Paint and Panel: The Edge

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100

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Apr 2026

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About the show

Welcome to The Edge: the podcast from Paint & Panel Magazine that truly gives collision-repair specialists the edge. If you're a business owner or manager, you can't afford to miss out on the latest industry chat. Is the new equipment on the market worthwhile for your business? What are the best practices and inspiring stories in your industry? Do you want to keep up with what your competitors and market leaders are doing? Paint & Panel will answer all of these questions and more.

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60 recent

April 27, 202624 min

PAP189: What's in store for the 30th anniversary Paint & Panel's Bodyshop Awards

In this episode, Sam Street and Grant McHerron talk about Paint & Panel's 2026 Bodyshop Awards with sponsors and former winners. The group includes James Frape, CEO of Compass, Glenn Harvey, Managing Director of Harvey Accident Repairs, Martin Dickinson, General Manager Collision at AMA Group, and Stuart Faid, Chief Commercial Officer with Clear 21. We begin our discussion by reviewing the evolution of the Paint & Panel's Bodyshop Awards now that it's entering its 30th anniversary, and is being held at Movie World in Gold Coast on November 27th. Our conversation recognises the importance of giving recognition in an underappreciated industry, celebrating excellence, and the value of bringing the collision repair community together. We get insights into why companies sponsor the event, the benefits experienced by previous winners and their teams, and receive updates for the 2026 awards, which promise for a simplified entry processes, and in person judging for best shop categories. We look forward to the awards being a celebration and strategic opportunity for repairers to gain recognition, improve performance, and strengthen their place within the industry. Links & Resources: 2026 Bodyshop Awards: https://bodyshopawards.com.au/ iBodyshop: https://www.ibodyshop.com/ Paint and Panel: www.paintandpanel.com.au ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Editor: Chris Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2026

March 29, 202632 min

PAP188: Game changing diagnostic and calibration tools

In this episode, Sam Street travels to the ADAS Solutions Australia headquarters in Brisbane to talk with Adrian Parkes (Founder & Director) and Amy Morgan (Project & Administration Manager ) about their new AirPro Diagnostics & Auggie solutions. We review the launch of AirPro Diagnostics by ADAS Solutions Australia, a remote diagnostic solution designed to address the growing complexity of modern vehicle repairs. We get an insight into how the diagnostic tool physically connects to the vehicle while being remotely operated by master technicians, delivering OEM-level accuracy without requiring in house expertise. Allowing everyone, everywhere to access high-level diagnostics, reduce errors, and identify issues earlier in the repair process. Our discussion also highlights the rapid evolution of ADAS technology and the industry's shift toward software driven solutions, making traditional tools obsolete. Innovations like Auggie, a portable augmented reality windscreen calibration device, removes the need for traditional target setups. We wrap up by looking to the future where diagnostics, calibration, and repair planning are more automated, data driven, and remotely supported, improving efficiency, accuracy, and overall repair outcomes. Links & Resources: ADAS Solutions Australia https://adassolutions.com.au/ AirPro Australia: https://airproaustralia.com.au iBodyshop: https://www.ibodyshop.com/ Paint and Panel: www.paintandpanel.com.au ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Editor: Chris Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2026

February 17, 202618 min

PAP187: iBodyShop's AI powered virtual estimation

In this episode, Sam Street talks with Steve O'Brien, Managing Director of Clear21, about iBodyShop's AI capabilities, including estimation and business intelligence. We begin by exploring the rapid expansion of AI in collision repair, outlining how iBodyShop's virtual estimating platform is transforming the quoting process. We get an insight into how the system uses vehicle images and historical data to generate increasingly accurate estimates in minutes, whilst also identifying potential write offs. Our discussion also explores the new "Ask iBodyShop" feature, which provides live business intelligence reporting, technician performance tracking, and AI assisted scheduling based on real parts delivery data. We wrap up by looking ahead to the Collision Repair Expo launch, where repairers can experience the technology first-hand and see how AI is reshaping workshop management. Links & Resources: iBodyshop: https://www.ibodyshop.com/ Paint and Panel: www.paintandpanel.com.au ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2026

January 19, 202617 min

PAP186: Plan 4 Profit

In this episode, Sam Street talks with Ash Jardine, Managing Director of Bodyshop Recruitment, about the Plan 4 Profit initiative starting this year. We begin our discussion by reviewing the evolution of Body Shop Recruit. We explore how many repairers lack a clear understanding of their true shop rates, and get an insight into the origins and development of the Plan for Profit calculator, including its expansion into multiple rate categories and the importance of the achieved rate. Our discussion delves into the national roadshow, how the workshops will help repairers calculate accurate rates, reverse engineer estimates, and make stronger business decisions in negotiations with insurers. The episode also explores why shop rates must be reviewed regularly as costs change and how better rate awareness can significantly impact profitability. We wrap up by highlighting the practical structure of the workshops, their accessibility, and the broader industry benefit through financial support for the Australian Collision Industry Alliance. Links & Resources: Plan 4 Profit bodyshoprecruit.com.au/plan-4-profit Do you want to sponsor Plan 4 Profit? bodyshoprecruit.com.au/sponsors ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2026

October 21, 2025Episode 18531 min

PAP185: Attracting new talent to collision repair

In this episode, Sam Street talks with Hiliary Bradbury from Australian Collision Industry Alliance (ACIA), Dan Maher from L&M Smash Repairs and Ann McClure from McClure Refinishing about ACIA's successes and challenges. We begin our discussion by getting an overview of ACIA. Why it was founded, the work it has undertaken and the challenges involved with funnelling interested students into apprenticeships. We also explore the costs involved with attending career expo events, the need for more repairers to join, the increased interest from young car enthusiasts, and how repairers can get involved with ACIA to help attract talent and the many benefits that come with volunteering. We wrap up by reviewing how young staff can breathe a new life and perspective into the shop, as well as supporting mature staff. Links & Resources: Australian Collusion Industry Alliance (ACIA) www.theacia.com.au McClure Refinishing www.mcclurerefinishing.com L&M Smash Repairs lmsmash.com.au ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2025

August 24, 202542 min

PAP184: Industry legend - SAPE's Ray McMartin

In this episode, Sam Street talks with Ray McMartin from Sydney Automotive Paint & Equipment (SAPE) about the changes in the industry that he has both seen and driven. Ray bought SAPE back in 1976 and over the years has sourced and bought game changing equipment for the repair community. We begin our discussion by getting an overview of SAPE's history and Ray's career, how the company invested in the data and automation revolution, and the time he spent marketing Finnish Autoliner products in America and the contribution Terry Flannigan has made to the industry. The discussion also reviews how shop owners have changed over time, highlighting some outstanding shops, and the high levels of migrant representation in the early days of the industry. Links & Resources: SAPE Group www.sape.com.au ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2025

July 15, 202523 min

PAP183: The journey to a colourful and sustainable future

In this episode, Sam Street talks with Susann Kluge, Vice President Business Management Automotive Refinish Coatings Solution Asia Pacific at BASF, about their Glasurit line how the company supports its customers to become more efficient, profitable and importantly to develop sustainable practices. We kick off our discussion by celebrating the 100 years of the scarlet Macaw as the Glasurit logo and get an overview of their sustainability journey and how Australia compares to the international market. The discussion also explores the continued rise of digitisation, how the industry can attract more young people to the workforce, and the rise of collaboration between shops and data based decision making. We assess how the APAC region will change with this drive for sustainability, digitisation, recruitment, and customisation. We wrap up by getting an insight into why the parrot was chosen as the mascot for Glasurit, and review the features that the Body Shop Boost software package offers and the experiences of shops who have implemented it. Links & Resources: Glasurit www.glasurit.com/au Body Shop Boost www.glasurit.com/en-int/boost-success-body-shops Glasurit launches a new, sustainable clear coat at Automechanika 2024 www.paintandpanel.com.au/news/news/glasurit-launches-a-new-sustainable-clear-coat-at-automechanika-2024 Glasurit Unveils Limited Edition Devilbiss Spray Gun www.paintandpanel.com.au/products/glasurit-unveils-limited-edition-devilbiss-spray-gun ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2025

June 3, 202543 min

PAP182: Advice for consumers from accident to repair

This episode features a panel discussion that seeks to explain the important topics to consider when it's time to repair your car. For the panel, Sam Street and Grant McHerron are joined by Tracey Richards, Business Manager at Geoff Richards Panel Beating, Glenn O'Donnell, General Manager at North Shore BMW Bodyshop, and James Frape, CEO of Compass Corp. We begin our discussion by reviewing a hypothetical crash and the process involved in renewing policies to retain benefits and choice of repairer, contacting the insurance provider, and getting a loaned car while waiting for it to be repaired. We explore how damage is assessed, the difficulties of acquiring parts internationally, and get some red flags to look out for in relation to rushing repairs, ignoring manufacturer specifications, and the hurdles put in place by some insurance policies. The discussion also goes into detail about how large damage is assessed for repair, the need to accommodate for the large range of customisation in consumer vehicles, and making sure your repairer is authorised to undertake the work properly. We wrap up with some final tips and tricks to consider when picking up and dropping off your car for repair. Links & Resources: Compass Corp www.compasscorp.com.au Geoff Richards Panel Beating www.richardspanelbeating.com.au North Shore BMW nsbmwb.com.au ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2025

May 28, 202534 min

PAP181: The benefits of joining a global network

In this episode, Sam Street talks with Steve Leal, President & CEO of Fix Network, to discuss the network's presence and growth in the Australian market. We begin our discussion by comparing similarities between Australia and Canada, followed by a review of the network's efforts to develop a sustainable franchise system for entrepreneurs, and explore the benefits franchisees gain from being part of a global network. We also get an overview of Fix Network's official sponsorship with KICK Sauber F1® Team, their continued efforts to build consumer trust, and the type of business owners the network is looking for — highlighting the importance of staying up to date in a rapidly evolving industry. We wrap up with Steve's insights on working collaboratively with his franchisees, long-term investment strategies, and the level of commitment required. Links & Resources: Fix Network www.fixnetwork.com/en ------------------------------ The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2025

May 20, 202530 min

PAP180: Find out why it's vital to upskill your team's welding skills

In this episode, Sam Street visits I-CAR Australia's training institute in Melbourne and learns about welding and why it is essential that panelbeaters update their welding skills. We begin our discussion by getting an overview of the need for structural welding skills and the importance of formal training to match new body construction formats. Editor Sam and Trisha Evan from Drive get hands-on experience at welding. We review some common difficulties in vision and measurements, and insights into the improved quality and efficiencies gained from learning and using new methods and equipment. We also get an overview on I-CAR's Introduction to Welding Basics program, an insight into the importance of practicing welds, the common issues seen in welding, and the need for certification to ensure the safety of the weld. the business. and the customer. We wrap up with a comparison of the sound made by a good weld and a bad weld. Links & Resources: I-CAR Australia i-car.com.au I-CAR Australia Welding Courses i-car.com.au/?s=welding+course Connect with Jason Trewin www.linkedin.com/in/jason-trewin-8b8b9959 Gary Wood www.linkedin.com/in/gary-wood-36b7a3103 ------------------------------ The PKN Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media. Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Paint and Panel - © 2025