The Towing Life Podcast

Hosted by PlainGuy, TowManG

Business Leisure Automotive Hobbies

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Episodes

153

Latest episode

Sep 2024

Language

EN-US

About the show

The Towing Life is not like all other lifestyles. It requires a certain amount of insanity, mixed with a love of caffeine. Together, PlainGuy and TowManG do their best to give the RAW real world experience and stories that come along with this lifestyle! From beterment of the industry to straight out wacky stories, there is no shortage of entertainment on The Towing Life Podcast!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

September 17, 2024Episode 15357 min

EP:153 Drunken Hot Tow Show Mess

Send us Fan MailEver wondered what it's like to set up a podcast in a rented Airbnb with your best buddy? Join us as we recount the chaotic and hilarious journey of recording in makeshift studios, complete with unexpected bathroom humor and a cheeky comparison to Pornhub's categories. We dive into our evolution from amateur to professional content creators, reminiscing about the early days of our equipment and the unfiltered moments that make our podcast uniquely entertaining. The genuine camaraderie and spontaneous interruptions add an authentic flair that you won't want to miss.Have you ever debated the merits of giraffe tongues or ghost attire while fixing a flat tire? Strap in for a laugh-filled exploration of absurd jokes, towing industry quirks, and our own ridiculous mishaps. From towing challenges and peculiar spare tire placements to the joys of attending the PTAO Tow Show in Kitchener, our banter is as unpredictable as it is amusing. We even discuss the decision to camp on-site for our annual Towing Life Christmas party, sharing nostalgic memories and joking about potential campsite mischief.Ever tried eating a pickle while coloring? This episode wraps up with whimsical scenes, debates on appropriate language, and the best questions to ask our guests. We reflect on lessons learned, humility, and the importance of listening, all while keeping the mood light-hearted with playful puns and personal anecdotes. From the quirks of customer service in the towing industry to humorous transitions and budget arguments, this episode promises a delightful mix of humor, insights, and camaraderie that will leave you eagerly anticipating our next adventure.MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

September 10, 2024Episode 15253 min

Ep:152 Dispatchers, Chaos, and Karma: Inside the Unpredictable World of Towing

Send us Fan MailEver wondered how crucial dispatchers are in the towing industry? In this episode of the Towing Life Podcast, we promise you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for these unsung heroes. We’re gearing up for the Ontario Tow Show in Kitchener and can’t wait to meet you in person. But first, we tackle the intricate dance between dispatchers and drivers, offering insights into their training, the challenges they face, and practical tools like checklists and flow charts that can make their lives a bit easier. Whether you’re a small company struggling to find the right fit or just curious about the inner workings of a towing operation, you’ll find this discussion enlightening.Picture this: a tow truck incident in Brooklyn spirals out of control when a driver tries to reclaim his vehicle by force, resulting in a chaotic series of hit-and-runs. Sound crazy? It was. We break down the details of this wild episode and discuss the legal ramifications, bringing you right to the scene with us. If that’s not enough, we also share captivating tales from the road, including a reckless minivan driver who gets an instant dose of karma, and a personal story of an unexpected wreck that throws birthday plans into disarray. These stories aren't just entertaining; they offer a glimpse into the unpredictable and often challenging life of a tow truck operator.Balancing work and personal life can be a tightrope walk, especially in the towing industry. We wrap up this episode with a candid chat about missed birthdays, frantic messages, and the crazy schedules that come with the job. Plus, for a bit of fun, we share a hilarious revelation about one of us never having taken a cab or Uber—an oversight we're planning to correct during our upcoming trip. As always, we value your feedback, so keep those emails, Facebook messages, and YouTube comments coming. Tune in for a blend of practical advice, wild stories, and a touch of humor that only the Towing Life Podcast can deliver.MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

September 3, 2024Episode 15153 min

Communication Blunders and Towing Wonders

Send us Fan MailCan poor communication really sabotage your relationships? Join us we navigate the pitfalls of daily conversations with humor and insight. From the importance of eye contact while giving compliments to the complexities of work-related talks, we share personal anecdotes that highlight common communication barriers. PlainGuy's story about misreading his Wife cues and my own slip-up with my boss underscore how timing and listening are crucial for effective interactions.Privacy can make or break a business discussion, and we have a funny story about why you should always wear headphones at work. We also get excited about the upcoming PTAO annual tow show at Bingman's Resort, where we plan to mix business with pleasure – one of us even combining the event with a spouse’s birthday celebration! Listener comments spark a deep dive into towing techniques, with a focus on dolly systems for flatbeds and exotic vehicles, offering valuable audience insights.Northern Ontario's towing operators face new provincial training hurdles, and we hear from local heroes like Pierre Deforge and Pierre Lafon about the challenges they endure. We also expose a San Francisco towing company’s fraudulent schemes that shook the industry. Finally, we discuss the future of towing with CAA-Quebec’s electric tow truck, the Lion 5, and reflect on how far the industry has come, from horse-drawn carriages to cutting-edge technology. Don't miss this engaging episode packed with both laughter and serious industry talk.MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

August 27, 2024Episode 15052 min

Ep:150 It's not what you need, It's what you want!

Send us Fan MailEver wondered how embracing new technology could revolutionize your workday? On this episode of the Towing Life Podcast, we kick off with a lighthearted chat about the randomness of YouTube comments and our quirky messaging habits with friends. From family birthdays to my grandfather's incredible work ethic and recent retirement at 85, we share personal stories that underscore the importance of routines both at home and in the towing industry. We also discuss our decision to cancel a planned live episode due to family commitments, but don't worry—we’re planning to reschedule around an upcoming tow show, so stay tuned!Are you skeptical about specialized tools like impact guns and battery-powered ratchets? We dive into the age-old resistance to innovation in the towing and mechanic industries. Whether it’s the use of flatbeds, go jacks, or adopting remote winches and Sonetic headsets, we debate how these tools can drastically improve efficiency and safety. We share insightful perspectives on how new technologies like TowSoft can streamline job scheduling and communication, making operations seamless. Each operator or company must find what works best for them, but the potential benefits are significant.Facing financial risks in the towing industry can be daunting, especially with large-scale burn jobs. Through real-life challenges like Mike Haynes' experience with a trailer full of processed chicken, we discuss the complexities and the need for better financial safety nets for towing operators. With a focus on efficient dispatching and scheduling, we emphasize innovative tools that enhance the industry’s image and professionalism. We also sneak in a personal story about an extravagant grocery shopping spree that led to a luxurious steak dinner, underscoring our theme: it's not what you need, it's what you want. Join us for this packed episode filled with laughs, insights, and valuable lessons for all towing enthusiasts.MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

August 20, 2024Episode 14954 min

Ep:149 Highway Drama and Birthday Surprises

Send us Fan MailEver wondered if straight line W's or "woobly dooblies" are superior? Join us as we dive headfirst into the quirks of handwriting in "The Great W Debate," where we humorously dissect our own writing habits and even rope in a friend for her hilarious take. We also give a warm welcome to both new and loyal listeners of the Towing Life Podcast, sharing the buzz around our approaching 150th episode milestone and the nocturnal challenges we face during our late-night recording marathons.Stay plugged in as we guide you through the best ways to interact with us during our live shows on various platforms like our website, email, Facebook, and YouTube. While listener suggestions for a donation button are appreciated, we prefer sharing a beer with you at events. Plus, get ready for some light-hearted chatter about McDonald's new s'mores McFlurry and the mystery of marshmallow fluff. We then shift gears to discuss the new safety legislation in Massachusetts that mandates vulnerable user protection devices on state contractor vehicles, weighing the costs, feasibility, and broader impact on tow service providers.Don't miss our account of a frustrating run-in with unresponsive reps and the amusing twist of a birthday celebration amid the chaos. We recount the dramatic three-truck collision on the 401, emphasizing the critical nature of effective communication and teamwork in resolving major highway recoveries. As we wrap up, mark your calendars for our upcoming live show on August 25th, packed with games, giveaways, and interactive fun. Join us at 6 PM Eastern on YouTube and Facebook for a session you won't want to miss!MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

August 13, 2024Episode 14846 min

Ep:148 Towing Laughs, Credit Card Security, and Tow Industry Thrillers

Send us Fan MailEver wondered if free swag could turn into a lucrative business? Or perhaps you've questioned the wisdom of using your truck as a makeshift farm? Join TomanG as we kick off the Towing Life Podcast with some hilarious personal stories, including G's fire pit fiasco and a humorous look at potential fraud scheme. We’re also gearing up for our epic live episode number 150 and the 2024 PTO Tow Show, where you'll want to grab our exclusive T-shirts and meet us in person. Don't miss out on how you can tune into our live episodes and interact with us in real time!Are you safeguarding your credit card information the right way? This episode, we weigh the pros and cons of physical versus digital payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay, while sharing the best practices to protect against chargebacks in the towing industry. We offer insights into the payment systems of Canada and the U.S., from e-transfers to Venmo, and chat about the quirks of credit card tech and tipping habits. Whether you're a towing professional or just someone curious about financial security, we've got you covered.From dramatic highway tow dolly failures to FBI raids on fraudulent tow companies, the tow industry has no shortage of thrillers. We'll discuss a chaotic dolly incident that wreaked havoc on the road, the importance of equipment checks, and the shocking FBI takedown of Specialty Towing in San Francisco. Wrapping it up, we delve into the culture of driver nicknames and the sentimental value of truck unit numbers, adding a personal touch to the often misunderstood world of towing. Tune in for a mix of humor, industry insights, and stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat!MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

August 6, 2024Episode 1471 hr 12 min

Ep:147 This is our Story!

Send us Fan MailEver wondered how a Ford F-150 stacks up against a Tesla Cybertruck in a durability showdown? You're in for a treat as we dissect the wild mechanical mishaps and amusing failures in a WhistlinDiesel video. Alongside the chaos, we'll share personal stories of battling extreme humidity and a bonfire adventure, breaking down the quirks of Canadian holidays and the novel idea of renting goats for lawn maintenance.Get ready for big news about our Towing Life Podcast Live 3.0 on Sunday, August 25th! We're thrilled to connect with you through giveaways, trivia contests, and potential guest appearances. We’ll also dive into Joe's privacy battle with a major roadside assistance company and Derek's innovative document organization for law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of keeping digital copies of your credentials.Join us as we recount our unique journeys into the towing industry, from being a mobile DJ to a snowplow operator, and ultimately finding our true calling. We discuss the significance of obtaining additional licenses, the cultural shocks of changing companies, and the emotional impact of working in family-oriented businesses. Hear our stories of resilience, personal growth, and career satisfaction, offering a humorous yet insightful look at life in the towing profession.MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

July 30, 2024Episode 14651 min

Ep:146 From Networking to Operator Errors: Essential Tow Show Insights

Send us Fan MailReady to learn the secrets behind flawless towing operations and industry networking? Tune in as we, TowManG and Mr. PlainGuy,as we prepare to celebrate a milestone on the Towing Life Podcast—our 150th episode and three years on air! We'll share our journey, hint at a major announcement, and discuss the possibility of another thrilling live show to mark these achievements. Plus, we'll emphasize why your engagement keeps us going strong.Get pumped for the PTAO Tow Show on September 13th and 14th at Bingman's in Kitchener, Ontario! From venue amenities and last year's highlights to this year’s pre-order system for merchandise, we've got all the details to ensure you don't miss a thing. We'll also cover the event schedule, sponsor shout-outs, and fun contests, making this a must-attend for both members and non-members. Don't forget the chance to meet stars from Heavy Rescue, 401, and enjoy some laugh-out-loud stories from past shows.Ever wondered how cooperation could be more beneficial than competition in the towing industry? We'll dive into real-life cases that prove the power of networking, even when dealing with companies like Nation Safe Drivers and Urgently. Plus, we’ll share tales of operator errors, like the smoking NOCO booster pack incident with a 1964 Corvette, and discuss preventive measures to avoid such mishaps. Wrapping up, we’ll explore the nuances of electronic documentation and compliance, ensuring you're always on the right side of regulations. Join us for an episode packed with insights, stories, and invaluable tips for towing professionals!MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

July 23, 2024Episode 14553 min

Ep:145 Caffeine, Chains, and Chuckles

Send us Fan MailEver wondered what happens when a couple of former tow truck operators swap their hooks for microphones? Join us as we kick off this episode with nostalgic tales of our social media antics and how life has changed post-towing, especially our caffeine fixes and quirky drink preferences. Ever tried chocolate liqueur with Coke? We have, and we’re curious about your favorite concoctions too! Get ready for some laughs and light-hearted banter as we speculate on the regional drink preferences of tow operators and share our own inclinations towards beer.Next, we dive into the nitty-gritty of vehicle loading techniques, featuring a listener’s unique method for loading Ford F-150s. We compare it to traditional winching and debate the ever-important safety concerns. The conversation heats up as we discuss the pros and cons of using J hook chain bridles versus strap bridles, especially with smaller trucks like the Dodge Ram 5500. We also stress the crucial role of customer education in avoiding damage claims, offering practical tips and real-world advice to help towing professionals navigate tricky situations.Finally, we tackle the sticky issue of damage responsibility in the towing industry. From windshield chips to flat tires, who should foot the bill? We share intriguing stories, including transporting a fifth-wheel camper and the saga of a burnt-to-the-ground Land Rover, emphasizing the importance of securing payment before recovery. Our episode wraps up with some humorous reflections and a slightly controversial joke that adds a touch of edgy fun. Tune in for a packed episode full of industry insights, practical tips, and plenty of laughs!MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca

July 16, 2024Episode 14452 min

Ep:144 Towing Industry Challenges: Fragile F-150's, Costly Repairs, and Controversial Praise

Send us Fan MailEver wondered how to handle the newest challenges in the towing industry, like the fragile $1,200 active spoiler on the 2021 Ford F-150? This episode provides crucial insights on that and much more. Brad, Sean, Terry, and Larry, joining us from across Canada, kick off the discussion with an honest critique of our recent intro and share some behind-the-scenes hilarity that didn't make the final cut. We also address the difficulties of maintaining a consistent podcast schedule while juggling the demands of professional and personal lives, offering a glimpse into the making of our highlight reels. Listener engagement is a priority for us, so we outline various ways for you to get in touch and contribute to our discussions.In an eye-opening segment, we dive into the nitty-gritty of the active spoiler on the latest Ford F-150s and the importance of meticulous documentation to avoid claims. This topic is crucial for wrecker operators dealing with the intricate component that can fail prematurely. We also draw parallels to the electric vehicle towing guidelines, emphasizing the need for centralized training and better information dissemination to mitigate costly repairs. Our real-life towing anecdotes underscore the financial implications of unexpected damages and reinforce the importance of proper towing techniques.The episode takes a heated turn as we discuss a controversial incident involving the Ontario Provincial Police and their public praise for a logging truck’s towing service. This segment showcases the frustration within the towing industry, highlighting the perceived hypocrisy and lack of recognition for professional operators. From damage claims to the unique challenges of towing specific vehicles, we cover it all. As we wrap up, we remind you to stay connected through comments, likes, and subscriptions, and get ready for another exciting episode of the Towing Life podcast next week.MERCH STORE: USAwww.towinglife.ca/shopThe Towing Life Podcast isn't Possible without the help of our amazing supporters,Find out how to become a supporter at: www.towinglife.ca/be-a-supporterFor comments/questions or concerns we can be reached at thetowinglife@gmail.comor by searching @thetowinglifepodcast on Facebook. also at www.towinglife.ca