Detailers Roadmap Cruise Control

David Pedre and Jeremy Harding, with over 75 combined years of experience in the detailing industry, discuss their backgrounds and current roles. They talk about their time at Meguiar's and the shift in focus from pro products to retail products. They emphasize the importance of building relationships and maintaining integrity in the industry. They also discuss different distribution models and the challenges of getting produc...

In this conversation, Kevin Davis interviews Steven Rusko, the owner of Northern Lights Home and Auto Coatings. They discuss various topics, including the weather in Montana, the difference between being a detailing business owner and a detailer, and Steven's journey from dropping out of high school to starting his own detailing business. Steven shares his experiences working in construction, car washes, and other industries b...

In this episode, Andrew Houston discusses the changes he has made in his detailing business based on the advice given in the previous episode. He has eliminated one position and is considering eliminating another to improve employee retention and cash flow. He has also focused on upselling existing customers and tracking inventory and product costs. Andrew has found success in buying from local distributors rather than relying on A...

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the importance of getting away and connecting with nature. They share their experiences of solo travel and encounters with wildlife. They emphasize the need to be mindful of nature and animals and to take time to appreciate the journey and the experience. The hosts also discuss the importance of building relationships, supporting others, and avoiding drama. They encourage listeners to believe...

The conversation begins with technical difficulties and a review of revenue numbers for the past three months. The hosts discuss the challenges faced during this period and the significant revenue growth compared to the previous year. They emphasize the importance of profitability and implementing effective communication within the team. The use of a ticketing system and standardized operating procedures is recommended to improve e...

In this conversation, Jared Guynes, a digital marketing expert and consultant, discusses his background in digital advertising and his passion for the automotive industry. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in content creation and advises small businesses to be their own influencers. He also highlights the significance of testimonials and reviews in building trust with customers and provides strategies for capturing custo...

In this episode, Kevin Davis interviews Alan Metcalf and Hunter Zarzycki about their experiences in the detailing industry. They discuss topics such as selling a brand, collaboration and learning from others, connecting with people and building relationships, approaching mentorship and learning, creating connection and trust in sales, understanding customer pain points, and digital marketing and messaging. In this conversation, the...

Kevin, Grant, Barry, and David review the previous conversation and goals, highlighting the changes made in daily operations and the hiring of a shop assistant. They also discuss the importance of taking vacations and improving morale in the workplace. They delve into Grant's business model and the motivating factors behind it. The conversation concludes with a discussion on moving to a new location and the financial preparati...

In this conversation, Michael Abens shares his professional journey and the impact he has made in various industries. He discusses his early career, including his role in revolutionizing the use of Coumadin in medicine. Michael also highlights the importance of mindset and never letting the impact he can create be defined by his role. He shares his experiences in leadership positions and the challenges he faced. Additionally, he ta...

We begin our series of episodes we recorded at MTE 2024.

In this episode, the hosts and guests discuss various topics related to the detailing industry. They talk about the importance of diversifying services and expanding into new areas, such as the corrosion industry. They also discuss the rise and plateau of ceramic coatings and the need for education and collaboration within the industry. The hosts emphasize the import...

Mike Michalowicz, author and entrepreneur, shares insights on building profitable businesses and creating unstoppable teams. He emphasizes the importance of value-based pricing, paying yourself as a business owner, and hiring and delegating effectively. Mike also discusses the evolution of small businesses in the digital age and highlights common mistakes made by small business owners. He introduces his latest book, 'All In,&a...

In this conversation, Kevin Davis interviews Eric DeVash, founder of Window Tint LA and creator of the TentWiz app. They discuss Eric's background in business and his journey from running a successful window tinting company to developing software for the industry. Eric shares advice for business owners, including the importance of financial planning and continuous learning. They also explore the challenges of hiring and retain...

In this conversation, Luke Howell shares his journey to the detailing industry and emphasizes the importance of identifying and understanding your ideal customer avatar. He highlights the value of niche marketing and tailoring marketing messages to different customer avatars. Luke also discusses the benefits of testing different marketing approaches and building relationships within the community. 

He emphasizes the need t...

In this conversation, Brett Berry, the owner of Shiny Jets, shares his journey in the aircraft detailing industry and his passion for mentoring new entrepreneurs. He discusses the challenges of product development, the diversification of revenue streams, and the establishment of an air ambulance business. Brett also highlights the importance of building relationships and fostering trust in the aviation industry. He provides insight...

In this conversation, Kevin Davis interviews Kodie Hitsman, owner of The Detail Shop in Spring Lake, Michigan. Kodie shares his detailing superhero backstory, starting with his military service and transition into entrepreneurship. He discusses the growth of his business, becoming a one-stop shop for automotive services, including vinyl wraps, ceramic coatings, window tinting, and paint protection film. Kodie also talks about his e...

This is the 3rd episode in the first round of Troubleshooting Your Business with Kevin, Grant Menard, and Barry Theal. It features Andrew Houston of Houston's Shine.

*this episode did have some audio challenges with Grant's microphone, so we apologize for that in advance.

We have a new feature from our recording software that automates the show summary and chapter listing. We've included tha below.<...

Kevin visits with Joe Feest, a management and leadership expert to discuss management styles, leadership ideas, and how to be deliberate about growth in business and life.

About Joe Feest

Joe has been paid to lead and manage people since he was 17 years old and has been the designated trainer wherever he has worked. People told him he was helpful in those roles and that led to him managing restaurants for 15 years...

Kevin and Grant Menard have a long conversation with Michael D'Andrea of D’Andrea Auto Detailing & Ceramic Coating about his business in our 2nd Troubleshooting Your Business episode from Round 1. We dive deep into process, people, shop space, and more.

We all get a little emotional as we explore the more personal side of running a business, giving yourself the encouragement you deserve and seeing how far you&apo...

Kevin spends time with his great friend Todd Helme talking about the history of detailing, the future of detailing, brands, forums, OG vs. New Kids, and so much more!

About Todd:

Todd Helme has become a fixture in the detailing industry thanks to his incredible talent as a detailer and insatiable quest to understand the technical aspects of automotive surface restoration and preservation.

After years as the owner/o...