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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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Show Up and Show Out - Speech Contest Recap [E033] - Speak Up!
By carmcapriotto

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound
In this episode - our host, Craig O’Neill welcomes two guests from his home Toastmasters club , Dylan Jayce and Evan Wisner.
While Evan is familiar to our loyal listeners as - Dylan will be a new voice - and you’ll hear about the journey Dylan has been on as he represented Grand Rapids Toastmasters - Club 404 in the recent Area level speaking competition.
That’s right - there is such a thing as competitive speaking!
The title for today’s episode is worth noting - as it is the theme selected for the year from current Club 404’s President, Mark Amos. “Show up and Show Out”
This is exactly what the club did on Feb 22 - when Dylan won 1st place in the Area contest over two other very accomplished speakers.
Dylan is particularly inspiring in this episode as he articulates the impact that the show of support from club members had on his journey. While he considers himself an introvert, Dylan demonstrates that a commitment to growth, and a great support network, can enable you to do things you might never imagine you could.
The episode is further enriched with Evan Wisner’s keen insight, and how he shares, along with Craig, regarding their perspective of Dylan’s progress through the years and recent weeks.
Join this conversation and you will gain a greater understanding of what a great Toastmasters club can look like, how friendships form around embracing discomfort, and how remarkable individuals contribute to a winning culture.
The Word of the Day: Inimitable - in-IM-it-uh-bul, adjective
Inimitable describes someone or something that is impossible to copy or imitate.
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
Market Update: BOI Reports, Interest Rates, and More [E160] - Business By The Numbers
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
This week on Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA with Paar Melis and Associates, breaks down the latest market news and legislative updates that directly impact auto repair shop owners. From the return of the BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) report to evolving tax policy discussions and IRS processing delays, Hunt provides a no-nonsense analysis of what’s happening and how it could affect your business.
In This Episode, You'll Learn:
✔️ The BOI Report is back—what it is, why it matters, and the March 21st deadline you can’t ignore.
✔️ Trump’s tax proposals—what’s being discussed, what’s likely to pass, and what it means for your shop and your customers.
✔️ IRS struggles & refund delays—why tax processing is slower than ever and what to expect if you’re waiting on an Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) refund.
✔️ Interest rates & the economy—why rates aren’t moving much (yet), and what this means for your financial strategy in 2025.
✔️ The state of small businesses & consumer spending—how last year’s trends impact this year’s outlook, and why customer financial health affects your shop’s profitability.
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/
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Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
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The Aftermarket Radio Network
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Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
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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.
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Artificial Intelligence Marketing: Watering Holes, Personas, and Automotive Branding [RR 1029]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network This episode covers the critical role and impact of AI on marketing, the importance of persona marketing, and effective branding strategies. Learn about "watering holes," referring to identifying where potential customers spend their time online and offline, and how to effectively use persona marketing to target specific demographics. Dan stresses the importance of branding and community involvement, asserting that successful shops prioritize building brand recognition and relationships within their local areas. He also warns about trusting AI implicitly, referencing instances of AI being inaccurate. Dan Vance, Shop Dog Marketing.com Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode TST Big Event, March 29th, 2025: https://www.tstseminars.org/ 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. Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) AI in Marketing (00:01:02) The Importance of Networking (00:02:02) Consumer Behavior and Marketing (00:04:04) Bullet Points vs. Detailed Content (00:05:54) Creating Memorable Customer Experiences (00:06:32) Identifying Customer "Watering Holes" (00:08:29) Privacy Concerns in Marketing (00:09:41) The Rise of Persona Marketing (00:10:55) AI's Impact on Search Results (00:11:59) The Role of AI in Marketing Strategies (00:13:08) Caution with AI Information (00:14:12) Human Element in Marketing (00:17:34) Client Review Analysis (00:18:46) Women’s Expectations in Service (00:21:20) Impact of Professional Image (00:22:57) Targeting Ideal Customers (00:25:12) Purposeful Marketing Strategies (00:25:43) The Need for Customer Understanding (00:26:26) AI’s Role in Content Creation (00:28:07) Changing Landscape of AI (00:28:29) User Behavior and Decision Making (00:31:11) Branding in the Automotive Industry (00:31:55) Community Involvement for Branding (00:32:57) Conclusion and Call to Action (00:34:38)
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
This Sucks! - And It Works! [E032] - Speak Up!
By carmcapriotto

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound
In this episode, our host Craig O’Neill welcomes his friend and colleague, Brandon Crusha to discuss a simple but often uncomfortable topic among practitioners of change.
The slogan: “This Sucks - and it Works!”
Craig was inspired to discuss this topic with Brandon after reading a post about slogans that don’t really work well - and the phrase above was suggested as an alternative to some others.
This stood out, because Craig has literally stood in a room with Brandon as Brandon spoke nearly that exact phrase to a group of tire specialists.
Brandon has a background in the automotive industry, in software, and rather significantly, the Marine Corp. The latter component is a thing which makes Brandon uniquely effective when coaching and onboarding in his role at Autoflow, and in other endeavors Brandon is engaged in.
Listeners will appreciate hearing Brandon's stories, hard earned wisdom and will find a pragmatic approach to learning that emphasises acknowledging that changes are tough, but embracing the suck is the way to get through.
Additional insights:
The three ways of learning according to Brandon’s instructor in the Marine Corp
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2.) Repetition
3.) The repetition of pain
We appreciate Brandon's service and the sacrifices he’s made in service to our country. We know our listeners will too.
Reach out with any questions to [email protected]
You can also thank Brandon directly here: [email protected]
The Word of the Day: Arduous
Adjective
involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring "an arduous journey"
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/
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Thermal Management: The Future of Automotive Refrigerants and Technology [THA 422]
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 episode dives into the evolving world of thermal management in vehicles. Our panel discusses the shift from traditional air conditioning to a more advanced approach, driven by the growing complexity of modern vehicles, especially EVs. They explore why maintaining optimal temperatures for batteries, electric motors, and other components is just as critical as passenger comfort. The conversation also covers alternative refrigerants, particularly blends, as a way to boost efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and adapt to changing battery technologies. With these advancements, the need for technician training and industry adaptation is greater than ever. Our experts emphasize the importance of collaboration across the industry to ensure a smooth transition and deliver effective solutions for both OEMs and aftermarket service providers.
Adam Kimmel, Koura, [email protected] Ryan Kooiman, Director of Training, Standard Motor Products. Ryan’s previous episodes HERE. Chuck Abbott, Global Marketing Manager, Koura 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 Introduction and Sponsors (00:00:00) Evolution of Thermal Management (00:02:28) Consultative Role of Shop Owners (00:02:10) Rise of Thermal Management Specialists (00:03:08) Importance of Battery Temperature Control (00:03:46) Impact of Electric Compressors (00:05:45) Training on Thermal Management (00:12:19) Future of Refrigerants (00:09:52) Concerns with Flammable Refrigerants (00:11:04) Thermal Management in Electric Vehicles (00:14:04) Training Demand for Electric Vehicle Systems (00:15:26) Battery Chemistry and Future Developments (00:17:02) Shifting Priorities in Funding (00:18:27) Changing Thermal Management Needs (00:18:57) Service Recommendations for Blends (00:19:18) Collaboration in Industry (00:19:58) New Components in AC Systems (00:20:50) Complexity of Thermal Management Systems (00:22:15) Career Opportunities in Automotive Technology (00:23:06) Investing in New Refrigerant Machines (00:24:30) Consumer Benefits of Blend Refrigerants (00:25:05) Leakage Characteristics of Blends (00:26:14) Future of Refrigerant Machines (00:27:35) Importance of Thermal Management Knowledge (00:29:02) Final Thoughts on Education and Collaboration (00:32:57)
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