Sinopsis
Automotive Aftermarket Success Stories
Episodios
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A Genius Move - Playing Games With Your Community [E148] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
16/04/2025 Duración: 25minWant to create marketing that actually excites your customers and keeps them coming back for more? In this episode, host Brian Walker and co-host Kim Walker sit down with Robert Morton from Panhandle Eurotech to uncover how a simple treasure hunt turned into a marketing powerhouse, boosting website traffic, improving SEO rankings, and creating a stronger connection with their community.Robert shares how his shop designed a treasure hunt that got people actively searching for clues, engaging with their website, and following their business more closely than ever before. From increasing customer interaction to enhancing their shop’s online visibility, this strategy has proven to be a game-changer.You'll hear wild stories from past treasure hunts, how people got hooked, and why this strategy keeps working time and time again. Plus, we dive into the impact of gamification, creative ways to engage your audience, and how to build a marketing strategy that actually works for your shop.Don't miss this episode, tune i
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Beyond Kumbaya: 3 Steps to Real Employee Buy-In [RR 1035]
15/04/2025 Duración: 23minThanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Recorded at the 2025 Institute Summit, workplace culture expert Dr. Jessica Kriegel discusses her data-driven framework for boosting business performance through clarity, alignment, and accountability, anchored by her "Results Pyramid," which highlights how beliefs and experiences shape outcomes. The discussion unpacks what truly defines organizational culture, the power of storytelling to inspire change, and challenges common generational stereotypes in the workplace, advocating instead for a focus on individual motivations and behaviors. Dr. Jessica Kriegel, Chief Strategy Officer of Workforce and Labor for Culture Partners Dr. Jessica Kriegel is driven by data and defined by results. She transforms corporate culture for success. As seen on CNBC, MSNBC, CNN, NBC, FOX Business, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and more, Jessica is a household name for all workplace, labor, leadership, women in the workplac
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Proving Everyone Wrong - Drew Van Der Weide Speaks Up! [E038] - Speak Up!
14/04/2025 Duración: 35minThank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeOne of the greatest joys for our team at ARN and this show is to welcome listeners of “Speak Up” to join us and SPEAK UP as a guest along with our host, Craig O’Neill!Today’s guest is Drew Van Der Wiede.A Service Manager from Mahomet Car Connection in Mahomet, IL - Drew recently attended VISION 2025 for his 3rd time!Drew was also one of the brave attendees who took the stage in the course titled: SPEAK UP - Effective Communication! (Fun Fact - The course title, inspired in co-operation with Chris Cloutier, pre-dated this podcast!)Working through his nerves, Drew gave his first ever speech to a room of 80 people. His speech stood out because he shared a story about personal triumph over adversity after being told by doctors, due to a condition, that his left arm would never be useful. Yet, Drew functioned for years as a heavy-repair specialist prior to his current role as a Service
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Are You Ready to Sell Your Auto Repair Shop? with Jim Parker from The Auto Repair Boss [E208] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
14/04/2025 Duración: 33minThe Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermindSHOW NOTESConnect with Chris: chris autofixsos.com Phone: 940.400.1008 www.autoshopcoaching.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ AutoFixAutoShopCo Connect with Chris: chris autofixsos.com Phone: 940.400.1008 www.autoshopcoaching.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae www.autoshopcoaching.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/
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Labscope Essentials: From Ball Joints to Diagnostics [THA 428]
11/04/2025 Duración: 30minThanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class 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. Tim Iezzi, Iezzi’s Auto Service, Reading, PA Ira Waldman, Mallue's Automotive, Manasquan, NJ Watch Full Video Episode TST Big Event 2025: https://www.tstseminars.org/ "Labscope Essentials for the Ball Joint Guy" 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM on May 3-4, 2025. $495 per person (includes food and refreshments) Event Address: MACS Training Facility- 225 S Broad St, Lansdal
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Finding Lost Money with Alex Saladna - WickedFile [E165] - Business By The Numbers
10/04/2025 Duración: 38minThanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and PromotiveWhat if your auto repair shop is losing money every single day — and you don’t even know it? In this episode, Hunt sits down with Alex Saladna, CEO of Wicked File, to talk about the hidden financial leaks happening in shops just like yours and how AI is helping owners plug those holes fast. From missed parts and uncredited returns to unauthorized purchases, we dive deep into how real shop owners are using Wicked File to save thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours every month.Whether you're a single-location shop or managing multiple rooftops, this episode shows you why "doing it manually" might be costing you way more than you think.Alex Saladna, WickedFileIn this Episode, you'll learn: How Alex's family-owned shop lost $180,000 in just 6 months — and what sparked the creation of Wicked FileThe real financial leaks you're probably missing — and why statement reconciliation isn’t enoughWhy even large, wel
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We're Gonna Beat This Horse To Death [E147] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
09/04/2025 Duración: 38minMarketing isn’t just an expense, it’s the key to growth. In this episode, host Brian Walker talks with Chris Cotton live from Vision about how strategic marketing has fueled massive revenue growth in his newly acquired shop.Chris shares why he’s dedicating a significant budget to Google Ads, SEO, and Facebook brand-building and how Local Service Ads (LSAs) are bringing in high-quality leads at a low cost. They discuss the role of smart marketing investments, Google rankings, and paid advertising in driving long-term success.If you want to know how much you should be spending on marketing and how to make every dollar work for you, tune in now and learn how to scale your shop with the right strategies! Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal will help yougrow your auto business and you can learn more at RepairPal.com/shops.Are you ready to convert clients to members? App fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Buil
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John Thornton Part 1 [E181] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
09/04/2025 Duración: 53minThanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingShow Notes:Introduction & Sponsor MessageSponsored by NAPA AutoTech Training – Helping shops turn general technicians into profitable team members.Matt introduces John Thorton, a highly respected instructor and presenter in the automotive industry.Early Days & MentorshipMatt and John reminisce about their first meeting in January 2020 at a training event in Minneapolis.John’s early influence through his Underhood Service Magazine columns, which shaped Matt’s diagnostic approach.Key articles that impacted Matt:Trigger Modes (Auto vs. Normal/Lab)In-Cylinder Pressure Testing (using a Fluke PV-350 transducer)Current Probe Diagnostics (Fluke ADI-110S)Diagnostic AwakeningsJohn’s guidance helped Matt diagnose a shorting fuel injector on a 1987 Chrysler Conquest Turbo, leading to a deeper understanding of inductive kick.Importance of post-repair testing to solidify learning.Documentation & Knowledge SharingJohn’s method of annotating wiring diagrams and keeping
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Life Lessons From a Leader: Margaret Palango’s Battle and Blessings [RR 1034]
08/04/2025 Duración: 41minThanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Margaret Palango, CEO of Autoshop Solutions, shares her unexpected diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in May 2023. In this powerful episode, she shares the emotional and physical hurdles she faced, the intensity of her treatment, and how she stayed grounded through it all with a positive mindset. Margaret highlights the critical role of a strong support system and how her team, resilience, and leadership helped her navigate one of life’s toughest battles. Her story is a moving testament to the strength of the human spirit. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with motivation, hope, and meaningful life lessons. Margaret Palango, CEO Autoshop Solutions. Margaret's previous episodes HERE Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Introduction and Celebration (00:00:00) Margaret's Introduction (00:02:18) Understanding AML (00:02:30) The Importance of Positivity (00:06:18) Treatment Navigation (00:07:32)
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Family Dynamics in the Auto Industry with Maryann Croce [037] - Speak Up!
07/04/2025 Duración: 48minThank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeIn our episode today:Craig is talking about family business dynamics with Maryann Croce - Fellow Toastmaster at Remarkable Results Toastmasters, fellow Transmission Repair professional, and industry friend who knows the good - but understands the struggle so often described when you combine business and family.Fittingly…Today’s Word of the Day is:Neoptismnep·o·tismnounthe practice among those with power or influence of favoring relatives, friends, or associates, especially by giving them jobs.Maryann brings a well earned perspective to this topic and presents many practical tips for families to work better together.Listeners will particularly benefit from hearing Maryann’s three questions for business owners to ask before bringing in family members. By the conclusion you’ll be ready to better support, value, and listen to our family colleagues - making for a stronger communication and culture
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The Monopoly Mindset: How to Think Big and Expand Your Auto Repair Business [E207] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
07/04/2025 Duración: 10minThe Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermindSHOW NOTESThroughout the episode, Coach Chris covers a range of pivotal topics that are crucial for business growth and sustainability. He discusses the potential benefits of real estate investments, drawing parallels to the Monopoly board where acquiring properties can lead to increased revenue and long-term financial gains. Additionally, he explores the concept of financial diversification, encouraging shop owners to explore various avenues for generating income beyond thei
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Movies, Motors, and Mayhem: Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2025 [THA 427]
04/04/2025 Duración: 41minThanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2025, expect discussions on industry trends, Arkansas accents, automotive training, towing experiences, key programming, future business plans, the potential impact of AI on diagnostics, and the Tech Talks class at Vision 2025 - with a few fun detours into movies like 'The Wolf of Wall Street,' 'Predator,' and 'Rocky!' Matt Fanslow, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN, Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Podcast Zeb Beard, Strokes Diesel and Automotive, Monticello, AR, strokersdiesel@gmail.com Andrew Sexton, ATS Automotive LLC, Cedar Rapids, IA Andrew Sexton Watch Full Video Episode Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/ Introduction and Event Overview (00:00:00) Movie References and Banter (00:01:11) Zeb Beard's Business Expansion (00:02:51) Podcast Anniversary Reflection (00:03:55) Discussion on Towing Operations (00:06:50) Weather Impact on Towing (00:07:25) Battery Issue
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How Much Do I Need to Retire? [E164] - Business By The Numbers
03/04/2025 Duración: 33minThanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive“Do I have enough to retire?”It’s the question every business owner eventually asks—but most never answer. In this episode, Hunt breaks down why your retirement isn’t about hitting a number… it’s about building a life you don’t need to escape from.What You'll Learn:Why there’s no universal retirement number (and what to focus on instead)The simple formula to estimate how much you really needHow Social Security, real estate, and your business really factor inThe danger of carrying debt into retirementWhat the book Die With Zero teaches us about using our time and money wiselyThanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it. After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the
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You're Not Spending Enough Money On Marketing [E146] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
02/04/2025 Duración: 31minBrian and Parker dive into how strategic marketing investment can drive real growth for auto repair shops. Parker shares how increasing his marketing spend transformed his business, leading to record-breaking profits and industry recognition. They discuss why many shop owners hesitate to spend more on marketing and how cutting back can actually slow growth.They break down the balance between brand-building and direct response marketing, highlighting how both contribute to long-term success. Parker shares insights from industry peer groups and how analyzing successful shops’ financials helped him refine his own strategy. They also explore how even small adjustments in marketing spend can make a big impact.They explain what it takes to turn marketing into a growth engine, from increasing car count to boosting profitability. With real-world insights and proven strategies, they make the case for why now is the time for shop owners to commit to smarter marketing investments.Thank you to our friends at RepairPal fo
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Mailbag Episode: Multimeters, Electrical Diagnostics and Drivability Tricks [E180] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
02/04/2025 Duración: 31minThanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Matt Fanslow dives into listener-submitted questions, covering:Multimeter recommendations (why he prefers insulation testers/meggers over basic DMMs).Electrical diagnostic strategies (schematics, scan tools, and stress-testing circuits).The "Flat Rate Test Drive" (a drivability diagnostic trick for load/PID analysis).Gaming picks (Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster).Scan tool advice for techs doing more drivability work.Timestamps:(00:00) – Intro (02:33) – Multimeter recommendations: Why Matt avoids basic DMMs and prefers:Fluke 1587 or Pico TA467 (insulation testers for EVs/future-proofing).Used Vantage/Vantage Pro (graphing + scope functions).Curien (Bluetooth-enabled multimeter).(11:44) – Electrical diagnostic process:Start with a wiring schematic.Use a scan tool to check module inputs/commands.Stress-test circuits (e.g., load with a headlight for power/ground checks).Leverage relays for centralized testing (control/output sides).(22:48) –
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From Grandpa’s Invention to Today’s Innovations: A Family Legacy [RR 1033]
01/04/2025 Duración: 27minThanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Recorded at the 45th annual Mobile Air Climate Systems Conference (MACS 2025) in Orlando, Florida, Rob Bollinger shares the unique story of his third-generation family business, emphasizing their commitment to personal service and the legacy of his grandfather, who invented the overflow bottle system. The discussion also touches upon industry trends, the challenges of price competition, the evolution of AC systems with electric vehicles, and Bollinger's future plans for the business. Rob Bollinger, ABC Radiator, Baltimore, MD. https://www.facebook.com/abcradiator401 Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode MACS Training Event & Trade Show: https://macsmobileairclimate.org/ National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF): https://wp.nastf.org/ Koura: https://www.kouraglobal.com/ Honeywell: https://www.honeywell.com/us/en Introduction to MAC Conference (00:00:00) Guest Introduction: Rob Bollinger (00:02:17) Ro
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Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo Speech Workshop Takeaways with Chris Cloutier [E036] - Speak Up!
31/03/2025 Duración: 45minThank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeIn this episode, Craig O’Neill features his guest, friend, CEO, and co-presenter from Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo, Chris Cloutier!Vision came and went so quickly - it became necessary for these two to coordinate a stop, sit down, and reflect on their takeaways from the Speak Up - Effective Communication Speech Workshop they led at VISION this year.As with most things - there are unexpected outcomes, and the positive outcomes from this course ‘reverberated’ throughout the week.Friendships were forged - Fellowship ensued - Fears were confronted.Today’s Word of the Day (by the way):Reverberationnounprolongation of a sound; resonance.a continuing effect; a repercussion.Chris and Craig Converse on many topics here:Observations on the interactions post-course with attendees who were more familiar with each-otherHow this was unique compared to other class experiencesWhy this was SO GOOD to do this
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From Ghosting to Growth: Overcoming Hiring Challenges [THA 426]
28/03/2025 Duración: 38minThanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2025, this episode features a discussion with the co-founders of Promotive, a company focused on recruiting and placing qualified technicians and service advisors. The conversation explores the challenges shops face in hiring, such as ineffective job postings and candidate ghosting, and how Promotive aims to streamline this process by handling initial screening and interviews. Lisa Coyle and Joelle Pollak emphasize the importance of cultural fit and fair compensation for successful placements, also advising shops on creating positive work environments. The discussion also touches on the value of ongoing training, shop management systems, and the significance of evaluating employee attitude and performance using a structured approach. Lisa Coyle, and Joelle Pollak Co-Founders, Promotive: https://gopromotive.com/ Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/
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Where Are My Customers? [E163] - Business By The Numbers
27/03/2025 Duración: 24minThanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and PromotiveIs your shop struggling with fewer repair orders and dropping sales? It may not be about losing customers—your clients could just be driving less. In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, walks you through a real-life example of how customer driving behavior (and simple mileage tracking) revealed critical insights for a struggling $2M shop. Learn how to use your own data to better understand your customer base, track hidden metrics, and adjust your strategy—before your bottom line takes another hit.In this episode:Why fewer visits doesn’t always mean fewer customersHow to calculate mileage trends using your shop management systemThe difference between customers and repair orders (hint: it matters)How remote work and economic shifts impact car care habitsHow to conduct a customer behavior audit—without creeping them outAction steps to track spending per mile and make smarter business decisionsThanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS Did you k
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Google's Local Service Ads - Everything You Need To Know [E145] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
26/03/2025 Duración: 35minBrian and Hallie break down Google Local Services Ads (LSA) and how auto repair shops are using them to bring in more leads at lower costs. Unlike traditional Google Ads, LSA charges per lead instead of per click, making it a cost-effective approach to customer acquisition. Some shops have reported leads as low as $7 per call.They cover how to set up LSA, key verification steps, and ways to optimize a shop’s Google Business Profile for better rankings. The discussion also explores how specialty shops can use LSA effectively and when Google Ads might still be useful.With LSA now open to auto repair shops nationwide, early adopters have a clear advantage. Brian and Hallie explain how to make the most of it and why now is the best time to get started.Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal is the key that unlocks more business for your repair shop. Learn More at RepairPal.com/shops.AppFueled makes marketing easy. It’s a CRM designed for auto repair shops with tools like se