Hiring Process Explained [RR 865]
Phil Carpenter discusses the challenges of finding good technicians and the constant need for recruitment. Phil maps out the hiring process at Urban Auto Care and Avalon Motor Sports, which includes video interviews and in-person interviews. It’s critical to a good fit for the long term and filtering out candidates who are not willing to go through their hiring process. He also explains the importance of maintaining a sense of urgency in hiring, employee turnover, and recognizing when it’s time to let someone go.
remarkableresults.biz/e865
Embracing Change: Navigating the Electrification Revolution [AW 165]
Dave Hobbs discusses the challenges and changes brought about by electrification in the automotive industry. Dave shares his experience with hub bearing failures, the importance of proper charging cables for electric vehicles and the maintenance requirements of EVs. He also discusses the recently launched ASE Safety Certification and the importance of safety in the industry. It’s an exciting time, and by embracing change and staying curious, technicians can ensure their success in this evolving landscape.
remarkableresults.biz/aw165
Is Your Company Culture Holding You Back? [RR 864]
Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Culture again?” But trust me, this episode takes a deep dive into how culture can truly make or break a business. Every business has a culture, whether it’s intentional or not, and it’s crucial to evaluate if it’s the right one for retaining employees and attracting customers.
Imagine an auto repair shop that truly understands the frustrations of car owners and aims to provide honest, knowledgeable, and reliable service to give them peace of mind. That’s the kind of culture that draws customers in and keeps them coming back.
Chris Lawson suggests checking out an article in the show notes that discusses the impact of culture on over 40 business metrics. Studies have shown that employees are more motivated and efficient in a happy work environment. So, investing in your company culture can actually boost your bottom line.
If you’re a business owner or someone interested in creating a positive work environment, this episode is a goldmine of information. Carm and Chris provide practical guidance on building company culture and emphasize the need for strong policies, procedures, and teamwork.
remarkableresults.biz/e864
Advantages and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in the Automotive Industry [THA 335]
Tara Topel, Greg Buckley, and Andy Bizub discuss the applications of AI in the automotive industry, focusing on the use of ChatGPT. They share examples of using AI to update handbooks, create repair procedures, educate service advisors, and enhance the customer experience. They also discuss the challenges and potential benefits of using AI in customer-facing interactions. While AI has benefits, it should be used as a supplement rather than a replacement for human connection.
remarkableresults.biz/a335
New Build in 4 Months: A Look Inside [AW 164]
A new build in 4 months? How did Bill DeBoer do it?! When his father suggested knocking down an office building and building a shop in its place, Bill didn’t hesitate. He took charge of the project, handled the financing, and oversaw the construction. This podcast episode is filled with insights on fleet management, business strategies, and the importance of having a reliable network of professionals.
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Is Hiring a Business Coach Worth It? Dispelling the 5 Excuses Not to Hire One [AW 163]
Do you find yourself making excuses not to hire a business coach? Tom Sciortino shares his experience with coaching and how it has helped him make changes in his business, resulting in an increase in average ticket and KPIs. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and not waiting around for things to change, and encourages young people in the industry to seek guidance and coaching. Listen to this episode to learn how coaching can help you identify blind spots, gain a different perspective on your business, and prepare for the future.
remarkableresults.biz/aw163
Why Much? How Much? Exploring Value Proposition in Auto Repair [AW 162]
Bill Nalu, Interstate Auto Care in Michigan, shares his “Why Much” philosophy, which advocates for a more nuanced approach to pricing that involves training, coaching, and consultation to understand the context of each customer’s needs and provide a personalized value proposition.
remarkableresults.biz/aw162
Advocacy, Action, and the Future of Right to Repair [RR 857]
Join Lisa Foshee, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and General Counsel of the Auto Care Association, and Paul McCarthy, President and CEO of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Group, as they discuss the recent update to the law and the challenges that may arise in enforcing it. The recent decision by a federal judge in Massachusetts to allow the law to go into effect is a big step forward for the automotive industry, but there are still some challenges that need to be addressed. They discuss the limitations of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) model for data sharing between Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and independent repair shops and urge listeners to sign the petition at repairact.com and support the Federal Repair Act, also known as HR 906. Lisa and Paul describe the bill as a reasonable and critical solution to ensure vehicle repairability, safety, and cybersecurity. They stress the need for unified and passionate support from the industry to push Congress to take affirmative action and pass the bill.
remarkableresults.biz/e857
Brakes For Breasts – 2023 Update & Challenge [CC 110]
Brakes For Breasts – 2023 Update & Challenge Breast Cancer Vaccine Trials at the Cleveland Clinic and a Challenge for Participation for the 2023 October Initiative which supports breast cancer vaccine research at the Cleveland Clinic. The co-founders of the campaign, Leanne Best and Laura Frank, discuss the importance of finding a cause that aligns with their values and the challenges of funding vaccine research. We discuss the success of the campaign and their goals for the future, encouraging independent repair shops to participate and donate 10% of labor and parts for brake jobs.
Listen and view episode notesHow Can Professionalism Improve the Automotive Industry? [AW 161]
Mac Akram, the owner of Mack’s Complete Auto Repair in Chandler, Arizona, discusses the importance of professionalism in the automotive industry, including keeping the shop clean and organized and using digital vehicle inspections to provide better service. Mac believes that raising the standards of the industry is crucial to gaining the trust of customers. Mac also encourages shop owners to invest in training for their technicians.
remarkableresults.biz/aw161
Creating Consistent Routines that Drive Success [THA 331]
Do you find it hard to create consistent routines that drive success? This episode discusses the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and how they can help businesses achieve their goals. Our guests, Jaron Kleber, Chris Machado, and Nick Hively, discuss the positive impact of SOPs on creating a positive culture and improving the consistency of the customer experience. They also discuss the importance of engaging team members and getting their input when creating SOPs.
remarkableresults.biz/a331
Leadership Principles from Coach Rod Olson [RR 855]
Building Strong Relationships: The Importance of Old School Values in Leadership Coaching
Leadership coaching has come a long way from the old school methods of intimidation and shaming to motivate people. Rod Olson, an author, speaker, and executive coach, discusses the importance of old school values, such as discipline, respect, honor, loyalty, and hard work, in leadership coaching, but combined with new school methods and approaches. Rod and Dan Taylor, a senior business advisor, stress the need for emotional intelligence, empathy, vulnerability, and creating a psychologically safe environment for employees to ask questions and give their opinions without fear of retribution.
Leadership coaching is an ongoing process that requires a mentality of continuous learning and development. It is about balancing discipline with relationship-building, empowering the next generation, and working oneself out of a job as a leader. As Rod and Dan emphasized, leadership coaching is about living life to the fullest and keeping the big picture in mind.
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Personalized Customer Service and Marketing Strategies [AW 160]
If you’re in the automotive industry, you know it’s not just about fixing cars; it’s about providing exceptional customer service, too. Leigh Anne Best and Bill Hill, owners of Mighty Auto Pro, discuss their marketing strategies that have helped attract and retain customers. They’ve created a customer-friendly environment, providing loaner vehicles, shuttle services, and free towing up to $50.
But it’s not just about the extras. Mighty Auto Pro also emphasizes continuous learning and growth, requiring a minimum of 40 hours of training per year for their technicians. They encourage their employees to pursue their interests and hobbies, even if they are not related to auto repair. This culture of training has grown beyond anything Leigh Anne and Bill could have imagined, with technicians pushing each other to attend classes and improve their skills.
So, what can you learn from Mighty Auto Pro’s marketing strategy? Personalization, exceptional customer service, and a culture of continuous learning and growth can go a long way in retaining and attracting customers. Make everything effortless for the customer, and they’ll keep coming back.
remarkableresults.biz/aw160
Leadership 2.0: Transitioning from Technician to Shop Owner [RR 854]
In this episode, Carm Capriotto sits down with a panel of automotive professionals who share their experiences at the Leadership 2.0 Program from the University of the Aftermarket. They discuss the importance of professional development and improving leadership techniques in the industry and how the program helped them bond with fellow service professionals. Johnny Weber, the owner of Weber’s Automotive in Dayton, Ohio, was the focus of their project. Find out how they helped him transition from a technician to a shop owner and the importance of resources available in the aftermarket industry.
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Making Dispatch Work [THA 330]
What are the challenges of making dispatch work in the automotive aftermarket industry? Our guests share their experiences with dispatch in their companies, emphasizing communication, flexibility, and teamwork. They also discuss the qualities of a good dispatcher and the need for policies and procedures in unexpected events. They stress the importance of simplifying technical information and building trust with customers. The episode concludes with a discussion of the interaction between dispatchers, customers, and technicians and the immense responsibility that comes with the job.
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The Kids Table: The Next Generation in the Automotive Industry [RR 853]
Are you curious about what it’s like to work for your family in the automotive industry? In this episode, Tracy Capriotto, Sara Fraser, and Kent Bullard discuss their journey into the automotive industry, the challenges and pressure to fill their father’s shoes, and the need to find their own paths. They squash the misconception that working for family in the industry is easy and handed to them. It requires hard work and dedication to succeed in the automotive industry, regardless of family connections. They also touch on the challenges of preparing the next generation of professionals in the industry.
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The Rise and Fall and the Rise Again of the Electric Vehicle [AW 159]
Electric vehicles (EVs) are a hot topic in the automotive industry and for good reason. They offer numerous benefits, such as reducing emissions and improving fuel economy, but they also present some challenges, including a lack of infrastructure and range anxiety. Pete Meier shares his perspective on the impact of EVs on the industry and offers some insights into their history and future. His message is one of encouragement and reassurance, emphasizing that technicians have risen to the challenge of the rapidly changing industry.
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What Does It Take to Become an A-Tech in the Automotive Aftermarket Industry? [THA 329]
What does it take to become an A-Tech in the automotive aftermarket industry? Scot Manna, Matt Fanslow, and Ryan Kooiman share their perspectives, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, individual effort, and natural talent. They also discuss the role of shop owners in investing in their employees’ training and development, as well as the challenges faced by the industry in assessing skill levels. The episode provides valuable insights into becoming an A-Tech and how the industry can support and cultivate talent.
remarkableresults.biz/a329
Cheers to Success: Building a Thriving Business and a Craft Brewery [RR 851]
Are you a fan of craft beer? Then you won’t want to miss this interview with Kimberly and Andrew Taylor, owners of Titan Auto and the upcoming Hidden Wit Brewing Company in Mosley, Virginia. In this episode, they share their passion for brewing and their exciting plans for their 10,000 square foot facility. With a brewmaster who is an award-winning home brewer, they plan to offer 12 beers on tap and eventually expand to 18, including flagship beers and special releases.
But their success doesn’t stop at brewing. They also discuss their entrepreneurialism and the expansion of their auto shop business, which includes maintaining a consistent culture across all their locations and finding creative solutions to adapt to changes in the industry and world.
remarkableresults.biz/e851
The Importance of Self-Reflection and Self-Improvement in Business [AW 158]
John Ferguson, the owner of Domestic Diesel and Auto Service, shares his experience as a former dealer technician for Ford and how he started his own business. He talks about the challenges of finding the right team to support him and how he sought the help of industry experts to become a better leader and marketer. The episode also includes a video tour of John’s shop, where he specializes in Ford and GM diesel vehicles.
remarkableresults.biz/aw158
21 Tips: How to Gain an Edge Part 4 [THA 328]
Learn how to improve your business and take it to the next level with these 21 tips and insights related to management, marketing, customer service, and personal growth. Our panel provides practical tips such as refreshing online photos, using referral programs, and creating a virtual tour of the shop. They also encourage humility, vulnerability, and continuous learning as essential tools for success in the automotive industry.
remarkableresults.biz/a328
The Art and Science of Dispatching [RR 849]
Dan Taylor and Reggie Stewart to discuss the art of dispatch in the automotive repair industry. They emphasize the importance of efficiently dispatching and scheduling jobs, using the team’s strengths and weaknesses, the need for accountability, daily tracking of labor inventory to ensure goals are met, and the challenge of accommodating walk-in customers while maintaining productivity. They stress that dispatching is crucial to the business’s success and suggest creating a simulator or role-playing exercise to teach dispatching effectively.
remarkableresults.biz/e849
Navigating Family Dynamics in Business Ownership [AW 157]
Tatsu Tsuchida discusses his experience transitioning from a Japanese-only shop to an all-makes and all-models shop, his marketing strategy, and his experience taking over an existing business. He also discusses the challenges of owning a family business and the importance of having an exit strategy. The episode also includes a tour of Tsuchida’s second location.
remarkableresults.biz/aw157
Turbo Tim’s Garage: From Core Values to Cats, How to Build a Unique Brand [RR 848]
Are you looking for inspiration on how to have fun in your business while building a unique brand? In this episode, co-owners Tim Suggs and Rachel Grewell share their approach to core values and how they recently held a leadership retreat to refine those values. They also discuss the role of cats in their branding and marketing efforts, employee management and training, and community involvement. Tim says, “Being true to yourself and your team is the key to success.” So, let’s all take a page out of their book and strive to be different and true to ourselves in our businesses and lives.
remarkableresults.biz/e848
Retention: Keeping Top Employees [THA 327]
Are you struggling to retain top employees in the automotive aftermarket industry? Look no further than this episode featuring Dan Taylor, David Askwith, and Bryan Kauffeld, who share their experiences and strategies for hiring and keeping good teammates. They agree that employee retention is crucial for businesses of all sizes and starts with hiring. They discuss the importance of communication, accountability, surveys, referrals, training, and career pathing. They also stress the importance of creating a positive culture to retain top talent.
remarkableresults.biz/a327