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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 Joe Marconi
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By carmcapriotto
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound
Watch Full Video Episode
Today’s guest is Darren Mclea - whom our host, Craig O’Neill has been friends with since meeting the Mcleas (virtually) in 2018. In those days, Darren and Craig were working together on projects for adopting technology - but today’s episode goes much farther back than that!
Both Darren and Craig were born in the early 80’s and as such - carry similar generational experiences. While sometimes referred to as “Xennials,” Craig prefers to introduce himself as an “Elder Millenial.” In this conversation - which was sparked by a post Darren shared in social media - listeners will enjoy some nostalgia for times past, while contemplating technology's role in communication in the near future.
Specifically, Craig invites Darren to discuss why their unique generation’s upbringing and relationship with technology helped to shape their perspectives and outlooks today.
You will hear several topics and enjoy many reflections including:
How the speed and pace of information has changed. How problems with communication in the recent past may not have been bad problems to have. What the technology was like on Sept 11, 2001. A delightful musical “Come from Away” based on 9/11 and why Canada is a great neighbor (and how it highlights what technology was like on Sept 11, 2001) Parenting today’s youth in a technological era What would happen if a crisis occurred today and suddenly we had no smart phones? The importance of shared experiences. Why commercial breaks aren't always a bad thing. Brain calories. Newspapers. The good and the bad of analog and digital.
Listeners will enjoy the lightheartedness and good humor in this chat and yet may feel properly challenged to consider some of the ways we can recapture the good times in our present times.
You will be encouraged to keep your minds clear of clutter, and cultivate shared experiences with those around you. The good ol’ days are still here - if we let them be.
The word of the day: Posterity. pos·ter·i·ty. noun: All future generations of people.
About our guest:
Darren McLea grew up in the tire business and now helps advance the business development of tire and auto repair companies just like yours. His mission is to help you create long term, loyal customer relationships through effective communication, not just sell more tires.
https://www.djmsolutions.net/
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, 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
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By carmcapriotto
Marketing isn’t just about spending money; it’s about strategy, creativity, and knowing what actually works. That’s exactly what Brian and Kim Walker unpack in this conversation with Doug DeLuca, owner of Boca AutoFix, who built a thriving auto repair shop without ever working as a technician before opening his doors.
Doug’s IT background gave him an edge, helping him master SEO, content marketing, and social media, all while running his shop. He shares with Brian and Kim how he tracks data, refines his messaging, and attracts the right clients using unconventional but effective methods. From leveraging Facebook groups to pull in college students to secret-shopping a quick-lube competitor for blog content, Doug proves that marketing success comes from being proactive and intentional.
This conversation tackles why not every shop needs Google Ads, how to structure diagnostic fees without scaring off clients, and the importance of community involvement. Doug’s hands-on, data-driven approach to marketing offers real insights for shop owners looking to take control of their marketing and maximize results.
Brian, Kim, and Doug break it all down, giving shop owners a blueprint for smarter, more effective marketing.
Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for this episode. RepairPal will introduce your shop to new customers through repairpal.com, the largest site for auto repair. Learn more at
RepairPal.com/shops.
Want to revolutionize your marketing? AppFueled does it all—email, text, app notifications, and even call center integration. Stop guessing and start connecting with AppFueled.
How To Get In Touch With The Guest
Doug DeLucca’s Facebook account
[email protected]
BOCA Auto Fix - (561) 826-8834
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
ASTA
They Ask You Answer
They Ask You Answer Podcast Episode 093
Which is the right fit for you? A quick lube or an independent auto repair shop?
Google Local Service Ads
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:01) The podcast begins with a welcome message from the host, Brian Walker. Guest Introduction (00:00:10) Brian introduces co-host Kim and guest Doug DeLuca, owner of Boca Auto Fix. Overview of Boca Auto Fix (00:00:51) Doug shares details about his auto repair shop, including its location and age. Hiring an Apprentice (00:01:09) Doug discusses the recent hiring of an apprentice and the journey leading to this decision. Challenges in Hiring (00:02:13) The speakers reflect on the difficulties shop owners face in finding and hiring young talent. Marketing Journey Begins (00:03:02) Discussion shifts to Doug's initial marketing efforts and his involvement in content creation. Background in Technology (00:04:07) Doug explains his previous technology background and how it influenced his approach to marketing. Learning SEO and Marketing (00:04:45) Doug describes his self-taught journey in SEO and digital marketing after opening his shop. Realizing Marketing Needs (00:06:14) Doug reflects on his initial assumptions about marketing and the reality of attracting customers. Understanding SEO Basics (00:08:09) Doug shares his insights on SEO and the learning process involved in mastering it. Frameworks in Marketing (00:10:25) The conversation explores the use of frameworks in both auto repair and marketing strategies. Adopting "They Ask, You Answer" (00:11:23) Doug discusses his experience with the "They Ask, You Answer" philosophy in content creation. Writing Blogs for Customer Engagement (00:12:21) Doug explains how he uses customer inquiries to create relevant blog content for his shop. Experience at a Quick Lube (00:13:29) Doug shares his firsthand experience at a quick lube to highlight differences in service quality. Experience Comparison (00:14:06) Doug shares his experience of visiting a competitor's shop to understand customer perception and service quality. Proactive Client Advocacy (00:14:57) The team discusses the importance of guiding potential clients to the right service provider based on their needs. Sponsorship and Marketing Tools (00:16:13) Brian introduces RepairPal, highlighting its benefits for attracting new customers and building trust. Customer Loyalty Apps (00:17:51) Brian discusses the advantages of using App Fueled to create customer loyalty programs for auto repair shops. Incognito Visits (00:18:20) Doug talks about visiting a competitor's shop incognito to gain insights without revealing their identity. Collaboration Over Competition (00:19:09) The speakers explore the idea of referring customers to other shops and building relationships in the industry. Challenging Competition Norms (00:20:20) Brian reflects on inviting competitors to the podcast, emphasizing collaboration over traditional competition. Marketing Involvement (00:22:42) Doug explains the ad hoc nature of their marketing efforts and the role of social media in their strategy. Community Involvement (00:27:41) Doug shares their family's volunteer work and how it integrates with their business's social media presence. Engaging the College Market (00:28:51) Doug discusses how 30% of his clients are college students and their marketing strategies. Collaborating with Local Professors (00:31:18) Doug shares his experience working with a marketing professor for student analysis of his business. Challenges of Seasonal Demand (00:32:24) Discussion on the impact of seasonal changes on business demand and local marketing efforts. Starting with Marketing (00:34:02) Doug advises new shop owners to listen to podcasts and conduct online research for marketing. SEO as a Long-Term Strategy (00:35:08) Doug explains the importance of SEO and its long-term benefits for business growth. Understanding Competition (00:36:44) Doug emphasizes the need to analyze competition and not assume marketing strategies will work universally. The Importance of Data (00:39:08) Doug highlights the role of data in assessing marketing effectiveness and making informed decisions. Nuances of Market Dynamics (00:41:14) Discussion on how geographical and seasonal factors affect marketing strategies in auto repair. Client Avatar and Marketing Alignment (00:42:13) Doug explains the significance of understanding the ideal customer for effective marketing strategies. Overcoming Diagnostic Fee Challenges (00:43:09) Discussion on how Doug has adjusted his approach to diagnostic fees to improve customer conversion. The Importance of Evaluation Fees (00:43:40) Discussion on the role of evaluation fees and their impact on shop maturity. Improving Customer Communication (00:44:09) Insights on enhancing customer explanations regarding services and processes. Coaching and Competitive Analysis (00:45:03) How coaching helped refine service policies and improve customer relations. Content Creation and Marketing Strategy (00:46:32) The significance of creating content for customer engagement and marketing. Duck Duck Jeep Initiative (00:47:05) Fun marketing strategy involving ducks to engage with the local Jeep community. Value of Customer Feedback (00:48:46) Importance of understanding customer inquiries and improving service based on feedback. Contact Information for Doug DeLuca (00:49:29) Doug shares how listeners can reach him for further inquiries.
How To Get In Touch
Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook
Meet The Pros
Follow SMP on Facebook
Follow SMP on Instagram
Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book
Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics
Thanks again for listening to The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast on Aftermarket Radio Network. There are some other great shows on the network and you can find them at AftermarketRadioNetwork.com or on your favorite podcast listening apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and many others
Thanks to our Partners,
RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops. Quality Car Repair. Fair Price Guarantee.
App Fueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
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 Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
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 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
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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
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound
We’re speaking up… WAY up in this episode - as our host Craig O’Neill welcomes his friend and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Austin Brumfield, to the show.
Anyone responsible for training people to do things new will enjoy takeaways from Austin as he emphasises the importance of communicating calm, clear, and accurate when training student pilots.
Also - It’s travel season - and if you’ve followed the news in 2025 - booking a flight can feel a little overwhelming when you see mishaps dominating the headlines.
Austin brings a great deal of perspective to the conversation - acknowledging some of the communication concerns that exist in US airspace - and balancing that with highest respect for the decorum and professionalism that is practiced and trained into the people who make our air ways safe.
Craig met Autstin while taking flight lessons a few years ago - and the two became quick friends. Austin and his wife Evangela are both missionary pilots who are in the process of raising support for their mission to the remote regions of Alaska.
You can learn more about the Brumfields mission here:
https://www.facebook.com/TheBrumfieldsinAlaska/ https://arcticbarnabas.org/team-members/austin-evangela-brumfield/
Today’s Word of the Day- Aviophobia: intense fear or dislike of flying
Watch Full Video Episode
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, 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
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