The NOLN Podcast
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The NOLN Podcast is the premier quick lube industry podcast, helping shop owners and operators improve their businesses with real-world solutions to common problems, delivered by leading industry experts and elite shop leaders.
Available episodes
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Oldest first
3 days ago
What You Can Learn from Disaster
If you've met Dwayne Myers or his partners at Dynamic Automotive, Lee and Jose, you know they're salt-of-the-earth people. Gracious, kind, funny, not to mention the owners of a killer operation. But that hasn't precluded them from tough times. In fact, in 2007 and 2008, they went through a period that nearly destroyed them. It was a period so destructure it moved past burnout into nearly a midlife crisis. In part one of this story, Dwayne breaks down the beginning of the issue that continued to steamroll, and how growing too quickly played into the problem.
5 days ago
Talking About the Future of Quick Maintenance
This episode of The NOLN Podcast hits hard at the top of a new year.
We're speaking with Robert Weissberg, who runs a Midas-SpeeDee Oil Change and Auto Service shop out of Watsonville, Calif. Weissberg is a credentialed technician and has some great insight on the education, training and mindset that owners will need to consider when thinking long-term about the future of vehicle maintenance services.
Dec 24, 2020
How I Did It: The EV Landscape
In this episode of The NOLN Podcast, take a dive into the fast-paced work of electric vehicles. There has been a lot to cover in the news, and thankfully our colleagues over at ADAPT have it all covered.
Staff writer Maraya King lays out all the big EV storylines in this special episode.
Dec 10, 2020
Top Trends: Taxes in an Unconventional Year
Don't wait to think about your taxes. With all the loan and grant programs flying around this year, it's even more important to make sure you know the rules for filing 2020 taxes.
Brad Mewes, principal at Supplement Advisory, discusses the impact PPP loans could have on your taxes, as well as how he approaches the "puzzle" of shop taxes each year.
Nov 30, 2020
Sponsored: First Be Best, Then Be First
Amber Kossak and Crystal Mathews of Solid Start discuss how the company came to be, along with what makes Solid Start products stand apart from the rest.
Nov 26, 2020
How I Did It: Bonuses as an Incentive
Carl Goede of Roadrunner Express shares how a little insight from McDonald's helped him structure his employee's pay and bonuses, while also coming up with his own unique structure that's tailored to his shop's goals.
Nov 12, 2020
Top Trends: Off to a Strong Start
Steve Pittman is the owner of PittStop 10 Minute Oil Changers in North Canton, Ohio. He joined associate editor Matt Hudson for a conversation about starting strong as a new operator.
Pittman took over his location about three years ago, and he had some work to do to get his facility and his process to the position that he wanted. In hindsight, it was a great career move. In this episode, hear from Pittman about that process and what he did correctly to start out strong.
Oct 22, 2020
How I Did It: The 3 Ms of Marketing
Want to elevate your marketing message but don't know where to start? Philipp Lomboy has got you covered.
In this edition of The NOLN Podcast, Abby Patterson sat down with Lomboy, founder of Marami Marketing Group, on what you first need to address in your digital marketing tactics.
Oct 21, 2020
Introducing the GT-1 High Mileage Booster
The latest additive from Kendall is poised to revolutionize the oil game.
Oct 8, 2020
Top Trends: Consulting for Quick Lubes
Does your operation have some kind of business consultant? Is it specific to the quick lube industry? There aren't many services like that right now, but Kevin Davis wants to change that.
Davis runs the Fast Change Lube and Oil chain, and he's a really active operator in organizations like the AOCA and in his own community. Now he's launching his own quick lube consultant service, which will have a whole lot of offerings for members.
Sep 24, 2020
Solve a Drop in Efficiency or Productivity
All too often in the industry, shops track meaningful KPIs, but have little idea how to interpret or make business decisions based off those numbers—especially when they fall short of set goals.
In this episode, learn eight simple questions to ask when encountering a drop in either productivity or efficiency.
Sep 10, 2020
Top Trends: Ransomware and Digital Hygiene
Hopefully your shop hasn't had to deal with a ransomware attack. You don't want your shop's digitally stored information to be stolen and held hostage.
While that's an extreme case, the steps you can take to avoid these situations are also great guidelines for computer use in your shop.
Chris Deater is the team lead for technical support at Sage Microsystems, which is now part of the DRB Systems brand. He goes through what a ransomware attack is and follows with a bunch of easy, effective tips for safe computing.
Aug 27, 2020
How I Did It: The Ideal Growth Strategy
For a newer Jiffy Lube franchisee, Stonebriar Auto Services, they've ramped up their franchising since joining the Jiffy Lube family in June 2019. Now, they have seven different Jiffy Lube Multicare centers in five different markets around the United States. And within the next five years, Stonebriar is looking to open over 150 locations across the nation.
So, what's their growth strategy being in so many spread-out markets? Staff writer Abby Patterson talks with Steve Isom, Stonebriar's executive vice president, on managing these franchises [4:20], dealing with roadblocks [6:55], and advice on their overall strategy [11:56].
Aug 6, 2020
Top Trends: Catching up with Jason Nastasi
You might remember Jason Nastasi from the November 2019 NOLN story, in which he shared his dream for building an Express Oil Change and Tire Engineers shop in Oldsmar, Fla.
Back then, he was in the middle of construction. Today, he's gone through a grand opening in the middle of a pandemic and has plans for a second shop.
To get all the details of his ground-up build, plus the challenges that went along with opening, check out this Top Trends episode of the podcast.
Jul 23, 2020
How I Did It: Jim Oberhofer
Associate Editor Matt Hudson speaks with Jim Oberhofer, who runs a Victory Lane Quick Oil Change in Plano, Texas.
Prior to that, he was the team general manager and crew chief on NHRA driver Doug Kalitta’s top fuel drag car. He has some great stories about working in the racing world and how the lessons he learned during that time informed his current career as a quick lube owner.
Plus, he's still helping out with a drag car team! Hear all about it in this cool episode of The NOLN Podcast.
Jul 10, 2020
Podcast Extra: All About MPGe
Have you seen MPGe ratings and wondered what that little "e" is about? It doesn't stand for electric, but it does have to do with EVs.
In this episode, take a look at the development and calculations behind MPGe as an EPA rating. Plus, you'll hear about all the other ratings that will be important to consumers as more and more battery-electric vehicles are sold off the lot.
For this extra episode of The NOLN Podcast, take a dive into the development and numbers behind the measurement of EV efficiency.
Jul 9, 2020
Top Trends: Breaking Down Coronavirus Loans
Did you know there have been 20 updates—yes, 20—to the Paycheck Protection Program since it's release mid-March? That's all according to Brad Mewes, Principal at Supplement Advisory, an automotive advisory firm, who has been helping business owners across the country on the confusing and crazy process these past couple of months. Listen to Mewes sit down with staff writer Abby Patterson as they hash out all of the new details on PPP loan forgiveness, Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), and other loans you might not even know about.
Disclaimer: On July 4, the Paycheck Protection Program was officially extended through Aug. 8.
Wanting to still apply? Here are some go-to resources:
* MBE Capital Partners
* BlueVine Capital Inc.
And for those of you looking for further help, reach out to Brad Mewes at brad.mewes@supp-co.com.
Jun 25, 2020
How I Did It: Adapting to the New Normal
With the stay-at-home orders in most states being lifted, operators are finally able to get back to work. However, it's safe to say there's a new normal that all businesses will need to adhere to. To help navigate, staff writer Abby Patterson talks with Scott Wheeler, President of Automotive Consultants Group, Inc., on what operators should expect and how to adapt to new customer expectations.
Jun 11, 2020
Top Trends: Morris' Fast-Tizer
Morris Clement is an interesting guy, and it's clear from listening to him that he's always working on ways to improve his shop.
He's been in the quick lube business a long time, but when shutdowns happened amid COVID-19, he had thoughts like many did.
“I was like a lot of owners. I was sitting there thinking, ‘You know, I want to sell this place and get out of this,’" he says. "But once I started this, I feel like I’ve been rejuvenated. I get up early, and I’m here, and I’m all excited about doing things, making the production of it.”
What he started was production of Fast-Tizer hand sanitizer right in his shop. And he didn't do it halfway. He converted his fourth bay into a production facility.
This is a fascinating episode full of information on Clement, his shop and how he got into the hand sanitizer business.
May 21, 2020
How I Did It: Innovating Business Practices
With the coronavirus pandemic affecting businesses worldwide, quick lube operators are having to get creative. And the key to that creativity is preparing for anything that may come your way. That's why staff writer Abby Patterson sat down with Dwayne Myers, owner of Dynamic Automotive, to discuss ways he's switched up usual business practices to keep the business moving.
Stay up to date with the latest in NOLN's coronavirus coverage.
May 7, 2020
Top Trends: The 20 Group Effect
This Top Trends episode of The NOLN Podcast is a bit of a preview for an upcoming magazine article. Associate editor Matt Hudson spoke with Brian Faulkenberry of NCM Associates, which operates one of the only quick lube 20 Groups in the country.
If you're interested in 20 Groups or new to the concept, Brian shares some great nuts-and-bolts information about how members push each other toward success, what numbers they examine and how new members become part of the group.
This episode is packed with information, and it's just a taste of the upcoming full article. Enjoy!
May 5, 2020
News Weekly: May 5, 2020
This week, NOLN's news weekly podcast takes a look at an interesting new product that came out just as the new engine oil standards took effect.
In addition, times aren't so rosy for big oil producers, but the podcast ends with some wise words of encouragement from a business expert. Tune in and check it all out here.
Apr 28, 2020
News Weekly: April 28, 2020
This last week took us from a new stimulus package proposal to the president's signature and execution of the final product.
Plus, we've got robotic tire changers and an Air Force study that aims to save money through its oil change practices. Check out all that plus information about the ongoing awards nominations going on at NOLN.net/awards.
Apr 23, 2020
How I Did It: RoboTire
The future is here as Victor Darolfi describes his RoboTire invention. Hear about the development and abilities of this system right here.
Plus, you can see a video of the RoboTire at work at this link.
Apr 21, 2020
News Weekly: April 21, 2020
The big news from the past week was the depletion of funds for the Paycheck Protection Program loans. But don't think it's all over. There are plans to jumpstart things again, and the AOCA is advocating for more changes.
All that and some additional stories are in this week's news roundup.
Apr 17, 2020
From the Editors: COVID-19 Survival Tips
This special extra episode of The NOLN Podcast features 10 Missions Media's top editors, Anna Zeck and Bryce Evans.
Bryce and Anna recap the many conversations they've had with shop owners and industry stakeholders to present the very best tips, strategies and insights for successfully getting your shop through COVID-19. From workflow to financial assistance to leadership, learn the strategies working for the industry's best operators.
There's a lot of good material in here with advice from the entire automotive aftermarket landscape that 10 Missions Media covers.
Apr 14, 2020
News Weekly: April 14, 2020
It's mid-April now, and NOLN is back with a weekly news roundup. There's a bit of good and a bit of bad news in this edition.
Check out some highlights from the magazine's survey amid the pandemic, as well as a local shop that was featured in their hometown newspaper.
If you haven't yet, check out the webinar that NOLN hosted last week to talk about operations and resources during this time.
Apr 9, 2020
Top Trends: Executive to Operator
Like anything, it takes experience to establish yourself in a business and get ahead of the crowd. Most shop owners, however, only have the experience of being a shop owner. How would other roles within the industry help you become a better operator?
On this edition of Top Trends on The NOLN Podcast, staff writer Abby Patterson sat down with Pete Frey, former senior vice president of customer experience at Take 5 Oil Change, on what he's taken from his 34 years in an exec role into his new role of becoming a Take 5 store operator.
Mar 31, 2020
News Weekly: March 31, 2020
The previous week included some big news from the industry's big companies.
Take 5 Oil Change announced layoffs for more than half of its workforce at company-owned stores.
Valvoline said last week that its franchised and company-owned VIOCs remain open, but those at the company are taking measures to brace against any new measures that might be needed.
Finally, we had columnist Lenny Saucier write about his work volunteering at a local high school. He shares his work here.
Be sure to check out this page on the NOLN website, which is the place for the latest updates and information around coronavirus and the response for businesses.
Mar 26, 2020
How I Did It: Promoting Your Business Throughout COVID-19
With the coronavirus pandemic underway, many shop owners are wondering how to keep business afloat. While some of us have the luxury of working from home (like all of us at NOLN), shop owners don't have that choice. So, how can shop owners get through this difficult time and keep business going?
Shop owner Bill Floyd of Lucas Oil Center talks with our staff writer, Abby Patterson, on how shops can stay proactive and promote the business, staff, and customers through this time.
For all of the latest coronavirus news, stay up to date with the latest in NOLN's coverage.
Mar 24, 2020
News Weekly: March 24, 2020
Welcome to the news weekly episode of The NOLN Podcast that's all about business during the coronavirus.
The staff here is all about keeping shop owners informed, so the roundup this week includes ways to keep your customers' vehicles sanitized, as well as a resource roundup for business owners.
Finally, get the latest in this article about essential and nonessential designations, actions by the AOCA and how one operators decided to close down for now.
Mar 17, 2020
News Weekly: March 17, 2020
This week had a variety of stories in the mix.
NOLN took a look at U-Haul's no-nicotine hiring policy, a college program that studies hybrid powertrains and research that shines a light on all that particulate matter coming off of tire and brake wear.
That, plus a look at NOLN's coronavirus coverage, are all here.
Mar 12, 2020
Top Trends: The New Marketing Landscape
Join associate editor Tess Collins as she talked with Rock Star Marketing founder Jennifer Filzen about the newest trends in marketing and how to get engaged and confident in your shop's digital brand.
You can also find Filzen's expertise in the magazine: "Hitting the Marketing Mark"
Mar 10, 2020
News Weekly: March 10, 2020
March 10, 2020—This week was largely about network growth, with news about Strickland Brothers' first franchised shop, a new Chicago-area VIOC and big plans for Victory Lane to reach the century mark.
In addition, a Mississippi shop suffered severe damage in a storm last week.
Here is the link to take the 2020 NOLN Operator Survey.
Here is information to participate in the 2020 NOLN awards for Best Looking Lube, Operator of the Year and Technician of the Year.
Mar 3, 2020
News Weekly: March 3, 2020
NOLN is launching a weekly news roundup to bring you highlights from the stories of noln.net.
If you have any shop news or announcements, drop us a line at news@noln.net and we'll give a shout-out on the podcast.
Also mentioned in this episode is the 2020 NOLN Operator Survey. Here's the link:
https://bit.ly/32HgWBv
Feb 27, 2020
How I Did It: Franchising Strickland Brothers
Justin Strickland, founder of Strickland Brothers 10 Minute Oil Change, shares his experience in launching and now franchising his independent quick lube network. It's been a lot of work, but Strickland has been up to the task and he had some great insight on how it has all come together.
You will be able to read more about Strickland and his operation (in addition to two other awesome operators) in the March issue of NOLN. Until then, enjoy this How I Did It edition of the podcast.
A couple items of business: Please rate and subscribe to our podcast on your platform of choice!
Additionally, the 2020 NOLN Operator Survey is near and dear to many industry hearts. We will have it open for submissions on March 1, and you'll likely see emails or ads from us promoting it. Please participate in the survey to help everyone understand the numbers behind the industry. Thank you!
Feb 13, 2020
Top Trends: The Keys to Work-Life Balance
On this edition of Top Trends, Joe Robinson, trainer, speaker, and work-life balance coach, gives listeners tips on the best ways to manage the stress in your life.
Jan 23, 2020
How I Did It: NOLN Columnist edition
Welcome to the second episode of The NOLN Podcast! In this How I Did It edition, we're focusing on the works of columnists Lenny Saucier and Adam Tatum.
Both were great interviews and shared some great thoughts on the industry. You can expect more of the same from their written work. Here are their January columns:
"What Business Are You In?" by Lenny Saucier
"Getting Process Buy-in and Building Good Habits with Contests" by Adam Tatum
Jan 9, 2020
Top Trends: What to Know About GF-6 and API SP
Kevin Ferrick with the American Petroleum Institute talks about the newest oil standards: ILSAC GF-6 and API SP. He'll go over how they're developed, what they mean and how shops can prepare.
Dec 30, 2019
Ep. 00: Welcome to 2020
Greetings and welcome to 2020 and The NOLN Podcast. This isn't the official first episode, but we're glad you're here all the same. Keep an eye out for the official launch of the podcast on Jan. 9.