The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast

Want to create video content that boosts your shop’s visibility and drives more customers to your door?

Discover how taking on the VEDA (Video Every Day in August) challenge can help you get comfortable on camera, overcome any fears, and make video a natural part of your marketing strategy.

In this episode, we’ll share practical tips on using video to build trust with your audience, improve your SEO, and showcase your expertise—all while staying consistent with daily video content. Plus, you’ll learn how doing VEDA can help you master video creation and create real connections with your customers.

Don’t miss out on this chance to level up your video game and see real results for your shop. Tune in now and start creating videos that truly connect!

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

https://www.facebook.com/brian.walker

https://www.facebook.com/brian.walker/videos/877852980463356 - Brian’s #veda day 31

https://www.facebook.com/brian.walker/videos/2358559621160873 - Brian’s #veda day 32

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected]

Join host Kim Walker as she leads a heartwarming and insightful panel discussion with auto repair shop owners who are making a real difference in their communities. In this special episode, our panelists share how they're stepping up during the back-to-school season to support local students and teachers through creative initiatives—from donating school supplies to funding teacher wish lists and organizing community events.

Listen as Tanika Haynes, Christina Grace Beverly, and Nakia and Nate Bailor discuss the challenges they’ve faced, the unexpected rewards of giving back, and how these efforts have strengthened their ties to the community. Whether you’re a shop owner looking for inspiration or simply curious about the power of local engagement, this episode is packed with practical tips and stories that will inspire you to take action.

Hit play now to learn how even small gestures can create lasting impacts, both for your business and your community! 🚗🎒

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

• Back to School Marketing Discussion in the FB group

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected]

Today, we're excited to have a special guest with us, Craig O'Neill, a seasoned communication expert.

In this episode, we'll dive into Craig's unique approach to effective communication in the auto repair industry. We'll explore how he defines and measures communication success, the art of creating positive first impressions, and the crucial role of clear, transparent interactions in building client trust and retention.

We'll also discuss the impact of personalized communication, the importance of networking, and strategies for handling difficult conversations. Plus, Craig will share his insights on overcoming unexpected challenges in public speaking and his top-tier advice for shop owners looking to enhance their communication skills.

Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and practical tips that can transform how you communicate in your business.

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

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

• Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill
• Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self by Michael Easter
• Scarcity Brain: Fix Your Craving Mindset and Rewire Your Habits to Thrive with Enough by Michael Easter
• Remarkable Results Toastmasters Club

How To Get In Touch With The Guest

• Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O’Neill
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigoneillaam/

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) The host welcomes listeners to episode 116 and introduces guest Craig O'Neill.
• Discussion on Communication (00:01:36) Craig and Kim explore the importance of communication and daily conversations.
• Inspiration from Fitness Influencers (00:02:47) Fitness enthusiast Joey Swole and discusses gym etiquette.
• Walking and Inspiration (00:03:10) Craig shares insights on walking as a source of inspiration and connection with his wife.
• Toastmasters Experience (00:04:18) Craig reflects on his five-year journey in Toastmasters and its impact on communication skills.
• Learning to Listen (00:05:11) The speakers discuss the importance of listening and how Toastmasters fosters this skill.
• Power of the Pause (00:09:17) They highlight the significance of pausing during conversations to enhance communication.
• Influential Authors (00:10:57) Craig talks about authors like Michael Easter and their impact on his communication journey.
• Turning 40 and Fitness Changes (00:12:26) Craig shares his new fitness regimen as he approaches his 40th birthday.
• The Comfort Crisis Book (00:14:11) Discussion on how the book “The Comfort Crisis” has influenced Craig’s perspective on health.
• The Importance of Influence (00:14:36) Craig discusses the amplification effect of networks and how individuals can inspire each other in unexpected ways.
• New Workout Regimen (00:15:56) Craig shares his new workout routine involving a rucksack, which he started on his 40th birthday.
• Reflecting on Podcast Hosting (00:18:09) Craig recounts his initial reaction when asked to host a podcast, feeling surprised and honored.
• The Essence of Good Communication (00:19:14) Kim highlights Craig's natural ability to communicate and connect with others easily.
• Listening vs. Hearing (00:23:18) Craig emphasizes the importance of genuinely listening to people to foster meaningful conversations.
• Communication Challenges in Family Business (00:26:36) Craig reflects on communication mistakes and challenges faced in their family business.
• The Spiral of Dysfunctional Communication (00:27:51) Craig discusses how anger and frustration can lead to a downward spiral in communication dynamics.
• The Importance of Connection (29:30) Discussion on how people often don't reach out for help and the importance of community.
• Facebook Group Dynamics (29:53) Kim shares her protective approach to managing their Facebook group and the excitement of welcoming new members.
• Influence of Dale Carnegie (30:34) Kim discusses the impact of "How to Win Friends and Influence People" on personal relationships and communication.
• Tips for Remembering Names (33:00) Craig shares strategies for helping others remember your name in networking situations.
• The Art of Introduction (35:30) The significance of introducing people and creating connections in networking events is highlighted.
• Navigating Hard Conversations (38:02) Kim shares her experience with difficult conversations and encourages others to engage in them for peace.
• Strategies for Effective Feedback (41:34) Craig discusses the importance of giving constructive feedback and the principles behind having hard conversations.
• The Challenge of Hard Conversations (42:59) Craig expresses his discomfort with hard conversations and the need for ongoing discussions about them.
• Crisis Management in Speaking (00:43:43) Discussion on handling unexpected crises while presenting and how it can alleviate nerves.
• Compartmentalizing Emotions (00:44:37) Kim shares her experience of compartmentalizing personal issues during a presentation for better focus.
• Unexpected Medical Situation (00:45:35) Brian's heart procedure causes a last-minute change in Kim's travel plans to Ogden, Utah.
• Transparency in Teaching (00:46:28) Kim emphasizes the importance of being open and vulnerable with the audience during her presentation.
• Inspiring Moments in Toastmasters (00:47:40) Craig praises Kim’s ability to connect with her audience and inspire them through her teaching.
• Handling Last-Minute Changes (00:49:05) Craig recounts stepping in to lead a session after his colleague had to leave unexpectedly.
• The Importance of Mentorship (00:50:10) Craig reflects on how mentorship shaped his speaking skills and prepared him for unexpected challenges.
• Impact of Communication Skills (00:51:42) Discussion on the significance of developing communication skills for personal and professional growth.
• Audience-Centric Approach (00:52:32) The speakers stress that effective communication is about focusing on the audience, not oneself.
• Respectful Communication (00:53:02) Craig shares a lesson from his mentor on dressing appropriately to show respect for the audience.
• Overcoming Speaking Anxiety (00:54:00) Kim narrates her experience of speaking after a famous singer and how she managed her nerves.
• The Power of Honesty (00:56:01) Kim discusses using honesty and transparency to connect with the audience and diffuse anxiety.
• Speed Round (00:56:36) A quick-fire segment where Kim and Craig answer fun questions about preferences and communication.
• Introduction to Speak Up (00:57:48) Craig promotes his new show on effective communication, highlighting its availability on the aftermarket radio network.
• Closing Remarks (00:58:02) Kim and Craig reflect on the enjoyable conversation, hinting at the potential for a longer discussion.
• Podcast Sign-Off (00:58:04) Kim thanks listeners for tuning in and promotes the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast.
• Show Recommendations (00:58:11) Kim shares information about other shows on the aftermarket radio network, including Craig’s new show, Speak Up.
• Final Thoughts (00:58:31) Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast and suggest topics for future discussions.

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected]

When running your auto repair shop, burnout, stress, and exhaustion can feel like constant companions. How do you reignite your passion and find balance amidst the daily challenges?

In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, Kim Walker hosts a solo cast with guest Jeff Salzenstein, a former professional tennis player turned coach and speaker. 

Jeff shares his transformative journey from the tennis courts to becoming a coach focused on holistic well-being. He offers invaluable insights on overcoming adversity, redefining success, and managing burnout and stress through practical techniques like heart-focused breathing and tapping. 

Jeff’s emphasis on resilience, mindset, and the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul will inspire and equip you with tools to enhance your personal and professional well-being.

Tune in for an episode packed with actionable strategies to help you thrive in both your business and personal life. Don’t miss it!

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

How To Get In Touch With The Guest

https://www.jeffsalzenstein.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/jeffsalzenstein/ 

https://www.facebook.com/jeffsalzensteinspeaker 

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction and Sponsorship (00:00:01) The podcast host introduces the episode and thanks RepairPal for sponsoring the show.
• Meeting Jeff (00:00:10) Kim Walker discusses her excitement about having Jeff as a guest, highlighting their recent connection.
• Unleashing the Champion Within (00:01:19) Jeff shares insights on his coaching philosophy, focusing on mental health and overcoming limiting beliefs.
• Jeff's Professional Tennis Background (00:02:54) Jeff recounts his experiences as a professional tennis player and the challenges he faced.
• The Pressure of Performance (00:03:25) He describes the anxiety before a significant match and the importance of mental focus.
• Tapping into the Zone of Excellence (00:04:26) Jeff explains the concept of finding a "zone" during competition, leading to peak performance.
• Limiting Beliefs and Success (00:07:04) The conversation shifts to how limiting beliefs can hinder personal and professional success.
• Redefining Success (00:08:45) Jeff reflects on how his definition of success evolved over time, influenced by personal experiences.
• Pivotal Moments in Life (00:09:51) He shares defining moments that shaped his journey, including injuries and personal challenges.
• Transition to Coaching (00:12:31) Jeff discusses the moment he decided to become a coach, driven by a desire to help others.
• Helping Burnt-Out Shop Owners (00:14:56) The conversation addresses strategies to support shop owners feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.
• Creating Your Reality (00:15:32) Discussion on how personal responsibility shapes one's reality and the importance of mindset.
• Taking Responsibility (00:16:31) Emphasizing the freedom that comes from acknowledging personal responsibility in one's circumstances.
• The Power of Words (00:17:33) The impact of language on reality and the importance of speaking positively about one's situation.
• Finding Efficiency (00:19:17) Exploring options when unhappy in a career, including improving efficiency or re-evaluating one's path.
• Listening to Your Heart (00:20:35) The importance of aligning head and heart in pursuing personal fulfillment and career satisfaction.
• Focusing on Creation (00:20:51) Encouraging a shift from negative focus to creating what one truly desires in life.
• Defying Age Expectations (00:22:02) Discussing persistence in achieving success later in life, using tennis as an example.
• Embracing Suffering (00:24:02) Understanding the role of failure and suffering in personal growth and resilience.
• The Zen of Discomfort (00:26:41) The paradox of embracing discomfort to facilitate growth and change in life.
• Practical Breathing Techniques (00:28:34) Introducing heart-focused breathing as a method to manage stress and improve emotional regulation.
• Breathwork and Its Benefits (00:29:54) Discusses the importance of breathwork for mental and emotional health, highlighting techniques like box breathing.
• Tapping Technique for Stress Relief (00:31:52) Explains how tapping acupressure points can significantly reduce anxiety and stress levels.
• Nature Walks to Combat Anxiety (00:33:13) Emphasizes the benefits of walking outside for mental health, particularly for shop owners.
• Creating a Positive Work Culture (00:34:16) Describes how to instill micro habits in organizations to promote gratitude and well-being.
• Managing Emotions Effectively (00:35:55) Discusses the importance of expressing emotions and regulating them through breath and physical activity.
• Curiosity About Personal Habits (00:38:47) Encourages listeners to investigate their habits for better mental and physical health.
• Personal Story of Resilience (00:40:34) Shares a personal story about overcoming struggles and the impact of family on personal growth.
• Offering Support to Those in Need (00:42:19) Highlights the importance of reaching out and offering help to those struggling with mental health issues.
• Contact Information for Support (00:43:45) Provides Jeff's contact details for listeners seeking guidance or support in their personal journeys.
• Invitation to Speak (00:45:00) Jeff expresses his willingness to speak at events and share his experiences.
• Industry Connections (00:45:42) Kim plans to connect Jeff with industry professionals for speaking opportunities.
• Future Conversations (00:45:49) They discuss the potential for future episodes and deeper conversations.
• Podcast Closing (00:46:01) Kim thanks the audience and encourages them to tune in next week.
• Listening Options (00:46:03) Information about where to find the podcast on various platforms is shared.
• Final Remarks (00:46:33) The episode concludes with a reminder to engage with the podcast and its hosts.

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected] 

Want to unlock new opportunities for your auto repair shop? Learn how to tap into local organizations that are eager to help your business thrive, connect with valuable resources, and maximize community support.

We'll explore the benefits of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), leveraging Downtown Development Districts, and participating in programs like Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses. 

Plus, discover how to network with local government officials, secure grants, and enhance your shop's visibility and growth.

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

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

• Tanchubajo Economic Development Foundation (TEDF) - https://www.tedf.org/
• Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - sba.gov/sbdc
• Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) - https://10ksbapply.com/
• The Idea Village in New Orleans - https://www.ideavillage.org/

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) The hosts introduce the podcast and discuss the episode's focus on local organizations for business support.
• Tangible Economic Development Foundation (00:01:10) Brian shares his experience with TDF, emphasizing its role in supporting local businesses.
• Importance of Economic Development Foundations (00:02:27) Discussion on how these foundations help attract businesses and provide resources, particularly for small enterprises.
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) (00:04:15) Kim explains the role of SBDCs, offering assistance with business planning, funding, and market research.
• SBDC Resources and Classes (00:06:09) Overview of various resources available through SBDCs, including classes and networking opportunities for business owners.
• Finding Your Local SBDC (00:08:09) Advice on how to locate an SBDC and the value it brings to small business owners.
• Downtown Development Districts (00:09:15) Brian introduces Downtown Development Districts and their potential benefits for businesses in historic areas.
• Engagement with Downtown Development Districts (00:10:12) Discussion on the importance of local business involvement and awareness of district events and resources.
• Marketing Opportunities through Events (00:11:15) Encouragement to participate in local events to promote businesses, even if they seem unrelated to automotive repair.
• Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program (00:13:17) Brian explains the program's purpose, which is to provide small business owners with essential skills and resources.
• Experience with the 10K SB Program (00:15:35) Kim shares her perspective on the program, highlighting its benefits and the connections made among participants.
• Startup Accelerators (00:16:32) Discussion on startup accelerators that help new businesses grow quickly, including local examples.
• Local Government Support (00:18:01) Insights on the role of local government in supporting businesses and fostering a positive business environment.
• Getting Involved in the Community (00:19:48) Encouragement to engage with local organizations and share experiences to benefit the community.
• Chamber of Commerce Importance (00:22:50) Highlighting the chamber of commerce as a key connection to other business organizations in the community.
• Networking Benefits (00:23:56) Personal stories illustrating how networking and involvement in local organizations can create valuable connections.

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected]

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

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

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

We’ve got the answers.

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

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

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

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) Brian and Kim welcome listeners and introduce the episode's focus on marketing lingo and misconceptions.
• Purpose of the Episode (00:01:07) Discussion on why understanding marketing terminology is crucial for effective communication in the automotive repair industry.
• Boosted Posts vs. Facebook Ads (00:02:53) Clarification on the differences between boosting a post and creating a full Facebook ad.
• Landing Pages vs. Full Websites (00:04:57) Explanation of landing pages as minimal websites designed for conversions, distinct from full websites.
• Leads vs. Conversions (00:08:16) Defining leads as initial interest and conversions as completed transactions or appointments.
• Understanding SEO (00:10:26) SEO stands for search engine optimization, focusing on making a website authoritative in its niche.
• Organic vs. Paid Search (00:11:53) Differentiation between organic search results and paid search ads in digital marketing.
• Geo-Targeting vs. Geofencing (00:14:35) Discussion on the differences between geo-targeting for general ads and geofencing for highly specific targeting.
• Geofencing vs. Geo Targeting (00:16:13) Discussion on the differences between geofencing and geo targeting in advertising effectiveness.
• Alt Text and SEO (00:17:06) Explanation of alt text's role in SEO and its importance for visually impaired users.
• Backlinks vs. Internal Links (00:20:39) Clarification of backlinks and internal links, including their significance for website navigation and SEO.
• Understanding Bounce Rate (00:21:41) Definition of bounce rate and its implications for website performance in the auto repair industry.
• Impressions vs. Clicks (00:22:54) Overview of the difference between impressions (ads shown) and clicks (user engagement).
• CTR, CPC, and CPA (00:24:08) Definitions of click-through rate, cost per click, and cost per acquisition in marketing metrics.
• User Experience (UX) (00:27:01) Discussion on the importance of user experience for website navigation and customer satisfaction.
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP) (00:29:08) Exploration of unique selling propositions and their role in differentiating a business from competitors.
• Inbound vs. Outbound Marketing (00:31:07) Comparison of inbound and outbound marketing strategies and their relevance to auto repair shops.
• Google Business Profile Explained (00:32:46) Overview of Google Business Profile as a mini website for businesses.
• Google Maps and Marketing (00:32:58) Discussion on how Google Maps displays search results and business profiles.
• Industry Changes and Terminology (00:33:38) Humorous take on the rapidly changing digital marketing landscape.
• Google Ads vs. Adwords (00:34:12) Clarification on the rebranding from Google Adwords to Google Ads.
• Wrap-up and Acknowledgments (00:34:26) Reflection on the lengthy discussion and appreciation for listener patience.
• Hurricane Reference (00:34:36) Light-hearted mention of dealing with unexpected challenges during recording.
• Sponsor Appreciation (00:35:05) Acknowledgment of RepairPal's support for the podcast.
• Listener Engagement Encouragement (00:35:25) Invitation for listeners to submit questions or topics for future episodes.
• Aftermarket Radio Network Mention (00:35:45) Promotion of other podcasts available on the aftermarket radio network.
• Closing Remarks (00:35:54) Final thoughts and encouragement to tune in next week.

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected]

Join Brian Walker in this thought-provoking episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast as he delves into the controversial philosophy of "just say yes" in the auto repair industry. 

Brian explores how this approach can influence your marketing efforts, customer service, and overall shop success. 

He shares real-life examples of missed opportunities, highlighting the importance of proper service advisor training and the need to always look for ways to turn a "no" into a positive response. 

Tune in to gain valuable insights on optimizing your shop's phone interactions and maximizing your marketing investments. 

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

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

Episode 106: shopmarketingpros.com/106

Empower Your Advisor : https://empoweryouradvisor.com/

Episode 2: Brian's Euro shop : https://shopmarketingpros.com/kim-and-brian-tell-their-story/

Episode 45: phone skills with Cecil Bullard: 

https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-45-phone-skills-amplify-your-marketing-with-cecil-bullard/

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to "Just Say Yes" (00:00:10) Brian introduces the concept of "just say yes" in auto repair marketing.
• Philosophy Overview (00:01:18) Discussion on the philosophy of getting cars into shops, regardless of capacity or customer interest.
• The Divide in the Industry (00:02:12) Explains the polarizing nature of the "just say yes" philosophy among auto repair shops.
• Marketer's Perspective (00:02:12) Brian shares his insights as a marketer and the importance of customer engagement.
• Stressful Nature of Service Advisor Role (00:03:13) Highlights the stress faced by service advisors and its impact on customer interactions.
• Service Advisor Training Importance (00:04:20) Discusses the necessity of proper training for service advisors to improve customer retention.
• Examples of Missed Opportunities (00:05:17) Shares anecdotes illustrating how service advisors discourage potential customers.
• Case Study: Diesel Engine Inquiry (00:06:22) Describes a call where a service advisor prematurely dismissed a customer’s request.
• Flat Tire Assistance Example (00:07:24) Discusses a missed opportunity to create customer loyalty through service.
• Air Conditioning Inquiry Mismanagement (00:08:23) Highlights a situation where a service advisor refused service based on engine type.
• Timing Belt Refusal (00:09:24) Details a call where a service advisor rejected a customer based on vehicle age.
• RepairPal Sponsorship Mention (00:10:19) Introduces RepairPal as a resource for connecting shops with new customers.
• Frustration with Service Advisors (00:11:25) Expresses frustration over service advisors frequently telling potential customers "no."
• Misunderstanding Customer Needs (00:12:17) Discusses the importance of understanding customer queries beyond their initial questions.
• Radiator Inquiry Example (00:13:16) Describes a call where a service advisor failed to explore the customer's actual needs.
• Exhaust Repair Refusal (00:14:12) Shares an example of a service advisor not offering solutions for exhaust repairs.
• Training for Service Advisors (00:15:12) Importance of service advisor training and understanding good phone skills for effective customer engagement.
• Turning No into Yes Examples (00:16:23) Brian shares practical examples of converting customer inquiries from no to yes during phone interactions.
• The Philosophy of Saying Yes (00:17:23) Discussion on the positive implications of saying yes, while maintaining integrity and customer trust.
• Value of Marketing with Yes (00:18:23) Emphasizing that looking for ways to say yes enhances marketing effectiveness and customer satisfaction.
• Closing Remarks and Thank You (00:19:08) Brian thanks listeners and sponsors, encouraging engagement with the podcast and its content.

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected] 

Join Kim, in this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast as she dives into the key responsibilities shop owners have when teaming up with professional marketers.

From the importance of honesty to the need for regular communication and thinking like a marketer, Kim outlines seven essential points to enhance your partnership and boost your business.

Discover how to lay a strong foundation for your marketing efforts and ensure your shop is ready for growth.

Don't miss these valuable insights and tips!

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

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

Simon Sinek - Start with Why Ted Talk : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4ZoJKF_VuA

Podcast or Blog about “You’re Not Ready for Marketing” : https://shopmarketingpros.com/how-to-know-when-youre-not-ready-for-marketing/

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:00:01) Kim Walker introduces herself and thanks the sponsors for supporting the podcast.
• Responsibilities of Shop Owners (00:01:21) Discussion on the responsibilities of shop owners in their relationship with professional marketers.
• Importance of Kickoff Meetings (00:02:26) Emphasis on the significance of kickoff meetings and thorough preparation for effective marketing.
• Honesty in Communication (00:04:49) The necessity for shop owners to be completely honest about their business situation with marketers.
• Monthly Meetings with Marketers (00:06:06) Highlighting the importance of regular monthly meetings to maintain effective communication and collaboration.
• Thinking Like a Marketer (00:09:26) Encouragement for shop owners to adopt a marketer's mindset to enhance communication and information sharing.
• Feedback and Transparency (00:13:31) The importance of providing feedback and being transparent about any dissatisfaction with marketing efforts.
• Kickoff Meeting Excitement (00:17:00) Shop owners feel inspired during kickoff meetings but often revert to old habits afterward.
• Importance of Deliverables (00:18:06) Shop owners must fulfill promises like taking photos and videos to support marketing efforts.
• Responsibility in Marketing (00:19:04) Shop owners need to actively participate in marketing strategies to ensure effective collaboration.
• Fixing Shop Issues Before Marketing (00:20:05) Address internal shop problems before hiring a marketer to avoid compounding issues.
• Review Audit and Improvement (00:21:28) Conduct a review audit to identify recurring customer complaints that need resolution.
• Avoid Mediocre Marketing (00:22:40) Ensure your shop is not mediocre before investing in marketing to maximize effectiveness.
• Engagement and Community Involvement (00:23:38) Active participation in the industry and community is crucial for successful marketing partnerships.
• Join the Auto Repair Marketing Community (00:25:59) Encouragement to join the Facebook group for automotive repair marketing discussions and resources.
• Request for Reviews (00:27:03) Hosts encourage listeners to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to enhance visibility.

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected]

Welcome to the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Brian Walker. In this solo episode, Brian discusses the importance of taking massive action during slow business periods. 

Drawing from a recent conversation with a shop owner, he shares strategies to combat slow times, including leveraging networking groups like BNI, using your CRM effectively, creating engaging video content, and offering incentives.

Brian also highlights the importance of personal health and well-being, emphasizing that a healthy business owner is crucial for a thriving business. 

Tune in for practical tips to help fill your bays and keep your business thriving.

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

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

Greg Buckley at Buckley's Auto Center : https://www.youtube.com/@BuckleysAutoCare/featured

Charlie's Foreign Car

https://www.youtube.com/@fixingcars

Royalty Auto Service

https://www.youtube.com/@theroyaltyautoservice

Dave’s Auto Center

https://www.youtube.com/@DavesAutoCenterCenterville

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected] 

Today, we're excited to have a special guest with us, Arun Kumar, the owner of Driven Auto Care. 

In this episode, we’ll explore Arun's unique approach to defining and measuring customer loyalty, creating positive first impressions, and the crucial role of communication and transparency in client retention. 

We'll also discuss the impact of personalized service, the importance of community engagement, and strategies for handling negative reviews. 

Plus, Arun will share his insights on emerging trends in customer loyalty and his top-tier advice for shop owners.

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

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

We Are Driven Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/we-are-driven-podcast/id1669356544

Driven Diary Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drivendiary

Arun Coumar Linkedin Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/aruncoumar_there-are-11-automotive-shops-in-the-plaza-activity-7206990233949642753-xcVF?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

How To Get In Touch With The Guest

Arun Coumar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aruncoumar/

Show Notes

1. Define Loyalty:

• How do you define loyalty in the context of your auto repair business?
• How do you measure customer loyalty at Driven Auto Care?

2. First Impressions:

• Do you believe first impressions contribute to customer loyalty?
• Share some thoughts on how a repair shop can create a positive first impression.

3. Communication and Transparency:

• Does communication and transparency play a role in retaining clients?
• What best practices do you believe in or promote to increase customer loyalty?

4. Personalized Service:

• Do you believe personalized service impacts retention?
• How can shops implement personalized service?

5. Business Operations and Rebranding:

• Discuss the rebranding and renovation efforts at Driven Auto Care.
• How have these efforts contributed to creating a loyal customer base?

6. Technology and Tools:

• Does technology and the use of any specific tools/programs help you stay in touch with customers and get them back into the shop?
• Share any specific tools or programs you use at Driven Auto Care.

7. Community Engagement:

• Talk about engaging in the community to build your reputation and a loyal customer base.
• What community involvement initiatives does Driven Auto Care participate in?

8. Handling Negative Reviews:

• How do you feel the way a negative experience is handled can play into customer loyalty?
• Share any strategies or approaches you use to turn negative experiences into positive outcomes.

9. Trends in Customer Loyalty:

• Do you foresee any trends emerging in customer loyalty and retention within the auto repair industry?
• What are you seeing in terms of customer expectations and behaviors?

10. Biggest Lesson Learned:

• Share your biggest lesson learned in customer retention at Driven Auto Care.

11. Top-Tier Advice:

• What’s your one top-tier piece of advice to help other shop owners build customer loyalty?

How To Get In Touch

Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind

Website - shopmarketingpros.com 

Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 

Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book

Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 

Questions/Ideas - [email protected]