Remarkable Results Radio Podcast

Thanks to our Partners, App Fueled and Shop BossWhen car count dips and phones go quiet, the first call most shop owners make is to their marketing company. But what if the issue isn’t the marketing at all?In this episode, I sit down with Stan Stokes, creator of GuestX, to talk about a problem every shop owner faces but most misunderstand figuring out why leads aren’t turning into customers. Stan’s been deep in the world of marketing and operations for nearly two decades, and he’s built a tool that shines a light on what’s really happening between the phone ringing and a car showing up in your bay.We’ll dig into topics like lead quality vs. lead conversion, how your service advisors might be unknowingly costing you business, the difference between perceived and actual appointments, and why the phrase “price shopper” might be more excuse than reality.This episode isn’t about assigning blame. It’s about owning your process, getting real insight, and making the moves that will fill your bays with the right cars

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingNAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.Contact InformationEmail Matt: mattfanslowpodcast@gmail.comDiagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyThe Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.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 Podca

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS This episode dives into the real challenges of scaling an automotive business. Shiju Thomas unpacks what it takes to grow successfully, especially beyond two locations, including stepping out of daily operations and focusing on leadership development, building a strong management team, and sustaining a consistent, positive culture. He emphasizes that growth should be driven by a desire to develop people, not just profits. It’s a must-listen for shop owners reflecting on why they want to grow and how to do it with purpose, clarity, and long term success in mind. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Introduction (00:00:00) Shop Branding Philosophy (00:01:09) Challenges of Scaling and Maintaining High Standards (00:03:23) Leadership Development and Delegation (00:04:39) Letting Managers Take Ownership (00:06:45) The Critical Role of People and Culture (00:07:53) Defining and Evolving Company Culture (00:09:48) Merging Cultures in Acquisition

Thank You To Our Partners, The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeI want to discuss the benefits of the recent camping trip my wife I and enjoyed in Northern Michigan.As our listeners well understand - we talk a lot about getting outside our comfort zones on this podcast - and while that is usually in the context of practicing our communication skills -Today - the topic is more about stepping AWAY… Part Deux:Immerse:In my reading I learned about a term called the “Three Day Effect” when reading Michael Easter’s - The Comfort Crisis.  The idea refers to the benefits of spending at minimum - three days immersed in nature to reboot.Goal 1 is important to achieve and goal 2 Immerse ourselves in nature were rooted in this quest to experience the “Three Day Effect’ ourselves.In short - we’ve  done our research and learned that South Manitou Island is a really great spot to do all those things - but still have some access to basic needs if we require it. 

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermindTo listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us!...

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at the NAPA NOW Event, this episode explores the "Slow Down, Move Over" (SDMO) initiative, a vital traffic safety campaign focused on protecting roadside workers, emergency responders, and stranded drivers. It highlights the dangers these individuals face, including staggering statistics on injuries and fatalities. The conversation underscores the importance of driver awareness, professional training for tow truck operators, and the use of technology like Safety Cloud, which warns motorists of roadside hazards. Real-life stories add emotional weight, while fundraising efforts support awareness and aid impacted families. The message is clear: slowing down and moving over saves lives. Lauren Briggs, Sales & Marketing Director. NAPA Auto Care Ryan Ouellette, Strategic Account Manager, AAA Kristi and Donnie Hudson, Troy Auto Care, Troy, MI. Kristi and Donnie’s previous episodes HERE Dawn Ray, Manager, Automotive Preferre

Thanks to our partner PromotiveIn this second part of our 2025 Benchmark series, Hunt Demarest, CPA, with Paar Melis and Associates, breaks down performance trends by region, shop size, and shop type, using real-world data from auto repair businesses across the U.S.Key points:Regional profit trends with the West leading and the Southeast laggingWhy higher productivity—not labor rate—drives better profitsHow overhead impacts small versus large shopsShop type breakdown: general repair, diesel, and EuropeanHow to use benchmarks effectively without overanalyzingDownload your free 2024 Automotive Industry Benchmark Report: https://info.paarmelis.com/2024-automotive-industry-benchmark-report2025 Benchmark Report Part 1: Biggest Changes, Key KPI's and Trends [E175]: https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/episode/2025-benchmark-report-biggest-changes-key-kpis-and-trends-e175Thanks to our partner PromotiveIt’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-s

If you’ve ever felt like your Google Ads were rockin’ one month and dead the next, you’re not crazy, and you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m joined by two of my favorite people, our COO, Hallie Wasinger, and lead CSM, Danni Marks, as we unpack the wild ride that is Google Ads.This isn’t a blame game or finger-pointing session. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what happens when ad performance drops, whether it's caused by us making strategic changes or Google flipping switches behind the curtain. From the algorithm updates that wrecked March 2024 to the subtle behavioral shifts we’re seeing now in 2025, we cover it all.You’ll hear why turning off your ads when things get tough might be the worst move, how Local Services Ads (LSA) are stepping in to fill the gap, and why online scheduling isn’t just convenient, it’s essential. We’ll even dig into how your website content and your service advisors' phone skills could be the hidden heroes or villains in your marketing success.Thank you to our friends

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingKey Discussion Points:Introduction & Personal AnecdoteExplains his motivation for visiting a quick lube shop: to observe different shop practices and customer experiences.The Quick Lube ExperienceInitial Interaction: Shop employee questions the high mileage (300,000) on Matt’s Honda and suggests a possible engine replacement.Upsell attempts begin immediately, including high-mileage oil with unverified fuel economy benefits.Air Filter Upsell: Employee claims a dirty air filter significantly impacts fuel economy—Matt debunks this myth, citing modern mass airflow sensor engines.Notes that restricted air filters may improve fuel economy or have no effect.Cabin Air Filter Incident: Employee misgenders Matt’s son (who has long hair) while accessing the glove box.Matt critiques the approach, suggesting gender-neutral language when interacting with customers.Coolant Flush Upsell: Employee claims the coolant should be flushed annually (without evidence) and criticizes a

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Recorded at the Institute Summit 2025, this episode features brothers Jason and Patrick Brennan in a powerful conversation on leadership, innovation, and growth in the automotive industry. Jason emphasizes redefining training through real-world rehearsal practice for service advisors and technicians, and using “education” language to promote a culture of ongoing development. Patrick brings his marketing expertise to the table, stressing the importance of reputation management and direct response strategies for businesses. Together, they explore how strong leadership, peer networking, and a healthy company culture attract talent and fuel long-term success. Jason Brennan, Fine Tune Auto Service, Lansing, IL and Hobart, IN. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode The Institute of Automotive Business Excellence: https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/ Introduction (00:00:00) Transition from Plumbing to Automotive (00:02:05) Customer Service and Service Ad

Thank You To Our Partners, The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeIn our episode today…I want to discuss the benefits of the recent camping trip my wife and I enjoyed in Northern Michigan.As our listeners well understand - we talk a lot about getting outside our comfort zones on this podcast - and while that is usually in the context of practicing our communication skills, today, the topic is more about stepping AWAY… Specifically from people, electronics, and modern comforts or modes of transportation, and instead highlight the benefits of immersing yourself in nature and rebooting your mind.My wife, Betsy, and I did our stepping away together by stepping onto a ferryboat and taking a nearly 2-hour trip West into Lake Michigan.  We traveled from Fishtown in Leland (tip of the pinky on the Michigan map) and docked at South Manitou Island, where we would hike and camp with only the things we carried.South Manitou is a 10-mile circumference, barely inhabited

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops.Visit ShopMarketingPros.com/chris to partner with a team that understands your business. Because every great shop deserves marketing that’s just as great. 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/autorepairmarketingmastermindIn ​In this episode, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching dives deep into the common communication challenges that auto repair shops encounter on a daily basis. Recognizing that miscommunication can lead to costly mistakes, frustrated employees, and dissatisfied customers, Chris emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong foundation of shared understanding within the team. To address this, h

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class The automotive parts industry faces a disproportionately high return rate compared to other sectors, driven by misdiagnoses, improper installations, and fraudulent returns. This creates a significant financial burden on manufacturers and the entire supply chain. In this podcast, the guests explore these challenges and emphasize the need for stronger collaboration and communication between manufacturers, distributors, and repair shops. They advocate for a “Check the Part” initiative, encouraging thorough quality checks, proper documentation, and accurate diagnosis to reduce return rates. By adopting these strategies and leveraging technology, the industry can improve profitability, reduce inefficiencies, and boost customer satisfaction. Ryan Kooiman, Director of Training, Standard Motor Products. Ryan’s previous episodes HERE. John Carney, President, FDP Friction Science Michael Campana, Sr Manager of Quality Engineering, Dorman

Thanks to our partner PromotiveWelcome to Part 1 of our annual Benchmark Report—hosted by Hunt Demarest, CPA, from Paar Melis & Associates. We dig into real financial data from hundreds of auto repair shops across the U.S., based on actual bookkeeping, not surveys.Download your free 2024 Automotive Industry Benchmark Report: https://info.paarmelis.com/2024-automotive-industry-benchmark-reportKey Takeaways:Average monthly sales dropped from $149K (2023) to $123K (2024), but sales per advisor, technician, and bay remained steady.Gross profit % increased (from 51 % → 52 %), and overall expenses dropped (35 % → 33 %), boosting shop profitability.Advertising spend fell (3 % → 2 % of sales): shops that advertise less might be missing opportunities.Productivity plunged (57 % → 47.6 %)—likely due to fixed staff levels & fewer cars in 2024.Context matters: metrics like average repair order, car count, and productivity are interconnected—local benchmarks offer more accurate insight.Thanks to our partner Promoti

August might feel far off, but now’s the time to get your marketing dialed in. Back-to-school season, college car checkups, fall event prep, it’s all coming fast. Brian Walker and Caroline Legrand break down what shop owners should be doing in June to stay ahead of the game.You’ll hear why now’s the time to smooth out your schedule for slower months, how to build campaigns around national days (yes, even Tug of War Day), and what themes you can tap into to keep your shop top-of-mind.If you’re looking for simple, practical ideas to stay ahead, fill your bays, and have a little fun doing it, this one’s for you.Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for this episode. RepairPal will introduce your shop to new customers through repairpal.com, the largest site for auto repair. Learn more atRepairPal.com/shops.Are you ready to convert clients to members? App fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your customer loyalty a

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech TrainingKey Takeaways:Survey Demographics & LimitationsSkewed Representation: 62% of respondents had 20+ years of experience, while entry-level and mid-career techs were underrepresented. Geographically, responses were heavy in the East/Midwest but sparse in central/western U.S.ASE Certification Bias: 80% of respondents held ASE certifications, contrasting with the broader industry (only ~25% of U.S. technicians are ASE-certified). Fanslow urges broader participation for accurate data.What Technicians WantProper shop equipment (87%) – Includes OE tools (e.g., GTS+ for Toyota/Honda), ADAS calibration tools, and powertrain tables 210.Paid vacation (83%) and retirement plans (72%) – Fanslow notes ambiguity in definitions (e.g., weeks offered) and calls for industry standardization.Paid training (65%) – Despite high demand, many techs underutilize training opportunities.Hourly/salary (majority) > hourly + production bonus (25%) > flat rate (20%). Fanslow attributes t

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo, Ben Dexter sheds light on a common issue: many shop owners are only scratching the surface of what their shop management systems can do. From underutilized tools to overlooked processes, this conversation uncovers the true value of role-based training, strategies for better customer communication, why profit should be seen as a healthy business goal, the impact of digital vehicle inspections (DVIs), why strong service advisors are essential, and the crucial role of inventory control in shop performance. Whether you’re a shop owner, service advisor, or team leader, this episode offers practical takeaways to help your business thrive. Ben Dexter, National Training Manager, NAPA TRACS. Find Ben's other episodes HERE Show Notes Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/ Shop Management System Utilization (00:01:21) Shop Owner Mindset and Growth (00:02:56) Labor Matrix and Pay Structures

Thank You To Our Partners, The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-BoundWatch Full Video EpisodeEmail-Seriously!In many business conversations the first correspondence is often by email and it is NOT going away anytime soon. While YES email in general has MANY problems there are still professionals who are more responsive to emails than texts or phone calls.We’ll be talking about email in terms of impressions, practicality, and interactions.I’ll lay a few ideas out and then we’ll discuss some best practices for team ownership so email correspondence doesn’t result in dropped balls.Today’s WOTD is: EloquentWe’ll define our word - after we hear a word from our sponsors who make this show possible!adjective: marked by forceful and fluent expression, an eloquent preacher: vividly or movingly expressive or revealing, an eloquent monumentOn Making an Impression:In the aftermarket - and countless other small businesses - it is very common to see email interaction with people using public domain ema

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class In celebration of ten years of podcasting, Carm Capriotto reunites with early guests—Dwayne Myers, Clint Dudley, and Gene Morrill—to reflect on their original episodes and the evolution of their businesses. The episode explores their growth over the past decade, the vital role of coaching, continuous education, and adapting to industry changes such as labor rates and operations. Emphasizing the importance of strong processes, community, and putting people first, the conversation highlights how shared experiences and lifelong learning drive success in the automotive repair industry. Clint Dudley, Shade Tree Auto, Grimes, IA. Clint’s previous episodes HERE Dwayne Myers, Dynamic Automotive. Dwayne’s previous episodes HERE. Gene Morrill, Certified Automotive in Glendora. Gene’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes: Watch Full Video Episode Introduction & 10th Anniversary Kickoff (00:00:00) Early Podcast Episodes & Guest I

Thanks to our partner PromotivePlanning for taxes shouldn’t feel like rolling the dice. In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt walks through how smart shop owners use real data, not hope, to forecast and manage their tax obligations all year long.Why Q2 and Q3 are the real moneymakers for accurate tax forecastingWhen it actually makes sense to buy that truck for the write-offHow and when to adjust your tax estimates (and why it matters)The truth about retirement contributions as a tax strategyCommon mistakes shop owners make by skipping tax planningThanks to our partner PromotiveIt’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive 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 www.gopromotive.com.Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive RepairVisit u