The Noble Mechanic: Before and After Transformation and Rebranding [AW 166]
In this episode, Reggie Stewart covers a range of topics from dispatching and business operations to shop renovations. Reggie recently undertook renovations at his shop in Kokomo, Indiana, he modernized the colors and feel of the shop to give it an upscale vibe, with the help of an interior designer. He also discusses the importance of building a positive culture and is currently working on creating job descriptions and manifestos for each position to better define expectations and attract the right people.
remarkableresults.biz/aw166
Counterfeit Parts [THA 336]
Get ready for an eye-opening episode as we dive deep into the world of counterfeit parts in the automotive industry. Tanner Brand, a mobile diagnostician and trainer; Bob Stewart, the global brand protection manager for General Motors; and Stephen Kontos, a patent attorney counsel specializing in automotive engineering and software, discuss the implications of counterfeit parts for technicians, shop owners, and large companies. What is the difference between aftermarket parts and counterfeit parts? What are the legal and security risks from obtaining software from gray market or black market websites? It’s clear that this is a complex issue that requires ongoing attention and discussion. Stay tuned for a potential part two of this episode where we’ll continue to explore this topic.
remarkableresults.biz/a336
Hiring Process Explained [RR 865]
Phil Carpenter discusses the challenges of finding good technicians and the constant need for recruitment. Phil maps out the hiring process at Urban Auto Care and Avalon Motor Sports, which includes video interviews and in-person interviews. It’s critical to a good fit for the long term and filtering out candidates who are not willing to go through their hiring process. He also explains the importance of maintaining a sense of urgency in hiring, employee turnover, and recognizing when it’s time to let someone go.
remarkableresults.biz/e865
Embracing Change: Navigating the Electrification Revolution [AW 165]
Dave Hobbs discusses the challenges and changes brought about by electrification in the automotive industry. Dave shares his experience with hub bearing failures, the importance of proper charging cables for electric vehicles and the maintenance requirements of EVs. He also discusses the recently launched ASE Safety Certification and the importance of safety in the industry. It’s an exciting time, and by embracing change and staying curious, technicians can ensure their success in this evolving landscape.
remarkableresults.biz/aw165
Advantages and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence in the Automotive Industry [THA 335]
Tara Topel, Greg Buckley, and Andy Bizub discuss the applications of AI in the automotive industry, focusing on the use of ChatGPT. They share examples of using AI to update handbooks, create repair procedures, educate service advisors, and enhance the customer experience. They also discuss the challenges and potential benefits of using AI in customer-facing interactions. While AI has benefits, it should be used as a supplement rather than a replacement for human connection.
remarkableresults.biz/a335
One Location $2.5M: How We Do It [THA 334]
Shop owners Jimmy Alauria, Joe Hanson, and John Gustafson share their strategies and tactics for achieving exceptional success. The most valuable lesson? The importance of having a strong team, setting goals, and monitoring key performance indicators to achieve success. They emphasize the need for attention to detail, accountability, and hiring the right people, empowering them to lead and demonstrating commitment to the purpose and core values of the business. Tune in to learn more about how to achieve success in this industry!
remarkableresults.biz/a334
Right To Repair NHTSA Update [RR 861]
Lisa Foshee, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and General Counsel for the Auto Care Association, discusses the recent letter from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) instructing auto manufacturers not to comply with the data access law in Massachusetts. This letter has caused concern for those advocating for the right to repair legislation, as it could hinder progress.
But why is the right to repair legislation so important? It allows car owners to have access to the same diagnostic and repair information that dealerships have. This means that car owners can choose where to get their car repaired, and not be forced to go to a dealership for repairs.
remarkableresults.biz/e861
Keeping Up with Technology [THA 333]
As technology continues to advance, it can be difficult for businesses to keep up with the latest tools and updates. This is especially important as it directly affects the quality of service provided to customers. Our panel discusses the challenges of keeping up with technology and shared their tips for staying ahead of the curve. They discuss the need for specialization, individualized training, and networking to solve problems and keep up with new tools and updates.
remarkableresults.biz/a333
Why Is Transmission Diagnostic Training Essential For Automotive Technicians? [RR 859]
Lance Wiggins, Executive Director of ATRA (Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association), discusses the importance of training in transmission diagnostics and the evolving relationship between automotive and transmission shops. He also discusses ATRA’s chapters, which encourage training and communication among members, and the association’s upcoming national training event. The most significant benefit of training attending events like the ATRA Powertrain Expo is the networking that takes place. The buzz and conversations that happen between attendees are invaluable and cannot be replicated on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram. So, rev up your knowledge and invest in yourself by attending training seminars. By doing so, you will provide the best possible service to your customers and stay ahead of the competition.
remarkableresults.biz/e859
How Can Professionalism Improve the Automotive Industry? [AW 161]
Mac Akram, the owner of Mack’s Complete Auto Repair in Chandler, Arizona, discusses the importance of professionalism in the automotive industry, including keeping the shop clean and organized and using digital vehicle inspections to provide better service. Mac believes that raising the standards of the industry is crucial to gaining the trust of customers. Mac also encourages shop owners to invest in training for their technicians.
remarkableresults.biz/aw161
Creating Consistent Routines that Drive Success [THA 331]
Do you find it hard to create consistent routines that drive success? This episode discusses the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and how they can help businesses achieve their goals. Our guests, Jaron Kleber, Chris Machado, and Nick Hively, discuss the positive impact of SOPs on creating a positive culture and improving the consistency of the customer experience. They also discuss the importance of engaging team members and getting their input when creating SOPs.
remarkableresults.biz/a331
Personalized Customer Service and Marketing Strategies [AW 160]
If you’re in the automotive industry, you know it’s not just about fixing cars; it’s about providing exceptional customer service, too. Leigh Anne Best and Bill Hill, owners of Mighty Auto Pro, discuss their marketing strategies that have helped attract and retain customers. They’ve created a customer-friendly environment, providing loaner vehicles, shuttle services, and free towing up to $50.
But it’s not just about the extras. Mighty Auto Pro also emphasizes continuous learning and growth, requiring a minimum of 40 hours of training per year for their technicians. They encourage their employees to pursue their interests and hobbies, even if they are not related to auto repair. This culture of training has grown beyond anything Leigh Anne and Bill could have imagined, with technicians pushing each other to attend classes and improve their skills.
So, what can you learn from Mighty Auto Pro’s marketing strategy? Personalization, exceptional customer service, and a culture of continuous learning and growth can go a long way in retaining and attracting customers. Make everything effortless for the customer, and they’ll keep coming back.
remarkableresults.biz/aw160
Making Dispatch Work [THA 330]
What are the challenges of making dispatch work in the automotive aftermarket industry? Our guests share their experiences with dispatch in their companies, emphasizing communication, flexibility, and teamwork. They also discuss the qualities of a good dispatcher and the need for policies and procedures in unexpected events. They stress the importance of simplifying technical information and building trust with customers. The episode concludes with a discussion of the interaction between dispatchers, customers, and technicians and the immense responsibility that comes with the job.
remarkableresults.biz/a330
The Kids Table: The Next Generation in the Automotive Industry [RR 853]
Are you curious about what it’s like to work for your family in the automotive industry? In this episode, Tracy Capriotto, Sara Fraser, and Kent Bullard discuss their journey into the automotive industry, the challenges and pressure to fill their father’s shoes, and the need to find their own paths. They squash the misconception that working for family in the industry is easy and handed to them. It requires hard work and dedication to succeed in the automotive industry, regardless of family connections. They also touch on the challenges of preparing the next generation of professionals in the industry.
remarkableresults.biz/e853
What Does It Take to Become an A-Tech in the Automotive Aftermarket Industry? [THA 329]
What does it take to become an A-Tech in the automotive aftermarket industry? Scot Manna, Matt Fanslow, and Ryan Kooiman share their perspectives, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, individual effort, and natural talent. They also discuss the role of shop owners in investing in their employees’ training and development, as well as the challenges faced by the industry in assessing skill levels. The episode provides valuable insights into becoming an A-Tech and how the industry can support and cultivate talent.
remarkableresults.biz/a329
Turbo Tim’s Garage: From Core Values to Cats, How to Build a Unique Brand [RR 848]
Are you looking for inspiration on how to have fun in your business while building a unique brand? In this episode, co-owners Tim Suggs and Rachel Grewell share their approach to core values and how they recently held a leadership retreat to refine those values. They also discuss the role of cats in their branding and marketing efforts, employee management and training, and community involvement. Tim says, “Being true to yourself and your team is the key to success.” So, let’s all take a page out of their book and strive to be different and true to ourselves in our businesses and lives.
remarkableresults.biz/e848
The Power of Partnership: Liz and Keith Perkins on Marriage and Business [RR 846]
Recorded Live at the TST Big Event 2023. Keith Perkins discusses his presentation at the TST Big Event on electrical theory and the challenges of balancing foundational knowledge with advanced concepts for a diverse audience. We also delved into Liz and Keith’s relationship as a married couple who work together. They discussed their passion for their industry and how it doesn’t feel like work. Bonus: find out how many animals they own!
remarkableresults.biz/e846
Streamlining Workflow: Shop-Ware’s New TechApp for Technicians [RR 843]
Recorded Live at Vision 2023, this episode features Carolyn Coquillette, CEO of Shop-Ware, discussing the release of their new mobile application, TechApp, designed to help technicians manage their work more efficiently. The app allows technicians to view a list of current jobs, track their time on individual services, and easily document findings and results, including inspections. The episode also touches on the challenges of building software for the automotive industry and the importance of customer feedback in the development process.
remarkableresults.biz/e843
Unlocking Technician Earning Potential [RR 842]
Recorded Live at the TST Big Event 2023, Justin Kidd and David Macholz discuss the challenges faced in terms of technician retention, the importance of certification, and the need to change the industry’s perception and promote it as a high-tech profession. They also emphasize the importance of training and education in the automotive industry and introduce IndustryAttends.com, a website created to serve as a centralized hub for industry events and training opportunities.
remarkableresults.biz/e842
Closed All 10 Locations for Company Summit [AW 153]
Matt Lachowitzer shares his strategy for keeping his team engaged and communicative, including shutting down his business for three days to hold a company meeting. The meeting focused on differentiation, engagement, and culture and included a keynote speaker and team-building activities. The episode highlights Matt’s commitment to creating a fun, engaging workplace culture that fosters collaboration and growth.
remarkableresults.biz/aw153
Alignments Taking Longer: Are We Charging Enough? [THA 323]
The automotive industry constantly evolves, with new technology and safety features being added to vehicles each year. Are you investing in technology and education to stay competitive and provide quality service to customers? In this episode, we discuss the importance of charging enough for alignments and educating customers on the need for calibration and maintenance to ensure their safety on the road.
remarkableresults.biz/a323
Unlock the Power of Indeed Resume to Find Technicians Faster [AW 152]
Chris Lawson provides insights on using Indeed’s applicant tracking system effectively and recommends using social media to showcase your company’s values and culture to attract top talent. Chris also discusses the importance of personal connections and using proven methods to find the right technicians.
remarkableresults.biz/aw152
Technology Horizon, Do You See It? [RR 838]
The Automotive Industry: Does the Public Really Know What We Do? [RR 836]
Technician Round Table: Mobile Technicians [THA 321]
Technician Round Table: Mobile Technicians with Matt Fanslow. Is the mobile business a symptom of the industry evolving? What is the future outlook of the mobile repair business? Are shops charging what they are worth instead of a race to the bottom? Is there a need to improve the culture and the atmosphere in shops?
remarkableresults.biz/a321