Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, our host Brian Wolff sits down with Joe Galeas, CEO of the Parking Solutions Division of Scheidt & Bachmann (S&B), and Hector Miranda, VP of Product and Marketing at S&B.  With a combined 40+ years in the parking industry, Joe and Hector break down how Scheidt and Bachmann, a 150-year-old global leader, is shaking up parking with data-driven leadership, digital transformation, and open-system integrations.  Throughout the show, Joe Galeas shares how analytics and process optimization are driving S&B’s future. Hector, a parking veteran and S&B’s first U.S. employee, reflects on how the company has evolved from closed systems to an open, customer-first approach.  They also discuss the biggest shifts in parking technology, the push for frictionless experiences, and the leadership principles that turn teams into powerhouses.  Key Takeaways from this Episode: Data-Driven Leadership: How numbers drive better business decisions. The Evolution of Parking Technology: From closed to open systems. Customer Expectations Are Changing: The rise of frictionless parking. Culture & Longevity Matter: Why S&B thrives after 150 years. The Future of Parking: AI, automation, and smarter integrations.  Episode Highlights:  [00:00:00] Introduction to Joe & Hector. [00:02:22] Joe’s journey from telecom to parking. [00:06:52] Hector’s 30-year career at S&B. [00:10:56] S&B’s growth and company culture. [00:15:26] Data-driven leadership and decision-making. [00:20:06] Mentorship, collaboration, and company success. [00:26:28] Digital transformation and customer expectations. [00:31:38] Open systems and industry partnerships. [00:37:02] The future of parking technology. [00:42:10] Lightning round: leadership, hobbies, and home renovations.  Subscribe and Stay Connected:  Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music YouTube  Connect with Parker Technology:  Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com or email us at getstarted@parkertechnology.com. 

 In this special episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, host Brian Wolff, CEO of Parker Technology, welcomes Heidi Barber, VP of Marketing at Parker Technology, and Courtney Cooper, Events & Community Manager at Parker Technology, to discuss FUSION25 - Parker Technology’s first-ever user conference.  Heidi and Courtney share the vision behind FUSION25, how it was designed to bring customers, partners, and industry leaders together, and what attendees can expect from this highly curated, customer-focused experience. Unlike traditional conferences, FUSION25 built around real-world learning, innovation, and community, offering actionable insights into getting the most out of Parker Technology’s solution. Attendees will engage in expert-led sessions, hands-on technology deep dives, and networking opportunities - all designed to elevate the role of customer experience in parking operations.   Key Takeaways from this Episode: The Origins of FUSION25 What Makes FUSION25 Unique Session Highlights & Keynotes The Future of FUSION25  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Heidi Barber and Courtney Cooper [00:02:00] How Heidi & Courtney started their careers in parking and marketing [00:08:00] The vision for FUSION25 and what sparked the idea [00:15:00] The importance of customer engagement and creating a valuable experience [00:22:00] What makes FUSION25 different from other parking conferences [00:28:00] Key sessions a FUSION25 [00:35:00] Fun networking events: Speed networking, customer awards, and exclusive social gatherings [00:42:00] The broader impact of FUSION25 on the parking industry [00:48:00] Looking ahead: The future of FUSION and what to expect in the coming years  Register for FUSION25 – Special Code for Podcast Listeners Parker Technology invites customers and partners to FUSION25 on May 27-29, 2025, in Indianapolis, IN. Listeners of this podcast can save 25% on registration with the promo code HTIL at checkout.  🔗 Register now at www.parkertechnology.com/Fusion25  Subscribe and Stay Connected 🎧 Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  Connect with Parker Technology: Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com or email us at getstarted@parkertechnology.com. 

In this episode of Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered, Brian Wolff sits down with Cindy Campbell, Senior Training Development Specialist at the International Parking and Mobility Institute (IPMI). With over 40 years of experience spanning law enforcement, parking, and training, Cindy shares her inspiring journey from policing to becoming one of the parking industry's most passionate educators.  Cindy’s story is one of resilience, humility, and growth - her candid reflections on her career on this episode mirror the authenticity she’s known for in the industry… one of the many reasons she’s widely respected and admired by those who learn from her experiences.  Key Takeaways from this Episode: Lessons in humility: recognizing when you’re the problem and how to grow from it. Why active listening and empathy are essential in customer service. The role of parking professionals as “chaos preventers” and their impact on public perception. Strategies for managing difficult customer interactions with professionalism.  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Cindy Campbell and her role at IPMI. [00:02:00] Cindy’s beginnings in law enforcement and her unexpected shift to parking. [00:05:30] Early challenges and misconceptions about parking enforcement. [00:14:30] The pivotal moment that reshaped Cindy’s approach to customer service. [00:24:45] Tips for handling rude or abusive customers with grace and professionalism. [00:35:10] Observations on post-pandemic shifts in customer behavior. [00:44:00] Advice for young and mid-career professionals in parking: never stop learning and always listen actively.  Subscribe and Stay Connected: Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music  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, host Brian Wolff welcomes Kevin Uhlenhaker, CEO and Publisher of Parking Today Media. Kevin’s remarkable journey spans from his early days as a developer to becoming a pivotal voice in the parking industry, with two successful company exits and the recent acquisition of Parking Today Media.  Kevin shares his insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the challenges of reshaping the narrative around parking. This episode dives into his passion for fostering innovation, the importance of standards in the industry, and the exciting future of the PIE 2025 Conference under his leadership.  Key Takeaways from this Episode: The value of understanding industry nuance for business success. Leadership lessons: empowering teams and navigating tough decisions. The role of AI in reshaping parking and media industries. Kevin’s vision for transforming Parking Today into a digitally-forward platform while honoring its legacy.  Episode Highlights: [00:00:00] Introduction to Kevin Uhlenhaker and his diverse background in parking and technology. [00:01:20] Kevin’s journey from Texas Tech University to co-founding NuPark and OmniPark. [00:08:00] Building and selling successful parking technology companies: Challenges and lessons learned. [00:15:30] The acquisition of Parking Today Media: Kevin shares the story behind the deal and his plans for modernizing the publication. [00:25:00] Embracing AI in parking and media: Kevin discusses the tools and opportunities shaping the future of both industries. [00:32:00] Standards and connectivity in parking: Why creating industry-wide standards is critical for innovation and growth. [00:42:00] Behind the scenes at PIE 2025: Kevin teases the exciting new format, activities, and opportunities attendees can expect. [00:47:00] Reflections on parking's future: Kevin explains how the industry will become more connected and seamless while maintaining its critical role. [00:52:00] Kevin’s personal journey and leadership lessons: Insights on empowering teams, overcoming challenges, and maintaining a family-work balance.  Upcoming Event – PIE 2025 Conference Highlights: The Parking Industry Expo (PIE) 2025 Conference is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event for anyone in the parking industry. Under Kevin’s leadership, PIE 2025 has been reimagined as the friendliest and most forward-thinking show in parking. Here’s a taste of what you can expect: Innovative Tracks and Sessions ParkFlix – A Parking Film Festival Networking Opportunities Galore Live Podcast Row Real Talk Sessions Accelerate – The Parking Pitch Competition  Subscribe and Stay Connected: Subscribe to Harder Than It Looks: Parking Uncovered on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music  Connect with Parker Technology: Delivering exceptional customer experiences is what we do best. Learn more at www.parkertechnology.com or email us at getstarted@parkertechnology.com.  

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