old days, when distribution was limited to how far a driver could go and still be home for dinner! In this episode, we also enjoy a trip to Potosi Brewing Company and the National Brewery Museum in Potosi, WI.
Curious about big highway snow plows? Portage County Highway Dept. tells all. by Schierl Tire & Service
On this episode of All About The Car, join Rob and Bill as they chat with longtime Associates, Doug Eichten and Dennis Adamski, about what it was like in the early days of Schierl Tire & Service. Dennis has been along for the ride since 1966! Doug is celebrating 28 years with us this month.
Schierl Inc. was founded in December 1956 by John "Butch" Schierl and his wife Anne, with the help of his father, Shorty Schierl. The first Schierl Tire & Service location opened on the north side of Stevens Point, WI in 1962. What began as a one-truck oil company has expanded to 63 retail businesses in Wisconsin and Upper Michigan, employing over 650 people. Today, Co-CEOs Tim, Fritz & Bill Schierl lead Team Schierl Companies and we continue to grow! Listen here for stories about the old days.
Tune in to All About the Car to learn more about autobody and collision repair from an industry expert! Chris from Art's Auto Body in Marshfield, WI shares all the details involved in auto body repair including what technology is used, training opportunities and what happens behind the scenes with insurance claims.
This week on All About The Car, the team is on-site at Gamber-Johnson's world headquarters in Stevens Point, WI. Gamber-Johnson is a leading worldwide supplier of electronic mounting systems for installing special technology in vehicles used by law enforcement, military, emergency crews and other industries that operate in extreme situations. Their Wisconsin-made products are designed for reliability in rugged situations. Gamber-Johnson's mission is clear: “support technology to help save the world!”
Winter travel in Wisconsin comes with a variety of challenges. Road maintenance and vehicle safety features have been developed to make travel safer in areas affected by heavy snow and winter conditions. Join the All About The Car Podcast team in this week’s episode where they share some helpful information that can help you prepare for a safe ride this winter.
With over 33,000 tire retailers in the U.S., you can buy tires from just about anywhere from a variety of different business types. Each option offers a different purchase and service experience. This week, on the All About The Car Podcast, Rob, Bryan and Bill discuss the considerations to keep in mind when your are investing in a new set of tires.
Tailgating is a beloved American pastime that brings communities together and satisfies the need for comradery through a shared allegiance to a team or event, good food, great friends and maybe a drink or two. Join the All About The Car Podcast team in this week’s episode where they talk about one of their favorite topics and take a trip to Lambeau Field!
All vehicles need routine maintenance to keep them in great condition. No surprise there! But, what about food trucks? What specialized equipment do they require, and what goes into running a successful mobile catering business?
Our All About The Car Podcast Team traveled to Wausau, WI to meet Chumpot, the owner of Hanuman Express. The team got the inside scoop on the growth of the food truck business, the origins of Hanuman Express, food truck maintenance AND sampled delicious dishes from the Hanuman Express menu. Listen in and find additional podcast episodes at AllAboutTheCarPodcast.com.
Tires are everywhere. From your truck to the wheelbarrow in your shed to the golf cart at the country club, it’s safe to say that tires help us every day in many ways. With so many uses and applications, tires have become more specialized than ever before. In Wisconsin, specialty tires are used for travel, industrial machinery, lawncare, recreation and more. Let’s hit the road and explore the many different tires found right here in the Midwest!
When it comes to car insurance, where do you start? How can you be sure you’re getting the best policy for you, your family, and your vehicle?
Our All About The Car Podcast Team sat down with Nick Arnoldy and Cory Hoffmann of Marshfield Insurance to get the details. Listen in for expert advice and tried-and-true tips to make car insurance simple!
Our All About The Car Podcast Team had the pleasure of sitting down with Adam Greuel, Guitarist and Vocalist, and Lynn Salzman, Tour Manager of the band Horseshoes and Hand Grenades. Discover what it's like to be in a band and learn how the group keeps themselves – and their vehicle – in good shape while touring! Plus, listen in for a private performance by Adam, crazy stories on the road, advice to new musicians and more!
Pets are part of the family! When it comes to traveling with your fur baby, safety is a top priority. To bring you some top-notch animal-loving expertise, our team sat down with Sherri, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Portage County, and Dolores, former Board President and volunteer. Listen in for helpful tips to keep your four-legged friend happy and safe on the road!
There’s no doubt about it: purchasing a vehicle is a huge task. There’s plenty of things to consider, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
To help discuss the proper car buying process, our team sat down with Jason Kindler of Badger State Auto Brokers located in Wausau, Wisconsin. This topic is nothing new to Jason – he helps people find the perfect vehicle every day! So, what’s his professional advice for buying a used car? Listen in to hear all about it!
If you drive a vehicle, chances are you'll experience a flat tire at one time or another. It's important to be prepared so you know how to handle the situation (and save money) if you find yourself with a flat!
How common are flat tires, what is the biggest cause of leaky tires in Wisconsin, and what steps are involved in the proper tire repair process? Listen in for little-known facts about tire repair from our team of automotive industry veterans!
Camping season is just around the corner. Before packing up and heading out on the open road, there are a few recommendations and safety points to consider. Just a little bit of time and effort will go a long way in keeping your family safe, your tow-vehicle running smoothly, and your camper in tip-top condition. Listen for advice from our team of automotive industry veterans with special guest Mike Gajewski of King's Campers!
There's no doubt about it - talking with your Automotive Technician isn't always easy. Confusing terms, technical definitions and auto shop lingo can make it feel like your speaking two different languages! But don't worry, we're here to help. Check out this episode for tips to make your next conversation at the auto shop comfortable and informative.
Think of your vehicle's dashboard as a communication center. For your safety and the health of your car, it is important to pay attention to the dashboard and understand what it’s telling you. Listen in for helpful tips from automotive industry veterans to help you better decipher your vehicle's dashboard!
After months of warm temperatures and mild weather, it can be easy to forget how to handle the slick road conditions that accompany winters in Wisconsin. Everyone, no matter how experienced, needs to adjust their mindset and driving habits to stay safe while on the go. Listen in for winter driving safety tips from our team of automotive industry veterans!
Need to jump start your car but not sure where to start? Listen for tried-and-true tips from our experienced automotive team. We’ll explain everything you need to know to jump start your vehicle properly and safely!
Emergency roadside breakdowns are never something you plan for. Even so, it is critical to be prepared - a breakdown can happen to any driver at any time. Should you find yourself stuck on the side of the road, it’s important to know how to handle yourself and your car.
The good news is just a little bit of preparation can go a long way in addressing a roadside breakdown quickly and safely. Listen for tips and advice from automotive industry veterans!
Although dashboard warning lights have a reputation of bearing bad news, they’re really just your vehicle’s way of communicating with you. In fact, they’re often the first sign your car needs service. As a driver, it’s important to be able to “speak the language” so you can understand the needs of your vehicle. This will help you catch issues while they’re small so you can avoid larger problems down the road. So, let’s talk dashboard warning lights!
Performing routine maintenance on your vehicle is a necessary part of automotive ownership. When you keep up with maintenance at recommended intervals, you can prevent many issues from occurring and catch small things before they become bigger (and more costly) problems. While maintenance is vital for the health of your vehicle, it’s also easy to overlook. Listen for tips from automotive industry professionals to help you stay on top of routine maintenance and protect the performance and longevity of your vehicle.
Oil changes: almost all automobiles needs ‘em. If you’re like most, you know oil changes need to be done regularly. But why? What does motor oil do, what kind do you need, and what happens if you don’t change your oil? Listen in for helpful knowledge and advice from auto industry veterans.
So, you’re ready to buy your next set of tires. But, where do you start? How can you be sure you’re finding the best deals and tire options for your vehicle?
In this episode, hear from our team of automotive industry veterans as they discuss the tire-buying process. Learn how to find credible information online, select the right tread features, and get the best tire installation package to meet your needs. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to take care of your tire investment for years to come.
Have your tires seen better days? Are you worried about safe winter driving? If so, you may be in the market for a new set of tires. But, how can you be sure? Listen for telltale signs, tips, and considerations to keep in mind when buying a new set of tires.
Maintaining proper wheel alignment is important for the heath of all vehicles. Not only does it promote better handling and prolong the life of your tires, but wheel alignment is an investment that can save you from costly repairs down the road. In this episode, our team of auto industry veterans discusses the benefits of wheel alignment, lists indicators of misalignment, outlines what you can expect at an alignment appointment and more. Listen for tips, tricks, and little-known facts to help you become a better-informed Wisconsin driver!
TPMS stands for “Tire Pressure Monitoring System”. This feature, created with safety in mind, helps to alert you when the pressure in one or more of your tires falls outside the optimal range. Although this system is a fairly recent addition to vehicles, TPMS comes in different styles with varying features and maintenance needs. But, one thing is constant: added safety and peace of mind on the road. In this episode, experienced automotive veterans discuss little-known aspects of the tire pressure monitoring system. Listen for tips to help you get the most out of your vehicles’ TMPS.
During those hot Wisconsin summer days, the air conditioning in your car can be a real lifesaver. In fact, with over 99% of cars today equipped with A/C, it’s hard to imagine driving without this “cool” convenience! In this episode, the team discusses the inner workings of the automotive air conditioning system, details troubling signs to watch for, describes A/C service needs, and more! When you’re armed with knowledge about automotive air conditioning, you can rest assured you’ll be riding comfortably in a cool car all summer long.
Whether you’re moving furniture, hauling lumber, or clearing brush from the back yard, utility trailers sure can come in handy. But, when towing a utility trailer, there are many safety precautions to keep in mind. In this episode of All About The Car, you’ll hear tips and tricks from automotive industry veterans to help you tow a utility trailer effectively and safely to make sure you – and your gear – reach your destination in one piece.
Join Automotive Industry veterans Rob Hoffman and Bryan Call, along with Guest Bill Schierl, as they discuss the proper steps to take when preparing your car for summer driving.
It’s easy for wear and tear to go unnoticed over winter months, so now’s the time to assess your vehicle and take care of any cleaning, maintenance or repairs your car requires. In this podcast, the Team gives tips on how to examine your vehicle’s needs, check and care for your tires, and identify telltale signs that your brake system needs to be serviced.
Then, the Team goes under the hood to talk about the fluids in your vehicle, which ones you can check yourself, and how to monitor your car for leaks to protect children and pets. What common household beverage can neutralize battery acid? Listen to find out!
Lastly, Rob, Bryan and Bill discuss the importance of wiper blades and what signs indicate you need a replacement. Then, after you clean out unneeded winter equipment from your trunk, you’re ready to safely drive all summer long!