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By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog0 commentsIt always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
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By carmcapriotto
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/autorepairmarketingmastermind
n this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton delivers insightful guidance tailored specifically for auto repair shop owners. He delves into the effects of spring break on sales, underscoring the significance of having a well-planned marketing calendar to effectively navigate and prepare for seasonal slowdowns that can impact business. Chris enriches the discussion by sharing a personal anecdote about dealing with an aftermarket warranty issue, illustrating the critical importance of maintaining customer trust and satisfaction, even when it presents financial challenges for the business. This story serves as a reminder of the long-term value of prioritizing customer relationships and integrity.
Additionally, Chris provides an exciting update on Project Alpha, a shop he acquired, showcasing its remarkable turnaround in financial performance. He details the innovative staffing strategies implemented, which have contributed to the shop's success and growth. These strategies not only improved efficiency but also fostered a positive work environment, setting a benchmark for other shop owners to follow.
The episode is proudly sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, a company that specializes in providing marketing solutions tailored for auto repair shops. Their expertise helps shop owners enhance their visibility and reach, ensuring they stay competitive in the ever-evolving market.
**Spring Break Challenges (00:01:05)**
In this segment, Chris delves into the seasonal challenges faced by repair shops during the spring break period. He explains how the influx of vacations and travel plans leads to a noticeable dip in sales, as fewer customers seek repairs during this time. To counteract this trend, Chris emphasizes the importance of having a well-structured marketing calendar. By planning promotions and outreach efforts in advance, repair shops can better navigate the slow season and maintain a steady flow of business.
**Doing What's Right for Customers (00:06:31)**
Chris shares a compelling personal experience that underscores the significance of exceptional customer service. He recounts a situation where he had to make a tough decision to prioritize the needs of a customer over immediate profit. This story highlights the long-term benefits of building trust and loyalty by consistently doing what's right for customers. Chris argues that by putting customers first, businesses can foster stronger relationships and ultimately achieve greater success.
**Project Alpha Update (00:10:26)**
In this update, Chris provides an in-depth look at the progress of Project Alpha, the shop he recently acquired. He discusses the financial performance of the shop, noting significant improvements in revenue and profitability since the acquisition. Chris also outlines the operational changes implemented to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. From streamlining processes to upgrading equipment, these improvements have positioned the shop for continued growth and success in the competitive market.
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/ AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
Youtube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
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.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify.
Don't forget to rate and review us!
Connect with Chris:
AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching
www.autoshopcoaching.com
www.aftermarketradionetwork.com
#autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
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/autorepairmarketingmastermind
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. I’d like to give another shoutout to our sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros. They are the only marketing company I recommend, and they handle all of the marketing for my own shop as well. If you’re serious about growth, you need strategies that actually work: better websites, higher Google rankings, and ads that bring real customers through your doors. 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/autorepairmarketingmastermind
In episode 205 of "The Weekly Blitz," host Chris Cotton delves into the themes of personal growth, overcoming guilt, and the pursuit of one's goals. Throughout the episode, Chris opens up about his own experiences, sharing the challenges and triumphs he faced while juggling multiple responsibilities. As a shop owner, Chris had to manage the day-to-day operations of his business, ensuring everything ran smoothly and efficiently. At the same time, he made the courageous decision to return to college, determined to complete his degree and fulfill a long-held aspiration.
Chris discusses the delicate balance he had to maintain between his professional duties and academic commitments. He candidly talks about the guilt he initially felt for dedicating time to his studies, fearing it might detract from his business or family obligations. However, through this journey, Chris learned the critical importance of self-care and the necessity of prioritizing one's own dreams and aspirations. He encourages listeners to pursue their goals with determination and to not let guilt stand in the way of their personal development.
Reflecting on his journey, Chris highlights the profound sense of fulfillment that comes from achieving personal goals. He notes how this accomplishment not only boosts self-esteem but also has a positive ripple effect on overall well-being, enhancing both personal and professional life. By sharing his story, Chris aims to inspire others to take bold steps towards their own dreams, reassuring them that it is possible to balance responsibilities while pursuing personal growth.
The episode wraps up with a sponsorship mention for Shop Marketing Pros, a company that specializes in providing marketing solutions tailored specifically for auto repair shops. This partnership underscores the episode's focus on professional development and growth within the auto repair industry.
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00)
Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its purpose, highlighting its focus on auto repair business insights.
Sponsorship Mention (00:00:59)
Details about Shop Marketing Pros and their services for auto repair shops are discussed.
Reflection on Vision 2025 (00:01:03)
Chris shares his experience at the Vision 2025 event, noting the busy atmosphere among shop owners.
The Importance of Self-Care (00:02:00)
Discussion on the necessity of taking time for oneself as a shop owner without feeling guilty.
Overcoming Guilt (00:03:04)
Chris addresses the guilt shop owners often feel and the importance of prioritizing personal well-being.
Personal Journey to Education (00:05:02)
Chris reflects on his decision to return to college after many years, motivated by personal goals.
Completion of Degrees (00:06:03)
He shares the timeline of his and his daughter's graduation, emphasizing the significance of finishing what you start.
Lessons in Persistence (00:08:26)
Chris discusses the importance of completing tasks and setting an example for his daughter.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action (00:10:30)
Encouragement to pursue personal goals and a reminder of the podcast's sponsor, Shop Marketing Pros.
Connect with Chris:
chris autofixsos.com
Phone: 940.400.1008
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
Youtube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
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.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify.
Don't forget to rate and review us!
Connect with Chris:
AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching
www.autoshopcoaching.com
www.aftermarketradionetwork.com
940-400-1008
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
Email Chris: [email protected]
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
Key Highlights:
Matt reflects on the idea of self-awareness and balance, emphasizing that "everything comes from you" and that we are all part of a larger matrix of experiences and growth.
Vision Conference Recap:
Matt shares his experience at the Vision Conference, where he faced a challenging drive through a snowstorm and crosswinds to get there. He highlights the hands-on training sessions he participated in, including: Key Cutting and Programming Class: Co-taught with Andrew Sexton, where attendees got to physically cut keys and program them using a Honda ignition system. Pico Training: A full day of hands-on training with Scott Shotton, focusing on practical, car-side diagnostics. Tech Talks: Featuring Garrett Jacobson (HP Tuners) and Zeb Beard (Thermal Imaging), both of whom delivered high-energy, informative sessions.
Key Takeaways from Vision:
HP Tuners: Matt learned new functionalities of the tool, even after using it for over five years. Garrett Jacobson’s class demonstrated how intuitive and powerful the tool can be for diagnostics. Thermal Imaging: Zeb Beard emphasized the importance of using thermal imagers regularly, even when it doesn’t seem immediately necessary. His session focused on diesel diagnostics but applied to all vehicles.
Personal Reflections and Connections:
Matt shares heartfelt moments from the conference, including dinners with industry friends like Dan Baumgartner, Matt Hall, Kevin Looney, and others. They reminisced about Harvey Chan, a beloved figure in the industry who passed away too soon, and the impact he had on everyone. Matt reflects on the duality of emotions—being sad about losing someone but happy to share stories and memories.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories:
Matt dives into the importance of understanding the "behind-the-scenes" of how things are created, whether it’s a business, a movie scene, or even a professional wrestling match. He shares an iconic wrestling story about Stone Cold Steve Austin and Bret Hart, highlighting how collaboration and trust led to one of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.
Themes of Authenticity and Sharing Knowledge:
Matt discusses the tendency in the industry to want to feel "special" or to exaggerate success stories. He emphasizes the importance of being honest about how things are achieved, whether it’s diagnosing a tough problem or building a successful shop. He encourages technicians and shop owners to share their real stories, even if they involve luck or being in the right place at the right time.
Filling Your Own Bucket:
Matt reflects on the need for self-validation and filling your own "bucket" rather than constantly seeking external validation. He stresses the importance of being honest with yourself and others, giving credit where it’s due, and taking pride in your work without exaggeration.
Key Quotes:
"Set the freaking thermal imager on your diagnostic cart and start using it, even when you don’t know why." "At some point, you’re going to have to fill your own cup. You’re going to have to be content with yourself." "The real stories, if somebody could tell them, didn’t take away from the magic. It’s the art, the craftsmanship, the creativity that’s magical."
The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
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/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
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/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
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.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
-
By carmcapriotto
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/autorepairmarketingmastermind
In this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton delivers an insightful "state of the industry" update specifically tailored for auto repair businesses. He delves into the current challenges and opportunities facing the industry, starting with the rising vehicle dependability issues that have become increasingly prevalent. As cars age and require more frequent maintenance, auto repair shops are seeing a surge in demand for their services.
Chris also explores the shifting consumer preferences towards more fuel-efficient vehicles, driven by environmental concerns and fluctuating fuel prices. This trend is influencing the types of services and expertise that repair shops need to offer, as well as the parts and technologies they must be familiar with.
Economic factors such as inflation and rising credit card debt are also impacting customer affordability, making it crucial for auto repair businesses to find ways to offer value while maintaining profitability. Chris emphasizes the importance of consistency in business practices, suggesting that shops should focus on delivering reliable service and building customer trust to navigate these economic challenges.
Adapting to the increased demand for repairs on older vehicles is another key point Chris addresses. He advises shops to invest in training and tools that enable them to efficiently service a wider range of vehicle makes and models, ensuring they can meet the needs of their diverse customer base.
Furthermore, Chris highlights the need for improved technician work conditions, recognizing that attracting and retaining skilled technicians is essential for any repair shop's success. He suggests that businesses consider offering competitive wages, benefits, and a positive work environment to keep their teams motivated and productive.
Strategic marketing is another area Chris focuses on, encouraging auto repair shops to leverage digital marketing strategies to reach potential customers effectively. He underscores the importance of a strong online presence and targeted advertising to stand out in a competitive market.
State of the Industry Update (00:01:10)
Chris shares insights on the auto repair industry's current state and trends for 2025.
Vehicle Dependability Study (00:02:17)
Discussion on JD Power's vehicle dependability report and issues with vehicle reliability.
Supply Chain Disruptions (00:03:43)
Ongoing supply chain issues from the pandemic affecting vehicle repairs and parts availability.
Shift in Consumer Preferences (00:06:09)
Consumers are moving from SUVs and trucks to smaller, more affordable cars.
Impact of Inflation on Vehicle Affordability (00:07:25)
Inflation is influencing consumer buying habits and delaying vehicle purchases.
Nissan's Production Changes (00:08:44)
Nissan cuts jobs and production capacity, shifting focus toward electric vehicles.
Tariffs and Their Effects (00:10:06)
Discussion on potential tariffs and their impact on vehicle prices and customer affordability.
Credit Card Debt Concerns (00:11:18)
Rising credit card debt poses risks for customers' ability to pay for repairs.
Production and Supply Chain Challenges (00:12:31)
Expected production drops due to tariffs leading to shortages and delayed repairs.
Market Growth Drivers (00:13:52)
Identifying key groups driving growth in the auto repair market.
Decline of Certain Repair Shops (00:15:20)
Analysis of repair shops losing revenue and market share.
Technician Workforce Insights (00:15:20)
Statistics on technician preferences, job satisfaction, and recruitment challenges.
New Vehicle Sales Trends (00:18:01)
Declining new vehicle sales and shifting mileage to older vehicles.
Aftermarket Growth Opportunities (00:19:22)
Increased demand for repairs on older vehicles presents opportunities for repair shops.
Conclusion and Call to Action (00:20:25)
Chris emphasizes the importance of adapting to industry changes and promotes Shop Marketing Pros again.
Connect with Chris:
[email protected]
Phone: 940.400.1008
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
#autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
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.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
Closing your shop on Saturdays might sound like a risky move, but could it actually improve your business? In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, explores the real financial and operational impact of shutting down on Saturdays. Is it worth it? What factors should you consider before making the switch? Whether you're thinking about a 5-day workweek, reducing hours, or making strategic changes to your shop’s schedule, this episode is packed with insights to help you make an informed decision.
Key Topics Covered:
✅ Why auto repair shops are moving away from Saturday hours
✅ The financial impact of closing on Saturdays—and how to make up for lost sales
✅ How to determine if your shop can afford fewer workdays
✅ The role of employee preferences in business hours
✅ Attracting top talent by offering a 5-day workweek
✅ Strategies to transition customers from weekend scheduling
✅ Real-life case studies of shops that successfully cut their Saturday hours
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
Thanks 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 business. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
Thanks to our partner, Promotive
It’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 Repair
Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
Email Hunt: [email protected]
Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413
Download a Copy of My Books Here:
Wrenches to Write-Offs Your 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 Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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