Joe Marconi discusses the importance of team collaboration, efficiency, and continuous training in the automotive industry. He highlights the need for effective leadership, a positive company culture, and sound systems and procedures to guide technicians and improve productivity. The conversation also covers the significance of accurate estimating and effective labor rates, the rising costs in various industries, and the importance of a positive and growth mindset in business.

Joe Marconi, Executive Council Member, Elite Worldwide. Auto Shop Owner. Joe’s Episodes HERE.

• Watch Full Video
• The importance of teamwork (00:03:31) Discussion on the complexity of cars and the need for a team effort in improving technician production and shop efficiency.
• The role of leadership and company culture (00:05:13) Emphasis on the importance of leadership and creating the right company culture to promote technician productivity and efficiency.
• The significance of training and procedures (00:06:12) Highlighting the value of both external and in-house training, as well as the need for clear procedures and policies to enhance shop production and technician efficiency.
• The importance of team meetings (00:09:03) Discussing the value of team meetings and how they can improve shop production and encourage innovative ideas.
• Empowering employees to make decisions (00:11:01) Highlighting the importance of allowing employees to think on their own and make decisions, and the benefits it brings to the growth of the company.
• Assigning work based on technician strengths (00:12:21) Exploring the strategy of assigning jobs to technicians based on their strengths and expertise, and the impact it has on efficiency and productivity.
• Labor Rates and Effective Labor Rate (00:15:55) Discussion on the increase in labor rates and the importance of calculating the effective labor rate.
• Raising Rates and Cost of Fast Food (00:17:05) Conversation about raising rates and the comparison of fast food prices to labor rates.
• Culture, Leadership, and Productivity (00:19:22) Exploration of the impact of culture, leadership, and workplace satisfaction on productivity and efficiency.
• Continuous improvement in business (00:24:24) Emphasizing the importance of making incremental improvements in business every day, with the analogy of a lifelong commitment and the absence of a destination in business growth.

“40 plus years in business and we had zero money in the bank.”

Bret shares his journey from struggling to successful business owner, emphasizing the importance of seeking outside help and continuous learning. He discusses the transformation of his business into a profitable venture with the help of a coaching company and the implementation of key profit indicators. Brett also highlights the significance of team training and understanding generational differences in the workplace.

Bret Fadely, Fadely’s Auto Masters & Tires, York, PA.

• Watch Full Video
• The rule of holes (00:03:00) Bret discusses the rule of holes and knowing when to stop digging.
• Struggling to save the business (00:03:29) Bret talks about the challenges his family’s business faced after his mom passed away and left zero money in the bank.
• Turning the business around (00:06:08) Bret shares his resolve to turn the business around, pay off debts, and seek outside help through coaching to achieve profitability.
• Learning to run a business (00:12:04) The importance of getting outside help to learn how to run a business.
• The importance of team building through training events (00:16:48) Discussing the investment and decision to take the whole team to major training events for team building and a happier work environment.
• Understanding and adapting to the younger generation (00:17:52) Sharing the experience of attending a seminar with Sara Fraser on getting to know Gen Z and millennials and the importance of adapting to their work style and slang.
• The need to attract and encourage younger people in the automotive industry (00:20:28) Highlighting the importance of changing and adapting the industry to attract the next generation and addressing the tech shortage.

Academic chairs Dave Macholz and Vinnie Laverdi, discuss automotive training at the college level. Both work in the State University of New York system at community colleges. They cover the importance of soft skills in the industry, the role of mentors, and the need for industry professionals to engage with educational institutions. The episode emphasizes the sophistication of the automotive industry, the potential for growth and advancement in automotive careers and the need to incorporate electric vehicle technology into the curriculum.

Vinnie Laverdi’s previous episodes HERE.
Dave Macholz’s previous episodes HERE.

• Watch Full Video
• The importance of continuous education (00:00:01) The importance of continuous education for professional technicians and the need to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the automotive industry.
• Hybrid model of education (00:03:07) Hybrid model of education that combines guest speakers with content and curriculum to provide practical training for students.
• Challenges in EV training (00:05:05) The challenges of incorporating EV training into the curriculum, including the need for additional competencies and certifications, as well as the shortage of resources and technology in training centers.
• The co-op program (00:08:30) The structure and benefits of the co-op program
• Curriculum change and industry advisory panels (00:12:02) The process of changing the curriculum and the importance of industry advisory panels in informing the decision-making process.
• The role of advisory councils in education (00:14:53) The value of advisory councils in providing support, ideas, and different perspectives to educators, as well as helping to push necessary changes and advancements in education.
• The importance of ADAS technology (00:16:52) Discussion about the impact of ADAS calibration kit tool on students’ perception of the automotive industry.
• The process of curriculum change in education institutions (00:17:36) Explanation of the governing layers involved in approving and implementing curriculum changes in colleges.
• The increase in enrollment in automotive education programs (00:21:42) Discussion on the rise in enrollment in automotive programs, possibly due to changing perceptions of the industry and the demand for technology-driven careers.
• The relationships you build (00:25:07) Building relationships with automotive high school teachers and finding nearby schools to collaborate with.
• Presenting technology and partnerships to guidance counselors (00:26:45) Meeting with guidance counselors to showcase the technology and industry partnerships available to students.
• AAS versus the AOS degree (00:28:00) Explaining the difference between an AAS degree and an AOS degree, and the benefits of an AOS degree in expanding technical content.
• The soft skills challenge (00:36:16) Discussion about the importance of soft skills in the automotive industry and the need for industry support in developing these skills in students.
• Identifying and assessing students’ readiness (00:34:12) Exploration of strategies to identify and support students who may need additional preparation in math, English, and other skills before entering the program.
• Pre-advisement and setting expectations (00:38:11) Explanation of the pre-advisement process and how it helps determine students’ soft skills before they enter the program, leading to improved retention and success rates.
• Emulating mentors (00:42:24) The benefits of working with different mentors to learn from their strengths and weaknesses.
• The role of mentors in developing soft skills (00:43:10) The importance of mentors in helping individuals learn and manage soft skills, as well as the role of communication in the industry.

“Give Me 10 Mission: To provide a work-based learning model that any industry can utilize to bridge the skills gap. Combining classroom instruction with on the job work based learning opportunities. This program integrates the classroom with employers to create an introduction to a career path of the student’s choice.

The program simplifies the relationship between an industry lead business and vocational education that can lead into a career path. We ask for no money. Our “ask” is for your time. Time to integrate a student into your business to create a career fit. It starts with 10 hours and can grow into a new employee. Can you “Give Me Ten?”

Sue Dixon, the creator of the “Give Me Ten” program, discusses the importance of collaboration between the automotive industry and education. The “Give Me Ten” program, which exposes students to the automotive industry and helps them explore potential career paths, is highlighted. The discussion also covers the need for updated curriculums, industry involvement, and the success of the “Give Me Ten” program in providing work-based learning experiences.

Sue Dickson, Closs Tire & Auto Repair Inc, Waukegan, IL Sue’s previous episodes HERE

• Watch Full Video HERE
• The importance of collaboration with education (00:00:40) Discussion about the need for collaboration between the automotive industry and education to promote career pathways and work-based learning opportunities for students.
• Career pathways endorsement in education (00:03:30) Explanation of the career pathways endorsement in education, which requires students to complete 60 hours of career work-based learning in the transportation cluster.
• The “Give Me Ten” program (00:04:50) Introduction of the Give Me Ten program, which aims to simplify engagement between businesses and education by providing 10 hours of work-based learning opportunities for students to explore potential career paths in the automotive industry.
• The importance of collaboration between industry and education (00:09:15) Discussion about the need for collaboration between the automotive industry and education to update curriculums and provide work-based learning opportunities.
• Simplifying work-based learning and engaging businesses (00:13:02) Explanation of the importance of simplifying work-based learning and engaging businesses to create career pathways for students, with a focus on liability and industry standards.
• Starting the collaboration (00:19:47) Sue Dixon explains how to start building the Give Me Ten program in your own community and the support they provide, including a free consultation.

Meg Lewis, BJ’s Automotive Diagnostic Center, Belfast, ME, NAPA Auto Care Technician of the Year 2022.

Watch Full Video

Carm and Meg discuss the shop’s transition to a four-day workweek to promote work-life balance, the challenges of finding and retaining skilled technicians. Meg shares her experience as a female technician. They also discuss the need to change the perception of the automotive industry and attract more women. The episode concludes with a discussion on succession planning and the shop’s community involvement

• The decision to move to a four-day workweek (00:03:14)
  Meg discusses the idea of transitioning to a four-day workweek and the process of deciding which day to take off.
• The role of a diagnostician as a technology specialist (00:07:55)
  Carm suggests renaming the role of a diagnostician to a technology specialist, highlighting the importance of technology in automotive diagnostics.
• The collaboration between a technology specialist and a mechanical specialist (00:08:48)
  Carm and Meg discuss the complementary roles of a technology specialist and a mechanical specialist in automotive repair and the importance of their collaboration.
• Challenges with staffing during COVID-19 (00:10:02)
  The impact of COVID-19 on staffing, including layoffs, struggles to find new technicians, and the use of apprenticeship programs.
• The decision to pursue automotive technology (00:17:36)
  Meg discusses her early interest in working with cars and her decision to pursue automotive technology in high school and college.
• The importance of attracting more women to the automotive industry (00:18:09)
  Carm suggests changing the perception of the industry and highlights the unique traits that women can bring to the workplace.
• Overcoming physical challenges as a female technician (00:19:31)
  Meg talks about how she adapts and finds creative solutions to overcome physical challenges in her work as a female technician.
• Importance of communication in internal succession (00:27:14)
  The significance of regular and effective communication between the owner and the successor in a business’s internal succession process.

Brett Beachler shares the history of his business, the impact of closing on Saturdays, and the importance of creating a positive work environment. He also discusses the significance of customer trust and his future goals for his business.

Brett Beachler, Beachler’s Vehicle Care & Repair, Peoria, IL. Listen to Brett’s previous episodes HERE

• Watch Full Video
• Closing Saturdays and its Impact (00:03:20) Brett discusses the significant impact of closing Saturdays on their business operations and the positive response from their customer database.
• Increased Revenue and Team Morale (00:04:37) Brett shares how their decision to close Saturdays resulted in a 20% increase in revenue and improved team morale.
• Distinguishing Factors of the Business (00:07:19) Brett explains the factors that make their business different, including providing honest advice, focusing on cost per mile, and attracting a more educated demographic of customers.
• The Light Atmosphere and Customer Experience (00:08:21) Discussion about the importance of creating a positive atmosphere and delivering exceptional customer experience.
• Forward Thinking and Setting Dental Style Appointments (00:10:24) Conversation about the benefits of proactive maintenance and the importance of scheduling appointments in advance.
• The importance of people skills (00:15:31) Discussion on the significance of understanding and managing the different personalities and needs of employees for successful business operations.
• Benefits of being part of a 20 group (00:17:07) Exploring the advantages of joining a 20 group for business owners, including the opportunity to learn from others and receive support.
• Updating Processes and SOPs (00:22:34) Discussion about the importance of managing processes and standard operating procedures (SOPs) properly, transitioning from paper to digital form, and using Microsoft server for storing SOPs.
• Refining Digital Vehicle Inspection (00:23:25) Focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the digital vehicle inspection process and making it seamless for both customers and technicians.
• Equipment Upgrades and Expansion (00:23:59)
• The impact of daily training (00:29:45) Discussion on the importance of daily training for personal and professional growth, comparing it to sporadic training every few months.
• Views on smartphones and idle time (00:32:46) Discussion on the negative impact of excessive smartphone use and the importance of utilizing time effectively.

Aldo Gomez discusses the significance of self-understanding and acceptance in improving sales performance. Aldo shares his journey from being a service advisor to a sales trainer, emphasizing the importance of practicing presentation scripts and handling customer responses. He also differentiates between coaching for performance and development, highlighting the value of personal growth. Aldo reassures introverted individuals that they can be successful in sales and stresses the importance of a strong work ethic.

Aldo Gomez, Business With Purpose, Sales Trainer, http://www.bwpcoach.com

• Watch Full Video
• Understanding and Accepting Yourself (00:01:48) Aldo discusses the importance of understanding and accepting oneself in sales training, particularly when it comes to delivering presentations and scripts.
• Practicing the Presentation (00:03:59) Aldo shares his personal experience of practicing the sales presentation in various locations, such as in front of a mirror and in the car, to become comfortable and natural with the script.
• Being a Better Listener (00:04:48) The script is not meant to oversell or undersell, but to give confidence and allow the salesperson to focus on being a better listener during interactions with customers.
• The struggle that got you to where you are (00:09:57) Aldo shares his experience of starting as a service advisor and the challenges he faced.
• The importance of being a good student (00:13:16) Carm and Aldo discuss the significance of being a good student and learning from experienced mentors.
• Reading and its benefits (00:16:18) Aldo talks about the importance of reading, how it develops the mind, and the impact it has on vocabulary and personal growth.
• The importance of being a better person for better performance (00:19:15) Coaching for performance focuses on making salespeople better individuals to improve their motivation and job performance.
• Embracing introversion in sales (00:20:06) Being an interesting introvert can be advantageous in sales, and it is better to focus on listening skills rather than being an exciting extrovert.
• The value of personalized and interactive training (00:21:16) The training provided by Aldo Gomez and Barry Barrett is unique because it is tailored to individuals or small groups, allowing for more personalized attention and overcoming shyness. They also use role play and review actual phone calls with customers for effective learning.
• The importance of being grateful for your job (00:28:04) Discussion on working as a service advisor and the benefits of the job.
• Aldo’s journey from service advisor to sales trainer (00:28:57) Aldo’s background and experience working in various jobs before becoming a sales trainer.
• Training for development and changing perspectives (00:31:08) The approach to sales training, focusing on personal development and changing perspectives to improve performance.

Tom Palermo discusses the importance of continuous training for technicians, the increasing average age of vehicles, and his strategies for fostering a positive company culture and building strong customer relationships. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by electric vehicles and the importance of hands-on training.

Tom Palermo, Preferred Automotive Specialists in Philadelphia, PA. Tom’s previous episodes HERE

• Watch Full Video
• The current state of business at Palermo’s (00:03:26) Tom Palermo discusses how busy his shop is and becoming the go-to shop for diagnostics.
• The increase in the average age of vehicles (00:04:07) Tom Palermo mentions that the average age of vehicles is still increasing due to inflationary times, as people are choosing to hold onto their cars longer to avoid car payments and increased insurance costs.
• Getting commitment from the team (00:05:08) Tom Palermo shares his strategy of leading from the front and actively participating in his own business to motivate his employees and create a family-like culture in the shop.
• Training and expanding services (00:06:28) Discussion on the benefits of cross-training technicians and expanding services to become a one-stop shop for customers.
• Creating a culture of learning and teamwork (00:08:03) Exploration of the importance of building a team environment, promoting culture, and providing training opportunities for technicians.
• Concerns and opportunities with electric vehicles (00:10:23) Conversation about consumer concerns and technician concerns regarding electric vehicles, as well as the need for businesses to adapt to the evolving automotive industry.
• The importance of continuous training (00:13:13) Discussion on the evolution of the automotive industry and the need for technicians and shop owners to continuously train and adapt to new technologies.
• The challenges of hands-on training (00:16:02) the need for hands-on training in the automotive industry and the effectiveness of learning through practical experience.
• Monitoring productivity and customer loyalty (00:18:16) Explanation of how monitoring productivity can be used as a training tool and the shift in customer behavior, from seeking diagnoses and getting repairs elsewhere to valuing a good shop.
• The value of relationships and trust (00:19:27) The importance of building relationships with customers and gaining their trust in the automotive industry.
• Customer relationship management strategies (00:20:28) Discussion about the various customer relationship management techniques used, including email blasts, follow-up phone calls, and special promotions for valued customers.
• Training for service advisors (00:25:04) The need for more training for service advisors in the automotive industry and the importance of standardized approaches to dealing with customers.
• Retention rate and treating employees like family (00:26:29) Conversation about the high retention rate of employees at Palermo’s and their approach of treating employees like family.
• Creating a better work environment for technicians (00:28:34) Importance of providing a well-lit, air-conditioned, and well-equipped shop to improve technician productivity, safety, and job satisfaction.

Wesley Adams, a shop manager and radio host from Cincinnati shares his experiences in leadership, the importance of course correction in business, and the value of continuous learning. He discusses his mentorship under his boss, Bryan Kauffeld, and the adjustments they made in their business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Wesley also talks about his recent shift to managing a transmission shop and the importance of intuition and situational awareness in his role.

Wesley Adams, Ulmer’s Auto Care, Cincinnati, OH.

• Watch Full Video
• Course Correction (00:01:03) The concept of course correction in various aspects of life and business.
• Trusting Your Team (00:06:00) Wesley Adams talks about the importance of trusting your team and seeking honest feedback for making course corrections in business.
• The mentorship conversation (00:08:58) Wesley talks about his boss, Bryan Kauffeld, being his mentor and teaching him about life, business, and leadership.
• Course correction after COVID (00:10:12) Wesley discusses how the COVID pandemic forced them to make course corrections and look for new opportunities to improve and grow.
• Learning to manage a transmission shop (00:10:37) Wesley talks about the challenges and learning experiences of managing a transmission shop, including different business processes and sales tactics.
• The importance of understanding people and their attitudes (00:16:48) Wesley discusses the importance of knowing the attitudes and personal lives of team members in order to effectively manage a business.
• The value of incremental improvements (00:18:05) Wesley emphasizes that small, intentional course corrections and marginal gains over time can lead to significant success.
• Wesley’s background and moral compass (00:18:41) Wesley shares his background and how his experiences shaped his moral compass, leading him to prioritize honesty and teaching in his approach to sales and leadership.

Bob Ward discusses the importance of early and thorough succession planning, using real-life examples of both successful and unsuccessful transitions. Bob emphasizes the need for business owners to develop their successors and to consider their employees’ career goals. It’s never too early to start thinking about the future of your business and who might be capable of carrying it forward.

Bob Ward, President of Wardden LLC, Look for Bob’s Previous Episode HERE. Perpetual Business Co website HERE.

Bob Ward’s Email: bob@wardden.com

• Watch Full Video
• Real-life examples of succession planning [00:00:58] Bob and Carm discuss the importance of succession planning and share real-life examples of successful transitions.
• The reality of leaving a business and the need for planning [00:04:01] Bob emphasizes the importance of not procrastinating succession planning and highlights the need for business owners to plan ahead for their departure.
• Qualifying potential buyers and employees [00:07:21] Bob explains the process of qualifying potential buyers or key employees by discussing their desires, goals, and qualifications for taking over the business.
• Grooming potential buyers [00:10:22] Discussing the process of grooming potential buyers and the knowledge and qualifications they need to run the business.
• Success rate and honesty in the process [00:12:11] Explaining the high success rate in succession planning and the importance of being honest with both the owner and potential buyer.
• Internal candidate and outside buyer [00:15:33] Exploring the role of the succession planning expert when dealing with internal candidates and outside buyers, and the different considerations for each scenario.
• Developing the Company [00:20:12] Discussion on the importance of owners developing their skills beyond just technical expertise.
• Qualifying the Buyer [00:21:25] Exploration of a success story where a buyer accumulated equity equivalence over seven years to purchase a business.
• Failed Succession Attempts [00:25:11] Examples of failed succession attempts, including a candidate backing out at the last minute and a forced arrangement that didn’t work out.
• Succession planning process [00:29:43] Discussion on the minimum and typical number of stages in the succession planning process, including the development and grooming of potential buyers and sellers.
• Starting succession planning early [00:30:27] Importance of starting succession planning at a young age, including strategies such as golden handcuffs, development agenda, and profit sharing bonuses to retain key employees and build a successful succession plan.
• The highest calling of leadership [00:31:26] Highlighting Harvey Firestone’s quote on the growth and development of people as the highest calling of leadership, emphasizing the importance of developing others for long-term success in succession planning.

Gary Gunn discusses how mentoring differs from coaching and how it can benefit shop owners in defining their own success and implementing necessary changes in their businesses. Gary shares his experience as a mentor and offers tools and strategies for shop owners to implement new ideas and overcome challenges. He emphasizes the importance of working on the business and oneself, creating a scoreboard for business performance, and understanding the true cost of doing business. Gary also explains the role of a true mentor and the value of assessments in tailoring mentoring approaches. Carm and Gary believe that mentoring can enhance the value of coaching and help shop owners gain confidence and make informed decisions.

Gary Gunn, Auto Shop Showcase

• Watch Full Video
• The importance of mentoring for shop owners (00:01:12) Gary Gunn discusses the concept of mentoring for shop owners and how it can benefit them in achieving better lives.
• Defining mentoring and its role in implementing change (00:05:56) Gary explains his definition of mentoring and how it involves helping shop owners implement changes that will lead to true freedom and success in their businesses.
• The role of a mentor in addressing specific struggles (00:07:03) Gary talks about how a mentor can assist with specific challenges such as hiring, budgeting, and determining financial goals, and how their role is to help mentees become self-sufficient in these areas.
• Implementing Ideas from Training (00:09:35) Discussion on the challenges shop owners face when trying to implement new ideas and how mentoring can help them overcome resistance and successfully implement changes.
• Using Tools for Implementation (00:11:32) Explanation of the five tools that shop owners can utilize to implement changes in their business, including staff training sessions and staff behavior sessions.
• Understanding the True Cost of Doing Business (00:15:02) Explanation of the concept of the true cost of doing business and how it can help shop owners analyze their financials and make informed decisions.
• The missing piece for shop owners (00:19:05) How mentoring can complement coaching and provide shop owners with additional value and guidance.
• Group mentoring and individual sessions (00:22:01) The different formats of mentoring, including group mentoring sessions and one-on-one sessions, based on the specific needs of the participants.
• The concept of mentoring in the automotive industry (00:26:50) Discussion on the importance of accepting the need for mentoring and the discrepancy between appearances and reality in the industry.
• The potential benefits of seeking a mentor (00:27:10) Highlighting the potential positive impact of finding a mentor to help individuals and businesses grow and improve.
• The role of a mentor as a supplement to coaching (00:28:45) Explaining how a mentor can work alongside existing coaching programs to provide additional support and guidance to shop owners.

Recorded Live at ASTE 2023, Lester Kovacs, Director of Ideation at Dorman Products, explains Dorman’s unique approach to product development, including working closely with technicians, searching through junkyards for challenges, and conducting extensive testing. He also discusses supply chain issues, reaching out to their network for feedback, and upcoming products at Dorman.

Lester Kovacs, Director of Ideation, Dorman Products

• Watch Full Video
• Uncovering Technician Challenges (00:04:02) Discussion on how Dorman works with technicians to uncover their challenges and develop solutions.
• Part Availability and Supply Chain Issues (00:05:31) Conversation about supply chain issues and challenges with part availability for older vehicles.
• The discovery of a new product category (00:08:31) Discussion about finding a new product category and the process of developing that particular product.
• The challenge of developing new products (00:11:00) Exploration of the challenges faced in developing new products and the need to work against the clock.
• Testing and validation of new products (00:12:58) Explanation of the testing and validation process for new products, including material testing, dimensional testing, and trial and test on actual vehicles.
• The incubator analogy (00:15:54) Discusses the role of the incubator in finding and developing ideas, identifying bottlenecks, and resource decisions.
• Percentage of ideas that make it (00:16:58) Discusses the percentage of ideas that make it through the validation process and the importance of a tight funnel to meet customer expectations.
• Lester’s career journey (00:18:04) Explores Lester’s background, starting from his love for cars as a kid.
• Changing Habits and Customer Perception (00:23:01) Discussion on the challenge of changing habits in the aftermarket industry and the need to shift customer perception of certain parts.
• Improving Marketing Strategy and Relaunching Products (00:23:25) Exploration of the relaunch of a product line after initial poor sales, including collaboration with customers and counter professionals to improve marketing and sales strategies.
• Suggestion for Website Enhancement (00:24:32) A suggestion to add a tab on the website to address why customers are not buying certain products, with testimonials and repair pictures to encourage sales.

Jaron Kleber, National Sales Manager of Repair Shop of Tomorrow, discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and maximizing one’s potential. Jaron explains the negative effects of hitting the snooze button and shares his personal routine for starting the day off right. The conversation then shifts to investing in personal goals and well-being, and the importance of treating employees like family. It’s crucial to take a step back from the daily grind and ask oneself what should be done right, rather than focusing on what is being done wrong.

Jaron Kleber, Repair Shop of Tomorrow, National Sales Manager. Jaron’s previous episodes HERE

• Watch Full Video
• The importance of work-life balance [00:03:23] Discussion on the societal pressure to constantly work and hustle, and the need for a healthy work-life balance.
• The role of coaching and mentorship [00:05:01] Exploration of the benefits of having a coach or mentor to guide and reassure shop owners in their journey to success.
• The significance of consistency and processes [00:06:22] The importance of implementing consistent processes in both business and personal life to achieve success and prevent burnout.
• The science behind hitting the snooze button [00:08:14] Explains the sleep cycles and how hitting the snooze button affects the quality of sleep.
• Sleep inertia and its impact on the morning [00:09:08] Discusses the concept of sleep inertia and how it can negatively affect the first four hours of the day.
• Starting the day off right for personal and professional success [00:11:01] Emphasizes the importance of starting the day off in a positive state to have more good days than bad days and achieve personal and professional success.
• The importance of self-care [00:15:38] The importance of setting up a morning routine and taking care of one’s physical and mental well-being.
• The power of music [00:16:38] How music can change one’s disposition and attitude, and explores the effects of music on dopamine levels in the brain.
• Investing in employee well-being [00:19:38] The conversation shifts to the topic of successful shop owners investing in their employees’ personal goals and well-being, beyond just technical training.
• Personal Goals and Work-Life Balance [00:23:54] Discussion on setting personal goals, struggling with work-life balance, and the importance of separating personal and professional life.
• Creating a Positive Work Environment [00:24:53] Exploring the significance of creating a positive work environment, building a sense of community, and holding employees accountable for work-life balance.
• Importance of Accountability and Mentoring [00:28:28] Highlighting the value of having a mentor or coach to hold oneself accountable, improve leadership skills, and achieve personal and professional goals.
• The importance of continuous improvement [00:33:01] Discussion on the need for professionals in the industry to strive for continuous improvement and overcome the fear of exposing weaknesses.
• Transitioning from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset [00:34:23] Exploration of the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset, and the importance of adopting a growth mindset for personal and professional development.

Pete McNeil discusses the changing needs of employees in the post-COVID workplace, particularly focusing on Gen Z employees. He talks about the importance of providing a positive customer experience and adapting to the preferences and attention span of Gen Z employees. He also discusses the challenges of hiring and retaining Gen Z employees, including the need for benefits, learning opportunities, and potential pay advantages.

Pete McNeil, McNeil’s Auto Care, Sandy and Riverton, UT. Pete’s previous episodes HERE

• Watch Full Video
• The Legacy of Old Car Repair Tools (00:01:39) Discussion about displaying old car repair tools in the waiting room to showcase the evolution of automotive technology.
• The Importance of Customer Experience (00:07:21) Highlighting the exceptional service provided by a server at a restaurant and the need to recruit service advisors from industries with a focus on customer experience.
• Understanding Gen Z Employees (00:08:47) Exploring the characteristics and preferences of Gen Z employees, including their shorter attention span and the need for clear direction and guidance.
• Gen Z Challenges in the Workplace (00:09:18) Discussion on the challenges faced by Gen Z employees entering the workplace without prior working experience.
• Adapting to Gen Z Preferences (00:12:19) Exploring the changing expectations of Gen Z employees during job interviews, including flexible work schedules and work-life balance.
• Creating Hybrid Pay Programs (00:16:38) The need for customized pay programs to meet the diverse needs and preferences of employees, with examples of different pay structures.
• Valuing Diagnostic Technicians (00:19:31) The need to compensate diagnostic technicians accordingly.
• Specialization and Rewarding Expertise (00:21:31) Highlighting the importance of specialized technicians in areas like transmissions, electrical, and HVAC, and the need to reward their knowledge and time investment.
• The importance of involving families in social events (00:26:34) Discussion on the significance of including employees’ families in non-work related special events.
• Creating a positive work culture through various events (00:27:29) Exploration of different events, such as boating trips and casino nights, that the company organizes to foster camaraderie and teamwork among employees.
• The communication preferences of Gen Z employees (00:29:40) Insights into the communication preferences of Gen Z employees, including their preference for face-to-face interactions and the low reliance on social media for communication.
• The changing needs of employees (00:35:23) Discussion about the need for a new way of connecting and learning with the new age employees.
• Adding on to the Riverton store (00:35:47) Updates on the expansion of McNeil’s Auto Care in Riverton, Utah, including adding six bays and a warehouse.
• Appreciation for Carm Capriotto (00:36:17) Expressing gratitude for Carm Capriotto’s contributions to the automotive industry and the podcast.

‘Car Coach’ Lauren Fix discusses the topic of synthetic fuel, explaining Porsche’s investment in e-fuel as an alternative to electric conversion. Lauren shares her thoughts on EVs and the government’s role in mandating their use. She believes in the freedom of choice when it comes to the type of vehicle one wants to drive, be it electric, hybrid, diesel, or gas.

Lauren Fix, Car Coach Reports,  Total Car Score Podcast, is an automotive expert and analyst based in Buffalo, NY. She has written three books on automobiles. She has appeared on CNN, Fox News, Newsmax TV, CNBC, and USA Radio’s Daybreak USA show. Lauren’s previous episodes HERE

• Watch Full Video
• Fuel for the Future (00:03:39) Discussion on the development of synthetic fuel by Porsche and its potential impact on the automotive industry.
• OEMs and Synthetic Fuel (00:08:27) Exploration of the interest and excitement among major automakers like GM, and Ford in the potential of synthetic fuel as an alternative to traditional gasoline.
• Electric Vehicle Range Limitations (00:09:55) Discussion on the limited range of electric vehicles and its impact on certain professions like landscaping and plumbing.
• Electric Vehicle Mandates and State Opposition (00:11:25) Exploration of the opposition to electric vehicle mandates, particularly in states outside of California, and the potential blockage of such mandates by Congress.
• Financial Implications for Car Manufacturers (00:15:04) Insights into the financial challenges faced by car manufacturers in complying with electric vehicle mandates and the potential fines for non-compliance.
• The transition to electric vehicles (00:16:51) Discussion on the transition from traditional vehicles to electric vehicles and the possibility of putting an ICE engine in an EV platform.
• Politics and government influence on the automotive industry (00:18:10) Exploration of the political factors influencing the push for windmills, solar panels, and electric cars, and the impact on the availability and affordability of alternative fuels.
• The impact of UAW strike on car production (00:22:36) Concerns about the potential UAW strike and its potential impact on car production, leading to a shortage of vehicles and affecting the used car market.
• Challenges with EPA’s automobile emissions guidelines (00:27:02) Critique of the EPA’s automobile emissions guidelines and the concerns about mandating electric cars.
• Slow growth of electric cars in the US (00:30:09) Exploration of the low adoption rate of electric cars in the US and the potential for slow growth in the market.