DO IT FOR A LIVING
DO IT FOR A LIVING is a podcast where YOU, the performance racing industry enthusiast and shop owner can hear from the best minds in the performance racing industry talking about business and tech. We discuss new products and services and the best resources used by the big dogs. You can listen on your way to work or in the shop. With new episodes coming out every week, you'll find interesting topics and valuable information you can use to build your performance business. Now take this information and use it to build the next record-breaking car, or the next innovative product.
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215 - Mastering Manufacturing in Performance Automotive: Lean, Kanban, and Error-Proofing Explained!
02/12/2026
215 - Mastering Manufacturing in Performance Automotive: Lean, Kanban, and Error-Proofing Explained!
Unlock the hidden secrets that are transforming manufacturing efficiency worldwide. In this deep dive, Richard and Kevin explore the powerful concepts that can revolutionize your production line—from error-proofing and Pokeyoke techniques that prevent costly mistakes, to lean manufacturing principles that maximize value while minimizing waste. Plus, learn practical examples—from how to design parts that only assemble one way to organizing complex hoses for faster, error-free installation. You'll uncover: The difference between error-proofing and Pokeyoke, and how to implement them effectively How to design parts with built-in Pokeyoke features that save time and reduce errors Step-by-step strategies to run a lean shop, from shadow boards to labor tracking The role of Kanban in managing workflows, inventory, and customer experience Practical tips to adapt lean and just-in-time principles for small, custom shops Ignoring these insights can mean wasting thousands of dollars on excess inventory, rework, and lost productivity. Conversely, mastering these methods opens the door to faster throughput, higher quality, and greater profitability—regardless of your company size. Perfect for manufacturers, shop owners, or anyone striving to eliminate inefficiency, this episode reveals proven strategies to boost your bottom line. Implement these ideas today and start working smarter, not harder. Be sure to like and subscribe to the channel! the more viewers we have, the more high quality guests we can attract!
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214 - Rebuilding shocks with Chris Hagen of Inertia Laboratory
01/26/2026
214 - Rebuilding shocks with Chris Hagen of Inertia Laboratory
In this episode, Kevin and Richard sits down with Chris Hagen, owner of Inertia Laboratory. Chris specializes in high-performance damper rebuilds, revalving, dyno testing, and sells high end coilover systems. Before starting Inertia Lab, Chris worked as an engineer for a major vehicle manufacturer, and spent time at AST/Moton - so he brings both OEM engineering credibility and real-world motorsports experience to the table. We dig into what it actually takes to run a suspension service business - from the technical side of shock dyno testing, to the business operations side of managing parts inventory across dozens of damper brands. Chris breaks down rebuild intervals, explains the difference between a $300 coilover and a $3,000 setup, and shares why he's built a reputation for fast turnaround without upselling unnecessary work. We also tie this episode back to our manufacturing systems discussion with Richard Fielder - talking about how Chris applies 5S, standard work documentation, and error-proofing to precision damper work. Plus we get into the tech stack side: what software he's using to run the business, how he tracks jobs and inventory, and what features matter most for service-heavy shops like his. Whether you're a shop owner thinking about adding suspension services, a racer trying to understand what your shocks actually need, or just curious how a one-man specialty shop operates at a high level, this one's packed with practical takeaways. Check out Inertia Lab at Check out My Shop Assist at myshopassist.com for shop management software built for the performance and racing industry. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform, and tell us who you want to hear from! If there is a specific topic you want us to cover, send us a message or email!
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213 - Manufacturing Systems for Small Shops with Richard Fielder
01/07/2026
213 - Manufacturing Systems for Small Shops with Richard Fielder
In this episode, Kevin and co-host Richard Fielder break down the manufacturing systems used by large-scale factories and show you how to implement them in your small shop. Richard is a controls engineer at Peterbilt where he works with the systems that manufacture semi trucks at scale, and he brings that expertise to help small fabricators, tuners, and parts manufacturers work smarter. Whether you're making one-off custom parts or producing small batches, these principles will make you faster, more consistent, and more profitable. We cover 5S for organizing your workspace, shadow boards for tool management, standard operating procedures for documenting your processes, and how to build a proper bill of materials so you actually know what things cost to make. Richard explains how each system works on the factory floor at Peterbilt, then we translate it into practical steps for shops with 1-5 people. The goal isn't to turn your shop into a factory, it's to steal the best ideas from industrial manufacturing and apply them at your scale so you stop wasting time, reduce errors, and can actually grow without chaos. We will be following this episode with additional podcasts related to manufacturing processes we didn't discuss in this episode. Additionally, we will be talking to more guests who do manufacturing to talk to them about how they do things and the processes they use at their shops. Be sure to keep listening, and to subscribe to the channel! Check out My Shop Assist at myshopassist.com for shop management software built for the performance and racing industry!
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212 - Pablo and Alejandro Moreno Update us about Tandem Offroad
12/22/2025
212 - Pablo and Alejandro Moreno Update us about Tandem Offroad
In this episode of Do It For a Living, we sit down for a followup with brothers Alejandro and Pablo Moreno, co-owners of Tandem Offroad. Their shop specializes in off-road truck builds and general maintenance, serving customers who demand both performance upgrades and reliable day-to-day service. The brothers share their journey of building a business together, the challenges of manufacturing their own products, and how they've grown their customer base in a competitive market. One of the biggest challenges they faced was manufacturing their own products without properly understanding their true costs. Like many small shops, they were pricing based on what felt right or what competitors charged, not on what it actually cost them to make parts when you factor in materials, labor, overhead, and time. We dig into how they discovered they were losing money on products they thought were profitable, the wake-up call that forced them to completely rethink their pricing strategy, and the systems they put in place to ensure every product they make actually contributes to the bottom line instead of draining it. Find out more about Tandem Offroad at Find out more about My Shop Assist at Check out all our content at Thank you for listening and be sure to subscribe!
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211 - Zach Denney of ECU Master USA returns
12/07/2025
211 - Zach Denney of ECU Master USA returns
In this episode of Do It For a Living, we welcome back Zach Denney for a follow-up to his first appearance on episode 083. Back then, Zach was running Wholesale POwer (WHP), the US distributor for ECU Master, as a one-man operation out of an 1,800 square foot facility, hoping to hire his first employee. Fast forward to today, and he's now importing several brands including ECU Master, Verkline, and Delta ABS, as well as manufacturing harnesses and components to compliment those product lines. Zach shares how he scaled from solo importer to running a full team, the challenges of navigating COVID-era supply chain disruptions and tariffs, and how he's positioned his companies in an increasingly competitive aftermarket electronics market. We also dig into product development, dealer training, the shift toward standalone ECUs, and what's coming next — including advanced displays and GDI applications. We cover: Growing from a one-man show Building a team and defining employee roles Supply chain and tariff challenges Why everyone's moving to standalone ECUs Training and supporting your dealer network Order management systems and software stack The future of integrating modern tech into older platforms Check out ECU Master USA at Check out Verkline at Check out Delta ABS at Find out more about My Shop Assist at Check out all our content at Thank you for listening and be sure to subscribe!
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210 - Emily and Zach from the 2025/26 UNT Formula SAE Team
11/30/2025
210 - Emily and Zach from the 2025/26 UNT Formula SAE Team
In this episode of Do It For a Living, we sit down with two students from the University of North Texas Formula SAE team. This marks our first video episode and a new format where we explore the next generation of motorsports talent. Emily Gooden is the Operations Manager and Zach Warren is the EV Powertrain Lead - both are seniors studying engineering at UNT. Kevin, who has an FSAE background, discusses what it takes to run a student racing team with Emily, and put Zach's powertrain work to the test in a "Shark Tank" style technical challenge. Emily shares how she discovered FSAE, worked her way up to Operations Manager, and now leads a team of students with varying skill levels and commitment. She walks us through the design and build cycle from concept to competition, the biggest challenges facing the team including funding and recruiting, and how they handle setbacks as a group. Zach takes us deep into the EV powertrain system he's developed, explaining the problem they were solving, their design constraints around weight, cost, and manufacturing, and how they validated everything through simulation and testing. Kevin challenges Zach with tough questions about scaling the technology beyond FSAE, manufacturing at volume, identifying customers, and what's stopping commercialization. Both students discuss how the team balances proven designs against risky new innovations and what FSAE teaches that you can't learn in a classroom. Find out more about UNT Formula SAE at their website: . instagram: @meangreenracing email: SAEUNT@gmail.com Check out My Shop Assist at for shop management software built for the performance and racing industry, Come see us at the PRI show on December 11-13 - booth 4905 on the edge of Machinery Row in the Yellow Hall. Be sure to subscribe!
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209 - Peter Agapoglou of Autosport Fabrication
02/26/2025
209 - Peter Agapoglou of Autosport Fabrication
In this episode of Do It For a Living, I talk with Peter Aggapoglou, founder of Autosport Fabrication, about his deep roots in the motorsports industry. Before launching his own shop, Peter built his expertise working for several high-end European and race shops, honing his skills in fabrication, chassis setup, and race car development. Peter also shares his challenges and solutions to running a business that caters to exclusively race cars. We dive into: His journey through prestigious race and performance shops before going solo The turning point that led him to start Autosport Fabrication out of necessity Lessons learned from working with top-tier teams and applying that knowledge to his own business If you're an aspiring fabricator, shop owner, or just love the business of racing, this episode is packed with insight. Tune in now! Check out Autosport Fabrication at : on facebook: Find out more about My Shop Assist at Check out all our great content for the Podcast at: and on facebook at
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208 - Joseph Potak with HP Cult
02/18/2025
208 - Joseph Potak with HP Cult
In this episode of Do It For a Living, I sit down with Joseph Potak, host of the new HP Cult podcast. We talk about his journey in the high-performance world, including his history with Texas Speed and how he became an expert in LS engine building. Joseph shares insights from the several books he has written on building LS motors and swapping them into different vehicles, and what led him to start his own podcast. Along with the podcast, he has created a website to share his wealth of knowledge, and his desire to bring back automotive web forums. Whether you're an LS enthusiast or just love performance builds, this episode is packed with great stories and technical knowledge. Tune in! Check out his podcast on Apple: Spotify: Youtube: HP Cult Website: Find out more about My Shop Assist at Check out all our great content for the Podcast at: and on facebook at
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207 - Adam Hammer of Hammer and Dolly Restorations
02/03/2025
207 - Adam Hammer of Hammer and Dolly Restorations
In this episode of Do It For a Living, I sit down with Adam Hammer of Hammer and Dolly Restorations to explore his journey into the world of classic car restorations. Adam shares how he got started, the challenges of building his own business, and the processes he uses to manage complex, long-term projects. We dive into his approach to business management, car building, and project management—covering everything from billing and customer interactions to record-keeping for both him and his clients. If you’re involved in car restorations or any type of project that takes months or even years to complete, this episode is packed with valuable insights you can apply to your own work. Don't miss it! For more information on Hammer and Dolly: Find out more about My Shop Assist at Check out all our great content for the Podcast at: and on facebook at
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206 - Brandon Piper of BSP Motorsports
01/18/2025
206 - Brandon Piper of BSP Motorsports
In this episode of Do It For a Living, we sit down with Brandon Piper from BSP Motorsports to hear his journey from supporting a Dodge Viper race team to building a thriving business. Brandon shares how creating and executing a solid plan enabled him to triple his business growth in just three years. But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing—Brandon opens up about the unexpected challenges of relocating his business and the hurdles he faced while developing a new facility. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on growth, resilience, and navigating the complexities of running a successful shop. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful conversation! Check Out BSP Motorsports at Find out more about My Shop Assist at Check out all our great content for the Podcast at: and on facebook at
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205 - Sasha Anis of Mountain Pass Performance
01/06/2025
205 - Sasha Anis of Mountain Pass Performance
In this episode of Do It For a Living, we sit down with Sasha Anis, founder of Mountain Pass Performance, to discuss his journey in building a cutting-edge performance business. Sasha shares insights into starting and scaling Mountain Pass Performance, managing production and sales, and pushing the boundaries of innovation in motorsports. We dive into his experience building hybrid race cars and adapting Teslas for road racing, exploring the challenges and opportunities of electric and hybrid technology in competitive applications. Whether you're an EV enthusiast or a performance shop owner, you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation! Check out the first interview with sasha Check out mountain pass performance products on his website: Find out more about My Shop Assist at Check out all our great content for the Podcast at: and on facebook at
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204 - Richard Fielder with Evolution Dynamics and Scaling your Business Discussion
12/23/2024
204 - Richard Fielder with Evolution Dynamics and Scaling your Business Discussion
In this episode of the Do It For a Living Podcast, I’m excited to introduce a new voice to the podcast: my business partner at Evolution Dynamics, Richard Fielder. Richard will be joining us as a cohost for future episodes, where we’ll dive into the ins and outs of running a business. We start by getting to know Richard better as he shares his personal journey into the industry and the experiences that have shaped his perspective. After that, we’ll dig into a topic that’s critical for any performance shop owner: scaling. We’ll discuss scaling operations, staff, and customer experience, breaking down strategies to grow your shop effectively. Check us out at or on facebook Be sure to check out or to see how to works in a shop
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203 - Adam McCreery with AFR Autoworks
12/10/2024
203 - Adam McCreery with AFR Autoworks
In this episode of Do It For a Living, I sit down with Adam McCreery, founder of AFR Autoworks, to explore how he built his business using data-driven decisions. Adam shares how tracking shop hours, billing accurately, and managing overhead have been the keys to his success. We dive into the systems and strategies he's developed to maximize efficiency and profitability while maintaining high standards for his work. If you're looking for practical advice on running a more efficient and sustainable shop, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! AFR Autoworks contact: Adam Directly: Check us out at or on facebook Be sure to check out or to see how to works in a shop
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202 - Kevin Emr of E-Muscle Cars
12/03/2024
202 - Kevin Emr of E-Muscle Cars
In this episode of Do It For a Living, we sit down with Kevin Emr, the visionary behind e-Muscle Cars. Kevin shares the story of his journey to combine cutting-edge electric vehicle power and technology with the classic aesthetics of muscle cars. We dive into the challenges of building an innovative business in a rapidly evolving market, how Kevin approaches modernizing iconic vehicles without losing their soul, and his vision for the future of electrified performance. If you're curious about the electrification of classic cars or looking for inspiration from an industry disruptor, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Follow Kevin at Check us out at or on facebook Be sure to check out or to see how to works in a shop
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201 - Season 2 Intro and Matt Beenen of Builtright + Mountech Followup
11/07/2024
201 - Season 2 Intro and Matt Beenen of Builtright + Mountech Followup
After a four-year break, we’re back with a brand-new season of the Do It For A Living Podcast, and we’re kicking things off strong with a follow up from a special guest: Matt Beenen. Matt is an experienced entrepreneur and the driving force behind several successful businesses, Builtright and Mountech. In this episode, he shares insights from his journey, the challenges he’s faced, and the strategies that helped him scale and strengthen his companies. We dive into topics like building a sustainable business model, adapting to industry changes, and the importance of a solid team. Matt opens up about the lessons he's learned along the way, including the mindset shifts that have been crucial to his growth as a leader and business owner. Whether you’re a shop owner, entrepreneur, or just passionate about business, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration to help you on your own journey. Tune in as we relaunch the Do It For A Living Podcast with Matt Beenen’s story, and join us as we embark on a new season of learning and growth together. Follow Matt at Check us out at or on facebook Be sure to check out or to see how to works in a shop
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163: Stewart Waliser of Stews Self Service Garage
03/03/2020
163: Stewart Waliser of Stews Self Service Garage
Stewart grew up in a Seattle suburb and was an active kid. When he turned 16, he got a beater $500 car and was tasked with keeping it running. He used this car to learn maintenance and slowly acquired mechanical skills. He went to college and continued to modify cars. He was living gin the dorm and didn’t have a place to do the work so he called several shops, but nobody would allow him to do the work at their shop. It was at this point that he shifted from wanting to be a surgeon to owning a DIY garage. He spent all winter break creating a business plan and researched other self-service garages to see if the idea was even feasible. After dealing with a shady real estate broker, difficulties with city zoning, fire marshal fixes, and having to relocate with a 3-day notice, he was finally able to open his self-service garage. He has now been in business for 5 years and has signed another 5-year lease. The goal for this year is to expand and grow the business. He currently has 7 bays with lifts, provides tools and some specialty machines, and employees 4 employees to help around the shop. They keep things simple by charging a flat rate for time and not doing a la cart charges to use tools or ask questions.
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162: Nathan Cicio of Cicio Performance
02/17/2020
162: Nathan Cicio of Cicio Performance
Nathan grew up in Florida working on cars to help his dad’s business. In his twenties, he moved around always chasing entrepreneurial ventures but wasn’t always focused on cars. He eventually purchased a 2002 WRX Wagon and then he was hooked! The modifications began and he couldn’t get enough. This led to starting a performance shop with two buddies and eventually meeting Doug Wilks who was the owner of Top Speed Performance. Nathan then began organizing tuning appointments for Doug to fly in and tune several vehicles at once. After some time, Nathan offered to buy the business from Doug and run it on how own terms. He kept the original employees, changed the name to Top Speed Motorsports, and grew the business over the next ten years. He recently changed it to Cicio Performance and now has two locations. One is in Atlanta, GA (the Top Speed Motorsports location) and the other is in Virginia Beach, VA. He has plans to open a third location in another year or two. With the new name, Nathan focused his efforts on running the business efficiently and tracking every metric possible. This has allowed him to open the second location and he is able to split his time between the two and manage them. His goal is to ensure his customers have a pleasant experience and work to get the cars completed as quickly as possible. He still works on GTR’s but is expanding the services to 911’s and plans on doing a ton of work with the new C8 Corvette when it comes out.
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161: Chris Riggs from Speed by Design
02/10/2020
161: Chris Riggs from Speed by Design
Chris got his career going in cars by doing a buy-in for body kits while he was in college back in 2001. He ran this business all through college and made a decent living. But, after graduating, he became a medical salesman. He worked there up until 2012 when the company he was working for got bought and he was given a buyout payment. That same year, he started Speed by Design. Initially, he wanted to do installs for GTR’s. He soon realized that Oklahoma wasn’t large enough to warrant a specialty shop like he wanted to make so he shifted gears and focused on manufacturing and e-commerce. He has continued to grow the business over the years and is proud to offer quality products manufactured in Taiwan. They have expanded from just GTR parts to Fords, AE86s, and are beginning to offer McLaren parts.
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160: Ben Silcock and Andre Simon return to discuss HP Academy
02/03/2020
160: Ben Silcock and Andre Simon return to discuss HP Academy
Its been about 4 years since we last talked to Andre and Ben of HP Academy. Originally, they were focusing on keeping the business small and running it themselves. They soon realized that they needed to hire some extra help. They have grown to 7 people and really helps generate content. Andre and Ben now release interviews each week and have greatly expanded their online education program. The online courses include tuning, engine machining, race car wiring, and vehicle setup. They are currently working with Engineered to Slide to even create a set of fabrication courses so be on the lookout for even more great content! If you’re interested, they are always looking for talented individuals to join their team. So, feel free to reach out to them if you think you are qualified.
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159: Bryan Thompson of Powerhouse Racing
01/27/2020
159: Bryan Thompson of Powerhouse Racing
Bryan Thompson started out in Utah and bought himself a Toyota MR2. He quickly started modifying it to go faster. He ended up going to college to get a Computer Science degree but was cut short because of his love for cars. He then followed a friend to Dallas to begin working at Dinosaur Performance (which later purchased Powerhouse Racing). Soon enough, he was giving the reigns to run Powerhouse Racing. Even though he preferred working on cars, he soon realized he could develop parts that he really needed to make. After a few years, Bryan was given the opportunity to buy Powerhouse Racing and jumped on it! He has spent the past few years focusing on manufacturing products and expanding their offerings. He is putting systems in place to better handle the demand for their parts and try to get them out quicker while continuing to improve the products.
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158: AJ Hartman returns for an update on AJ Hartman Aero
01/20/2020
158: AJ Hartman returns for an update on AJ Hartman Aero
Back in 2017, AJ was humming along and making composite parts for race cars and street enthusiasts. He was approached by a customer who was wanting to help AJ scale the business, so he sold off 49% of the business. They changed the name to RHR Composites, hired 2 people, contracted some aerodynamic parts to be designed, and moved to a larger facility. Along the way, their vision for the future didn’t align so AJ had to buy out his partner to take back 100% of the company. Even though it was a huge struggle, AJ looks at the events as a learning experience and tries to keep a positive outlook on the situation. He shrunk the company back to just himself, changed the name back to AJ Hartman Aero, and the business is humming along nicely. He has focused on reducing waste and improving efficiency within his shop. Even though he has moved out of the 6,000 sqft shop and back into the 2-car garage behind his house, he has been able to get more product out and make more money. This goes to show how important it is to focus on efficiency versus trying to make more money. AJ set his mind on improving the business and getting the most use out of his time. This has translated to higher profits with fewer resources.
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157: Matt Beenen returns with BuiltRight Industries
01/14/2020
157: Matt Beenen returns with BuiltRight Industries
Since he was a kid, Matt always wanted to be an entrepreneur. Using inspiration from his childhood, he decided to start a side gig to follow his dreams. His initial idea consisted of 50 latches that allow you to drop the Ford F-150 back seat down to access some secret storage. To his surprise, a Facebook post in a small F-150 group resulted in him selling out rather quickly. So, he began his journey to go at the business full-time. His second product development was a bedside rack system for the F-150’s. This side hustle first took over a bedroom, then grew into the garage, and grew again into a storage unit that was run off a generator and a string of lights. His biggest struggle has been dealing with knockoffs that originate from his success on Amazon. He even wrote a blog article warning other small business owners about the pitfalls and helping people learn from his experience. Fast forward to today and BuiltRight Industries is housed in a 5000 sqft warehouse and has 2 full time employees and a couple part timers. He has worked hard to expand the business to other vehicles and continues to develop new products. And he has even begun selling his products through Turn14.
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156: Alejandro and Pablo Moreno of Tandem Automotive
01/06/2020
156: Alejandro and Pablo Moreno of Tandem Automotive
Alejandro and Pablo Moreno didn’t start a shop together but found they could grow a business by working as a team. Alejandro got his engineering degree, worked at Bell Helicopter for a while, and went back to school to get his MBA. In the meantime, Pablo was an auto mechanic, went to flight school, and then decided to start Tandem Automotive with a friend to work on drift cars (hence the name). When Alejandro finished grad school, he was looking for some sort of entrepreneurial venture and wanted to help Pablo. He crunched some numbers and made some changes at Tandem Automotive. His quickly discovered that something needed to change at the business if they wanted it to succeed. They looked at their current customer based and decided it was best to specialize in modifying and maintaining Toyota SUV’s and trucks. Alejandro used his CAD skills and designed a custom wheel for their common application. While he thought it would be a great way to generate some extra profit, it turned out to be a real headache. Dealing with overseas manufacturing turned out to be extremely difficult and costly. But they overcame the hurdles and have had several hundred wheels produced. Tandem Automotive has also undergone several ups and downs with employees. They have tried to balance the number of techs with the workload but have struggled to hire hard workers and keep them busy with work. They have put systems in place to track the time and verify that they are charging appropriately and making money.
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155: Theresa Contreras and Sara Morosan of LGE-CTS Motorsports
10/14/2019
155: Theresa Contreras and Sara Morosan of LGE-CTS Motorsports
The business was originally started by their parents who did maintenance and custom work in California. Theresa studied graphic design and worked as a machinist. She went back to work in the family auto body shop and worked in the front end. She taught herself how to pinstripe and paint and continues to do so to this day! Sara was also interested in working at some sort of automotive business and studied business and automotive classes. Strangely enough, she worked at a competitor’s auto body shop for a few months before realizing she wanted to start a business that sold aftermarket parts. She started the business from the family body shop before building a dedicated space in 1999. These businesses operated separately until 2011 when they merged the two businesses. LGE-CTS Motorsports is a combination of the two original names. LGE stands for Louie & Gerry Enterprises and CTS stands for Custom Truck Shop. They now do a bunch of SEMA builds for Ford and Kia as well as custom builds for retail customers. During the slower season, they focus efforts on the repair side of the business. And they are currently working on expanding the online store to help generate revenue throughout the year. They now work out of a 12,000 sqft building that they rent from their parents and employ 13 people. They are both very active with SEMA and other organizations to get people (and specifically, girls) active in the automotive industry and interested in making a career out of it. You can also find them at offroad and enthusiast events throughout the year. They keep themselves very busy and wouldn’t have it any other way!
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154: Vadim Belogorodsky from CANtrolls
09/03/2019
154: Vadim Belogorodsky from CANtrolls
On this episode we get a chance to talk with Vadim Belogorodsky from CANtrolls. CANtrolls is a company focused on using CAN interface hardware to make engine swaps easier… but it goes way beyond that! Vadim taught himself to program at age 13 and has since worked on medical devices, oil rigs (doing CAN-based Networking) and most recently with Zero Avia an electric aviation startup. Vadim is a standout in the automotive aftermarket for his ability to get things done. I know him personally to be an ambitious self-starter so I thought we could all learn what makes him tick, and maybe he’ll teach us some things along the way.
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153: Reid Lunde returns to discuss his interconnectable relay entered in the SEMA Launch Pad Competition
08/05/2019
153: Reid Lunde returns to discuss his interconnectable relay entered in the SEMA Launch Pad Competition
Reid has been very busy lately managing several businesses. He still has KSTuned which is the Honda racing side and then has Kaizen Speed for the domestic cars. But his new venture is a weatherproof. solid-state relay that can handle heavy current and is interconnectable. This makes it very easy to daisy chain additional relays without having to run more power wires. He also made it so that you can attach a CAN control module as an option. This gives the customer the ability to keep it very simple or more complex with the CAN module. Reid has entered the relay into the 2019 SEMA Launch Pad Competition presented by the Young Executive Network. Reid needs your votes to move onto the finals. So, follow this link and go vote! Voting link – http://bit.ly/VoteLunde
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152: Johnny Cichowski of Nine Lives Racing
07/22/2019
152: Johnny Cichowski of Nine Lives Racing
Johnny joined the military after high school, served his time, and then used the GI Bill to go to college. He really didn’t know what he wanted to do with his life and began messing with cars and going autocrossing. He worked a short stent helping at a friend’s shop and then got a job at PFC Brakes doing sales and technical support. This job took him all over the world supporting various racing platforms. His next job was at OG Racing selling safety gear and brakes. He was also making custom seat inserts for race teams. He began working with Elan (makers of the NP01) making seats and started looking at the extrusion they had for their wing. Eventually, they gave him one and he did some testing against a typical carbon wing. Turns out, the Elan profile added several MPH down the back straight and in turns at Road Atlanta. Right then, he knew he had something that works. He made a kit for the BMW M3’s and started making wings for all different vehicles. Now he has 7 people and they help all sorts of teams with the aero needs. On top of creating wing kits, Nine Lives Racing can also do CFD analysis and provide information and parts to complete the aero package.
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151: Jonny Mill of WheelWell.com
03/11/2019
151: Jonny Mill of WheelWell.com
Jonny Mill grew up in a small town in California and moved to LA as soon as he graduated high school. He worked at a talent recruiter and had various jobs in the entertainment industry with advertising and marketing. He always enjoyed cars, but things really took off when he developed The E-Stopp (an electronic parking brake). It was intended for handicap vans but soon found an amazing niche in the automotive restoration market. He was approached by Bryan Harrison of SEMA to compete in the first SEMA Launch Pad competition and took first place. After that, he started an innovation company and then began doing marketing/advertising for various TV shows and networks. He recently took a position at WheelWell.com where users can showcase their car builds. It has grown to an online hangout for car enthusiasts to share reviews, link to all the products used in their build, and even facilitate selling their vehicle. WheelWell’s latest push is their marketplace which allows users to purchase the parts they see on the user’s build. They have even introduced a “mod score” which rewards users for generating their own content and provides discounts in the marketplace. To check out all the builds, or even add your own ride, check out WheelWell.com
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150: Charlie Eklund of Hennessey's Tuner School
02/11/2019
150: Charlie Eklund of Hennessey's Tuner School
Charlie Eklund moved down to Houston, TX to attend Tuner School in 2017. The people at Hennessey Performance saw something special in Charlie and offered him a job in the admissions department for the school. Since then, Charlie has been the face of Tuner School to narrow down the applicants and help them get jobs after graduation. To further help them out, Charlie helps students find part time jobs while taking classes and they even offer a house where the students can rent a room and not have to worry about furniture. John Hennessey started Tuner School because he was getting multiple inquiries on how to work on cars and tune them. So, he just decided to meet that specific need and develop a curriculum with various industry experts. The classes are capped at 15 students to focus on providing the best education possible.
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149: Richard Tomlin of Apex Auto Works and White Pony Dry
02/04/2019
149: Richard Tomlin of Apex Auto Works and White Pony Dry
Richard Tomlin owns a paint, restoration, and fabrication shop south of Houston, Texas called . He made a name for his shop by building cages for Spec Miatas and was cranking out one a week. The shop is located on the way to a road course so he catered to the weekend racers and was able to do anything they wanted from complex fab work to paint and body. He recently embarked on a new venture by developing an absorbent powder called . It is far superior to kitty litter at quickly soaking up spills so that you can clean up and get back to work.
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