RR 177: Joe Hanson from Gordie’s Garage

As far back as he can remember,  Joe Hanson was sweeping floors, running for parts or working in his dad’s shop, Gordie’s Garage from Roseville, MI. For the past 10 years Joe has been managing all the operations.

Joe is proud to be a part of the family business and working alongside his father, Gordie. Joe says, “Being able to help people with their vehicles and giving them a place they can trust is a great feeling.”

Under his father’s leadership he has seen what it really takes to make a business like this work. Gordie is at the business everyday, providing guidance through mentoring Joe and the team.

Gordie Hanson, Founder

Joe has attended Management Success, NAPA training and most recently he is a member of the RLO 20 Group 13. He has served on the NAPA Advisory Council and attended Lawrence Tech University as well as earning the ASE Certification of Service Consultant.

Episode Talking Points:

  • Technician shortage and what he has done to help change the paradigm.
  • Joe’s personal disciplines to keep him focused on daily tasks.
  • He’s big on systems and procedures and being paperless in a large part of his business.
  • The value of his Twenty Group (RLO #13)
  • Personal development of his team.
  • The value that his DVI system has brought him in the last three years.
  • A ‘One-of a kind’ customer service story.
  • His new 2017 profit sharing program for his team.
  • The reason his NAPA DC says he is one of their top customers of cabin air filters.
  • What he is doing to improve customer retention.
  • His look into the future.

Overview of Gordie’s

Years in industry: 25
Years in business ownership: 36
Number of technicians: 4
Number of lifts: 11
Number of bays: 15
Service Advisors: 2
Open Days: Mon-Fri
Annual estimated volume: >$1MM
Other Services: Fleet
Supplier Marketing Program: NAPA Auto Care
Business Coach: RLO – John Wafler & Barry Barrett

Gordie’s Garage Web Site

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This episode is brought to you by Federal-Mogul Motorparts and Garage Gurus. With brands like Moog, Felpro, Wagner Brake, Champion, Sealed Power, FP Diesel and more, they’re the parts techs trust.  For serious technical training and support – online, onsite and on-demand – Garage Gurus is everything you need to know. Find out more at fmmotorparts.com  and fmgaragegurus.com

About the author, Carm Capriotto, AAP

Carm is the founder and host of the Remarkable Results Radio Podcast and the pioneer of automotive aftermarket podcasts. Carm calls on his years of experience in the aftermarket to bring engaging stories from his guests.

Listen to raw, unfiltered, honest, and sincere stories that include insights, trends, best practices, and expertise. Each interview brings an opportunity to learn one new thing through the stories of personal achievement. Many podcast guests tell their story of transformation from working in their business to working on it.

As host of over 1,000 episodes, Carm uses his enthusiasm and passion for the aftermarket especially the service sector to take his listeners on a journey showcasing successful service professionals’ paths to Remarkable Results. He also enjoys interviews with aftermarket industry thought leaders who bring their industry perspectives to his listener.

Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast listening app and always listen to learn just one thing!