Detailing Success Blog

Learning More Than Just the Basics.

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:51:10 GMT

We Teach more than just the basics.

We teach our students more than just the basics. Here students are learning additional services they can offer to their clients. Paint chip Repair using the Dr. Colorchip system. Helping students to be successful when they leave.

Teaching in ways our students will learn.

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:10:31 GMT

Every Student learns a little different.

Renny is demonstrating to his students the difference between bonding properties in different types of coatings.

At Detailing Success, we adapt and teach in a way that our students will learn and remember what is taught. Our goal is to make sure our students come away with the confidence and knowledge to use what we taught them in the real world. In detailing, there can be a bit of chemistry involved, but who wants to take a "chemistry class"? Renny and Oscar deliver their teachings in a way so students will learn and retain what they learned way after they leave training.

Extreme 1 day training classes in March 2025

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:53:11 GMT

Training classes filling up fast.

Classes this Month in Lindon, Ut. and Long Brnch NJ.

click here to go to our website to gather more information.

Detailing Success Training Is Growing

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 18:34:40 GMT

Watch us Grow

Detailing Success Training Is Growing—Built for the Detailing Community

At Detailing Success, we’ve always believed that the detailing industry deserves more than “tips and tricks.” It deserves real, structured education—hands-on training that helps detailers sharpen their craft, run stronger businesses, and stay ahead of an industry that keeps evolving.

That’s exactly why our training program is expanding fast.

From our flagship advanced course in the mountains to our growing network of training centers across the country, Detailing Success and Auto Training Collective are building for the detail community—and we’re just getting started.

A Rapidly Growing Training Network (Now 10 Training Centers)

Demand for professional detailing education is rising, and we’re meeting that demand by expanding where—and how—we train.

We’ve added two additional training centers, bringing us to 10 training centers nationwide. That means more opportunities for detailers to access top-level instruction without having to travel across the country.

Our 1-day and 2-day trainings are hosted across the nation, making it easier than ever to level up your skills with focused, hands-on instruction designed to deliver immediate results.

Our Flagship Experience: 5-Day Advanced Detail Course in Big Bear, CA (Every Month)

If you’re ready to go all-in on your craft, our 5-Day Advanced Detail Course is the experience detailers travel for.

Hosted every month in Big Bear, California, this intensive training is built for those who want to refine technique, boost confidence, and learn professional processes in a real-world environment—surrounded by others who take detailing seriously.

This is where detailers come to elevate the work, tighten the systems, and leave with the kind of knowledge that translates directly into higher-quality results and higher-value services.

Expanded Curriculum: New High-Demand Classes Added

Detailing isn’t just changing—it’s expanding. Customers are asking for more protection, more film, more long-term solutions. So we’ve expanded our offerings to match what the market wants right now.

We’ve added additional classes, including:

5-Day Paint Protection Film (PPF) Training
Residential Window Film Training
Auto Window Film Training

These programs are designed to help you add premium services, diversify your revenue, and build a business that can grow with customer demand.

Coming Soon: 3-Day PPF and Window Tint Classes

We’re not stopping with our current schedule. We’re also developing new 3-day PPF and window tint classes—shorter, focused programs built for students who want high-impact training in a tighter format.

These are coming soon, so stay tuned.

Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our Newsletter

With new training locations, new courses, and new schedules rolling out, the best way to stay up to date is simple:

Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest on:

New training center announcements
Monthly course dates and availability
New class launches (including upcoming 3-day programs)
Industry updates and training opportunities

If you’re serious about growing your skills and staying informed, the newsletter keeps everything in one place.

Built for the Community—And Built to Last

At the core of everything we’re doing is one mission: serve the detailing community with real training that creates real growth.

Detailing Success and Auto Training Collective are building a training ecosystem that supports detailers at every stage—whether you’re refining your paint correction, stepping into PPF and film, or expanding into high-demand protection services.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to invest in your skills, this is it.

We’re growing—because the industry is growing—and we’re building it for you.

Renny Doyle Podcast: Making set backs your victories

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:09:02 GMT

RENNY DOYLE'S WEDNESDAY MORNING PODCAST

MAKING SET BACKS YOUR VICTORIES.

RENNY, OSCAR AND BOB PHILLIPS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA STORE VISITS

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:07:32 GMT

ATG STORE VISITS

On the Road in Southern California: Renny, Oscar, and Bob Phillips Strengthen ATG Distributor Partnerships from the LA Basin to San Diego

Southern California has always been a proving ground for great retail—fast-moving customers, high expectations, and a culture that rewards quality and consistency. That’s exactly why the Detailing Success and ATG teams recently hit the road.

Traveling the corridor from the LA Basin down to San Diego, Renny, Oscar, and Bob Phillips spent time face-to-face with ATG distributors and their store teams, focusing on what matters most: supporting the network, strengthening relationships, and building momentum at the store level.

This wasn’t a “quick pop-in” trip. It was an intentional run of visits designed to listen, learn, align, and celebrate what’s working—while also identifying opportunities to help every location sell with more confidence and operate with even more consistency.

Why This SoCal Tour Matters

In a business that depends on product performance and customer trust, relationships are the differentiator. Calls and emails help. But nothing replaces being in the store, seeing the shelves, talking to the team members who interact with customers every day, and hearing real feedback in real time.

This Southern California trip had three clear goals:

Strengthen distributor relationships through in-person support and collaboration
Support store teams with education, product knowledge, and merchandising guidance
Align on growth opportunities across the region—so everyone wins together

From the LA Basin through Orange County and into San Diego, the message was consistent: ATG is invested in its distributors and stores—not just with products, but with partnership.

What Renny, Oscar, and Bob Focused On During Store Visits

Every stop had its own rhythm, but the conversations and wins centered around a few core themes.

1) Store-Level Connection and Team Support

In each location, Renny, Oscar, and Bob made time for the people doing the work: counter teams, managers, and ownership groups. The focus wasn’t just “How are sales?”—it was:

What are customers asking for right now?
Which products are moving fastest—and why?
Where do customers get stuck in the buying decision?
What tools, training, or signage would make selling easier?

Those questions lead to practical improvements, not generic “best practices.”

2) Merchandising That Makes Buying Easier

A strong product line only performs when it’s presented in a way that’s intuitive for customers. Across the tour, the team looked closely at:

Shelf layout and product grouping
Display clarity (especially for first-time buyers)
Complementary product placement (making add-ons feel natural, not forced)
Restocking and organization habits that protect presentation

Small changes in how products are displayed can create outsized impact—especially in high-traffic stores where customers want to decide quickly and feel confident in their purchase.

3) Real-World Feedback That Improves the Whole Network

One of the most valuable outcomes of these trips is bringing field insight back to the wider team. Southern California customers are highly informed and brand-aware, which makes the feedback especially useful.

The team collected input on:

Which categories are seeing the strongest demand
What customers are comparing ATG products against
The questions customers ask before they commit
What store teams need to educate buyers faster and more clearly

That information helps shape better support materials, stronger training, and smarter in-store strategy across the distributor network.

The Big Win: Stronger Relationships = Stronger Results

The most important takeaway from the LA-to-San Diego run wasn’t a single display, meeting, or conversation—it was the consistent strength of the distributor-store partnership.

When a distributor and store team are aligned, the results show up in the places that matter:

More confident staff conversations
More consistent product placement
Better customer experience
More repeat business
More trust in the brand and the people behind it

Across the region, the tone was optimistic and forward-looking. Store teams were engaged, distributors were collaborative, and the shared goal was clear: keep building, keep improving, keep serving customers at a high level.

Moments That Defined the Trip

While every stop had unique wins, a few “common threads” stood out throughout the tour:

Pride in store presentation: teams care about how their location looks and performs
Hunger for knowledge: staff want product education that helps them sell faster and smarter
Customer-driven adaptability: the best stores are adjusting based on what customers actually ask for
Momentum across the network: the region is building energy around stronger retail execution

And perhaps most importantly, it was clear that when the ATG team shows up, listens, and collaborates, stores feel supported—and that support turns into performance.

What Happens Next

Trips like this are not one-and-done. The purpose is to create ongoing alignment and practical follow-through.

Coming out of the Southern California run, the focus shifts to:

Continued distributor check-ins and store support
Sharing in-store insights so the wider network benefits
Expanding training tools and quick-reference resources for store teams
Keeping communication tight between ATG, distributors, and retail locations

Because the goal isn’t just to visit stores—it’s to help them win long after the visit is over.

Appreciation for Our SoCal Distributor Network

To every distributor, store owner, manager, and team member who took time to connect with Renny, Oscar, and Bob Phillips: thank you.

Your effort, professionalism, and commitment to your customers are what make the network stronger. Southern California continues to set the standard, and we’re proud to build alongside you.

If you’re part of the ATG distributor network and want additional in-store support, product guidance, or merchandising resources, reach out to your ATG representative—we’re here to help you grow.

This is Training Week in Big Bear, Ca.

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 23:03:18 GMT

Training Week at Detailing Success In Big Bear, CA.

This week is Training Week at Detailing Success in Big Bear, California, and our students are getting hands-on experience across the full spectrum of professional detailing. Throughout the week, they’re learning essential wash techniques, refining their skills in paint correction, applying ceramic coatings, and tackling specialized services like windshield chip repair and paint chip repair—all while also building the foundation for long-term success through our business classes. If you’ve been thinking about taking your skills (and your business) to the next level, now is the time to jump in. Join us this year—our 2026 classes are already filling up fast.

Click here for more information

We were blessed with a Visit from Matt Denney of Dynabrade showing us the proper use of the polisher.

Mobile Tech Expo 2026 Recap: Education, Innovation, and Community Done Right

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:06:43 GMT

Mobile Tech Expo 2026 Recap: Education, Innovation, and Community Done Right

Mobile Tech Expo 2026 Recap: Education, Innovation, and Community Done Right

Mobile Tech Expo 2026 (MTE) delivered exactly what this industry needs more of: real-world education, hands-on innovation, and the kind of community connection that reminds you why you got into detailing in the first place.

From the moment the doors opened, the energy was high—pros sharpening their craft, brands pushing the envelope, and shop owners and mobile operators swapping ideas that can immediately translate into better results and a stronger business. For Detailing Success and the Auto Training Collective (ATC), MTE 2026 wasn’t just another event on the calendar—it was a meaningful week of learning, teamwork, and relationship-building.

Strong representation and stronger relationships

A huge part of what made this year special was the time spent together with people and partners who continue to elevate the industry:

Renny Doyle
Oscar Hernandez
P&S
ATG Group
Dynabrade
Detailing Success
Auto Training Collective

Between conversations on the show floor, technical discussions, and the constant exchange of strategies and process improvements, it was clear: the detailing community is moving forward—and the professionals who commit to training, standards, and collaboration are leading the way.

Congratulations: Bob Phillips earns 2nd Place in the Paint Correction Contest

One of the standout highlights from MTE 2026 was the Paint Correction Contest—a true test of skill, discipline, and decision-confirmation under pressure. Paint correction isn’t just “make it shiny.” It’s tool control, pad/liquid selection, defect evaluation, clarity refinement, and efficiency—all executed with confidence and consistency.

That’s why we’re proud to congratulate Bob Phillips of P&S and ATG Group on earning 2nd Place in the Paint Correction Contest.

Bob’s result reflects what we value most: technique, professionalism, and a commitment to continual improvement. Bringing home a podium finish in a competition like that isn’t luck—it’s preparation meeting performance. Well done, Bob!

The Detail Mafia Meetup: Saturday night done right

If MTE is about education and industry advancement, then the Detail Mafia Meetup on Saturday was about what holds it all together: people.

The meetup was a major success—an awesome gathering filled with laughter, real conversations, and the kind of fellowship you can’t replicate online. It was a reminder that our community isn’t only built in classrooms or at booths—it’s built when we break bread together, check in on each other, and make space for new faces to feel welcomed.

To everyone who showed up, shared stories, and helped make it a positive, respectful, high-energy environment—thank you. This is the culture we’re proud to be part of.

Bringing it home: keep the momentum

If you picked up new techniques, got inspired by a new tool approach, or had a breakthrough mindset shift at MTE 2026, don’t let it fade when you unpack your bags. Bring it into the community:

Post your biggest takeaway
Share a win you’re bringing back to your business
Ask the question you didn’t get to ask at the show
Drop photos from the weekend and tag the people you connected with
Progress loves accountability—and community makes that easier.

See you next year

MTE 2026 may be in the books, but the next chapter is already on the horizon. The event closed with a clear message:

“See you next year!”

February 10–13, 2027 — Orlando, FL

We’ll be there—and we’re already looking forward to another year of learning, competition, connection, and community.

The Detailing Success and Auto Training Collective Team

KICKING OFF 2026

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 20:47:38 GMT

JANUARY 2026

Kicking Off 2026 the Right Way: An Incredible 5-Day Training, An Even Better Group of Students

If there’s one thing we’re committed to at Detailing Success, it’s this: start strong, stay focused, and keep raising the standard—for the craft, for the customer, and for the people doing the work.

And that’s exactly how we opened 2026.

Our first 5-day training class of the year delivered everything we want a new season to represent: real momentum, real skill-building, and a room full of detailers who showed up ready to learn, ready to work, and ready to elevate their businesses and their lives.

Five Days of Focus, Growth, and Serious Hands-On Work

There’s a difference between “watching content” and being coached. Between “trying a technique” and mastering a process. And between “having a business” and running a business with systems, confidence, and direction.

This 5-day class wasn’t about shortcuts or hype. It was about:

Hands-on repetitions
Clear processes
High standards
Real-world business thinking
And the kind of environment where questions are encouraged and progress is expected

From day one, the energy was there. Students weren’t just present—they were engaged. Not just taking notes—putting in work. Not just learning techniques—building a foundation they can take home and implement immediately.

The Students Made the Class What It Was

We can teach techniques all day long. But what makes a class truly special is the people in it.

This group brought the best kind of mindset to training: humble, hungry, and coachable. Some came in looking to refine their skills. Others came for a complete reset—ready to rebuild how they approach detailing, pricing, workflow, and customer experience. All of them came with one thing in common:

They were serious about getting better.

They supported each other, challenged themselves, and leaned into the process—especially when the work got technical, the standards got higher, and the details got tighter (which is exactly where growth happens).

And just as important: they brought the kind of professionalism and positivity that proves something we’ve believed for a long time—the detailing industry is full of good people who want to do great work.

What We Worked On (And Why It Matters)

Over five days, the focus stayed on building skill and building confidence. The goal isn’t just to “know what to do.” The goal is to walk away with:

A repeatable method

A higher standard
Better decision-making
And a clearer path for turning talent into revenue

Training like this is designed to impact both sides of the game: craft + commerce.

Depending on where each student was starting, the week included a mix of:

Technical Fundamentals and Advanced Execution

Sharpening foundational technique so results are consistent—not accidental
Developing a process mindset (not a “hope it turns out” mindset)
Improving efficiency without sacrificing quality
Understanding how small details separate average results from premium outcomes

Workflow, Systems, and Professional Standards

Building repeatable workflows that reduce stress and improve throughput
Structuring services so customers understand the value (and pay for it)
Cleaning up common bottlenecks: time estimates, process order, production flow
Setting standards that protect the detailer and the customer

Business Growth That’s Built to Last

Pricing with confidence and clarity
Positioning your services in a way that attracts better clients
Creating a customer experience that drives repeat business and referrals
Learning how to think like a business owner, not just a technician

If there’s one theme that keeps showing up in our trainings, it’s this:

Better processes create better results. Better results create better businesses. Better businesses create better lives.

Renny Doyle’s Mission: Real Help That Changes Lives

Renny has always been about more than just the technical side of detailing.

Yes—he’s known for high standards and world-class results. But the deeper mission has stayed consistent: help detailers build a better future.

That means:

Helping people charge what they’re worth
Helping them operate with pride and professionalism
Helping them build businesses that support their families
Helping them break out of the “grind” cycle and into real ownership

Detailing can be a powerful career. It can also be a trap if you’re working nonstop without direction, margins, or systems.

Renny’s work—through training, mentorship, and the Detailing Success community—is about changing that. About helping detailers stop guessing, stop undercharging, stop struggling in silence… and start building something stable, scalable, and meaningful.

That’s the real “success” part of Detailing Success.

The Real Win: What Students Take Home

The best part of any 5-day class is what happens after the class.

Students don’t just leave with “new information.” They leave with:

A clear next step
A stronger mindset
A higher standard of execution
Better business awareness
And a network of people who want to win the right way

And while we’re proud of the progress made during the week, we’re even more excited about what happens next—when these students bring the training back to their shops, their teams, their families, and their goals.

Because the ripple effect is real:
One detailer improves → one business improves → one community improves → one life improves.

Thank You to Every Student Who Showed Up Ready

To every student who attended: thank you.

Thank you for trusting the process. Thank you for putting in the work. Thank you for bringing the kind of attitude that makes training worth doing. And thank you for being part of a movement that’s raising the bar across the industry—one person at a time.

We’re proud of how 2026 started, and even more excited about what’s ahead.

Want to Be in the Next Class?

If you’ve been feeling stuck, inconsistent, underpaid, overwhelmed—or simply ready to level up—this is your sign.

Training compresses years of trial and error into a focused, hands-on environment with coaching, clarity, and real accountability. If you’re ready to improve your craft, improve your business, and improve your quality of life, keep your eye on upcoming Detailing Success trainings.

Let’s make 2026 the year you stop guessing and start building.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

DETAILING SUCCESS TEAM

MTE 2026

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:59:53 GMT

MTE 2026 BOOTH # 2130

STOP BY BOOTH 2130 AND SEE WHAT WE ARE UP TO.

Detailing Success has some new things for 2026!

We are growing and you do not want to miss it!

NEW TRAINING CLASSES
NEW COMMUNITY

MAKE SURE TO STOP BY BOOTH 2130!

SEE YOU THERE!

Detailing Success Team

You Don't Need Everyone's Approval

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 18:04:07 GMT

You Don't Need Everyone's Approval

We've all been there: yearning for that universal thumbs up, the constant validation. But here's the deal: the quest for everyone's approval is a recipe for disappointment.

We are a kaleidoscope of personalities, experiences, and preferences. What one person finds charming, another might find repulsive. It's simply impossible to please everyone, and trying to do so will leave you exhausted and out of touch with your true self.

Instead, focus on your values and live by those principles. The people who resonate with them will naturally gravitate towards you. Also, embrace your quirks and your individuality. Our imperfections, unique styles, interest and opinions make us who we are.

The people who truly matter will appreciate you for who you are, not who you're trying to be. By letting go of the need for universal approval, you open yourself up to deeper, more meaningful friendships.

Facing Your Fears and Crushing Your Goals: How The Detail Mafia’s Leadership Challenge Can Transform Your Business Mindset

Fri, 31 May 2024 19:36:07 GMT

Facing Your Fears and Crushing Your Goals: How The Detail Mafia’s Leadership Challenge Can Transform Your Business Mindset

Fear. It's the silent saboteur that can hold you back from achieving greatness in business. Whether it's the fear of failure, the fear of public speaking, or the fear of the unknown, fear can paralyze your decision-making and keep you from taking those crucial leaps forward.

But what if there was a way to confront your fears head-on, not in a sterile boardroom, but in the heart of the wilderness? Enter Renny Doyle’s Detail Mafia Leadership Challenge. More than just adrenaline-pumping adventures, The Detail Mafia’s Leadership Challenge is designed to push you outside your comfort zone, build resilience, and develop the very skills you need to conquer your business fears.

Two weeks ago, a small group of Detail Mafia Members embarked on the second Leadership Challenge hosted by Renny Doyle and Detailing Success. Their weekend consisted of a handful of outdoor adventures, each relatable to the challenges business ownership:

Off-roading on backcountry trails.
Building a minimalist shelter and spending the night in it.
Orienteering as a team using a compass to build navigation skills.
Man-tracking combined with search and rescue technique and skills
Rough terrain hiking and backpacking
Repelling off a 30-foot rock to face the ultimate fear.

How it Works:

Outdoor survival challenges come in all shapes and sizes. The specific activity isn't as important as the underlying principles:

Resourcefulness: You learn to make do with what you have. This translates beautifully to business, where you'll face unexpected obstacles. You'll develop the ability to adapt, improvise, and find creative solutions to problems.
Communication and Teamwork: Survival often depends on clear communication and teamwork. These challenges will force you to rely on your colleagues, delegate tasks, and work together to achieve a common goal. Just like in business, success is rarely achieved alone.
Confidence Building: When you overcome a physical or mental hurdle, your confidence soars. This newfound confidence spills over into your business endeavors, allowing you to take on bigger challenges and approach your goals with a newfound resolve.

Beyond the Basics:

The benefits of these challenges extend far beyond skill development. They can also foster:

Stronger Relationships: Shared experiences create a powerful bond. Facing challenges together strengthens team spirit and improves communication.
Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: The pressure of a survival situation forces you to think critically and find solutions on the fly. This translates to a sharper focus and better decision-making.
Increased Resilience: When you navigate tricky terrain, you learn to bounce back from setbacks. This resilience is key to weathering the inevitable storms of business.

Remember, fear is a natural human emotion. But it doesn't have to control you. By facing your fears head-on, you can unlock your full potential and build a business that's ready to conquer anything. So, set down the polisher for a bit and embrace the power Renny Doyle’s Leadership Challenge. You might just surprise yourself with what you achieve.

Your Dreams Don’t Have to Make Sense to Anyone But You!

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 16:06:52 GMT

Your Dreams Don’t Have to Make Sense to Anyone But You!

We all have dreams. A business idea you can't shake? A creative project you can’t stop thinking about? Sometimes, the biggest hurdle isn't the challenge itself, but the "peanut gallery" – those on the sidelines, whispering doubts and anxieties into your ear.

Here's the deal: there will always be opinions. Friends, family, even strangers on the internet might have something to say. But letting their unsolicited commentary silence your dreams is huge mistake. Your dreams don’t have to make sense to anyone but you.

Learn how to tune out the peanut gallery and chase your dreams anyway:

Focus on your "why." Why is this dream important to YOU? When the peanut gallery gets loud, refocus on your own passion and purpose. This basic motivation will drown out all the external noise.
Embrace the power of "done is better than perfect." Don't wait until conditions are perfect before you start. The peanut gallery loves to pick apart imperfections. Get going, learn as you grow, and figure it out along the way.
Surround yourself with cheerleaders. Find mentors, coaches and friends who believe in you and support your aspirations. Their positive energy will be a shield against negativity.
Remember, it's your journey. Ultimately, the success or failure of your dream rests on your shoulders. Don't the peanut gallery have any control over anything you do.

So, take that first step. Remember, the only way to guarantee failure is to never try at all.

Detail Mafia Warbird Revival 2024

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 18:16:40 GMT

Detail Mafia Warbird Revival 2024

Last week, 20 carefully selected members of The Detail Mafia donated their time to restore and preserve select aircraft and automobiles on display at the War Eagles Air Museum in Santa Teresa, New Mexico.

The team polished and protected the painted surface of a number of vintage aircraft and cars. A small group of team members also polished and restored the bare aluminum surfaces of the aircraft.

“I'm so proud of this team. They killed it!! Thanks to all the Warbird Revival 2024 team members. We made bonds and memories that will last a lifetime.” -Anthony Aguilar, Project Founder

It was truly amazing to see the dedication and workmanship that these talented detailers brought to the project.

“We are beyond honored to have this group out here for the weekend, working hard to restore history and legacies in real time. We are so appreciative for the tremendous effort that has been put forth by all of the team members, the 2024 sponsors, the Detail Mafia, and the whole Detailing Success team.” – War Eagles Ari Museum

And of course, a big thanks to the sponsors who supported the event…

The Marketing Hunters
Buff And Shine Mfg.
P&S Double Black Detail Products
GritGuard
Autofiber
Ceramic Coatings Inc.

The Detail Mafia is excited to return to the War Eagles Air Museum in 2025 to continue the preservation of this fine collection.

Renny Doyle Podcast 198: Dan Burros from Stinger Chemicals

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 16:20:24 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 198: Dan Burros from Stinger Chemicals

The Renny Doyle Podcast is Back! We’ve been busy and on the road, but we are back with special guest Dan Burros from Stinger.

Every week you can catch us live on both the Detailing Success Facebook page and Renny Doyle YouTube Channel at 8am pacific, 11am eastern. You can also listen to recordings everywhere you like to get your podcasts or at www.DetailingSuccess.com.

Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Google Podcasts
iHeartRADIO
YouTube

If you like our podcast, please show your support by... sharing our posts, liking our posts, tagging a friend, leaving a nice comment, commenting with an emoji, posting a cool pic, giving us a shout out, and most importantly... leave us a review! If you've got questions or comments, send them to Chris, Renny's Hitman at Chris@DetailingSuccess.com.

Just Say “No” - The Art of Setting Boundaries

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 17:49:44 GMT

Just Say “No” - The Art of Setting Boundaries

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by saying "yes" to everything? You're not alone. Our desire to please others can lead to a packed schedule and stretched resources. But here's the deal: mastering "no" is the key to a calmer, more fulfilling life.

Saying "no" isn't selfish; it's self-care. It allows you to prioritize your time and energy for the things that truly matter. So, how do you learn to just say “no”?

· Know your limits: Be honest with yourself about what you can realistically handle.

· Offer alternatives: Can you suggest a different time or way to contribute?

· Be kind but firm: "Thank you for thinking of me, but I won't be able to..." works wonders.

· Practice makes perfect: The more you say "no," the easier it gets.

Remember, a healthy dose of "no" allows you to say a resounding "yes" to the things that truly matter in your life. Make saying “no” a regular habit in your life. You'll be a happier, more focused version of you!

How Shifting Your Focus From “Me” to “We” Can Transform Your Life

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 19:22:33 GMT

How Shifting Your Focus From “Me” to “We” Can Transform Your Life

Our own needs, desires, and anxieties often take center stage, leaving the rest of the world in our dust. But life gets a whole lot better when we flip the script and make it about others.

Think about it. When you compliment a friend's new haircut, their smile lights up the room. When you hold the door for a stranger, a small act of kindness ripples outward. These may seem like tiny gestures, but they connect us, foster empathy, and create a more positive atmosphere for everyone.

Here's the deal: by focusing on others, we often find ourselves feeling better too. Helping someone in need releases feel-good chemicals in our brains. Acts of service become a source of joy, and genuine connections replace self-absorption.

So how do we make the shift? Here are a few tips:

1. Practice active listening. Put down your phone, make eye contact, and truly hear what the other person is saying.

2. Offer compliments freely. A kind word can brighten someone's day more than you know.

3. Volunteer your time or skills. Helping others is a powerful way to connect and make a difference.

Life isn't meant to be a solo journey. By making a conscious effort to focus on others, we build stronger relationships, create a more positive world, and discover a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment along the way. So, ditch the "me" mentality and embrace the "we." You might be surprised at how much better life gets.

Renny Doyle Podcast 197: Q&A Show!

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 16:13:31 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 197: Q&A Show!

This week on the Renny Doyle Podcast, it’s a live Q&A. Renny answered questions sent in advance and a few that came in during the livestream. Want to get a question answered on the next Q&A show? Submit your business, life or detailing questions to Renny@DetailingSuccess.com.

Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Google Podcasts
iHeartRADIO
YouTube

If you have questions or comments about the show, please email us at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com. Make sure you tell some friends about the show to help spread the word. Share, share, share! You can also find Renny on Instagram at @rennydoyle and @detailingsuccess.

Winners Focus on Winning: Why Drama is a Side Hustle You Don't Need

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 17:14:40 GMT

Winners Focus on Winning: Why Drama is a Side Hustle You Don't Need

Let's face it, it’s easy to get sucked into drama and gossip. A juicy tidbit about someone's life can feel like a mini-vacation from our own. But here's the thing: winners – the people who are truly crushing their goals and living fulfilling lives – don't get sucked into that crap. They're too busy winning to get tangled up in other people's business.

Drama is a Time Suck

Think about it. Every minute you spend dissecting someone else's situation is a minute stolen from pursuing your own. Winners understand that time is their most valuable asset. They invest it in things that move the needle forward in their own lives, not focusing on the lives of others.

Gossip Breeds Negativity

Negativity is contagious. When you engage in gossip, you're surrounding yourself with negativity. Winners, on the other hand, cultivate a positive mindset. They focus on solutions, growth, and inspiration. This positive energy fuels their drive and keeps them moving forward.

Winners Build Bridges

Gossip often involves taking sides and alienating people. Winners, however, understand the power of building relationships. They focus on connecting with others in a genuine way, knowing that a strong network can be a valuable asset on the road to success.

So, how do you ditch the drama? Here are a few tips:

Be mindful of your conversations. Is the topic propelling you forward, or just rehashing old drama? Steer the conversation towards inspiring topics or goals.
Focus on your circle. Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who uplift you and challenge you to be your best self.
Practice gratitude. Take time each day to appreciate the good things in your life. Gratitude fosters a positive mindset that fuels success.

Remember, winners are laser-focused on their goals. They don't waste time on drama and gossip. Now, go out there and win!

Renny Doyle Podcast 196: Adam Pitale, Founder of Adam's Polishes

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 17:34:48 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 196: Adam Pitale, Founder of Adam's Polishes

Adam Pitale, founder of Adam’s Polishes will joins Renny on the podcast. Adam has a great success story. You won’t want to miss this one!

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Renny Doyle Podcast 195: Love What You Do? The Realities of this Goal with Michael Abens

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 18:28:11 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 195: Love What You Do? The Realities of this Goat with Michael Abens

Do you love what you do? Michael Abens joins Renny on the podcast to discuss the realities of this goal.

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Beyond the Shine: Why Detailing Success Requires More Than Talent

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 18:18:35 GMT

Beyond the Shine: Detailing Success Requires More Than Talent

A good eye, attention to detail and great detailing skills are certainly assets in the detailing industry. But what separates the weekend warriors from the thriving professionals? Successful detailers stop thinking like detailers and start thinking like entrepreneurs. Becoming a successful detailer requires a blend of detailing talents, personal dedication, and essential business skills.

Technical Expertise:

The consistent pursuit of knowledge is what propels detailers forward. Mastering different techniques, staying updated on the latest products, and understanding the intricacies of various materials are crucial for delivering exceptional results. Every step demands precision and a commitment to quality.

Personal Qualities

Your work ethic, passion, and dedication to personal excellence is a key factor in finding success. You must consistently work to be the best version of yourself in order to build a profitable business and the lifestyle you want. These qualities will translate into building trust with your clients and nurturing long-term relationships.

Business Acumen

A constant pursuit of business knowledge is vital. A successful entrepreneur is going to excel at marketing, customer service, and business management. Continued education doesn’t stop with your detailing skills, you can’t ever stop your business education either! Surround yourself with mentors, coaches and educational opportunities.

So stop thinking like a detailer and think like an entrepreneur. In addition to developing detailing skills, the pursuit of business knowledge and personal growth will truly make a detailer shine.

Renny Doyle Podcast 194: You Can Tell a Winner with Just this One Trait with Grant Menard

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:25:40 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 194: You Can Tell a Winner with Just this One Trait with Grant Menard

Grant Menard joins Renny on the podcast. You can tell a winner with this one trait… Winners go after the hard task first vs going after the easy stuff.

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Why Winners Tackle the Hard Stuff First

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 19:10:23 GMT

Why Winners Tackle the Hard Stuff First

We all have that "to-do" list, a looming mountain of tasks taunting us with varying degrees of difficulty. Sometimes it’s a daily task list, while other things on that list will take considerably more time. While most might gravitate towards the easy stuff on the list, winners know the secret to success lies in tackling the hardest task first. Here's why…

Conquer the Mental Monster: The biggest hurdle to productivity often isn't the task itself, but the mental block it creates. Starting with the hard task forces you to confront that fear, build momentum, and gain the confidence to tackle anything else on your list.
Maximize Your Willpower: Willpower is a limited resource. By tackling the hardest task when you're fresh and energized, you exert your willpower when it's strongest, leaving more for the less demanding tasks later.
The Domino Effect of Accomplishment: Completing the hardest task first creates a powerful feeling of accomplishment that spills over into the rest of your day. Each subsequent task feels easier, building motivation and setting you up for a productive flow.
Freedom from Procrastination: Pushing the hard task to "later" only adds to its weight, creating a constant low-level stress. Tackling it head-on frees your mind and energy for other things, allowing you to be truly present in the moment.
A Matter of Habit: Making this a habit rewires your brain for success. You train yourself to approach challenges with courage and focus, developing a winning mindset that spills over into all areas of your life.

So, the next time you stare down your to-do list, tackle the hard stuff first. Don't procrastinate, don't shy away. Embrace the challenge and watch your productivity skyrocket. Winners don't wait for easy, they make the hard look easy.

-Renny

Renny Doyle Podcast 193: Delayed Gratification for a Bigger Purpose with Meghan Poirier

admin@detailingsuccess.com (Renny Doyle) — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:23:20 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 193: Delayed Gratification for a Bigger Purpose with Meghan Poirier

Renny sits down with Car Candy's Meghan Poirier and The Detail Mafia's Oscar Hernandez to discus the importance of Delayed Gratification for a Bigger Purpose.

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Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Why Consistent Action is Your Business Lifeline

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 21:31:44 GMT

Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Why Consistent Action is Your Business Lifeline

When it comes to your business, the biggest mistake you can make is fading into the background. Your business deserves a spotlight, and the only way to keep it in that spotlight is through consistent action.

The world is a noisy place, and your brand will get lost quickly among the distractions your clients are exposed to every day. To stay top-of-mind and keep their attention, you need to put yourself in front of them consistently every day.

But how do you achieve consistent action without burning out or getting overwhelmed? Here are a few tips:

Tiny Steps Become Big Wins: A simple social media post, a personalized email or text to a new or existing client, or even responding to comments - every action counts. These daily "micro-moves" build momentum and keep your brand visible.
Schedule Your Marketing: Treat your business marketing like an appointment. Block out time in your calendar for activities that put your brand out there. Whether it's writing a blog post, building a newsletter, creating video content, engaging in online communities, or networking with your community, consistency is key.
Batch Your Tasks: Batching similar tasks together is a productivity game-changer. Spend an hour writing social media posts for the week, record multiple videos in one session, or plan out a month's worth of email newsletters. This focused approach saves time and ensures you have content when you need it.
Repurpose: Don't reinvent the wheel every time. Repurpose your content across different platforms. A blog post can become social media snippets, a longer video can be turned into short video clips, and your email newsletter can inspire blog topics. Maximize your efforts and get more mileage out of each piece of content.
Celebrate and Adjust: Track your progress. See how your consistent action is translating into website visits, engagement, or even sales. Celebrate your wins, however small, and use your data to adjust your strategy. Are certain platforms working better than others? Is there a type of content that resonates more with your clients and followers? Learn, adapt, and keep putting your business out there.

You don't have to be loud to be heard, but you have to be consistent. Show up every day, take small steps, and keep your business in the spotlight. The more you put yourself and your business out there, the more your brand will grow and connect with people looking ready for your services.

Renny Doyle Podcast 192: Why the Current Economy Should Excite You!

admin@detailingsuccess.com (Renny Doyle) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 21:38:07 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 192: Why the Current Economy Should Excite You!

Things are all over the place. It’s sweet for some and sour for others. Renny dives into why that should excite you and how to take advantage of it.

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Get Trained and Get Ahead: Why Training Matters for In-Demand Detailing Services

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 21:28:01 GMT

Get Trained and Get Ahead: Why Training Matters for In-Demand Detailing Services

It’s no secret, Detailers are blue-collar workers. The term "blue-collar" might conjure images of dusty overalls, but don't be fooled by appearances. Blue-collar services like professional detailing are in demand and are bursting with opportunity, innovation, and high-tech tools. And just like any other career path, training is the key to unlocking your full potential helping you find Detailing Success!

Why Train for Success?

Master the Craft: Just like plumbers, welders, HVAC techs and electricians, detailing requires specific skills and knowledge. Formal training programs from skilled industry veterans provide the foundation you need to excel in less time.

Boost Your Earning Power: Certified and skilled workers are the backbone of any thriving industry and detailing is no exception. With proper training, you're not just "a car janitor" – you're offering a valuable service that can command a competitive salary. The more specialized your skillset, the greater your earning potential.

Stay Ahead of the Curve: Technology within the detailing industry is evolving faster than ever. Staying ahead of the curve requires continuous learning and engagement. Training, continued education and mentorship keeps you in the loop, ensuring you're equipped to handle the latest advancements and remain relevant in the detailing industry.

Open Doors for Growth: Blue-collar industries like detailing are not dead-end careers. Training, and mentoring provide increased knowledge and skills which leads to opportunities for growth and success of your own business. Those that find the most success in the detailing industry often receive opportunities within the industry.

Personal Satisfaction and Pride: There's something incredibly rewarding about seeing the tangible results of your work. Detailing a car to its maximum potential and/or building a successful business are achievements that bring a sense of accomplishment and pride that's hard to find at a desk job. Training empowers you to tackle these challenges and experience success.

Investing in your future as a detailer, a blue-collar professional, is an investment in yourself. With the right training, you're not just gaining skills and knowledge; you're building a career, a business and an entire industry with stability, growth potential, and personal fulfillment. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your polisher, get trained, and get ready to master our favorite blue-collar industry, detailing!

Renny Doyle Podcast 191: The Underrated Superpower: Knowing Yourself

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 18:32:33 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 191: The Underrated Superpower - Knowing Yourself

The Underrated Superpower: Knowing Yourself! Very few people do this, but taking a deep dive into knowing yourself can help you take a monumental step forward in your life and business.

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If you have questions or comments about the show, please email us at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com . Make sure you tell some friends about the show to help spread the word. Share, share, share! You can also find Renny on Instagram at @rennydoyle and @detailingsuccess.

Renny Doyle Podcast 190: Be Optimistic and Win!

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 18:23:40 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 190: Be Optimistic and Win!

Chris Di Giovanni and Kevin Davis (Detailer’s Roadmap), and Oscar Hernandez (Buff and Shine) join Renny for a fun and special podcast to take a look back at 2023 and an optimistic look forward to 2024.

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If you have questions or comments about the show, please email us at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com . Make sure you tell some friends about the show to help spread the word. Share, share, share! You can also find Renny on Instagram at @rennydoyle and @detailingsuccess.

Do I Really Want This (and Why?)

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 21:42:07 GMT

Do I Really Want This (and Why?)

We've all been there, contemplating a massive life choice, whether it be leaving a steady job to start your own business, taking the next step in a special relationship, or relocating your family to a new home. In these moments, a crucial question arises: Do I really want this, and why?

Wanting something and desiring something are two very different things. Desire is that initial sizzle, the rush triggered by novelty and excitement. It's the "ooh, shiny!" that grabs our attention. Want, on the other hand, is deeper. It's the quiet hum of alignment, the resonance with our values, our goals, our truest selves.

It’s easy to skip straight to “Yes” or “No”, but before we allow impulse to make our choices for us, it’s smart to take a mindful pause and think about the “Why”.

Why?

Is your “Why” rooted in your core values, your passions, or your long-term vision? Or is it fueled by peer pressure or the fear of missing out? Identifying the source will illuminate your path ahead.
Even the most enticing prospects come with fears. What scares you about his? Acknowledging your fears will empower you to face them head-on.
Explore alternate scenarios. What if it doesn’t work out? Visualize alternate paths and assess if you’re equipped to navigate them.

Listen to your gut.

Does this prospect feel like an exciting ride, or a stormy abyss filled with anxiety? Your body will whisper subtle truths to you, learn to listen to them.
Learn to silence the external noise and listen to your inner voice. When you pause for the quiet moments, it can reveal hidden desires and anxieties.
Pay attention to your energy levels. How does this possibility affect you? Does it drain you or energize you? This can be a powerful indicator of how things align with your true desires.

Whether you answer “Yes” or “No” to life’s questions isn’t etched in stone. It’s a dynamic choice and a journey of self-discovery. Your truest wants will reveal themselves in good time.

Renny Doyle Podcast 189: Don't Waste Your Time and Energy

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 21:52:50 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 189: Don't Waste your Time and Energy

On this episode of The Renny Doyle Podcast, Don't waste your time and energy. They are extremely valuable and limited resources. Treat them like the precious commodity they are so you can create a life that you love.

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Use Your Time and Energy Wisely

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 21:10:00 GMT

Use Your Time and Energy Wisely

We all have the same 24 hours in a day and we each have a limited amount of energy. Yet, some people seem to accomplish so much more than others. What's their secret? It's not magic; they have simply learned to use their time and energy wisely. Want to learn to do the same? Here are a few tips…

Identify your values. Identify what's important to you in life and what you want to spend your time and energy on. Once you know your values, you can start to make decisions that align with them. For example, if you value family, you might make time for family dinners and activities.
Set boundaries. Say no to the things that don't matter to you. Don't be afraid to let go of commitments that drain your energy or take you away from your priorities.
Delegate and eliminate. Not everything has to be done by you. If you can, delegate tasks to others. Be ruthless about eliminating things from your to-do list that aren't essential.
Take breaks. It may seem counterintuitive, but taking a break can help you be more productive. You'll come back to your work feeling refreshed and focused.
Learn to say no to distractions. Don’t argue with people. Don’t bet sucked into drama and don’t engage in the social media B.S. we see every day. Successful people don’t get involved in the B.S.
Cut negativity out of your life. Replace it with people, conversations, content and projects that add to your energy instead of draining it.
Track your time. Know where it’s wasted and where it’s used best.
Reward yourself. Celebrate your accomplishments to keep you motivated and on track.
Don't compare yourself to others. Focus on you and you only. Create a life that is fulfilling for you.
Progress not perfection. Some days you won’t use your time and energy as wisely as you should. That’s ok as long as you are still making forward progress.

Remember, your time and energy are extremely valuable and limited resources. Treat them like the precious commodity they are so you can create a life that you love.

Renny Doyle Business Build Up Webinar: Surviving and Thriving in Challenging Times

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 17:19:39 GMT

Renny Doyle Business Build Up Webinar: Surviving and Thriving in Challenging Times

Renny's Business Build Up Webinar Series is back! This month, special guests Justin Labato and Michael Enriquez join Renny for a presentation on how to not just survive, but thrive in challenging economic times.

Renny Doyle Podcast 188: Q&A Show!

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:07:47 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 188: Q&A Show!

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Renny Doyle Podcast 187: Be Thankful Every Day

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:03:25 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 187: Be Thankful Every Day

This week on The Renny Doyle Podcast, It’s the perfect time of year to remind ourselves that it’s important to be thankful not just during Thanksgiving, but every day of the year!

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Make Gratitude Part of your Daily Routine

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 18:44:43 GMT

Make Gratitude Part of your Daily Routine

As we approach Thanksgiving, it’s a great time to reflect and be thankful for all the blessings we have in life. It’s also a great time to remind ourselves that the most successful people that are genuinely happy are not just thankful during Thanksgiving, but are thankful every single day of the year. They make gratitude a part of their daily routine, and you should too!

Taking time to be grateful every day will help you stay positive, take the edge off and reduce stress and anxiety. The key is to exercise gratitude every day. Either first thing in the morning, or when you go to bed at night, make a mental list of the things you are grateful for.

Making gratitude part of your daily routine will help you be successful long-term and help you find genuine happiness. Developing an attitude of thankfulness, will have a positive effect on those around you and lead you and them down the road to success and happiness.

At Detailing Success, we have a lot to be thankful for. Our industry friends, our past and incoming students, and our Detail Mafia family. All of which provide us with love and support every day. It is my wish and my prayer that we may all be grateful daily, regardless of the circumstances we find ourselves in.

Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!

Renny Doyle’s 10th Annual Gathering of Detailing Professionals

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 21:23:03 GMT

Last Wednesday night during SEMA week, Renny Doyle hosted his Annual Gathering of Detailing Professionals. This was the 10 ^th year of this incredible event, but this year was a little different.

This event has grown from a dozen detailers back in 2011 to 300 in 2019, 500 in 2022 and now nearly 600 in 2023. All that growth gave Renny the idea to do something great with it, which is why we turned it into a charitable event and partnered with SEMA Cares.

Our goal this year was to raise $25,000 for SEMA Cares, which raises money for three children’s charities…

· Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer

· Childhelp prevention and treatment of child abuse

· Victory Junction camp for children with serious illnesses

Why? In addition to doing something really good for kids in need, we wanted to bring the entire detailing industry to the forefront of the automotive aftermarket and SEMA. Last week, we exceeded our goal and raised over $27,000, which means we are off to a great start and plan to turn this into an annual tradition.

We achieved our goal through raffle tickets, auction items and direct donations. Of course, we couldn’t have done it without our sponsors…

Title Sponsors

· Dynabrade

· P&S Double Black

Presenting Sponsors

· Buff and Shine

· CarCandy

· Ceramic Coatings Inc.

· IGL Coatings

· Urable

Silver Sponsors

· Angelwax

· Aqua Tek Coatings

· AutoFiber

· Colourlock

· Detailed Image

· Detailers Roadmap

· Dr. ColorChip

· Grit Guard

· Lake Country

· Onyx Coatings

· RaggTopp

· Rupes

· Wheel Woolies

Bronze Sponsors

· IK Sprayers

· SB3 Coatings

We hope you can join us for next year’s event. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 6 ^th . We will set an all-new goal and blow it out of the water!

Renny Doyle Podcast 186: The Ultimate Customer Service Experience with Michael Barnett

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 19:12:28 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 186: The Ultimate Customer Service Experience with Michael Barnett

Author Michael Barnett joins Renny to talk about the ultimate customer experiences and why now is a great time to step up the game.

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Renny Doyle Podcast 185: SEMA and the Importance of Industry Involvement

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 18:05:15 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 185: SEMA and the Importance of Industry Involvement

In this episode we talk about why you should attend SEMA at least once, but your involvement in our industry should be ongoing and consistent.

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If you have questions or comments about the show, please email us at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com . Make sure you tell some friends about the show to help spread the word. Share, share, share! You can also find Renny on Instagram at @rennydoyle and @detailingsuccess.

Renny Doyle Podcast 184: Team Dynarade and the DB8 Warthog

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 17:52:27 GMT

Renny Doyle Podcast 184: Team Dynabrade and the DB8 Warthog

Join Dynabrade's Matt Denney, Renny Doyle and Jim Gross. The guys are gonna talk about the all new DB8 Warthog polisher and how Renny's vision became a reality with the help of Team Dynabrade.

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If you have questions or comments about the show, please email us at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com . Make sure you tell some friends about the show to help spread the word. Share, share, share! You can also find Renny on Instagram at @rennydoyle and @detailingsuccess.

Renny Doyle Podcast 183: Reacting vs Responding

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 18:48:32 GMT

Reacting vs. Responding, Know the Difference! Renny Doyle and Oscar Hernandez discuss the difference between an impulsive response and an deliberate response.

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Renny Doyle Podcast 182: Competition Happens at the Bottom, Collaboration Happens at the Top

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 18:45:01 GMT

You’ve heard the statement "Competition happens at the bottom, collaboration happens at the top”. It’s a common saying in the business world, and it's generally true, but what does it mean? Renny and Chris (Mostly Renny) will discuss it!

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If you have questions or comments about the show, please email us at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com . Make sure you tell some friends about the show to help spread the word. Share, share, share! You can also find Renny on Instagram at @rennydoyle and @detailingsuccess.

Competition Happens at the Bottom, Collaboration Happens at the Top

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 18:34:45 GMT

Competition Happens at the Bottom, Collaboration Happens at the Top

The statement "Competition happens at the bottom, collaboration happens at the top" is a common saying in the business world, and it's generally true, but what does it mean?

Those operating at the lower levels of an organization or industry are generally more focused on their individual goals and competing with each other for customers and sales and sometimes notoriety. This often leads to a cut-throat culture where individuals will do almost anything to get ahead and only look out for themselves rather than help others and help their industry grow.

However, at the top levels of an organization or an industry, competition tends to give way to collaboration. Industry leaders understand the need to develop a cohesive strategy and align the organization or industry around common goals. Collaboration and cooperation are essential to achieving these objectives, which is why people at the top are more likely to collaborate than compete.

Here are a few reasons why competition happens at the bottom and collaboration happens at the top:

People at the bottom have fewer resources and opportunities. When resources are scarce, people are more likely to compete with each other for what they need.
People at the top have a broader perspective. Industry leaders see the big picture and understand the impact their decisions make. This broader perspective makes it more difficult to compete with others, makes collaboration more essential.
People at the top understand the value of collaboration. Collaboration can help an industry achieve more than individuals can on their own. By working together and sharing ideas, expertise, and resources, they can develop more creative and innovative solutions to problems.

So ask yourself, do you want to compete at the bottom, or collaborate at the top? I think the answer is pretty clear.

Renny Doyle Podcast 181: enny visits with an old friend, Dan Ekenberg

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 23:49:47 GMT

This week on The Renny Doyle Podcast, Renny visits with an old friend, Dan Ekenberg.

Dan was a mobile detailer in the 90's. He launched an online forum in 1997 called Mobileworks, which quickly became a portal for the Auto Detail Industry. The site featured suppliers, forums, and articles from industry leaders. There were resources for Auto Detailing, Windshield Repair, PDR, Headlight Restoration, and more. Dan eventually sold the website in 2012 and in 2017 rode his bicycle across the country in memory of his brother, who passed away from cancer.

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If you have questions or comments about the show, please email us at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com . Make sure you tell some friends about the show to help spread the word. Share, share, share! You can also find Renny on Instagram at @rennydoyle and @detailingsuccess.

Renny Doyle Podcast 180: Additional Revenue Streams for Your Business with IGL’s Mike Karlen and Chris Seaton

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 23:57:47 GMT

On this episode of the Renny Doyle Podcast… Additional Revenue Streams for Your Business with IGL's Mike Karlen and Chris Seaton

Warren Buffett has said “never rely on a single source of income.” He’s urged us to find ways to bring in money from a variety of sources. Building multiple streams of income is no longer a luxury, it’s become a necessity.

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Renny Doyle's 10th Annual Gathering of Detailing Professionals

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 20:17:44 GMT

New Let's Make a Difference! Join Renny Doyle, P&S Double Black and Dynabrade as we celebrate the 10th Annual Gathering of Detailing Professionals.

This year we will leverage this amazing event to make an impact on the lives of others and bring the detailing industry to the forefront of the automotive aftermarket. All admission and raffle ticket proceeds will be donated to SEMA Cares, which benefits 3 children's charities...

Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer
Childhelp prevention and treatment of child abuse
Victory Junction camp for children with serious illnesses

Get tickets at the link in our bio or here… https://tinyurl.com/2p8kbf97

Our goal is to raise $25,000 to $50,000 for SEMA Cares through private donations, sponsor support and ticket sales, so we encourage you to also make a donation using this unique link or the link in our bio.

https://www.sema.org/sema-cares#!/DIRECT-DONATION-10th-Annual-Gathering-of-Detailing-Professionals/p/492721984/category=0

This year's party takes place Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 7pm and returns to a great venue, The Place on 7th. We expect well over 500 people to attend and there will be food and hors d'oeuvres served, plus there will be a cash bar for you to enjoy. We will also have some great raffle prizes available from some of our industry friends and supporters, so make sure you purchase some raffle tickets.

Questions? Sponsor Opportunities? Reach out to Renny's "Hitman" Chris Woolman at (818) 564-5839 or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com

Renny Doyle Podcast 179: Q&A Show!

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 21:59:41 GMT

It's a Q&A show! Renny and Chris (mostly Renny) are here to answer your questions. We asked you to submit some questions, and in this episode, Renny answers them! Want to send us a question for the next Q&A show? Email Renny at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com.

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If you have questions or comments about the show, please email us at Renny@DetailingSuccess.com or Chris@DetailingSuccess.com . Make sure you tell some friends about the show to help spread the word. Share, share, share! You can also find Renny on Instagram at @rennydoyle and @detailingsuccess.

The Example You Set Matters

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 16:47:24 GMT

The Example You Set Matters

The way we live our lives sends a message to the people around us. Whether we realize it or not, our words, actions, standards, and results are constantly being observed and emulated. This is why the example you set matters, why it’s so important to be the best version of yourself.

When we strive for excellence and set a good example, we are showing others what is possible. We have an obligation to show them the best version of ourselves because what they see in you, they see as possible for themselves.

We are showing them that it is possible to be kind, compassionate, and responsible. We are showing them it’s possible to have high standards, be successful and most importantly, be happy. We’re showing them that It’s possible to make a difference in the world for themselves, their family and everyone around them.

What you do and how you live your life isn’t just about you, it’s also about the people around you. The people that look up to you. The people that emulate you. For that very reason, when we make the effort to be our best selves, we are making the world a better place!

So next time you are faced with a choice, ask yourself: "What kind of example do I want to set?" Your example matters. It matters to the people around you, and it matters to the world.

The Detail Mafia Learns that Fear is Essential for Your Growth and Success

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 08:00:00 GMT

This past weekend I hosted a small group of Detail Mafia members for a special Outdoor Leadership Training up in my home town of Big Bear Lake, California. The goal was to help these amazing business owners face their fears and learn to overcome them.

Fear can be paralyzing. It can keep us from taking risks, trying new things, and living our lives to the fullest. But what if I told you that fear is actually essential for your growth and success?

That’s right, fear can actually help you grow as a person. When we face our fears, we learn to overcome them and we build confidence and resilience. We become stronger and more capable. Our weekend consisted of a handful of outdoor adventures, each relatable to the challenges business ownership:

Off-roading on backcountry trails.
Building a minimalist shelter and spending the night in it.
Orienteering as a team using a compass to build navigation skills.
Mantracking combined with search and rescue technique and skills
Rough terrain hiking and backpacking
Repelling off a 30-foot rock to face the ultimate fear.

Facing your fears will help you grown in a number of ways…

Learn to trust yourself: When you face your fears, you learn that you are capable of more than you thought possible. You learn to trust your instincts and your abilities.
Build confidence: Every time you face a fear and overcome it, you build your confidence. You start to believe in yourself and your ability to achieve your goals.
Become more resilient: Facing your fears helps you develop resilience. You learn to bounce back from setbacks and challenges. You become stronger and more determined.
Become more open to new experiences: When you face your fears, you open yourself up to new experiences. You start to see the world in a new way and you become more willing to take risks.
Live a more fulfilling life: When you face your fears, you start to live a more fulfilling life. You are no longer held back by your fears. You are free to pursue your dreams and live your life to the fullest.

Of course, facing our fears isn’t always easy. It’s scary and uncomfortable, but it’s worth it. Here are a few tips for facing your fears:

Start small: Don’t try to tackle your biggest fear all at once. Start with something small that you are still a little bit afraid of. Once you have overcome that fear, you can move on to something bigger.
Visualize yourself succeeding: Before you face your fear, take some time to visualize yourself succeeding. See yourself in your mind’s eye overcoming your fear and achieving your goal.
Talk to someone you trust: If you are struggling to face your fear, talk to someone you trust. They can offer support and encouragement.
Take action: Don’t just sit around and think about facing your fear. Take action. Take small steps towards your goal. The more you take action, the easier it will become.

Fear is a natural human emotion. It’s not something to be ashamed of. But it’s also something that you don’t have to let control your life. When you face your fears, you grow as a person. You become stronger, more confident, and more resilient. So don’t let fear hold you back. Face it head-on and grow!

Normal is Broke, Weird is Wealthy

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 08:00:00 GMT

You’ve heard me say it before, “normal is broke, weird is wealthy.” In today’s world, being unique and being yourself can be a superpower. The most successful people are often the ones who are not afraid to be themselves, even if it means being a little weird. Afterall, being normal is not memorable and if you want t find success, you have to be memorable! Here are a few ways that being weird can be an advantage…

First, you’ll stand out from the crowd. In a world where everyone is trying to be the same, being weird is a way to get noticed.

Second, when you are weird you are more creative. When you’re not afraid to think outside the box, you are more likely to come up with new and innovative ideas.

Third, as mentioned before, being weird can make you more memorable. People are more likely to remember the person who is a little bit different, which will give you an edge in business and in life.

Of course, there will always be a certain audience that doesn’t’ understand your weirdness, and you may face some challenges along the way. But if you’re willing to embrace your weirdness, if used correctly, the rewards can be great and lead to a more meaningful and fulfilled life!

Renny’s Sunday Message: Don’t Let Others Bring You Down!

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 08:00:00 GMT

You have support and people in your corner. Don’t let others bring you down! Hang out with those who you can build up and those who will assist in building you up! I’ve got your back… Renny’s Sunday Message from July 30, 2023. Originally streamed live to the P&S Detail Products Instagram page.

Introducing the Dynabrade Renny Doyle Series DB8 Warthog Geared Dual Action Polisher

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Dynabrade has partnered with Renny Doyle to create a new tool line, the “Renny Doyle Series” and the first new tool is the the DB8, a geared dual action (GDA) polisher.

The collaboration on this project started over 2 years ago, and we are excited to launch the DB8 Warthog polisher this Fall. Last week, The Air Force One Detailing Team was able to run prototypes of the tool for the entire week, and we have been overwhelmed with positive responses to the performance and durability of the tool.

“I am extremely proud to deliver this tool to the detailing market. This project was a collaboration between myself and Dynabrade, the leader in abrasive finishing tools. We combined my 30-plus years of detailing experience along with their 50-plus years of innovative engineering to create a tool that is ergonomically superior and best-in-class in performance. The result is a sleek, lightweight tool with precision balance that delivers high-quality finishes. I truly believe in this polisher and look forward to training the next generation of detailers on the gear-driven DB8.”

– Renny Doyle

The DB8 will be available sometime this Fall. Pricing is still to be determined, but will be comparable to other high-end tools on the market. Look for more details and information in the coming months!

Features:

GEARED DUAL ACTION (GDA) Won’t Stall. Provides the cut of a rotary with the finishing capabilities of a DA.
DUAL RUBBER SUPPORTS provide incredible stability when the machine is not in use.
REDUCED VIBRATION INCREASED INSULATION resulting in greater operator comfort and reduced fatigue
LOW PROFILE precision balanced design delivers superior control
LIGHTWEIGHT TOOL
TOOL CAN RUN 5″ OR 6″ PADS
ERGONOMICALLY-DESIGNED EXTENDED HANDLE
SINGLE-ACTION LOCK TRIGGER
VARIABLE SPEED CONTROLLED
20′ CORD with swivel connection

Stay up-to-date here… Dynabrade DB8 Warthog

Photo Gallery: The Detail Mafia Celebrates 20 Years as The Detailers of Air Force One!

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 08:00:00 GMT

In 2003, Renny Doyle started the restoration work on The Museum of Flight’s Air Force One, a specially built Boeing 707-153 known as SAM (Special Air Missions) 970. This very special piece of aviation history was delivered to the United States Air Force in 1959 to be used as the first presidential jet powered aircraft. While in service, SAM 970 served Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon.

Last week, July 10-15, 2023, a carefully selected team of 40 world-class detailers came together in Seattle, Washington to continue this wonderful tradition. Each team member is a volunteer. They each pay their own way to participate in the project. This includes airfare, hotel and other expenses. Plus, they step away from their own business for 8 days!

The Air Force One Detailing Team is made up of carefully selected members of The Detail Mafia, an network group of entrepreneurs within the detailing industry. Each member of The Detail Mafia has completed Renny Doyle’s Advanced 5-Day Detailing Training at Detailing Success. Detail Mafia members who wish to be selected for The Air Force One Detailing Team must have a minimum of two years of membership in the group, plus they must apply for a spot on the team.

Back in 2003, Renny saw Air Force One in a distressed state. The plane had spent the prior ten years on an open-air tarmac. In those first few years of the project, the focus was restoration. After that, the focus shifted to annual preservation and maintenance, as the Seattle climate takes its toll on the aircraft. Since the project began, innovative technology and cutting-edge products have kept the historic aircraft preserved for future generations.

Air Force One is just one part of the Museum of Flight’s ambitious preservation and restoration projects. Alongside this historic endeavor, the team focused its attention on T-Square 54, the equally historic WWII B-29 Superfortress Bomber. The Bomber is made entirely of 80-year-old aluminum. While flying sorties over the Pacific Ocean and Japan during WWII, 50-caliber bullets struck the aluminum skin of T-Square 54. The Museum of Flight rescued it after abandonment in an Arizona desert.

Other significant aircraft under the team’s care included the Concorde G-BOAG “Alpha Golf,” Boeing 727-100, a Lockheed Constellation known as “Connie” and a B-17 Bomber known as “The Boeing Bee”. This comprehensive restoration program allows visitors to witness the patriotism and dedication of the entire restoration team.

Of course none of this would be possible without the support of our detailing industry sponsors…

P&S Detail Products, Dynabrade, RoadFS by Zenware, Buff and Shine Mfg., Detailer’s Roadmap, Urable, IK Sprayers, Angelwax, GritGuard, Flex, AutoFiber, Rupes, IGL Coatings, Dr. ColorChip, Detailed Image, RaggTopp, Lake Country Mfg., SB3 Coatings, CarCandy, OrbisX, Autogeek, Onyx Coatings, Car Supplies Warehouse, Detailer’s Helper, Miami Luxe, Jim’s Auto Installations & Detailing, Hampton’s Mobile, Buff Brite, Kimball’s Hands On Detailing, Griot’s Garage

Their support and sponsorship of this enduring project makes a positive impact on the entire detailing industry and ensures these important pieces of American history will be preserved for future generations. From the bottom of our hearts, we are grateful our volunteers and our sponsors We simply could not do this without you.

Why Thoroughbred Horses Don’t Look at Other Horses and Why You Shouldn’t Either

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Thoroughbred horses are known for their speed and agility. They are bred to race, they are very competitive, and they want to win! When a thoroughbred horse is racing, it never looks over at the other horses. It’s focused on running the fastest race it can while staying in its own lane.

As business owners, we can learn a lot from why thoroughbred horses don’t look at their competition. First, it’s distracting. The horse knows they will lose focus and slow down. Second, looking at the other horses can be intimidating. If the horse sees the other horse has moved ahead, they risk becoming discouraged and giving up.

Third, and possibly the most important, looking at the other horses in the race can be dangerous. If the horse is focused on another horse, it may not see the hazards that lie ahead and an trip, fall and fail to finish. Likewise, as business owners, if we focus on the other detailer down the street, we take our eye off the goal and can trip and fall on the way to our own success.

It’s possible to teach a thoroughbred horse to not look at other horses. With patience and discipline, it’s also possible for you to ignore the other guy and just focus on you and your business. Andy Frisella said it best…

“If you really want to be extraordinary, remember this… It’s always YOU vs YOU.”

Renny’s Sunday Message: Expanding Your Comfort Zone

Sun, 28 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

This week’s Sunday Message is about remembering our fallen heroes on Memorial Day and Expanding Your Comfort Zone. It was originally streamed live on the P&S Detail Products Instagram page on Sunday, May 28, 2023.

Being Nice in Business and Detailing

Tue, 16 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

In today’s world, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of trying to get ahead. But it’s important to remember that being nice is a huge asset in life and business.

Doing everything with a smile and being nice will help you build strong relationships with your colleagues and clients in the detailing industry. It’s pretty simple, when people feel like they’re being treated with kindness and respect, they’re more likely to want to do business with you.

An awesome side effect of being nice is it makes you more memorable. In a world where we are constantly bombarded with crap, it’s important to stand out from the crowd and being nice and doing everything with a smile is a great way to do that.

Finally, being nice will help create a great work environment for your employees. When people feel happy and appreciated, they’re more likely to be productive and engaged. Plus, your niceness and happiness will rub off on them, which will have a huge impact on the level of service you provide your customers, which will make happier customers!

Increased productivity, improved customer service, increased sales, enhanced reputation and reduced stress are just a handful of the benefits of being nice in business. Not a bad list is it?

So, if you’re looking for ways to improve your business, start with a smile and be nice. It’s a simple change that can make a big difference!

Renny’s Sunday Message: Being Nice and Being Friendly

Sun, 14 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

This week’s Sunday Message is all about being nice and being friendly, an important lesson Renny learned from his Mom and Grandma. It was originally streamed live on the P&S Detail Products Instagram page on Sunday, May 14, 2023.

Procrastination Is The Enemy Of Success

Mon, 01 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

“Do it now” is a simple phrase, but it’s also very powerful. It can help us to overcome procrastination, take action on our goals, and live a more successful life.

We procrastinate for many reasons. Sometimes we’re afraid of failure. Other times we simply not sure where to start. But whatever the reason, procrastination holds us back from achieving our goals and realizing success. I love this quote by Hunter S. Thompson…

“A man who procrastinates in his choosing will inevitably have his choice made for him by circumstance.”

The good news is that procrastination is a habit that can be broken. And one of the best ways to break it is to simply start doing things now. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Don’t wait for everything to be lined up just right. Just start and do it now!

Of course, it’s not always easy to do things now. Sometimes we need to get outside our comfort zone. The important thing is to take action. Even if it’s just a small step, it’s better than doing nothing.

Here are a few tips for overcoming procrastination and doing things now:

Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make them seem less daunting and more achievable.
Set deadlines for yourself. This will help you to stay on track and avoid putting things off until the last minute.
Get a mentor. Having someone else to support you and hold you accountable can help you to stay motivated and on track.
Reward yourself for your accomplishments. This will help you to stay positive and motivated.

Remember, procrastination is a habit that can be broken. Just start doing things now. If you have a goal and take action, you can achieve anything you want!

Your Path to Success is Unique

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 08:00:00 GMT

As entrepreneurs, we work hard. In fact, we are some of the hardest working people I know. Our motivation to work hard is a little different for each of us, but it does lead to one common goal… Success!

The path to success is not a straight line. There are slight curves, speed bumps and even sharp turns along the way. Some paths are paved, some are dirt and some aren’t event paths at all. We all start at the beginning, but each of our journey’s come with different circumstances.

Some of us start with nothing. Some of us have full-time jobs to pay the bills as we build our businesses in our free time. Others of us take out loans to get our business off the ground. With all these differences, how do each of us find success? By identifying and solving problems through hard work.

Problem solvers find success. Think about it, do you know any successful people that look the other way when they see a problem? Probably not. Successful people embrace problems, try to anticipate them and correct them. Successful entrepreneurs take advantage of problems to make money by offering solutions.

If you focus on solving your problems and solving other people’s problems, you will increase your value, outperform your competition and in time, find success.

Project 51 Featured in Auto Detailing News!

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Did you catch the latest copy of Auto Detailing News? Prentice St. Clair did an awesome write up of Richard Ambroze’s Squad 51 Detailing Project.

Ricard put together a team of detailers from The Detail Mafia to preserve and protect both Squad 51 and Engine 51 from the hit television show “Emergency”. The iconic vehicles are on display at the Los Angeles County Fire Museum. Read all about it here…

DOWNLOAD THE SPRING 2023 ISSUE

Be Productive, Not Just Busy!

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 08:00:00 GMT

I’m always preaching balance. That’s the beauty of detailing, it’s a lifestyle business and allows us to achieve the work-life balance we desire. However, none of us will achieve that balance overnight. It takes time. In the beginning of my career and business, there was often no weekends. I worked a lot of seven day work weeks, but it came at a big cost.

I reached my limit and realized I had avoid burnout, so I focused on managing my time and staying focused. The goal being to have a fun life while growing my business, not just a busy life!

One of the most important keys to success is to try and not do everything, but to focus on doing the right things. You need to learn to identify what’s most important to you and focus your time and energy on those activities, the activities that will bring you the most return on your time investment.

Be alert and sensitive to anything that doesn’t support your goals and become a pro at saying NO! It’s hard at first, but once you master it, you will see such a huge difference in your productivity and success that you’ll get used to saying NO in no time.

Time is valuable to all of us. We shouldn’t spend it doing things that don’t align with where we want to be. Remember, the goal is to have a fun life. It’s important to dedicate some of your time to taking care of yourself and recharging. Integrating time for you and your family is how you are going to find balance.

Productivity comes to those that can stay focused on their priorities, are selective in their activities and take care of themselves. Add all those together and you’ll find success!

Renny’s Sunday Message: Increase Profits Through Efficiency

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 08:00:00 GMT

This week’s Sunday Message is all about increasing your profits through efficiency. It was originally streamed live on the P&S Detail Products Instagram page on Sunday, April 2, 2023.

Mentoring Matters When it Comes to Your Success

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Mentors come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Actually, they come from a variety of backgrounds with a variety of experiences, but they do all share a common goal: to help you, their mentee succeed.

Throughout my life I’ve always made it a point to have a mentor in my life, in fact, I have always had multiple mentors. Some of these were Peer Mentors and others were Mentors. What’s the difference?

A peer mentor is someone who is at the same stage of career or life as you. They can provide you with support, advice and guidance relevant to your situation. They can also connect you with other peers going through similar experiences.

A mentor is someone who is more experienced than you and can help you learn and grow. They will help you develop your skills and knowledge while navigating the challenges of your business and life.

Good mentors are understanding, they listen and they share. Here are a few benefits to mentorship…

A good mentor can help you develop your skills and knowledge. A mentor can provide you with the opportunity to learn from someone who has already been successful in your field. They can help you develop the skills you need to succeed.
A good mentor can help you build a network of contacts. A mentor can introduce you to people who can help you grow your business. They can connect you with potential customers, business partners, and other important relationships.
A good mentor can help you stay motivated and focused. When you are facing challenges in your business, it can be helpful to have someone to turn to for support. Your mentor can offer you advice and encouragement, and they can help you stay focused on your goals.

How do you find a good mentor? My best advice is to look for a mentor that is where you want to be, not where you are right now (peer mentor). Here are a few tips on how to find a good mentor…

Ask for recommendations from people you admire. If you know someone who has been successful in business, ask them if they have any recommendations for mentors.
Join a mentoring program. There are many mentoring programs available, both online and in person. These programs can help you connect with potential mentors who share your interests and goals.
Look for mentors in your field. You can find mentors by attending industry events, reading industry publications, or networking with other professionals in your field.
Be proactive. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people you admire and ask them if they would be willing to be your mentor. The worst they can say is no.

Once you have found a good mentor, it’s important for you to be a good mentee and be respectful of your mentor’s time. The relationship must be nurtured through regular communication. You must also be open to their feedback and have thick skin. You may feel like they are trying to tear down your dreams, but they are really just trying to save you from hardships.

Having a mentor is a great way to grow and develop as a person. Allow your mentor to mentor you. Don’t shut down, make sure you listen and take action!

Renny’s Sunday Message: The Importance of Mentorship

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

This week’s Sunday Message is all about mentors, mentoring and being a good mentee. It was originally streamed live on the P&S Detail Products Instagram page on Sunday, March 26, 2023.

To Preserve and Protect – The Detail Mafia at the LAPD Museum

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, a specialized group of Detail Mafia members volunteered their time to “Preserve and Protect” a trio of historic police cars at the LAPD Museum in Highland Park, California.

The museum was originally a police station built in 1925. In 1983, it was closed and later severely vandalized. It has since been restored by the Historical Society to its original condition and is now a registered National Historic Landmark.

The project was organized by Richard Ambroze of Guns & Hoses Detailing. He put together a team consisting of Richmond Reyes, Prentice St Clair, Anthony Marquez, Anthony Aguilar, Oscar Hernandez, Jerome Holland, Sergio Nunez and Nick Hill.

The team focused on paint correcting and ceramic coating three very special museum artifacts…

1958 Chevy Del Ray LAPD patrol car
1971 Plymouth Satellite patrol car used in the hit television show, Adam-12
1978 Plymouth Fury, LAPD patrol car

Of course, this couldn’t have been done with just volunteer labor alone. Detailing products were supplied by P&S Detail Products, Buff and Shine Mfg., Jace Price’s The Last Detail, Autofiber and Solution Finish.

It was also very important to feed the team so they could keep working. Detailing Success, Rupes and Uber Detail in Corona, CA provided lunch throughout the project.

Richard has also organized and led projects to preserve and protect historic vehicles at the LA County Fire Museum. If you haven’t noticed, he has a passion not only preserving historic vehicles, but giving back to first responders. We are thankful for Richard’s kind heart, and we are looking forward to working with Richard in the future on more of these very special projects.

10 Must-Haves That Will Help You Find Success

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Want to help ensure your success as a detailing entrepreneur? Here are my top 10 must-haves for any business owner…

Get Skills!
Learn how to detail at a professional and profitable level.

Get Educated!
Obtain business knowledge and/or experience.

Get Mentored!
Have someone honest and reliable that you can depend on for help, mentoring, support.

Get Funds!
Have enough capital to get started, avoid debt and keep overhead expenses at a minimum.

Get a Plan!
Have a written business plan and update it often, addressing successes and challenges.

Get Sales!
Maintain a sales pipeline to ensure cash flow.

Get a Brand!
Establish both personal and business brands online and offline.

Get Referrals!
Establish and effective referral program.

Get People Skills!
Get comfortable speaking in front of people and on the phone.

Get Simple!
Develop a simple menu that’s easy for you, your customers and your staff to navigate and quote prices from.

Renny’s Sunday Message: Overworking and Under-Thinking

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

An oldie, but a goodie from last December: Overworking and under-thinking… “So many of us are guilty of this way of doing business.” Renny shares lessons learned from a wise man and his family, which were shared with him as a boy and has followed him around his entire life.

Become Famous in Your Market

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Get Famous! By getting out and becoming known and likable, people will share your name and services with others. Just like when you put money in the bank and it pays you interest, when you are well known, your reputation, business, and profits are compounded. How do you get famous in your market? Here are 5 of my favorite ways…

Become an Educator. Provide guest posts for the newsletters, blogs and forums of local car clubs. These organizations are on an ongoing quest for great content related to car culture. Use this opportunity to showcase your expertise. You may even become a regular contributor. Don’t like writing? Host open garage seminars instead.
Award Yourself and Your Staff. May sound a little cheesy, but there are many local organizations that have a number of awards and lists. Nominate your business and your staff for those wards. The winner generally get lots of press when they win, but just getting on the ballot will get you recognition.
Network. Find a couple of networking events and organizations that are a great fit for you, and then attend them regularly. Commit to and attend only the networking groups that allow you to meet your target audience. You may need to shop around for the for the perfect groups before joining.
Create Relationships. Thrill your customers with amazing service and they will send you refer you to an ongoing stream of their friends. This is compounding clients and it’s the best form of growth for a small business. Follow up with them after their service, surprise your customers with hand-written thank you notes, invite them to your educational events and open garages, etc.
Be Charitable. Align yourself with a great non-profit. Not only can you be a financial doner, but you can donate your time in the form of service work or become a member of the charity’s board. It’s a great way to expand your network and receive positive recognition.

Becoming “locally famous” will not only encourage customer loyalty, bring in referrals, but it will strengthen your business against competitors. As a business owner, how can you beat that? You can’t!

Renny’s Sunday Message – Stop Selling What You Sell

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Check out Renny’s sunday message from March 5, 2023 which was originally streamed live on the P&S Detail Products Instagram account.

3 Signs You Need to Ask for Help

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT

As a business owner, you wear a lot of hats. You are constantly being pulled in hundreds of different directions because at the end of the day, everything is your responsibility.

One of the many hats you wear as a business owner is the “problem-solver” hat. This is the person that everyone looks to when things go wrong, the person that is expected to put out the fires. The person that needs to make sure everything is running smoothly, finds the right way to do things and avoids the wrong way.

But let’s be honest, none of us are perfect and we don’t know everything. We don’t always know the right way to do things. Here are three signs that you need help…

You’re going in circles – You’ve been working towards a goal, working hard, putting in all your effort, but still not seeing any traction. You’re not making any meaningful progress.
You need fast results – It takes time to learn and move forward on your own. The right help, the right mentor can cut that time down considerably.
You need support – Even if you know what to do and how to do it, you sometimes just need someone you can trust by your side. We require connections to thrive. Strong relationships are a powerful source of motivation, inspiration and accountability.

If any of these 3 signs resonate with you, it’s time to change things up. It’s time to find someone who has figured it out before and learn from them. It’s time to ask for help!

Your success in business and life has a lot to do with the people you surround yourself with, so make sure that when you ask for help, when you select a mentor that it’s the right person. Someone who has the experience you need to help support your goals and dreams.

Renny Sunday Message – Assets vs. Liabilities

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Check out Renny’s Sunday message from February 26, 2023 which was originally streamed live on the P&S Detail Products Instagram account.

How Do You Know When It’s a “Need” or a “Want”?

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Seems pretty simple, right? Needs are things you can’t get by without. Things like your rent or mortgage, utility bills, food, healthcare, etc. Wants are the fun stuff like entertainment, dining out, travel, subscription services, designer clothing, etc. But what about “needs that are really “wants”?

The line between a need and a want can sometimes get blurry. It’s not always black and white and it be hard to differentiate a need from a want. Whether an expense is a need or a want depends on how and why you use it.

For example, you need groceries to survive, but the chips and soda you put in your cart is a want. You may need internet service to run your business, but it’s a want if you are only using it for entertainment. You may need a place to store your equipment and supplies in your shop, but it’s a want if you buy the fancy cabinetry you saw in social media.

It often comes down to a choice. Understanding which expenses are and are not optional will help you create a strong budget. Now, this doesn’t mean that wants are bad. Afterall, they are what motivate us to find success. However, it’s important to not overspend on your wants. Set a budget for your wants, but make sure all your needs and savings are covered first. Never ever go over budget on your wants!

By rethinking how your needs and wants look, you can make the biggest change in your monthly spending and come out ahead!

Success and Your Diet

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT

I recently saw a meme on Instagram that said “Your diet isn’t just what you eat. It’s what you watch, read, who you follow and who you spend time with.” I have no idea who it’s attributed to, but it got me thinking…

We’ve all had those times in our life when we’ve felt lost. Our minds get cluttered with worrisome thoughts, fears, doubts, which often leads to anxiety and depression. What’s the fix? A diet!

Not the kind of diet where you watch what you eat, but the kind of diet that gets rid of all the junk in your life by watching what you feed your mind. A diet where you carefully watch…

What you watch…

What you read…

Who you follow…

Who you spend time with…

Who you help…

The first two are pretty simple. Watch and read junk, and your mind will be filled with it. Instead, watch and read stuff that is going to stimulate your mind, add to your knowledge and experiences, and help you achieve greater success.

Who you follow, who you spend time with and who your help are the big ones here because it’s who you surround yourself with matters. We are heavily influenced by the people who are closest to us. It’s important to be selective of those people as they can have an effect on your thoughts, attitude, habits, energy and ultimately your success.

The longer you keep relationships with people that don’t align with your goals and values, the longer you’ll stay away from reaching your goals. It’s can be hard to do, but you need to replace them with people that share your goals and values as soon as you can. It will be one of the best things you can do for yourself.

How To Video: P&S Double Black 3-Part Carpet System with Renny Doyle

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Renny takes you through his process of using the P&S Double Black 3-Part Carpet system using traditional brushes, polisher mounted brushes and steam. He shows you how to achieve maximum potential with P&S Terminator, Carpet Bomber and Finisher.

Learn more or pick some up here: P&S Double Black Products

Do You Need to Be Detail Oriented?

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Do you need to be detail oriented to be a good detailer? Well, the short answer is yes! Not only is it a skill that is extremely important to auto detailing for obvious reasons, but being detail oriented is essential to your success in life and business.

Just because someone is detail oriented doesn’t mean that they have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Being detail oriented is more than just a character trait. Not everyone is born with it, for most it’s a developed skill. It’s an exercise in in excellence and personal improvement. If you’re not detail oriented, there are things you can do to train yourself to become detail oriented…

Engage in activities that train your focus and observe your environment. Start by doing the things you see that need to be done. This can be simply picking up a piece of trash, putting dishes away, straightening up the office, cleaning up the shop bathroom, using proper grammar, etc. Use every opportunity to practice your detail oriented skills.
Improve your organization. Getting organized is a great way to maximize your attention to detail. Do this by eliminating clutter from both your workspace and shop, but also with your schedule and to-do lists. De-clutter your brain!
Practice self-care and take breaks. This is a simple concept, but can be hard to execute. Take care of yourself both mentally and physically. A healthy mind and body will help ensure that you can concentrate completely on what you are doing, which will improve your ability to notice details. Taking breaks from work at regular intervals will also positively affect cognitive function.
Avoid multitasking and eliminate distractions. Sounds like a no-brainer, but if you are juggling too much at one time, you will miss stuff. Prioritizing the task means that you will prioritize your attention to detail. Distraction like email, text messages and social media fall directly into the multitasking category. If you need to be more detail oriented, you need to focus on the task at hand. Turn off the distractions.

Practice things that will improve your discipline. It will not only help you become more detail oriented, but will flow over into every other aspect of your life and help make you more successful overall. It’s an investment in you. If you are not willing to invest in yourself, you won’t get better.

Does Your Business Offer a Guarantee? It Should!

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Every business should have a guarantee. No, they aren’t cheesy. No, they aren’t going to cost you money. A good guarantees is one of the most vital parts of your marketing strategy. Every business needs to have a solid guarantee the entire company can stand behind.

First of all, guarantees don’t have to make massive promises. In fact, they shouldn’t. Your guarantee just has to promise something you can deliver. If you can’t deliver on your promises, on your guarantee, your reputation will suffer and it will hurt your bottom line.

Offering a guarantee to your clients takes the risk out of buying from you. The existence of a guarantee can often mean the difference between closing a sale or not. Your clients want assurance that they are making a good choice, handing over their hard-earned money to the right company, and your guarantee will help them feel at ease. Guarantees also help set your expectations to your employees, which in turn will create a level of consistency your customers will love.

What does a guarantee look like? The simpler the better. In fact, it can be as simple as “100% Satisfaction Guaranteed”, but you better be able to deliver on that promise. Make sure your guarantee is a good fit for you, your business and your culture. It should reflect your abilities and values. Once you’ve got it in place, you have to tell the world about it.

Your guarantee needs to become one of your key marketing points. It needs to be promoted everywhere within your business. Again, it doesn’t have to be cheesy or shoved in your client’s faces, but it needs to be there. It needs to be easy to find and easily recognized. Your clients need to see it.

If you don’t already have a guarantee, I challenge you to create one. If you already have one, do your clients know about it? If not, what are you waiting for? Tell everyone about it!

Video: P&S Double Black Inspiration Line of Ceramic Coatings

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 08:00:00 GMT

In this video, Renny dives into the P&S Double Black Inspiration Line of Ceramic Coatings.

Legend Premium Ceramic Coating
Inspiration Classic Ceramic Coating
Sole Annual Coating
Vue Windshield Coating
Lucid Headlight Coating
Fabric Coating & Protectant

Want to learn more? Visit https://psdetailproducts.com/

Be a Pro and Impress Your Clients with a Paint Gauge

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Everyone gets all hung up on paint polishing and therefore paint perfection, but before you go there, you need to invest in the tools that will make you perform and look like a professional detailer. One such tool that should be in every detailer’s arsenal is a paint gauge.

Paint gauges measure the total thickness of the paint system on a car. High-end gauges can even give you the exact thickness of the clear coat, which as detailers is what we are most concerned with. Carefully measuring the paint of a car before you start a correction and during the process will help you avoid costly mistakes of going too far. It also a great tool to show your client as you inspect their vehicle prior to the job. Yes they are expensive, but there’s a cool factor there that will set you apart from your competition and show your client that you are a pro!

One of our favorite such tools lately is the NexPTG. Not only is it affordable at around $200, but it offers something none of the other do… A dedicated phone app that connects your phone to the gauge via Bluetooth. This awesome feature allows you to analyze your reading and save a vehicle report that you can show your customer. They will be impressed!

Live Each Day with Courage

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 08:00:00 GMT

It takes a certain amount of bravery to follow your dreams, start a business and then work hard every day to make it a success. It’s not for everyone, the journey requires courage.

There are moments along the way when we might feel a great deal of fear and anxiety about the choices we’ve made or the choices we’re about to make. As entrepreneurs, we all feel fear and experience doubts. In fact, our minds are flooded with it in an effort to derail our success, but it is the courage to take the necessary risks to find success that distinguishes life’s winners from its losers.

“Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” – John Wayne

What Will Your Clients Remember?

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 08:00:00 GMT

If you think back to an event you attended recently, maybe a book you read or a movie you watched, was it memorable? Although you probably really enjoyed it, chances are only one or two things really stood out to you and stuck.

We all want to give our clients a lot of value, but they just might appreciate us more if we give them a little less. After all, less is more, right? Instead of information overload, consider making a bigger impact by carefully focusing on just one or two things that will make an impact and that they will remember.

I don’t like a long, drawn-out sales pitch and I bet you don’t either. I can almost guarantee that your clients don’t. As business owners, we are problem solvers, and all your clients want is for you to solve their problem. Listen to them, understand them, and present them with exactly what they want and need.

This will be memorable, build trust and credibility, but most importantly, it will help build your detailing success!

Video: Forced Action Gear Driven Polishers with Renny Doyle

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Renny loves forced action/gear driven polisher technology. In this video he explains why, and why they are the best option for today’s super thin clear coats.

Video: P&S Bead Maker & Dream Maker with Renny Doyle

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Renny walks through the differences between P&S Bead Maker and Dream Maker, plus shares his favorite application methods and uses.
. . .
#RennyDoyle #DetailingSuccess #DetailMafia #DetailIndustryStrong #IDAdetailers #IDACertifiedDetailer #Detailing #DetailersofInstagram #psdetailproducts #doubleblacklifestyle

The Power of One, The Power of You!

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 08:00:00 GMT

We are coming up on Thanksgiving, which means Black Friday and Cyber Monday are right around the corner, but one of my favorite things to come from the commercialization of the holidays is Giving Tuesday. Helping people and serving others is one of the secrets to finding your own success and happiness in life. Winston Churchill said it best…

“We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.”

Happiness doesn’t come from the business success we achieve, the money we make or the things we accumulate. It comes from living with heart by embarking on endeavors that have the potential to bring greater meaning and more lasting satisfaction to your lives.

Our country and even our world has been doing some soul searching lately. We seem to be plagued with many problems… pandemics, inflation, climate change, poverty and more! These problem seem insurmountable to most. They are big problems that will require big solutions. Nonetheless, even if we can’t individually solve the world’s biggest problems, with a little creativity and a commitment to do something, each of us can find a way to make a difference.

Giving of our time, talents and even financial resources creates a ripple effect, an impact that can be made each and every day of our lives. Here’s another wonderful quote from Desmond Tutu…

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”

Giving back by being of service to your fellow man is an amazing thing. Sometimes you don’t get to see the impact you make, but sometimes you do, and it’s a wonderful feeling knowing that one person, you have the power to make a difference.

Start Making Deposits

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

I’ve said it for years, you have to make deposits, not just withdrawals. In simple terms, you have to give back. This applies to your relationships, community, church, industry, the associations you’re involved with and more. We’ve heard it before…

“What’s in it for me?”

That mentality doesn’t work. In order to find success in life and make significant accomplishments, you have to have a giving mindset. Sure, when you are the new guy in group or organization, you need to take a little before you start to feel comfortable about giving back and making a meaningful contribution, but make sure you make that transition.

Get to the point where you can provide value and contributions that will make everyone and everything around you better. You will receive blessings and opportunities. I guarantee it!

Tough Times Don’t Last, But Tough People Do

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

It’s a weird time right now. The economy is weird. Spending habits are weird. Inflation is out of control, interest rates are going up, it’s hard to find good employees, it’s hard to get people to follow through, and the stock market has been a roller coaster.

No one knows what will happen next. A recession seems inevitable, but this is an unprecedented situation. Did I mention things are weird?!

No one has a crystal ball but I know one thing…

I don’t plan on quitting, I plan on dominating.

It’s a great time to focus on your mindset. Improve your attitude. Be persistent. Develop a strategy and be resilient. It’s a great time to show up and be mentally though.

Entrepreneur and Podcast host Andy Frisella has outlined 8 habits of mentally tough people, let’s review them…

Challenge Yourself
Do things that require significant effort
Develop new skills
Be self-reliant
Focus on what you can control
Your efforts
Your actions
Your personal development
Learn from your failures
Own it
Evaluate it
Apply lessons learned
Keep your promises
Fulfill your obligations to others
Fulfill your obligations to yourself
Don’t make excuses
Focus on solutions, not excuses
Bottom line… NO EXCUSES
Never quit
Keep fighting no matter what
Keep moving forward
Failure (quitting) is not an option
Learn to live with discomfort
Actions that lead to success are uncomfortable
Working hard is uncomfortable
Sacrifice comfort now for comfort later
Dream big… set huge goals
Realistic and attainable isn’t enough
Any goal is possible, so DREAM BIG
Pursue big goals that require big actions

The successful business you want and the life of your dreams is out there, no matter what challenges come at you. You just need to be mentally tough. If you develop those skills, you will outlast the tough times.

Video: All About IK Sprayers

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

IK Sprayers have sponsored the Air Force One Detailing Team for a number of years now. They are also a great supporter of the detailing industry. Their products are great time-savers and will certainly elevate the professionalism of you detailing business.

Separate Yourself From Your Competition

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

A great customer experience fuels revenue growth. It really is that simple. Want to make more money? Want to grow your business? Start by providing an amazing customer service experience. Set yourself apart from your competition by making your client’s love to do business with you.

We live in a time where companies are eliminating human-to-human interaction. They want you to do everything online, on your phone, through an app. There are fewer tellers at the bank. Contactless drive-up pickup at the grocery store. Service so bad at the big box store that you actually avoid talking to someone.

There has never been a better opportunity than now to create a genuine experience for your clients with human-to-human personalized interaction. The people you really want as your customers are craving it. Yes it’s easier and cheaper to automate things, but by investing time into your clients and creating a personalized experience for them, your customers will return time and time again.

Video: Renny’s Favorite Pads from the Buff and Shine Reflection Artist Kit

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

This week, Renny goes over all the pads in the Buff and Shine Reflection Artist Kit. Buff and Shine is an Official Pad Supplier and Sponsor of the Air Force One Detailing Team. They are also one of a number of brands of pads we use in the Detailing Success Training Center.

Authenticity is Essential

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

It’s easy to spot real, authentic people. They carry themselves with confidence, they are humble and have integrity.

Their authenticity is the result of understanding who they are and being satisfied with it. Their actions are guided by a set of core beliefs. They recognize their own strengths and weaknesses, and they don’t mince words… they say what they mean!

Authenticity is essential to success and leadership. It allows us to approach life with understanding, compassion and confidence. The kind of confidence that makes someone a leader that others are willing to trust. Are you authentic?

Renny’s Favorite 3-Inch Polishers

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Renny provides an overview of some of his favorite 3-Inch polishers from Rupes, Griot’s Garage and Flex. What’s your favorite?

The Importance of Customer Retention

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

We all love to put on our marketing hats and go after new customers. It’s a fun challenge that reaps some great rewards, but it’s important to remember that your best customers are often sitting right in front of you in plain sight.

Who are these amazing customers? They are your existing customers. You’ve already turned them into fans of your business and services, and that comes with some serious benefits.

First of all, they want to spend more money with you. It is easier to convince them to do business with you again. The longer you nurture your relationship with them, their value to you becomes greater. Not only will they return time and time again, but they’ll spend more and refer their friends too!

Here are a few fun facts regarding existing customers…

The probability of selling to an existing customer is almost 70%. The probability of closing a new client is under 20%.
65% of most company’s business comes from existing customers.
On average, 80% of future profits comes from the top 20% of your existing customers.
On average, repeat customers spend over 30% more than first time customers.

Focusing on your existing customers will help keep your customer retention rate high. This is the percentage of customers that have continued to use your services overtime. Why is this important? A higher retention rate is directly associated with higher profits, as you don’t’ need to spend time and resources looking for new ones. You simply need to keep your existing customers happy.

Your existing customers do more than just spend money with you, they add real value to your business. If and when it comes time to sell your business, a prospective buyer will be less concerned with a few old polishers, pressure washers and bottles of chemicals. Your loyal customer list is where the real value lies. This is also why software is so important. It allows you to keep track of your returning clients, their spending habits, and their value to your business and potential buyers.

Let’s not forget that your existing customers are your biggest fans and your best salespeople! More than 75% of your loyal customers will refer their friends and family to you. That’s huge and it comes in a variety of ways. Word-of-mouth, social media, reviews, etc. Did you know that over 80% of people trust recommendations from friends and family and are more likely to purchase that product or service?

Moral of the story? Your existing customers are your best customers. Because of their tremendous value, the focus of your time, money and energy should be on retaining your existing customers by building a relationship with them and increasing their satisfaction and loyalty. Now that sounds like a fun challenge!

Video: Detailing Clay Has Come a Long Way

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Renny dives into the history of detailing clay, the latest synthetic clay products, his favorite clay lubes, and his best mechanical decon practices and techniques.

What’s the Difference? P&S Epic Waterless, Absolute Rinseless and Pearl Shampoo Comparison

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Renny takes a few minutes to share the differences between P&S Epic Waterless wash, the all new Absolute Rinseless wash and an old favorite, Pearl Shampoo for a traditional wet wash.

Excellence vs Perfection

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Excellence differentiates extraordinary people from ordinary people. It’s about not settling for average. It’s about being the best, striving to be better and delivering quality. It’s something you cultivate over time and it emerges as you focus on your continuous improvement.

One of my all-time favorite quotes from Vince Lombardi… “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”

It’s important not to confuse excellence with perfection. The pursuit of excellence is a behavior that focuses on the process of achievement rather than the outcome. Perfectionism focuses on the outcome, it is not a behavior, but an attitude that says anything other than perfect is a failure.

Vince Lombardi also said, “The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor.”

If you make a daily commitment to excellence and strive for excellence in everything you do, in every aspect of your life, it will have a positive impact on the quality of your life and business. You will feel more at peace and feel a greater sense of accomplishment because you know you gave it your all.

P&S Renny Doyle Double Black ABSOLUTE Rinseless Wash – How To Video

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Catch Renny & Chris in action demonstrating how to use the P&S Renny Doyle Double Black ABSOLUTE Rinseless Wash. Renny goes through a step by step process outlining what accessories to use, proper dilution and use of ABSOLUTE Rinseless.

You Get Out of It What You Put Into It

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

We’ve all heard it before. “You’ll get out of it what you put into it”, but what does it mean? Well, that can be different for everyone, but when it comes down to it, it’s related to Newton’s third law of motion… “every action has an opposite or equal reaction.”

The old adage sounds simple enough, but just because the concept is simple doesn’t mean it’s easy. It will require work, participation. dedication, attention and the right attitude.

When it comes to our businesses, if you don’t put in the effort, then you won’t get the results you want. This can apply to just about anything, your health, relationships, etc. Speaking of relationships, this definitely applies to networking groups such as The International Detailing Association (IDA), The Detail Mafia, or any one of a number of detailing related Facebook groups out there.

These groups provide a wealth of knowledge, but as I’ve said before, you can’t just make withdrawals, you have to make deposits too in order for it to work for everyone. That doesn’t mean you have to give back an equal amount to what you get, but it does mean you need to be an active participant. Sitting on the sidelines isn’t going to help anyone. Getting engaged, learning from others and then sharing your own experiences and knowledge is what’s going to improve our detailing community.

Want to get something out of something? Get engaged, put time into it. It is that simple!

One Success Tool That Most Entrepreneurs Abuse…

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

I have spoken endlessly about how important you, the business owner are to your success. Most business owners have one common trait, and I believe that trait is responsible for so many failed businesses. It’s self-inflicted, and while not avoidable, it’s controllable..

What is that trait? They allow their heads to be filled with junk. They take a lot of things personally, which in turn puts a lot of weight on their shoulders. To be successful, you have to control what you bring into your head and be protective of your mental space. You have to be careful of what you overthink, overprocess and jam your brain up with.

A great deal of your success depends on your state of mind. You can physically be the strongest person in the world, but if you don’t control your mental strength and capacity, you will be weak. Build up your mental strength by keeping the bullshit out of your life and your brain. Fill up your mental space with the important items you have control over.

Controlling your mental space takes big effort. You must prioritize what goes in your head and put your “Big Rocks in First”. If you allow all the little stuff in, the distractions and unimportant tasks, those pebbles and grains of sand will take up all the space, control your time and leave no room for the big rocks in life.

Life is short. Your window of opportunity for developing strong mental health if very small. When you manage the rocks in your life and give them priority, and sprinkle in the pebbles and sand, you will be endlessly happy and your success will increase dramatically. You have to work hard, but you also have to make time for everything that counts.

P&S Double Black Odor Doc

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

P&S Double Black Odor Doc is an odor elimination kit with a quick release vapor process that eliminates stubborn odors including odor causing bacteria, mold, mildew, smoke, etc. Odor Doc quickly treats enclosed areas with the most powerful (chlorine dioxide gas) penetrating technology available. Released as a vapor, the broad-spectrum biocide product is safe, powerful and effective. The process is simple! Make sure the interior of the vehicle is clean and dry prior to treatment and treatment takes about one hour. Be sure to watch Renny’s video as he shows you exactly how to use it. You can order Odor Doc here… LINK

“Improvise, Adapt, Overcome”

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 08:00:00 GMT

I love these three words. They were spoken many times in the movie Heartbreak Ridge by Clint Eastwood’s character, Marine Gunnery Sergeant Tom Highway. No matter who we are, what we do, or where we are in life, our ability to put these words into practice is the basic framework for our success.

Anyone who faces obstacles or wishes to achieve a goal (let’s face it, that means all of us) will have a better chance of success if they learn to improvise, adapt and overcome. It’s not just done through your actions, it’s done in your mindset too… Don’t give up!

Find new ways (Improvise)
Keep an open mind (Adapt)
Execute (Overcome)

This type of creativity is essential to entrepreneurs. You must repeat the process and persevere until the goal is accomplished. Finding new ways to solve problems is what being a small business owner is all about, and what makes it so much fun!

Make Your Time Count!

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

We are all given the same amount of time each day. Imagine if we were all given the same size box to keep it in. You want to fit as much in it as possible, don’t you? But, it’s important to choose wisely. If you start every day by filling that box with mundane things, you won’t have any space left for the important things, which is why you have to put the important stuff in first.

You have to choose to make the important stuff a priority every day. Not the easy, loudest or even the most fun, but the stuff that gives your life the most meaning. It might be your family, spouse, relationships, faith, health, hobbies, etc. It’s truly a blessing to have time, to be able to fill our boxes, to fill our days with the things that help us grow and thrive. But when we start to fill that box with things we don’t really need, that blessing, that box of time can become a burden.

Despite all our differences, we all have the same 60 minutes in every hour, and 24 hours in every day. How you spend them will define you and your success, it’s your choice. You can either waste your time, or you can make it count.

3 Ways to Use the New P&S Double Black Reset Clay Towel with Renny!

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

While at Air Force One Project, Renny walked us through 3 ways to use the new P&S Double Black RESET Clay Towel with Paint Prep, Paint Gloss, and Bead Maker!

That’s a Wrap! 2022 Air Force One Detailing Team Photo Gallery

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Veni, Vidi, Vici… We came, we saw, we conquered! The 2022 Air Force One Detailing Project is in the books, and not only did we accomplish our goals, but we had a great time doing it.

This year, Renny Doyle led a team of 30 volunteer detailers, hand selected from among The Detail Mafia to continue the preservation of The Museum of Flight’s Air Force One, B-29, Concorde, Lockheed Constellation, Boeing 727 and other planes in the museum’s care.

The project was made possible because of a number of industry sponsors that stepped up with a financial commitment to support the team….

Platinum Sponsor
P&S Detail Products

Gold Sponsors
Flex Power Tools
Buff and Shine Mfg.

Silver Sponsors
Dynabrade
The Rag Company
RoadFS by Zenware
IK Sprayers
Grit Guard
Angelwax
AutoFiber

Bronze Sponsors
Urable
Dr. ColorChip
IGL Coatings
Autogeek
RaggTopp

We also had a number of companies and individuals step up to help feed the crew with a meal sponsorship… Detailer’s Helper, Miami Luxe Detail Supplies, Detail Plus, Kimball’s Hands-On Detailing, SB3 Coatings, Jim’s Auto Installations & Detailing, Urable, Uber Detail, Wheel Woolies and GlassParency.

It was a great team and a great event. Next year, we will be returning in July for the 20th Anniversary of the event. In the meantime, here is a gallery full of highlights of the 2022 Air Force One Detailing Team…

Who Knows About You?

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

New detailers ask me all the time what type of marketing they should direct their time and money towards? Google? Facebook? Instagram? Although those should all be part of your marketing plan, my top recommendation is to become famous in your market earn referrals.

By getting out and becoming known and likable, people will share your name and services with others. Just like when you put money in the bank and it pays you interest, when you are well known, your reputation, business, and profits are compounded.

I love compounding new clients, as this is the best form of growth a small business could wish for. It develops clients already sewn into the fabric of your business because they were a referral from someone they trust. As a business owner, how can you beat that level of connection? You can’t!

P&S Double Black Reset Clay Towel

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Did you see the new product release this week? The Reset Clay Towel is the latest addition to the P&S Double Black line for the removal of industrial fallout, overspray, water spots, rail dust, surface rust and other contaminants from the surface of automotive paint, metal and glass.

Reset Clay Towel features a soft finish thus creating the perfect media to safely remove surface particulate while minimizing marring the surface. And glides over the surface three times faster than traditional clay to create an incredible smooth paint finish.

It works great with various lubricants, but one of our favorite lubricants is Bead Maker. It’s a technique we teach in our training classes, and it’s an experience we know will change the game for both professional details and enthusiasts. The Reset Clay Towel enhances the Bead Maker engagement by perfectly cleansing the surface allowing Bead Maker to perform at a high level.

It is always recommended to wash the entire vehicle prior to the using the Reset Clay Towel. The Reset Clay Towel can be used right out of the package. Make sure the vehicle surface is cool and the vehicle is in a shaded area out of direct sunlight. Do not use the Reset Clay Towel on hot surfaces.

It’s recommended to fold the 12″ x 12″ towel in half or quarters and place under the detailer’s palm in conjunction with a lubricant such as Paint Gloss or Bead Maker. You can’t apply too much lubricant. Rub the Reset Clay Towel on the area to be cleaned going with the flow of the vehicle, “Tip to Tail”. As you glide the towel over the surface you will feel it removing the contaminants. Continue process until the paint surface is smooth and all contaminants have been removed. Wipe area clean with microfiber towel and polish to smooth finish as needed.

The Double Black team has found it useful to store the Reset Clay Towel in a cool bucket of water for immediate access.

When Should You Fire Your Boss and Detail Full-Time?

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

It’s a question that is pondered and asked all the time by new, and even sometimes veteran detailers… When should I fire my boss and detail full-time? The answer is simple, but the decision is not an easy one… When your detailing has proven that it provides year-round cash flow that will support your income needs.

When I started out, I kept a part-time job in the slow, winter months for the first two years. Looking back, I should have kept a ten-to-twenty a week winter job in my third year, but we squeezed by. From our fourth year on, we kept busy enough year-round.

It’s important to have patience. Give yourself four to seven years before you are making a rewarding income. Some may achieve this goal faster, but as a rule of thumb, this is a reality. Here are 6 questions to ask yourself…

Are You Financially Ready?
Take a close look at how much you are making detailing. Can you live on what you make? If you are close, you may be ready to quit your day job. This is because you devote yourself to your detailing business full-time, you will probably be able to make more.

Do You Know Your Business Basics?
So, you know how to detail, but can you run a business? If you don’t know how to run your business, things will fall apart quicky. Do you know your numbers? Do you have an understanding of your market? Do you have a well-thought-out business plan?

Is Your Work Attracting Attention & Customers?
This one is pretty simple. Is your detailing starting to gain attention? Are more people seeing the passion in your work and requesting your services? Do you have enough customers you can rely on?

Are You a Motivated Self-Starter?
Once you are working for yourself, and yourself only, there’s only one person responsible for your results… You!!! You will need to keep yourself motivated for the long haul. Talent is great, but without discipline, finding success will be very difficult.

Are You Out of the Novice Stage?
When you first started detailing, you were a novice. Have you built up your skills by investing in training? Have you put in the hours and practice necessary to bring your skills up to a professional level? Do you feel like a novice or a pro?

Can You Afford Not To Go Full-Time?
Are you in a position where you are turning down meaningful, profitable work because you don’t have enough time to take on anything else. Is your day job getting in the way of your detailing business? Is your family or social life suffering because you are working too many hours? If you can’t grow your business any larger because you don’t’ have enough time or energy, it may be time to go full-time.

So, what do you think? Are you ready to go full-time? If the only thing holding you back is fear, you may definitely be ready. Happy Detailing!

So, You Think You are Ready to Detail Aircraft?

Tue, 31 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Aircraft Detailing is dear to my heart and what drove me to detailing in the first place. I love aircraft and have been around them most of my life.

While I’m skilled and known for my work within the auto-detailing industry, aircraft detailing has offered some of the highest rewards, both professionally and monetarily.

I have massive amounts of time and capital involved in my aviation-based career and it took years to build my abilities and reputation. The aviation community is small and well connected and you have but one opportunity to make it right. Bad service or poor quality will spread like wildfire and end you before you get started.

If you jump into this segment of the industry, do it by being educated and knowing it will take time to build your reputation and success.

Before we jump into the skills needed with aviation detailing, let’s talk about reality and allow me to share some facts about myself and experiences.

I fly, have been involved in search-and-rescue operations, and been in, jumped out of, and maintained aircraft. I tell you this as a way to gauge my level of awareness and education when it comes to aircraft. If you are going to venture into this segment of detailing, you’d better do your homework. Aircraft detailing the wrong way can kill people. If you think I’m joking, here is a story from a major newspaper reporting an accident that occurred in the ‘90s:

Adhesive tape mistakenly left covering altitude and speed sensors caused the air crash in October of a Boeing 757 airliner that killed all 70 on board, Peru’s Transport Ministry said late Friday.

According to the evidence that has been found, it has been concluded that staff cleaning the lower part of the aircraft did not remove protective adhesive tape when they finished their work and so the sensors remained obstructed, a report of a special commission set up by the Transport Ministry stated.

The report said the obstruction of these instruments explained the erroneous and confused information about height and speed of the aircraft.

As you can see, aircraft detailing is a serious business. There are many, many safety concerns with this level of aircraft and again, the size of the planes can be massive with thousands of square feet of surface area to handle. The materials used in construction both on the exterior and within the interior can be very exotic and therefore take special actions to care for the surfaces. Before you go this direction, you need to have a tremendous amount of skill, knowledge, and know-how around aircraft.

Training on any and all levels of aircraft detailing is highly recommended. Insurance is also a must. In fact, your standard automotive detailing insurance not only won’t cover you to work on aircraft, it will most likely forbid you to work on aircraft. A separate expensive aircraft detailing policy is a necessity.

Aircraft detailing is a serious business. Expectations are high, the investment is significant and you must be at the top of your game to succeed. You can’t just wake up one day and say to yourself “I think I’ll detail and airplane today”. You can’t simply say “Yes” when your rich auto detailing client asks if you can detail their plane too. It requires a serious time and financial investment to do it right, do it safely, and do it successfully.

Are you a Self-Starter, Finisher or Both?

Tue, 24 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Being a self-starter is an important characteristic of successful business owners. It usually means you have ambition, motivation and confidence. It means you take initiative to get things done. Sounds great right?

Being a self-starter is great and it’s a great character trait, but in order for it to bring you success, that trait needs to be combined with another… being a finisher.

All those projects you start don’t mean a thing if you can’t finish them. Having the discipline to see your plans through to the end is what really matters.

Visionaries light things up, and create value and possibilities out of thin air. They often get things started and then move onto the next big idea! Finishers are thorough, responsible and have attention to detail. They see things through to the end.

When a stater and a finisher join forces, great things happen. If you are lucky enough to be a starter and a finisher, congrats! But if not, then surround yourself with the right people. If you are s starter, find yourself a finisher or vice versa.

Being a self-starter is just part of what it takes, combining that with a finisher is how you win!

Is Talent Necessary to Succeed?

Tue, 17 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Talent is a natural aptitude or skill. That’s it, that’s all it is. It’s not some magical ability or some predetermined skill you were given by your creator. And if you don’t have talent, it certainly doesn’t mean you can’t do the job or succeed.

The opposite is true as well. Just because you have talent doesn’t mean you will love doing whatever it is you are talented at, nor does it mean you will become successful and rich if you pursue a career that uses your talents.

So, is talent necessary to succeed? No, but it doesn’t hurt. What do you need to succeed? I’ve got some thoughts on that….

Practice
They say it takes 10,000 hours of practice to become an expert at anything. So, practice is essential, and that is whether you are talented or not. No matter who you are or how talented you are, you still have to practice and work at whatever you want to be good at. There are no shortcuts, everyone has to put in the work.

Education & Training
In addition to all the practice you need to do, you need to get trained and educated. This comes in many different forms. Maybe a degree, lessons, mentoring, being an apprentice, or attending specialized training? Everyone was once a beginner, and the right education will help you become an expert faster. Pursue education and training and you’ll find yourself mastering your craft.

Dedication & Drive
The only way you are going to succeed at the things you pursue is simple… You must want to do it. If you don’t want to do something, how can you expect to succeed at it? Dedication and drive is what will push you to practice, learn and master your craft on days when you might lack motivation. You may have all the talent in the world, but it doesn’t do any good if you don’t have the dedication and drive to use it.

Passion
Closely related to dedication and drive, passion is one of my favorite topics and it’s a huge part of whether you will succeed or not. You need to love what you do, or at least believe strongly in it. It’s real simple, if you have a deep passion for your craft, you will want to do it, which will lead to the practice and education that will perfect your skills and make you an expert.

Patience & Perseverance
Probably the most important ingredient to success is patience and perseverance. This is a big one, and I can’t stress enough how important it is to understand that success doesn’t happen overnight. You’ve heard me say it a million times…. “I’m an overnight success, thirty years in the making”. It takes time. Most people have put in years of effort before the found success. They worked hard, they failed, the worked hard some more, found some success and then one day it all came together and BOOM!!! they found real success.

Put in the work… practice, get educated and trained, have dedication and drive, be passionate and most importantly, have patience and perseverance. Those are the things that separate successes from failures, it’s not talent.

First Impressions Count

Tue, 10 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Imagine approaching a business or landing on a website that gives the impression of an amateur's design, a lack of thought, a lack of thoroughness. By considering the importance of those first impressions, and by making your brand and business stand out will increase your likelihood of success. You want to look good, really good from the very first day you start detailing. Here are a few tips to help you make it happen…

Your shop or mobile detailing rig needs to be cutting-edge and professional. This doesn’t mean that you need to go out and spend a ton of money on all the best equipment and supplies, but you do need to get creative. I was on a serious budget when I built my first mobile detailing rig, so I built it all myself to save money. I spent under $6,000 total on that first setup and received comments on it almost daily, which won me many, many new clients.

Your business card, flyers, website and other support material all need to be professional. If you are not a graphic artists, don’t go online and build cheap-looking items yourself. Spend a little money and get these items done right. Doesn’t have to be expensive, just don’t let them look cheap. We have amazing resources these days that don’t cost a lot, Fiverr.com comes to mind.

Invest in uniforms. I’m a firm believer in having branded shirts with your company logo on them. It’s wise to go with both a collared shirts and t-shirts. Wear the collared shirts when meeting with clients, giving quotes, or delivering a freshly detailed vehicle. Use the t-shirts for doing the dirty work, detailing and just change your shirt as needed. Find pants, shorts and shoes that work well for you too, and stick with them!

Do great work, treat your clients well, and look the part. You’ll be the talk of your market!

You Have to Have Passion

Tue, 03 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

It doesn’t matter what stage of your business you are in. You can be brand new, somewhere in the middle and making it, but not yet where you want to be, or you may have found success. The road to success is tough.

No matter where you are in your journey, you have to have passion. Passion brings it forward. You can like what you do, you can love what you do, but passion is what will keep you from quitting. It will keep you moving forward and keep you going when times are tough.

Even when people we watch and admire appear to have “made it”, their struggles are still real. The only thing that has changed is the amount of their stress and the size of their problems. Money doesn’t fix everything, but it does make it a lot better. Being broke is tough, but getting to the point where you are comfortable is not easy either.

Passion will take you through these tough times., It will carry through the times when you want to give up. Passion will lead you to your success.

Take Steps to Ensure Your Clients Return

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

When you go to the store and buy something, have your car worked on, or have a service technician out to your house, what happens next? Most of the time the answer is nothing!

Imagine how you would feel if you got a thank you note in the mail a few days later? You would feel special, you would feel appreciated, and I guarantee you would be excited to do business with that person or business again.

I’ve been on the receiving end of a nice thank you note a few times, and it’s a great thing! The fact that someone took the time to send a simple note was enough to make them stand out in a crowd of the hundreds of other businesses I have purchased from over the years. It’s a small gesture, but those few companies and brands that have done this now have special place in my heart, and more importantly, they have my future business.

Now imagine the impact you can make not just on your clients, but on your business if you take the time to write a few lines and invest in a stamp. It can and will be massive! Instead of just hoping your customers will return, take steps to ensure they will return. Differentiate yourself from your competition and set yourself apart. It’s easier than you think.

You Need a Personal Brand in Addition to Your Company Brand

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Branding is a very important part of building your business. Just think of the most valuable companies in the world, their brands are instantly recognizable… Apple, Amazon, Google. Your personal brand, though not as well understood, is just as important.

Now think about Elon Musk, Gary Vaynerchuk and Tony Robbins. These are examples of personal branding that helped those individuals build a powerful brand. Why is a personal brand so valuable? Why should you as a business owner focus on your personal brand instead of just your company’s brand?

People buy from people.
Your clients prefer to do business with people they know and trust. They know you, they trust you, and by building up your personal brand, you build that personal relationship with your clients. Big or small, a company can seem faceless or anonymous, but that’s not the case with you. You are a familiar face that is comfortable to do business with.

People are more memorable.
We’ve established that you and your personal brand is credible, trustworthy and familiar. It’s also memorable, and you want your clients to remember you when they need your services again, not your competitor down the street. It’s much easier for you to create this memorable connection as part of your personal brand as opposed to your company brand.

People are experts.
When is the last time you thought of a company when you were looking for an expert? It’s very difficult to position a company as an expert, but it’s much easier to turn you, your personal brand into an expert in your market. People will think of you and come to you when they need an expert.

Now, building a corporate brand is also super important, but it’s hard to beat the return on investment personal branding can bring to your small business. Just remember, it’s important that your personal brand is connected to and synonymous with your company brand.

P&S Double Black Brake Buster Wheel Cleaner

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

One of our favorite P&S Double Black products is Brake Buster. It’s inexpensive, highly effective, and easy to use for both professional detailers and DIY detailers. Not only is Brake Buster extremely effective and safe to use, but there it’s a product that has multiple uses.

Straight out of the bottle or gallon, Brake Buster is ready to use and works great on wheels, tires and in wheel wells. It’s also fantastic as an engine bay cleaner too!

If you want some serious foaming action with Brake Buster, add it to your favorite IK Foam sprayer at a dilution ration of 1:5. It will work great in IK’s foaming pump sprayer or in their larger Foam Pro 12 sprayer too!

Do you have any other uses for Brake Buster? Let us know!

Extreme Ownership

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

There are two books that have impacted me the most over the years. The first is the Bible. But the second is Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willinick. Now, Jocko’s book details the mind-set and principles that enable Navy Seal units to accomplish their missions, and how to apply them to any team, family or organization. I want to share with you how I’ve applied it in my life.

Extreme ownership really starts within you. It starts in your mind and with your mindset. Are you going to wake up grumpy, depressed or happy? You control your thoughts and your thought patterns, which determines how your day is going to start. You also control what you let into your mind too. Be confident and take ownership of what you let in.

Take ownership of your relationships and manage them properly and own things. You need to pay your respects and give thanks to those that have stepped in and helped you along the way to give you a massive helping hand and opportunities. Appreciation is a huge part of taking ownership.

Be truly appreciative of your staff. Make sure they know you are appreciative of them. That is on you and you alone! Own it, do it and express your appreciation. The way you treat your staff is how they treat your customers. Lead by example in all sides of your business… in front of your staff, in front of your customers and even behind the scenes. It becomes habit forming.

Also, be appreciative of your family. We are “Type A” personalities, which means we are very busy people. It’s important to spend time with your family. It’s not only a gift to them, but it’s a gift to you. Our families are like a steam valve and allow us to come back refreshed.

Don’t forget to share with your family and respect your family. Make sure they know what you are doing, what your plan is. Do they know what you are up to and why? Finally, make sure you love your family and share that love every chance you get. They need to hear it, they need to know it. Don’t assume they know, take ownership and tell them.

Take ownership in your planning. Plan within your business and have a well laid out plan with your staff. Thing will never go as planned, so have a flexible plan that you and your staff can adapt to with clear marching orders. Then, be able to measure what you have done. Having goals and tracking them as part of that plan is really important.

Have extreme ownership in the things you are involved in. The detailing industry, the International Detailing Association, The Detail Mafia, your business, your relationships. Look sharp, be sharp, talk sharp. You are a representative of the detailing industry, take ownership of that.

Finally, take ownership of your community. We take withdrawals and make a living from our community, but we need to remember to make deposits, to give back, take action, be involved and be a great member of your community.

When we take ownership of our thoughts and relationships, are appreciative of our staff and family, plan within our businesses, measure our successes and failures and take ownership in our industry and our communities, we can and will move ahead and find success.

Detail Mafia Members Preserve and Protect a Wildland Type 3 Fire Engine

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 08:00:00 GMT

This past weekend, a small group of Detail Mafia members converged on Pollock Pines, California to detail, paint correct and ceramic coat a Wildland Type 3 Fire Engine for El Dorado County Fire Station 28 Engine 328.

The engine was first put into service in 2008. In that time, it had sustained a lot of UV damage on the hood and roof. The light bar had begun to yellow, and there were severe scratches, marring and swirls from all the action it has seen.

The team of volunteers from The Detail Mafia completed a two-step paint correction using polishing pads that were generously donated by Buff and Shine Manufacturing, and detailing supplies donated by P&S Detailing Products. Once all the hard work was done, the team coated the engine with P&S Inspiration Legend Ceramic Coating.

A big shout out to Samantha Sweeden, owner of Bella Vita Mobile Detailing for organizing the project. Also, a big thanks to volunteers Kelly Mankin, Adam Garvin, Jerald Beasley, Zach Bernal, Ryan DaSilva and Chris Tabieros for taking the time away from their businesses, hitting the road and making this project a huge success. And finally, a huge thank you to P&S Detail Products and Buff and Shine Mfg. for their support.

Client Compounding Through Referrals

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

No, we are not talking about compounds and polishes here. By definition, compounding means to increase, augment, deepen enlarge, or grow. How does this apply to your client’s? Your existing clients mean more to you than you know. If you are operating a productive referral program, your clients are going to assist you in compounding your customer list.

Your marketing efforts are going to begin to yield some amazing results over weeks, months, and, ultimately, years. Combine that with referrals, and you are going to get more repeat business and your profits are going to grow. That’s compounding clients!

Just like investing in stocks, mutual funds, or just putting money away in your savings account, you can grow your customer base when you have the proper referral program in place and are performing your online and offline marketing efforts with vengeance. You need to be screaming your messages loud. There is a great deal of noise competing for our attention, so you need to make sure you marketing efforts are seen and heard.

9 out of 10 customers trust peer recommendations, another word for referrals. A good referral program will supercharge that word-of-mouth growth for your business, but what makes a good referral program?

Simply put, a good referral program will have three winners. Your existing client wins by receiving a nice reward for referring you, your potential new client wins by receiving a nice offer, and you win by gaining a new customer. Do this over and over again, and you will compound your clients. Here are 6 ways to make your referral program effective…

Make sure your referral program is targeting the right kind of customer. The last thing you want is new customers that aren’t a good fit for you.
Your referral program design and user experience must be simple.

Easy to understand
Appropriate rewards and offers
Simple sign-up methods
Simple eligibility
Easy to redeem

Select rewards that your customers will value and that you can afford. Rewards can be a credit good towards future work, or a free service on their next visit. A good offer can be similar, maybe a free service, or a discount for a first time referred customer.
Promote your referral program by marketing it to your customers. Make sure they know it exists. The most important and effective way to do this is face-to-face. You and your staff need to educate your clients and ask for the referrals. Of course reminders through messages on your website, email, blogs, social media, etc. can all help spread the word.
Remarket your program. Don’t’ stop promoting your referral program, consistency and repetition is key to its success. It’s important to look for opportunities to generate additional reminders about your referral program. You can run promotions or add additional incentives. Most importantly, always thank your client’s for their referrals
And finally, measure and tweak your program. I’ve said before, if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Make sure you can measure your program, monitor its effectiveness and continue to tweak it overtime until it performs the way you want it to. Here are a few things to keep an eye on…

How many of your existing client’ are referring you?
How many of your client’s continue to refer you overtime?
Is the cost per acquisition of your program sustainable?

A good customer referral program is a great way to retain customers, compound your customer list and drive word-of-mouth marketing. It can create advocates for your company that will keep it growing for years to come!

Turning Down Work

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Like many of us, when I first started detailing, I was not charging enough for my work. I was eager to get more customers and as a result found myself saying yes too often to jobs I shouldn’t be doing, and to jobs the customer wasn’t willing to pay more for. In hindsight, I should have turned down those jobs by graciously telling them that I understand my services aren’t for everyone and moved on.

The problem with undervaluing your worth and undercutting yourself is that you’re establishing your price range and reputation in your market. You don’t want to be known as the cheap guy. Not only will you attract the low-end work and extra filthy cars, but it will be hard for you to raise your prices too. It’s important to determine your worth early on, set fair prices for both you and your clients, and stick to them.

It’s not all about the money, it’s about your self-worth. When you work for too little, you will appreciate the money, but you will regret the time and effort invested in the detailing project. Before you know it, you will be burnt out, frustrated and looking for ways to quit!

Yes, by charging what you are truly worth you will lose some clients, but you will soon realize there are plenty of clients that are willing to pay your prices. You simply need to focus your marketing resources on reaching your target market and ideal client.

When you find those clients that are willing to pay your price, instead of resenting the job, you will value both the job and your customer more, which you’ll take great satisfaction in the services you provide.

Enjoy some of these real-life before pictures of some disgusting cars members of our Detail Mafia submitted for this article…

Renny’s Tips for Building Your Customized Detailing Menu

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

When it comes to building a detailing menu, this may sound a bit dated, maybe even a bit elementary, but base your menu on the KISS system: Keep it Simple, Stupid! Here’s how…

Don’t go with a ton of services. Keep it to a base of four services plus your add on items.
Keep the name of your services simple to understand.
Don’t start with the cheapest item. People will see cheap first and go with it.
If possible, design your menu electronically and share that with your clients on an iPad or tablet.
Base your menu on your local market. If you are in a modest market filled with minivans, are you really going to offer a show-car detail?
Think of your abilities and be truthful with yourself. Design your menu based on what your capabilities are. Never do harm to your client’s cars in an effort to learn detailing. That is bad business and unethical.
Know your costs and expenses before you establish your pricing. Knowing costs and expenses will help establish the pricing your need to structure your business.
Never base prices on competitor’s prices. You can use other detailers’ pricing as a guide, but never simply copy their price structure.
Develop your menu system where you can interchange services. Let’s say your menu items are Detail 1, Detail 2, Detail 3. You should be able to combine an exterior Detail 1 with an interior Detail 3. Some cars are really clean on the outside and disasters on the inside and vice versa.
If you publish your menu on paper, on a board in your shop, or on your website, my advice is to not include prices. It takes the salesmanship right out of your hands. If you must, just publish starting prices.

While thinking of your menu will look like, also keep the extras in mind. That you may need to address. As detailing professionals, we get some weird requests to clean and detail a wide range of random stuff. Think about what you will charge per hour (your shop rate) and also, the add-on services you may offer.

Video: Getting to Know P&S Rags to Riches

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Another awesome video from Autogeek featuring Justin Labato and Renny Doyle. This time featuring P&S Rags to Riches, the next generation of microfiber cleaning technology!

P&S Double Black Rags to Riches brings your favorite microfiber towels back to a newly softened, brightened look and feel. R2R uses advanced technology to not only clean the towel, but also to restore absorbency and even color. Safe for all types of microfiber, P&S Double Black Rags to Riches is also formulated to be used with residential and commercial washing machines, even HE (high efficiency) machines.

Shift Your Perspective During Uncertain Times

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Turn on the news, scroll through your social media feed, or even pick up a newspaper and you will see that we are living in some uncertain times. There’s a new war in Europe, inflation is at an all-time high, gas prices are at an all-time high, and there is an awful lot of political finger pointing going on. It’s important to prepare for uncertain times and economic declines to not only survive, but thrive.

Average people go on the defensive and buckle down, but you are not average. You can prepare for what’s around the corner by focusing on the things that have gotten you this far, your habits, work ethic, passion and your drive to succeed. Take advantage of those traits and build up your business and your finances to create an even bigger differential between you, your competition and everyone else.

Here are 5 things you can do now to grow your business and your cash savings to prepare for uncertain times and possible economic downturns and recessions….

Commit to changes that will grow your business now
Leave the emotions out of it and have no fear! If you want to win, do the things now that will grow your business and increase your income. Make the commitment and make it happen. Make the decision to play offense now and during an future economic recession. If you don’t, the alternatives will be to play defense and just survive, to pack it all in and call it quits.

Market your brand and services
If your marketing is not working like it should, now is the time to make a change. Find ways to market your services through education so they become a need instead of a want. Shift your audience to those that are less effected by downturns in the economy. And finally, create and market lower-cost, but highly profitable service and options that will appeal to people when when they aren’t able to spend like they used to.

Get your finances in order
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, know your numbers! Now is the time to build up your savings and reserves. Not just for a rainy day, but to set aside money that you can use to take advantage of lower cost opportunities as they become available. These may include simple product and tool purchases, low cost advertising solutions, or even the opportunity to buy your own building. To capitalize on opportunities to grow your business, you have to know your numbers.

Your staff
It’s good practice to always run lean and mean. That means only keep the staff that you really need and only keep the ones that truly perform. Your employees need to be a real asset to you. Not only should they make you money, but they shouldn’t cost you time. They should free up your time so you can focus on the big picture.

Get busy!
This one is simple. Go full-throttle. Play harder and smarter than ever before. Sell and perform as many of your services now as you can to build up your reserves.

By putting a plan like this in place, you can do much more than just survive during uncertain times, you can thrive and put yourself in a position for long-term success down the road.

Designing Your Simple Detailing Menu

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Your customers are looking to you to be the expert. Design a menu that benefits both you and your clients. Keep it simple and be able to mix services easily to create a custom package for your client and their car. Afterall, no two are alike.

When I was running an active detail shop, our customers loved our Wash, Clay, Protect combines with our signature interior detail. We would mix and match any and all of our services as long as the car matched that need. We never performed a lesser-level detail only to save a client money while possibly damaging our reputation for delivering a less than stellar detail. We would refuse the job.

You menu needs to be simple, much like the menu at In-N-Out, a popular fast-food burger chain. As a result, they are able to offer a high-quality product efficiently and their customer keep coming back for more. Here is an example of service offerings…

Signature Wash, Clay and Protect

Hand Wash
Clay and Decontamination
Paint Sealant

Near Perfection & Coating

Stage One Paint Correction
Ceramic Coating

Max Out Shine & Coating

Stage Two Paint Correction
Premium Ceramic Coating

Signature Interior Detail

Stage 1-3 Interior Detail

Of course, what you charge for each service will need to depend on each vehicle’s condition and size. Set your prices so that you are profitable! Finally, don’t forget that there are add on services in addition to all this such as scratch removal, odor removal, serious stain removal overspray removal, dog hair removal, engine cleaning, convertible to treatments, deep wheel cleaning, interior coatings and more.

Keep your menu simple. Fewer choices means more money and profits for you.

Things You May Not Have Known About P&S Bead Maker

Sun, 27 Feb 2022 08:00:00 GMT

We all love Bead Maker. It literally created the category of easy-to-use spay on SiO2 sealants and changed the way we detail. It’s simple to use, just spray on, wipe off and it provides amazing protection, water beading, and amazing shine!

Autogeek recently brought together Justin Labato and to cover all the things you may not have known about Bead Maker.

Selling to Your Market

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Always detail at your customer’s desired level of spending. As a younger detailing professional, I misunderstood profits. I was often giving my clients hours of no-profit services. I would over-deliver and undersell many jobs and our profits were not what they should have been.

Realizing that, I developed an easy-to-use, write-in hourly profits tracking form. I soon started to see my exact profits and thus, my eyes were opened to my hourly performance. I made adjustments and developed systems to help me be more profitable.

Do you know what your exact costs are? Do you understand your profit level? If you said yes, congratulation. You are within a small group of professionals. If you said no, you better change your ways. Tracking your profits is important. Of all the tracking I have done within my detailing business, the tracking of my profits per hour was on of the most important steps I have taken.

Think about this. You go to a nice family restaurant and ask for a juicy steak, with salad, a nice bowl of soup, a soft drink, and a nice dessert. You then add a hot dog for your child along with a milk. You then explain to the waiter that you are only willing to pay for the hot dog. Will they give you the steak and all the sides for the price of the hot dog? Of course not, they will laugh you out of the restaurant. Don’t provide a steak-level detail for the price of a hot dog. If they order a hot dog, give them a great-tasting hot dog. If they order a steak, give them the best steak in town. Detail at a profitable level!

Revive and Restore Leather with P&S Leather Treatment

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 08:00:00 GMT

One of our favorite products here at Detailing Success is P&S Leather Treatment. Why? Because it smells so freakin’ good, just like new leather!

That’s not the only reason to love P&S Leather Treatment though. It’s the perfect product to help rejuvenate and maintain leather seats, returning them to their natural luster. Plus, it adds a layer of protection to the leather. Autogeek’s put together a great video staring Renny and their very own Justin Labato. Check it out…

Establishing a Loyal Customer Base

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Do you consider the fast-food way of thinking when looking at your detailing business? The tie-in between detailing and fast food is the notion of customer loyalty.

Let’s start with the In-N-Out Burger way of thinking. If you have never been out west, In-N-Out Burger may not be a familiar name to you, but her in California, Arizona and Nevada, the In-N-Out name is unequaled by any other fast-food chain. It has a loyal following equal to Harley Davidson. In-N-Out has created a loyal customer base that is cult-like and they deserve it. If my family or I are in the mood for a burger and fries, it’s off to In-N-Out we go! We are loyal, and in my detailing business, I have used the In-N-Out model for nearly two decades.

Loyalty within detailing starts with that first phone conversation with a prospective customer or the first visit they make to your shop. Another first impression is how your mobile detailing unit looks. First impressions are vitally important. Prospective customers need to walk away from their first encounter being impressed with your knowledge and overall offer.

The next important step is the first detail service you provide. Call customers the day before to kindly remind them of the appointment, and don’t you dare be late! Also, keep your mobile work area clean as you work and when you finish, the customer should not be able to tell you were even there. Your work quality needs to be exactly what you sold them, and meeting or exceeding their expectations is important.

I love it when I watch some of those I coach interact with their customers. Seeing them present the vehicle, explaining what was done with the car, why it was done, and what they could not accomplish and why. They connect their new client and really start to educate them, sharing the details of their work.

This next step is a lost art today, the handshake and request that the client share your name and service with others they know. I shake hands with everyone I do business with and while doing so, I politely ask them to share your services with their family, friends, and coworkers. This is a major step.

Circling back, establishing a loyal customer base takes careful calculated effort. It didn’t happen for In-N-Out by accident, and it won’t happen for you by accident. You need to put systems and processes in place that guarantee an amazing experience for your customer from start to finish.

Finding Mentors

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 08:00:00 GMT

One of the smartest moves you will make is finding mentors. I have five mentors in my life right now, and only two are in the detailing industry. The others are big-business mentors, small-business mentors, life mentors, and guys I look up to as husbands and fathers. Mentors are key, not just in detailing, but in life!

What I look for in a mentor: I stumbled across my first mentors when I was young, but today, even in my forties, I am still on the hunt for good mentors. I look for those who are realistic, willing to stand up to me, discuss the options I have, and show good judgment within their own life and business. I don’t want a control freak for a mentor, I want someone who can help me grow while also growing themselves.
Age makes a difference: I am sure you, those that are reading this, are of varied ages. For you young guys and gals, look for mentors who are older and willing to help point you in the right direction. To this day, my mentors who are older and a little wiser share something with me almost daily that changes my outlook, view or direction within a situation.
Success-based: Find mentors who are truly successful and truly want to see you succeed.
Life versus business: I want to be very clear about this. I have mentors within business and mentors within life, but few mentors can mentor me in both. I know who I respect business-wise and I know who I respect as husbands, fathers, and people. It’s my job to separate the two and to work what they both can teach me in my life. I like to relate mentoring to shoes. I have work out shoes for the gym and I have dress shoes for the meeting. One is not better than the other, they both simply specialized for the tasks at hand.

Where can you find a mentor? Here are a few ideas…

Start with your personal network. Family connections and your own professional associations are a good start.
Explore nonprofit organizations and volunteer groups in your industry or community.
Network with local business people through groups such as SCORE, BMI, Toastmasters and more.

Mentors are an amazing resource. Not only can you get invaluable insight and direction, but you also get a fresh and unbiased look from an outsider’s perspective.

Renny’s Sunday Message: Make Your Stumbles Part of the Dance

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Are you following the P&S Instagram page? @psdetailproducts Well, if not, then you probably missed Renny’s Sunday Message. Now worries, you can catch it here.

Renny’s Sunday Message: Go Down the Road that Few Go Down

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Did you catch Renny’s Sunday Message this week on the P&S Detail Products Instagram page? No, well you’re in luck. We’ve go it right here. Go ahead, click the link. It’s a short 60 second video.

Renny’s Sunday Message: Get Paid for Your Expertise, Not Your Time

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 08:00:00 GMT

You Need to Perform at a Very High Level

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Successful detailers must master both business and detailing skills. Combining the two is where true detailing success can be found, but your detailing skills must be at a very high level. All the business skills in the world are not going to save you.

Detailing at a high level means more than one would think. Performing at a high level means that you act in a professional fashion and be responsible and dedicated to performing detailing correctly. You must be dedicated to the integrity of detailing, far more than your competitors. When you detail with integrity, you not only bring yourself up, you lift up the entire detailing industry!

Those who perform and succeed at the highest levels within detailing know, understand, and do a great job of evaluating a vehicle’s needs. This level of detailer understands how to look at paint and know what can be achieved with his or her skills.
Successful detailers design a profitable menu based on their local market’s expectations and pricing ceilings.
High-level detailing professionals understand the science regarding paint correction and paint perfection.
Success detailers track man-hour performance, know their numbers and know when to say when.
Those operating at the highest level do so with a detailer’s creed whereas we cause no harm. The vehicles we work on at this level can be time capsules of automotive history. These are rare or exotic vehicles that the average detailer has no business working on.
Successful detailers sell upfront and explain the outcome results versus the customer’s budget. Remember the old saying, “You get what you pay for.”
Those who desire the highest levels of success understand both we and dry sanding. These steps take the advanced skills that are needed and should not be taken lightly. Sanding is an artistic part of detailing. The sanding itself is not difficult, but sanding while not depleting healthy clear coat is where the real skills are needed, as are the skills to remove the sanding marks you create during the process.
Some of the most challenging aspects of detailing at this level are steps that many skip over, or fail to realize how important these steps are. They include the ability to deal with interior stains and odors, and to do so without causing damage. Interior challenges take a great deal of skill to achieve a high-level outcome.
Successful detailers are as committed to the business of detailing as they are the art of detailing.

Use a Microscope to Evaluate Your Market

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Last week I talked to you about listening to your market. This week we are going to discuss how to use a microscope to look at your market and find the perfect clients.

When I evaluate a market, I take a look at its general economic health, the level of vehicles within the market, and how good of a job the current detailers are doing within the market.

First, I make in inquiry through the local Department of Motor Vehicles and find out the total number of vehicle registered within the market I’m evaluating. Second, I determine how many real competitors I have, other detailers offering the same type and level of service.

Now that we have some numbers, it’s time to do some math. Some industry organizations have said that 10% of the driving population has their care detailed regularly, but that number is tainted because it includes cars washes and dealership level details. Here are some more accurate numbers…

Entry-level detailing, under $200 is closer to 5%
Mid-range detailing between $250 and $400 is about 2-3%
High-end detailing is about 1-2%

Most of us would like to service the high-end segment of the market, so now take the total number of vehicles and calculate 2% of that number (multiply it by .02). Let’s be conservative and say there are 100,000 vehicles in your area. 2% is 2,000. Next, divide that number by the total number of detailers in your area. In this example, if there are 12 detailers, then that means if you work hard and do things right, you could gain a total of 167 detailing clients.

That may not sound like a lot, but that’s plenty of high-end customers if you manage things right and offer incredible service. I would rather serve fewer clients and a much higher level than serve a huge pool of clients with mediocre service.

Detailing is a service business, and if you take aim at a high level of service, you don’t need thousands of clients to find your Detailing Success.

Listen to Your Market: It’s Talking to You!

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 08:00:00 GMT

When evaluating your market, don’t sell yourself, convince yourself! I’m not afraid of competition; I’m not afraid of other detailers in the same market. All those items I can control, as I’m very confident in my abilities as a both a detailer and business owner.

What I fear in a market is a lack of need, a lack of disposable income, cheap prices and a market that is hooked on cheap prices for what they consider a detail.

On the flip side, when I travel around the country with P&S Detail Products and for industry events, I see markets that are ripe for true pro-level detailers. What do I see? Here’s what to look for…

Are there nice cars around town with crappy looking paint?
Are there other detail shops in town? Are they well connected and respected? Ask around, find out who is doing business with them and what they have to say about those shops.
How are the local high-end car dealerships doing?
How are other service businesses doing? House cleaning services, lawn care services, carpet cleaners, etc. Markets that have successful service companies are always a plus for detailers.
Are there large companies operating in the area? Large companies use a lot of subcontractors which can be a great opportunity for a smart detailer.
How is the car culture? Are there weekend cars and coffee gatherings or regular annual car shows? An area that is car crazy is always a great sign.
Are there other detailers in the area other than the local car wash? Car washes are typically bad detailers. If car washes performing details are all you have in your market, you have a serious opportunity to do well!

What message is your market sending you?

By the way, go check out all the cool stuff Rodd Thayer and Beth Lucia are doing over at Next Level Detailing… https://detailandrestore.com/

Saying Goodbye to Rick Goldstein

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Last week our detailing family lost one of its greatest ambassadors, Rick Goldstein, owner of Wolfsteins Pro Series – RaggTopp. Rick was very special to many of us. He touched so many hearts and I will forever be grateful that I was blessed to call Rick my friend.

Rick not only founded Wolfstein’s Pro Series, which manufactures the industry’s leading convertible top care system, RaggTopp, but he was also one of the founding members of The International Detailing Association and a true supporter of the car care industry. He was loved not just for his contributions to the industry, but for being a loving, humble, generous man. He took advantage of every opportunity to genuinely get to know the people he met.

Most importantly, Rick loved his wife Lisa and his two children, Spencer and Sara.

“My father was a great and generous man that touched the lives of so many people. He loved each and every one of you in his own special way, and I am proud to say he was not only my father, but also my boss and best friend.” – Spencer Goldstein

Rick will be deeply missed by all of us.

Operation Sleigh Shine 2021 was a Success!

Sat, 11 Dec 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Scott Macha of Total Eclipse Detailing in Oxford, Maine started Operation Sleigh Shine six years ago. The goal of the event is to detail the family car of a deserving member of our armed forces while raising money through donations and raffle prizes to purchase Christmas gifts for their kids.

Each year the event gets better and better, and this year did not disappoint. Scott Macha and members of The Detail Mafia came together in at Total Eclipse Detailing in Oxford, Main, Perfection Plus Auto Salon in Redmond, Oregon and Platinum Plus Detailing in Costa Mesa.

Three active-duty members of the Armed Forces and their families were honored as part of this year’s events. It is not only for those who have served their country, but who have also given much to their community, and made significant sacrifices. Like all families chosen for Operation Sleigh Shine every year, these three families were chosen by their peers and commanding officers for their outstanding military and community service.

The teams provided a complete interior detail, paint correction and ceramic coating to transform the family’s cars to like-new condition. The Families were also sent the home with a huge bundle of wrapped, new Christmas gifts purchased by The Detail Mafia with donated funds.

Operation Sleigh Shine couldn’t happen without the help of generous sponsors like P&S Detail Products, Flex Tools, Lake Country Manufacturing , The Rag Company, Solution Finish and more!

Next year’s event is already set for December Saturday, December 10, 2022. Want to participate? Reach out to Chris Woolman with Detailing Success and The Detail Mafia at chris@detailingsuccess.com or (818) 564-5839 or Scott Macha at totaleclipsedetailing@gmail.com

The Benefits of Offering Gift Cards

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 08:00:00 GMT

It’s kind of hard to fit a detail or a ceramic coating job under the Christmas tree, but that doesn’t mean they don’t make great gifts. Gift cards can help you help your customers give the gift of a clean car. Sure, it’s only a few weeks until Christmas, but it’s not too late…

Gift cards are the most popular and most requested present during the holidays and all other occasions for that matter. Not only are they beneficial to the gift giver and the receiver, but they are a huge benefit to your detailing business too!

It’s easy for you to offer gift cards or certificates at your shop. You can do it the old fashioned way and offer a hand-written gift certificate, you can partner with a service that helps you offer actual plastic gift cards, or you can even offer digital solutions through the help of software companies like Urable, RoadFS and Detail Bookie. Why offer gift cards? Well, here are a few good reasons…

Increase Brand Awareness
Receiving a gift card is a great way for someone to try out a service that has appealed to them, but that they haven’t tried or committed to yet. The gift giver may be an existing customer, but chances are the receiver will be a new customer being introduced to you and your business for the first time.

Build Customer Loyalty
Building relationships with your customers is an important part of keeping long-term clients. Creating more ways for them to conveniently do business with you will help them continue to use your services so you can build and nurture those relationships.

Increase Sales
This one is pretty obvious, but offering gifts cards is a great way to improve your cashflow, especially around the holidays when the winter weather may slow down your detailing business a bit. Keep in mind, those gift cards are going to get redeemed someday, so consider managing those funds carefully. Some detailers will deposit gift card funds in a separate account and draw from it as the cards are redeemed.

So, if you want to be able to fit a detail under your customer’s tree this year, implement a gift card program and take advantage of all the benefits they have to offer for you and your customer.

Do You Have a Passion for Detailing?

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Find your passion. Figure out what you love and do that. If you find your passion, you’ll never work a day in your life. Sound familiar?

Detailing is a tough business. It requires skill, business knowledge and marketing prowess, all things you can learn if you make the right investment in yourself. Passion is a little harder to learn, and is absolutely necessary if you are going to succeed in this business or any other.

Why is passion so important? There are at least three reasons…

Passion creates new thoughts and ideas which spawns creativity, innovation and competitive advantages.
You need to have more passion than your competition. If you don’t, their passion and business will win over yours.
Passion is the one thing that will pull you through tough times, and there will be tough times.

How do you find a passion for detailing?

Be Curious: If you are generally curious or intrigued by detailing, that is a good place to start. Learn all you can about it.
Investigate: Get real exposure to detailing. This could be an entry-level job or hands-on training.
Practice: Do it and keep doing it, over and over again.
Master: Eventually, after enough practice you will become an expert. A master at your craft.

To reach your goals and find lasting success, you will need to have passion for what you are doing. Do you? If not, get to work… find that passion!

Wash, Clay and Ceramic Coat with P&S SOLE

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Is paint correction always necessary? Although it’s highly recommended, especially with longer-term ceramic coatings, sometimes the customer’s car just needs some good protection. Maybe they don’t care about swirls, or maybe they don’t have the budget for a full paint correction?

A couple of years ago, P&S introduced SOLE, their one year coating and it’s perfect for your budget-minded client. We know quite a few detailers that have started offering a Wash, Clay and Ceramic Coat package using P&S SOLE. It can be done in just a couple of hours, and it’s not uncommon to charge about $350 for a mid-sized sedan.

In this video, Sydni Brae Gwinn from P&S and Anthony Fisher from The Rag Company show you how cool this service is on a ’67 GTO…

We Can Be Thankful!

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Exactly one year ago, we looked back on 2020 and looked forward to a more prosperous 2021. For many, it was more prosperous, but it certainly hasn’t been the rebound year we’ve all been hoping for.

Everyone’s circumstances are different, and the details of their situation are unique. Nonetheless, there is one thing that can take away the sting of the last couple of years. One thing we can do to find happiness, even in tough times…

We can be thankful!

We all have a lot to be thankful for. As we wrap up the year and prepare to celebrate the holidays, it’s important to remember to be grateful for the lives and gifts we have been blessed with.

Taking time every day to think about and take note of all the great things in your life will help you stay positive, which will help take the edge off and reduce stress and anxiety. Did you catch that first part? The key is to exercise gratitude every day. If you need a little help, set a simple reminder on your phone or calendar.

Making gratitude part of your daily routine will help you be successful long-term and help you find genuine happiness. Being thankful for the good things you have and enjoy in your life will help you develop an attitude of thankfulness, which will have a positive effect on those around you and lead you and them on the road to success and happiness.

At Detailing Success, we have a lot to be thankful for. The detailing industry and all the friends we have made around the world are huge blessings for us. In addition, our past and incoming students mean the world to us. And finally, we are incredibly grateful for our Detail Mafia family and the love and support they give us every day.

It is my hope and my prayer that we may all live in thanksgiving daily regardless of the circumstances we find ourselves in.

Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!

5 Things You SHOULD KNOW About The Detail Mafia!

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

You’ve probably heard of the Detail Mafia, but just in case you haven’t, Levi, Anthony & Bob Phillips are here to tell you about it!

Own Your Mistakes

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

As we go through life as entrepreneurs, we are going to make mistakes. It’s inevitable. Big deal right? Everybody makes mistakes. It’s how you deal with them that will set you apart from everyone else.

Whether you made a scheduling error, or burned through the paint of a vintage Ferrari, take responsibility for those mistakes… Learn to own your mistakes! Do everything you can to make your wrongs right. When we own our mistakes and do everything we can to make things right, we have integrity, which makes it easier to be proud of who we are.

There are long-term implications for not owning up to your mistakes. Nobody expects you to be perfect, but as an entrepreneur, they do expect you to be honest. Here are three ways to own your mistakes that will help make you a respected entrepreneur…

Be Accountable
When you make a mistake, be prepared to take accountability for it. This will demonstrate that you are responsible. Reasonable people know when a mistake has been made, and most of the time owning up to it solves the problem. As soon as you realize something is your fault, own it, don’t make excuses.

Be Honest
By being proactive about the problem, and honestly owning your mistakes, you will show clients that you have integrity. This will have a lasting impact on them as they will be appreciative of your honesty. It builds trust and proves you are courageous enough to have integrity and own your mistakes.

Be Upfront
First, identify and expedite a solution. Next, contact your client impacted by your mistake. Communicate with them what the problem is and how it will be fixed. Don’t waste your time with unimportant details, it will just come across as excuses. Present them with your solution to make amends. If that doesn’t’ work, try to find an agreeable solution. Finally, follow up and see things through.

Detail Mafia Big Bear Weekend 2021 Main Event

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

This past weekend nearly 90 members of The Detail Mafia gathered in Big Bear, California for a 2-day networking and education event at Renny Doyle’s Detailing Success and it was AWESOME!

Traditionally, The Detail Mafia hosts their “Main Event” the day after SEMA in Las Vegas, Nevada. Unfortunately, many attendees and exhibitors decided to sit out this year’s SEMA, so the decision was made to host our Main Event at Detailing Success, the home of The Detail Mafia. Members came from as far away as The Netherlands to continue their detailing and business education, network and see old friends. Renny Doyle delivered a number of educational seminars…

Entry level ceramic coatings for non-corrected cars
Rock chip and scratch repair using Dr. ColorChip
Simple interior detailing tips that make a huge difference
New and innovative products and their uses
Killing it with your detailing menu
Busines planning or planning to fail?
Add-on services panel discussion
Managing and hiring staff
Challenge yourself and supercharge your efforts

Each day we enjoyed great food including tacos, burritos and more from Mario Alfonzo’s Taco Bus. Uber Detail in Corona, California provided a fabulous desert bar and P&S Detail Products hosted an open bar during Saturday night’s pajama party. Yup, you read that right! We wrapped up the weekend with a pajama party and it was a lot of fun!

We also recognized some well-deserving members with some fun awards…

Detail Mafia Hall of Fame – Jim Goguen
Detail Mafia Master Detailer – Joab Flores
Detail Mafia Master Detailer – Shane Mayfield
Detail Mafia Detailer of the Year – Rick Walling
Detail Mafia Rookie of the Year – Rick Kolb
Essence of Mafia – Alex Dublin
Essence of Mafia – Chris Williams
Essence of Mafia – Greg Pagh
Essence of Mafia – James Akers
Essence of Mafia – Mark Elliot
Essence of Mafia – Oscar Hernandez
Essence of Mafia – Michael Hill
Essence of Mafia – Richard Ambroze
Essence of Mafia – Jessica Rook

And finally, 10 members became fully initiated “Made Members” of The Detail Mafia…

Ricardo Alatorre
Randy Djoenerie
Adam Garvin
Renzo Gazzo
Sydni Brae Gwinn
Mike Howard
Alex Johnson
Beth Lucia
Mike Smith
Rodd Thayer

It was a fabulous weekend filled with great memories, fun and relationship building. The culture of The Detail Mafia is truly unique and special. We really are a family.

What is The Detail Mafia?

The Detail Mafia is a family made up of an exclusive group of professional detailers who are committed to improving the businesses and lives of its members through support, mentoring, continued education and industry outreach. The Detail Mafia has a strict code of conduct and all members are expected to share these core values…

Always do the right thing.
Be committed to education, excellence and success.
Be confident, but also be humble.
Be loyal to your fellow Detail Mafia brothers and sisters.
Be willing to do what it takes.
Care about people and treat everyone with respect.
Lead through actions, not words.
Love helping people and pick them up when given the opportunity.
Make a real positive impact on people’s lives.
Share and teach the skills people need to succeed.
Support those that support us.

How do you join The Detail Mafia?
To become a member of The Detail Mafia, you must first attend Renny Doyle’s Advanced 5-Day Training. Detailers that complete that class are eligible to apply for membership. There are three levels of membership…

Associate Member: Non-made member of The Detailer’s Network
Made Member: Fully initiated member of The Detail Mafia
Master Detailer: Highest Honor. Only 10% have achieved this level.

What is included with membership in The Detail Mafia?
Members of The Detail Mafia receive a number of privileges…

Access to our private online forum
Access to our private Facebook Group
Available mentor program
Up to two online educational webinars every week
Special training and industry events for members only
Special invitation only events such as Air Force One & McCall’s Detailing Teams
Negotiated discounts with select vendor partners
Unmatched industry recognition.

All About P&S Undressed Tire Prep

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

In this video, P&S Product Specialist Sydni Brae Gwinn tells you everything you need to know about their newest product, Undressed Tire Prep. Like the name says, Undressed is used to strip all the prior tire dressings and build up from the serfurse of the tire. This enhances the performance of any new tire dressing you apply afterwards. It’s an evolution of P&S White-Wall Tire Cleaner (pictured) from nearly 60 years ago!

60-Second Video: P&S Metal Brite on Aluminum Diamond Plate with Renny Doyle

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

In less than 60 seconds, Renny gives you some tips and tricks on effectively polishing the diamond plate on a horse trailer using P&S Metal Brite, a cordless Flex polisher and a P&S Soft Wool Cutting Pad.

The Secret to Accomplishment

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

It doesn’t matter what you say, what you post on Instagram or how many motivation memes you share. No amount of motivation, inspiration or positive thinking can replace action.

Taking action is the one thing that separates winners from losers. The haves from the have-nots. Highly successful people from everyday people.

“Do you want to know who you are? Don’t ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.” — Thomas Jefferson

Although many of us have big goals, dreams and ambitions, we somehow fail to achieve them. We come up with all sorts of excuses, but the bottom line is we fail to take the necessary action to achieve them.

Action is the shortest path between where you are now and where you are going. Your first action will reveal the second one, your second action reveals the third one, and so on and so forth. Simply put one foot in front of the other and keep moving.

No amount of inspiration, motivation or positive thinking can replace action. Your actions are the only thing that matters.

Building Fulfilling Relationships

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Real success, the kind that exists on multiple levels is impossible to gain without building great relationships. And how do you build great relationships?

By treating every person exactly the same way you want to be treated… with kindness, regard and respect.

There are three important aspects to building great relationships…

Express Vulnerability… Be truthful.
Have Integrity… Show a genuine interest and do the right thing.
Be there for others… Actually care about them and do what it takes to help them.

Most people are fake and are overly focused on what they can gain from another person. Be real. Don’t expect anything in return and instead, provide value to the other person in the form of your time, your attention, and your effort.

There is no better way to win people over and build amazing lifelong relationships.

Become a Master of Your Craft

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Never in the history of the detailing industry has there been more opportunity, more resources and more tools available to you. NEVER!!!

There are easily a half-dozen or more reputable trainers and training centers across the country. We are partial to Detailing Success. ��

The International Detailing Association’s mission is to empower detailing industry professionals at each stage of their career. Are you involved?

And then there are Facebook groups, podcasts, the vastness of the internet. and let’s not forget YouTube!

There are ZERO reasons why you can’t learn the skills you need to become a master of your craft. The door of opportunity is wide open. What are you waiting for? Run through it!

Shop Your Local Market and Evaluate Your Competition

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 08:00:00 GMT

When you go to the doctor for a check-up or if you are having a health-related issue, 99.9 percent of the doctors you visit will take your vitals: blood pressure, heart rate, and pulse.

Your vitals give your doctor a quick look at your general health. Shopping your market is a good way to judge the vitals of your local market and will allow you to get face to face with your competitor.

In my comparative shopping of competing detailers, I look hard at their level of connection within the community and also ask if local car dealerships, repair shops, or body shops are excited about my business. If your area is saturated with detailers, the car guys will usually be a good indicator of the health of your market. But I don’t rely on that information alone, I dig deeper and so should you. To get you started on checking the vitals of your local market, I’ve included a dozen questions below to help you get started. This is some of what I look for…

Questions to Ask About Your Market and Your Competition

Does my market seem economically healthy?
Are other service businesses succeeding?
Are my competitors good at phone sales?
Are my competitors well connected within the market?
Will the prices my competitors charge for their services support my business?
Are my competitors capable and skilled?
How is the presentation of my competition?
Will my area better support a fixed location or a mobile service?
Are other mobile businesses such as landscapers, carpet cleaners, and window cleaners doing well here?
Who is the local expert and can I dethrone him/her?
Can I increase the average price of a detail?
Do auto industry people in my market seem excited that I am starting this new venture?

Spend Capital Where It Counts

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

You are excited about your new business and to a car guy or gal, a detailing business is like a toy store to a kid. All too many times, detailers spend way too much capital on items they simply do not need. We detailers are famous for spending small fortunes on equipment and products, and many times we waste too much money on them.

Also, the amount of money people waste on marketing within this industry is insane. Most of the time, this money is spent on what I call panic-based marketing. Things slow down, people entering the detailing industry panic, and they start taking ads out within useless forms of advertising. Weeks later, business usually has not changed much, they are still slow, and the bills for the ads arrive, and that is usually when trouble starts.

One of the most important things you can do is build a realistic budget for your detailing business. Whether you are just getting into detailing or you are expanding your existing business and desire to take your detailing business to the next level, no matter if you are a veteran to detailing or brand new, you need to budget every aspect of your business.

You need to know what ALL of your various costs are going to be, including your ongoing expenses. There are a few steps to follow to gain a clear picture of your overall costs and create a workable budget. First, begin by building a start-up or expansion budget. Next, build an ongoing expense budget. Finally, build a wish list budget for the future. Following these steps will help guide you in the right direction for building a budget that will work for you and your detailing business.

So many concentrate on the possible income of a business, yet fail to understand the costs and expenses associated with the business. Getting a solid grip on your expenses will help you become more profitable. Not knowing your expenses is a deadly sin within any business

Video: P&S Epic Waterless Wash Quick Facts

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

What exactly is Epic Waterless Wash? Well, the official answer from P&S is Epic Waterless Wash is a polymer gloss intensifier which can be used on paint, metal or glass to clean and shine effortlessly. It contains lubricants and cleaning agents to carefully remove soil from your car without water. It can also be used as a traditional wax, quick detail spray or spray it on your vehicle between rinsing and drying. That’s right! Just spray it on a wet or dry surface and wipe it off. Want to know a little, more? Watch Sydni’s quick 60-second video.

Knowledge is Not Power. Applied Knowledge is Power

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Knowledge is Not Power. Applied Knowledge is Power

We hear this all the time, “Knowledge is Power”. The more educated you are, the more you understand, the more you know, the more valuable you are. These days, we feed our minds in so many different ways…

Books
College
Graduate School
Trade School
Specialized Trainings

The list goes on and on. The world seems to prioritize the act of acquiring information while diminishing the importance of its application.

But the truth is, “ Applied knowledge is power ”.

Your ability to apply the knowledge you gained to make an impact in your life and on those around you is the real power, and that leads to further knowledge through experience.

Experience comes from doing, which may actually be the single most important source of knowledge. It’s what you do, what you fail at, and what you succeed at. These lessons are the knowledge that bring you power.

Knowledge is the most powerful when it is consistently applied, and that consistency, the consistency of doing and applying your knowledge is the most important component of success.

Video: MAKE Your DREAMS Come True with DREAM MAKER from P&S Detail Products and Gordon McCall

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

P&S Dream Maker

DREAM MAKER is the latest offering from P&S Detail Products. It was developed for the Official McCall’s Detailing Team to be used during Monterey Car Week.

Dream Maker is NOT another sealant, but a gloss enhancer. It contains the latest in gloss technology to deliver pure gloss as the icing on the cake for show cars. It’s safe to be used on existing paint protection including Bead Maker, and will enhance the look and feel of glossy surfaces. Dream Maker is the answer for any dream car, show car, or an everyday driver that needs an edge up on the competition!

Building a Financial Foundation

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

I have had some incredible mentors in my life. One of my primary mentors, Walt, was the first to get me hooked on the phrase…

“It’s not always about what you make, but what you spend!”

I know detailers who make solid money, I mean a nice living. They live within their means and put money aside each and every week of the year. A few of these guys are young, in their thirties and forties, and they have a very sizable nest egg of cash, investments, and retirement set aside.

On the flip side, I know people within the detailing industry who make over six figures and have absolutely nothing to show for it. They live big, drive big, and talk big, but are in debt up to their eyeballs. “It’s not always about what you make, but what you spend!” Spend your hard earned money where it counts most, and do as I have done my entire live, find great mentors!

Like any industry, there are commonalities within detailing and I see ten common factors that play a part in the failure of many detailing business in their very early stage…

1. Failure to have the correct business education and/or business experience.

2. Failure to know how to detail at a professional level.

3. Business is underfunded and lacks any support capital to help them.

4. Starting out in debt or running up debt letting overhead get out of control.

5. Failure to have a written business plan addressing successes and challenges alike.

6. Failure to maintain a sales pipeline and thus upsetting cash flow.

7. Failure to establish personal and business brands both online and offline.

8. Failure to establish an effective referral program.

9. Failure to be effective on the phone and poor people skills.

10. Utilizing a poorly designed menu and failing to make any notable hourly profits.

These ten common success traits are the foundation I see for those making progress and larger-than-normal successes within the detailing industry.

1. Being business educated and having a foundation read to start a business.

2. Being trained and educated within the art of professional-level detailing.

3. Business is started within one’s means ad securing working capital.

4. Starting out with business with little or no debt.

5. Having a written business plan that addresses successes and challenges alike.

6. Having a marketing and sales plan of action that keep the sales pipeline flowing.

7. Developing solid personal and business branding in the early days.

8. Establishing a highly effective referral and follow-up system.

9. Top-notch phone and in-person sales approach that wins business.

10. Having a proven and well-designed menu in place and profit from that menu.

The reason I mention these common mistakes and success traits is that all of these items need to be planned for and you need to think about the financial demands of these items.

Video: P&S True Vue Glass Cleaner

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Video: P&S True Vue Glass Cleaner

Sydni shows the Keith & Renny her favorite method for cleaning dirty windows using a microfiber application, a Rag Company FTW Towel and ready to use True Vue Glass cleaner. Want to get your own bottle? Visit The Rag Company .

Part Time & Full Time Detailing

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Part-Time

I have worked with dozens of detailing entrepreneurs who started out part time. Many where close to retirement and wanted to start ahead of schedule at building their client base while still employed in their careers. Some work in careers that allow some freedoms and time off. Firefighters and police officers in many cases are prime candidates to become detailing entrepreneurs.

If you are on a tight budget and are squeezing every dime into starting your business, keep your job or at least have a part-time job to help pay the bills. When I started my business, I was a part-time sales technician at a high-end tool and supply store two to three days a week. I hated that job, but it paid the bills and allowed me to invest more and more in my business without going into debt. Having that job also gave me the energy, motivation, and desire to work harder and smarter within my business without having to worry about the money aspect of life, which reduced my stress. Listen, stress will kill a business and stress kills creative thinking, not to mention that stress can kill you. Stress is simply unhealthy and I advise you to stay clear of it at all costs.

During your first couple of years in business, you will experience slow periods. Don’t be too proud to take a part-time job during slow times. As I explained above about my first year’s part-time job, I went looking for a job in the winter where I would be around people who would purchase detailing services. Likewise, my wife took a job where she would be in direct contact with prospective clients. We worked this angle very carefully and our plan worked very well. I was a ski instructor and my wife worked as a waitress at an exclusive fine-dining restaurant. The contacts we both made were a sizable chunk of the starting foundation of our business. So keep an open mind to opportunities during the off-season of detailing.

Full-Time

If you are going into the prime season of detailing in your market, you’re educated within detailing (meaning you know what you are doing), and your detailing business is outfitted with the correct equipment supplies and cash reserve for sustaining you while you get started, then congratulations! You are among a small group entering the detailing industry that is prepared to go full-time. Cash flow is always a real issue within any new business, so if you have the cash reserves to start, perform the proper start-up marketing, and keep your bills paid, go for it! The full-time option is usually the fast track to success!

Be Patient

Jim Goguen is a close friend and a professional detailing entrepreneur, and between the both of us we have over fifty years of detailing success. We are both firm believers that many entering the world of entrepreneurship fail to have the patience they will need to make it. Detailing success does not happen quickly and achieving your goal could take years.

Be Prepared: Success Means Sacrifice

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Be Prepared: Success Means Sacrifice

You need to ask yourself: Am I prepared to work the hardest I have ever worked?

I make that statement about sacrifice for a very pointed and direct reason. I don’t care if you are a part-time or full-time detailer, getting the business up and running, and more importantly, profitable is going to take a huge amount of work and, in some cases, some very long days, nights and weekends.

If you are going to build this business, you need to admit and commit to working like you’ve never worked before. Owning any business is difficult, but detailing is a luxury-based service business and your business competes with your prospective clients’ available disposable cash. It’s not a walk in the part to arrive at success in detailing. It takes good detailing skills and even better business skills.

Can You Make a Detailing Business Succeed Within Your Market?

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Can You Make a Detailing Business Succeed Within Your Market?

Many people approach and ask me what it takes to succeed within business. The answer to that repeatedly asked question is not easy. The answer is actually a combination of several factors, which include education (not just college), life and business experience, personality, inner drive, needs, and passion.

But all of the above cannot do much if you fail to plan, take action, and be educated in the art and war of the detailing business. Passion drove me to detailing and education, keeping ahead on business, tactical/technical detailing, marketing, sales, and a host of other elements have kept me at the top. Average does not work within business. Period.

If you are a business professional, do not kid yourself. You are at war within business and competing not only with those within your industry, but also an army of daily needs and desires your current and prospective customers have for other types of products and services.

Creating niches within industries has never been more important than it is now. Following the rest of the herd in the detailing industry is the worst thing you could do. Be a leader within your local market, do things differently than any other shop. Stand apart from the everyday shop and make sure you STAND OUT.

Knowing the art of detailing is HUGE but even more important-once you take your passion from hobby to business-is being a solid businessman or woman. Passion drove you to detailing, right? Now sound business practices and devotion to education can make you a prime example of detailing done right. Continue to read, research, and network, and don’t forget the importance of finding the proper mentors to assist you with your goals.

Starting a detailing business is not hard. Making a profit is much harder. Matching a profitable business with the lifestyle you desire will be the biggest challenge you face. Be ready by being educated and well versed within all angles of the detailing industry.

Air Force One Detailing Team Returns to Seattle’s Museum of Flight

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Air Force One Detailing Team Returns to Seattle’s Museum of Flight

After two years, and thanks to a very generous benefactor, Renny Doyle The Detail Mafia will return to Seattle’s Museum of Flight this year with a smaller but more streamlined Air Force One Detailing Team to continue the preservation of the first presidential jet Air Force One July 11-18. The team will also focus its efforts on the museum’s equally historic Boeing B-29 Superfortress.

This will be the 18th year that Renny has led a team of elite detailers to continue their role as caretakers of the famous presidential plane and the notable B-29 Bomber. While the team is less than half the size of teams in recent years, this year’s slimmed down team of 20 will consist of the most experienced and proven members of the The Detail Mafia.

The elite group will tackle only two of the more than 15 historic aircraft they have been restoring and preserving over the past decade; however, they are grateful for the opportunity to be working on the two celebrated airplanes after having to skip last year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In the early days of restoring Air Force One, it was a very small but elite team of detailers that came out to restore and preserve Air Force One. The plane was still out on the tarmac and every year, it was almost like having to start all over again. In the past few years, the team has increased in size to as many as 60 which allows work to be done on many more planes at the museum. The team is honored to be able to do the project this year, even if on a smaller scale.

Today the plane is on display inside the open-air Aviation Pavilion, but it is still exposed to moisture and Seattle’s cold winter weather conditions. Every year when the team returns, the paint has begun to show signs of weathering and the brightwork has begun to dull. This goes double for the B-29 Bomber with its 100 percent aluminum fuselage.

Air Force One Team Members are chosen very carefully every spring from members of The Detail Mafia, a group of detailers that have all been trained by Renny Doyle at Detailing Success in Big Bear, CA. Many of them are returning members of the team that go back to the original restoration project in 2003, while others are rookies who show promise in the meticulous art of paint correction and polishing one-stage paint and brightwork.

All Air Force One Team members are successful detailing business owners who pay their own way to Seattle and donate their time and skills to the project, as they consider it their patriotic duty.

In addition to a great team, this project could not be done properly without the products and support from the project’s gold sponsor, P&S Detail Products; and from silver sponsors Flex, Buff and Shine Mfg.; IK Sprayers; the Rag Company; RoadFS by Zenware; Grit Guard; RaggTopp; and Dynabrade.

About Air Force One

Air Force One is a specially built Boeing 707-153 known and SAM (Special Air Missions) 970. It was delivered in 1959 as the first presidential jet powered aircraft and served Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon. SAM 970 remained active in the presidential fleet until 1996.

About the Boeing B-29 Superfortress

Known as T-Square 54, the Boeing B-29 Superfortress fought in the Pacific during World War II, flying at least 37 combat missions with the 875th Bomb Squadron, 498th Bomb Group. The B-29 was the most capable bomber of World War II. It was two B-29s that dropped the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan in 1945, helping to end the war.

Think About the Lifestyle You Want!

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Think About the Lifestyle You Want!

When thinking of your detailing business, think about the lifestyle you wish to have. Maybe you are in your thirties or forties, enjoy time with family, and spending time doing what you love to do. If you want a lifestyle-based business, building a volume-based detailing business is not going to match your lifestyle wishes.

Some of you reading this may be young, in your twenties and you have big ideas and bigger goals. You are young and this is a great time to work your butt off, so maybe starting out with a high-volume shop is the answer for you.

Those who have succeeded at the highest levels are quality-based detailers concentrating on better servicing fewer clients. It’s no secret I’m getting older, but I’m young enough to remember my twenties and thirties and how important it was to be the biggest and baddest detailer. If I may, that was stupid thinking. Concentrate on being the best and the most profitable and enjoy life. Those six-day workweeks were a waste and knowing what I know now and what I am sharing with you today could have provided me with many more five-day workweeks, which could have built many more memories doing fun stuff and working a tad less. Do as I am doing now, not as I did then!

Video: P&S Wipe N Shine Tire Dressing

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Video: P&S Wipe N Shine Tire Dressing

Some of our favorite dressings are P&S Dynamic and P&S Shine All. But sometimes, you just need that gel dressing for the perfect look. P&S Wipe N Shine is amazing! P&S Team Members Sydni Brae Gwinn and Kyle Clark tell you all about Wipe N Shine and show you the easiest and best way to apply it. Hope you enjoy the video. Looking to buy some Wipe N Shine, check with your favorite local P&S Distributor. Happy Detailing!

What Would I Do Different?

Mon, 31 May 2021 08:00:00 GMT

What Would I Do Different?

Hundreds of times a year I am asked one particular question more than any other: “If you had to do it over again, what would you do different?”

Ego drove me in the early days. I wanted to be the biggest, baddest detailer in the United States. I worked very hard and within just a few years of starting my business, I had locations in several states. The money was there, I had a sizable staff, I had fame as I was starting to get national and international attention, and I had reached my goal of being big and bad. But there was one huge, massive, uncontrollable problem… all I did was work, and I hated every minute of it. I had a very young and growing family and was rarely doing the things I loved to do with them. Also, the largest portion of my profits went to staff and overhead. I kept very little of the gross sales yet worked my fingers to the bone. I had given up my lifestyle for what the world views as success, and it sucked.

Here is what I am doing today, and this is what I coach, teach, and mentor others to do:

Be very organized in your business and have a clear vision of who you are, and what you desire out of life and your business. Anyone can work pointlessly. The smartest, happiest, and brightest work and live with purpose.
Specialize within a certain market. I like to “follow the money” within a market and offer the services that deliver the highest profit points. This might be a $99 express detail or a $400 stage II detail. You will need to research the market, find the services your market wants, then build the services that match market expectations with your own profit expectations. Not all detailers are created equal. Build your menu based on what your market wants and the profits you need!
Ask yourself: Am I going to sell hot dogs or steaks? There is money in both but you can’t sell a steak-level detail for the price of a hot dog and that is what the majority of the detailing industry does. It’s a major reason why so many detailers struggle.
Network with successful people. There is a great quote that I have in my office and read daily: “Stupid people surround themselves with smart people. Smart people surround themselves with smart people who disagree with them.” -Aaron Sorkin
Enjoy life and when work is done, it’s DONE. Make sure to have hobbies and enjoy them. For me, my kids area huge part of my life so taking time to do things as a family is important to me.
My wife is a central part of my business and day care did not raise our kids. She helped build my reputation and assisted me in the sales and management of the business. Together, we have had a great deal of fun raising our kids in the car culture that detailing can offer. We are a small mom-and-pop business, and proud of it.

Special Project: Detailing Squad 51 from Emergency!

Mon, 24 May 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Special Project: Detailing Squad 51 from Emergency!

If you grew up in the 70’s and 80’s, there’s a good chance you found yourself glued to the television watching the TV show Emergency! I have very fond memories of watching reruns of the show followed by CHiPs, The Duke’s of Hazard, and the A-Team.

Emergency followed the lives of paramedics, specifically John Gage and Roy DeSoto. The show inspired so many to become EMT’s and Paramedics and even encouraged the widespread adoption of emergency services in cities across America. It continues to inspire people today.

For us car guys, the real star of the show was Squad 51, a 1974 Dodge D300, which was custom built by NBC Studios for the show. It now resides in the LA County Fire Museum where it was fully restored a few years ago.

A select team of Detail Mafia members led by Renny Doyle were lucky enough to be invited to preserve the historic vehicle. Detail Mafia Member Richard Ambroze, a retired Paramedic put the project together. The goal was preservation through careful paint correction followed by a couple of layers of Legend Ceramic Coating by P&S Detail Products, the official detail supplier of the museum.

Whether it’s the family minivan, a vintage muscle car, the first jet powered Air Force One, or Squad 51, preservation is what we do as detailers, and it’s great to work on these special projects so that these historic icons can be enjoyed by everyone for years to come!

Small and Specialized vs. Large and Volume-Based Detailing Businesses

Mon, 10 May 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Small and Specialized vs. Large and Volume-Based Detailing Businesses

Many times I see people wanting to go big within detailing. Believe me, there is nothing wrong with big goals but going big is not always the best answer, nor does going big mean more profits. Society today seems to be addicted to the bigger-is-better way of thinking and detailers are at the heart of this line of thinking. I want to share with you my feelings about what I have seen in the detailing industry when looking at both the large- and small-business models.

Let’s talk first about the small, home-based mobile business. This business has low overhead, a small staff, maybe even just the owner working solo, or maybe with a helper or two. This model can accommodate both a high-end market that takes aim at the upper levels of local society or a more moderate market where the daily d rivers are a blend of more average-level vehicles such as Fords, Chevys, Toyotas, and such. This smaller, easier-to-manage model offers a far greater lifestyle versus the larger, volume-based model. If I were to go back in time, I would keep my business specialized and aimed at the niche-based, going after those within my market that were looking for quality-based services.

The flip side of a small, specialized detailing business is the large, volume-based shop. Before we discuss this option, I know people who run these shops and love it. But, I know few who have what I would consider a lifestyle that offers much outside of work. I have been in this position and built up a sizable clientele, and while it did a great deal for my ego, it hurt my lifestyle, my hobbies, and took away time with my wife, kids, family, and friends. It changed me as a person. I was always driven but when I was running a big detailing operation, I got angry. All I did was deal with staffing issues and work. It was a huge pain in the butt and I hated it.

Taking aim at building your business into a sizable organization is not a bad thing. Just realize that detailing is a hard business to take regionally or statewide, and very hard to take nationally. Detailing is a business based on relationships, connections, and trust. Many think of combining retail and wholesale opportunities into one company. Mixing a retail and wholesale detailing business means, to me, that you need to have two crews; a dealership crew performing the wholesale work for dealerships while the retail crews performs the high-end work. Mixing the two is not ideal as staff will often over-deliver on the wholesale side or under-deliver on the high-end retail side. Either is detailing gone bad.

A big, high-volume detailing business can bring in the money, it really can, but at what cost? If you don’t mind working a ton of hours, six to seven days a week, and addressing issues with staff at every corner of your day, a big detailing business could be rewarding.

Retail vs. Wholesale Detailing

Thu, 06 May 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Retail vs. Wholesale Detailing

Some of you have been in the detailing industry for years and know all the terms and phrases. For those that are newer and don’t have all the terminology down yet, we have two primary segments within the industry… retail and wholesale. You may be considering going after dealership work within your market, or maybe you are strictly all about going after the more profitable and better-paying retail work. But I encourage you to look at both when you first open for business.

“Happiness is positive cash flow.” -Fred Adler

You’re going to need cash flow when you first start up and I couldn’t care less where it comes from as long as you are making a profit. Retail is highly preferred, as there are more profits per hour in retail-based services.

On the other hand, wholesale accounts can offer an infusion of cash flow into your business and while the profits may not be as desirable, you can always drop or scale back your wholesales accounts as you build up your retail sales.

Mobile of Fixed Location?

Mon, 03 May 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Mobile or Fixed Location?

Let’s start out by giving you some basic terminology…

Mobile Operation: This is where you build a system that can take your business to your customer’s home, office, or remote location. A mobile system can consist of many options these days. You can use a small SUV, minivan, truck, cargo van, or trailer. The options for mobile detailing systems are incredible.

Fixed Location: This is a warehouse, former gas station, or building where you place your detailing business and customers come to you. For some, a fixed location can be at home or in a garage, outbuilding, or barn. This is not ideal in all markets, but I know of several people who have a nice detailing studio right at home and this option certainly does save money and can offer a great quality of life. I will advise that if you are setting up at a residence, think about legal issues with homeowner associations, cities, and counties as all of these agencies have rules and regulations pertaining to home-based businesses. Another concern is perceived value and how your clients might view this. I once had a studio at my residence and for me, it worked out fine. It was a great situation, and one worth thinking about for your business.

I will share this with you: I am a strong believer in going mobile when you first start a detailing business. My reasons are cost, long-term debt, and how hard you are going to have to work when you first start. Debt is a killer within business, especially if you are already tight on start-up funds. The mobile detailing model is not only the ideal start-up system when you are getting your business off the ground, it also offers the advantage of being a home-based business. Even today, whenever I can I work from my home because it also allows me time with my wife, kids, and my dogs. So while I have a large sexy shop all decked out, when I have my choice and am just doing paperwork, administrative work, and marketing, I work out of the house. Here are all the facts I can muster on the positives and negatives of a mobile operation and a fixed location:

I will tell you, having a shop is very convenient. I love walking into my shop each morning and not having to set up my equipment. I have collected everything I could possibly need, and never being too cold or too hot while working sure is nice.

There are many factors to think about when you are evaluating the type of detailing business you will be starting. Look long and hard at your local market and think about some of the items outlined above during your decision-making process.

I have had up to six locations at once and if I were to do it all over again, I would start mobile, concentrate on the services with the highest prospects of sales and profits within my desired market, and keep the business small, specialized, and quality-based. We are talking lifestyle here and mobile offers the best chance of success when you first get going within this industry. Remember,you can always grow into having a fixed location when you have the client base and therefore the capital to support a shop.

Envisioning Your Detailing Business

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Envisioning Your Detailing Business

When I started my detailing business, it was never about the right logo, the right timing, or having everything I needed to succeed in place. My drive was first survival, doing something that I loved to do, and getting the word out that I was good at it. I knew I had to connect with my market and I had to steamroll my competitors, not with fancy marketing or bling, but with personality and skill. I had little capital and knew that my wife and I had to use our people skills and my detailing abilities to win people over.

Yes, I repeat, I had little capital, but I had ten times the drive I needed and I had three kids that needed food, a roof over their heads, and some comforts in life. Not only did I want to succeed, I had to succeed! I knew my detailing business had to have a low overhead and I had a small budget to work with for the start-up. Making sure I made the right equipment and products-purchasing decisions were hugely important.

I also knew I had weather to deal with during the winter months when profits would drop during fall, winter, and spring seasons. With the above in mind, I set out to build my personal and professional brand.

Why develop personal and professional branding for both you and your business? Being a small business is a badge of honor. Getting your name and business name out there is very, very important. You want to be known as your market’s go-to detailer, the local expert of experts. Your personal name and brand are important, just as important as your business name and image. You are the business and people need to know it!

Procrastination Is a Thief in the Night

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

I talk all the time with people who love viewing the detailing world from the safety of their porch or from behind the keyboard of their computer. Analysis paralysis is real, and all too many people analyze the industry, the investment, and spend countless hours looking at online forums, blogs, and watching YouTube.

Hours turn into days, then weeks and even years. Performing your due diligence is important and necessary, but a some point you need to make a move based on sound research, drive, and you guessed it, passion. Life goes by fast; make a move in one direction or the other.

Idleness is such a waste of your time. What’s the worst that can happen, you fail? I would rather take a chance and fail than sit safely on the porch. Failure is sometimes the best teacher, and failure is a much better option than living a stagnant life.

P&S Enviro-Clean Degreaser: What Makes it Better?

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

P&S Enviro-Clean Degreaser: What Makes it Better?

This article is written by Prentice St. Clair, CD-SV, RT Director of Training, P&S Detail Products .

I had the opportunity to talk with P&S Detail Products, in-house chemist, Dave Phillips about Enviro Clean , which he developed in the early 2000s as a response to then-recent changes in the philosophy of blending chemistry for degreasers. Up to that point, all degreasers contained more toxic active ingredients, that, while effective, were more dangerous for the user as well as vehicle surfaces. While these degreasers have their place to this day, Dave endeavored to create an “all-purpose cleaner” that was relatively safe while at the same time equally effective in cleaning and degreasing vehicle surfaces.

Taking cues from cleaners that were being used in the daily cleaning of public transit vehicles in Europe at the time, Dave was able to research and assemble a unique set of active ingredients. Working “deep into the night”, Dave found the right balance of these ingredients, creating an all-purpose cleaner-degreaser that offers low toxicity and higher biodegradability while maintaining effectiveness. In fact, all of the ingredients in Enviro-Clean can be found on the list of “safer choice” chemicals provided by the Environmental Protection Agency.

What follows is information about the make-up and use of Enviro-Clean, compiled from my conversation with “Chemist-on-the-Loose” Dave, my own experiences in using Enviro-Clean for over a decade, and the experiences of other detail technicians with whom I’ve spoken.

How is Enviro Clean Different?

Traditional degreasers use old-fashioned surfactants like butyls, sulfates, and phosphates, which are the more caustic choices that allow these degreasers to work by emulsifying the contaminants so that they can be wiped or rinsed away. Emulsification is the process by which a liquid cleaner breaks down or dissolves a substance (like food fat), thus creating a suspension of the “disintegrated” substance within the cleaning liquid. For a chemical to be able to emulsify oil, grease, and fats requires strong and toxic surfactants that often have a pH of 13-14. Chemicals with this extreme alkalinity can damage automotive surfaces like leather, vinyl, and automotive paint.

In contrast, the more environmentally friendly active ingredients in Enviro-Clean penetrate and encapsulate contaminants, thus loosening them from the material to which they are attached. This makes it easier to pull the contaminants away from the surface by scrubbing, wiping, or rinsing. The surfactants used in Enviro-Clean make the product particularly effective at removing petroleum-based contaminants like oil and grease. Moreover, Enviro-Clean has a pH of about 10, which makes it much less caustic than strong degreasers.

Dave admits that Enviro-Clean is not going to work as well on food fats. But the unique blend of surfactants in Enviro-Clean allows it to stand side-by-side in effectiveness to traditional strong degreasers in removing petroleum-based products like oil and grease, as well as all kinds of soils and dirt. And when you think of it, when we are talking about cleaning cars, that’s really all we need—we’re not cleaning oven hoods and grease traps in restaurants!

So, what we end up with is a general-purpose cleaner-degreaser that is highly effective on the types of soil that we encounter while cleaning vehicles, yet is much safer for the types of surfaces that automotive detailers need to clean. Not to mention Enviro-Clean is safer for the detailing technician!

(Although Enviro Clean is a relatively safe chemical, we always recommend that gloves and eye protection be worn while using it. Any cleaning chemical can have a negative impact if allowed to be absorbed into the skin repeatedly or for extended periods. And any chemical can be harmful if ingested or accidentally splashed in the eyes.)

Concentrated Savings

It is important to realize that Enviro Clean is a concentrate. That means it must be properly diluted with water before using. Dilution can be varied to create a range of strengths of the product out of the same concentrate. The label recommends diluting anywhere from 4:1 up to 20:1. (Reminder: with dilution ratios, the larger number is always the water portion! Thus, a dilution ratio of 4:1 means 4 parts water to 1 part Enviro-Clean—5 parts total.)

Shipping is expensive these days. It’s nice to know that with Enviro-Clean, you are not paying to ship unnecessary amounts of water, which is a very heavy liquid! Instead, you can use your own water, (which costs fractions of a penny per gallon) to dilute Enviro-Clean into “ready-to-use” formulations. And P&S makes the process even simpler by offering pre-labeled bottles into which you can pour your diluted Enviro-Clean.

Truly “All-Purpose”

Whether you call it all-purpose, APC, multi-purpose, general-purpose, or GP cleaner, the whole point of a multi-purpose cleaner-degreaser is to have a product that can be used on multiple surfaces while cleaning a vehicle. To that end, Enviro-Clean fully delivers. Let’s talk about some of the ways that this product can be used for detailing.

In general, Enviro-Clean is to be diluted before use. Also, as with any cleaner-degreaser, it is best to follow with a rinse of the surface that it is applied to, as any remaining product will continue to “work” on the surface. Although Enviro Clean is a very safe cleaner-degreaser, in rare cases, it can cause etching or discoloration if left on the surface for an extended time, especially to the point of drying.

For carpets, Enviro-Clean is an excellent carpet cleaning chemical. Pre-treating carpets with a 10:1 dilution of Enviro-Clean, along with some scrubbing, will loosen dirt and soil so that it can be more easily extracted away with your favorite steam machine or hot water extractor. Be aware, however, that Enviro-Clean is not really a stain remover. (Although it will help reduce the appearance of stains by removing some of the dirt that the stain has attracted, it is recommended that stains be treated with P&S’ Terminator Enzyme Spot and Stain Remover before using Enviro-Clean.)

As an interior cleaner for such surfaces as leather, vinyl, and plastic panels, dilute Enviro-Clean at least 6:1. Enviro-Clean is very effective at removing soil and grime from these surfaces, but it must be used with care. First, never let it dry on the surface. Instead, spray evenly across the surface, allow it to dwell for a moment to let that penetration-encapsulation process happen. Then scrub the area with the appropriate brush or sponge. Follow with a clean microfiber to remove the loosened soil and excess Enviro-Clean. Finally, wipe the area with another microfiber that is damp with only water.

(Some detailing technicians find the requirement of a final “rinsing wipe” to be overly onerous while cleaning leather and vinyl surfaces. For these folks, we recommend using P&S’ Xpress Interior cleaner, which is perfect for plastic, leather, and vinyl, and requires no rinsing!)

On the outside of the vehicle, Enviro-Clean is great for engines, wheels and tires, and door jambs.

As an engine degreaser, technicians will find that Enviro-Clean is effective and easy to use. For normally dirty engines or door jambs, a 4:1 dilution will work just fine. (Some may prefer a stronger solution of 3:1 for heavier grease and oil cleaning, although we do not recommend this dilution strength for everyday use.) Spray the diluted Enviro-Clean across the area and allow to dwell for several minutes (without drying, of course!). Then scrub as necessary and fully rinse with a pressure washer.

For cleaning the “dirty” parts of the vehicle exterior, like door jambs, wheels, tires, and wheel wells, use the same 4:1 dilution ratio and process that is used to clean the engine compartment.

Enviro-Clean is also an excellent bug remover. Spray the 4:1 solution across the front of the car, fully coating the buggy area. If possible, let it dwell for several minutes, re-misting occasionally to prevent the chemical from drying! You will find that, with the right scrubbing sponge, most bugs will come right off. Of course, follow-up with a full rinsing of the area.

Readers will note that I am particularly fond of the 4:1 dilution setting for Enviro-Clean. So, I typically have a pre-labeled spray bottle in my wash bucket that is also marked “4:1” with a Sharpie. Feel free to experiment with higher dilutions (e.g., 5:1 on up to 8:1), which may work just fine for the typical dirty car that comes into your shop. And you’ll save some money!

Summary

As you can see, Enviro-Clean is a perfect all-purpose cleaner for use in automotive detailing. Not only is it effective, but it is also safe for the vehicle surfaces and for the technician.

And with P&S, you always know you consistently get the best product available. Arguably, Enviro-Clean needs no improvement yet Dave continues to look for ways to improve Enviro Clean . It will only get better!

Video: I Started My Detailing Business From the Seat of a Bicycle

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Video: I Started My Detailing Business From the Seat of a Bicycle

I started my detailing business from the seat of a Mongoose BMW bicycle. It’s my desire that this video gives others with very little, or nothing at all hope that you can make it happen in life and business!

Detailing Businesses are Easy to Start, Right?

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Detailing Businesses are Easy to Start, Right?

I talk with all too many people who love this view of the detailing world: “I used to detail my own car” or “I detailed my parents’ car and they loved it.” Of course they did, you were their kid and you probably did the work for free, or for the right to the car keys on Saturday night. But free brings low expectations, even from good old Mom and Dad.

Detailing professionally for people you don’t know, who also have high expectations for their purchase of a detailing service, is an entirely different world than detailing your car, the family car, or your friends’ cars.

Casual, hobby-based detailing is what started my own passion, but I do think it’s important to know that it takes a great deal more to make it at the professional level.

Here are a few additional misunderstood tidbits about detailing I would like to clarify:

All I need are a few things from the local store to get started. Professional-grade detailing products are often not so easy to find in your local market. The corner auto-supply store is not going to give you the level of products you will need as a professional.
The $85 to $15o retail detail. Here is another key term I want you to burn into your head: “full detail.” I hear this common and overused term all too often. The term “full detail” is dangerous and pricing that level of service within almost any market has one meaning, maybe two. In short, the first meaning of the term means “struggle.” If you are going to offer a full service detail at the $85 to $15o mark, I can tell you now, you will struggle to make a true profit. Offer the service below that mark and the second meaning is “failure.” You need to understand that your new venture is a business. You need to make sure you understand the pricing demands and related costs of running a business. If you price your services too low, it can destroy your business or, at a minimum, burn you out, and fast!
The $1,ooo+ detail. Performing a $1,ooo+ detail seems to be a big goal for those new to detailing and I am not sure where this comes from. I know that many of us are car people, and that working on one-of-a-kind vehicles is very attractive, but the reality is that this level of detailing is very uncommon, although ceramic coatings have helped make it much easier to achieve. Do pro detailers perform at this level? You bet they do, but it takes years to build up that level of reputation, and that level of detail is rare even for the most elite-level detailer. Few are making a living solely from this level of service but I encourage you to set your goals high. I would rather shoot for the stars and hit the moon than fail because I didn’t set my goals too high!
All you need are two customers a day to make big bucks and really to succeed within detailing, right? When I started, I made a massive error. I underestimated how hard it would be to attract new customers. Directly related to that error, I missed my first year’s sales goals by a mile. That was many, many years ago and I now know that thinking I could find two new detailing customers a day, ten new customers a week, forty new customers a month or a total of 48o new customers in my first year was nuts. Yet, today there are many suppliers that preach basically that you can make big money detailing just two cars a day. What is missing from this nonsense is how you are going to find those 400-plus new customers that first year. It’s simply not that easy but if you market your business and services correctly, you don’t need that many customers in the first place to run a successful business.

Video: Zero to 60 with Renny, Coating a Motorcycle with P&S LEGEND

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Video: Zero to 60 with Renny, Coating a Motorcycle with P&S LEGEND

The all new P&S LEGEND Ceramic Coating is not just great for cars, but motorcycles too. Add this profit center to your business. Renny shows you how in his latest Zero to 60 video…

An Overview of Ceramic Coatings and the P&S Double Black Inspiration Coating Line

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 08:00:00 GMT

An Overview of Ceramic Coatings and the P&S Double Black Inspiration Coating Line

Ceramic coatings have been used in industrial applications for decades. The term “ceramic” has been more or less borrowed because it describes materials that are characterized by their hardness, heat-resistance, and corrosion-resistance. Ceramic coatings were adopted for use on automotive paint in the mid-2000s. Since then, numerous companies have come out with “ceramic coatings” using various chemistries, and sometimes with lofty claims of durability.

All of the traditional protective “coatings” we are used to, like wax and paint sealants, have, as their core, organic resins, which are generally not heat and chemical resistant. We all know, for example, that a wax or sealant will start evaporating off the surface as soon as they are applied, and later are simply washed off after a number of car washes. (There is nothing wrong with wax and sealant, by the way, just so they are being used and sold with the proper expectations regarding durability and protective strength.)

A ceramic coating, on the other hand, is composed of inorganic materials that, when properly cured, become much harder than anything made up of organic resins. This gives ceramic coating its characteristic extreme heat, abrasion, and chemical resistance.

(It is important to understand that newer products described as having “ceramic properties” or being “ceramic-infused” are not true curable ceramic coatings. A true curable ceramic coating must be allowed to set up or cure for several hours or days before it can provide full protection.)

How do Ceramic Coatings Work?

In general, ceramic coatings are made up of several inorganic chemical components that, when combined, start out in a liquid form. Once the liquid is applied to the paint surface, the molecules rearrange themselves as a result of being exposed to air, and the liquid converts or transforms into a solid. As the ceramic hardens, what is created is a highly organized repeating three-dimensional pattern of molecules that are held together with super-strong chemical bonds. The result is a transparent crystalline or glass-like super-thin film or “shell” that is super-strong and super-hard. Super!
The fully-cured ceramic coating has two main properties: (1) it is impermeable to chemicals and other environmental contaminants, thus sealing the paint from the environment, and (2) it is super-hard, actually requiring sandpaper to remove. It takes a very long time for a properly applied ceramic coating to wear off.

Contrast this to traditional automotive wax or polymer paint sealant, which can act as a sacrificial layer against the elements but evaporate quickly and are mostly washed off the car after a few washes, especially in the case of automatic car washes that use harsh chemicals.

What Makes the Inspiration Line Different?

P&S did not rush to get into the ceramic coating market. Co-owners Bob and Dave Phillips watched the ceramic market carefully during the late 2000s, studying emerging technologies, marketing trends, and evaluating true durability of popular ceramic coatings. Dave, the chemist of the operation, spent countless hours working with the ingredients typically found in a ceramic coating formulation. His goal was to create a coating that is relatively easy-to-use, yet durable formula that would be approachable to a wide variety of detailing technicians and operations. It was also important for the company to be able to offer a product with reasonable durability claims that the company and product users can stand behind with confidence.

For the P&S Inspiration line of ceramic coatings, Dave chose polysilazane (silicone dioxide or SiO 2 ) technology as the chemical foundation because of its proven track record, excellent protective properties, and relative ease of chemical manipulation.

Most technicians find the Inspiration line to be easier to apply and work with than other brands, yet without any compromise in durability. P&S refuses to make outlandish durability claims, yet many are finding that the coatings last longer than their intended duration, especially when maintained properly with at least a yearly routine including Bead Maker.

Moreover, P&S will never require “buy-in”, an accreditation process, a large initial investment in product, or paying for a “territory”. The way we figure it, the more people that are using Inspiration, the better. There are just too many vehicles in the world to limit application potential.

Now, that being said, P&S does offer an official certification for installation of Inspiration Classic coating. After completing a one-day Inspiration Certification course, qualified technicians become “Certified Installers” that have access to the independent third-party warranty program for their customers. Certified Installers will also have their business name listed on the Inspiration Ceramic Coating website (inspirationcoating.com) so that potential customers can find installers in their area.

The Inspiration Coating Line

The P&S Inspiration Ceramic Coating Line currently consists of three coatings, Inspiration Classic , Inspiration Sole , and Inspiration Legend .
What’s the Difference ? It is important to understand that all three coatings share the same primary active ingredients. By adjusting the ancillary ingredients, however, Dave Phillips was able to change some of the properties of the coatings, like workability, flash time, and longevity. As Dave explains, “it’s a challenge to work the delicate balance in the ingredients to make sure the coatings provide the proper thickness to match the minimum longevity claims, while at the same time ensuring the easiest application.”

“The issue with application,” Dave continues, “is that you can make a coating super easy to apply, but then it may not cure up properly, leaving an unacceptably tacky surface. On the other hand, you can develop a coating that has unbelievable durability but is extremely difficult to apply.”

Inspiration Classic was introduced in December of 2016 as P&S’s foray into the ceramic world. Dave specifically designed this product to be durable, yet relatively easy to work with. Most technicians with ceramic coating installation experience find that Inspiration goes on easier than competitor’s formulations. Moreover the “one-two punch” of Inspiration topped with Bead Maker results in a satisfying experience for the installer as well as the customer.

Pricing was also an important consideration. The P&S team wanted to be able to offer a product that had great performance at a comfortable price-point.

Inspiration Sole was introduced in June of 2020 as a “one-year” coating that is relatively easy to apply and approachable to detailing technicians in a wide variety of situations. Sole has been tested and confirmed to still be effectively protecting the paint surface for at least a year. It was purposely designed with less solids and other characteristics that all for super-easy application along with a longer flash time, so that a large area can be coated before worrying about wiping off excess. In fact, in some ambient conditions, Sole can be applied to an entire hood at one time before wiping off the excess.

Also, with Sole, we see far fewer “high spots” or blotchiness. Sole’s formulation virtually prevents this from happening because it will not load up quickly. It also has a distinct peppermint scent and far less of the traditional strong solvent odor of other ceramic coatings.

Sole provides a ceramic coating option that opens up opportunities for a wide variety of detailing situations. It can be successfully applied in a broad range of ambient conditions, which allows even the mobile detailer to offer ceramic coating–it is not necessary to have a climate-controlled shop for application. Even the detail technician who is new to ceramic coatings will find that Sole application is a relatively easy process to learn.

Sole allows us to offer a more reasonably priced ceramic coating option to our customers. With the ease of application and the tempered durability promise of one year, Sole application can be priced at one-half to one-third of the cost of a longer term ceramic like Inspiration Classic, yet still providing all of the benefits of ceramic coating protection. This opens up the ceramic option to customers who are not prepared to pay for longer-term protection. It also allows the detailer to create an annual return customer by selling Sole application as a once-a-year proposition.

Additionally, some detailers who offer wax or sealant as the final protection product used in their “standard exterior detail” are replacing the wax or sealant with Sole. These technicians are finding that Sole goes on about as fast as wax or sealant. Moreover, because Sole offers far superior protection and appearance, these detailers are upping the price of their standard exterior detail by 10-50%! Thus, with Sole, you can make more money per car and offer the customer superior results!

Inspiration Legend was introduced in March of 2021 as a five-year coating that remains a pleasure to use. During the development of Legend, which involved an extensive cycle of adjustments and testing, Dave focused on two things: the “experience” of installation, and the durability of the product. Dave was able to combine his experience in developing Classic and Sole to effectively increase solids in the Legend formulation while adjusting the ingredients that ease leveling. The result is that, compared to Classic, Legend has about 25% more of the active ingredient that promotes durability, yet without increasing the difficulty of application.

In using Legend, technicians will notice that it has a more traditional ceramic smell of strong solvent—as Renny Doyle says, “you can tell by the smell that it is a serious coating.” Yet, Legend has a more forgivable flash time than coatings with similar durability, making it easier to apply in varying ambient temperature and humidity. In fact, we are finding that even mobile detailers, given they take proper precautions, can apply Legend outside of a shop environment with little difficulty and great results.

With two coats of Legend and proper maintenance that includes use of Bead Maker, we are expecting the durability of the product to last well beyond the published claims. Legend allows the detailing technician the opportunity to enter into the long-term durability market with relative ease.

The bottom line with Inspiration Legend is: It offers reasonably-priced long-term durability and performance in a formulation that is a pleasure to use. Even more simply put: Affordable quality.

Honest Truth: What a Ceramic Coating Will and Won’t Do

This is important: Installers, customers of installers, and those who distribute to the installers must all completely understand what a ceramic coating will and will not do.

What a ceramic coating WILL DO . It will be virtually impervious to insect acid, road salt, acid rain, and car wash chemicals. It will help prevent micro-scratches and paint oxidation. It will enhance gloss and depth appearance in the paint surface. It will have hydrophobic properties, in that it repels water and will not mix with water.

A coated vehicle will be easier to clean because the coated surface is so smooth that contaminants simply have nothing to stick to. Thus, there is less grime build-up between washes, and what’s left is just barely holding onto a super-slippery surface, thus it washes off with minimal chemicals and minimal agitation. Less agitation means less washing scratches!

Remember that all of these claims assume that the coating has been properly installed and is properly maintained!

What a ceramic coating WILL NOT DO . It is NOT scratch-proof. It will NOT make an oxidized, heavily contaminated, or heavily scratched paint surface look good. It will NOT eliminate vehicle paint care forever. It will NOT last forever. It will NOT completely prevent accumulation of environmental contamination, but there will be far less and what does stick is much easier to remove.

Also, P&S coatings do NOT claim to be self-healing. Honestly, for a coating to be “self-healing”, it must be pliable, which means it’s not hard . . . which means it can’t offer the level of protection we’ve been talking about.

How Many Coats and Why?

To the naked eye, a clearcoat paint surface looks “solid” and impermeable. On a microscopic level, the surface is actually full of peaks, valleys, pock marks, and tiny holes. Automotive paint is permeable (porous) to microscopic contaminants. An example of this would be the unfortunate situation in which a detailing technician uses a strong solvent like lacquer thinner to wipe something off the side of a car, and even though the chemical is wiped off immediately, the area may eventually discolor because the molecules of lacquer thinner penetrate the pores of the paint.

The fact that the paint surface is uneven is why we typically recommend applying two coats of whichever coating you are using from the Inspiration line. The first coat will fill in all the microscopic imperfections in the paint surface. The second coat goes over the top of that now sealed surface, adding physical strength, visual depth, and enhanced gloss.

With all three coatings, the technician will find that the second coat goes on much easier than the first.

After two coats, the benefits of added coats diminish rapidly. Because the coating surface is so smooth, third and fourth applications really have nothing to hold onto, and most of the coating applied during these additional coats is wiped off during the towel-leveling step in the process. We certainly do not want to discourage technicians from adding more than two coats, especially if the customer expects this and is willing to pay for it. But you really have to look at your added time and expense versus very little added benefit to the customer for more than two coats.

Since the P&S ceramic coating line shares chemistry, the products are somewhat interchangeable. For example, Sole offers an easy-to-apply topping coat over Legend or Classic. Additionally, Sole can be used as an annual “maintenance topper”, which will give the customer the satisfaction of the revitalization of that “pop” in the appearance of the paint surface, while also offering the reliability of continued excellent durability. Sole becomes the easy-to-reapply sacrificial layer over Legend or Classic.

The Bead Maker Connection

The chemistry of Bead Maker pairs extremely well with the P&S Coating line. Most technicians include an application of Bead Maker as a finishing touch to their ceramic coating process, simply because it adds depth, gloss, and “pop”. Plus, the feel of a surface treated with Bead Maker (ceramic coating or not) is incomparably smooth and slippery. It almost feels like the surface is “repelling” your hand.
Bead Maker will increase the hydrophobic nature of the coated paint surface and also enhance the coating’s ability to repel dirt and grime. We recommend waiting at least an hour, preferably two, between coating application and Bead Maker application.

Bead Maker should definitely be a part of the maintenance routine for the coated vehicle. We try to ask the customer to take a few moments after each wash to quickly mist and wipe Bead Maker across the paint surface. And definitely use Bead Maker on your official maintenance visit, regardless of the interval. Some technicians find that, with a maintenance schedule ranging from monthly to semi-annually, the routine can be as simple as a thorough wash followed by claying with Bead Maker as the lubricant.

The Importance of Proper Salesmanship

The main thing with selling any ceramic coating is to keep your durability and protection promises within the bounds of the manufacturer’s published claims. You are not helping yourself, nor are you helping the reputation of our industry, by making wild claims of “forever protection” or “scratch-proof” or “never needs anything ever again”. Stay close to the items listed above as to what a ceramic coating WILL and WILL NOT do.

Do yourself a favor and include in your sales conversation the need for at least annual maintenance. By doing so, you cover yourself in the unlikely event that something happens to the coated surface down the line. Secondly, you are creating a regular revenue opportunity by charging for the maintenance service.

Written By: Prentice St Clair, P&S Detail Products Director of Training

New Ready-to-Use P&S Double Black True Vue and Dynamic Dressing

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 08:00:00 GMT

New Ready-to-Use P&S Double Black True Vue and Dynamic Dressing

One product that has always been missing from Renny’s P&S Double Black product line has been a pint of dedicated glass cleaner. Sure, Paint Prep also makes a great glass cleaner but a specially formulated glass cleaner is a better choice.

The best candidate for the job is True Vue. It’s been a staple in the P&S product line for years, and we have now bottled a pre-diluted ready-to-use (RTU) version for the Double Black line.

True Vue RTU is a 4 to 1 diluted version of the parent product True Vue Glass Cleaner from the ChemTrol lineup. This convenient format now allows anyone to grab a glass cleaner right out of the case and clean glass! Plus, if you operate a P&S Double Black Store Front, you now have a convenient size to sell to your clients.

Dynamic Dressing has engaged many customers over the years since its introduction over 5 years ago but it has always been difficult for enthusiast and some professionals to take the product for a test drive since it has only ever been offered as a highly concentrated gallon.

The team at P&S decided it is time to introduce Dynamic Dressing in a ready-to-use (RTU) version. Dynamic Dressing RTU is a pre-diluted 4 to 1 version of the parent product Dynamic Dressing Concentrate. This version of Dynamic Dressing will only be offered in pints. For 32oz. bottles, you will need to dilute your own using 1-gallon or 5-gallon concentrates. P&S Detail Products’ objective is to engage more customers with this convenient RTU pint of Dynamic Dressing.

Is the Timing Right to Start a Detailing Business?

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Is the Timing Right to Start a Detailing Business?

Many markets are flooded with detailers. You need to face reality and do some investigating within your market. In Southern California for instance, where my home is located, detailers are a dime a dozen in many areas. So-called detailers are all over the place, and many fail to be on solid foundations so they struggle, and most fail rapidly.

The people starting these businesses make the failed assumption that a detailing business is a piece of cake to start and their road to riches is paved with wax. Almost before they know it, they are out of capital, have damaged some vehicles by having no detailing education, and now their reputation is damaged. They start giving away their work by offering cheap prices and “beating out the other guys,” thinking that it will get them more business and save their business. That is what usually helps them along to their demise and death as a business.

That constant creation of new, then failing, businesses. This has damaged this industry nationwide. Why? When uneducated, undercapitalized businesses start up, most make one common mistake: they devalue their services and drive the price of detailing services down. This in turn plays havoc with legitimate detailing businesses. Then, with so many practically giving away detailing services, it makes it very hard for the legitimate detailing firms to make it. Or does it?

When a market is crowded with other detailers, what could make it a good market to enter? Every shop I have ever started or fixed-mobile or home-based-was established within a market that already had competing detailers. Competition does not bother me and to be direct, competition encourages me to work hard. Here is what I look for within a market before I start the detailing business:

Booked-up Shops – When I call around and detailing businesses are booked up more than ten days ahead or if they are two-three weeks out, I get very excited as I can come in and gain market share pretty quickly.
Market Interest – I am a car guy and if people are asking me where I get my car detailed, BINGO. I am going to research that market to no end.
Weak Competition – If you are business savvy and have a fair amount of start-up capital, you can finish off the weak within your market and gain market share rapidly.
Market with Money – I don’t care how many detailers there are in a market. If that market has a history of supporting disposable cash businesses like detailing and I am connected with the money people within the town, that is a good sign!

I love to see detailing being done wrong. I am all over a market where no one is offering detailing done right.

VIDEO: Zero to 60 with Renny Doyle. The VaporBlast Steamer by P&S Detail Products

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Renny gives you a quick overview of the Vaporlux VaporBlast steamer, which is one of the best steamers we have tested and used at our training centers. It’s available directly from P&S Detail Products

Three Types of Detailers. Which Are You?

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Detailing has become a serious trade and a true artform when performed at the highest levels. It is a highly-competitive business, and if you are going to play the detailing game, you better be ready to play the game right! The detailing industry as a whole can be divided into three groups…

The first is the “I don’t care. I think I know it all, but in reality I know nothing about detailing correctly” group. This is the crowd that places value on “beating” everyone in town and offering the lowest price. The same group performs “destructive detailing” and while the work may look great, the results can be reached at a very high expense to the car, and the customer. Healthy clear coat is devoured as quickly as a great white shark can eat a foot-long hot dog, and healthy clear coat cannot be recovered. When the paint system is compromised, there is no help for the poor detailer who details behind this group. With any luck, that detailer is well equipped with a paint gauge to measure the paint and prevent a problem before it happens.

The second is the “highest quality at any cost” group. Let me tell you, for two years I had “addicted to shine-it is” and when I looked at the numbers, I was shocked at how much my addiction to shine was costing me, and how much money I was giving away to the clients. I love making paint and interiors sparkle, but just a couple years into my business, I learned to give the client what they paid for. My profits increase, and I jumped to an elite group within the detailing industry…

The this and most elite group is the “Pros turning a real profit”. This group is about as rare in our industry as an truthful politician is in Washington, D.C., these days. Many detailing players are out there talking the talk but few have a checking account with assets that would prove any real success. The professionals making the most impact know and understand that profitable detailing involves building proper systems and processes, and that a growing detailing business evolves, changes, and adjusts to the every-changing detailing world.

Which group to you belong in or desire to belong in? Being a fantastic detailer is not an option. To be profitable you must be a talented detailing technician in today’s market. To survive, you must be detailing smart and be a business person first, a detailer second.

Take Inventory of Your Time

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Detailing is More than Just a Business

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Detailing has provided me with a lifestyle and I am a healthy, living millionaire. While I may not be as wealthy as the world envisions wealth, I am rich in the fact that I won my life and my time. Detailing has given me liberation from others and passion is the fuel that drove my detailing machine from day one!

When I awake in the morning, I am not thinking about traffic. I am not thinking about a crappy boss with a crappy attitude. I am not worried about losing my job and I’m not held to another person’s desires for my life. I awake knowing my future is mine. My time is mine and I do daily what many call a hobby, and I get paid for it!

What is Detailing?

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Detailing can mean many different things to different people depending on where you live and what your local market’s economic climate is. In upper-middle class to high-end markets, your prospective client base will be familiar with detailing for the most part.

In middle income or lower-end markets, detailing can mean a quick wash-and-wax job or, get this, some people within some markets even think detailing is customizing cars for dealerships. They believe detailers provide pinstriping or add-on items – a far cry from what detailing really is.

Modern-day detailing is a combination of science, technique, proper products, and passion for what you do. Vehicles are more complex than ever and the days of being a champ at washing dear ol’ Mom’s car, then going out and starting a professional detailing company are gone. If you treat your detailing business like a joke, you will be a joke.

The detailing industry as a whole can be divided into three groups, next week we will take a close look at exactly what those are.

Reality Check: You Have to be Better than Average

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 08:00:00 GMT

I want you to learn the meaning of the word average: “of no exceptional quality or ability.” If you perceive yourself as being average in life, then you will likely be average in business. If you are average, you’ve got to step it up and I don’t want to hear, “Well, I am shy.” Become un-shy. If you are looking to start a business you can’t be shy, you can’t be average, and you can’t make excuses.

If shyness or lack of people skills are holding you back, you have a couple of options: Expand your comfort zone and become that people person you have not been up until now, or move on to another business. A detailing business is a personality business and those who marry detailing abilities with business abilities are going to win wars. So, why not expand your comfort zone and start connecting with people at a new level? You may just like it!

How Old is Too Old to Start a Detailing Business?

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Many of the individuals I see entering the detailing industry today are middle aged, in their late thirties to late fifties, and I’m asked all the time, how old is too old to start a detailing business? It depends on many factors.

Pro-level detailing can kick your butt. It’s not easy work even when done with the latest and greatest tools and products. Detailing is hard physical work and older detailers need to take this into consideration.

Now, with the reality clauses out of the way, let me be direct: You are never too old to detail as long as you are a “young” old guy or gal. I have people I work with who are near sixty and can work circles around many detailers that are in their twenties. Some people remain young longer than others and some have work ethics that could kill a water buffalo. Age is more than a number, it’s an attitude and your own personal conditioning and life experiences will determine if you can handle detailing full or part time.

I work with people between the ages of forty-five and sixty all the time and if you are fit (or becoming fit again), have a youthful outlook, and share a passion for detailing cars, my money is on you. “Mature detailers,” as I call them, happen to be some of the most profitable per-hour detailers I work with. Mature detailers have some direct advantages, one being life experience. The older crowd may not be as fast, nor as hip, but when it comes to having a true eye for detailing, the older crowd is pretty skilled and able.

Now let’s beat up on the young studs for a while. I was young when I got into this game, and I was both stupid an lucky at the same time. I was all-knowing, but only for a short time. I met four very important people in my life who became my first mentors, and they were tough on me and kicked my butt, and a much-needed butt kicking it was. I learned to listen to these “old guys” but not until after I had fallen several times in business, and had some self-inflicted wounds all caused from your youthful ignorance.

If you are young, the best thing you can do is find mentors and start learning from them. A properly mentored young professional should be dreaded by his or her competitors, as the energy they bring to the game, teamed with proper guidance, are a potent combination.

As for you older detailers, don’t think you can’t be mentored just because you are older and wiser. You know better. Every old dog can learn new tricks, can’t they?

Do You Need Incredible Skills to be a Detailer?

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Detailers are not born, they are developed and refined. I have trained, coached, and mentored a wide variety of people from twenty-year veterans of detailing to those you have never touched a power tool before.

Detailing skills can be learned, but poor work ethic is hard to change. I can teach most people the essentials of detailing, but I can’t change laziness or an attitude of entitlement. No one is going to give you this business. You are going to need to earn every penny and each step of success you realize.

You may have never touched a polisher before, and that’s okay, as that can be learned. On the flip side, I have witnessed people come into the detailing industry and perform at skill levels that were unbelievable, yet struggle to make a dime.

In turn, I have worked with others who were mediocre in skills yet understood the business, marketing, and sales aspects of their business, and soared to success.

This last group usually has one special trait in common: They are almost always very likable, energetic people with great people skills who also happen to understand what their detailing marketplace is looking for.

Let’s face it, within most markets, most people buying professional-level detail services are not having their vehicles sanded, compounded, polished, and finished to show-car perfection. Most paying for detailing services simply desire a high-quality single step polish with nice long-lasting protection. Most detailing clients want an interior that is nice and clean with stains and odors removed. A smart detailing business owner knows this and can profit in most cases without the need for advanced skills that take a decade to develop.

What is Your Why?

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Why start a detailing business? Or, why did you start a detailing business? Do a little mind mapping by writing down what you are thinking… why you believe you’re a good fit for detailing, and why it’s right for you. Use a pen and paper, it has a better way of sticking in your brain and it makes you truly think more.

Just like your life, a detailing business has chapters. Each chapter starts depending on where you are in life.

If you are young and just starting, you are far more able to put hours into your business. You can cram, work hard, and dedicate a ton of hours to your business and the rewards can be rapid.

Maybe you are like me, a parent who wants to enjoy his kids and not work a traditional job. Maybe you are at the end of you career and thinking of the “what’s next” step in life. If you are one of these individuals, you will need to use your time wisely. You will still need to put in the hours. Even as a dad, I put in the “seat time”, as racecar drivers say. I was up before my family and working after they went to bed.

Don’t rob your family of their time with you, work when the sleep. You can perform much of your marketing, bookkeeping , and equipment maintenance during early morning or late night.

Building a business, any business, is going to take a large amount of your time. You will have to pay the price , and in the early days it can and will take a heavy toll. Don’t make your family pay or you will lose more than just a business. Keep God, family, life, friends, and your health first.

New Video! Pad & Towel Cleaning with P&S Rags to Riches Microfiber Detergent

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

From start to finish, Renny shows you the best way to care for your polishing pads and microfiber towels using P&S Detail Products’ all new Rags to Riches microfiber detergent. It doesn’t just clean better, it restores too!

2021 Could Be Your Best Year Yet!

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

2021 could be your best year yet. Not just better than 2020 (a low bar for almost everybody), but it could be your best year ever. Want to know how? By committing to change and making your goals and your success a priority. You need to be 100% committed to the outcome you want. 100% committed to your goals.

Identify your goals. Identify what you need to accomplish to reach your version of success. That’s the important part. What does success look like to you? Not what does it look like to your wife, your dad, your best friend, your neighbor, etc. What does success look like to you? Is it a six-figure income? Maybe a seven-figure income? Is it full control over your time and schedule? Is it debt free with a modest income? Is it the ability to be there for your kids all the time, every time? Success comes in many different forms and is different for everybody.

Once you’ve identified your goals, you must commit to accomplishing them. You must do the tasks that will lead to achieving those goals. You must be willing to do them every day, no matter what and take full advantage of the time you have available to you.

It’s going to require a lot of work. It’s not going to be easy, but I promise you, it will be worth it.

Count Your Blessings… Be Grateful

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Thinking about the last year, despite all its challenges, we have a lot to be thankful for. As we wrap up the year and prepare to celebrate the holidays in what has been a very stressful year, it’s important to remember to be grateful for the lives and gifts we have been blessed with.

Detailing Tip: Pet Hair Removal

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Does it take you a long time to vacuum a car? Seems like it takes me forever! Mix in a little dog hair and the task seems never ending. Removing dog hair can be made much easier with the right tool for the job. But don’t forget, just because you can speed up the process doesn’t mean you should charge less for the job. Pet hair removal should always be an add-on service. Here are our favorite tools for the job…

Speedy Stone by SM Arnold
Probably the most popular and oldest tool on the list, the Speedy Stone is a pumice block that does a great job raking up pet hair. However, make sure you watch out for vinyl and plastic trim, as it will scratch it.

Lilly Brush Mini Pet Hair Detailer
A newcomer this past year or so, the Lilly Brush has a flexible rubber blade that surrounds the edge of the tool. The blade catches and holds onto pet hair and pulls it right out of the carpet. The rounded and squared edges allow you to work in tight spaces and corners.

Fur-eel by Buff Brite
This is a very cool tool. The Fur-eel is an rubberized attachment with an angled tip that can fit any standard size vacuum crevice tool. Not only does the rubber pull the pet hair out of the carpet, but the suction from the vacuum sucks it out of the way and it’s gone!

ANALAN Mini Pet Hair Remover
Similar to the Lilly Brush, the ANALAN tool is a new tool that is quickly becoming a favorite. We just started using one in the training center and so far we are very impressed.

Nitrile Gloves
Never underestimate the usefulness of a good quality Nitrile Glove. By wearing “rubber” gloves while you detail and remove pet hair, not only do you protect yourself and your hands, but they will provide some of the same pet hair removal benefits of the tools above. Plus, you will be able to reach in tighter areas with your fingers.

Great Customer Service is Essential

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Great Customer Service is Essential

Making a sale and getting paid today is a great feeling, but do you know what’s better? Making a customer for life that returns month-after-month or year-after-year. That sale and that payday gets multiplied. Sounds good right? To get there, you have to provide great customer service.

Customer service is not about making a quick sale today. It’s about building a relationship and loyalty over time. It’s about solving problems for your clients and providing solutions in such a way that you build extreme trust and loyalty. It’s about providing service that is so good, your clients won’t want to go anywhere else, regardless of price.

Customer service is the key ingredient to customer retention. In a service oriented business such as detailing, most of your sales and revenue is generated by repeat customers. Sure it’s important to get new customers, but it’s much more important to keep them and get them to return regularly. It takes a lot of marketing dollars to gain a new customer, but very few to keep them coming back. It’s not a one-time transaction, you’re clients have a lifetime value that grows as you build that relationship and provide an amazing customer service experience.

How do you gain, maintain and retain your customers? You do it through education, trust and loyalty. Educate your customers about your products and services. Show them that you are the expert in your community. Gain their trust by showing them that you have their best interests at heart. Do they really need that add-on service? Will it really benefit them, or does it just benefit your bank account? Through education and trust, you will create a loyal customer that will return over and over again. But loyalty is a two-way street. If they are loyal to you, you must be loyal to them and continue to provide that outstanding customer service. Don’t take a returning customer for granted, earn their next visit over and over again.

There are three things that will help you provide amazing customer service. The first is passion. If you are passionate about what you do and the service you provide, it will reveal itself in everything you do and have a positive effect on your customer’s experience. Second, constantly look for opportunities to go the extra mile for your customers. They will tell stories about you to their friends and you will not only retain your customer, but gain new ones too! And finally, follow-up and follow-through with every single client every time.

Remember, you are in business to make money, but that’s simply the end result when done correctly. You are mostly in business to solve problems, provide value and help people. If you put your customers first, they will put you first. If you’re the real deal, people will know it and they will come to you over and over again!

New P&S Detail Products RAGS to RICHES Premium Microfiber Detergent

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Did you see the big reveal last week during The Rag Company’s TRCMA online event? TEAM P&S (Dave Phillips & Sydni Brae Gwinn) and the staff at The Rag Company (Levi Gates & Anthony Fisher) got together about a year ago to discuss the need for a “new” type of microfiber detergent which would effectively cleanse the fibers and restore them back to original condition.

The result is the all new P&S Detail Products RAGS to RICHES, the next generation of microfiber detergent using new breakthroughs in cleaning technology. The advanced formula deep cleans and restores absorbency and color to microfiber towels including those used with professional cleaning and detailing products. It is absolutely safe for all microfiber types and concentrated for commercial use.

Many factors are in play when attempting to clean micro fiber towels. By design, they grab and hold on to dirt, oils, waxes, polymers and paint protectants which over time clog the microfibers and render the towels ineffective. Up until now the process to restore took multiple products and steps. RAGS to RICHES Premium Micro Fiber Detergent effectively does it all.

Formulated for use with all residential and commercial washing machines, including high efficiency machines RAGS to RICHES is safe on all textile types including Microfiber, Cotton, Chamois, and other Fabric Blends. For small or lightly soiled loads we recommend using one ounce. For large or heavily soiled loads, we recommend using two ounces. It helps to pre-soak heavily soiled and/or hydrophobic towels in a bucket of water mixed with 1-2 ounces of RAGS to RICHES prior to washing. For best results, wash with Warm Water and dry on a Low Heat setting or hang to dry.

Do NOT use with fabric softeners and avoid mixing microfiber products with non-microfiber products.

The first release of RAGS to RICHES will be in quarts. Gallons will be a purchase option in the months to come. You can purchase RAGS to RICHES directly from The Rag Company on Thursday, November 19 th or from your favorite P&S distributor. Retail price is $16.95 per quart.

P&S Detail Products Factory Tour with Renny Doyle

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Join Renny on a quick tour of the P&S Detail Products Factory in Hayward, CA. It’s a great behind the scenes look at the real world day-to-day operations of a modern day detailing chemical manufacturer.

Hiring Employees

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

You’ve opened your doors, your marketing efforts are working, and now it’s time to get some help to handle the workload. I take hiring very seriously and I hope you do also. Finding the right person is hard for those of us who own a small business. We have high expectations with staff members. Brace yourself as I must be direct with you. You will never duplicate yourself, so don’t’ expect your staff to be you.

Lighten up and realize that if your staff was just as dedicated to the business as you, would they still be on staff or would they be running their own business? Let’s talk about factors, other than pay, that motivate the staff you hire. It’s not all about money, you know.

Quality of work environment is important. Give your staff a clean, safe, and happy workplace.
Quality of life is essential so don’t expect your staff to keep the same hours as you or work like you do. I mad this mistake and lost some good people. Don’t make the same mistake.
Be legitimate, take taxes out and have worker’s compensation insurance in place.
Healthcare for families and singles is a huge plus!
Time off for vacation is a must. Yes, they need a break!
Free family details can be a nice perk. In the off season and once during the summer, we bring in close family member’s cars and get them all cleaned up!
Allow your staff to listen to music. It provides motivation to many. Just make sure they can hear what’s going on around them. Be sure to make sure this doesn’t violate any local safety guidelines.
Give them a chance to promote and earn more. Don’t be greedy, share the wealth as you become more successful. Give regular raises and make working for you a good thing!

Detailer Tip
Do you know who you are hiring? The last thing you need within your company is someone who has issues with theft, drugs, or other illegal activities. Think about hiring a company to perform background checks on new hires.

A Never-Quit Attitude

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Some watch things happen, some make things happen, while others wonder what happened.

A never-quit attitude is a major element that will drive you to success. Dedication “wins wars”. When I think of who makes a good detailer, I think of the movie Rudy. The movie was based on a true story about a young man who wished to play football for the great Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Rudy had many obstacles in his life that would make the average young man quit before he even got started.

Rudy was five-foot nothing and a hundred-and-nothing pounds, yet he kept working hard and would never give up. In the end, Rudy was one of the only players in school history to be carried off the field in celebration. Had he listened to his own family, friends, and coaches, eh would have never realized his dream of being a Fighting Irish player. You will need that same level of dedication to become a successful detailer.

Identify Your Core Values and Live by Them

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

What are core values? They are principles that guide all of your decisions or your company’s actions. They are the cultural cornerstones of you and your business. They are there to guide you when you go off track and help keep you on the straight and narrow.

Your core values create a living, breathing culture that is your company. They develop a culture among your employees and customers that make them proud to use your products and services. They also preserve the identity and mission of you and your business.

When you articulate your core values, list them on your website and hang them on your shop wall, they become daily reminders that will help give you a better sense of who you are and what you stand for personally and professionally. It’s usually recommended to create 6-10 core values. Our network of detailers, The Detail Mafia took it one step further and we have 11. Some are original, some have been borrowed by others, but all reflect our values as a group..

Always do the right thing.
Be committed to education, excellence and success.
Be confident, but also be humble.
Be loyal to your fellow Detail Mafia brothers and sisters.
Be willing to do what it takes.
Care about people and treat everyone with respect.
Lead through actions, not words.
Love helping people and pick them up when given the opportunity.
Make a real positive impact on people’s lives.
Share and teach the skills people need to succeed.
Support those that support us.

Core values exist to not just help you run your business, but to guide you and your employees on how to live. For your core values to be effective and make a difference, you must hire and fire by them and you must live by them every day. If you don’t, you will lose the culture you’ve spent years creating.

Passion Wins Battles and Builds Success

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 08:00:00 GMT

How much do you want your business? I mean, really want it? Can you taste the need? Will you immerse yourself in it? I can tell you that there are two major elements that will drive you to success, and passion is the first and most important. Developing a strong, educated business mind is next. Not everyone is born with a brilliant business mind, but if you are dedicated, you can evolve into the great mind it will take to succeed. I have seen some amazing business minds enter detailing and fail. Why? They didn’t have a drop of passion for what they were doing, while others who were passionate as hell developed their business abilities and won big.

Let’s face it, detailing the minivan of a busy mom with messy toddlers is not fun. And, if you’re not passionate about detailing, well, good luck. Passion will get you to the launch of your business. Passion will leapfrog you over others and it will carry your to success. Your passion will drive you no matter if you are working on the minivan from hell, or the finest Ferrari money can buy.

Passion will also carry you through the good and the bad, the highs and the lows, and it will separate you from average detailers. Passion is the edge that most fail to grasp and, more importantly, what even fewer have outright. When someone with extreme passion dives into detailing, their drive for success is difficult to match or beat.

Of every tool you could have, and with all the education you could possibly gain, noting, I repeat, nothing beats passion. Just like a building, passion is only one element but it’s the strongest and most powerful foundation you have within your DNA.

Now, passion unbridled is just passion with no direction. I you combine passion with knowledge, and add in business abilities, personality and detailing talents, it will win many battles for you ant take you far with the business you start. Passion wins battles and builds success.

Hurry Up and Wait

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Let me tell you, I wanted to succeed and needed to succeed as quickly as possible, but I knew that building my dream detailing empire would takt time. Here’s what I did…

I spoke with everyone and anyone, and told them about me and my business.
I used online opportunities to market my company’s brand and my own personal brand. The internet is amazing! Be glad you live in today’s tech-savvy world because it is much easier for those who get it and do it.
I went into niches right off the bat and specialized in services that others within my markets were unable to perform or performed with terrible results.
I invested in education.
I studied the behavior of buyers and read extensively to become a professional salesperson.
I spoke at small business events ang got people talking, then spoke at larger events to get more people talking. I have been mentioned in the Wall Street Journal, Readers Digest, and on NPR Radio. These mentions can help bring in the $1,000, $5,000 and even $35,000 detail jobs!

Moral of the story? You gotta hustle to make it. You gotta be patient to survive.

Hustle & Patience, The Ingredients of Success

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 08:00:00 GMT

One of the key elements you need in business is the ability, desire and drive to hustle. If you can’t hustle, keep your day job because without it, you are going to suck the wind right out of your business.

I view myself as a true detailing professional. I rub elbows with some amazing clients and detailing professionals from all over the world, but do you think that just happened? I hustled, worked, and sweat long hours, and performed untold hours of testing, practice and research.

Another key element is patience. Building a business and a sustainable brand does not come instantly. I meet and talk with those looking to get into the business because they think it’s easy. And if they are planning to make $10, $12 or $15 and hour, they are right. Hitting the real money at $40 to $200 an hour takes time. It takes patience to get there.

Do You Have “Detailing Eyes”?

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

One of the most difficult talents a true pro-level detailer can have is a good eye. This is far more important than being able to see a clean or dirty car. It includes being able to recognize more than just a few key “details”…

Paint Defects
Being able to clearly see and identify defects is harder than you may think. Not everyone has the eye for proper paint. In reality, the most money to be made within detailing is from the more common services. While a proper eye is important, what you can learn from a detailing artist will assist you most in developing your detailing eyes.

Proper Paint
Give me one minute with a car and I can tell you if it’s factory paint or a re-paint. Having an eye for detail is important and could keep you from damaging paint or being blamed for imperfections that were not your fault.

Interior Imperfections
An eye for stains and understanding the expectations of the client are an important trait of successful detailers. For some customers, stains are not a big deal, while for others the smallest remaining stain is a monumental issue. For instance, I am a stain snob and when I have checked out my competition, stains around the seats bases drive me nuts and make me wonder why they would leave such an eyesore.

Different Ways to Use P&S Pearl Auto Shampoo

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

It’s no secret that Pearl from P&S Detail Products is my favorite car wash soap. It’s awesome in a bucket, foam cannon, rinseless and even as a clay lube! Last year, Levi and Anthony at The Rag Company did a great video on all the ways to use P&S Pearl. It’s a great video, hit the play button!

Who Makes a Good Detailer?

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

If you consider yourself a car guy or car girl, this is one of the leading traits that indicate detailing might be right for you. I find that those who have a love affair with vehicles have a greater drive for success than those who don’t.

Detailing is a heck of a lot more than just slapping some wax on a car. Truth be known, proper detailing can be very hard work. Here are some of the successful traits that great detailers have…

Understand that detailing without good business skills is a weakness that needs to be addressed.
Realize that detailing is hard, physical work and that to operate at the top levels, one needs to be in good physical shape and stay healthy.
Know that pro-level detailing requires outstanding people skills.
Commit to long-term dedication and recognize that building a successful business takes time, as does building a solid set of detailing skills.
Have a never-give-up attitude and know that success has no room for quitters.
Are comfortable using power tools.
Engage in learning new skills and continuing education.

Birds of a Feather Flock Together

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

When happy, success-based professional detailers get together, we mentor each other and share information. Finding a group that is truly open and transparent can be tough. Many detailers keep their detailing knowledge close to their chest and don’t share.

If you can join a group that is dedicated to sharing and focused not only on detailing skills, but business and marketing too, you will grow as a professional detailer, business owner and person.

Many of my best friends are right here in our industry, and there are many more amazing people among us. It really is awesome to see how many are passionate about helping others succeed and helping the industry grow. There are a handful of very well organized groups out there that provide amazing mentoring and support, but when you join these groups, you can’t just make withdrawals, you must make deposits too!

In 2006, myself and small group of close like-minded detailers formed what became The Detail Mafia, a family made up of an exclusive group of professional detailers who are committed to improving the businesses and lives of its members through support, mentoring, continued education and industry outreach. Today that group has grown to over 150 dedicated members. It’s not a group for everyone, but I’m very proud of what we have achieved together.

Detailer Tip: Paint Gauges

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Everyone get’s all hung up on paint polishing and therefore paint perfection, but before you go there, you need to invest in the tools that will make you perform and look like a professional detailer. One such tool that should be in every detailer’s arsenal is a paint gauge.

Paint gauges measure the total thickness of the paint system on a car. High-end gauges can even give you the exact thickness of the clear coat, which as detailers is what we are most concerned with. Carefully measuring the paint of a car before you start a correction and during the process will help you avoid costly mistakes of going too far. It also a great tool to show your client as you inspect their vehicle prior to the job. Sure they are expensive, but there’s a cool factor there that will set you apart from your competition and show your client that you are a pro!

Have a Major Drive to Succeed… Don’t be Average!

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

When I first opened my business detailing private aircraft, the people at the airport had bets on how quickly I would shut down. I had little money, we were located in a small market, others before me had failed, and I knew very few people as I was in a new city and state. That was 1998 and the odds were stacked against me, but I did not let others’ poisonous wishes beat me up or tear me down! I worked my plan, was dedicated, and open to learning from others. There was no room for another “average” detailer. I had to be better than the rest, I had to be the best, and you will need to do the same if you are going to succeed.

The meaning of the word average is “of no exceptional quality or ability”. If you perceive yourself as being average in life, then you will likely be average in business. If you are average, you’ve got to step it up! I don’t want to hear, “Well, I am shy.” You need to become un-shy. If you are looking to start a business, you can’t be shy, you can’t be average, and you can’t make excuses!

If shyness or lack of people skills are holding you back, you have a couple of options: Expand your comfort zone and become that people person you have not been up until now, or move on to another business. A detailing business is a personality business and those who combine detailing abilities with business abilities are going to win. So, why not expand your comfort zone and start connecting with people at a new level? You may just like it!

Detailing Realities for the New Detailer

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Detailing is a physically demanding business. You need to enjoy working with your hands and be in condition to perform the work.

Detailing is a work of love. Those who are passionate about the automobile have a success rate far higher than those performing detailing simply for the money. If you are going after detailing for the money, put on the brakes and rethink this decision.

Do you enjoy your own detailing efforts on your car? I know of detailer who are, for lackof a better word, pigs, and their success has been mediocre. The pros I know who are making the money, and have built a solid business, keep their own cars nice and clean. Some are even perfectionists.

Do you have an eye for a nicely detailed car? Some see paint, others see a canvas. The people who succeed can see imperfections. Not only can they identify them, but they know how to safely and effectively fix the imperfections.

Perfection or profit? There is a nasty disease within detailing known as ‘addicted to shine-itis”. I’m all about the perfect detail or the perfect car being detailed perfectly, but so many within this industry fail due to their relentless pursuit of perfection. It’s OK, as long as the customer is paying for it. Can you separate perfection and profitability? The best can, and do!

Detailer Tip: P&S Brake Buster in an IK Foam Pro 12 Sprayer and More!

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Want to change your life when it comes to wheel cleaning? Try using P&S Brake Buster in the new IK Foam Pro 12 Sprayer. It really is a life changing way to use Brake Buster. Here’s what it can do for you…

Save time applying Brake Buster
Get better more even coverage
Brake Buster will foam instantly for better cleaning and agitation
No more sore a tired wrists from your old trigger sprayer
You will actually use less product

So, in order to accomplish all this, you need to dilute Brake Buster in the IK Foam Pro 12 Sprayer at a ratio of 1:7. That means 1 part Brake Buster for every 7 parts water. Here’s some simple math…

There are 128 ounces in a gallon. If you need a 1:7 dilution, just take 128 divided by 7. You’ll get 18.28, which means you need 18.28 ounces of Brake Buster added to one gallon of water. Now, the IK Foam Pro 12 holds two gallons of water, so if you fill it full, you will need to add 36.56 ounces of Brake Buster (18.28 x 2). That’s it! Now, I know what you are thinking. How do I measure 36.56 ounces? Well, go ahead and round down or up, your choice between 36 and 37 ounces. It won’t make a noticable difference either way.

Now, want to add another layer of cool to your wheel cleaning? Pretreat the wheel using the all new P&S Iron Buster for additional wheel cleaning abilities. This is especially great for extremely dirty, or abused wheels. Top that with your Brake Buster in the IK Foam Pro 12 Sprayer, agitate and scrub as you normally would, and voilà! You will have some incredible cleaning abilities. Sure, acid will clean better and faster, but it can also damage wheels and you and your lungs. Stay away from that stuff!

Your Timeline to Success

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

As a small business owner, I’m often asked, “How long were you in business before you made a profit?” My answer is a clear, factual, and not all that enlightening: “It doesn’t happen overnight.” Can I be more specific? Nope! It all depends on your ability and the market you are located in.

You will need to decide how fast you want to and can grow while still offering exceptional service. Then, map out how you will perform that level of service and stick to the plan.

Think of the tortoise and the hare story. You could do a ton of wholesale or low-end work making very little profit on each job and be very busy, or you can do high-quality work at a fair price.

Maybe you won’t’ be busy every day, but you will have time to focus on marketing and those clients that desire your skills. You may make the same money per year doing either one of those plans, but only one will leave you room to grow both your business and your lifestyle. Remember, detailing is a lifestyle business, and when built correctly and given enough time, will offer you both an income and a life you can be proud of. You can build it fast if you like, but beware that a fast-paced build-up could also burn you out. The more organized and well planned out your business is, the faster you can experience success.

Detailer Tip: Make an Extra $150 per Detail!

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Want to make an extra $150 per detail or ceramic coating job in less than 30 minutes? We are getting feedback from detailers that they are offering windshield glass polishing combined with a glass coating as a $150 add-on service. That can really add up!

Or, as an alternative, when you are having trouble closing that one client, you can throw this in to seal the deal as added value. Just make sure they know it’s worth $150!

Of course P&S Detail Products has a couple of new offerings that make it easy. Clarity Crème glass polish and Inspiration VUE glass coating. There are a lot of other good products and options out there to choose from. Don’t’ leave money on the table. Ask for the add-on sale, chances are you’ll get it.

Always do this Before Installing a Ceramic Coating

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

The most important step before you install any ceramic coating is the last step… removing any and all compounding and polishing oils using a product like P&S Paint Prep.

Although many detailers will use some form of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as a panel wipe, we feel it is important to use a product that is either manufactured by or recommended by the company that makes the ceramic coating you are installing.

For example, if you are installing P&S Inspiration, then use P&S Paint Prep. If you are installing a Gtechniq coating, then use Gtechniq’s Panel Wipe. If you are installing an IGL coating, then use IGL’s Precoat. You get the picture.

Whatever you do, don’t skip this step. By using the proper products to prep the paint, you will ensure that the coating bonds to the car as well as it can.

Dick Nelms: The Real Deal, A Real Hero

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

This week, we are taking look back at The Detail Mafia’s Air Force One Detailing Team. This would have been the 17th consecutive year for this project, but Covid-19 got in the way. Though disappointing, we will be back next year to care for this wonderful piece of history and others on display at the Seattle Museum of Flight.

Last year, we all had a wonderful experience when we were fortunate enough to meet Captain Dick Nelms, a member of the greatest generation. He was B-17 pilot during World War II and flew 35 missions, mostly over Germany.

The picture below is of Detail Mafia member Kelly Mankin with Captain Dick Nelms and she writes…

“I love this picture maybe the most because it best represents how my thinking changed during the project. When he (Dick Nelms) tapped me on the shoulder and he thanked us for doing what we were doing… and I got to speak with him alone for a bit. I got to hear his story and the selflessness and bravery of his young life.

It just really made the whole project that much more special. Did I learn a lot? Did the project change the way I detail and my skill level? Did I eat up every moment? Absolutely… but once I heard his story – it kind of changed me.”

Please take the time to watch this wonderful video about Captain Dick Nelms and his service for our great nation. We hope you enjoy our look back on The Detail Mafia’s Air Force Once Detailing Team over the coming days.

Product Spotlight: Clarity Creme Glass Polish

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

One of the biggest challenges for detailers is the ability to create crystal clear glass. Over time, exterior glass accumulates water spots, mineral deposits, calcium build up, wiper blade residue, etc. and glass cleaner will no longer do the trick. Glass needs to be polished back to its original condition.

P&S Product Specialists Sydni Brae Gwinn from Boise, ID taught us the importance of polishing glass to produce the perfect detail. She was the conduit in helping team P&S develop Clarity Creme. Sydni pointed out that polishing glass was the perfect final step to create the ultimate customer experience. The car could look great but it was that “pop clarity” of the glass that made her customers happy.

Clarity Creme Glass Polish quickly and effectively removes particulate to create a smooth OEM glass finish. Clarity Creme Glass Polish may be used by hand or machine to restore glass or used in preparation for the installation of Inspiration Vue Glass coating.

Here are some quick best practices…

Wash glass and clay glass if necessary. For light duty polishing, use by hand with a microfiber towel. For medium duty cleaning and beyond, use a machine paired with a foam or wool pad depending upon the condition of the glass. Polish using an overlapping pattern either by hand or machine until the glass is restored to its maximum potential. Once complete, allow Clarity Creme to dry to haze and then buff off using a microfiber towel. The glass is then ready to be coated with INSPIRATION VUE.

Detailer Tip: The “Full Detail”

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 08:00:00 GMT

When you use the term “full detail,” your customer reads that as being complete and all inclusive. So, if the customer has road paint on the outside of the car and dog hair in the interior, along with heavily stained carpets, they expect that you are going to cure every ailment their car has.

If you sell detailing services this way, be prepared to be broke and work yourself to death!

Loosely used, the term “full detail” is common within the detailing industry as a menu item. Be careful with this term as it tells your client that everything is included within this service.

Including everything within any level of a detailing service is not a wise move for any detailer.

Build a smart detailing menu and take the time to educate your market. One approach is to explain to your customers that you build a custom detailing package based on their car’s condition, their expectations, and their budget.

All New INSPIRATION VUE Glass Coating

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

P&S Detail Products has just added INSPIRATION VUE Glass Coating to the growing lineup of INSPIRATION coating products. VUE is the perfect compliment to a detail or coating job and is an easy to install product adding protection to glass for up to 6 months or longer. VUE comes packaged in a blue 30 ml bottle offering up to 10 windshield coatings or more per container. For amazing results, polish the glass with Clarity Creme, prep the glass with Paint Prep and then add protection with INSPIRATION VUE Glass Coating. The kit includes one 30 ml bottle of INSPIRATION VUE, one coating applicator, four door jamb labels, and an instruction sheet.

INSPIRATION VUE Glass Coating is easy to install, but we still recommend the product to be installed by a professionally trained detailer, as proper procedures must be followed for effective application and results. We do not recommend product use or application by untrained individuals. INSPIRATION VUE can be purchased directly from P&S Detail Products here… https://psdetailproducts.com/i-23875560-vue-inspiration-glass-coating.html

How to Use P&S Iron Buster Fallout Remover & Wheel Cleaner

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Renny and Diane show you how to use P&S Iron Buster as both a Fallout Remover and Wheel Cleaner. Looking to pick up some Iron Buster for yourself? You can get it directly from P&S Detail Products here… https://psdetailproducts.com/i-23875559-iron-buster-gallon.html

Setting the Bar at the Right Level

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Show-car detailing, concours-level detailing, supercars, hyper-cars, rare muscle cars, and the finest luxury vehicles in the world are your goal. Reality check: Are you nuts? Work up to that level, don’t set yourself up for steep challenges, start with lower-end vehicles with some serious challenges. I’m talking about cars that have scratches from head to toe, interior gunk up to the headliner, and smell like a dead sewer rat.

Plus, few markets in the world have the supercars so widely available that you’ll be able to make a living working on that level of car. If you live in an area that will support super high-end detailing, pay your dues on the challenges daily drivers offer and build-up your skills.

Most pro-level detailers work on daily drivers and therefore make a great living detailing these types of cars. Working on high-end cars is a fun goal, but hone your skills on Honda Odysseys, Toyota Camrys and Ford F-150s before you move up to Ferraris, Lamborghinis and McLarens.

At this point, your quality and skill building is top priority, and as those priorities take form, start working on your timing and efficiency. This is where your detailing systems and processes come into play.

All New INSPIRATION SOLE Yearly Ceramic Coating & Enhancer

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

P&S Detail Products has just released INSPIRATION SOLE, the latest addition to the Renny Doyle Double Black Collection. SOLE is an easy to install coating that can be used by both professional detailers and enthusiasts as stand alone one-year coating or as an enhancer on top of the original INSPIRATION Classic. SOLE in available in a new 100ml “Super Size” clear bottle, which P&S feels is the new sweet spot in the coating industry. SOLE offers credible performance and is easy to install and flexible to use as a final step top coat to INSPIRATION Classic for customers looking to add an extra level of protection, as a maintenance coating to be placed on top of INSPIRATION Classic once a year, or as a pure stand alone one-year durable coating. The kit includes one 100 ml bottle of INSPIRATION SOLE, one coating applicator, four door jamb labels, and an instruction sheet.

INSPIRATION SOLE Ceramic Coating is easy to install, but we still recommend the product to be installed by a professionally trained detailer, as proper procedures must be followed for effective application and results. We do not recommend product use or application by untrained individuals. INSPIRATION SOLE can be purchased directly from P&S Detail Products here… https://psdetailproducts.com/i-23875561-sole-inspiration-yearly-coating-enhancer.html

Making that Personal Connection with Your Detailing Clients

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Author Jeffrey Gitomer has a wonderful quote I love: “Customer satisfaction is worthless. Customer loyalty is priceless”. I believe connecting with your clients is one of the most important elements in marketing your business.

When you connect, you lock in the emotional side of people, and you become far more than a detailer to them. When this occurs, you are at a level that makes a relationship bulletproof. Connection means long-term benefits for both you and your clients, which is something too many detailers fail to establish with their client base. Don’t make that mistake in your detailing business. Connect in a BIG way!

The Many Benefits of Trust

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Over my career, I have been able to connect with a wide range of customers; from everyday people like you and me, to super-celebrities and business leaders. The one thing they all have in common is trust. When your client starts to view you as not just a service provider, but a trusted friend within the community, your relationship changes, putting you in a very rewarding position. Trust within a business-based relationship brings many benefits…

Trust Brings a New Level of Admiration: When you gain a client’s trust, you gain friendship, respect, and a desire to help you in your business. When a client admires you, your work and your work ethic, that level of trust and admiration is a game-changer.

Trust Brings Convenience: When I started to get garage codes and security codes for alarm systems it made it easier on both my client’s schedule and my own schedule, as it allowed for me to get the work done on my time rather than theirs. It also showed that I was gaining trust in a big way and that the client appreciated me as a professional, as a person, and as a member of the community.

Trust Brings Referrals: Simply put, when people trust you, they share your business, your services, and your abilities with others. People who buy detailing services from you will most likely have friends and family who will also buy detailing services from you.

Trust Brings Profits: When you are trusted, it comes with responsibilities to do what’s right and always offer value. When you offer value and have client’s trust, they will listen to the service suggestion you make. Add in the better service that trust brings, such as having keys to garages and the ability to be a tad more flexible, and trust means profits. Trust should be a major priority in your client relationships.

Trust Brings Satisfaction: When I am trusted to the core by clients, my satisfaction in my work grows, as does my positive attitude. When you and I as business owners have the right attitude, we tend to get motivated and people pick up on that attitude. It’s contagious.

Detailer Tip: Thank-You Cards

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Make certain to always leave a handwritten thank-you card with your clients, especially new ones. You can also use a service like SendOutCards.com to send personalized and custom thank you cards after the detail (pictured).

Don’t forget to leave 3 business cards with your client. One for them, and two to give away. Dropping them in the thank-you card is an easy way to do this. I’ve been doing this for over thirty years and it works!

The Importance of Perceived Value

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

By: Renny Doyle, Detailer of Air Force One

I love the saying that “image is everything”. If you are going to be a successful detailing business owner, you need to live, eat, and breathe your image. I don’t care how basic your business is when starting out, your image, the way you dress, and your equipment need to look clean and professional.

People will pay crappy-looking professionals, but their staying power will be minimal. You can do a lot with a little, but you need a cutting-edge detailing system with a good, clean, and professional image to survive long-term.

You need to convey that you are educated within detailing, and that you are an expert within your market. You need to look, sound, act, and be the go-to guy or gal in your market. Being the top-of-mind detailer in your local market is not an easy process and it takes time and effort to achieve, but it’s a worthwhile endeavor. You need to be dedicated to this process over the long run. I’m not talking weeks or months, but years. Your knowledge and professionalism will spread across your market one car guy and gal at a time. And as your perceived value grows, you become more valuable to prospective customers.

The Importance of the Right Reputation

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Photo: Kyle Clark, Xtreme Detailing

Building a reputation does not happen overnight, but your reputation starts with your very first customer. In detailing, many assume that reputation relates to high-end performance, luxury and exotic cars. That assumption is on target if you are operating in Miami, West Los Angeles or anywhere these types of vehicles are common.

However, in the rest of the world, you want to concentrate on cars that are common and desirable in that market. If you are in Buffalo, Oklahoma where a Lamborghini is never seen, why would you try to build your reputation by having a website, business card, or flyer with a picture of a Lamborghini or Ferrari on it? Oklahoma is all about American-built pickup trucks and SUVs.

If you market the before-and-after photos of that shiny and clean truck or SUV, people in Buffalo, Oklahoma will see value in you. Don’t market fancy in an average market and don’t market average services within an elite-level market. Relate to your market and ideal client and odds are, they will relate to you. Be known for quality. Be known for detailing knowledge. Be likable. That’s how you will build your reputation.

New Product! P&S Iron Buster Wheel & Paint Decon Remover

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Everyone has been pretty excited about this one. P&S just announced the latest addition to the Double Black Renny Doyle Collection. Now, I know what you’re thinking , the detailing industry didn’t need another stinky iron remover, but this one doesn’t smell too bad. Now for the technical stuff…

Iron Buster is an acid free, low odor, color changing, fast acting, pH balanced cleaner that is formulated to dissolve ferrous and embedded iron particulates from wheels and painted surfaces. Once applied, Iron Buster will quickly change to a purple color when iron particulates are plentiful, and then it can be rinsed thoroughly to leave behind a clean decontaminated surface.

For paint, it’s best to wash and dry the surface prior to applying Iron Buster. However, prewashing wheels is not required. Once the surface has been prepared, spray apply a generous amount of Iron Buster to the paint and/or wheels. Allow it to dwell for 2-5 minutes, but don’t allow it to fully dry on the surface. Rinse thoroughly with water and repeat as necessary.

Find it here… P&S Detail Products

Ten Common Success Traits for New or Expanding Detailing Businesses

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Last week we looked and the ten most common mistakes that can kill a detailing business. This week we look at the exact opposite, ten common success traits for new or expanding detailing businesses.

This list is the foundation for those that I see making the most progress and larger-than-normal successes within the detailing industry…

Being business educated and having a foundation read to start a business.
Being trained and educated within the art of professional-level detailing.
Business is started within one’s means ad securing working capital.
Starting out with business with little or no debt.
Having a written business plan that addresses successes and challenges alike.
Having a marketing and sales plan of action that keep the sales pipeline flowing.
Developing solid personal and business branding in the early days.
Establishing a highly effective referral and follow-up system.
Top-notch phone and in-person sales approach that wins business.
Having a proven and well-designed menu in place and profit from that menu.

Renny Doyle’s Zero to 60: P&S Odor Doc

Tue, 26 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Renny does a quick 60-second (or less) review of the all new P&S Odor Doc permanent odor elimination kit. Find it here at P&S Detail Products… Link

Renny Doyle’s Zero to 60: Lake Country Power Tools UDOS 51E

Tue, 26 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Renny was one of a select few detailers to test a pre-production LC Power Tools UDOS 51E, which is the world’s only 5-in-1 random orbit and rotary polisher.

10 Common Mistakes That Can Kill a Detailing Business

Mon, 25 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

I see ten common factors that play a part in the failure of many detailing businesses in their very early stages. Want to help ensure your success? Avoid these mistakes…

Failure to have the correct business education and/or business experience.
Failure to know how to detail at a professional level.
Business is underfunded and lacks any support capital to help them.
Starting out in debt or running up debt letting overhead get out of control.
Failure to have a written business plan addressing successes and challenges alike.
Failure to maintain a sales pipeline and thus upsetting cash flow.
Failure to establish personal and business brands both online and offline.
Failure to establish an effective referral program.
Failure to be effective on the phone and poor people skills.
Utilizing a poorly designed menu and failing to make any notable hourly profits.

It’s Not Who You Know, But who Knows About You

Mon, 18 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Become famous in your market. By getting out and becoming known and likable, people will share your name and services with others. Just like when you put money in the bank and it pays you interest, when you are well known, your reputation, business, and profits are compounded.

P&S Detail Products ODOR DOC Odor Elimination Kit!

Mon, 18 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

The all new P&S Detail Products ODOR DOC Odor Elimination Kit the latest addition to the Renny Doyle Double Black Collection of professional detailing products. It is a quick release vapor process that eliminates stubborn odors including odor causing bacteria, mold, mildew, smoke, etc. ODOR DOC quickly treats enclosed areas with the most powerful chlorine dioxide gas penetrating technology available. Released as a vapor, the broad spectrum biocide product is safe, powerful and effective.

The process is simple! Make sure the interior of the vehicle is clean and dry prior to treatment. Treatment takes one hour. ODOR DOC is 8 times stronger than traditional chlorine dioxide treatments and destroys the toughest of odors. Want to know more and how to use it? Watch Renny’s “How-To” video below…

Steak and Profitable Detailing

Mon, 11 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Hungry? Yeah, me too! So, you go to a nice family restaurant and order a juicy steak with a side of fresh cut fries, a soft drink and some desert for later. You add a hot dog for your kid along with a milk. You then explain to the waiter that you are only willing to pay for the hot dog. Will they give you the steak for the price of the hot dog?

No, they will laugh you out of the restaurant. Don’t provide a steak-level detail for the price of a hot dog. If your client orders a hot dog, give them the best hot dog you can deliver. If they order a steak, give them the best steak in town. Always detail at a profitable level!

-Renny

Image is Everything!

Mon, 11 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

You want to look good, really good from the very first day you start detailing, right? Well, here are a few tips…

Your shop of mobile detailing rig needs to be cutting-edge and professional. This doesn’t mean that you need to go out and spend a ton of money on all the best equipment and supplies, but you do need to get creative. I was on a serious budget when I built my first mobile detailing rig, so I built it all myself to save money. I spent under $6,000 total on that first setup and received comments on it almost daily, which won me many, many new clients.
Your card, flyers, website and other support material all need to be professional. If you are not a graphic artists, don’t go online and build cheap-looking items yourself. Spend a little money and get these items done right. Doesn’t have to be expensive, just don’t let them look cheap.
Invest in uniforms. I’m a firm believer in having branded shirts with your company logo on them. It’s wise to go with both a collared shirts and t-shirts. Wear the collared shirts when meeting with clients, giving quotes, or delivering a freshly detailed vehicle. Use the t-shirts for doing the dirty work, detailing and just change your shirt as needed. Find pants, shorts and shoes that work well for you too, and stick with them!

Do great work, treat your clients well, and look the part. You’ll be the talk of your market!

-Renny

When Should You Fire Your Boss?

Tue, 05 May 2020 08:00:00 GMT

The answer is simple, but the decision is not an easy one… When your detailing has proven that it provides year-round cash flow that will support your income needs.

Quick Detailing Tip: How to Properly Fold a Microfiber Towel for Maximum Use and Control

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Seems like something very basic, but you might be surprised at how many detailers we see holding their towels wrong, which risks marring the paint you just worked so hard to perfect. It all starts with proper towel folding…

Start with a clean towel. Make sure you inspect it carefully for debris.

Fold the towel in half.

Then fold the towel in half again.

Now that the towel is folded into quarters, you have 8 sides, and if you continuously flip your sides over throughout the detail, you will go through fewer towels, which increases your efficiency, lowers your costs, and makes you a more profitable detailer. You will also have much better control over a properly folded towel and will introduce less marring to the paint as you detail.

Quick Detailing Tip: Pad Drying…

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Our friend Mike Phillips of Autogeek shared this fun little tip with us years ago. Pick up some bulk Velcro or Velcro wire ties at the hardware store. Attached to the back of your cutting and polishing pads and BAM! You’ve got an easy way to hang your pads to dry!

Now, you can hang them from just about anything. We prefer a clothesline or even a bungee cord stretched between two points. The pads are now out of the way and can be positioned in such a way that air can flow around them and help dry them faster.

Renny Doyle’s Zero to 60: EGO Nexus Power Station Review – Review One of Two

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Renny gives an overview of the EGO Nexus Power Station. It’s pretty awesome!

https://egopowerplus.com/nexus-portable-power-station/

Renny Doyle’s Zero to 60: Cleaning and Detailing Your Motorcycle Helmet

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Helmets Can Get Nasty. In this Zero to 60, Renny shares some tips and tricks on cleaning a detailing motorcycle helmets.

Renny Doyle’s Zero to 60: The Lake Country Power Tools UDOS 51E Five-Tools-In-One Review

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Renny does a quick unboxing of the all new Lake Country Power Tools UDOS 51E, which is 5 expertly designed tools in one.

Renny Doyle’s Zero to 60: Cleaning Plastic Surfaces In Your Car With P&S Express Interior Cleaner

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In 60-seconds (or less), Renny shows you how to clean the plastic interior surfaces of your car with P&S Express Interior Cleaner.

https://psdetailproducts.com/i-17540228-xpress-interior-cleaner.html

Renny Doyle’s Zero to 60: Turn your Disposable Gloves into Reusable Gloves

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

In 60-seconds (or less), Renny shows you how to clean your disposable gloves so they can be reused. This is really handy right now when gloves and other personal protection equipment are in short supply.

Renny Doyle’s Zero to 60: Buff and Shine Blueberry

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Renny’s 60-Second (or less) review of the Buff and Shine Mfg. “Blueberry”. Part of the “Reflection Artist line of pads, the closed cell foam construction of the dark blue Blueberry Pad is ideal for a wide variety of uses. It’s a versatile polishing pad that will provide incredible results.

Available at most of your favorite suppliers, including Autogeek .

Renny Doyle Inducted into the 2020 IDA Hall of Fame

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Renny Doyle was inducted into the very first International Detailing Association’s Hall of Fame Class.

Nominated from among his peers and voted on by the IDA Founder’s Club and all IDA Past Presidents with 85 percent of the ballots, the IDA Hall of Fame is the highest honor bestowed on a member of the Detailing Industry by the IDA. The award was presented to Renny at the IDA Annual Business Meeting held at the Mobile Tech Expo in Orlando, Florida on January 31, 2020.

Renny’s contributions to the detailing industry go above and beyond industry expectations and many will say his approach to teaching both the skillsets and the business side of detailing has been instrumental in rebranding the automotive appearance industry from a blue-collar soapy sponge & water bucket brigade into an innovative, precision-skilled business and lucrative career offering expertise in paint correction and protective ceramic coatings.

Not just a certified IDA detailer, Renny holds both a Certified Detailer (CD) and Skills Validated (SV) advanced certification in on-the-spot problem-solving, and he is a Recognized Trainer (RT) for the IDA with the ability to certify his own detailing trainees as IDA-certified detailers.

Also inducted into the IDA Hall of Fame 2020 Class were Detail Plus founder Robert “Bud” Abraham; Meguiar’s founder Barry Meguiar; William Phillips of P&S Sales; and Ed Terwilligar (CD-SV, RT) trainer at Southern California’s Cypress College.

New Product: P&S INSPIRATION Fabric Coating Protectant

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Automotive fabric and carpet interiors are absolutely beautiful when they are in new condition. However over time they tend to lose their fresh appearance when not cared for properly. Fabrics and carpets act as a sponge for any sort of liquid or contamination that comes in contact with it. A layer of solid protection can keep the interior looking fresh for many years. I don’t know about you, but I place a high priority of keeping my interior looking sharp but when we are in a rush spills tend to happen and my interior becomes stained.

A quality layer of protection not only keeps cloth and carpet clean but it also makes it easier to clean when spills happen. Inspiration Fabric Coating Protectant is the perfect solution utilizing the latest technology in fabric protection.

In 2018, P&S introduced the concept of Inspiration Fabric Coating Protectant in an aerosol format. At the time it seemed like the perfect solution, but little did we know that major changes were impacting the aerosol delivery of fabric protectants. Thus, we had to go back to the drawing board to introduce our latest product.

Inspiration Fabric Coating Protectant is a solvent based VOC compliant acrylic fluoropolymer protectant. Inspiration FCP provides superior protection against water based and oil based stains. Obviously water protection provides the show but where this product really shines is the ability to resist oil stains.

Once interiors are clean and dry Inspiration FCP can be applied in a uniform spray pattern to cloth and carpet. A light misting is the preferred amount. Product will dry to touch in hours depending upon ambient air temperature. Product reaches complete cure at roughly 24 hours.

Inspiration Fabric Coating Protectant is available in pints and gallons in a traditional spray applied format.

#M200P Inspiration Fabric Coating Protectant – Pint – 12 per case
Enthusiast Price: $39.95

#M2001 Inspiration Fabric Coating Protectant – Gallon – 4 per case
Enthusiast Price: $213.25

#PB358 Safety Bottle – Inspiration Fabric Coating Protectant
Enthusiast Price: $2.50

P&S Detail Products’ Bead Maker is Now Boeing D6-17487 Approved!

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 08:00:00 GMT

BEAD MAKER adds another achievement! P&S Detail Products is pleased to announce that BEAD MAKER is now officially designated as an official product for use on aircraft.

Bead Maker passed the Boeing Specification D6-17487 tests for products which include exterior and general cleaners, liquid waxes, polishes, and polishing compounds.

BEAD MAKER has been confirmed by Boeing-performed testing to meet Boeing Specification D6-17487 Revision R compliance status for exterior and general use. Boeing Specification D6-17487 includes the four following tests. These test are performed to assure, with a high degree of confidence, that the product is safe for use on aircraft.

SANDWICH CORROSION TEST
This test evaluates if the product being tested causes additional corrosion from a control group, in various settings (humidity/temperature). Test strips of both painted and unpainted aluminum panels are saturated in the product during this test. BEAD MAKER 100% Passed!

ACRYLIC CRAZING TEST
This test evaluates if stretched and stressed acrylic plastic (in accordance with MIL-P-25690) shows any crazing (fine cracks) or degradation when exposed to the test product in certain conditions. The specific test confirms to the ASTM F484 standard. BEAD MAKER 100% Passed!

PAINT SOFTENING TEST
This test assures that the products used do not affect a panel’s paint hardness, cause discoloration, or stain the paint. The test confirms to the ASTM F502 standard # , which determines the effects of cleaning and chemical maintenance materials on painted aircraft surfaces.

The test requires that panels are treated with BEAD MAKER and then baked at 100 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes, rinsed, and allowed to air dry for 24 hours. Then the samples are evaluated and tested for changes to their hardness and discoloration. BEAD MAKER 100% Passed!

HYDROGEN EMBRITTLEMENT TEST
Hydrogen embrittlement can occur during various manufacturing operations or operational use – anywhere that the metal comes into contact with atomic or molecular hydrogen. Exposure to some liquids and gases can cause the absorption of hydrogen into materials, ultimately causing a degradation of mechanical performance.

The Boeing Specification D6-17487 test is in accordance with ASTM F 519-93. Four cadmium plated specimens are notched and then emerged in the product for 150 hours, under a constant 45% load. BEAD MAKER 100% Passed!

Who is Renny Doyle?

Tue, 01 Jan 2019 08:00:00 GMT

Renny Doyle, CD-SV, RT

Owner, Detailing Success

Founder, The Detail Mafia

Detailer of Air Force One

Renny Doyle was born and raised in Colton, CA. He began detailing cars and planes in his teenage years, which led him to enter the automotive and residential window tint business in the 80s & 90s. As a teenager, Renny met Art Scholl, a famous stunt pilot who died during the filming of Top Gun, which gave him a love for aviation and led him to detailing more than just cars. Renny sold this first detailing business for $18,000 when he was 19 years old and went on to Boise State University to play football and get his education. Once out of college, Renny worked in the corporate world, but eventually his love for detailing drew him back to the industry. Owning shops in Southern California and later Idaho, Renny met his wife and partner Diane in the mid 1990s. In 1997, Renny and Diane started Attention to Detail in Sun Valley, ID, with multiple locations including Boise, San Bernardino, and Dallas. While in Sun Valley, they perfected their techniques and processes, especially since much of their work came from maintaining prestigious cars and planes of celebrities and executives.

Renny and Diane then moved to Boise, ID, to run their detail operation, and it was there that they formed Detailing Success, their training program which began educating detailers from all over the world, in 2004. Around this time, Renny was contacted by Boeing and the Museum of Flight in Seattle, WA, to restore the first jet-powered Air Force One-SAM 970 in 2003, which served from Presidents Kennedy to Clinton, and other notable dignitaries around the world. This was a project that changed his business and, in many ways, the detailing industry to this day. He is now in his 15th year with the project and, as a result of it, has had the opportunity to meet the President of the United States and, by official decree, hold the title of “The Detailer of Air Force One”. As he seems to have done with most of his career, Renny has used this event to build up other detailers and their businesses and as a vehicle to bring the industry together.

In the late 2000s, the mountains of Southern California were calling Renny and Diane, so they moved operations to a place closer to Renny’s childhood home. Big Bear, CA, is where Renny and Diane currently run their Detailing Success training center in a 5000 sq. ft. facility, training detailers and promoting the industry from this home in the mountains.

Renny has been a long time advocate for industry innovation, and he has been a leading proponent of the forced action DA movement, supporter of the introduction of Steam as a mainstream tool, and is a huge believer in the IDA and has incorporated their CD and SV certifications into the Detailing Success curriculum, allowing students to take the test at the conclusion of the 5-day training.

His resume is substantial, with over 400 students from around the globe trained over the years; 4000 airplanes detailed, a long term preservation contract with the Boeing Museum of Flight to take care of Air Force One, and dozens of other aircraft at the museum; multiple detailing businesses owned and sold; and he is the author of the book How to Start a Home-Based Car Detailing Business. His list of accomplishments is rivaled by few in the industry.

Renny gives back to the community by volunteering with the local Search and Rescue team, and both Renny and Diane are members of the Cal Guard and work with their Search and Rescue teams as well. Renny loves his family, God, animals, the detailing industry and his 1967 Chevelle.

Renny Doyle’s Detail Mafia On Ground at Seattle’s Museum of Flight Managing Largest Air Force One Detailing Team in 14 Years

Fri, 04 May 2018 08:00:00 GMT

The Agenda: Continued Preservation of Original Presidential Jet Air Force One + 16 Multimillion-dollar Aircraft

SEATTLE, WA July 24, 2017 – They are live on the ground at Seattle’s Museum of Flight Monday, July 24 through Sunday, July 30. Master automotive and aircraft detailer Renny Doyle of Detailing Success, and his newly-formed Board of Directors for his Detail Mafia, are managing the largest Air Force One Detailing Team in the 14 years of the Air Force One Restoration Project. This year, over 50 of the best detailers from around the country come together at Seattle’s Museum of Flight to continue their role as caretakers to the first presidential jet known as Air Force One.

In addition to Air Force One, the prestigious team will also clean, polish, and apply protective coatings to 16 additional aircraft on display at the museum, including the now retired supersonic Concorde Alpha Golf; a remarkable WWII B-52 Stratofortress Bomber; and the first “Jumbo Jet” Boeing 747. Perhaps the most recognizable of American jets, the 747 made its maiden voyage in 1969 as the first mainstream passenger jet. Its engine rings haven’t been polished since it came to the museum.

“This project began nearly 15 years ago with a Bush Administration official asking me to save an icon of aviation history that was falling into ruin on the tarmac at Seattle’s famous aircraft museum,” says Renny Doyle. “I had about five detailers I trusted on such a difficult project, and when we saw the plane for the first time, we were horrified at its condition. I knew it would take years, but we could bring back the paint, maintain the bright work, and stop the aging of an aircraft that had served as a flying Oval Office for Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon.”

Impressed by Doyle’s knowledge of paint and how the environment interacts with the aluminum; Doyle’s small 2003 team worked a lot of magic with their power buffers, and the Museum asked them to return every two years.

In 2011, Doyle started handpicking detailers to form a team of 25 to 30 detailers, as the museum added additional airplanes to the maintenance project. All team members run their own detailing and car wash businesses, and have agreed to work voluntarily on the project. Since then, the annual Air Force One Detailing Team project at the Seattle Museum of Flight has become one of the most prestigious detailing projects on record.

“Our men and women detailers have willingly given their time and dedicated their skills to ensuring the original presidential jet looks as close to its original glory as possible,” says Doyle.

Sponsored this year by Flex power tools and polishers; Buff & Shine Manufacturing; Detailer’s Helper; and San Francisco-based P&S Sales; makers of Renny Doyle’s Double Black Collection.

Air Force One

Known as Special Air Missions (SAM) 970, the first Air Force One presidential jet entertained many international VIPs such as Nikita Khrushchev and Henry Kissinger. For more than a decade, it lived on the open tarmac exposed to Seattle’s notorious climate. It has taken more than a dozen years to restore it to as close to its natural glory as possible.

In just the last year, the plane has been relocated under a covered hangar in the new open-air Airpark Pavilion, but it is still exposed to Seattle’s dampness. The team’s preservation stage with the plane still requires an annual cleaning and polishing – a responsibility assigned exclusively to Doyle’s Air Force One Detailing Team until 2020.

WWII B-52G Stratofortress

Last year, the Team, polished the WWII B-29 Superfortress “T-Square” and received commemorative mission patches from a WWII widow whose husband flew the plane. This year, they will polish an all-aluminum WWII B-52G Stratofortress, America’s first long-range, swept-wing heavy bomber that began as an intercontinental, high-altitude nuclear bomber. The US Air Force deployed the plane in 1955 and it saw active duty during the Vietnam War as part of operation Bullet Shot/Linebacker. It spent its entire life in-service with Strategic Air Command.

Supersonic Concorde Alpha Golf

The 2014 Team was the first to detail the supersonic Concorde Alpha Golf since its retirement in 2003. Due to its substantial length and the iconic shape of its slender delta wings and fuselage, the 204-foot luxury jetliner has always presented huge challenges for the Team.

Boeing 747 “Jumbo Jet”

The team has cleaned the Boeing 747 “Jumbo Jet” in the past but this will be the first year they have polished the engine rings on the 300-ton jet. Standing taller than a 6-story building, the 747 is one of the most recognizable jets in existence and answered one of the first calls for the growing demand for air travel and the need for a large, mainstream passenger jet.

About Renny Doyle

Known as the Detailer of Air Force One, Renny Doyle’s Detail Mafia, who is supervising the work this year, is staffed with senior-level detailers who have worked on the AFO project 3 years or more. He selects his AFO team from his worldwide detailing network known as the Detailing Success Network. Doyle is also the author of an industry best-selling book, How to Start a Home-based Car Detailing Business, available at Amazon.

For more information about this year’s Air Force One Detailing Team at the Seattle Museum of Flight, contact Diane Doyle at (909) 375-3980. Diane is live on the ground where it is quite noisy, so if you have problems reaching her, contact Kimberly Ballard at (256) 653-4003. High resolution pictures available live form the event this week!

Detailing Success Blog

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Detailing Success Training Is Growing—Built for the Detailing Community

At Detailing Success, we’ve always believed that the detailing industry deserves more than “tips and tricks.” It deserves real, structured education—hands-on training that helps detailers sharpen their craft, run stronger businesses, and stay ahead of an industry that keeps evolving.

That’s exactly why our training program is expanding fast.

From our flagship advanced course in the mountains to our growing network of training centers across the country, Detailing Success and Auto Training Collective are building for the detail community—and we’re just getting started.

A Rapidly Growing Training Network (Now 10 Training Centers)

Demand for professional detailing education is rising, and we’re meeting that demand by expanding where—and how—we train.

We’ve added two additional training centers, bringing us to 10 training centers nationwide. That means more opportunities for detailers to access top-level instruction without having to travel across the country.

Our 1-day and 2-day trainings are hosted across the nation, making it easier than ever to level up your skills with focused, hands-on instruction designed to deliver immediate results.

Our Flagship Experience: 5-Day Advanced Detail Course in Big Bear, CA (Every Month)

If you’re ready to go all-in on your craft, our 5-Day Advanced Detail Course is the experience detailers travel for.

Hosted every month in Big Bear, California, this intensive training is built for those who want to refine technique, boost confidence, and learn professional processes in a real-world environment—surrounded by others who take detailing seriously.

This is where detailers come to elevate the work, tighten the systems, and leave with the kind of knowledge that translates directly into higher-quality results and higher-value services.

Expanded Curriculum: New High-Demand Classes Added

Detailing isn’t just changing—it’s expanding. Customers are asking for more protection, more film, more long-term solutions. So we’ve expanded our offerings to match what the market wants right now.

We’ve added additional classes, including:

These programs are designed to help you add premium services, diversify your revenue, and build a business that can grow with customer demand.

Coming Soon: 3-Day PPF and Window Tint Classes

We’re not stopping with our current schedule. We’re also developing new 3-day PPF and window tint classes—shorter, focused programs built for students who want high-impact training in a tighter format.

These are coming soon, so stay tuned.

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At the core of everything we’re doing is one mission: serve the detailing community with real training that creates real growth.

Detailing Success and Auto Training Collective are building a training ecosystem that supports detailers at every stage—whether you’re refining your paint correction, stepping into PPF and film, or expanding into high-demand protection services.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to invest in your skills, this is it.

We’re growing—because the industry is growing—and we’re building it for you.

Renny Doyle Podcast: Making set backs your victories

RENNY DOYLE'S WEDNESDAY MORNING PODCAST

MAKING SET BACKS YOUR VICTORIES.

RENNY, OSCAR AND BOB PHILLIPS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA STORE VISITS

ATG STORE VISITS

On the Road in Southern California: Renny, Oscar, and Bob Phillips Strengthen ATG Distributor Partnerships from the LA Basin to San Diego

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Why This SoCal Tour Matters

This Southern California trip had three clear goals:

What Renny, Oscar, and Bob Focused On During Store Visits

2) Merchandising That Makes Buying Easier

3) Real-World Feedback That Improves the Whole Network

The Big Win: Stronger Relationships = Stronger Results

Moments That Defined the Trip

What Happens Next

Appreciation for Our SoCal Distributor Network

This is Training Week in Big Bear, Ca.

Training Week at Detailing Success In Big Bear, CA.

Mobile Tech Expo 2026 Recap: Education, Innovation, and Community Done Right

Mobile Tech Expo 2026 Recap: Education, Innovation, and Community Done Right

KICKING OFF 2026

JANUARY 2026

Kicking Off 2026 the Right Way: An Incredible 5-Day Training, An Even Better Group of Students

Five Days of Focus, Growth, and Serious Hands-On Work

This 5-day class wasn’t about shortcuts or hype. It was about:

The Students Made the Class What It Was

What We Worked On (And Why It Matters)

Technical Fundamentals and Advanced Execution

Workflow, Systems, and Professional Standards

Business Growth That’s Built to Last

Renny Doyle’s Mission: Real Help That Changes Lives

The Real Win: What Students Take Home

Thank You to Every Student Who Showed Up Ready

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MTE 2026

MTE 2026 BOOTH # 2130

STOP BY BOOTH 2130 AND SEE WHAT WE ARE UP TO.

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Facing Your Fears and Crushing Your Goals: How The Detail Mafia’s Leadership Challenge Can Transform Your Business Mindset

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