Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Shop Fix Academy Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remembering Aaron - The Best Moments of Success Leaves Clues | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:58:25 | |
Today’s episode is a Berg and Jay sit down to reflect on some of the most impactful moments from the Success Leaves Clues podcast with Aaron Stokes. Together, we revisit the conversations, the wisdom, and the heart Aaron poured into so many people. His ability to encourage, challenge, and lead—always given freely, as he liked to say, at 0%—left a lasting mark on everyone he encountered. Aaron’s consistent care for shop owners and his passion for helping others succeed is evident throughout these clips. Over the past couple of years, we’ve had the privilege of speaking with incredible people, and this episode highlights some of those unforgettable moments. We invite you to sit back, reflect, and relive some of the very best of Success Leaves Clues. As we share this episode, we also want to let you know that the podcast will be taking a short break as we prepare for a relaunch—bringing you even more guests, deeper conversations, and content designed to challenge and inspire you to make a difference in your life. Stay tuned for what’s next, and thank you for being part of this journey with us. | |||
| From Alaska to Arizona - John Pearson Finds a Way | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:52:29 | |
In this episode, John Pearson shares his wild ride from racing Corvettes to joining the Army and eventually moving to Alaska. Through determination, grit, and relentless drive, John carved out his own path to success. Born in Manhattan… Kansas! John brings humor, fearlessness, and an incredible story that will keep you buckled into your seat for the entire episode. Want to know what it takes to start an auto repair shop in –40° weather—and then move somewhere with 100° heat and do it all over again? John shares the lessons, challenges, and mindset that helped him make it happen. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| Million-Month Garage Story with Luke Walker | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:53:56 | |
In this episode, we interview Luke Walker, who runs one of the largest—if not the largest—independent auto repair shops in the United States. This single location brought in over $1,000,000 in just one month. Luke’s story is nothing short of miraculous. His battle with depression as a young man nearly ended in tragedy, but instead, it became the driving force behind his passion for auto repair and his mission to help young men and women find direction in their lives. His journey to success and his approach to running a large operation are both powerful and inspiring. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| The Importance of Knowing When To Defend Your Shop with Lowell Greene | 01 Apr 2022 | 00:14:35 | |
When was the last time you were put into a situation where you felt you had to defend your Shop? The tendency in these situations is to fight hard because doing anything less feels like we aren't doing the right thing by our business or our team. In this episode, our guest Lowell Greene will share the unique formula for handling this mindset that’s made him more successful, less stressed, and more valuable to those around him. Lowell has been in our industry for over 30 years, is a master-certified technician, a former shop owner, and for the last 6 years a coach to Shop owners. | |||
| Breaking Free From Old Identities with Michael Rosenberger | 25 Mar 2022 | 00:23:28 | |
This week we dive into our FIRST EPISODE with an interview with none other than 26-year industry veteran and recent Ratchet and Wrench cover star, Michael Rosenberger aka "The Berg". Michael started in the industry literally sweeping the floors in his dad's shop. Through a series of big moves, painful blows, and incredible lessons, he now owns 2 great shops in Texas. In this episode, he will share his transformation and leave some clues you don't want to miss. | |||
| Introducing Success Leaves Clues: An Automotive Industry Podcast | 10 Mar 2022 | 00:01:40 | |
A brief summary of this episode
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| Do discounts cheapen shops?! Let's talk marketing with Aaron and Jay | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:42:31 | |
Aaron and Jay dive into the topic of Marketing and how discounts are viewed both negatively and positively. Aaron shares his strategies about marketing and discounts. He digs into how strategy turns into data and data drives his business to higher revenue. This divisive topic seems to spark strong controversy in the industry. Hear how a successful shop owner views the topic and why he just doesn't get it when people get hot on the topic of discounts. Thank you to our sponsors! Check the links below! | |||
| From Garage to Growth: Eric Walker's Message to All Techs | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:59:01 | |
Eric Walker of Walker Automotive holds multiple degrees, certifications, and an impressive career history. He’s also a trainer for Automotive Training Group and TechFix. A true technical powerhouse, in this episode we uncover his journey and how he got to where he is today. His message for all technicians is inspiring, highlighting the power of mastering foundational lessons—not only for technical skills but also for business skills. From the small town of Elkton, Kentucky, Eric Walker is doing big things and sharing valuable lessons on how to find your own path to growth. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| Not Letting Your Past Define You with Samantha Wright | 22 Sep 2025 | 01:13:04 | |
In this episode, Samantha Wright shares how she became co-owner of Wright Auto Group, a multi-shop business founded on three key pillars: Aim for Happy Customers, Aim for Happy Workers, and Aim for Sustainable Business Practices. Her story—from high school dropout and teen mom to shop owner—is one of determination, learning, healing, and hope. It’s about not letting your past define you, staying open to change, and embracing growth along the way. Samantha is deeply grateful for the inspiration she received from her experiences in previous shops and is honored to join passionate shop owners who make a difference—one customer at a time. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| The Power of One More: Life-Changing Insights with Ed Mylett | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:42:16 | |
In this episode we have the honor to speak with Ed Mylett right after his keynote presentation at Shop Hackers Conference 2025. Ed is a globally recognized entrepreneur, performance coach, and speaker. He got his start in the financial services industry, achieving incredible success that eventually earned him spot on the Forbes "50 Wealthiest Under 50" List. Since then, he has spearheaded a range of ventures, spanning technology, real estate, health, food/nutrition and more. He shares with us some key insights he's learned in his life including valuing what is most important, the value of one more rep, and why you should consider carefully each new step in life. His views and experiences may shock you. Buckle up! Thank you to our sponsors! Click the links below to learn more. | |||
| The Big Balance. How to be time rich with Jesse Itzler | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:33:56 | |
Jesse is an out-of-the-box kind of guy. I'm most cases he didn't even start with a box! In this episode, Jesse, who is an acclaimed author, co-founder of the world's largest private jet company, and award-winning musician and producer among other things, dives deep into his approach to balancing professional achievements with family life. Jesse shares insights on the importance of maintaining an underdog mentality, finding wins in various aspects of life, and ensuring that success in business does not come at the expense of family. He also emphasizes the value of praising effort, staying grounded, and being 'time rich.' The discussion highlights the importance of having fun in what you do while focusing on impact and legacy. Thank you to our sponsors! Click the links below to learn more! | |||
| You want to be the BEST? Tommy Mello tells us how! | 11 Aug 2025 | 01:13:39 | |
Tommy is BACK! Our first time with Tommy was after he was a keynote at the Shop Hackers Conference in 2024. This time Tommy joins us for an hour packed episode sharing how he grew his garage door service company into a massive enterprise with over 900 employees. He shares what it takes to not just be good at sales, but what it takes to be GREAT. His mindset on growth and having a bigger dream is not fluff. It's what allows him to put in motion a path to create a future. Tommy shares it all. High energy and high value. You're going to want to listen to this one more than once! Thanks to our awesome sponsors! Click the links below to learn more! | |||
| The Rise, Realization, and Resilience of Justin Smith: From Mutiny to Mental Health | 28 Jul 2025 | 01:14:40 | |
In this podcast episode, Justin Smith, the charismatic owner of an auto repair shop in Fredericksburg, Virginia, shares his compelling story. Justin recounts working with his father at a young age to opening his own shop at 24, under challenging conditions with no money or local support. Over the years, he navigates through mistakes, such as managing staff poorly and nearly going bankrupt, to eventually finding success. He highlights challenges many owners face such as dealing with depression and failure. Despite personal challenges, Justin emphasizes the importance of perseverance, gratitude, community support, and faith. His candid recounting of his experiences offers invaluable lessons on leadership, mental health, and keeping the passion alive. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| Building from Scratch: Brett and Tonya's Fast Path to Success in Pensacola | 14 Jul 2025 | 01:21:18 | |
In this podcast episode, Tonya and Brett share their dynamic story of starting a successful auto repair shop in Pensacola. From their initial meeting in Philadelphia, Brett's extensive 35-year career in dealerships, and fast pivots in life, their journey is filled with numerous relocations, raising three children, and overcoming major challenges. With their pioneering spirit, they find themselves starting their own shop and learning that details really matter. Through setbacks and successes, they demonstrate the importance of resilience, understanding each other, and the power of creating a lasting brand supporting their customers and their community. Show our sponsors some love! | |||
| The Full Story. Edward Caswell's Transformed Life! | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:59:09 | |
In this powerful episode, Edward Caswell, owner of Full Throttle Automotive and Fast Lane Auto Repair shares more than the details behind his successful business. Edward shares the full story of his life of brokenness turned into transformation. Hear how his wife fiercely fought for his future with the support of those around him, allowing him to become the person he is today. An educator turned shop owner, he opens up about how he knew "nothing" about business and how his focus to, "love on people", turned into the realization of what true unconditional love is. His story of struggle and path to freedom will inspire you and maybe even give you the break through you've been looking for. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| Embracing courage and building your dream life with Jay Huh | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:40:22 | |
We’re incredibly grateful to have recorded this episode live at the last Pro Conference with Aaron and special guest Jay Huh. As many of you know, Aaron has since passed. While his presence is deeply missed, his mission lives on. The Success Leaves Clues podcast will continue — committed to the cause he cared so deeply about: stopping the average small business from destroying the average small family in America. Aaron believed business should create freedom, not fracture families. That conviction doesn’t end here. In this episode, Jay Huh brings his unmistakable passion for changing the industry and his call to embrace courage — the kind of courage it takes to build not just a successful business, but an incredible life. Jay is a true force for good and a relentless advocate for helping others rise. We’re honored to carry the torch. Enjoy the episode. Thank you to our sponsors | |||
| Building a Business and Balancing Family: Lauren's Success Story in Auto Repair | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:52:52 | |
Lauren Keeton shares her inspiring story of shop ownership and how she and her husband David turned it into the life they wanted. Despite growing up in a small family-run shop and initially wanting a different career, Lauren was drawn back into the industry when David pursued his dream of opening his own shop. Lauren discusses the financial challenges, including purchasing a $1 million building, remodeling, and managing tenants. She also talks about balancing work with family life, having four children, and eventually stepping back from daily operations to enjoy a better quality of life. Lauren now also coaches other shop owners, bringing her teaching background into her new role, and discusses the importance of building connections and being willing to be vulnerable in order to grow in the industry. Use these links to check out our sponsors! | |||
| Let's go Skibo! One step back, ten steps forward. Creating an amazing life with Jeff Skibo. | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:52:01 | |
In this episode, Jeff Skibo shares his story of overcoming business hardships taking steps that felt backwards to move forward. Born and raised in California, Jeff initially resisted joining his family's auto repair business, pursuing a successful landscaping business instead. However, the 2008 economic downturn forced him back to the family shop. After taking over, Jeff achieved significant growth through changes in mindset and process. He eventually outsourced his responsibilities and moved 2,000 miles away, and even opened a second shop remotely! As a coach at Shop Fix, Jeff now helps other shop owners achieve their goals and make an impact in the lives of those around them. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| Jack Getz's Automotive Business Multi-Million Transformation | 19 May 2025 | 00:51:40 | |
In this podcast episode, Jack shares his remarkable story going from a nomadic upbringing to building a successful automotive business. Initially dabbling in real estate appraisal, Jack found his true calling in the automotive industry. After numerous relocations and setbacks, including crushing debt, Jack persevered by learning critical business skills and relentlessly focusing on providing great customer service. His persistence paid off as his shop, bolstered by effective strategies and mentorship from Shop Fix, went from doing $30,000 a month to tracking $6 million annually. Jack’s tale underscores the importance of resilience and continuous self-improvement in achieving business success. *In this episode we had some audio quality issues. It's not perfect, but the episode is too awesome not to share! Give our sponsors some love! | |||
| From Passion to Profit: The Inspiring Story of Thomas Andrews and Carolina Diesel Trucks | 05 May 2025 | 00:45:11 | |
In this episode, Aaron interviews Thomas Andrews, co-founder of Carolina Diesel Trucks, about his entrepreneurial path from a hobby to a successful business. Thomas shares how he and his best friend, turned their passion for automotive performance into a thriving company. They started from a one-bay shed and faced various challenges, including financial obstacles and exhausting work schedules. Thomas highlights the pivotal moments and decisions that led to their growth, including joining the Shop Fix Academy, which provided essential business guidance and helped them refine their operations. Today, Carolina Diesel Trucks operates a 15-bay shop with significant annual revenue and plans for further expansion. Thomas emphasizes the importance of building a legacy and focusing on what matters most. Thanks to our show sponsors! | |||
| Amanda Drake's Motivational Journey : From Med School to Multi-Shop Owner | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:55:04 | |
In this episode, Amanda shares her unexpected journey into the auto repair industry, turning a family business into a personal success story. Initially aiming to become a doctor, Amanda shifted gears after realizing her passion for business and dislike of blood and guts! Inspired by her father's and grandfather's legacy, she details her experiences from sweeping floors and answering calls in her father's shop to co-owning multiple successful auto repair locations. Amanda discusses the challenges of being a female in a male-dominated industry, her passion for continuous learning, and the importance of business acumen. Use these links for our awesome Sponsors! | |||
| Are you Resulting?: Tough Days and Tough Decisions with Aaron and Jay | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:44:53 | |
In this episode, Aaron and Jay get vulnerable and cover everything from including a malaria diagnosis after a trip to Africa, to the pressures of balancing tough work decisions. They delve into topics such as the importance of making informed decisions, handling business confrontations, and how responsibility increases with business growth. They also share personal stories about teaching their children financial responsibility and the life lessons imparted through these experiences. They emphasize the long-term value of good decisions, even when short-term outcomes are unfavorable, and the crucial role of consistent strategy and emotional regulation in leadership. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| Leadership, Legacy, and the Unyielding Spirit with Mike Brewster | 24 Mar 2025 | 01:11:33 | |
In this episode, Aaron and Jay sit down with Mike Brewster, a distinguished second-generation shop owner from Burnt Hills, New York. Mike shares insights from his extensive experience of over 50 years in the auto repair industry, detailing his journey from taking over his family's shop to growing it into one of the largest in the country. The conversation navigates through life lessons, business strategies, and the importance of character, offering valuable advice for both seasoned and aspiring entrepreneurs. Mike's enduring wisdom, coupled with heartwarming anecdotes and a touch of humor, paints a vivid picture of resilience, dedication, and family legacy. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| Aaron and Jay - Navigating Struggles, Celebrating Wins, and Embracing Gratitude | 10 Mar 2025 | 00:53:32 | |
In this episode, Aaron and Jay discuss various topics including the importance of mental resilience, celebrating small wins, and expressing gratitude even during tough times. They reflect on personal experiences, especially around struggles and private battles, and emphasize how recognizing and celebrating progress can lead to increased motivation and success. Practical tips are shared for shop owners on how to manage stress, improve their businesses, and achieve personal fulfillment. Thanks to our sponsors! Show them some love. | |||
| The Journey of Leadership, Growth, and Mentorship with Ryan Hillenbrand | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:56:11 | |
This episode captures an engaging conversation focused on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of mentorship within a business context. The discussion dives into the necessity of credibility and consistency in leadership, maintaining curiosity and open-mindedness, and how to learn from coaching others. It also explores the journey of growing a business, the challenges of scaling, and the psychological aspects of success, such as dealing with imposter syndrome and the temptation to self-sabotage. Highlighting the importance of relationships, gratitude, and faith, the episode provides valuable insights for anyone striving to improve both their personal and professional lives. Thanks to our awesome sponsors! | |||
| Overcoming Incredible Adversity in Pursuit of the Dream - Juan Barrera | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:56:14 | |
This podcast episode features the inspiring story of Juan Barrera, an immigrant from Colombia, who moved to the U.S. as a child under challenging circumstances. Juan's journey is marked by tenacity and hard work as he navigates through personal and professional struggles. From living in overcrowded housing in Brooklyn to overcoming language barriers and financial hardships, Juan shares how he climbed the ladder from working at Sears Auto Center to eventually owning a successful auto repair shop in Orlando. Give our sponsors some love! | |||
| Retiring and Coming Back Again - A Fantastic Time with Doug Rogers | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:48:12 | |
Get ready to laugh and hear the story of Doug Rogers. Along with his wife, Donna, Doug retired—then jumped back in to kick his multi-million-dollar operation back to life. He shares the mistakes he made, the changes he had to make, and what it really takes to walk away at the right time and under the right conditions. Doug keeps Aaron and Jay laughing as they dive into what he’s learned and what ultimately pulled him back into the business. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| The Power Couple on the podcast! Nick and Nicole Jones! | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:52:08 | |
In this engaging podcast episode, Nick and Nicole from Northern California share their inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming successful shop owners with multiple locations. The discussion covers their early struggles, including dealing with negative bank balances and tough personal circumstances, to navigating complex deals and shop expansions. They emphasize the importance of personal growth, mentorship, and calculated risk-taking in achieving success. Key highlights include the power of asking for help, the challenges of working together as a couple, and the transformative impact of being part of a supportive community like ShopFix. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and shop owners looking to expand their businesses. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| Building Trust and Overcoming Challenges in Auto Repair: A Conversation with Brandon Smith | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:55:42 | |
In this podcast episode, the guys welcome Brandon to discuss his journey and experiences in the auto repair industry and as main contact for Shop Fix Academy. Brandon shares insights from his role in ShopFix, focusing on common struggles shop owners face, such as managing teams and charging what they're worth. The episode underscores the importance of value, trust, persistence, and proper testing in business strategies. It also delves into Brandon's personal life, emphasizing his integrity and commitment, showcased through his family's adoption journey and raising a child with special needs. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| 2024 Year End Episode! Aaron and Jay Wrap Up! | 30 Dec 2024 | 01:16:31 | |
In this episode, Jay and Aaron share their thoughts on the 2024 podcast season, recount personal stories of their friendship, and explore Aaron's journey in auto repair and Shop Fix Academy. Aaron opens up about the scale of SFA and the core of his mission. He discusses his perspectives on mindset and wealth, as well as the transformative changes he had to make after nearly losing everything. We had a lot of fun recording this episode, and we hope you enjoy it. Thank you for riding along with us in 2024—we’d be honored to have you join us for the journey in 2025. Thank you to our sponsors! Show them some love! | |||
| From Fighter Jets to Auto Shops: Jason's leap into Auto Repair | 16 Dec 2024 | 00:47:29 | |
In this episode, Jason Westberry shares his journey from being an aviation technician and Air Force serviceman to owning and expanding auto repair shops. He discusses his switch from aviation to entrepreneurship, his initial struggles and learning experiences in the automotive industry, and his growth with the support of Shopfix. Jason highlights key moments such as the decision to move to Athens, Georgia, buying his first shop, and the eventual realization and maneuvering to align his business with his goals. This episode also delves into personal development, making tough decisions, and planning for future expansions. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| Repairing Cars, Building Futures: Pete's Entrepreneurial Adventure | 02 Dec 2024 | 00:36:33 | |
In this podcast episode, Pete Tavernier shares his fascinating journey from starting a car repair shop in his garage while working at Car Quest, to establishing a successful auto repair business with multiple locations. He also goes in-depth about his mission work in Haiti, where he encountered extraordinary challenges like sourcing parts internationally and training local mechanics. After overcoming numerous obstacles, including personal loss and major business decisions, Pete reveals his ambitious future goal of opening 22 shops to fund international trade schools. Tune in to hear Pete's inspiring story of resilience, faith, and the vision for global impact. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| Roller coaster! 90 days to double with Zach Caldwell | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:50:48 | |
In this episode, Zach shares his career evolution and experiences in since opening his shop True Torque Diesel in 2017. He joined Shop Fix in June 2024 and things have turned around for him in just a few months! He discusses his early life in racing, his decision to become a diesel tech, and the challenges he faced, including a rare eye disease. Zach shares the transformative impact of Shop Fix on his business, covering his exponential revenue growth, staff management, and future plans to expand to a larger shop. Additionally, he reflects on the importance of balancing work with family life, influenced by personal milestones like overcoming his drinking and deepening his faith. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| The Hard Way with Andrey and Slavik Shumylo | 04 Nov 2024 | 00:47:28 | |
Ukrainian brothers Andrey and Slavik Shumylo operate two shops in Philadelphia. These guys have put their brotherhood first and developed their business with discipline and creativity to put them in the right spot at the right time. They share their journey from building their first store, to operating a thriving business and turning into multi-shop owners. Their humor and wisdom on how to build growth is a great lesson on how build a business. Thanks to our Sponsors! | |||
| Jay Leno! From Hackers 2024 - Success, Cars, and Laughs! | 21 Oct 2024 | 00:42:53 | |
Aaron and Jay sit down with the legend Jay Leno. Comedian, The Tonight Show host, entrepreneur, automotive enthusiast, and down to earth guy, Jay shares stories of his journey and how he navigated Hollywood to achieve amazing success. You don't want to miss this one! Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| SLC Live! From Shop Hackers 2024 | 07 Oct 2024 | 00:32:51 | |
Catch our live show from Shop Hackers 2024! We sit down with Josh Bird, Nick Padron, and Thomas Andrews to hear "How I did it". We know being successful is a never ending journey. These guys share with us how they started, the hard lessons, and how they got to this point in front of a live audience! Thank you to our sponsors of the show. Show them some love! | |||
| The Tough Truth Behind Partnerships. Adam and Jason on What it Takes | 23 Sep 2024 | 00:32:54 | |
In this episode, Adam Preusser and Jason Kath discuss their 20-year partnership in the auto repair industry. They share their journey from meeting in technical college to managing multiple auto repair shops and figuring out how to make it work. The conversation covers the importance of defining roles, acquiring and managing stores, and their personal and professional challenges and successes along the way. These guys know how to work hard, have a fight, and laugh a lot. While they are business partners on paper, in life these guys are closer than brothers. Thanks to our sponsors! Click the link below for more! | |||
| Location Lessons and the Best Million Dollar Mistake with JR Luna | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:48:33 | |
Aaron and Jay catch up with JR Luna to hear his story of success. JR went from managing a shop to becoming an owner in his late twenties. He quickly learned that running a shop is very different from owning one, and that becoming a lifelong learner was the key to turning his shops around. Now doing millions in revenue at each location, JR shares valuable lessons on selecting the right locations, opening multiple shops with different makes, and expanding his family brand. His passion for seeing people succeed is contagious, and he and his wife, Rita, live that passion every day. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| Full circle. Great advice and a great story with Brad Emery | 09 Sep 2024 | 00:55:01 | |
In this episode we hear from Brad Emery. We caught up with Brad at Shop Hackers 2024 and talked about his path and the lessons he learned along the way. He shares some great advice on what it takes to win, why it's not about the money, and how to develop your team and be the leader your family, your business, and the industry needs. The conversation also covers his teaching experience, the importance of being coachable, and the significance of leadership and listening. Show our sponsors some love! | |||
| Go win, dream big, and no excuses with Tommy Mello! | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:48:38 | |
In this episode we hear from Tommy Mello! Tommy is a highly successful and motivating leader and founder of A1-Garage Door. Hear his journey from painting his very first door to developing a $200M business where "everybody wins". Hear his inspirational story from his first childhood negotiation, to his focused attention on winning, and why data is key to rising above everyone else. Know you business, know your strategy, and make no excuses. Tommy is a force who legitimately cares about his people and helping them dream bigger and reach their goals. Tommy was also a keynote speaker at Shop Hackers 2024! Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| Good Times and Good Guys. The origins of EuroFix and ShopFix with TJ Roberts | 12 Aug 2024 | 01:07:11 | |
Join TJ Roberts, Aaron, and Jay as they take a humorous and insightful journey through the humble beginnings of EuroFix and ShopFix. Between riding dirt bikes, racing down back roads, and having an occasional run in with the law, these three have enjoyed the journey. Now the COO of ShopFix, TJ shares with us the lessons he learned along the way and the challenges he and Aaron faced. From thinking they couldn't lose to almost losing it all, they develop the resilience needed to keep moving forward and the balanced working relationship to help steer them in the right direction. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| The Berg! The Power of the Journey to Reach Your Goal | 29 Jul 2024 | 01:05:09 | |
In today's episode we hear from the one and only, The Berg! We start off with some behind the scenes humor to kick off this walk through Michael Rosenberger's journey to owning his own store and joining Shop Fix Academy. We take some fun rabbit trails hearing how this driven guy found his path into doing what he loves and seeing his family and his industry transformed. Thank you to our sponsors! | |||
| Make The Tough Lessons Mean Something - From Parts Guy to MSO with Rick Kersey | 15 Jul 2024 | 00:58:21 | |
Rick Kersey, a multi-shop owner in Oregon, started his automotive career at a parts counter. His relentless drive and motivation propelled him through the ranks, leading to the realization that owning his own shop was the next logical step. With unwavering focus, Rick took the plunge, navigating the challenging lessons that new owners often face. Undeterred, he developed a deep understanding of what makes a shop thrive. Continually striving for more, Rick ventured into new industries and expansions, learning costly yet invaluable lessons along the way. Through creativity, leveraging his extensive experience, and a strong emphasis on building a robust culture, Rick has not only expanded his business but has also far surpassed his original goals. Show our Sponsors Some Love! | |||
| Transformational wisdom with Brandon Peavy : From Firefighter to Entrepreneur | 01 Jul 2024 | 00:43:49 | |
In this episode, Brandon Peavy shares his inspiring journey from starting as a volunteer firefighter and paramedic at the age of 16 to becoming a successful entrepreneur managing multiple businesses. He discusses how he transitioned from the fire service to founding an ambulance company and later, an auto repair shop named Route 11 Automotive. Brandon also talks about the challenges he faced in the ambulance industry, particularly dealing with fraud and regulation. He recounts the pivotal decisions that led to the expansion of his auto repair business and highlights the importance of mentorship and community support in his growth. Brandon provides some deep foundational wisdom he's learned in his career helping others. In his words, there is no plateau, you're either going up or down. Get ready to go up with this awesome conversation. Thanks to our sponsors! | |||
| From Grit to Growth: Shane and Chad's Automotive Journey | 17 Jun 2024 | 00:51:18 | |
Shane Copeland and Chad Kaemingk discuss their journey from meeting at a dealership to becoming successful business partners in the automotive repair industry. They share insights on how they started their first automotive repair business with limited funds and partnerships, overcame challenges, expanded to multiple locations, and learned crucial business strategies. They share their journey of determination, struggle, and uncovering the secrets that pushed their business forward. It highlights their growth from working in the trenches to becoming business owners managing multiple stores, their partnership dynamics, and the lessons learned along the way. Thanks to our sponsors! Use our links below. | |||
| Chuck Swain's Journey into Automotive Repair: Turning Challenges into Triumphs | 03 Jun 2024 | 00:46:13 | |
In this podcast episode, Chuck shares his remarkable journey from running a CrossFit gym in Texas to owning an automotive repair shop in Virginia—despite having no prior experience in the industry. Facing numerous challenges, including a declining shop and a difficult transition with the former owner, Chuck managed to revitalize the business. He emphasizes the crucial role of honest and effective leadership, leveraging his HR background to foster a strong team culture. Chuck also delves into overcoming setbacks and the power of community, both locally and within his professional network. By enhancing business processes and hiring trustworthy staff, Chuck has successfully increased the shop's revenue while achieving a better work-life balance and financial stability. Now a coach and mentor, he reflects on the fulfillment of helping others succeed, sharing valuable insights and strategies for aspiring business owners. | |||
| Mike Difato : An Entrepreneurial Journey from Pools, Boats, and Auto Repair | 20 May 2024 | 00:55:16 | |
This episode features entrepreneur Mike Difato who shares his journey from working in medical sales and owning a pool service company to launching a successful chain of auto repair shops with his partners. We explore his strategic partnership with Eric, their first shop purchase, and the subsequent expansion to nine shops with plans for a tenth. The episode delves into the significance of learning from failures, the importance of strategic partnerships to grow fast, and how taking calculated risks can lead to substantial growth. Mike also discusses his side venture into boat repair, highlighting the unique challenges compared to auto repair. Throughout, insights into business growth, mentorship, and investment in staff development paint a comprehensive picture of their success. The conversation concludes with discussions on the importance of data analysis in business operations and Mike's motivation for coaching other entrepreneurs. Thanks to our sponsors! Use our affiliate links below! Shop Fix Academy or call 615-645-3683 Shop Fix Academy or call 888-953-2379 | |||
| Josh Bird : From Pole Barn to Multimillion-Dollar Auto Repair Business Changing Lives | 06 May 2024 | 00:48:04 | |
This episode features Josh Bird's remarkable journey from working at a dealership with a six-figure income to owning two auto repair shops with a combined revenue of over four million dollars. Josh shares the pivotal moment when he quit his job and risked everything to start his own business. Despite the hardships, like receiving a cease and desist from the county and working in a barn with ten foot ceilings, Josh's story underscores the significance of perseverance, the impact of coaching, and the power of community in achieving rapid business growth. Josh's account is not only a source of inspiration but also offers practical advice for other owners in the auto repair industry. Thanks to our sponsors! Use our affiliate links below! Shop Fix Academy or call 615-645-3683 Leads Near Me or call 888-953-2379 | |||
| Why Most Leaders Struggle with People—and How to Get It Right with Joe Stokes | 12 Jan 2026 | 01:00:09 | |
Joe Stokes joins us for our first episode of 2026 to kick off the year with hard-earned leadership insights. As the leader responsible for managing multiple shops across the country, Joe has seen it all—and knows what it takes to keep operations running smoothly at scale. In this episode, Joe challenges leaders to lean into what might happen, confront their own ego, and ensure their business is truly profitable—not just busy. His perspective sets a powerful foundation for the year ahead and will push you to take an honest look at your organization, identify what needs to change, and commit to doing things differently. Check our sponsor links below! Thank you! | |||
| Ryan Hillenbrand : Building a Family Brand and Navigating Success in Auto Repair | 22 Apr 2024 | 00:51:41 | |
This episode features an in-depth interview with Ryan Hillenbrand, owner of four auto repair shops, who shares his journey into the auto repair industry that reshaped his life, learning perspective, and approach to business. Hillenbrand discusses the value of relationships, trust, and personal development in business growth and leadership. He highlights the transformative role of understanding oneself and improving interactions with others. Through anecdotes and insights, Ryan emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, being open to advice while critically assessing its source, and the power of strong relationships in overcoming challenges and driving success. The conversation also covers his strategies for business expansion, the significance of moving beyond ego, and the actionable advice he's adopted throughout his entrepreneurial journey. Thanks to our sponsors! Use our links below! Shop Fix Academy or call 615-645-3683 Leads Near Me or call 888-953-2379 | |||