The Great Canadian Aftermarket Podcast

Finding good technicians is tough—but what if the problem isn’t the shortage of talent, but what your shop is offering? Andrew Ross is back on the podcast with Murray Voth, RPM Training, about what actually motivates experienced technicians to leave one employer for another, from compensation and flat-rate frustrations to workplace culture and job satisfaction. They also tackle the question every shop owner should ask themselves: Would you work for you?As always, we welcome all input- visit us here to leave us a comment.

Andrew Ross welcomes Paul Reed, “The Showroom Guy,” back to The Great Canadian Aftermarket Podcast to discuss the importance of store design and consistency across the aftermarket. From jobber stores and repair shops to banner and franchise programs, we explore the challenge of creating a look and customer experience that works — and can be executed consistently — across Canada, despite regional differences and the realities of individual locations. Paul returns to continue the conversation about design, branding, execution and why consistency matters when it comes to presenting a strong face to the customer.For more information and to get in touch, contact The Showroom Guy here.

In this episode, host Andrew Ross and CHAT Media correspondent Hannah Ryder Ross recap the biggest takeaways from Worldpac STX 2026, including the latest trends, insights, and a peek into the training shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket. We also include highlights  from Hannah's sit-down with John Hamilton, CEO of Worldpac, to discuss Worldpac’s growth and progress in Canada following its split from Advance Auto Parts—and what’s ahead for the business.Check out some of our supporting articles below.Worldpac sees growth in Canada as company expands post-splitWorldpac presents Supplier Awards at STX 2026

When margins are tight, it’s tempting for automotive repair shops to look for savings wherever they can—especially when it comes to parts. But is buying the cheapest part really saving you money? In this episode, Andrew and Murray Voth of RPM Training explore how cutting costs can turn into cutting corners, affecting a shop’s profitability, efficiency, technicians, and customer trust. They discuss why gross profit dollars—not just percentages—matter, the hidden costs of constantly price-shopping parts, and how quality parts, strong supplier relationships, and value-based selling can create a healthier business.The math never lies: you can reach the top of the mountain by racing to the bottom. Check out Murray's story on the cost implications of right to repair here.

Thieves love to get access to professional tools. The Secure Data Release Model, scan tool validation, and the Vehicle Security Professional (VSP) credentialing are designed to get in their way. But adoption is far from 100%. Donny Seyfer, executive director of NASTF which administers the programs, talks about why this matters to shops, how it works, and what could happen if the aftermarket doesn't get on board. For more information on NASFT, SDRM, and VSP, visit https://support.nastf.org/support/home

Motorcycle adventures are often about the journey—but for Lorenzo Pellicciotta, this ride is about something much bigger. In this episode, we sit down with Lorenzo Pellicciotta, owner of Pellicciotta Automotive Group and operator of CARSTAR Oakville West and NAPA AUTOPRO Oakville, to talk about Miles for Sight – Four Corners of Canada Ride in support of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind.  Over 7,000 kilometres into his journey, from Whitehorse, Yukon, Lorenzo shares the inspiration behind this incredible cross-country journey, his personal commitment to supporting CNIB, and how one ride is helping raise awareness and funds to empower Canadians living with vision loss.For more information and/or to make a contribution, visit the Miles for Sight CNIB fundraising page.

As a new set of tariffs on Canadian goods is announced by the U.S. Administration, we call on the experts for advice. Ashley Kalyn, International Trade Consultant at Peacock Tariff Consulting (peacocktariffconsulting.com), joins host Andrew Ross to talk about the new and changing tariff landscape, what aftermarket organizations need to focus on, and what it might signal for the overall economy.

Electric vehicles are becoming a bigger part of the automotive landscape, and with that growth comes a rising demand for specialized service and repair. In this episode, our own Hannah Ryder Ross visits EV Lab in Langley, BC—a dedicated electric and hybrid vehicle repair shop created by the team behind Precision Auto Service.We stopped by the shop with owner Scott Waddle for a tour of the new facility- and a conversation about the journey from adding EV capabilities to an established repair shop, to launching a standalone EV-focused business. Scott shares what drove the decision, the investments in training and equipment, the challenges of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry, and practical advice for shop owners and technicians looking to enter the EV service space. With guest host Hannah Ryder Ross.Check out the materials mentioned in this episode: Indie Garage Oct/Nov 2023, featuring Precision AutoKey Tips for EV Service Readiness in Your Shop

In today's world, the use of technology has become a familiar part of our everyday to make our lives easier. However, in our historically face-to-face aftermarket industry, when it comes to adopting these new operations, even for convenience and business potential, there might be hesitancies around losing that closeness with your customers that our business is built on. In this episode of The Great Canadian Aftermarket podcast, owner of RPM Training and regular contributor Murray Voth outlines the four key areas that technology can actually bring you closer to your customers and build your business. 

Training is a top priority for automotive shops, but knowing what to teach, how to deliver it, and where to find the right resources remains a challenge. In this episode, host Andrew Ross speaks with Matt Shepanek, President of the Automotive Training Managers Council (ATMC), about the findings from the newly released 2026 Training Benchmarks Survey. Drawing on nearly 3,000 responses from across the automotive industry, Matt discusses barriers to training, emerging disconnects and opportunities to deliver more, and what the data reveals about the future of technician development. A video edition of this podcast with the survey presentation is available on our Youtube Channel here.

For this special Father's Day episode of the Great Canadian Aftermarket Podcast, host Andrew Ross examines an artifact from one of his main inspirations for his life's path in the automotive industry- his late father. For many in this industry, the road to an automotive career are paved within a paternal line (although the maternal lineage is certainly strong for some as well!). Today, our host will be going down memory lane through his father's own wallet and the preserved possessions that give us a glimpse into his father's life and impact. From all of us at CHAT Integrated Media, Happy Father's Day weekend. Also on our YouTube channel

As Shad's R&R Fundraiser 2026 is right around the corner, we're revisiting this episode from February 2026 with Shad's chair Charlie Grant. Shad's R&R is a cornerstone of Canada's aftermarket as a fundraiser for Muscular Dystrophy Research, attracting participation from across North America (and beyond) to its annual June event. Now, with a new chair in Charlie Grant, CEO of Grant Brothers Sales, it embarks on a new challenge as it looks forward to its 51st edition and sets its sights on a new goal for the future. For more informaition on how to get involved, visit ShadsRR.ca.

Murray Voth, aftermarket business pro and owner of RPM Training, joins host Andrew Ross to switch things up and discuss tips for jobbers: how to analyze their business, strengthen shop relationships, improve pricing transparency, and how to build up the business structures to maximize their results.  

A 2026 JD Power Canada study found that interest in EVs among Canadian new-vehicle shoppers has risen for the first time since 2022. The study also found that many consumers are becoming open to Chinese EV brands due to affordability and technology features. JD Ney, managing director, JD Power Canada, returns to the Great Canadian Aftermarket Podcast to discuss both the growing interest and state of the industry outlined in the report, as well as persisting consumer barriers- including range, reliability, charging availability, and cold-weather performance.For more information on the report, visit Indie Garage's release here.

Fueled by scrap tire quotas that fell below collection for months now, there's a genuine crisis brewing as tires stack up, haulers sit at home, and regulators tinker with a broken system while shops and consumers are caught in the middle. Adam Moffatt, executive director of the Ontario Tire Dealers Association, joins host Andrew Ross to talk about how things got this bad, and what he sees as the best path forward. Feedback  or questions on the issue? Contact the OTDA at [email protected].

(Encore presentation) The threats facing modern vehicle security systems are real and evolving. This month, Indie Garage reported on the response from National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) in the wake of a major vehicle theft ring that had used a diagnostic tool to steal dozens of vehicles in Washington, D.C. This crime highlighted the continued threats to modern vehicle security systems worldwide - and NASTF issued a resulting statement that it continues to serve as the industry’s established secure access authority, and their framework to combat vehicle security crime.We're revisiting this extended episode, originally aired October 2024, with Donny Seyfer, Executive Officer, NASTF, discussing the truth on cybersecurity, and what's being done to mitigate the real threats. 

Jason Hladyniuk, service advisor training specialist with RPM Training jumps into the podcast this week to talk about important touchpoints for service advisors and those who might have to lend a hand when things get super busy at your shop.You can also watch the video version on the Indie Garage You Tube Channel. 

Multimedia Content & Analytics Associate Hannah Ryder Ross catches up with host Andrew Ross after coverage of the EV & Charging Expo 2026 in Toronto earlier in April. Hannah gives a rundown on the aftermarket panel discussions about EVs as a training and business opportunity, how pros feel about where we're at with the shifting landscape, and encouraging techs to grow along with the EV service sector.For more insight from pros on setting up your shop for EV success, here are some Key Tips for EV Service Readiness in Your Shop on IndieGarage.ca.

Host Andrew Ross sits down with Brett Griffiths, Dean, School of Trades, Technology and Design at Vancouver Community College (VCC), to discuss VCC'S new EV conversion pilot program, as well as the growing relevance in electric conversion overall- and how EV conversion went from niche projects to a full course for techs.To view the course outline and request info on VCC's EV Conversion Course, you can visit the School of Continuing Studies course page here.

Jason Herle, CEO of Fountain Tire, is the incoming chair of the Automotive Industries Association of Canada. Recorded in early March 2026 during preparations for Fountain Tire's 70th Anniversary Conference in Halifax, N.S., he talks about core strengths of the aftermarket, the important role of the association, and the benefits of getting involved.  In speaking on the Right to Repair issue he referenced the report "Unlocking Access: Why Right to Repair Matters for Every Vehicle Owner, authored by MNP Canada" Access the Indie Garage review of that report here, where you will also find a link to the full report.

Whether you are an owner looking to sell your shop, or a young entrepreneur looking for an opportunity, Murray Voth, RPMTraining.net, has some great real-world advice and tips for you! With host Andrew Ross

Key takeways from the Canadian Auto Care Industry Conference (CIAC) organized by AIA Canada. Quick takes on key points from notable presentations and events by podcast host Andrew Ross. 

Running a business can be overwhelming and that can lead to burnout. Leading Canadian aftermarket trainer and business consultant Murray Voth, RPM Training offers proven step-by-step methods that can bring sanity and success to your business (and your life!). 

Shad's R&R Fundraiser is a cornerstone of Canada's aftermarket as a fundraiser for Muscular Dystrophy Research, attracting participation from across North America (and beyond) to its annual June event. Now, wth a new chair in Charlie Grant, CEO of Grant Brothers Sales, it embarks on a new challenge as it looks forward to its 51st edition and sets its sights on a new goal for the future. For more informaition on how to get involved, visit ShadsRR.ca.

New AIA Canada CEO Emily Chung is looking to use her experience in the aftermarket--an extensive background in the industry that includes 16 years as a shop owner--to bring together the different perspectives of stakeholders and industry members in a way that moves the industry forward. AIA Canada will be exploring industry issues at its Canadian Auto Care Industry Conference (CAIC) March 11 and 12. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

Scrap tires are piling up all over Ontario, raising the spectre of another Hagersville tire fire disaster that saw 14 million tires burn for 17 days in early 1990. It was that event the forced change in how the province deals with tires, but after Ontario reset the thresholds for tire collection and recycling, shops and collection sites are left dealing growing piles of scrap tires and nowhere to send them. Adam Moffatt, Executive Director of the Ontario Tire Dealers Association (www.otda.com) and Tire Dealers Association of Canada, explains how we got here, and what you can do to help change it. Industrial professionals can reach out to the OTDA at www.otda.com and Adam Moffatt at [email protected] for more on what you can do.

Any aftermarket professional knows that the categories we put tires into --Summer, All-Weather, Snow Tires, Winter Tires and especially All-Season--don't always serve customers well. Ulrik Westergaard, Director, Operations & Sales at Bruno Wessel Ltd., joins the podcast to talk about the TireType.org initiative, and what it could mean to smooth customer communications. Listeners are invited to reach out to Ulrik at TireType.org with their views on the issue, or email Andrew Ross at [email protected].

Bruce Eccles, respected shop veteran and vice-chair of the newly rebranded Automotive Aftermarket Repairers Organization of Canada (AARO.ca) joins host Andrew Ross to talk about what's behind the recent rebrand and what the vision for the future of the storied Ontario association holds as it seeks to broaden its mandate across Canada.

Whether you feel like a "born leader" or not, there are skills you can learn and practices you can put into action that will put you in a proper leadership position (and not just the boss) at your automotive business. Murray Voth, RPM Training, provides excellent starting points and skills to build in your journey to being a better leader. 

Paul Reed, The Showroom Guy, and now VP Business Development with Ritestart (Ritestart.ca) talks the importance of integrated design build in your new store or shop construction or renovation, and why new, upgraded designs matter more than ever. With Host Andrew Ross.

Skilled Trades Ontario CEO Candice White talks about the vision and goals for the province’s still-new apprenticeship agency, getting past growing pains, and what the near future holds for the agency, for apprentices, and for the industry. Recorded October 27, 2025. Industry professionals, stakeholders, apprentices and interested parties are encouraged to reach out to Skilled Trades Ontario. Contact information is at skilledtradesontario.ca/contact-us.

Recorded live at AAPEX 2025: Three young entrepreneurs from Calgary and Vancouver--Eddie Tso, Albert Liu, and Joshua Lin--talk about the importance of building relationships, mentorship, paying it forward, and leaning on each other as they build Pacer Dynamics in the aftermarket. With host Andrew Ross.

Live from AAPEX 2025 in Las Vegas: JF Champagne, President and CEO of AIA Canada, sits down with host Andrew Ross to discuss AAPEX's significance as a global centrepoint for the aftermarket for associations, suppliers and customers; the age of aftermarket renewal and revitalization; and the challenges and wins impacting the industry. Recorded November 5, 2025.

J.F. Champagne, president and CEO of AIA Canada talks details and mechanisms at play with Quebec's Right to Repair now coming into force, as well as related issues surrounding Quebec's unique approach to the issue, and what it might mean for the rest of Canada. With host Andrew Ross.

Canada's automotive service market is estimated to be blowing up to some $18 billion, a significant increase over the last few years, but the data shows that the independent aftermarket shops are slipping in both share of those dollars, and how customers rate them.Driven by some structural factors affecting the vehicle population profile, and the experience and rising expectations of customers, independent aftermarket shops are seeing a slide in their both the dollar share of business they're winning, and customer satisfaction rankings.J.D. Ney, Automotovie Practice Manager--Canada at leading researcher J.D. Power, joins host Andrew Ross on this episode of The Great Canadian AFtermarket Podcast to dig into what the survey data says about where customers at large are saying thei local shops might be falling short, and how to fix what matters most.

Word of mouth is recognized as a key driver for shop business, but are you losing that personal touch in the Facebook and Instagram world of marketing? Are you forgetting to put the customer first?Murray Voth, RPM Training, returns to the show after a break to talk about connecting with customers by focusing on their motivations as people, not just customers and how to keep that personal connection even when you're using modern technology to market your shop. With host Andrew Ross.

The dynamics of the new and used car market play a strong role in shaping Canada's aftermarket. Baris Akyurek, AutoTrader’s VP of Insights & Intelligence, joins host Andrew Ross to talk about shifts happening in Canada's automotive market, and what this can tell us about the evolving aftermarket.

More than 50% of drivers report ADAS issues after service. ADAS is a growing opportunity and area of concern for drivers, insurers and, yes, lawyers. Brunno Moretti, President of ADAS Aftermarket at Ascential Technologies, an ADAS systems supplier, talks about their findings published in the whitepaper  “Driving Down Costs, Driving Up Safety: The Economic Benefits of Universal ADAS Servicing."

Jenn Robson, Director of Operations, Interchange Recycling, joins host Andrew Ross to talk about what a new Yukon initiative means, and how it raises the larger issue of shops and their role in the community. For more information on this initiative, visit Interchange Recycling.

Encore presentation from the archives: Understanding what your business is worth is key to putting succession plans in place but also important for other near-term investments and business planning.  Milene Fort, PDC Automotive (pdcauto.com) and Murray Voth, RPM Training (RPMTraining.net) join host Andrew Ross. Originally posted in November 2022.Recommended reading: The E-MythThe Great Canadian Aftermarket Podcast was selected by Feedspot as a Top 10 Canadian Automotive Podcast. From CHAT Media, the people who bring you www.IndieGarage.ca and www.JobberNation.ca.

Encore presentation from the archives: Understanding what your business is worth is key to putting succession plans in place but also important for other near-term investments and business planning.  Milene Fort, PDC Automotive (pdcauto.com) and Murray Voth, RPM Training (RPMTraining.net) join host Andrew Ross. Originally posted in November 2022.Recommended reading: The E-MythThe Great Canadian Aftermarket Podcast was selected by Feedspot as a Top 10 Canadian Automotive Podcast. From CHAT Media, the people who bring you www.IndieGarage.ca and www.JobberNation.ca.

Encore presentation from the archives: Having the correct EV strategy for your shop has been on the minds of just about every ASP. Renowned Canadian automotive technician Jeff Taylor has some great advice for shop owners and technicians. With host Andrew Ross. Originally published January 2023.

Encore Presentation from the archives: Host Andrew Ross is joined by Murray Voth, RPM Training and Geoff and Lori Joyce of Shawnee Station Automotive, Calgary, Alta., to discuss effective toolbox meetings. Originally published February 2021.

Encore presentation from the archives: Bruce Eccles, founder of the highly regarded Eccles Auto in Dundas, Ont., talks to host Andrew Ross about how to stay positive about your business and the aftermarket industry and why it matters. Originally published April 2022.The Great Canadian Aftermarket Podcast was selected by Feedspot as a Top Canadian Automotive Podcast. From CHAT Media, the people who bring you www.IndieGarage.ca and www.JobberNation.ca.

What's your priority when looking at shop management systems? Are you putting your needs as a business owner ahead of your customers? Maybe time for a rethink. Murray Voth, RPM Training, discusses what the priorities should be for the best outcomes for your shops. With host Andrew Ross.

A just-published survey of EV owners in Canada reveals a significant gap that independent aftermarket shops will have to close to succeed in this evolving space. Guest Rick Nadeau, president of Quorus Consulting which authored the AIA Canada study "Electric vehicle maintenance and repair: the Canadian owner’s perspective report"  digs into the detailed revelations, and areas of opportunity for the aftermarket. Also presented in video format at the Indie Garage You Tube Channel. There may be a delay in this episode uploading to You Tube

Trainer Murray Voth, RPM Training, digs into how and why shops in the same market can vary from controlled, comfortable, chaotic, and everything in between, how to transition to the shop you want, and why it matters. Part 2 of 2. With host Andrew Ross.

Trainer Murray Voth, RPM Training, digs into how and why shops in the same market can vary from controlled, comfortable, chaotic, and everything in between, how to transition to the shop you want, and why it matters. Part 1 of 2. With host Andrew Ross.

AIA Canada president and CEO JF Champagne announced he will be leaving the assocation in mid-2026. In this episode he looks back on pivotal issues AIA Canada has been handling over his decade there, and what the future holds for the aftermarket. With host Andrew Rossm publisher and director of content at CHAT Integrated Media. From the people who bring you IndieGarage.ca and JobberNation.ca. Selected by Feedspot as one of the Top 10 Canadian Automotive Podcasts. 

Alain Primeau, Executive VP at UAP Inc., joins host Andrew Ross to point out the key trends shaping Canada's aftermarket and how he sees UAP and its NAPA are positioned to address them successfully today and in the future.