• Episode 207 - Kathleen Callahan Discusses Right To Repair and Industry Advocacy
    Mar 10 2025

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Kathleen Callahan, who delves into her role in fostering relationships within the automotive industry through her involvement with Women in Auto Care and ACA. Kathleen shares her eye-opening experience of testifying before Congress on HR 906, emphasizing the importance of supporting independent shop owners in the legislative process. The conversation also touches on the impacts of right-to-repair legislation and the need for better collaboration between shop owners and manufacturers. Before you think the automotive industry isn’t for you or consider the legislative impacts on your shop, make sure to tune in!

    00:00 Writer's Creative Autonomy

    08:32 "Unexpected Heatwave Adventure"

    14:44 Female Front Desk Success

    15:52 Manufacturer Vision vs. Engineering Teams

    25:51 Tent Lunch Tensions Erupt

    26:45 Women Leaders in Auto Care

    32:39 Florida Lawsuit over Shared Driving Data

    37:02 Collaboration Over Conflict in Auto Industry

    43:56 Compounding Pharmacies and Price Gouging

    48:36 Back Pain, Dispensary, Police Encounter

    56:23 Concerns for Vagrants' Well-being

    57:27 Missing Person's Human Story

    01:02:40 Membership Sign-Up Button

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Episode 206 - Stellantis's Circular Economy Innovations To Reduce Waste With Alison Jones
    Mar 3 2025

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Allison Jones, Senior Vice President of Circular Economy at Stellantis. Allison explains the concept of a circular economy and its three main components: using less material, extending the life of products, and ensuring recyclability at the end of their lifecycle. David shares his frustration with other manufacturers' tendencies to design parts as single-use, contrasting it with Stellantis' commitment to remanufacturing and sustainability. Allison also discusses the potential benefits of their e-commerce platform, Bparts, which facilitates the trade of certified used parts and can help alleviate the issue of backordered parts. This episode offers insightful perspectives on sustainable practices in the automotive industry, making it a must-listen for those interested in environmental responsibility and innovation.

    00:00 Aldi's: No-Frills Shopping Experience

    06:01 Innovative, Sustainable Remanufacturing Benefits

    09:44 Designing for Circular Economy

    10:22 Expanding Remanufacturing Beyond Engines

    15:47 Certified Wheels: Warranty & Guarantee

    18:53 Circular Economy in Vehicle Design

    22:47 Automaker EV Strategy Confusion

    23:46 Battery Innovation Revolution

    28:31 EV Range Anxiety Experience

    30:20 Promoting Affordable, Sustainable Solutions

    34:01 Alternator Options: New vs. Remanufactured

    36:32 Masked Mischief with a Straw

    41:29 Sustainability and Trash Bag Management

    43:29 Promoting New E-commerce Platform

    46:42 Expanding Automotive Opportunities

    48:54 Edible Straws in the UK

    Show more Show less
    55 mins
  • Episode 205 - Preserving Lost Arts in a Changing Industry With Jeff Eddy
    Feb 24 2025

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Jeff Eddy from Chrome Auto Repair. Jeff shares his unique journey from working in radio and TV production to becoming a successful auto repair shop owner. The conversation reveals key insights about the challenges and transitions involved in running a business, including the shift from being a technician to a business leader. Furthermore, the discussion dives into the significant impact of personal health choices on professional success, with Jeff detailing his own health journey following a heart attack. Whether you’re already in the auto repair industry or considering a career shift, this episode offers valuable perspectives on business growth and personal well-being.

    00:00 "Masterful Reel-to-Reel Splicing"

    10:35 Journey to Becoming a Car Mechanic

    15:14 Unexpected Heart Attack Diagnosis

    18:50 "Managing Daily Business Challenges"

    25:47 Track Eating, Alter Habits

    30:34 Discovering Weed in Vegas

    36:38 Dedicated Work Ethic Ritual

    39:40 Stuck in Youthful Indulgence

    47:07 Price Negotiation Success

    52:13 Advanced Hiring Process Success

    57:58 "Adopting a Forward-Thinking Mindset"

    01:01:56 Evolving Business Giving Philosophy

    01:04:29 "Group Member's Weekly Surprise"

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Episode 204 - How Misconceptions in Auto Repair Pricing Impact Business With Jason Quillin
    Feb 17 2025

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Jason Quillin, owner of Top Notch Auto. Jason discusses the challenges of managing a shop with two separate buildings, emphasizing the inefficiencies and added costs it brings. He also shares his journey from dealership technician to shop owner, highlighting the struggles with employee management and the importance of creating a cohesive team. They delve into the evolving automotive landscape, particularly the challenges with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and the reluctance of many shops to adapt to new technologies.

    If you're navigating the complexities of shop ownership or grappling with technological advancements in the industry, this episode is a must-listen for you!

    00:00 Old Dealership Dilemma

    10:09 Audi Calibration and Alignment Issues

    13:00 Entitled Mindset at Dealerships

    19:02 Insurance Claim Plan Discussion

    22:56 Progressive Salary Plan Negotiation

    30:50 Forklift Speed and Skill

    35:02 Perpetual Budget Inflation Cycle

    38:01 Revamping Vocational Education Focus

    45:50 "Turn Signal Communication Spy"

    51:29 Rural Ingenuity: Self-Reliant Rebuilding

    55:03 Opposition Silenced by Authorities

    01:00:32 "Young Farm Kid's Work Ethic"

    01:03:25 Self-Reliance in Modern Society

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Episode 203 - Frank Scandura on Maintaining Business Integrity Amid Growing Industry Pressures
    Feb 10 2025

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Frank Scandura, owner of Frank's European Service in Las Vegas and a coach for Transformers Institute. Frank shares his insights on several pressing industry issues, including the challenges posed by increasing costs of business and the strain it puts on shop owners. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong ethical standards and focusing on people over profits, arguing that this approach will ultimately lead to success.

    00:00 "Frank's Industry Insight"

    08:14 Evolving Car Industry Loyalty

    14:51 Impatient Car Owners

    16:44 The Ruthless Business Shift

    23:32 Balancing Coach Guidance and Growth

    30:44 "Planning for Business Ownership"

    35:38 Business Continuity Planning

    37:10 Uninsured Flood Devastates Businesses

    43:25 Is Solo Business Financially Viable?

    50:44 Premium Service Pitch Lacking Training

    54:04 Unintended Business Incentive Issues

    01:01:47 Advisor Troubles Reduce Shop Revenue

    01:03:24 Businesses Lack Flood Insurance

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Episode 202 - A Conversation with Launch Tech's Haresh Gobin On The Future of Diagnostics
    Feb 3 2025

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Haresh Gobin, Product Development Manager at LaunchTech USA. Haresh shares his journey of merging his computer science background with his family's auto repair business, eventually leading to significant roles in both Bosch and Snap-On before joining Launch. The conversation moves to the crucial importance of legitimate data acquisition and compliance within the industry, highlighting LaunchTech's commitment to working with the NASDAQ security task force to ensure the responsible use of immobilizer tools.

    00:00 Advancements in Automotive Diagnostics

    04:14 Automated Maintenance Insights

    07:52 Comprehensive Tools for All Users

    11:44 Thanksgiving Work Dilemma

    13:22 Market Undercutting Incident

    19:43 Becoming a Park Service Ranger

    21:09 Naked Man at Car Fire

    26:13 Dealerships: A High School Experience

    27:21 "Securing a Job at Dealership"

    31:30 Hired by Launch: Five Years

    34:23 Think Beyond the Box

    38:50 Industry Unity Revealed at ETI

    39:47 "Brand Loyalty and Investment"

    44:57 Industry Support and Solidarity

    46:59 Trust Issues in Industry Relations

    49:40 Tool Access and Car Theft Debate

    52:22 "Nastif Debate: Money or Protection?"

    55:32 No More Waddling!

    Show more Show less
    1 hr
  • Episode 201 - Revolutionizing Auto Tech Training With Today's Class
    Jan 27 2025

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Ron Shanas and Paul Pate from Today's Class. Ron and Paul get into the sophistication of their adaptive learning platform, explaining how artificial intelligence and machine learning tailor training to individual technicians' needs by identifying their strengths, weaknesses, and confidence levels. They highlight the importance of confidence in improving work performance, supported by scientific studies linking confidence to productivity and accuracy. Lastly, they discuss the onboarding process for their training platform, emphasizing the importance of aligning training with business goals to ensure shops gain the maximum benefit from their investment.

    00:00 AI-Driven Adaptive Learning

    06:01 "Learning, Emotion, and Memory"

    12:17 Persistence in Music Mastery

    17:59 Ineffective Training Retention

    23:58 Adult Learning: Autonomy and Recognition

    30:51 Streamlining Training Through Data Insights

    35:00 Make or Break Moment

    40:46 Fuel Trim Case Study Mystery

    47:33 "Embrace Struggles in Business Learning"

    52:06 Teaching Reading and Decoding

    56:11 Cohort-Based Shop Data Training

    01:03:33 Personalized Training Challenges

    01:06:52 "Fostering High-Level Team Discussions"

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Episode 200 - Balancing Customer Satisfaction and Business Profitability in Auto Repairs With Rick White and Mike Himes
    Jan 20 2025

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Rick White of 180biz, and Mike Himes, a shop owner from Brookville, Pennsylvania. Rick highlights the importance of valuing your services to ensure customers do the same. Mike shares his experience raising prices and how it helped eliminate problematic customers. The group also discusses the strategic use of technology and digital tools to enhance customer communication and streamline operations.

    00:00 Reduce customer charge from $1,800 bill?

    09:56 "You should consider trying another approach."

    15:28 Self-value is essential for business success.

    18:01 Labor costs inflated through hidden markups.

    21:21 Braxton's repeated car shop visits discussed.

    31:22 Celiac disease, no peripheral vision caused clumsiness.

    34:03 Planning future roles and managing life changes.

    42:15 Raising prices eliminated problematic, non-paying customers.

    47:18 Embrace growth through uncomfortable client interactions.

    51:24 Superior product: Follow guidelines, replace necessary parts.

    56:51 Mike Allen supports skilled tradesmen with benefits.

    01:03:36 Inspection must be thorough and well-communicated.

    01:04:31 They approve, organized process, explained with pictures.

    01:14:08 Digital Concierge tracks, analyzes, transcribes phone calls.

    01:14:52 Avoid rapid growth for quality assurance.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 20 mins