Three Wise Truck Guys

Service Rescue: Streamlining Service for Profit and Performance

In this episode, the Three Wise Truck Guys sit down with Diane Zimmerman, General Manager of Coffman Truck Sales, and KEA Advisor Gil Klinger to discuss how one dealership tackled inefficiency, rebuilt its service processes, and achieved lasting cultural and financial results. From technician buy-in to improved customer satisfaction, this story highlights the real impact of KEA’s advisory work in the dealership world.

Emerging Leaders: Building the Next Generation of Dealership Leadership

In this episode of The Three Wise Truck Guys, Keith Ely, John Whitnell, and Mark Martincic are joined by Allen Phibbs, Director of Education at KEA Advisors, along with special guests Scott Blair of Premier Truck Group and Scott Gensler of Bergey’s Truck Centers. Together, they explore the impact of KEA’s Emerging Leaders program—sharing firsthand stories of growth, challenges, and lasting takeaways from graduates. From developing confidence and cross-department collaboration to shaping future culture and leadership benches, the conversation highlights why investing in education should be the first priority, not the last cut.

Beyond the Headlines: What’s Really Happening with Used Trucks

Welcome to the latest episode of Three Wise Truck Guys from KEA Advisors, where Keith Ely, Mark Martincic, and John Whitnell explore the intricate landscape of the used truck market. 

John Whitnell provides a thorough analysis of market metrics, revealing why used truck supply remains stable and how inventory and pricing trends are shaping up for 2025. The episode also scrutinizes common misconceptions, including exaggerated concerns over a recession in the used truck market.

Revving Up Business Performance with Personal Transformation Insights

In this episode of Three Wise Truck Guys, hosts Keith Ely, John Whitnell, and Mark Martincic embark on a journey to explore the intersection of business performance and personal transformation. Joined by guest Lovena Stamatiou-Tuley, a seasoned personal trainer with a unique background in physical therapy, they delve into the parallels between maintaining business discipline and achieving personal health goals.

The conversation highlights the challenges of change management within both a dealership environment and personal training, emphasizing the importance of tailored, client-specific strategies. Lovena shares insights on getting buy-in, fostering motivation, and instilling accountability, drawing fascinating parallels to overcoming resistance in the business world.

Listeners will gain insights into the profound similarities between managing a successful dealership and achieving personal fitness, all while being entertained by engaging discussions and anecdotes. Discover how discipline, custom solutions, and a commitment to personal and business growth can lead to remarkable results.

The AI Train Has Left the Station: How Dealerships Can Catch Up and Win

In this episode of the Three Wise Truck Guys, Keith Ely, John Whitnell, and Mark Martincic dive into the current state of truck dealerships, focusing on the critical role of fixed operations as a primary revenue source amid market volatility. The discussion highlights the trends in used truck sales, the importance of robust asset management, and the challenges dealers face with increasing customer demands.

The conversation shifts towards the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in the trucking industry, featuring insights from special guest Bart Robertson from Microsoft. Bart emphasizes the importance of leveraging AI to enhance operational processes and customer experiences, urging businesses to catch up with AI advancements to stay competitive.

Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the need for integrating technology with existing processes to improve efficiency and decision-making. As the industry evolves, adopting AI and enhancing technological capabilities becomes crucial for sustaining profitability and growth.

Revving Up Efficiency: The Three Wise Truck Guys Discuss Warehouse Innovation

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Three Wise Truck Guys podcast, where Keith Ely, John Whitnell, and Mark Martincic share valuable insights into the trucking industry. 

Special guest Justin Keck of Bruckner's Truck Sales joins Patrick Huizenga from KEA Advisors to share their experience from a recent collaboration project in optimizing warehouse layouts and workflows, shedding light on strategies that lead to enhanced productivity and customer satisfaction.

Listeners will walk away with actionable ideas for adapting to market dynamics and making informed decisions in a rapidly changing environment. Tune in for a mix of expert advice and practical takeaways that can revitalize your dealership's operations.

Tariffs, Telematics & White Glove Service with Bergey's Truck Centers

In this engaging installment, the Three Wise Truck Guys are joined by special guests from Bergey's Truck Centers, to delve into pressing industry topics that are shaping the commercial dealership world.

The episode kicks off with a lively discussion on the impact of tariffs on truck pricing and dealership strategies. John Whitnell brings valuable insights into how tariffs are influencing used truck markets and the pricing strategies dealers should consider. The conversation then pivots to effective communication strategies that dealers can use to navigate these complex tariff-related challenges.

The second half of the episode features a deep dive with guests Mark Brown and Amber Worley from Bergey's Truck Centers. They share the remarkable success story of their connected vehicle maintenance services, highlighting how innovative telematics solutions are revolutionizing customer service in the trucking industry. From optimizing fleet maintenance schedules to offering a white-glove service approach, learn how Bergey's Truck Centers is setting new standards for customer engagement and vehicle uptime.

Listen in to discover a fresh perspective on overcoming industry challenges and how leveraging technology can lead to superior service and stronger customer relationships. Don't miss the insights and practical tips that can drive success in today's dealership landscape.

Navigating the Shifting Landscape of the Used Truck Market

Welcome to another insightful episode of Three Wise Truck Guys from KEA Advisors. This time, we're delving into the pivotal changes and forecasts for the used truck market, highlighting the growing role of AI and technology in transforming service departments. Our hosts, Keith, Mark, and John, discuss their predictions for 2025 and beyond, focusing on how these advancements impact dealership operations and customer service. They also tackle the challenges posed by new truck pricing, tariffs, and the ever-evolving demands of the market.

 

Insights on Market Trends, Service Challenges, and Innovative Solutions with PULSE

Welcome to another engaging episode of "The Three Wise Truck Guys" podcast, brought to you from Lawrence, Kansas. This time, our hosts are thrilled to have the insightful John Whitnell back from his sabbatical, adding his valuable perspectives to the discussion. Join us as we dive into the current state of the used truck market, where John shares an optimistic update despite ongoing challenges with supply and pricing stability.

In an intriguing conversation, Mark Martincic sheds light on service industry trends, focusing on overcoming customer pushback on pricing and the importance of efficient service processes. Additionally, we explore the significance of attracting new talent to the trucking industry, emphasizing the benefits of recruiting from outside the traditional pool.

The episode features a special segment with Amber Kelzer, Director of Business Intelligence, and guest Mark Wille from Kenworth Toronto. They delve into the innovative PULSE tool, a game-changer for dealership operations, providing real-time insights to enhance profitability and efficiency across departments.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion filled with valuable industry insights and strategies for navigating the evolving trucking landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, this episode promises to inform and inspire.

Navigating Market Challenges: Strategies for Truck Dealerships

Join hosts Keith Ely and Mark Martincic as they discuss the current state of the truck dealership market and effective strategies for navigating slow business periods. In this insightful conversation, they highlight the importance of planning, customer outreach, enhancing the customer experience, and expanding service operations.

This episode also features a special guest, Mike Previdi from Gabrielli Truck Sales, who shares his experiences and insights on managing multiple rooftops and integrating new acquisitions. Mike discusses the importance of consistent training, leveraging technology like PULSE, and fostering a positive work environment to ensure business growth and employee satisfaction.

Tune in to hear how Gabrielli Truck Sales has successfully implemented training programs and inventory management solutions, and learn about the significant impact these initiatives have had on their operations.