Remarkable Results Radio Podcast

Thanks to our partner PromotiveStill judging your advertising budget by a percent of sales? Thinking of buying an alignment rack or even an entire shop? What about paying down that 2.75% mortgage? Hunt is here to challenge your assumptions and break down how ROI—Return on Investment—should guide every major decision you make.In this week’s episode, Hunt pulls back the curtain on the real math behind smart business moves and how most shop owners are getting it wrong by focusing on emotion over numbers. Whether it’s marketing spend, new equipment, or business expansion, he explains how to look at your return like an investor—not just a technician with a calculator.What You’ll Learn:Understanding ROI Beyond the Buzzword(01:16) Why ROI is more than just an acronym—it’s your business’s compass(03:42) What advertising, buying equipment, and paying debt all have in common(06:05) Why emotion-based decisions are costing you real moneyAdvertising ROI: The Most Misunderstood Metric(06:55) The #1 mistake shops make when

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledWhen it comes to community involvement, some shops talk about it and others just do it. In this episode, I sit down with Chris Luoma, third-generation owner of Jerry’s Automotive in Lansing, Michigan, to talk about what it looks like to give back with heart.From car giveaways to Toys for Tots, Chris shares how giving back has become more than just a marketing tactic; it’s part of his shop’s DNA. We talk about the humble beginnings of this family-run business, what inspired their vehicle donation program, and how they’ve given away five cars (and counting) to people who truly needed a hand up.Chris walks us through the process of acquiring and fixing the vehicles, how they choose recipients, what the response has been like, and how it’s created a stronger bond between his shop and the community. You’ll also hear how local news coverage, Facebook engagement, and a little creativity have helped grow their reach, without needing a huge marketing budget.This episode i

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico TechnologyWatch Full Video EpisodeKey Discussion Points:Two Types of Angry PeopleExplosive: Outwardly aggressive (e.g., yelling at a cashier).Implosive: Bottled-up anger that can lead to extreme reactions (e.g., the quiet cashier who "snaps").No One Starts at 100% AngerAnger escalates in stages—people don’t go from 0 to 100 instantly.Triggers (work stress, home life, past trauma) compound over time.Personal Reflection: Parenting & ADHDMatt shares struggles with his son’s ADHD and his own reactive anger.Realization: Frustration often stemmed from unrealistic expectations, not the child’s behavior.Lesson: Awareness is key—but applying knowledge is harder than reciting it.Handling Anger in the WorkplaceFor Leaders/Co-workers:Approach outbursts with curiosity, not defensiveness.Validate feelings without justifying bad behavior.Ask: "What else is going on?" (e.g., home stress, financial fears).For Customers:High-conflict clients may already be at "50%" bef

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode In this episode, we’re flipping the script on how we prepare the next wave of talent in the auto repair world. It’s not just “training” anymore – The future of our industry needs more than just teaching people how to turn wrenches. It’s about real education that prepares them to think, solve, and lead. The repair bay of tomorrow – Imagine clean, high-tech “surgical rooms” with white lab coats, big screens, and smart tools—where cars are diagnosed like patients. Let’s make this career sexy – To attract today’s tech-savvy, digital-native crowd, we’ve got to show them this is a career filled with innovation, tech, and opportunity. Soft skills are a big deal – Communication, confidence, and life skills are just as important as technical know-how. Training isn’t cheap, and that’s okay – One expert says shops should spend $3,000 to $5,000 a month on education. Yep, even the small ones. Because falling behind

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound, ExpressWatch Full Video EpisodeIn this episode - Craig has some fun with an old anecdote that intends to reminds us how important it is to take a customers complaint seriously - even when it sounds absolutely ridiculous!The old story is about a man whose new Pontiac will not start ONLY if he goes and picks up vanilla ice cream… but if he buys other flavors, like strawberry or chocolate.While this story may not be the best case study for a no start diagnostic process - it DOES provide a great moral lesson for taking clients seriously so you can get to the real details and the facts that matter.Grab some vanilla ice cream and enjoy Craig’s take on this story and please consider sharing your own radical stories from the shop to speakeup@craigoneill.net.Communication gaps are almost always prevalent when those strange cases come up - and we’re sure you have a good example that could be worth sharing!The WOTD: Anecdote: A short amusin

Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great. 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/autorepairmarketingmastermindIn ​In episode seven of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton of Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching delivers an insightful discussion on the essential role of shop safety and cultivating a positive work environment for auto repair shop owners and their teams. Chris begins&n

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Camp D.R.I.V.E., (Determination, Resourcefulness, Vision, Enthusiasm) created by Weston and Tenise Chapman of Black Hills Tire, is a powerful hands-on initiative that introduces kids aged 12–15 to the world of automotive technology. Now in its third year, this two-day experience puts young participants in the driver’s seat—changing tires, doing oil changes, welding, and more—across interactive stations. Camp D.R.I.V.E. is changing perceptions about the industry by showcasing its technical, creative, and rewarding sides. The conversation also explores the program’s community impact and offers practical tips for other shops looking to launch something similar, including how to manage costs, secure insurance, and collaborate with local partners. Tenise and Weston Chapman, Black Hills Tire, Rapid City, SD. Listen to previous episodes HERE Show Notes: Watch Full Video Episode

Thanks to our partner PromotiveThanks to our partner PromotiveIt’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. 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 www.gopromotive.com.Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comText Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413Download a Copy of My Books Here:Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/The Auto Repair Marketin

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledYou know that feeling when summer’s barely over, kids are back in school, and suddenly you’re staring down September, wondering what the heck to post on social media? Yeah, that’s where this episode comes in. Brian is back with Caroline Legrand for their monthly marketing prep session, your go-to podcast for staying ahead with smart, simple ideas that actually matter.They’re covering everything from prepping your fall events, tying in national awareness months (like National Preparedness Month), and even having some fun with off-the-wall days like “Talk Like a Pirate Day” and “Bald is Beautiful.” But it’s not just fluff, this episode is packed with real ways to build trust, showcase your shop’s personality, and create content that positions your brand as the go-to in your community.Whether it’s using DVI photos the right way, setting up educational posts, or just being more intentional with your calendar, this episode is all about showing up prepared before your

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingIn this episode, Matt Fanslow reflects on the recent passings of two cultural icons—Ozzy Osbourne and Hulk Hogan—and draws parallels between their careers and the automotive aftermarket industry. Both figures revolutionized their respective fields (music and professional wrestling) through innovation, perseverance, and an unparalleled connection with their audiences. Matt explores what we can learn from their legacies, including the importance of passion, reinvention, and recognizing opportunities outside our comfort zones.Key Discussion Points1. Ozzy Osbourne: The Accidental Pioneer of Heavy MetalOzzy’s final performance at the Power Trip festival, where he performed in immense pain, skipping pain meds to stay present.How Black Sabbath (with guitarist Tony Iommi) accidentally created metal by downtuning guitars after a workplace injury.The importance of appreciating contributions even if you’re not a die-hard fan.The value of knowing how you’ve impacted others (li

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS This episode dives into the real challenges of technician retention and why it’s time to rebrand automotive careers, moving beyond the outdated terms “mechanic” or “technician” to embrace the title of “specialist.” Craig Noel unpacks the urgent need to move away from traditional flat rate pay systems and toward compensation models that prioritize fair pay, financial security, and work-life balance. He also shares his own innovative pay structure designed to reward skill and dedication while keeping top talent engaged. Craig Noel, Sun Automotive, Springfield, OR. Listen to Craig’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Rise of the Specialist - A NEW Language Standard for Auto Repair Specialists: https://remarkableresults.biz/downloads/ Episodic Education (00:01:06) Shop Expansion and ADAS Specialty (00:01:45) Staffing Challenges and Work-Life Balance Shift (00:02:54) From Mechanic to Technician to Specialist

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeIn our episode today:In this episode we’ll hear about Rhonda’s communication journey and how her relationship with Jimmy has lead to a new path speaking and presenting on topics loyal listeners of Speak Up will certainly appreciate.Rhonda Cites George Bernard Shaw with one of her favorite quotes sums:“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”What we say seems clear to us - but as Rhonda will express - misalignment often lurks beneath the surface.Craig asks Rhonda a key question in this discussion:"What would you tell someone who asks you - why should I need to adapt to others?"Topics Include:Gaps in Communication How some chaos is a good thing! (It means there is plenty of demand!)It can be exhausting to adapt to othersThe importance for leaders to show up as a person.A book recommendation:  Crucial ConversationsOur WOTD isAdaptive(Adjective)The adjective "ada

The 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/autorepairmarketingmastermindVisit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great. In episode six of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton expertly guides auto repair shop owners through an in-depth, eight-s

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class This episode features Brakes for Breasts co-founders Leigh Anne Best and Laura Frank, along with Cleveland Clinic researcher Dr. Justin Johnson, as they celebrate the automotive industry’s role in raising over $2 million for breast cancer vaccine research. They share the initiative’s grassroots beginnings, its 100% donation to research model, and provide an update on the vaccine’s progress, highlighting the completion of Phase One trials and the upcoming launch of Phase Two. A key highlight of the campaign: During October, independent auto repair shops across the U.S. offer free brake pads to customers. For every brake service performed, the customer receives their brake pads at no cost and only pays for labor and other parts. In turn, each participating shop donates 10% of the brake service total to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Research Fund. The episode also shares the inspiring story of Jennifer Davis, the first vaccine recipi

Thanks to our partner PromotiveThis week, Hunt Demerast, CPA, dives into three hot-button business questions—each with surprising consequences for your bottom line. From covering weight loss meds for your employees to falling into the payroll HR trap, and even how the IRS is tightening the screws on your gambling losses—this episode breaks it all down, minus the legalese.What You’ll Learn:(00:00:00) Introduction(01:02) Can you write off weight loss drugs like Ozempic for your employees—or yourself?(03:19) The truth about MERPs, HRAs, and what ChatGPT got right and wrong(07:09) The real IRS rule that trips up most owners (hint: it's about fairness)(11:28) Gambling tax rule changes that could cost you—even if you lose(16:04) What triggers a W2-G, and how scratch-offs could land you a surprise tax bill(23:30) Why HR modules from payroll companies are often a waste of money(25:50) A real-life story that cost Hunt money—and why handbooks matter(29:52) What every business owner should review in their employee handb

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledEver meet someone in this industry doing something completely out of the box, and it works? That’s Ben Tilson.Kim sits down with Ben, the second-generation owner of Tilson’s Auto Repair in Rochester, Minnesota. He’s not just growing a solid shop, he’s writing children’s books to spark curiosity and pride in the next generation of technicians. And no, it’s not a gimmick. These books are rooted in Ben’s journey with dyslexia and a passion for storytelling that’s reshaping how kids and their parents see the auto repair world.We dive into the making of Technician Colton’s 10 Steps to an Oil Change and Olivia’s ABCs to a Car, how these books are being shared with local libraries, schools, and families, and how they’re quietly laying the foundation for future techs. His mission is clear: show kids that trades matter, that working with your hands is something to be proud of, and that this industry is filled with real opportunity.But the episode goes way beyond books. We

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingMatt Fanslow dives into an unexpected but fascinating comparison between Jurassic Park and the auto repair industry, exploring themes of chaos theory, unintended consequences, and the importance of foundational knowledge. Drawing parallels from the iconic film (and Michael Crichton’s novels), Matt discusses how small decisions—like cutting corners or skipping fundamentals—can lead to big, unpredictable outcomes in business, careers, and life.Key Topics Discussed:"Your Scientists Were So Preoccupied With Whether They Could, They Didn’t Stop to Think If They Should"How the pursuit of innovation without foresight mirrors challenges in the automotive industry.The dangers of prioritizing profit or speed over sustainability and safety.Chaos Theory & The Butterfly EffectSmall, seemingly insignificant actions can have massive consequences (e.g., a poorly coded security system in Jurassic Park → dinosaur chaos).Applying this to business: How initial conditions (hiring,

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Recorded at the Institute Summit 2025, Tracy Holt and Patrece Holt Vance, a brother-sister duo from a family owned shop, share how their business transitioned into a new era of strategic growth and profitability under their leadership. They credit much of their progress to the accountability and peer support they found through the Institute’s Peer Groups. Tracy and Patrice also open up about the critical role of workplace culture and employee well-being in their success, and Tracy reflects on how a personal tragedy reshaped his "why" and fuels his drive today. Tracy Holt and Patrece Holt Vance, Performance Place, South Jordan, UT Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode The Institute of Automotive Business Excellence: https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/ Don’t Sell, Connect: The Power of Emotion with Your Clients [RR 1032]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1032/ Introduction (00:00:00) Guest Introductions and Family Busin

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeWOTDGregarious gre·gar·i·ousadjective1. (Of a person) - Fond of company sociable.2. (Of animals) - Living in flocks or loosely organized communities3. (Of plants) - Growing in open clusters or in pure associations…No matter the situation you find yourself in, storytelling is one of the most important things we can do to create shared experiences as humans. They help us understand each other, connect with one another, and even learn to empathize or identify with others.Whether it is for business, for humor, or for a moral lesson - a good story is easier for any human audience to focus on and listen to and retain information from and all of this makes stories a powerful tool in your communication tool box.Here is the formula:LA (Location Action) *Helen, our club president suggested we remember this as the story starts in “Los Angeles”)WantObstacleResolutionNext time you have a story to tell: Remember - Lo

The 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: