• Bonus Episode - Transforming Your Shop's Workflow and Accountability With Software
    Sep 11 2024

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Matt Ruffman, Steven Metsker, and Pat Schnaidt to discuss the transformative impact of technology in the auto repair industry. Matt highlights how transitioning from paper and QuickBooks to repair shop software has significantly improved his shop's scheduling and estimating processes. Steven emphasizes the importance of customizing inspections to enhance accountability between advisors and technicians. Pat praises Shop-Ware's user-friendly features and ability to ensure thorough diagnostics and repairs, improving transparency and customer trust.

    00:00 Consider Shop-Ware for a more user-friendly interface.
    09:30 Selective communication: only call if absurd decision.
    15:15 Consumer protections help both sides in transactions.
    20:10 Embracing flaws and choosing the best fit.
    23:16 Positive feedback on customer presentation and training.
    30:32 Detailed reports build trust and retain customers.
    33:34 Using 7 words: Accountability in building quality inspection lines.
    39:34 Amazon offers choice, Shopware empowers user decisions.
    47:27 Struggle with hands-off approach in business.
    52:03 Empowering team autonomy, learning and growth.
    55:08 User experience focuses on small details' significance.
    01:01:18 Collaborate for a better industry, improve client experience.

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Episode 181 - Mastering Profitability & Efficiency With Insights from Shop-Ware Experts
    Sep 9 2024

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Samantha Andrews, Jonathan White, and Bill DeBoer to discuss shop scheduling and customer communication strategies as they relate to profitability. Samantha and Lucas highlight the importance of morning drop-offs in better managing service updates and unexpected delays. Bill discusses a color-coded estimation system to streamline customer interactions. Jonathan underscores the value of saving past services as canned jobs to expedite estimates and reduce repetitive errors.

    00:00 Exchange of business cards for future referrals discussed.
    05:08 Challenges with finding help, paying flat rate.
    06:40 Weekend email complaint about potential service issue.
    12:53 Transitioned from Windows to Shopware, experienced issues.
    14:04 Exploring new perspective on conventional pricing methods.
    17:33 Anticipating future problems in decision-making process.
    23:08 Optimized labor rates boosted shop profitability significantly.
    26:53 Rural internet caused issues, solved by Carolyn.
    27:49 Shop owners struggle with pricing, need discipline.
    31:35 Ignored daily issues still need attention.
    37:09 Parts mix-up causes cascading work issue.
    40:06 Owner multitasks vendor orders to maximize inventory.
    42:09 Ordering process includes RO number and tech name.
    46:14 Monitoring service speed and administration time challenges.
    47:28 Issues with tracking clock-in and out. Focus on car part management.
    51:13 Efficient car service, prioritizing morning appointments.
    53:29 Discussing strategy to improve awareness and estimation.
    56:42 Focus on avoiding mistakes for long-term benefits.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Episode 180 - Navigating Customer Expectations and Employee Performance With The Founder of Datadyne Joshua Hemmerling
    Sep 2 2024

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Joshua Hemmerling, founder of Datadyne, at the Sunrise Automotive Training & Expo (https://www.trainingexpoaz.com/). Joshua discusses the importance of setting customer expectations to manage productivity and avoid issues. David shares his struggle with employee performance and praises a laid-back employee who handles problems effectively. Lucas explores new approaches to compensating advisors based on performance without tying it directly to financial bonuses.

    00:00 Managing work and handling family responsibilities.
    05:30 Company does not reciprocate employees' loyalty.
    15:23 Teaching tool for dynamic learning through dashboard.
    20:59 Transparent pricing, no commission, genuine service commitment.
    26:28 Misunderstood message leads to awkward realization.
    29:57 Difficulty replacing faulty fuel door actuator in car.
    35:48 Peter uses pattern recognition and deductive reasoning.
    41:12 Studio extends gameplay by creating artificial difficulty.
    46:19 Challenging maintenance process for Cadillac engine.
    51:38 Experienced machinist reflects on skill progression.
    58:08 Setting expectations for time zones to avoid issues.
    59:30 Efficiency and speed are top priorities.

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Episode 179 - Boosting Profits with Tire Programs and Road Hazard Services Featuring Chris Cotton
    Aug 26 2024

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Chris Cotton of Autofix to discuss the profit potential in selling tires. Chris emphasizes the potential profit from offering well-structured tire programs, underscoring the importance of diligent record-keeping for legal protection. He also shares his strategies for selling tires, including adopting value-added services like free road hazard towing and tire rotations.

    00:00 Handle online confrontation with grounded, sincere opinions.
    05:45 Sell tires, keep customers, make good profit.
    09:01 Emphasize value, encourage customer loyalty, sell more.
    13:02 Customer neglect, worn tires not road hazard.
    15:29 Policy: Reimburse flat repairs, contact for assistance.
    18:40 On-site visits, tires, car inspections, sales.
    21:12 Don't skip the thorough car evaluation process.
    25:14 Judge emphasizes signed agreement as binding evidence.
    27:51 Ensure thorough staff training and documentation for accountability.
    29:48 Sales increased, earned rebates, sold to Tire Kingdom.
    35:28 Focus on quality, not quantity of shops.
    38:03 Transition to ten base brings operational challenges.
    41:23 Autofix coaching empowers clients to succeed independently.
    42:35 Coaching companies need to help more shops.
    47:01 Declines hanging out, prefers sharing meme list.
    51:06 Free roadside assistance, tire upgrades, rotations, alignments.
    53:39 Palm-sized scanner for tire assessments is beneficial.
    56:11 Exciting event with go karts and recording.
    59:04 Drunken woman falls, hugged by stranger. Odd.

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Episode 178 - Working Remotely In Automotive Repair With Kyle Buenger and Kasia Thompson
    Aug 19 2024

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Kyle Buenger and Kasia Thompson at the Sunrise Automotive Training & Expo (https://www.trainingexpoaz.com/). They discuss the dynamics of successfully working remotely in an auto repair shop. Kyle explores the intricacies of hiring skilled technicians to manage the workload efficiently, emphasizing the importance of a multi-skilled crew. Kasia discusses her remote work experience and highlights the integration of technology like cameras and translation apps to improve communication and productivity.

    00:00 Remote advice service amid client distractions, skepticism.
    03:21 Time difference affects my work schedule slightly.
    08:22 Workflow delays due to approval and authorization.
    11:56 Few people walk in for random inquiries.
    16:10 Husband looking for new job, may relocate.
    18:29 Challenges managing customer contact and estimates daily.
    22:25 Eds avoid mundane tasks, enjoy only fun.
    24:40 Busy schedule in automotive repair shop.
    26:42 Multitasking is ineffective, women may excel at it.
    32:46 Midas store owner from Minneapolis dies suddenly.
    34:15 Unclear story about lung cancer and treatment.
    36:36 Recognition of exceptional abilities and dedication.
    41:43 Shop performed well, being hub, chaos.
    44:44 Efficiency in tech scheduling maximizes shop revenue.
    46:42 Phones set up with soft and desk phones.
    52:31 Advantages of push-to-talk radios in workplace.
    53:39 Phone overheated, had to cool in fridge.
    56:18 Shop closes for lunch break at 12.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Episode 177 - Lessons In Ethics and Honesty in Car Repairs From the Front Lines With William Fairbanks of Shop Controller
    Aug 12 2024

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by William Fairbanks, Vice President of Sales for Shop Controller at the Sunrise Automotive Training & Expo (https://www.trainingexpoaz.com/). William discusses how buying an existing shop provides a strong foundation for business transformation. Lucas and David share their thoughts on the industry's resistance to change and the crucial role of modern technology. They also discuss the balance between honesty and oversharing with customers, emphasizing the importance of reputation over profit.

    00:00 Requesting pragmatic argument for purchasing vacuum equipment.
    03:32 AC technician uses customized equipment for inspections.
    08:25 AC vacuuming procedure sparks discussion and offense.
    11:17 CEO meets mechanic, joins tech startup journey.
    13:36 Leveraging existing customer base for valuable feedback.
    17:38 Transition to technology is essential for success.
    21:51 Contractors submit low estimates, request multiple supplements.
    23:26 Confusion and frustration over changing medical bills.
    28:07 Uncertain negotiations over warranty, parts, and price.
    30:34 Limited payment, legal protection, defective vehicles from Carvana.
    33:18 Carmax assumes, doesn't actually vet cars.
    37:29 Advertising became deceptive, difficult to challenge.
    39:28 Cover-up of dangerous chemical leads to guilt.
    44:42 Technician inspector needs replacement, creating false details.
    47:16 Repeat truth, make them feel good - warranty.
    48:59 Folks make unethical decisions due to influence.
    52:29 Car change leads to pricing dispute.
    57:35 Conflict between abrasive, loud, aggressive social media personalities.
    58:34 Woman upset over unauthorized recording, threats follow.

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Episode 176 - Going From High Pressure to Healthy Practices With Cody Gaddie and Becky Witt
    Aug 5 2024

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Becky Witt and Cody Gaddie at the Sunrise Automotive Training & Expo (https://www.trainingexpoaz.com/). Becky discusses the importance of not putting pressure on car repair turnaround times to avoid errors, emphasizing that no car leaves her shop until she's confident in the work done. Cody shares his experiences working in a high-pressure environment and speaks to the health toll it took on him, stressing the need for a balanced work-life environment. Lucas raises concerns about the impact of stress and long working hours on health, citing studies on preventable cancer rates among Americans.

    00:00 Rediscovered passion for repair shop, made changes.
    04:39 Finding niche customers led to business success.
    10:10 Gaining customer trust by offering what's needed.
    11:11 Offering transportation and solutions for vehicle issues.
    16:14 Technicians are human and not machines.
    18:05 Kip noticed Becky's involvement in ASOG.
    21:58 Urgency to avoid interrupting work for car.
    24:41 Struggling with finances while caring for employees.
    27:27 Refunded due to inability to lift tires.
    30:53 College student works 60 hours, struggles to cope.
    33:18 ASOG has changed moderator's perspective on members.
    36:56 Borrow $50 deposit for gas, return receipt.
    42:06 Collaboration with local Napa store benefits business.
    43:48 Auto parts shop workers value good treatment.
    48:47 Arizona technicians arguing over battery warranty controversy.
    51:25 Effective communication fosters mutual respect and growth.
    54:06 Employees resent owners' lack of empathy.
    56:06 Robots creating job challenges, technicians face issues.
    59:15 Self-financed event organized through networking with support.

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Episode 175 - Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in the Auto Repair Industry with Dipesh Modi
    Jul 29 2024

    Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.
    Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABE

    Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.
    Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitability

    Utilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.
    Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTech

    Transform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!
    Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros


    In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Dipesh Modi, owner of Kinderman's Auto Repair in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Dipesh shares his journey into shop ownership, emphasizing the difficulties faced by those unprepared to run a business. The hosts and Dipesh discuss the importance of customer service in the automotive repair industry, highlighting that success depends more on the customer experience than just fixing cars. They also discuss ethical dilemmas in the industry, such as addressing unsafe driving situations and dealing with businesses operating without insurance.

    00:00 Requesting video for professional and charismatic speaker.
    06:39 Flexible hours allowing time for food truck.
    08:10 Hot dog vendor lost job to cafeteria.
    10:56 Gave him five stars, it was cool.
    14:36 Business struggling, coaching company helps turn fortunes.
    17:23 Technicians overvalue car fixing in shop business.
    21:51 Customer's persistence triggers service advisor's suspicion.
    23:55 Concerns about driving and cutting a wire.
    27:06 Employee refuses to lie about undrivable vehicle.
    29:55 Sympathetic to situation, unsure how to help.
    34:41 Lack of experience, mom's situation, no excuses.
    38:44 Not worried about liability for this situation.
    42:08 Avoids grappling in jiu jitsu tournament.
    43:46 Realization of legal boundaries and consequences.
    46:57 Bourbon distribution in North Carolina faces favoritism.
    51:40 Auto mechanics' unexpected Ruth Chris steakhouse experience.
    53:47 Choosing a restaurant by random, didn't end well.

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    1 hr and 1 min