The Brake Industry’s Next Challenge Isn’t Technology—It’s Talent
The brake industry's next challenge isn't technology—it's convincing the next generation of engineers that the work is worth doing.
Brian Hagman
Brian Hagman is founder of Hagman Media, with platforms including The BRAKE Report, The EV Report, and Self Drive News. Brian is also President of Hagman Search, a specialized recruiting firm supporting organizations in the Braking, eMobility, and Automated Driving segments.
PFC Brakes: Luis Maurel on Excellence in Global Motorsport
In the high-stakes world of motorsport, where milliseconds separate victory from defeat, complete brake systems and engineering expertise make all the difference. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music In this Coffee Brake episode, we…
Sights from the Show Floor: The Brake Industry at AAPEX 2025
The energy was undeniable at AAPEX 2025. While electrification buzzed, the brake industry focused on heavy-duty and severe-duty applications. See the innovations in our exclusive photo gallery.
Coffee Brake: Inside Frenkit’s Playbook for Aftermarket Success
In today's aftermarket, you either drive the change or get left behind. Frenkit's leaders share their proactive strategy for navigating disruption and winning the future of braking.
PureForge: Tackling Aftermarket and Motorsports
In this conversation, Brian Hagman interviews Gordon Heidacker, CEO of PureForge, discussing the company’s recent developments in the aftermarket sector, innovations in brake technology, and their engagement in motorsports. Heidacker shares insights on testing results that validate their product claims,…
Motorsports ABS Kit: Interview with Volker van Lier
In the latest Coffee Brake podcast, Brian Hagman sits down with Volker Van Lier, Director of Business Segment Chassis and Brake Systems at Continental Engineering Services (CES). They discuss the journey behind CES and take a deep dive into the…
IIHS: David Kidd on AEB Technology
This episode of Coffee Brake features an in-depth conversation with David Kidd from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), recorded live at the 42nd SAE Brake Colloquium & Exhibition in Grapevine, Texas. Host Brian Hagman and Kidd discuss the…
FUCHS: Interview with Dr. Matthias Ostertag
In this episode of Coffee Brake, Dr. Matthias Ostertag, head of the global business segment automotive components and interior components at the FUCHS Group, delves into the intricacies of brake system lubrication. Dr. Ostertag discusses the FUCHS 3C commitment, which…
The BRAKE Report Magazine – August 2024
We’re thrilled to introduce you to the very first issue of The BRAKE Report Magazine! This quarterly publication is our next step in bringing you in-depth, brake-related information that you’ve come to rely on from our website and weekly eNewsletter. You…
Exploring the Impact of Euro 7 Regulations on the Automotive Industry
In the latest episode of Coffee Brake, The BRAKE Report delves into the significant changes brought about by the Euro 7 regulations on the automotive industry, with a special focus on vehicle emissions and brake systems. This insightful conversation features…
ITT Inc.: Interview with Luca Savi
Luca Savi’s leadership journey at ITT Inc. is both inspiring and illustrative of the strategic vision that has propelled the company to the forefront of the industry. As President and CEO, Savi not only reflects on his path to leadership…
FTC’s Ban on Noncompetes: Implications for the Brake Industry
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has made a landmark decision to ban noncompete agreements across the United States, a move set to reshape the landscape of labor and innovation in numerous industries, including the brake industry. With this new rule,…
Brakes India: Interview with Sriram Viji
In an enlightening conversation, Sriram Viji, the Managing Director of Brakes India, sheds light on the vibrant dynamics of the Indian automotive market and the strategic trajectory of one of its leading brake components manufacturers. Key Insights: About Brakes India…
Conducting a Confidential Search in the Brake Industry
In the rapidly evolving automotive brake industry, finding the right talent without tipping off competitors or unsettling your current team is more than a necessity—it’s an art. At Hagman Search, a boutique recruiting firm deeply entrenched in this industry, we’ve…
Frasle Mobility: Interview with Sergio Carvalho
Sergio Carvalho, CEO of Randoncorp and Frasle Mobility, discusses the rebranding of Frasle Mobility and its significance. He also highlights the company’s success in 2023 and its expectations for the future. He explains the international expansion strategy, focusing on acquisitions…
Brembo: Interview with Stéphane Rolland
Stéphane Rolland, the President and CEO of Brembo North America, recently talked about the company’s focus and initiatives in the automotive industry. During this conversation, he highlights some of the challenges faced by the industry, such as sustainability and increasing…
From Pads to People: My Journey as a Brake Industry Recruiter
In automotive recruitment, few sectors are as unique and challenging as the brake industry. Early in my career, I spent several years at Akebono Brake Corporation, where I learned about brake parts, manufacturing, and how to hire lots of talented…
The BRAKE Report: Most-Read Articles in 2023
2023 was a year of significant shifts and innovations in the brake industry, and The BRAKE Report was there to keep you informed every step of the way. From major closures and acquisitions to cutting-edge technologies and legal controversies, our…
NUADI Group: Interview with Jose Ciordia
The Coffee Brake series is the official podcast of The BRAKE Report Jose Ciordia, CEO of NUADI Group, discusses the company’s background and position as a leading manufacturer of brake components for the automotive industry. He highlights the changes in…
Continental: Interview with Lutz Kuehnke
Welcome to another edition of the Coffee Brake podcast. In today’s episode, we are delighted to have Lutz Kuehnke join us for an insightful discussion on Continental and its global leadership within the automotive brake segment. Lutz will be sharing…
CBMM to Showcase Niobium at SAE Brake
In a recent interview with Brian Hagman, Mike Holly, an external consultant for CBMM, shared insights into the company’s advancements in the use of niobium in brake rotor applications and their presence at the upcoming SAE Brake. Mike Holly, a…
PureForge: Interview with Gordon Heidacker
Welcome to another episode of the Coffee Brake Podcast. As we all know, the world of brake technology is ever-evolving, and few companies exemplify that evolution quite like PureForge. Joining us is the visionary at the helm of this groundbreaking…
Bosch USA: Interview with Dr. Mark Phipps
Welcome to another episode of the Coffee Brake Podcast, the official podcast of The BRAKE Report. In this interview, we’re joined by Dr. Mark Phipps, Director of Engineering for Bosch USA’s aftermarket brake division. Dr. Phipps shares his expertise on…
ZF Group: Interview with Ryan Biehl
In our first official episode of the Coffee Brake podcast, brought to you by The BRAKE Report, we delve deep into the world of advanced braking systems, the fascinating intersection of cutting-edge tech, and the ever-evolving dynamics of the automobile…
Embracing Copper-Free Regulations, Low Brake Dust Solutions, and Investing in Talent
Friction formulation plays a crucial role in the brake industry, determining the efficiency, longevity, and overall performance of braking systems. As environmental concerns and regulations push the industry towards the adoption of copper-free and low brake dust solutions, understanding the…