Category: Podcast

We are kicking off Season 2 of "Solder & Soot: A NARSA/IDEA Podcast" with a pioneer in the cooling systems world: Frank Finger, whose career spans nearly 80 years. Mr. Frank is not only a dear friend to both Bobby Duran and Mark Taylor, but he's also a wealth of information to everyone in NARSA/IDEA. In Part 1 of this interview, we learn about the early days of NARSA/IDEA in the 1950s, how the radiator industry has changed over time, and the piece of business advice that Frank's father taught him that he will never forget.

In this latest episode of "Solder & Soot," we sit down with three generations of Schelkuns (Mike, Jim, and Andrew) who run Empire Radiator Service. We dive into the past, present, and future plans of the Rochester, New York-based company and dig into what it's really like working with your family.

We learn all about life in Zimbabwe with Mike Marques and Darren Maboreke of Mike's Radiators in this episode of "Solder & Soot." They are new members to NARSA/IDEA, but they're both experienced in the world of cooling systems. From recruiting employees to finding materials, we discuss the challenges of operating a radiator shop in Africa. Plus, have you heard of the African tiger fish? We learn more about this monster of a fish, and why it's especially tough to catch. 

This episode we jump across the pond to speak with Jeff Thorpe of G & M Radiator based in Scotland. G & M’s roots go back all the way to 1919. Not only do we find out about cooling systems industry history overseas, but we learn more about the skilled labor shortage challenges the UK is dealing with. A member of NARSA/IDEA for many years, G & M also shares some exciting breaking news with us about the company’s future plans!

Did you know that 40% of engine downtime is coolant-related? This month on “Solder & Soot,” we dive into the science of coolants with Joe Long of Old World Industries. Joe has more than 40 years of experience in the trucking industry and is definitely an expert in his field. Not only does Joe answer our top questions, but he also explains the most common mistakes technicians make when it comes to coolants, cleaners, and other chemicals in this latest episode.

We discuss current industry trends with Jamie Irvine of The Heavy-Duty Parts Report podcast. Jamie has worked in the heavy-duty parts industry since 1998 and is currently a Sales and Marketing Consultant. Why should businesses focus on service? How can companies eliminate waste and inefficiency? Jamie breaks down how you can succeed against your competition in the latest episode of "Solder & Soot: a NARSA/IDEA Podcast."

This week, we chat with cooling systems veteran David Bienvenu of Radiator Service Co., who is based in Houma, Louisiana. He's the go-to guy many of our NARSA/IDEA members call when they have a question. But unlike some, David didn't grow up in the radiator business. Learn how he got into the industry, the most costly mistake he ever made, and how NARSA helped him overcome challenges in this special episode.

Chuck and Bryan Braswell join us from North Carolina at Rocky Mount Radiator & A/C, which is a fourth-generation family-owned business, and their involvement with NARSA/IDEA runs deep as well. Chuck is a former NARSA/IDEA President and Bryan currently serves as a Board member. Learn how NARSA/IDEA has contributed to their success, about their future goals to expand the business, and what it’s really like working closely with your parents in this latest episode.

How has COVID-19 impacted the global supply chain? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Mary Kelly, a renowned economist, author, public speaker, and professor. Hear how Dr. Kelly describes the current state of the economy and what business owners need to know about what could happen next. 

In Episode 4, we talk with Steve Hoke of Diesel Emissions Service. Hoke’s empire has grown to include manufacturing and distributing diesel particulate filter accessories and parts. Hear how his business philosophy focuses on relationships and how he’s helping educate other members within NARSA/IDEA.