Remarkable Results Radio Podcast

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode In this episode, Carm Capriotto reconnects with industry veteran Peter Rudloff to explore his transition from shop owner to consultant, his “stay in your lane” philosophy, and the future of EV repair. Rudloff shares how a 25-year exit plan allowed him to retire from shop ownership at 47 and transition into his home-based “Pete Cave,” where he continues hands-on work without managing employees. He later founded Rhino Collective LLC, helping manufacturers connect engineering with real-world repair. A central theme is specialization. By focusing on domestic and Asian vehicles and avoiding brands like BMW, Rudloff improved efficiency and profitability. He argues that staying within your strengths leads to “profit by default” and long-term stability. Looking ahead, he predicts EVs will dominate, and repair will shift toward modular, aircraft-style maintenance. He encourages new shop owners to consider EV specialization as a growth path. Rudloff also emphasizes ongoing education, recommending 60 hours of training per year and crediting the Delaware Training Group as a major influence on his career. This episode delivers clear, practical insight on focus, future-proofing, and lifelong learning in today’s repair industry. Peter Rudloff, Rhino Collective LLC, petervrudloff@gmail.com Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on LinkedIn:

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Megan Dineff of Ervine’s Auto Repair and Grand Rapids Hybrid and EV joins marketing specialist Dan Vance of Shop Dog Marketing to explore the evolving relationship between websites and the future of search. They explore why a website remains the digital “front door” of a business, where customers decide whether to call. From using real photos to build credibility, to protecting leads through better phone protocols, to preparing for AI-driven search, this episode delivers practical insights for modern shop owners. Key takeaways: Building Trust Through Authenticity: Megan explains why the shop's website avoids stock photos and instead highlights their real team. Showing familiar faces builds instant comfort and credibility. A great website should “ooze trust” and reflect the shop’s personality, so prospects feel like they’ve found their “forever home.” The 70% Rule: Studies show that nearly 70% of callers have already decided to do business before picking up the phone. The group discusses how poor phone handling can “put water on the candles." AI and the Return of Content: Dan explains why content matters more than ever in the age of AI. Search models now “race to your website” to gather information. Shops must create clear, helpful content, not just for people, but for the algorithms that determine future visibility. The Power of Partnership: Megan shares a cautionary story about accidentally shutting down the shop's Google Business Profile and the importance of having a trusted expert to resolve “black box” marketing issues. The group agrees: owners should focus on culture and leadership while relying on skilled partners to navigate the digital landscape. When Customers Ask AI First: What Shop Owners Need to Know [RR 1071]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1071/ Megan Dineff, Ervine’s Auto Repair and Grand Rapids Hybrid and EV, Grand Rapids, MI Dan Vance, Shop Dog Marketing.com Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode In this episode, Jeff Rudnick of Pit Crew Loyalty explores the powerful shift from transactional business models to relationship-driven customer loyalty in the automotive repair industry. He challenges shop owners to rethink marketing and branding through the lens of real human connection—introducing the idea that “software has to imitate life.” In other words, technology should support the natural, community-minded instincts of great owners by automating “white glove” service at scale. The conversation dives into the behavioral science behind loyalty through Self-Determination Theory, which shows that customers, like employees, stay committed when they feel competent, autonomous, and part of something bigger than themselves. Rudnick backs this up with industry data, noting that the average “one-and-done” rate for first-time customers is 54%, but can be reduced to nearly 30% through intentional, relationship-based loyalty programs that make customers feel valued from day one. Listeners will learn practical strategies for creating meaningful customer experiences, including: The Confirmation Moment:Treating first-time calls as opportunities to confirm the shop can solve the customer’s problem, not simply close a sale. Throwing a Party:Using automation to identify new customers so teams can celebrate and welcome them, increasing the likelihood of repeat visits. Cross-Pollination:Partnering with other local businesses to build community networks that benefit everyone involved. The Easy Button:Leveraging systems that automate complex marketing tasks like fundraisers, digital gift cards, referral programs, and social media graphics. Rudnick also explains how loyalty rewards software can simplify community fundraising, referrals, and cross-business promotion, making high-level marketing accessible even for busy shop owners. Rather than relying on discounts, he emphasizes building strong brands through personalized rewards, authentic leadership, and genuine community involvement. Ultimately, this episode demonstrates how combining smart automation with human-centered leadership can dramatically reduce customer churn, strengthen local relationships, and drive long-term profitability for independent repair shops. Jeff Rudnick, Pit Crew Loyalty Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook:...

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Reaching 250,000 miles on a vehicle isn’t luck—it’s leadership. In this episode, we explore what long-term vehicle maintenance really looks like and why today’s shops must rethink how they communicate with customers. Too often, maintenance is treated as a series of isolated repairs. This conversation reframes it as a strategic process built on education, transparency, planning, and advocacy. In this episode, you’ll discover how to: Shift your shop culture from reactive repairs to proactive planning Position service advisors as educators and advocates Use cost-per-mile analysis to demonstrate real vehicle value Build trust through professional language and clear expectations Align inspections with long-term ownership goals Improve maintenance acceptance without fear-based selling Create systems that support consistent follow-up Key Discussion Topics Why 250,000-mile vehicles are built through strategy, not chance The difference between transactional service and advisory leadership Using documentation and trends to guide decisions Structuring pay plans to reinforce professionalism Turning maintenance into a long-term relationship Why This Episode Matters When customers understand that their vehicle can realistically reach 250,000 miles with the right care, everything changes. Trust improves. Approvals become easier. Loyalty deepens. And your shop evolves from a repair facility into a long-term partner in vehicle ownership. This episode shows how sophisticated professionalism, consistent processes, and education-first communication can transform both customer relationships and business performance. Brett Beachler, Beachler’s Vehicle Care & Repair, Peoria, IL. Listen to Brett’s previous episodes HERE Rena Rennebohm, CEO and Creator of Empowered Advisor. Rena’s previous episodes

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Chris Lawson of TechnicianFind tackles a critical disconnect in the automotive repair industry: shop owners say they want a General Manager to run their business, but are only willing to hire a “babysitter.” The conversation explores what it truly takes to build real management—centered on financial transparency, clearly defined roles, and intentional recruitment. The Transparency Trap At the heart of the issue is a tension between a shop owner’s desire to step away from daily operations and their fear of sharing financial information. Many owners want a manager who will “own the results,” yet refuse to share the “scoreboard” — gross profit, payroll, and compensation data — out of fear the employee will leave to open a competing shop. Lawson challenges this assumption. In reality, when employees see the true costs, risks, and pressures of ownership, many realize they prefer the stability of employment rather than pursuing ownership themselves. Defining the Roles The Owner:Responsible for vision, long-term direction, financial risk, and high-level strategic decisions. The Manager:Owns daily execution, workflow, SOPs, and tactical accountability. The Requirement:To move from “babysitter” to true manager, the individual must be trained to read and understand P&L statements so their daily decisions align with the company’s financial reality. Attracting Talent vs. Hunting Unicorns Rather than passively hoping to “find” a superstar manager, Lawson argues shops must actively attract them through preparation and culture. Preparation:It starts with a detailed job description outlining specific responsibilities, outcomes, and authority. Always Be Recruiting:Don’t wait until it’s “raining” to fix the roof. Build a bench and maintain passive recruiting year-round. Social Media as a Window:Prospective hires—and often their spouses—observe a shop’s culture long before applying. Posts that highlight team wins, birthdays, training, and certifications signal a healthy, supportive environment. Actionable Advice Lawson closes with a practical checklist for owners ready to upgrade from a babysitter to a true manager: Create a detailed job description Address personal insecurities around...

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Saim Raza and Tristen Sweeney, co-founders of Shift Automotive, discuss how their AI-powered software is transforming the vehicle service experience. Their platform automates OEM maintenance recommendations and simplifies shop workflows by integrating manufacturer data into professionally formatted, customer-facing reports. This approach not only improves operational efficiency but also helps service advisors build trust with consumers and increase average repair orders. While the technology is advanced, their core mission is deeply human: to improve communication and support shops as drivers keep their vehicles longer. The conversation ultimately underscores a move toward more consultative relationships and elevated customer service in the independent auto repair industry. Key Topics: The “Blood Test” Approach to Maintenance:How using OEM intervals to identify service gaps allows shops to present data-driven recommendations that extend vehicle life—critical as consumers face rising new-car costs. The “Easy Button” Paradox:Why technology only works when behavior changes, and what it really takes to successfully adopt new tools in your shop. Friendly AI & Buying Back Time:How AI can enhance communication, automate routine tasks, and give service advisors more time for meaningful customer interactions. The Consultative Shop Owner:Why the future belongs to shop owners who act as trusted consultants, building long-term relationships through transparency and problem-solving. Saim Raza, Tristen Sweeney, Shift Automotive Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook:

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Krystal Zellmer tackles the capacity crisis facing automotive shop owners, challenging the idea that leadership has to be hard. The conversation centers on self-awareness, highlighting how recognizing automatic behaviors is the first step to becoming a more effective, intentional leader. Using her peanut M&M metaphor, Zellmer explains that while individuals are responsible for their results and emotions, those outer layers do not define their core identity. The discussion also draws a clear line between delegating and dumping, emphasizing that true leadership builds employee “muscle” through training, coaching, and mentorship rather than simply offloading tasks. Ultimately, shop owners are encouraged to see challenges and failures as the necessary “wind” that strengthens their roots and expands both personal and operational capacity. Krystal Zellmer, VP at Klemmer Leadership and Character Development. Krystal’s previous episodes HERE Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ - Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ - Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz - Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ - Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider - All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books - Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom - Buy Me a Coffee:

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode This episode explores the critical role of specialized financial management with shop owner Liz Perkins and CPA Hunt Demarest. The discussion focuses on Perkins’ move to a CPA firm dedicated solely to the automotive industry, emphasizing how general accountants often misclassify data and miss key industry nuances. Demarest explains that a strong accounting partnership should extend beyond tax filing to include ongoing tax strategy and clear insights into profitability. Perkins shares how stepping away from a DIY approach to her finances gave her clearer visibility into market performance and greater peace of mind. Together, they make the case for shop owners to prioritize financial literacy and expert partnerships to maintain healthy, sustainable, cash flow positive businesses. Stop Armchair Quarterbacking:Why real time numbers, not last month’s reports, must drive in the moment business decisions. The Rule of Holes:Recognizing when you’re losing money and knowing when to stop digging so you can rebuild. Drilling Down:Using market and location specific P&Ls to uncover true profitability. Beyond the Tax Return:The difference between reactive tax prep and proactive, year round tax planning. The Pain-Free Pivot:Why switching accounting firms is faster and easier than most shop owners think. Asking the Right Questions:How to evaluate a CPA beyond basic bookkeeping and tax filing. Selling Understanding:The Status Quo Trap:How ignoring your numbers leads to avoidable financial pain. Liz Perkins, L1 Automotive Diagnostics and Program, L1 Automotive Training, Previous episode HERE. Hunt Demarest, CPA, Paar Melis and Associates, Business by the Numbers Podcast Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode James Stephenson shares his journey from a struggling technician to the leader of multiple successful businesses, offering a candid look at what truly drives sustainable growth in auto repair. The conversation tackles the technician hiring crisis head-on, reframing recruitment as an ongoing, intentional process and rooted in a positive, proactive mindset. Stephenson credits much of his success to mentorship from Bob Cooper, highlighting how investing in employees as people, not just producers, builds long-term loyalty. By supporting personal goals like homeownership and financial stability, shop owners can create cultures where teams want to stay and grow. The episode also explores the coming “silver tsunami” of retiring shop owners and why many shops fail to become valuable, sellable businesses. Poor financial documentation and outdated systems often erode enterprise value. The takeaway is clear: with professional coaching and strong shop management practices, an auto repair shop can evolve from a job that owns you into a scalable, high-value business asset. James Stephenson, Helping Auto Repair Shop Owners Build Stronger Shops | Lotus Consulting Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ - Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ - Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz - Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ - Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider - All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books - Our Classroom page for...

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode The automotive industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. In this episode, Cavan Robinson, VP of Operations for the Aftermarket at Vehlo, and Tony Mercury, VP of Revenue at Auto Shop Solutions, break down what shop owners need to understand—and act on—right now. The conversation explores the rapid consolidation reshaping the aftermarket, from independent shops being absorbed into MSOs (multi-shop ownership) to major software platforms merging at an unprecedented pace. The discussion then shifts to how marketing is evolving beyond traditional SEO into Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), where a shop’s website—especially its FAQ content—becomes the trusted source AI tools use to deliver zero-click search results. On the people side of the business, the episode addresses shop owner burnout, technician ghosting, and a critical reality: younger technicians increasingly view a shop’s technology, systems, and online presence as a measure of professionalism before deciding to apply. Key takeaway: A successful modern shop is like a smart home—built on strong behind-the-scenes infrastructure, a polished and accessible front end, and leadership that understands the data driving the entire system. Cavan Robinson, VP of Operations for the Aftermarket at Vehlo Tony Mercury, VP of Revenue at Auto Shop Solutions Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club:

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Dr. J.J. Peterson, PhD in communications, explains how business owners can elevate their leadership by stepping into the role of the Guide instead of operating as the hero, villain, or victim. Using proven storytelling frameworks, Peterson outlines four core characters, Victim, Villain, Hero, and Guide, and why self-awareness of these roles is critical to effective leadership. Victims lack agency and believe outcomes are beyond their control. Villains respond to pain by inflicting it on others, gaining short-term power but long-term resentment. Heroes work to redeem pain but are often overwhelmed and unstable—especially when leaders try to play that role in business. The most powerful role is the Guide: a steady, confident mentor who combines empathy and authority to help others win. Peterson shows that when leaders stop trying to be the hero and instead guide customers and team members, who are the true heroes of the story, culture improves, trust deepens, recruitment becomes easier, and retention increases. The result is the Badass Softie balance: driven leadership grounded in genuine care for people. Dr J.J. Peterson, https://www.drjjpeterson.com/ Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ - Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ - Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz - Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ - Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider - All books mentioned on our podcasts:

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Dog Marketing, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Recorded Live at AAPEX 2025, this episode tackles the classic “chicken or the egg” challenge for auto repair shop owners: should the focus be on marketing to generate work or recruiting technicians to handle it? The answer is simple—both. Sustainable growth requires managing two throttles at once: marketing and recruitment. Neither can be set and forgotten. Key takeaways include reframing the role as a high tech career with clear advancement paths, adopting an “always be recruiting” mindset, and not judging candidates by resumes alone. Many capable technicians want to move but are emotionally stuck due to fear, loyalty, or past instability. Long-term retention depends on engagement and making employees feel like part of the business, not just workers in it. Consistency is critical, as marketing and recruiting take time to gain traction and lose momentum quickly when stopped. A shop’s website should double as a recruiting tool, confidently showcasing employees, culture, and benefits. Ultimately, the challenge lies in the demanding nature of shop ownership. Owners tend to protect what’s working instead of continually investing in the systems—marketing and recruiting—that ensure long-term stability and growth. Lisa Coyle, Co-Founder, Promotive: https://gopromotive.com/ Connor Tracy, KUKUI Thanks to our Partner, Shop Dog Marketing Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings. Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook:

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Becca Zanders, Certified Exit Planning Advisor, explains why most auto repair shop owners are unprepared for an exit—and how to change that. Only 20–30% of businesses that go to market actually sell, and nearly half of those sales are forced by the “Five Ds”: Death, Divorce, Disability, Disagreement, or Distress. Becca introduces the Value Acceleration Methodology, which reframes exit planning into three stages: Discover the business’s true value and the owner’s readiness, Prepare the leader, finances, and organization to accelerate value, and Decide whether to grow or sell. A key distinction is the difference between a profitable lifestyle business and a business built for value. The conversation stresses the importance of closing the “wealth gap,” as most owners underestimate retirement needs and have the majority of their net worth trapped in their business. Personal readiness is equally critical, with many sellers regretting the sale because they failed to define their purpose beyond ownership. Advice to shop owners: build the right advisory team and start advancing your business today, long before a sale is forced. Becca Zanders, https://www.d6elements.com/ Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ - Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ - Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz - Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ - Join our Insider List:

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Dog Marketing, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at AAPEX 2025, this episode features Tara Topel, the new president of Vehicle Service Experts (VSE), and Missy Stephens, Community Engagement Manager for the Auto Care Association. The discussion highlights the rebranding of the Auto Care Association’s Car Care Professionals Network (CCPN) to VSE, reflecting the broader industry that includes heavy-duty vehicles. Key initiatives include: Resource Hub:An online center covering topics from shop coaching to ADAS best practices. Industry Relevance:Translating Auto Care market data into actionable insights for shop planning. Best Practices:The VSE council, currently 10–12 members, aims to grow to 15–20, compiling guidance on apprenticeships, ADAS, and more. The episode also covers the Right to Repair movement. The association needs real-world examples where shops lacked access to data or support, to counter Congress's claims. Shop owners can submit stories via a QR code on the Auto Care website and are encouraged to share their experiences by hosting legislators. Get involved, share your experiences, and take an active role in shaping the policies that affect your shop and the entire industry. https://www.autocare.org/networking-and-development/communities/car-care-professionals-network https://www.repairact.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Shop Dog Marketing Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings. Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the...

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Dog Marketing, NAPA Auto Care, and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at AAPEX 2025, this episode features Dan Vance, CEO of Shop Dog Marketing, sharing how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping marketing, business strategy, and the auto repair industry. The conversation explores how AI is changing consumer behavior—from lightning fast website visits focused on trust signals to customers using AI for vehicle self-diagnosis and shop recommendations, with AI often presenting only a few options, strong branding and clear communication matter more than ever. In the marketing sphere, Vance explains that attention spans are incredibly short. Website visitors typically spend just 20 seconds looking for clear trust indicators such as professionalism, strong reviews, warranties, online scheduling, and financing options. Visual cues communicate faster than text, while warm colors and photos of the team help build familiarity and trust. Online scheduling continues to grow in importance as many consumers prefer it over making a phone call. Vance encourages shop owners to embrace AI as a “digital butler”—a tool that anticipates needs, explains marketing metrics in plain language, and helps owners show up more confident, shifting from reacting to problems to intentionally driving growth. Dan Vance, Shop Dog Marketing.com Thanks to our Partner, Shop Dog Marketing Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings. Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ - Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ - Follow on Twitter:

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Dog Marketing, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at AAPEX 2025, this episode brings together leaders from Australia’s Jax Tyres and Auto to show just how closely the Australian automotive aftermarket mirrors the U.S. market. Featuring CEO Steve Grossreider, franchise owner Dan Spiteri, future franchisee Will Attard, and Autoflow’s Chris Cloutier and Craig O’Neill, the conversation underscores shared global challenges—most notably the technician shortage—and the reassurance that the industry is moving along a parallel path worldwide. Rather than chasing quick fixes, the discussion centers on culture-driven solutions: expanding diversity, building clear career paths and succession plans, and advocating for the industry at the grassroots level. Jax's customer-first mindset is a recurring theme, with every team member accountable for the client experience and a strong emphasis on clear communication to help customers understand emerging technologies like ADAS. With just under 100 stores, Jax’s avoids multi-franchise ownership, instead holding each franchisee accountable for the customer experience in their territory. The key takeaway is clear: in both Australia and the U.S., long-term aftermarket success depends on investing in people, strengthening culture, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to the customer. https://www.jaxtyres.com.au/ Thanks to our Partner, Shop Dog Marketing Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings. Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club:

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Eric Svedberg breaks down a smarter, more profitable way to price diagnostic work—what he calls the Level Testing Sales Amplifier. At its core, the system tackles a problem most repair shops quietly accept: testing is often a loss leader. When technicians are tied up diagnosing complex issues, shops miss out on parts sales. A-level technicians can earn less than their B-level counterparts doing routine work, and the rising cost of software and tools goes unpaid. Svedberg reframes the conversation by using the word “testing” instead of “diagnostics,” a term he believes is clearer and more intuitive for customers. Testing implies a process, not a guarantee—setting expectations from the start. The Level Testing system uses a tiered structure tied to the shop’s base labor rate: Level One – Basic Testing:Single, constant, duplicable issues (like a check engine light that’s always on). Level Two – Intermediate Testing:Multiple concerns or intermittent problems. Level Three – Pandora’s Box:Highly complex vehicles, often previously misdiagnosed or unsuccessfully repaired elsewhere. Level Four – “Grandmother Rate”:Disaster cars involving severe electrical damage, corrosion, or major disassembly. While the levels are designed as an internal framework, Svedberg finds transparency with customers increases trust and buy-in. Service advisors are coached to remove Level Three from most conversations upfront, steer customers toward Level Two testing as the norm, and clearly explain that testing fees are for time spent—not credited toward repairs. For true Level Three cases, advisors frame the value honestly: if it were simple, another shop would have already fixed it. Svedberg emphasizes that the system is easy to train and implement—often within a week—by focusing on quick wins with top advisors. Its simplicity improves communication, closes the tech efficiency gap, and can be applied beyond diagnostics to services like module programming and ADAS calibration. Every decision, he says, must pass the test: Is it good for the car? Good for the customer? Good for the shop? Eric Svedberg, European Autowerks, Virginia Beach, VA, https://www.gofuelcoaching.com/ , https://www.europeanautowerks.com/ Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -...

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at AAPEX 2025, ASE President Dave Johnson and AAPEX Shop of the Year winner Tom Palermo discuss the value, impact, and future of ASE certification. A major highlight: the U.S. Secret Service joined ASE on the AAPEX show floor, promoting technician careers and showcasing armored vehicles. Johnson notes that the Secret Service requires ASE certification for maintenance roles—proof that if it’s “good enough for the president’s car,” it matters for the whole industry. Key topics include ASE’s updated test content based on real shop feedback, powerful data showing certification improves productivity and reduces comebacks and attrition, and the ongoing challenge of boosting consumer awareness. They also discuss increasing industry requirements for ASE, new certification efforts for Vehicle Security Specialists, and the continued push for professionalism in today’s high-tech automotive field. Dave Johnson, President, ASE, National Institute For Automotive Service Excellence Tom Palermo, Preferred Automotive Specialists in Philadelphia, PA. Tom’s previous episodes HERE Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on...

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Recorded Live at ASTA 2025, we explore the rise of the automotive specialist and why the industry needs a language shift—calling instructors “educators” instead of “trainers” to reflect the complex, continuing education modern technicians require. We also dive into the mobile diagnostics and repair market, discussing strategies for growth, high-complexity work, and the investments needed to compete. Looking ahead, the industry faces a technological turning point by 2030, with new vehicle architectures and ADAS calibration requirements threatening shops that fail to keep up. The episode closes by emphasizing the power of networking, connecting with peers, and staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. https://astausa.org/pages/asta-expo Rich Falco, Diag on Demand, Instructor at Carquest Technical Institute. Listen to Rich’s previous episodes HERE Keith Perkins, L1 Automotive Training, Listen to Keith’s previous episode HERE. Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ - Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ - Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz - Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ - Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider - All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books - Our Classroom page for personal or team learning:

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Shop owners, are you feeling burned out or stuck in the grind? This episode is for you. Shop owners Jimmy Alauria and Dave Kusa dive into how to pause, reflect, and reignite your passion for the business you built. Key takeaways: Think Bigger:Grow your business beyond what you can manage alone—empower your team and expand your vision. Evolve as a Leader:Stop being just a manager—step into the CEO role and watch your business thrive. Culture Matters:Set the tone, share your dream, and build a positive environment your team can rally around. Delegate & Recharge:Offload the hats you wear, hire strategically, and take time off to see the big picture. Balance Family & Business:Set boundaries to protect both your shop and your relationships. The truth? Falling in love with your business again starts with falling in love with your ability to lead it. Jimmy Alauria, 3A Automotive and Diesel Repair, Phoenix, AZ. Jimmy’s previous episodes HERE Dave Kusa, AutoTrend Diagnostics in Campbell, CA. Listen to Dave’s other episodes HERE Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI’s integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty You’re probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the one-and-done cycle, turning first visits into lasting, reliable revenue at https://www.pitcrewloyalty.com/...