Last month on the Our Parking Industry Podcast, we explored two essential conversations shaping the future of the parking industry: the critical role of leadership and innovation with Chris Sherman, and a thoughtful reflection on how technology and people must work together to drive progress. 

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Episode 9: Leading with Innovation – Chris Sherman on Tech, Teams, and the Future of Parking 

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In Episode 9, Krista Olien sits down with Chris Sherman, Chief Commercial Officer at Metropolis, to talk about his unexpected entry into the parking world and the lessons he’s learned along the way. From leading teams through mergers to navigating the rapid evolution of parking technology, Chris shares powerful insights on the importance of customer-centric thinking, team empowerment, and continuous innovation. 

As parking becomes increasingly shaped by digital tools, autonomous vehicles, and data-driven solutions, Chris reminds us that leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s about people. 

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Key Takeaways: ​

Leadership starts with listening and empowering your team. 

Mergers bring opportunity but require thoughtful change management. 

Technology should enhance—not replace—the parking experience. 

Data insights can elevate service, pricing, and personalization. 

The future will demand adaptable, forward-thinking leaders. 

“Innovation is about more than tools—it’s about how we lead, learn, and adapt together.” – Chris Sherman 

 

Episode 10: Blending Technology and People – Bridging Gaps and Driving Innovation 

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In Episode 10, Krista Olien, Clyde Wilson, and Leigh Thomas reflect on Chris Sherman’s conversation and take it further, focusing on how to bridge the gaps between people and technology in a fragmented industry. 

They tackle the real-world challenges of implementing new systems across diverse teams and customer bases—touching on generational gaps, learning styles, and the role of mentorship in change management. With the rise of autonomous vehicles and license plate recognition, this episode reminds us that innovation must always be grounded in understanding both our workforce and the communities we serve. 

 

Top Insights: 

People are at the center of successful tech adoption. 

Generational gaps require flexible training and communication. 

Testing and feedback loops are critical before large-scale rollouts. 

The industry is moving toward customer-first innovation. 

Tech can reduce fragmentation—but only if we stay aligned as teams. 

 

“Technology alone doesn’t fix problems—people do, with the right tools and support.” – Leigh Thomas 

 

As the parking industry continues to evolve, these episodes are a reminder that success lies at the intersection of innovation, leadership, and empathy. Whether you’re managing a team, implementing new technology, or planning for the future, there’s something valuable here for everyone. 

 

Listen to both episodes on Spotify & Apple Podcasts!  

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Easily access all podcasts by following this link: https://linktr.ee/tpnconsulting