Recorded Live at ASTA 2025, we explore the rise of the automotive specialist and why the industry needs a language shift—calling instructors “educators” instead of “trainers” to reflect the complex, continuing education modern technicians require.

We also dive into the mobile diagnostics and repair market, discussing strategies for growth, high-complexity work, and the investments needed to compete. Looking ahead, the industry faces a technological turning point by 2030, with new vehicle architectures and ADAS calibration requirements threatening shops that fail to keep up.

The episode closes by emphasizing the power of networking, connecting with peers, and staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

Shop owners, are you feeling burned out or stuck in the grind? This episode is for you. Shop owners Jimmy Alauria and Dave Kusa dive into how to pause, reflect, and reignite your passion for the business you built.

Key takeaways:

• Think Bigger:Grow your business beyond what you can manage alone—empower your team and expand your vision.

• Evolve as a Leader:Stop being just a manager—step into the CEO role and watch your business thrive.

• Culture Matters:Set the tone, share your dream, and build a positive environment your team can rally around.

• Delegate & Recharge:Offload the hats you wear, hire strategically, and take time off to see the big picture.

• Balance Family & Business:Set boundaries to protect both your shop and your relationships.

The truth? Falling in love with your business again starts with falling in love with your ability to lead it.

Jimmy Alauria, 3A Automotive and Diesel Repair, Phoenix, AZ. Jimmy’s previous episodes HERE

Dave Kusa, AutoTrend Diagnostics in Campbell, CA. Listen to Dave’s other episodes HERE

Recorded Live at ASTA 2025, Ryan Ragan, Executive Director of ASTA, discusses the explosive growth of the event, Ragan’s long-term vision, the wildly creative opening-night party, and the industry-wide push to elevate professional language in the automotive field.

Episode Highlights

• Record-Breaking Growth:
  ASTA 2025 moved to a larger venue and saw a 34–35% increase in registrations, reaching four-digit attendance. Ragan restructured the expo for better vendor ROI, including a shop-owner-only show-floor window on opening night. His biggest hurdle wasn’t logistics—it was convincing people that such a massive upgrade was even possible on a tight timeline. The payoff came when an attendee told him the show felt like the “SEMA of the East.”

• “Out of This World” Theme:
  ASTA’s first themed expo featured an alien-inspired opening night with a mechanical bull, giant dartboard, sumo matches (announced by Carm), and 10-ft champagne-serving aliens.

• Education & Professionalism:
  Ragan stressed the importance of ongoing training in an era where cars are “rolling computers.”
  A major topic: shifting industry language—embracing titles likemechanical specialistto elevate professionalism and attract new talent.

Ragan hopes every attendee left with three things:

1. New knowledge to solve future shop challenges

2. A fun memory to brighten tough days

3. A new connection they can call for advice