Smart Glasses in the Shop: Inside NAPA Autotech’s XcceleratoR Training [THA 478]
Recorded live at VISION 2026, host Carm Capriotto sits down with Matt Crumpton, Director of Program Development at NAPA Auto Care, and Robin Cowie, Creative Technologist, to explore the official rollout of NAPA’s Extended Reality (XR) training program.
The conversation centers around solving some of the industry’s biggest challenges: the ongoing technician shortage, the high cost of tools for new hires, and the need to get technicians productive and billable faster. By leveraging immersive technology that feels familiar to younger generations, NAPA is creating a pathway for new technicians to build skills and confidence in a low-risk, high-impact learning environment.
The XR ecosystem is built around three core technologies. Virtual Reality (VR) delivers immersive, point-of-view training with over 50 lessons focused on essential shop skills, reinforcing the idea that “brakes pay bills.” Using a structured “teach five, test five” approach, technicians develop muscle memory before ever working on a live vehicle. Mixed Reality (MR) bridges the gap between virtual and physical by combining real tools with guided digital overlays, allowing for hands-on practice with built-in support. Augmented Reality (AR) smart glasses bring the technology directly into the service bay, giving technicians instant, voice-activated access to critical information like torque specs, keeping them focused on the vehicle and saving valuable time on every job.
Looking ahead, the platform continues to evolve. Future integrations are expected to include shop management systems, Identifix, and digital vehicle inspections, enabling fully hands-free workflows and even customer-facing video communication directly from the bay.
After successful testing with early adopters, NAPA officially announced at VISION 2026 that its XR training packages are now available for general purchase, offering shops a powerful new way to train, support, and retain the next generation of technicians.
https://napaxccelerator.com/
VISION Hi-Tech Training and Expo: https://visionkc.com/
remarkableresults.biz/a478
General Service Technician Academy: Building Educational Foundation For Tomorrow’s Careers [THA 477]
Recorded live at VISION 2026, this episode highlights the General Service Technician Academy (GSTA), a two-day training program offered at VISION designed to build strong foundational skills for early-career automotive technicians. Host Carm Capriotto speaks with industry leader and shop owner Travis Troy and two young technicians who completed the program about how mentorship and structured training are shaping their careers.
The discussion emphasizes that great technicians are distinguished not by advanced tools alone, but by how well they execute fundamental skills. The GSTA curriculum covers essential, practical topics including OSHA training, lift safety, fluids and oil, tire safety and repair, alignments, thermal management (A/C), and hands-on electrical training.
The academy addresses a critical training gap in the industry through a hands-on learning model that encourages participants to learn it, practice it, and teach it, reinforcing both understanding and communication. Mentorship plays a key role in guiding young technicians who often face unclear career paths and discouraging workplace experiences, helping them build confidence, opportunity, and long-term direction.
Ultimately, the conversation reinforces a culture of continuous learning, highlighting that both new and experienced technicians benefit from revisiting the fundamentals to maintain safety, productivity, and professional growth in an increasingly high-tech automotive industry.
VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/
remarkableresults.biz/a477
Own the Technician Shortage: How One Shop Owner is Transforming Industry Recruitment [RR 1083]
In this episode, Carm Capriotto speaks with Chris Machado, founder of XGen Academy, about a bold new approach to solving the automotive technician shortage.
Machado has developed an intensive 16-week training program that blends virtual reality simulations, classroom learning, and hands-on shop experience to accelerate the development of new technicians. At the core of the academy’s philosophy is the “reverse funnel,” which attracts a wide pool of young talent and progressively refines their skills toward professional mastery.
The program goes beyond technical instruction. Through its “Reality Hub,” students also learn essential life and workplace skills, including financial literacy, professionalism, and ethics.
By modernizing the training experience and making automotive careers more appealing to younger generations, Machado aims to build a scalable model that can be replicated nationwide, offering a proactive, high-tech solution for developing the industry’s next generation of technicians.
XGen Academy: https://xgened.email/
remarkableresults.biz/e1083
The Capacity Crisis: What If It Didn’t Have To Be So Hard? [RR 1075]
Krystal Zellmer tackles the capacity crisis facing automotive shop owners, challenging the idea that leadership has to be hard. The conversation centers on self-awareness, highlighting how recognizing automatic behaviors is the first step to becoming a more effective, intentional leader. Using her peanut M&M metaphor, Zellmer explains that while individuals are responsible for their results and emotions, those outer layers do not define their core identity. The discussion also draws a clear line between delegating and dumping, emphasizing that true leadership builds employee “muscle” through training, coaching, and mentorship rather than simply offloading tasks. Ultimately, shop owners are encouraged to see challenges and failures as the necessary “wind” that strengthens their roots and expands both personal and operational capacity.
remarkableresults.biz/e1075
Do You Own a Business or a Job? [RR 1074]
James Stephenson shares his journey from a struggling technician to the leader of multiple successful businesses, offering a candid look at what truly drives sustainable growth in auto repair. The conversation tackles the technician hiring crisis head-on, reframing recruitment as an ongoing, intentional process and rooted in a positive, proactive mindset.
Stephenson credits much of his success to mentorship from Bob Cooper, highlighting how investing in employees as people, not just producers, builds long-term loyalty. By supporting personal goals like homeownership and financial stability, shop owners can create cultures where teams want to stay and grow.
The episode also explores the coming “silver tsunami” of retiring shop owners and why many shops fail to become valuable, sellable businesses. Poor financial documentation and outdated systems often erode enterprise value. The takeaway is clear: with professional coaching and strong shop management practices, an auto repair shop can evolve from a job that owns you into a scalable, high-value business asset.
remarkableresults.biz/e1074
The Four Defining Roles in Your Business Story: Victim, Villain, Hero, and Guide [RR 1073]
Dr. J.J. Peterson, PhD in communications, explains how business owners can elevate their leadership by stepping into the role of the Guide instead of operating as the hero, villain, or victim. Using proven storytelling frameworks, Peterson outlines four core characters, Victim, Villain, Hero, and Guide, and why self-awareness of these roles is critical to effective leadership.
Victims lack agency and believe outcomes are beyond their control. Villains respond to pain by inflicting it on others, gaining short-term power but long-term resentment. Heroes work to redeem pain but are often overwhelmed and unstable—especially when leaders try to play that role in business. The most powerful role is the Guide: a steady, confident mentor who combines empathy and authority to help others win.
Peterson shows that when leaders stop trying to be the hero and instead guide customers and team members, who are the true heroes of the story, culture improves, trust deepens, recruitment becomes easier, and retention increases. The result is the Badass Softie balance: driven leadership grounded in genuine care for people.
remarkableresults.biz/e1073
Women In NAPA (WIN): Building a Supportive Community [THA 441]
This episode spotlights the launch of Women in NAPA (WIN), a new initiative created to celebrate NAPA’s 100th anniversary by empowering women throughout the NAPA family, including shop owners, technicians, warehouse employees, sales team, and corporate team members alike. WIN provides a dedicated networking platform and distinctive “bolt bracelets” to cultivate connections and community. The discussion explores the unique challenges women face in the male-dominated automotive industry, emphasizing the value of mentorship, training, and representation. WIN also aims to inspire the next generation, supporting recruitment efforts and promoting diversity across the industry. With a focus on professional growth, personal development, and work-life balance, the program aspires to help women learn, lead, and thrive.
remarkableresults.biz/a441
Eating Electric: Fueling Your Body for Longevity [RR 1047]
Recorded at the TST Big Event, John Anello passionately advocates for holistic health and nutrition, drawing from personal experiences and research. He shares practical tips on balanced eating, the power of natural, unprocessed foods like homemade beet juice, and the benefits of exercise and lifestyle choices for longevity and disease prevention. The conversation sheds light on common health challenges in the automotive industry and encourages listeners to take charge of their well-being through regular health monitoring, proactive self-care, and informed dietary decisions.
remarkableresults.biz/e1047
Stop Eating Our Young: The Importance of Mentoring [THA 431]
Mike Coley and George Arrants from the ASE Education Foundation address the ongoing technician shortage in the automotive industry. They highlight the importance of education, mentoring, and industry involvement in developing career-ready talent. Coley discusses how ASE certification improves retention and productivity, while Arrants emphasizes the value technicians place on a positive shop culture and proper equipment. The episode urges shop owners to actively support schools, nurture entry-level talent, and create environments that promote long-term career development.
remarkableresults.biz/a431
The Apprentice Equation: Management, Mentorship, and Motivation [THA 430]
Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2025, discover the transformative power of apprenticeship programs in the automotive industry. Learn about the success stories, effective strategies, challenges, and the importance of mentoring in training the next generation of automotive technologists.
remarkableresults.biz/a430
Creating a Working Relationship: Balancing Professionalism and Personal Bonds [RR 1016]
Tune in to hear how mother-daughter duo Kathleen Callahan and Delaney Jarosik navigate their professional and personal lives and the valuable lessons they’ve learned along the way.
This episode is a testament to the power of collaboration, mentorship, and the unique dynamics of a mother-daughter partnership in the business world. Whether you’re looking for professional insights, personal growth tips, or just a dose of inspiration, this conversation has something for everyone.
remarkableresults.biz/e1016
From Military Discipline to Automotive Leadership [RR 1005]
Recorded at the 2024 ASTA Expo, Carm Capriotto introduces Ryan Ragan, the newly appointed executive director of the Automotive Service and Tire Alliance (ASTA). The discussion dives into Ryan’s diverse background in non-profits, biomedical fields, healthcare, and international trade associations. Ryan shares his observations on the automotive industry’s challenges, particularly technician turnover, and outlines his plans to enhance training programs and engage younger generations. Emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interactions and community outreach, Ryan aims to foster a strong, supportive network within the ASTA organization.
remarkableresults.biz/e1005
Strategies for Addressing the Technician Shortage [FTR 103]
Brad Updegraff discusses the pressing shortage of skilled technicians in the automotive industry. Brad shares strategies for training and developing technicians, and the importance of creating strong relationships with local schools. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of flexible compensation plans and support for aspiring technicians.
remarkableresults.biz/f103
Start Thinking About The Industry First, and You Second [FTR 102]
In this episode of For the Record, Maylan Newton tackles the pressing issue of the technician shortage in the automotive industry. Maylan emphasizes the importance of proactive involvement from shop owners and industry representatives in engaging with educational institutions and students. He highlights the need for better representation at vocational events and the necessity of running businesses that attract and retain skilled technicians. Maylan urges the industry to work together to create an inviting career path for the next generation.
remarkableresults.biz/f102
Essential Skill Trades Revolution: Beyond the Degree [RR 985]
“I Went to Yale Law School and Trade School Because American Prosperity Depends on Both Lawyers and Tradespeople.” Darnell Epps
Darnell Epps, a Yale Law School graduate and CEO of Thurgood Industries, and Andy Bizub, owner of Midwest Performance Cars, discuss the importance of skilled trades and the need to promote alternative career paths. Darnell shares his inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing to success, emphasizing the value of vocational schools and education. Andy highlights the urgent demand for skilled workers in the automotive industry. Together, they advocate for greater collaboration between industry, education, and families to bridge the skills gap and create fulfilling career opportunities.
remarkableresults.biz/e985
Smart Advice to New Shop Owners [THA 393]
This episode is packed full of practical advice and personal stories that will resonate with new and aspiring shop owners. From leadership and financial management to team development and continuous learning, there’s something for everyone. Key insights include the significance of self-awareness, the balance between assertiveness and approachability, the value of mentorship, and the necessity of understanding financial health.
remarkableresults.biz/a393
Are You Setting Your Employees Up To Fail? [FTR 095]
By setting realistic expectations, providing necessary support and training, fostering a positive work environment, and maintaining transparency and honesty, business owners can create a more productive and harmonious workplace. Implementing these actionable tips from Kevin Eckler can help reduce turnover, improve employee satisfaction, and ultimately lead to a more successful business.
remarkableresults.biz/f095
Inspiring the Next Generation: How Camp DRIVE Is Shaping Future Automotive Professionals [THA 386]
Tenise and Weston Chapman, owners of Black Hills Tire in Rapid City, South Dakota, discuss their initiative, Camp Drive. This hands-on camp introduces young people to the automotive industry through engaging activities like brake and alignment modules, electrical scans, and engine performance sessions. The Chapmans discuss the Camp’s positive impact on participants, support from local schools and businesses, and plans for expansion. They highlight the importance of inspiring the next generation of automotive professionals and the enthusiastic feedback from both kids and parents.
remarkableresults.biz/a386
“Knowledge Without Theory Is Pretty Worthless.” [THA 385]
Recorded at the NAPA EV Ready Training Center in Canton, OH, Corey Evaldi, Dave Justice, and Matt Fanslow dive into the theory and science of the automotive industry. This episode covers critical topics, including electricity, the importance of proper training, and the principles behind EV components.
remarkableresults.biz/a385
How a Mentor Can Change Your Life [THA 384]
Discover the significance of mentorship with Bill Weaver, a NAPA Autotech Trainer, and his mentor, Jim Dzurik. They share personal stories and insights into their mentor-mentee relationship, highlighting how mentorship has profoundly impacted their lives and careers. The conversation delves into the importance of passing on knowledge and wisdom to the next generation. The episode emphasizes the value of seeking and offering mentorship to foster growth and personal development.
remarkableresults.biz/a384
Auto Allies: Forging an Independent Networking Group [THA 382]
The power of unity and shared purpose.
Automotive industry professionals from Buffalo, New York, discuss their independent networking group’s evolution and impact. They emphasize the importance of continuous learning, support, and the benefits of a collective approach to improving their businesses and the industry. The group’s resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and its commitment to education and community involvement are also highlighted.
remarkableresults.biz/a382
Shop Owner Reacts to His 360 Review From His Team [THA 380]
In this groundbreaking episode, shop owner Brin Kline undergoes a first-of-its-kind 360-degree review by his team. The session unveils insights into leadership, stress management, communication, team dynamics, and the importance of training. Through candid discussions, Brin and his team explore opportunities for growth and improvement, highlighting the value of feedback in enhancing leadership skills and business operations.
remarkableresults.biz/a380
The Courage to Train: From Hawaii to Kansas City [RR 943]
23-year-old Evan Hansen, a young automotive professional from Hawaii, shares his enthusiasm for attending (by himself) Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo and the invaluable in-person training he received. Find out what classes Evan attended and how he met shop owner Jim Fleischman, who took Evan under his wing for the remainder of the conference. The episode is a testament to the industry’s commitment to fostering professional development, training, mentoring, and camaraderie among its members.
remarkableresults.biz/e943
Mentorship, Training and the Rise of Specialists [E941]
Recorded Live at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo, Rich Falco, and bilingual trainer Oscar Gomez, dive into the critical role of mentorship and training in the automotive industry. They discuss the rise of mechanical and technology specialists and the necessity for continuous education to keep pace with evolving technology. The conversation underscores the importance of experienced mentors guiding newcomers, advocating for a culture shift from traditional challenges to supportive mentorship.
remarkableresults.biz/e941
Leadership in Times of Transformation [RR 933]
Dr. John Passante and Dr. Thomas Litzinger, titans of the automotive aftermarket industry, steer through the intricacies of professional development and organizational strategies. Some key takeaways: Innovation is non-negotiable, education is critical, and leadership makes the difference.
remarkableresults.biz/e933