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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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Leadership Lessons From "The Shot" [E179] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
In this episode, Matt dives deep into the world of leadership, drawing an interesting parallel between basketball and the world of auto repair.
In this episode, Matt discusses:
The significance of March Madness and The Shot—not the Michael Jordan moments you might expect, but the shot in the 1992 NCAA tournament between Duke University and the Kentucky Wildcats. Insights into Coach Mike Krzyzewski's (Coach K) leadership style, particularly during high-pressure moments, and how it parallels the leadership needed in running a shop. How Coach K's calm, confidence, and ability to empower his players to take ownership in crucial moments played a pivotal role in Duke's success. The importance of leadership that encourages autonomy, confidence, and creating an environment where your team can thrive and make decisions that align with your vision. A breakdown of Christian Laettner's mindset during the game and how the Duke team overcame a seemingly lost situation with just 2.1 seconds left on the clock.
Matt takes us through the dramatic ending of the game and how Coach K's simple yet powerful leadership moment shaped the outcome, drawing lessons for managers and leaders in the aftermarket industry.
This episode isn't just for basketball fans; it's for anyone looking to inspire leadership and develop a high-performing team. By trusting your people, giving them autonomy, and showing calm, quiet confidence, you can help your team overcome challenges and come out on top.
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
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
Leadership Transitions and Fresh Perspectives: MACS 2025 [THA 425]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at the 45th annual Mobile Air Climate Systems Conference (MACS 2025) in Orlando, Florida, this conversation explores the transition of leadership within the MACS Association. Outgoing chairman Andy Fiffick and incoming chairman Aaron Becker reflect on the organization’s history, its future direction, and the critical role of continuous education in the automotive industry.
They discuss the necessity of adapting to technological advancements, particularly in thermal management for electric vehicles, and emphasize the invaluable networking opportunities offered by MACS and similar industry events. The conversation also highlights the increasing complexity of vehicle systems and the growing influence of AI in automotive businesses.
Discover expert perspectives on emerging refrigerants, the integration of technology in vehicle maintenance, and the challenges and successes that have shaped MACS over the years.
Aaron Becker, President, AirSept. Aaron’s previous episodes HERE
Andy Fiffick, CEO Rad Air, 10-locations, franchise. Listen to Andy’s other episodes HERE Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode TST Big Event, March 29th, 2025: https://www.tstseminars.org/ MACS Training Event & Trade Show: https://macsmobileairclimate.org/ National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF): https://wp.nastf.org/ Koura: https://www.kouraglobal.com/ Honeywell: https://www.honeywell.com/us/en Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) Andy Reflects on His Tenure (00:01:44) The Impact of the Housing Crash (00:02:18) Transition of Leadership (00:04:39) Aaron Becker's Introduction (00:05:01) The Importance of Thermal Management (00:07:29) Thermal Management's Role in Modern Vehicles (00:09:03) Technology Specialists and Thermal Management (00:10:02) Aaron's Innovative Approach (00:11:40) Evolution of Products at AirSept (00:12:07) Adapting to Changing Technology (00:15:31) Reflections on Industry Changes (00:16:04) Understanding Vehicle Technology (00:16:55) Embracing New Technologies (00:18:20) AI Integration in Business (00:19:27) Networking at Events (00:24:18) Continuing Education (00:29:33) Encouragement to Join MACS (00:31:02)
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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 X: 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
20 Questions in 30 Minutes with Donny Seyfer: NASTF, Innovation, and Leadership [RR 1028]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Recorded at the 45th annual Mobile Air Climate Systems Conference (MACS 2025) in Orlando, Florida, discover the importance of NASTF in bridging the gap between OEs and independents. Donny Seyfer also shares insights on empowering teams, today's technology impact, and the importance of mentorship. Donny Seyfer, NASTF, Listen to Donny’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode MACS Training Event & Trade Show: https://macsmobileairclimate.org/ National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF): https://wp.nastf.org/ Koura: https://www.kouraglobal.com/ Honeywell: https://www.honeywell.com/us/en NASTF (00:00:00) Donnie's Career Background (00:02:56) Memorable Experience with STEM Students (00:03:19) New Product Development Announcement (00:07:18) Challenges in Product Development (00:08:41) Optimism in Facing Challenges (00:09:15) Team Collaboration in Writing (00:12:25) Hiring for Strengths (00:12:34) Balancing Roles as a Visionary (00:13:01) Importance of Language in the Industry (00:14:25) Changing Habits in Language Usage (00:15:29) Pivots in Business Strategy (00:20:03) Impact of Technology (00:22:38) AI in Communication (00:23:53) Time Management Strategies (00:26:59) Finding Your Zone (00:28:13) Dream Cars and Personal Projects (00:29:02) Creating a Safe Work Environment (00:32:43) The Power of "I Don't Know" (00:33:39) The Power of Mentoring (00:35:46) Mentors at Different Levels (00:36:35) The Secret to Finding Mentors (00:37:20) Peer Mentoring (00:38:12) Personal Insights (00:38:21)
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network 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 NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
Stolen Leadership And Allowing Your Team To Make Mistakes [E132] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
By carmcapriotto

In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, we explore the concept of "stolen leadership"—a fascinating approach to leadership where proactive team members step up and take ownership without waiting for permission. We'll discuss why this behavior can be a game-changer for your business, how to embrace it, and the importance of allowing your team to make mistakes as part of their growth.
You'll hear insightful stories and practical advice on navigating the balance between guiding your team and stepping aside to let them thrive. Whether you're looking to empower your employees, reduce micromanagement, or create a workplace that fosters initiative and innovation, this episode has something for you.
Don’t miss out on this powerful episode that could help you take your leadership skills—and your team—to the next level.
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.
Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
https://www.tonyrobbins.com/disc - Disc Assessments
https://books.google.com.ph/books?id=tpspDwAAQBAJ&newbks=0&lpg=PA1&pg=PA1#v=onepage&q&f=false - Extreme Ownership
Shownotes with Timestamps
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast and co-host Kim, mentioning her recent recovery. Definition of Stolen Leadership (00:01:08) Discussion about the term "stolen leadership" and its positive implications in team dynamics. Personal Anecdotes on Leadership (00:03:37) Brian shares a lunch conversation about the benefits of allowing others to take initiative. Kim's Experience with Stolen Leadership (00:04:29) Kim reflects on her feelings when her responsibilities were taken over by a proactive team member. The Importance of Team Growth (00:06:17) Brian emphasizes that a good leader encourages their team to surpass them in abilities. Balancing Leadership Roles (00:09:04) Discussion on the need for both leaders and workers within an organization. Examples of Stolen Leadership (00:10:47) Brian shares examples of team members who have successfully taken on leadership roles. Acknowledging Contributions (00:14:02) The importance of recognizing team members who fill gaps and take initiative. Natural Leadership Qualities (00:15:06) Kim discusses how leadership can be innate and the importance of finding the right roles for individuals. Rewarding Initiative (00:15:37) Brian concludes by stressing the need to reward those who demonstrate leadership to prevent them from leaving. Understanding People Problems (00:15:43) Discussion on the four people problems and identifying the worst issue in team dynamics. Right Person, Right Seat (00:16:10) Emphasis on the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent in the right roles to prevent disengagement. Mentorship and Growth (00:16:58) The necessity of coaching and mentoring employees as they transition into new roles and responsibilities. Allowing Mistakes in Growth (00:17:55) The importance of permitting team members to make mistakes as a part of their learning process. Consequences of Punishing Mistakes (00:19:05) Discussion on the negative impact of punishing employees for mistakes, leading to a culture of fear. Learning from Experience (00:20:04) Personal anecdotes highlighting the value of learning from mistakes and the role of mentorship in that process. The Importance of Leadership Recognition (00:23:01) Encouragement to recognize and support leaders within the organization to foster growth and leadership. Stealing Leadership (00:23:56) Exploration of the concept of "stealing leadership" and its implications for organizational growth. Appreciating Team Efforts (00:25:02) The significance of acknowledging team members' contributions to maintain morale and encourage leadership. Closing Remarks and Future Topics (00:25:24) Wrap-up of the episode and a preview of the next topic related to the importance of effective team dynamics.
How To Get In Touch
Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
Website - shopmarketingpros.com
Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros
Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book
Instagram - @shopmarketingpros
Questions/Ideas - [email protected]
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Lessons on Leadership & Sustained Success With Mickey Leech - CEO of Schumacher Electric
By Changing The Industry

Lessons on Leadership & Sustained Success With Mickey Leech - CEO of Schumacher Electric