Technicians Archives - Remarkable Results Radio https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-tag/technicians/ Automotive Repair Business Success Stories Mon, 15 Jun 2026 18:49:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://remarkableresults.biz/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/cropped-site_icon-32x32.jpg Technicians Archives - Remarkable Results Radio https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-tag/technicians/ 32 32 2026 Automotive Training Trends Every Professional Shop Owner Needs to Know [RR 1096] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1096/ Tue, 16 Jun 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1095/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

How are automotive technicians learning today, and who is investing in their future?

Matt Shepanek, President of the ASE Training Managers Council (ATMC), discusses the findings of the 2026 ATMC Benchmark Survey. The survey offers valuable insight into technician education, training preferences, emerging technologies, and the industry’s commitment to continuous learning.

The conversation highlights significant differences between dealerships and independent repair shops, reveals what technicians most want to learn, and reinforces why ongoing professional development remains essential in an era of rapidly advancing vehicle technology.

What You’ll Learn

  • How dealerships continue to lead the way in training investment, paying for technician education 85% of the time, while many independent technicians still share the cost or pay out of pocket.
  • Why Hybrid/EV systems and Electrical/Electronics training top the list of requested subjects as vehicle technology continues to evolve.
  • What the survey reveals about technician learning preferences and why hands-on, instructor-led training remains the gold standard despite the growth of online education.
  • The wide gap in annual training hours, from technicians receiving no structured education to others completing more than 56 hours each year.
  • Why continuous learning has become a business necessity, not an option, for shops hoping to remain competitive and profitable.

The 2026 ATMC Benchmark Survey reinforces a simple truth: the future belongs to technicians and shops that embrace lifelong learning. As vehicles become increasingly dependent on advanced electrical systems, software, hybrid technology, and diagnostics, professional development is no longer a luxury. Shops that invest in training, provide access to relevant education, and foster a culture of continuous improvement will be better positioned to attract talent, improve performance, and thrive in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.

Download the 2026 ATMC Benchmark Survey: https://bit.ly/4aOaigM

Matt Shepanek, President, ASE Training Managers Council (ATMC)

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> Anyone Can Teach, But Not Everyone Can Educate: Lessons from 30 Years in Automotive Training [RR 1095] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1095/ Tue, 09 Jun 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1094/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

Carm Capriotto sits down with Todd Fortier, retiring automotive professor and program coordinator from Illinois Central College, to discuss a lesson learned over three decades in education: anyone can teach, but becoming a true educator requires purpose, empathy, and continuous growth.

Todd shares how his passion for education was sparked by helping students experience those breakthrough “lightbulb moments” and why the ultimate goal of teaching is not simply delivering information, but ensuring meaningful knowledge transfer. As he prepares for retirement, Todd reflects on the challenges facing automotive education and his mission to help develop the next generation of industry instructors.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why technical expertise alone doesn’t make someone an effective instructor
  • How educators can improve knowledge transfer and student engagement
  • Todd’s “Three C’s” framework: Concern, Cause, and Correction
  • Why connection, empathy, and vulnerability are critical teaching tools
  • How to identify the root causes behind student disengagement
  • The importance of recognizing the personal challenges students bring into the classroom
  • Why many students leave training programs early and how educators can help retain them
  • How trainers and mentors can evolve into true educators
  • The soft skills needed to successfully connect with today’s students and technicians

The best educators do more than share information, they build relationships. Todd Fortier’s career demonstrates that teaching is most effective when instructors combine technical knowledge with empathy, curiosity, and genuine human connection. As the automotive industry works to address technician shortages and workforce development challenges, creating better educators may be one of the most important investments the industry can make.

Todd Fortier, Professor/Program Coordinator, Illinois Central College, ToddFortier@techtoteacher.com

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> From Data to Loyalty: How AI and Hospitality Are Redefining Shop Growth [THA 488] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a488/ Fri, 05 Jun 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a487/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

What happens when artificial intelligence meets world-class customer hospitality?

In this episode of Remarkable Results Radio, host Carm Capriotto welcomes Mike DelaCruz, CEO of Overdryve Marketing, and Michelle Tansey, co-founder of Euro Clinic, for a forward-thinking discussion on how auto repair shops can use AI, data, and intentional customer experiences to build stronger businesses.

From using AI as a strategic business assistant to creating a luxury-level customer journey that rivals brands like Ritz-Carlton and Nordstrom, Mike and Michelle share practical insights on what separates average shops from elite operations. They explain how predictive marketing, operational excellence, and deeply embedded core values can transform customer retention and long-term profitability.

What You’ll Learn

  • How AI can serve as your shop’s “big brain” to improve decision-making and uncover blind spots.
  • How predictive marketing can forecast car count, identify customer churn, and improve campaign performance.
  • The concept of the “NASA Shop” and what elite automotive operations do differently.
  • How Euro Clinic creates unforgettable customer experiences through personalized hospitality.
  • The importance of building systems and processes around your shop’s core values.
  • Why strong operations must come before marketing success.
  • How small communication changes can dramatically improve customer trust and confidence.
  • The role data plays in making better business decisions and reducing emotional guesswork.

The future belongs to shops that combine technology with humanity. AI can provide unprecedented insight into customer behavior and business performance, but lasting success still comes from exceptional service, consistent operations, and a culture built around caring for people. The shops that embrace both innovation and hospitality will be the ones that stand out, retain customers, and thrive in the years ahead.

Mike DelaCruz, CEO Overdryve Marketing

Michelle Tansey, Euro Clinic, Santa Clara, CA.
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS
NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class
Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/
Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI
Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty
You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/
Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> Stop Hiring in Panic Mode: Build a Recruiting Pipeline for Your Shop [RR 1094] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1094/ Tue, 02 Jun 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1093/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

Host Carm Capriotto welcomes Chris Lawson, founder of Technician Find, to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing independent auto repair shops today: finding and keeping great technicians.

Chris explains why many shop owners fall into what he calls “fire alarm syndrome,” waiting until a technician leaves before starting the hiring process. That reactive approach often leads to rushed decisions, poor hires, and ongoing turnover. Instead, he advocates for an “Always Be Recruiting” mindset, where shops continuously build relationships with potential candidates long before they have an opening.

The conversation explores practical strategies for becoming a destination workplace, creating a recruiting pipeline, and building a culture that attracts top talent in a competitive market.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why reactive hiring creates costly staffing problems
  • How to build a bench of pre-qualified technicians before you need them
  • Why becoming “10-mile famous” can help attract both technicians and customers
  • How culture-focused marketing can outperform traditional help-wanted ads
  • The three things technicians value most: respect, growth, and compensation
  • Why sign-on bonuses often fail and how to structure them more effectively
  • Practical ways to engage passive candidates who are not actively job hunting
  • Resources available through Chris Lawson’s free online community for shop owners

The best time to recruit a technician is before you need one. Shops that continuously market their culture, build relationships with local talent, and maintain a pipeline of qualified candidates are better positioned to grow, avoid staffing emergencies, and create a workplace where top technicians want to stay. Recruiting is no longer an occasional task. It is an ongoing business strategy.

Chris Lawson, TechnicianFind.Com

Love your shop? Stay, but stay ready. Auto techs join to level up, find good shops, and keep tabs on top indie jobs nationwide. Techs only. No BS. Independent Wrench Jobs: https://www.skool.com/independentwrenchjobs

Finding Technicians Part 1- Chris Lawson [RR 803]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e803/

Finding Technicians Part 2 – Chris Lawson [RR 816]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e816/

Technician Attraction Blueprint [RR 921]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e921/

Attract, Develop, and Retain Top Automotive Talent [CC 113]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/cc113/

Beyond Babysitters: Developing Strong Managers and Financial Transparency [RR 1076]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1076/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto

Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/

Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976

Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider

All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books

Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom

Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm

 

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> When Personal Stress Walks Into the Shop: How Leaders Protect Performance [THA 487] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a487/ Fri, 29 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a486/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

Are you tired of telling your staff to “leave their problems at the door”?
The reality is, what happens outside the shop often follows employees into the bays, the service counter, and every customer interaction throughout the day. Financial pressure, family struggles, burnout, stress, and emotional fatigue all impact confidence, communication, productivity, and sales performance, whether leaders recognize it or not.

In this insightful episode, Rena Rennebohm, CEO of Empowered Advisor, and service advisor coach and shop owner Rachel Spencer, challenge the old-school mindset of “leave your problems at the door” and explore what modern leadership really looks like in high-performing repair shops.

The strongest shops aren’t built only on process and productivity; they’re built on leaders who understand people.

What You’ll Learn

  • How personal stress impacts sales performance and customer communication
  • Why technician morale directly affects advisor confidence and trust
  • The connection between emotional stability and shop productivity
  • How great leaders identify performance struggles before KPIs decline
  • Why empathy and accountability must work together
  • The importance of daily check-ins and emotional awareness
  • How negativity spreads through shop culture and how leaders can stop it
  • Why “soft skills” have become essential leadership skills in auto repair

When employees feel supported, understood, and valued, communication improves, confidence grows, and performance follows. This episode offers practical insights for shop owners and managers who want to protect team performance, strengthen culture, and lead more effectively in today’s high-pressure auto repair environment.

Rena Rennebohm, CEO and Creator of Empowered Advisor. Rena’s previous episodes HERE.
Rachel Spencer, Spencer’s Auto Repair, Krum, TX. Rachel’s previous episodes HERE
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS
NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class
Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/
Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI
Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty
You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/
Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> From Guesswork to Process: Modern Diagnostic Strategies for Auto Repair Shops [RR 1093] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1093/ Tue, 26 May 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1092/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

Recorded live at the 2026 TST Big Event, Carm Capriotto sits down with automotive trainer Ken Zanders to discuss the importance of ongoing technical education, building efficient diagnostic processes, and adapting to rapidly evolving vehicle technology. Ken explains why too many shops still rely on a chaotic “grocery list” approach to repairs and how a structured diagnostic strategy can dramatically improve technician efficiency, profitability, and customer trust.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why inefficient diagnostic habits directly reduce technician productivity, shop profitability, and overall earning potential.
  • The importance of following a structured diagnostic workflow instead of guessing and replacing parts.
  • How electronic relative compression testing with a lab scope and amperage probe can reduce diagnostic time from hours to minutes.
  • How modern vehicle technologies like GM’s Vehicle Intelligence Platform (VIP) and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates are changing diagnostics and repair procedures.
  • Why continuous education is no longer optional for automotive professionals working on today’s advanced vehicle systems.

The biggest takeaway from this episode is that repair shops cannot afford to operate in constant chaos and guesswork. A reactive “grocery list” approach to diagnostics leads to wasted time, unnecessary parts replacement, lower profits, and poor customer outcomes. To succeed in today’s increasingly complex automotive industry, shop owners must create a year-round training strategy that helps technicians diagnose efficiently, think critically, and continuously improve their skills. Structured processes, modern testing methods, and ongoing education are no longer advantages; they are necessities for survival and growth.

TST Big Event: https://tstseminars.org/

Ken Zanders, Dorman Training

Don’t Base Your Success On Probability – Ken Zanders [RR 822]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e822/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto

Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/

Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976

Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider

All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books

Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom

Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm

 

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> The Rise of the Specialist: Redefining Automotive Professionalism [THA 485] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a485/ Fri, 15 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a484/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

Host Carm Capriotto is joined by shop owners Craig Noel, Brett Beachler, and Tom Palermo for an important discussion on how “The Rise of the Specialist” is moving from idea to implementation inside automotive repair shops across the industry. Written by Carm Capriotto, “The Rise of the Specialist” is a growing movement and declaration designed to elevate the language, image, professionalism, and culture of the automotive service industry.

In this episode, the panel shares how they are actively implementing “The Rise” within their own businesses, from changing terminology and redefining job titles to elevating customer communication, shop presentation, and team culture. The conversation highlights the real-world challenges and successes of shifting away from outdated labels like “mechanic,” “wrench,” and “technician” and embracing the more professional and accurate title of “specialist.”

Carm explains that this movement is more than a branding exercise; it is a professional evolution aimed at helping the industry better reflect the expertise required to service today’s highly advanced vehicles. Modern automotive professionals are diagnosticians, calibration experts, technology specialists, and problem-solvers operating in one of the most sophisticated skilled professions today.

Throughout the discussion, the shop owners explain how adopting the language and principles of “The Rise” has strengthened team pride, improved customer trust, and helped create a more professional identity within their organizations. The panel also explores how service advisors play a key role in communicating the value of diagnostics, testing, and specialist-level expertise to clients in a way that builds understanding and confidence.

The episode draws powerful comparisons to professions like medicine and culinary arts, emphasizing that automotive specialists deserve the same respect given to highly trained experts in other industries. Just as chefs and medical specialists earn recognition through mastery and continuous education, today’s automotive professionals must also be seen as specialists whose expertise protects the safety and reliability of every vehicle entrusted to them.

“The Rise of the Specialist” has already gained momentum throughout the industry. Carm’s signature keynote, The Rise of the Specialist, has been delivered to influential audiences across North America, including the ASE Board of Governors, Ford Motor Company, and hundreds of forward-thinking automotive professionals.

What You’ll Learn

  • Why “The Rise of the Specialist” was created and what it represents
  • How shop owners are implementing “The Rise” in their businesses
  • Why the industry must move beyond outdated titles like “technician” and “mechanic”
  • How language shapes customer perception, professionalism, and team culture
  • The role service advisors play in explaining specialist-level diagnostics and repairs
  • How hospitality, presentation, and communication strengthen customer trust
  • Why this movement can help attract the next generation of automotive professionals

This episode demonstrates that “The Rise of the Specialist” is no longer just a concept; it is becoming a real cultural shift within the automotive industry. By adopting language that reflects expertise, elevating professionalism throughout the customer experience, and embracing the identity of the specialist, shop owners are helping reshape how the industry sees itself and how the world sees it.

Download ‘The Rise of the Specialist’: https://remarkableresults.biz/rise
Craig Noel, Sun Automotive, Springfield, OR. Listen to Craig’s previous episodes HERE
Brett Beachler, Beachler’s Vehicle Care & Repair, Peoria, IL. Listen to Brett’s previous episodes HERE
Tom Palermo, Preferred Automotive Specialists in Philadelphia, PA. Tom’s previous episodes HERE
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS
NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class
Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/
Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI
Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/
Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty
You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/
Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> Why ADAS Calibrations Are Being Ignored in Auto Repair Shops [THA 484] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a484/ Fri, 08 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a483/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

Recorded live at the 2026 TST Big Event, host Carm Capriato sits down with shop owners and industry trainers Keith and Liz Perkins for a candid conversation about the evolving future of automotive repair. From the growing demand for private, hands-on training to the dangerous misconceptions surrounding vehicle calibrations, Keith and Liz share hard-earned insights from the front lines of the industry. They also pull back the curtain on how they successfully balance multiple businesses, a family farm, and life as entrepreneurial partners, all while staying deeply committed to technician development and industry advancement.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why more shop owners are bringing trainers directly into their facilities for personalized, hands-on education
  • How the flat-rate pay system can unintentionally discourage accurate diagnostics and proper repairs
  • The critical importance of vehicle calibrations and why skipping them creates major safety concerns
  • A real-world story of how Keith and Liz challenged a dealership that failed to properly calibrate a vehicle after repairs
  • How Keith’s mobile diagnostics team operates as the “Navy SEALs” of the automotive industry, tackling the most complex repair challenges
  • The productivity systems, AI tools, and organizational habits that Keith and Liz use to manage multiple businesses and family responsibilities
  • Their perspective on partnership, marriage, and entrepreneurship, including why success is rarely a perfect 50/50 split
  • Updates from the NASTF board, including a new mobile app designed to simplify D1 security processes

This episode is a powerful reminder that professionalism in the automotive industry extends far beyond fixing vehicles. It requires continuous education, accountability, clear communication, and a commitment to doing the job correctly, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient. Keith and Liz Perkins demonstrate how technical excellence, strong systems, and true partnership can create lasting impact both inside and outside the shop.

TST Big Event: https://tstseminars.org/

Liz and Keith Perkins, Previous episode HERE.

L1 Automotive: https://www.l1diagnostics.com/

L1 Automotive Training: https://l1training.com/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class

Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/

Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI

Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty

You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> Turn Your Parts Spend Into Team Rewards with the NAPA Team Tool Rebate [THA 483] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a483/ Fri, 01 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a481/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

Recorded live at the VISION 2026, host Carm Capriotto sits down with shop owner Pete McNeil and NAPA Auto Care leaders Jason Rainey and Lauren Briggs to break down the impact of the NAPA Team Tool Rebate program. Listen to a powerful real-world example of how the program can energize a team, strengthen culture, and reward performance in meaningful ways.

What You’ll Learn

  • How the NAPA Team Tool Rebate program helps offset the high cost of technician tools while building a stronger shop culture
  • How Pete McNeil turned a $13,000 rebate into a memorable, morale-boosting experience
  • Why the shift from “tech tool rebate” to “team tool rebate” gives owners flexibility to reward the entire team, not just technicians
  • Creative ways shops can use rebate funds, from individual tool purchases to shared equipment, and even community support like vocational schools
  • How the program aligns the front and back of the shop, encouraging team-wide support of purchasing decisions
  • What’s ahead for the program, including improved tracking, communication, and enhanced buying power through supplier partnerships

The NAPA Team Tool Rebate program is more than a financial incentive; it’s a strategic tool for building culture, driving alignment, and showing appreciation in a tangible way. When used intentionally, as demonstrated by Pete McNeil, it can transform routine business spending into a powerful investment in people, boosting morale, loyalty, and long-term shop success.

VISION Hi-Tech Training and Expo: https://visionkc.com/

Pete McNeil, McNeil’s Auto Care, Sandy and Riverton, UT. Pete’s previous episodes HERE

Lauren Briggs, Sales & Marketing Director. NAPA Auto Care. Lauren’s previous episodes HERE

Jason Rainey, Vice President NAPA Auto Care. Jason’s previous episodes HERE

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class

Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/

Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI

Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty

You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

]]> Detective Mind Mapping: A Forensic Approach to Automotive Diagnostics [RR 1089] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1089/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1087/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

Recorded live at the TST Big Event 2026, host Carm Capriotto sits down with Andrew Fischer, shop manager at Cergizan’s Auto and Truck Repair in Northwest Indiana, and an industry trainer. Andrew shares his disciplined, process-driven approach to diagnostics, his passion for technician development, and why shop culture plays a defining role in long-term success. From daily habits to big-picture philosophy, this conversation is a roadmap for building more confident, capable technicians.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why committing to at least 40 hours of continuous education each year can dramatically reduce comebacks and improve shop performance
  • How to build learning into daily routines: whether through short practice sessions, webinars, or online training resources
  • The power of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and why “going rogue” in diagnostics leads to inefficiency
  • How Andrew’s “detective mind mapping” technique helps technicians visually organize problems and accelerate accurate diagnoses
  • Why revisiting foundational knowledge is critical and how ego often prevents technicians from mastering the basics
  • How embracing failure strengthens diagnostic ability and builds real-world expertise
  • The importance of capturing and studying “known good” vehicle data to improve accuracy on future repairs

Great diagnostics is about discipline, process, and constant learning. Shops that invest in their people, reinforce foundational skills, and create a culture where failure fuels growth will not only solve problems faster but build stronger, more resilient teams.

TST Big Event: https://tstseminars.org/

Andrew Fischer, Cergizan’s Auto and Truck Repair, Burns Harbor, IN.

Fischer Automotive Consulting and Training Services: factsautomotive@gmail.com

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> Meet Paige: The Auto Repair Industry’s First 24/7 AI Recruiter [THA 481] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a481/ Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a479/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

Recorded live at the VISION 2026, this episode of Remarkable Results Radio features host Carm Capriotto in conversation with Lisa Coyle, Co-founder and CEO of Promotive, and Stacey Black, Account Manager at Promotive. Together, they unpack one of the most urgent challenges facing the automotive repair industry today: how to attract, hire, and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive and fast-moving market.

What the Episode Covers:

The “Ghosting” Problem in Hiring:

  • Why candidates are applying to 15-20 shops at once
  • How speed of response determines who wins the hire
  • The growing impact of declining soft skills like communication and accountability

The Role of Shop Culture in Retention

  • Why culture must be intentional, not assumed
  • Simple, low-cost ways to build connection and loyalty
  • Ideas like celebrating milestones, supporting families, and investing in training
  • How strong culture reduces turnover and attracts better talent

Introducing “Paige” The Industry’s First AI-Powered Recruiting

  • Promotive’s virtual recruiter designed for the automotive industry
  • Instantly engages candidates via text after they apply
  • Conducts a guided, conversational pre-screening interview
  • Captures key data: experience, commute, current benefits, and pay expectations

A Live Demo of AI in Action

  • Carm roleplays as a technician to demonstrate Paige’s capabilities
  • Shows how natural, fast, and effective the process is

The 24/7 Hiring Advantage

  • Why candidates often apply after hours, and how Paige captures them in that moment
  • Real-world success, including dozens of completed interviews over a holiday weekend
  • Faster engagement leads to fewer drop-offs and better-qualified candidates

Hiring today requires more than posting a job and waiting. The shops that succeed are the ones that move quickly, communicate clearly, and create a culture people want to be part of. By combining intentional leadership with innovative tools like AI recruiting, you can reduce friction in the hiring process, improve retention, and ultimately build a stronger, more committed team.

VISION Hi-Tech Training and Expo: https://visionkc.com/

Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/
Lisa Coyle and Stacey Black, https://gopromotive.com/ 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class

Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/

Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI

Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty

You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

– Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/

– Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

– Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976

– Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto

– Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/

– Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/

– Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz

– Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider

– All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books

– Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom

– Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm

– Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

– The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

– Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

– Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

– The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

– The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

– Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm

 

 

]]> Smart Glasses in the Shop: Inside NAPA Autotech’s XcceleratoR Training [THA 478] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a478/ Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a477/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

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 & Expo: https://visionkc.com/

Matt Crumpton, Director of Program Development, NAPA Auto Care

Robin Cowie, Creative Technologist, AI, VR, AR, Content Producer/Director. https://skillmaker.ai/

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class

Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/

Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI

Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty

You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

– Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/

– Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

– Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976

– Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto

– Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/

– Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/

– Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz

– Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider

– All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books

– Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom

– Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm

– Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

– The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

– Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

– Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

– The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

– The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

– Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm

 

 

]]> Is Your Shop the Problem? Hard Truths from the Voice of the Technician Survey Results [RR 1084] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1084/ Tue, 24 Mar 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1082/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

Host Carm Capriotto speaks with Jay Goninen, co-founder and president of WrenchWay, about insights from the 2026 Voice of the Technician Survey and what it reveals about the state of the automotive workforce.

Jay encourages shop owners to download the free report to uncover blind spots and start meaningful conversations with their teams. The data show that technicians strongly prefer a four-day, 10-hour workweek with no weekends, along with proper equipment, paid vacation, retirement benefits, and paid training.

While dealership technicians made up a larger share of respondents, independents stood out in workplace culture. 63% of independent technicians would recommend their shop to a friend, compared to 36% at dealerships, though dealerships scored higher in providing paid training. Across both groups, technicians favor an hourly wage plus bonus structure, which many feel better supports diagnosticians than traditional flat-rate systems.

The discussion also highlights a troubling trend: the industry’s Net Promoter Score dropped to -60 in 2026, signaling that many technicians would not recommend the profession to others.

To strengthen the talent pipeline, Jay discusses ASE Connects, a new initiative aimed at connecting shops with high school and technical school automotive programs to support them through mentorship, advisory roles, and community engagement.

Carm also advocates elevating the profession by shifting the language from “mechanic” or “technician” to “specialist,” emphasizing the expertise required to work on today’s vehicles.

Overall, the episode serves as a wake-up call for shop owners to use the survey insights to evaluate their culture, communication, and work environments, and to become employers technicians are proud to recommend.

https://wrenchway.com/resources/2026-voice-of-technician-survey-report/

Jay Goninen, Co-Founder and President, WrenchWay

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

– Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/

– Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

– Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976

– Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto

– Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/

– Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/

– Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider

– All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books

– Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom

– Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm

– Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

– The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

– Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

– Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

– The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

– The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

– Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> General Service Technician Academy: Building Educational Foundation For Tomorrow’s Careers [THA 477] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a477/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:00:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/a475/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today’s Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty

Watch Full Video Episode

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/

Travis Troy, Honest Wrenches, Akeny and Des Moines, IA. Listen to Travis’ other episodes HERE

Kreon Golden, All Star Automotive, Columbia, MO

Jose Franssen, Skalackys Auto Repair, Fargo, ND

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Today’s Class

Optimize training with Today’s Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today’s Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/

Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI

Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/

Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty

You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

– Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/

– Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

– Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976

– Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto

– Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/

– Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/

– Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz

– Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider

– All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books

– Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom

– Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm

– Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

– The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

– Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

– Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

– The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

– The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

– Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm

 

 

]]> Own the Technician Shortage: How One Shop Owner is Transforming Industry Recruitment [RR 1083] https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1083/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 05:15:00 +0000 https://remarkableresults.biz/captivate-podcast/e1082/

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

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/

Chris Machado, Circle M Tire & Auto and Circle M Truck Repair Bakersfield, CA.

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care

NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/

Connect with the Podcast:

– Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/

– Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

– Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976

– Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto

– Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/

– Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/

– Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider

– All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books

– Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom

– Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm

– Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections

– The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

– Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/

– Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

– Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

– The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

– The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix – Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

– Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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