Are You Actively Applying Knowledge Or Passively Consuming Information? [THA 432]

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today’s Class
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.
Eric Ziegler, EZ Tech Mentors. Eric’s previous episodes HERE.
Pete Meier, Training Manager, Dorman Products. Pete’s other episodes HERE
Show Notes:
- Watch Full Video Episode
- TST Big Event 2025: https://www.tstseminars.org/
- Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)
- Overview of Training Importance (00:01:03)
- Cultural Shift in Training (00:03:04)
- Incentivizing Training (00:04:08)
- Training Formats and Challenges (00:05:00)
- Technician Growth and Retention (00:06:55)
- Advocating for Continuing Education (00:07:40)
- Financial Commitment to Training (00:08:20)
- Cultural Commitment to Education (00:09:24)
- Awareness of Training Resources (00:10:09)
- Networking at Training Events (00:11:19)
- Building a Positive Training Culture (00:12:52)
- Value of Training Experiences (00:14:04)
- Networking Importance (00:14:38)
- Training Takeaways (00:14:59)
- Building a Training Culture (00:18:56)
- Mentorship in the Industry (00:19:05)
- Service Information Awareness (00:21:50)
- Consequences of Ignoring Updates (00:22:39)
- Importance of Accurate Training (00:26:02)
- Battery Maintenance and Diagnostics (00:28:17)
- Technician Homework (00:30:53)
- Social Media’s Role in the Industry (00:31:22)
- Generational Changes in Automotive Skills (00:33:30)
- Quality vs. Price in Automotive Services (00:36:40)
- Vetting Information Sources (00:38:24)
- Making Training Practical (00:41:19)
- The Forgetting Curve (00:42:19)
- Taking Action on Learning (00:43:05)
- Business Perspective on Training (00:43:43)
- Changing Technician Compensation (00:44:53)
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/
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Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
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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/
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About the author, Carm Capriotto, AAP
Carm is the founder and host of the Remarkable Results Radio Podcast and the pioneer of automotive aftermarket podcasts. Carm calls on his years of experience in the aftermarket to bring engaging stories from his guests.
Listen to raw, unfiltered, honest, and sincere stories that include insights, trends, best practices, and expertise. Each interview brings an opportunity to learn one new thing through the stories of personal achievement. Many podcast guests tell their story of transformation from working in their business to working on it.
As host of over 1,000 episodes, Carm uses his enthusiasm and passion for the aftermarket especially the service sector to take his listeners on a journey showcasing successful service professionals’ paths to Remarkable Results. He also enjoys interviews with aftermarket industry thought leaders who bring their industry perspectives to his listener.
Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast listening app and always listen to learn just one thing!