Carm Capriotto Remarkable Results Radio Podcast https://remarkableresults.biz/author/carmencapriotto/ Automotive Repair Business Success Stories Thu, 25 Jun 2026 19:52:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://remarkableresults.biz/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/cropped-site_icon-32x32.jpg Carm Capriotto Remarkable Results Radio Podcast https://remarkableresults.biz/author/carmencapriotto/ 32 32 How to Sell Your Auto Repair Shop for Maximum Value [THA 491] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a491/ Fri, 26 Jun 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a490/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

The auto repair industry is facing a “Silver Tsunami” as thousands of shop owners approach retirement age. The challenge isn’t simply selling a business; it’s maximizing its value and creating a successful transition that benefits employees, customers, and future owners.

In this episode, host Carm Capriotto welcomes shop owner and business coach Aaron Woods and Ryan Bushman, a recent shop owner seller, for a candid discussion on exit planning, business valuation, financial preparation, and the leadership mindset required to build a shop that can thrive without its founder.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why every shop owner needs an exit strategy, even if retirement feels years away.
  • How to transition from being the daily “hero” of the business to becoming a strategic guide.
  • The key factors that influence shop valuation and why buyer risk impacts sale price.
  • How creating a turnkey operation can significantly increase a business’s market value.
  • The importance of clean financial statements and separating personal expenses from business expenses.
  • What “add-backs” are and how they can reveal the true profitability of your shop.
  • Why investments in team development and training may strengthen valuation discussions.
  • How defining your retirement goals helps determine the financial target your business must achieve.
  • The value of coaches, peer groups, and industry-specific advisors during exit planning.
  • Why finding an automotive-savvy accountant should be a priority for owners considering a future sale.

The best business exits don’t happen by accident. Owners who begin preparing years in advance can reduce buyer risk, increase profitability, strengthen leadership teams, and ultimately maximize their company’s value. Whether retirement is five years away or fifteen, the time to start building a business that operates independently of you is now. A successful exit begins with intentional planning, disciplined financial management, and a clear vision for life after ownership.

Ryan Bushman, Business Coach, Institute for Automotive Business Excellence

Aaron Woods, CEO X-tra Mile Auto Care, Stillwater, OK, Business Coach, Institute for Automotive Business Excellence. Listen to Aaron’s previous episodes HERE

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class
Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/
Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI
Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty
You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/
Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> How a Purple Heart Veteran Became a 6-Shop Auto Repair Owner [RR 1097] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1097/ Tue, 23 Jun 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1096/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

What does it take to grow from a single auto repair shop to six locations in less than a decade?

Host Carm Capriotto sits down with AJ DeBuono to discuss his journey from serving as a U.S. Marine in Iraq and Afghanistan to becoming a successful multi-shop operator. AJ shares the lessons learned through rapid growth, the acquisition strategy that has fueled his expansion, and how military discipline, financial discipline, and a commitment to people have shaped his leadership approach.

Rather than buying struggling businesses and attempting turnarounds, AJ focuses on acquiring profitable shops with untapped potential.

What You’ll Learn

  • How AJ leveraged SBA veteran loan programs to purchase and expand his first auto repair business
  • Why he prefers acquiring profitable shops instead of distressed operations
  • The key performance indicators he targets to quickly improve profitability
  • How military leadership principles influence his management style and business decisions
  • The importance of creating career advancement opportunities through expansion
  • Lessons learned from growing too quickly and navigating financial stress
  • How AJ approaches shop transitions to minimize disruption for employees and customers
  • Why maintaining strong personal relationships with team members remains a priority despite operating multiple locations

Growth is not simply about adding locations. It’s about creating opportunities for your people, building systems that scale, and maintaining the discipline to make smart decisions when the pressure is highest. AJ DeBuono’s story demonstrates that successful expansion comes from acquiring the right businesses, investing in your team, and staying focused on long-term value rather than short-term gains.

AJ DeBuono, Diehl Auto Repair, Chicago, IL

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> DTI – Can You Imagine? https://remarkableresults.biz/dti-can-you-imagine/ Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:13:43 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/?p=46038 Here is another analogy to the dental industry that I think you’ll appreciate. If you are like me, we constantly see things in everyday life and connect them back to our industry.

Last week, I was in the chair at my dentist’s office for routine maintenance. For both my dentist and me, that’s every six months.

During the appointment, the dental assistant noticed an issue with an old filling. She took a photo and showed it to me. After reviewing it, she and the dentist recommended replacing the filling before it became a larger problem.

That got me thinking. I asked the dentist if they send those photos to patients who choose to defer the work. He said they don’t, but agreed it was a great idea.

Wait a minute. The dental industry hasn’t embraced marketing deferred-work opportunities via text or email using Digital Teeth Inspections (DTIs), much like we do with Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs). Maybe some do, but not my dentist.

So, here’s the question: How often are you marketing deferred work opportunities?

Most shops already have the technology. The capability exists within the software that many of us use every day. Yet some shops haven’t activated those features, some don’t use them consistently, and others simply haven’t recognized the value.

We know how important preventative maintenance is. We know where opportunities exist to address vehicle concerns before they become major repairs. We document those opportunities through DVIs and create trust through transparency.

Dentists do the same thing. Can you imagine if every deferred recommendation received the same attention as the day it was discovered?

We know how important critical maintenance is to a vehicle and where opportunities exist to repair critical systems in a smart timeframe, and so do dentists. 

The difference? We just have one up on the dentist. We can, if the client agrees to continue the conversation long after they leave the shop. So are you?

]]> Why Auto Repair Specialists Leave Our Industry (And How Shop Owners Can Keep Them) [THA 490] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a490/ Fri, 19 Jun 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a489/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

Why do talented automotive technicians leave the automotive industry, and what can shop owners do to keep them?

Host Carm Capriotto is joined by Technical Specialist Matt Fanslow and Technician Find CEO Chris Lawson to explore what it takes to attract, hire, and retain top talent in today’s automotive repair industry. The conversation examines industry professionalism, workplace culture, compensation, employee engagement, and proactive recruiting strategies that help shops become destinations for exceptional technicians.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why elevating the image of automotive professionals is critical to attracting the next generation of talent
  • The three primary reasons technicians leave shops: lack of respect, limited growth opportunities, and compensation concerns
  • How financial transparency can build trust, ownership, and a stronger team culture
  • The difference between a shop’s “official game” and its “shadow game,” and why understanding both matters
  • Practical ways to gather meaningful employee feedback and turn ideas into action
  • How leaders can remove obstacles that prevent technicians from finding joy and fulfillment in their work
  • Why relationships with tool truck drivers can become a valuable recruiting resource
  • How a shop’s appearance and reputation can influence whether top candidates choose to work there

Finding and keeping great technicians requires more than competitive pay. Shops that create a culture of respect, provide clear growth opportunities, communicate openly, and actively remove workplace frustrations are far more likely to attract and retain top performers. The most successful shop owners don’t wait for talent to find them, they intentionally build workplaces where skilled professionals want to stay and grow.

Matt Fanslow, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN, Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Podcast: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Chris Lawson, TechnicianFind.Com. Listen to Chris’ other episodes HERE

Love your shop? Stay, but stay ready. Auto techs join to level up, find good shops, and keep tabs on top indie jobs nationwide. Techs only. No BS. Independent Wrench Jobs: https://www.skool.com/independentwrenchjobs

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS
NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class
Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/
Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI
Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty
You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/
Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> 2026 Automotive Training Trends Every Professional Shop Owner Needs to Know [RR 1096] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1096/ Tue, 16 Jun 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1095/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

How are automotive technicians learning today, and who is investing in their future?

Matt Shepanek, President of the ASE Training Managers Council (ATMC), discusses the findings of the 2026 ATMC Benchmark Survey. The survey offers valuable insight into technician education, training preferences, emerging technologies, and the industry’s commitment to continuous learning.

The conversation highlights significant differences between dealerships and independent repair shops, reveals what technicians most want to learn, and reinforces why ongoing professional development remains essential in an era of rapidly advancing vehicle technology.

What You’ll Learn

  • How dealerships continue to lead the way in training investment, paying for technician education 85% of the time, while many independent technicians still share the cost or pay out of pocket.
  • Why Hybrid/EV systems and Electrical/Electronics training top the list of requested subjects as vehicle technology continues to evolve.
  • What the survey reveals about technician learning preferences and why hands-on, instructor-led training remains the gold standard despite the growth of online education.
  • The wide gap in annual training hours, from technicians receiving no structured education to others completing more than 56 hours each year.
  • Why continuous learning has become a business necessity, not an option, for shops hoping to remain competitive and profitable.

The 2026 ATMC Benchmark Survey reinforces a simple truth: the future belongs to technicians and shops that embrace lifelong learning. As vehicles become increasingly dependent on advanced electrical systems, software, hybrid technology, and diagnostics, professional development is no longer a luxury. Shops that invest in training, provide access to relevant education, and foster a culture of continuous improvement will be better positioned to attract talent, improve performance, and thrive in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.

Download the 2026 ATMC Benchmark Survey: https://bit.ly/4aOaigM

Matt Shepanek, President, ASE Training Managers Council (ATMC)

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> Our Pitiful Roads and Your Clients’ Cars https://remarkableresults.biz/our-pitiful-roads-and-your-clients-cars/ Mon, 15 Jun 2026 14:42:17 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/?p=46005 I’ve always said you’ve got to know when to stop digging when you’re in deep trouble. That’s the rule of holes. So many people who face challenges keep digging deeper and never pause to understand how to stop and climb out.

However, the “rule of holes” in this blog refers to something quite different. I doesn’t matter if I drive six hours from home or 20 minutes into the city, I’ve got to tell you that the roads in New York State are pitiful. We’re talking about actual holes—not just an occasional pothole every half mile, but potholes the size of two basketballs, creating a washboard effect that severely tests the suspension of any vehicle.

I couldn’t help but think about ride control and the pure destruction and wear and tear that our unkept roads are causing to our clients’ vehicles.

I strongly suggest that while doing a comprehensive vehicle inspection, look carefully to identify any issues with suspension and ride control. Our deteriorating roads are creating significant challenges for our vehicles, and I see no end in sight. I’m not confident the government has enough resources to fix the roads they’ve ignored for years.

We’ve learned over the years that ride control components should be considered for replacement or at least inspected at 50,000 miles. We know that the damping properties of shocks and struts help keep tires on the road so that steering and braking forces are properly directed. My instincts tell me we should be especially concerned if your clients do any highway driving.

Just my two cents from pothole-plagued New York State.

]]> Motor Oil supply Crisis: Fact, Friction, and What Happens Next [THA 489] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a489/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a488/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

Is there really a motor oil shortage, or is the industry caught up in another wave of panic buying?

In this episode of Remarkable Results Radio, host Carm Capriotto welcomes automotive expert Lauren Fix and Deckman Oil Territory Sales Manager Lee Rhodus to separate fact from fiction surrounding today’s motor oil supply concerns.

Together, they examine what’s driving skyrocketing oil prices, why certain synthetic oils are becoming harder to source, and how fear-driven purchasing is creating additional strain throughout the supply chain. Most importantly, they discuss what repair shops and vehicle owners can do to navigate the uncertainty without making costly mistakes.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why the world is not actually running out of motor oil
  • How global shortages of base oils and additives are impacting the availability of ultra-low viscosity synthetic oils such as 0W-8, 0W-12, and 0W-16.
  • The role panic buying plays in creating artificial shortages and driving prices even higher.
  • Why motor oil prices are increasing at unprecedented rates and what that means for repair shops and consumers.
  • The risks of delaying routine maintenance as oil changes become more expensive.
  • Practical advice for shop owners on managing inventory and communicating with customers during periods of market uncertainty.

The current motor oil situation is real, but panic is making it worse. While supply constraints and rising prices are creating challenges across the automotive industry, experts agree that hoarding inventory and delaying maintenance are not the answers. Patience, informed decision-making, and a focus on preventative maintenance remain the best strategies for both repair shops and vehicle owners. As supply chains stabilize, those who avoid fear-based decisions today will likely be in the strongest position tomorrow.

Lee Rhodus, Territory Sales Manager, Deckman Oil.

Lauren Fix, Car Coach Reports,  The Drive Podcast, is an automotive expert and analyst based in Buffalo, NY. She is an established television and radio personality with over 30 years experience in the auto industry as a journalist, consumer advocate, and race car driver. She was Oprah’s Auto Expert and is currently a regular contributor and reporter to Fox News, CNN, Inside Edition, and the Weather Channel.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS
NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class
Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/
Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI
Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty
You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/
Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> Anyone Can Teach, But Not Everyone Can Educate: Lessons from 30 Years in Automotive Training [RR 1095] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1095/ Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1094/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

Carm Capriotto sits down with Todd Fortier, retiring automotive professor and program coordinator from Illinois Central College, to discuss a lesson learned over three decades in education: anyone can teach, but becoming a true educator requires purpose, empathy, and continuous growth.

Todd shares how his passion for education was sparked by helping students experience those breakthrough “lightbulb moments” and why the ultimate goal of teaching is not simply delivering information, but ensuring meaningful knowledge transfer. As he prepares for retirement, Todd reflects on the challenges facing automotive education and his mission to help develop the next generation of industry instructors.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why technical expertise alone doesn’t make someone an effective instructor
  • How educators can improve knowledge transfer and student engagement
  • Todd’s “Three C’s” framework: Concern, Cause, and Correction
  • Why connection, empathy, and vulnerability are critical teaching tools
  • How to identify the root causes behind student disengagement
  • The importance of recognizing the personal challenges students bring into the classroom
  • Why many students leave training programs early and how educators can help retain them
  • How trainers and mentors can evolve into true educators
  • The soft skills needed to successfully connect with today’s students and technicians

The best educators do more than share information, they build relationships. Todd Fortier’s career demonstrates that teaching is most effective when instructors combine technical knowledge with empathy, curiosity, and genuine human connection. As the automotive industry works to address technician shortages and workforce development challenges, creating better educators may be one of the most important investments the industry can make.

Todd Fortier, Professor/Program Coordinator, Illinois Central College, ToddFortier@techtoteacher.com

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> Words Matter: Why ‘Installer’ Doesn’t Define Our Profession https://remarkableresults.biz/words-matter-why-installer-doesnt-define-our-profession/ Mon, 08 Jun 2026 15:01:56 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/?p=45988

Another critical shift we must champion is retiring the term installer when referring to professional automotive service. We do far more than install parts. Roofers install roofs. Window companies install windows. Flooring contractors install carpet and tile. Modern automotive professionals diagnose, analyze, calibrate, verify, interpret data, and solve increasingly complex technical problems.

Installer is terminology from a different era, when automotive service was viewed primarily as mechanical part replacement. That era is over. Continuing to use that language diminishes the expertise, judgment, continual education, and professionalism required in today’s service environment.

Likewise, labels such as mom-and-pop shop no longer reflect the sophistication, investment, advanced tooling, technology, and operational excellence found in many of today’s independent repair facilities. These businesses are highly skilled professional service organizations deserving of language that reflects their capability and contribution.

]]> From Data to Loyalty: How AI and Hospitality Are Redefining Shop Growth [THA 488] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a488/ Fri, 05 Jun 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a487/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

What happens when artificial intelligence meets world-class customer hospitality?

In this episode of Remarkable Results Radio, host Carm Capriotto welcomes Mike DelaCruz, CEO of Overdryve Marketing, and Michelle Tansey, co-founder of Euro Clinic, for a forward-thinking discussion on how auto repair shops can use AI, data, and intentional customer experiences to build stronger businesses.

From using AI as a strategic business assistant to creating a luxury-level customer journey that rivals brands like Ritz-Carlton and Nordstrom, Mike and Michelle share practical insights on what separates average shops from elite operations. They explain how predictive marketing, operational excellence, and deeply embedded core values can transform customer retention and long-term profitability.

What You’ll Learn

  • How AI can serve as your shop’s “big brain” to improve decision-making and uncover blind spots.
  • How predictive marketing can forecast car count, identify customer churn, and improve campaign performance.
  • The concept of the “NASA Shop” and what elite automotive operations do differently.
  • How Euro Clinic creates unforgettable customer experiences through personalized hospitality.
  • The importance of building systems and processes around your shop’s core values.
  • Why strong operations must come before marketing success.
  • How small communication changes can dramatically improve customer trust and confidence.
  • The role data plays in making better business decisions and reducing emotional guesswork.

The future belongs to shops that combine technology with humanity. AI can provide unprecedented insight into customer behavior and business performance, but lasting success still comes from exceptional service, consistent operations, and a culture built around caring for people. The shops that embrace both innovation and hospitality will be the ones that stand out, retain customers, and thrive in the years ahead.

Mike DelaCruz, CEO Overdryve Marketing

Michelle Tansey, Euro Clinic, Santa Clara, CA.
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS
NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class
Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/
Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI
Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty
You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/
Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> Stop Hiring in Panic Mode: Build a Recruiting Pipeline for Your Shop [RR 1094] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1094/ Tue, 02 Jun 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1093/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

Host Carm Capriotto welcomes Chris Lawson, founder of Technician Find, to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing independent auto repair shops today: finding and keeping great technicians.

Chris explains why many shop owners fall into what he calls “fire alarm syndrome,” waiting until a technician leaves before starting the hiring process. That reactive approach often leads to rushed decisions, poor hires, and ongoing turnover. Instead, he advocates for an “Always Be Recruiting” mindset, where shops continuously build relationships with potential candidates long before they have an opening.

The conversation explores practical strategies for becoming a destination workplace, creating a recruiting pipeline, and building a culture that attracts top talent in a competitive market.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why reactive hiring creates costly staffing problems
  • How to build a bench of pre-qualified technicians before you need them
  • Why becoming “10-mile famous” can help attract both technicians and customers
  • How culture-focused marketing can outperform traditional help-wanted ads
  • The three things technicians value most: respect, growth, and compensation
  • Why sign-on bonuses often fail and how to structure them more effectively
  • Practical ways to engage passive candidates who are not actively job hunting
  • Resources available through Chris Lawson’s free online community for shop owners

The best time to recruit a technician is before you need one. Shops that continuously market their culture, build relationships with local talent, and maintain a pipeline of qualified candidates are better positioned to grow, avoid staffing emergencies, and create a workplace where top technicians want to stay. Recruiting is no longer an occasional task. It is an ongoing business strategy.

Chris Lawson, TechnicianFind.Com

Love your shop? Stay, but stay ready. Auto techs join to level up, find good shops, and keep tabs on top indie jobs nationwide. Techs only. No BS. Independent Wrench Jobs: https://www.skool.com/independentwrenchjobs

Finding Technicians Part 1- Chris Lawson [RR 803]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e803/

Finding Technicians Part 2 – Chris Lawson [RR 816]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e816/

Technician Attraction Blueprint [RR 921]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e921/

Attract, Develop, and Retain Top Automotive Talent [CC 113]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/cc113/

Beyond Babysitters: Developing Strong Managers and Financial Transparency [RR 1076]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1076/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

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The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> Are You Professional Enough? https://remarkableresults.biz/are-you-professional-enough/ Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:58:38 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/?p=45965 “I’m a professional.” That’s very easy to say.

I own a business. I make money. I have customers. I have an LLC. Maybe even multiple locations. But does owning a business automatically make someone a professional?

What is the real standard for professionalism? Is it self-declared? Or is it something experienced by your clients, your team, your peers, and your community?

These are important questions for the automotive repair industry because many shop owners are still fighting an uphill battle against an outdated stereotype. Too often, the public still sees us as “mechanics” rather than highly trained specialists running sophisticated businesses (read that again).

That outside perception matters. It affects trust. It affects pricing. It affects talent acquisition. And it affects the future of our industry.

Many shop owners ask: “Why can’t we attract top-tier talent?” Maybe the better question is: “Have we built a top-tier professional environment?”

Talented people want to work in professional organizations. They want leadership, systems, vision, culture, accountability, growth opportunities, and pride in where they work.

Professionalism is not a sign on the building. It is not a logo, a clean shirt, or a social media page. Professionalism is a standard (read that again). It is a commitment to excellence that touches every part of the business.

It is how the phone is answered. How the client is educated. How the specialist is continuously educated. It is how the facility looks, and how the team communicates. It is how the repair is documented and how the vehicle is returned. How mistakes are handled and how leadership behaves when nobody is watching.

Professional businesses do not happen accidentally. They are intentionally built.

That requires a mission, a vision, and clearly defined values that become more than framed words on a wall. They become operational standards. The team understands them. Leadership reinforces them. Clients experience them.

Professionalism is the heavy lift. Are you ready? You must be if you intend to support your client base and your team in doing what you love to do. Professionalism requires consistency and discipline. It requires protocols, systems, continuing education, client education, and peer accountability. Professionalism needs a strong culture to grow along with clear processes, specialization, marketing with purpose, and yes—profitability. Profitable businesses can invest in people, equipment, education, and the future.

For decades, dealerships were often viewed as the “professional” side of automotive repair, while independent shops were seen differently. That narrative must change.

And it is changing.

The independent repair industry has the opportunity to lead the future of automotive service, but only if we collectively raise our standards and elevate our image. This is bigger than appearance. It is about identity.

We are not simply fixing cars. We are delivering a professional service that protects the safety, reliability, and mobility of the driving public.

That deserves respect. But respect is not requested. It is earned through professionalism.

Conclusion

The future of the automotive repair industry will belong to those who choose to become truly professional organizations.

Not shops that simply survive but teams committed to excellence in leadership, communication, client experience, training, process, and purpose.

Professionalism is not a destination. It is a continual pursuit. Every improvement matters. Every standard matters. Every interaction matters.

The shops that embrace this mindset will attract better people, create stronger cultures, earn deeper client trust, and elevate the entire industry along the way.

The question is no longer whether automotive repair can become more professional. The real question is: Are we willing to do the work required to get there? (read that again)

]]> When Personal Stress Walks Into the Shop: How Leaders Protect Performance [THA 487] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a487/ Fri, 29 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a486/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

Are you tired of telling your staff to “leave their problems at the door”?
The reality is, what happens outside the shop often follows employees into the bays, the service counter, and every customer interaction throughout the day. Financial pressure, family struggles, burnout, stress, and emotional fatigue all impact confidence, communication, productivity, and sales performance, whether leaders recognize it or not.

In this insightful episode, Rena Rennebohm, CEO of Empowered Advisor, and service advisor coach and shop owner Rachel Spencer, challenge the old-school mindset of “leave your problems at the door” and explore what modern leadership really looks like in high-performing repair shops.

The strongest shops aren’t built only on process and productivity; they’re built on leaders who understand people.

What You’ll Learn

  • How personal stress impacts sales performance and customer communication
  • Why technician morale directly affects advisor confidence and trust
  • The connection between emotional stability and shop productivity
  • How great leaders identify performance struggles before KPIs decline
  • Why empathy and accountability must work together
  • The importance of daily check-ins and emotional awareness
  • How negativity spreads through shop culture and how leaders can stop it
  • Why “soft skills” have become essential leadership skills in auto repair

When employees feel supported, understood, and valued, communication improves, confidence grows, and performance follows. This episode offers practical insights for shop owners and managers who want to protect team performance, strengthen culture, and lead more effectively in today’s high-pressure auto repair environment.

Rena Rennebohm, CEO and Creator of Empowered Advisor. Rena’s previous episodes HERE.
Rachel Spencer, Spencer’s Auto Repair, Krum, TX. Rachel’s previous episodes HERE
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS
NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class
Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/
Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI
Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty
You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/
Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> Reboot Your Business https://remarkableresults.biz/reboot-your-business/ Tue, 26 May 2026 17:14:50 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/?p=45929 There is nothing like a refresh, a reboot. As we move deep into Spring, at least up North, we are picking up twigs, removing weeds, buying plants, and prepping the deck for lawn chairs and umbrellas.

Why not use this same season to rethink and reboot your professional automotive repair business?

Truthfully, you do not need to wait for Spring. A reboot can happen at any time. Sometimes the best reset comes right after a difficult season, a challenging quarter, or simply when you realize you have been operating on autopilot.

A reboot does not always require dramatic change. Often, it starts with intentional observation and honest questions.

As you look at every aspect of your business, ask yourself:

  • Should we continue doing this?

  • Should we stop doing that?

  • What is working?

  • What is no longer producing results?

  • What are we tolerating that needs attention?

  • Where have we become complacent?

A mentor once taught me to “pay attention.” That simple discipline has shaped the way I assess what I see, hear, and experience. I constantly ask myself: Is this working as intended? And just as importantly: What feedback is getting to me?

The best operators pay attention to patterns, not just problems.

They notice when morale begins to slip before turnover happens. They notice when customers become less enthusiastic. They notice when production slows, communication weakens, or accountability softens.

Businesses rarely drift off course overnight. Most decline happens quietly through small compromises, ignored frustrations, and routines that no longer serve the mission.

A reboot is an opportunity to interrupt that drift.

Maybe your processes need tightening. Maybe your meetings need purpose. Maybe your culture needs reinforcement. Maybe your team needs clearer expectations, stronger leadership, or renewed encouragement.

And maybe the reboot starts with you.

Leadership can become repetitive. Fatigue can dull vision. Even successful shop owners can fall into maintenance mode instead of growth mode. Sometimes the greatest value of a reboot is rediscovering curiosity, energy, and intentionality.

Take a fresh look at your customer experience. Call your shop and listen to how the phone is answered. Walk through your waiting area as if you were a first-time customer. Evaluate your digital presence, your follow-up systems, and your communication.

Pay attention. Look at your numbers with honesty. Look at your team with empathy. look at your standards with courage.

Not everything needs to change. In fact, one of the most important outcomes of a reboot is identifying what is already working well and protecting it.

The goal is not change for the sake of change. The goal is improvement with purpose.

Spring reminds us that growth requires attention. Healthy things do not stay healthy accidentally. They are cultivated, pruned, cleaned up, and cared for consistently.

Your business is no different. Maybe this is the perfect season to reboot.

]]> From Guesswork to Process: Modern Diagnostic Strategies for Auto Repair Shops [RR 1093] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1093/ Tue, 26 May 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1092/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

Recorded live at the 2026 TST Big Event, Carm Capriotto sits down with automotive trainer Ken Zanders to discuss the importance of ongoing technical education, building efficient diagnostic processes, and adapting to rapidly evolving vehicle technology. Ken explains why too many shops still rely on a chaotic “grocery list” approach to repairs and how a structured diagnostic strategy can dramatically improve technician efficiency, profitability, and customer trust.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why inefficient diagnostic habits directly reduce technician productivity, shop profitability, and overall earning potential.
  • The importance of following a structured diagnostic workflow instead of guessing and replacing parts.
  • How electronic relative compression testing with a lab scope and amperage probe can reduce diagnostic time from hours to minutes.
  • How modern vehicle technologies like GM’s Vehicle Intelligence Platform (VIP) and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates are changing diagnostics and repair procedures.
  • Why continuous education is no longer optional for automotive professionals working on today’s advanced vehicle systems.

The biggest takeaway from this episode is that repair shops cannot afford to operate in constant chaos and guesswork. A reactive “grocery list” approach to diagnostics leads to wasted time, unnecessary parts replacement, lower profits, and poor customer outcomes. To succeed in today’s increasingly complex automotive industry, shop owners must create a year-round training strategy that helps technicians diagnose efficiently, think critically, and continuously improve their skills. Structured processes, modern testing methods, and ongoing education are no longer advantages; they are necessities for survival and growth.

TST Big Event: https://tstseminars.org/

Ken Zanders, Dorman Training

Don’t Base Your Success On Probability – Ken Zanders [RR 822]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e822/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto

Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/

Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976

Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider

All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books

Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom

Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm

 

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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