Podcasts about effective communication

Thanks to our partners Promotive, WickedFile, Maverick Shop Owners, and OverdryveHow much cash did your shop actually make last month — and how much of it is still sitting in the bank? If you paid off every dollar of debt tomorrow, would you have anything left to cover a bad month?In this episode, Hunt Demarest, CPA, goes solo to tackle a topic he says trips up shop owners more than almost anything else: cash and reserves. He breaks down the simple rule of thumb for how much you should be keeping in the bank, then walks through four specific mistakes he sees shop owners make — from draining the business dry to (on the flip side) hoarding so much cash it becomes a legal liability, to the sneaky problem of debt payoff plans that leave owners debt-free and cash-poor at the same time. Hunt also shares the exact system he recommends clients use to set their own distributions so reserves never dip below where they need to be. Whether you're sitting on six figures in the checking account or wondering why you're always scrambling before payroll, this episode is a practical gut-check on the number that actually keeps a shop alive: cash.What You'll Learn...02:41 Cash vs. profit — the two flows of money every owner confuses03:30 The reserve rule of thumb — 3 to 6 months of overhead05:03 Why your ideal reserve depends on your shop's cash flow pattern06:55 Mistake #1 — Draining your business of its own cash09:51 The fix — how to set your monthly distribution the right way14:24 Mistake #2 — The "champagne problem" of keeping too much cash16:14 The profit-hold account trick — protecting cash without spending it17:01 Mistake #3 — Parking reserves where they earn zero interest19:12 Mistake #4 — Paying off debt too aggressively21:06 Cash and debt beats debt-free and broke — Hunt's ruleIf you're ready to stop guessing how much cash your shop should be holding, start building a reserve strategy that actually fits your business, and finally understand why "debt-free" isn't always the win it sounds like — this episode is essential listening.Thanks to our partner, PromotivePromotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our partner, WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Thanks to our partner, Maverick Shop OwnersYou're working on growing a more profitable shop - that's critical. That's exactly what the 24-video Blueprint course by Maverick Shop Owners addresses - customers, sales, profit, people, systems, and freedom. Get free access for our listeners only at https://maverickshopowners.com/blueprintThanks to our partner, OverdryveOverdryve is your AI-powered marketing operating system. It predicts slow weeks before they happen, automatically launches revenue-driving campaigns, tracks ROI down to the dollar, and optimizes performance in real time. Visit https://overdryvemarketing.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comGet the FREE 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report: https://hubs.ly/Q04j-grh0Download a Copy of My Books Here:Beyond the Bays: A Financial Playbook for Auto Repair Shop OwnersWrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 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 DiscussionDiagnosing 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.

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodePowered circuit testers tend to produce strong opinions. Some specialists consider them indispensable time-savers. Others see them as dangerous tools that make it far too easy to damage a circuit.In this episode, Matt examines where tools such as the Power Probe, Autel powered circuit tester, and metered test lights fit into an automotive diagnostic process. The ability to apply power or ground can be dangerous without an understanding of the circuit, but the same can be said of jumper wires, scan tools, oscilloscopes, and nearly every other useful diagnostic tool.Matt also opens the episode with thoughts on the unexpectedly short Conor McGregor and Max Holloway fight. Rather than focusing only on the disappointing result, he considers the discipline and preparation required to attempt something difficult, even when the attempt ultimately fails. That leads to a broader shop question: How should a leader respond when a capable employee puts in the work, takes on a difficult task, and still comes up short?In This EpisodeThe difference between a powered circuit tester and a metered test lightWhy Power Probe-style tools remain controversialThe risks of applying power or ground to an unknown circuitWhy Matt prefers the speed and simplicity of the Power Probe IIIUsing powered testers on motors, relays, power windows, and power seatsTesting fuel-pump power and ground circuitsUsing the tester's circuit breaker to evaluate whether a circuit can carry currentWhy unloaded voltage readings can be misleadingThe value of placing a known load on a circuitWhy corrosion can pass a voltage test but fail under loadMatt's experience with the Lisle and TOPDON metered test lightsWhy an incandescent test light is often more useful than an LED test lightThe difference between a dangerous tool and an improperly used toolKey TakeawaysA voltage reading does not necessarily prove that a circuit can perform useful work. A connection may show battery voltage through a meter and still fail when current is required.A metered test light can combine the speed of a traditional test light with an actual voltage reading and a known electrical load. Matt regularly uses this type of tester when checking fuses and evaluating circuit integrity.A powered circuit tester can also shorten the process of separating a failed component from a power-feed or ground problem. Matt describes using one at a fuel pump to verify the power side, ground side, and pump operation without repeatedly changing tools or building several different jumper-wire arrangements.The tool does make applying power or ground unusually easy. That convenience is precisely why the user needs to understand the circuit before pressing the switch.The Larger QuestionShould a tool be dismissed because it can cause damage in the wrong hands?A powered circuit tester can damage a circuit. A jumper wire can do the same. A scan tool can lead to expensive parts replacement when its information is misunderstood. The potential for misuse does not necessarily make the tool inappropriate. It may mean the specialist needs more knowledge before using it.Listener QuestionDo powered circuit testers belong in a professional diagnostic arsenal?Are they valuable time-savers, unnecessary risks, or a little of both? What version do you use, and where has it proven most useful?Mentioned in This EpisodePower Probe IIIPower Probe HookAutel powered circuit testerLisle metered test lightTOPDON TC001/CT100-style circuit testerIncandescent and LED test lightsFuel-pump circuit testingRelay and electric-motor testingThanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe 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/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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledWinning 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 TimestampsIntroduction 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 TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramLagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John MaxwellVision Hi-Tech Training & ExpoThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis 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/

To Find Deplorable Janet--> https://open.spotify.com/show/3K5Xi9LugxNdI06GXSIjAp?si=m5hPD7OsS6eim1jACk84ewTo sign up for our Patreon go to-> Patreon.com/cultofconspiracypodcast To find the Meta Mysteries Podcast---> https://open.spotify.com/show/6IshwF6qc2iuqz3WTPz9Wv?si=3a32c8f730b34e79 To Join the Cajun Knight Patreon---> Patreon.com/cajunknight To Find The Cajun Knight Youtube Channel---> click herehttps://flavorsforest.com/cult/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cult-of-conspiracy--5700337/support.

In this episode, I explore one of the most quietly destructive forces in any business relationship: doubt.    Drawing on John Patrick Shanley's Pulitzer Prize-winning play Doubt: A Parable, I examine what happens when doubt takes root between people in professional relationships.    I also look at the moment when business relationships shift from relational to transactional, why defending yourself against doubt rarely works, and why naming the doubt is the most powerful thing an influential voice can do.   When you tune in, you'll discover why:   Doubt doesn't introduce new information — it reframes existing information Naming doubt openly is what saves or ends a relationship Influential leaders don't wait for doubt to resolve itself; they bring it into the light It's important to distinguish between doubt that serves growth and doubt that destroys relationships (and how to do this) More from Tricia  Grab your copy of my new book, Being Smart Is Stupid Join me LIVE for my Free Monthly Workshop Explore my content and follow me on YouTube Follow me on Instagram  Connect with me on Facebook  Connect with me on LinkedIn  Visit my website at TriciaBrouk.com

This is an episode originally published in October 2023. It is one of my most popular.It's so important for parents to have effective communication with their teenagers and using the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) can help. Kate and guest Jeanine Mouchawar discuss how understanding your own and your teen's personality type can improve communication and reduce conflict. Jeanine shares a five-step process for effective communication: calming oneself before a conversation, stating observations without judgement, getting curious about the teen's feelings, validating their feelings, and asking for their ideas to make better choices.Jeanine emphasizes the importance of removing the word "why" from conversations as it often puts the other person on the defensive. Listen For:10:30 Why parenting approaches differ for teens as opposed to younger children18:24 Calming techniques (for calming down parents)24:19 The importance of stating observations clearly29:35 Avoiding the word “Why” Guest: Jeanine Mouchawar, BA StanfordInstagram | Facebook | TikTok | Website | Free Classes Contact Kate:Email | Website | Kate's Book on Amazon | LinkedIn | Facebook | X

In this episode, Sharon Mills shares her extensive knowledge on puppy development, training, and behaviour, emphasizing the importance of early socialization, boundaries, and understanding canine psychology for lifelong success.Links:Website: https://www.successpuppytraining.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/C_RsnG5IdOG/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/successpuppytraining/Puppy Love: https://www.successpuppytraining.com/product/puppy-love/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Puppy Training and Breeding02:06 The Importance of Matching Puppy Personalities03:13 Critical Stages of Puppy Development06:48 Training Techniques for New Puppies09:02 Natural Corrections by Mother Dogs12:36 The Role of Socialization in Puppy Development22:57 Common Issues New Puppy Owners Face25:44 Effective Communication with Dogs30:44 Building Trust and Understanding36:57 The Importance of Boundaries43:27 Training vs. Medication56:55 The Foundation of Training

We're thrilled to feature leadership expert and author James Oyola on the show today. James opens up about his unique path to becoming an author and introduces his powerful, transformative approach to soul-centered leadership. Whether you're looking to strengthen your team or find your own path, you'll discover practical strategies for building trust, managing difficult conversations, and leading with integrity—essential tools for any leader looking to make a lasting impact.Keywords:Leadership, Soul-Centered Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, Management, Personal Development, Workplace Culture, Conflict Resolution, Leadership Books, Leadership Lessons Podcast, Leadership Podcast Interviews, Leadership PodcastsKey topics:Journey to writing a bookPrinciples of soul-centered leadershipManaging trauma and relationshipsBuilding trust and relational capitalHandling difficult conversations and terminationsChapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Writing Journey02:52 The Concept of the Helpful Leader05:34 Understanding Trauma in Leadership08:23 Building Trust and Relationships in Leadership11:14 Balancing Accountability and Empathy15:47 Effective Communication and Support in Leadership16:54 Graceful Exits: Navigating Difficult Conversations19:46 The Importance of Dignity in Termination22:53 Curiosity and Compassion in Leadership26:28 Understanding Employee Significance29:20 Lessons from Leadership Mistakes34:16 Balancing Authority and ApproachabilityResources:James Oyola on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-oyola-29471114/The Helpful Leader Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thehelpful_leader/Confessions of a Terrible Leader is hosted by Layci Nelson and edited and produced by Fixation Point Productions. Music is by Leif Olsen and Mary Skop from the band The Number of Months. 

Thanks to our partners Promotive, WickedFile, Maverick Shop Owners, and OverdryveDo you actually know how much money your shop made last month? If 90% of new clients walking through Hunt's door don't, what are the odds you do?In this episode, Hunt Demarest, CPA, goes solo to call out the four most common ways shop owners are unknowingly sabotaging their own profit and loss statements — and the pain points he sees over and over again with new clients. He opens with a timely PSA on a scam email making the rounds targeting EIDL loan holders, then dives into why 90% of the shops Paar Melis brings on board are working off P&Ls that are materially misstated. From overly complicated financials to sales tracked without their matching costs to the owner's own cash and parts habits quietly wrecking the numbers, Hunt breaks down exactly where things go wrong — and how to fix it. Whether you've got a two-bay shop or a twenty-bay operation, this episode is a gut-check on whether the numbers you're using to run your business are actually telling you the truth.What You'll Learn...(02:59) Why this episode — a follow-up to the summer webinar series on P&Ls(03:24) PSA — the EIDL loan forgiveness scam targeting shop owners' inboxes(06:45) Mistake #1 — Why your P&L is flat-out wrong, and the 90% stat that proves it(09:23) Mistake #2 — Your P&L is way too complicated(13:31) The one-page rule — collapsed P&L vs. the four-page mess(15:31) The subaccount fix, using utilities as the easy win(16:26) Mistake #3 — Tracking sales without tracking the cost behind it(18:18) The tire sales trap — how "improving" your P&L can wreck your margins(20:12) Mistake #4 — You're the reason your financials don't add up(22:31) The parts cost leak nobody's stealing — it's just untrackedIf you've ever wondered whether your financials are actually telling you the truth, why a "good" P&L should fit on one page, and why tracking more sales categories can make your numbers worse instead of better — this episode is essential listening.Summer Webinar Series: Understanding Your Shop's Numbers Webinar: Replay Link and Passcode: .#TWUc81 Thanks to our partner, PromotivePromotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our partner, WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Thanks to our partner, Maverick Shop OwnersYou're working on growing a more profitable shop - that's critical. That's exactly what the 24-video Blueprint course by Maverick Shop Owners addresses - customers, sales, profit, people, systems, and freedom. Get free access for our listeners only at https://maverickshopowners.com/blueprintThanks to our partner, OverdryveOverdryve is your AI-powered marketing operating system. It predicts slow weeks before they happen, automatically launches revenue-driving campaigns, tracks ROI down to the dollar, and optimizes performance in real time. Visit https://overdryvemarketing.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comGet the FREE 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report: https://hubs.ly/Q04j-grh0Download a Copy of My Books Here:Beyond the Bays: A Financial Playbook for Auto Repair Shop OwnersWrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 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 DiscussionDiagnosing 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.

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodeIn this episode, Matt digs into a question that sits underneath a lot of shop economics, technician frustration, and industry culture: who should be responsible for buying the tools and equipment required to do the work a shop advertises?The discussion starts with a real-world example involving a dealership service department that did not have a connector depinning tool available, leaving a mechanical or technical specialist considering buying the tool personally. From there, Matt explores where the line should be drawn between personal hand tools and shop-owned equipment.Basic hand tools may be one thing. But scan tools, diagnostic equipment, specialty service tools, alignment systems, AC machines, tire equipment, connector service kits, and timing tools raise a different question entirely. If a shop sells those capabilities to customers, should the employee have to make the investment?Matt also looks at the long-term consequences of pushing too much cost onto specialists. If a specialist builds up enough personal tooling and equipment to perform a broad range of services, the industry may be quietly encouraging them to leave employment and open their own shop. That may work for some, but it also shrinks the talent pool, increases turnover risk, and may contribute to people leaving the industry altogether.The episode closes with a shift into diagnostic tool history, including a short “Mount Rushmore” of influential tools and equipment: the SCA, the Edge/Sun systems, the Fluke 87, and the Snap-on Vantage.Watch Reel VideoKey TopicsWhere the line falls between personal tools and shop-owned equipmentWhy “the specialist can just buy it” may be an unstable business strategyThe difference between basic hand tools and equipment required to sell a serviceHow tool investment affects technician income, risk, and career decisionsWhy shops should think about replacement cost when evaluating pay and retentionHow industry culture can unintentionally make shop ownership look like the only real path upwardThe difference between a tool investment working out and it actually being a good decisionVintage diagnostic equipment that changed how specialists workedNotable IdeasA shop advertising a capability should be equipped to perform that capability. If a shop sells alignments, AC service, tire work, connector repair, diagnostics, or programming, it becomes hard to justify the employee carrying the primary equipment burden.There may be some economic logic to a specialist buying a tool when they are guaranteed the work and the tool pays for itself. But that logic becomes unstable when the employee is taking the risk while the business is selling the service.Tool ownership can become a shadow path to business ownership. When specialists personally acquire enough tools and equipment to operate independently, the industry may be unintentionally training them to leave.Retention math has to include replacement cost. Production numbers matter, but so does the cost of losing a capable person, leaving a bay or role vacant, recruiting someone new, training them, and risking a revolving-door reputation.A tool purchase can “work out” without having been the smartest move. Matt reflects on his own history of buying diagnostic equipment and scan tools, noting that it helped build capability and reputation, but that does not automatically mean it was the best financial decision.Listener QuestionWhat tools or equipment have you been expected to buy personally?Where do you think the line should be between employee responsibility and shop responsibility?Should mechanical and technical specialists be expected to own anything beyond basic hand tools, or should the shop provide everything needed to perform the services it sells?Mentioned Diagnostic EquipmentSCA diagnostic equipmentSun/Edge PC-based engine analyzer systemsFluke 87 digital multimeterSnap-on VantageSnap-on Vantage ProOTC PerceptionSun engine analyzersFour-gas and five-gas analyzersPull Quotes“What's the logic of owning a business that advertises certain capabilities, but the shop itself is ill-equipped to be able to do that?”“If part of my purpose is to take care of my people, then one feature of that is to try to maximize their take-home pay and minimize their financial responsibilities to do the jobs they were hired to do.”“It may have worked out. I don't know if that means it was a good move.”Thanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe 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/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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledHave 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.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis 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/

While the podcast team is taking a Radical Sabbatical, Kim is interviewing authors of the books that have had a big impact on her in the past two years.  How can parenting skills help us become better team members and leaders in the workplace?  Sure, you can't “ground” your direct report when they screw up an important project, but the lessons of good parenting can certainly help us all be better at building effective and healthy teams.   In this episode, Kim speaks with Dr. Becky Kennedy, the author of Good Inside, a New York Times #1 bestseller.  Dr. Becky's background as a clinical psychologist and years of experience working with families give her valuable insights into navigating the stresses of raising kids amid a busy work schedule.  She has developed a loyal following among parents.  Kim and Dr. Becky talk about how these two worlds overlap and, in some cases, where they don't. For example, they talk about how “repair” and taking responsibility for handling something poorly can play a key role in increasing connection among team members.   Guest Background: Dr. Becky is the clinical psychologist and mom of three behind the breakthrough parenting company Good Inside. She specializes in helping parents become sturdy leaders in their homes by sharing the skills and strategies parents need to raise resilient kids. Dr. Becky is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, a TED speaker, and the host of the chart-topping podcast Good Inside with Dr. Becky, and has amassed a global following of millions of parents.  Dr. Becky received a BA in Psychology and Human Development, Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude, from Duke University and a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University. She has a certificate in Relational Psychotherapy from the Steven Mitchell Center. CHAPTERS (00:00) Introduction to Radical Kindness and Good Inside (03:02) Balancing Boundaries and Connection in Parenting (05:56) The Impact of Unfinished Business from Childhood (08:54) Curiosity as a Tool for Effective Communication (12:02) Connection Capital: Building Relationships with Kids (14:55) The Importance of High-Impact Moments (17:53) Repairing Relationships After Mistakes (20:56) Modeling Accountability for Children (24:09) Changing the Narrative Around Parenting and Guilt (27:06) Compassionate Criticism in Parenting and Work (29:04) Understanding Anger and Setting Boundaries (29:59) Compassionate Discipline: Balancing Boundaries and Understanding (32:24) Two Truths: Boundaries and Emotions (34:38) The Power of Belief: Encouraging Better Behavior (36:01) Redefining 'Nice': The Importance of Respectful Communication (39:31) Emotions as Information: Listening to Our Feelings (41:27) The Role of Emotions in Leadership and Parenting (44:32) Curiosity Over Fury: Navigating Emotional Responses (52:04) Preventing Bullying: Safety and Intervention Strategies Connect with the Radical Candor team: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thanks to our partners Promotive, WickedFile, Maverick Shop Owners, and OverdryveWhy does the IRS really pick a tax return to audit? And if a CPA who does this for a living can still get dragged through a three-year fight, what chance does the rest of us have?In this episode, Hunt Demarest, CPA, steps out from behind the desk to tell his own story — a three-year audit of his 2023 tax return that started with a suspiciously timed refund and ended with a win built entirely on paperwork. Hunt breaks down what gets a return flagged in the first place, the one habit that separates audits you win from ones you lose, and why "innocent" and "victorious" aren't always the same outcome — proven by a client who did everything right and still wrote a $25,000 check to the IRS.Hunt also pulls back the curtain on what his firm's audit protection covers, why informational requests aren't the same as a real audit, and why a single missing signature nearly cost him a case tax law was already on his side of. Whether you're worried about a deduction on your own return or want to know what triggers an IRS letter, this episode is a real-time look at how audits actually play out — not the version you hear secondhand.What You'll Learn...(02:51) Hunt's own audit story begins — three years, one 2023 tax return(03:58) Why the audit really happened — a refund, then a red flag a month later(04:41) Getting flagged, part 1 — why large credits are an open invitation to audit(08:24) Getting flagged, part 2 — the oversized expense line the IRS can't ignore(09:48) Inside the process — what an IRS "information request" audit actually looks like(15:06) The rule that wins audits — documentation, documentation, documentation(19:15) Audits take time, and time is money — even when you win(19:40) 100+ hours, one frivolous case, and the real cost of defending yourself(22:28) The hardest truth — being innocent doesn't guarantee you'll win(23:12) The $25,000 loss — when the IRS agent simply won't listen(24:24) The call every shop owner dreads — when paying up beats fighting onIf you've ever wondered what actually happens after that letter shows up, why documentation is the difference between a two-month resolution and a three-year fight, and why sometimes the smartest move is knowing when to stop — this episode is essential listeningThanks to our partner, PromotivePromotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our partner, WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Thanks to our partner, Maverick Shop OwnersYou're working on growing a more profitable shop - that's critical. That's exactly what the 24-video Blueprint course by Maverick Shop Owners addresses - customers, sales, profit, people, systems, and freedom. Get free access for our listeners only at https://maverickshopowners.com/blueprintThanks to our partner, OverdryveOverdryve is your AI-powered marketing operating system. It predicts slow weeks before they happen, automatically launches revenue-driving campaigns, tracks ROI down to the dollar, and optimizes performance in real time. Visit https://overdryvemarketing.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comGet the FREE 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report: https://hubs.ly/Q04j-grh0Download a Copy of My Books Here:Beyond the Bays: A Financial Playbook for Auto Repair Shop OwnersWrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open DiscussionDiagnosing 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.

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodeA Dodge Durango came into the shop for a second opinion after being suspected of needing a transmission. The symptoms sounded convincing at first: harsh shifts, apparent slipping, no diagnostic trouble codes, and a vehicle that felt completely wrong on the road. But the actual problem was much simpler. The Durango was stuck in four-low. Once shifted properly through neutral, the harsh shifting, driveline bind, and “slipping” behavior disappeared.Matt uses the case as a springboard into a broader discussion about diagnostic tunnel vision. The point is not just that someone almost condemned a transmission unnecessarily. The deeper issue is how easily a first impression can become the diagnosis. Once the vehicle felt like it was slipping, everything after that could be interpreted through that lens. That is where anchoring, confirmation bias, and premature closure start to become dangerous.The episode also compares the Durango case to a more common misfire scenario. A vehicle comes in with a misfire, the scan tool identifies a cylinder, the car line is known for coil failures, and the diagnosis becomes a coil and plug before much testing happens. That gamble may work most of the time, but the process failure is still there. Being right by probability is not the same as proving the fault.Matt also shares a personal example involving a Mini Cooper that was nearly misdiagnosed as needing a turbo. The actual issue was cam/crank timing related. The mistake became a difficult but important lesson in responsibility, process, and making things right with the customer.The episode closes with a nod to Mel Brooks on his 100th birthday, including Matt's Mount Rushmore of Mel Brooks films: Blazing Saddles, Spaceballs, The Producers, and History of the World, Part One.Watch Durango VideoKey TopicsWhy the Durango seemed like it had a major transmission failureHow four-low can mimic slipping, harsh shifting, and driveline problemsThe importance of reading the owner's manual when unfamiliar indicators appearAnchoring, confirmation bias, and premature closure in diagnosticsWhy “incompetent” may be technically accurate but often incomplete as an explanationThe ethical problem of charging for the wrong repair when the real fix is simpleWhy common failures can make weak testing feel justifiedHow probabilistic diagnosis can work until it does notThe value of owning a mistake and making it rightMel Brooks, comedy, and Matt's Mount Rushmore of Mel Brooks filmsPull Quote Options“The first impression is often the most dangerous piece of data in the whole diagnostic process.”“Being right most of the time does not mean the process was right.”“Customers should not be paying for our anchoring, our confirmation bias, and our premature closure.”“The real danger is not being wrong. The real danger is being done too early.”Episode TakeawaysA symptom that feels obvious can still be misleading. The Durango felt like it was slipping, but the transmission was not the problem.A flashing indicator or odd message on the dash may be the clue. The owner's manual may not feel like a diagnostic tool, but sometimes it is.Common failures can create lazy confidence. A known coil failure pattern or common turbo issue may point in the right direction, but it does not replace verification.Premature closure is expensive. It can cost the customer, the shop, or both.Ethics matter most when the mistake is discovered after the repair. The customer should not pay for a part that did not fix the vehicle just because the shop eventually stumbled into the real fix.A good diagnostic process should include forced questions: What am I anchored to? What evidence am I accepting too easily? What would prove my theory wrong?Thanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe 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/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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis 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 TimestampsIntroduction 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 TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Meta One SubscriptionsChatGPTClaude AIThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis 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/

Leave an Amazon Rating or Review for my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy! Check out the full episode: https://greatness.lnk.to/1943DM Charles Duhigg asked Lewis about his best friend and business partner Matt. Not the funniest guy. Not the smartest. The most rational. And the one who always proves he actually heard you. That turns out to be the whole secret. Duhigg walks through looping for understanding, a three-step method they teach at Harvard's negotiation program and in law schools. Ask a real question. Repeat back what you heard in your own words. Then ask if you got it right. That last step is the one everyone forgets. He also explains why being understood feels so good. The ancestors who bonded with their people and invested in their community are the ones who survived. The pull toward connection is built into us. Lewis describes what it feels like when a therapist finally gets it. Magical. Safe. Like someone truly sees you. Take a listen before your next conversation that actually matters. Sign up for the Greatness newsletter: http://www.greatness.com/newsletter Topics looping for understanding, Charles Duhigg, effective communication, active listening, how to feel heard, conflict resolution, supercommunicators, Lewis Howes, building connection, communication skills Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Celebrating 300 episodes with listener questions from around the world. In this special 300th episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams celebrates a major milestone with a live Ask Matt Anything session featuring questions from listeners around the world—and a few from the team behind the show. He introduces a new communication framework, PREP (Point, Reason, Example, Point), before tackling topics ranging from word recall and public speaking nerves to storytelling, AI's impact on communication, giving difficult feedback, and using gestures more effectively. Along the way, he shares practical strategies, favorite communication techniques, and lessons learned from 300 episodes dedicated to helping people communicate with confidence, clarity, and connection.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Ep.250 How to Navigate Conflict: Tools For Productive Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:13) - PREP Framework (04:13) - Improving Word Recall (07:10) - Public Speaking Nerves (11:35) - Concise vs. Detailed Communication (13:39) - AI & Communication Skills (16:12) - Storytelling Fundamentals (18:51) - Lingo vs. Jargon (20:22) - Difficult Feedback Conversations (22:36) - The Power of Paraphrasing (25:07) - Effective Gestures (29:28) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost. Upwork is a one-stop platform to find, hire, and pay expert freelancers. Visit upwork.com right now and post your job for free. 

Thanks to our partners Promotive, WickedFile, Maverick Shop Owners, and OverdryveWhy is a shop charging $300 an hour in Texas still taking home less profit than a shop in Maine charging $30 less? Does where you're located actually decide how much money ends up in your pocket — or is something else driving the gap?In the final installment of a three-part dive into the 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report, Hunt Demarest, CPA, breaks down the regional, size, and vehicle-type trends separating the most profitable shops in the country from everyone else. From the Southeast's 17% margins to the Southwest's labor-rate paradox, Hunt unpacks why charging more doesn't always mean keeping more — and why "your shop is no different" is only half true.Hunt also dives into the numbers behind general repair, diesel, and European shops, explains why bigger isn't always better, and closes with a sobering look at the technician shortage now threatening the entire industry. Whether you're running a one-bay diesel shop in the Midwest or a multi-bay European specialty shop in the Northeast, this episode is your roadmap to benchmarking against the right peers — not just the averages.What You'll Learn...(00:00) Intro(03:34) Kicking off Part 3 of the 2026 Benchmark Report series — this week, regional trends(05:40) Why productivity — not location — is the real leading indicator of profit(07:34) Where the top shops actually are (hint: the South didn't make the list)(08:36) The Southwest's labor-rate paradox — highest rates, lowest profit(12:40) "Your shop is no different" — the half-truth every owner needs to hear(14:28) The $1.4M myth — why bigger shops aren't necessarily more profitable(19:23) General repair vs. diesel vs. European — which type actually pays best(22:06) Parts margin vs. labor margin — where each vehicle type wins and loses(24:27) Percentages vs. dollars — why a diesel shop can out-earn a general shop(28:06) The 37,000-tech shortfall, and why 67% of techs quit before year one(30:00) Aging fleets, deferred maintenance, and the hybrid boom shops can't ignoreIf you're ready to stop benchmarking against the wrong shops, start understanding which numbers actually predict profit, and finally see where your region, size, and specialty really stack up — this episode is essential listening.Get the FREE 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report: https://hubs.ly/Q04j-grh0Part 1: Auto Shop Benchmarks: Biggest Changes, Key KPI's and Trends [E226] https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/episode/hunt226/Part 2: What the Top 10% of Auto Repair Shops Are Doing Differently — And What the Bottom 10% Refuse to Fix [E227] https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/episode/hunt226/Thanks to our partner, PromotivePromotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our partner, WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Thanks to our partner, Maverick Shop OwnersYou're working on growing a more profitable shop - that's critical. That's exactly what the 24-video Blueprint course by Maverick Shop Owners addresses - customers, sales, profit, people, systems, and freedom. Get free access for our listeners only at https://maverickshopowners.com/blueprintThanks to our partner, OverdryveOverdryve is your AI-powered marketing operating system. It predicts slow weeks before they happen, automatically launches revenue-driving campaigns, tracks ROI down to the dollar, and optimizes performance in real time. Visit https://overdryvemarketing.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comGet the FREE 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report: https://hubs.ly/Q04j-grh0Download a Copy of My Books Here:Beyond the Bays: A Financial Playbook for Auto Repair Shop OwnersWrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 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 DiscussionDiagnosing 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.

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodeIn this episode of Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z, Matt Fanslow starts with a case study on a 2000 Ford Excursion with a 7.3L Power Stroke that came in with a severe lack of power. What began as a fuel delivery problem turned into a more interesting diagnostic puzzle involving a P1280 injection control pressure sensor code, an aftermarket ICP sensor, and a fault that appeared to happen not during cranking or running, but after key-off.The case becomes a practical example of why testing under actual operating conditions matters. Static tests can pass, scan data can look normal, and a meter may never show the event. In this case, the scope captured something the rest of the tools could easily miss.Matt then shifts into a listener question about artificial intelligence, especially large language models like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Grok, and others. The concern is not simply whether AI is good or bad, but whether people, especially kids, may begin outsourcing too much thinking, writing, problem-solving, and confidence to these tools.The episode lands on a recurring theme: tools are not the problem by themselves. The question is how they are used, what skills may atrophy when they are overused, and whether individuals, families, businesses, industries, and society are willing to think more carefully and evidence-first about the long-term effects.Topics Covered2000 Ford Excursion 7.3L Power Stroke Case StudyMatt discusses a 7.3L Power Stroke with a major lack-of-power concern. The initial issue was tied to the low-pressure fuel supply side. A basic fuel pressure test had passed, but it had not been tested under the actual conditions where the symptom occurred.That led to a larger point: testing at idle, key-on, or during cranking is not the same as testing under load.The vehicle ultimately had damaged pickup screens and debris in the fuel tank. Cleaning the tank and replacing the failed components solved the fuel supply issue, but another problem remained.The P1280 ICP Sensor ProblemAfter the fuel supply repair, the truck began setting a P1280 code, related to the injection control pressure sensor circuit reading low.The strange part was that the voltage looked normal:Key-on engine-off voltage looked normal.Cranking voltage did not drop.Five-volt reference stayed stable.Sensor ground stayed stable.The signal looked fine while running.The meter never really caught the failure.The scope eventually revealed the important event: after key-off, the ICP signal voltage would sometimes dip nearly to zero. That appeared to be enough for the PCM to set the code on the next key cycle.Scope vs. Meter vs. Scan ToolThis case is a useful reminder that each tool has limits.A scan tool may not refresh fast enough or may stop collecting data after key-off. A meter may technically sample quickly, but the display may not show a short event clearly. The oscilloscope was the tool that made the failure visible.The point is not that one tool is always better. The point is knowing which tool fits the question being asked.Aftermarket Sensor BehaviorThe aftermarket ICP sensor appeared to produce a rebound effect after shutdown. Matt compares the behavior to something like inertial rebound, a concept familiar from certain pressure pulse sensors and piezo-style tools.The OE Motorcraft sensor did not reproduce the same behavior. Replacing the aftermarket sensor with the OE sensor corrected the issue.Main Diagnostic TakeawaysTesting has to match the failure condition. A fuel pressure test that passes at idle does not prove the fuel system can keep up under load.A sensor can create a failure outside the moment most people are watching. In this case, the important event seemed to occur after key-off.A scope can reveal details that a scan tool or meter may miss, especially when the event is brief, intermittent, or happens outside normal observation windows.Aftermarket parts can fail in ways that are not obvious or traditionally “failed.” The sensor was not simply dead. It behaved incorrectly under a specific condition.Listener Question: AI, Kids, and Skill AtrophyThe second half of the episode deals with a listener question about artificial intelligence and whether it may negatively affect people, especially kids.Matt narrows the discussion to what most people mean by AI in everyday conversation: large language models. These tools can write, summarize, explain, organize, and suggest. That makes them useful, but it also creates a risk.The concern is skill atrophy. When people lean too heavily on AI to write, think, summarize, diagnose, or explain, they may lose confidence or sharpness in those same areas.AI TakeawaysAI does not have to be viewed as the collapse of civilization, but it also should not be treated casually.The better question is not “Is AI good or bad?” It is: What happens when people outsource too much of their thinking to it?Matt argues for an evidence-based approach. Families, schools, businesses, industries, and society should be asking harder questions about long-term effects instead of simply letting the tools spread and hoping it all works out.Neuroplasticity matters here. Even if people become overdependent on AI, the brain can adapt again. Skills can be rebuilt. Confidence can be recovered. But that depends on whether people recognize the problem and choose to do something about it.Thanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe 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/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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledToday, 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 TimestampsIntroduction 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 TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Atomic Habits by James ClearThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis 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 if the patient never noticed the merger at all? For Matt Staub, that's not a failure — it's the goal. In this episode, Your Health CEO Matt Staub sits down with Jamie to talk through the company's merger with TCPA and Providence Care — a move that brings together similar footprints in primary care, palliative, hospice, skilled nursing, and assisted living across South Carolina and Georgia. As a 23-year healthcare veteran going through his first merger, Matt is candid about the tedious due-diligence "earnest money" phase, the EMR transitions ahead, and why he refuses to let "what could go wrong" crowd out "what could go right." You'll hear: Why "mass moves mass" — and what scale actually buys patients in care management and data analytics How Your Health breaks 50,000 patients into groups, teams, and "hubs" so no one falls through the cracks The "change is hard" philosophy and the discipline of productive (not just effective) communication How the spirit of agape — godly love — still threads through a company that's evolved far past its original name What success looks like in six months: patient retention, mission and margin If you lead through change — or live through it — this one will reframe how you think about getting bigger without losing what made you matter.

Avoidance feels like keeping the peace, but it's actually marital poison.On this episode, I talk about the fear underneath silence, what honest connection sounds like, and why communication and sex are more linked than most couples admit.This Wednesday, June 24th at 12 p.m. Eastern, 9 a.m. Pacific, I want you to sign up for my masterclass titled "Sex & Talking; How to Stop Avoiding Both."Register here and either come live or get watch the recording - all for only $42What I cover in this class:✔️How avoidance is slowly creating disconnect in your marriage✔️Mindset tips for overcoming your fear of honest talking✔️Communication tips for a more intimate relationship✔️The connection between effective communication and satisfying sex✔️Getting in touch with what you want & like in bed✔️How to communicate to your partner your sexual needs✔️How to say no to sex without shutting your partner down✔️Creating a marriage you feel excited about again!*** If you're listening to this after the class takes place, register anyway to get the recording emailed to you! Learn the communication skills that will level-up your marraige in my 90 minute Masterclass: The Formula for Effective Communication for only $37FREE: 21 Questions That Will Bring You & Your Partner CloserIG:  @partnershipalignedElana@partnershipaligned.comInterested in private coaching? Book your free consult and start improving your relationship today!

If you've ever worked on a team that had a crazy amount of chemistry, you already know the answer. Everything they touched was gold, they produced more than any other team combined, and they had fun doing it.Unfortunately, you know that that is not the norm. Most teams have people you don't like, that one person that doesn't do anything, one person who shows up always talking about their personal life, one person who thinks they're better than everyone else, and you have to try and make it work.So, what's the difference between those two teams?I would say it all comes down to how they communicate!So this week I'll be going over everything I know about effective communication to ensure your team becomes the best version it can be!Show Notes: What is Effective Communication and How Does it Create a Dream Team Dynamic?(https://team-building.org/what-is-effective-communication-and-how-does-it-create-a-dream-team-dynamic/)

Thanks to our partners Promotive, WickedFile, Maverick Shop Owners, and OverdryveIs your shop growing in revenue but shrinking in profit? Are you convinced that raising your labor rate is the fastest path to the bottom line — only to discover that your highest-charging competitors are losing money? And what if the real difference between a shop that keeps 35 cents of every dollar and one that loses money has nothing to do with location, specialty, or size?In this solo deep-dive, Hunt Demarest, CPA at Paar Melis & Associates, walks through the 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report — specifically, what separates the top 10% of shops from the bottom 10%. It's about the metrics that actually matter: how much of every sales dollar ends up in the owner's pocket, why overhead is silently eating 42 cents on every dollar in struggling shops, and why the shops doing the most are almost always doing it with the fewest people. Hunt strips the report down to what you need to know — and what to do about it.Whether you're a two-bay shop trying to crack profitability or a multi-location owner wondering why growth keeps outrunning your margins — this episode is essential listening.wondering why growth keeps outrunning your margins — this episode is essential listening.What You'll Learn...(00:01) Why Part 2 shifts from industry trends to what separates winners from losers(04:01) How Paar Melis defines a "top shop" — and why net profit alone doesn't tell the whole story(07:37) The sales volume surprise — why bigger isn't always better, and smaller isn't always a disadvantage(10:56) The metric top shops don't even know they're winning — gross profit per square foot(14:56) Why the Midwest lost all its top shops this year — and who's to blame(19:31) The labor rate myth, debunked — bottom shops charge more per hour and still lose(23:16) The 12-point overhead gap that explains almost every difference in profitability(26:18) Service advisor output — the $18,000-per-month performance gap you probably aren't measuring(26:18) The one fix that moves shops from the bottom 10% to the top — and most already know what it isIf you're ready to stop chasing sales volume as a substitute for profit, understand why the shop charging less per hour is likely the one making more money, and finally see the 12-point overhead gap that separates top shops from everyone else — this episode is essential listening.Get the FREE 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report: https://hubs.ly/Q04j-grh0Thanks to our partner, PromotivePromotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our partner, WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Thanks to our partner, Maverick Shop OwnersYou're working on growing a more profitable shop - that's critical. That's exactly what the 24-video Blueprint course by Maverick Shop Owners addresses - customers, sales, profit, people, systems, and freedom. Get free access for our listeners only at https://maverickshopowners.com/blueprintThanks to our partner, OverdryveOverdryve is your AI-powered marketing operating system. It predicts slow weeks before they happen, automatically launches revenue-driving campaigns, tracks ROI down to the dollar, and optimizes performance in real time. Visit https://overdryvemarketing.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comText Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413Download a Copy of My Books Here:Beyond the Bays: A Financial Playbook for Auto Repair Shop OwnersWrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 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 DiscussionDiagnosing 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.

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodeMatt Fanslow continues his exploration of game theory by examining the difference between a shop's official game and its shadow game.The official game is what ownership and management say the shop values: quality work, safety, fairness, employee support, customer care, and doing things the right way.The shadow game is what the shop's systems, incentives, habits, exceptions, and unwritten rules actually reward.Those two games are not always completely opposed, and the gap between them is not necessarily created intentionally. Management may sincerely believe in the official game while remaining unaware of the behaviors being produced by compensation plans, workflow problems, favoritism, poor communication, broken equipment, or inadequate support.Matt looks at how employees can respond rationally to the system in front of them, even when those responses undermine the shop's stated purpose. That may help explain dishonest, deviant, or destructive behavior, but it does not necessarily excuse it.The goal is not to pretend the shadow game does not exist. It is to identify it, understand what is creating it, and bring it into the light so the shop's actual systems move closer to its stated values.The episode then takes a much less serious turn as Matt attempts to choose his Mount Rushmore of stand-up comedians. Richard Pryor, Lenny Bruce, Joan Rivers, and Dave Chappelle make the final cut, but not without considerable hesitation and several deserving names being left behind.Topics DiscussedThe difference between the official game and the shadow gameWhy stated values and actual incentives often conflictProduction-based compensation versus quality expectationsUnpaid inspections and the behavior they may encourageFavoritism, gravy work, and inconsistent enforcementSafety claims versus unsafe or neglected equipmentFront-of-house and back-of-house information gapsHow imperfect information allows assumptions to spreadLocally rational behavior inside a dysfunctional systemExplaining behavior without excusing itManagement's responsibility to understand the real systemEmployees' responsibility to communicate problems honestlyWhen trying to improve a workplace becomes less reasonable than leaving itGolden handcuffs and the personal cost of remaining in a misaligned organizationWhether mission statements represent actual beliefs or marketing languageMatt's Mount Rushmore of stand-up comediansQuestions Raised in the EpisodeWhat does a shop say it rewards?What does it actually reward?Do compensation and workflow systems support the quality standards discussed in meetings?Are safety problems addressed when employees report them?Are rules and opportunities applied consistently?What behaviors are employees learning from the system, regardless of what management says?How closely does the shadow game align with the official game?Who belongs on the Mount Rushmore of stand-up comedy?Matt's Comedy Mount RushmoreRichard PryorLenny BruceJoan RiversDave ChappelleOther comedians considered include George Carlin, Robin Williams, Bill Burr, Chris Rock, Eddie Murphy, Steve Martin, Steven Wright, Sam Kinison, Andrew Dice Clay, Norm Macdonald, and Bob Uecker.Thanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe 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/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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledAI 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 TimestampsIntroduction 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 TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Joe SchindlerChatGPTClaude AIAppFueled CRMThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis 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/

On this episode, I sit down with body confidence coach and boudoir photographer Rebecca Sigala about how body image quietly shapes marriage, from everyday self-talk to what happens when the lights are on in the bedroom. We connect the dots between shame, safety, and vulnerability, then map out what actually helps couples move from disconnection to deeper intimacy. Topics covered:• body image as an internal experience that affects intimacy • why compliments help but do not heal a woman's relationship with her body • what husbands need to know about how often their wives think about their bodies • how culture, comparison, diet culture, and beauty standards fuel body shame • meeting yourself where you are and dropping shame as the first real step • how body confidence can change touch, desire, and emotional openness in marriage Who is Rebecca Sigala?Rebecca Sigala is an internationally recognized body confidence coach, fine art boudoir photographer, and host of The Body Image Revolution podcast. Through her unique approach, she helps women transform the way they see themselves, so they can show up more fully in every area of their lives.For over a decade, Rebecca has dedicated herself to helping women break free from societal pressures and feel at home in their bodies. The impact of this work extends far beyond the individual, influencing their relationships, their work, and future generations. She is also the creator of The New Sexy Awakening, her signature virtual coaching program for self-aware women who are ready to break the cycle, fully embrace their bodies, and feel sexy in their skin through all the seasons of life.Based in Efrat, Israel, Rebecca runs her company alongside her husband, Yehoshua, while raising their three children. She also travels worldwide for clients and speaking engagements.Instagram: @rebeccasigalacoachingwww.rebeccasigalacoaching.com Learn the communication skills that will level-up your marraige in my 90 minute Masterclass: The Formula for Effective Communication for only $37FREE: 21 Questions That Will Bring You & Your Partner CloserIG:  @partnershipalignedElana@partnershipaligned.comInterested in private coaching? Book your free consult and start improving your relationship today!

Many auto repair shop owners struggle with cash flow despite having decent sales and respectable margins.Why?Sometimes the answer isn't on the Income Statement.In this Weekly Blitz episode, I discuss why owner draws can become one of the most overlooked causes of cash flow problems inside an auto repair business.After reviewing a shop's financials, I discovered multiple family members were taking approximately $15,000 per week in draws from the company. The withdrawals were sitting on the Balance Sheet, making it easy to overlook their impact on operational performance and cash flow.In this episode you'll learn:Why owner draws deserve more visibilityThe difference between tax accounting and management accountingHow hidden withdrawals impact cash flowWhy businesses should determine what they can afford to distributeThe two solutions available when draws exceed profitabilityWhy numbers can hide even when they don't lieSponsored By Shop Marketing ProsShop Marketing Pros helps independent auto repair shops dominate their markets through SEO, website design, Google Ads, and digital marketing strategies built specifically for the automotive industry.Learn more at:https://shopmarketingpros.comNeed Help Understanding Your Numbers?Schedule a discovery session with AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching today.https://autoshopcoaching.comThe 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/autorepairmarketingmastermindConnect with Chris:AutoFix-Auto Shop Coachingwww.autoshopcoaching.comwww.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0aeEmail Chris: chris@autofixsos.comThe 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 DiscussionDiagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.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.The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

Thanks to our partners Promotive, WickedFile, Maverick Shop Owners, and OverdryveYour technicians got more productive in 2025. Your labor rate went up. Your parts margins improved. So why is the average shop owner keeping almost exactly the same percentage of every dollar as they did the year before?The answer is hiding in your effective labor rate — and most shop owners haven't looked at it once.In this episode, Hunt Demarest breaks down the headline findings from Paar Melis & Associates' 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report — the largest study of its kind, built from more than 200 real shop locations across the country. From average repair order trends to technician productivity, overhead creep, benefits adoption, pay structure breakdowns, shop management software rankings, and the labor rate shame list nobody wants to be on, this is the financial state-of-the-industry episode you didn't know you needed. And it's only Part One.What You'll Learn(00:00) Intro — the 2026 Benchmark Report is live and how to get your free copy(03:16) Who made this report possible — methodology, participation, and what Paar Melis clients get that nobody else does(05:30) How to read benchmark numbers without misleading yourself — context, outliers, and the ARO trap(13:15) Sales are up 10-11% — but how much of that is real production vs. a labor rate increase you already gave yourself?(16:20) Productivity jumped from 47% to 55% — so why didn't net profit follow?(18:30) Effective labor rate: the silent margin killer hiding in plain sight in 2025(27:30) Benefits adoption hits an all-time high: 73% of shops now offer health insurance(29:30) Retirement plans, tool reimbursement, Trump Accounts, and the fringe benefits arms race(30:45) Four-day work weeks and non-cash comp — how shops are winning the talent war without raising base pay(34:30) Good management makes money, not good pay plans(36:30) 83% of shops are doing digital vehicle inspections — Hunt thought it would be closer to 100%(37:30) Shop management software rankings: Tekmetric at 56%, Mitchell likely on the way out, Shopware and Protractor tied for third(40:30) The labor rate shame list — 11% of shops haven't raised their rate in 18 months or moreIf you're ready to stop guessing where your numbers stand, start benchmarking against 200+ real shops across the country, and finally understand why doing more work doesn't always mean making more money — this episode is essential listening.Get the FREE 2026 Auto Shop Benchmark Report: https://hubs.ly/Q04j-grh0Thanks to our partner, PromotivePromotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our partner, WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Thanks to our partner, Maverick Shop OwnersYou're working on growing a more profitable shop - that's critical. That's exactly what the 24-video Blueprint course by Maverick Shop Owners addresses - customers, sales, profit, people, systems, and freedom. Get free access for our listeners only at https://maverickshopowners.com/blueprintThanks to our partner, OverdryveOverdryve is your AI-powered marketing operating system. It predicts slow weeks before they happen, automatically launches revenue-driving campaigns, tracks ROI down to the dollar, and optimizes performance in real time. Visit https://overdryvemarketing.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comText Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413Download a Copy of My Books Here:Beyond the Bays: A Financial Playbook for Auto Repair Shop OwnersWrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 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 DiscussionDiagnosing 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.

This episode is a re-run. It was originally published in May 2023.Three things the longest-lasting subs all do:They negotiate hard, every single time. They walk away from risky contracts, even good ones. They protect their margin like it's oxygen.That's it. That's the whole game.Listen up.Struggling with unfair contracts or slow payments in construction? With 6,000+ contracts reviewed and $20 billion in contracts managed, Quantum Contracts' proven framework is designed to help you negotiate fair contracts, secure faster payments, avoid disputes, and improve cash flow.Work With Us: HereGet The Subcontractor's Edge Book: HereTimestamps:(2:46) - I was seeing so many companies losing money and going out of business because they didn't understand the contract(15:12) - Lowest price technically qualified doesn't mean you're going to have the lowest total cost of ownership(16:28) - If you've got a reasonable margin, you can afford better people(23:43) - The most successful ones tend to be family-run businesses like full-family businesses(24:47) - Making a reasonable margin on a low-risk job is better than making a high margin in a high-risk job over timeDISCLAIMER: The content of this podcast does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to be a substitute for legal advice, and can not be relied upon as such. You should seek legal advice or other professional advice in relation to any matters you or your business may have.

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodeIn this episode, Matt Fanslow continues the conversation around game theory and economics in the automotive repair industry, focusing on one of the biggest invisible forces affecting customer trust: information asymmetry.Auto repair is a credence good service, meaning most customers cannot fully judge the quality of the work before, during, or even after the repair. A grinding brake noise may disappear after a $200 backyard brake job or a $500 professional repair, but the customer may not be able to tell whether the work was safe, complete, or performed to a professional standard. That gap between what the shop knows and what the customer can reasonably know creates distrust by default.Matt connects this to economist George Akerlof's “Market for Lemons,” originally applied to the used-car market, and explains how the same logic applies directly to auto repair. When customers cannot reliably distinguish quality from poor work, lower-quality providers can drag down trust in the entire market.The episode then turns toward solutions: better documentation, digital vehicle inspections, before-and-after photos or videos, service information references, and clearer explanations that help narrow the information gap without trying to turn every customer into a technician. The goal is not to overwhelm customers with technical data. The goal is to give them enough context to understand what was found, why it matters, and why the repair has value.Matt also discusses how YouTube, forums, and large language models can complicate trust by giving customers information that may be incomplete, misunderstood, or flat-out wrong. Shops now have to compete not just with other shops, but with customer fear, confirmation bias, and online explanations that may reinforce distrust.Key TopicsInformation asymmetry in automotive repairAuto repair as a credence good serviceWhy customers often distrust repair recommendationsGeorge Akerlof and “The Market for Lemons”How poor-quality providers affect trust in good shopsThe role of digital vehicle inspectionsBefore-and-after documentation as trust-buildingUsing service information to demonstrate valueThe impact of YouTube, forums, and AI tools on customer expectationsWhy economic and game theory language matters in shop managementEpisode HighlightsMatt explains that customers often cannot tell the difference between a good repair and a poor repair if the obvious symptom goes away. That makes trust harder to earn and easier to lose.He uses the brake job example to show how two repairs can appear identical to a customer even when one is much safer, more complete, and more professional than the other.The “Market for Lemons” idea is used to explain how low-quality or deceptive providers can create distrust that affects the entire profession.The episode stresses that documentation is not just paperwork. Photos, videos, voltage readings, service information, and before-and-after evidence are part of how shops demonstrate value.Matt argues that shops need to use economic and game theory terms because many of the answers to shop problems already exist in those fields. Without the right language, it becomes harder to find or explain the solution.Notable Quote“We're insulating ourselves from a market for lemons.”Practical Takeaways for ShopsUse digital vehicle inspections to show customers what is good, what is bad, and why it matters.Do not assume the customer understands the significance of a test result. Explain the before and after in plain terms.Show comparisons when possible: good versus bad, before versus after, failed versus repaired.Reference manufacturer service information when it helps explain why the job requires certain steps.Recognize that customers may arrive with fear, skepticism, or bad information before you ever speak to them.Trust is not built only by being honest. It is built by making honest work visible and understandable.Thanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe 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/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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledSome 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 TimestampsIntroduction 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 TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Their StoryAdvanced European RepairGrove StreetShovel Town AutoTheir Community InvolvementThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis 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/

Live Work with Ruben: Part 1 of 2 Working with Performance Anxiety in Real Time Hosts: Kevin Cornelius, LMFT Dr. David Burns Guests: Dr. Jill Levitt Ruben Land In this live work from a recent Tuesday Group, we had the opportunity to work with Ruben, a highly capable and thoughtful clinician, who brought a struggle that many therapists quietly share: intense performance anxiety in evaluative situations, especially in the presence of authority figures or people he deeply admires. What made this work especially powerful is that Ruben was actively experiencing anxiety in the moment, allowing us to "get in the car with him" rather than talk about the problem abstractly. We began, as always in TEAM-CBT, with Testing. Ruben had completed a Brief Mood Survey, which showed relatively low baseline symptoms—just mild anxiety and minimal depression or anger. However, when we reviewed his Daily Mood Log, anchored to a specific situation (leading a group under supervision), we saw a very different picture: anxiety at 70%, feelings of inferiority and defectiveness at 80%, embarrassment at 70%. This contrast highlights a core principle: symptoms are often situational and state-dependent, and without anchoring in a specific moment, we risk missing the true intensity of the problem. From there, we moved into Empathy, where Jill did a beautiful job modeling the Five Secrets of Effective Communication. She captured Ruben's internal experience with precision: the pressure to perform, the fear of saying the wrong thing, the spiral of anxiety leading to cognitive blanking, and the secondary anxiety about appearing anxious. She also identified both the internal loop ("I'm anxious about being anxious") and the interpersonal fears ("they'll think I'm a fraud," "I'm wasting their time"). David complemented this with curiosity and gentle inquiry, helping to deepen the conceptualization without getting lost in theory. Importantly, we conducted an empathy check, asking Ruben to grade us on thought empathy, feeling empathy, and warmth. He gave A+ ratings across the board, with a slight adjustment on thought empathy when he introduced an additional element: a compulsive need to check and recheck, suggesting a subtle OCD-like process. This moment is critical—without the empathy check, we would have missed an important maintaining factor. Only after strong empathy did we move into Agenda Setting, which is often the most counterintuitive and transformative part of TEAM-CBT. David began with the Invitation, asking whether Ruben wanted help or more support. Ruben was ready to "roll up his sleeves," which is essential—no imposed agenda. Then we used the Miracle Question to clarify goals: Ruben wanted to feel less anxious, maintain fluency, and stay present in high-stakes situations. Next came the Magic Button, targeting outcome resistance. When asked if he would eliminate all his negative feelings, Ruben said no—he wanted to keep some anxiety. This is exactly what we hope for. It opens the door to Positive Reframing, where we honor the symptoms rather than pathologize them. Together, we identified numerous positive values and benefits of his anxiety and self-doubt: Anxiety motivates preparation and effort It enhances connection through vulnerability It reflects caring deeply about others and their time Feelings of inadequacy keep him humble and growth-oriented Fear of judgment protects him and signals high standards Even the thought "I might be a fraud" reflects a desire to be authentic and competent At one point, Ruben articulated that his anxiety shows he values others and wants to contribute meaningfully—this is a profound reframe. Jill and David reinforced these insights, helping him see that his "symptoms" are actually expressions of his values system in action. We also explored a key factor: his anxiety is amplified in performative, evaluative contexts, especially with authority figures, and is less intense in vulnerable, non-evaluative settings. This distinction is clinically crucial and guides both conceptualization and intervention. Another powerful moment came when Ruben acknowledged that self-disclosure reduces his anxiety, supporting the idea that "shame requires secrecy." When he hides his anxiety, it intensifies; when he shares it, it softens. This is both a therapeutic tool and a treatment target. After thoroughly addressing resistance, we moved into Goal Setting, asking Ruben not what he wants to eliminate, but what he wants to dial down. This is a hallmark of TEAM: Anxiety: 70 → 30 Shame: 30 → 20 Inadequacy: 80 → 30 Embarrassment: 70 → 20 We then transitioned into Methods, targeting the thought: "My speech is too slow, and I sound foolish, ignorant, and boring." Jill began with a classic but essential step: identify the distortions. Ruben quickly identified all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, mental filter, discounting positives, mind reading, fortune telling, labeling, self-blame, and hidden "shoulds." This is an important teaching point: when a thought contains nearly all distortions, it's not a problem—it's a goldmine. From there, rather than staying intellectual, we offered multiple method pathways—Externalization of Voices, Feared Fantasy, Be Specific, and Double Standard—modeling flexibility and collaboration. Ruben chose Externalization of Voices, which became the central method. David stepped in as the Negative Ruben, delivering the attack clearly and forcefully. This is essential—the more vivid the critic, the more powerful the response. Ruben responded using a blend of acceptance ("it's true I sometimes pause"), self-defense, and realism (some people may not like it, and that's okay). He won "big," but not "huge," which is a key TEAM moment—we don't settle for partial wins. They then moved into role reversal, and this is where things deepened. When Ruben played the critic and David responded, David modeled a powerful combination of self-acceptance, counterattack, and refusal to buy into the critic's frame. He highlighted that the real problem wasn't slow speech—it was the constant inner criticism. Ruben immediately recognized this as a "huge" win. Ruben then practiced again, this time integrating acceptance, values ("my heart is in the right place"), and counterattack ("the bigger problem is your nagging voice"). This time it felt huge. Next, they targeted a different thought: "If I screw up, David will be disgusted and see I'm a worthless, selfish fraud." This brought up more anxiety, and Ruben got stuck. Jill did something very important here—she paused the method and returned to empathy, naming the pressure to "do it right" and the performance anxiety happening inside the exercise itself. After empathy, they resumed. Jill modeled a powerful response in role reversal that included radical acceptance of imperfection ("I expect to screw up"), a growth mindset ("that's why I collect feedback"), and a reframe of failure as essential to learning. She also gently challenged the distortion of David as a harsh authority figure and emphasized choosing supportive learning environments. Ruben then extended this insight even further, saying, "the more I fail, the better… the more vulnerable I am, the less I appear like a fraud." This was a genuine shift. They then moved into Feared Fantasy, with David playing "David from Hell," saying things like "you're incompetent," "you're worthless," and "you should find another profession." Ruben responded by using Be Specific, asking what exactly he had done wrong. When the answer became "you paused," the entire structure of the criticism collapsed. Ruben saw the absurdity and described the experience as a weight lifting. This is a classic TEAM moment—when global, harsh judgments are reduced to specific, manageable behaviors, they lose their power. They extended this further with the thought "I'm wasting people's time." Through additional role plays, Ruben practiced self-defense and purpose clarification, David used humor and counterattack, and Jill demonstrated Be Specific in a very precise way—asking exactly how long a pause should be, exposing the irrationality of the standard. The work then expanded to include the group. Participants used Externalization of Voices to challenge Ruben's thoughts, and Ruben responded with increasing strength and clarity, using self-acceptance and reversal of beliefs (for example, recognizing that vulnerability actually increases connection). David then introduced the Survey Technique, asking Ruben to directly check his assumptions with the group. The responses were striking—people reported never noticing pauses, experiencing him as thoughtful and engaging, and feeling more connected because of his style. This directly disconfirmed his mind reading and labeling. At the end, they returned to Testing. Anxiety went from 70 to 0, shame from 30 to 0, inadequacy from 80 to 10, embarrassment from 70 to 0, rejection from 40 to 0, and frustration from 30 to 0. Ruben reported that the change felt real and that his belief in the negative thoughts had dropped dramatically. When asked what created the breakthrough, Ruben identified two key moments. First, a deep emotional realization that the goal is actually to make mistakes—that failure is not something to avoid but something to embrace. Second, a shift in how he saw authority figures—recognizing that the perceived gap between himself and others was distorted. As that sense of separation dissolved, so did much of the anxiety. David highlighted that much of our suffering comes from that artificial separation—seeing others as powerful and ourselves as deficient. Jill added an important layer: when we assume others are harsh, judgmental, and critical, we are also distorting them, not just ourselves. Some key clinical takeaways: Externalization of Voices becomes especially powerful when it includes emotion, repetition, and role reversal. Feared Fantasy works best when the criticism becomes specific and even a bit absurd. The Survey Technique is extremely effective for dismantling mind-reading. And often, breakthrough comes when patients fully embrace failure and let go of perfectionism. Let Us Know What You Think of This Episode Please use this link to take a very brief survey and share your opinion with us about this episode Contact Information You can reach Jill Levitt, PhD Jill Levitt . Jill is cofounder and Director of Clinical Training at The Feeling Good Institute (www.feelinggoodinstitute.com) in Mountain View, California.  Ruben Land is an Associate Social Worker at Feeling Good Institute. He provides psychotherapy, using TEAM-CBT, and is available to work with clients in California. You can reach Ruben at ruben@feelinggoodinstitute.com and visit him online at this link. Kevin Cornelius, LMFT is a Level 5 Certified Master TEAM-CBT Therapist and Trainer and the Clinical Director of Feeling Good Institute--Silicon Valley. He specializes in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship problems and insomnia. You can reach Kevin at kevin@feelinggoodinstitute.com and visit his website at www.tools4change.me. You can reach Dr. Burns at david@feelinggood.com. Feeling down in these turbulent times? Take a ride on our Feeling Great app. Feeling Great feels wonderful! You owe it to yourself to feel GREAT! Give the Greatest Gifts of ALL--Love and Happiness!

Want to know one of the fastest ways to determine if an auto repair shop is struggling?Look at the parking lot.If the same vehicles are sitting in the same spots for two weeks or longer, there is a good chance the shop has serious operational problems hiding beneath the surface.In this Weekly Blitz episode, I share one of the biggest warning signs I learned from my own experience as an absentee owner. The unfinished cars weren't the problem—they were the symptom of deeper issues involving leadership, workflow, communication, estimating, approvals, and accountability.We'll discuss:Why unfinished vehicles are trapped revenueHow stagnant parking lots signal operational bottlenecksThe hidden costs of delayed repairsWhy movement matters more than volumeQuestions every shop owner should ask about aging vehiclesHow high-performing shops manage workflow differentlyIf your lot looks more like vehicle storage than an active repair facility, this episode is for you.Sponsored By Shop Marketing ProsNeed more of the right customers finding your shop online?Shop Marketing Pros helps independent auto repair shops dominate local search results through automotive-specific websites, SEO, digital advertising, and proven marketing systems.Learn more at:https://shopmarketingpros.com​Ready to Improve Shop Performance?Visit AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching and schedule a discovery call today.https://autoSHOPCOACHING.comThe 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/autorepairmarketingmastermindConnect with Chris:AutoFix-Auto Shop Coachingwww.autoshopcoaching.comwww.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0aeEmail Chris: chris@autofixsos.comThe 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 DiscussionDiagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.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.The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

Welcome to episode #1039 of Thinking With Mitch Joel (formerly Six Pixels of Separation). I believe that communication has always been one of the most valuable skills in business. But in an era of AI-generated content, algorithmic feeds, podcasts, newsletters, keynote stages, short-form video and endless digital noise, it may be becoming even more important. Few people have spent more time studying what makes ideas resonate than Carmine Gallo. A communication coach, author, and instructor in executive education at Harvard, Carmine is best known for bestselling books including Talk Like TED, The Storyteller's Secret, The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs and many more. His latest project, Viral Voices - From TED Talks To TikTok, Persuasive Communication Skills For The Digital Age, is an audio-original experience that explores what great communicators can teach us about influence, storytelling, and audience engagement in a rapidly changing media landscape. In this conversation, Carmine argues that while the tools of communication have evolved dramatically, the human brain has not. Drawing on research from neuroscience, psychology, evolutionary biology, and his conversations with communicators ranging from business leaders to digital creators, he explains why storytelling remains one of humanity's most powerful technologies. The discussion explores why movement captures attention, why narrative structures continue to dominate modern platforms, and why great communicators are made through deliberate practice rather than born with natural talent. Carmine also shares his AMP framework for communication improvement: Ability, Message, and Practice. Along the way, the conversation examines the opportunities and challenges created by AI, including the growing tension between polished machine-generated content and authentic human expression. At a moment when everyone has access to powerful communication tools, Carmine makes a compelling case that imagination, personal experience, and genuine human insight are becoming the ultimate differentiators. Enjoy the conversation… Running time: 1:00:47. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Listen and subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Listen and subscribe over at Spotify. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Thinking With Mitch Joel. Feel free to connect to me directly on LinkedIn. Check out ThinkersOne. Here is my conversation with Carmine Gallo. Viral Voices - From TED Talks To TikTok, Persuasive Communication Skills For The Digital Age. Talk Like TED. The Storyteller's Secret. The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs. Carmine's other books. Follow Carmine on X. Follow Carmine on Instagram. Follow Carmine on LinkedIn. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Communication and Influence. (03:11) - The Evolution of Communication Tools. (05:56) - The Power of Storytelling. (08:48) - Understanding Audience Engagement. (11:48) - The Role of Movement in Communication. (14:59) - The Hero's Journey in Storytelling. (18:08) - The Nature vs. Nurture Debate in Communication. (21:02) - The AMP Model for Effective Communication. (24:05) - The Impact of AI on Communication. (26:58) - The Challenge of Authenticity in AI-Generated Content. (29:48) - Attention Spans and Content Consumption. (33:05) - The Future of Communication in the Age of AI.

Thanks to our partners Promotive, WickedFile, Maverick Shop Owners, and OverdryveWhat if the government — and a few well-known billionaires — were offering to deposit cash directly into an account for your child or grandchild, no strings attached, starting July 4th? Would you sign up?In this solo episode, Hunt Demarest, CPA at Paar Melis & Associates, breaks down everything currently known about the newly announced Trump Accounts — officially called 530A plans — before they go live. Hunt cuts through the political noise to answer the only question that matters for shop owners and their families: is this worth your time, and how do you get your share of the free money on the table?From the $1,000 Treasury Department seed deposit for children born between 2025 and 2028, to the $250 Dell family contribution available in qualifying zip codes, to how self-employed shop owners can structure employer contributions for a legitimate tax deduction — Hunt walks through what we know, what's still uncertain, and how these accounts stack up against the 529 plans and Roth IRAs you're probably already using.Whether you're a shop owner with young kids, a grandparent looking for a smarter savings vehicle, or a business owner thinking about a new fringe benefit for your team — this episode is essential listening.What You'll Learn...(03:05) What a Trump Account actually is — and why the 530A plan isn't as new as it sounds(06:02) The $1,000 government seed deposit — who qualifies and why Hunt says everyone eligible should sign up immediately(09:07) Contribution limits, employer deductions, and the fringe benefit opportunity for your employees(10:14) Withdrawal rules — why the money is locked until the child turns 18, and what it can be spent on(11:15) Using a Trump Account to buy a first home or start a business — and the creative opportunities that creates(12:27) The Dell family's $250 zip code contribution — why Hunt says don't risk missing it, just sign up(17:14) Trump Accounts vs. 529 plans — the key differences that actually matter for your family(19:45) Trump Accounts vs. Roth IRAs — the side-by-side comparison for shop owners who pay their kids through the business(22:23) Hunt's honest take on what he's actually doing for his own kids — and why the employer deduction changes everythingIf you're ready to stop letting politics get in the way of free money, understand exactly how these new accounts fit alongside the strategies you're already running, and find out whether July 4th is a deadline you actually need to worry about — this episode is essential listening.Thanks to our partner, PromotivePromotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our partner, WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Thanks to our partner, Maverick Shop OwnersYou're working on growing a more profitable shop - that's critical. That's exactly what the 24-video Blueprint course by Maverick Shop Owners addresses - customers, sales, profit, people, systems, and freedom. Get free access for our listeners only at https://maverickshopowners.com/blueprintThanks to our partner, OverdryveOverdryve is your AI-powered marketing operating system. It predicts slow weeks before they happen, automatically launches revenue-driving campaigns, tracks ROI down to the dollar, and optimizes performance in real time. Visit https://overdryvemarketing.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comText Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413Download a Copy of My Books Here:Beyond the Bays: A Financial Playbook for Auto Repair Shop OwnersWrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 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 DiscussionDiagnosing 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.

What you'll learn in this episode Why listening—not talking—is the ultimate sales skill The 3 steps of the CPI framework: connect energetically, ask adept questions, actively listen How to uncover what clients are afraid to admit Why setting emotional expectations prevents frustration and blame How to turn predictable problems into opportunities for trust The difference between fake rapport and real connection Why influence is something you're given, not something you chase How authentic listening positions you as the trusted expert Teach to Sell Preorder: Teach to Sell: Why Top Performers Never Sell – And What They Do Instead To find out more about Dan Rochon and the CPI Community, you can check these links:Website: No Broke MonthsPodcast: No Broke Months for Salespeople PodcastInstagram: @donrochonxFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/NoBrokeMonths/Facebook: Dan RochonLinkedIn: Dan RochonTeach to Sell Preorder: Teach to Sell: Why Top Performers Never Sell – And What They Do Instead

402-521-3080This episode explores Nebraska's human trafficking bill LB320, its implications for hotels, and the importance of effective training and education in combating human trafficking. The hosts discuss the bill's provisions, challenges in implementation, and broader issues in policy and community engagement.Key  TopicsNebraska bill LB320 details and implicationsEffectiveness of posters and training in human trafficking preventionLiability and legal responsibilities of hotel staffChallenges in implementing anti-human trafficking policiesCommunity and legislative engagement in human trafficking issuesSound  Bites"Training must be done regularly and often.""Videos quickly become outdated and ineffective.""Dynamic, real-time training solutions are needed."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Human Trafficking Legislation02:45 Understanding Bill LB320 and Its Implications05:20 The Role of Training in Human Trafficking Prevention07:48 Challenges with Current Training Methods10:13 Accountability and Liability in the Hotel Industry12:41 The Importance of Effective Communication and Education15:22 Future Considerations for Human Trafficking Training20:05 The Evolving Nature of Human Trafficking Awareness23:55 Collaboration and Expertise in Nonprofit Training25:13 The Role of Money and Motivation in Nonprofits26:44 Legislation and Effective Training for Human Trafficking28:26 The Importance of Tailored Training and Certification29:26 Bridging the Gap: Politicians and Community Engagement29:45 The Knowledge Gap: Students vs. Politicians33:42 Listening to the Community: Cultural Humility in Action35:16 R&R Outro.mp435:23 YouTube End Card.pngSupport the showEveryone has resilience, but what does that mean, and how do we use it in life and leadership? Join Stephanie Olson, an expert in resiliency and trauma, every week as she talks to other experts living lives of resilience. Stephanie also shares her own stories of addictions, disordered eating, domestic and sexual violence, abandonment, and trauma, and shares the everyday struggles and joys of everyday life. As a wife, mom, and CEO she gives commentaries and, sometimes, a few rants to shed light on what makes a person resilient. So, if you have experienced adversity in life in any way and want to learn how to better lead your family, your workplace, and, well, your life, this podcast is for you!https://setmefreeproject.nethttps://www.stephanieolson.com/

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodeIn this episode, Matt starts on the golf course and ends up right back in the service bay, because apparently, even a decent round of golf can turn into a cognitive psychology lesson.After shooting a personally strong nine-hole score, Matt catches himself doing what many technical and mechanical specialists do every day: ignoring the accomplishment and obsessing over the shots, tests, tools, or decisions that could have been better. That leads into a discussion of discounting the positive, upward counterfactual thinking, hindsight bias, expert bias, and the curse of knowledge.The point is not to stop improving. The point is to stop rewriting reality after the fact. A two-hour intermittent short diagnosis may feel “obvious” once the problem is found, but it was not obvious when the vehicle came in. The same applies to repairs, removals, procedures, and every job where experience only becomes obvious after you earn it.Matt also closes with some listener-driven Mount Rushmore talk, including an all-time basketball starting five featuring Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, LeBron James, and Hakeem Olajuwon.Key TopicsWhy a good result can still feel disappointing when you focus only on what could have gone betterThe difference between honest reflection and beating yourself into the groundDiscounting the positive and how it shows up in diagnosticsUpward counterfactual thinking: “If only I had done this sooner…”Hindsight bias in the shop after the failure is already foundWhy “that was obvious” is usually only true after the factHow technical specialists can learn from a job without erasing the accomplishmentThe danger of judging another specialist's time after you already know the answerExpert bias, the curse of knowledge, and why experience can distort how we evaluate othersGiving yourself enough credit while still getting betterListener messages and future Mount Rushmore-style segmentsMatt's all-time basketball starting five discussionPull Quote Options“Once you know where the problem was, it starts feeling obvious. But it wasn't obvious when you started.”“Why can't both things be true? That was a good find, and next time I might do it faster.”“Learning from it does not require running yourself into the ground.”“Knowing what I knew at the time, that wasn't bad.”Thanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe 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/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/

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledLet'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 TimestampsIntroduction 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 TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Vision Hi-Tech Training & ExpoAutomotive Repair Podcast NetworkThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis 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/

High end remodeling and high end landscaping have more in common than most people realize.Kyle sits down with Jeffrey Scott of Jeffrey Scott Consulting to unpack the similarities between successful design-build remodelers and top landscape companies. They talk about emotionally invested clients, protecting margins, managing high expectations, building trust, handling handoffs between sales and production, and why scaling an “artisanal” business is harder than most owners expect.There are a lot of practical takeaways in this one for remodelers looking to improve client experience, tighten systems, and grow without losing quality!The Summer Growth Summit in Detroit is a hands on growth experience for lawn and landscape business owners and their teams, featuring behind the scenes access to Great Lakes Landscape Design and Troy Clogg Landscape Associates.Tour two outstanding companies, meet their leadership teams, and learn practical strategies for marketing, sales, operations, AI, culture, and growth from the people driving success every day.Walk away with fresh ideas, proven systems, and practical tools to help take your company to the next level.To learn more and get event details, check it out here: https://jeffreyscott.biz/summer-growth-summit-26/If you're serious about improving your remodeling business, you should check out the Rise Conference from Remodelers On The Rise, happening August 11 and 12 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This two day event is built specifically for remodeling business owners who want practical strategies they can actually implement, from improving your sales process and marketing to building a stronger team and running a more profitable business. You'll connect with remodelers from across the country, hear from experienced industry leaders, and walk away with ideas you can put into action right away. To learn more and grab your ticket, head over to remodelersontherise.com/rise.Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights!Key TakeawaysHigh-end clients prioritize emotional fulfillment over rational factors.Exceptional detail management is crucial for high-end success.Branding and reputation serve as a psychological safety net for clients.Effective handoffs and communication routines are critical for scaling.Protecting margin requires active scope and scope change management.Building trust through consistent branding reduces perceived risk.An advisory role elevates professionalism beyond mere order-taking.Scaling success relies on systematizing processes and delegating roles.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jeffrey Scott and His Background05:45 Transitioning from Family Business to Consulting10:32 Understanding Client Emotions in High-End Sales15:32 Managing High Expectations in Service Industries20:24 The Importance of Details and Quality Control26:24 Effective Communication and Client Relationships30:46 Building Trust Through Branding and Reputation35:32 Advisory Role in Client Relationships40:44 Scaling a Business Without Compromising Quality

Thanks to our partners Promotive, WickedFile, Maverick Shop Owners, and OverdryveIs your shop management system telling you one number while QuickBooks says something else entirely? Are parts credits going unclaimed? And if someone were quietly skimming off the top, would your current process ever actually catch it?In this episode, Hunt Demarest, CPA at Paar Melis & Associates, sits down with Alex Saladna from Wicked File — the AI-powered back office reconciliation platform built for auto repair shops. From the employee who snuck through ceiling tiles to steal cash, to the eight-location shop that cut back office workload by fifty percent overnight, Hunt and Alex break down what's leaking out of your business, why your team can't catch it manually, and how technology has made a once-unsolvable problem into a morning coffee routine.Whether you're a single-location shop hemorrhaging credits you didn't know you were owed or a multi-location owner who's quietly accepted that being remote means accepting losses — this episode is essential listening.What You'll Learn…(03:01) What Wicked File actually does — and why the gap between your shop management system and your accounting software is exactly where the money disappears(06:02) The #1 cause of theft is confidence — why 100% of owners who've been stolen from said it would never happen to them(07:38) Theft stories from the field — Mission Impossible through the ceiling tiles and $2,000 a month in soda nobody ordered(11:58) From 200 invoices to 20 — how 80–90% of parts reconciliation gets automated and what your team can do with the time back(20:09) The 2–3% burn — at $1M in sales that's up to $30,000 walking out the door, and why most owners don't treat it that way(22:36) Why treating your financials as a final score is costing you — and what watching your business like game film actually looks like(28:19) Why the right employees will love this tool — and what resistance to it tells you about your culture(35:16) Bad data makes bad decisions — why it all starts with clean numbers at the invoice levelIf you're ready to stop assuming your vendor credits are being processed, understand why the confidence that "it doesn't happen here" is exactly what makes it happen here, and finally know what's actually leaking out of your back office before it becomes a six-figure problem — this episode is essential listening.Thanks to our partner, PromotivePromotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit https://gopromotive.com/Thanks to our partner, WickedFileTurn chaos into clarity with WickedFile, the AI for auto repair shops. Transform invoices into insights, protect cash flow, and stop losing parts, cores, or credits to maximize your bottom line. visit https://info.wickedfile.com/Thanks to our partner, Maverick Shop OwnersYou're working on growing a more profitable shop - that's critical. That's exactly what the 24-video Blueprint course by Maverick Shop Owners addresses - customers, sales, profit, people, systems, and freedom. Get free access for our listeners only at https://maverickshopowners.com/blueprintThanks to our partner, OverdryveOverdryve is your AI-powered marketing operating system. It predicts slow weeks before they happen, automatically launches revenue-driving campaigns, tracks ROI down to the dollar, and optimizes performance in real time. Visit https://overdryvemarketing.com/Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit us Online: www.paarmelis.comEmail Hunt: podcast@paarmelis.comText Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413Download a Copy of My Books Here:Beyond the Bays: A Financial Playbook for Auto Repair Shop OwnersWrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 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 DiscussionDiagnosing 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.

Thanks to our Partners, Pico Technology, and AutelWatch Full Video EpisodeIn this episode, Matt begins laying the groundwork for a larger discussion on game theory and how it applies far beyond poker tables, chessboards, casinos, or movie references. What starts with John von Neumann, poker strategy, bluffing, and imperfect information quickly becomes a broader conversation about how people, businesses, customers, competitors, and coworkers interact.Matt explains that “games,” in the game theory sense, are not just games. They are interactions where people make choices, respond to incentives, interpret incomplete information, and try to get outcomes. That means shop pricing, marketing, hiring, customer behavior, technician cooperation, and even where a business chooses to locate can all be understood through this lens.The episode touches on the difference between games of perfect information, like chess, and games of imperfect information, like poker. Matt uses poker as an entry point into bluffing, strategy, table image, and why mathematically sound behavior may involve moves that seem strange in isolation. He then connects that to real-world business decisions, where the “obvious” move, such as lowering prices because a competitor did, may not actually be the strongest response.Matt also walks through classic game theory examples like the Monty Hall problem and the Prisoner's Dilemma. The Prisoner's Dilemma becomes especially relevant to shop culture and business strategy because it shows how cooperation can often outperform pure self-interest, even though individual incentives may push people toward betrayal or defensive behavior. That idea becomes a bridge into behavioral game theory, which accounts for the fact that humans do not always make clean, rational, mathematically optimal decisions.From there, the conversation moves into automotive repair shop strategy. Matt discusses why competitors often cluster together, using examples like hotels, gas stations, Target and Walmart, Lowe's and Home Depot, and auto repair shops. The point is not that a shop should always build next to competitors, but that proximity, customer behavior, friction, convenience, and visibility may matter more than the simplistic idea of “go where there is no competition.”The episode closes by encouraging listeners to start seeing shop life as a series of interactions, incentives, exchanges, and strategies. Not “playing games” in a manipulative sense, but understanding that every interaction involves expectations, investments, risks, and perceived rewards.Key Topics CoveredGame theory as a way to understand real-world interactions, not just board games or gambling.John von Neumann, poker, bluffing, and imperfect information.Why poker strategy involves more than simply playing the cards.The role of Oscar Morgenstern and economic theory in the development of game theory.Why older economic models struggled with human irrationality.The difference between perfect information games and imperfect information games.Chess as a perfect-information game and poker as an imperfect-information game.The Monty Hall problem and why switching doors improves the odds.The Prisoner's Dilemma and why cooperation often beats betrayal over time.Tit-for-tat style strategies: cooperate first, respond to betrayal, then return to cooperation.Nash equilibrium and the basic idea of making the best available decision based on known information.Behavioral game theory and why people do not always act rationally.How game theory applies to shop pricing, competition, and marketing.Why lowering price in response to a competitor may not be the right move.Why businesses often cluster near direct competitors.Shop location strategy and customer convenience.Seeing everyday shop interactions as “games” in the game theory sense.Memorable Ideas“The game” is not necessarily manipulation. It is the interaction itself.Poker is not just cards. It is incomplete information, behavior, bluffing, risk, and response.Cooperation can be a stronger long-term strategy than constant defection.A competitor lowering their price does not automatically mean you should lower yours.Sometimes the stronger move is counterintuitive.Customers may choose convenience and proximity over reputation, price, or even prior loyalty.A shop's strategy is not just what it charges or how good it is. It is also where it sits, what friction customers face, and what alternatives are nearby.Thanks to our Partner, Pico TechnologyAre you chasing elusive automotive problems? Pico Technology empowers you to see what's really happening. Their PicoScope oscilloscopes transform your diagnostic capabilities. Visit PicoAuto.comThanks to our Partner, AutelFrom drivability diagnostics and TPMS service to ADAS and advanced safety systems, Autel helps technicians follow OEM procedures and repair with confidence. Learn more at Autel.comContact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube ChannelThe 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/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 communications skills do engineers and scientists need most right now? Recorded live at the CAETS conference, Aurecon's Lorna Bishop sits down with one of Australia's most celebrated science communicators, Tanya Ha. Together they explore how to tailor your message for different audiences, and how to leverage AI in communications without diluting personality. This episode of engineering Reimagined was recorded live at the CAETS conference. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at the 2026 TST Big Event, Carm Capriotto sits down with automotive trainer Ken Zanders to discuss the importance of ongoing technical education, building efficient diagnostic processes, and adapting to rapidly evolving vehicle technology. Ken explains why too many shops still rely on a chaotic “grocery list” approach to repairs and how a structured diagnostic strategy can dramatically improve technician efficiency, profitability, and customer trust. What You'll Learn Why inefficient diagnostic habits directly reduce technician productivity, shop profitability, and overall earning potential.The importance of following a structured diagnostic workflow instead of guessing and replacing parts.How electronic relative compression testing with a lab scope and amperage probe can reduce diagnostic time from hours to minutes.How modern vehicle technologies like GM's Vehicle Intelligence Platform (VIP) and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates are changing diagnostics and repair procedures.Why continuous education is no longer optional for automotive professionals working on today's advanced vehicle systems. The biggest takeaway from this episode is that repair shops cannot afford to operate in constant chaos and guesswork. A reactive “grocery list” approach to diagnostics leads to wasted time, unnecessary parts replacement, lower profits, and poor customer outcomes. To succeed in today's increasingly complex automotive industry, shop owners must create a year-round training strategy that helps technicians diagnose efficiently, think critically, and continuously improve their skills. Structured processes, modern testing methods, and ongoing education are no longer advantages; they are necessities for survival and growth. TST Big Event: https://tstseminars.org/ Ken Zanders, Dorman Training Don't Base Your Success On Probability – Ken Zanders [RR 822]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e822/ Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm 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

Ben Kinney, Chad Hyams, and Bob Stewart delve into the concept of "trickling"—the flow of ideas, emotions, and energy in leadership and personal interactions. Discover which information should move upward, downward, and sideways to maintain positivity and productivity. The hosts explore how our communication impacts peers, employees, and family members, emphasizing awareness and intentionality. Whether discussing leadership lessons, workplace dynamics, or familial relationships, the team highlights the importance of managing information flow to ensure a positive impact in both personal and professional spheres. ---------- Connect with the hosts: •    Ben Kinney: https://www.BenKinney.com/ •    Bob Stewart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/activebob •    Chad Hyams: https://ChadHyams.com/ •    Book one of our co-hosts for your next event: https://WinMakeGive.com/speakers/   More ways to connect: •    Join our Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/winmakegive •     Sign up for our weekly newsletter: https://WinMakeGive.com/sign-up •     Explore the Win Make Give Podcast Network: https://WinMakeGive.com/   Part of the Win Make Give Podcast Network 00:00 Leadership Lessons on Effective Communication and Problem Management 06:00 The Impact of Parental Behavior on Children's Perception of Money 08:47 Building Awareness and Energy in Leadership Dynamics 13:18 The Impact of Negative Talk on Workplace Culture 15:25 The Dynamics of Problem Solving and Communication in Relationships 22:45 The Impact of Communication on Relationships and Perceptions 24:48 The Trickle Effect: Impact and Direction in Daily Interactions

  Host: Dan Panetti   I often get asked this question from younger couples…and for many, they are looking for the right “formula” in how to say things to better communicate with their spouse. Now, when I look at many of the world's suggestions/tools, they aren't wrong…but these communication strategies aren't the whole story…or even the heart of effective communication - so what is?   The key to effective communication in marriage is the condition of your heart. Is your heart fertile soil where the love for your spouse is cultivated and growing? Jesus teaches a powerful lesson about the condition of your heart in Matthew 13 and the Parable of the Sower.   Your heart is either hard and surface, shallow and rocky, filled with thorns and weeds, or fertile and nourishing. Work on the condition of your heart…and your communication will grow and flourish as your heart grows and matures. T4M guys - just a reminder that Training4Manhood is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) ministry and you can make donations either via Zelle (info@training4manhood.com) or by visiting the Training4Manhood website.

Co-parenting conversations can escalate fast, especially when an ex is reactive, manipulative, dismissive, or unreasonable. It's tempting to defend yourself, fire back, or make a quick decision just to escape the pressure. But that kind of response rarely moves things forward, and it can leave kids carrying the emotional weight of adult conflict.In this episode, we share practical tools to help you communicate with an ex in a way that is calm, clear, and solution-focused. You'll learn our 5 A's Framework for navigating hard co-parenting conversations, along with strategies for handling pressure, staying grounded, and setting healthy boundaries with confidence.We also open up about a painful moment in our own blended family story, when Kim felt pressured by her ex into making a major decision before she had time to think clearly or consult with Mike. From that experience, we share what we wish we had known then, and how these tools can help you protect your marriage, create greater stability for your kids, and build more peace in your home.Be sure to grab the free downloadable worksheet for this episode to help you plan your next hard conversation and put these tools into practice.You'll Discover:Why reactive communication with an ex often fuels ongoing conflict How to use the 5 A's Framework for clearer, more cooperative co-parenting conversations Three strategies for handling pressure-filled moments with greater steadiness A simple tool for setting healthy boundaries with an ex How consistency can build trust, influence, and greater stability for your kidsResources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to grab your free co-parenting communication worksheetEpisode 211. 8 Warning Signs Your Ex is Manipulating Your Child's Heart and MindEpisode 218. How to Positively Influence You Kids' Character When Your Ex Undermines Your Values Episode 207.  4 Big Myths About Parenting When an Ex Has Different Rules and How to Build Consistency  Episode 232. 5 Principles to Manage Contact Between Homes and Promote Your Child's WellbeingEpisode 229. The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry: Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance and How to HelpEpisode 175. 8 Tips to Protect Kids From Stress and Tension When Moving Between HomesEpisode 161. How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification [ with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 112. 3 Dangerous Dynamics That Can Destroy Co-Parenting - And Hurt the KidsEpisode 42. Our Challenging Story of Parental Alienation - and 6 Tips For YouEpisode 91. Is Your Husband's Hostile Ex-Wife Invading Your Life, Stealing Your Joy and Confidence?Episode 194. Powerful Tips for Effectively Connecting with Your Angry or Distant Child [with Amy J.L. Baker]Episode 226. How Two Homes Raise Kids That Thrive:  A Blueprint for Caring Parents [with Jay & Tammy Daughtry]Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode In this forward-looking conversation, Carm Capriotto and Chris Cloutier, CEO of AutoFlow and owner of three Golden Rule Auto Care locations, explore how artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the automotive repair industry; not as a replacement for people, but as a powerful tool that helps shop owners lead smarter, communicate better, and operate more professionally. Chris shares firsthand experiences using AI inside both his software company and his repair shops, revealing how the technology can dramatically reduce time spent on leadership and administrative tasks while improving workflow efficiency and customer communication. From refining technician notes to helping build business plans and expansion strategies, AI is becoming what Chris describes as a 'thought partner' for today's shop owner. What You'll Learn: Why AI should be viewed as a strategic business partner, not a threat to the automotive repair professionHow effective prompting and providing context can dramatically improve AI-generated resultsWays AI can streamline major business tasks such as SBA loan preparation, SWOT analyses, and growth planningHow AI-powered technician note rewrites improve customer communication and strengthen professionalismWhy clear, polished communication acts as a “curtain of professionalism” that builds customer trustHow AI can help bridge language barriers by translating repair orders and inspection resultsThe risks and humor of “AI versus AI” hiring practices, where both employers and applicants rely heavily on artificial intelligenceWhy Chris believes today is the least expensive AI will ever be, and why shop owners should begin learning it now The biggest takeaway from this episode is simple: AI will not replace highly skilled automotive professionals, but it will absolutely enhance the shops that learn how to use it effectively. From improving efficiency and communication to elevating the image of professionalism, AI offers tremendous advantages for modern repair businesses. However, Carm and Chris emphasize one critical principle throughout the conversation: trust, but verify. Just like quality control in the service bays, AI-generated information should always be reviewed carefully before being shared with customers or used to make important business decisions. Chris Cloutier, Golden Rule Auto Care, and CEO of Autoflow. Listen to Chris' other episodes HERE Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm 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.

In this episode of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer welcomes back Roger Dooley, author of the new book The Persuasion Engine. Together, they dive into the fascinating intersection of artificial intelligence and behavioral economics, exploring how AI can enhance our understanding of human behavior rather than diminish it. Roger shares his insights on how AI can democratize access to behavioral science, making it more approachable for small businesses and individuals who may not have the resources for in-depth expertise. Listeners will learn about the importance of crafting effective prompts to engage AI in meaningful ways, allowing it to serve as a valuable tool for generating ideas, testing strategies, and improving communication. Roger discusses the significance of empathy in messaging and how AI can help businesses avoid common pitfalls by anticipating customer reactions. The conversation also touches on the nuances of using AI responsibly, emphasizing the need for human oversight in decision-making processes. This episode is essential for anyone looking to harness the power of AI in their business while remaining grounded in the principles of behavioral science. Whether you are a marketer, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the future of AI and its role in human-centered business practices, this episode offers practical insights and thought-provoking ideas that can inspire your approach to communication and strategy. In this episode: Explore how AI can enhance understanding of behavioral science. Learn effective prompting techniques to get the most out of AI tools. Understand the role of empathy in communication and decision-making. Discover how to use AI to anticipate customer reactions and avoid missteps. Gain insights into the balance between AI and human oversight in business strategies. Get important links, top recommended books and episodes, and a full transcript at thebrainybusiness.com/577. Looking to explore applications of behavioral economics further?  Learn With Us on our website. Subscribe to Melina's Newsletter Brainy Bites.  Let's connect: Send Us a Message Follow Melina on LinkedIn The Brainy Business on Youtube The Brainy Business on Instagram