The PartsEdge Podcast

PartsEdge

Conversations that matter. Insights you can use. Hosted by Kaylee Felio, she brings together the voices shaping today’s Fixed Ops landscape—alongside expert insights from Chuck Hartle.

Featuring two core series:
The Parts Girl Series (Hosted by Kaylee Felio) – conversations with industry leaders and operators focused on what’s working and what’s not.
Webinar Replay Series (Led by Chuck Hartle) – structured, in-depth training sessions covering pricing, inventory strategy, and DMS optimization, built from decades of hands-on experience.

Learn more about PartsEdge solutions: www.partsedge.com

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20 episodes
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August 21 · 53 min
Webinar Replay - Inventory Isn't A Guessing Game
Ever wondered how much your DMS and source structure are really impacting your dealership’s parts profitability? In this highly tactical episode, Chuck brings decades of parts management experience to the table, breaking down how smarter source structures, dynamic day-supply settings, and strategic pricing can give parts managers greater control over inventory, margins, and daily operations. Packed with real-world examples and practical DMS strategies, this session is all about making your system work for you instead of constantly working around it.From separating fast-moving parts from slow-moving inventory to managing accessories, tires, bulk fluids, special orders, and “never stock” parts, Chuck explains how the right source structure can help dealers stock smarter and eliminate unnecessary excess. He also dives into one of the biggest problems facing parts departments: obsolescence—and why unfulfilled demand and “for stock” parts are often the real culprits behind aging inventory. Whether you’re looking to improve pricing accuracy, reduce excess inventory, better control special orders, or get more value from your DMS, this episode delivers the actionable strategies you need to build a more profitable and predictable parts operation.--------------------------------------------Takeaways:1. A Smart Source Structure Gives Your DMS More Power—and Your Parts Department More Control.2. Dynamic Day-Supply and Phasing Criteria Help You Stock Based on Actual Demand.3. Obsolescence Often Starts with Poorly Managed Special Orders, For-Stock Parts, and Unfulfilled Demand. Chapters:00:00 - Welcome & Introduction01:04 - Why Source Structure Matters02:25 - The Problem with Poorly Configured DMS Sources05:45 - The Grocery Store Approach to Inventory09:36 - Breaking Inventory Into Strategic Sources12:11 - Competitive Parts & Retail Pricing15:08 - Managing Accessories18:28 - Managing Tires for Profitability20:49 - The Right Way to Manage Bulk Fluids23:16 - Managing Special Orders24:49 - The Challenge of Non-Stock Parts29:04 - Managing Recall & Campaign Parts30:58 - The Problem with For-Stock Inventory36:09 - Understanding Obsolete Inventory40:10 - The Benefits of Dynamic Source StructureResources:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelioWebsite: https://www.partsedge.com
July 31 · 21 min
Fixing the Foundation: Microlearning Solutions for Parts Managers with Chris Craig
Chris Craig, FixedOps Content Developer at RockEd, joins Kaylee Felio to dive into the launch of Rocket’s powerful new training curriculum for parts departments. They get gritty on why parts managers and associates have been overlooked—until now. From microlearning and gamification to actionable reporting and industry certification, Chris Craig breaks down how RockEd is changing the game for parts teams across the country. If you’re ready to fix the foundation, turn inventory faster, and give your team smarter tools, this episode brings the insights, energy, and optimism you need. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Microlearning Empowers Busy Teams Gamification Drives Engagement Industry-Recognized Certification Chapters 00:00 Military training and education 04:21 Balancing Army duties and work 06:40 Rocket's microlearning solution for dealerships 10:40 Understanding the parts manager role 14:25 Accessing Rocket Preview Mode 17:17 Rocketified learning platform overview 20:18 Checking out the RockEd app Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com Chris Craig LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-topher-craig RockED Website https://www.rocked.us/technician-skills
July 24 · 13 min
Stop Losing Customers: How Better Communication Drives Service Retention in Auto Dealerships
On this Parts Edge Podcast episode, Kaylee Felio sits down at the NCM Fuel the Future Fix-Op Summit with Derek from NUMA. Together, they dig deep into the tech transforming parts and service departments: proactive AI that turns every customer touchpoint into an opportunity for retention, revenue, and hassle-free communication. Derek shares how NUMA’s “co-pilot” approach fixes the industry's biggest headaches—poor communication and missed service appointments. By streamlining inbound calls and digitizing the parts counter’s to-do list, NUMA empowers managers to get out of the weeds and focus on growth, customer satisfaction, and turning inventory faster. The result? Fewer bad reviews, loyal customers, and a serious impact on the bottom line. From fixing the foundation of internal dealership workflows to bringing sales and service together, this episode is packed with gritty, realistic advice for managers who want inventory (and customer experience) to be anything but a guessing game. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Communication drives retention and revenue. AI frees your team for high-value tasks. Integrating sales, service, and parts leads to better customer experience. Chapters 00:00 AI tool for car dealerships 03:35 Challenges in service advisor roles 08:07 Streamlining service with the NUMA app 11:23 Increasing dealership service retention 13:30 Podcast guest introduction Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
July 22 · 6 min
Transforming Dealership Service with Real-Time Communication and Sales Training Insights
Kaylee Felio sits down at the Fuel the Future FixedOps Summit with Roger Gutierrez from Biggers Auto Group to dig into what it takes to run a growth-focused dealership—and why fixing the foundation in service and parts is more critical than ever. From smarter scheduling and AI to sharper sales skills for the parts team, this episode is packed with practical advice and gritty optimism for every parts and fixed ops leader. Roger reveals what it’s like to step away from the grind and immerse himself in innovation, lessons learned on managing people and process, and the powerful impact of clear communication—both with teams and customers. If you’re ready to turn inventory faster, give your managers better tools, and make every hour in the department count, this conversation is for you. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Invest in Sales Training for Parts Teams: Equip your parts staff to sell complete jobs, not just parts, to strengthen reputation and customer satisfaction. Fix the Foundation With Process and Communication: Tighten up scheduling and status update processes—these “basics” keep customers happy and teams accountable. Face Weaknesses for Lasting Growth: Embracing vendor solutions or new technologies can be uncomfortable, but honest feedback and visibility are crucial for improvement. Chapters 00:00 Learning about AI and data management 06:07 Importance of knowledgeable parts staff Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
July 20 · 8 min
Fueling the Future of Fixed Ops with AI and Smarter Communication with Danny Zaslavsky
This episode comes to you live from the NCM Fuel the Future FixedOps Summit, where the conversation focused on how innovation and collaboration are building a stronger foundation for dealership success. The discussion explored VinQ’s efforts to break down communication barriers between variable and fixed ops, leveraging advanced tech and AI to turn inventory management into a data-driven process, not a guessing game. A key theme that emerged was the transformative power of accurate reconditioning estimates and tighter variable-fixed integration for maximizing profit and reducing costly variance. Several points were raised, including how technology is helping parts and service departments operate like co-pilots rather than siloed teams, empowering every team member to deliver exponentially greater results without siloed “trial and error” approaches. If you’re passionate about fixing the foundation of your dealership operations—stocking smarter, reducing surprise costs, and giving your team better tools—this episode is a must-listen. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Overcoming communication gaps between variable and fixed ops—especially in recon—can add thousands in lost profit back to your bottom line. Leveraging AI isn’t just about shiny tech; it’s about making every decision smarter and freeing up bandwidth for growth-focused work. Fix the foundation: empower your current team to operate at a higher level rather than simply adding more staff. Chapters 00:00 Enhancing vehicle appraisal process 04:13 Sales channels and innovation sharing 06:56 Transitioning to software investments Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
July 17 · 56 min
Webinar Replay - What the Best Parts Departments Do Differently
Ever wondered what separates top-performing dealership parts departments from the pack? On this high-energy episode, Kaylee Felio brings gritty, actionable clarity to inventory management, smarter pricing, and the realities of working with your DMS. Packed with pragmatic advice and real-world examples, this session is all about giving parts managers the tools, support, and confidence to fix the foundation, turn inventory faster, and stop making inventory a guessing game. From the power of daily sales reporting to avoiding the traps of obsolete inventory, Kaylee Felio covers the core habits and strategies the most successful teams use—plus, she isn’t shy about naming which DMS platforms offer real advantages (and where others fall flat). Whether you’re looking to reduce obsolescence, boost profitability, or finally get your arms around all those so-called “protected parts,” this episode delivers the tactical details you need to stock smarter and stay growth-focused. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Consistent, Proactive Training & Reporting Sets Winning Departments Apart. Your DMS Can Be a Co-Pilot—Or a Roadblock—Depending on How You Use It. Obsolescence Isn’t Inevitable—But It Takes Grit to Fix. Chapters 00:00 Encouraging audience questions 06:29 Managing staff shortages 07:55 Scheduling and optimizing short meetings 12:42 Issues with store migration data 16:11 Retail sales report insights 20:55 Retail pricing and markup strategy 23:16 Managing product pricing and profit margins 27:24 Challenges in Inventory Management 30:40 Analyzing dealership inventory levels 33:48 Managing obsolete inventory strategies 37:49 Analyzing inventory turnover rates 41:29 Forecasting obsolete inventory growth 46:18 Dealing with obsolete inventory 49:57 Honda's SRA and Inventory Management 50:52 Calculating true terms in inventory 54:14 Inventory management strategies 53:20 Tekions dealership strategy and pricing Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
July 15 · 9 min
Driving Customer Retention and Embracing Tech in Part Departments with Dwayne Kinsley
In this episode, Dwayne Kinsley from LACarGuy joins us live from the NCM "Fuel the Future" Fixed Ops event. Dwayne opens up about why these peer-driven conferences matter, what’s keeping dealers competitive, and why retention is a bigger conversation than ever. We dig into the constant evolution of dealership technology—how to cut through all the noise, avoid vendor overload, and find the right partners to help your team move fast and stay ahead. Dwayne pulls back the curtain on how true competition comes from outside the dealership world, what drives fixed ops profitability, and the tough calls parts managers are forced to make with ever-changing tech options. If you’re looking to sharpen your competitive edge and create more value for your customers, this episode is a must-listen. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Focus on customer value—convenience, speed, and having the right parts—drives real retention. Technology moves fast; choose partners who prioritize customization, support, and adaptability. Don’t get overwhelmed by vendors; streamline where you can, but never sacrifice quality or service. Chapters 00:00 Networking at NCM Events 03:50 Focus on fixed operations 07:55 Startups getting acquired Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
July 13 · 9 min
Fixing the Foundation: How Smart Tools Empower Dealerships Parts Managers
In this episode, Adam Martel talks about stepping up from legacy processes, embracing PartsEdge automation, and what it’s like to turn the chaos of managing 50,000+ SKUs into a streamlined, growth-focused operation. From running smarter online sales to preparing for industry shifts like mandatory video MPIs, Adam shares gritty, optimistic insights on staying competitive and turning inventory faster. We dig into the real-world challenges parts managers face: drowning in outdated DMS setups, legacy sources nobody even remembers, and lacking tools to break out of silos. If you’ve ever felt like inventory is a guessing game, this one’s for you. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Fix the foundation: Overhauling source structures and automating processes frees up parts managers to focus on growth, not data entry. Turn inventory faster: Access to real-time, actionable reports empowers smarter stocking and helps reduce stale inventory. We’re your co-pilot: With specialized partners like PartsEdge and Revolution Parts handling the heavy lifting, managers can stay lean and competitive—without drowning in tech headaches. Chapters 00:23 Adam’s first podcast and NCM Summit vibes 01:25 Why Adam chose PartsEdge: “Buckets” metaphor and reporting clarity 02:31 The struggle with legacy DMS setups and impossible reports 03:07 Going from 15 outdated sources to 40 smart, automated ones 04:16 Why parts managers shouldn’t waste time on manual data entry 05:07 The daunting scale: 50,000+ SKUs and $750k inventory 05:28 Turning up online sales—250 orders over one weekend 06:17 Lessons from the summit: cross-department strategies and customer focus 07:03 Breaking down silos—why fixed ops needs one team approach 07:45 Bringing ideas home: prepping for video MPIs, evaluating tech solutions 08:47 The power of laser-focused partners versus DMS all-in-ones 09:01 Wrapping up: Stay gritty, stay optimistic, and keep building better parts departments Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
July 6 · 8 min
Fixing the Foundation of Service Scheduling with Insights from Dave Anderson
Dave Anderson, representing Evenflow AI, joins the PartsEdge Podcast from the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit to talk about what automotive can learn from healthcare and airlines when it comes to maximizing technician time, intelligent scheduling, and creating stand-out customer experiences. Dave shares how smaller, more immersive conference formats spark deeper connections and actionable conversations with dealers, and reveals why transparent, proactive communication keeps dealership customers happy and coming back. Drawing from his experience in healthcare and airlines, he highlights practical wins dealerships can implement right now to turn inventory faster and deliver the kind of service customers actually rave about. Fresh takeaways and gritty optimism, parts managers—this one is for you. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Bring scheduling front and center: Make it easy for customers by putting the scheduler where they expect it—right on your homepage. Proactive updates = happier customers: Frequent, transparent communication reduces anxiety and bad reviews. Learn by listening: Spend time asking customers and peers real questions. Growth comes from conversations, not just demos. Chapters 00:00 Connecting at smaller conferences 03:27 Healthcare service and billing parallels 07:27 Taking time off for car issues Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
July 3 · 15 min
How Value-Driven AI Is Transforming Dealership Fixed Ops and Customer Experiences
This episode of the Parts Edge Podcast is recorded live at the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit and dives into the future of service lane technology in dealerships. The conversation focused on differentiating between "shiny object" AI and workflow-driven, value-added AI that truly improves the fixed operations customer experience. The discussion explored practical examples of AI-driven customer communications, service scheduling, and technician video processes—showing how the right tech can fix the foundation of your dealership and power more efficient, customer-focused service. One concept discussed was the critical need to meet customers where they are (like texting instead of making them download an app), as well as how embedded AI is removing friction from scheduling, diagnostics, and communications. A key theme that emerged was the importance of real dealership workflows guiding tech implementation—not the other way around. Several points were raised, including AI’s role in video grading, language translation, escalation of customer issues, and personalizing service processes for both the team and the end customer. Whether you manage a bustling parts department or oversee a full-service lane, this episode is packed with gritty, motivating insights for those ready to turn inventory, reduce wasted time, and deliver exactly what customers expect in 2024. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Customer-first workflows are essential—inventory and service tech must remove friction and meet modern expectations. AI is only valuable when embedded into actual dealership processes (not just as a “shiny object”) and rigorously adapted to fit real-world needs. Empower your team with tools that give actionable feedback and automate time-consuming tasks, so you can focus on growth. Chapters 00:00 Improving car service experience 05:12 Preventing spam with 2P protocol 09:10 Troubleshooting vehicle vibrations 11:51 Video grader tool features 13:08 Incorporating AI into tools Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
July 1 · 14 min
Building Trust and Boosting Profit: The Power of Video in Fixed Ops with Joe Shaker
Joe Shaker, dealer and founder of TruVideo, joins the Parts Edge Podcast live from the NCM Feel the Future Fixed Ops Summit. Joe dives into the foundational importance of fixed ops in dealership profitability and the transformative power of video technology in building trust and transparency with service customers. Joe shares his journey of launching TruVideo—rooted in asking customers what really mattered and discovering that, even with high performance metrics, trust was the missing link. Learn how video, narrative, and new tech tools like the Video Quality Score (VQS) are not just changing customer communication, but also driving higher parts sales, improving technician/advisor consistency, and elevating the entire fixed ops experience. Join Kaylee and Joe for a gritty, motivating discussion on why dealerships can’t afford to neglect their fixed operations—and how smart tools are giving teams an unbeatable edge. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Trust Drives Retention Process = Profit Tech Adoption Transforms Culture Chapters 00:00 Importance of fixed operations in dealerships 04:13 Initial testing and unexpected success 08:10 Advantages of real-time transcriptions 12:13 Dealers and OEMs using video analytics 13:07 Improving team communication Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 30 · 9 min
Building Strong Service Teams and Tackling Obsolescence in Fixed Ops
Sammy, Service Director at Tamiami Hyundai and Genesis in Naples, Florida, joins the Parts Edge Podcast from the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Op Summit. Sammy shares how her passion for fixed ops began as a kid in her dad's Chevy dealership and evolved into leading a high-performing service team. She discusses the challenges of prioritizing improvements, the importance of face-to-face customer feedback, and fostering professional growth in both staff and the next generation. Listen in for candid insights on managing large teams, fixing operational bottlenecks one step at a time, and never underestimating the power of real customer conversations. If you're looking to turn inventory faster, reduce wasted time, and keep your team growth-focused, this episode’s got you covered. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Eat the elephant one bite at a time Customer feedback is gold Lead from the floor Chapters 00:00 Getting started in auto industry 05:47 Listening to customer feedback 07:34 Encouraging kids to socialize Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 30 · 12 min
Fixing the Foundation: Innovation, Mystery Shops, and Gamifying Car Sales at the NCM Summit
The conversation focused on innovative tools, dealership culture, and fresh perspectives on the evolving landscape of fixed ops. Special guest Kyle Disher of Rev Dojo shares his experiences working with hundreds of dealerships, from sales training and hiring to launching a video game dedicated to car sales. The discussion explored the importance of bridging the gap between variable and fixed ops, highlighted actionable improvements in customer engagement (including a live mystery shop of a parts department), and offered a behind-the-scenes look at passion projects designed to elevate dealership teams. If you’re looking to stock smarter, empower your parts team, and leverage new tech to drive efficiency, this episode brings the energy, real talk, and a few laughs. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Listen to dealer needs and say “yes” to innovation—flexibility powers progress. Build bridges between variable and fixed ops for dealership-wide success. Simple process improvements (like collecting customer info and offering solutions up front) greatly impact customer experience and sales. Chapters 00:00 Discussing store operations and training 05:13 Appointment scheduling for repairs 09:59 Explaining game difficulty levels 11:41 Navigating success in the game Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 25 · 6 min
Networking, AI, and Technician Challenges in Fixed Ops with Matt and Justin
Live from the NCM Fuel the Future Summit, this PartsEdge Podcast episode features Matt (Parts Director) and Justin (Service Director) of Huffines Hyundai McKinney, Texas. They share candid insights on the grit required in fixed ops, the enduring challenge of finding and retaining skilled technicians, and the game-changing value of industry networking. Kaylee and her guests unpack what’s truly missing for parts leaders in events and resources, and why teamwork between parts and service is essential for success. Whether you’re battling staffing shortages or just looking to connect with others in the field, this episode drops actionable advice and unfiltered fixed ops realities—all in a motivating, collaborative atmosphere. -------------------------------------------- This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit 🔗 www.partsedge.com -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Prioritize Networking for Growth Staffing is the Foundation Break Down Silos Between Parts & Service Chapters 00:00 Fixed ops collaboration discussion 05:53 Challenges in getting skilled staff 06:22 Expressing excitement and gratitude Website: https://www.partsedge.com/profilequiz Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 24 · 55 min
Webinar Replay - What Your DMS Isn’t Telling You About Your Inventory
This episode takes a gritty, honest look at the hidden gaps in dealership DMS (Dealer Management System) reporting and the impact on parts inventory management. The conversation focused on what makes inventory a guessing game for most parts managers and why relying on standard DMS-generated reports often leaves you making decisions with only half the picture. The discussion explored why most DMS platforms are built with accounting first and parts last—leaving managers to dig across eight to ten separate reports just to find the real health of their inventory. The hosts demonstrate how PartsEdge simplifies complex data, proactively surfaces problems (like obsolescence, forced stock, and non-controlled inventory), and gives parts managers the tools to fix their foundation and turn inventory faster, instead of sifting through endless reports. Several points were raised, including the importance of separating controlled vs. non-controlled inventory, using data to spot trends before they become issues, and why actionable information is more valuable than raw reports. Live Q&A with parts managers spotlights real-world struggles, vendor tricks, and actionable strategies—plus the flaws and merits of today's leading DMS solutions. If your dealership’s inventory feels like a black box, this episode will get you fired up to demand better—and give you the roadmap to start. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways You can’t manage what you don’t measure. Separate controlled from non-controlled inventory. Fix the foundation with better visibility. Chapters 00:00 Discussing DMS Reporting Gaps 04:20 Discussing the focus on DMS systems 08:55 Analyzing data with line graphs 11:04 Inventory management overview 14:51 Managing volatile inventory 20:29 Dealing with technical obsolescence 21:44 Monthly forecasting and return management 25:39 Managing Non-Controlled Inventory 30:01 Viewing inventory management reports 33:46 Monthly customized reporting options 38:09 Parts ordering process explained 41:13 RPG level report discussion 44:04 Handling parts lists in techeon 47:06 Managing inventory fill rates 50:46 Accuracy of stock order generation 53:20 Techyon's dealership strategy and pricing Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 19 · 10 min
Leveraging 19 Million Reviews to Build Trust and Grow Dealer Profits with Melissa Terrell
Today, Kaylee Felio chats live from the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit with Melissa Terrell, whose company is transforming how dealerships leverage customer feedback. Together, they dig into how online reviews—especially when connected to your DMS data—do more than just boost your Google stars. They become the fuel to fix your foundation, stock smarter, retain more customers, and create winning teams. You’ll learn why authentic review management paired with smart automation is not just another box to check—it’s the difference between falling behind and being the local leader. Listen in for fresh ideas on turning customer insights into clear, monthly actions that free up parts managers to focus on growth, not just putting out fires. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Feedback is the foundation that drives sustainable growth Actionable intelligence beats data overload Authenticity wins online and in the store Chapters 00:00 Introduction with Kaylee Felio 04:11 Exploring vendor demos for dealerships 07:12 Handling service advisor calls 09:41 General agreement and acknowledgment Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 17 · 7 min
Breaking the Mold: Fixing Fixed Ops with AI and Smarter Scheduling
Kaylee Felio chats live from the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit with Michael Webb of AutoEngage, diving into the fast-evolving world of fixed ops, service scheduling, and customer experience. Michael unpacks how AutoEngage leverages AI to streamline service appointments, minimize manual work, and deliver a true "Amazon-like" experience for dealership customers—all while directly integrating into major DMS platforms. The conversation shines a light on cutting through the digital noise, focusing on automation that actually serves staff and customers, not just tech for tech’s sake. Along the way, they discuss the unique energy of fixed ops-focused events, the shift from traditional campaigns to real-time, intelligent outreach, and what's next for integrating parts with service scheduling. Michael brings gritty, optimistic insights about making operational processes smoother while nurturing every customer touchpoint in the dealership journey. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Real-time, AI-driven scheduling reduces manual work and elevates the customer experience. Dealerships should treat automation tools as “employees” that need training and oversight. Integrating parts with service scheduling is on the horizon—fix the foundation now to be ready for next-gen efficiency. Chapters 00:00 AI in auto service scheduling 05:15 Discussing BDC's role in service 06:12 The AI-driven customer experience Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 17 · 9 min
Building Stronger Fixed Ops Teams: Insights from NCM Fuel the Future Summit with Beth and Tricia
This episode of the PartsEdge Podcast features a dynamic conversation at the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit, where Kaylee Felio interviewed Beth and Tricia from Herrin Gear Infiniti. Both are newly minted parts and service managers, navigating the challenges of rebuilding their departments, fixing the foundation, and taking their dealership’s performance to the next level. From learning curves to leveling up with new tech, these leaders share how they're harnessing strong communication, AI tools, and collaborative vendor partnerships to turn inventory faster, support their teams, and keep customer satisfaction at an all-time high. This gritty, optimistic conversation is packed with practical insights for parts managers, service leaders, and anyone ready to stop making inventory a guessing game. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Communication between parts and service is essential to fixing issues and running efficiently Leverage technology and AI tools Invest in networking and partner relationships Chapters 00:00 Improving customer response strategies 04:03 Power of video reviews 08:42 Recognizing employee successes 10:11 Talking about data fog Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 12 · 12 min
Breaking Through the Data Fog in Fixed Ops
Kaylee Felio joined Maureen Martin, VP of Strategic Alliances at Dynatron Software, and James Grogan, EVP of Client Success at Dynatron Software at the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit. Together, they dig into what it takes to future-proof dealership fixed ops. From data-driven decision-making and industry-wide best practices, to strengthening the partnership between parts and service teams, this conversation is all about actionable steps for turning inventory faster, reducing obsolescence, and maximizing retention. Learn how embracing data visibility and the right tools can clear the “data fog” that holds departments back, and why marrying parts and service pricing strategies is crucial for results. The team shares how automation, compliance checks, and optimized parts pricing grids empower parts managers and directors to lead with confidence—no more guessing games, no more leaving money on the table. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Fix the foundation Turn inventory faster Collaboration between parts and service leaders, paired with performance insights, reduces friction and boosts overall dealership health. Chapters 00:00 Understanding dealership data challenges 06:21 Pricing strategy and customer retention 06:56 Discussing fixed operations insights 11:30 Embracing AI in the industry Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com
June 5 · 8 min
The Second Set of Eyes Every Parts Department Needs
On this episode of Parts Edge Podcast, Kaylee Felio sits down LIVE with Robert Perez, Fixed Operations Director of South Texas Auto Group, at the NCM Fuel the Future Fixed Ops Summit. Robert shares strategies for embracing new technology, tackling obsolescence, and the future of mobile service in dealership Fixed Ops. From maximizing appointment scheduling with AI to streamlining reporting and leveraging PartsEdge as a true co-pilot, this chat is packed with gritty, practical tips for fixed ops leaders looking to turn inventory faster and fix the foundation. -------------------------------------------- Takeaways Leverage technology and reporting tools like PartsEdge to run a lean, efficient parts department—you can’t fix what you can’t see. Embrace AI-driven appointment schedulers to maximize service opportunity and keep your bays (and customers) flowing. Start experimenting with mobile service now—customers want convenience, and the dealerships willing to try new models will win. Chapters 00:00 Importance of consistent service 05:58 Discussing GM mobile service program 06:44 Adopting mobile car services Kaylee Felio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayleefelio Website: https://www.partsedge.com

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