Shop Fix Academy Podcast

Aaron and Jay catch up with JR Luna to hear his story of success. JR went from managing a shop to becoming an owner in his late twenties. He quickly learned that running a shop is very different from owning one, and that becoming a lifelong learner was the key to turning his shops around. Now doing millions in revenue at each location, JR shares valuable lessons on selecting the right locations, opening multiple shops with different makes, and expanding his family brand. His passion for seeing people succeed is contagious, and he and his wife, Rita, live that passion every day.

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Joe Stokes joins us for our first episode of 2026 to kick off the year with hard-earned leadership insights. As the leader responsible for managing multiple shops across the country, Joe has seen it all—and knows what it takes to keep operations running smoothly at scale.

In this episode, Joe challenges leaders to lean into what might happen, confront their own ego, and ensure their business is truly profitable—not just busy. His perspective sets a powerful foundation for the year ahead and will push you to take an honest look at your organization, identify what needs to change, and commit to doing things differently.

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Join Aaron and Jay as they wrap up an incredible year on the podcast and look ahead to the opportunities coming in 2026. With a standout lineup of guests and powerful stories of growth and change, this year set the stage for what’s next. As the auto repair market gears up for a busy season, Aaron and Jay discuss why sharpening the fundamentals and strengthening your skills will be critical for success in the year ahead.

Thanks to our sponsors in 2025!

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In this episode, Aaron Miller discusses his business with his brother and the challenges they’ve faced along the way. Through many ups and downs, they’ve navigated a difficult path learning how to work together. Between the pressure of simply making payroll and personal life challenges, Aaron walks us through his journey. Hear how he found his path to success—not only in business, but in life and family as well. It isn’t easy, but there is hope, and you can find your own path to success.

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In this episode Owen Buchanan sits down with us in between sessions at the Shop Fix Pro Conference. Owen spent 10 years grinding it out only to be met with a decision, close the doors or put away your ego and get help. Owen reached out to a friend and got a piece of advice that's changed his life, his outlook, and his purpose. Hear how he went from "below the basement" struggling to changing the way he thinks about money and his business. His story and transparency about how it all happened is inspiring and we're thankful to have had him on the show!

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In this episode, Paul LeBlanc (however you pronounce it) shares his path—from jumping into the family business during a difficult time, to navigating a painful fallout with his brother, to ultimately finding his way to a profitable shop and family redemption. His story highlights the importance of seeking help, getting guidance, and developing the right mindset for success. His dedication to family and his commitment to supporting his father through tough times make for an inspiring story you’ll love to hear.

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In this episode, we interview Luke Walker, who runs one of the largest—if not the largest—independent auto repair shops in the United States. This single location brought in over $1,000,000 in just one month. Luke’s story is nothing short of miraculous. His battle with depression as a young man nearly ended in tragedy, but instead, it became the driving force behind his passion for auto repair and his mission to help young men and women find direction in their lives. His journey to success and his approach to running a large operation are both powerful and inspiring.

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Aaron and Jay dive into the topic of Marketing and how discounts are viewed both negatively and positively. Aaron shares his strategies about marketing and discounts. He digs into how strategy turns into data and data drives his business to higher revenue. This divisive topic seems to spark strong controversy in the industry. Hear how a successful shop owner views the topic and why he just doesn't get it when people get hot on the topic of discounts.

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Eric Walker of Walker Automotive holds multiple degrees, certifications, and an impressive career history. He’s also a trainer for Automotive Training Group and TechFix. A true technical powerhouse, in this episode we uncover his journey and how he got to where he is today. His message for all technicians is inspiring, highlighting the power of mastering foundational lessons—not only for technical skills but also for business skills. From the small town of Elkton, Kentucky, Eric Walker is doing big things and sharing valuable lessons on how to find your own path to growth.

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In this episode, Samantha Wright shares how she became co-owner of Wright Auto Group, a multi-shop business founded on three key pillars: Aim for Happy Customers, Aim for Happy Workers, and Aim for Sustainable Business Practices. Her story—from high school dropout and teen mom to shop owner—is one of determination, learning, healing, and hope. It’s about not letting your past define you, staying open to change, and embracing growth along the way. Samantha is deeply grateful for the inspiration she received from her experiences in previous shops and is honored to join passionate shop owners who make a difference—one customer at a time.

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