Repair Shop Reckoning

Navigating Business Challenges with Jason Tracey - Part 2 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 19

In Part 2, Kevin Brown and Jason Tracey return with a deeper dive into ownership mindset—this time spotlighting opportunity in adversity. From turning a rival Verizon store into a revenue boost to teaching smartphone classes that built lasting loyalty, it’s all about service as a differentiator. Jason shares how recognizing overlooked talent, embracing risk, and refusing to be boxed in by limiting beliefs fueled real growth.
They unpack lessons in leadership, from empowering underdogs to challenging self-doubt. Whether it’s pivoting a failing business into a fresh revenue stream or holding yourself accountable instead of blaming the "face-eating lion," the message is clear: your story, your mindset, and your decisions are the real game changers.
 
00:00 The Relocation Dilemma01:31 Customer Service Challenges02:24 Building Relationships Through Education03:40 The Evolution of Mobile Technology04:41 Navigating the Corporate Landscape06:25 Leadership and Growth08:06 Identifying Hidden Talent10:19 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship12:17 Finding Purpose Beyond Profit14:01 Empowering Entrepreneurs17:28 Overcoming Self-Doubt20:36 The Power of Storytelling23:22 Emotional Resilience in Business26:00 Pivoting for Success30:06 The Silent Quitters32:35 The Two-Week Notice Dilemma34:46 The Advice Givers37:30 The Victim Mentality40:04 From Frustration to Empowerment43:36 Taking Control of Your Success
 

Navigating Business Challenges with Jason Tracey - Part 1 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 18

Kevin Brown sits down with Jason Tracey to tackle the harsh realities of business ownership. From handling tough customers to surviving economic downturns like COVID-19, they break down the entrepreneurial mindset—how it feels to be on top versus scrambling to survive. Optimism and resilience are key, but so is knowing your numbers. They dig into financial literacy, stressing the importance of understanding your P&L, staying in your lane, and avoiding passion projects that drain cash.They also dive into sales and customer service, calling out pushy tactics and emphasizing relationship-building over quick sales. The conversation touches on adapting to industry shifts—like the rise and fall of BlackBerry—and the lost art of real communication in a world of texting. Workforce challenges, leadership, and marketing pitfalls round out the discussion, with a clear message: know your business, take care of your people, and lead with purpose.
00:00 Welcome to the Show01:58 The Rollercoaster of Business06:01 Overcoming Adversity and The Reality of Business Ownership12:44 Lessons from Failed Ventures17:00 Transforming a Struggling Business and Building a Winning Culture25:30 The Art of Selling and Becoming the Expert31:44 The Challenges of Corporate Culture34:23 Building a Strong Team37:09 Understanding Your Numbers and The Power of Customer Service43:11 The Evolution of Technology and Communication Breakdown51:01 The Future of the Workforce56:08 The Marketing Dilemma

Lessons from the Grind - Part 2 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 17

In Part 2 of this Repair Shop Reckoning conversation, Kevin Brown and Shane shift gears—literally—kicking off with a deep dive into the electric vehicle revolution. From early skepticism to firsthand experiences with self-driving tech, Shane breaks down how EVs are changing the game. But that’s just the start.
They tackle the realities of business today—how AI is reshaping sales, why an online presence isn’t optional, and the tough lessons learned from lost opportunities. From marketing struggles to the power of accountability, Shane and Kevin dig into the mindset and strategies that separate thriving businesses from those stuck in the past. If you’re ready for straight-shooting insights on growth, tech, and what it really takes to succeed, this one’s for you.
 
00:00 The Electric Vehicle Journey Begins01:15 From Skeptic to Believer03:01 The Cybertruck Experience04:12 Self-Driving Technology: A Game Changer06:05 Debunking Myths About EVs08:04 A Shift in Perspective10:26 Building a Successful Business13:22 The Importance of Online Presence19:37 Harnessing AI for Business Growth24:19 Navigating Marketing Challenges30:01 Lost Opportunities in Sales32:48 The Importance of Accountability34:40 Process and Documentation36:50 Navigating Customer Interactions39:54 The E-Commerce Landscape41:56 Leveraging AI for Sales45:07 The Role of Trust in Business49:01 The Challenge of Customer Follow-Up53:07 Work Ethic and Generational Differences57:07 Navigating Business Relationships

Lessons from the Grind - Part 1 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 16

This week on Repair Shop Reckoning, Kevin Brown sits down with Shane Meren to break down the raw realities of business, sales, and survival. From hustling door-to-door fixing computers to selling websites when people thought the internet was a fad, Shane learned early that success isn’t about what you’re selling—it’s about solving problems.
They get into the tough lessons—losing money on bad collections, balancing family and business, and knowing when to pivot. Shane talks about building Magnus Software, launching WebsiteForge, and even diving into Taekwondo and retail. The bottom line? Business isn’t for the weak. If you’re not adapting, you’re failing.
Don’t miss this one—real stories, hard truths, and lessons you can take straight to your own shop.
 
00:00 Welcome to Repair Shop Reckoning00:35 The Fire Incident: A Memorable First Meeting01:46 Lessons from Childhood: Discipline and Education03:01 The Influence of Family: Scary Yet Supportive05:22 Navigating Life After Loss06:00 Early Career: Mentorship and Sales09:00 The Birth of a Business: From IT to Web Development12:41 Website Forge: A New Venture15:02 Sales in the Real World: Lessons Learned18:00 The Importance of Perseverance21:07 Family Life and Business Balance23:06 Adapting to Change: Business Evolution27:01 The Art of Sales: Understanding Human Behavior

Setting Standards For The Future Part 2 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 15

In this part 2, Dave Davis, from Hunter Engineering, tackles  the challenges facing the automotive industry, including staffing shortages, EV reliability, and the complexities of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). He touches on the evolving role of calibration technology, the importance of customer service, and the pressures of rising repair costs. With personal stories and a look at the way the industry is going, Dave emphasizes the need for adaptation in the face of new technology and shifting consumer expectations.
 
00:50 The Changing Landscape of Engineering
02:00 Career Paths for the Next Generation
04:50 Concerns About EV Infrastructure
10:50 The Future of EVs and Combustion Engines
14:10 The Body Shop Dilemma
22:30 The Importance of Proper Calibration
24:00 Innovations in Alignment Technology
30:40 Navigating Complex Repairs
34:00 Handling Customer Relations
36:30 The Impact of Customer Reviews
42:00 The Evolution of Shop Management
46:00 Cashless Transactions and Modern Payment Systems
 
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Setting Standards For The Future Part. 1 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 14

In this episode, Kevin is joined by Dave Davis from Hunter Engineering, who shares insights into the evolving landscape of aftermarket sales, focusing on tire changers, balancers, alignment tools, and automated drive assist technology. He discusses the challenges facing the automotive industry, including staffing shortages, skill gaps, and technician frustrations, while also highlighting Hunter's commitment to innovation and customer support. If you want to know more about the future of automotive repairs, you do not want to miss this episode!
 
01:19 The Impact of Quality Equipment
06:30 Challenges in the Repair Industry
09:00 Work-Life Balance in the Industry
12:30 The Evolution of Automotive Repair
15:00 Building Trust in Customer Relationships
18:00 Preparing for the Future of Automotive Repair
21:00 The Changing Landscape of Dealerships
24:00 Innovations in Repair Technology
28:55 The Longevity of Hunter Equipment
31:00 Lessons Learned from Equipment Choices
39:00 The Importance of Quality Maintenance
41:00 The Future of Automotive Repair
 
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Website: https://www.motorcitytruckcollision.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MotorcityTruckCol...
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Surviving the Grind: Business, Breakdowns & Balance Part 2 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 13

In part two of this discussion, Bill Griffin of Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic continues his conversation with Kevin about the challenges facing mechanics and the realities of running an independent repair shop. He delves deeper into the struggles of hiring, cautioning against dealership-trained techs and their rigid approaches. Bill stresses the importance of hands-on experience over certifications and the need for efficient organization to keep operations running smoothly.
As the conversation shifts to management, Griffin reflects on his journey from technician to shop owner. He talks about delegating responsibilities, giving his team more independence, and managing relationships in a professional setting. He also touches on the importance of ongoing training, fostering a positive work environment, and preparing for the future, including his plans to pass the business to a trusted employee.
00:00 Introduction to Bill Griffin00:29 Tales from the Garage & Hiring the Right Technicians03:39 The Independent Shop Advantage & Flat Rate vs. Hourly Pay08:47 Toolbox Pride, Professionalism & The Challenge of Certifications12:57 Shifting Responsibilities & Navigating Shop Politics19:18 Efficiency in the Workplace & Managing Payroll25:16 Outsourcing Work & Stepping Back as an Owner30:03 Revamping the Business & Joining Shop Fix34:12 The Collision Business Challenge & Technological Advancements in Repair40:10 Compensation, Expectations & Empowering the Next Generation51:30 The Future of Performance Work & Team Building

Surviving the Grind: Business, Breakdowns & Balance Part 1 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 12

This week on "Repair Shop Reckoning", Kevin Brown sits down with shop owner Bill Griffin to unpack his unexpected path into the industry. Bill started in accounting but ended up at Jiffy Lube, bouncing between dealerships before a layoff forced him into side work and MoTec training. The 2007 recession pushed him to open his own shop after seeing firsthand how broken the industry was. But self-employment came with real struggles—funding battles, hiring nightmares, and a brutal snowmobiling accident that put everything into perspective.  
Bill opens up about parking lot wars, toxic employees, and the toll it took on his personal life, including a divorce that forced him to rethink his business. After 18 years, he’s seen it all—rising costs, technician shortages, and the daily grind of keeping a shop alive. No fluff, no sugarcoating—just real talk from the trenches.
00:00 Introduction to the Race is Zero00:36 Bill’s Journey Begins03:30 The Leap of Faith07:05 Challenges and Triumphs10:00 A Life-Altering Accident13:25 Rebuilding and Recovery15:00 Learning the Business Side19:44 Family Dynamics in Business22:12 Navigating Change and Divorce26:20 Embracing Technology in Business30:00 The Weight of Missing Transactions32:00 The Rollercoaster of Business Ownership34:00 Navigating the Impact of COVID-1936:00 The Challenge of Retaining Talent38:00 Crisis Management in Business40:00 The Importance of Team Dynamics44:00 Lessons Learned from Employee Conflicts50:00 Final Reflections on Leadership

Supplying the Repair Industry: Pt 2 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 11

In this episode of Repair Shop Reckoning, Kevin Brown sits down with Jeff Stucki, Territory Sales Manager from Auto-Wares, to tackle the hard truths about the rising costs of car repairs. From skyrocketing parts prices to the critical need for licensed mechanics, Stucki lays it all out. He shares personal stories, like improper brake repairs, to drive home the importance of safety and quality in an evolving industry.The conversation dives into challenges like navigating ADAS technology, OEM software requirements, and the growing shift from engine rebuilds to replacements. Stucki calls out the struggles of independent shops facing fierce competition, rising labor costs, and inventory headaches. He also highlights the impact of retiring shop owners, the importance of customer relationships, and the fight to stay profitable amidst industry disruptions. Tune in for unfiltered insights on surviving—and thriving—in the collision and repair game.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Repair Shop Reckoning01:01 The High Cost of Repairs02:54 Dangers of DIY Repairs04:40 Supply Chain Challenges During COVID06:02 Evolving Oil Change Standards07:36 The Rise of Direct Injection and Its Issues09:14 Advancements in Automotive Technology11:20 The Future of Independent Repair Shops13:20 Changing Customer Expectations15:44 The Importance of Preventative Maintenance17:48 Challenges of Aging Workforce in Repair Shops20:11 Navigating the Changing Landscape22:39 The Role of Investment Groups25:11 The Shift to Online Ordering28:02 The Changing Dynamics of Customer Relationships30:00 Impact of COVID on the Automotive Industry32:00 Navigating Economic Pressures34:50 The Search for Growth in a Stagnant Market37:20 Building Lasting Customer Relationships39:00 Challenges and Opportunities in Electric Vehicles43:30 The Future of Automotive Technology
Auto-Wares Website: https://autowares.com/
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🎙️ Connect with Us:Website: https://www.motorcitytruckcollision.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MotorcityTruckCollision/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-brown-25a5b344/

Supplying the Repair Industry: Pt 1 | Repair Shop Reckoning | Episode 10

On this week's Repair Shop Reckoning, Kevin Brown sits down with Jeff Stucki, Territory Sales Manager at Auto-Wares, for a no-holds-barred look at the auto parts industry. From stock boy to seasoned pro, Jeff shares how customer service has morphed from handshakes to high-tech systems. He pulls no punches discussing skyrocketing repair costs, diagnosing today’s complex electrical components, and navigating unreliable suppliers. Jeff also tackles the growing tech shortage, taking aim at societal pressures favoring college over trade schools, despite increasing interest in automotive careers. From flatlining traditional part sales to rising demand for turbochargers, Jeff lays out why ongoing education and reliable resources are critical. It’s a raw, insightful conversation that every shop owner needs to hear.
Chapters00:00 Introduction01:03 Jeff’s Early Days in Auto Parts03:01 The Evolution of Job Searching05:01 Navigating the Tool Business08:00 The Impact of Technology on the Industry10:00 Challenges of Modern Parts Sales12:40 Warranty Woes and Customer Expectations16:00 Quality Control in Parts Supply20:01 The Technician Shortage Crisis23:01 Changing Perceptions of Automotive Careers28:00 Training and Adaptation in the Industry31:00 The Heavy-Duty Truck Market34:00 Navigating Competition and Market Changes
 
Auto-Wares Website: https://autowares.com/
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🎙️ Connect with Us:Website: https://www.motorcitytruckcollision.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MotorcityTruckCollision/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-brown-25a5b344/