In this episode of the Lift Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, we sit down with Lauren and the team from Locust Street Repair to talk about how consistent marketing, authentic reviews, and year-over-year tracking transformed their business.
From Google Maps calls skyrocketing to monthly meetings that keep goals on track, this conversation dives into the real-world marketing strategies that helped this shop grow — without losing the personal touch that keeps customers coming back.
You’ll hear about:
- How Locust Street Repair built trust through customer reviews
- The impact of consistent SEO and paid ad strategy
- Why monthly reporting and accountability matter
- What happens when you finally connect your marketing data to real business results
If you’re an auto shop owner looking for proof that marketing works when it’s done right, this episode is for you.
Listen, learn, and get inspired to take your shop’s marketing to the next level.
In this episode, we sit down with Colleen Shannon of Shannon Family Automotive to talk about leadership, growth, and navigating major transitions in both business and life. Colleen shares her journey of stepping into leadership during a breaking point, the lessons she and her husband learned from swapping roles, and how they discovered new strengths by leaning into each other’s “working geniuses.”
We dive into hiring and team culture, the importance of asking the right interview questions, and why understanding people beyond their work matters so much. Colleen also opens up about the struggles of business ownership, the power of resilience, and how redefining traditional roles created new opportunities for both her family and her shop.
Whether you’re a shop owner, a leader in any industry, or someone facing tough transitions, this conversation is filled with wisdom, honesty, and encouragement.
Branding Auto Repair From the Inside with Lola Schmidt
Running an auto repair shop takes more than fixing cars—it takes building a brand that customers trust. In this episode, Lola Schmidt shares her journey of turning a shop from a tough beginning into a standout, customer-first business.
She dives into:
How to create a brand identity that feels authentic
Why appearance, curb appeal, and safety matter to customers
Balancing roles as husband-and-wife shop owners
The importance of asking your community what they want
Must-read books like Profit First that help shop owners stay profitable
If you’re looking to improve your shop’s image, strengthen customer loyalty, and grow without burning out, this episode is packed with real, actionable advice.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with another shop owner who needs to hear this.
What happens when you outgrow your “buddy culture” but don’t yet have real leadership systems in place?
In this episode of the Lift Your Shop podcast, we sit down with Thomas Andrews, co-founder of CDT Automotive, who shares how their team scaled from chaos to clarity. Thomas opens up about the growing pains of leadership, the lessons learned from failed accountability, and how outside coaching helped them transform the business.
- Why “praise in public, correct in private” is a leadership game-changer.
- How Thomas and his partner shifted from being friends to effective leaders.
- The role of Shop Fix and coaching in helping them systematize growth.
- Why simplicity always scales better than complexity.
Whether you're running a one-bay shop or scaling to multiple locations, this conversation is packed with insights that will move your business forward.
Unlock the Power of One-on-Ones: Build a Culture of Accountability & Leadership
Join leadership coach Josh Parnell as he breaks down how effective one-on-one meetings can transform your team and workplace culture. Learn why calls to action and consistent follow-up are key to creating accountability, how to empower your team to lead their own meetings, and practical tips to develop stronger leaders.
Plus, Josh shares his top leadership book recommendations and how to connect with him for personalized coaching.
👉 Watch now and start leading with impact!
For Greg Buckley, running an auto repair business isn’t just a career—it’s a family legacy. Growing up in his father’s service station in Wilmington, Greg began his journey in the industry at just eight years old as a self-proclaimed “Petroleum Transfer Engineer.” From pumping gas to leading as a multi-shop owner, his path reflects a deep-rooted passion for automotive excellence and community connection.
But Greg’s story is more than just business. It’s about generations of hard work, the power of adaptability, and a relentless drive to stay ahead of industry changes. Now, as a leader mentoring the next generation and exploring expansion, he’s redefining what it means to be a multi-shop owner.
On the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, Greg shares decades of hands-on experience, insights into surviving economic cycles, and the secrets to thriving in an ever-evolving industry. From mastering the latest tech to building a family business into a community staple, Greg’s journey is a blueprint for success.
Are you ready to learn from one of the industry's most resilient and forward-thinking leaders? Don’t miss this inspiring episode with Greg Buckley!
It’s not every day you see a husband-and-wife duo take center stage in the automotive repair industry—but Nick and Nicole Jones are redefining the game. As the driving force behind Anderson Automotive and two Thrive Automotive locations, their journey is all about resilience, teamwork, and passion.But their impact doesn’t stop there. They’re also the hosts of the "Thrive With Us" podcast, where they share insights on business, leadership, and life. And if that wasn’t enough, their love for animals led them to create All Dogs Thrive Rescue, helping dogs find loving homes.
Ask yourself, “Am I leading in a way that empowers my team?” Don’t miss this inspiring conversation. Learn more about the husband and wife team on the newest episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast!
Stay Connected with Nick on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nick.jones.5205622?mibextid=LQQJ4dStay Connected with Nicole on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.mitchell.92754
Is cheap auto repair is costing you more?
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, we sit down with Jimmy Purdy, owner of Shift'N Gears Auto Repair in Paso Robles, CA, and host of The Gearbox Podcast. Jimmy shares his insights on the true cost of discounting services, how to build a profitable auto repair business, and why there’s more to business than making money—it's about supporting your employees and giving back to your community.
We discuss:
Tune in for a real talk episode packed with valuable insights, recommendations, and ownership takeaways for auto shop owners.
Stay Connected: Find Jimmy on Facebook or on The Gearbox Podcast, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, we sit down with Jon Mason, founder of Momentum Works Financial, based in Franklin, Tennessee. Jon shares his incredible journey from selling security systems door-to-door to managing an auto repair shop, and eventually launching a financial services business tailored to the unique needs of the automotive industry.
Jon dives into the challenges of delivering accurate, timely financials in a fast-paced and demanding industry. He explains how his background in software, automotive, and management inspired him to help auto repair businesses grow and thrive through better bookkeeping and financial insights.
From stories of working with industry leaders like Aaron Stokes to his transition into financial services, Jon’s insights are packed with valuable lessons for those looking to reflect their finances with the dedication they put into their work.
Stay connected with Jon: jon@momentumworkshq.com
Auto repair shop owners, this episode is for YOU! Join us as we chat with Carm Capriotto, the pioneer of podcasting in the automotive aftermarket and the mastermind behind the Remarkable Results podcast. In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, Carm shares his incredible journey from Buffalo radio to creating one of the most influential platforms for shop owners and technicians. Hear how a simple idea turned into 1,000+ episodes of insights, connections, and inspiration for the auto repair industry. What You’ll Learn: 1. How Carm’s innovative thinking revolutionized auto industry podcasting. 2. The power of storytelling and collaboration to advance your business. 3. Behind-the-scenes tips for creating impactful, high-quality content. Whether you’re looking to grow your shop, improve your leadership, or just gain inspiration, Carm’s story will motivate you to take your business to the next level. Watch now and discover what it takes to achieve Remarkable Results! Stay Connected with Carm: carm@remarkableresults.biz
Tune in for an insightful episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast featuring Chris Jones, Group Editorial Director at Endeavor Business Media and former editor of Ratchet and Wrench magazine! In this episode, Chris shares how he stumbled into the auto repair industry with a background in journalism, marketing, and design, and how that journey transformed his understanding of shop management. With over 20 years of experience, Chris talks about the importance of developing people, enhancing their skillsets, and how that growth benefits both the shop and its customers.
Chris reflects on the power of networking with shop owners and how listening to their insights has shaped his expertise in the automotive space. He reveals how his early focus on business topics like branding and marketing helped him find his footing before diving into the technical side of the industry. Thank you, Chris for sharing your journey from editor of a city magazine to becoming a trusted voice in auto repair media!
Contact Chris: christopherj@endeavorb2b.com
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, we are joined by Ryan Miles, owner of Peak Euro in Bend, Oregon. We dive into his nontraditional journey into the automotive industry. Ryan explains how he transitioned from farm life to automotive sales, starting with a boutique Euro car dealership and expanding into repairs when reliable reconditioning services were scarce. Initially focused on Audi and Volkswagen due to his first technician’s expertise and personal preference for these brands, the shop gradually grew to serve a wider range of European cars by 2020. Ryan highlights the importance of leadership in business success and reflects on the inherent biases shop owners develop based on their experience and comfort zones. His story emphasizes the value of evolving over time, learning from setbacks, and surrounding oneself with people who believe in personal growth. This is a must watch episode for auto repair shop owners seeking growth!
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, we are joined by Glenn Todd of Glenn's European Auto Repair. Glenn shares his transition from technician to shop owner and how his passion for learning, entrepreneurship, and side projects drove him to open his own shop in 2017. Since launching the business, his shop has grown rapidly, generating $2.2 million in revenue last year and targeting $3 million this year.
Key factors in his success include following a consistent growth-and-scale strategy, seeking mentorship, and carefully managing technician recruitment. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships and continuously investing in the business to meet evolving goals. This is an episode you do not want to miss!
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast we are joined by Brandon Stapley, owner of Stapley’s Garage in Mesa, Arizona. Brandon shares his journey from working in his garage to owning multiple auto repair businesses.
Discover how exploring every opportunity, from starting with a love for cars to navigating business acquisitions, has helped Brandon grow his automotive empire.
If you're a shop owner—seasoned or new—you won't want to miss the valuable insights on how owning multiple businesses and thinking outside the box can lead to long-term success. Thank you, Brandon, for your expert advice on the importance of acquisitions, cash flow, and how to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way!
Contact Brandon at Stapley’s Garage: (480) 633-5505
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, we welcome Carlos Ramirez, owner of C&G Auto Centers and the new Car Pro location in Orlando, Florida.
Carlos discusses his experience as a second-generation auto repair shop owner, starting out in his family’s two-bay gas station in New York. He shares insights into growing an auto repair business, overcoming the unique challenges faced by shop owners, and emphasizes the critical role of continuous learning and leadership in running a successful auto repair shop.
Contact Carlos: carlos@shopfixsacademy.com
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, we sit down with Josh Bird from Bird Automotive to discuss the vital lessons he's learned on time management, delegation, and leadership as an auto repair shop owner. With two successful locations in Blue Springs and Oak Grove, Missouri, Josh shares his journey from being a GM Master Technician to managing and growing a thriving business.
He dives into the challenges of transitioning from a hands-on technician to a full-time leader, the process of letting go and allowing his team to take on more responsibility, and how failure became a stepping stone for continuous improvement. Josh's insights into leadership, employee growth, and the importance of developing systems and processes are invaluable for any shop owner looking to scale their business.
Tune in to hear how Josh learned to navigate the ups and downs of running multiple shops, the importance of trusting your team, and why stepping away can often lead to better results than being hands-on. If you're an auto repair shop owner looking to grow your business or improve your leadership skills, this is the episode for you!
Contact Josh Bird: josh@birdautorepair.com
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, Jennifer Hulbert, from Service Plus Automotive in Calcium, New York, shares her passion for the automotive industry and her commitment to growth and success through the application of SMART goals.
She joined her family business in 2001, helping it expand from a small three-bay gas station to a 12-bay facility, with a focus on using key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive profitability and sustainability. Jennifer emphasized the importance of understanding financials, especially labor gross profit, to ensure business growth and sustainability for your auto repair shop!
Contact Jennifer Hulbert: Jennifer@wearetheinstitute.com
Building a successful business doesn't happen by chance—it's a journey that starts with a vision and is guided by clear goals. In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, we are joined by Travis Leavitt owner of Leavitt Automotive. We explore how goal setting transformed his entrepreneurial path, how he turned challenges into stepping stones and found the roadmap needed to navigate his journey. Discover the power of having a plan, the importance of execution, and the motivation that fuels the drive to succeed. If you're ready to turn your aspirations into reality, this is the blueprint you've been looking for. Your success story starts here—let's dive in.
Contact Travis: travis@leavittautomotive.com
Your success as a leader is directly dependent upon the success of the people around you. As a leader, your primary job is to bring out the best in your team by leveraging their collective resources and talents. Understanding and aligning the goals of individuals with those of the company is crucial for a thriving workplace, boosted morale, and increased retention.
In this episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, we are joined with Joe Marconi, Business Coach and Consultant with Elite Worldwide. Joe’s dedication to understanding the business and mastering leadership transformed his career. Today, he is a business coach, consultant, and trainer at Elite Worldwide, passionately giving back to the industry he loves.
Stay Connected with Joe Marconi: j.marconi@eliteworldwide.com
Learn more about Elite Worldwide: https://eliteworldwide.com
Join us for the latest episode of the LIFT Your Shop Podcast, featuring Amanda Clements-Drake, President and Co-Owner of C&C Automotive, as she lays out the blueprint for growth. This begins with building meaningful connections that foster mutual support and collaboration. Establishing accountability is essential, as it ensures that everyone remains committed to their personal and collective goals.
Growing alongside others not only accelerates individual progress but also enriches the collective experience with diverse perspectives and shared knowledge. And trusting others is the foundation that underpins all these efforts, creating a safe environment where people can confidently share, learn, and evolve together.