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 16 Melanie White of Hellwig

In this episode of the Ride-In-Style podcast, hosts Jesse and Josh interview Melanie White, CEO of Hellwig Products. Their conversation covers Melanie’s journey from making cold calls to becoming CEO, the company’s family history and involvement in SEMA, the challenges they faced during the pandemic, how they approach customer service, maintaining the company’s quality standards and legacy, and Hellwig’s broad set of products. Melanie also shares her experience as a volunteer and part of SEMA’s board of directors and her vision for the future of both Hellwig Products and the industry in general.

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Ride-in-Style Podcast Episode 15 Ralph Jorge Jr. of Specialty Automotive Treatments

Ride-in-Style Podcast: Episode 15 Ralph Jorge Jr. of Specialty Automotive Treatments

In this episode, hosts Jesse and Josh invite Ralph George Jr. to discuss his experiences in the automotive industry. There’s coverage on his journey, challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, progression from wholesale to retail and highest demand products. Ralph emphasizes the importance of customer care, treats listeners to interesting anecdotes and shares his hopeful outlook for the future. With humor sprinkled throughout, the podcast concludes by reminding listeners to subscribe, and directing them to autostylemarketing.com for more expert resources. Shared knowledge in the automotive field is emphasized as a key take-away.

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Ride-in-Style Podcast Episode 14 Zane Clark of SEMA (1)

Ride-in-Style Podcast: Episode 14 Zane Clark of SEMA

In this episode of the Ride-In-Style podcast, hosts Jesse and Josh sit down with Zane Clark, Vice President of SEMA, to discuss his journey from Prestige Products to leading within one of the industry’s most influential organizations. Zane shares insights on navigating change, fostering passion and adaptability, and the evolution of SEMA’s role in shaping the automotive aftermarket. He also highlights the future of the industry, emphasizing youth involvement, shifting perceptions about automotive careers, and the growing impact of technology.

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Ride-in-Style Podcast Episode 13 Eric Holmes of Eastman (1)

Ride-in-Style Podcast: Episode 13 Eric Holmes of Eastman

How to Thrive in the Evolving Realm of Automotive Restyling: A Discussion with Eric Holmes of Eastman Episode 15: Eric Holmes 00:00 Hot Takes 00:32 Introduction & Background Apple Podcasts Spotify Facebook Series YouTube Through the Looking Glass At the core of every efficient and innovative audio and video editing process is a well-crafted, checked, and revised script which effectively conveys the intended message. In this article, we’ll dive into a recent conversation from the “Ride in Style” podcast, between the hosts Jesse Stoddard and Josh Poulson, and their special guest – Eric Holmes of Eastman, a force to reckon with in the automotive restyling universe.  Throughout the engaging discussion, they covered everything from how Eric transitioned from working in a shop to dealing in the corporate world, learnings from his Marine Corps experience, easy tinning and traditional go-to-market strategies in the restyling market, not to mention, changes in the automotive paint protection business landscape. The Transition from Tent to Corporate Holmes divulged the intriguing details of how he transitioned from an installation expert to a significant player in the Eastman corporate world.  Having started out an account manager in the late ’90s, his rise through the ranks is a

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Ride-in-Style Podcast Episode 12 Henry & Courtney Pahlke of Top Coverage

Ride-in-Style Podcast: Episode 12 Henry & Courtney Pahlke of Top Coverage

https://youtu.be/W0T0zSC6Aqg?si=kEcD8tUIHOgdTK0s In a recent episode of the Ride-In-Style podcast, hosts Jesse Stoddard and Josh Poulson had the pleasure of interviewing Henry and Courtney Pahlke, the dynamic duo behind Top Coverage. This family-run business has been a pillar in the automotive restyling industry for decades, and their story is one of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to customer service. In this blog post, we will delve into the highlights of their conversation and explore the journey of Top Coverage. Chapter 1: A Legacy Begins Henry Pahlke, the founder of Top Coverage, shared with the hosts how the business started humbly in his friend’s garage. What began as an experiment with installing vinyl tops on cars soon evolved into a thriving enterprise. As Henry and his team gained traction, their services expanded to include pinstriping, side moldings, and simulated convertible tops. The passion for restyling and attention to detail quickly became synonymous with Top Coverage. Chapter 2: The Evolution of Top Coverage As the years went by, Top Coverage continued to adapt to the changing demands of the market. They transitioned from vinyl tops to sunroofs, becoming a leading buyer of STO and Hollandia products. The introduction of their signature two-stage sunroof

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Episode 11 Kevin Gillis of Integrity Customs

Ride-in-Style Podcast: Episode 11 Kevin Gillis of Integrity Customs

The Art of Unraveling a Value-Added Business: Insights from Kevin Gillis, Integrity Customs It’s no secret that successful businesses in the restyling industry are not drawn from just products and services; there is much more behind the scenes. One key factor is consistently adding value to customer relationships – a characteristic that sets Integrity Customs apart in the restyling industry.  In a recent episode of the Ride-In-Style Podcast, Kevin Gillis, the radiating heartbeat of Integrity Customs, elucidated the principles that sustain this unique company, shared his thoughts on the learning curve in the business, and offered essential tips for navigating the current industry landscape. The Beauty of Being Value-Added Maintaining consistency in a business can be challenging, let alone guaranteeing consistency in how businesses respond to customers. Nevertheless, Kevin emphasized this as a critical step in winning the market. Integrity Customs, for instance, emphasizes customer interaction, service delivery, and overall consistency. This commitment to consistency is evident in their shining reputation. Commitment to Customer Experience There’s a unique ambition that drives Integrity Customs. Unlike most businesses fixated on the need to sell products, Integrity Customs is devoted to the complete customer experience. They emphasize respect, honesty, and consistency, three pillars

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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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