D.J. Harrington 
Yesterday, I completed a podcast with Jay Robie, the President and CEO of Phoenix Automotive Cores. What I discovered was not really a surprise. Jay is a gifted, articulate, and smart guy! During our podcast, Jay described change we need and why so many people fight change. Jay stated, “Change is needed in today’s recycling … Read more
Saying that 2020 was a tough year is putting it mildly. When Don Porter of URG took my advice about doing a podcast to promote his upcoming 2021 conference, here is what happened. For over 10 years, I had been using the TV studios located in Dallas, Georgia. Without fail upon my arrival there, I … Read more
URG Changes Conference Dates! Yes, you are reading this right. The URG conference dates have changed. The URG Annual Conference that was being held in Dallas, Texas at the Hyatt in April will now be held August 5th — 7th, 2021. As you can see, the place has not changed. Only the date has changed. … Read more
Over the past year or so, the lives of our families, businesses and industry have taken on a new look and something we could not see threatened our very existence. Some were prepared for these changes while others were not. And, yet while others perhaps buried their heads in the sand, some saw those changes … Read more
With Covid-19 on the rise again, it appears that everyone needs the vaccine. When it is available for me, you’ll find me in line, waiting to get mine. Thinking about what can help our Auto Recycling industry, my prescription is simple. We need a power-packed, booster shot. And we need it now! Since I’m the … Read more
Going on 25+ years now, it has been my pleasure to write for the Recyclers Power Source Magazine. Even though we are beginning a new year, I believe the first quarter of this year will be remarkably like what we experienced over the last 9 months. However, I am hopeful it will be better. I … Read more
Our memories are special to us because they tell our personal story. Oscar Wilde saw memories as a part of a mental, personal diary that a person adds to throughout their lifetime. So true! As we create them, no one can take your memories from you because each day is a beginning or an addition … Read more
The events of 2020 might have changed the looks of your business today. What have you done to prepare your people for next year? Are your employees working as individuals, doing their own thing? Or are they working efficiently as a team? During my previous travels to businesses, some of them have synergy and they … Read more
Before writing any article, I ponder whether it would benefit me rather than helping everyone else. Usually, it is self-help for me. I must ask if COVID-19 has been getting to you. It has me. Have you been drinking, smoking, or eating more than usual? I have, and I have also been having too much … Read more
Here is a great story. Two months ago, I received a call from Doug Williams, an old customer who owned Eagle Auto Parts located in Martinsburg, WV. Doug and his wife, Lori, purchased Eagle Auto Parts back in 1983. I have been there many times and would speak to all their employees and follow up … Read more
It’s my intention to write about the “How Money Works” book because I wanted to thank lots of you who have ordered the book and either have given copies away to friends and family or have asked for copies for your teams. While listed for $16.95 plus shipping on Amazon we have sold over a … Read more
Do me a favor, please! I am asking all recyclers to refer to this unpresented time as the “New Normal”. I really dislike using the word “abnormal” because what we are going through right now is not abnormal. However, it is the future. Our customer base is telling us that this is “Amazon Time” because … Read more
Life, as we have known it, has come to a screeching halt because of an invisible threat. We can’t see it! But we surely can see the effects of what it’s done. Thousands of people have been infected and thousands have lost their battle against it. As if they haven’t already been involved enough in … Read more
For the past several months, America has been experiencing eye-opening financial burdens because of a virus threat they can’t see. During strange and unnerving times such as these, Americans always step up to trudge forward. We’re resilient no matter what comes our way. That brings me to what my friend within another industry requested from … Read more
Last week, I had two recyclers, who read this column, go online, and order the book, How Money Works, Stop Being a Sucker, which was written by Steve Siebold and Tom Mathews. Though small, the book is great, packed with valuable information for all ages, and an easy read. They paid $16.99 for each book, … Read more
Many industries and associations help students with scholarships, but I am happy to report that the caring folks at URG are not surpassed by other industries. In 2020, URG will be awarding $40,000 dollars’ worth of scholarships. You heard me right! $40,000 in 2020. Other associations that I’ve been a part of will offer much … Read more
Look at the title of this article. How Money Works will be the title of my talks for 2020. I’m already booked for the upcoming URG training conference in St. Louis at the Arch. For that conference, which is being held at the Hyatt Regency, you should bring your team to experience this premier event … Read more
I recently received a book as a Christmas gift from Mike James of James Environmental and eComply. Every year without fail, Mike uses a book at his annual employee retreat. In the past, he used the book, Who Moved My Cheese. Phenomenal book. This year he chose a book by Eric Harvey, Leadership Secrets of … Read more
Yes! It was the best ARA convention ever. You’ve probably heard me say that it was the best before which makes one ask why I’m saying it now. How did they surpass previous years? What really made it better this year? Well, since Jim Counts, Mike James and yours truly were given awards, it was … Read more
Ever been inside a courtroom while in session? Even though each case is different, there’s commonality. Each case has an assigned a court stenographer. When a court stenographer captures what’s said in the court room, there’s no way he or she can report on the way things were said, because they are only authorized to … Read more
Most everyone remembers Dave Thomas who was the Founder of Wendy’s. We see his successful fast-food stores everywhere. However, some people do not know the complete story of Dave Thomas. Dave Thomas may have become a wealthy man, but he was born an orphan and was adopted at 6 weeks of age. This gracious man, … Read more
On May 7th, 2019, stem cells were injected into my right leg. I had been living with severe pain for two to three years and consulted with eleven doctors from various ends of the healthcare market in the last 16 months. To my chagrin, I’ve seen more doctors than some people see in a lifetime. … Read more
Perhaps, after finishing book #40 by my favorite author, I would find it less desirable than the other 39. Not so! I’m still enamored with his writings and must admit that Max Lucado is still my favorite author with #40, Unshakable Hope. Purchased by my daughter, it was presented for Father’s Day. Not only is … Read more
As it happened this time a year ago, summer has started again. With every summer, banners with graduation notices and well-wishes can be seen at entrances to subdivisions. As with most years, I can truly say I attended multiple graduations for children of my good friends and family. This year alone, I attended two kindergarten … Read more
Last month while attending URG, you probably heard Michael Clay, the speaker that did a presentation on how to use social media correctly to make money. There aren’t many guru’s comparable to Mike because he’s an expert in SEO, “on-web” design, and digital marketing plans. Others may feel they measure up to his ability…but they … Read more
Having come back from Northlake Auto Recyclers in Hammond, Indiana, I bet you’re wondering if it snowed while I was there. I was prepared for it, but thank God, it didn’t. Here’s what I discovered. Northlake Auto Recyclers is run by Marty Hollingshead, the new Secretary on the board of ARA. In the past, Marty … Read more
URG’s Theme for 2019 is “Expand the Possibilities”. Their premier conference is slated for April 11th – 13th in the inviting, sunny and warm state of Florida. Leave behind snow and cold weather for tourism of Orlando to hear the best speakers in our industry. I’m quite certain you’re familiar with speakers like, Ryan Falco … Read more
Having a better life can be achieved through implementation of 3 helpful tips. The first tip is simple and only takes seconds to do. While on her way to work only a few weeks ago, Sheila pulled into one of two lanes at a fast-food chicken place close to home. She was in a huge … Read more
Last year while attending the ARA Convention and Exposition in Florida, I discovered that Marty Hollingshead was to be confirmed by the Board of Directors as the next Association Secretary. As an outstanding individual himself, Marty will be joining an outstanding team. While seated in the audience listening to the award winner announcements, my mind … Read more
Here it is again, another New Year. For that, we need new learning skills and a larger appetite for learning. All of us know something about the great, business person, Sam Walton. Here are some facts that I know about Sam Walton. Sam was very inquisitive and eager to learn. In fact, there was nothing … Read more
Congratulations to the Executive Committee of the ARA Annual Convention. That convention was one of the best I’ve witnessed. The association elected Jonathan Morrow as President of ARA at this convention. Jonathan and family owns M&M Auto Parts located in Virginia. Jonathan completed his master’s degree in business administration from Liberty University. Jonathan succeeds David … Read more
It was a great turnout for Nordstrom’s 2.0 open house that was held September 7th and 8th at their home office location in Garretson, South Dakota. A large crowd of 500 people came out on Friday and an even bigger crowd of 900 toured their new facility on Saturday. Many inquisitive folks came to see … Read more
Last month, three friends of mine received three different awards. It’s my privilege to give each of them accolades and to reveal why they’re deserving of their awards. First person is none other than Jeff Schoeder, CEO of Car-Part.com. Jeff received the NACE Automechanika at the Expo held in Atlanta, Georgia this past August. The … Read more
In my last month article, Leadership from Within, I referenced two leaders, Jim Butler and Shannon Nordstrom from our industry. Jim Butler of Butler’s Auto Parts is in Pensacola, Florida and their newest yard is in Milton, Florida. The Milton location used to be an old Lumber 84. I met Shannon Nordstrom many years ago … Read more
My articles this month and next are about Leadership. In these articles, I’ll reference two locations. This month’s article is about the leadership of Jim Butler, GM at Butler Auto Recycling located in Pensacola, Florida. It’s a family-run, family-owned, second generation business. Next month, I’ll show-case the leadership of Shannon Nordstrom from Nordstrom Automotive located … Read more
At dinner, a couple nights ago, we were gathered around the television reviewing soundbites from Jimmy Fallon’s latest commencement address. Pondering his words of wisdom, I wondered what I might have said to those graduates if I had been given that opportunity. First, a speech to that kind of audience needs to be short – … Read more
While covering a story for American Towman magazine last week, I felt it necessary to share what I experienced. The mission of Spirit Ride is to raise public awareness of the “move-over” law as it journeys in Honor of Fallen First Responders. Since the Ride began last year, Spirit Ride has generated media coverage across … Read more
Remember when I wrote the article, “Who Has Their Hand in Your Pocket”? Instead of writing about employees, I’m now referring to buyers who have malicious intent. After helping a family friend who had to move up north, I was blessed with a white-washed, Henredon Armoire. After trying antique and consignment stores, a thoughtful friend … Read more
After recently finishing a writing project with seven authors, I wanted to share with you what has been included in the book, Race to the Finish Line. Race to the Finish Line encompasses the idea that anyone can create winning customer relationships that will last for life. Each of the authors was asked to write … Read more
Last month, I wrote about mental toughness and how Steve Siebold helps people from all walks of life to get better. This is the same Steve Siebold that you’ve seen on Fox Business Channel and all the other stations talking about his new book, SECRETS SELF-MADE MILLIONAIRES TEACH THEIR KIDS. Heads up, folks. Review the … Read more
What, exactly is mental toughness? Is it a state of the mind? Or does it mean being mentally ready for battle at a moment’s notice? I’m happy to answer your questions so you can see it first-hand at the next URG meeting in April down in sunny Florida. Mental toughness is the control and manipulation … Read more
It’s easy to feel gratitude when you are at the Thanksgiving table. The atmosphere is perfect, food masterfully prepared, and everyone’s usually on their best behavior. That’s one of the beautiful things about that holiday. Every year at our family thanksgiving celebration, before we even eat anything, everyone takes a turn sharing with the group … Read more
AOL Instant Messenger is shutting down after 20 years. The pioneering chat app that taught many of us to use instant messaging is now pulling the plug. On December 15th, AOL Instant Messenger will shut down after running since 1997. AOL dominated online chat in North America at the turn of the century. Reason for … Read more
At a recent meeting, we heard about fraud and how creative and undermining it can be within business walls. Specifically, employee fraud or theft-by-taking. What causes this? Is it sickness? Greed? Jealousy? Addiction? To have an employee stoop that low, there must be a change of the heart. They’ve rationalized that their fraud is somehow … Read more
As I travel from convention to convention, I’ve noticed that some recyclers are making money and some are not. For a self-assessment, which are you? The recyclers making money are doing some things others may not. “Money-making” recyclers keep a closer eye on expenses backed up by good, record keeping. Better yet, they’re street smart. … Read more
Having returned from NACE ‘s Automechanika held in Chicago, Illinois, I have much to report. From my perspective, even though the McCormick Place Convention area housed lots of helpful and informative vendors, it seemed like there were less attendees than last year. That’s not good! When fellow auto recyclers that come all this way to … Read more
Every time I hear about a fire at a tow yard or recycling center, I cringe. With so much inventory sometimes stacked closely together, it could be a disastrous and devastating situation if there was a fire. Personally, I’ve heard witnesses describe, “flames that were high as the sky”, “a facility on fire with rising … Read more
Have you ever listened to your customers? Probably. Digging deeper, I must ask if you’ve ever asked them how you’re really doing? Sometimes hearing the truth can hurt, but it can also help. So far, it’s been a great week. Having just finished speaking at Volvo of Memphis, located in Memphis, Tennessee. I discovered that … Read more
Here’s how it started. At the end of January, I spoke for the Colorado Automotive Recyclers Association. We sent out a small, “DJ video” to every past and present member of this great association. Results? We DOUBLED the attendance! In the room was Ryan Hochmiller and his dad from Active Truck Part. During a break, … Read more
What makes URG different from lots of other conventions is that URG’s really all about training. Yes, there was golf on Thursday and the URG Education Foundation raised over $12,000…many thanks to Bo Wroten. An amazing accomplishment! All the proceeds of golf and the generous players helped to raise this kind of money. Don Porter, … Read more