Transforming the Tire Industry With Ryan Ragan of Automotive Service & Tire Alliance
Release Date: 12/18/2024
Gain Traction
David Schardt is the President and CEO of Forgeline Motorsports, a premier manufacturer of custom, lightweight forged wheels for high-performance and racing applications. In 1994, David co-founded Forgeline in Dayton, Ohio alongside his twin brother, Steve Schardt — their passion rooted in the family’s long-standing involvement in the wheel business. With decades of hands-on experience in both distribution and manufacturing, David has helped grow Forgeline into a respected name in motorsports and automotive customization. Beyond business, he’s a fan of muscle cars, racing, and the movie...
info_outlineGain Traction
Richard Balan is the President of RTA Holdings, a company specializing in aftermarket vehicle outfitting, particularly commercial vehicles and off-road accessories. Notably, Raven Truck Accessories, under Richard's leadership, has successfully integrated with Trail Tire to create one-stop locations for customers, leveraging Trail Tire's extensive network and RTA's accessory expertise. Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Richard has a diverse background, having worked in the communications industry before joining the family business over 20 years ago. In this episode… How do two...
info_outlineGain Traction
John Teddy is the Chief Executive Officer of Straightaway Tire & Auto, bringing over 15 years of leadership experience in consumer retail and services. Before joining Straightaway, he served as Vice President of Take 5 Oil Change and held senior roles at Driven Brands, including Chief Commercial Officer. His career also includes strategic positions at The Home Depot and Lowe's, where he focused on corporate strategy and performance improvement. John earned his degree from Vanderbilt University and currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his wife and their four children. ...
info_outlineGain Traction
Tim Szabo is the Owner of Trail Tire Edmonton Groat Road, with over three decades of experience in the automotive industry. Alongside Fixed Operations Manager Kasey Wood, Tim is dedicated to ensuring every customer departs fully satisfied with their experience. Ian McDonald is Manager at Kirks Trail Tire Auto Centers Northern Edge. He is a valued member of the Trail Tire family, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to customer service. His journey into the tire industry began in a unique way, leading him to become an integral part of the Trail Tire network. Matt...
info_outlineGain Traction
Giorgio Andonian is the Managing Director at FOCUS Investment Banking, where he specializes in mergers and acquisitions within the Consumer and Automotive Aftermarket industries. He joined FOCUS in 2019, bringing over 15 years of operational experience, including his role as Vice President of a regional tire chain in Southern California, where he oversaw sales, marketing, finance, and human resources, ultimately preparing the business for a successful exit to a private equity platform. Giorgio holds a MBA with an emphasis in finance from Pepperdine University's Graziadio School of Business and...
info_outlineGain Traction
Scott Bishop is the Vice President of Passenger and Light Truck Tire Sales for the independent channel at Sailun Tire Americas, which specializes in offering a diverse range of tire brands. He has a wealth of experience in the tire industry, having worked his way up through other reputable companies like Bridgestone and Falken Tire over the years. Scott developed a passion for cars early on building motors and drag racing with his father. In this episode… Scaling an automotive business requires open communication and a focus on value. What is the key to success in the tire industry?...
info_outlineGain Traction
Johnathon Bemis is the Lead Master Technician at VIP Tires & Service, known for its comprehensive tire and auto repair services in the New England area. Notably, Johnathon is the recipient of the prestigious 2024 AAPEX Technician of the Year Award, recognizing his exceptional skills and dedication in the industry. Johnathon's automotive journey highlights the importance of perseverance and continuous learning in adapting to the fast-evolving automotive industry. In this episode… The automotive industry is experiencing rapid technological advancements, requiring technicians to continually...
info_outlineGain Traction
TJ White is the General Manager of Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care, a company with six locations in the Canton and Akron, Ohio area that specializes in tire and auto repair services. Under TJ's leadership, Tire Source has maintained strong community relationships and a reputation for customer loyalty, stemming from its innovative and efficient service practices. TJ grew up in Akron and has been part of the family business since he was 16, having worked his way up from changing oil and tires to his current managerial role. In this episode… Operating a tire and auto repair business with...
info_outlineGain Traction
Cory Brown is the Owner of Cory's Point S Tire in Rapid City, South Dakota. Under Cory's leadership, the business has expanded to two locations, employing 35-40 staff members. Outside of business hours, Cory characterizes himself as an adrenaline junkie who enjoys car racing, snowboarding, motocross, and mountain climbing. In this episode… As any industry veteran can attest, the automotive field is an immensely competitive one. What makes a business thrive in a competitive sector, and how do leaders overcome the challenges posed by rapid growth and changing market dynamics? Cory Brown...
info_outlineGain Traction
Ryan Thueson is the Owner of Clair and Dee's Tire, a family-owned business in Rexburg, Idaho, specializing in tire services and auto repair as part of the Point S network. Clair and Dee's Tire has expanded from a single store to five locations in the past three years, showcasing its growth and dedication to customer service. Ryan, representing the third generation of ownership during the store’s 61-year history, continues to uphold the family legacy while embracing modern business strategies and multi-store ownership. In this episode… What does it take to maintain a successful family...
info_outlineRyan Ragan is the Executive Director of the Automotive Service & Tire Alliance, where he focuses on enhancing value to members through innovative programs and training in the tech and tire sectors. Under his leadership, ASTA aims to expand its reach with events and educational initiatives, fostering greater involvement from the tire industry in addition to its strong mechanical service foundation. Ryan's background is rich with experience in international trade associations and nonprofits, and he brings a unique blend of business acumen and passion to his role at ASTA.
In this episode…
The automotive industry is undergoing significant transformations, with emerging trends and challenges shaping its future. How can industry leaders adapt to these changes to ensure continued growth and success?
According to Ryan Ragan, Executive Director of Automotive Service & Tire Alliance, adapting to changes in the automotive industry requires a focus on innovation and collaboration. He emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for networking and deal-making, particularly through events that bring together decision-makers and vendors. By facilitating interactions between key players, the industry can foster partnerships that drive growth and address common challenges.
On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge welcomes Ryan to discuss the future of the automotive service industry. They explore topics such as the expansion of industry events, strategies for increasing vendor engagement, and efforts to integrate tire services more comprehensively. Ryan shares his vision for enhancing member benefits through educational programs and networking opportunities, aiming to strengthen community ties and support business growth within the sector.
Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:
- [01:55] The Wild West origins of Ryan Ragan's hometown
- [02:45] How wrestling shaped Ryan's discipline and resilience
- [04:36] The future of Automotive Service & Tire Alliance’s big events
- [05:49] Why networking with decision-makers is game-changing
- [06:07] How ASTA enhances business deal opportunities
- [11:55] The innovative educational tools ASTA provides for members
- [22:32] How ASTA raised $100,000 for hurricane relief efforts
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Ryan Ragan on LinkedIn
- Automotive Service & Tire Alliance
- Dustin Dobbs
- Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers
- Mike Edge on LinkedIn
- Tread Partners
Quotable Moments:
- "Your ego is the most expensive thing you own. If you want to go broke, just keep following that ego."
- "I want you to be able to come there and do business. I want you to be able to close deals."
- "It's always the older generation, the next generation, how they view things and how they see things."
- "We're not going to lose our southern charm. It's still going to be very accessible, very down home."
- "I've seen a lot of good, I've seen a lot of bad."
Action Steps:
- Engage in industry networking events: Attend industry-specific trade shows and networking events to meet decision-makers and potential partners.
- Utilize educational resources: Leverage member-exclusive educational programs and webinars to stay updated on industry best practices and innovations.
- Implement digital visual inspections: Adopt DVI technology to increase transparency with customers, fostering trust and enhancing customer satisfaction.
- Participate in community support initiatives: Get involved in industry charity events or local support efforts to strengthen community ties and improve public perception.
- Seek feedback and adapt to market needs: Regularly conduct surveys and hold town hall-style meetings with industry peers to understand the challenges and needs within the market.
Sponsor for this episode...
This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners.
At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops.
By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.
We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches.
So, what are you waiting for?
Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.