Want a real marketing plan that doesn’t live in your head or on a bunch of sticky notes?

In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker is joined by Caroline Legrand and Savannah Garrett to talk all things Plan With the Pros Shop Marketing Pros’ hands-on, no-fluff marketing workshop designed to help shop owners create a full-year strategy they’ll use.

You’ll hear how last year’s event helped shops ditch the chaos and build real, actionable plans from big-picture budget planning to week-by-week content ideas. Whether you're starting from scratch or refining what you’ve already got, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what to expect, what you’ll walk away with, and why West Point is the perfect backdrop for this kind of transformative work.

Packed with insights, personal stories, and plenty of laughs, this episode is your sneak peek into a game-changing experience for your business.

Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you with this episode. RepairPal’s Certified Network of shops is trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at

RepairPal.com/shops.

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

Plan With The Pros 

Get In Touch With the Guest: 

Savannah Garrett 

Meet The Team Schmidt Auto Care

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction and Welcome (00:00:10)  Kim Walker introduces the podcast and guests, discussing the "Plan with the Pros" event.  
• Event Overview (00:02:19)  Discussion on the inception and goals of the "Plan with the Pros" event, blending retreat and workshop elements.  
• Savannah's Experience (00:05:13)  Savannah Garrett shares her motivation for attending the event, highlighting the importance of marketing in her role.  
• Networking Importance (00:06:09)  The value of networking with peers in the industry and sharing marketing strategies is emphasized.  
• Marketing Plans Discussion (00:09:19)  Savannah discusses her existing marketing plans and areas where she sought improvement during the event.  
• Collaboration Insights (00:12:14)  The benefits of collaboration among shop owners and sharing successful marketing ideas are highlighted.  
• Event Hosting Benefits (00:12:57)  Savannah discusses hosting events for community engagement and how it enhances shop visibility and reputation.  
• Camaraderie and Learning (00:15:08)   Savannah reflects on the camaraderie experienced at the event and the valuable marketing tactics learned.  
• Building Relationships (00:15:32)  Discussion on the importance of relationships and collaboration among women in the automotive industry.
• Mentorship and Growth (00:17:04)  Reflections on mentoring young professionals and the influence of women leaders in the industry.
• Inclusivity in Events (00:19:38)  Announcement of opening the "Plan with the Pros" event to all genders after a female-only event last year.
• West Point Venue Experience (00:21:03)  Insights on choosing West Point as a venue and its significance for the upcoming event.
• Unique Experience at West Point (00:24:05)  Personal reflections on the beauty and history of West Point, enhancing the event experience.
• Camaraderie in Unique Locations (00:25:06)  Discussion on how destination events foster deeper connections and meaningful conversations.
• Setting the Tone for Success (00:26:20)  The importance of the venue in creating an environment conducive to productivity and success.
• Personal Connection to West Point (00:28:36)  Sharing personal stories and connections to West Point, emphasizing its historical significance.
• Unexpected Takeaways (00:29:23)  Exploration of surprises and key insights from the event, particularly for new marketers.
• Marketing to Your Audience (00:30:39)  Savannah shares her biggest takeaway on the importance of targeting specific audiences in marketing.
• Understanding Customer Avatars (00:31:43)  Kim emphasizes the need for attendees to leave with a clear understanding of their customer profiles.
• Networking Benefits (00:33:11)  Discussion on the value of networking and maintaining connections post-event through a Facebook group.
• Flexibility in Marketing Plans (00:36:19)  Caroline discusses the importance of having a fluid marketing plan that adapts to changing circumstances.
• Evaluating Marketing Success (00:36:46)  The speakers highlight the need to assess what marketing strategies are effective and worth continuing.
• Event Logistics and Support (00:39:24)  Caroline outlines what attendees can expect from the "Plan with the Pros" event, including support and networking.
• Final Thoughts on Learning (00:41:01)  Savannah encourages attendees to stay open to learning, regardless of their current marketing expertise.

How To Get In Touch

Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook

Meet The Pros

Follow SMP on Facebook

Follow SMP on Instagram

Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book

Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics