Gain Traction Podcast Por Mike Edge arte de portada

Gain Traction

Gain Traction

De: Mike Edge
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The Gain Traction Podcast features top tire and auto repair professionals, shop owners, industry executives, and thought leaders.© 2025, All Rights Reserved. Gain Traction Podcast. Economía Gestión Gestión y Liderazgo Liderazgo
Episodios
  • Behind the Wheel at SEMA 2025: Meet the Industry Game-Changers - Part 3

    Behind the Wheel at SEMA 2025: Meet the Industry Game-Changers - Part 3
    Nov 28 2025
    SEMA 2025 remains the industry’s premier gathering place, not just for exploring new products, but for engaging in conversations that truly shape the future of the aftermarket. This episode of the Gain Traction Podcast captures that energy firsthand, bringing together voices from across the tire, equipment, and service ecosystems to discuss what’s working, what’s changing, and what dealers need to watch closely.From hands-on equipment innovations to long-term brand strategy, from dealer advocacy to the evolving demands of today’s consumers, each segment highlights something different; yet all point back to a common truth: this business still runs on relationships and honest dealer feedback.Whether you’re a manufacturer, distributor, or multi-location shop owner, Part 3 of our SEMA Roundup offers a clear look at the trends shaping 2025, directly from the leaders who influence them.In this episode…SEMA is where ideas sharpen, partnerships strengthen, and the industry gets its first real sense of what’s ahead. And in this third installment of our SEMA 2025 Roundup, the conversations dive even deeper.From Hunter Engineering Company to Kenda Tires and the Tire Industry Association, today’s lineup shares insights on new technology, shifting market dynamics, and the growing pressure to innovate in ways that actually help dealers back home. You’ll hear perspectives on everything from right-to-repair and training gaps to product development, supply chain realities, and what it takes to build stronger dealer relationships in a crowded marketplace.More than anything, this episode highlights a theme that keeps rising to the surface: the aftermarket moves forward when people show up, share openly, and challenge each other to improve.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: [00:53] John Zentz on technology adoption, equipment innovation, and how Hunter Engineering is listening more closely than ever to dealers’ needs[05:19] Michael Mathis discusses Atturo’s long-play brand strategy and why balancing innovation with dealer trust still matters[17:55] Roy Littlefield IV on TIA’s advocacy work, including right-to-repair, technician training, and strengthening industry representation[23:55] Brandon Stotsenburg shares how Kenda Tires is building durable product lines through real-world testing and dealer feedback[31:24] Cody Benton of Black’s Tire & Auto Service highlights the importance of customer experience and distributor-dealer relationships[38:50] Christina Walls talks about Landscape Durable Tires’ approach to longevity, new categories, and what niche markets are looking for in 2025Resources mentioned in this episode:Tread PartnersGain Traction Podcast on YouTubeGain Traction Podcast WebsiteMike Edge on LinkedInSEMA WebsiteJohn Zentz LinkedInHunter Engineering Company WebsiteMichael Mathis LinkedInAtturo Tires WebsiteRoy Littlefield IV LinkedInTire Industry Association WebsiteBrandon Stotsenburg LinkedInKenda Tires WebsiteCody Benton LinkedInBlack’s Tire & Auto Service WebsiteLandscape Durable Tires WebsiteMeet the Leaders Featured in This Episode:John Zentz is the Senior VP of Global Sales for Hunter Engineering Company and has spent more than 30 years shaping how shops across the country adopt new equipment and service technology. His long career; from his early days in Baltimore to leading sales at Hunter’s corporate headquarters — gives him a deep, hands-on understanding of dealer needs, industry trends, and the importance of strong customer relationships. John’s leadership continues to play a key role in how Hunter showcases innovation at events like SEMA.Michael Mathis is the President of Atturo Tires and has guided the company through major expansion across new market segments, high-visibility sports partnerships, and national marketing campaigns. Under his leadership, Atturo has strengthened its reputation as a brand that delivers premium performance at a competitive price, while staying committed to long-term dealer relationships and stable, reliable programs. Michael’s strategic approach has helped Atturo become one of the most recognized and fast-growing brands in the tire industry.Roy Littlefield IV is the Vice President of Government Affairs at the Tire Industry Association, where he leads the organization’s national advocacy efforts on issues like right-to-repair, vehicle data access, tax credits, and federal and state legislation that impacts dealers every day. He works directly with policymakers and brings real-world stories from shops and retreaders to Capitol Hill to ensure the industry’s voice is heard. Roy’s leadership has made TIA a powerful force in shaping policy that supports independent tire and auto service businesses.Brandon Stotsenburg is the Vice President of the Automotive Division for Kenda Tires and brings more than 35 years of tire industry experience to his role. He oversees product strategy, OEM and aftermarket programs, and Kenda’s...
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    46 m
  • Behind the Wheel at SEMA 2025: Meet the Industry Game-Changers - Part 2

    Behind the Wheel at SEMA 2025: Meet the Industry Game-Changers - Part 2
    Nov 26 2025
    Independent shop owners, brand leaders, manufacturers, lobbyists, and innovators all walk the same halls at SEMA but hearing their stories side by side paints an entirely different picture of where the aftermarket is headed. In this episode, we continue our conversations live from the SEMA 2025 show floor, connecting with the people who show up, contribute, and help push this industry forward.In this episode…While SEMA is known for big booths, new products, and packed aisles, what really drives the show are the conversations: honest, practical insights straight from the people doing the work every day. In Part 2 of our SEMA 2025 Roundup, we sat down with guests from across the aftermarket: independent dealers, government affairs experts, global tire brands, wheel manufacturers, trainers, and business development leaders.Cory Brown of Cory’s Point S Tire and Auto Service shares what he’s learned from growing multiple locations and how attending SEMA opened his eyes to gaps he didn’t even know existed. Karen Bailey-Chapman from SEMA’s Public & Government Affairs team breaks down the legislative challenges the industry faces and how her team is fighting to protect it. We also hear from leaders at TVS EUROGRIP, OE Wheels, DrivenEvidence, and Warrior Winches as they discuss product innovation, brand identity, technician safety, and why SEMA remains the best place for meaningful dealer connection.Whether you’re a shop owner, manufacturer, or industry partner, this episode shows why staying plugged into events like SEMA helps you stay ahead of equipment trends, regulatory issues, workforce needs, and shifting consumer expectations.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: [01:12] Cory Brown on Point S, independent dealer advantages, and seeing real opportunities at SEMA[09:33] Karen Bailey-Chapman on legislative issues affecting the aftermarket and SEMA’s advocacy priorities[15:32] Doug Kershaw on TVS EUROGRIP’s growth and global tire market expansion[22:23] Lance Bullock on building wheel brands and the journey from salvage-yard scrubber to SEMA-award-winning president[28:14] Pam Oakes on ADAS standards, technician safety, and responsible repair practices[35:59] Greg Robinson on Warrior Winches’ U.S. expansion and building dealer relationships at SEMAResources mentioned in this episode:Tread PartnersGain Traction Podcast on YouTubeGain Traction Podcast WebsiteMike Edge on LinkedInSEMA WebsiteCory Brown LinkedInPoint S Tire WebsiteKaren Bailey-Chapman LinkedInDoug Kershaw LinkedInTVS Eurogrip WebsiteLance Bullock LinkedInOE Wheels WebsitePam Oakes LinkedInDrivenEvidence WebsiteWarrior Winches USA LinkedInWarrior Winches USA WebsiteMeet the Leaders Featured in This Episode:Cory Brown owns four Point S retail locations in Rapid City, South Dakota, after growing from a single independent shop he purchased in 2008. A former Bridgestone/Firestone corporate manager, he believes in slow, steady growth built on real estate ownership and operational control. Cory values the Point S model for its independence, strong community feel, and member-owned advantages.Karen Bailey-Chapman leads SEMA’s public and government affairs team, working at the state and national levels to protect the aftermarket through advocacy, education, and policy engagement. With deep experience navigating legislative environments, she focuses on preventing harmful regulations and ensuring lawmakers understand the industry’s real-world impact. Her work plays a key role in shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket.Doug Kershaw oversees North American operations for TVS EUROGRIP, guiding the integration of Eurogrip and Super Grip brands across multiple off-road tire markets. With long experience in the OTR, agriculture, construction, and industrial segments, he helps expand the brand’s presence through customer relationships and strategic product development. Doug uses events like SEMA to connect with dealers efficiently and share the company’s global growth trajectory.Lance Bullock leads OE Wheels, 4Play Wheels, and Defiant Wheels, building on nearly 25 years in the aftermarket wheel business. Starting as a wheel scrubber in a salvage yard, he worked his way up to running award-winning brands recognized at SEMA for innovation and design. Lance is known for spotting talent, valuing hard work, and sustaining strong relationships with dealers and partners.Pam Oakes is the President of DrivenEvidence and a longtime automotive professional with deep roots in a multi-generation Detroit family of technicians. An ASE Master Technician and former shop owner, she now serves as an expert witness and industry educator, focusing on repair standards, ADAS procedures, and safety compliance. Pam advocates for technician excellence and responsible automotive repair practices.Greg Robinson leads North American business development for Warrior Winches, representing the family-owned UK brand as it expands into the U.S. consumer and ...
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    42 m
  • Behind the Wheel at SEMA 2025: Meet the Industry Game-Changers - Part 1

    Behind the Wheel at SEMA 2025: Meet the Industry Game-Changers - Part 1
    Nov 19 2025
    The SEMA Show is where the entire tire and automotive aftermarket gathers under one roof and in this episode, we bring you straight to the center of that energy. Recorded live from the show floor, this conversation captures what happens when industry leaders, decision-makers, and long-time collaborators finally get to meet face-to-face at SEMA 2025. From market insights to growth strategies, our guests share what’s shaping the year ahead and why showing up at this event continues to matter.In this episode…SEMA has always been known as the place where new products, partnerships, and ideas come to life. But beyond the massive crowds and equipment displays, the real value comes from the people; the leaders who are driving change across the tire and automotive aftermarket.In Part 1 of our SEMA 2025 Roundup, Mike Edge sits down with a lineup of guests representing buying groups, recruiting firms, manufacturers, and advocacy organizations. They discuss what brought them to the show, what trends they’re watching, and how SEMA helps them plan for the future. The conversations are honest and straightforward, offering a practical look at what’s happening in the market right now.Whether you’re a dealer, vendor, or industry partner, these insights highlight why staying connected at events like SEMA can make all the difference heading into a new year.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: [01:06] Joe Tomarchio Jr. on networking, new technology, and private equity interest in the automotive sector[08:00] Jason Rook on ITDG’s fast-growing membership and dealer buying power[14:01] Mike Cioffi’s insights on talent shortages and the realities of hiring Gen Z[20:24] Melanie White on SEMA’s focus on advocacy, youth engagement, and innovation[32:54] Norris Marshall on regulatory involvement and SEMA’s expanding work in D.C.[43:19] Sonny McDonald on Toyo’s presence at SEMA and the importance of real-world product applicationResources mentioned in this episode:Tread PartnersGain Traction Podcast on YouTubeGain Traction Podcast WebsiteMike Edge on LinkedInSEMA WebsiteJoe Tomarchio Jr. LinkedInFocus Investment Banking WebsiteJason Rook LinkedInITDG WebsiteMike Cioffi LinkedInTire Talent WebsiteTire Business WebsiteMelanie White LinkedInHellwig Products WebsiteNorris Marshall LinkedInBluePrint Engines WebsiteSonny McDonald LinkedInToyo Tires WebsiteMeet the Leaders Featured in This Episode:Joe Tomarchio Jr. built a one-store shop in West Baltimore into a 26-location, $100M business before selling to Monro. He went on to lead dozens of acquisitions during Monro’s expansion. Now, as Managing Director at FOCUS Investment Banking, he helps auto service owners grow and prepare for successful exits.Jason Rook leads ITDG’s nationwide network, driving rapid membership growth and expanding dealer buying power across tires, parts, insurance, and marketing programs. He uses industry events like SEMA to strengthen vendor relationships and plan upcoming initiatives. His focus is helping independent dealers gain security, leverage, and long-term stability.Mike Cioffi is the founder of Tire Talent, a recruitment firm specializing in leadership, engineering, and sales roles across the tire industry. With over a decade in specialized recruiting, he also writes a longtime column for Tire Business analyzing workforce trends, including Gen Z hiring and retention. His mission is helping companies find and keep high-performing talent.Melanie White is the Chair of the SEMA Board and President of Hellwig Products, an 80-year-old family manufacturer of load and sway control systems. She champions SEMA’s priorities in advocacy, youth engagement, and technology innovation. Under her leadership, Hellwig continues to grow while keeping U.S. manufacturing at its core.Norris Marshall is SEMA’s Chair Elect and the CEO of BluePrint Engines, building on more than four decades in engine manufacturing. He is deeply involved in SEMA’s expanding advocacy work in Washington, D.C., especially around aftermarket and regulatory issues. His leadership reflects his long-standing commitment to protecting the industry’s future.Sonny McDonald leads national training efforts for Toyo Tires, supporting dealers through product education and hands-on engagement. He plays a key role in showcasing Toyo’s lineup at events like SEMA, connecting tires to real-world vehicle applications. His work highlights Toyo’s focus on quality, innovation, and strong dealer partnerships.Quotable Moments:“You get to see a whole lot of folks you don’t normally get to see, that’s the power of SEMA.”“ITDG gives independent dealers leverage they couldn’t get alone.”“Having a mission and vision is more important than ever when attracting and retaining talent.”“Advocacy, youth, and technology are the pillars we need to strengthen.”“If you want to understand this industry, you’ve got to be here.”Action Steps:Stay plugged into industry ...
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    55 m
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