Education and Training: Staying Ahead of the Curve [RR 1011]
Recorded live at AAPEX 2024, this episode dives into the evolving landscape of industry standards and the critical right to repair movement. Gain valuable insights into AAPEX’s forward-thinking approach to education and technology, and discover how community and continuous learning are driving business success.
remarkableresults.biz/e1011
From Daily Training to Daily Wins: Motivating Your Team [THA 404]
Recorded at the 2024 ASTA Expo, Dewain DeGarmo from Black’s Tire & Auto Service and David Boyes from Today’s Class discuss the evolving landscape of training and education in the automotive repair industry. Dewain, overseeing training across 60 stores, shares the challenges of managing a large team while introducing innovative strategies to improve knowledge retention and performance. He also talks about his role as a “puzzle master,” tackling complex technical problems and spearheading training programs, including a creative prize system to motivate teams. The discussion highlights how technology is driving improvements in training within the industry.
remarkableresults.biz/a404
Leadership Deep Dive: Styles, Blind Spots, and Solutions [THA 400]
Explore key leadership archetypes like the Motivator, the Builder, and Servant Leadership. Our panel shares the must-know strategies for effective communication, team building, and personal growth. Plus, they highlight the power of peer groups, continuous learning, and adapting your leadership style to different situations. This episode is perfect for shop owners, managers, and anyone in the automotive repair industry who’s ready to improve their leadership skills.
remarkableresults.biz/a400
Are You the Biggest Constraint to Your Business Growth? [FTR 101]
AJ Nealey shares his journey from technician to business owner, highlighting key constraints to business growth in the auto repair industry. AJ emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal limitations, building a strong team, and implementing effective processes. He advocates for working “on” the business rather than “in” it and stresses personal development and accountability. This episode provides valuable strategies for overcoming challenges and creating a scalable business model, ultimately fostering long-term success.
remarkableresults.biz/f101
Is the Automotive Industry Ready for a Language Revolution? [RR 980]
Michael Smith discusses the need for a language and mindset shift to elevate the perception of automotive professionals. The conversation highlights the transition from viewing independent shops as “mom and pop” operations to recognizing them as sophisticated businesses led by “solopreneurs” or “mechanical and technology specialists.” Michael also introduces the concept of psycholinguistics, explaining how the words we use shape our beliefs and self-perception. For instance, identifying oneself as a “mechanic” can reinforce a limited self-image, trapping individuals in a cycle that hinders growth and innovation. To break free from this cycle, there must be a conscious effort to change the language used within the industry.
remarkableresults.biz/e980
Red Flags When Buying a Business [THA 383]
Join a discussion with multi-shop operators Dwayne Myers and Rick Levitan, as well as CPA Hunt Demarest, on the intricacies of purchasing a business. They cover the necessity of due diligence, understanding financials, and the emotional aspects of negotiation. The panel shares personal experiences, highlighting the importance of realistic financial projections, environmental assessments, and the role of goodwill in valuations. They advise on building strong banking relationships, scrutinizing financial statements, and respecting sellers’ emotional ties, emphasizing patience and strategy for successful acquisitions in the automotive industry.
remarkableresults.biz/a383
The Impact of Internal Training [RR 954]
Chris Duffy, Production and Training Manager at AutoStream Car Care, discuss the company’s commitment to training and developing their technicians across nine Maryland locations. Duffy highlights the challenges of technician reluctance towards training and the strategies to encourage participation while respecting personal commitments. The conversation also covers the use of training platforms, the significance of certifications, and the fostering of a continuous learning culture within the automotive industry.
remarkableresults.biz/e954
Stay Out of the Rabbit Hole [RR 951]
Recorded at the 21st annual TST Big Event, Sherwood Cooke shares his journey of running his business for 28 years, his success with social media, especially TikTok, under the moniker ‘The Professor,’ and the impact of digital content on attracting a wide customer base even from hours away. Discover the evolution of Cooke’s business practices, the significance of ethical service, community engagement and how to build a team culture through understanding and investment in people’s lives.
remarkableresults.biz/e951
Road to NAPA Auto Care Gold Certified: From Technician to Owner of 6 Locations [RR 946]
Brad Updegraff’s transition from a general service technician to a visionary business owner of 6 NAPA Gold Certified locations is a story of dedication and strategic planning. Discover the milestones and the speed bumps he encountered along the way.
remarkableresults.biz/e946
Are You Addicted to Social Media? [RR 938]
Recorded Live at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo, Carm Capriotto, alongside shop owner Kim Auernheimer and industry professional Tracy Capriotto, dive into a myriad of topics relevant to the industry. They reflect on the evolution of the industry and the significance of the Women in Auto Care conference. Kim discusses her journey managing multiple shop locations and the nuances of catering to different communities, while Tracy offers insights on the benefits of personality tests like DISC for workplace harmony. The trio also examines the double-edged sword of social media’s role in both personal and professional realms, advocating for a more intentional and productive use of the platforms. This episode is a trove of wisdom, emphasizing continuous personal growth and adaptation in a digitally-driven world.
remarkableresults.biz/e938
Measuring Technician Performance with Scorecards and Analytics [RR 936]
Greg Buckley discusses the importance of using analytics and performance metrics in the automotive industry. He draws parallels between managing a sports team and running an auto repair shop, emphasizing the need for owners to understand their team’s strengths and weaknesses. Greg explores the idea of incentivizing performance and accountability, similar to professional athletes. Greg shares his experience with nurturing technicians and the concept of having a “farm team” to develop skills. The conversation also touches on the need for better career pathing, training, and compensation methods to retain talent and improve the industry’s professionalism.
remarkableresults.biz/e936
Make Every Detail Count: What Message Are You Sending to Customers? [RR 932]
Recorded Live at the 2024 MACS (Mobile Air Climate Systems) Training Event & Trade Show, shop owner Bill Snow discusses marketing strategies, the use of social media platforms, and the importance of authenticity in video marketing. Bill shares insights on audience preferences for lighthearted content and emphasizes professionalism and the value of every customer interaction in reflecting the business’s dedication to service.
remarkableresults.biz/e932
Unpacking the Dynamics of Consumer Choice and Pricing [RR 924]
The Value Paradox: We all want top-notch service without the hefty price tag. However, quality comes at a cost. Andy Bizub explores this conundrum and how it mirrors the choices we make. Consumers often face a choice between the cheapest and the luxurious with little interest in the middle ground. This observation sparked a conversation about how the automotive industry can apply this pricing strategy to their businesses. Remember, it’s not just about the price; it’s about the value and experience you provide.
remarkableresults.biz/e924
I’m More Than Just A Mechanic [RR 919]
Can a break-up be the catalyst for an entrepreneurial leap? Find out during Shawn Gilfillan’s 20 questions in 30 minutes episode! Shawn also discusses the importance of a strong business culture, mentorship, and the joy of hobbies like aviation. Shawn shares strategies for managing gross margins and the significance of client experience.
remarkableresults.biz/e919
Exploring the Depths of Self-Reflection: The Power of Personal SWOT Anaylsis [RR 907]
“Do you have the strength to be honest with yourself?”
Michael Smith discusses the importance of personal and company-wide SWOT analysis. He explores the need for continuous learning, development and the role of collaborative feedback in identifying blind spots. He emphasizes the importance of going beyond the initial analysis to consider future goals and potential obstacles.
remarkableresults.biz/e907
Technician’s Three-Year Succession Plan [RR 906]
Andy Bizub and part owner Brandon Ludwikowski discuss the transition from technician to business owner, the importance of a positive attitude, and the tools and knowledge required for technicians. The conversation also covers the division of responsibilities within the company, decision-making processes, and the importance of understanding business fundamentals and financials.
remarkableresults.biz/e906
Conference Planning Musts! [894]
Travis Troy, owner of Honest Wrenches, discusses the importance of conference planning and attendance for team development. He dives into the process of selecting classes, professionalism at conferences, and the significance of investing in training and planning for the future.
remarkableresults.biz/e894
Family Business: The Dads [THA 349]
Shop owners and fathers Charlie Marcotte and Paul Campanella discuss the topic of passing down a family business to the next generation. They emphasize the importance of aligning roles and skill sets, providing training and guidance, and setting realistic expectations for children joining the family business. They also explore the value of mentorship, learning from outside sources, and the challenges and rewards of running a family business. Whether you’re considering integrating your family into your business or looking for ways to make adjustments, this episode is a must-listen!
remarkableresults.biz/a349
Overcoming the Challenges of Apprenticeship Programs [RR 891]
Jake Sorensen shares his experiences with running an apprentice program at McNeil’s Auto Care. Initially, they were able to find suitable applicants easily, but as time went on, they faced challenges in finding the right candidates. Jake also talked about the practical skills gap he has observed in the younger generation. He shared an anecdote about an apprentice who had never drilled a hole in a wall or hung anything before. Despite this knowledge gap, Jake believes that with the right attitude and willingness to learn, the right apprentices can become great technicians in the future.
remarkableresults.biz/e891
Life Calibration: From Burnout to Balance [THA 348]
Our panel explores the challenges of achieving work-life balance and how it affects busy professionals and entrepreneurs. The key takeaway was the importance of operating with the mindset of wanting employees’ lives to work both inside and outside of the shop. Eddie Lawrence shared his personal story of experiencing a health crisis in 2015, which served as a wake-up call for him. As a business owner, he had been prioritizing his work over his own well-being. This realization led him to create ‘Life Calibration,’ a framework to help individuals prioritize and improve different areas of their lives, not just for themselves but also for their teams.
remarkableresults.biz/a348
High Performance Leadership Training [RR 888]
Carm Capriotto introduces a group of automotive industry professionals who are part of a leadership program led by Shawn Gilfillan. This group has been working on a 20-week program designed to enhance leadership skills and empower teams in the automotive industry. The program emphasizes the importance of self-talk and changing one’s self-perception to become a better leader. They highlight the benefits of using the DISC test to understand themselves and their team members better, promoting understanding and empathy. They also discuss the positive impact of active listening and effective communication in resolving conflicts and improving relationships. They emphasize the value of continuous learning and the benefits of joining a leadership coaching group.
remarkableresults.biz/e888
The Google Nerds’ Guide to Streamlining Your Business [RR 887]
AJ Nealey and Joe Hanson discuss the use of Google Workspace in their businesses. They explore the different applications within Google Workspace, such as Google Meet, Gmail, Google Sheets, Google Docs, Google Slides, Google Calendar, and Google Drive, and how they utilize them for communication, document storage, and collaboration. They also discuss the benefits of controlling intellectual property, and the efficiency and organization that Google Workspace provides.
remarkableresults.biz/e887
New Age Employees Require A New Way of Thinking [AW 176]
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.
remarkableresults.biz/aw176
S.O.B: Son of Boss [THA 344]
Carm Capriotto hosts a panel discussion on family businesses, specifically focusing on the challenges faced by sons of bosses (SOBs). Andrew Marcotte and Anthony Campanella share their experiences of working in their family businesses and the unique dynamics that come with it. They discuss the perception of nepotism and the importance of earning respect and value in their own right. They also discuss leadership development, work-life balance, communication, and succession planning in family businesses.
remarkableresults.biz/a344
Acquiring and Transforming a 72 Year Old Business [AW 171]
Jon Kloosterman, the Director of Operations at West Side Service in Zeeland, discusses their recent acquisition of a business and their approach to training and retention of technicians. The acquired business had been a pillar in the community for 72 years and was ready for a change in ownership. Jon also highlights the importance of maintaining professionalism and focusing on the right KPIs in your business.
remarkableresults.biz/aw171