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The future of the aftermarket depends on having an apprentice program at every shop in North America. The more you know and hear apprentice stories, the closer you are to start you own.

Link HERE to all apprentice episodes.

The Panel: Garrett Geisler, Shop Foreman, Dynamic Automotive, MD Ricky Shontere, Apprentice Graduate, Technician, Dynamic Automotive, MD Dwayne Myers is a partner in Dynamic Automotive in the greater Maryland area. Dwayne invests time in the industry with the Auto Care Association and serves on the education committee with CCPN (Car Care Professional Network). Dwayne was recently honored as one of only 17 outstanding individuals that qualified for the prestigious 2017 World Class Technician Award presented by The Auto Care Association and ASE. He is very passionate about hiring and sustaining a strong and engaged team. Listen to Dwayne’s previous episodes HERE. Key Talking Points
  • Create the environment you desire- businesses don’t run themselves, people (leaders) run businesses. You don’t always get what you want, but you always get what you choose. Are you choosing to be in the weeds of business every day or do you want your business to run without you? Determine what you value and your culture will follow.
  • Transitions in the business- be an owner, you hired employees to do a job so let them. Train them well so they can leave, but treat them so well that they don’t want to. Don’t micromanage.
  • What I’ve learned- learn from everyone no matter what their status or level is. Everyone learns based on their experience, knowledge, and skill. Allow people to grow, owners are often the biggest obstacle. Think about the vision, cast the vision, and let your employees make the vision.
  • lifted burdens- watch people grow from where they are to where they want to be.  Don’t create more work for you as an owner, grow employees.
  • Employees who lead- should be taught the responsibility they have of leadership no matter their position. They will continue to grow. Your business is only as strong as the weakest employee. They need to reflect your values.
  •  Your responsibility as an owner- coachability, valuing people, mentors, communicating vision
  • Leadershift- based on the 15 laws of growth written by John Maxwell. 15-week course for employees of businesses. Grow employees in their current roles. Owners choose who their leaders will be based on current behavior. Leadership is learned, everyone has the ability.
  • Thanks to Garrett Geisler, Ricky Shontere, and Dwayne Myers for their contribution to the aftermarket’s premier podcast.
  • Link to the ‘BOOKS‘ page, highlighting all books discussed in the podcast library HERE. Leaders are readers.
  • Listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Podchaser, and many more. Mobile Listening APP's HERE
  • Find every podcast episode HERE.
  • Every episode is segmented by Series HERE.
  • Key Word Search HERE.
Be socially involved and in touch with the show: Facebook   Twitter  LinkedIn   Instagram  Youtube   Email   Join the Ecosystem - Subscribe to the INSIDER NEWSLETTER HERE. Buy me a coffee NAPA Autotech Training helps your technicians keep their skills sharp and their NAPA Know How up to date. It’s the highest quality technical training that covers almost every vehicle system and every make and model. NAPA Autotech is presented by experienced instructors who are ASE master certified technicians. Even after a class is over, techs can access course information online with ClassPass. So when questions come up later they can get the answers. AutoCare Center owners who have taken advantage of Autotech Training say that well-trained technicians are helping to increase their shop’s repair capability and raise bay productivity. That results in fewer comebacks, more satisfied shop customers, and reduced technician turnover. Learn more about NAPA AutoCare and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting www.NAPAAutoCare.com.

Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio

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  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         0 comments
      It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
      While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
      Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
      One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
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    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training


      In this episode, Matt Fanslow dives into listener-submitted questions, covering a wide range of automotive diagnostic and repair topics. From personal influences in the industry to technical advice on exhaust gas analyzers, catalytic converter testing, and ADAS calibrations, Matt shares his insights and expertise.
      1. Who Do You Try to Emulate?
      Matt reflects on the mentors and industry leaders who have shaped his approach to diagnostics and repair.
      TV Doctors vs. Real Mentors: While he jokes about emulating fictional doctors like Hawkeye Pierce, Gregory House, and Perry Cox, Matt credits real-world experts like John Thornton, Randy Burkholder, Jim Kemper, Matthew Ragsdale, Harvey Chan, and John Riegel for their influence. The Value of Deep Research: Matt highlights the importance of studying SAE documents, technical manuals, and foundational books like Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals by John B. Heywood. Thought Leaders in the Industry: He also mentions Jim Wilson (ScanShare.io), Scott Manna, and others for their diagnostic methodologies and problem-solving approaches.
      Takeaway: Success in automotive diagnostics comes from continuous learning, leveraging industry resources, and adopting best practices from experienced professionals.
      2. Exhaust Gas Analyzers – What to Look For?
      A listener asks about choosing the right exhaust gas analyzer for their shop. Matt breaks down the key features:
      PC/Android Interface: Essential for graphing gas readings (lambda, air-fuel ratio) over time. Portability: Needed for on-road testing to monitor performance under real driving conditions. Fast Sample Times: Look for analyzers with low transfer delays (under 5 seconds) for accurate real-time data. Cost Consideration: Expect to invest  5,000– 5,000–7,000+ for a quality unit.
       Takeaway: A good exhaust gas analyzer should provide real-time data logging, lambda calculations, and portability for effective diagnostics.
      3. Testing Catalytic Converters – Temperature vs. PCM Diagnostics
      A student questions the validity of using infrared thermometers to test catalytic converters after hearing conflicting advice.
      PCM Algorithms Are Superior: Modern vehicles use complex oxygen storage calculations—far more accurate than manual temperature checks. Why Temperature Testing Falls Short: A "bad" cat might still pass a temp test. A "good" cat might fail due to external factors (exhaust leaks, sensor issues). Best Practice: Trust OBD-II diagnostics, fuel control verification, and factory procedures over manual methods.
      Takeaway: Always verify fuel control, exhaust integrity, and PCM data before condemning a catalytic converter.
      4. ADAS Calibrations – Troubleshooting Static Windshield Camera Issues
      A technician struggles with static calibrations for windshield-mounted cameras. Matt offers troubleshooting tips:
      Check the Windshield Glass: Aftermarket glass is a common culprit for calibration failures. Lighting Conditions: Too much LED glare? Try diffusers or dimming shop lights. Use shipping blankets to reduce reflections on the hood/dash. Target Placement: Ensure the target is positioned per OEM specs—avoid background interference. RTFM (Read the Factory Manual): Always follow OEM procedures for target setup.
      Takeaway: Calibration issues often stem from glass quality, lighting, or incorrect target alignment—double-check these factors first.
      Listener Q&A Submission: Have a question for Matt? Email: MattFanslowPodcast@gmail.com
      Contact Information
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training
      Key Discussion Points:
      What is Reverse Benchmarking?
      Traditional benchmarking focuses on studying what competitors do well, but reverse benchmarking involves analyzing what they do poorly and capitalizing on those weaknesses. Two interpretations: Looking at other industries for innovative ideas (e.g., team-building activities from tech companies). Example: Some shops now adopt spontaneous team outings (baseball games, go-karting) inspired by Silicon Valley culture. Staying within the automotive industry to identify gaps in competitors' customer experience or service offerings.
      Applying Reverse Benchmarking in Auto Repair
      Customer Experience: Visit competitor shops (dealerships, independents) and note flaws—uncomfortable waiting room chairs, poor TV choices, limited snack/drink options. Actionable Fixes: Upgrade seating, offer neutral TV content (e.g., Joy of Painting), provide filtered water instead of plastic bottles. Market Gaps: If competitors specialize in European cars (like Seth Thorson’s shop), consider specializing in underserved markets (e.g., Asian brands like Hyundai, Kia, Nissan). Focus on services competitors avoid (advanced diagnostics, programming, driveline work).
      Technician-Level Reverse Benchmarking
      In a shop with a star "R&R tech," instead of competing directly, fill gaps (e.g., diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting) to become indispensable. "See a need, fill a need"—position yourself as the go-to for overlooked but critical tasks.
      Why It Works
      Creates a unique value proposition—whether for customers (better experience) or employers (specialized skills). Helps shops stand out in saturated markets by addressing unmet needs.
      Final Thoughts:
      Reverse benchmarking isn’t new, but it’s underutilized in automotive. Whether you’re a shop owner, manager, or tech, observing competitors’ weaknesses can reveal opportunities for growth.
      Contact Information
      Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
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      Episode 217 - Going From Management to Ownership At A Tire Shop with Michael & Anna Bellevue
    • By carmcapriotto
      The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops.
      Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/
      Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind
      Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great. 
      Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private Facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermindIn 
      To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify.
      Don't forget to rate and review us!
      Connect with Chris:
      AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching
      www.autoshopcoaching.com
      www.aftermarketradionetwork.com
      940-400-1008
      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
      YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
      Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com
      NO SHOW NOTES YET
      The Aftermarket Radio Network
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      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      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.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      #autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
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    • By MikesPlaceAuto
      Hello from Montana. Longtime mechanic/technician, first-time shop owner. Reaching out to many sources for information and advice. Small shop in rural setting, specializing in electrical and electronics. Thanks for any good words. Mike


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