Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech

"Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z," podcast host Matt Fanslow and guest Bryan Pollack, "The Beast from the East," explore "sweat equity" in the automotive repair industry. They discuss the dedication technicians invest beyond regular hours, contributing to personal growth and shop success. They emphasize mentorship, financial awareness, and community involvement, highlighting how these factors create a positive workplace culture and enhance both personal and professional development.

• Discussion on Vintage Tools (00:01:07)
• Importance of Sweat Equity (00:06:21)
• Impact on Business Reputation (00:07:52)
• Long-Term Effects of Physical Demands (00:09:54)
• Experience with Difficult Repairs (00:12:41)
• The Importance of Understanding Problems (00:14:53)
• Sweat Equity in Business (00:15:39)
• Cinematic Parallels (00:16:10)
• Employee Compensation and Business Success (00:16:44)
• Owner vs. Employee Success (00:17:53)
• Risk of Ownership (00:18:58)
• Arbitrary Salary Ceilings (00:21:07)
• Business Pillars and Employee Value (00:22:43)
• Culture and Treatment of Employees (00:25:10)
• The Danger of Focus on Money (00:26:04)
• Living Costs and Compensation (00:27:57)
• Job Satisfaction Over Salary (00:28:10)
• Sweat Equity and Career Growth (00:29:25)
• Perception of Self-Employment (00:30:00)
• Understanding Sweat Equity (00:30:41)
• Intangible Benefits of the Workplace (00:30:57)
• Financial Awareness in Spending (00:31:13)
• The Cost of Beverage Choices (00:31:55)
• Toolbox Spending Habits (00:32:24)
• Understanding Perspectives on Spending (00:33:19)
• The Value of Previous Employees (00:34:15)
• Ego and Hiring Practices (00:36:23)
• Negativity and Work Culture (00:39:06)
• The Importance of Grace and Honesty (00:42:33)
• Training Young Employees (00:44:24)
• Hiring Challenges (00:46:14)
• Unrealistic Job Requirements (00:47:08)
• Workplace Atmosphere Importance (00:48:24)
• Financial Growth and Spending Habits (00:49:26)
• Profit Sharing and Employee Engagement (00:52:11)
• Future Aspirations of Employees (00:52:49)

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.com

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Are you an auto repair shop owner looking to demystify the world of marketing jargon and take your business to the next level?

Join hosts Brian and Kim Walker in this must-listen episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast as they unravel the mysteries behind marketing terms that could be holding your business back.

Ever wondered if boosting a post is worth your money or how SEO can actually drive more customers to your door?

We’ve got the answers.

Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

• They Ask, You Answer (Marcus Sheridan) - https://marcussheridan.com/they-ask-you-answer/
• Difference between Boosted Post and Meta ads: https://www.facebook.com/business/help/317083072148603

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) Brian and Kim welcome listeners and introduce the episode's focus on marketing lingo and misconceptions.
• Purpose of the Episode (00:01:07) Discussion on why understanding marketing terminology is crucial for effective communication in the automotive repair industry.
• Boosted Posts vs. Facebook Ads (00:02:53) Clarification on the differences between boosting a post and creating a full Facebook ad.
• Landing Pages vs. Full Websites (00:04:57) Explanation of landing pages as minimal websites designed for conversions, distinct from full websites.
• Leads vs. Conversions (00:08:16) Defining leads as initial interest and conversions as completed transactions or appointments.
• Understanding SEO (00:10:26) SEO stands for search engine optimization, focusing on making a website authoritative in its niche.
• Organic vs. Paid Search (00:11:53) Differentiation between organic search results and paid search ads in digital marketing.
• Geo-Targeting vs. Geofencing (00:14:35) Discussion on the differences between geo-targeting for general ads and geofencing for highly specific targeting.
• Geofencing vs. Geo Targeting (00:16:13) Discussion on the differences between geofencing and geo targeting in advertising effectiveness.
• Alt Text and SEO (00:17:06) Explanation of alt text's role in SEO and its importance for visually impaired users.
• Backlinks vs. Internal Links (00:20:39) Clarification of backlinks and internal links, including their significance for website navigation and SEO.
• Understanding Bounce Rate (00:21:41) Definition of bounce rate and its implications for website performance in the auto repair industry.
• Impressions vs. Clicks (00:22:54) Overview of the difference between impressions (ads shown) and clicks (user engagement).
• CTR, CPC, and CPA (00:24:08) Definitions of click-through rate, cost per click, and cost per acquisition in marketing metrics.
• User Experience (UX) (00:27:01) Discussion on the importance of user experience for website navigation and customer satisfaction.
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP) (00:29:08) Exploration of unique selling propositions and their role in differentiating a business from competitors.
• Inbound vs. Outbound Marketing (00:31:07) Comparison of inbound and outbound marketing strategies and their...

• Watch Full Video Episode
• The Rise of the Mechanical and Technology Specialist: https://remarkableresults.biz/rise/
• Discussion on Leadership and Inspiration (00:01:32) Carm discusses a leadership course Michael conducted that inspired daughter Tracy to take initiative. https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/upcoming-events
• The Rise of the Mechanical and Technology Specialist (00:03:06) Carm introduces his declaration on evolving industry language and its impact on professionalism.
• Mindset Shift in the Automotive Industry (00:04:53) Michael emphasizes the need for a mindset shift to elevate the automotive industry's perception.
• Changing the Narrative (00:06:39) Carm and Michael discuss the importance of changing internal and external narratives about the industry.
• Language Shift from Mom and Pop (00:08:54) Carm critiques the term "mom and pop" and advocates for a more respectful language.
• The Evolution of Industry Perception (00:10:00) Michael discusses how industry language reflects the evolution of independent shops.
• Value Beyond Fixing Cars (00:11:30) Michael stresses the broader contributions of automotive professionals to society and safety.
• Introducing the Term 'Solopreneur' (00:12:02) The term "solopreneur" to better represent independent shop owners.
• Challenges for New Owners (00:13:14) Michael explains the transition challenges faced by new shop owners from technician roles.
• Preparing for Industry Changes (00:14:02) Michael emphasizes the importance of readiness for upcoming industry changes and challenges.
• Carm's Keynote on Language Shift (00:14:52) Carm shares his experiences delivering keynotes on the importance of language in the industry.
• Psycholinguistics and Language Impact (00:16:12) Discussion on how language shapes self-perception in the automotive repair industry.
• Intentional Language Change (00:17:52) Emphasis on the need for a conscious effort to shift industry language.
• Language and Industry Perception (00:19:34) The importance of using industry-specific language to elevate professional perception.
• Cultural Shift in Automotive Industry...

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops.

Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo:https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/

Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

If you would like to join their private Facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind

In this episode of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton focuses on enhancing auto repair shop performance, highlighting the crucial role of service advisors in the estimation process. He stresses the importance of advisors not projecting their financial limitations onto customers, ensuring all necessary repairs are transparently presented. Key points include understanding customer needs, providing comprehensive estimates, building trust, and improving average repair orders. Coach Chris advocates for regular training, consistent processes, and leveraging technology like digital vehicle inspections. Sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, the episode underscores the need for continuous improvement and effective communication to boost shop profitability.

Introduction to the Episode (00:00:09)

• Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on auto repair business improvement.

Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:01:13)

• Thanks to Shop Marketing Pros for their tailored marketing services for auto repair shops.

Navigating Challenges in Auto Repair (00:01:13)

• Discussion on the current challenges faced by auto repair shops and the need for improvement.

Service Advisor Issues (00:02:47)

• Exploration of problems arising from service advisors skipping steps in the estimation process.

Selling with Their Own Wallet (00:04:05)

• Emphasis on service advisors not projecting their financial limitations onto customers.

Importance of Comprehensive Estimates (00:05:15)

• Highlighting the need for transparent presentation of all necessary repairs and services.

Role of Technicians and Service Advisors (00:06:31)

• Clarification on the responsibilities of technicians and service advisors in the estimation process.

Wraparound Services Explained (00:07:50)

• Definition and importance of additional services that enhance primary repairs.

Mileage-Based Maintenance Recommendations (00:09:13)

• Discussion on the significance of adhering to mileage-based maintenance schedules.

Impact of Average Estimates on Repair Orders (00:10:28)

• Analysis of how average estimates influence average repair order metrics.

Building Customer Trust (00:11:45)

• The relationship between thorough estimates and customer trust in the service.

Revenue Growth Through Higher Estimates (00:12:56)

• Linking accurate estimates to increased revenue and profitability for auto repair shops.

Creating a Perfect Estimate Process (00:14:04)

• Steps to establish a clear and effective estimation process for service advisors.

Customer Interaction in the Estimation Process (00:14:04)

• Importance of warm customer greetings and accurate documentation of concerns.

Digital Vehicle Inspection (00:14:04)

• Advocating for the use of digital vehicle inspections over paper methods.

Preparing

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Leadership Challenges for New Owners (00:03:39) Discussion on the courage and mindset required for new shop owners transitioning from technicians.
• Matt's Personal Story (00:04:46) Matt shares his journey of overcoming a catastrophic injury and learning to run his business.
• Developing Leadership Skills (00:05:10) The importance of recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses in leadership.
• Balancing Assertiveness and Approachability (00:06:22) The challenge of being both assertive and approachable as a leader.
• The Value of Delegation (00:06:54) Panelists discuss the difficulties of delegating tasks and trusting team members.
• Peer Support in the Industry (00:08:01) Carm highlights the importance of seeking help and support from peers in the automotive industry.
• The Role of Coaching (00:10:04) Tom emphasizes the benefits of leveraging coaching services for business success.
• Understanding Finances (00:12:19) Discussion on the significance of financial awareness and making informed business decisions.
• Building a Strong Foundation (00:13:28) Tom draws parallels between scouting and building a successful automotive business.
• Finding Purpose and Alignment (00:15:02) The importance of aligning with team members who share the business vision.
• Letting Go and Empowering Employees (00:15:52) Insights on the challenge of stepping back and empowering employees to grow.
• Creating a Team of Heroes (00:16:32) Discusses the importance of guiding younger technicians and the balance between letting them learn through struggle.
• Controlled Failure as a Learning Tool (00:17:22) Explores the concept of controlled failure in learning and its parallels to youth-led scouting.
• Understanding Financial Margins (00:18:33) Emphasizes the significance of understanding profit margins and financial health for shop owners.
• The Importance of a Shop Management System (00:19:14) Highlights the necessity of having a solid shop management system for operational efficiency.
• Facing Business Uncertainties (00:22:02) Matt shares his initial fears and the value of a comprehensive business plan before opening his shop.
• The Courage to Hire (00:23:10) Discusses the fear of hiring an advisor and the eventual realization of their value in the business.
• Hiring the Right People (00:25:35) Focuses on viewing employees as assets and the importance of making informed hiring decisions.
• Customer Loyalty and Shop Culture (00:27:28) Stresses the need for a strong shop culture to maintain customer loyalty and service quality.
• The Value of Training (00:28:17) Discusses the importance of investing in training for employees and the long-term benefits it brings.
• Being a...

• Watch Full Video Episode
• Importance of Education (00:00:29) Dave discusses the need for better education in the automotive industry for technicians transitioning to business owners.
• Communication Strategies (00:01:21) Dave emphasizes effective communication with clients and team members to enhance business operations.
• Implementation of Systems (00:02:39) Dave outlines the importance of implementing systems and procedures for successful business management.
• Business Flow Chart (00:02:39) Introduction of a business flow chart used for analyzing business performance throughout the month.
• Manager Sheet Overview (00:03:46) Description of the manager sheet to track performance metrics and financial goals.
• Daily Tracker Explanation (00:04:04) Discussion on the daily tracker for monitoring car count and service metrics to improve operations.
• Inspect What We Expect (00:05:04) Dave explains the concept of inspecting repair orders to ensure quality service and client trust.
• Labor Profit Management (00:06:59) Introduction of a program to analyze productivity, efficiency, and effective labor rates for profitability.
• Effective Labor Rate Importance (00:08:38) Discussion on the significance of understanding effective labor rates versus door rates for financial health.

Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

In this week's episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, dives into the recent market volatility triggered by a disappointing jobs report and poor earnings from major companies. He explains the role of the Federal Reserve and the implications of the SOM Rule on predicting recessions.

• Market Drop: The market took a significant hit due to a higher-than-expected unemployment rate of 4.3%, compared to the anticipated 4.1%.
• Earnings Reports: Major companies, including Amazon, Google, and Nvidia, reported poor earnings, contributing to the market decline.
• Federal Reserve Influence: The Fed's control over interest rates and money supply directly impacts inflation and market volatility.
• SOM Rule: The SOM Rule, with a perfect recession prediction record, indicates a likely recession if unemployment rates rise more than 0.5% above the previous year's average.
• https://finance.yahoo.com/news/stock-market-news-today-nasdaq-enters-correction-dow-falls-600-points-as-disappointing-jobs-report-shakes-investors-133048116.html
• https://www.bls.gov/charts/employment-situation/civilian-unemployment.htm
• https://www.marketwatch.com/livecoverage/jobs-report-for-july-employment-growth-seen-slowing-with-hurricane-providing-a-drag/card/the-sahm-rule-is-officially-triggered-tvQVLLwkOPdqTIA45gsP
• https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/drop-magnificent-seven-could-drag-down-us-stocks-top-fund-manager-says-2024-07-30/
• https://www.cnbc.com/quotes/.MAG7

Aftermarket Radio Network

Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion

• YouTube
• Spotify
• Apple

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.

• YouTube
• Spotify

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech

Matt Fanslow explores social constructs, relationships, and game theory. Inspired by a wedding he attended and a personal story about a friend dealing with infidelity, he highlights the importance of clear communication and expectations. He connects these themes to game theory, illustrating its relevance in both personal and professional interactions.

Show Notes

• Economics with Dr. Joshua Rosenbloom [E038]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/038
• Automotive Technician Suicide with Margaret Light [E049]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/049
• Relationships 101 with Margaret Light [E058]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/058
• Dating Isn't Emotional Rehab with Margaret Light [E081]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/081
• Shame with Margaret Light [E103]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/103
• Good Grief with Margaret Light [E116]: https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/episode/116
• Contemplating Game Theory (00:01:14) Matt reflects on his desire to discuss game theory, referencing a previous episode with an economist.
• Wedding Observations (00:02:27) Matt shares his experience attending a wedding and listening to the couple's vows.
• Social Constructs in Relationships (00:04:59) Matt discusses the social constructs couples create and their potential misunderstandings.
• Friend's Affair and Reflection (00:06:15) He reveals a friend's marital affair, prompting thoughts on social constructs and personal experiences.
• Expectations and Social Constructs (00:07:42) Matt explains how social constructs shape behavior and expectations in relationships.
• Game Theory Basics (00:09:59) He introduces game theory, linking it to social interactions and relationships.
• Defining Game Requirements (00:12:15) Matt outlines the requirements for a game, including players, rules, and payoffs.
• Social Constructs and Expectations (00:14:52) He emphasizes the importance of understanding and communicating expectations in relationships.
• Impact of Broken Rules (00:16:08) Matt discusses the consequences of unspoken rules being broken in relationships and service experiences.
• Inspiration from Experiences (00:18:34) He encourages listeners to draw inspiration from experiences in both personal and professional contexts.
• Setting Expectations (00:20:56) Importance of clear communication about processes and customer expectations in automotive services.
• Building Trust (00:22:05) Establishing trust through consistent service, transparency about costs, and addressing customer concerns.
• Concepts of Game Theory (00:23:16) Overview of game theory's relevance to relationships and social constructs, emphasizing common sense applications.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: