Success Leaves Clues. This common phrase highlights the simple fact that we don’t have to find success all on our own. In an industry internally known for individualism, this is a powerful but important shift to the view of finding success. In this podcast, you’ll hear incredible stories from those from all parts of our industry. Owners, Service Advisors, technicians, those who work for companies that serve our industry, investors, and more. In this podcast, our guests will not only share th ...
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Welcome to AutoFix AdvisorCast, the podcast where automotive service advisors finally have a place to call home. Hosted by industry veteran Michael Doherty, with over 28 years of experience in the trenches, this show dives deep into the challenges, frustrations, and demands of being a service advisor in the independent auto repair world. AutoFix: AdvisorCast isn’t just about problems; it’s about solutions. Michael Doherty shares best practices, actionable tips, war stories, and fresh ideas f ...
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A Master Technician, a microphone, 30 years of experience in the Automotive Industry: buckle up! Come along as we take a look at the current state of the automotive industry from the point of view of the guys and gals turning the wrenches. So no matter what you fix, how you fix it, or how many tools you have to fix it with: welcome to the Grease the Wheels Nation. Also once in a while we take a look at the makes and models of cars we work on through the lenses of history, economics, politics ...
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Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki is an Automotive Sales and Service Podcast and is a free educational series for Dealers, Managers, Sales Teams and anyone in the Auto Industry that has a desire to obtain information that will propel growth, lead the auto industry and invoke progressive strategies. We will educate on staying relevant, offer ways to improve vehicle sales and service, CSI and retention. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki is an Automotive Sales and Service Podcast. Use #DealerTalkWithJen
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The podcast for Fixing Under performance and Evolving Leadership in the automotive industry. Bringing the latest in proven strategies and techniques to take your Service Department to the next level. More information about how Dynatron Software can help improve your Service Departments profitability, visit www.dynatronsoftware.com/fuel Got Questions or feedback: [email protected]
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Use The Traffic Light Method to Retain More Clients!
14:26
14:26
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14:26Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty dives into the challenges service advisors face when communicating repairs to clients. Michael emphasizes t…
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Why Discounting Fails and Adding Value Wins Loyal Clients
19:57
19:57
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19:57Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty tackles the hot topic of shop discounting, sharing why he believes it’s not a sustainable strategy for serv…
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Episode 319: What I Would Like for You to Know
1:15:25
1:15:25
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1:15:25On this much delayed episode of Grease the Wheels, Uncle Jimmy takes a look at the entire strata of the typical dealership and informs them of at least one major thing that they should take into consideration in order to make the process seamless. For ownership and boards of directors, it is very hard to get an accurate picture of a dealership’s ov…
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Jack Getz's Automotive Business Multi-Million Transformation
51:40
51:40
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51:40In this podcast episode, Jack shares his remarkable story going from a nomadic upbringing to building a successful automotive business. Initially dabbling in real estate appraisal, Jack found his true calling in the automotive industry. After numerous relocations and setbacks, including crushing debt, Jack persevered by learning critical business s…
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AI That Moves Metal: Lance Schafer on Faster, Smarter Inventory Management
36:44
36:44
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36:44AI is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it’s a game-changer for dealerships that want to win in today’s competitive market. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I sit down with Lance Schafer, General Manager of Product and Technology at LotLinx, who’s been leading the charge in applying machine learning to the core areas where dealers often str…
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Service Advisor Secrets to Better Customer Retention
15:46
15:46
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15:46Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty talks through strategies for turning first-time customers into loyal, returning clients. He says you MUST c…
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Inside the Mind of a Modern Automotive CEO: A Conversation with Randy Parker
26:52
26:52
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26:52In this rare and powerful episode, I sit down with Randy Parker, CEO of Hyundai and Genesis Motor North America, one of the most progressive and people-first leaders in the automotive industry—and head of the third largest automaker in the world. We dive into the state of retail automotive, how Hyundai and Genesis are breaking records, and why Rand…
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Service Advisors - Do You Smile Through The Phone?
14:47
14:47
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14:47Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty tackles a recurring topic among auto shops: the importance of phone skills for service advisors. Michael em…
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From Passion to Profit: The Inspiring Story of Thomas Andrews and Carolina Diesel Trucks
45:11
45:11
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45:11In this episode, Aaron interviews Thomas Andrews, co-founder of Carolina Diesel Trucks, about his entrepreneurial path from a hobby to a successful business. Thomas shares how he and his best friend, turned their passion for automotive performance into a thriving company. They started from a one-bay shed and faced various challenges, including fina…
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Your CRM Is a CLOSER! It’s Your Memory. Your Proof. Your Deal Saver.
13:50
13:50
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13:50Ever had a customer walk in, get chased for months, and your team still greets them like it’s Day One? Yikes. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we’re calling out the CRM habits that are quietly killing your deals—and showing you how to fix them. Jen breaks down how internal notes create smooth BDC-to-sales handoffs, how to log objecti…
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Pitching Loyalty: How Ken Hicks, Dealer & Partner of Mariano Rivera Dealerships Is Driving Retention
33:03
33:03
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33:03This episode is all about solving real dealership problems—right from the service lane. I sit down with my longtime friend and mentor, Ken Hicks, Dealer Principal at Rivera Toyota and Mariano Rivera Honda, who shares how he tackled major fixed ops pain points by building his own software—Retention 360—a tool designed to drive loyalty, increase serv…
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Service Advisors Reimagined: Andy Wright on Vinart’s Strategy for Higher RO Counts & Better CX
39:53
39:53
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39:53What happens when a dealership fully commits to reinventing its service department? In this episode, Jennifer Suzuki chats with Andy Wright, Managing Partner at Vinart Dealerships, located just an hour from both Philly and NYC. Andy reveals how his team is solving the biggest challenges in fixed ops — from inconsistent traffic to advisor overload —…
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Turning DIYers Into Loyal Customers | Service Advisors Listen Up!
19:35
19:35
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19:35Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty talks about that issue we all struggle with... Converting do-it-yourselfers into loyal shop customers. Mich…
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How Service Advisors Can Decode Customer Body Language
22:46
22:46
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22:46Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In today's episode, Michael Doherty dives into the art of reading customers’ nonverbal cues and matching their communication styles at the f…
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Amanda Drake's Motivational Journey : From Med School to Multi-Shop Owner
55:05
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55:05In this episode, Amanda shares her unexpected journey into the auto repair industry, turning a family business into a personal success story. Initially aiming to become a doctor, Amanda shifted gears after realizing her passion for business and dislike of blood and guts! Inspired by her father's and grandfather's legacy, she details her experiences…
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Appointment No Show? No Sale. Boost Your Appointments Now with Jen Suzuki
21:33
21:33
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21:33You did the hard part. Now finish strong. You led the call with value. You gave them confidence in you. But if you’re not setting the appointment—you’re leaving money behind. This episode is a deep dive into how to confidently sell the appointment, lock in commitment, and increase your show rate with real-world strategies I teach live every week in…
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How to Instantly Build Trust and Credibility with Internet Buyers
23:37
23:37
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23:37In this episode, I share one of my biggest secret weapons for converting more Internet leads — selling yourself first. It's not about hard selling the car; it's about showing the value in doing business with you and your dealership. I dive deep into tactical strategies for prepping before the first call, leveraging past customer history, using comm…
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Helper Vibes Seller Vibes: How to Win the Call in 30 Seconds
20:06
20:06
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20:06In this episode, I break down one of the most overlooked—but powerful—skills in phone sales: your tonality. It’s not just what you say. It’s how you say it. I share how I intentionally changed my voice, volume, and energy over time to sound more exciting, engaging, and attractive to buyers—and how you can do the same. We dive deep into why first im…
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Service Advisors! Are You A Visionary or Integrator?
16:08
16:08
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16:08Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty talks about two types of repair shop service advisors. Visionaries and integrators. Do you know which one y…
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Don't Sell To Clients, Educate Them! Tips For Service Advisors
18:45
18:45
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18:45Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty talks about how to shift from a sales-oriented mindset to one focused on education and trust as a service a…
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Stand Out or Miss Out: Real Talk on Email, Video, and Follow-Up That Actually Works
25:04
25:04
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25:04Staying hyper-focused on internet lead handling... In this episode, I break down how to actually improve your follow-up process so you win more customers—starting with your emails, videos, and mindset. Let’s face it: most emails still look like outdated templates, and subject lines that scream “dealership” get ignored. I’m showing you how to change…
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Call First, Text Smart, Leave a Killer Voicemail: Lead Handling in 2025 with Jen Suzuki
21:06
21:06
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21:06In this episode, I’m getting real about the grind of internet leads—the ones with no phone numbers, the ones who ghost you, and the ones who drain your time asking for information only to disappear into the void. I've been there. I’ve sold cars. And now I work these leads live during my dealership sales training sessions. I'm in the trenches with y…
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Mentorship in Motion: How Lane Managers Build Winning Teams
13:58
13:58
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13:58In this episode, I’m talking directly to the powerhouse behind the most successful service departments: Lane Managers. Also known as Assistant Managers, these leaders are the glue that holds the service drive together. I’ve been spending time on-site with service teams recently, and when Lane Managers are engaged, locked in, and supporting the hust…
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No More Whip Cracking: Fun Accountability That Works
14:19
14:19
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14:19In this episode, I'm in the trenches—literally—on-site with a dealership service management team I’ve been working with. We’ve trained, implemented new tactics, and now we’re locking in on accountability without turning the heat up too high. Here’s the truth: you don’t need to micromanage to get big results. What you do need are simple, consistent …
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From eLead CRM to AI Smart Camera Systems: Mark Queen is Redefining Efficiency with Visual Intelligence
52:35
52:35
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52:35Mark Queen, the visionary CEO of Skaivision and one of the original founders behind eLead CRM, joins me to dive into the future of AI-powered dealership efficiency. Skaivision is revolutionizing the way dealers view process breakdowns by layering powerful AI—specifically Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs)—over existing dealership camera systems. …
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Are you Resulting?: Tough Days and Tough Decisions with Aaron and Jay
44:54
44:54
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44:54In this episode, Aaron and Jay get vulnerable and cover everything from including a malaria diagnosis after a trip to Africa, to the pressures of balancing tough work decisions. They delve into topics such as the importance of making informed decisions, handling business confrontations, and how responsibility increases with business growth. They al…
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On this fairly-sporadic episode of Grease the Wheels, Uncle Jimmy wades into the terminally unhinged forum of LinkedIn to find a concept that everyone deals with in this industry. The term “Emotional Waste” is the concept of negative emotions creating undue stress and occupying an inordinate amount of someone’s time. We all see this, and some of th…
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Service Advisors! It's Time To Prep for Busy Season At Your Shop!
18:47
18:47
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18:47Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty helps you prepare for the busy spring season! Michael says to ensure all shop equipment, such as lifts and …
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The #1 Training Hack to Build Customer Trust in Fixed Ops with Jen Suzuki
12:58
12:58
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12:58Mastering Service Drive Walkarounds in Live Role-Play – Real Training for Real Results...COME ON NOW!!! In this episode, I'm opening the door to run through the plays of the most important activity a amanger can do with their selling machines - the Service Advisors! The power of the service drive walkaround—one of the most effective yet underutiliz…
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Dealership Capital Strategies for Ambitious Operators with Dan Garces
35:30
35:30
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35:30In this episode, I sit down with Dan Garces, President and COO of Automotive Capital, to break down the financial strategies that allow dealership operators to grow, scale, and even own their own store—without putting up massive amounts of personal cash. Dan has spent his career helping dealers navigate the complexities of capital, and today, he’s …
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Becoming a Skittle-Pooping Unicorn. AKA - A Great Advisor
16:04
16:04
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16:04Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty shares how to become a standout service advisor. Or, like one technician on Reddit said, a "skittle pooping…
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Keeping the Energy High: Fun & Competitive Ways to Reinforce Training
12:55
12:55
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12:55How to Build Championship Teams with Contests & Competitions The hardest part of training isn’t teaching the process—it’s making sure it sticks. In this episode, I break down how to sustain momentum, accountability, and energy in your dealership using fun competitions, MVP recognition, and daily challenges. I share real-world dealership strategies …
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High-Performance Dealership: Smarter Scheduling, Stronger Communication, Bigger Profits With Daniel Govaer + Matt Haiken
35:17
35:17
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35:17In this episode, we’re diving deep into how dealership owners and managers can build a more structured, efficient, and profitable business with two powerhouse guests—Daniel Govaer, Fractional COO, and Matt Haiken, Principal and President of Prestige Collection Auto Group. Matt, who now runs six dealership locations, shares how his approach to leade…
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Leadership, Legacy, and the Unyielding Spirit with Mike Brewster
1:11:34
1:11:34
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1:11:34In this episode, Aaron and Jay sit down with Mike Brewster, a distinguished second-generation shop owner from Burnt Hills, New York. Mike shares insights from his extensive experience of over 50 years in the auto repair industry, detailing his journey from taking over his family's shop to growing it into one of the largest in the country. The conve…
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Cliff Banks on AI, Amazon-Hyundai, Digital Retailing & the Future of Auto
1:04:01
1:04:01
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1:04:01What does the Amazon-Hyundai partnership really mean for the future of auto retail? Is AI evolving too fast for dealerships to keep up? And why might some obstacles in car buying actually be good for dealers? In this episode, I sit down with my long-time friend and trusted industry voice, Cliff Banks—founder of The Banks Report and AUTOVATE Confere…
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Phone Conversation Tips For Service Advisors. Do You Actively Listen?
15:40
15:40
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15:40Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In today's episode, Michael Doherty talks about active listening for service advisors. He points out the common issue of disengagement durin…
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On this week’s Episode of Grease the Wheels, Uncle Jimmy takes a look at some of the real world ramifications of Texas discontinuing their state vehicle safety inspections. The first thing that stood out to us was that it was in fact similar to those in New York, and in fact throughout most of the Rust Belt where we know they are a really good idea…
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The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything in Sales
13:22
13:22
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13:22Most service advisors stop at the first “no.” But the best? They know that’s just the beginning. In this episode, we’re talking about taking second and third swings—the art of fighting for the business that’s sitting right in front of you. Your customers don’t always need a discount; sometimes, they just need a little more information. I’ll walk yo…
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My Thoughts From Vision 2025 in Kansas City
17:21
17:21
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17:21Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty shares his takeaways from Vision Hi-Tech Training and Expo. He tells the story of his travel to the event, …
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NADA’s Relentless Advocacy for Dealers: A Conversation with President Mike Stanton
37:27
37:27
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37:27The automotive industry is changing fast—EV mandates, direct-to-consumer threats, shifting manufacturer relationships, and evolving government policies. Are dealers being heard? In this episode, I sit down with Mike Stanton, President of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), to talk about how NADA is fighting for dealers, ensuring the…
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Aaron and Jay - Navigating Struggles, Celebrating Wins, and Embracing Gratitude
53:33
53:33
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53:33In this episode, Aaron and Jay discuss various topics including the importance of mental resilience, celebrating small wins, and expressing gratitude even during tough times. They reflect on personal experiences, especially around struggles and private battles, and emphasize how recognizing and celebrating progress can lead to increased motivation …
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Advisors Listen Up! Helpful Tips For Building Estimates At Your Repair Shop
17:38
17:38
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17:38Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In today's episode, Michael Doherty covers what you need to know about providing estimates to new customers over the phone. Michael shares p…
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The Power of Live Messaging With Ted Rubin, CEO ActivEngage! How Dealerships Turn Conversations into 🚗 Sales!
39:59
39:59
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39:59Think about it—when a customer walks into your showroom or calls your dealership, your team jumps into action. So why is chat any different? It shouldn’t be. In this episode, I sit down with Ted Rubin, CEO of ActivEngage, to talk about the power of real, human conversation in the digital sales process. We break down why dealership live messaging is…
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Coaching Service Advisors: Boost Approvals With This Sales Strategy 🏆 Risk & Reward
15:36
15:36
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15:36This quick hit episode is incredibly important for every Service Team! Ready to boost your service department's success?! Let's gooooo! In this quick class, I lock in on the often-overlooked 'Risk & Reward' equation in the service sales process. Many Service Advisors hesitate to fully explain the risks of delaying necessary work, leading to missed …
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Building Relationships at Write-Up: The Secret to Selling More 🔧Service Work
19:19
19:19
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19:19Too often, service advisors treat the write-up process as just another transaction. Big mistake. If you want to boost revenue, retain customers, and build long-term trust, relationships must come first. In this episode, I break down how to turn every customer interaction into a lasting relationship—starting from the moment they pull into the servic…
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How To Manage Extended Warranty Expectations
19:14
19:14
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19:14Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. Today, Michael Doherty talks about the ever-so-dreaded topic of third-party warranty companies. If you're an advisor, you've had many headac…
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Episode 315: You Know you’re Eff’d: Part 3
1:18:02
1:18:02
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1:18:02On this episode of Grease The Wheels, Uncle Jimmy goes for the trilogy of things that you see roll into your shop that spell doom, because you know you’re eff’d. From poorly done wraps, to harlequin models of cars that are not 90s Golf’s, and underbody lights, there are a lot of things that we see that spell doom and gloom for our profit margin. Se…
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Technician Videos: The Secret to More Work Approvals & Bigger RO Sales with Jen Suzuki
16:30
16:30
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16:30In this episode, we’re tackling a major gap in dealership service departments—technician videos. These videos are a game-changer for gaining more work approvals, yet most technicians receive zero training on how to shoot them effectively. Data shows that shops using video can double RO sales, with TruVideo reporting a 20-30% increase in revenue per…
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The Journey of Leadership, Growth, and Mentorship with Ryan Hillenbrand
56:12
56:12
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56:12This episode captures an engaging conversation focused on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of mentorship within a business context. The discussion dives into the necessity of credibility and consistency in leadership, maintaining curiosity and open-mindedness, and how to learn from coaching others. It also explores the journey of gro…
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How To Improve the Vehicle Check-In Process at Repair Shops
17:33
17:33
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17:33Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. Today, Michael Doherty talks about managing vehicle check-ins through the lens of offense vs defense. He says you should take an offensive a…
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