Building Businesses and Believing in Better Days [RR 1043]

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS
Recorded live at the Institute Summit 2025, explore what it truly means to stand out in today’s evolving automotive industry. Cecil Bullard covers major industry shifts, including electric and autonomous vehicles, the growing influence of private equity, and the increasing specialization of shops. Cecil also opens up about leadership, mentorship, and the personal habits that drive success, such as effective time management, the power of “mindless work,” and adapting communication styles using tools like the DISC profile. Packed with real-world advice on business planning, self-belief, and resilience, this episode is essential listening for industry professionals aiming to thrive and lead amidst ongoing change and innovation.
Show Notes
- Watch Full Video Episode
- The Institute of Automotive Business Excellence: https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/
- Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)
- Getting to Know Cecil Bullard (00:01:49)
- Advice and Mentorship (00:04:49)
- Industry Trends and Technology (00:05:19)
- Specialization and Shop Survival (00:06:42)
- Time Management and Productivity (00:08:05)
- Stop Stopping: Overcoming Self-Limitation (00:09:56)
- Personality Types and Communication (00:11:26)
- Future of ADAS, EVs, and Specialty Shops (00:16:56)
- Private Equity and Industry Consolidation (00:18:25)
- Shop Valuation and Selling (00:20:53)
- Planning for Succession and Exit (00:28:22)
- Mentorship and Coaching (00:31:07)
- Lessons to Younger Self (00:33:04)
- Wealth, Security, and Time (00:34:10)
- Career Path and Commitment (00:37:42)
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/
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- 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/
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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!