Cecil Bullard Live From The iScan Conference at The Institute...

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The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
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It 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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The Stories That Shape Us: With Kent Bullard [E018] - Speak Up!
By carmcapriotto

Thank You To Our Partners, The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing and In-Bound
In this episode of Speak Up - our host Craig O’Neill welcomes his friend and Instructor Kent Bullard from the Institute to discuss the impact of stories and speaking. This will be one of many conversations with Kent because, as you will see, these two have a characteristically great time discussing their journeys and share in plenty of hearty laughter. This episode is recommended to be listened to in a hot tub with a green smoothie… this will make more sense as you listen.
This discussion with Kent was framed around both his roles not just as an instructor, but also an attendee, and even a curator of speaking events. Speak Up listeners will enjoy hearing Kent describe the challenge of curating speakers and how the best topics to bring in isn’t always the one people know to ask for.
Craig also takes time in this conversation to describe the lasting impact from professional speakers who were at the Institutes inaugural summit in 2023. In particular how the keynote speaker at that summit made a reading recommendation that is STILL having a transformative impact on his own life.
This episode among all the topics covered is a jovial good time, we know it will encourage you to plan on attending the next summit coming up very soon in February 2025!
Join Kent, Craig, and the really, all the sponsors of Speak Up at the Summit 2025! https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/summit/
Watch the YouTube Video Join Our Virtual Toastmasters: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
Thank You To Our Partners, The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing and In-Bound:
The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com. "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.
AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com
AutoLeap at AutoLeap.com. Are you tired of juggling multiple tools to manage your auto repair shop? Say hello to the streamlined efficiency of AutoLeap, the #1 all-in-one Auto Repair Shop Management Software!
Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.
In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.
Contact Information
Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected] Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
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/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Value of the Ratchet and Wrench Management Conference
By bantar

I attended my first ever industry management conference. What a great experience.   If you've never gone, I would encourage you to add it to your do-now bucket list. There was a lot of open and detailed sharing.   For example, in a work session talking about bay efficiency analysis, they used real numbers from the audience.    Monthly Overhead, Gross Profit Percentage, desired bottom line profit.   It showed multiple paths to success that were immediately relatable.
None of the presentations were about perfection. As a matter of fact, most presenters shared information about how they did things stating that this may or may not apply to your situation. No one told you what to do, but rather offer tools for analyzing your own situation.   None of the presenters were making sales pitches.
In other sessions, real shop owners share tips and techniques on a number of topics that we see here.    Being a live event, these were more dynamic conversations.
I've returned from the conference with a renewed sense of urgency analyzing my numbers to see where we had success and where we need to improve.   I do expect to make real changes, but don't yet know exactly what changes I'm going to make.   Got to crunch some numbers first.
I signed up for the conference when it was first published, but sat on the CC screen for a while debating the value of this conference. Should I go, or should I stay?   I reluctantly pushed the GO button.   However, looking back, I should have enthusiastically smashed that GO button!
The next one is in Denver.   I recommend that you consider attending.

A side benefit is that I got to meet Joe Marconi and in a session that we jointly attended, I overheard Joe say that he was mentored by Jerry Holcom. Later in the conference, I had the pleasure of talking with Jerry as well. In the many networking sessions, we met many different shop owners and had great conversations.

--brian
The Ultimate Guide to Conference Travel: Essential Tips and Tricks [RR 990]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Sara Fraser and Tracy Capriotto discuss their travel experiences and offer practical advice for making work trips more manageable and enjoyable. They cover essential packing items, health and comfort strategies, and the importance of preparation. Their conversation is filled with light-hearted banter and useful insights, aimed at helping listeners navigate the challenges of conference travel, particularly for women in the industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone gearing up for a busy conference season in the automotive industry. Sara Fraser, Haas Performance Consulting, Sara’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Travel Planning for Conferences (00:00:40) Discussion on the importance of planning for travel during conference season. Packing for Comfort (00:02:52) The importance of packing for comfort during long conference days. Health Tips for Travelers (00:05:32) Sara talks about using immune support while traveling. Pain Relief Solutions (00:07:22) Discussion on using heat patches and biofreeze for back pain relief during travel. Steaming Clothes vs. Ironing (00:09:02) Tracy and Sara compare using steamers to traditional ironing for wrinkle-free clothes. Makeup Bag Innovations (00:10:54) Tracy reveals her new makeup bag that improves organization and accessibility. Stain Removal Tips (00:12:46) Sara introduces a stain remover for makeup spills during travel. DIY Nail Care Tips (00:15:17) Advice on performing DIY nail care, including the use of gel polish and mini lamps for travel. Importance of Band-Aids (00:17:03) Discussion on the necessity of carrying band-aids to prevent blisters during travel. Traveling with Allergy Medications (00:19:58) Tracy emphasizes the importance of bringing allergy medications when traveling to unfamiliar places. Lip Care Essentials (00:20:11) The hosts discuss the need for lip balm in dry climates, especially during travel. Sewing Kit Necessity (00:20:30) Tracy advises bringing a mini sewing kit to handle wardrobe malfunctions on the go. Makeup Removal Tips (00:21:36) Sara introduces the reusable makeup eraser as an eco-friendly travel essential. Charger Essentials (00:22:40) Tracy shares a travel tip about always bringing the complete phone charger, not just the cord. Noise-Canceling Headphones (00:23:48) Discussion on the benefits of noise-canceling headphones for a better flying experience. Traveling with Earplugs (00:24:25) Sara talks about the benefits of using earplugs to manage ear pressure during flights. Luggage Tips: Importance of Wheels (00:25:23) Tracy stresses the importance of having four-wheeled luggage for easier maneuverability. Choosing the Right Luggage (00:26:38) The benefits of double wheels on luggage for improved travel experience. Water Bottle Hack (00:29:22) A recommendation for a spill-proof water bottle that keeps drinks cold. Precheck Benefits (00:30:21) Importance of TSA Precheck for easier travel and security experience. Jewelry Travel Tips (00:31:47) Discussion on organizing jewelry while traveling and avoiding tangles. Liquid IV for Hydration (00:33:48) Use of electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated while traveling. Travel Sleep Aids (00:34:58) Sharing tips on using a sound machine and bringing a personal pillow for better sleep. Packing Essentials (00:35:37) Discussion on packing strategies, including using a scale for luggage weight. Sunscreen Necessity (00:36:29) Importance of sunscreen when traveling to sunny destinations. Thigh Rescue Product (00:37:04) Recommendation for a product to prevent chafing while wearing dresses. Dry Shampoo for Quick Fixes (00:37:46) The necessity of dry shampoo for quick hair fixes while traveling. Magic Erasers for Travel (00:39:53) Using magic erasers for personal hygiene and cleaning while traveling. Snack Bag Essentials (00:40:41) Importance of packing snacks for convenience and sharing with others. Packing Cubes and Organization (00:41:23) Discussion on using packing cubes for better organization while traveling, including tips on separating clothes. Hanger Strategy (00:43:16) Tips on using hangers effectively to minimize wrinkles and maximize organization in luggage. Layering for Comfort (00:44:32) Advice on bringing layers for varying temperatures in conference venues, regardless of the location. Choosing Conference Outfits (00:45:30) Importance of packing versatile outfits for different conference events, including casual and semi-formal options. Planning for Events (00:47:29) Importance of reviewing the conference schedule to plan outfits for various events and unexpected invitations. 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Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care 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 Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
The Price of Assumptions: Cecil Bullard's Eye-Opening Lesson on Family [E007] - Speak Up!
By carmcapriotto

In this episode we explore how assumptions have the power to destroy relationships.
This episode was first planned back in May of 2024 when Craig was at the HQ for the Institute of Automotive Business Excellence in Ogden Utah.
Craig and Cecil Bullard were outside discussing communication topics while taking in the scenery of the Mountains in the early morning. When Cecil suggested this topic and told a portion of the story it became clear that it warranted an episode. This isn’t about mountains - but we think it will definitely ‘pique’ your interest.
Cecil Bullard is a well known leader, coach, and speaker in the automotive aftermarket - and while that familiar side of his persona will show up multiple times in our chat - listeners will hear about the other side to the man. The husband and the father.
A shocking, humbling and eye opening moment taught Cecil a costly lesson about assumptions. Listen as he shares the story - and the lessons he learned that became crucial strengthen his marriage and his family.
This is a rather moving conversation which will prove extremely valuable for anyone who comes home after a hard day in the shop, or is struggling in a family business, and those who wish to do their best for those they love and count on the most.
Thank You To Our Partners:

The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com. "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.
AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com
AutoLeap at AutoLeap.com. Are you tired of juggling multiple tools to manage your auto repair shop? Say hello to the streamlined efficiency of AutoLeap, the #1 all-in-one Auto Repair Shop Management Software!
Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.
In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.
Contact Information
Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected]
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/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
If You Had 364 Days Left to Live: What Would You Do Differently? [RR 986]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Craig Noel recounts his near-death experience from multiple blood clots in his lungs and how it profoundly affected his perspective on life, family, and business. This life-altering event led Craig to reevaluate his priorities, emphasizing the importance of relationships and intentional living. Craig shares how his absence from work revealed the strength of his team and the culture he built. The discussion covers overcoming the "I can't" mentality, establishing accountability, and planning for unforeseen circumstances. Craig's story inspires listeners to cherish relationships, embrace change, and focus on what truly matters in life. Craig Noel, Sun Automotive, Springfield, OR. Listen to Craig’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes
Craig's Near-Death Experience (00:01:13) Craig shares his story of a near-death experience caused by multiple blood clots in his lungs. Understanding the Health Crisis (00:02:12) Craig explains his symptoms leading to hospitalization and the discovery of the blood clots. Reflection on Life Changes (00:05:34) Craig reflects on how his near-death experience shifted his perspective on relationships and life priorities. The Importance of Relationships (00:07:17) Craig emphasizes the need to value relationships and communicate feelings intentionally. Reconnecting with Old Friends (00:08:29) Carm shares a personal story about reconnecting with an old friend, highlighting the importance of maintaining connections. Intentional Communication (00:09:41) Craig discusses the impact of intentionally reaching out to influential people in one's life. Material vs. Emotional Fulfillment (00:10:25) Craig contemplates the balance between material possessions and the importance of relationships. Living Without Distractions (00:12:00) Craig suggests leaving phones at home during family outings to foster better connections. The Impact of Technology on Relationships (00:12:25) Carm reflects on how technology affects family interactions and the need for personal discipline. Planning for Meaningful Experiences (00:13:14) Craig encourages planning meaningful experiences and spending time with loved ones. Business Continuity Discussion (00:15:42) Carm discusses the importance of planning for business continuity in case of unexpected events. Leadership and Team Discussions (00:16:49) Craig emphasizes the value of discussing business operations and leadership with team members. The importance of presence (00:17:04) Craig discusses the significance of being present and the impact of leadership on team culture. Reassessing leadership roles (00:17:41) Craig reflects on his need to be present and the realization that his team can thrive independently. Employee accountability (00:19:26) Discussion on implementing employee diaries to enhance accountability and track conversations. Introduction of 'Way We Do' software (00:20:11) Craig explains how this software helps manage SOPs and employee manuals effectively. The value of modifying processes (00:22:05) Emphasis on customizing borrowed ideas to fit your unique business culture for better results. Planning for unexpected events (00:23:05) Carm shares insights on having contingency plans, referencing a previous episode about preparedness. Updating legal documents (00:24:40) Craig talks about the importance of updating wills and trusts to ensure business continuity. Collaboration with professionals (00:25:27) Advice on involving various professionals to create a comprehensive support system for business planning. The importance of perspective (00:26:36) Craig shares personal insights on enjoying life and not feeling the need to prove oneself. Encouraging accountability (00:27:36) Carm suggests involving close individuals to hold each other accountable for life planning decisions. Impact on employees' lives (00:29:05) Craig reflects on how he can positively influence his employees' futures through thoughtful planning. Final thoughts on preparedness (00:30:04) Carm and Craig conclude with reflections on the need for proactive planning and emotional resilience.
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care 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 Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio