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The Technician Shortage Is Our Fault, And It's Time We Own It

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
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The Technician Shortage Is Our Fault, And It's Time We Own It
Nearly every day, I hear shop owners complain: "There's a technician shortage. We can't find qualified people. There's no one out there." If that's true, then who's to blame?
The industry? The schools? The government? I don't know how you feel, but who promised us an endless supply of qualified technicians?
Another common complaint is that young people do not want to work in the trades. Well, if that were true, then why are other trades such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing growing? What are they doing that the automotive industry is not?
Here's the reality we need to face: We do have a problem, but we shouldn't look for someone or any entity to rescue us. Not the government. Not the trade schools. Not the recruiting companies. No one owes us a workforce. If we want great people in our industry, it's up to us. At some point, we need to own up to the truth: Building a pipeline of qualified technicians is our responsibility.
In this blog article, I will break down the key reasons we are in this situation today and what we, as an industry, can do to solve the technician shortage. Are you ready to look in the mirror?
Have We Pushed Technicians Away?
Let's take a look at flat-rate pay. True flat rate, which pays a technician only for the hours they produce, is a controversial pay plan that emphasizes high production levels and creates a competitive work environment that, if not properly controlled, can lead to increased mistakes and a decline in morale and team spirit. Additionally, the stress and physical demands placed on technicians as they age are not favorable to long-term employee retention. What do we do with technicians as they grow older into their fifties and begin to slow down?
I have heard all the arguments and pros and cons of flat-rate pay, and I am not going to judge any pay plan. Let the facts speak for themselves. True flat rate has changed in most areas around the country and has evolved into a pay plan that gives technicians some pay guarantee.
Many shop owners have learned that team morale, along with the opportunity to earn income, is important to technicians and to the company's long-term success. But let me ask you: how many technicians have left or been pushed out over the years because of the old flat-rate pay system?
Another issue is the workplace environment. I remember being grateful to be hired as a young technician at a local repair shop. While very thankful, the work environment was not ideal. The shop owner kept the bay doors open year-round (I am from New York) unless it rained or snowed. He felt that if the bay doors were closed, customers might think we were closed for business. We had no heat and no hot water. Many of the jobs were done outside, year-round, in all types of weather. The starting pay was minimum wage, with no benefits, sick days, or vacation pay.
Now, again, I need to point out that I was truly grateful for the opportunity this shop owner gave me. I learned a lot working there, and the experience was pivotal in my career. But looking back, I wonder how many people were discouraged by these working conditions?
While the physical demands of the repair workplace are daunting, perhaps even more critical is the culture. Too many of my generation shop owners preached the mindset of "my way or the highway." We were the business owners, after all. We started our companies, took all the risks, and provided jobs. Why shouldn't we be the ones to set the ground rules our way?
Many of us found over the years that the "my way or the highway" mentality was a sure way to isolate employees and make them more likely to look over the fence for greener grass. In other words, it led many technicians to seek employment elsewhere, where they felt they could be appreciated and recognized for their hard work. The issue, however, was that there wasn't much green grass around. Disappointment after disappointment, bouncing from repair to repair shop, eventually led to despair. So, I ask you: were workplace conditions a contributing factor in today's technician shortage?
Another factor that we are all well aware of is the complexity of the modern automobile. When I started, the work was mostly physical, and you were required to master essentially three vehicle models: General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler. Let's fast-forward to today. The evolution of automotive technology, along with the extensive training and tools required, has outpaced the typical technician's pay compensation, with no clear career path. Again, leading to frustration and insecurity about the future.
Here is the bottom line: people don't leave their job; they leave their experience. We must do a better job.
The News Isn't all Bad; Your Next Steps to Fix the Technician Shortage
To fix the technician shortage, it will take a combined effort from everyone in the automotive industry, particularly automotive shop owners. Shop owners are in the perfect position to make the greatest impact, not only on their businesses but also on the future automotive workforce.
First, shop owners must become better leaders and understand that their ultimate success is directly dependent on the people they assemble around them. Any shop owner who mistakenly believes they can build an empire solely on their abilities is destined for serious disappointment. Business owners who think like this will eventually plateau. Without the collective contributions from a team of qualified people, your business will stall; it will not continue to grow.
Create a workplace that attracts top talent: a clean, professional, well-equipped facility designed to support productivity, teamwork, and a career, not just a job. Build a great reputation in your community by getting involved locally. Become the auto repair shop that people take notice of as "the" place to work.
Next, shop owners must become more financially knowledgeable. Knowing your numbers and what you need to achieve for a strong bottom-line profit is essential to paying technicians the money they need and deserve. Profit will also allow you to compete with other trade industries by providing a benefits package that has real take-home value and security.
When it comes to culture, this is where the rubber hits the road. People crave recognition, praise, and a sense of purpose. Despite what you hear, people are not just money-motivated. Once people feel secure in their financial situation, retaining and motivating technicians can only be achieved by connecting with them on an emotional level. You cannot show enough appreciation. Give out praise for a job well done as if your business depended on it, because it does.
As technicians age, we need to have a place for them. Expecting a 58-year-old to perform like a 35-year-old is unrealistic. We need to be more focused on career pathing. Provide training, skill development, and coaching to develop leaders and mentors within our older workforce. While their bodies may have slowed, the knowledge they have gained is priceless.
Our future is dependent on young people entering our industry. We need to give more young people opportunities. Every shop owner across the country should consider hiring an apprentice, then build an apprentice training plan and career path for them. If every shop did this, we could solve the technician shortage within five years. Get involved with the trade schools and high schools in your area. Look into the NAPA Apprenticeship Program. Don't sit on your hands with this one. Do it today.
Lastly, don't get left behind. Commit to ongoing training for all your employees. Keep up to date with tools and equipment tailored to your business model. Don't try to be all things to all people and all vehicles. Identify your core profile customer and the vehicles they drive, and become an expert on those vehicles and the services you offer.

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2025 Voice of the Technician Survey: Addressing Industry Pain Points [RR 1058]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode What does the future of the automotive repair profession look like through the eyes of technicians themselves? Jay Goninan unpacks Wrenchway’s annual Voice of Technician survey with 4,700+ responses, revealing a concerning drop in satisfaction, but also a roadmap for improvement.
Key Insights:
Technician Sentiment: 50% wouldn’t recommend their shop, with negativity dominating social media. Career Development: Technicians want visible growth paths, certifications, and new specialized roles like ADAS or EV diagnostics. Compensation: Pay remains the top frustration. Shops need profitability strategies and flexible pay plans (61% prefer hourly/salary with bonus). Culture & Tools: Proper equipment, work-life balance, and intentional team-building are critical to retention. Professionalism: Shifting language from “mechanic” to “specialist/technologist” elevates the industry’s perception. Leadership & Communication: Shop owners must ask “why,” listen to technicians, and implement meaningful change. Download: https://wrenchway.com/resources/2025-voice-of-technician/#download-report
This isn’t just about attracting new talent; it’s about creating workplaces where technicians feel valued, respected, and see a future in the industry.
Jay Goninen, WrenchWay
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: 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
Understanding Psychosis: Symptoms, Support and Stigma [E199] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training and Pico Technology
Watch Full Video Episode
Resources:
NAMI - https://helplinefaqs.nami.org/article/286-how-can-i-help-my-loved-one-during-a- I am not sick I don't need help - https://www.nami.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/I_am_not_sick_excerpt.pdf
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Thanks to our Partner, Pico Technology
Are you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Pinpoint faults in sensors, wiring, and components with unmatched accuracy. Visit PicoAuto.com and revolutionize your diagnostics today!
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] 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
The ROI of Kindness: How Giving Creates Growth in Your Business [E166] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled
In this heart-filled episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker sits down with Christina Beverly from Harrell & Beverly Transmission Auto Repair in Sanford, Florida.
Christina shares the behind-the-scenes story of their now-annual teacher giveaway, an initiative born from local Amazon wish lists that quickly grew into a high-impact, community-shaping campaign.
You'll hear how a $500 donation turned into $1,500, the emotional stories behind the nominations, and how this one simple idea rallied their team, elevated their brand, and aligned perfectly with their EOS-driven vision.
This isn’t just another feel-good story. It’s a blueprint for what can happen when shops get intentional about giving back. From internal morale to external reputation, Christina explains how generosity fuels growth and how you can take this idea and make it your own.
Ready to inspire your team, connect with your community, and build a brand people can’t stop talking about? Hit play and take notes.
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
https://www.harrellandbeverly.com/ https://www.harrellandbeverly.com/our-history https://www.harrellandbeverly.com/teachers Christina's blog about her cancer: https://www.livingrarely.com/
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction (00:00:01) Brief intro to the Aftermarket Radio Network and the podcast. Host Welcome & Updates (00:00:10) Host welcomes listeners, gives personal updates, and introduces guest Christina Beverly. Sponsor Message 1 (00:00:57) Shop Boss sponsor message about shop management software. Guest Introduction & Conference Talk (00:01:17) Host and Christina discuss previous episodes, upcoming conferences, and Christina’s involvement with Flaca. Travel & Podcasting Life (00:04:02) Host shares about frequent travel for work and its challenges. Classroom Giveaway Origins (00:04:44) Christina explains how the classroom giveaway started, inspired by teachers’ Amazon wish lists and local needs. First Year of the Giveaway (00:05:22) Details about the first year’s small-scale giveaway and unexpected national reach. Scaling Up the Giveaway (00:09:19) This year’s expanded giveaway: $1,000 grand prize, $500 runner-up, and 271 nominations. Metrics & Website Impact (00:10:41) Discussion of increased website traffic and engagement during the giveaway. Last Year’s Impact & Teacher Reactions (00:12:02) Reflections on last year’s recipients and their gratitude, even from out-of-state teachers. Announcing Winners & Selection Process (00:12:41) How winners were chosen, the addition of a runner-up prize, and the team’s involvement in selection. Winner Stories & Reactions (00:14:48) Stories about the winners, including a first-year trades teacher and their reactions to winning. Sponsor Message 2 (00:18:00) Shop Boss and App Fueled sponsor messages. Core Values & Business Why (00:19:58) Host and Christina discuss EOS, core values, and how generosity fits into their business mission. Community Reputation & Industry Image (00:22:45) How community involvement supports reputation and counters negative industry stereotypes. Industry Initiatives & Good Stories (00:24:24) Mention of Promoting’s scholarship video initiative and the importance of positive industry stories. Narrowing Down Nominations (00:25:49) How the team reduced 271 nominations to six finalists, with emotional impact on staff. Planning for Next Year (00:27:41) Lessons learned, plans to start earlier, and involving more vendors for future giveaways. Team & Community Impact (00:29:40) Positive effects on team morale, community feedback, and the importance of acknowledgment. Budgeting & Advice for Other Shops (00:31:34) Advice for shop owners on starting small with charitable initiatives. Event Marketing & Growth (00:32:16) Encouragement to start small with events and grow over time. Next Year’s Improvements (00:32:48) Plans to start planning earlier, reach out to vendors, and coordinate with school schedules. ROI Beyond Appointments (00:33:53) Discussion of broader ROI: website traffic, social media growth, email signups, and brand awareness. Shop Legacy & Family History (00:38:20) Overview of Harrell and Beverly’s four-generation family business history. Family Roles in the Business (00:39:42) Description of family members’ roles and past involvement in the shop. Personal Cancer Journey (00:40:32) Christina shares her rare cancer story, lessons of hope, and advice for those facing hardship. Event Promotion & Podcast Close (00:45:13) Promotion for the “Plan with the Pros” event and closing remarks for the podcast episode.
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
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled
This episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.
AppFueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
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 Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Car Giveaways and Community Involvement with Chris Luoma [E164] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled
When it comes to community involvement, some shops talk about it and others just do it. In this episode, I sit down with Chris Luoma, third-generation owner of Jerry’s Automotive in Lansing, Michigan, to talk about what it looks like to give back with heart.
From car giveaways to Toys for Tots, Chris shares how giving back has become more than just a marketing tactic; it’s part of his shop’s DNA. We talk about the humble beginnings of this family-run business, what inspired their vehicle donation program, and how they’ve given away five cars (and counting) to people who truly needed a hand up.
Chris walks us through the process of acquiring and fixing the vehicles, how they choose recipients, what the response has been like, and how it’s created a stronger bond between his shop and the community. You’ll also hear how local news coverage, Facebook engagement, and a little creativity have helped grow their reach, without needing a huge marketing budget.
This episode isn’t just about cars. It’s about impact. It’s about showing up for your town, doing something that matters, and watching how it all comes back to you in ways you can’t always track but can always feel
This episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. Shop Management software that works the way you need it to right out of the box.
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.
How To Get In Touch With the Guest
Chris Luoma
Jerry’s Automotive
Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
News Coverage of Vehicle Giveaway
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:00:10) Brian introduces Chris Loma, outlines the episode’s focus on community involvement and vehicle giveaways. Shop History and Legacy (00:02:26) Chris shares Jeffries Automotive’s 55+ year history, family ownership, and shop evolution. Long-Term Staff and Team (00:03:59) Discussion about long-term employees, technician shortage, and the value of a strong team. Origins of Community Involvement (00:04:41) Chris explains how giving back became a core value, inspired by his grandfather’s philosophy. Charitable Activities Overview (00:05:30) Overview of shop’s charitable work: Toys for Tots, veterans, VFW, and car giveaways. Shop Decor and Local Identity (00:06:01) Conversation about the shop’s old trucks, their use in community events, and as shop decor. Choosing Causes to Support (00:07:02) Chris discusses how they select which causes to support and the challenges of choosing recipients. Other Community Involvement (00:08:03) Support for local VFW, Little League, high school sports, churches, and plans for more involvement. ROI and Motivation for Giving Back (00:09:24) Brian and Chris discuss the intangible returns of community involvement versus trackable ROI. Sponsor Messages (00:11:46) Mid-episode sponsor advertisements for Shop Boss and App Fueled. Vehicle Giveaway Program Details (00:13:17) Chris details the car giveaway program: how it started, how cars are sourced, and the process. Lessons Learned from Giveaways (00:15:25) Stories about specific vehicles given away, repairs needed, and lessons learned from the process. Team Involvement and Effort (00:16:11) How the whole shop team contributes time and effort to the vehicle giveaway. Advice for Other Shop Owners (00:16:44) Tips for other shop owners considering a giveaway: vehicle selection, budgeting, and patience. Giveaway Selection Process (00:17:56) How recipients are chosen, use of social media, essay submissions, and the impact of video promotion. Media Coverage and Publicity (00:19:53) Local news coverage of the giveaways and its effect on shop visibility and SEO. Targeting Specific Groups (00:20:40) Occasionally focusing giveaways on specific groups like veterans, with plans for first responders. Selection and Team Involvement Improvements (00:21:31) Current process for choosing winners and plans to involve more staff in decision-making. Promoting the Giveaway and Winners (00:22:26) How the shop documents and shares the giveaway, balancing publicity with humility. Community Recognition and Impact (00:23:30) Growing reputation for giveaways, increased inquiries, and evolving community impact. Advice for Getting Started (00:24:04) Chris’s advice for shops starting community involvement, suggesting Toys for Tots as an entry point. Creative Community Giving Ideas (00:25:16) Other ideas for giving back: school supplies, sports equipment, and finding your own passion project. Emotional Impact of Giving (00:26:07) Chris reflects on the lasting emotional rewards of helping others through these programs. Closing and Future Topics (00:26:16) Brian thanks Chris, hints at future episodes on video marketing, and closes the show.
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
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled
This episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.
AppFueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
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 Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
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
Diagnosing Legends: The Impact of Ozzy Osbourne and Hulk Hogan [E195] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training
In this episode, Matt Fanslow reflects on the recent passings of two cultural icons—Ozzy Osbourne and Hulk Hogan—and draws parallels between their careers and the automotive aftermarket industry. Both figures revolutionized their respective fields (music and professional wrestling) through innovation, perseverance, and an unparalleled connection with their audiences. Matt explores what we can learn from their legacies, including the importance of passion, reinvention, and recognizing opportunities outside our comfort zones.
Key Discussion Points
1. Ozzy Osbourne: The Accidental Pioneer of Heavy Metal
Ozzy’s final performance at the Power Trip festival, where he performed in immense pain, skipping pain meds to stay present. How Black Sabbath (with guitarist Tony Iommi) accidentally created metal by downtuning guitars after a workplace injury. The importance of appreciating contributions even if you’re not a die-hard fan. The value of knowing how you’ve impacted others (like Ozzy hearing tributes before his passing).
2. Hulk Hogan: The Man Who Made Wrestling Mainstream
Hogan’s physical sacrifices (spinal damage from his signature leg drop) and how wrestling is a work but not fake. His ability to connect with audiences in ways no wrestler had before—comparable to Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock. How Hogan’s heel turn (becoming a villain with the NWO) revitalized wrestling during a slump. The role of timing, charisma, and reinvention in long-term success.
3. Lessons for the Automotive Aftermarket
Passion & Perseverance: Like Ozzy and Hogan, success in the aftermarket requires dedication and pushing through challenges. Reinvention: Hogan’s shift from hero to villain kept him relevant—how can shops adapt to stay ahead? Breaking Out of Comfort Zones: Both Ozzy and Hogan expanded beyond their core careers (reality TV, movies). How can shops engage in community work, sponsorships, or other visibility-boosting activities? Continuous Improvement: Getting 1% better every day compounds into major growth over time.
4. Personal Reflections & Industry Parallels
Matt’s admiration for educators like Paul Danner, who revolutionized training accessibility. The importance of finding the right shop culture for growth (just as Hogan thrived under Vince McMahon’s WWE expansion). Why awareness of opportunities—both inside and outside the industry—is crucial.
Notable Quotes
"Ozzy and Hogan didn’t just succeed in their fields—they redefined them. That’s the kind of impact we should strive for in the aftermarket." "Wrestling isn’t fake; it’s a performance with real consequences. Same goes for our work—every repair matters." "If you improve by just 0.33% every day, you’ll be 100% better in a year. Small steps lead to big changes."
While Ozzy and Hogan came from entirely different worlds, their stories remind us that innovation, adaptability, and connection are universal keys to success. Whether you’re a technician, shop owner, or industry educator, there’s always room to grow—and maybe even revolutionize your corner of the aftermarket.
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech Training
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] 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/
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
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.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio