Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast

On this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Rich DiPaolo speaks with Kevin Matthews, chief operating officer and president of Summit Wash Holdings, about the company’s rapid expansion and people-first culture. Matthews shares lessons from his early experiences in the car care industry, explaining how they shape Summit’s operator-led approach. He outlines the operational and technological innovations that have enabled Summit to grow from 20 to more than 100 locations in just a few years. Matthews also discusses the impact of the company’s growth partnership with New Mountain Capital, its 24-month strategic growth plans and the importance of fostering a strong, unified culture across new markets and acquired brands.

In this Executive Spotlight, Professional Carwashing & Detailing’s Brian Ankney sits down with Ryan Mogged of Triadex to explore how carwash operators can maximize marketing ROI through advanced targeting tactics. Mogged explains how mobile data, connected TV (CTV), programmatic ads and direct mail are transforming customer acquisition and retention. From geo-fencing competitors’ locations to leveraging online search intent, operators now have powerful tools to reduce wasted spend and track real customer behavior over time. The conversation also highlights the impact of new mover campaigns, custom propensity modeling, and innovative formats like plastic gift card mailers — all designed to help car washes attract loyal members and boost profitability.

On this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Rich DiPaolo is joined by NRCC 2025 show co-chairmen Chris Kubarek and Walt Hartl to discuss the planning behind this year’s event, scheduled for Oct. 6-8 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Kubarek and Hartl share insights into the show’s goals, learning opportunities and the inspiration behind unique additions, such as a virtual tour of global operator Bob Autowash in the Netherlands. They also explain how the educational topics were selected to address critical issues for Northeast operators, including website optimization and membership trends, and highlight the diverse voices attendees will hear from, such as Colonel Pilar McDermott and Garry Ridge. Additionally, Kubarek and Hartl provide an update on the expo floor, exhibitor participation and anticipated attendance, while offering advice for first-time attendees and a glimpse into the future of NRCC. For more information and to register today, please visit www.nrccshow.com.

From microfiber to terry to huck, towel choice matters more than you think. In this Professional Carwashing & Detailing Executive Spotlight, ERC’s Valerie Sweeney explains how the right towels improve results, the best practices for care and organization, and how ERC’s expanded product line helps carwash operators run more efficiently.

Host Rich DiPaolo sits down with Sean Foley, chief revenue officer at Interface Systems, to discuss how the company is helping carwash operators tackle some of the industry’s biggest challenges through integrated technology. Foley explains why carwashes, known for their high volume, automated environments and exposure to the elements, are a natural fit for Interface’s remote video monitoring, managed networking and business intelligence solutions. He shares how Interface helps reduce false damage claims, prevent theft and vandalism, and support rapid site expansion with scalable, centralized systems. Foley also offers insight into what a typical Interface deployment looks like and where he sees the most exciting innovations ahead for carwash security and operations.

In this Professional Carwashing & Detailing Executive Spotlight, Kyle Alexander interviews John Olert, former Wall Street executive turned carwash owner and now CEO of American Carwash Solutions. John shares his journey from buying a neglected local wash to transforming it into a thriving business with a focus on service, technology and data. He details how frustrations as an operator led him to acquire American Car Wash Solutions and revamp it into a more responsive and operator-friendly parts and equipment supplier.

In this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Rich DiPaolo sits down with Pete Nani, the newly appointed CEO of ZIPS Car Wash, to discuss his journey in the professional carwashing industry and his vision for the brand’s future. Nani reflects on how customer expectations and industry dynamics have evolved over the years and shares how ZIPS is positioning itself for long-term success following its emergence from Chapter 11. He outlines immediate post-restructuring priorities, including site optimization, leadership recruitment and strategic growth planning. Nani also discusses his approach to building a strong company culture through employee development, robust training programs and a renewed focus on operational excellence. Looking ahead, he paints a picture of what a successful 2026 could look like for ZIPS if all current initiatives fall into place.

Host Rich DiPaolo welcomes back John Roush, CEO of Express Wash Concepts (EWC), to discuss the company’s latest strategic moves and its continued momentum in the express carwash space. Roush shares insights into EWC’s recent acquisitions, including new sites in Pittsburgh, three ZIPS locations in Ohio and the Cleanland Car Wash property, detailing how each fits into EWC’s broader growth blueprint. He also explores how EWC maintains brand consistency across five distinct banners while adapting to regional market nuances. As EWC gears up for 25-plus projected openings this year, Roush discusses how the company is scaling staffing, technology and internal operations to support expansion. He also highlights the company’s workplace culture, which recently earned Moo Moo Express the 2025 ColumBEST Best Employer award and talks about what drives EWC’s repeat recognition on INC. magazine’s list of fastest-growing companies in the Midwest. Looking at the broader industry, Roush offers his perspective on current trends, including M&A activity, tech integration and private equity, and what it takes to not only survive but also thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Roush concludes by outlining the biggest opportunities for express carwashing over the next 24 months.

In this in-depth conversation, PC&D’s Brian Ankney talks with Hello Wash founder Meddy Ali about the role of AI in modern carwash operations. Ali explains how Hello Wash is using machine learning to simplify customer service, reduce staff workload, and unlock new efficiencies—without replacing people. Whether you run a single location or a 200-site operation, Hello Wash’s AI tools can handle basic customer interactions, monitor sales calls, improve training and even support fleet account growth. From real-world examples to a live demo, this interview gives a transparent look into how AI is helping operators work smarter—not harder.

In this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Brian Ankney sits down with Jason VanDerMark, co-founder of WashStacks, to explore how structured systems, processes and procedures drive consistency, scale and customer satisfaction in the professional carwash industry. VanDerMark emphasizes that carwash success isn’t just about clean vehicles — it’s about delivering the same high-quality experience every time. He outlines how operators can document their workflows, build repeatable procedures and prepare for the unexpected using real-world examples and practical tips. Whether you’re a first-time investor or a multi-site veteran, this conversation highlights how carwash operations systems are the foundation for growth, consistency and brand loyalty.

On this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Rich DiPaolo welcomes back Jeff Pavone, founding partner, and Chris Jenks, CFA, partner and CEO of Amplify Capital Group, to answer a pressing question for operators: Is now the right time to sell a carwash business? Pavone and Jenks recap key takeaways from their Spark Theatre presentation at The Car Wash Show™ 2025, offering insights into buyer activity, market dynamics and emerging trends. They detail who’s active in today’s marketplace, what kinds of deals are getting attention and what headwinds may be tempering growth. From a seller’s perspective, the discussion highlights essential factors to consider before going to market, including the growing appeal of quality over quantity. Finally, Pavone and Jenks outline the current value drivers buyers prioritize and share strategies owners can use to strengthen their valuation and maximize returns. To view Amplify Capital Group's presentation from The Car Wash Show™ 2025, please visit: https://tinyurl.com/8rehh74k.

In this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Rich DiPaolo welcomes Eric Wulf, CEO of International Carwash Association, for a post-show breakdown of The Car Wash Show™ 2025. Wulf shares his top three takeaways from the event and provides a sweeping look at key trends shaping the industry's future, from current private equity thinking to the rising importance of customer engagement strategies. He weighs in on the changing roles of in-bay automatic and self-serve models, highlights the real game-changing technologies amid rapid innovation and offers candid advice for new investors entering the space. Wulf also addresses the relationship between automakers and carwash operators, noting progress — and gaps — in cooperation to better accommodate modern vehicle designs at pro washes.

In this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Rich DiPaolo speaks with Tim Hogue, CEO of Modernwash Buildings and Solutions, about the latest innovations in carwash building design and planning. Hogue shares his impressions of 2025 The Car Wash Show™, discusses the ongoing balance between form and function in facility design, and highlights Modernwash’s Virtual Walk Thru software. According to Hogue, the immersive tool not only helps clients visualize their buildings in a 3D model before construction begins but also streamlines collaboration between owners and contractors. He explains how this solution reduces miscommunication, minimizes change orders and helps keep projects on schedule. Looking ahead, Hogue also talks about the future of virtual modeling in the carwash design-build process.

In this episode of Wash Talk, host Brian Ankney talks to Cameron Ray of Sparkle Express Car Wash and Noel Peña of Digital Recognition Network (DRN) about data-driven carwash marketing. The conversation explores how Sparkle Express uses DRN’s license plate recognition and vehicle data to target potential customers based on behavior, such as driving frequency and vehicle type, rather than just proximity. This approach allows for precise outreach, replacing broad tactics like direct mail and geofencing. A recent campaign reached 330,000 qualified prospects and saw an 8% redemption rate, with 2% converting to monthly memberships. The discussion highlights how behavior-based targeting drives higher ROI and long-term customer value in today’s carwash market.

In this episode of Professional Carwashing & Detailing’s Wash Talk, host Brian Ankney sat down with Tyler England from LiveReach AI to explore how advanced camera systems are transforming carwash operations far beyond simple surveillance. They discuss how high-resolution, multi-angle camera systems are essential in handling customer damage claims. With clear video evidence, operators can prove preexisting damage, which not only protects the business but often results in happy, informed customers. Tyler explains how cameras integrated with AI can now track key metrics such as pay station wait times, vacuum usage and tunnel throughput. This data provides actionable insights that help operators fine-tune staffing, training and customer flow.

In this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Rich DiPaolo welcomes Jim Ceresnak, vice president of Northmarq. They discuss the evolving dynamics of the carwash market and the M&A landscape. Ceresnak begins by reacting to major news announcements from Q1. Some of those developments sparked speculation about waning investor enthusiasm in the sector. However, despite some turbulence, Ceresnak believes the industry’s long-term fundamentals remain sound and encouraging for future growth. Ceresnak identifies key lessons the industry has learned from recent developments and market shifts. He emphasizes the need for operational excellence, disciplined growth and realistic financial forecasting. He outlines what sets resilient carwash operators apart from their peers in the field. Ceresnak says strong leadership, efficient site performance and capital access help operators continue to thrive. Chains that focus on sustainable expansion and strong customer loyalty are more likely to survive market pressure. Looking ahead, Ceresnak discusses how financial conditions could shape carwash M&A activity this year. He highlights the impacts of 100% bonus depreciation and interest rates on growth strategies. He evaluates sale-leaseback strategies, which still hold value when carefully structured. Operators must balance short-term gains with long-term obligations when considering such strategies for expansion.

In this episode of Wash Talk, host Brian Ankney chats with Phil Marquardt and Chris Zuchegno from Dencar and United Auto Wash to dive into the operator's perspective on innovation in carwashing. Phil shares how his passion for 24/7, people-free carwash operations led him from running a wash to developing the tech behind it. From the challenges of launching memberships in unattended sites to embracing customer feedback, the episode reveals how Dencar is empowering even small operators with big-league tech.

Host Rich DiPaolo is joined by Ryan Molinelli and Kevin Molinelli of Qual Chem for a deep dive into the company’s journey, product philosophy and upcoming innovations. The conversation kicks off with a look at Qual Chem’s history and how it has grown into a trusted name in the professional carwashing industry. Ryan and Kevin discuss what sets Qual Chem’s formulations apart, how their founder’s operator background gives them a unique edge in product development, and how this perspective translates into real-world solutions for carwash operators. As the team gears up for The Car Wash Show™ 2025, they share a sneak peek at what attendees can expect from Qual Chem’s booth 1010, including new products and technologies. They also touch on key chemical trends and challenges they're addressing in 2025 — and give us a glimpse into what the future holds for carwash chemical innovation.

In this episode of Wash Talk: The Carwash Podcast, host Rich DiPaolo talks with Nick Haase, co-founder of MaintainX, about how preventive maintenance strategies can help carwash operators minimize costly downtime and deliver consistent, high-quality service to their customers. Haase begins by sharing his background and the origins of MaintainX, highlighting how the company has evolved to support carwash operators in managing their equipment and operations more efficiently. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes how maintenance can be used as a competitive advantage, helping operators stand out in a crowded market by ensuring reliability and maximizing uptime. For more information, please visit www.maintainx.com.

Host Rich DiPaolo talks with Ian Burton, ISTOBAL’s North American director of sales, to celebrate a major milestone — ISTOBAL’s 75th anniversary. Burton reflects on the company’s rich history, global growth and continued commitment to innovation in the vehicle wash industry. Burton shares how ISTOBAL is commemorating this impressive milestone anniversary, while also discussing how the company’s decades of experience translate into stronger partnerships and solutions for its customers. He offers insights into the current state of the North American professional carwashing industry and highlights ISTOBAL USA’s latest product launches. See how ISTOBAL’s innovations are addressing key challenges operators face today and what’s next for the company as it continues to expand in the North American market.