Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, Brian Wolff interviews Rick Serra, Vice President at Premium Parking and co-founder of Allpro Parking. With over 50 years of experience in parking, Rick shares invaluable insights, anecdotes, and his journey from radio broadcasting to becoming a parking industry leader. From his early days as a parking attendant in Boston to building Allpro Parking into a trusted brand, Rick’s career exemplifies how hard work, strong relationships, and a focus on quality can create a lasting legacy. Key Takeaways from this Episode: Hands-on leadership and treating employees with respect. Transitioning from a corporate role to starting a business Why curb appeal and first impressions matter Evolving technology and customer expectations in parking Tips for fostering meaningful industry relationships Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Rick Serra and his 50-year parking career. [00:02:51] Rick’s journey from radio broadcasting to parking. [00:10:12] Lessons learned from working at Allright Parking and Allpro Parking. [00:22:00] The decision to sell Allpro Parking to Premium Parking. [00:29:45] Rick's love for Corvettes and how passion drives personal success. [00:35:30] Reflections on the evolution of the parking industry and its future. Connect with Parker Technology.  While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, Brian Wolff interviews Todd Tucker, Chief Operating Officer of PRRS Parking/Asura Technologies, whose impressive 31-year journey in the parking industry spans operations, technology, and leadership. From humble beginnings in West Virginia to becoming a Marine Corps veteran and earning multiple advanced degrees, Todd brings unparalleled insights into the evolution of parking and its future. Todd shares pivotal moments from his career, including his transition from parking operations to technology and his passion for innovation. His candid reflections on challenges, leadership, and the importance of relationships in the industry offer listeners valuable lessons and inspiration.   Key Takeaways from this Episode: The critical role of relationships in parking and technology sales. How Todd’s military service shaped his discipline and leadership approach. The journey from parking operations to guiding tech innovations The importance of supporting veterans in the workplace and beyond. A vision for the future of parking: digitization, customer-centric solutions, and collaborative innovations.   Episode Highlights: [00:00:26] Introduction to Todd Tucker [00:02:52] Todd’s journey from West Virginia to the Marine Corps [00:10:13] Pursuing advanced degrees while working in parking operations [00:20:53] Challenges of selling technology in a fragmented parking market [00:29:10] Reflections on the importance of relationships in business [00:37:21] Supporting veterans: the mission of Veterans in Parking. [00:51:36] Todd’s thoughts on the future of parking and technology. [00:54:23] Lessons learned from union negotiation.   Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com

In this episode, Brian interviews Mike Simmons, the Chairman and CEO of Tez Technology, discussing his remarkable journey from a farm kid in Indiana to leading significant technology transformations in the parking industry. Mike shares insights from his early career at IBM, PepsiCo, and GM, and provides a unique perspective on his successful ventures, including founding T2 Systems.In Segment 2, Brian switches gears to talk with Parker’s new Chief Product Officer, James Paden. James discusses the future of parking technology and how AI can enhance customer service. He highlights the evolution of the parking industry, the importance of integrating various systems, and the role of generative and agentic AI in providing proactive solutions.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:The value of hard workDiversity in experienceWorking with integrityParker Technology’s vision of AIBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Mike Simmons:00:26 Mike Simmons' Career Journey04:30 Early Life and Engineering Passion07:57 Transition to IBM and Sales13:17 Entrepreneurial Ventures and T2 Systems40:17 Philanthropy and Community Involvement43:25 Passion for Cars and Silo Auto Club48:55 Professional Challenges and Triumphs51:36 Impact of the Pandemic on Parking53:14 The Future of Parking TechnologySegment 2 with James Paden:59:06 Introducing James Paden: New Chief Product Officer01:01:16 James Paden's Vision for Parker Technologies01:02:55 Innovations in Parking01:17:26 The Role of AI in Enhancing Customer Service01:26:14 The Importance of Industry Knowledge01:33:26 ConclusionConnect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, Brian sits down with Brandon Lauterbach and Wade Hiner. In segment one, Brandon Lauterbach, CPP, Co-founder and EVP of Pivot Parking, talks about his extensive experience, career journey, and the growth of Pivot Parking. Brandon shares insights into the importance of technology, employee satisfaction, diversification, and how Pivot Parking stands apart in the industry. Brian switches gears to talk with Wade Hiner, President of Destiny Homes, who shares powerful stories about the unexpected life lessons learned, from answering cold calls, platforms, perspective shifting, and a roadside encounter. Wade discusses how these experiences shifted his perspective on life, emphasizing empathy, engagement, and finding true fulfillment by helping others.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:How diversification is importantHow to define culture and valuesTechnology’s role in parkingCareer perspectives changeEveryone has a platformThere is purpose in everythingBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Brandon Lauterbach:01:48 Brandon's Early Life and Start in Parking03:52 College Years and Valet Experience05:43 Transition to Sales and Return to Parking07:51 Joining Lanier and Career Growth11:59 Founding Pivot Parking18:59 Building the Pivot Team27:34 Pivot's Culture and Values33:20 Technology and Future Aspirations39:48 Lightning Round Questions41:03 Heartfelt Stories of Pet Rescues43:49 Challenges in the Parking Industry46:34 Solutions for Parking47:30 Life Beyond Parking: Family and Hobbies48:34 Pride in Professional AchievementsSegment 2 with Wade Hiner:51:02 Introduction to Segment Two: Wade Hiner52:42 Wade Hiner's Inspirational Journey57:44 The Power of Answering Cold Calls01:14:35 A Life-Saving Cold Call01:14:56 Changing Perspectives on Life01:15:38 Helping Others Through Shared Experiences01:18:43 The Power of a Smile01:20:05 A Roadside Encounter01:28:46 Reconnecting with Impactful People01:31:39 A Special Birthday Surprise01:40:40 Long-Term PlansConnect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, Brian sits down with Max Yoder and Tiffany Sauder. In segment one, Max Yoder (author, entrepreneur, and CEO) shares his repertoire of experiences, from co-founding Lessonly in 2012, to sharing personal stories from his upbringing, including his parents' divorce and remarriage and his motivations rooted in financial security. Max also dissects the importance of company culture, core values, and vulnerability in leadership.To explore the medicinal retreat in Vermont that Max referenced, visit their webpage.Brian switches gears to talk with Tiffany Sauder, CEO of Element Three and host of Scared Confident, along with five other commitments.Tiffany discusses how she balances several high commitment and high-stress roles, including motherhood, entrepreneurship, leadership, public speaking, and her podcast (which highlights lessons learned through her first 20 years in her career) through effective prioritization and outsourcing.Scared Confident is available on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, and Google Podcasts, as well as on her website https://www.tiffanysauder.com/podcastHere are some key takeaways from this episode:The importance of company culture and valuesLeadership is vulnerabilityLiving with compassion, balance, and purposeImproving time managementHow strategies in business and life can overlapLearn to “make friends with hard”Be sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Max Yoder:00:00 Introducing Max Yoder00:32 Max Yoder's Background and Achievements03:16 Personal Insights and Early Life06:28 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned14:23 Core Values and Company Culture32:33 Post-Lessonly Life and Personal Growth41:16 Transition to Lightning Round41:34 The Concept of 'See It, Be It'41:54 Embodying Virtues and Self-Compassion43:42 The Complexity of Parking44:44 Charity and Grace47:16 Lightning Round Begins47:59 Facing Fears and Personal Growth51:03 Selling a $30 Million Software Company52:44 Helping Others and Family LoveSegment 2 with Tiffany Sauder:55:50 Introducing Tiffany Sauder01:00:16 Balancing Family and Career01:12:37 Funny Laundry Episode01:13:07 Outsourcing Household Chores01:15:21 Handyman Hacks01:17:20 Financial Choices and Support01:19:28 Journey to Element Three01:23:50 Leadership Lessons01:39:44 Transitioning Roles01:42:56 Making Friends with HardConnect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks, Brian Wolff sits down with Nicole Hankins, a Women in Parking Impact Award recipient who has lived all around the contiguous and non-contiguous United States! She shares her transformative career journey, underscoring the importance of team collaboration, people-centric leadership, and diversity initiatives.Then our very own Courtney Cooper, Events + Community Manager at Parker Technology, sits down with rising entrepreneur Ava Wettrick where she offers insights into overcoming challenges and creating networks through curiosity and persistence. Ava recounts her experiences producing podcasts early in her career, and the upcoming podcast for VETPAW, an anti-poaching non-profit in Africa, emphasizing adaptability and the value of mentorship. Both guests highlight the significance of enthusiastic leadership, with discussions on leadership philosophies, entrepreneurial ventures, and the dynamics of Gen Z in the workforce.To check out Stephynie Malik’s amazing story and follow what she's posting, visit her LinkedIn. To follow Ava and her co-host Meg on their journey with the VETPAW Podcast, visit their website.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:How to Prioritize Inclusion and MentorshipCareer Advancement and the Power of MotivationGen Z’s Impressive Impact on Technology and the WorkforceThe Power of Following PassionBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Nicole Hankins:01:57 Nicole's Career Beginnings03:49 Relocations and Family Support05:45 Operational Excellence and Team Building08:06 Leadership and Mentorship23:55 Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives36:03 The Importance of Showing Up36:32 Planning the Next Chapter37:14 Career Choices and Soul Searching38:13 Embracing Change and Opportunities40:36 The Power of Teamwork44:06 Challenges and Growth in the Parking Industry46:35 The Value of the Parking Industry48:37 Balancing Work and Personal LifeSegment 2 with Ava Wettrick:53:38 Meet Ava Wettrick: A Journey in Podcasting01:01:03 Challenges and Misconceptions of Gen Z01:11:21 Mentorship and Personal Growth01:12:10 Family Influence and Aspirations01:14:03 Networking and Professional Connections01:16:27 Entrepreneurial Journey and Challenges01:21:06 Creating the VETPAW Podcast01:29:48 Lightning Round and Personal Insights01:43:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Harder Than it Looks: Parking Uncovered', our host, Brian Wolff, CEO of Parker Technology, dives into the transformative journeys of two servant leaders. Alejandra 'Alex' Argudin, MBA, CAPP, discusses her rise from a young city worker to leading Miami Parking Authority as the CEO, as well as becoming Chair of IPMI, tackling challenges like the pandemic, advancing parking technology, and being a woman in a male-dominated industry.We then speak with Barby Valdes McDaniel, Associate Director of the WOW Center, who brings her 30-year career to light, advocating for adults with special needs.In segment one, Alex Argudin emphasized her leadership philosophy of empowering her team and promoting collaboration between the parking industry and urban planning sectors. As the new chair of the International Parking and Mobility Institute (IPMI), Alex aims to drive legislative changes and technology advancements in parking, all while remaining committed to community service.In segment two, we sit down with Barby Valdes McDaniel, who shares her lifelong dedication to serving adults with special needs, inspired by her early experiences. She detailed her impactful work at the WOW Center, providing life skills, community education, and employment opportunities for individuals with special needs, as well as the importance of family support.To learn more about and/or contribute to Barby and Alex’s work with the WOW center, visit their website https://wowcentermiami.org/Here are some key takeaways from this episode:Empathy and Leadership in the Parking IndustrySmart Cities & LegislationThe Power of Personal Connection and Community SupportServing the Special Needs CommunityBe sure to check out these great clips from Segment 1 with Alex Argudin:00:21 Meet Alejandra “Alex” Argudin02:02 Alex's Early Career Journey04:28 Transition to the Parking Industry07:31 Challenges and Growth in the MPA11:43 Leadership and Modern Management12:43 Innovations and Future Plans20:11 Expanding Services and Partnerships32:00 Smart Cities and Technological Advancements34:43 The Curb and EV Challenges35:40 Micro Freight Solutions39:10 Legislation and Policy Hurdles40:41 Smart City Initiatives44:30 WOW Center: Supporting Adults with Disabilities49:54 Balancing Work and Family52:10 Lightning Round: Personal InsightsSegment 2 with Barby Valdes McDaniel:01:05:06 The Beginning of a Powerful Partnership01:09:19 A Life-Changing Experience01:13:45 Daily Operations at the WOW Center01:19:49 The Impact of Special Needs Individuals01:21:51 Personal Stories and Inspirations01:25:30 The Hospice Detour01:29:32 Supporting Special Needs Families01:33:50 How to Get Involved with the WOW Center01:37:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker Technology.While delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com

To kick off the episode Brian invites Dani Crain and John D. Conway, industry legends and podcast hosts of ‘All Things Parking with Dani and John,” to share their experiences, hot industry takes, and diversity and supporting women in parking. In Segment 2, Heidi Barber, our VP of Marketing, sits down with Kyle Lacy, CMO of Jellyfish, who shares his journey in marketing growing and scaling leading tech companies. In his segment, we discuss balancing creativity with revenue, the alignment between marketing and sales, personal branding, and strategies to avoid burnout. Here are some key takeaways from this episode:Hot takes and controversy in the parking industryHow “All Things Parking with Dani and John” came to beThe value of marketing and sales alignmentStrategies to level up your personal brandBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Segment One: Dani & JohnDani's Dog Axel (02:37)Dani's Career Path: From Radio to Parking (05:04)John's Career Path: From Military to Parking (11:23)The Origin of 'All Things Parking' Podcast (19:05)Challenges and Sacrifices in the Parking Industry (35:45)Hot Takes: Smart Cities and EVs (41:56)Empowering Women in Leadership (50:47)Addressing Industry Biases (51:32)Personal and Professional Struggles (56:14)Podcast Crossover and Future Goals (01:05:36)Segment Two: Kyle LacyMarketing Insights with Kyle Lacey (01:09:16)Sales and Marketing Alignment (01:20:28)Personal Branding and Writing (01:24:00)Lightning Round (01:35:11)​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker TechnologyWhile delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com

In segment one of this episode, Brian sits down with Ross Allanson, CAPP, CPP, who is the Director of Parking at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus. Ross is an industry veteran, having been in parking since 1989. He shares his wisdom on alternative transportation, micro-mobility, and efficient event parking.Then in Segment two we invite Kathy Wellik, CAFM and Senior Client Success Manager of Agile Fleet to talk about her experience in fleet management. Kathy and Brian discuss her career transition from banking to fleet management, emphasizing continuous learning and participation in professional organizations. We will also dive into her personal journey navigating male-dominated industries, overcoming gender biases, and restoring a classic 1969 Camaro.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:Cutting edge innovations in parking and transportationThe value of trusted peersElevating women’s voices in male-dominated industriesBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Segment One: Ross AllansonMeet Ross Allanson: Parking Expert (00:21)Ross's Early Life and Career Beginnings (02:20)Transition to University of Minnesota (05:15)Event Parking Insights (10:11)Leadership and Team Management (22:10)Technological Changes in Parking (28:23)Personal Stories and Reflections (35:30)Lightning Round Questions (41:40 )The Hardest Thing You've Ever Done (44:06 )Empathy in the Workplace (44:55)Parking Challenges and Solutions (47:21)Hobbies and Personal Life (48:40)Proudest Achievements (49:54)Segment Two: Kathy WellikFleet Management Insights (54:41)The Importance of Professional Organizations (01:11:03)Women in a Male-Dominated Industry (01:15:18)Fun and Travel Stories (01:20:15)​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker TechnologyWhile delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com

This episode is a deep dive into the world of transportation and personal development.In segment one, we welcome Kenyata Smiley, Transportation Planning Department Manager at HNTB, who shares her inspirational journey from Chattanooga to leading multimodal transportation projects, emphasizing strategic planning, equity, and community engagement. She also discusses her work with the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials and Delta Sigma Theta sorority.In segment two, Nikki Miller, Executive Coach at Kairos Consulting, explores Enneagram types, recounts her decade-long experience homeschooling, her transition to public schooling, and her insights on executive coaching, personal growth, and maintaining a growth mindset. This episode is filled with relatable anecdotes and crucial takeaways on public participation and continuous self-improvement.Here are some key takeaways from this episode:How to build, manage, and leverage the communityInnovative ways to implement technology in the parking industryWorkplace communication and collaboration based on personality typesBe sure to check out these great clips from the show:Segment One: Kenyata SmileyKenyata's Early Life and Career Beginnings (01:52)Transition to Public Administration (04:05)Career Growth and Public Sector Experience (05:25)Current Role and Responsibilities (08:36)Equity and Community Engagement (22:25)Challenges and Success Stories (27:33)Life Legacy and Appreciation (45:03)Segment Two: Nikki MillerNikki's Journey to Executive Coaching (48:16)The Enneagram and Personal Growth (57:16)Meditation and Mindfulness Techniques (1:03:46)Homeschooling and Parenting Insights (01:12:42)​​Want to help the show? Tell us about you! Please visit parkertechnology.com/podcastsurvey and fill out our short survey to help us deliver more great episodes like this one.Connect with Parker TechnologyWhile delivering an excellent customer experience is indeed harder than it looks, we’re the experts. It’s all we do, every day, and we’re darn good at it. If you’d like to learn more about how we make managing the parking experience look easy, visit our website at www.parkertechnology.com, or shoot a note to getstarted@parkertechnology.com