Right to Repair Momentum – Rob Merwin [AW 143]
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By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog0 commentsIt always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
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By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
Key Highlights:
Matt reflects on the idea of self-awareness and balance, emphasizing that "everything comes from you" and that we are all part of a larger matrix of experiences and growth.
Vision Conference Recap:
Matt shares his experience at the Vision Conference, where he faced a challenging drive through a snowstorm and crosswinds to get there. He highlights the hands-on training sessions he participated in, including: Key Cutting and Programming Class: Co-taught with Andrew Sexton, where attendees got to physically cut keys and program them using a Honda ignition system. Pico Training: A full day of hands-on training with Scott Shotton, focusing on practical, car-side diagnostics. Tech Talks: Featuring Garrett Jacobson (HP Tuners) and Zeb Beard (Thermal Imaging), both of whom delivered high-energy, informative sessions.
Key Takeaways from Vision:
HP Tuners: Matt learned new functionalities of the tool, even after using it for over five years. Garrett Jacobson’s class demonstrated how intuitive and powerful the tool can be for diagnostics. Thermal Imaging: Zeb Beard emphasized the importance of using thermal imagers regularly, even when it doesn’t seem immediately necessary. His session focused on diesel diagnostics but applied to all vehicles.
Personal Reflections and Connections:
Matt shares heartfelt moments from the conference, including dinners with industry friends like Dan Baumgartner, Matt Hall, Kevin Looney, and others. They reminisced about Harvey Chan, a beloved figure in the industry who passed away too soon, and the impact he had on everyone. Matt reflects on the duality of emotions—being sad about losing someone but happy to share stories and memories.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories:
Matt dives into the importance of understanding the "behind-the-scenes" of how things are created, whether it’s a business, a movie scene, or even a professional wrestling match. He shares an iconic wrestling story about Stone Cold Steve Austin and Bret Hart, highlighting how collaboration and trust led to one of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.
Themes of Authenticity and Sharing Knowledge:
Matt discusses the tendency in the industry to want to feel "special" or to exaggerate success stories. He emphasizes the importance of being honest about how things are achieved, whether it’s diagnosing a tough problem or building a successful shop. He encourages technicians and shop owners to share their real stories, even if they involve luck or being in the right place at the right time.
Filling Your Own Bucket:
Matt reflects on the need for self-validation and filling your own "bucket" rather than constantly seeking external validation. He stresses the importance of being honest with yourself and others, giving credit where it’s due, and taking pride in your work without exaggeration.
Key Quotes:
"Set the freaking thermal imager on your diagnostic cart and start using it, even when you don’t know why." "At some point, you’re going to have to fill your own cup. You’re going to have to be content with yourself." "The real stories, if somebody could tell them, didn’t take away from the magic. It’s the art, the craftsmanship, the creativity that’s magical."
The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto
Want to make your shop’s marketing stand out this May? Join Brian Walker and Caroline LeGrand as they break down creative ways to engage your audience, plan your content, and connect with your community.
In this episode, they’ll share creative campaign ideas, fun social media prompts, and practical ways to highlight your team, engage customers, and boost brand awareness. Plus, get inspiration for using national holidays like National Skilled Trades Day, Road Trip Day, and even Pizza Party Day to keep your content fresh and relevant.
Don’t miss this opportunity to simplify your marketing and make a real impact. Tune in now and start planning content that connects!
Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal is the key that unlocks more business for your repair shop. Learn More at RepairPal.com/shops.
AppFueled makes marketing easy. It’s a CRM designed for auto repair shops with tools like segmentation, reminders, and even a call center. Don’t wait—get started today at appfueled.com
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
Days of the Year
National Calendar
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) Brian and Caroline introduce the podcast and thank RepairPal for their support. Preparing for May Marketing (00:01:16) Discussion on planning marketing strategies for May, emphasizing the importance of advance preparation. General Marketing Themes (00:02:00) Overview of summer-related topics, tax return spending, and pre-trip inspections for vehicles. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month (00:03:17) Highlighting the importance of motorcycle safety and tips for drivers and riders. Military Appreciation Month (00:03:39) Encouraging auto repair shops to give back to military personnel throughout May. Teacher Appreciation Week (00:04:34) Ideas for showing gratitude to teachers, including small gestures and discounts. National Pet Week (00:05:50) Encouragement to engage customers by sharing pet photos on social media. Celebrating Various Appreciation Weeks (00:07:05) Discussion on multiple appreciation weeks in May and the importance of selecting key themes. Learn to Ride a Bike Day (00:08:04) Suggestions for community engagement by helping kids learn to ride bikes. National Skilled Trades Day (00:09:00) Promoting skilled trades and hosting events to educate youth about automotive careers. Star Wars Day (May the 4th) (00:10:26) Fun marketing ideas related to Star Wars Day for engaging customers. National Odometer Day (May 12th) (00:11:42) Ideas for a fun contest involving vehicle odometer readings to engage customers. RepairPal Certification (00:13:14) Discussion on becoming RepairPal certified and the benefits for auto repair shops. App Fueled Introduction (00:14:18) Overview of a customer loyalty app designed for auto service shops. National Lost Sock Memorial Day (00:14:54) Encouragement for creative engagement ideas related to this fun holiday. Military Appreciation Month (00:15:06) Suggestions for acknowledging military families and providing discounts. National Dance Like a Chicken Day (00:15:59) Call to action for engaging with customers through fun activities. Check Your Wipers Day (00:16:27) Importance of checking wipers before summer travel and educating clients. National Pizza Party Day (00:18:05) Highlighting the fun of pizza party day and community engagement. Armed Forces Day (00:18:28) Ideas for honoring military personnel and their contributions. Memorial Day Awareness (00:18:46) Discussion on the solemn nature of Memorial Day and appropriate observances. National Road Trip Day (00:19:34) Emphasis on preparing vehicles for summer road trips and inspections. National Rescue Dog Day (00:20:13) Celebrating rescue pets and their connection to the auto repair community. World Marketing Day (00:20:48) Encouragement to appreciate and promote effective marketing efforts. Paws and Pistons Campaign (00:22:41) Combining pet care with auto services for community engagement. Prepping for Road Trip Day (00:24:51) Continued focus on educating customers about road trip preparations. Engagement Ideas (00:25:34) Encouragement to share personal stories and engage customers creatively.
Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind (00:26:01) Invitation to join the Facebook group for sharing marketing ideas and support.
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 Changing The Industry
Episode 207 - Kathleen Callahan Discusses Right To Repair and Industry Advocacy
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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
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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/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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