Culture Makes Great Customers, Keeps Great People, and Attracts Superstars [THA 255]
-
Available Subscriptions
-
Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?
-
By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog0 commentsIt 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.
-
-
Similar Topics
-
By carmcapriotto
Want a real marketing plan that doesn’t live in your head or on a bunch of sticky notes?
In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker is joined by Caroline Legrand and Savannah Garrett to talk all things Plan With the Pros Shop Marketing Pros’ hands-on, no-fluff marketing workshop designed to help shop owners create a full-year strategy they’ll use.
You’ll hear how last year’s event helped shops ditch the chaos and build real, actionable plans from big-picture budget planning to week-by-week content ideas. Whether you're starting from scratch or refining what you’ve already got, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what to expect, what you’ll walk away with, and why West Point is the perfect backdrop for this kind of transformative work.
Packed with insights, personal stories, and plenty of laughs, this episode is your sneak peek into a game-changing experience for your business.
Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you with this episode. RepairPal’s Certified Network of shops is trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at
RepairPal.com/shops.
Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
Plan With The Pros
Get In Touch With the Guest:
Savannah Garrett
Meet The Team Schmidt Auto Care
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction and Welcome (00:00:10) Kim Walker introduces the podcast and guests, discussing the "Plan with the Pros" event. Event Overview (00:02:19) Discussion on the inception and goals of the "Plan with the Pros" event, blending retreat and workshop elements. Savannah's Experience (00:05:13) Savannah Garrett shares her motivation for attending the event, highlighting the importance of marketing in her role. Networking Importance (00:06:09) The value of networking with peers in the industry and sharing marketing strategies is emphasized. Marketing Plans Discussion (00:09:19) Savannah discusses her existing marketing plans and areas where she sought improvement during the event. Collaboration Insights (00:12:14) The benefits of collaboration among shop owners and sharing successful marketing ideas are highlighted. Event Hosting Benefits (00:12:57) Savannah discusses hosting events for community engagement and how it enhances shop visibility and reputation. Camaraderie and Learning (00:15:08) Savannah reflects on the camaraderie experienced at the event and the valuable marketing tactics learned. Building Relationships (00:15:32) Discussion on the importance of relationships and collaboration among women in the automotive industry. Mentorship and Growth (00:17:04) Reflections on mentoring young professionals and the influence of women leaders in the industry. Inclusivity in Events (00:19:38) Announcement of opening the "Plan with the Pros" event to all genders after a female-only event last year. West Point Venue Experience (00:21:03) Insights on choosing West Point as a venue and its significance for the upcoming event. Unique Experience at West Point (00:24:05) Personal reflections on the beauty and history of West Point, enhancing the event experience. Camaraderie in Unique Locations (00:25:06) Discussion on how destination events foster deeper connections and meaningful conversations. Setting the Tone for Success (00:26:20) The importance of the venue in creating an environment conducive to productivity and success. Personal Connection to West Point (00:28:36) Sharing personal stories and connections to West Point, emphasizing its historical significance. Unexpected Takeaways (00:29:23) Exploration of surprises and key insights from the event, particularly for new marketers. Marketing to Your Audience (00:30:39) Savannah shares her biggest takeaway on the importance of targeting specific audiences in marketing. Understanding Customer Avatars (00:31:43) Kim emphasizes the need for attendees to leave with a clear understanding of their customer profiles. Networking Benefits (00:33:11) Discussion on the value of networking and maintaining connections post-event through a Facebook group. Flexibility in Marketing Plans (00:36:19) Caroline discusses the importance of having a fluid marketing plan that adapts to changing circumstances. Evaluating Marketing Success (00:36:46) The speakers highlight the need to assess what marketing strategies are effective and worth continuing. Event Logistics and Support (00:39:24) Caroline outlines what attendees can expect from the "Plan with the Pros" event, including support and networking. Final Thoughts on Learning (00:41:01) Savannah encourages attendees to stay open to learning, regardless of their current marketing expertise.
How To Get In Touch
Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook
Meet The Pros
Follow SMP on Facebook
Follow SMP on Instagram
Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book
Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
-
By carmcapriotto
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound
Watch Full Video Episode
In our Episode Today:
Listeners will recall the Pilot Talk (Episode 34) with Austin Brumfield - and this time our host Craig O’Neill welcomes Austin’s amazing wife, Evangela, to the podcast!
Evangela is a pilot, an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic, and a missionary.
As mentioned with Austin, the Brumfields are joining Arctic Barnabas Ministry’s (ABM) which will take them and their aviation skills to the remote regions of Alaska. ABM aims to support and encourage those who serve in Alaska, so they don’t decide to leave!
Since do leave after confronting hardship and the remote nature of Alaska- it becomes unlikely for people who cannot leave their remote communities to develop trust with any future newcomers.
The Word of the Day:
Barnabas:
Proper Noun
Meaning: "son of encouragement”
In the conversation listeners will enjoy hearing Evangela share and reflect on a number of topics including:
Her passion for the mechanics of aircraft - and the importance of the A&P license What it is like communicating with your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) - when you are married to your CFI How speaking through the radio in a solo flight instills a sense of confidence What it’s like to speak in front of churches to raise support Why raising support for living in Alaska is nearly twice as hard as other missions Compelling details about the challenges of remote living and isolation felt by people in the remote regions of Alaska Airplanes as a bridge for communication Also airplanes in general. We do talk a bit about airplanes…
Those who know Craig, know that when he entered college out of high-school - he wanted to become a missionary pilot himself. Meeting the Brumfields later in life when he took up flight lessons in 2021 cultivated a new friendship and a new means to fuel that passion by supporting the Brumfields and welcoming them to share their story.
At Speak Up - we believe stories adjacent to our industry prove to illustrate solutions for our day-to-day situations. A key takeaway from Evangela is for us to remember to be proactive about being a Barnabas in your part of the world!
Don’t just wait to be called!
And be prepared to go this distance necessary to support those who need support!
We hope you’ll follow the Brumfield’s journey - details below!
For more information on Arctic Barnabas Ministry - Check out their site: here
You can follow Austin and Evangela on Facebook, where they post their updates and newsletters by clicking here
Evangela shared a wonderful Youtube video that was produced recently regarding missions in Alaska. ABM serves some of the individuals in the video so it's a great way to visualize the people, places, and need for ABM in Alaska. You can watch it by clicking here.
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:
The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com. "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.
AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com
AutoLeap at AutoLeap.com. Are you tired of juggling multiple tools to manage your auto repair shop? Say hello to the streamlined efficiency of AutoLeap, the #1 all-in-one Auto Repair Shop Management Software!
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.
In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.
Contact Information
Email Craig O'Neill: speakup@craigoneill.net Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
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/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
-
By carmcapriotto
Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at the NAPA Now Conference celebrating NAPA Auto Care’s 100th anniversary, Jason Rainey, Vice President of NAPA Auto Care, and Matt Crumpton, Director of Program Development, introduce the Team Tool Rebate program, which helps technicians manage tool debt while providing shops with funds to reward and retain talent. The conversation also emphasized NAPA’s apprenticeship and training programs, showcasing the company's commitment to education, workforce development, and genuine partnerships. Rainey and Crumpton highlight NAPA’s dedication to listening to its Auto Care members and delivering solutions that go beyond parts, aiming to uplift the industry through support, innovation, and strong shop culture.
Matt Crumpton, Director of Program Development, NAPA Auto Care
Jason Rainey, Vice President NAPA Auto Care. Jason’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes:
Watch Full Video Episode Introduction to NAPA NOW Conference (00:00:00) Training Focus at NAPA NOW (00:05:07) Introduction of Team Tool Rebate (00:06:22) The Concept Behind Team Tool Rebate (00:07:33) Allocation Process for Rebate Funds (00:10:59) Creating a Positive Shop Culture (00:12:25) Rebate Program Impact (00:15:02) Strengthening Relationships with Members (00:15:59) Understanding NAPA's Programs (00:17:08) Partnerships in the Automotive Industry (00:17:56) Team Tool Rebate Launch (00:19:51) Celebrating Partnerships (00:21:28) Engaging Technicians (00:22:17) Listening to Member Feedback (00:23:13)
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/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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 X: 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: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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 Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2025, two attendees of a communications class, led by Chris Cloutier and Craig O'Neill, were chosen as the top speakers during a Toastmasters style mock run-through. Their heartfelt and authentic stories resonated so strongly with the audience that they were invited to share their experiences on the podcast.
What began as a simple role-play exercise turned into a powerful conversation about the role of communication and relationship building in the automotive shop industry. Our guests reflect on the value of active listening, vulnerability, storytelling, and how these traits fuel strong leadership and team culture in repair shops.
This episode is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful moments are unplanned, and communication is at the heart of every successful business.
Corey Evaldi, Olmstead Auto Care, Olmstead Falls, OH. Listen to Corey’s Episodes HERE.
Allen Garcia, A+ Auto & Diesel, Syracuse, KS
Show Notes:
Watch Full Video Episode Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/ Guest Introductions (00:00:00) Toastmasters Roleplay Overview (00:01:37) Importance of Communication (00:03:00) Corey's Speech Experience (00:03:57) Alan's Leadership by Example (00:05:03) Value of Communication (00:07:30) Vulnerability in Communication (00:08:08) Corey's Emotional Connection (00:15:01) Building Relationships (00:17:35) The Value of Training (00:19:12) Energy and Growth (00:22:04) Comfort Zone and Growth (00:24:03) Toastmasters Experience (00:25:45) The Importance of Storytelling (00:27:14)
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/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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 X: 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: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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 Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2025, this episode features a discussion with the co-founders of Promotive, a company focused on recruiting and placing qualified technicians and service advisors. The conversation explores the challenges shops face in hiring, such as ineffective job postings and candidate ghosting, and how Promotive aims to streamline this process by handling initial screening and interviews. Lisa Coyle and Joelle Pollak emphasize the importance of cultural fit and fair compensation for successful placements, also advising shops on creating positive work environments. The discussion also touches on the value of ongoing training, shop management systems, and the significance of evaluating employee attitude and performance using a structured approach.
Lisa Coyle, and Joelle Pollak Co-Founders, Promotive: https://gopromotive.com/
Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/ Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) Hiring Process Overview (00:02:09) Ghosting in Interviews (00:03:37) Understanding Shop Culture (00:04:39) Cost of Unfilled Positions (00:05:29) Building a Talent Bench (00:06:18) Candidate Marketing Strategies (00:07:30) Client Compatibility (00:08:25) Assessing Shop Culture (00:09:48) Technician Expectations (00:11:03) Importance of Appreciation (00:12:04) Career Advancement Opportunities (00:12:30) Compensation Discussions (00:14:05) Team Dynamics and Assessment (00:17:05) Evaluating Team Performance (00:17:54) Consequences of Team Dynamics (00:19:49) Using Charts for Improvement (00:21:13) Addressing Employee Concerns (00:23:27) The Importance of Consistent Feedback (00:28:22) Coaching and Employee Development (00:30:10) Identifying the Right Fit (00:33:00) Understanding Shop Culture (00:34:40) Addressing Technician Retention (00:35:22) Importance of a Recruiter (00:36:28) Recruitment Challenges in Shops (00:37:39)
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/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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 X: 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: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
-
-
-
Our Sponsors
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now