Explore every episode of the podcast The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

	Title	Pub. Date	Duration
	Auto Hospitality: Turning Phone Calls Into Lifetime Customers with Husein Grabic [E222]	16 Sep 2026	00:40:37
Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled What if the problem with your marketing isn’t your marketing? What if the phones are actually ringing, but your service advisors are letting the opportunities walk right back out the door? That’s one of the big ideas we dig into with Husein Grabic, who is doing some pretty unconventional things at his three auto repair shops. Hussein is listening to new-customer phone calls, identifying the objections that are costing his shops business, training his service advisors with mock “ring ring” calls, and pushing his teams well outside their comfort zones. And the results are pretty tough to argue with. One of his shops went from about 220 cars a month to 330 in a single month, while another went from roughly 100 cars and $60,000–$70,000 in monthly revenue to 180 cars and $126,000. We also get into free inspections, price objections, appointment-setting, active deliveries, reviews, customer retention, and what Hussein calls “auto hospitality.” Some of this will probably make you uncomfortable. Good. If you’re a shop owner who wants to get more out of the marketing dollars you’re already spending, this conversation is packed with ideas worth testing in your own shop. Listen to the full episode and see what happens when you stop assuming your team is doing everything right and start listening to what’s actually happening on the phones. Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Unreasonable Hospitality — Will Guidara Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Download Our Free Mobile Podcast App: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Automotive Field Theory with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Quantum Physics 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 World is Taking Out Its Garbage with Chris Cotton [E221]	09 Sep 2026	00:30:27
Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled The world is churning. Business is changing. Car counts are down for a lot of shops, customers are feeling the squeeze, and it seems like everybody is getting kicked while they’re down. But here’s the thing: none of that is an excuse. In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Brian Walker and Chris Cotton talk about what it really means to operate your shop when things get slow. They talk about planning for predictable slow periods, making the most of every car that comes through the door, increasing your ARO, building relationship “coins” with your customers, and why having enough service advisors can make a bigger difference than you might think. They also get into something every shop owner needs to hear: slow times are a great opportunity to fix broken processes, improve your customer experience, and double down while your competition is laying down. You may not be able to control what’s happening in the world. You can control what you do about it. Give this episode a listen and find out how to turn a slow season into an opportunity to separate your shop from the competition. Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) The Weekly Blitz Podcast Chris Cotton Simon Sinek AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Download Our Free Mobile Podcast App: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Automotive Field Theory with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Quantum Physics 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/
	Endless Customers For Auto Repair Shops with Caroline Estess [E220]	02 Sep 2026	00:46:31
Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled Trust is becoming the currency of search, and auto repair shops that are willing to educate their customers are going to have a serious advantage. Brian Walker sits down with Shop Marketing Pros CMO Caroline Estess to dig into Marcus Sheridan’s Endless Customers methodology and what it looks like when applied to an auto repair shop. They get into some of the things that make shop owners uncomfortable like talking about pricing, diagnostic fees, competitors, and the questions customers are already asking before they ever pick up the phone. They also break down how video, assignment selling, website configurators, and educational content can help your shop become the trusted authority in your market while improving the customer experience and preparing your marketing for AI-driven search. If you want your shop to be the one Google, ChatGPT, Gemini, and your future customers trust enough to recommend, this is a conversation you need to hear. Listen now and learn how to turn the questions your customers are already asking into content that helps fill your bays. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Endless Customers by Marcus Sheridan They Ask You Answer by Marcus Sheridan Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Download Our Free Mobile Podcast App: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Automotive Field Theory with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Quantum Physics 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 Proactive Keyword Lifecycle System with Michelle Travis [E219]	26 Aug 2026	00:30:49
Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled SEO can easily turn into a game of watching rankings, reporting what happened, and waiting to see what happens next. But what if there was a better way to know exactly when it’s time to stop focusing on one keyword and start going after the next opportunity? Brian Walker sits down with Shop Marketing Pros Director of SEO Michelle Travis to break down the new SMP Proactive Keyword Lifecycle System and how it changes SEO from reactive to proactive. They dig into how keywords are discovered, qualified, accelerated, validated, and eventually “graduated” once they reach meaningful and stable positions in search. They also get into why SEO timelines can look completely different for a rural shop versus a shop surrounded by hundreds of competitors in a major metro area, how keyword difficulty affects expectations, and why focusing on 20 keywords doesn’t mean your shop will only rank for 20 keywords. And the early numbers behind the system are pretty impressive. During beta testing, 31% of the tracked keywords graduated within the first 30 days, with nearly all of those maintaining their graduation status during the following 30 days. If you want a better understanding of what your shop’s SEO company should actually be doing behind the scenes and how a real strategy should keep moving forward instead of sitting in maintenance mode. Listen to the full episode. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to the Episode (00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces guest Michelle Travis and the topic: a new SEO system for auto repair shops. The Problem with Old SEO Methods (00:02:22) Michelle explains the challenges of managing too many keywords, leading to a reactive, maintenance-only mode without clear focus. Shifting from Reactive to Proactive SEO (00:05:15) The discussion shifts to how the new system allows for a proactive strategy, using data to decide future actions. The Concept of "Graduating" Keywords (00:07:04) Michelle details the lifecycle stages of a keyword, from discovery and qualification to the final stage of "graduating" it. Defining Keyword Graduation (00:09:30) Graduation is defined as achieving meaningful visibility (top 3-4 positions) consistently, allowing focus to shift to new keywords. Managing the Keyword Backlog (00:11:08) The system uses a backlog to replace graduated keywords, ensuring a continuous, focused effort on a manageable number of terms. Categorizing Keyword Difficulty (00:13:47) Keywords are broken down into high-priority, moderate, and hyperlocal categories, each with different timelines and strategic approaches. Setting Performance Benchmarks (00:17:12) The system allows the agency to set clear performance benchmarks based on market size and shop type to measure success. Initial Beta Test Results (00:20:47) Michelle shares impressive results from a beta test, where 31% of keywords graduated within the first 30 days. The Broader Impact of Focused SEO (00:23:23) Focusing on 20 keywords doesn't limit ranking; it naturally improves visibility for hundreds of related terms through modern SEO. Natural Language Processing in SEO (00:26:26) The hosts discuss how search engines understand context and synonyms, making content more effective without keyword stuffing. System Rollout and Client Benefits (00:27:09) The new system is being rolled out to all clients, providing a clear workbook to set and manage expectations. 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 Partner, AppFueled 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Download Our Free Mobile Podcast App: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Automotive Field Theory with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Quantum Physics 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/
	37% of Your Leads Are Booking. Where Are the Rest Going? Real Data with Stan Stokes [E218]	19 Aug 2026	00:41:56
Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled SEO can easily turn into a game of watching rankings, reporting what happened, and waiting to see what happens next. But what if there was a better way to know exactly when it’s time to stop focusing on one keyword and start going after the next opportunity? Brian Walker sits down with Shop Marketing Pros Director of SEO Michelle Travis to break down the new SMP Proactive Keyword Lifecycle System and how it changes SEO from reactive to proactive. They dig into how keywords are discovered, qualified, accelerated, validated, and eventually “graduated” once they reach meaningful and stable positions in search. They also get into why SEO timelines can look completely different for a rural shop versus a shop surrounded by hundreds of competitors in a major metro area, how keyword difficulty affects expectations, and why focusing on 20 keywords doesn’t mean your shop will only rank for 20 keywords. And the early numbers behind the system are pretty impressive. During beta testing, 31% of the tracked keywords graduated within the first 30 days, with nearly all of those maintaining their graduation status during the following 30 days. If you want a better understanding of what your shop’s SEO company should actually be doing behind the scenes and how a real strategy should keep moving forward instead of sitting in maintenance mode. Listen to the full episode. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to Stan Stokes and GuestX (00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces guest Stan Stokes and his company, GuestX, which analyzes phone calls for auto repair shops. The Origin of the Partnership (00:01:32) Brian explains how his marketing agency started using GuestX's AI to replace manually listening to and analyzing client phone calls. The Problem with Marketing Leads (00:03:20) Stan discusses how shops often blame marketing for slow business, when the real issue is converting phone opportunities into actual customers. Analyzing the Data: Booked Appointment Rate (00:08:10) Stan reveals a 37% booked appointment rate from a sample of over 17,000 calls from top-tier auto repair shops. Reasons for Missed Opportunities (00:09:08) A breakdown of why appointments aren't booked, with 65% of the time being because the service advisor never offered one. The Financial Impact of Missed Calls (00:11:44) Stan calculates that improving the booking rate by just 10% could equate to an average of $10,000 per shop. Understanding New Customer Behavior (00:13:54) Discussion on the difference between planned and unplanned service needs and why new customers often lead with questions about price. The "Price Shopper" Misconception (00:17:08) Brian argues against labeling customers as "price shoppers" just because they ask about cost, calling it an arrogant perspective. The Power of a Simple Question (00:20:27) Stan explains how asking "what concerns are you having?" can completely change the outcome of a call with a new customer. Real-Time Recovery and Coaching (00:23:00) The discussion turns to using call analysis data for real-time recovery of missed appointments and for targeted team coaching. The Handoff from Marketing to Sales (00:27:17) Brian emphasizes the critical point where marketing efforts end and the shop's sales and customer service performance takes over. The Success of Top-Performing Shops (00:32:16) Brian highlights shops that excel at converting calls, noting their high booking rates are due to focusing on phone skills. Knowing Your Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) (00:35:47) Stan stresses the importance of knowing front-of-house KPIs, like the percentage of new versus returning customers, to guide strategy. How to Contact Stan Stokes (00:39:50) Stan provides information on how listeners can get in touch with him and learn more about his company, GuestX. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) GuestX Episode 159 - There’s No Such Thing As A Price Shopper Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Download Our Free Mobile Podcast App: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Automotive Field Theory with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Quantum Physics 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/
	Running an Auto Repair Shop in Alaska with Robert Wright [E217]	12 Aug 2026	00:27:56
Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled Alaska may be known for its breathtaking scenery and extreme conditions, but running a successful auto repair shop there comes with challenges that most shop owners in the Lower 48 never have to consider. In this conversation, Brian and Kim sit down with Robert Wright of 1023 Diesel & Fleet in Palmer, Alaska, to explore what it's really like to own and grow a shop in one of the most unique automotive markets in the country. From marketing in remote communities and building a strong shop culture to navigating harsh winters, seasonal demand, staffing, and expanding from a diesel specialty shop into general automotive repair, Robert shares practical insights that apply no matter where your shop is located. If you're looking for fresh perspectives on leadership, marketing, and growing a thriving repair business, you won't want to miss this episode. Listen now and discover what every shop owner can learn from doing business in the Last Frontier. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to the Podcast and Guest (00:00:09) Host Brian Walker introduces co-host Kim and guest Robert Wright, owner of 1023 Diesel in Palmer, Alaska. Misconceptions and Realities of Alaska (00:01:03) The hosts and guest discuss common stereotypes about Alaska from TV shows versus the reality of living there. Life in Palmer, Alaska (00:02:17) Robert describes the Palmer area, its proximity to Anchorage, its history as a farming colony, and its Midwest feel. Remote Alaskan Living (00:04:04) Discussion about the "road system" and how people access remote locations like Robert's cabin via plane, boat, or snowmachine. The Shop's Origins and Evolution (00:04:51) Robert explains how 1023 Diesel started in his garage and evolved from a diesel-only specialty shop to general automotive repair. Defining "Rural" in Alaska (00:06:21) The hosts and guest discuss the perception of "rural" and how Palmer is considered part of Alaska's main population center. Marketing to Remote Customers (00:07:04) Robert explains that customers travel hundreds of miles for service and how word-of-mouth is crucial for reaching off-grid communities. Community Involvement in Marketing (00:08:46) The importance of "boots on the ground" community marketing is discussed as an effective, old-fashioned approach in Alaska. Sponsor Message: AppFueled (00:09:59) A commercial break for the podcast sponsor, AppFueled, which creates custom loyalty apps for auto repair shops. Climate and Seasonality in Business (00:10:55) Discussion about Palmer's unique weather, including extreme winds, and how it creates seasonality in the auto repair business. Alaska's "Break Up" Season (00:12:21) Robert explains the spring "break up" season, when thawing ground leads to road weight restrictions, causing a business slowdown. Studded Tires and Winter Business (00:14:15) The group discusses state-mandated studded tires for winter traction and how tire changeovers create a busy season for shops. Corrosion and Winterizing Vehicles (00:15:00) The conversation covers the extreme rust on off-highway vehicles and the specifics of winterizing vehicles for the Alaskan climate. Staffing and Recruitment in Alaska (00:19:22) Robert discusses the challenges and strategies for finding technicians, noting that Alaska is a destination state for many. Building an Attractive Shop Culture (00:20:05) The importance of having a great facility, reputation, and culture, including a four-day workweek, to attract top talent. Customer Loyalty in Alaskan Communities (00:24:22) The hosts and guest talk about the strong sense of community loyalty in Alaska and the importance of reputation. Using a Rewards Program for Community Good (00:25:03) Robert shares how he used his shop's customer rewards program to raise funds for an injured community member. Closing Remarks and Invitation to Visit (00:26:12) Robert invites listeners to visit Alaska and offers to give them advice or show them around. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) 1023 Diesel & Fleet Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Download Our Free Mobile Podcast App: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Automotive Field Theory with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Quantum Physics 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/
	Could You Be Ready for a Fractional CFO? with Eric Joern [E216]	05 Aug 2026	00:48:16
Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled Too many shop owners start their businesses because they're great at fixing cars, not because they're accountants, tax experts, or financial strategists. Unfortunately, that's where a lot of costly mistakes begin. Brian sits down with Eric Joern of Kaizen CPAs for an honest conversation about the financial side of running an auto repair shop. From common bookkeeping mistakes and tax planning myths to the real difference between a bookkeeper, CPA, and fractional CFO, this episode is packed with practical advice that can help you build a stronger, more profitable business. Brian also shares lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey, including the financial mistakes that ultimately shaped the way he runs his business today. If you're ready to understand your numbers, make better business decisions, and build a shop that's financially healthy for the long haul, you won't want to miss this conversation. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Kaizen CPAs Thanks to our Partner, AppFueled 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Download Our Free Mobile Podcast App: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Automotive Field Theory with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Quantum Physics 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/
	Advertising Doesn't Fix Car Count Problems with Joe Marconi [E215]	29 Jul 2026	00:37:58
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Joe Marconi believes one of the biggest mistakes auto repair shop owners make is assuming that more advertising will solve declining car count. In reality, marketing can make the phone ring, but what happens after a customer walks through the door determines whether they'll ever come back. Brian Walker and Joe dive into the critical difference between customer acquisition and retention, why hospitality should be at the center of every auto repair shop, and how internal processes, culture, leadership, and customer experience ultimately drive long-term growth. If you've ever wondered why your marketing isn't producing the results you expected, this conversation will challenge the way you think about growing your business. Listen to the full episode to discover how to turn first-time customers into lifelong advocates. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to the Topic(00:00:09) Host Brian Walker introduces guest Joe Marconi and the topic of his article, "Advertising doesn't Fix Car Count Problems." The Original, Stronger Title(00:02:04) Joe reveals his article's original title was "Advertising doesn't sell anything and I can prove it," but it was toned down. Acquisition vs. Retention(00:03:04) The discussion shifts to the difference between acquiring new customers and the crucial, often overlooked, aspect of retaining them. The Biggest Misconception(00:04:31) Joe explains the biggest misconception is that advertising alone can solve weak sales or low car counts for a shop. Internal Marketing is Key(00:06:08) The conversation highlights that every interaction with a customer inside the shop is a form of marketing that builds relationships. Building a Positive Culture(00:07:17) Joe advises shop owners to establish a strong internal marketing plan and a positive culture before spending more on advertising. The Hospitality Industry(00:09:04) The speakers discuss how auto repair shops should adopt a hospitality mindset, similar to restaurants and hotels, to improve customer experience. The Walt Disney Effect(00:10:33) Joe explains how customers judge a shop on how they were treated, not the technical details of the repair. A Real-World Example(00:14:15) Joe shares a story of a large shop that thought it had a car count problem but actually had an internal process problem. The Dangers of Automation(00:18:54) Brian shares examples of how automated call trees and poor service advisor responses can undermine even the best marketing efforts. Mapping the 5-Star Experience(00:21:41) Joe outlines the steps to creating a world-class customer experience, from their first online search to post-repair follow-up. Remembering the Details(00:24:32) The importance of using the shop management system to note personal details about clients to build stronger, lasting relationships. What to Do Before Spending on Marketing(00:27:01) Joe advises owners to first evaluate their business goals and, most importantly, focus on the employee experience before increasing ad spend. Happy Employees Equal Happy Clients(00:29:37) The discussion emphasizes the direct link between a positive employee culture and a positive customer experience, citing Chick-fil-A as an example. Playing the Long Game(00:32:13) Brian explains why his agency advises shops with internal issues to fix those first, ensuring a better long-term marketing ROI. Fix the Shop Owner First(00:33:37) Joe stresses that a shop's success often starts with the owner's mindset, leadership, and willingness to address internal problems. How to Contact Joe Marconi(00:36:03) Joe shares how listeners can get in touch with him and Elite Worldwide for coaching and advice. Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Unreasonable Hospitality 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Most Commonly Found Missed Marketing Opportunities [E214]	22 Jul 2026	00:53:41
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Every day, auto repair shops leave valuable marketing opportunities on the table without even realizing it. From missing website essentials and weak SEO to underperforming Google Ads, Local Service Ads, and inconsistent social media, Kim Walker and Shop Marketing Pros' Market Service Advisor Michael Doherty break down the most common issues uncovered during digital marketing inspections. They explain why these overlooked details matter, how they impact your visibility and growth, and the practical steps you can take to fix them. If you want more qualified customers finding and choosing your shop, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen now and discover how a digital marketing inspection can uncover hidden opportunities to help fill your bays. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to the Episode (00:01:19) Kim and Michael introduce the topic: commonly missed marketing opportunities found during a "digital marketing inspection" for auto repair shops. What is a Digital Marketing Inspection? (00:02:31) Michael explains that a digital marketing inspection is an evaluation of a shop's current marketing efforts, similar to a DVI. How to Get a Digital Marketing Inspection (00:03:41) Michael details the process for booking a free discovery call and digital marketing inspection through the Shop Marketing Pros website. Common Website Issues (00:07:28) Discussion on shops having no website, lacking personalization, missing clear calls to action, and overusing stock or AI-generated images. SEO: Google Business Profile Optimization (00:14:06) The importance of optimizing a Google Business Profile, including updated photos and responding to reviews with relevant automotive keywords. SEO: Lack of an SEO Footprint (00:19:07) Michael discusses how many shops have zero SEO visibility, which hurts their ability to be found by new customers online. SEO: The Importance of a Blog (00:22:34) The role of consistent, content-rich blog posts in providing search engines with information to rank the shop as a relevant result. Digital Ads: Local Service Ads (LSA) (00:25:10) An overview of Google's Local Service Ads, common setup frustrations, and the importance of optimizing them by rating calls. Digital Ads: Cookie-Cutter Google Search Ads (00:29:24) Many shops use generic, unengaging ad copy and are often unaware of what their own ads even look like. Digital Ads: Unhealthy Ad Budgets (00:34:53) Shops often set ad budgets that are too low to be effective, causing their ads to shut off prematurely. Social Media: Strategy and Content (00:38:41) Many shops lack a social media strategy, don't post consistently, or fail to use authentic photos and videos. Social Media: Does it Impact Car Count? (00:43:31) Discussion on the myth that social media doesn't bring in customers and the importance of tracking how customers find you. Social Media: The StoryBrand Framework (00:46:14) The importance of using a customer-first messaging framework like StoryBrand to create more effective and engaging social media content. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Shop Marketing Pros – Book a Discovery Call / Digital Marketing Inspection 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	What It Really Takes to Become the Best Place to Work [E213]	15 Jul 2026	00:49:01
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Winning the Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo Best Place to Work Award isn't something that happens by accident. It’s the result of years of intentionally building a culture where people want to come to work, grow, and succeed. In this conversation, Brian and Kim sit down with Matt Mevert of Mevert Automotive & Tire Center to unpack what it really takes to create an award-winning workplace. Matt shares the emotional story behind receiving the recognition, explains why culture has to be designed, not left to chance, and discusses the role core values play in hiring, leadership, accountability, and making difficult personnel decisions. The conversation also explores how great teams are built, why character matters more than technical ability, and how protecting your culture ultimately leads to a stronger business. If you're looking to build an auto repair shop where great employees want to stay and thrive, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen now and discover practical leadership lessons you can start applying in your shop today. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Guest Welcome(00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces co-host Kim and guest Matt Mevert, owner of Mevert Automotive and Tire Center. Vision's "Best Place to Work" Award(00:01:20) Kim congratulates Matt on his shop winning the "Best Place to Work" award at Vision, nominated by his team. Matt's Reaction to Winning(00:03:42) Matt shares his emotional reaction to the award, realizing his team nominated him and the significance of the recognition. The Importance of Team Nomination(00:05:48) The hosts and Matt discuss how an award nominated by one's own team is the most meaningful form of recognition. Intentionally Designing Workplace Culture(00:08:38) Matt explains that a positive workplace culture doesn't happen by accident; it must be intentionally designed and cultivated. Developing and Implementing Core Values(00:10:13) Matt details the process of creating, refining, and integrating core values into the shop's daily operations and decision-making. The Hiring Process and Cultural Fit(00:16:45) The discussion shifts to the hiring process, focusing on finding candidates who are a good cultural fit beyond technical skills. Dealing with Toxic High-Performers(00:23:58) Matt shares his experience with a high-producing but toxic technician and the positive impact of their departure on team morale. Team Building Activities(00:29:54) Matt describes their twice-a-year team building events, like a lake day and a Christmas party, to foster bonding. Employee Appreciation and Recognition(00:32:16) Discussion on how the shop shows appreciation through birthday desserts, morning shout-outs, and a core values sticker reward system. Measuring Workplace Culture(00:35:21) Matt discusses the challenges of measuring culture and the importance of building trust so employees feel safe raising concerns. Leadership Advice: Rapid Fire Questions(00:43:26) Kim asks Matt a series of rapid-fire questions on leadership books, best advice, habits, and employee benefits. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Why Customers Ghost You: 7 Reasons Great Customers Don’t Come Back [E212]	08 Jul 2026	00:23:43
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Have you ever looked at a customer who spent thousands with you, loved your shop, left great reviews... and then just disappeared? You know- that head-scratching moment. We’re going to unpack it for you today! Kim Walker explores the real reasons loyal customers disappear after what seemed like a great visit and shares seven practical insights to help auto repair shop owners create memorable experiences that keep clients coming back. From strengthening follow-up systems and building genuine relationships to creating emotional connections that extend beyond the repair, this episode challenges you to look at every customer touchpoint with fresh eyes. If you're ready to improve retention, increase customer loyalty, and become the first shop your clients think of when they need service again, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen now and discover how to stop customers from ghosting your shop and start building relationships that last. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction(00:00:09) The host introduces the episode's topic: seven reasons why great customers don't return to an auto repair shop. Sponsor Shout-out(00:00:50) A sponsored message from Shop Boss, a shop management software, and App Fueled, a custom app creation company. The Forgettable Experience(00:01:15) Most customers don't leave because they're unhappy; they leave because the experience was forgettable and didn't create a lasting impression. Personal Anecdote: Small Woods(00:02:57) The host shares her loyalty to the company Small Woods, highlighting their easy purchasing process and excellent customer service. Common Reasons for Customer Departure(00:04:09) Discusses practical reasons customers leave, such as life changes, moving, selling a vehicle, or sticker shock after a large repair. Loyalty is Built Between Visits(00:05:23) The host shares a story about firing a doctor for poor communication, emphasizing that loyalty is built through ongoing engagement. Competitors Are Marketing to Your Customers(00:08:30) If you aren't staying top-of-mind with your customers, your competitors are, and they will likely be remembered first. Leveraging Modern Marketing Tools(00:09:11) Highlights the numerous automated marketing tools available today, like text and email campaigns, to stay in touch with customers. The Customer Journey as a Marketing Opportunity(00:10:20) Every touchpoint, from online reviews to in-shop visits, is a chance to create a memorable and standout customer experience. Second Sponsor Segment(00:11:33) A detailed sponsored message from Shop Boss and App Fueled, explaining their features and benefits for auto repair shops. Creating an Emotional Connection(00:13:55) Trust gets customers in the door, but a genuine emotional connection beyond the transaction is what brings them back. Clarity Break Questions(00:16:36) The host suggests questions for shop owners to reflect on, such as defining a "lost" customer and creating win-back campaigns. Actionable Steps for Re-engagement(00:18:00) Recommends pulling a list of dormant customers and creating a team plan to re-engage them through calls or messages. The Goal is Building Lasting Relationships(00:19:04) The ultimate goal isn't just fixing cars but building strong, memorable relationships that ensure customer loyalty and make you top-of-mind. Final Thoughts and Call to Action(00:22:23) The host encourages listeners to provide feedback, leave reviews, and explore other shows on the Automotive Repair Podcast Network. 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	What Shop Owners Need to Know About Meta One [E211]	01 Jul 2026	00:31:57
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled This week, Caroline Legrand and Hallie Wasinger take over the mic to break down one of Meta's biggest changes for businesses in years: Meta One. They explain what this new subscription service is, how it differs from Meta Verified, and what it could mean for auto repair shop owners who rely on Facebook and Instagram for marketing. From enhanced account protection and advanced analytics to increased visibility and AI-powered features, they discuss which shops may benefit, which features are worth watching, and why being an early adopter could provide a competitive advantage. If you want to stay ahead of the constant changes in digital marketing and understand how these updates could impact your shop, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen now to learn whether Meta One deserves a place in your marketing strategy and how you can prepare before it rolls out in the United States. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to the Episode (00:00:09) Special host Caroline Legrand and co-host Hallie Wasinger introduce the topic: Meta One, the new paid subscription from Meta. Sponsor Messages (00:01:17) Advertisements for Shop Boss management software and App Fueled custom loyalty apps for auto repair shops are presented. Meta's New Paid Subscriptions (00:01:41) Discussion on Meta's new paid subscriptions, distinguishing them from Meta Verified and introducing the Meta One Essential and Advanced plans. Rollout and Pricing Tiers (00:02:52) Details on the six subscription tiers, pricing ranging from $2.99 to $49.99, and its current international rollout status. Why Pay for Meta Services? (00:04:25) The hosts discuss the value proposition of paying for Meta's services, framing it as a form of business insurance. Meta's Response to AI Search (00:06:34) Hallie explains that Meta One is a strategic response to the consumer shift from traditional search to AI-powered search. Meta Verified vs. Meta One (00:08:36) A clear distinction is made between Meta Verified (the blue checkmark) and the more comprehensive features offered by Meta One. Meta One Advanced Plan Features (00:10:43) A breakdown of the Meta One Advanced plan, including prominent placement in search, advanced analytics, and enhanced scheduling tools. Second Sponsor Segment (00:12:21) Additional sponsor messages from Shop Boss, highlighting its ROI dashboard and Boss Pay features, and from App Fueled. Clarifying Meta One's Benefits (00:14:24) The hosts clarify that Meta One offers increased visibility and deeper insights, rather than a direct increase in post reach. Impact on Content Scheduling (00:16:40) Discussion on how Meta One expands content scheduling capabilities, allowing users to schedule posts up to a year in advance. Meta One and Advertising Strategy (00:18:19) How advanced analytics from Meta One can inform organic content and ad strategies, though it doesn't directly impact ad costs. Advanced Protection and Content Credit (00:20:52) Details on the premium protection features, including direct human support and notifications when others use your original content on Facebook. Who Should Consider Meta One? (00:23:09) The hosts identify which types of shops would benefit most, emphasizing it as a trust signal for local businesses. The Future of Social Media Marketing (00:25:11) The hosts reflect on the evolving landscape of social media, encouraging early adoption of new tools to stay competitive. Final Recommendations and Outro (00:30:31) Final thoughts on the importance of being a top-tier shop and a thank you to the listeners and network. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Meta One Subscriptions ChatGPT Claude AI 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	How to Capture Great Content, Not Just Create It [E210]	24 Jun 2026	00:53:02
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Today, we're tackling a challenge that almost every shop owner faces. You know social media is important. You know your marketing performs better when it's authentic and showcases your people, your culture, and the incredible work happening inside your shop every day. But somewhere between the excitement of getting started and the reality of running a busy shop, the photos stop coming, the videos stop coming, and suddenly your marketing team is chasing you for content. The good news? Creating great content doesn't have to be complicated, time-consuming, or feel like a second job. The truth is, the best content is already happening inside your shop every single day—you're just not capturing it. Today, I'm joined by Wendy, our Senior Messaging Strategist, and Andrew, one of our Client Success Managers. We're going to share practical ideas, simple systems, and easy habits that will help you consistently gather photos and videos, keep the ideas flowing, and create the kind of content that attracts customers, builds trust, and showcases what makes your shop special. Let's jump in. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to Capturing Content (00:00:10) Host Kim Walker introduces the episode's topic: capturing content instead of creating it, along with her special guests. Sponsor Messages (00:00:52) A quick break for messages from the podcast sponsors, Shop Boss and App Fueled. The Challenge of Social Media for Shops (00:01:14) Discussing the common struggle shop owners face with maintaining consistent, authentic social media content due to their busy schedules. Podcast Idea Origin (00:02:38) Andrew Fleming explains how the idea for this episode came from his work on getting more photo and video assets. Why Content Efforts Fade (00:05:40) The discussion covers why shop owners' initial excitement for creating content often fades, citing busyness and overthinking the process. The Myth of "Nothing Interesting Happens" (00:12:20) Kim debunks the myth that shops are uninteresting, listing numerous daily activities perfect for content, like inspections and technician wins. The Importance of Collaboration (00:20:28) The group discusses the synergy required between the shop and their marketing team, comparing it to providing ingredients to a chef. Easy Photo and Video Ideas (00:25:12) Wendy shares simple, effective content ideas like before-and-after fluid flushes, customer gifts, and quick shop tour videos. The Power of Video Content (00:29:05) The conversation highlights that videos have exponentially more reach than photos on social media platforms like Meta. Finding Your "Why" for Posting (00:31:25) Wendy emphasizes the importance of knowing your goal for social media, whether it's to educate, entertain, or attract customers. Assigning Responsibility for Content (00:34:17) The team discusses the necessity of designating one person, a "content champion," to be responsible for capturing photos and videos. Incentivizing Your Team (00:36:42) Kim suggests creating a "bounty" or contest to motivate the entire team to capture and submit valuable content. Award-Winning Social Media Habits (00:37:51) Wendy breaks down what makes an award-winning social media presence: showing the team, their personalities, and building trust. Creating a Weekly System (00:43:39) The group suggests creating a system, like time-blocking at the end of the week, to consistently gather and upload content. Content for Recruiting and Retention (00:47:49) The discussion points out that great content not only attracts customers but also potential new hires and retains current clients. The 7-Day Content Challenge (00:48:17) Kim challenges listeners to capture and post one piece of unedited content every day for a week to build a habit. Final Thoughts and Takeaways (00:49:51) The guests share their final tips, including creating "scroll-stopping" content and owning the marketing space between customer visits. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Atomic Habits by James Clear 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Real-World AI for Auto Repair Shops with Joe Schindler [E209]	17 Jun 2026	00:38:36
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled AI is moving fast, but most shop owners are still trying to figure out where it actually fits into their business. Joe Schindler has gone far beyond experimenting with ChatGPT and is putting AI to work in ways that save time, improve processes, and create better experiences for both customers and employees. In this conversation, Joe joins Brian Walker to share how he's using AI-powered tools inside his shop, from predictive maintenance scheduling and call analysis to custom-built AI agents that act as digital assistants. They also dive into prompt engineering, vibe coding, technician knowledge management, and the practical ways shop owners can start leveraging AI without needing a background in programming. If you've been curious about how AI can help your shop become more efficient, more organized, and more profitable, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen now and discover real-world AI strategies you can start applying in your shop today. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to Joe Schindler and AI(00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces guest Joe Schindler, a shop owner using AI to stay on the cutting edge. Joe's Journey into AI(00:02:13) Joe explains how he went from avoiding AI to fully embracing it after attending an inspiring class at Vision. AI for Scheduling Maintenance(00:03:20) Joe built an AI agent that predicts when a customer's vehicle is due for service based on their driving habits. Choosing the Right AI Tools(00:06:02) Discussion on using different AI models like ChatGPT and Claude, and the benefits of starting with one before moving on. Getting Started with "Vibe Coding"(00:06:33) Advice for beginners to learn AI development by starting with simple projects and letting the AI teach them. AI Integration in CRM and Phone Systems(00:09:03) How AI is baked into CRM and phone systems to analyze calls, take notes, and score service advisor performance. The Power of Small AI Wins(00:14:06) AI's biggest impact comes from saving small increments of time on various tasks, which add up significantly. Building a Personal AI Assistant(00:16:42) Joe details his ambitious project of building a personal AI assistant, "Sarah," trained on his own knowledge and writing style. AI for Technical Information(00:19:33) Discussing how AI can create a searchable knowledge base for technicians, saving significant time on diagnostics and repairs. Using AI to Write Service Orders(00:22:46) AI can easily translate a technician's technical notes into a clear, easy-to-understand description for the customer's invoice. WhisperFlow for Voice-to-Text(00:24:30) Praising the accuracy of WhisperFlow for dictation, saving technicians and service advisors time from typing up repair descriptions. First Steps for Shop Owners New to AI(00:27:38) The best starting point for a shop owner is to create a simple AI agent to help write service orders. Brian's Vibe Coding Success Story(00:30:18) Brian shares how he built a custom software tool in a few hours, saving his company $250 a month. Final Advice on Using AI(00:35:57) Don't be afraid to start small, be genuine in your marketing, and don't get frustrated with the learning process. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Joe Schindler ChatGPT Claude AI AppFueled CRM 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Legacy of Education, Events, and Care [E208]	10 Jun 2026	00:51:18
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Some shops sponsor a Little League team and call it community involvement. Others build their entire business around serving people. Patrick Weidman and Jean Bradley have spent decades creating a culture where giving back is simply part of how they do business. From Ladies’ Night educational events and teen driver workshops to supporting local food pantries, cancer research, and holiday giving programs, their commitment to the community has become one of the biggest drivers of trust, loyalty, and long-term growth. What started with lessons learned from Uncle Pat and a mother who dedicated her life to helping others has grown into a thriving multi-location operation that continues to put people first. Patrick and Jean share how they choose community events, what they’ve learned from successes and failures, how they get their team involved, and why educating customers is one of the most powerful things a shop can do. If you're looking for practical ideas to strengthen your community presence while building a business people genuinely love, this conversation is full of inspiration and actionable takeaways. Hit play and discover how doing the right thing can become one of your shop’s greatest competitive advantages. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:00:10) Host Kim Walker introduces the episode and her guests, Jean Bradley and Patrick Weidman, owners of multiple auto repair shops. Sponsor Messages (00:00:53) A brief interlude for messages from the podcast sponsors, Shop Boss and App Fueled, highlighting their services for auto shops. The Family Business Story (00:01:25) Discussion about the family's history in the auto repair business, starting with their Uncle Pat and involving six siblings. Choosing Community Events (00:07:32) Jean and Patrick explain how their mother's community involvement inspired them to support causes like cancer research and local food pantries. The Origins of Ladies Night (00:11:09) Patrick and Jean discuss why they started their popular Ladies Night event over 15 years ago to educate and empower women. Lessons from Uncle Pat (00:14:28) Patrick shares the core business philosophy learned from his Uncle Pat: the Golden Rule of treating everyone with respect. The First Event and Post-Mortems (00:21:23) The guests recall their first Ladies Night and emphasize the importance of conducting a "post-mortem" after every event to improve. Getting Team Buy-In (00:25:19) Patrick explains how their strong company culture makes it easy to get team members to volunteer and participate in after-hours events. Marketing a Successful Event (00:26:37) Jean details the marketing strategy for their Ladies Night, which resulted in a full registration and a waiting list. Empowering Customers Through Education (00:31:59) The discussion focuses on how offering a "behind the scenes" look and empowering customers with knowledge builds trust and attracts clients. Collaboration Between Shop Locations (00:34:56) Patrick explains how their different shop locations collaborate and cross-promote for events, especially the two that are located close together. Favorite and Most Successful Events (00:35:59) Patrick and Jean share their favorite events, including Ladies Night, Boy Scout events, and supporting the local food pantry. Least Favorite or Challenging Events (00:41:08) The guests discuss their least successful events, particularly those involving uninterested teenagers at a local driving school. What's Next for the Shops (00:45:18) Patrick and Jean talk about their future plans, including expanding to a fourth location and continuing their educational video content. How to Find the Shops (00:48:12) Jean provides the names and locations of their shops and mentions their active presence on social media and their websites. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Their Story Advanced European Repair Grove Street Shovel Town Auto Their Community Involvement 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Should Your Shop Have a Team Retreat? [E207]	03 Jun 2026	00:26:35
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Let’s be real. Your team probably needs a break more than they need another meeting. Brian and Kim Walker talk about their fifth annual team retreat, why they intentionally do almost no work during it, and how getting away together has helped their remote team reconnect, rest, laugh, and build real culture. Whether you take your shop team to the beach, the mountains, a conference Airbnb, or just your backyard for a barbecue, this episode will get you thinking about what it looks like to truly retreat. Listen to the full episode and start thinking about how you can give your team space to reset, reconnect, and come back stronger. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to Team Retreats (00:00:09) The hosts introduce the topic of company team retreats and share that they just returned from their fifth annual one. The "First Annual" Debate (00:01:04) A humorous debate on the correct terminology for a first-time event, with "inaugural" being the preferred term over "first annual." The Origin and Location of the Retreat (00:02:20) The retreat idea came from a coach. The team has gone to a beach house in Grayton Beach, Florida for five years. What is a Retreat? (00:03:17) Kim defines their retreat as a non-working getaway focused on relaxation and in-person connection, not meetings or work tasks. Retreat Activities and Team Bonding (00:06:22) The team enjoys eating, playing games, riding bikes, and getting massages. The focus is on relaxing and having fun together. The True Meaning of "Retreat" (00:07:35) Brian shares the dictionary definitions of "retreat," emphasizing withdrawal, refuge, and getting away from the daily grind of work. The Importance of Unscheduled Downtime (00:08:57) Rainy weather forced the team to slow down and rest, which proved to be exactly what they needed to recharge. The Power of Taking a Break (00:11:02) The hosts share a personal vacation experience, highlighting how essential it is for leaders to slow down and truly rest. The ROI of a Retreat (00:17:05) While expensive, the hosts believe the return on investment from team bonding and rejuvenation is priceless and absolutely worth it. Learning About Your Team (00:17:49) Playing trivia games helps team members learn surprising and fun personal stories about each other in a relaxed, informal setting. Planning and Logistics (00:19:56) Tips on planning a retreat, including renting bikes, accommodating team needs, and figuring out what works for your specific group. How to Start Your Own Retreat (00:21:02) You don't have to go big. A retreat can start small, like a simple barbecue at your house on a Saturday. Using Tools for Planning (00:21:22) Kim shares her planning process, including using Google Forms for preferences and ChatGPT to figure out complex rooming arrangements. Managing Expectations (00:23:10) Understand that not every team member will be able to attend, and it's important to be flexible and go with the flow. A Valuable Company Culture Tool (00:24:03) A retreat can be a great culture builder and a recruiting tool, as potential hires are often attracted to the idea. How to Get Planning Resources (00:25:20) The hosts offer to share their planning document with listeners who reach out via email or their Facebook group. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo Automotive Repair Podcast Network 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	AI Nuggets From Our SEO Director [E206]	27 May 2026	00:32:56
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled AI isn’t just changing SEO. It’s changing the way people choose an auto repair shop. Brian Walker sits down with Michelle Travis to talk through what shop owners need to understand about AI-first SEO, zero-click search, brand trust, reviews, content depth, and why website traffic may go down while lead quality goes up. They also dig into why the old SEO foundations still matter, why AI cares about your brand across the web, and why chasing every shiny new AI tactic is a mistake. Listen to this episode and learn how to position your shop to be recommended by AI, not just found on Google. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to AI-First SEO (00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces guest Michelle Travis to discuss AI-first SEO from a technical standpoint, building on a previous episode. What is Zero-Click Search? (00:02:14) Michelle explains zero-click search, where users get answers from AI overviews without clicking on websites, affecting traditional traffic metrics. Impact on Website Traffic and Leads (00:04:21) Discussion on how zero-click search reduces overall website traffic but increases the quality and conversion rate of the remaining visitors. How AI Builds Trust (00:07:28) AI builds trust by acting as a reliable recommender, which then transfers that trust directly to the suggested auto repair shop. The Overlap Between Traditional SEO and AI SEO (00:09:21) Michelle explains how foundational SEO practices like NAP consistency and review management have become even more crucial for AI optimization. AI as a Human-Like Recommender (00:13:07) AI evaluates businesses more like a human, valuing trust signals like diverse review sources and certifications more than traditional algorithms. Ranking Brands, Not Just Websites (00:17:37) The focus shifts from ranking for keywords to establishing the shop's brand across the web through tracked brand mentions. The Power of Increased SEO Efforts (00:20:02) Discussing how increasing the quantity of SEO activities, like creating topic clusters, accelerates building topical authority and attracting high-ticket repairs. Biggest Misconceptions About SEO and AI (00:25:59) Michelle addresses common misconceptions, including the necessity of in-depth content and the idea that you must implement every new AI trend. AI is Not an Expert (00:29:12) A warning that AI tools are not experts, can be factually incorrect, and require knowledgeable human oversight to be used effectively. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Episode 205 of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast They Ask, You Answer Endless Customers 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 Results of AI-First SEO [E205]	20 May 2026	00:34:18
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled AI is no longer something that’s “coming.” It’s already changing the way auto repair shops get discovered, build trust, and attract high-value clients. In this conversation, Brian Walker sits down with Doug DeLucca and Chris Luoma to talk about what happens when an auto repair shop embraces an AI-first SEO strategy and starts creating the kind of content AI platforms actually want to recommend. From ChatGPT and Claude to Grok and Gemini, both shop owners share real stories of customers finding their businesses through AI searches, arriving more educated, more trusting, and more ready to buy than the average lead. They also break down how content marketing, thought leadership, blogs, FAQs, and branding are helping their shops stand out in a rapidly changing digital landscape. You’ll hear how one AI-generated referral turned into a $4,500 brake repair job, another became a $17,000 truck repair ticket, and why the future of marketing auto repair shops may look very different from traditional Google search. If you want to understand where SEO, AI, and shop marketing are headed and how to position your shop ahead of the curve, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Listen now. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to AI-First SEO (00:00:09) Host Brian Walker introduces guests Doug DeLucca and Chris Luoma to discuss the results of their AI-first SEO strategy. Sponsors: Shop Boss & App Fueled (00:00:31) A brief thank you to the episode's sponsors, Shop Boss management software and App Fueled custom loyalty apps. Business Growth Over the Last 12-18 Months (00:01:21) Doug and Chris share their significant growth in revenue, gross profit, and car count over the past year. First Customer from an AI Recommendation (00:02:51) Both shop owners recall the first time a customer mentioned finding their business through an AI tool like ChatGPT. Which AI Platforms Are Recommending Shops? (00:04:51) The guests discuss the various AI platforms, like ChatGPT, Grok, and Claude, that customers are using to find them. How AI-Referred Clients Differ from Google Clients (00:05:37) AI-referred customers are more educated about the shop and their vehicle's issue, arriving with a higher intent to buy. Building a Relationship with AI (00:07:40) The conversation explores how users build a trusted relationship with AI, making its recommendations feel like a personal referral. The Impact of Upgrading to Level Two SEO (00:09:17) Doug and Chris explain how upgrading their SEO strategy led to higher quality clients and increased online appointment bookings. Targeting College Students with SEO (00:11:32) Both owners discuss successfully using dedicated web pages and blogs to attract college students and their out-of-state parents. Big Ticket Jobs from AI Referrals (00:13:14) Doug shares a story of a $4,500 brake job from a customer who used Grok to troubleshoot his car. Sponsors: Shop Boss & App Fueled (Mid-roll) (00:14:51) A mid-episode break highlighting the features and benefits of Shop Boss shop management software and App Fueled loyalty apps. A $17,000 Job from an AI Lead (00:17:03) Chris recounts how a new customer, who researched the shop extensively via AI, came in for a $17,000 engine replacement. Organic vs. Paid Growth Strategies (00:19:19) Doug discusses his organic, content-focused growth strategy, which has lowered marketing spend while increasing business by over 30%. A Mixed Marketing Approach (00:22:23) Chris explains his strategy of combining paid ads on Google and social media with a strong focus on content creation. The Future of Paid Ads in AI (00:23:38) The group speculates on how paid advertising within AI platforms might change the marketing landscape for auto repair shops. What Shop Owners Don't Understand About Marketing (00:26:44) The guests emphasize that content is king and that shops need to be different, using video and social media. Using Video and Social Media for Engagement (00:29:39) Doug and Chris discuss their use of video and frequent social media posting to build brand awareness and engagement. Final Thoughts: Lean into Content (00:31:11) The guests conclude that creating consistent, quality content is the best way to win in the new era of AI. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Endless Customers by Marcus Sheridan They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan Business Network International (BNI) 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Why Your Marketing Works….Until It Doesn’t [E204]	13 May 2026	00:24:36
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Let’s be real, nothing feels better than when your marketing is firing on all cylinders. Phones ringing, bays full, your team moving fast. And then… it just stops. No warning. No clear reason. Same budget, same ads, same strategy but the results? Gone. In this episode, Kim Walker breaks down exactly why that happens and, more importantly, what to do about it. She walks through the real lifecycle of marketing, from the early wins of launch, to the momentum of growth, to the frustrating plateau, and eventually the decline that catches most shop owners off guard. But here’s the kicker… It’s not bad luck. It’s predictable. You’ll hear the common mistakes shop owners make (like pulling budgets too early or chasing shiny new tactics), what’s actually happening behind the scenes with platforms like Google and customer behavior, and how smart shops stay ahead by making data-driven decisions instead of emotional ones. If you’ve ever said, “Our marketing just stopped working,” this is one you need to hear. Hit play now and learn how to stay ahead of the curve instead of constantly playing catch-up. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction: Why Your Marketing Stops Working (00:00:10) Kim Walker introduces the episode's topic: why marketing campaigns that initially work well eventually stop being effective over time. The Marketing Life Cycle (00:01:16) Marketing has a life cycle just like anything else. Understanding it helps you avoid panic and make timely adjustments. Phase 1: The Launch (00:02:08) The exciting first phase of a marketing campaign, characterized by early wins, low competition, and the joy of newness. Phase 2: The Growth (00:02:48) The phase where marketing efforts become consistent, momentum builds, phones ring, and results are strong and steady. Phase 3: The Plateau (00:03:32) Growth begins to slow down. Things feel steady, but the initial momentum has noticeably decreased, leaving you wondering why. Phase 4: The Decline (00:04:43) Results are dropping while costs are rising. Ad fatigue sets in, and competitors may be catching up. Common Mistakes Shop Owners Make (00:05:42) Discussing common errors like the "set it and forget it" mindset, pulling budgets too early, and blaming channels. Chasing Shiny Objects (00:08:35) Warning against pursuing new marketing trends without first fixing foundational issues in your existing strategy and ensuring they are solid. External Factors Affecting Marketing (00:11:44) Discussing external influences like new competitors entering the market, the rising cost of ads, and shifts in customer behavior. Algorithm Changes (00:15:12) Platforms like Google and Facebook constantly change their algorithms, which can suddenly impact your marketing campaign's performance and results. Is Your Brand Stale? (00:16:32) Considering the possibility that a brand may need a refresh over time, which could be a slow-building reason for decline. What Smart Shops Do Differently (00:17:42) Smart shops regularly refresh creative and messaging, layer strategies, and track trends instead of reacting based on emotions. The Importance of a Long-Term Mindset (00:22:02) Successful marketing requires a long-term mindset with annual and quarterly plans, not just jumping from campaign to campaign. Closing and Call to Action (00:22:56) Kim encourages listeners to send feedback, ideas, and questions, and asks for reviews on their favorite podcast app. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Walker’s Hierarchy of Marketing Needs 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Should You Have a Customer Advisory Panel? [E203]	06 May 2026	00:18:58
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Most shop owners are out here making big decisions based on gut feelings, a few loud customer opinions, or whatever seems like a good idea in the moment. And sometimes that works… but a lot of times, it doesn’t. What if you had a way to pressure test your ideas before rolling them out? What if you could hear directly from the people you actually want more of… your best clients… and even the ones who are not afraid to tell you the truth? That’s exactly what this episode dives into. Kim Walker breaks down how a customer advisory panel can become one of the most powerful tools in your shop. Not just for marketing, but for smarter decision making, better services, and avoiding costly mistakes before they happen. She’s not talking theory here. This is pulled straight from real world experience, both inside an auto repair shop and at Shop Marketing Pros, where these panels have literally stopped bad ideas in their tracks. If you’ve ever wondered what your customers are really thinking… or wished you had a sounding board before making your next big move… this is one you don’t want to skip. 👉 Hit play and learn how to build a customer advisory panel that actually moves your shop forward. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to Customer Advisory Panels (00:00:10) Host Kim Walker introduces the episode's topic: creating and managing a customer advisory panel for your auto repair shop. Sponsor Shout-out (00:00:42) A brief interlude to thank the episode's sponsors, Shop Boss and App Fueled, for their support of the podcast. The Problem We're Fixing Today (00:01:07) Kim explains how an advisory panel helps shop owners make better decisions by getting direct feedback and ideas from customers. Why Have a Customer Advisory Panel? (00:02:29) Discussion on the reasons to start a panel, emphasizing the need for honest feedback from a diverse group of customers. Selecting Your Panel Members (00:03:39) Advice on choosing the right people for your panel, including a mix of top-tier clients and those who offer honest criticism. Incentivizing Your Panel (00:06:12) Kim discusses the importance of showing appreciation for members' time through incentives like recognition, perks, or early access to services. Surprising Benefits and Feedback (00:07:32) The host shares how panels provide honest feedback, great ideas, and can even prevent the business from making poor decisions. How a Panel Saved a Bad Decision (00:08:47) A personal story about how the Shop Marketing Pros advisory panel advised against pursuing a "fastest-growing" award, saving the company. Sponsor Segment: Shop Boss & App Fueled (00:10:04) A detailed promotional segment for the episode's sponsors, highlighting the features and benefits of their services for auto repair shops. How to Run Your Advisory Panel Meetings (00:12:08) Practical tips on the logistics of running meetings, including frequency (quarterly), format (in-person dinner or Zoom), and keeping it simple. Creating a Meeting Agenda (00:13:35) Kim explains how to structure meetings with a prepared agenda while also leaving open space for panel members' own feedback. Using a Rolling System for Members (00:14:36) A suggestion to rotate panel members over time to keep ideas fresh and maintain continuity, similar to a board of directors. Questions to Ask Your Panel (00:15:46) Example questions to ask your advisory panel about what they value, their frustrations, and services they wish you offered. First Steps to Get Started (00:17:05) Actionable advice for shop owners: start simple by identifying and inviting 5-7 of your best customers to a dinner meeting. 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Bold Leadership with J.R. Portman [E202]	29 Apr 2026	00:32:18
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Leadership isn’t always about learning how to manage other people. Sometimes it’s about getting uncomfortable enough to finally lead yourself. In this episode, Brian talks with J.R. Portman about his experience at Bold Advanced Leadership, a training that pushed him physically, mentally, and emotionally. They talk about enthusiasm, honesty, trust, getting over the fear of looking foolish, and how those lessons apply just as much at home as they do inside the business. If you own an auto repair shop and you’re trying to grow as a leader, this is one you’ll want to hear. Listen now and go fill those bays. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to Bold Advanced Leadership (00:01:04) J.R. Portman introduces the leadership training event, describing it as "Navy SEAL training for emotional leadership" focused on individual growth. Discovering the Training (00:02:09) J.R. explains how he heard about the event from a peer at a coaching group for marketing agency owners. The Value of Peer Recommendations (00:03:54) The speakers discuss the power of recommendations from trusted peers in similar professional roles over traditional advertising. The "Fight Club" Mystique (00:05:15) J.R. describes the intentionally vague and cryptic nature of the event, which adds to its mystique and shared experience. An Intense, Immersive Experience (00:06:16) The training is described as an intense, sleepaway camp-like experience that bonds participants through shared trials and breaks normal routines. Expectations vs. Reality (00:08:02) J.R. shares his initial expectations, like doing a trust fall, and how the intensity and methodology pushed him beyond comfort. Learning Personal Limits (00:09:05) The training challenged J.R.'s comfort zones, particularly in public speaking, forcing him to unlearn control and embrace emotional expression. The Breakdown and Rebuilding Process (00:10:30) The event intentionally broke participants down to rebuild them, using intimate group settings and intense, personal leadership exercises. Applying Leadership Skills to Real-Life Situations (00:14:42) J.R. discusses how the training helps manage healthy conflict and emotional situations, like those in a leadership team meeting. Main Takeaway: Living with Enthusiasm (00:16:42) J.R.'s biggest takeaway was the permission to live more enthusiastically and bring more energy to his professional and personal life. Balancing Business and Personal Growth (00:18:33) The discussion highlights how the training's lessons apply equally to business leadership and personal life, such as being a parent. Who Should Attend This Training? (00:20:14) The ideal attendee is someone actively seeking personal growth and willing to be pushed, not someone forced to be there. The Power of Positive Self-Talk (00:21:55) An exercise demonstrated the physical power of positive self-talk ("I can") versus negative self-talk ("I can't"). Second Takeaway: The Importance of Honesty (00:23:29) Another key lesson was being more direct and honest with people, and the value of genuinely getting to know team members. The Value of Getting Uncomfortable (00:26:24) J.R. explains how being forced out of his comfort zone and facing the fear of failure was a powerful lesson. Final Advice for Listeners (00:28:50) J.R. advises listeners to act quickly on growth opportunities and intentionally seek out experiences that challenge and upset their norms. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Bold Advanced Leadership by Driven Leadership Seven Figure Agency The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell The Great CEO Within 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 Loyalty Gap: Why Customers Don't Come Back [E201]	22 Apr 2026	00:24:51
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled You got the customer. You did the work. You got paid…and then they disappear. That’s not normal, and it’s costing you way more than you think. Kim Walker digs into the loyalty gap that keeps auto repair shops stuck in a transactional cycle and shows why customer loyalty is built in the space between visits, not just at the counter. From follow-up and personal connection to surprise-and-delight moments, rewards programs, and consistent communication, this episode is a reminder that customers come back when they feel remembered, valued, and part of something bigger than the repair order. If you want more repeat business, stronger referrals, and customers who stop price shopping, this is one you need to hear. Listen to the full episode and start building loyalty on purpose. Show Notes with Timestamps Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) Kim Walker introduces the Automotive Repair Podcast Network and the show. Host Introduction & Sponsor Shoutout (00:00:09) Kim Walker introduces herself, mentions her absence, and thanks sponsors. Episode Topic Introduction: The Loyalty Gap (00:01:12) Kim introduces the main topic: customer loyalty and why customers don’t return. Personal Loyalty Example & Reflection (00:02:20) Kim shares personal examples about loyalty to local vs. big box stores. Transactional vs. Relational Business (00:03:28) Discussion on shops running transactional businesses and the importance of customer experience. Why Customers Don’t Return (00:04:49) Explains reasons customers don’t come back: lack of follow-up, no emotional connection, not memorable. Building Loyalty: What It Looks Like (00:07:14) Defines true loyalty: trust, referrals, not price shopping, and customer connection. Practical Ways to Build Loyalty: Surprise & Delight (00:09:48) Tips on creating memorable moments, gifting, and personal touches for customers. Personal Touches & CRM Use (00:11:50) Examples of using CRM to remember customer details and follow up meaningfully. Sponsor/Advertisement Break (00:12:35) Sponsor messages about shop management software and loyalty app solutions. Loyalty & Rewards Programs (00:14:38) Discusses meaningful loyalty and rewards programs and available resources. Supporting Local Causes (00:15:36) Shares story of involving customers in local/community support efforts. Consistent, Non-Promotional Communication (00:16:50) Emphasizes regular, non-promotional communication to stay top of mind. Database Mailers with Heart (00:18:02) Encourages using CRM for meaningful mailers, not just promotions or coupons. Reference to Brittany Hodak & Super Fan Mindset (00:19:10) Mentions previous episode with Brittany Hodak and introduces the “SUPER” fan framework. Breakdown of the SUPER Acronym (00:20:32) Explains each part of the SUPER acronym for building super fans. Final Thoughts & Call to Action (00:22:57) Encourages listeners to implement one loyalty-building idea and reach out via email. Episode Wrap-Up & Network Promotion (00:24:02) Thanks listeners, promotes other shows on the network, and invites to tune in next week. Podcast Outro (00:24:28) Kim closes the episode and provides info on where to find more content. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Automotive Repair Podcast Network Episode 156: Creating Superfans with Brittany Hodak 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Everything That Has Changed in Auto Repair Marketing Since Episode 1 [E200]	15 Apr 2026	00:25:03
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Two hundred episodes in, and a lot has changed. In this milestone conversation, Brian and Kim, look back at the biggest shifts in auto repair marketing since episode one, from the rise of AI and Local Service Ads to the growing importance of your Google Business Profile, reviews, trust signals, automation, influencers, and short-form video. It’s a real-world look at what’s working now, what has changed for shop owners, and where marketing seems to be headed next. Give it a listen and see how your shop can stay ahead instead of playing catch-up. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Episode Context (00:00:00) Hosts introduce themselves, mention Lindy the dog, and set up the episode’s theme: changes in marketing over four years. Sponsor Acknowledgments and Network Thanks (00:01:18) Thanking sponsors and the Automotive Repair Podcast Network, with shoutouts to Carmen and Tracy. Request for Listener Input (00:02:19) Hosts ask listeners for topic suggestions for future episodes, both marketing and non-marketing related. The Rise of AI in Marketing (00:03:17) Discussion of AI’s impact on marketing, including AI-driven shop recommendations and content creation. Google Local Service Ads for Auto Repair (00:05:05) How Google Local Service Ads became available to auto repair shops and their major impact on revenue. Google Business Profile’s Growing Importance (00:06:48) Google Business Profile now rivals websites as the “front door” for shops, especially due to AI and clickless search. The Increasing Value of Online Reviews (00:08:59) Reviews have become more critical, with customers reading them in-depth and their influence on search and revenue. How Reviews Influence Search and AI (00:12:12) Examples of reviews triggering search results and their importance across multiple platforms, not just Google. Google’s Vicinity Update and Local SEO (00:14:13) Explanation of the Vicinity Update, which prioritizes proximity in search results and limits ranking in distant areas. Shift from SEO Manipulation to Trust Signals (00:15:48) SEO has moved from tricks (like keyword stuffing) to building trust through real signals like certifications and authentic content. Automation Replacing Manual Marketing Tasks (00:20:10) Automation now handles tasks like appointment reminders and review requests, reducing manual work for shop owners. The Rise of Influencers and Personal Branding (00:20:58) Influencers, including shop owners, have become more prominent, building authority and credibility through content. Short-Form Video and TikTok’s Impact (00:22:16) Short-Form video, especially on TikTok, has become a major marketing tool for small businesses and influencers. Outro and Calls to Action (00:22:57) Encouragement to contact the hosts, join their Facebook group, leave reviews, and follow the podcast for future episodes. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Remarkable Results Radio Automotive Repair Podcast Network Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Deo Kitoko on YouTube Growth, Auto Repair Success, and Building Trust [E199]	08 Apr 2026	00:48:07
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled From learning automotive repair beside his father in the Republic of Congo to building a successful shop and YouTube channel in Maryland, Deo Kitoko’s story is a powerful reminder of what hard work, humility, and persistence can build. In this conversation, he shares how he taught himself advanced diagnostics through books and YouTube, why he started creating videos, and how education, honesty, and consistency helped him grow both his audience and his business. Give this episode a listen to hear how Deo turned skill, service, and storytelling into real momentum. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:00) Brian introduces Deo, highlights his YouTube channel, and previews the episode’s topics. Theo’s Early Life and Automotive Roots (00:01:18) Deo shares his upbringing in the Republic of Congo, learning auto repair from his father, and early shop experiences. The Value of Skilled Trades in the Age of AI (00:04:50) Discussion about job security in skilled trades versus jobs threatened by AI, and the importance of automotive skills. Theo’s Path to Shop Ownership (00:06:24) Deo describes his journey from technician to shop owner, including his education and early career in Congo. Technical Education and Master Tech Certification (00:08:13) Deo details his technical high school, college, and diesel training, leading to master tech status in Congo. Decision to Move to the U.S. (00:10:17) Deo explains his choice to move to America, learning English, and the challenges of immigrating. First Job in the U.S. and Early Career (00:12:00) Deo recounts getting his first job in the U.S., proving his skills, and advancing in the shop. Self-Education and ASE Certifications (00:13:27) Deo discusses learning from YouTube, books, and mentors, and passing ASE certifications to become a master tech in the U.S. Sponsor Messages (00:16:21) Promotional segment for Shop Boss and App Fueled. Theo’s Certifications and Timeline (00:18:26) Deo lists his certifications and clarifies his arrival in the U.S. in 2013. Learning Diagnostics and YouTube Inspiration (00:19:04) Deo explains how he learned diagnostics from YouTube and books, inspired by Eric the Car Guy and Scanner Danner. Starting the YouTube Channel (00:19:30) Deo describes what motivated him to start making YouTube videos and his initial doubts. First Video and Overcoming Self-Doubt (00:24:05) Deo shares the story of filming his first video for a customer and being encouraged to start a channel. Building a Production Team (00:28:41) Deo explains how his YouTube channel grew to include a full production team and better equipment. Advice for Shop Owners on Video Content (00:29:42) Deo advises shop owners on starting with simple equipment and clarifies his focus on education over marketing. Balancing Shop Work and Content Creation (00:33:56) Deo discusses the challenges of balancing shop management with filming and editing videos. Transparency and Showing Mistakes (00:34:54) Deo talks about showing mistakes and comebacks in his videos to build trust and authenticity. Impact on Hiring and Team Culture (00:37:39) Deo describes how his videos attract technicians and foster a positive shop culture. Meeting Scanner Danner and Industry Connections (00:39:28) Deo recounts meeting his YouTube inspiration, Scanner Danner, and the impact of industry networking. Giving Back and Future Goals (00:42:28) Deo discusses helping friends in Congo, translating knowledge, and his desire to teach and expand his business. YouTube Channel and Social Media Plugs (00:43:36) Deo shares where listeners can find his content online and thanks Brian for the marketing advice. Networking and Working with Shop Marketing Pros (00:45:30) Deo describes networking at industry events and his experience working with Shop Marketing Pros. Closing Remarks (00:47:20) Brian and Deo thank each other, and Brian closes the episode with network information. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey EricTheCarGuy KIT'S Auto and Truck Repair Deo Kitoko 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Differentiating Your Shop Through Market, Message, and Method with Rick White [E198]	01 Apr 2026	00:44:30
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled If your shop looks and sounds like every other shop in town, you’re just another option in the sea of sameness. In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with Rick White of 180BIZ to talk about what it really takes to differentiate your shop, attract the right clients, and stop competing on price alone. They dig into market, message, and medium, and explain how knowing exactly who you serve makes your marketing easier, sharper, and a whole lot more effective. If you want more of the right clients and fewer of the ones who drain your time and profits, this is one you need to hear. Listen now. Show Notes with Timestamps Timestamps by PodSqueezeIntroduction and Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:00:09) Host introduces the episode, guest Rick White, and thanks sponsors. Technician Mindset vs. Differentiation (00:01:21) Rick discusses how shop owners often start with a technician mindset and the need to define shop identity. Sea of Sameness in Auto Repair (00:02:49) Discussion about shops copying each other’s websites and the importance of unique content and identity. Comparison and Value Presentation (00:03:46) Rick explains the dangers of comparing shops and the need to present value to clients. Understanding and Communicating Value (00:05:19) How value is determined by the customer and the importance of tailoring the message to individual needs. Defining Your Ideal Client Avatar (00:07:05) Rick shares how to create a detailed client avatar and target marketing efforts accordingly. Community Engagement and Marketing to Families (00:08:16) Examples of engaging with the community, targeting families, and building relationships through local events. Influence of Children and Family-Focused Marketing (00:11:11) Stories about how engaging with kids leads to new clients and builds trust with families. Creating a Family Atmosphere in the Shop (00:12:37) Examples of shops displaying technician family photos and fostering a family-serving-family environment. Importance of Targeted Messaging (00:14:11) Emphasizing the need for specific, non-generic marketing messages that resonate with the target audience. Sponsor Messages (00:14:34) Mid-episode sponsor advertisements. Identifying and Attracting Ideal Clients (00:16:48) Discussion on why “anyone with a car” is not an ideal client and how to focus on the best clients. Avoiding Generic Claims in Marketing (00:17:23) Why claims like “best customer service” or “quality parts” are ineffective and the power of testimonials. Client-Focused Messaging and Storytelling (00:18:47) How to shift marketing language from “we” to “you” and make the client the hero. Unique Ways Shops Differentiate Themselves (00:19:32) Examples of creative, family-friendly, and personalized touches that set shops apart. Aligning Market with Vehicle Type and Interests (00:21:34) How vehicle type and client interests (e.g., dyno days, car shows) influence marketing strategies. Market, Message, and Medium Explained (00:23:27) Rick outlines the three pillars of marketing: market, message, and method/medium. Discovering What Makes Your Shop Different (00:24:31) Advice for shop owners to identify their unique differentiators by talking to their best clients. Coaching with Community and Core Values (00:26:18) Rick shares how his coaching company builds community and supports clients beyond business. Using Client Feedback and AI for Insights (00:28:13) How to use client advisory panels and AI to analyze reviews and discover what clients value. Clarifying Client Feedback and Communication (00:28:39) The importance of understanding the true meaning behind client feedback and reflective listening. Relational vs. Transactional Focus (00:32:38) Why focusing on relationships, not just transactions, leads to business success. Choosing the Right Marketing Medium (00:32:41) How to select marketing channels based on where your ideal clients spend their time. Understanding Psychographics vs. Demographics (00:35:47) Explaining the difference between demographics and psychographics for effective targeting. Adjusting Your Client Base Through Marketing (00:37:18) How to shift your client base by changing your marketing message and targeting. Perceived Value and Pricing Strategy (00:39:22) Discussion on pricing, perceived value, and how exclusivity can increase demand. Client-Focused Solutions and Consistency (00:41:15) Emphasizing the need to market solutions, not problems, and to deliver consistently. Long-Term Impact of Targeted Marketing (00:42:22) Rick and Brian discuss the long-term benefits of focused marketing and serving profitable clients. How to Connect with Rick White (00:43:14) Information on how listeners can contact Rick for coaching or more information. Closing Remarks and Podcast Network Info (00:43:49) Host wraps up the episode and promotes the Automotive Repair Podcast Network. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) The Sales Bible by Jeffrey Gitomer Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller Rick White 180BIZ Website 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Why Great Shop Owners Refuse to Settle with Parker Branch [E197]	25 Mar 2026	00:24:22
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Big goals require big standards, and that is exactly what Brian Walker and Parker Branch dig into in this conversation from VISION. Parker shares why he refuses to accept playing small, how coaching helped shape his growth, and what it looks like to push yourself, your team, and your vendors without burning relationships. They also get into financial fear, extreme ownership, truthful leadership, and the kind of mindset shift it takes to build something truly exceptional. If you are serious about growing your shop, raising your standards, and refusing to settle for average, this is one you need to hear. Listen now. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:00:10) Brian introduces Parker Branch, sets up the episode’s theme, and thanks sponsors. Big Aspirations and Avoiding Burnout (00:01:14) Parker discusses overcoming burnout, re-centering, and recommitting to growth and excellence. Origins of High Expectations (00:02:03) Parker shares when and why he decided not to play small and his drive for continuous improvement. Coaching Shop Owners to Think Bigger (00:03:19) Parker talks about his coaching approach, encouraging shop owners to step out of their comfort zones. Pushing Vendors and Teams Respectfully (00:05:15) Discussion on pushing for excellence without being unreasonable or damaging relationships. High Expectations vs. Unreasonable Expectations (00:06:43) Brian and Parker differentiate between seeking excellence and having unrealistic demands. Sponsor Messages (00:07:30) Sponsor advertisements for Shop Boss and App Fueled. Biggest Obstacles for Shop Owners (00:09:37) Parker identifies financial fear and staffing as major hurdles for shop owners. Team Reactions to Ambition (00:11:28) Parker explains how his team responds to his drive and the importance of honest communication. Bringing the Team to VISION Conference (00:12:32) Parker describes the impact of bringing his entire team to a major industry event. Maintaining Relationships While Pushing for Growth (00:13:10) How Parker sets expectations and challenges vendors and employees without burning bridges. Truthful Communication and Keynote Inspiration (00:14:41) Reflection on the importance of honest conversations, inspired by a keynote speaker. Unrealistic Goals and Business Growth (00:17:05) Parker shares his ambitious goal of reaching $7 million in sales at a single location. Extreme Ownership When Things Go Wrong (00:18:32) Parker discusses taking responsibility first when performance falls short. Advice for Shop Owners Playing Too Small (00:20:01) Parker and Brian stress the value of coaching and investing in personal and business growth. Personal Investments in Coaching and Health (00:22:26) Both discuss their investments in coaching, health, and the resulting benefits. Closing Remarks and Appreciation (00:23:01) Brian and Parker express gratitude for their relationship and wrap up the episode. Podcast Outro (00:23:59) Outro and information about the Automotive Repair Podcast Network. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) VISION The Institute 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	How to Align Technician Training with Your Shop’s Goals with Matt Wagg [196]	18 Mar 2026	00:27:06
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Training is expensive, and too many shop owners treat conferences like a reward instead of a real investment in the future of their business. In this conversation with Matt Wagg at VISION 2026, we get into how smart shop owners can build a true talent pipeline by aligning training with business goals, creating development plans for their team, and making sure they always have a solid bench of players ready to step up. If you want your training dollars to actually produce a return, this is one you need to hear. Listen now. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgement (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast, guest Matt Wagg, and thanks sponsors before starting the discussion. Class Overview: Talent Pipeline (00:01:17) Matt describes his class on employee development, training ROI, and building a bench of players. Intentional Training vs. Random Training (00:02:26) Discussion about aligning training with business goals instead of treating it as a random reward. Industry Training Trends and Individual Needs (00:03:18) Matt explains the mismatch between advanced classes and most technicians’ actual needs. Needs Assessment Analysis (00:04:27) Matt introduces the needs assessment framework for identifying business and employee development needs. The Rule of Twos and Building a Bench (00:06:19) Explanation of having at least two people competent in every skill area to avoid skill gaps. Technician Involvement and Skills Inventory (00:08:48) Importance of regular one-on-one discussions and skills inventory worksheets for technician development. Balancing Business Needs and Employee Goals (00:11:08) How to align business needs with individual technician goals for mutual buy-in. Intentional Hiring and Upskilling (00:14:19) Strategies for reskilling current staff or hiring intentionally based on identified skill gaps. Conference Training Selection Process (00:17:17) Matt details how he and his team intentionally select conference classes based on business and personal development needs. Example: Developing a Lead Technician (00:20:21) Matt shares a real example of promoting a technician into a leadership role and supporting him with targeted training. Training vs. Development (00:22:15) Clarifies the difference between one-off training and ongoing development plans for employees. SMART Goals and Development Plans (00:23:05) How to use SMART goals and written development plans for structured, measurable employee growth. Conclusion and Contact Information (00:25:20) Matt offers to share materials and provides his contact information for listeners interested in learning more. Podcast Wrap-Up (00:26:13) Brian closes the episode, promotes the podcast network, and thanks listeners. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Matt Wagg 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Are You Helping the Industry, or Just a Gossip? [E195]	11 Mar 2026	00:13:01
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Sometimes the problem isn’t the conference. It’s the mindset you brought with you. Brian Walker takes on the chatter that came out of the VISION Conference and makes the case that seasoned shop owners may be expecting the wrong thing. When you’re new, every class feels like a breakthrough. But as you grow, your role has to shift from taker to giver, from student to mentor, from chasing epiphanies to building legacy. He also calls out vendors who turn classes into sales pitches, challenges shop owners who complain without implementing what they’ve already learned, and makes a strong case for showing up ready to give back to the industry that helped build you. If you’ve ever left a conference feeling underwhelmed, this one will make you stop and think. Listen now. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:00:00) Brian introduces the episode, mentions recent VISION Conference, and thanks sponsors. Initial Reactions to VISION Conference (00:01:21) Brian discusses Facebook posts expressing dissatisfaction with the conference and reflects on attendee expectations. The Learner’s Journey: From Taker to Giver (00:02:14) Explains how new shop owners are eager learners, but seasoned veterans may not find classes as novel. The Role of Seasoned Veterans (00:03:10) Encourages experienced attendees to mentor others and shift from learning to giving back. Building a Legacy and Mentorship (00:04:22) Highlights the importance of legacy, using Jerry Holcomb as an example, and urges attendees to become legacy builders. Mindset Shift: Giving Back to the Industry (00:05:41) Stresses the need for experienced shop owners to contribute rather than just receive at conferences. Advice to Vendor Instructors (00:06:42) Criticizes vendor-led classes that are sales pitches and emphasizes providing real value when teaching. Sponsor Messages and Product Features (00:07:39) Sponsor advertisements for Shop Boss and App Fueled, detailing their features and benefits. Finding Nuggets as a Veteran Attendee (00:08:51) Encourages seasoned attendees to look for small, valuable insights ("nuggets") instead of expecting big revelations. On Implementation and Constructive Feedback (00:10:01) Advises against complaining if you haven’t implemented what you’ve learned; stresses the importance of honest feedback via surveys. Final Thoughts and Conference Mindset (00:11:04) Reiterates the importance of the right mindset and helping others at industry events. Podcast Network Outro (00:12:20) Mentions other podcasts on the network and encourages listeners to tune in again. Closing Credits (00:12:38) Outro by the announcer, promoting the podcast app and contact information. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) VISION Automotive Repair Podcast Network 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	When Branding Breaks the Rules (And Still Wins) with Zeb Beard [E194]	04 Mar 2026	00:28:59
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Brand building doesn’t always come from ads, funnels, or traditional marketing; it often comes from bold decisions, authenticity, and doing things differently. Zeb Beard of Stroker’s Diesel and Automotive shares how sponsoring a professional fisherman, building a massive and unforgettable shop, and leaning into unconventional branding strategies have fueled explosive brand awareness and loyalty. From turning everyday moments into viral content to embracing his true personality online, Zeb reveals how exposure, storytelling, and consistency can outperform paid advertising. If you want to rethink how brand building really works, and how to create marketing that people actually care about, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew. Listen now to discover how bold branding creates lasting impact. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsorship Overview (00:00:10) Brian introduces Zeb Beard and the main topic: sponsoring a professional fisherman for shop marketing. Why Sponsor a Fisherman? (00:01:30) Zeb explains his passion for fishing and the motivation behind sponsoring a professional fisherman. Choosing the Right Fisherman (00:01:33) Zeb discusses selecting a unique fisherman who travels extensively and offers national exposure. Purpose and Expected ROI (00:02:59) Zeb clarifies his goals: exposure and content, not immediate business from the sponsorship. How the Sponsorship Works (00:05:02) Details on logo placement, exposure through tournaments, and the unique visibility of the sponsored fisherman. Sponsorship Timeline and Early Results (00:06:17) Zeb shares that the sponsorship just started, but both parties are already seeing social media growth. Brand Building History (00:07:21) Zeb recounts previous unique brand-building efforts, including sponsoring a rock band. Impact of Brand Building and Shop Size (00:08:28) Discussion of the shop’s growth, its 64,000 sq ft building, and how the building itself is a marketing tool. Shop Location and Signage (00:09:41) Zeb describes the shop’s visibility, signage, and its impact on local awareness. Merchandise and Graphics (00:11:02) Zeb talks about branded t-shirts, working with a graphics company, and plans to sell merchandise online. Grassroots Marketing Approach (00:13:38) Zeb explains his focus on grassroots brand building, community sponsorships, and minimal paid advertising. Viral Road Report Videos (00:14:46) Zeb describes his viral “road report” videos during an ice storm and the importance of consistent content creation. Authenticity and Customer Relations (00:18:17) Zeb discusses being authentic, setting boundaries with customers, and how this approach builds loyalty. No Promise Times and Quality Focus (00:20:28) Zeb explains why he doesn’t give promise times, focusing on quality and thoroughness over speed. Living at the Shop (00:23:00) Zeb shares the benefits and boundaries of living inside his shop, improving work-life integration. Maintaining Boundaries with Customers (00:25:24) Zeb describes how he maintains privacy and boundaries despite living at his business. Being Unapologetically Authentic Online (00:26:15) Zeb and Brian discuss the value and impact of being authentic and direct on social media. Event Attendance and Closing (00:27:17) Zeb mentions upcoming industry events he’ll attend, and Brian wraps up the 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Stroker’s Diesel and Automotive 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Why the BBB Still Matters in 2026 with Mark Lowe [E193]	25 Feb 2026	00:20:17
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Most shops say they “do the right thing.” Mark Lowe from Yeck's Auto Repair went out and proved it by earning the BBB Torch Award for Ethics. In this conversation, we dig into what the award actually measures (hint: it’s way more than reviews), what the application process revealed about their business, and how the recognition boosted team pride and customer confidence once that trophy hit the front counter. We also connect the dots to something shop owners can’t ignore anymore: AI-driven recommendations. If ChatGPT (and the tools built around it) are looking for trust signals, the BBB can be one of the loudest ones in the room, and Mark shares exactly how they’ve leveraged the award on their website and marketing to lower people’s guard and get them in the door. If you want more trust, better positioning, and a marketing angle that isn’t just “$XX off an oil change,” hit play and listen to this episode. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Origin of the Episode (00:00:10) Brian introduces Mark Lowe, explains how the episode came from an AI class discussing BBB trust signals. Winning the BBB Torch Award for Ethics (00:01:41) Mark shares about receiving the 2024 BBB Torch Award for Ethics in Omaha, Midwest region. Torch Award Application Process and Criteria (00:01:59) Discussion of the rigorous application process, including community involvement, shop culture, and ethical practices. Community Involvement and Veteran Programs (00:02:59) Mark describes their community giveback and veteran support programs as part of the award submission. History with the BBB (00:03:23) Mark recounts how long they've been involved with the BBB and the value of active participation. Impact of BBB Membership Before the Award (00:04:07) Mark discusses limited customer impact from BBB membership prior to winning the award. Self-Reflection During Application (00:04:49) The application process prompted Mark to evaluate and improve business practices and staff support. Changes Made After Application (00:05:30) Mark highlights increased focus on employee training and development as a result of the process. Training and Team Building (00:06:16) Mark explains their approach to staff training, including attending Vision in Kansas City as a team. Award Ceremony and Recognition (00:07:28) Mark describes the award ceremony, online recognition, and displaying the award in the shop. Multiple Winners and Judging Process (00:08:31) Explanation of how multiple shops can win and the responsibility to judge future applicants. Award Eligibility and Reapplication (00:09:24) Mark clarifies the waiting period before reapplying for the Torch Award. Impact of Winning the Award on Staff (00:09:43) Winning increased staff pride, morale, and reinforced the shop’s commitment to ethics. AI, Trust Signals, and BBB in Marketing (00:13:01) Brian discusses AI’s use of trust signals like BBB; Mark shares how the award builds customer trust. Leveraging the Award in Marketing (00:14:01) Mark details using the award in website, social media, and ongoing marketing efforts. BBB Events and Community Activities (00:14:59) Mark describes BBB networking events, training, and community giveback initiatives. Post-Award Involvement and Presenting (00:15:55) Mark shares about being invited to present awards to other businesses after winning. Other Trust Signals and Certifications (00:16:33) Mark emphasizes ASE certifications as additional trust signals and their impact on staff confidence. Advice for Shop Owners on Involvement (00:18:26) Mark encourages shop owners to invest in their people and participate in organizations for mutual benefit. Closing Thoughts and Farewell (00:19:03) Mark’s final advice: do the right thing and take care of people; Brian wraps up the 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Better Business Bureau (BBB) 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	If I Took Over Your Shop’s Marketing For 90 Days [E192]	18 Feb 2026	00:37:31
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled What would happen if someone walked into your shop tomorrow and took over your marketing for the next 90 days? No theory. No fluff. No “someday” ideas. Just a step-by-step execution plan designed to fill bays, tighten up your processes, and position your shop as the obvious choice in your market. In this episode, Brian lays out exactly what he would do, starting with Local Service Ads and a full marketing audit, all the way through AI optimization, content strategy, Google Ads, CRM implementation, phone call analysis, video marketing, community networking through BNI and the Chamber, and even launching a local podcast. This is a blueprint. Not for surviving. For building something that dominates. If your shop isn’t doing consistent marketing, or you’re doing some of it but not seeing the traction you want, this episode will show you where to focus first and what to fix next. Stop guessing. Start executing. Hit play now and see what 90 days of focused marketing could really do for your shop. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Episode Context (00:00:00) Brian introduces the episode, outlines the 90-day marketing takeover scenario, and thanks sponsors. Assumptions and Approach (00:01:18) Explains assumptions: general repair shop, little/no marketing, and the step-by-step blueprint approach. Start Local Services Ads (LSA) Process (00:02:15) Begins LSA setup due to approval time, discusses its importance and common misconceptions. Shop Cleanup for First Impressions (00:04:20) Assigns cleaning and organizing the shop to improve first impressions for marketing visuals. Comprehensive Marketing Audit (00:06:26) Performs a full audit: Google Business Profile, website (including ADA compliance), social media, email, and direct mail. Join Community Groups (BNI & Chamber) (00:10:03) Joins BNI and Chamber of Commerce, brings a team member to train for ongoing networking. Set Up AI Tools (ChatGPT & Claude) (00:11:05) Implements AI tools for marketing support, content creation, and brand training. Create Content Bank (00:12:26) Builds a large repository of website and marketing content, ensuring quality and brand alignment. Develop Team Bios, Memberships, and News Sections (00:14:42) Adds team bios, memberships/affiliations, and news/awards to the website for trust and authority. Implement Guest X for Call Analysis (00:20:23) Uses Guest X to analyze phone calls, improve service advisor skills, and ensure marketing ROI. Daily and Weekly Video Content (00:22:44) Begins daily short-form and weekly long-form video creation to engage and educate the audience. Start a Local Community Podcast (00:23:42) Launches a podcast focused on local community topics, not auto repair, to build local authority. Weekly SEO & AI-Optimized Content (00:24:44) Publishes weekly written content based on real shop issues, optimized for both SEO and AI. Staff Meeting: Collect Client Questions (00:27:12) Holds a team meeting to gather all client questions, forming a content creation roadmap. Set Up Google Ads (00:28:18) Implements Google Ads to target specific profitable services and detailed search queries. Replace Stock Images with Real Photos (00:29:23) Takes and uploads real shop photos to replace stock images on the website and marketing materials. Implement Review Strategy (00:30:24) Establishes a process to generate and respond to reviews that boost SEO and AI visibility. Deploy CRM (App Fueled) (00:31:33) Implements a CRM (App Fueled) for client communication, follow-ups, and call center integration. Send Regular Email Newsletters (00:33:50) Starts monthly email newsletters to keep the shop top-of-mind, focusing on brand presence over open rates. Conclusion and Call for Feedback (00:35:53) Encourages listeners to share results, check out other podcasts, and thanks sponsors. 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.” 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) They Ask, You Answer Endless Customers Business Network International Claude The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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.
	5 Reasons You Should Be Meta Verified [E191]	11 Feb 2026	00:29:52
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Meta Verified isn’t just for celebrities anymore, and no, it’s not just about that little blue checkmark either. In this episode, Hallie Wasinger and Caroline LeGrand from Shop Marketing Pros dig into five solid reasons why your auto repair shop might want to seriously consider Meta Verification. We’re talking real-world protection from impersonators, better access to Meta support when something goes sideways (because it will), and even perks that can boost your SEO and visibility in the algorithm. Caroline breaks down the entire process, what it actually gets you, and how to know if it’s right for your shop. If you’ve ever asked, “Should my business be Meta Verified?”—this episode is your answer. Give it a listen, and decide if it’s time to level up your digital presence Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Messages (00:00:00) Podcast and hosts introduced; sponsors Shop Boss and App Fueled are mentioned. Background on Meta Verification (00:01:06) Hallie and Caroline discuss their initial skepticism and early research on Meta verification. Meta Verification for Public Figures vs. Businesses (00:02:13) Explains how verification started for celebrities and public figures, and the shift to broader availability. Real-World Example: Meta Verification Benefits (00:02:29) Hallie shares a story from Macon about another agency benefiting from Meta verification during a Facebook ads hack. Updated Research and Agency Perspective (00:03:51) Caroline describes her new research and conversations with another agency about Meta verification. Meta Verification vs. Business Certification (00:04:45) Distinguishes between verifying a business page and business portfolio certification. Impersonation Protection and Security (00:05:17) Discusses impersonation protection, security, and limitations for agencies managing multiple pages. Enhanced Support and Limitations (00:06:08) Explains the scope of enhanced support and its limitations for business portfolios and client pages. Five Main Benefits of Meta Verification (00:07:21) Caroline outlines the five main benefits: enhanced support, improved security, impersonation protection, links/content, and search optimization. Levels of Meta Verification (00:11:35) Describes the four levels of verification (Standard, Plus, Premium, Max) and their differences. Sponsor Messages (00:13:06) Additional sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled. The Meta Verification Process (00:15:09) Caroline explains the step-by-step process to get Meta verified and why it was quick for them. Importance of Facebook Hygiene (00:17:12) Discusses the importance of good Facebook practices for successful verification. Personal Profiles and Business Pages (00:17:55) Explains the relationship between personal profiles and business pages, and the impact of personal behavior. Consequences of Poor Facebook Hygiene (00:19:05) Shares an example of how a business owner’s personal profile in “Facebook jail” affected their business page and ads. Meta Verification vs. Business Certification for Multi-location Businesses (00:20:56) Clarifies when to use verification versus certification, especially for multi-location businesses. SEO and Search Optimization Benefits (00:23:02) Explains how Meta verification helps with links in posts, SEO, and algorithm prioritization. Algorithm Prioritization and Featured Profiles (00:25:11) Describes how verified pages are prioritized in Facebook’s algorithm and featured more prominently. Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:26:53) Hosts summarize their changed perspective on Meta verification and encourage listeners to consider it. Outro and Mardi Gras Farewell (00:29:07) Hosts sign off, mention Mardi Gras, and invite listeners to future episodes. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Get Meta Verified 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 Great Google Ads Hack of 2025 [E190]	04 Feb 2026	00:58:23
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled December 16th, Shop Marketing Pros’ Google Ads MCC was hacked — and what should’ve been a quick fix turned into an eight-day nightmare of lost access, fraudulent campaigns, and even attempted $500,000 account “preload” charges. Brian Walker and Hallie Wasinger lay out the full timeline (warts and all): what the hackers changed, why leaving them “view-only” mattered, how Google support handled it, and what it took to restore and stabilize dozens of client accounts. If you run Google Ads (or hire someone who does), listen all the way through for the hard-earned security upgrades and practical steps to protect your MCC and your shop’s payment methods. Show Notes with Timestamps Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) Brief intro to the podcast, hosts, and episode topic. The Google Ads Hack Begins (00:02:20) Timeline and discovery of the hack on December 16th, 2024, at around 2:30 AM. Immediate Response and MCC Explanation (00:03:11) How the hack was discovered, initial response, and what a Google Ads MCC is. How the Hack Happened (00:05:39) Discussion of phishing, weak Google 2FA, and how hackers gained access. Scope of the Breach (00:06:47) Number of affected accounts, types of accounts, and initial impact. Contacting Google and Early Damage (00:07:29) Brian contacts Google by 4:50 AM; minimal damage at this stage. How Hackers Maintained Access (00:10:15) Hackers downgrade admin access to view-only, allowing continued monitoring. Timeline to Regain Access (00:11:16) Hack occurred December 16th; access restored December 23rd after eight days. Tracking the Hackers’ Actions (00:12:15) Team tracks every change made by hackers during the eight days. Hackers’ Motives and Ad Spend (00:14:48) Hackers run fake medical device ads, spend about $15,000, and attempt large charges. Massive Unauthorized Charges (00:17:16) Multiple $500,000 and $50,000 charges attempted; client reactions and reversals. Client Communication and Stress (00:20:04) Notifying clients, handling overdrawn accounts, and emotional impact. Controlling What They Could (00:22:02) Accepting limited control, focusing on communication and tracking. Escalating to Authorities and Senators (00:22:48) Filing complaints with FBI, DHS, and contacting senators for help. Disconnecting LSA Accounts (00:24:35) Quickly disconnecting Local Services Ads to limit further damage. Impact on Client Businesses (00:26:21) Ad downtime affects client lead flow and business operations. Other Agencies Hacked & Security Changes (00:27:25) Similar hacks in the industry; tightening security after a competitor’s hack in November. Regaining Access and Google’s Restoration (00:30:50) Google restores access on December 23rd, but hackers remain as view-only users. Restoring Client Accounts (00:33:14) Manually removing hackers, restoring admin access, and turning ads back on. Ongoing Issues After Restoration (00:34:48) Continued problems with account suspensions, payment issues, and policy violations. Senators’ Involvement and Google Support Loops (00:34:48) Senators help escalate with Google; difficulties reaching Google support. Google’s Account Suspension Process (00:38:38) MCC suspension fails to stop hackers; sub-account suspensions more effective. Restoring Payment Methods and Account Suspensions (00:39:55) Clients must update payment methods; some accounts face new suspensions. Policy Violations and Remaining Issues (00:41:00) Circumventing policy violations and destination errors persist for some accounts. Lessons Learned and Client Impact (00:44:10) Working with clients on compensation; varying levels of impact. Security Improvements Implemented (00:46:14) Switching to hardware keys, unique admin emails, and stricter access controls. Moving Client Budgets to Agency Cards (00:49:27) Agency now pays ad budgets, clients reimburse; logistical and security benefits. Advice for Other Shops and Agencies (00:52:18) Recommendations: use dedicated cards, review account access, and enable strong 2FA. Google’s Needed Changes (00:54:56) Call for Google to add super-admin roles and better user management. Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:56:32) Reflecting on the experience, ongoing recovery, and closing the 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Automotive Repair Podcast Network 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	The Most Important KPI You're Not Tracking with Chris Cotton [E189]	28 Jan 2026	00:28:15
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled You might be tracking average repair order, car count, even gross profit, but are you looking at your average estimate? In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with coach and shop owner Chris Cotton to dig into what may be the most underutilized KPI in the auto repair industry. Chris lays out real numbers, explains why average estimate is a crystal ball into your sales process, and even shares the exact changes his shop made to 4x estimates and drive gross profit through the roof, all in just one year. If you’ve ever asked yourself “Why aren’t my tickets higher?” or “Do I really need another service advisor?” this is the episode for you. Plus, you’ll hear actionable advice on how to move the needle on closing ratios, the power of DVI, and why the right software may be the best investment you’ll ever make. Hit play and discover why average estimate might be the missing metric in your shop's growth strategy. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgements (00:00:09) Host introduces the podcast, guest Chris Cotton, and thanks sponsors. Setting the Topic: The Most Important KPI You're Not Tracking (00:01:14) Discussion begins on the underutilized KPI: average estimate written by service advisors. Why Average Estimate Matters (00:01:47) Chris explains why average estimate is overlooked and its importance in diagnosing low average repair orders. How to Track Average Estimate (00:03:36) Discussion on how shop management systems track average estimate and the need to analyze by advisor and shop. Chris Cotton’s Shop Background and Context (00:04:23) Chris shares his dual role as coach and shop owner, and sets context for the numbers discussed. Differences Between Shop Types and KPIs (00:06:07) Explains how KPIs differ between general, specialty, and quick lube shops, and the impact on labor hours. Shop Operations: Car Count, Bays, and Staffing (00:07:25) Chris details his shop’s car count, number of bays, technicians, and unique seven-day schedule. Process Improvements and Estimate Presentation (00:09:29) Describes improvements in hours presented on estimates and the impact of digital vehicle inspections (DVIs). Leveraging Technology for Deferred Work (00:10:26) How CRM tools and online scheduling help sell deferred work and improve customer engagement. Transparency and Full Disclosure in Estimates (00:11:20) Chris’s philosophy on presenting all findings to customers for informed decision-making. What is a Good Average Estimate? (00:13:19) Chris shares a rule of thumb for average estimate based on vehicle mileage and shop type. Impact of Raising Average Estimate on Revenue (00:14:51) Chris details how increasing average estimate improved average repair order and overall revenue. Closing Ratio Challenges and Training (00:15:46) Discusses the drop in closing ratio after raising estimate size and ongoing training to improve sales. Staffing and Writing Estimates: Capacity and Care (00:17:04) Advice for shops understaffed or hesitant to write full estimates; importance of customer care. Legal and Moral Obligation to Inform Customers (00:18:14) Discusses legal cases and the obligation to inform customers of all vehicle issues. Gross Profit and Other Overlooked KPIs (00:21:06) Chris highlights the importance of tracking gross profit dollars, labor hours per ticket, and closing ratio. Strategies to Improve Closing Ratio (00:23:01) Focus on training, hiring the right people, and offering financing to boost closing rates. The Value of Good Shop Management Software (00:23:57) Emphasizes the ROI of robust shop management systems and the pitfalls of handwritten tickets. Preparing for Business Sale and Transparency (00:25:34) Importance of accurate records and transparency for business valuation and sale. Choosing the Right Shop Management System (00:26:16) Advice on selecting systems with robust reporting and avoiding unnecessary add-ons. How to Connect with Chris Cotton (00:26:39) Chris shares his contact information and resources for further learning. Podcast Wrap-Up and Additional Resources (00:27:07) Host promotes Chris’s podcast series and the Automotive Repair Podcast Network app. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) The Weekly Blitz Podcast AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching TechMetric AutoOps 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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...
	How to Work the Chamber of Commerce [E188]	21 Jan 2026	00:18:48
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled You joined the Chamber of Commerce - great move. But now what? This episode pulls back the curtain on why just paying your dues and slapping a sticker on your window doesn’t cut it. The chamber isn’t a vending machine where you drop in money and business pops out, it’s a networking powerhouse if you actually use it. We dig into how to evaluate your local chamber, the right way to get involved, and how to turn those meet-and-greets into actual business growth. From business before hours and luncheons to sponsorships and ribbon cuttings, you’ll walk away with a game plan that puts you in the driver’s seat. And hey, it doesn’t have to be you showing up every time, there are smart ways to delegate this, too. So if you’ve ever said “the chamber doesn’t work,” you might want to give this one a listen. You might just find the real problem isn’t the chamber, it’s how you’re (not) using it. Tune in and learn how to work the chamber to work for you. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgements(00:00:09) Hosts introduce the episode, topic, and thank sponsors Shop Boss and App Fueled. Chamber of Commerce Misconceptions(00:01:04) Discuss the misconception that joining the Chamber automatically brings business; importance of active participation. Evaluating Your Local Chamber(00:02:22) How to research and assess your local Chamber’s value via social media, website, and events. Chamber Events and Opportunities(00:04:21) Overview of typical Chamber events, luncheons, fundraisers, and sponsorship opportunities. Member Directory and Secret Shopping(00:06:25) Using the Chamber’s member directory for SEO and the value of attending events before joining. Delegating Chamber Involvement(00:07:31) Encouragement to delegate Chamber activities to staff, such as service advisors, with possible incentives. Sponsor Messages(00:08:43) Mid-episode sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled. Getting Involved in Committees(00:10:43) Benefits of joining Chamber committees and finding one that aligns with your interests. Chamber Involvement as Business Growth(00:12:05) Chamber and networking as cost-effective growth strategies, especially for new businesses. Delegation and Networking Evolution(00:13:51) How Chamber involvement evolves as your business grows and the importance of building connections. Community Initiatives and Chamber Support(00:14:10) Examples of leveraging the Chamber for community projects and the resulting benefits. Hosting Events and Ribbon Cuttings(00:15:30) Using your shop to host Chamber events and the value of ribbon cuttings for publicity. Sponsorship and Brand Awareness(00:16:43) Creative sponsorship opportunities at Chamber events to boost brand visibility. Conclusion and Podcast Network Promotion(00:17:55) Episode wrap-up, encouragement to download the network app, and final sponsor thanks. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) BNI Auto Repair Podcast Network App 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	How to Choose the Right BNI Group [E187]	14 Jan 2026	00:26:48
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Let’s be honest: BNI isn’t new to you. If you’ve been around this podcast, you’ve heard us talk about Business Networking International before. But this time, we’re taking a deeper dive into something super practical: how to actually choose the right BNI group for your shop. Because let’s be real, not all chapters are created equal. In this episode, Kim and I walk you through the exact steps we’ve taken to find the best-fit groups, what red flags to look for, and how to show up ready to make a killer first impression. Whether you’re a natural introvert like me or you’re already networking like crazy, there’s a group out there for you, and we’ll help you find it. Don’t miss this one—especially if you're ready to grow your business through real relationships and legitimate referrals. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsors (00:00:00) Podcast introduction, hosts, and sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled. What is BNI? (00:01:20) Explanation of BNI, its structure, exclusivity, and benefits for business networking. Personal Experiences with BNI (00:02:31) Hosts share how BNI helped their businesses and personal growth, especially in public speaking. BNI’s Structure and Meeting Format (00:03:44) Description of BNI’s structured meetings, weekly agenda, and the value of regular participation. Tracking BNI’s Impact (00:06:39) How the hosts tracked BNI as a marketing source and the variety of chapters in different regions. Finding and Choosing a BNI Group (00:08:29) Step-by-step advice on finding local BNI chapters and evaluating group membership. Understanding Networking Spheres (00:09:56) Explanation of networking spheres and the importance of complementary businesses in BNI groups. Starting a New Chapter (00:10:50) Advice on starting a new BNI chapter if your area is underserved. Evaluating Group Culture and Fit (00:13:03) How to assess group meeting times, culture, and whether the group’s vibe matches your needs. Visiting and Assessing Groups (00:14:27) Tips for visiting groups, gauging friendliness, and looking for active, growing chapters. Referrals vs. Leads in BNI (00:15:40) Clarifying the difference between warm referrals and cold leads in BNI. Attendance and Participation Expectations (00:16:17) Importance of consistent attendance, sending substitutes, and treating BNI as a sales meeting. Preparing to Visit a BNI Group (00:17:40) Best practices for contacting the group, arriving early, and networking effectively. Making a Good First Impression (00:19:13) Bring business cards, research members, and tips for effective networking and presentations. Membership Application Process (00:20:23) Overview of the application, vetting, and selection process for joining a BNI group. Choosing the Right Group for You (00:21:14) Encouragement to visit multiple groups and focus on contact spheres and giving referrals. Managing Expectations and Building Relationships (00:22:22) Advice on patience, building trust, and the importance of giving before receiving in BNI. Getting Involved and Leadership (00:23:28) Encouragement to participate in leadership and help shape group culture. What to Do if Your Seat is Taken (00:24:28) Strategies for staying engaged, waiting for openings, or starting a new group. Closing Remarks and Podcast Network Info (00:25:45) Episode wrap-up, network app promotion, and final sponsor acknowledgments. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) BNI Episode 124: BNI and Auto Repair Go Hand in Hand with Steve Hand Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Our Favorite Episodes of 2025 [E186]	07 Jan 2026	00:33:21
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Want a shortcut to the best episodes from 2025 that’ll breathe new life into your mindset, your marketing, and your mission as a shop owner? This one’s a must-listen. Kim and Brian sat down, actually face-to-face for once, to unpack the ten episodes from last year that left a lasting impact. Whether it’s building superfans, preparing your shop for anything life throws your way, or rekindling that fire that got you into this industry in the first place, we’ve got you covered. Grab a notebook and dive into this recap, it’s more than a look back; it’s your launchpad into 2026. 👉 Go listen and pick the episodes that speak to where you are right now. Show Notes with Timestamps 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Profit First Buy Back Your Time 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 Fast Track: How Paying for Speed Changes Everything [E185]	31 Dec 2025	00:16:11
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Standing in line for hours at Disney might not sound like it has anything to do with running an auto repair shop but Brian Walker draws a straight line between the two. In this episode, he shares how paying to fast track your experiences, whether it’s in business, life, or even theme parks, can be the smartest investment you make. With real talk from his own business journey and the hard lessons he learned over the years, Brian lays out how mentorship, coaching, and strategic outsourcing can shave years off your learning curve and put you on the express track to success. If you’re tired of figuring everything out the hard way, this one’s for you. Hit play and let’s talk about skipping the line in business and in life. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Thanks (00:00:09) Brian introduces the episode, thanks sponsors, and sets up the topic of "fast tracking" in life. Disney Line Story & The Illusion of Shortcuts (00:01:10) Brian shares his pastor's story about long Disney lines and the reality behind seemingly short waits. Brian’s Disney VIP Experience (00:03:19) Brian describes his own Disney VIP experience, using it as an analogy for fast tracking success. The Value of Paying for Mentorship and Coaching (00:04:37) Brian discusses how paying for expert guidance accelerates learning and business growth. Learning the Hard Way vs. Fast Tracking (00:05:46) Brian reflects on his agency’s slow progress before joining specialized coaching programs. Realizing the Benefits of Coaching Programs (00:06:46) Brian realizes he could have saved years by joining a coaching program earlier. Sponsor Messages (00:07:30) Sponsor ads for Shop Boss and App Fueled, highlighting their business solutions. Condensing Years of Learning into a Day (00:09:05) Brian explains how coaching programs now teach in a day what took him years to learn. Paying for Services to Buy Back Time (00:10:12) Brian encourages business owners to delegate tasks to professionals to save time and focus on strengths. Challenging the “Do It Yourself” Mentality (00:11:17) Brian questions the belief that you should never pay for something you can do yourself. The Value of Buying Back Your Time (00:12:34) Brian advocates for paying others to free up time for more valuable or enjoyable activities. Encouragement to Invest in Fast Tracking (00:13:52) Brian urges listeners to invest in mentorship or services to accelerate progress and stay in their zone of genius. Final Thoughts and Disney Analogy (00:14:58) Brian wraps up, encouraging listeners to pay for better experiences in life, using Disney VIP as an example. Outro and Podcast App Promotion (00:15:48) Outro with information about the podcast network and app, and a thank you to listeners and sponsors. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Profit First Buy Back Your Time 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	How ASCCA Protected Shops’ Ability to Track Google Ads—An Insider Update with Dave Kusa [E184]	24 Dec 2025	00:24:17
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled California auto repair shop owners, there’s a new regulation that almost flew under the radar, and if you're doing any kind of digital advertising, you’ll want to hit play on this one. In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with Dave Kusa, president of ASCCA, to break down recent changes from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) that affect how you advertise your shop, especially when it comes to your phone number and license info. Spoiler: that tracking number you’ve been using to measure ad performance? It’s not necessarily a problem... but there are some key things you need to know to stay compliant and avoid issues down the line. They also talk about how this regulation came about, what ASCCA did to advocate for shop owners, and what to expect moving forward. Plus, if you’ve ever wondered why joining an association like ASCCA really matters, this is a perfect example of how that involvement pays off. If you're marketing a shop in California, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, this is one you can’t afford to miss. Listen now and keep your shop out of trouble. Show Notes with Timestamps Podcast Network Introduction (00:00:00) Brief announcement of the Automotive Repair Podcast Network. Episode Introduction & Sponsors (00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces the episode, guest Dave Kusa, and thanks sponsors Shop Boss and App Fueled. Guest Introduction & ASCCA Overview (00:01:01) Dave Kusa introduces himself, his shop, and his role as ASCCA president and Government Affairs Committee chair. ASCCA’s Role in Regulatory Issues (00:02:18) Discussion of ASCCA’s involvement with the BAR advisory group and regulatory processes. Background on New BAR Advertising Rules (00:03:41) Explanation of how the new BAR advertising rules, especially phone number requirements, came to ASCCA’s attention. Origin of Mobile Auto Repair Regulations (00:04:36) Details on how mobile repair regulations led to broader advertising requirements for all shops. Tracking Numbers & Industry Response (00:06:23) Concerns about tracking numbers, ASCCA’s advocacy, and BAR’s clarification on acceptable phone number practices. Current Compliance Recommendations (00:08:06) Advice on displaying registered phone numbers and ARD license on websites and digital marketing. Unresolved Issues & Awaiting Written Guidance (00:09:00) Pending clarity on Google My Business, Facebook, and the need for written BAR guidance. Best Practices & Consumer Protection (00:09:49) Benefits of displaying ARD numbers for legitimacy and consumer verification. Sponsor Messages (00:10:11) Promotional messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled. BAR’s Enforcement Approach & Dynamic Number Insertion (00:12:03) Discussion of BAR’s grace period, enforcement, and allowance for dynamic number insertion on websites. Multi-location Shops & Digital Marketing Requirements (00:13:50) Clarification on advertising requirements for shops with multiple locations. Timeline for Finalized BAR Rules (00:14:31) Expected timing and process for BAR to issue finalized, codified advertising regulations. Other BAR Regulations Related to Advertising (00:16:08) Overview of other BAR regulations, including new storage rules, mostly affecting collision shops. Legislative Process & Advocacy (00:17:14) Explanation of California’s legislative process and the importance of advocacy through ASCCA. Benefits of Association Membership (00:18:01) Advantages of joining ASCCA, including legislative representation, networking, and support. How to Join ASCCA (00:21:58) Steps for joining ASCCA, local chapter involvement, and organizational structure. Episode Wrap-up & Contact Information (00:23:24) Closing remarks, app download info, sponsor thanks, and encouragement to listen to future episodes. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) ASCCA Website Auto Repair Marketing Podcast Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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.
	Preparing for the Unexpected with Darrin and Ginger Barney [E183]	17 Dec 2025	00:51:46
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Most shop owners avoid tough conversations until it’s too late. But what happens when life throws you something completely unexpected, like the sudden loss of a loved one or a health scare that takes you out of your business? In this powerful, heartfelt conversation between Darrin and Ginger Barney (Elite), and Brian and Kim Walker (Shop Marketing Pros), these industry leaders open up about the real-life wake-up calls that forced them to prepare for the unthinkable. From losing parents to near-miss tragedies, they share the emotional and logistical side of what happens when you're not ready, personally or professionally. They talk about wills, SOPs, key person insurance, and yes, those “if I die” videos nobody wants to think about but everyone needs. More importantly, they cover what it means to love your team, your clients, and your family enough to take action before the worst happens. This isn’t about fear. It’s about leadership. It’s about responsibility. And it’s about love. 🎧 Don’t miss this one. Listen in and take that first step toward securing your legacy, and your shop’s future. Show Notes with Timestamps Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) Brief intro to the podcast network and episode topic: business continuity planning for auto repair shops. Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:01:02) Thanking sponsors and encouraging listeners to take action on the episode’s advice. Guest Introductions (00:01:49) Darrin and Ginger Barney, Brian and Kim Walker introduce themselves and their backgrounds. Personal Loss Experiences (00:04:59) Ginger and Kim share recent experiences with the loss of their mothers and the importance of preparation. Password and Account Management (00:09:50) Discussing the challenges of managing digital accounts and passwords after a loved one passes. Business Continuity for Owners (00:13:06) Brian emphasizes the need for business continuity plans to protect employees and clients if owners are incapacitated. Real-Life Case Studies (00:14:05) Stories of business owners who passed away or became incapacitated without proper plans in place. The Importance of Continuation Plans (00:15:03) Discussing the impact of sudden absence and the need for operational continuity in businesses. Temporary vs. Permanent Absence (00:17:23) Examples of both temporary and permanent owner absences and the need for flexible planning. Bus Books and SOPs (00:18:45) Introduction to “bus books” and standard operating procedures as tools for continuity. Proactive Planning and Keeping Plans Updated (00:19:53) The value of proactive planning, checklists, and regularly updating continuity documents. Elite’s Continuation Plan Program (00:21:10) Elite’s new program to help shop owners build personalized continuation plans. Wills, Trusts, and Legal Preparation (00:22:46) Beyond wills: legal, financial, and operational steps for business and personal continuity. Tax Planning and Estate Management (00:29:27) The importance of tax planning and estate management as businesses grow in value. Key Man Insurance and Buy-Sell Agreements (00:30:47) Explaining key man insurance and buy-sell agreements for business partners. Insurance for Family and Employees (00:32:41) Personal insurance stories and planning for the loss or incapacity of family members or key employees. Building a Self-Sustaining Business (00:34:21) The goal of building a business that can thrive without daily owner involvement. EOS/Traction and Business Systems (00:35:29) How EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) helps create clarity and continuity in business operations. Call to Action: Start Planning Now (00:36:53) Encouragement for listeners to take immediate steps toward continuity planning. Elite’s Workshop and Resources (00:38:10) Announcement of Elite’s upcoming workshop and free checklist for continuity planning. Family Communication and Avoiding Conflict (00:39:21) The importance of discussing inheritance and personal items to prevent family disputes. Health and Longevity for Owners and Employees (00:41:33) Emphasizing personal health and wellness as part of business continuity. Supporting Employee Health (00:48:23) Encouraging owners to support employees’ health and well-being for business stability. Overcoming Discomfort and Taking Action (00:49:20) Advice to push through discomfort and start with small steps in planning. Final Thoughts and Resources (00:50:10) Closing remarks, offers for resources, and encouragement to reach out for help. Podcast Outro and App Promotion (00:50:56) Thanking listeners, promoting the podcast app, and inviting questions for future episodes. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Traction Rocket Fuel Elite Worldwide 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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.
	Takeaways From The Marketing AI Conference with Hallie Wasinger [E182]	10 Dec 2025	00:43:19
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled What if your best strategic thinking partner wasn’t on your payroll, but sitting right in your pocket? In this episode of The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Brian Walker sits down with Hallie Wasinger to unpack what she learned at the MAICON (Marketing AI Conference). But don’t let the name fool you, this conversation goes way beyond marketing. Hallie breaks down how AI is reshaping not just how we create content, but how we think, from operations to service efficiency to scaling personalized experiences for clients. This one’s packed with golden nuggets: the power of high-performance prompting, using ChatGPT as a strategic thinking partner, the CRIT method to get better AI outputs, and why voice AI is the underrated tool no one’s talking about yet (spoiler: your robot can now talk back). Oh, and yes, AI can help you be a better Bible scholar or diagnose complex repair issues. Wild, right? You’ll also hear how Shop Marketing Pros is already implementing layered AI tools to deliver smarter, more personalized content at scale, without sacrificing the human touch that makes their work special. This episode is a must-listen for any shop owner who wants to stay ahead of the curve, avoid getting left behind, and start using AI the right way, as a tool, not a replacement. Listen now to hear why it’s time to start talking to your robot and how it can help you fill those bays. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:00:10) Brian introduces the episode, guest Hallie Wasinger, and thanks sponsors. Overview of the Marketing AI Conference (MACON) (00:01:15) Hallie describes the MACON event, its scale, and the industries represented. AI in Marketing and Business Operations (00:02:12) Discussion on AI’s broad impact, not just in marketing but across industries. AI Resources and Influencers (00:02:36) Brian recommends the Artificial Intelligence Show podcast and Paul Roetzer. First Impressions and High-Performance Prompting (00:03:20) Hallie shares her initial conference experience and the importance of effective AI prompting. Environmental Impact of AI and Prompting Efficiency (00:04:59) Brian discusses AI’s environmental costs and how better prompting reduces resource use. Operational Efficiency and Prompt Libraries (00:07:20) Hallie explains creating, saving, and sharing high-performance prompts for team efficiency. Voice AI as a Strategic Thinking Partner (00:10:52) Hallie introduces using voice AI and ChatGPT as a brainstorming and problem-solving partner. Beyond Search: AI for Strategic and Personal Use (00:13:49) Brian and Hallie discuss using AI for deep thinking, business, and personal growth. Layering AI Tools and Choosing the Right LLM (00:19:05) Hallie explains testing and layering multiple AI tools for different business needs. The CRIT Framework for Strategic Prompting (00:21:54) Hallie introduces the CRIT (Context, Role, Interview, Task) method for better AI outputs. Human-First Approach and AI Limitations (00:26:03) Discussion on keeping humans central, using AI for efficiency, and current AI limitations. AI’s Impact on Client Services and Personalization (00:30:07) Hallie details how AI improves efficiency and output quality while maintaining personalized client service. Layering AI for Automation and Research (00:32:56) Examples of using AI for call listening, Google Ads auditing, and advanced SEO research. Long-Term Vision: Efficiency, Scale, and Team Impact (00:35:33) Hallie shares the future outlook for AI in their agency, including efficiency and scaling services. AI, Employment, and the Future of Work (00:37:14) Brian discusses AI’s effect on hiring, universal basic income, and the necessity of AI adoption. Value of AI Conferences for All Industries (00:40:18) Hallie emphasizes the universal value of AI conferences, even for auto repair shop owners. Final Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-Up (00:41:36) Closing remarks, encouragement to use AI, and information about the podcast network app. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) The Artificial Intelligence Show Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Automotive Repair Podcast Network 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	From Invisible to Unmissable: How McCart’s Auto Center Stands Out with Kelly McCart [E181]	03 Dec 2025	00:25:52
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled A bland building that blended in… turned bold brand that brought in business. That’s the real story behind this episode featuring Kelly McCart from McCart’s Auto Center. If you’ve ever wondered whether the look and feel of your shop actually matters, you’ll want to hear how a full-on rebrand, from paint to logo to online presence, transformed Kelly’s shop from invisible to impossible to miss. We talk about why aesthetics are marketing, how design can literally drive in new clients, and what it means when someone walks in just to say, “Wow, this looks amazing.” Kelly breaks down the “why” and “how” behind his shop’s renovation, how he pulled it off with DIY design (yes, scissors and Elmer’s glue were involved), and why rethinking your image might be the smartest move you make this year. He’ll also share how this shift doubled his staff, improved the quality of clients, and continues to make his business stand out, both to customers and future employees. This episode isn’t just about fresh paint. It’s about positioning. It’s about pride. And it’s about the kind of shop that people recognize, remember, and respect. Listen now and get inspired to rethink how your shop shows up. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:00:00) Brian introduces the podcast, guest Kelly McCart, and thanks sponsors. Background: The Nondescript Shop (00:01:09) Discussion of McCarty’s Auto Center blending in and being overlooked by passersby. Realization and Decision to Renovate (00:02:23) Kelly describes the moment she decided a change was needed and the process leading up to it. Design Process and Early Attempts (00:03:02) Kelly explains her design journey, including failed ideas and the involvement of her graphic artist nephew. Logo Creation and Selection (00:06:11) The story behind the new logo, its design process, and how it was chosen. Impact of the Makeover on Visibility (00:07:51) How the new look made the shop stand out and attracted attention from the community. Business Impact and Clientele Changes (00:08:16) The effect of the renovation on customer buzz, quality of clients, and local recognition. Interior Renovation and Staff Growth (00:09:31) Details about the interior revamp and the subsequent doubling of staff. Name Change and Brand Consolidation (00:12:21) Merging two business names, legal steps, and unifying the brand and online presence. Timing: Remodel and the Onset of COVID-19 (00:14:31) The remodel’s completion just before the pandemic and initial concerns about the timing. Business Resilience During COVID-19 (00:15:27) How the shop thrived during the pandemic despite initial fears. Comprehensive Rebrand: Lessons and Surprises (00:17:35) Kelly reflects on the thoroughness of the rebrand and whether anything unexpected arose. Results and Return on Investment (00:18:35) Immediate positive results from the rebrand and personal satisfaction. Staff Response and Branded Merchandise (00:19:10) Staff enthusiasm for the new brand, uniforms, and promotional items. Recruitment and Professional Image (00:19:54) How the makeover improved recruitment and elevated the shop’s professionalism. Advice and Reflections on the Process (00:20:29) Kelly’s advice for others considering a similar project and what she might have done differently. Cost Recovery Timeline (00:21:22) Estimated time to recoup renovation costs: 6 to 8 months. Industry Image and Future Direction (00:22:33) How shop aesthetics are changing public perception of the auto repair industry. Closing Remarks and Podcast Promotion (00:23:38) Final thoughts, gratitude, and information about where to find episode resources and the podcast app. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Article about McCart’s Auto Center on Ratchet & Wrench Website Photos of the Shop Transformation Auto Repair Podcast Network App 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Big, Beautiful, Impactful Email! [E180]	26 Nov 2025	01:05:15
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Kim Walker’s flying solo on this one, and she’s got a fire-in-her-belly message for every shop owner still sleeping on email marketing. This isn’t your typical “email tips” episode, it’s a storytelling breakdown of one jaw-dropping, beautifully built email from Mission Mercantile that had Kim hooked, clicking, and even podcasting about it. She breaks down what made this email a masterclass in branding: from a killer subject line (“Not Cheap… But Worth Every Penny”) to irresistible storytelling, handcrafted visuals, call-to-actions in all the right places, and brand language that oozes trust and legacy. If you’ve let your email marketing fall to the wayside, this episode is your wake-up call. Kim lays out why email isn’t dead, it’s just being underused. She challenges shop owners to rethink the way they write emails, stay top-of-mind with customers, and deliver real value (not just deals). Don’t miss this breakdown. You’ll walk away inspired to write emails your customers actually want to open. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Shoutouts (00:00:10) Kim introduces herself, mentions Brian's absence, and gives sponsor shoutouts. Email Marketing Comeback & Shop Plans (00:01:19) Kim discusses the resurgence of email marketing in auto repair shops' plans for 2026. Discovery of Mission Mercantile (00:02:21) Kim shares how she found Mission Mercantile while searching for a high-quality leather backpack. Purchase Experience & Customer Service (00:05:34) Kim describes her purchase, a product issue, and Mission Mercantile’s excellent customer service. The Impactful Email Arrives (00:06:44) Kim details receiving the November 6th email, its subject line, and her immediate reaction. Email Storytelling & Visuals (00:07:56) Kim analyzes the email’s storytelling, visuals, and how it addresses customer needs. Call to Action & Product Details (00:10:05) Kim explains the email’s calls to action, product quality descriptions, and lifetime guarantee. Brand Voice & Mythical Customer Care (00:11:29) Kim highlights the brand’s unique voice, “mythical customer care,” and how it resonates with her. Sponsor Messages (00:12:35) Sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled are presented. Testimonials & Social Proof (00:14:36) Kim discusses the use of customer testimonials and how they reinforce the email’s message. Black Friday Teaser & List Segmentation (00:16:08) Kim describes the email’s Black Friday promotion and how it segments the audience. Differentiators & American Made Focus (00:17:19) Kim notes the email’s emphasis on differentiators, including being American made and customer care. Personal Impact & Email Retention (00:18:33) Kim shares how the email influenced her to stay subscribed and even consider future purchases. Advice for Shop Owners on Email Marketing (00:19:41) Kim gives actionable advice to shop owners about effective email marketing strategies. Closing Thoughts & Contact Info (00:21:58) Kim wraps up, offers to share the email, invites topic suggestions, and promotes the Facebook group. Outro and Network Promotion (00:23:09) Kim and the network promote other shows and the podcast app, closing the 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Mission Merchantile 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 Legalities of Tracking Numbers and Recording Calls with David Boyd [E179]	19 Nov 2025	00:25:10
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled There’s a lot you can ignore in marketing, but legal compliance isn’t one of them. Especially when a quiet policy change in California nearly stripped shops of their ability to track marketing ROI overnight. This episode dives into the legalities of call recording, AI evaluations, tracking numbers, and the kind of red tape that can blindside your business if you’re not paying attention. Brian Walker sat down with David Boyd from Inbound at AAPEX to talk through what’s happening, what’s coming, and how to protect your shop without sacrificing performance. If you’ve ever used call tracking, AI analysis, or just assumed “someone else is handling that,” you need to hear this. Listen in and make sure you’re not one policy update away from a lawsuit. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Conference Setting (00:00:10) Brian introduces the guest, David Lloyd, and discusses the conference atmosphere at AAPEX. California BAR Regulation on Phone Numbers (00:02:01) Discussion of California’s Bureau of Auto Repair rule on using only registered phone numbers in advertising. Implications and Confusion Around Enforcement (00:04:30) Exploring the impact of the regulation, confusion among advertisers, and lack of clear communication from BAR. Staying Informed and Advocacy (00:06:16) Importance of involvement in advocacy groups and staying updated on regulatory changes, especially state-by-state. AI and Legal Uncertainty in Call Evaluation (00:08:18) Rapid AI development, legal gray areas, and the use of AI to evaluate recorded calls. Call Recording Laws and Best Practices (00:09:19) Explanation of two-party consent laws, best practices for call recording, and new privacy concerns with AI evaluation. One-Party Consent States and Third-Party Evaluation (00:11:37) Uncertainty about notification requirements in one-party consent states when AI or third parties evaluate calls. Employee Notification and Documentation (00:15:46) Advising shop owners to inform employees about call recording and document consent in employee handbooks. AI, Data Privacy, and Business Risks (00:16:54) Concerns about AI handling personal data, privacy risks, and the need for responsible AI use in business. Personalization and AI Data Collection (00:19:47) How AI personalizes responses, collects user data, and the potential for identity exposure. Establishing an AI Use Policy (00:21:07) Recommendation for businesses to create and enforce an AI use policy signed by all employees. Vendor Relationships and Regulatory Awareness (00:22:43) Encouragement to maintain open communication with vendors and stay aware of legal and regulatory changes. Podcast Network App Promotion and Closing (00:23:44) Promotion of the Automotive Repair Podcast Network app and closing remarks. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Automotive Repair Podcast Network 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Who is Josh Parnell, Really? [E178]	12 Nov 2025	00:39:12
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Josh Parnell’s story isn’t your typical rise to success narrative. It’s one of faith, perspective, and the kind of leadership that’s forged through humility and hard lessons. From dreaming of becoming a filmmaker to serving as an Air Force cop in Minot, North Dakota, to climbing the ranks at Christian Brothers Automotive, Josh’s journey is filled with turns only God could have scripted. In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with Josh to uncover the man behind Limitless Leadership. They dig into what shaped him, how the Air Force taught him about attitude and effort, and why leadership, at its core, is a skill that must be practiced daily. Josh opens up about marriage, fatherhood, emotional regulation, and the lessons that counseling and faith have taught him about self-awareness and service. You’ll also hear how he helps shop owners become better communicators, leaders, and coaches through his Limitless Leadership Blueprint and why “people before process” is more than just a saying for him. This conversation is real, raw, and packed with wisdom for anyone leading a team, running a shop, or trying to grow into the person they’re called to be. 🎧 Listen now to hear how Josh Parnell is helping leaders across the auto repair industry move beyond limits and learn what it truly means to keep leading well. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgement (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast, guest Josh Parnell, and thanks sponsors. Josh’s Early Life and Aspirations (00:02:00) Josh discusses growing up in Louisiana and Texas, his filmmaking dreams, and attending University of North Texas. Military Service and Lessons Learned (00:02:53) Josh shares how he joined the Air Force, became a military police officer, and learned about attitude and effort. Stationed in North Dakota and Perspective (00:04:29) Josh talks about being stationed in Minot, North Dakota, and the importance of perspective and mentorship. Family Background and Upbringing (00:07:01) Josh describes his move from Louisiana to Texas and his upbringing in Houston. Leadership at Christian Brothers Automotive (00:09:02) Josh explains his leadership journey at Christian Brothers Automotive and the transition to leadership coaching. Hardest Leadership Lessons Learned (00:11:18) Josh discusses the challenges of being coachable and learning from feedback during his time at Christian Brothers. The Value of Coaching and Counseling (00:13:54) Josh and Brian talk about the importance of coaching, counseling, and personal growth. Sponsor Messages (00:14:43) Sponsor advertisements for Shop Boss and App Fueled. Limitless Leadership Blueprint Course (00:16:41) Josh introduces his online leadership course and its three modules: self-leadership, communication, and team leadership. Communication and Counseling in Leadership (00:19:31) Discussion on the impact of communication, counseling, and mental health in leadership and personal life. Vulnerability and Emotional Regulation (00:23:21) Josh emphasizes vulnerability, journaling, and emotional regulation as key leadership skills. Limitless Leadership Podcast Milestone (00:24:44) Brian congratulates Josh on surpassing 100 podcast episodes and discusses podcast longevity. Favorite Podcast Episodes (00:25:28) Josh shares his favorite podcast episodes and memorable guests. Best Leadership Definitions from Guests (00:26:47) Josh reflects on the best answers to "What is leadership?" from his podcast guests. Josh’s Definition of Leadership (00:28:14) Josh gives his own definition of leadership, focusing on influence and developing others. Quintessential Leaders and Influences (00:29:55) Josh names Jesus, Craig Groeschel, Ed Mylett, and his wife as leadership role models. Personal Life and Hobbies (00:32:44) Josh talks about his family, hobbies, being an introvert, and balancing work and life. Role of Faith in Life and Business (00:35:03) Josh discusses the central role of faith in his personal, family, and professional life. Upcoming Events and Conferences (00:37:02) Josh shares information about upcoming leadership trainings and conferences. Final Thoughts and Contact Information (00:38:01) Josh offers closing advice, encourages connection, and shares how to reach him. Podcast Closing (00:38:49) Podcast outro and information about the Aftermarket Radio Network. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Limitless Leadership The Limitless Leadership Podcast Limitless Leadership Blueprint The Four Agreements Buy Back Your Time Building a StoryBrand 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Planning for December's Marketing [E177]	05 Nov 2025	00:34:05
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled December comes faster than most of us expect, and if you’re not planning your shop’s holiday marketing now, you’ll be scrambling when the tinsel hits the floor. In this episode of The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Brian Walker and Caroline LeGrand break down how to finish the year strong with festive, community-driven content that actually connects. From shop Christmas parties and Operation Santa Paws to car giveaways and safety awareness campaigns, Brian and Caroline unpack creative, authentic ways to bring holiday cheer into your marketing. They even dive into clever spins on National Cookie Cutter Week, sharing your shop’s “naughty and nice” list, and the power of using year-end stats to celebrate your team and customers. Whether you’re highlighting your community involvement, promoting gift cards, or just sharing some lighthearted holiday fun (Hallmark movie talk included), this conversation will give you ideas that help your shop stand out while staying true to who you are. Listen now to learn how to plan December’s marketing with intention so your social media, promotions, and community efforts close out the year on a high note and set the tone for an even better new year. Show Notes with Timestamps Podcast Introduction (00:00:00) Brief intro to the podcast network and hosts, sponsor mentions. Reflecting on a Year of Podcasting (00:00:59) Hosts discuss recording for December, marking a full year of episodes. Holiday Community Events & Charity (00:01:43) Ideas for shop charity events: Wishes on Wheels, Toys for Tots, Angel Trees, and customer appreciation. Sharing Shop Holiday Activities (00:02:41) Encouraging shops to share Christmas parties, decorations, and holiday closure dates on social media. December Observances: Santa Paws & Car Donation Month (00:03:22) Highlighting National Operation Santa Paws Month and National Car Donation Month, including car giveaways. Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention (00:04:30) Discussing National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month and partnering with local law enforcement. Older Driver Safety Awareness (00:05:14) Promoting Older Driver Safety Awareness Week and sharing personal stories about senior drivers. National Cookie Cutter Week (00:07:17) Joking about celebrating National Cookie Cutter Week with holiday cookies, not generic marketing. Fun December Days: Apples, Giving, Santa’s List (00:07:47) National Eat a Red Apple Day, National Day of Giving, and Santa List Day ideas for shop engagement. Non-Holiday December Observances (00:09:43) Mentioning National Miner's Day, International Civil Aviation Day, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, and Blue Collar Day. Holiday Sweets & Shop Competitions (00:11:11) Ideas for National Pastry Day, Gingerbread House Day, and National Cupcake Day competitions in the shop. Device Appreciation & Buddy the Elf Day (00:11:40) National Device Appreciation Day and answering the phone like Buddy the Elf for fun shop engagement. Favorite Christmas Movies Discussion (00:12:36) Hosts discuss favorite Christmas movies and suggest shops ask their teams about theirs. December 20th Onward: Ugly Sweaters & Flashlights (00:17:04) National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day, Caroling Day, and National Flashlight Day for shop participation. Winter Solstice (00:18:20) Explanation of the winter solstice and its significance for winter-themed marketing. Festivus and Christmas Eve/Day (00:19:56) Mentioning Festivus (Dec 23), Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day, with reminders about shop closures. Post-Christmas & Year-End Content (00:20:58) Ideas for 12 Days of Car Care, year-end recaps, and sharing shop statistics and highlights. National Winners Day & New Year’s Eve (00:23:53) Joking about National Winners Day (Dec 26) and using New Year’s Eve for wrap-ups and resolutions. General Holiday Marketing Ideas (00:25:10) 12 Days of Car Care, holiday discounts, gift cards, and community giving campaigns. Holiday Car Decorations & Customer Engagement (00:26:35) Encouraging sharing of customer car decorations and fun shop stories. Cultural Holiday Differences (00:28:47) Discussing how team members in the Philippines celebrate Christmas starting in September. Holiday Gift Guides & Show Notes (00:29:45) Suggesting holiday gift guides for car enthusiasts and promoting downloadable show notes. Thanksgiving Cards & Unexpected Holiday Greetings (00:31:00) Idea to send Thanksgiving or New Year cards instead of traditional Christmas cards. Encouraging Shop Holiday Enthusiasm (00:31:40) Motivating shops to find their holiday enthusiasts and let them lead festive activities. Year-End Resource Compilation Announcement (00:32:02) Announcing a future resource compiling all monthly marketing episodes and downloads. Podcast Wrap-Up (00:33:10) Thanking listeners, promoting other network podcasts, and closing the 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) National Day Calendar Days Of The Year Buy Back Your Time EP 164 - Car Giveaways and Community Involvement – with Chris Luoma December Social Media Content 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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.
	Reigniting the Passion: How Larry Anderson Keeps the Joy in the Work [E176]	29 Oct 2025	00:24:24
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Larry Anderson isn’t your typical shop owner and that’s exactly what makes this episode worth your time. From fabricating race cars and building trail-ready rigs with his wife, Cheryl, to mastering lost arts like manual machining and custom fabrication, Larry’s story is a masterclass in keeping your passion alive while running a successful auto repair business. We dig into how he balances work and hobby without burning out, the lessons he learned from turning wrenches to leading a thriving shop, and why separating business from personal projects might just be the secret to staying in love with what you do. If you’ve ever felt your business start to steal the joy from your craft, this conversation will hit home. Larry’s perspective is real, relatable, and packed with takeaways every shop owner needs to hear. 🎧 Don’t miss this one, hit play and get inspired to keep your passion running strong while you fill those bays. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgments (00:00:01) Brian introduces the podcast, guest Larry Anderson, and thanks sponsors. Larry’s Background and Entry into Fabrication (00:02:00) Larry shares his early interest in cars, career path, and transition into fabrication and off-roading. Wife’s Influence and Family Off-Roading (00:02:46) Larry discusses his wife Cheryl’s role in getting him into off-roading and their shared experiences. Building and Evolving Off-Road Rigs (00:04:18) Larry describes Cheryl’s Toyota Tacoma, its evolution, and the custom work involved. Custom Jeep Commander Build (00:06:07) Larry details his own Jeep Commander project and its unique, custom-built features. Off-Roading Trails and Local Adventures (00:06:38) Discussion about Rubicon Trail, Fordyce Creek, and the local off-roading scene. Learning Fabrication and Machining Skills (00:08:16) Larry explains how he self-taught welding and machining, using resources like YouTube. Balancing Work and Hobby, Avoiding Burnout (00:10:05) Larry shares how he keeps his passion alive by separating work from hobby and not working on customer cars at home. Advice on Separating Work and Hobby (00:12:32) Brian and Larry discuss the importance of keeping personal projects separate from business to maintain passion. Current Favorite Project: 1975 F150 Diesel Build (00:16:13) Larry talks about his current project, a custom 1975 F150 with a diesel engine. 3D Printing for Automotive Projects (00:17:27) Larry discusses his journey into 3D printing, its uses in his builds, and the technology’s evolution. 3D Printing for Customer Cars and CAD Skills (00:19:22) Larry explains why 3D printing isn’t yet practical for customer cars and the importance of CAD skills. Advice for Shop Owners Who’ve Lost Passion (00:20:55) Larry offers advice on gratitude, balance, and not letting business consume your life. Closing Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up (00:22:52) Brian and Larry reflect on the conversation, social media highlights, and thank listeners. 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Service Advisor Auditing and Skill-building [E175]	22 Oct 2025	00:49:02
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Kim Walker and Michael Doherty dig into what really happens at the front counter of an auto repair shop and why the service advisor’s role can make or break your marketing efforts. From real-world auditing tips to skill-building strategies, Michael shares how shops can turn their advisors into trusted consultants instead of order takers. You’ll hear practical advice on improving communication, handling tough days like a pro, using body language that builds trust, and even his traffic light method for explaining repairs in a way customers actually understand. If you’re an auto repair shop owner or manager looking to strengthen your team, boost customer trust, and turn your service advisors into your strongest marketing asset, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in to this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast to learn how small mindset shifts at the service counter can lead to big results in your shop’s success. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Message (00:00:01) Podcast introduction, host and guest introductions, and sponsor message from Shop Boss. Michael’s Transition to Remote Marketing Service Advisor (00:02:25) Michael discusses moving from in-shop service advisor to remote marketing service advisor, and the mindset and skills required. Service Advisor Auditing: First Impressions and Body Language (00:06:48) Explains how to audit service advisors, focusing on greeting, body language, and the importance of open, inviting gestures. The Service Advisor as the Marketing Front Line (00:09:35) Discusses the critical role of service advisors in converting marketing leads and the impact of their attitude and training. Phone Skills and Professionalism (00:12:04) Covers the importance of tone, professionalism, and being qualified to answer the phone as a service advisor. Skill Building: Managing Personal Challenges and Mindset (00:13:51) Advice for service advisors on handling personal issues, self-talk, and maintaining professionalism at work. Sponsor Messages (00:16:49) Additional sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled. Traffic Light Method for Explaining Repairs (00:18:46) Michael explains the “traffic light method” for communicating repairs to customers: green (good), yellow (caution), red (urgent). From Order Taker to Trusted Advisor (00:22:26) How to coach service advisors to move from being order takers to trusted consultants, emphasizing communication and empathy. High-Impact Behaviors for Service Advisors (00:25:23) Two key behaviors: making interactions less transactional and building genuine relationships with clients. Marketing and Service Advisor Communication (00:29:35) The importance of communication between marketing and service advisors to avoid surprises and ensure campaign alignment. Internal Shop Communication and Team Synergy (00:32:10) Discusses the need for strong communication between service advisors and technicians, and fostering a positive team environment. Adapting Communication Tools and Looking Ahead (00:36:18) Reflects on past communication challenges and the evolution of shop tools, with thoughts on future service advisor roles. Preparing for the Future: Proactivity and Continuous Learning (00:37:44) Advice for service advisors to be proactive, use new tools like ChatGPT, and prioritize ongoing education and industry networking. First Impressions: Dress and Professional Appearance (00:42:30) The impact of professional dress on client perception and team culture, and how it boosts confidence and performance. Closing Remarks and Podcast Information (00:48:13) Wrap-up, where to find Michael’s podcast, and final thanks to listeners. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Auto Fix Advisor Cast 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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/
	Getting Your Shop Suggested by AI [E174]	15 Oct 2025	00:36:24
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled AI search isn’t the future, it’s already here, and it’s changing how people find your auto repair shop. Brian Walker just came back from teaching a four-hour class on AI search optimization at the ASTA Expo, and he’s breaking it all down so you can take action now. From getting your shop mentioned in AI overviews to the practical steps that help you get recommended by AI tools like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, Brian shares what you can do today to stay ahead of the curve. If you want your shop to show up when drivers ask AI for help finding trusted auto repair, you need to hear this one. Hit play and learn how to position your business for the next big wave in search. Show Notes with Timestamps Podcast Introduction (00:00:01) Brief intro to the Aftermarket Radio Network and the podcast host, Brian Walker. AI Search Optimization Overview (00:00:10) Brian introduces the topic: how auto repair shops can get found and recommended by AI search tools. Asta Expo Recap & Class Mention (00:01:17) Brian discusses teaching a four-hour class on AI search optimization at the Asta Expo. Why AI Search Matters Now (00:02:28) Explains current AI search usage (5% of searches), its rapid growth, and why shops should prepare early. SEO vs. AI Search Optimization (00:03:46) Compares traditional SEO and AI search optimization, noting similarities and key differences. Defining AI Search Optimization Terms (00:05:14) Clarifies terminology: SEO, AIO, GEO, and the preferred term "Search Everywhere Optimization." Action Step 1: Reviews Everywhere (00:06:48) Emphasizes the importance of gathering reviews on multiple platforms, not just Google. Action Step 2: Schema Markup (00:10:59) Explains schema markup, its role in helping AI and search engines understand website content. Action Step 3: Deep Service Page Content (00:15:31) Advises updating service pages with detailed, unique content and using AI carefully for content creation. Action Step 4: Long-Form Content & Search Behavior (00:17:48) Discusses the value of long-form content for AI/search engines and how AI search queries differ from traditional ones. Action Step 5: Summaries and FAQs (00:20:57) Recommends starting pages with summaries and ending with FAQs to help AI generate overviews. Action Step 6: Team Member Visibility (00:23:06) Encourages showcasing staff bios, certifications, and training to build trust with AI and customers. Action Step 7: Directory Listing Consistency (00:25:31) Stresses the importance of consistent business information (NAP) across all online directories. Action Step 8: Memberships, Affiliations, and Media (00:26:33) Suggests creating a website page listing shop memberships, certifications, and media mentions to build trust. Action Step 9: Social Profiles & SameAs Schema (00:28:49) Advises linking to all social/web profiles and using SameAs schema to strengthen the business entity online. Action Step 10: Personal Branding & Content Creation (00:29:56) Highlights the value of building personal brands and creating content under personal names for AI recognition. Action Step 11: Book Recommendation (00:34:33) Recommends reading "Endless Customers" by Marcus Sheridan for AI-focused content strategy. Closing Remarks & Contact Info (00:35:38) Wraps up with ways to connect, encourages joining the Facebook group, and thanks listeners. 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 Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) They Ask, You Answer - Marcus Sheridan Endless Customers by Marcus Sheridan (They Ask, You Answer 3.0) Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell 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.” The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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 Power of Story [E173]	08 Oct 2025	00:50:15
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueled Brian and Kim Walker sit down with Wayne Marshall, CEO of The Institute for Automotive Business Excellence, to explore the real power behind storytelling in the auto repair industry. With deep roots in manufacturing and marketing, Wayne shares how his own journey and the stories along the way became the foundation for helping shop owners connect more meaningfully with their communities. This episode is a reminder that people don't connect with services; they connect with people. From emotional moments of vulnerability to the simple act of staying late to help a customer, Wayne breaks down how these everyday experiences are what truly set a shop apart. You’ll also learn his STORY framework and hear real-world examples that prove just how effective this approach can be. If you’ve ever wondered how to get your audience to know, like, and trust you before they ever set foot in your shop, this conversation will give you the blueprint. Hit play and start turning your story into your shop’s most powerful marketing tool. Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) The Institute for Automotive Business Excellence Wayne’s LinkedIn Building a StoryBrand - Donald Miller The Best Yes - Lysa Terkeurst Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Sponsor Thanks (00:00:10) Brian introduces Wayne Marshall, thanks sponsors, and sets up the episode’s focus on storytelling in auto repair. Wayne’s Background in Automotive Marketing (00:02:39) Wayne shares his career journey from manufacturing to marketing, founding his own company, and becoming CEO of the Institute. The Power of Storytelling in Business (00:06:27) Discussion on how personal stories create connections, resonate more than facts, and the impact of storytelling in adult learning. Personal Connections Through Vulnerability (00:09:39) Kim and Brian share how personal stories, including Cecil’s, foster deep relationships and trust in the industry. Blending Personal and Professional Life (00:11:32) Wayne discusses the inseparability of personal and work life, the importance of empathy, and building genuine relationships. Every Shop Has a Unique Story (00:14:12) Kim emphasizes that every shop’s history and culture are unique, and the importance of retelling stories for connection. How to Start Telling Your Story (00:15:39) Wayne explains that every owner has a story, gives examples of hero stories, and encourages writing and sharing them. Blessings, Humility, and Paying It Forward (00:21:32) Conversation about the importance of accepting help, paying it forward, and the cycle of giving and receiving blessings. Community Involvement as Part of Your Story (00:24:11) Wayne shares examples of shops supporting their communities and how these actions humanize and differentiate businesses. Listening and Empathy in Customer Service (00:25:20) Wayne relates a football officiating story to illustrate the value of listening and empathy with customers. Standout Shop Story Example (00:28:46) Wayne shares Tom’s story of personal customer care, highlighting how authentic acts of kindness set shops apart. Storytelling Mistakes and Authenticity (00:32:18) Advice on avoiding overly polished or inauthentic stories; the importance of using your own voice and being genuine. A Tactical Framework for Storytelling (00:34:22) Wayne presents the STORY framework: Set the scene, Tension, Opportunity, Results, and Your next step/call to action. A and B Stories: Content Opportunities (00:37:27) Discussion on “A” (core) and “B” (everyday) stories, and how shops are content factories with endless stories to share. Consistency and Team Storytelling (00:39:18) Importance of consistently retelling your story and involving team members in sharing their own stories. Wayne’s BMW Story (00:42:00) Wayne shares his passion for BMWs, including a detailed story about restoring a 1973 BMW 2002. Industry Support and Paying It Forward (00:46:15) Wayne recounts how industry friends helped a shop owner in need, illustrating the supportive nature of the industry. The Institute: How to Connect (00:47:49) Wayne gives a brief overview of the Institute for Automotive Business Excellence and how listeners can get in touch. Closing Remarks (00:49:33) Brian thanks Wayne, wraps up the episode, and encourages listeners to tune in next week. 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.

About Methodology Contact Support me Privacy Policy Legal Notice