The Future of the Automotive Industry and Burnout Prevention With Tanner Brandt

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In this episode of the Jaded Mechanic podcast, host Jeff is joined by his friend Tanner Brandt to discuss the challenges of being a mobile diagnostic and programming technician in the automotive repair industry. They talk about the difficulties of diagnosing input problems and the lack of continued certification for doctors and nurses, as well as the lack of stringent requirements for training instructors in ATMC-accredited schools. They also share their perspectives on the industry and invite listeners to join the conversation.

In this episode, the Jeff Compton and Tanner Brandt delve into the crucial topic of prioritizing mental health in the automotive industry. They shed light on the high levels of stress and burnout that are prevalent in the industry, particularly among those in diagnostic roles. The guests argue that it is imperative to teach young people how to manage stress and prevent burnout, especially with the increasing demands of technology and automation in the industry. They suggest that changes need to be made to the way shops are run, vacation time is taken, and the overall atmosphere in the workplace to support mental health. They also emphasize the need to pay attention to the mental health of experienced mechanics who may have been working in the industry for many years and may be experiencing burnout as a result. Overall, the guests stress the importance of creating a supportive and sustainable work environment in the automotive industry that prioritizes mental health and well-being.

Jeff and Tanner discuss how small changes in the workplace can help alleviate stress and improve productivity. For instance, one technician was stressed out by waiters coming in the morning, which affected his work. Another technician noticed this and decided to come in 20 minutes later to help alleviate the stress. This small change helped the technician and improved productivity. The speakers also highlight the importance of taking breaks and finding stress relief activities. They talk about how fishing helped one of them improve their mental health. The speakers also discuss how teaching young people in the industry how to manage stress and find stress relief activities is important, especially with new technology coming that could increase burnout. The speakers also discuss how workload and stress can lead to high turnover rates in shops and how small changes, such as adjusting schedules or spreading out tasks, can help alleviate stress and improve productivity. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing stress in the workplace and making small changes to improve productivity and well-being.

The episode also touches on the mental toll that certain types of work, specifically complex automobile repairs, can have on individuals. Tanner mentions that working six days a week, 10 hours a day may work for a short amount of time, but after 20 years, the person's mental health will likely be terrible. The speaker also talks about how certain cars can keep you up at night and drive you crazy, and how this type of work takes a different toll on a person than just stressing about making hours. The guest suggests that the industry needs to start teaching young people how to unplug and manage stress, or else burnout will become even worse. The mental toll of this type of work is also discussed in the context of differences in working conditions between different regions, such as the difficulty of repairing cars in areas with harsh weather conditions. Overall, the episode highlights the importance of taking the mental toll of certain types of work into account and making changes to address and prevent mental exhaustion.

[00:01:36] Diagnostic challenges in automotive repair. 
[00:04:46] Mobile auto repair business. 
[00:07:43] Tough work in the north. 
[00:11:13] Undercoating and mental health. 
[00:17:08] Dealership culture and experience. 
[00:18:17] Poor mentorship and toxic culture. 
[00:21:38] Flat rate technician competition. 
[00:25:22] Dealership work and low hours. 
[00:29:08] Management groups in auto shops. 
[00:33:05] Dealership vs. Independent Shops. 
[00:35:34] Car troubleshooting struggles. 
[00:39:28] Late Waiters and Texts. 
[00:42:12] Surviving politics in the auto industry. 
[00:45:35] Work-life balance in auto repair. 
[00:49:19] Coping with job-related stress. 
[00:53:38] Red Seal certification. 
[00:57:01] Red Seal certification for technicians. 
[01:01:32] Automotive recertification and obstacles. 
[01:04:40] Learning from Mediocre Classes. 
[01:09:05] Aging out of the industry. 
[01:12:42] Lack of Code Book in Industry. 
[01:16:34] Automotive training and education. 
[01:19:48] Youth apprenticeship programs. 
[01:24:11] Standardization in the industry. 
[01:27:26] Specialization in Automotive Repair. 
[01:30:38] Automotive Specialization. 
[01:34:08] Nightmare Used Cars. 
[01:37:33] Diagnostics and customer advocacy. 
[01:43:09] Shops nearing retirement and acquisition. 
[01:44:35] Shop matchmaking. 
[01:49:03] Driving through the mountains.

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What is The Jaded Mechanic Podcast?

My name is Jeff, and I'd like to welcome you on a journey of reflection and insight into the tolls and triumphs of a career in automotive repair.

After more than 20 years of skinned knuckles and tool debt, I want to share my perspective and hear other people's thoughts about our industry.

So pour yourself a strong coffee or grab a cold Canadian beer and get ready for some great conversation.