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.
remarkableresults.biz/a330
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.
remarkableresults.biz/e853
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
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
Revving Up Car Care: Inside Look at Rad Air Complete Car Care [AW 156]
5 Secrets to a Successful Automotive Shop. Efficient Layout, Comprehensive Services, Honesty and Openness, Strong Company Culture and Attention to Client Service. Rad Air’s waiting area is a cut above the rest. With a fireplace, high tables for laptops, and free wifi and refreshments for customers, they ensure their client that theyare comfortable while waiting. They understand that client service is just as important as the repair itself, and they do everything they can to make the client experience a positive one. remarkableresults.biz/aw156
Listen and view episode notesToxic Cultures, Leaders and Team Members [AW 155]
As leaders, we all know that culture is important, but how often do we take the time to really analyze and shape it? Culture is the company’s personality, starting with the leadership team. Michael Smith discusses the significance of culture and offers advice on how to become a better leader. However, toxic culture can hold a company back. Michael advises leaders to identify toxic elements and people in their company and take action to eliminate them. He emphasizes that leaders must be held accountable for the core values and purpose of the company, and they must take action to ensure that the company’s culture aligns with these values.
remarkableresults.biz/aw155
How EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Changed My Business [THA 325]
AJ Nealey, Jennifer Hulbert, and Carl Hutchinson discuss their experiences with implementing EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) in their businesses. They highlight the benefits of EOS, such as increased accountability, better communication, and improved productivity.
remarkableresults.biz/a325
Consistency and Common Sense Trumps Trendiness [AW 154]
Andy Bizub emphasizes the importance of common sense and listening in the automotive industry. It’s essential to be open to new ideas and ways of doing things while maintaining consistent business practices and providing real value to employees. By listening to employees and encouraging them to share their thoughts and insights, businesses can thrive and succeed in the ever-evolving industry.
remarkableresults.biz/aw154
Closed All 10 Locations for Company Summit [AW 153]
Matt Lachowitzer shares his strategy for keeping his team engaged and communicative, including shutting down his business for three days to hold a company meeting. The meeting focused on differentiation, engagement, and culture and included a keynote speaker and team-building activities. The episode highlights Matt’s commitment to creating a fun, engaging workplace culture that fosters collaboration and growth.
remarkableresults.biz/aw153
Internal Company App Gets the Word Out [AW 148]
Communication is full of opportunities and challenges. How do you effectively communicate with everyone in your business, especially if you’re a multi-shop owner? Bill Snow discusses their own internal app and why it is critical in their business.
remarkableresults.biz/aw148
Technology, Network, Systems and Software: Understand the Why and How [RR 830]
Servers, network, VOIP phones, and security, oh my! Recorded live at the 2023 Institute Summit, Jeff Matt and David Boyd discuss phone skills, IT support and identifying inefficiencies and technology risks with your business.
remarkableresults.biz/e830
Forecasting Your Future [RR 826]
The future is here, consolidation is already happening. The middle-level shops will now be at the bottom end of the bell curve. What are the trends at the OEM level? Is Uber/Lyft the fleet of the future? What is the outlook of the changing service aftermarket? Recorded Live at the 2022 Institute Summit, Michael Smith, Brian Bates, and AJ Nealey discuss the future; it is happening sooner than we think.
remarkableresults.biz/e826
Learning How To Grow: Ready for Shop #2 – Nichole Bennecoff [RR 819]
Recorded Live at the Transformers Summit with Nichole Bennecoff, Subie Guys, Traverse City, MI. Find out how growing her business helped reignite her passion for the industry.
remarkableresults.biz/e819
Satellite Location: Diamond in the Rough – Jorge Gilligan [AW 122]
Guest Host and Shop Tour with Jorge Gilligan, Revolution Motor Works, Finksburg, MD.
remarkableresults.biz/aw122
Customer Amenities [THA 291]
Customer amenities aren’t just a snack bar and some coffee k-cups. It takes more to deepen a relationship. My panel of shop owners goes beyond the free wifi and beverages to really wow their customers and make that lasting impression. Amenities are your ultimate marketing tool for your business. Take Note!
remarkableresults.biz/a291
Second Location: Opportunity Knocked – Andy Bizub [AW119]
Guest host and shop tour at Andy Bizub’s new second location in Northbook, IL.
Listen and view episode notesPurchased, Renovated and Reopened in 6 Months – Seth Thorson [AW118]
Guest host and shop tour with Seth Thorson, Eurotech Auto Service, 4 locations in Minnesota. Find out how Seth purchased, renovated, and opened his newest location in 6 months.
Listen and view episode notesWork Happy, Drive Happy [RR 768]
Find out how Marc Pons maintains a “Work Happy, Drive Happy” culture inside his 9 shops. Marc is also the president of ASTA in North Carolina, the Automotive Service and Tire Alliance, the folks who bring you ASTE. Marc explains the importance of setting routines to reinforce your values, it only takes 15 minutes at the beginning of each day. Can your shop spare 15 minutes? I think you can.
remarkableresults.biz/e768
Listen and view episode notesHow Partnerships Work [RR 766]
What does it take to build and maintain a long-term and successful business partnership? Why do so many fail? I’m with Travis Troy and Josh Mullins from Honest Wrenches, and they are debunking the misconception that partnerships in business don’t work. Spoiler alert, just like a marriage, it takes hard work and clear communication with aligned values.
remarkableresults.biz/e766
Update: Training/Future of Hybrids and Ev’s with Craig Van Batenburg [RR 762]
I’m sitting with Craig Van Batenburg, CEO of Automotive Career Development Center [ACDC] and a former repair shop owner, with an update on the pulse of the industry and his business. Is it possible ACDC is the last existing brick and mortar building that operates strictly for training technicians Monday-Friday? Take a seat next to me and tune into our lively discussion as it relates to everything Hybrid and EV.
remarkableresults.biz/e762
Listen and view episode notesAre You Selling Customer Experience or Price? [THA 284]
Price, price, price…our lives seem tied to it. And when it comes to customers, sometimes the price is the only question they feel they can ask. Instead of chalking them up as ‘price shoppers,’ are you using it as an opportunity to build a relationship and educate them on the value of your services? Many struggle with this. My panel discusses ways to make price irrelevant. Stay tuned and shift your perspective on price.
remarkableresults.biz/a284
Listen and view episode notesHow To Build Relationships with Students and Schools [RR 760]
How many schools have you visited recently? What is your relationship like with the teachers, and school counselors? Have you hosted a shadow day at your shop for students? If your answer is no to any of these questions, answer this one: what is stopping you? Thomas Edison once said, “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” Dont miss this opportunity to get involved with your schools and community and properly represent this industry to our younger generation.
remarkableresults.biz/e760
Listen and view episode notesThe Extreme Value of a ‘SWOT’ for your Business [THA 283]
How often are you checking on the overall health of your business with your team members involved? Are you identifying and working on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, known as SWOT? How do you start a SWOT analysis? What are the benefits? How do you find your blindspots? Does knowing your SWOT give you a competitive advantage? My panel takes a deep dive into the value of SWOT and shares their own experiences.
remarkableresults.biz/a283
Listen and view episode notes4 Locations and Growing – Craig Popp [RR 757]
What are the challenges of being a successful multi-shop owner? Is there an ideal scenario to buy more locations? Should you buy an existing business or build from the ground up? I’m with Craig Popp at the 2022 Elite Invitational and each of his 4 locations has a unique story to tell. Keep listening if you are in the market for another shop.
remarkableresults.biz/e757
Listen and view episode notes