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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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Are You Prepared for the Unexpected Loss of a Loved One? [E198] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
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.
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 this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," host Coach Chris Cotton opens up about his deeply personal journey with grief following the passing of his beloved wife Kimberly's mother on New Year's Eve. With heartfelt sincerity, he delves into the complex and often overwhelming stages of grief, sharing insights and reflections from his own experience. Chris emphasizes the crucial importance of being prepared for the inevitable reality of loss, introducing listeners to the "red envelope yellow envelope" concept. This thoughtful approach involves meticulously documenting essential information and end-of-life plans, ensuring that loved ones are not left in the dark during times of emotional turmoil.

Chris underscores the necessity of having those often uncomfortable yet vital conversations about end-of-life wishes and preparations. By addressing these topics head-on, individuals can significantly ease the burden on their families and friends, allowing them to focus on healing and remembrance rather than logistical challenges. Throughout the episode, Chris also touches on the emotional and spiritual dimensions of grief, offering guidance and support to those navigating similar paths.
He encourages listeners to prioritize self-care and preparedness, not only in their personal lives but also within their business endeavors. By fostering a mindset of readiness and resilience, individuals can better cope with the unpredictable nature of life and loss. Through his candid storytelling and practical advice, Coach Chris Cotton provides a compassionate and empowering message, reminding us all of the strength found in vulnerability and the peace that comes from being prepared.

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on auto repair business insights.
Happy New Year Message (00:01:13)
Chris shares a New Year greeting and hints at personal challenges faced recently.
Discussion of Loss (00:02:29)
Chris reflects on the passing of Kimberly's mother and the impact on their family.
Red Envelope Yellow Envelope Concept (00:03:46)
Importance of planning for unexpected events is emphasized through personal experiences.
The Emotional Toll of Grief (00:06:50)
Chris describes the emotional reactions and support needed during grief.
Organizing Affairs for Loved Ones (00:08:18)
Advice on preparing personal and business affairs to ease burdens on family.
The Stages of Grief (00:10:27)
Chris outlines the stages of grief observed in Kimberly's reactions to loss.
Denial and Anger Stages (00:11:38)
Discussion of denial and anger stages in the grieving process.
Bargaining Stage of Grief (00:13:08)
Explains how bargaining manifests in thoughts of regret and "what if" scenarios.
Depression and Acceptance Stages (00:15:12)
Chris describes the transition between depression and acceptance in the grieving process.
Call to Action for Planning (00:16:28)
Encouragement to have plans in place for end-of-life situations to support loved ones.
Importance of Life Stories (00:17:47)
Chris stresses the need to document loved ones' life stories before it's too late.
Final Thoughts on Grief and Readiness (00:19:00)
Reflection on being spiritually and emotionally prepared for life's uncertainties.

Connect with Chris:
[email protected]
Phone: 940.400.1008
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae

#autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Am I crazy or ambitious? Or both? Looking at opening 3rd location, just opened 2nd 3 weeks ago...
By Jay Huh

Long story short, been in business about 2 years and started mobile. Current location for about a year, just opened up a second location about 3 weeks ago- HUGE step for me.
In my area, auto shop locations are REALLY REALLY RARE. There'll be months before a single shop will pop up for lease.
Well.. I was looking for auto equipment on craigslist and stumbled upon a listing of a shop moving and selling all his lifts. Found the location on loopnet- 5 bays, previous business extremely successful, great location, great price too....
1st location hit record sales this past week, 2nd new location held its own (divided by week, came out on top after expenses). I got both stores running self sufficiently. I am pretty much maxed out and I hate taking out loans but I have a line of credit available.
Am I crazy to want to do this?
Unmatched Intentionality - The Lost Art of Letter Writing [E024] - Speak Up!
By carmcapriotto

Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:
The idea of this podcast is to stretch our comfort zones and grow.
Growth isn’t automatic or instant - it’s a journey.
In this episode Craig takes you on a thought process that came about from an article that was shared - with him that highlighted to real security breach to texting infrastructure in the US thanks to state sponsored hackers. The article lead to conversations with and eventually a subtle joke that that perhaps we should revisit the art of letter writing! But perhaps that shouldn’t be a joke and we really should pivot to a more intentional form of communication as we grapple with emerging trends in 2025 tipping us further away from security, authenticity, and intentionality.
Listeners will find this to be a timely message.
In this episode Craig also introduces a word of the day.
Today’s word: Anachronistic.
Other Links:
The Forbes Article on security concerns is here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zakdoffman/2024/12/06/fbi-warns-iphone-and-android-users-stop-sending-texts/
The history book mentioned by Craig, Founding Brothers, by Joseph J. Ellis is here: https://a.co/d/2bdmkVZ
This episode highlights the benefits of the written word and encourages listeners to retain information better by writing things down and convey things sincerely by doing the same.
Contact Information
Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected] Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters 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
End of 2024 Update: Interest Rates, ERTC, BOI Reporting & More [E148] - Business By The Numbers
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
End-of-year chaos is here, and Hunt’s been busy diving into webinars, questions, and updates on some big topics like the BOI report, interest rates, and the infamous Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC). In this episode, Hunt breaks down what’s happening, what you need to know, and what you should (or shouldn’t) do before heading into 2024.
Here’s What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
BOI Report (Beneficial Ownership Information): This rule was meant to track down shady business practices, but now it’s tangled in legal challenges and paused—for now. Already filed? You’re good. Haven’t filed? You’ve got choices. Hunt explains the pros and cons of sitting tight or filing now. Interest Rates and the Economy: Rates are dropping, but what does that actually mean? Hunt explains why “good news is bad news” for the economy and what’s expected for borrowing costs, CDs, and savings rates in 2024. Key dates to watch for financial reports that could shake things up (spoiler alert: December 11th and 12th are big ones). ERTC: Still Alive, but Barely: The IRS is drowning in a mountain of unprocessed claims—think years of delays. What to do if you’re still waiting on your ERTC money and why you shouldn’t count your chickens (or your tax credit) just yet. Learn more about how to fill out the BOI Report here: https://youtu.be/5pP1b_IzbSY
Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
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]
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: 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
Transitioning from Technician to Shop Owner: Are You Prepared for the Change? [E194] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
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

In this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton takes center stage to expertly guide aspiring auto repair technicians through the intricate financial essentials necessary for launching a successful auto repair business. With his wealth of experience and knowledge, Chris delves into critical topics that form the backbone of a thriving business, such as budgeting, labor rates, and operating expenses. He offers a wealth of practical tips and real-life examples, ensuring that listeners can easily grasp and apply these concepts to their own ventures.
Chris places a strong emphasis on the importance of maintaining a clear separation between personal and business finances, a fundamental practice that can prevent future financial complications and ensure the business's financial health. He also discusses the necessity of setting appropriate labor rates, a crucial factor that directly impacts profitability and competitiveness in the market. Understanding and managing costs is another key area Chris covers, providing insights into how technicians can effectively control expenses to maximize their business's financial performance.
In addition to these financial fundamentals, Chris highlights the critical role of marketing in the success of an auto repair business. He promotes Shop Marketing Pros, a company renowned for its specialized services tailored to the needs of auto repair shops, underscoring the importance of leveraging expert marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.
Overall, this episode serves as a comprehensive financial roadmap for technicians who aspire to transition into successful shop owners. With Chris Cotton's expert guidance, listeners are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the financial landscape of the auto repair industry confidently.
Introduction and Sponsorship (00:00:05)
Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and promotes Shop Marketing Pros for auto repair business marketing.
Post-Thanksgiving Reflections (00:01:05)
Chris shares insights on the light business week before Thanksgiving and discusses consultations with aspiring shop owners.
Identifying Budgeting Challenges (00:02:09)
He addresses the common struggles of technicians transitioning to shop ownership, particularly with budgeting and resources.
Building a Blueprint for Success (00:02:45)
Chris outlines the plan to create a financial blueprint for a potential shop owner, focusing on sales and budgeting.
Location Considerations (00:03:06)
He emphasizes the importance of choosing a proper location for the shop to avoid community issues.
Financial Planning for Owners (00:04:10)
Discussion on how aspiring owners can sustain their income and manage cash flow during absences.
Understanding Business Expenses (00:05:06)
Chris highlights the various expenses involved in running a shop, including utilities and licensing fees.
Starting with a Budget (00:06:17)
He discusses the importance of having a financial cushion and outlines options for starting on a budget.
Labor Rate Calculation (00:07:24)
Chris explains how to determine the labor rate based on current earnings and benefits.
Estimating Weekly Labor Sales (00:11:02)
He calculates potential labor sales for a week based on the established labor rate and hours worked.
Operating Expenses Breakdown (00:15:10)
Chris discusses how to calculate operating expenses needed to run the shop effectively.
Importance of Sales Tax (00:16:30)
He warns about the significance of managing sales tax correctly to avoid issues with state authorities.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action (00:17:34)
Chris encourages potential shop owners to reach out for tailored advice and reiterates the sponsor's importance.
Connect with Chris:
[email protected]
Phone: 940.400.1008
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae

#autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio