The Gearbox Podcast

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy welcomes Ashley Kaul to discuss several crucial aspects of business and customer service. Ashley emphasizes the vital role of honesty and transparency in marketing strategies, highlighting the need for genuine communication over automated systems. Jimmy shares his experiences with the importance of maintaining personal connections with customers and how effective handling of issues, like a broken truckload, can build lasting trust. They both underline the significance of work-life balance and fostering a supportive work culture to ensure employee retention and satisfaction.

00:00 I attended a marketing event in March, but I didn't get any results.
06:28 Employee retention strategies amid diverse industry challenges.
14:38 Manufacturing company tracks leads with 800 numbers.
19:28 Blogs and videos attract DIY clients needing help.
23:20 Raised as consumers to extensively research and price-check.
31:09 Loyal customer seeks trustworthy, reliable car repair.
37:05 Silent marketing encourages potential client engagement.
39:29 Marketing's challenge: Tracking customer origins in B2B relationships.
43:16 Automate follow-up prioritization; salespeople support, not the owner.
49:23 Focus on service for business success.
57:00 Closed weekends support employees' personal lives and mental health.
59:53 Balance work, community, and living meaningful lives.
01:06:00 Implemented IDPs to reconnect and align post-maternity.
01:13:07 Employees represent your business and reputation.
01:17:59 Misdiagnosed car problem, customer upset, fixed elsewhere.
01:24:27 Personal touch in customer service is invaluable.
01:26:02 Immediate phone response creates a personal touch.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Ryan Stratemann to delve into the intricacies of automotive repair and business management. Ryan shares his journey from a one-bay shop to expanding his business, highlighting the importance of proper bookkeeping, proactive vehicle inspections, and pricing strategies. They also discuss the success and challenges of creating educational content on social media, emphasizing the need for authenticity and technical expertise. 

00:00 Started TikTok, gained 10,000 followers quickly, monetized.
05:28 Long videos succeed organically without paid ads.
07:46 Customizing content based on the audience's skill level.
12:40 Joining ASOG doubled revenue and benefited technicians.
14:31 An Unsafe workplace led to my resignation.
18:28 Price increase led to fewer customers visiting us.
21:18 Gear selection needs expertise and personalized advice.
24:13 Could you make sure to find the root cause before the transmission repair inspection?
29:02 Now, we inspect the entire vehicle, not the transmission only.
31:27 Bigger cities' customers appreciate detailed diagnostic explanations.
36:10 Proper diagnostic fees incentivize thorough, accurate work.
39:11 Brother learned automotive trade from HVAC work.
42:57 No time to watch videos, feeling overwhelmed.
45:00 Technicians often feel forced to open shops.
49:39 Insatiable thirst for comprehensive technical knowledge.
53:12 Editing videos: time-consuming and detail-oriented process.
56:31 Promotes quality auto repairs over new purchases.
57:21 Shop owner by day, comedian by night.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Chris Cotton, a recognized expert in auto shop coaching. Chris talks about the intricacies of automotive parts pricing, revealing how list prices often mislead customers. Jimmy and Chris also discuss the transformative impact of raising labor rates on profitability, stressing how many shops undervalue their labor. Lastly, Chris recommends a campaign to announce changes in shop hours for better training schedules, emphasizing the benefits for both customers and employees. 

00:00 Consider consumer preference when naming an auto shop.
08:08 Great free information helped me move forward.
15:40 Entrepreneur ignores business plan, faces failure.
20:34 Dealers can increase margins by ignoring the list.
21:43 Honesty and integrity are essential in business.
28:55 Misinformation and clickbait in automotive repair.
35:47 Information gathering and implementation, not just copying.
38:30 Inaccurate shop management systems mess up labor costs.
45:11 Honest estimates only, bring your car in.
52:56 Effective communication is the key to success.
55:57 Auto shops need efficient service advisors for success.
01:03:08 Technicians are leaving the dealership, and there is an urge to support independent shops.
01:09:33 Implementing a 4-day work week boosts productivity.
01:13:14 Prepare for change with proactive communication strategies.
01:20:06 Constant content updates for shop owner improvement.
01:21:28 Provide income statement and business summary for review.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

Jimmy Purdy talks with John Eppstein, a seasoned automotive business owner. John discusses the importance of promoting community service to build trust and attract support. He also shares his journey of expanding John's Automotive Care from one shop to multiple locations, emphasizing the need for tailored marketing strategies. Lastly, John underlines the critical role of having the right team in place and the challenges involved in hiring and retaining qualified employees. 

00:00 "I find potential, work, and move on."
04:35 Shop interviews, call applicants, unconventional tactics, drinks.
07:30 Improved interviewing process led to unexpected issues.
11:08 Seeking collaborative and open-minded individuals for the team.
14:17 Progressed from apprentice to experienced shop owner.
16:37 Experienced tech seeks advice from supervisor.
20:40 Express gratitude, listen and engage with employees.
25:35 Learning marketing and advertising helps business grow.
26:09 Learning, growth, diversity, and individuality foster success.
31:42 Adapted marketing approaches for different areas.
32:23 Marketing companies lack effective tracking and analysis.
38:15 Varied BDG groups formed a strong supportive network.
38:56 Asking for help, community service, supporting events.
43:32 Show willingness to help those in need.
48:51 Challenges in the San Diego auto repair industry.
49:37 Local car shops must charge fair prices.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

Today on The Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy Purdy and Greg Buckley kick things off differently than normal; they talk about the underground world of tree and fungi communication. Yep. Shifting gears, they discuss the mental health benefits of psychedelics and mindfulness practices and how those things can affect repair shop morale. Greg shares his insights on workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of personal sharing to build trust and transparency within the team. 

00:00 Focus on business, acquisitions, renovations, industry commitments.
05:50 Red is emotional, yellow is a buffer.
14:52 Grinders work hard, but I value autonomy.
19:31 Jeremiah offers help at the car shop.
26:02 Tech's irresponsibility led to performance decline and complaints.
26:51 Warning about lazy colleagues and personal responsibility.
34:24 Balancing personal and professional life in work.
38:48 Culture over strict procedures for business success.
44:38 Technician shares personal issues during probation conversation.
51:24 Mechanic struggles to sell repairs, wife succeeds.
54:13 DNA differences, tree communication through the root system.
01:00:22 Electrical industry professionals are highly responsible individuals.
01:04:24 Focus on shop culture, and desire for human connection.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Travis May highlight social media's growing importance for attracting customers and increasing business visibility. They discuss the benefits of collaboration among competing shops rather than cutthroat competition, emphasizing the need for mutual support in addressing industry challenges. Additionally, Travis shares his experiences navigating regulatory changes and the complexities of making crucial business decisions, particularly in separating his towing and repair divisions. 

00:00 Family history of the shop in Wrightwood, California.
05:41 Understanding mistakes and adapting to change mindset.
10:35 Limited knowledge of taxes, focusing on towing.
18:13 Brand BDG group as a unified, supportive entity.
22:46 Unity and support make a powerful force.
30:48 Community outreach through soapbox derby race planning.
35:21 Shift from niche shops to all-in-one shops.
38:28 Deep customer conversations lead to tough decisions.
45:44 Unidentified issues lead to expensive repairs.
49:08 Charging for warranty, overlooked details, feedback vital.
55:16 Learning from each other, staying ahead.
59:18 Dispatching tasks and instructions to technicians effectively.
01:05:15 Unexpected power of personal experience and impact.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Greg Rainville emphasize the need for job satisfaction and a role change if not respected at work. Greg shares his experiences on the non-linear nature of progress in marketing strategies and the importance of adapting them to client needs. They also delve into Greg's travels across the country, encountering both modern and traditional repair shops, highlighting the industry's resistance to change.

00:00 The Owner sang on the microphone, wild night in Ogden.
06:28 Traveled to Providence, stayed in hotel.
15:59 Developing communication platform for car diagnostics, challenges.
19:39 Auto repair professionals find comfort in like-minded individuals.
22:45 Questioning the importance of marketing; advocating simplicity.
30:06 Industry insiders feel isolated from a broader perspective.
34:30 Selling software to shop owner: challenging elevator pitch.
40:15 Transitioning between construction fields is relatively easy.
45:35 Proud of growth, more work ahead.
52:23 Excited shop visit, investment in design research.
57:28 Marketing team member tests industry trends effectively.
01:00:31 Startup founders learned shops neglect online listings.
01:04:42 Struggle with reaching a tipping point in growth.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy sits down with David Boyd to cover effective communication in the automotive industry. David emphasizes the importance of consistent and genuine customer interactions, highlighting how call coaching can significantly improve service quality. They also explore the challenges of balancing customer expectations with diagnostic processes, stressing the need for clear communication and proper investment in diagnostic equipment. 

00:00 Investment in equipment with measurable return on investment.
10:39 Educating customers on effective service scheduling process.
15:45 Utilizing technology to minimize background noise.
20:12 Using technology for efficient customer call routing.
26:07 Independent shop owners share communication process insight.
31:38 Identify and prompt callers through marketing tracking.
38:46 Importance of call coaching for effective communication.
43:28 Consistency and natural conversation are important.
48:18 Efficient tool for streamlining phone call review.
55:22 Technology is used to eliminate business process defects.
56:44 Created phone service, identified gaps and offered solutions.
01:01:36 Close relationship with owners, elevating service expectations.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Jay from Teamtailor, who delves into the challenges of hiring technicians in the automotive industry. Jay shares his insights on the significance of employer branding and how showcasing a company's culture and values can attract the right talent. Together, they discuss the importance of authenticity in content creation, especially with platforms like TikTok and Instagram for connecting with the audience.

00:00 The Institute offers coaching without contracts, a tailored approach.
05:44 Embracing startup mindset, learning fast, innovating.
09:17 Culture drives promotion and brand success.
11:48 Standardizing and streamlining the interview process using software.
14:26 Opinionated about work ethic and gratitude.
18:49 Authenticity is key in creating content.
21:58 Client-focused tools for diverse hiring solutions.
24:35 Find diverse talent through multiple job boards.
26:30 Creative, fast, risky guerrilla marketing builds brands.
30:48 Passionate about driving long distances in a Prius.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE

In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Eric Merchant discuss the critical need for taking breaks and sabbaticals to avoid burnout, emphasizing the clarity it brought to his business approach. Jimmy and Eric also delve into the importance of accurate vehicle diagnostics, sharing a story where a misdiagnosed fuel filter was mistaken for a transmission issue. Finally, they highlight the emotional and operational challenges of running an auto shop, stressing the need for empathetic communication and mentorship.

00:00 Cross-country road trip covered 7500 miles.
07:04 Reluctant to allow people to fail.
07:42 Reluctant to be a mentor, but empathetic.
13:43 Rejuvenation brought clarity and fresh ideas.
14:21 Diverse approaches and resources for self-improvement.
20:06 Provide clients with needed information, not sales.
20:41 Repair your vehicle, it's your call.
25:02 Delay repairs, frequent tune-ups, misfires. Transmission issues.
27:58 Learning sticks and forces a better way of thinking.
30:23 Admit mistake, offer solution, avoid unnecessary stress.
34:48 Be actively involved in each job task.
37:40 Get the Gearbox podcast going and realize common struggles.
41:03 London current, bumper to bumper, fix blend door.
43:07 Built relationship, fixed film truck in Barcelona.

Thanks to our sponsor, Shop Boss! See how they can simplify your auto shop HERE