The Ride-in-Style Podcast

Exploring the Frontiers of Automotive Aftermarket Accessories & Restyling

Dive deep into the world of automotive aftermarket accessories and restyling with the “Ride-in-Style Podcast.” Hosted by Jesse Stoddard, an esteemed expert in digital marketing and promotions, founder of AutoStyle Marketing, and co-hosted by the iconic Josh Poulson, Chair of SEMA Pro and the celebrated 2022-23 SEMA “Person of the Year.” As the owner of Auto Additions Inc. and the pioneering mind behind the Auto Accessories Configurator and Dealer & Restylers Connect Software Services, Josh brings unparalleled knowledge and a pulse on the latest industry trends.

But this isn’t just about us—it’s about YOU, the passionate restylers, innovative installers, and aftermarket aficionados. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just getting your feet wet, our podcast promises to deliver actionable insights, insider secrets, and a fresh perspective on the dynamic world of auto accessories and restyling. In every episode, we bring leading voices to trailblazing technologies and dissect the strategies that propel the industry forward.

Benefit from our combined expertise, strategic partnerships, and deep-rooted passion for all things automotive. If you’re looking to elevate your game, keep abreast of the latest developments, or simply share in our collective love for aftermarket accessories and restyling, the Ride-in-Style Podcast is your ultimate destination.

Join us as we gear up to inspire, inform, and drive the future of automotive restyling!

Episodes Articles & Show Notes

Ride in Style Podcast: Episode 47 with Paul Elwell of PUTCO

Ride In Style Podcast: Episode 47 with Paul Elwell of PUTCO Most automotive aftermarket companies are fortunate to survive a decade. PUTCO has survived more than five. Founded in 1969 as a small trailer repair and welding operation in Iowa, the company has evolved through nearly every major trend in automotive accessories—from running boards and chrome trim to LED lighting, fleet safety solutions, and artificial intelligence. In this episode of the Ride in Style Podcast, Paul Elwell shares the story behind PUTCO’s growth, how a family-owned company continues to innovate after 55 years, and why the future of the aftermarket may depend on balancing tradition with technology. The conversation covers family business dynamics, product innovation, OEM partnerships, AI adoption, fleet growth, and what it takes to stay relevant across multiple generations of automotive enthusiasts. https://drive.google.com/file/d/15kC_VNMM8U0goehdDOeV5nTcWF7vDnly/view Ride in Style Podcast: Episode 47 with Paul Elwell of PUTCO 00:00 18:13 Apple Podcasts Spotify Facebook Series YouTube Meet the Guest Paul Elwell National Sales Manager, PUTCO Second-generation aftermarket leader National Sales Manager for PUTCO’s aftermarket division Family member of one of the industry’s longest-running accessory manufacturers Advocate for innovation, technology, and customer-focused product development Paul Elwell grew up around the aftermarket industry. From

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Ride in Style Podcast Episode: 46 with Rick Braschler of Dealer Source Ltd

Ride In Style Podcast: Episode: 46 with Rick Braschler of Dealer Source Ltd What does it take to build an automotive restyling business that survives industry shifts, economic cycles, changing vehicle technology, and the rise of a new generation of leadership? For Rick Braschler, the answer has always been adaptation. In this episode of the Ride in Style Podcast, Rick shares the story of Dealer Source Ltd., a San Antonio-based restyling company that evolved from leather interiors and sunroofs into a diversified business focused on wheels, truck accessories, commercial upfitting, and fleet solutions. Along the way, the conversation explores entrepreneurship, dealership relationships, sales management, succession planning, commercial vehicle opportunities, and the challenge of preparing the next generation for leadership in the automotive aftermarket. And yes—there’s also a spirited discussion about the San Antonio Spurs and why Dylan Braschler may represent the future of the industry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSrqiaSt7aY&list=PLHNem5wszJezO1sjfxhkRRjG0xYd0HzhH&index=46 Ride in Style Podcast Episode: 46 with Rick Braschler of Dealer Source Ltd 00:00 Industry Chaos and Preloads 00:41 Podcast Intro and Guest Welcome 01:07 San Antonio to Seattle Small Talk 02:17 How Rick Started in Restyling 04:03 Satellite Dish Days 05:26 Dealer Source Origins and Lawsuit 06:58 Product Shifts and New Markets 08:14

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Ride in Style Podcast: Episode 45 with Terry Payne of RDM Builds

Ride in Style Podcast: Episode 45 with Terry Payne of RDM Builds What happens when a lifelong car enthusiast, former truck driver, and Hot Wheels collector decides to turn a personal project into a mission to inspire an entire industry? You get Terry Payne. In this episode of the Ride in Style Podcast, Terry shares the remarkable story behind RDM Builds, a company that grew from a custom Jeep project into a respected builder, manufacturer, SEMA exhibitor, and industry advocate. Along the way, the conversation covers mentorship, volunteering, manufacturing, vehicle building, scholarships, youth development, and why Terry believes the future of the automotive aftermarket depends on helping the next generation succeed. And yes—there’s also a story involving Matthew McConaughey, a custom Bronco, and a six-figure auction result. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSrCY4LA0bQ&list=PLHNem5wszJezO1sjfxhkRRjG0xYd0HzhH&index=45 Ride in Style Podcast: Episode 45 with Terry Payne of RDM Builds 00:00 From Hot Wheels to SEMA 00:47 Volunteering Changed Me 01:46 Sponsor Advice Mindset 01:55 Podcast Intro Guest Terry 02:39 RDM Origin Story 03:53 Truck Driver to Builder 04:56 Pro Cup Gladiator Spotlight 06:31 Scholarships and Students 08:28 Connection Drop Interlude 09:14 Why Volunteer Really 10:32 Building Shop Conglomerates 11:05 One Stop Shop Manufacturing 12:03 Industry Future EV Debate 13:33

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Ride In Style Podcast: Episode 44 with Grant Evans

Ride In Style Podcast: Episode 44 with Grant Evans What happens when a Detroit car enthusiast turns down a comfortable corporate path to help grow his dad’s “tiny hobby business” out of a garage? You get Ecoological — one of the most recognizable names in truck restyling, known for products like Bumper Shells, Aerobox, and Gap Shield. In this episode of the Ride in Style Podcast, Grant Evans shares the story behind Ecoological’s rise from hand-trimming plastic parts in a garage to building OEM-quality truck accessories with industrial machinery, CNC manufacturing, and AI-assisted workflows. Along the way, the conversation covers family business dynamics, the future of truck personalization, fleet opportunities, SEMA trends, and why AI is becoming essential for aftermarket companies trying to scale intelligently. And yes — there’s also a debate involving a 2007 Chevy Cobalt SS and a 15-passenger Ford Transit van. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdPu4FlvReMhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdPu4FlvReM Ride In Style Podcast: Episode 44 with Grant Evans 00:00 Detroit Car Culture 01:07 Meet Grant Evans 01:35 Beard Banter 03:02 Eco Logical Brands 05:29 Detroit Roots Values 08:15 Joining Dad Startup 10:18 Breakthroughs Scaling 14:05 California Challenges 15:21 Future Personalization 17:31 Pro Shells Upgrades   18:18 Bumper Shell Makeovers 19:11 Aerobox Growth Plans 20:34 Family Business

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Ride In Style Podcast: Episode 43 with Craig Metcalf

Ride In Style Podcast: Episode 43 with Craig Metcalf For years, Kuat built a reputation in the cycling world with premium bike racks known for their clean industrial design, durability, and attention to detail. But now the company is making a serious push into the automotive aftermarket — especially truck racks, cargo management, and overlanding accessories. In this episode of the Ride in Style Podcast, Craig Metcalf joins Jesse Stoddard and Josh Poulson to talk about Kuat’s evolution from bike-focused brand to emerging force in the truck and off-road accessory market. The conversation covers rack innovation, SEMA growth, dealer relationships, environmental initiatives, and why the company believes design matters just as much as functionality. And yes — they finally settle how to pronounce “Kuat.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uU9im-PNhY Ride In Style Podcast: Episode 43 with Craig Metcalf 00:00 Rack Evolution Stories 00:57 Podcast Intro Guest 01:44 Kuat Origins Bike Racks 03:33 SEMA Groups Community 04:29 Truck Cab Rack Fitments 07:06 Craig Aftermarket Journey 09:36 Dirtbag Fork Mount 11:27 Why Trucks Growth     14:29 Brand Name Umlaut 15:30 Future Forest Initiative 18:36 Career Challenges Excitement 21:07 Ambassadors Events Program 23:27 Varial Cargo Box SEMA 25:26 Where To Follow Kuat 26:49 Outro Credits Banter

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Ride In Style Podcast: Episode 42 with Jessica Crossman

In this exciting episode of the Ride In Style Podcast, Jessica Crossman shares her journey from finance manager at Cadillac dealerships to a key player in the automotive aftermarket at Boston Truck and Van. Discover how she navigated industry changes, the importance of relationships in business, and her vision for the future of SEMA Pro. With insights on commercial upfits and the evolving landscape of restyling, Jessica’s passion and expertise shine through. Don’t miss her thoughts on empowering the next generation and the exciting projects happening at Boston Truck and Van! Tune in for an inspiring conversation!

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Want to be on our show?

If you are in the aftermarket automotive industry, we want to hear your story. Contact us to see if you are a good fit for our show and to schedule a time.

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