The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledLet’s be real, nothing feels better than when your marketing is firing on all cylinders. Phones ringing, bays full, your team moving fast. And then… it just stops.No warning. No clear reason. Same budget, same ads, same strategy but the results? Gone.In this episode, Kim Walker breaks down exactly why that happens and, more importantly, what to do about it. She walks through the real lifecycle of marketing, from the early wins of launch, to the momentum of growth, to the frustrating plateau, and eventually the decline that catches most shop owners off guard.But here’s the kicker… It’s not bad luck. It’s predictable.You’ll hear the common mistakes shop owners make (like pulling budgets too early or chasing shiny new tactics), what’s actually happening behind the scenes with platforms like Google and customer behavior, and how smart shops stay ahead by making data-driven decisions instead of emotional ones.If you’ve ever said, “Our marketing just stopped working,” this is one you need to hear.Hit play now and learn how to stay ahead of the curve instead of constantly playing catch-up.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction: Why Your Marketing Stops Working (00:00:10) Kim Walker introduces the episode's topic: why marketing campaigns that initially work well eventually stop being effective over time.The Marketing Life Cycle (00:01:16) Marketing has a life cycle just like anything else. Understanding it helps you avoid panic and make timely adjustments.Phase 1: The Launch (00:02:08) The exciting first phase of a marketing campaign, characterized by early wins, low competition, and the joy of newness.Phase 2: The Growth (00:02:48) The phase where marketing efforts become consistent, momentum builds, phones ring, and results are strong and steady.Phase 3: The Plateau (00:03:32) Growth begins to slow down. Things feel steady, but the initial momentum has noticeably decreased, leaving you wondering why.Phase 4: The Decline (00:04:43) Results are dropping while costs are rising. Ad fatigue sets in, and competitors may be catching up.Common Mistakes Shop Owners Make (00:05:42) Discussing common errors like the "set it and forget it" mindset, pulling budgets too early, and blaming channels.Chasing Shiny Objects (00:08:35) Warning against pursuing new marketing trends without first fixing foundational issues in your existing strategy and ensuring they are solid.External Factors Affecting Marketing (00:11:44) Discussing external influences like new competitors entering the market, the rising cost of ads, and shifts in customer behavior.Algorithm Changes (00:15:12) Platforms like Google and Facebook constantly change their algorithms, which can suddenly impact your marketing campaign's performance and results.Is Your Brand Stale? (00:16:32) Considering the possibility that a brand may need a refresh over time, which could be a slow-building reason for decline.What Smart Shops Do Differently (00:17:42) Smart shops regularly refresh creative and messaging, layer strategies, and track trends instead of reacting based on emotions.The Importance of a Long-Term Mindset (00:22:02) Successful marketing requires a long-term mindset with annual and quarterly plans, not just jumping from campaign to campaign.Closing and Call to Action (00:22:56) Kim encourages listeners to send feedback, ideas, and questions, and asks for reviews on their favorite podcast app.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or TopicsLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Walker’s Hierarchy of Marketing NeedsThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledMost shop owners are out here making big decisions based on gut feelings, a few loud customer opinions, or whatever seems like a good idea in the moment.And sometimes that works… but a lot of times, it doesn’t.What if you had a way to pressure test your ideas before rolling them out?What if you could hear directly from the people you actually want more of… your best clients… and even the ones who are not afraid to tell you the truth?That’s exactly what this episode dives into.Kim Walker breaks down how a customer advisory panel can become one of the most powerful tools in your shop. Not just for marketing, but for smarter decision making, better services, and avoiding costly mistakes before they happen.She’s not talking theory here. This is pulled straight from real world experience, both inside an auto repair shop and at Shop Marketing Pros, where these panels have literally stopped bad ideas in their tracks.If you’ve ever wondered what your customers are really thinking… or wished you had a sounding board before making your next big move… this is one you don’t want to skip.👉 Hit play and learn how to build a customer advisory panel that actually moves your shop forward.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction to Customer Advisory Panels (00:00:10) Host Kim Walker introduces the episode's topic: creating and managing a customer advisory panel for your auto repair shop.Sponsor Shout-out (00:00:42) A brief interlude to thank the episode's sponsors, Shop Boss and App Fueled, for their support of the podcast.The Problem We're Fixing Today (00:01:07) Kim explains how an advisory panel helps shop owners make better decisions by getting direct feedback and ideas from customers.Why Have a Customer Advisory Panel? (00:02:29) Discussion on the reasons to start a panel, emphasizing the need for honest feedback from a diverse group of customers.Selecting Your Panel Members (00:03:39) Advice on choosing the right people for your panel, including a mix of top-tier clients and those who offer honest criticism.Incentivizing Your Panel (00:06:12) Kim discusses the importance of showing appreciation for members' time through incentives like recognition, perks, or early access to services.Surprising Benefits and Feedback (00:07:32) The host shares how panels provide honest feedback, great ideas, and can even prevent the business from making poor decisions.How a Panel Saved a Bad Decision (00:08:47) A personal story about how the Shop Marketing Pros advisory panel advised against pursuing a "fastest-growing" award, saving the company.Sponsor Segment: Shop Boss & App Fueled (00:10:04) A detailed promotional segment for the episode's sponsors, highlighting the features and benefits of their services for auto repair shops.How to Run Your Advisory Panel Meetings (00:12:08) Practical tips on the logistics of running meetings, including frequency (quarterly), format (in-person dinner or Zoom), and keeping it simple.Creating a Meeting Agenda (00:13:35) Kim explains how to structure meetings with a prepared agenda while also leaving open space for panel members' own feedback.Using a Rolling System for Members (00:14:36) A suggestion to rotate panel members over time to keep ideas fresh and maintain continuity, similar to a board of directors.Questions to Ask Your Panel (00:15:46) Example questions to ask your advisory panel about what they value, their frustrations, and services they wish you offered.First Steps to Get Started (00:17:05) Actionable advice for shop owners: start simple by identifying and inviting 5-7 of your best customers to a dinner meeting.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or TopicsThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledLeadership isn’t always about learning how to manage other people. Sometimes it’s about getting uncomfortable enough to finally lead yourself.In this episode, Brian talks with J.R. Portman about his experience at Bold Advanced Leadership, a training that pushed him physically, mentally, and emotionally. They talk about enthusiasm, honesty, trust, getting over the fear of looking foolish, and how those lessons apply just as much at home as they do inside the business.If you own an auto repair shop and you’re trying to grow as a leader, this is one you’ll want to hear.Listen now and go fill those bays.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction to Bold Advanced Leadership (00:01:04) J.R. Portman introduces the leadership training event, describing it as "Navy SEAL training for emotional leadership" focused on individual growth.Discovering the Training (00:02:09) J.R. explains how he heard about the event from a peer at a coaching group for marketing agency owners.The Value of Peer Recommendations (00:03:54) The speakers discuss the power of recommendations from trusted peers in similar professional roles over traditional advertising.The "Fight Club" Mystique (00:05:15) J.R. describes the intentionally vague and cryptic nature of the event, which adds to its mystique and shared experience.An Intense, Immersive Experience (00:06:16) The training is described as an intense, sleepaway camp-like experience that bonds participants through shared trials and breaks normal routines.Expectations vs. Reality (00:08:02) J.R. shares his initial expectations, like doing a trust fall, and how the intensity and methodology pushed him beyond comfort.Learning Personal Limits (00:09:05) The training challenged J.R.'s comfort zones, particularly in public speaking, forcing him to unlearn control and embrace emotional expression.The Breakdown and Rebuilding Process (00:10:30) The event intentionally broke participants down to rebuild them, using intimate group settings and intense, personal leadership exercises.Applying Leadership Skills to Real-Life Situations (00:14:42) J.R. discusses how the training helps manage healthy conflict and emotional situations, like those in a leadership team meeting.Main Takeaway: Living with Enthusiasm (00:16:42) J.R.'s biggest takeaway was the permission to live more enthusiastically and bring more energy to his professional and personal life.Balancing Business and Personal Growth (00:18:33) The discussion highlights how the training's lessons apply equally to business leadership and personal life, such as being a parent.Who Should Attend This Training? (00:20:14) The ideal attendee is someone actively seeking personal growth and willing to be pushed, not someone forced to be there.The Power of Positive Self-Talk (00:21:55) An exercise demonstrated the physical power of positive self-talk ("I can") versus negative self-talk ("I can't").Second Takeaway: The Importance of Honesty (00:23:29) Another key lesson was being more direct and honest with people, and the value of genuinely getting to know team members.The Value of Getting Uncomfortable (00:26:24) J.R. explains how being forced out of his comfort zone and facing the fear of failure was a powerful lesson.Final Advice for Listeners (00:28:50) J.R. advises listeners to act quickly on growth opportunities and intentionally seek out experiences that challenge and upset their norms.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Bold Advanced Leadership by Driven LeadershipSeven Figure AgencyThe 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John MaxwellThe Great CEO WithinThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledYou got the customer. You did the work. You got paid…and then they disappear.That’s not normal, and it’s costing you way more than you think.Kim Walker digs into the loyalty gap that keeps auto repair shops stuck in a transactional cycle and shows why customer loyalty is built in the space between visits, not just at the counter. From follow-up and personal connection to surprise-and-delight moments, rewards programs, and consistent communication, this episode is a reminder that customers come back when they feel remembered, valued, and part of something bigger than the repair order.If you want more repeat business, stronger referrals, and customers who stop price shopping, this is one you need to hear. Listen to the full episode and start building loyalty on purpose.Show Notes with TimestampsPodcast Introduction (00:00:00) Kim Walker introduces the Automotive Repair Podcast Network and the show.Host Introduction & Sponsor Shoutout (00:00:09) Kim Walker introduces herself, mentions her absence, and thanks sponsors.Episode Topic Introduction: The Loyalty Gap (00:01:12) Kim introduces the main topic: customer loyalty and why customers don’t return.Personal Loyalty Example & Reflection (00:02:20) Kim shares personal examples about loyalty to local vs. big box stores.Transactional vs. Relational Business (00:03:28) Discussion on shops running transactional businesses and the importance of customer experience.Why Customers Don’t Return (00:04:49) Explains reasons customers don’t come back: lack of follow-up, no emotional connection, not memorable.Building Loyalty: What It Looks Like (00:07:14) Defines true loyalty: trust, referrals, not price shopping, and customer connection.Practical Ways to Build Loyalty: Surprise & Delight (00:09:48) Tips on creating memorable moments, gifting, and personal touches for customers.Personal Touches & CRM Use (00:11:50) Examples of using CRM to remember customer details and follow up meaningfully.Sponsor/Advertisement Break (00:12:35) Sponsor messages about shop management software and loyalty app solutions.Loyalty & Rewards Programs (00:14:38) Discusses meaningful loyalty and rewards programs and available resources.Supporting Local Causes (00:15:36) Shares story of involving customers in local/community support efforts.Consistent, Non-Promotional Communication (00:16:50) Emphasizes regular, non-promotional communication to stay top of mind.Database Mailers with Heart (00:18:02) Encourages using CRM for meaningful mailers, not just promotions or coupons.Reference to Brittany Hodak & Super Fan Mindset (00:19:10) Mentions previous episode with Brittany Hodak and introduces the “SUPER” fan framework.Breakdown of the SUPER Acronym (00:20:32) Explains each part of the SUPER acronym for building super fans.Final Thoughts & Call to Action (00:22:57) Encourages listeners to implement one loyalty-building idea and reach out via email.Episode Wrap-Up & Network Promotion (00:24:02) Thanks listeners, promotes other shows on the network, and invites to tune in next week.Podcast Outro (00:24:28) Kim closes the episode and provides info on where to find more content.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Auto Repair Marketing MastermindAutomotive Repair Podcast NetworkEpisode 156: Creating Superfans with Brittany HodakThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledTwo hundred episodes in, and a lot has changed. In this milestone conversation, Brian and Kim, look back at the biggest shifts in auto repair marketing since episode one, from the rise of AI and Local Service Ads to the growing importance of your Google Business Profile, reviews, trust signals, automation, influencers, and short-form video. It’s a real-world look at what’s working now, what has changed for shop owners, and where marketing seems to be headed next. Give it a listen and see how your shop can stay ahead instead of playing catch-up.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Episode Context (00:00:00) Hosts introduce themselves, mention Lindy the dog, and set up the episode’s theme: changes in marketing over four years.Sponsor Acknowledgments and Network Thanks (00:01:18) Thanking sponsors and the Automotive Repair Podcast Network, with shoutouts to Carmen and Tracy.Request for Listener Input (00:02:19) Hosts ask listeners for topic suggestions for future episodes, both marketing and non-marketing related.The Rise of AI in Marketing (00:03:17) Discussion of AI’s impact on marketing, including AI-driven shop recommendations and content creation.Google Local Service Ads for Auto Repair (00:05:05) How Google Local Service Ads became available to auto repair shops and their major impact on revenue.Google Business Profile’s Growing Importance (00:06:48) Google Business Profile now rivals websites as the “front door” for shops, especially due to AI and clickless search.The Increasing Value of Online Reviews (00:08:59) Reviews have become more critical, with customers reading them in-depth and their influence on search and revenue.How Reviews Influence Search and AI (00:12:12) Examples of reviews triggering search results and their importance across multiple platforms, not just Google.Google’s Vicinity Update and Local SEO (00:14:13) Explanation of the Vicinity Update, which prioritizes proximity in search results and limits ranking in distant areas.Shift from SEO Manipulation to Trust Signals (00:15:48) SEO has moved from tricks (like keyword stuffing) to building trust through real signals like certifications and authentic content.Automation Replacing Manual Marketing Tasks (00:20:10) Automation now handles tasks like appointment reminders and review requests, reducing manual work for shop owners.The Rise of Influencers and Personal Branding (00:20:58) Influencers, including shop owners, have become more prominent, building authority and credibility through content.Short-Form Video and TikTok’s Impact (00:22:16) Short-Form video, especially on TikTok, has become a major marketing tool for small businesses and influencers.Outro and Calls to Action (00:22:57) Encouragement to contact the hosts, join their Facebook group, leave reviews, and follow the podcast for future episodes.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Remarkable Results RadioAutomotive Repair Podcast NetworkAuto Repair Marketing MastermindThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledFrom learning automotive repair beside his father in the Republic of Congo to building a successful shop and YouTube channel in Maryland, Deo Kitoko’s story is a powerful reminder of what hard work, humility, and persistence can build. In this conversation, he shares how he taught himself advanced diagnostics through books and YouTube, why he started creating videos, and how education, honesty, and consistency helped him grow both his audience and his business. Give this episode a listen to hear how Deo turned skill, service, and storytelling into real momentum.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:00) Brian introduces Deo, highlights his YouTube channel, and previews the episode’s topics.Theo’s Early Life and Automotive Roots (00:01:18) Deo shares his upbringing in the Republic of Congo, learning auto repair from his father, and early shop experiences.The Value of Skilled Trades in the Age of AI (00:04:50) Discussion about job security in skilled trades versus jobs threatened by AI, and the importance of automotive skills.Theo’s Path to Shop Ownership (00:06:24) Deo describes his journey from technician to shop owner, including his education and early career in Congo.Technical Education and Master Tech Certification (00:08:13) Deo details his technical high school, college, and diesel training, leading to master tech status in Congo.Decision to Move to the U.S. (00:10:17) Deo explains his choice to move to America, learning English, and the challenges of immigrating.First Job in the U.S. and Early Career (00:12:00) Deo recounts getting his first job in the U.S., proving his skills, and advancing in the shop.Self-Education and ASE Certifications (00:13:27) Deo discusses learning from YouTube, books, and mentors, and passing ASE certifications to become a master tech in the U.S.Sponsor Messages (00:16:21) Promotional segment for Shop Boss and App Fueled.Theo’s Certifications and Timeline (00:18:26) Deo lists his certifications and clarifies his arrival in the U.S. in 2013.Learning Diagnostics and YouTube Inspiration (00:19:04) Deo explains how he learned diagnostics from YouTube and books, inspired by Eric the Car Guy and Scanner Danner.Starting the YouTube Channel (00:19:30) Deo describes what motivated him to start making YouTube videos and his initial doubts.First Video and Overcoming Self-Doubt (00:24:05) Deo shares the story of filming his first video for a customer and being encouraged to start a channel.Building a Production Team (00:28:41) Deo explains how his YouTube channel grew to include a full production team and better equipment.Advice for Shop Owners on Video Content (00:29:42) Deo advises shop owners on starting with simple equipment and clarifies his focus on education over marketing.Balancing Shop Work and Content Creation (00:33:56) Deo discusses the challenges of balancing shop management with filming and editing videos.Transparency and Showing Mistakes (00:34:54) Deo talks about showing mistakes and comebacks in his videos to build trust and authenticity.Impact on Hiring and Team Culture (00:37:39) Deo describes how his videos attract technicians and foster a positive shop culture.Meeting Scanner Danner and Industry Connections (00:39:28) Deo recounts meeting his YouTube inspiration, Scanner Danner, and the impact of industry networking.Giving Back and Future Goals (00:42:28) Deo discusses helping friends in Congo, translating knowledge, and his desire to teach and expand his business.YouTube Channel and Social Media Plugs (00:43:36) Deo shares where listeners can find his content online and thanks Brian for the marketing advice.Networking and Working with Shop Marketing Pros (00:45:30) Deo describes networking at industry events and his experience working with Shop Marketing Pros.Closing Remarks (00:47:20) Brian and Deo thank each other, and Brian closes the episode with network information.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)EntreLeadership by Dave RamseyEricTheCarGuyKIT'S Auto and Truck RepairDeo KitokoThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledIf your shop looks and sounds like every other shop in town, you’re just another option in the sea of sameness. In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with Rick White of 180BIZ to talk about what it really takes to differentiate your shop, attract the right clients, and stop competing on price alone. They dig into market, message, and medium, and explain how knowing exactly who you serve makes your marketing easier, sharper, and a whole lot more effective. If you want more of the right clients and fewer of the ones who drain your time and profits, this is one you need to hear. Listen now.Show Notes with TimestampsTimestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:00:09) Host introduces the episode, guest Rick White, and thanks sponsors.Technician Mindset vs. Differentiation (00:01:21) Rick discusses how shop owners often start with a technician mindset and the need to define shop identity.Sea of Sameness in Auto Repair (00:02:49) Discussion about shops copying each other’s websites and the importance of unique content and identity.Comparison and Value Presentation (00:03:46) Rick explains the dangers of comparing shops and the need to present value to clients.Understanding and Communicating Value (00:05:19) How value is determined by the customer and the importance of tailoring the message to individual needs.Defining Your Ideal Client Avatar (00:07:05) Rick shares how to create a detailed client avatar and target marketing efforts accordingly.Community Engagement and Marketing to Families (00:08:16) Examples of engaging with the community, targeting families, and building relationships through local events.Influence of Children and Family-Focused Marketing (00:11:11) Stories about how engaging with kids leads to new clients and builds trust with families.Creating a Family Atmosphere in the Shop (00:12:37) Examples of shops displaying technician family photos and fostering a family-serving-family environment.Importance of Targeted Messaging (00:14:11) Emphasizing the need for specific, non-generic marketing messages that resonate with the target audience.Sponsor Messages (00:14:34) Mid-episode sponsor advertisements.Identifying and Attracting Ideal Clients (00:16:48) Discussion on why “anyone with a car” is not an ideal client and how to focus on the best clients.Avoiding Generic Claims in Marketing (00:17:23) Why claims like “best customer service” or “quality parts” are ineffective and the power of testimonials.Client-Focused Messaging and Storytelling (00:18:47) How to shift marketing language from “we” to “you” and make the client the hero.Unique Ways Shops Differentiate Themselves (00:19:32) Examples of creative, family-friendly, and personalized touches that set shops apart.Aligning Market with Vehicle Type and Interests (00:21:34) How vehicle type and client interests (e.g., dyno days, car shows) influence marketing strategies.Market, Message, and Medium Explained (00:23:27) Rick outlines the three pillars of marketing: market, message, and method/medium.Discovering What Makes Your Shop Different (00:24:31) Advice for shop owners to identify their unique differentiators by talking to their best clients.Coaching with Community and Core Values (00:26:18) Rick shares how his coaching company builds community and supports clients beyond business.Using Client Feedback and AI for Insights (00:28:13) How to use client advisory panels and AI to analyze reviews and discover what clients value.Clarifying Client Feedback and Communication (00:28:39) The importance of understanding the true meaning behind client feedback and reflective listening.Relational vs. Transactional Focus (00:32:38) Why focusing on relationships, not just transactions, leads to business success.Choosing the Right Marketing Medium (00:32:41) How to select marketing channels based on where your ideal clients spend their time.Understanding Psychographics vs. Demographics (00:35:47) Explaining the difference between demographics and psychographics for effective targeting.Adjusting Your Client Base Through Marketing (00:37:18) How to shift your client base by changing your marketing message and targeting.Perceived Value and Pricing Strategy (00:39:22) Discussion on pricing, perceived value, and how exclusivity can increase demand.Client-Focused Solutions and Consistency (00:41:15) Emphasizing the need to market solutions, not problems, and to deliver consistently.Long-Term Impact of Targeted Marketing (00:42:22) Rick and Brian discuss the long-term benefits of focused marketing and serving profitable clients.How to Connect with Rick White (00:43:14) Information on how listeners can contact Rick for coaching or more information.Closing Remarks and Podcast Network Info (00:43:49) Host wraps up the episode and promotes the Automotive Repair Podcast Network.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)The Sales Bible by Jeffrey GitomerBuilding a StoryBrand by Donald MillerRick White180BIZ WebsiteThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/<a...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledBig goals require big standards, and that is exactly what Brian Walker and Parker Branch dig into in this conversation from VISION. Parker shares why he refuses to accept playing small, how coaching helped shape his growth, and what it looks like to push yourself, your team, and your vendors without burning relationships. They also get into financial fear, extreme ownership, truthful leadership, and the kind of mindset shift it takes to build something truly exceptional. If you are serious about growing your shop, raising your standards, and refusing to settle for average, this is one you need to hear. Listen now.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:00:10) Brian introduces Parker Branch, sets up the episode’s theme, and thanks sponsors.Big Aspirations and Avoiding Burnout (00:01:14) Parker discusses overcoming burnout, re-centering, and recommitting to growth and excellence.Origins of High Expectations (00:02:03) Parker shares when and why he decided not to play small and his drive for continuous improvement.Coaching Shop Owners to Think Bigger (00:03:19) Parker talks about his coaching approach, encouraging shop owners to step out of their comfort zones.Pushing Vendors and Teams Respectfully (00:05:15) Discussion on pushing for excellence without being unreasonable or damaging relationships.High Expectations vs. Unreasonable Expectations (00:06:43) Brian and Parker differentiate between seeking excellence and having unrealistic demands.Sponsor Messages (00:07:30) Sponsor advertisements for Shop Boss and App Fueled.Biggest Obstacles for Shop Owners (00:09:37) Parker identifies financial fear and staffing as major hurdles for shop owners.Team Reactions to Ambition (00:11:28) Parker explains how his team responds to his drive and the importance of honest communication.Bringing the Team to VISION Conference (00:12:32) Parker describes the impact of bringing his entire team to a major industry event.Maintaining Relationships While Pushing for Growth (00:13:10) How Parker sets expectations and challenges vendors and employees without burning bridges.Truthful Communication and Keynote Inspiration (00:14:41) Reflection on the importance of honest conversations, inspired by a keynote speaker.Unrealistic Goals and Business Growth (00:17:05) Parker shares his ambitious goal of reaching $7 million in sales at a single location.Extreme Ownership When Things Go Wrong (00:18:32) Parker discusses taking responsibility first when performance falls short.Advice for Shop Owners Playing Too Small (00:20:01) Parker and Brian stress the value of coaching and investing in personal and business growth.Personal Investments in Coaching and Health (00:22:26) Both discuss their investments in coaching, health, and the resulting benefits.Closing Remarks and Appreciation (00:23:01) Brian and Parker express gratitude for their relationship and wrap up the episode.Podcast Outro (00:23:59) Outro and information about the Automotive Repair Podcast Network.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)VISIONThe InstituteThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledTraining is expensive, and too many shop owners treat conferences like a reward instead of a real investment in the future of their business. In this conversation with Matt Wagg at VISION 2026, we get into how smart shop owners can build a true talent pipeline by aligning training with business goals, creating development plans for their team, and making sure they always have a solid bench of players ready to step up. If you want your training dollars to actually produce a return, this is one you need to hear. Listen now.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgement (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast, guest Matt Wagg, and thanks sponsors before starting the discussion.Class Overview: Talent Pipeline (00:01:17) Matt describes his class on employee development, training ROI, and building a bench of players.Intentional Training vs. Random Training (00:02:26) Discussion about aligning training with business goals instead of treating it as a random reward.Industry Training Trends and Individual Needs (00:03:18) Matt explains the mismatch between advanced classes and most technicians’ actual needs.Needs Assessment Analysis (00:04:27) Matt introduces the needs assessment framework for identifying business and employee development needs.The Rule of Twos and Building a Bench (00:06:19) Explanation of having at least two people competent in every skill area to avoid skill gaps.Technician Involvement and Skills Inventory (00:08:48) Importance of regular one-on-one discussions and skills inventory worksheets for technician development.Balancing Business Needs and Employee Goals (00:11:08) How to align business needs with individual technician goals for mutual buy-in.Intentional Hiring and Upskilling (00:14:19) Strategies for reskilling current staff or hiring intentionally based on identified skill gaps.Conference Training Selection Process (00:17:17) Matt details how he and his team intentionally select conference classes based on business and personal development needs.Example: Developing a Lead Technician (00:20:21) Matt shares a real example of promoting a technician into a leadership role and supporting him with targeted training.Training vs. Development (00:22:15) Clarifies the difference between one-off training and ongoing development plans for employees.SMART Goals and Development Plans (00:23:05) How to use SMART goals and written development plans for structured, measurable employee growth.Conclusion and Contact Information (00:25:20) Matt offers to share materials and provides his contact information for listeners interested in learning more.Podcast Wrap-Up (00:26:13) Brian closes the episode, promotes the podcast network, and thanks listeners.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Matt WaggThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledSometimes the problem isn’t the conference. It’s the mindset you brought with you.Brian Walker takes on the chatter that came out of the VISION Conference and makes the case that seasoned shop owners may be expecting the wrong thing. When you’re new, every class feels like a breakthrough. But as you grow, your role has to shift from taker to giver, from student to mentor, from chasing epiphanies to building legacy.He also calls out vendors who turn classes into sales pitches, challenges shop owners who complain without implementing what they’ve already learned, and makes a strong case for showing up ready to give back to the industry that helped build you.If you’ve ever left a conference feeling underwhelmed, this one will make you stop and think. Listen now.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:00:00) Brian introduces the episode, mentions recent VISION Conference, and thanks sponsors.Initial Reactions to VISION Conference (00:01:21) Brian discusses Facebook posts expressing dissatisfaction with the conference and reflects on attendee expectations.The Learner’s Journey: From Taker to Giver (00:02:14) Explains how new shop owners are eager learners, but seasoned veterans may not find classes as novel.The Role of Seasoned Veterans (00:03:10) Encourages experienced attendees to mentor others and shift from learning to giving back.Building a Legacy and Mentorship (00:04:22) Highlights the importance of legacy, using Jerry Holcomb as an example, and urges attendees to become legacy builders.Mindset Shift: Giving Back to the Industry (00:05:41) Stresses the need for experienced shop owners to contribute rather than just receive at conferences.Advice to Vendor Instructors (00:06:42) Criticizes vendor-led classes that are sales pitches and emphasizes providing real value when teaching.Sponsor Messages and Product Features (00:07:39) Sponsor advertisements for Shop Boss and App Fueled, detailing their features and benefits.Finding Nuggets as a Veteran Attendee (00:08:51) Encourages seasoned attendees to look for small, valuable insights ("nuggets") instead of expecting big revelations.On Implementation and Constructive Feedback (00:10:01) Advises against complaining if you haven’t implemented what you’ve learned; stresses the importance of honest feedback via surveys.Final Thoughts and Conference Mindset (00:11:04) Reiterates the importance of the right mindset and helping others at industry events.Podcast Network Outro (00:12:20) Mentions other podcasts on the network and encourages listeners to tune in again.Closing Credits (00:12:38) Outro by the announcer, promoting the podcast app and contact information.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)VISIONAutomotive Repair Podcast NetworkThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledBrand building doesn’t always come from ads, funnels, or traditional marketing; it often comes from bold decisions, authenticity, and doing things differently. Zeb Beard of Stroker’s Diesel and Automotive shares how sponsoring a professional fisherman, building a massive and unforgettable shop, and leaning into unconventional branding strategies have fueled explosive brand awareness and loyalty. From turning everyday moments into viral content to embracing his true personality online, Zeb reveals how exposure, storytelling, and consistency can outperform paid advertising. If you want to rethink how brand building really works, and how to create marketing that people actually care about, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew. Listen now to discover how bold branding creates lasting impact.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsorship Overview (00:00:10) Brian introduces Zeb Beard and the main topic: sponsoring a professional fisherman for shop marketing.Why Sponsor a Fisherman? (00:01:30) Zeb explains his passion for fishing and the motivation behind sponsoring a professional fisherman.Choosing the Right Fisherman (00:01:33) Zeb discusses selecting a unique fisherman who travels extensively and offers national exposure.Purpose and Expected ROI (00:02:59) Zeb clarifies his goals: exposure and content, not immediate business from the sponsorship.How the Sponsorship Works (00:05:02) Details on logo placement, exposure through tournaments, and the unique visibility of the sponsored fisherman.Sponsorship Timeline and Early Results (00:06:17) Zeb shares that the sponsorship just started, but both parties are already seeing social media growth.Brand Building History (00:07:21) Zeb recounts previous unique brand-building efforts, including sponsoring a rock band.Impact of Brand Building and Shop Size (00:08:28) Discussion of the shop’s growth, its 64,000 sq ft building, and how the building itself is a marketing tool.Shop Location and Signage (00:09:41) Zeb describes the shop’s visibility, signage, and its impact on local awareness.Merchandise and Graphics (00:11:02) Zeb talks about branded t-shirts, working with a graphics company, and plans to sell merchandise online.Grassroots Marketing Approach (00:13:38) Zeb explains his focus on grassroots brand building, community sponsorships, and minimal paid advertising.Viral Road Report Videos (00:14:46) Zeb describes his viral “road report” videos during an ice storm and the importance of consistent content creation.Authenticity and Customer Relations (00:18:17) Zeb discusses being authentic, setting boundaries with customers, and how this approach builds loyalty.No Promise Times and Quality Focus (00:20:28) Zeb explains why he doesn’t give promise times, focusing on quality and thoroughness over speed.Living at the Shop (00:23:00) Zeb shares the benefits and boundaries of living inside his shop, improving work-life integration.Maintaining Boundaries with Customers (00:25:24) Zeb describes how he maintains privacy and boundaries despite living at his business.Being Unapologetically Authentic Online (00:26:15) Zeb and Brian discuss the value and impact of being authentic and direct on social media.Event Attendance and Closing (00:27:17) Zeb mentions upcoming industry events he’ll attend, and Brian wraps up the episode.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Stroker’s Diesel and AutomotiveThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledMost shops say they “do the right thing.” Mark Lowe from Yeck's Auto Repair went out and proved it by earning the BBB Torch Award for Ethics. In this conversation, we dig into what the award actually measures (hint: it’s way more than reviews), what the application process revealed about their business, and how the recognition boosted team pride and customer confidence once that trophy hit the front counter.We also connect the dots to something shop owners can’t ignore anymore: AI-driven recommendations. If ChatGPT (and the tools built around it) are looking for trust signals, the BBB can be one of the loudest ones in the room, and Mark shares exactly how they’ve leveraged the award on their website and marketing to lower people’s guard and get them in the door.If you want more trust, better positioning, and a marketing angle that isn’t just “$XX off an oil change,” hit play and listen to this episode.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Origin of the Episode (00:00:10) Brian introduces Mark Lowe, explains how the episode came from an AI class discussing BBB trust signals.Winning the BBB Torch Award for Ethics (00:01:41) Mark shares about receiving the 2024 BBB Torch Award for Ethics in Omaha, Midwest region.Torch Award Application Process and Criteria (00:01:59) Discussion of the rigorous application process, including community involvement, shop culture, and ethical practices.Community Involvement and Veteran Programs (00:02:59) Mark describes their community giveback and veteran support programs as part of the award submission.History with the BBB (00:03:23) Mark recounts how long they've been involved with the BBB and the value of active participation.Impact of BBB Membership Before the Award (00:04:07) Mark discusses limited customer impact from BBB membership prior to winning the award.Self-Reflection During Application (00:04:49) The application process prompted Mark to evaluate and improve business practices and staff support.Changes Made After Application (00:05:30) Mark highlights increased focus on employee training and development as a result of the process.Training and Team Building (00:06:16) Mark explains their approach to staff training, including attending Vision in Kansas City as a team.Award Ceremony and Recognition (00:07:28) Mark describes the award ceremony, online recognition, and displaying the award in the shop.Multiple Winners and Judging Process (00:08:31) Explanation of how multiple shops can win and the responsibility to judge future applicants.Award Eligibility and Reapplication (00:09:24) Mark clarifies the waiting period before reapplying for the Torch Award.Impact of Winning the Award on Staff (00:09:43) Winning increased staff pride, morale, and reinforced the shop’s commitment to ethics.AI, Trust Signals, and BBB in Marketing (00:13:01) Brian discusses AI’s use of trust signals like BBB; Mark shares how the award builds customer trust.Leveraging the Award in Marketing (00:14:01) Mark details using the award in website, social media, and ongoing marketing efforts.BBB Events and Community Activities (00:14:59) Mark describes BBB networking events, training, and community giveback initiatives.Post-Award Involvement and Presenting (00:15:55) Mark shares about being invited to present awards to other businesses after winning.Other Trust Signals and Certifications (00:16:33) Mark emphasizes ASE certifications as additional trust signals and their impact on staff confidence.Advice for Shop Owners on Involvement (00:18:26) Mark encourages shop owners to invest in their people and participate in organizations for mutual benefit.Closing Thoughts and Farewell (00:19:03) Mark’s final advice: do the right thing and take care of people; Brian wraps up the episode.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Better Business Bureau (BBB)Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledWhat would happen if someone walked into your shop tomorrow and took over your marketing for the next 90 days?No theory.No fluff.No “someday” ideas.Just a step-by-step execution plan designed to fill bays, tighten up your processes, and position your shop as the obvious choice in your market.In this episode, Brian lays out exactly what he would do, starting with Local Service Ads and a full marketing audit, all the way through AI optimization, content strategy, Google Ads, CRM implementation, phone call analysis, video marketing, community networking through BNI and the Chamber, and even launching a local podcast.This is a blueprint.Not for surviving.For building something that dominates.If your shop isn’t doing consistent marketing, or you’re doing some of it but not seeing the traction you want, this episode will show you where to focus first and what to fix next.Stop guessing. Start executing.Hit play now and see what 90 days of focused marketing could really do for your shop.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Episode Context (00:00:00) Brian introduces the episode, outlines the 90-day marketing takeover scenario, and thanks sponsors.Assumptions and Approach (00:01:18) Explains assumptions: general repair shop, little/no marketing, and the step-by-step blueprint approach.Start Local Services Ads (LSA) Process (00:02:15) Begins LSA setup due to approval time, discusses its importance and common misconceptions.Shop Cleanup for First Impressions (00:04:20) Assigns cleaning and organizing the shop to improve first impressions for marketing visuals.Comprehensive Marketing Audit (00:06:26) Performs a full audit: Google Business Profile, website (including ADA compliance), social media, email, and direct mail.Join Community Groups (BNI &amp; Chamber) (00:10:03) Joins BNI and Chamber of Commerce, brings a team member to train for ongoing networking.Set Up AI Tools (ChatGPT &amp; Claude) (00:11:05) Implements AI tools for marketing support, content creation, and brand training.Create Content Bank (00:12:26) Builds a large repository of website and marketing content, ensuring quality and brand alignment.Develop Team Bios, Memberships, and News Sections (00:14:42) Adds team bios, memberships/affiliations, and news/awards to the website for trust and authority.Implement Guest X for Call Analysis (00:20:23) Uses Guest X to analyze phone calls, improve service advisor skills, and ensure marketing ROI.Daily and Weekly Video Content (00:22:44) Begins daily short-form and weekly long-form video creation to engage and educate the audience.Start a Local Community Podcast (00:23:42) Launches a podcast focused on local community topics, not auto repair, to build local authority.Weekly SEO &amp; AI-Optimized Content (00:24:44) Publishes weekly written content based on real shop issues, optimized for both SEO and AI.Staff Meeting: Collect Client Questions (00:27:12) Holds a team meeting to gather all client questions, forming a content creation roadmap.Set Up Google Ads (00:28:18) Implements Google Ads to target specific profitable services and detailed search queries.Replace Stock Images with Real Photos (00:29:23) Takes and uploads real shop photos to replace stock images on the website and marketing materials.Implement Review Strategy (00:30:24) Establishes a process to generate and respond to reviews that boost SEO and AI visibility.Deploy CRM (App Fueled) (00:31:33) Implements a CRM (App Fueled) for client communication, follow-ups, and call center integration.Send Regular Email Newsletters (00:33:50) Starts monthly email newsletters to keep the shop top-of-mind, focusing on brand presence over open rates.Conclusion and Call for Feedback (00:35:53) Encourages listeners to share results, check out other podcasts, and thanks sponsors.Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)They Ask, You AnswerEndless CustomersBusiness Network InternationalClaudeThe Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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. <a href="https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledMeta Verified isn’t just for celebrities anymore, and no, it’s not just about that little blue checkmark either. In this episode, Hallie Wasinger and Caroline LeGrand from Shop Marketing Pros dig into five solid reasons why your auto repair shop might want to seriously consider Meta Verification. We’re talking real-world protection from impersonators, better access to Meta support when something goes sideways (because it will), and even perks that can boost your SEO and visibility in the algorithm. Caroline breaks down the entire process, what it actually gets you, and how to know if it’s right for your shop.If you’ve ever asked, “Should my business be Meta Verified?”—this episode is your answer. Give it a listen, and decide if it’s time to level up your digital presenceShow Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Messages (00:00:00) Podcast and hosts introduced; sponsors Shop Boss and App Fueled are mentioned.Background on Meta Verification (00:01:06) Hallie and Caroline discuss their initial skepticism and early research on Meta verification.Meta Verification for Public Figures vs. Businesses (00:02:13) Explains how verification started for celebrities and public figures, and the shift to broader availability.Real-World Example: Meta Verification Benefits (00:02:29) Hallie shares a story from Macon about another agency benefiting from Meta verification during a Facebook ads hack.Updated Research and Agency Perspective (00:03:51) Caroline describes her new research and conversations with another agency about Meta verification.Meta Verification vs. Business Certification (00:04:45) Distinguishes between verifying a business page and business portfolio certification.Impersonation Protection and Security (00:05:17) Discusses impersonation protection, security, and limitations for agencies managing multiple pages.Enhanced Support and Limitations (00:06:08) Explains the scope of enhanced support and its limitations for business portfolios and client pages.Five Main Benefits of Meta Verification (00:07:21) Caroline outlines the five main benefits: enhanced support, improved security, impersonation protection, links/content, and search optimization.Levels of Meta Verification (00:11:35) Describes the four levels of verification (Standard, Plus, Premium, Max) and their differences.Sponsor Messages (00:13:06) Additional sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.The Meta Verification Process (00:15:09) Caroline explains the step-by-step process to get Meta verified and why it was quick for them.Importance of Facebook Hygiene (00:17:12) Discusses the importance of good Facebook practices for successful verification.Personal Profiles and Business Pages (00:17:55) Explains the relationship between personal profiles and business pages, and the impact of personal behavior.Consequences of Poor Facebook Hygiene (00:19:05) Shares an example of how a business owner’s personal profile in “Facebook jail” affected their business page and ads.Meta Verification vs. Business Certification for Multi-location Businesses (00:20:56) Clarifies when to use verification versus certification, especially for multi-location businesses.SEO and Search Optimization Benefits (00:23:02) Explains how Meta verification helps with links in posts, SEO, and algorithm prioritization.Algorithm Prioritization and Featured Profiles (00:25:11) Describes how verified pages are prioritized in Facebook’s algorithm and featured more prominently.Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:26:53) Hosts summarize their changed perspective on Meta verification and encourage listeners to consider it.Outro and Mardi Gras Farewell (00:29:07) Hosts sign off, mention Mardi Gras, and invite listeners to future episodes.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Get Meta VerifiedThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledDecember 16th, Shop Marketing Pros’ Google Ads MCC was hacked — and what should’ve been a quick fix turned into an eight-day nightmare of lost access, fraudulent campaigns, and even attempted $500,000 account “preload” charges. Brian Walker and Hallie Wasinger lay out the full timeline (warts and all): what the hackers changed, why leaving them “view-only” mattered, how Google support handled it, and what it took to restore and stabilize dozens of client accounts. If you run Google Ads (or hire someone who does), listen all the way through for the hard-earned security upgrades and practical steps to protect your MCC and your shop’s payment methods.Show Notes with TimestampsPodcast Introduction (00:00:00) Brief intro to the podcast, hosts, and episode topic.The Google Ads Hack Begins (00:02:20) Timeline and discovery of the hack on December 16th, 2024, at around 2:30 AM.Immediate Response and MCC Explanation (00:03:11) How the hack was discovered, initial response, and what a Google Ads MCC is.How the Hack Happened (00:05:39) Discussion of phishing, weak Google 2FA, and how hackers gained access.Scope of the Breach (00:06:47) Number of affected accounts, types of accounts, and initial impact.Contacting Google and Early Damage (00:07:29) Brian contacts Google by 4:50 AM; minimal damage at this stage.How Hackers Maintained Access (00:10:15) Hackers downgrade admin access to view-only, allowing continued monitoring.Timeline to Regain Access (00:11:16) Hack occurred December 16th; access restored December 23rd after eight days.Tracking the Hackers’ Actions (00:12:15) Team tracks every change made by hackers during the eight days.Hackers’ Motives and Ad Spend (00:14:48) Hackers run fake medical device ads, spend about $15,000, and attempt large charges.Massive Unauthorized Charges (00:17:16) Multiple $500,000 and $50,000 charges attempted; client reactions and reversals.Client Communication and Stress (00:20:04) Notifying clients, handling overdrawn accounts, and emotional impact.Controlling What They Could (00:22:02) Accepting limited control, focusing on communication and tracking.Escalating to Authorities and Senators (00:22:48) Filing complaints with FBI, DHS, and contacting senators for help.Disconnecting LSA Accounts (00:24:35) Quickly disconnecting Local Services Ads to limit further damage.Impact on Client Businesses (00:26:21) Ad downtime affects client lead flow and business operations.Other Agencies Hacked &amp; Security Changes (00:27:25) Similar hacks in the industry; tightening security after a competitor’s hack in November.Regaining Access and Google’s Restoration (00:30:50) Google restores access on December 23rd, but hackers remain as view-only users.Restoring Client Accounts (00:33:14) Manually removing hackers, restoring admin access, and turning ads back on.Ongoing Issues After Restoration (00:34:48) Continued problems with account suspensions, payment issues, and policy violations.Senators’ Involvement and Google Support Loops (00:34:48) Senators help escalate with Google; difficulties reaching Google support.Google’s Account Suspension Process (00:38:38) MCC suspension fails to stop hackers; sub-account suspensions more effective.Restoring Payment Methods and Account Suspensions (00:39:55) Clients must update payment methods; some accounts face new suspensions.Policy Violations and Remaining Issues (00:41:00) Circumventing policy violations and destination errors persist for some accounts.Lessons Learned and Client Impact (00:44:10) Working with clients on compensation; varying levels of impact.Security Improvements Implemented (00:46:14) Switching to hardware keys, unique admin emails, and stricter access controls.Moving Client Budgets to Agency Cards (00:49:27) Agency now pays ad budgets, clients reimburse; logistical and security benefits.Advice for Other Shops and Agencies (00:52:18) Recommendations: use dedicated cards, review account access, and enable strong 2FA.Google’s Needed Changes (00:54:56) Call for Google to add super-admin roles and better user management.Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:56:32) Reflecting on the experience, ongoing recovery, and closing the episode.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Automotive Repair Podcast NetworkThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/<a href="https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledYou might be tracking average repair order, car count, even gross profit, but are you looking at your average estimate? In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with coach and shop owner Chris Cotton to dig into what may be the most underutilized KPI in the auto repair industry. Chris lays out real numbers, explains why average estimate is a crystal ball into your sales process, and even shares the exact changes his shop made to 4x estimates and drive gross profit through the roof, all in just one year.If you’ve ever asked yourself “Why aren’t my tickets higher?” or “Do I really need another service advisor?” this is the episode for you. Plus, you’ll hear actionable advice on how to move the needle on closing ratios, the power of DVI, and why the right software may be the best investment you’ll ever make.Hit play and discover why average estimate might be the missing metric in your shop's growth strategy.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgements (00:00:09) Host introduces the podcast, guest Chris Cotton, and thanks sponsors.Setting the Topic: The Most Important KPI You're Not Tracking (00:01:14) Discussion begins on the underutilized KPI: average estimate written by service advisors.Why Average Estimate Matters (00:01:47) Chris explains why average estimate is overlooked and its importance in diagnosing low average repair orders.How to Track Average Estimate (00:03:36) Discussion on how shop management systems track average estimate and the need to analyze by advisor and shop.Chris Cotton’s Shop Background and Context (00:04:23) Chris shares his dual role as coach and shop owner, and sets context for the numbers discussed.Differences Between Shop Types and KPIs (00:06:07) Explains how KPIs differ between general, specialty, and quick lube shops, and the impact on labor hours.Shop Operations: Car Count, Bays, and Staffing (00:07:25) Chris details his shop’s car count, number of bays, technicians, and unique seven-day schedule.Process Improvements and Estimate Presentation (00:09:29) Describes improvements in hours presented on estimates and the impact of digital vehicle inspections (DVIs).Leveraging Technology for Deferred Work (00:10:26) How CRM tools and online scheduling help sell deferred work and improve customer engagement.Transparency and Full Disclosure in Estimates (00:11:20) Chris’s philosophy on presenting all findings to customers for informed decision-making.What is a Good Average Estimate? (00:13:19) Chris shares a rule of thumb for average estimate based on vehicle mileage and shop type.Impact of Raising Average Estimate on Revenue (00:14:51) Chris details how increasing average estimate improved average repair order and overall revenue.Closing Ratio Challenges and Training (00:15:46) Discusses the drop in closing ratio after raising estimate size and ongoing training to improve sales.Staffing and Writing Estimates: Capacity and Care (00:17:04) Advice for shops understaffed or hesitant to write full estimates; importance of customer care.Legal and Moral Obligation to Inform Customers (00:18:14) Discusses legal cases and the obligation to inform customers of all vehicle issues.Gross Profit and Other Overlooked KPIs (00:21:06) Chris highlights the importance of tracking gross profit dollars, labor hours per ticket, and closing ratio.Strategies to Improve Closing Ratio (00:23:01) Focus on training, hiring the right people, and offering financing to boost closing rates.The Value of Good Shop Management Software (00:23:57) Emphasizes the ROI of robust shop management systems and the pitfalls of handwritten tickets.Preparing for Business Sale and Transparency (00:25:34) Importance of accurate records and transparency for business valuation and sale.Choosing the Right Shop Management System (00:26:16) Advice on selecting systems with robust reporting and avoiding unnecessary add-ons.How to Connect with Chris Cotton (00:26:39) Chris shares his contact information and resources for further learning.Podcast Wrap-Up and Additional Resources (00:27:07) Host promotes Chris’s podcast series and the Automotive Repair Podcast Network app.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)The Weekly Blitz PodcastAutoFix Auto Shop CoachingTechMetricAutoOpsThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; Kim...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledYou joined the Chamber of Commerce - great move. But now what? This episode pulls back the curtain on why just paying your dues and slapping a sticker on your window doesn’t cut it. The chamber isn’t a vending machine where you drop in money and business pops out, it’s a networking powerhouse if you actually use it.We dig into how to evaluate your local chamber, the right way to get involved, and how to turn those meet-and-greets into actual business growth. From business before hours and luncheons to sponsorships and ribbon cuttings, you’ll walk away with a game plan that puts you in the driver’s seat. And hey, it doesn’t have to be you showing up every time, there are smart ways to delegate this, too.So if you’ve ever said “the chamber doesn’t work,” you might want to give this one a listen. You might just find the real problem isn’t the chamber, it’s how you’re (not) using it.Tune in and learn how to work the chamber to work for you.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgements(00:00:09) Hosts introduce the episode, topic, and thank sponsors Shop Boss and App Fueled.Chamber of Commerce Misconceptions(00:01:04) Discuss the misconception that joining the Chamber automatically brings business; importance of active participation.Evaluating Your Local Chamber(00:02:22) How to research and assess your local Chamber’s value via social media, website, and events.Chamber Events and Opportunities(00:04:21) Overview of typical Chamber events, luncheons, fundraisers, and sponsorship opportunities.Member Directory and Secret Shopping(00:06:25) Using the Chamber’s member directory for SEO and the value of attending events before joining.Delegating Chamber Involvement(00:07:31) Encouragement to delegate Chamber activities to staff, such as service advisors, with possible incentives.Sponsor Messages(00:08:43) Mid-episode sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.Getting Involved in Committees(00:10:43) Benefits of joining Chamber committees and finding one that aligns with your interests.Chamber Involvement as Business Growth(00:12:05) Chamber and networking as cost-effective growth strategies, especially for new businesses.Delegation and Networking Evolution(00:13:51) How Chamber involvement evolves as your business grows and the importance of building connections.Community Initiatives and Chamber Support(00:14:10) Examples of leveraging the Chamber for community projects and the resulting benefits.Hosting Events and Ribbon Cuttings(00:15:30) Using your shop to host Chamber events and the value of ribbon cuttings for publicity.Sponsorship and Brand Awareness(00:16:43) Creative sponsorship opportunities at Chamber events to boost brand visibility.Conclusion and Podcast Network Promotion(00:17:55) Episode wrap-up, encouragement to download the network app, and final sponsor thanks.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)BNIAuto Repair Podcast Network AppThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledLet’s be honest: BNI isn’t new to you. If you’ve been around this podcast, you’ve heard us talk about Business Networking International before. But this time, we’re taking a deeper dive into something super practical: how to actually choose the right BNI group for your shop. Because let’s be real, not all chapters are created equal. In this episode, Kim and I walk you through the exact steps we’ve taken to find the best-fit groups, what red flags to look for, and how to show up ready to make a killer first impression. Whether you’re a natural introvert like me or you’re already networking like crazy, there’s a group out there for you, and we’ll help you find it.Don’t miss this one—especially if you're ready to grow your business through real relationships and legitimate referrals.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsors (00:00:00) Podcast introduction, hosts, and sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.What is BNI? (00:01:20) Explanation of BNI, its structure, exclusivity, and benefits for business networking.Personal Experiences with BNI (00:02:31) Hosts share how BNI helped their businesses and personal growth, especially in public speaking.BNI’s Structure and Meeting Format (00:03:44) Description of BNI’s structured meetings, weekly agenda, and the value of regular participation.Tracking BNI’s Impact (00:06:39) How the hosts tracked BNI as a marketing source and the variety of chapters in different regions.Finding and Choosing a BNI Group (00:08:29) Step-by-step advice on finding local BNI chapters and evaluating group membership.Understanding Networking Spheres (00:09:56) Explanation of networking spheres and the importance of complementary businesses in BNI groups.Starting a New Chapter (00:10:50) Advice on starting a new BNI chapter if your area is underserved.Evaluating Group Culture and Fit (00:13:03) How to assess group meeting times, culture, and whether the group’s vibe matches your needs.Visiting and Assessing Groups (00:14:27) Tips for visiting groups, gauging friendliness, and looking for active, growing chapters.Referrals vs. Leads in BNI (00:15:40) Clarifying the difference between warm referrals and cold leads in BNI.Attendance and Participation Expectations (00:16:17) Importance of consistent attendance, sending substitutes, and treating BNI as a sales meeting.Preparing to Visit a BNI Group (00:17:40) Best practices for contacting the group, arriving early, and networking effectively.Making a Good First Impression (00:19:13) Bring business cards, research members, and tips for effective networking and presentations.Membership Application Process (00:20:23) Overview of the application, vetting, and selection process for joining a BNI group.Choosing the Right Group for You (00:21:14) Encouragement to visit multiple groups and focus on contact spheres and giving referrals.Managing Expectations and Building Relationships (00:22:22) Advice on patience, building trust, and the importance of giving before receiving in BNI.Getting Involved and Leadership (00:23:28) Encouragement to participate in leadership and help shape group culture.What to Do if Your Seat is Taken (00:24:28) Strategies for staying engaged, waiting for openings, or starting a new group.Closing Remarks and Podcast Network Info (00:25:45) Episode wrap-up, network app promotion, and final sponsor acknowledgments.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)BNIEpisode 124: BNI and Auto Repair Go Hand in Hand with Steve HandBuy Back Your Time by Dan MartellThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledWant a shortcut to the best episodes from 2025 that’ll breathe new life into your mindset, your marketing, and your mission as a shop owner? This one’s a must-listen. Kim and Brian sat down, actually face-to-face for once, to unpack the ten episodes from last year that left a lasting impact. Whether it’s building superfans, preparing your shop for anything life throws your way, or rekindling that fire that got you into this industry in the first place, we’ve got you covered. Grab a notebook and dive into this recap, it’s more than a look back; it’s your launchpad into 2026.👉 Go listen and pick the episodes that speak to where you are right now.Show Notes with TimestampsHow To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Profit FirstBuy Back Your TimeHow To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledStanding in line for hours at Disney might not sound like it has anything to do with running an auto repair shop but Brian Walker draws a straight line between the two. In this episode, he shares how paying to fast track your experiences, whether it’s in business, life, or even theme parks, can be the smartest investment you make. With real talk from his own business journey and the hard lessons he learned over the years, Brian lays out how mentorship, coaching, and strategic outsourcing can shave years off your learning curve and put you on the express track to success.If you’re tired of figuring everything out the hard way, this one’s for you.Hit play and let’s talk about skipping the line in business and in life.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Thanks (00:00:09) Brian introduces the episode, thanks sponsors, and sets up the topic of "fast tracking" in life.Disney Line Story &amp; The Illusion of Shortcuts (00:01:10) Brian shares his pastor's story about long Disney lines and the reality behind seemingly short waits.Brian’s Disney VIP Experience (00:03:19) Brian describes his own Disney VIP experience, using it as an analogy for fast tracking success.The Value of Paying for Mentorship and Coaching (00:04:37) Brian discusses how paying for expert guidance accelerates learning and business growth.Learning the Hard Way vs. Fast Tracking (00:05:46) Brian reflects on his agency’s slow progress before joining specialized coaching programs.Realizing the Benefits of Coaching Programs (00:06:46) Brian realizes he could have saved years by joining a coaching program earlier.Sponsor Messages (00:07:30) Sponsor ads for Shop Boss and App Fueled, highlighting their business solutions.Condensing Years of Learning into a Day (00:09:05) Brian explains how coaching programs now teach in a day what took him years to learn.Paying for Services to Buy Back Time (00:10:12) Brian encourages business owners to delegate tasks to professionals to save time and focus on strengths.Challenging the “Do It Yourself” Mentality (00:11:17) Brian questions the belief that you should never pay for something you can do yourself.The Value of Buying Back Your Time (00:12:34) Brian advocates for paying others to free up time for more valuable or enjoyable activities.Encouragement to Invest in Fast Tracking (00:13:52) Brian urges listeners to invest in mentorship or services to accelerate progress and stay in their zone of genius.Final Thoughts and Disney Analogy (00:14:58) Brian wraps up, encouraging listeners to pay for better experiences in life, using Disney VIP as an example.Outro and Podcast App Promotion (00:15:48) Outro with information about the podcast network and app, and a thank you to listeners and sponsors.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Profit FirstBuy Back Your TimeHow To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledCalifornia auto repair shop owners, there’s a new regulation that almost flew under the radar, and if you're doing any kind of digital advertising, you’ll want to hit play on this one.In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with Dave Kusa, president of ASCCA, to break down recent changes from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) that affect how you advertise your shop, especially when it comes to your phone number and license info. Spoiler: that tracking number you’ve been using to measure ad performance? It’s not necessarily a problem... but there are some key things you need to know to stay compliant and avoid issues down the line.They also talk about how this regulation came about, what ASCCA did to advocate for shop owners, and what to expect moving forward. Plus, if you’ve ever wondered why joining an association like ASCCA really matters, this is a perfect example of how that involvement pays off.If you're marketing a shop in California, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, this is one you can’t afford to miss. Listen now and keep your shop out of trouble.Show Notes with TimestampsPodcast Network Introduction (00:00:00) Brief announcement of the Automotive Repair Podcast Network.Episode Introduction &amp; Sponsors (00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces the episode, guest Dave Kusa, and thanks sponsors Shop Boss and App Fueled.Guest Introduction &amp; ASCCA Overview (00:01:01) Dave Kusa introduces himself, his shop, and his role as ASCCA president and Government Affairs Committee chair.ASCCA’s Role in Regulatory Issues (00:02:18) Discussion of ASCCA’s involvement with the BAR advisory group and regulatory processes.Background on New BAR Advertising Rules (00:03:41) Explanation of how the new BAR advertising rules, especially phone number requirements, came to ASCCA’s attention.Origin of Mobile Auto Repair Regulations (00:04:36) Details on how mobile repair regulations led to broader advertising requirements for all shops.Tracking Numbers &amp; Industry Response (00:06:23) Concerns about tracking numbers, ASCCA’s advocacy, and BAR’s clarification on acceptable phone number practices.Current Compliance Recommendations (00:08:06) Advice on displaying registered phone numbers and ARD license on websites and digital marketing.Unresolved Issues &amp; Awaiting Written Guidance (00:09:00) Pending clarity on Google My Business, Facebook, and the need for written BAR guidance.Best Practices &amp; Consumer Protection (00:09:49) Benefits of displaying ARD numbers for legitimacy and consumer verification.Sponsor Messages (00:10:11) Promotional messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.BAR’s Enforcement Approach &amp; Dynamic Number Insertion (00:12:03) Discussion of BAR’s grace period, enforcement, and allowance for dynamic number insertion on websites.Multi-location Shops &amp; Digital Marketing Requirements (00:13:50) Clarification on advertising requirements for shops with multiple locations.Timeline for Finalized BAR Rules (00:14:31) Expected timing and process for BAR to issue finalized, codified advertising regulations.Other BAR Regulations Related to Advertising (00:16:08) Overview of other BAR regulations, including new storage rules, mostly affecting collision shops.Legislative Process &amp; Advocacy (00:17:14) Explanation of California’s legislative process and the importance of advocacy through ASCCA.Benefits of Association Membership (00:18:01) Advantages of joining ASCCA, including legislative representation, networking, and support.How to Join ASCCA (00:21:58) Steps for joining ASCCA, local chapter involvement, and organizational structure.Episode Wrap-up &amp; Contact Information (00:23:24) Closing remarks, app download info, sponsor thanks, and encouragement to listen to future episodes.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)ASCCA WebsiteAuto Repair Marketing PodcastBureau of Automotive Repair (BAR)Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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. <a href="https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledMost shop owners avoid tough conversations until it’s too late. But what happens when life throws you something completely unexpected, like the sudden loss of a loved one or a health scare that takes you out of your business?In this powerful, heartfelt conversation between Darrin and Ginger Barney (Elite), and Brian and Kim Walker (Shop Marketing Pros), these industry leaders open up about the real-life wake-up calls that forced them to prepare for the unthinkable. From losing parents to near-miss tragedies, they share the emotional and logistical side of what happens when you're not ready, personally or professionally.They talk about wills, SOPs, key person insurance, and yes, those “if I die” videos nobody wants to think about but everyone needs. More importantly, they cover what it means to love your team, your clients, and your family enough to take action before the worst happens.This isn’t about fear. It’s about leadership. It’s about responsibility. And it’s about love.🎧 Don’t miss this one. Listen in and take that first step toward securing your legacy, and your shop’s future.Show Notes with TimestampsPodcast Introduction (00:00:00) Brief intro to the podcast network and episode topic: business continuity planning for auto repair shops.Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:01:02) Thanking sponsors and encouraging listeners to take action on the episode’s advice.Guest Introductions (00:01:49) Darrin and Ginger Barney, Brian and Kim Walker introduce themselves and their backgrounds.Personal Loss Experiences (00:04:59) Ginger and Kim share recent experiences with the loss of their mothers and the importance of preparation.Password and Account Management (00:09:50) Discussing the challenges of managing digital accounts and passwords after a loved one passes.Business Continuity for Owners (00:13:06) Brian emphasizes the need for business continuity plans to protect employees and clients if owners are incapacitated.Real-Life Case Studies (00:14:05) Stories of business owners who passed away or became incapacitated without proper plans in place.The Importance of Continuation Plans (00:15:03) Discussing the impact of sudden absence and the need for operational continuity in businesses.Temporary vs. Permanent Absence (00:17:23) Examples of both temporary and permanent owner absences and the need for flexible planning.Bus Books and SOPs (00:18:45) Introduction to “bus books” and standard operating procedures as tools for continuity.Proactive Planning and Keeping Plans Updated (00:19:53) The value of proactive planning, checklists, and regularly updating continuity documents.Elite’s Continuation Plan Program (00:21:10) Elite’s new program to help shop owners build personalized continuation plans.Wills, Trusts, and Legal Preparation (00:22:46) Beyond wills: legal, financial, and operational steps for business and personal continuity.Tax Planning and Estate Management (00:29:27) The importance of tax planning and estate management as businesses grow in value.Key Man Insurance and Buy-Sell Agreements (00:30:47) Explaining key man insurance and buy-sell agreements for business partners.Insurance for Family and Employees (00:32:41) Personal insurance stories and planning for the loss or incapacity of family members or key employees.Building a Self-Sustaining Business (00:34:21) The goal of building a business that can thrive without daily owner involvement.EOS/Traction and Business Systems (00:35:29) How EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) helps create clarity and continuity in business operations.Call to Action: Start Planning Now (00:36:53) Encouragement for listeners to take immediate steps toward continuity planning.Elite’s Workshop and Resources (00:38:10) Announcement of Elite’s upcoming workshop and free checklist for continuity planning.Family Communication and Avoiding Conflict (00:39:21) The importance of discussing inheritance and personal items to prevent family disputes.Health and Longevity for Owners and Employees (00:41:33) Emphasizing personal health and wellness as part of business continuity.Supporting Employee Health (00:48:23) Encouraging owners to support employees’ health and well-being for business stability.Overcoming Discomfort and Taking Action (00:49:20) Advice to push through discomfort and start with small steps in planning.Final Thoughts and Resources (00:50:10) Closing remarks, offers for resources, and encouragement to reach out for help.Podcast Outro and App Promotion (00:50:56) Thanking listeners, promoting the podcast app, and inviting questions for future episodes.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)TractionRocket FuelElite WorldwideThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you. AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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. <a...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledWhat if your best strategic thinking partner wasn’t on your payroll, but sitting right in your pocket?In this episode of The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Brian Walker sits down with Hallie Wasinger to unpack what she learned at the MAICON (Marketing AI Conference). But don’t let the name fool you, this conversation goes way beyond marketing. Hallie breaks down how AI is reshaping not just how we create content, but how we think, from operations to service efficiency to scaling personalized experiences for clients.This one’s packed with golden nuggets: the power of high-performance prompting, using ChatGPT as a strategic thinking partner, the CRIT method to get better AI outputs, and why voice AI is the underrated tool no one’s talking about yet (spoiler: your robot can now talk back). Oh, and yes, AI can help you be a better Bible scholar or diagnose complex repair issues. Wild, right?You’ll also hear how Shop Marketing Pros is already implementing layered AI tools to deliver smarter, more personalized content at scale, without sacrificing the human touch that makes their work special.This episode is a must-listen for any shop owner who wants to stay ahead of the curve, avoid getting left behind, and start using AI the right way, as a tool, not a replacement.Listen now to hear why it’s time to start talking to your robot and how it can help you fill those bays.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:00:10) Brian introduces the episode, guest Hallie Wasinger, and thanks sponsors.Overview of the Marketing AI Conference (MACON) (00:01:15) Hallie describes the MACON event, its scale, and the industries represented.AI in Marketing and Business Operations (00:02:12) Discussion on AI’s broad impact, not just in marketing but across industries.AI Resources and Influencers (00:02:36) Brian recommends the Artificial Intelligence Show podcast and Paul Roetzer.First Impressions and High-Performance Prompting (00:03:20) Hallie shares her initial conference experience and the importance of effective AI prompting.Environmental Impact of AI and Prompting Efficiency (00:04:59) Brian discusses AI’s environmental costs and how better prompting reduces resource use.Operational Efficiency and Prompt Libraries (00:07:20) Hallie explains creating, saving, and sharing high-performance prompts for team efficiency.Voice AI as a Strategic Thinking Partner (00:10:52) Hallie introduces using voice AI and ChatGPT as a brainstorming and problem-solving partner.Beyond Search: AI for Strategic and Personal Use (00:13:49) Brian and Hallie discuss using AI for deep thinking, business, and personal growth.Layering AI Tools and Choosing the Right LLM (00:19:05) Hallie explains testing and layering multiple AI tools for different business needs.The CRIT Framework for Strategic Prompting (00:21:54) Hallie introduces the CRIT (Context, Role, Interview, Task) method for better AI outputs.Human-First Approach and AI Limitations (00:26:03) Discussion on keeping humans central, using AI for efficiency, and current AI limitations.AI’s Impact on Client Services and Personalization (00:30:07) Hallie details how AI improves efficiency and output quality while maintaining personalized client service.Layering AI for Automation and Research (00:32:56) Examples of using AI for call listening, Google Ads auditing, and advanced SEO research.Long-Term Vision: Efficiency, Scale, and Team Impact (00:35:33) Hallie shares the future outlook for AI in their agency, including efficiency and scaling services.AI, Employment, and the Future of Work (00:37:14) Brian discusses AI’s effect on hiring, universal basic income, and the necessity of AI adoption.Value of AI Conferences for All Industries (00:40:18) Hallie emphasizes the universal value of AI conferences, even for auto repair shop owners.Final Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-Up (00:41:36) Closing remarks, encouragement to use AI, and information about the podcast network app.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)The Artificial Intelligence ShowBuy Back Your Time by Dan MartellAutomotive Repair Podcast NetworkThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you. AppFueled 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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/<a href="https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/" rel="noopener...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledA bland building that blended in… turned bold brand that brought in business. That’s the real story behind this episode featuring Kelly McCart from McCart’s Auto Center. If you’ve ever wondered whether the look and feel of your shop actually matters, you’ll want to hear how a full-on rebrand, from paint to logo to online presence,&nbsp; transformed Kelly’s shop from invisible to impossible to miss.We talk about why aesthetics are marketing, how design can literally drive in new clients, and what it means when someone walks in just to say, “Wow, this looks amazing.” Kelly breaks down the “why” and “how” behind his shop’s renovation, how he pulled it off with DIY design (yes, scissors and Elmer’s glue were involved), and why rethinking your image might be the smartest move you make this year.He’ll also share how this shift doubled his staff, improved the quality of clients, and continues to make his business stand out, both to customers and future employees.This episode isn’t just about fresh paint. It’s about positioning. It’s about pride. And it’s about the kind of shop that people recognize, remember, and respect.Listen now and get inspired to rethink how your shop shows up.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:00:00) Brian introduces the podcast, guest Kelly McCart, and thanks sponsors.Background: The Nondescript Shop (00:01:09) Discussion of McCarty’s Auto Center blending in and being overlooked by passersby.Realization and Decision to Renovate (00:02:23) Kelly describes the moment she decided a change was needed and the process leading up to it.Design Process and Early Attempts (00:03:02) Kelly explains her design journey, including failed ideas and the involvement of her graphic artist nephew.Logo Creation and Selection (00:06:11) The story behind the new logo, its design process, and how it was chosen.Impact of the Makeover on Visibility (00:07:51) How the new look made the shop stand out and attracted attention from the community.Business Impact and Clientele Changes (00:08:16) The effect of the renovation on customer buzz, quality of clients, and local recognition.Interior Renovation and Staff Growth (00:09:31) Details about the interior revamp and the subsequent doubling of staff.Name Change and Brand Consolidation (00:12:21) Merging two business names, legal steps, and unifying the brand and online presence.Timing: Remodel and the Onset of COVID-19 (00:14:31) The remodel’s completion just before the pandemic and initial concerns about the timing.Business Resilience During COVID-19 (00:15:27) How the shop thrived during the pandemic despite initial fears.Comprehensive Rebrand: Lessons and Surprises (00:17:35) Kelly reflects on the thoroughness of the rebrand and whether anything unexpected arose.Results and Return on Investment (00:18:35) Immediate positive results from the rebrand and personal satisfaction.Staff Response and Branded Merchandise (00:19:10) Staff enthusiasm for the new brand, uniforms, and promotional items.Recruitment and Professional Image (00:19:54) How the makeover improved recruitment and elevated the shop’s professionalism.Advice and Reflections on the Process (00:20:29) Kelly’s advice for others considering a similar project and what she might have done differently.Cost Recovery Timeline (00:21:22) Estimated time to recoup renovation costs: 6 to 8 months.Industry Image and Future Direction (00:22:33) How shop aesthetics are changing public perception of the auto repair industry.Closing Remarks and Podcast Promotion (00:23:38) Final thoughts, gratitude, and information about where to find episode resources and the podcast app.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Article about McCart’s Auto Center on Ratchet &amp; Wrench Website Photos of the Shop TransformationAuto Repair Podcast Network AppThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledKim Walker’s flying solo on this one, and she’s got a fire-in-her-belly message for every shop owner still sleeping on email marketing. This isn’t your typical “email tips” episode, it’s a storytelling breakdown of one jaw-dropping, beautifully built email from Mission Mercantile that had Kim hooked, clicking, and even podcasting about it.She breaks down what made this email a masterclass in branding: from a killer subject line (“Not Cheap… But Worth Every Penny”) to irresistible storytelling, handcrafted visuals, call-to-actions in all the right places, and brand language that oozes trust and legacy.If you’ve let your email marketing fall to the wayside, this episode is your wake-up call. Kim lays out why email isn’t dead, it’s just being underused. She challenges shop owners to rethink the way they write emails, stay top-of-mind with customers, and deliver real value (not just deals).Don’t miss this breakdown. You’ll walk away inspired to write emails your customers actually want to open.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Shoutouts (00:00:10) Kim introduces herself, mentions Brian's absence, and gives sponsor shoutouts.Email Marketing Comeback &amp; Shop Plans (00:01:19) Kim discusses the resurgence of email marketing in auto repair shops' plans for 2026.Discovery of Mission Mercantile (00:02:21) Kim shares how she found Mission Mercantile while searching for a high-quality leather backpack.Purchase Experience &amp; Customer Service (00:05:34) Kim describes her purchase, a product issue, and Mission Mercantile’s excellent customer service.The Impactful Email Arrives (00:06:44) Kim details receiving the November 6th email, its subject line, and her immediate reaction.Email Storytelling &amp; Visuals (00:07:56) Kim analyzes the email’s storytelling, visuals, and how it addresses customer needs.Call to Action &amp; Product Details (00:10:05) Kim explains the email’s calls to action, product quality descriptions, and lifetime guarantee.Brand Voice &amp; Mythical Customer Care (00:11:29) Kim highlights the brand’s unique voice, “mythical customer care,” and how it resonates with her.Sponsor Messages (00:12:35) Sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled are presented.Testimonials &amp; Social Proof (00:14:36) Kim discusses the use of customer testimonials and how they reinforce the email’s message.Black Friday Teaser &amp; List Segmentation (00:16:08) Kim describes the email’s Black Friday promotion and how it segments the audience.Differentiators &amp; American Made Focus (00:17:19) Kim notes the email’s emphasis on differentiators, including being American made and customer care.Personal Impact &amp; Email Retention (00:18:33) Kim shares how the email influenced her to stay subscribed and even consider future purchases.Advice for Shop Owners on Email Marketing (00:19:41) Kim gives actionable advice to shop owners about effective email marketing strategies.Closing Thoughts &amp; Contact Info (00:21:58) Kim wraps up, offers to share the email, invites topic suggestions, and promotes the Facebook group.Outro and Network Promotion (00:23:09) Kim and the network promote other shows and the podcast app, closing the episode.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Mission MerchantileThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThere’s a lot you can ignore in marketing, but legal compliance isn’t one of them. Especially when a quiet policy change in California nearly stripped shops of their ability to track marketing ROI overnight. This episode dives into the legalities of call recording, AI evaluations, tracking numbers, and the kind of red tape that can blindside your business if you’re not paying attention. Brian Walker sat down with David Boyd from Inbound at AAPEX to talk through what’s happening, what’s coming, and how to protect your shop without sacrificing performance. If you’ve ever used call tracking, AI analysis, or just assumed “someone else is handling that,” you need to hear this.Listen in and make sure you’re not one policy update away from a lawsuit.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Conference Setting (00:00:10) Brian introduces the guest, David Lloyd, and discusses the conference atmosphere at AAPEX.California BAR Regulation on Phone Numbers (00:02:01) Discussion of California’s Bureau of Auto Repair rule on using only registered phone numbers in advertising.Implications and Confusion Around Enforcement (00:04:30) Exploring the impact of the regulation, confusion among advertisers, and lack of clear communication from BAR.Staying Informed and Advocacy (00:06:16) Importance of involvement in advocacy groups and staying updated on regulatory changes, especially state-by-state.AI and Legal Uncertainty in Call Evaluation (00:08:18) Rapid AI development, legal gray areas, and the use of AI to evaluate recorded calls.Call Recording Laws and Best Practices (00:09:19) Explanation of two-party consent laws, best practices for call recording, and new privacy concerns with AI evaluation.One-Party Consent States and Third-Party Evaluation (00:11:37) Uncertainty about notification requirements in one-party consent states when AI or third parties evaluate calls.Employee Notification and Documentation (00:15:46) Advising shop owners to inform employees about call recording and document consent in employee handbooks.AI, Data Privacy, and Business Risks (00:16:54) Concerns about AI handling personal data, privacy risks, and the need for responsible AI use in business.Personalization and AI Data Collection (00:19:47) How AI personalizes responses, collects user data, and the potential for identity exposure.Establishing an AI Use Policy (00:21:07) Recommendation for businesses to create and enforce an AI use policy signed by all employees.Vendor Relationships and Regulatory Awareness (00:22:43) Encouragement to maintain open communication with vendors and stay aware of legal and regulatory changes.Podcast Network App Promotion and Closing (00:23:44) Promotion of the Automotive Repair Podcast Network app and closing remarks.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Automotive Repair Podcast NetworkThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledJosh Parnell’s story isn’t your typical rise to success narrative. It’s one of faith, perspective, and the kind of leadership that’s forged through humility and hard lessons. From dreaming of becoming a filmmaker to serving as an Air Force cop in Minot, North Dakota, to climbing the ranks at Christian Brothers Automotive, Josh’s journey is filled with turns only God could have scripted.In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with Josh to uncover the man behind Limitless Leadership. They dig into what shaped him, how the Air Force taught him about attitude and effort, and why leadership, at its core, is a skill that must be practiced daily. Josh opens up about marriage, fatherhood, emotional regulation, and the lessons that counseling and faith have taught him about self-awareness and service.You’ll also hear how he helps shop owners become better communicators, leaders, and coaches through his Limitless Leadership Blueprint and why “people before process” is more than just a saying for him.This conversation is real, raw, and packed with wisdom for anyone leading a team, running a shop, or trying to grow into the person they’re called to be.🎧 Listen now to hear how Josh Parnell is helping leaders across the auto repair industry move beyond limits and learn what it truly means to keep leading well.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgement (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast, guest Josh Parnell, and thanks sponsors.Josh’s Early Life and Aspirations (00:02:00) Josh discusses growing up in Louisiana and Texas, his filmmaking dreams, and attending University of North Texas.Military Service and Lessons Learned (00:02:53) Josh shares how he joined the Air Force, became a military police officer, and learned about attitude and effort.Stationed in North Dakota and Perspective (00:04:29) Josh talks about being stationed in Minot, North Dakota, and the importance of perspective and mentorship.Family Background and Upbringing (00:07:01) Josh describes his move from Louisiana to Texas and his upbringing in Houston.Leadership at Christian Brothers Automotive (00:09:02) Josh explains his leadership journey at Christian Brothers Automotive and the transition to leadership coaching.Hardest Leadership Lessons Learned (00:11:18) Josh discusses the challenges of being coachable and learning from feedback during his time at Christian Brothers.The Value of Coaching and Counseling (00:13:54) Josh and Brian talk about the importance of coaching, counseling, and personal growth.Sponsor Messages (00:14:43) Sponsor advertisements for Shop Boss and App Fueled.Limitless Leadership Blueprint Course (00:16:41) Josh introduces his online leadership course and its three modules: self-leadership, communication, and team leadership.Communication and Counseling in Leadership (00:19:31) Discussion on the impact of communication, counseling, and mental health in leadership and personal life.Vulnerability and Emotional Regulation (00:23:21) Josh emphasizes vulnerability, journaling, and emotional regulation as key leadership skills.Limitless Leadership Podcast Milestone (00:24:44) Brian congratulates Josh on surpassing 100 podcast episodes and discusses podcast longevity.Favorite Podcast Episodes (00:25:28) Josh shares his favorite podcast episodes and memorable guests.Best Leadership Definitions from Guests (00:26:47) Josh reflects on the best answers to "What is leadership?" from his podcast guests.Josh’s Definition of Leadership (00:28:14) Josh gives his own definition of leadership, focusing on influence and developing others.Quintessential Leaders and Influences (00:29:55) Josh names Jesus, Craig Groeschel, Ed Mylett, and his wife as leadership role models.Personal Life and Hobbies (00:32:44) Josh talks about his family, hobbies, being an introvert, and balancing work and life.Role of Faith in Life and Business (00:35:03) Josh discusses the central role of faith in his personal, family, and professional life.Upcoming Events and Conferences (00:37:02) Josh shares information about upcoming leadership trainings and conferences.Final Thoughts and Contact Information (00:38:01) Josh offers closing advice, encourages connection, and shares how to reach him.Podcast Closing (00:38:49) Podcast outro and information about the Aftermarket Radio Network.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Limitless LeadershipThe Limitless Leadership PodcastLimitless Leadership BlueprintThe Four AgreementsBuy Back Your TimeBuilding a StoryBrandThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledDecember comes faster than most of us expect, and if you’re not planning your shop’s holiday marketing now, you’ll be scrambling when the tinsel hits the floor. In this episode of The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Brian Walker and Caroline LeGrand break down how to finish the year strong with festive, community-driven content that actually connects.From shop Christmas parties and Operation Santa Paws to car giveaways and safety awareness campaigns, Brian and Caroline unpack creative, authentic ways to bring holiday cheer into your marketing. They even dive into clever spins on National Cookie Cutter Week, sharing your shop’s “naughty and nice” list, and the power of using year-end stats to celebrate your team and customers.Whether you’re highlighting your community involvement, promoting gift cards, or just sharing some lighthearted holiday fun (Hallmark movie talk included), this conversation will give you ideas that help your shop stand out while staying true to who you are.Listen now to learn how to plan December’s marketing with intention so your social media, promotions, and community efforts close out the year on a high note and set the tone for an even better new year.Show Notes with TimestampsPodcast Introduction (00:00:00) Brief intro to the podcast network and hosts, sponsor mentions.Reflecting on a Year of Podcasting (00:00:59) Hosts discuss recording for December, marking a full year of episodes.Holiday Community Events &amp; Charity (00:01:43) Ideas for shop charity events: Wishes on Wheels, Toys for Tots, Angel Trees, and customer appreciation.Sharing Shop Holiday Activities (00:02:41) Encouraging shops to share Christmas parties, decorations, and holiday closure dates on social media.December Observances: Santa Paws &amp; Car Donation Month (00:03:22) Highlighting National Operation Santa Paws Month and National Car Donation Month, including car giveaways.Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention (00:04:30) Discussing National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month and partnering with local law enforcement.Older Driver Safety Awareness (00:05:14) Promoting Older Driver Safety Awareness Week and sharing personal stories about senior drivers.National Cookie Cutter Week (00:07:17) Joking about celebrating National Cookie Cutter Week with holiday cookies, not generic marketing.Fun December Days: Apples, Giving, Santa’s List (00:07:47) National Eat a Red Apple Day, National Day of Giving, and Santa List Day ideas for shop engagement.Non-Holiday December Observances (00:09:43) Mentioning National Miner's Day, International Civil Aviation Day, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, and Blue Collar Day.Holiday Sweets &amp; Shop Competitions (00:11:11) Ideas for National Pastry Day, Gingerbread House Day, and National Cupcake Day competitions in the shop.Device Appreciation &amp; Buddy the Elf Day (00:11:40) National Device Appreciation Day and answering the phone like Buddy the Elf for fun shop engagement.Favorite Christmas Movies Discussion (00:12:36) Hosts discuss favorite Christmas movies and suggest shops ask their teams about theirs.December 20th Onward: Ugly Sweaters &amp; Flashlights (00:17:04) National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day, Caroling Day, and National Flashlight Day for shop participation.Winter Solstice (00:18:20) Explanation of the winter solstice and its significance for winter-themed marketing.Festivus and Christmas Eve/Day (00:19:56) Mentioning Festivus (Dec 23), Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day, with reminders about shop closures.Post-Christmas &amp; Year-End Content (00:20:58) Ideas for 12 Days of Car Care, year-end recaps, and sharing shop statistics and highlights.National Winners Day &amp; New Year’s Eve (00:23:53) Joking about National Winners Day (Dec 26) and using New Year’s Eve for wrap-ups and resolutions.General Holiday Marketing Ideas (00:25:10) 12 Days of Car Care, holiday discounts, gift cards, and community giving campaigns.Holiday Car Decorations &amp; Customer Engagement (00:26:35) Encouraging sharing of customer car decorations and fun shop stories.Cultural Holiday Differences (00:28:47) Discussing how team members in the Philippines celebrate Christmas starting in September.Holiday Gift Guides &amp; Show Notes (00:29:45) Suggesting holiday gift guides for car enthusiasts and promoting downloadable show notes.Thanksgiving Cards &amp; Unexpected Holiday Greetings (00:31:00) Idea to send Thanksgiving or New Year cards instead of traditional Christmas cards.Encouraging Shop Holiday Enthusiasm (00:31:40) Motivating shops to find their holiday enthusiasts and let them lead festive activities.Year-End Resource Compilation Announcement (00:32:02) Announcing a future resource compiling all monthly marketing episodes and downloads.Podcast Wrap-Up (00:33:10) Thanking listeners, promoting other network podcasts, and closing the episode.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)National Day CalendarDays Of The YearBuy Back Your TimeEP 164 - Car Giveaways and Community Involvement – with Chris LuomaDecember Social Media Content TopicsThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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. <a...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledLarry Anderson isn’t your typical shop owner and that’s exactly what makes this episode worth your time. From fabricating race cars and building trail-ready rigs with his wife, Cheryl, to mastering lost arts like manual machining and custom fabrication, Larry’s story is a masterclass in keeping your passion alive while running a successful auto repair business.We dig into how he balances work and hobby without burning out, the lessons he learned from turning wrenches to leading a thriving shop, and why separating business from personal projects might just be the secret to staying in love with what you do.If you’ve ever felt your business start to steal the joy from your craft, this conversation will hit home. Larry’s perspective is real, relatable, and packed with takeaways every shop owner needs to hear.🎧 Don’t miss this one, hit play and get inspired to keep your passion running strong while you fill those bays.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:00:01) Brian introduces the podcast, guest Larry Anderson, and thanks sponsors.Larry’s Background and Entry into Fabrication (00:02:00) Larry shares his early interest in cars, career path, and transition into fabrication and off-roading.Wife’s Influence and Family Off-Roading (00:02:46) Larry discusses his wife Cheryl’s role in getting him into off-roading and their shared experiences.Building and Evolving Off-Road Rigs (00:04:18) Larry describes Cheryl’s Toyota Tacoma, its evolution, and the custom work involved.Custom Jeep Commander Build (00:06:07) Larry details his own Jeep Commander project and its unique, custom-built features.Off-Roading Trails and Local Adventures (00:06:38) Discussion about Rubicon Trail, Fordyce Creek, and the local off-roading scene.Learning Fabrication and Machining Skills (00:08:16) Larry explains how he self-taught welding and machining, using resources like YouTube.Balancing Work and Hobby, Avoiding Burnout (00:10:05) Larry shares how he keeps his passion alive by separating work from hobby and not working on customer cars at home.Advice on Separating Work and Hobby (00:12:32) Brian and Larry discuss the importance of keeping personal projects separate from business to maintain passion.Current Favorite Project: 1975 F150 Diesel Build (00:16:13) Larry talks about his current project, a custom 1975 F150 with a diesel engine.3D Printing for Automotive Projects (00:17:27) Larry discusses his journey into 3D printing, its uses in his builds, and the technology’s evolution.3D Printing for Customer Cars and CAD Skills (00:19:22) Larry explains why 3D printing isn’t yet practical for customer cars and the importance of CAD skills.Advice for Shop Owners Who’ve Lost Passion (00:20:55) Larry offers advice on gratitude, balance, and not letting business consume your life.Closing Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up (00:22:52) Brian and Larry reflect on the conversation, social media highlights, and thank listeners.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledKim Walker and Michael Doherty dig into what really happens at the front counter of an auto repair shop and why the service advisor’s role can make or break your marketing efforts. From real-world auditing tips to skill-building strategies, Michael shares how shops can turn their advisors into trusted consultants instead of order takers. You’ll hear practical advice on improving communication, handling tough days like a pro, using body language that builds trust, and even his traffic light method for explaining repairs in a way customers actually understand.If you’re an auto repair shop owner or manager looking to strengthen your team, boost customer trust, and turn your service advisors into your strongest marketing asset, this episode is a must-listen.🎧 Tune in to this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast to learn how small mindset shifts at the service counter can lead to big results in your shop’s success.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Message (00:00:01) Podcast introduction, host and guest introductions, and sponsor message from Shop Boss.Michael’s Transition to Remote Marketing Service Advisor (00:02:25) Michael discusses moving from in-shop service advisor to remote marketing service advisor, and the mindset and skills required.Service Advisor Auditing: First Impressions and Body Language (00:06:48) Explains how to audit service advisors, focusing on greeting, body language, and the importance of open, inviting gestures.The Service Advisor as the Marketing Front Line (00:09:35) Discusses the critical role of service advisors in converting marketing leads and the impact of their attitude and training.Phone Skills and Professionalism (00:12:04) Covers the importance of tone, professionalism, and being qualified to answer the phone as a service advisor.Skill Building: Managing Personal Challenges and Mindset (00:13:51) Advice for service advisors on handling personal issues, self-talk, and maintaining professionalism at work.Sponsor Messages (00:16:49) Additional sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.Traffic Light Method for Explaining Repairs (00:18:46) Michael explains the “traffic light method” for communicating repairs to customers: green (good), yellow (caution), red (urgent).From Order Taker to Trusted Advisor (00:22:26) How to coach service advisors to move from being order takers to trusted consultants, emphasizing communication and empathy.High-Impact Behaviors for Service Advisors (00:25:23) Two key behaviors: making interactions less transactional and building genuine relationships with clients.Marketing and Service Advisor Communication (00:29:35) The importance of communication between marketing and service advisors to avoid surprises and ensure campaign alignment.Internal Shop Communication and Team Synergy (00:32:10) Discusses the need for strong communication between service advisors and technicians, and fostering a positive team environment.Adapting Communication Tools and Looking Ahead (00:36:18) Reflects on past communication challenges and the evolution of shop tools, with thoughts on future service advisor roles.Preparing for the Future: Proactivity and Continuous Learning (00:37:44) Advice for service advisors to be proactive, use new tools like ChatGPT, and prioritize ongoing education and industry networking.First Impressions: Dress and Professional Appearance (00:42:30) The impact of professional dress on client perception and team culture, and how it boosts confidence and performance.Closing Remarks and Podcast Information (00:48:13) Wrap-up, where to find Michael’s podcast, and final thanks to listeners.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Auto Fix Advisor CastThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledAI search isn’t the future, it’s already here, and it’s changing how people find your auto repair shop. Brian Walker just came back from teaching a four-hour class on AI search optimization at the ASTA Expo, and he’s breaking it all down so you can take action now. From getting your shop mentioned in AI overviews to the practical steps that help you get recommended by AI tools like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, Brian shares what you can do today to stay ahead of the curve.If you want your shop to show up when drivers ask AI for help finding trusted auto repair, you need to hear this one. Hit play and learn how to position your business for the next big wave in search. Show Notes with TimestampsPodcast Introduction (00:00:01) Brief intro to the Aftermarket Radio Network and the podcast host, Brian Walker.AI Search Optimization Overview (00:00:10) Brian introduces the topic: how auto repair shops can get found and recommended by AI search tools.Asta Expo Recap &amp; Class Mention (00:01:17) Brian discusses teaching a four-hour class on AI search optimization at the Asta Expo.Why AI Search Matters Now (00:02:28) Explains current AI search usage (5% of searches), its rapid growth, and why shops should prepare early.SEO vs. AI Search Optimization (00:03:46) Compares traditional SEO and AI search optimization, noting similarities and key differences.Defining AI Search Optimization Terms (00:05:14) Clarifies terminology: SEO, AIO, GEO, and the preferred term "Search Everywhere Optimization."Action Step 1: Reviews Everywhere (00:06:48) Emphasizes the importance of gathering reviews on multiple platforms, not just Google.Action Step 2: Schema Markup (00:10:59) Explains schema markup, its role in helping AI and search engines understand website content.Action Step 3: Deep Service Page Content (00:15:31) Advises updating service pages with detailed, unique content and using AI carefully for content creation.Action Step 4: Long-Form Content &amp; Search Behavior (00:17:48) Discusses the value of long-form content for AI/search engines and how AI search queries differ from traditional ones.Action Step 5: Summaries and FAQs (00:20:57) Recommends starting pages with summaries and ending with FAQs to help AI generate overviews.Action Step 6: Team Member Visibility (00:23:06) Encourages showcasing staff bios, certifications, and training to build trust with AI and customers.Action Step 7: Directory Listing Consistency (00:25:31) Stresses the importance of consistent business information (NAP) across all online directories.Action Step 8: Memberships, Affiliations, and Media (00:26:33) Suggests creating a website page listing shop memberships, certifications, and media mentions to build trust.Action Step 9: Social Profiles &amp; SameAs Schema (00:28:49) Advises linking to all social/web profiles and using SameAs schema to strengthen the business entity online.Action Step 10: Personal Branding &amp; Content Creation (00:29:56) Highlights the value of building personal brands and creating content under personal names for AI recognition.Action Step 11: Book Recommendation (00:34:33) Recommends reading "Endless Customers" by Marcus Sheridan for AI-focused content strategy.Closing Remarks &amp; Contact Info (00:35:38) Wraps up with ways to connect, encourages joining the Facebook group, and thanks listeners.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)They Ask, You Answer - Marcus SheridanEndless Customers by Marcus Sheridan (They Ask, You Answer 3.0)Buy Back Your Time by Dan MartellThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 &amp; 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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledBrian and Kim Walker sit down with Wayne Marshall, CEO of The Institute for Automotive Business Excellence, to explore the real power behind storytelling in the auto repair industry. With deep roots in manufacturing and marketing, Wayne shares how his own journey and the stories along the way became the foundation for helping shop owners connect more meaningfully with their communities.This episode is a reminder that people don't connect with services; they connect with people. From emotional moments of vulnerability to the simple act of staying late to help a customer, Wayne breaks down how these everyday experiences are what truly set a shop apart. You’ll also learn his STORY framework and hear real-world examples that prove just how effective this approach can be.If you’ve ever wondered how to get your audience to know, like, and trust you before they ever set foot in your shop, this conversation will give you the blueprint.&nbsp;Hit play and start turning your story into your shop’s most powerful marketing tool.Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)The Institute for Automotive Business ExcellenceWayne’s LinkedIn Building a StoryBrand - Donald MillerThe Best Yes - Lysa Terkeurst&nbsp;Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Thanks (00:00:10) Brian introduces Wayne Marshall, thanks sponsors, and sets up the episode’s focus on storytelling in auto repair.Wayne’s Background in Automotive Marketing (00:02:39) Wayne shares his career journey from manufacturing to marketing, founding his own company, and becoming CEO of the Institute.The Power of Storytelling in Business (00:06:27) Discussion on how personal stories create connections, resonate more than facts, and the impact of storytelling in adult learning.Personal Connections Through Vulnerability (00:09:39) Kim and Brian share how personal stories, including Cecil’s, foster deep relationships and trust in the industry.Blending Personal and Professional Life (00:11:32) Wayne discusses the inseparability of personal and work life, the importance of empathy, and building genuine relationships.Every Shop Has a Unique Story (00:14:12) Kim emphasizes that every shop’s history and culture are unique, and the importance of retelling stories for connection.How to Start Telling Your Story (00:15:39) Wayne explains that every owner has a story, gives examples of hero stories, and encourages writing and sharing them.Blessings, Humility, and Paying It Forward (00:21:32) Conversation about the importance of accepting help, paying it forward, and the cycle of giving and receiving blessings.Community Involvement as Part of Your Story (00:24:11) Wayne shares examples of shops supporting their communities and how these actions humanize and differentiate businesses.Listening and Empathy in Customer Service (00:25:20) Wayne relates a football officiating story to illustrate the value of listening and empathy with customers.Standout Shop Story Example (00:28:46) Wayne shares Tom’s story of personal customer care, highlighting how authentic acts of kindness set shops apart.Storytelling Mistakes and Authenticity (00:32:18) Advice on avoiding overly polished or inauthentic stories; the importance of using your own voice and being genuine.A Tactical Framework for Storytelling (00:34:22) Wayne presents the STORY framework: Set the scene, Tension, Opportunity, Results, and Your next step/call to action.A and B Stories: Content Opportunities (00:37:27) Discussion on “A” (core) and “B” (everyday) stories, and how shops are content factories with endless stories to share.Consistency and Team Storytelling (00:39:18) Importance of consistently retelling your story and involving team members in sharing their own stories.Wayne’s BMW Story (00:42:00) Wayne shares his passion for BMWs, including a detailed story about restoring a 1973 BMW 2002.Industry Support and Paying It Forward (00:46:15) Wayne recounts how industry friends helped a shop owner in need, illustrating the supportive nature of the industry.The Institute: How to Connect (00:47:49) Wayne gives a brief overview of the Institute for Automotive Business Excellence and how listeners can get in touch.Closing Remarks (00:49:33) Brian thanks Wayne, wraps up the episode, and encourages listeners to tune in next week.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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 NetworkRemarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open DiscussionDiagnosing 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 &amp; Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledCaroline Legrand steps in for Brian Walker and is joined by Shop Marketing Pros' COO, Hallie Wasinger, for a power-packed conversation all about planning your November social media content. This one’s tailor-made for shop owners who want to show up with purpose online, not just post for the sake of posting.From meaningful campaigns like honoring veterans and military families to fun engagement ideas like Dear Santa Letter Week and National Cook for Your Pet Day (yep, that’s a thing), this episode is loaded with content prompts that actually make sense for your brand. You’ll also hear real-world examples of what other shops are doing across the country, plus creative ways to stand out during National Deal Week, Small Business Saturday, and the always-busy Thanksgiving travel season.If you’ve ever struggled with knowing what to post, when to post it, or how to tie your community involvement into your marketing without sounding cheesy, this episode is the roadmap you didn’t know you needed.👉 Listen now and start mapping out your November content strategy with purpose, clarity, and confidence. Then go share your wins in the Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Facebook group. We want to see how you’re showing up in your shop and your community.Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Days of the YearNational Calendar&nbsp;Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Episode Context (00:00:10) Overview of the episode’s focus: November social media topics for auto repair shops, planning ahead, and guest introduction.Sponsorship Message (00:00:45) Shop Boss sponsorship message and features highlighted.November Social Media Planning Overview (00:01:05) Host and guest discuss the importance of planning November content and general holiday season context.Military Family Month &amp; Family Stories Month (00:02:03) Ideas for honoring military families and sharing veteran or military-related stories from staff.National Gratitude Month &amp; Thanksgiving Tie-ins (00:03:19) Using gratitude as a theme, interviewing staff/customers, and connecting with National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.Thanksgiving Food Drives &amp; Community Giving (00:04:30) Ideas for food drives, Thanksgiving meal baskets, and promoting early participation.Dear Santa Letter Week (00:05:23) Engaging kids in the shop with Santa letters and sharing holiday spirit.National Deal Week &amp; Holiday Promotions (00:07:23) Promoting pre-trip inspection packages and holiday travel safety during National Deal Week and Black Friday.Holiday Travel Safety &amp; Community Partnerships (00:08:29) Promoting safe travel, designated driver options, and partnering with local law enforcement.National Stress Awareness Day (00:09:22) Highlighting how your shop reduces customer stress, especially during busy holiday periods.Sponsorship &amp; App Promotion (00:10:45) Shop Boss and App Fueled sponsorship messages and features.American Football Day (00:12:43) Engaging with local football culture, team spirit, and staff participation.Veterans Day &amp; Community Events (00:13:36) Honoring veterans with special events, services, and community engagement.Winterization &amp; Car Safety Days (00:14:34) Promoting winter car care, tire changeovers, and educating customers on cold weather impacts.Small Business Saturday (00:16:36) Promoting your shop and other local businesses, collaborative content, and community support.Thanksgiving &amp; Fun November Days (00:18:25) Creative ideas for Thanksgiving, quirky national days, and team-building activities.Entrepreneurs Day &amp; Shop Storytelling (00:19:14) Sharing your shop’s origin story and connecting with followers through authentic storytelling.US Marine Corps Birthday (00:21:05) Recognizing the Marine Corps birthday, especially in military communities.Campaign Ideas Recap &amp; Closing (00:21:57) Recap of campaign ideas: gratitude, veterans, winter safety, road trip tips, and customer appreciation.Outro and Next Episode Teaser (00:22:56) Thanking listeners, promoting the network, and previewing the next episode.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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 NetworkRemarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open DiscussionDiagnosing 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 &amp; Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledWondering how one community-focused idea can transform your shop’s reputation, rally an entire town, and even get the mayor’s attention?Kim Walker connects with Betty Otero of Greg Smith Automotive in Belleview, Florida, a powerhouse shop owner who took a simple idea, a school backpack drive, and turned it into a ripple effect of community involvement, business partnerships, and real local impact.Betty didn’t just donate school supplies. She created momentum. What started with 100 backpacks became nearly 400, all filled through the power of connection, heart, and a whole lot of hustle. From coordinating with schools and local businesses to organizing a Founders Day car show that brought in 91 show cars and raised money for United Way, Betty shares the real-world “how” behind marketing through community service.She opens up about the fear of starting small, the magic of asking for help, and how sharing your efforts the right way without bragging can lead to more business, a stronger team culture, and deeper community ties.This episode is pure gold for any shop owner who wants to stand out in their town, do something that matters, and build a brand that’s trusted beyond the bays.&nbsp;Ready to turn your community involvement into real impact (and real marketing)?Hit play and hear how Betty Otero did it, then start building a shop that your town talks about for all the right reasons.Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Betty Otero, Gregg Smith Automotive&nbsp;Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Messages (00:00:01) Podcast and sponsors introduced; host welcomes guest Betty Otero from Greg Smith Automotive.Betty’s Background and Meeting the Host (00:02:23) Betty shares how she met the host and their ongoing connection through industry events.Inspiration for Community Outreach (00:03:25) Betty discusses the motivation behind starting the backpack drive and her commitment to community involvement.Organizing and Growing the Backpack Drive (00:04:09) Details on how Betty organized the backpack drive, involved the community, and expanded the initiative.School Needs and Community Impact (00:07:08) Betty describes the needs of local schools, the impact of donations, and the growth of community support.Making the Backpack Drive a Community Event (00:09:17) How the backpack drive became a larger community event, including volunteer involvement and local business support.Personal Motivation and “Why” (00:10:15) Betty reflects on her personal reasons for community work and the fulfillment it brings.School Uniforms and Supply Lists (00:11:15) Discussion about school uniforms, supply lists, and the challenges families face.Planning and Lessons Learned (00:13:15) Betty shares planning tips, lessons learned, and improvements made from the first to the second year of the drive.Organizing Supplies and Volunteer Coordination (00:14:16) How Betty improved organization and logistics for efficient distribution and volunteer management.Sponsor Messages (00:15:55) Additional sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.Public Relations and Press Releases (00:17:57) Betty explains the importance of press releases and how PR amplified the impact of her efforts.Business Partnerships and Community Recognition (00:21:37) How local businesses, like Papa John’s and a chiropractor, got involved and the resulting community recognition.Building Momentum and Encouraging Others (00:24:16) The growing impact of Betty’s efforts and advice to start small and build from there.Founders Day Car Show Organization (00:25:04) Betty describes organizing a car show for Founders Day, including logistics, partnerships, and fundraising.Car Show Results and Lessons (00:29:07) Outcomes of the car show, feedback collection, and plans for future improvements.Team Culture and Employee Engagement (00:33:13) How community involvement has shaped company culture and inspired team participation.Recruiting and Attracting Talent (00:37:14) Betty shares how her shop’s reputation for community involvement attracts quality employees.Upcoming Projects and Partnerships (00:38:26) Plans for future partnerships, supporting school pantries, and organizing more community events.Advice for Getting Started with Outreach (00:41:10) Betty’s encouragement and practical advice for shop owners wanting to start community initiatives.Closing Remarks and Contact Information (00:42:49) Host wraps up, shares group info, upcoming events, and Betty provides her contact details.Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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.”How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Aftermarket Radio NetworkRemarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open DiscussionDiagnosing 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 &amp; Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledIn this episode of The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Brian Walker sits down with Michelle Travis, Director of SEO at Shop Marketing Pros, to break down a question more and more shop owners are asking: Why does content need to be so long?They dig into how longer-form content is outperforming the old 500-word blog strategy, what Google and AI tools are favoring now, and why those extra words aren’t fluff; they’re fuel for better visibility, stronger trust signals, and showing up everywhere your potential customers are searching.You’ll also hear what’s changed in how blogs are built today, including things like TLDRs, FAQs, and comparison tables that hit both human readers and search engines alike. Whether you're skeptical or already sold on content marketing, this episode will help you see how deeper content connects directly to real-world results in your business.Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)ChatGPTClaudeGrokWhat Makes A Great Auto Repair Shop Website?Your Google Business Profile + Mastering Local SEOShow Notes with TimestampsIntroduction and Sponsor Messages (00:00:01) Brief intro to the podcast, hosts, guest, and sponsor acknowledgments.Why Google Prefers Long-Form Content (00:01:43) Discussion on Google's preference for authoritative, relevant, and expert-driven long-form content.Defining Content Lengths and Pillar Pages (00:02:44) Explains short vs. long-form content, ideal word counts, and the role of pillar pages.Performance of Pillar Pages and Blog Posts (00:03:30) Comparison of pillar page performance versus newer, more targeted blog posts.Benefits of Long-Form Content for SEO (00:05:15) How long-form content allows for keyword variation, FAQs, summaries, and better user engagement.Google’s Search Intent and Authority (00:07:02) Google’s goal to provide the best, most complete answers and how detailed content supports this.Addressing Client Concerns About Content Length (00:08:48) Responding to clients who feel content is too long and explaining user intent.Content for Humans vs. Search Engines (00:10:23) Clarifies that content is written for humans but optimized for search engines and AI understanding.AI’s Role in Content Discovery (00:12:40) How AI tools like ChatGPT use long-form content to recommend shops and answer user queries.Sponsor Messages (00:13:29) Mid-episode sponsor advertisements for Shop Boss and App Fueled.Personal Experience with AI Search (00:15:41) Brian shares how AI learns user preferences and recommends local shops based on detailed prompts.Summaries and TLDR in Content (00:18:23) Use of summaries and TLDR sections to quickly answer user questions and improve search visibility.Comparison Tables in Content (00:20:26) Adding comparison tables to break up content, aid skimmers, and establish authority.Structured Data and Schema Markup (00:21:27) Importance of schema data for search engines and AI to understand website information.Explaining Schema Data to Listeners (00:22:28) Simple explanation of schema data and its evolution for business websites.AI and Structured Data Preferences (00:25:45) Discussion on why AI and search engines favor structured, organized data.Impact of Summaries and FAQs on AI Search (00:27:12) How summaries, FAQs, and tables help clients appear in AI overviews and search results.Evolution of Blog Content Structure (00:29:55) Transition from short blogs to comprehensive articles with summaries, tables, FAQs, and schema.Search Everywhere Optimization (00:31:51) Shift from traditional SEO to “search everywhere optimization” for broader online visibility.Client Success Stories with AI Search (00:32:29) Examples of clients benefiting from AI referencing their website content in responses.Adoption of AI in Search and Click Search Discussion (00:33:45) Trends in AI replacing traditional search and the impact on website traffic and leads.Quality Over Quantity in Website Traffic (00:37:19) Emphasizing the importance of qualified leads over sheer website traffic numbers.Conclusion and Collaboration Importance (00:37:37) Encouragement to collaborate with marketing teams and adapt to evolving SEO and AI trends.Final Sponsor Message and Outro (00:40:39) Closing sponsor thanks, network promotion, and sign-off.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;AppFueled at&nbsp;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 NetworkRemarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open DiscussionDiagnosing 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 &amp; Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.

You didn’t go to school for marketing, but here you are, running a shop and needing to fill those bays!In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker gets real about what it is like to jump headfirst into marketing when you are not a trained marketer. (Spoiler: it is scary at first, but it is doable.)Kim shares her own story, from teaching school kids to promoting a growing auto repair shop, and breaks down the six key tips that helped her go from "what is marketing?" to "running the show."You will learn why knowing your strengths and weaknesses matters, how to find your networking tribe, how to step outside your comfort zone without freaking out, and why sometimes just showing up is the real marketing win.Packed with encouragement, real-world advice, and plenty of laughs along the way, this episode will inspire you to stop doubting yourself and start marketing with confidence.Hit play, grab a notebook, and get ready to become the marketer your shop needs! 🚀Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal will help you grow your auto business and you can learn more at RepairPal.com/shops.Declined repairs don’t have to be lost revenue. AppFueled’s call center schedules follow-up calls and equips your team with everything they need to close the deal. Get started now at appfueled.com&nbsp;Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Clifton StrengthsFinder 2.0Tony Robbins DISCKim and Brian Tell Their StoryEd MylettStart with WHY by Simon SinekShow Notes with TimestampsIntroduction to Marketing Journey (00:00:10)&nbsp; Kim Walker shares her background and transition into marketing for her husband's auto repair business.First Steps in Marketing (00:01:25) Kim recounts her initial reluctance and confusion about taking on marketing responsibilities.Support from Brian (00:02:47) Brian encourages Kim to join him in the auto repair world, emphasizing the need for marketing.Overcoming Initial Fears (00:05:03)&nbsp; Kim discusses her feelings of inadequacy and the mental challenges she faced when starting.First Networking Experience (00:06:15) &nbsp;Kim describes her first networking event and the nerves she felt as a newcomer.Lessons from Networking (00:08:28) Reflecting on her experience, Kim realizes the importance of networking relationships.Six Marketing Tips Introduction (00:09:41)&nbsp; Kim introduces six tips for shop owners who need to handle marketing themselves.Know Thyself (00:11:01) Kim emphasizes the importance of understanding personal strengths through assessments.Strengths Assessments (00:12:04) She recommends taking the Clifton Strengths assessment to identify personal strengths.Start with the End in Mind (00:15:26) &nbsp;Kim advises envisioning future marketing goals and building on existing strengths.Building a Network (00:16:34) She encourages listeners to connect with their community and industry for growth opportunities.Finding Your Tribe (00:18:13) Importance of networking and connecting with others to create a supportive community.Engaging with Local Organizations (00:19:29) Advice on joining local groups to enhance networking and marketing efforts.Navigating Marketing Responsibilities (00:20:43) Managing marketing tasks effectively while balancing other business responsibilities.Assessing Weaknesses (00:22:59) Encouragement to identify and improve personal weaknesses for better marketing.Setting Aside Time for Growth (00:25:28) Importance of dedicating time for learning and personal development in marketing.Utilizing Local Resources for Learning (00:26:31) Finding local classes and resources to enhance marketing skills.Asking for Help (00:28:59) &nbsp;Encouragement to seek guidance and mentorship in marketing endeavors.Personal Growth Journey (00:30:05) Kim's transition from teaching to marketing and her growth through networking.Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (00:33:34) Kim's experience of feeling unqualified yet being recognized for her marketing expertise.Tips for Non-Marketers (00:35:58) &nbsp;Kim shares actionable tips for those without marketing experience to effectively promote their businesses.Community Engagement (00:36:10) Suggestions on how to engage with local communities, including blogging, podcasting, and joining local organizations.Teaching and Mentoring (00:36:30)&nbsp; Emphasizes the importance of mentoring and training team members as the business grows.Final Thoughts and Contact (00:36:50)&nbsp; Kim encourages feedback and provides her email for listeners to share their thoughts on the episode.Next Episode Teaser (00:37:05) &nbsp;Announcement of future episodes and encouragement to tune in for more insights.Podcast Promotion (00:37:26)&nbsp; Encouragement to follow the podcast and engage with Kim and Brian for topic suggestions.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics&nbsp;Thanks to our Partners,RepairPal at&nbsp;https://repairpal.com/shops. Quality Car Repair. Fair Price Guarantee.App Fueled at&nbsp;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 NetworkRemarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open DiscussionDiagnosing 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 &amp; Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.

One of the biggest complaints we hear from shop owners is they don’t trust the numbers from their CRM. They have good reason for this. In the world of marketing, we refer to the connection of dollars earned to the marketing channels that produced those dollars as “attribution”. This week we talk to Justin Rae, founder of Cinch CRM.&nbsp; Justin talks with us about attribution and his passion for creating accurate numbers that the shop owner can trust.Talking PointsAttribution defined, and Justin’s history with creating trustworthy attributionHow long revenue be attributed to a single marketing actionMulti-channel attributionThe types of marketing actions can you give attribution to with a CRMHow To Get In Touch with Cinch CRMWebsite - https://cinch.io/&nbsp;LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cinchplatform/&nbsp;Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CinchPlatform/&nbsp;YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@CinchPlatform&nbsp;How To Get In Touch with Shop Marketing ProsGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE

Marketing can do a lot to bring new leads to your auto repair shop, but it’s up to the people answering the phones to turn them into customers. We’ve seen quite a few times where one of our clients says their marketing isn’t working, but the numbers don’t lie. Their marketing was working but their phone skills were just plain bad. Good marketing with poor phone skills equals wasted money. Our guest today is Cecil Bullard from the Institute for Automotive Business Excellence. Cecil teaches phone skills to service advisors that make a tremendous positive impact on the shops they serve. Cecil shares some of his knowledge of how to turn shoppers into clients for life.Talking PointsThere is a point where marketing is handed off to salesHow to you set the tone for the phone callWhat to do when someone calls asking for a priceHow to handle callers who think they are calling the dealership or another shop?What to do with price shoppersHow to handle it when you’re on a call and get another callWhat to do when you’re on a call and you get a walk-inWhat information you should get from a callerHow to ask for the appointmentHow To Get In Touch with The InstituteWebsite - https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/&nbsp;Online training - https://www.gearforshops.com/&nbsp;Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Iforabe&nbsp;How To Get In Touch with Shop Marketing ProsGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected] Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE

If you know Kim and Brian, you know we run the wheels off of our motorhome. In usual fashion, we have another big trip coming up, and this time we’re headed to California. In this episode, we don’t even mention marketing. We talk about auto repair shops, but nothing that will help you in your business. This is simply a peek into one of our trips, what we’re doing, and a bit about how we plan our travels and stays. We hope you’ll listen in and get to know us a little better. Who knows… we may stop in at your shop during one of our upcoming travels!Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HEREHow To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]

In this world of cancel culture and tech giants that have more money than god, and literally don’t need you - it’s more important than ever to build marketing assets on platforms that you own. In this episode we give examples of ways people have lost marketing opportunities to this real problem, including us, and places you should be investing so that you always have marketing options that will work for you.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected] to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE

Incorporating gifting with radical generosity into your auto repair shop can not only create a great relationship with employees and potential customers but also nurture those relationships. Kim is a gifter at heart and in this episode she shares the best and unusual times to gift as well as how to implement gifting into your auto repair shop.Talking PointsEmployee GiftsRandom DoorDashChristmasNew Baby/Home/MarriageJust becausePartner/Industry Friend GiftsDream 25 (clients + industry partners)After meeting at eventStaying in touchSeeing something on social prompts the giftSpecial Occasion GiftsHolidaysEmployee AppreciationClient GiftsNew clientsClient upgradesSpecial OccasionFavorite VendorsThe Basketry - personalized/customizedHoltz LeatherSmallwoodsDoorDashAmazonWe are just one of many podcasts a part of the Aftermarket Radio Network. You can find those at AftermarketRadioNetwork.com - go and give them a listen!Until next time - go fill those bays!THREELagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Giftology BookThe Basketry - personalized/customizedHoltz LeatherSmallwoodsHow To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]&nbsp;Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE

You’re growing -a lot, but concerned about losing the company culture you’ve spent so much time, energy, effort, and money on building. In this episode, Kim Walker shares her thoughts, ideas, and strategies being implemented to be super intentional about maintaining company culture.Talking PointsWorked hard to define core values, build a team, processesYou’re getting great resultsYou’re growingBut fearful of losing momentum, culture, pace, etcKeep Core Values front &amp; center. What we do:Hiring, onboardingFiring relates backIn the middle - reward + recognizeMake decisionsProcessDocumentedPracticed by allAppreciated + UnderstoodOnboarding.&nbsp;How do you do it?&nbsp;Is it documented? Can it be duplicated easily?Hire Slow, Fire FastGamesKim Games (Slack)JR’s Dad Jokes + PunsPlayfulness, laughter, joy. Happiness is a core value for us.&nbsp;Contests.SurprisesLetters to familyDoor DashTravel together/retreatTrainingMeaningfulEasily found for future referenceMentoringDay to Day ConnectionsSlackHuddlesProject Management software communicationHow To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]&nbsp;

This shop is too slow. This shop is too busy. This shop doesn’t know either way. It wasn’t long ago that we heard a good bit of chatter regarding shops who were experiencing slow days but most recently we have experienced shops on the other end of the spectrum. They’re too busy and have mentioned pausing their marketing. In this episode, we discuss what shops can do to shift their marketing instead of stopping all together.Talking PointsThe too-busy shop trend - sound crazy, but true.Mistake: stop marketing. Busy today does not mean busy tomorrow.Stopping all marketing creates a roller coaster effectEverything is great until one day it isn’tDo you own a business or do you own a job? It’s time to grow up.Never stop marketing; pivot instead.Change messaging to less sales/promotion and more cultureStart hiringFocus on brand buildingMessaging Shift to:More company cultureBrand awarenessGreat Place to workCustomer AcquisitionAdsCommunity RelationsSocial MediaSEOCustomer RetentionEmailsTextingSocial MediaThanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HEREHow To Get In TouchWebsite - https://independentautodieselrepair.com/&nbsp;Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAutoandDieselRepairHow To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]&nbsp;

Kim + Tracy Capriotto spend time in this episode laughing, chatting, and sharing about key moments in the industry, career transitions, and working with family. Tracy shares her battle with an internal dialogue.&nbsp;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/shopsTalking PointsWorking with family. You’re either crazy or an angel. I think it’s an angel.&nbsp;What’s your top tip for working with family?what was it like watching your dad take on the automotive world with his podcast?at what point did you think you wanted in on that?what has the transition like for you joining your dad?let's chat about your Women in Auto Care involvement - what are your favorite events? what are you doing in that group?&nbsp;Your greatest lesson?your favorite podcast episode you've done so farfunniest edits + bloopersLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Tracy’s Women in Auto Care PodcastCarm’s Podcast Episode about their Adoption StoryHow To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]&nbsp;

Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HEREThere are times in life when you get called to make big moves. Brian and Brittany Hemry experienced just this when they felt God call them to pack up their family from a comfortable home and job in Washington State and move to Tennessee where they would open Independent Auto and Diesel. Listen in to their inspiring story of obedience followed by a series of open doors.How To Get In TouchWebsite - https://independentautodieselrepair.com/&nbsp;Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/IndependentAutoandDieselRepairHow To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]&nbsp;

Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HEREMac Akram is the owner of Mac’s Complete Auto Repair in Chandler Arizona. Mac’s story is an amazing story of perseverance and making things happen. As a young child and teenager, Mac and his family lived in war-torn Baghdad, Iraq. Listen in on this episode to hear the inspiring story of Mac moving to America, learning to be an auto tech, and eventually opening a state-of-the-art shop in Chandler, Arizona.How To Get In Touch with MacWebsite - https://www.macsautorepairs.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/macscompleteauto How To Get In Touch Group - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]&nbsp;

Talking PointsOctober 5, 2021 - Do you remember last year when Facebook/Instagram went down?Or on August 8, 2022, when Google Search, Maps, Drive, and YouTube went down.&nbsp;If you’ve got all your marketing eggs in the Facebook basket, or the Google basket, or worse you don’t even own your own website…. It would surely be nice to be able to send an email out to your customers.&nbsp;What about the day that Google wasn’t working?What is the one thing you need to open an account for anything?How do those organizations stay in touch?How often are you checking your email inbox?Email addresses are something you own.&nbsp;Great for slow-day marketing ideas.Email marketing that’s not tied to a service reminder - the more educational, helpful types of emails. Something short and sweet and simple just to stay in front of your customer.Showing up in their inbox.Use your CRM! It’s probably got an email feature built-in you are already paying for.Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]&nbsp;Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE

Being the auto repair shop for fleet customers requires a different way of marketing. You’re not going to gain fleet customers doing the same marketing you do for retail customers. In this episode, we share real-life marketing tips and strategies to help you land those fleet customers you want!Talking PointsThis is ALL about the relationshipDevelop your customer avatar for fleet customersMake your Dream 25 ListCreate a series of steps you want to take to create and nurture those relationshipsWhere are their watering holes? Go there. Become a regular.What traditional marketing should you do for fleets?Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Book: Giftology - https://www.amazon.com/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/1619614332&nbsp;How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected] Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE

Talking PointsStatisticsThe way people search is very differentSearches are longerSearches are more conversationalYou need to answer questions in complete sentencesThis is one reason why blogs are so importantSearch queries are longer but your answers need to be short and conciseOptimize for featured snippetsWrite the way you talk - natural languageInclude questions in your content - long tail keywordsDumb it down - write it for a 10 year oldUse long content“Near Me” searches continue to increaseDo more video - featured snippets in videosLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)https://backlinko.com/optimize-for-voice-searchHow To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected]&nbsp;Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE

Talking PointsKathleen Long: One of the hardest working women in auto car. A woman of action and impact. She’s a big believer in the value of mentoring. Has a glass-break alarming laugh :)&nbsp;RepairPal is setting/ limiting what prices I can charge to my customers with their estimator.I don’t need RepairPal because I already have plenty of business and I get great marketing for free through word of mouth.Online customers like the ones that come through RepairPal are just annoying price shoppers.I have a relationship with my local CarMax store, so I don’t need RepairPal’s help.Many consumers haven’t heard of RepairPal so they cannot really help me to increase my car count.Kathleen Bio:Kathleen Long, Chief Revenue OfficerKathleen has built and developed award-winning marketing, sales, success, support and operations teams, centered on principles of authenticity, hard work and empathy. As Chief Revenue Officer at RepairPal, Kathleen leads all partner and consumer initiatives; including business development &amp; strategy, operations, marketing, and IT. Kathleen is absolutely insistent on making a difference for people and businesses, by connecting them with disruptive, useful technologies, aided by humans who are given space to be themselves at work. Kathleen helped transition a startup through a successful acquisition exit, created revenue and monetization streams that supported another startup going public and grew her career from a chair in a call center employee to a seat at the executive table in 10 years (happily mentoring others to do the same). Kathleen is proud to stand for ethical principles, and to be a female executive in a male-dominated industry and is Women in Auto Care's Woman of Excellence, presented annually to a woman who has provided recent outstanding contributions to the auto care industry while demonstrating role model behaviors, leadership and commitment to the advancement of women. &nbsp;She has been described by some as the literal voice of the company and has a laugh that once set off glass break alarms in a conference room.Kathleen holds a degree in General Studies and Philosophy from the University of Nevada, Reno.How To Get In TouchGroup - Auto Repair Marketing MastermindWebsite - shopmarketingpros.com&nbsp;Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/bookInstagram - @shopmarketingpros&nbsp;Questions/Ideas - [email protected] Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE