Feelings Don’t Fix Cars: Action Over Emotion in Shop Leadership [RR 1063]
Tonnika Haynes, owner of Brown’s Automotive in Chapel Hill, North Carolina—a family business founded by her father, William Brown, in 1980—joins us for a conversation recorded live at the ASTA Conference in Raleigh, NC. Together, we explore the powerful and defining mentorship that shaped both her leadership and her legacy.
Tonnika shares that she never worked for her “dad,” she worked for William Brown, the business leader. That separation became clear when, early in her ownership, she faced her first major crisis: losing a key employee.
When she called her father for guidance, it wasn’t “Dad” who picked up; it was William Brown. His advice was blunt but transformative. Instead of sympathy, he challenged her: “What would you do if they got hit by a bus? You can’t sit in it, move forward.”
It was a defining moment that taught her the importance of separating emotion from action. As William often reminded her:
“We don’t have time for feelings right now. We have time for fact and action.”
“Feelings don’t fix cars. Facts and movement fix cars.”
This heartfelt episode highlights the power of tough love, mentorship, and maintaining emotional discipline in business. Tonnika’s story is a testament to how strong roots and even stronger lessons can prepare the next generation to lead with both heart and backbone.
remarkableresults.biz/e1063
A Professional Face Lift: Why the Automotive Generalist Model is Broken [RR 1062]
Joe Marconi, former shop owner, Elite Worldwide coach, is defining the challenge in today’s automotive aftermarket: the need for specialization.
The End of the Generalist Era
– Modern vehicles are too complex for the “all makes, all models, all repairs” approach. Marconi shared that when he tried doing everything—from transmission rebuilds to diagnostics—profitability disappeared. The time, training, and tooling required simply didn’t make sense.
Specialization: The Smarter Path Forward
– Like medicine’s cardiologists and neurologists, automotive professionals must focus their expertise. Specialization boosts productivity, profit, and performance while creating better outcomes for customers.
Redefining Professionalism and Language
– Replace “mechanic” or “tech” with “technologist” or “specialist.”
– Use precise titles like “calibration specialist” to build client confidence.
– Adopt “Essential Skilled Occupation (ESO)” to better reflect the professionalism of today’s technicians.
Building Career Paths and Attracting Talent
– Specialization creates clear career pathways and helps combat the technician shortage, offering young people a profitable, purpose-driven alternative to a four-year degree.
Listeners can explore Carm’s evolving document, The Rise of the Specialist—now in its 23rd version—online. https://remarkableresults.biz/rise
remarkableresults.biz/e1062
From Alignment Dilemma to ADAS Center: Say Yes When Everyone Else Says No [THA 455]
How much should you invest in your shop? Forget the spreadsheets! We’re challenging the conventional wisdom of ROI with three industry titans who discuss building resilience, culture, and high-tech expertise in any market. We sat down at ASTA 2025 in Raleigh with Matt Fanslow, Tommy Markham, and Zeb Beard to dive deep:
– The Constableville Paradox: Hear from Tommy Markham about investing in full ADAS calibration equipment for a town that “has exploded to 300 people” and has no stoplights. His motivation? Simply “doing the job right” and ensuring local body shops don’t have to flatbed cars 35 miles away. Tommy also stands firm on pricing, refusing the “$99 alignment dilemma.”
– The Zeb Beard Investment Strategy: Zeb Beard reveals why traditional ROI calculations are sometimes useless: you can “talk yourself out of buying anything”. His massive 62,000 square foot shop (which once had clouds inside and includes nine bedrooms) is itself a “worldwide marketing tool.” When in doubt, Zeb’s famous advice is always: “Pull the trigger!”
– Navigating Volatility: Since COVID, Zeb notes that business graphs now fluctuate wildly between record high months and record low months. The solution? Being resilient and focusing on “doing the right thing.”
The conversation also explores the balance between working in and on the business, the importance of continuous learning, and how authenticity and integrity keep shops resilient through economic swings.
remarkableresults.biz/a455
Do We Need A License To Calibrate Vehicles: The Professionalism Gap [RR 1061]
Scott Brown shares his insights on key challenges in the automotive aftermarket, including ADAS, EV maintenance, and industry adoption.
ADAS Calibration and Liability
Scott emphasizes the importance of proper ADAS calibration, required by manufacturers after certain repairs. Skipping it exposes shops to liability, and he advises refusing jobs if required calibration is declined. Despite its necessity, the industry adoption is low.
EV Tooling and Safety
While basic shop tools suffice for many EV services, high-voltage work demands safety training and PPE.
Looking Forward
Using his aviator metaphor of “runway,” Scott stresses that shops must evolve, specializing in ADAS and EV maintenance to stay competitive as EVs become the future of mobility.
Scott’s insights make one thing clear: the automotive industry is changing fast, and shops that embrace ADAS and EV expertise now will be the ones leading the market tomorrow. Staying informed, trained, and prepared isn’t just smart—it’s essential for long-term success.
remarkableresults.biz/e1061
Building an Essential Skilled Automotive Career [RR 1060]
This episode explores how the automotive industry can attract and retain skilled professionals by transforming both its language and its workplace culture. The words we use shape public perception, influence recruiting, and build long-term respect for the profession.
Beyond language, the discussion dives into the physical and cultural environment of repair shops. Topics include maintaining clean, professional spaces that foster pride, offering work-life balance to prevent burnout, and ensuring fair pay progression with clear career paths.
To build a sustainable future, the automotive industry must evolve in how it speaks, works, and cares for its people.
Professional language, modern environments, fair pay, education, and a sense of pride in quality will redefine automotive careers as essential, respected, and rewarding.
remarkableresults.biz/e1060
The Silent Profit Killer: Inconsistent Processes [THA 452]
Too many shops rely on inconsistent, informal methods of “this is how we did it yesterday.” The result? Fluctuating outcomes, missed opportunities, and daily frustration. Imagine four technicians completing a Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) in four different ways, which can be confusing for staff, stressful for owners, and costly for customers. The solution is a unified process that everyone follows to deliver consistent results. “Without systems, the owner becomes the system.” Every decision rests on the owner’s shoulders, trapping them in the daily grind. Leaders must shift from being “needed” to being “required”: their role is to create the environment for success, not micromanage.
Systems Win Wars: As Carm Capriotto said, strong systems are the foundation of a profitable and enjoyable business.
Breaking Free from Chaos: Inconsistent methods (“this is how we did it yesterday”) lead to stress, missed opportunities, and fluctuating results.
The Owner’s Dilemma: Without systems, the owner becomes the system. Matt Wagg’s injury showed the necessity of trusting people and processes.
Profit Through Process: Profitability is tied directly to defined, repeatable steps. Systems also eliminate business “friction” and make operations easier.
Key Benefits of Documented Processes: Faster, smoother training & onboarding. Clear accountability for both staff and owners. Ongoing continuous improvement to adapt and grow
Empower Your Team: Trust the people you’ve hired. Give them processes and training, then step back. Empowered teams drive success, customer satisfaction, and owner freedom.
Takeaway: Strong systems aren’t just about profit; they create happier teams, better customer experiences, and sustainable growth.
remarkableresults.biz/a452
2025 Voice of the Technician Survey: Addressing Industry Pain Points [RR 1058]
What does the future of the automotive repair profession look like through the eyes of technicians themselves? Jay Goninan unpacks Wrenchway’s annual Voice of Technician survey with 4,700+ responses, revealing a concerning drop in satisfaction, but also a roadmap for improvement.
Key Insights:
Technician Sentiment: 50% wouldn’t recommend their shop, with negativity dominating social media.
Career Development: Technicians want visible growth paths, certifications, and new specialized roles like ADAS or EV diagnostics.
Compensation: Pay remains the top frustration. Shops need profitability strategies and flexible pay plans (61% prefer hourly/salary with bonus).
Culture & Tools: Proper equipment, work-life balance, and intentional team-building are critical to retention.
Professionalism: Shifting language from “mechanic” to “specialist/technologist” elevates the industry’s perception.
Leadership & Communication: Shop owners must ask “why,” listen to technicians, and implement meaningful change.
Download: https://wrenchway.com/resources/2025-voice-of-technician/#download-report
This isn’t just about attracting new talent; it’s about creating workplaces where technicians feel valued, respected, and see a future in the industry.
remarkableresults.biz/e1058
Business By The Numbers: Insights Into Auto Shop Benchmarks [THA 451]
The conversation draws on insights from the 2025 Paar Melis Benchmark Report, built from verified financials and survey data from hundreds of shops. The report reveals what top performing shops are doing differently and where common challenges remain.
Key Takeaways:
Paar Melis Report Insights: Get a real world look at what drives profitability, efficiency, and growth across the industry.
Track the Right Metrics: Focus on gross profit, productivity, and expense management.
Use Benchmark Reports: Compare your numbers to industry averages to spot strengths and weaknesses.
Seek Expert Guidance: Professional input helps shop owners interpret data and optimize results.
Adapt to Grow: Success comes from knowing your numbers and being willing to adjust processes.
remarkableresults.biz/a451
Recruiter’s Playbook: Overcoming Ghosting and Hiring Roadblocks [THA 450]
Ghosting, when candidates or employers suddenly stop communicating, is one of the biggest frustrations in the automotive hiring process. It impacts everyone, from fresh tech school grads to 30-year veterans, and makes filling roles even harder.
For Candidates
Be Honest: Shops value transparency about skills and areas for growth.
Make a Strong Impression: Be punctual, dress appropriately, and communicate delays.
Stay in Touch: Keep recruiters and shops updated, communication builds trust.
For Shop Owners
Move Fast: Top technicians field multiple offers. A quick verbal offer after a strong first interview can secure them.
Be Clear: Write detailed job ads that set expectations and filter unqualified applicants.
Mind Your Reputation: Shop appearance, online reviews, and culture shape candidate perceptions.
Show the Opportunity: Highlight training, career growth, wages, and benefits beyond just pay.
Prepare for Counter Offers: Be ready to show long-term value when candidates get tempted to stay put.
Recruiters like Promotive help both sides by prepping candidates for interviews and matching shops with the right cultural and financial fit.
The bottom line: honesty, communication, and speed are the antidotes to ghosting. Treat the hiring process like a first date, make it the start of a strong, lasting connection.
remarkableresults.biz/a450
The Growth Tax: What Every Shop Owner Must Pay to Move Forward [THA 449]
This episode is all about transformation: how coaching, mindset shifts, and strategic decisions can take a shop from survival mode to real growth. Matt Wagg opens up about his journey from being coached by Bill Haas to becoming a coach himself, and the lessons learned along the way about leadership, profit, and purpose.
Key Takeaways:
Coaching Works: It paid for itself almost immediately and pushed Matt into changes that fueled growth.
Listen for Real: True success starts with listening, not just to reply, but to understand.
Differentiate Everything: Even oil changes can be a premium service when properly communicated.
Profit Fuels Growth: Embrace profitability to invest in tools, reward your team, and scale.
Owner’s Mindset: Step out of the bays and into leadership with a clear job description.
Leadership = Responsibility: Owners carry the weight of their team’s livelihoods—accountability matters.
Teaching to Learn: Coaching others deepened Matt’s own understanding and perspective.
And this is only Part 1! Next time, we’ll dive into systems—because “systems win wars.”
remarkableresults.biz/a449
Assume Nothing: Our Duty to Educate and Understand the Next Generation [RR 1051]
In this episode, we’re flipping the script on how we prepare the next wave of talent in the auto repair world.
It’s not just “training” anymore – The future of our industry needs more than just teaching people how to turn wrenches. It’s about real education that prepares them to think, solve, and lead.
The repair bay of tomorrow – Imagine clean, high-tech “surgical rooms” with white lab coats, big screens, and smart tools—where cars are diagnosed like patients.
Let’s make this career sexy – To attract today’s tech-savvy, digital-native crowd, we’ve got to show them this is a career filled with innovation, tech, and opportunity.
Soft skills are a big deal – Communication, confidence, and life skills are just as important as technical know-how.
Training isn’t cheap, and that’s okay – One expert says shops should spend $3,000 to $5,000 a month on education. Yep, even the small ones. Because falling behind costs more.
Leaders: don’t gatekeep – Share your tips, be open to different learning styles, and remember that even the small stuff you know can make a huge difference to someone starting out.
remarkableresults.biz/e1051
Retention Starts with Recognition: Why Pay Is Just the Beginning [RR 1050]
This episode dives into the real challenges of technician retention and why it’s time to rebrand automotive careers, moving beyond the outdated terms “mechanic” or “technician” to embrace the title of “specialist.” Craig Noel unpacks the urgent need to move away from traditional flat rate pay systems and toward compensation models that prioritize fair pay, financial security, and work-life balance. He also shares his own innovative pay structure designed to reward skill and dedication while keeping top talent engaged.
remarkableresults.biz/e1050
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
Rehearse to Win: The Secret to Service Advisor Confidence [RR 1045]
Recorded at the Institute Summit 2025, this episode features brothers Jason and Patrick Brennan in a powerful conversation on leadership, innovation, and growth in the automotive industry. Jason emphasizes redefining training through real-world rehearsal practice for service advisors and technicians, and using “education” language to promote a culture of ongoing development. Patrick brings his marketing expertise to the table, stressing the importance of reputation management and direct response strategies for businesses. Together, they explore how strong leadership, peer networking, and a healthy company culture attract talent and fuel long-term success.
remarkableresults.biz/e1045
Check the Part: Warranty Fraud and Returns [THA 438]
The automotive parts industry faces a disproportionately high return rate compared to other sectors, driven by misdiagnoses, improper installations, and fraudulent returns. This creates a significant financial burden on manufacturers and the entire supply chain. In this podcast, the guests explore these challenges and emphasize the need for stronger collaboration and communication between manufacturers, distributors, and repair shops. They advocate for a “Check the Part” initiative, encouraging thorough quality checks, proper documentation, and accurate diagnosis to reduce return rates. By adopting these strategies and leveraging technology, the industry can improve profitability, reduce inefficiencies, and boost customer satisfaction.
remarkableresults.biz/a438
It’s the Person, Not the Software: Solving Common Shop Management Gaps [RR 1044]
Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo, Ben Dexter sheds light on a common issue: many shop owners are only scratching the surface of what their shop management systems can do. From underutilized tools to overlooked processes, this conversation uncovers the true value of role-based training, strategies for better customer communication, why profit should be seen as a healthy business goal, the impact of digital vehicle inspections (DVIs), why strong service advisors are essential, and the crucial role of inventory control in shop performance. Whether you’re a shop owner, service advisor, or team leader, this episode offers practical takeaways to help your business thrive.
remarkableresults.biz/e1044
Revolutionizing Automotive Training with the NAPA Autotech XcceleratoR [THA 436]
Recorded live at the NAPA NOW event, a panel of industry experts, including Robin Cowie, film producer and former leader of the Madden NFL game franchise, discusses how the NAPA Autotech XcceleratoR Program will revolutionize automotive technician training. This extended reality solution replaces traditional classroom learning with immersive, real-world simulations, enabling faster skill development, higher retention, and reduced training time from months to days. The panel highlights the program’s impact through honest technician beta feedback, showcasing its ability to enhance certifications, boost shop efficiency, track technician progress, attract new talent, and ensure ongoing education and proficiency.
remarkableresults.biz/a436
How One Toolbox Can Change Everything [THA 435]
This episode shares the inspiring story of Andy Roman, a new technician in the automotive industry, and how one toolbox changed everything. At Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2024, Andy was surprised and overjoyed to win a professional-grade toolbox, generously donated by KUKUI and NAPA Auto Care. More than just tools, it represented a boost of confidence and a jumpstart to his career. Shop owner Dan Corcorran highlights the importance of supporting new talent through education, encouragement, and a strong shop culture. KUKUI and NAPA Auto Care are breaking down financial barriers for entry-level techs through scholarships and tool donations—investing in the future of the industry, one technician at a time.
remarkableresults.biz/a435
Emerging Technology? It’s Been Parked in Your Bay for Years [THA 434]
Recorded at the NAPA Now Conference celebrating NAPA Auto Care’s 100th anniversary, this conversation dives into the realities of emerging automotive technologies, especially ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems). The discussion emphasizes the critical need for proper calibration procedures, equipment, and technician training to keep pace with rapidly evolving tech. From static vs. dynamic calibrations to the integration of AR/VR tools, the panel explores the industry’s struggles to adopt new technology and the personal traits, like hyperfocus, needed to thrive in today’s complex diagnostic landscape. The takeaway: adaptation, education, and investment are no longer optional; they’re essential for staying competitive.
remarkableresults.biz/a434
Are You Actively Applying Knowledge Or Passively Consuming Information? [THA 433]
Recorded at the TST Big Event, industry trainers Eric Ziegler and Pete Meier dive into the growing challenges technicians and shop owners face in staying current with technology and why continuous education is no longer optional. The conversation highlights key issues including the liability risks of inadequate training, the double-edged sword of social media as an information source, and the power of peer-to-peer knowledge sharing. Eric and Pete also stress the importance of actively applying what’s learned, not just passively consuming information, and how networking with other professionals can accelerate growth.
remarkableresults.biz/a433
Gamification and Engagement: Innovative Tools to Retain Top Talent [RR 1039]
The episode explores key strategies for improving technician retention in the automotive industry, focusing on work-life balance, continuous education, open communication, and positive workplace culture. David Boyes highlights the Today’s Class app, which uses short, gamified, daily learning for technicians and service advisors to boost engagement. He also discusses his blog, An Automotive Shop Owner’s Roadmap to Technician Retention, which outlines a six-step approach to retention, emphasizing culture, communication, and career development.
remarkableresults.biz/e1039
Solving the Tool Debt Challenge: NAPA’s Game-Changer Team Tool Rebate [THA 432]
Recorded at the NAPA Now Conference celebrating NAPA Auto Care’s 100th anniversary, Jason Rainey, Vice President of NAPA Auto Care, and Matt Crumpton, Director of Program Development, introduce the Team Tool Rebate program, which helps technicians manage tool debt while providing shops with funds to reward and retain talent. The conversation also emphasized NAPA’s apprenticeship and training programs, showcasing the company’s commitment to education, workforce development, and genuine partnerships. Rainey and Crumpton highlight NAPA’s dedication to listening to its Auto Care members and delivering solutions that go beyond parts, aiming to uplift the industry through support, innovation, and strong shop culture.
remarkableresults.biz/a432
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
Labscope Essentials: From Ball Joints to Diagnostics [THA 428]
Tim Iezzi and Ira Waldman introduce their upcoming training class, “Labscope Essentials for the Ball Joint Guy,” designed to build strong foundational skills in labscope diagnostics. Aimed at bridging the gap between hands-on mechanical work and advanced technology, the class offers practical, hands-on learning with ongoing support. Tim and Ira break down the curriculum, target audience, and the importance of real-world application to reinforce concepts. They also highlight the critical role of continuous education and why shop owner involvement is key to technician growth and long-term success.
remarkableresults.biz/a428