Podcasting isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about sharing the journey. In this episode, we tackle the hard truth: Podcast hosts don’t have it all figured out. From the insecurities of giving advice to the challenges of staying authentic, we explore what it really means to put yourself out there as a host.

You’ll discover how to sift through advice, find what works for you, and embrace the imperfect process of learning and leading. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have it all together, this episode will remind you—you’re not alone.

Listen in for an honest discussion about navigating the auto repair industry, embracing authenticity, and growing through the challenges of imperfection!

Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal’s Certified

Network of shops are trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at

RepairPal.com/shops

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your own customer loyalty app. Visit Appfueled.com

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-118-doing-video-every-day-for-a-month/ - Episode 118 VEDA

https://agencyanalytics.com/blog/how-profit-first-helped-this-agency-scale - Profit First Was the Key to Our Agency’s Financial Transformation

https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-125-its-ok-to-dream-big-stop-playing-small/ - It’s OK to Dream Big (Stop Playing Small)

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) Brian introduces the podcast and sets the theme about podcast hosts not having all the answers.
• Inspiration from Mike Allen's Post (00:00:10) Discussion on how Mike Allen's humorous post sparked Brian's reflections on podcasting and advice-giving.
• Brian's Insecurities as a Host (00:01:15) Brian shares his personal insecurities regarding his role as a podcast host and influencer.
• Critique of Influencers (00:02:26) Brian expresses frustration with influencers who claim to have life figured out, relating it to his experiences.
• Sharing Personal Experiences (00:03:33) Emphasis on the importance of sharing personal learning experiences rather than presenting oneself as an expert.
• Struggles with Advice-Giving (00:04:36) Brian discusses his ongoing struggles with the advice he shares in his podcasts and posts.
• Imposter Syndrome (00:05:37) Brian reflects on feelings of imposter syndrome when sharing advice on managing expenses and business practices.
• Going Against Popular Opinion (00:06:46) Brian talks about the challenges of discussing unpopular business opinions and the reactions he receives.
• Sponsor Promotion: RepairPal (00:08:54) Brian promotes RepairPal and its benefits for auto repair shops seeking new customers.
• Sponsor Promotion: App Fueled (00:09:55) Introduction of App Fueled and its services for building customer loyalty apps for auto repair

As a business owner, the fast pace of entrepreneurship can feel overwhelming, but when do you give yourself permission to slow down? In this episode, we delve into The Art of Slowing Down—what it means, why it’s important, and how to make it a reality in your daily life.

From intentional daily practices to creating systems that allow you to step away, this episode shares actionable insights and personal experiences to inspire you to find balance. Whether you’re planning for the future or simply trying to catch your breath, this conversation will encourage you to rethink how you manage your time and energy.

Hit play now to learn how slowing down could help you build a healthier, more sustainable approach to business and life!

Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. As shop owners we were part of RepairPal’s Certified network and you can learn more at RepairPal.com/shops.

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) The host introduces the podcast and the topic of slowing down in auto repair business ownership.
• Discussion of New Features (00:00:46) The speakers mention the potential of live streaming their podcast on Facebook.
• The Importance of Slowing Down (00:01:59) The co-host emphasizes that slowing down doesn't mean being lazy or complacent.
• Target Audience Clarification (00:02:16) The host clarifies that the episode is not for new business owners who are still growing.
• Personal Experiences with Surgery (00:05:30) Kim shares her experience of recovery after back surgery and the need for slowing down.
• Planning for Recovery (00:06:56) Kim discusses the importance of planning and preparing for recovery from her surgery.
• Building Trust in the Team (00:09:59) Kim reflects on how stepping back built confidence in her team and their abilities.
• Easing Back into Work (00:12:33) Kim talks about her gradual return to work and the importance of giving herself grace.
• Avoiding Extreme Situations (00:13:25) The host encourages listeners not to wait for extreme situations like surgery to slow down.
• The Importance of Slowing Down (00:14:32) Kim discusses the brutal nature of automotive conference seasons and the need for downtime.
• Personal Time and Routine (00:15:25) Kim shares her Friday routine, emphasizing quiet time, workouts, and relaxation.
• Work-Life Balance for Entrepreneurs (00:16:14) Kim reflects on the stress of entrepreneurship and the importance of not working excessively every day.
• Freedom of Time and Finances (00:18:22) Kim highlights the reasons for becoming a business owner, focusing on achieving freedom of time.
• Daily Slow Time (00:18:38) Brian talks about integrating intentional slow time into daily routines, even during work trips.
• One Minute Pause Technique (00:19:28) Brian introduces a one-minute pause app for quick moments of mindfulness during busy days.
• Creating Healthy...

What impression does your business leave behind when you’re not there? In this episode, we tackle a vital question every shop owner should consider: What do you look like when you're not there? From the way your team interacts with customers to the legacy you leave for your family, this discussion will inspire you to reflect on your leadership and the culture you've built.

We'll explore how to lead by example, empower your team, and ensure your presence is felt even in your absence. Whether it’s in your shop, at home, or in your community, the impressions you leave behind tell a powerful story.

Don't miss this thought-provoking episode—listen now and start shaping the legacy you want to leave!

Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal’s Certified Network of shops are trusted by millions of customers each month. Learn more at RepairPal.com/shops

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

Square Body Dave - https://www.youtube.com/@squarebodydave

Show Notes with Timestamps

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 - podcast@shopmarketingpros.com

In this episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast, we explore the concept of "stolen leadership"—a fascinating approach to leadership where proactive team members step up and take ownership without waiting for permission. We'll discuss why this behavior can be a game-changer for your business, how to embrace it, and the importance of allowing your team to make mistakes as part of their growth.

You'll hear insightful stories and practical advice on navigating the balance between guiding your team and stepping aside to let them thrive. Whether you're looking to empower your employees, reduce micromanagement, or create a workplace that fosters initiative and innovation, this episode has something for you.

Don’t miss out on this powerful episode that could help you take your leadership skills—and your team—to the next level.

Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for this episode. RepairPal will introduce your shop to new customers through repairpal.com, the largest site for auto repair. Learn more at

RepairPal.com/shops.

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

https://www.tonyrobbins.com/disc - Disc Assessments

https://books.google.com.ph/books?id=tpspDwAAQBAJ&newbks=0&lpg=PA1&pg=PA1#v=onepage&q&f=false - Extreme Ownership

Shownotes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast and co-host Kim, mentioning her recent recovery.
• Definition of Stolen Leadership (00:01:08) Discussion about the term "stolen leadership" and its positive implications in team dynamics.
• Personal Anecdotes on Leadership (00:03:37) Brian shares a lunch conversation about the benefits of allowing others to take initiative.
• Kim's Experience with Stolen Leadership (00:04:29) Kim reflects on her feelings when her responsibilities were taken over by a proactive team member.
• The Importance of Team Growth (00:06:17) Brian emphasizes that a good leader encourages their team to surpass them in abilities.
• Balancing Leadership Roles (00:09:04) Discussion on the need for both leaders and workers within an organization.
• Examples of Stolen Leadership (00:10:47) Brian shares examples of team members who have successfully taken on leadership roles.
• Acknowledging Contributions (00:14:02) The importance of recognizing team members who fill gaps and take initiative.
• Natural Leadership Qualities (00:15:06) Kim discusses how leadership can be innate and the importance of finding the right roles for individuals.
• Rewarding Initiative (00:15:37) Brian concludes by stressing the need to reward those who demonstrate leadership to prevent them from leaving.
• Understanding People Problems (00:15:43) Discussion on the four people problems and identifying the worst issue in team dynamics.
• Right Person, Right Seat...

Standing out in the auto repair industry takes more than just great service—it’s about creating an experience that keeps clients coming back. In today’s episode, we’re exploring how to brand your shop as a Concierge Auto Repair Shop, offering high-end, personalized service that goes far beyond the typical repair visit.

I’m your host, Brian Walker, and I’ll walk you through the strategies to elevate your shop’s reputation, attract the right customers, and deliver unforgettable service. From perfecting your shop’s appearance to embracing “white-glove” customer care, you’ll learn how to build a business that feels exclusive, premium, and worth talking about.

If you’ve ever wondered how to stop attracting vehicles that don’t fit your vision or how to cater to clients who value exceptional care, this episode is for you. With inspiration from brands like Disney and the Ritz-Carlton, we’ll uncover what it takes to turn your shop into a place that wows clients at every turn.

Let’s rethink the way auto repair is done and discover how to make every client interaction extraordinary. Ready? Let’s dive in!

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

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-108-part-4-a-service-advisors-take-on-customer-retention-with-michael-doherty/ - Episode 108 With Michael Doherty

https://www.youtube.com/@BuckleysAutoCare - Greg Buckley

https://www.youtube.com/@fixingcars - Charlie's Foreign Car Service

https://www.kenblanchardbooks.com/book/raving-fans/ - Raving Fans

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:10) Brian Walker introduces the episode, focusing on branding an auto repair shop as a concierge service.
• Client Inquiry (00:01:19) Discussion about a Facebook message from a shop owner seeking advice on attracting qualified clients.
• Understanding Clientele (00:02:25) Brian explains the challenges of attracting higher-end clients versus those with older vehicles.
• Marketing Evaluation (00:03:27) Brian reviews the shop's marketing efforts and website, noting its professionalism and organization.
• Shop Location Insights (00:04:22) Brian discovers the shop is located in a high-end suburban area, which is beneficial for branding.
• Personal Background of the Owner (00:05:15) Brian learns about the shop owner's background, including his career and financial stability.
• Branding as Concierge Service (00:06:26) Brian suggests branding the shop as a concierge auto repair service to attract the right clientele.
• Defining Concierge Auto Repair (00:07:20) Discussion on the concept of concierge

When it comes to keeping your customers loyal and engaged, technology might be the missing piece in your shop’s success. In this episode, we’re joined by Jeremy Glassco, founder of AppFueled, an innovative tool designed to disrupt customer behavior and redefine loyalty in auto repair.

You might think AppFueled is just another CRM, but it’s actually so much more. Today, we’ll explore how its features—from branded call centers to custom loyalty programs—are setting new standards for customer experience. We’ll also dig into what it means to “disrupt” customer behavior in a way that keeps your clients coming back to your shop instead of drifting to the competition.

Whether you're new to customer relationship tools or already running a CRM, we think you’ll find something valuable in today’s episode. Let’s dive in!

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

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

Appfueled.com - Appfueled

https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-106-part-2-customer-retention-series-service-advisor-role/ - Customer Retention Series – Service Advisor Role

How To Get In Touch with the Guest

https://appfueled.com/jeremy - Jeremy Glassco

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:01) Brian Walker introduces the podcast and guest Jeremy Glassco, highlighting the episode's focus on App Fueled.
• App Fueled Origins (00:02:07) Jeremy explains the initial concept of App Fueled and its evolution from a website builder to a CRM tool.
• Stubbornness and Evolution (00:03:08) Jeremy shares personal anecdotes about his journey and the challenges faced while developing App Fueled.
• Freedom of Entrepreneurship (00:04:44) Jeremy discusses the freedom and hard work involved in owning a business and the values learned from his upbringing.
• Veterans' Appreciation (00:05:54) Brian and Jeremy express gratitude for veterans, emphasizing the sacrifices made for freedom.
• Misconceptions about App Fueled (00:06:30) Brian clarifies misconceptions regarding App Fueled, noting it’s more than just an app for shops.
• Full-Featured CRM Discussion (00:07:10) Jeremy highlights App Fueled's capabilities as a comprehensive CRM, including unique features not found elsewhere.
• Background of Refer a Car LLC (00:08:06) Jeremy recounts the founding of Refer a Car LLC and its initial mission to connect youth groups with auto repair shops.
• Community Engagement Through Fundraising (00:09:35) Jeremy discusses the successful fundraising initiative that connected local youth groups with auto repair shops.
• Referral Program Development (00:10:25) Jeremy...

Want to make your February marketing a win for your auto repair shop? Join Brian Walker and Caroline LeGrand as they share engaging, practical ideas for February’s marketing—from fun Valentine's Day campaigns that show love to your customers and vehicles, to creative ways to highlight your shop's culture.

Get tips on using National Days to boost engagement, from "Doggy Date Night" to “Random Acts of Kindness Week,” and learn how to connect with your local community, honor shop anniversaries, and run themed giveaways that your customers will remember. Whether you’re promoting winter maintenance, preparing for tax season, or tapping into February’s spirit, this episode has everything you need to make February marketing easy, effective, and engaging.

Tune in now and discover how to keep your shop top-of-mind this February and beyond!

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

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App Fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for professional auto repair businesses. Visit Appfueled.com to get started today. Keep your shop top of mind on the mobile device they love.

Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)

https://shopmarketingpros.com/126 - Preparing For January’s Marketing

https://www.daysoftheyear.com/

https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/ - Topics for February

Show Notes with Timestamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast episode, discussing February marketing strategies with guest Caroline Lagrone.
• Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:00:22) Brian thanks sponsors RepairPal and App Fueled, highlighting their services for auto repair businesses.
• Planning Marketing for February (00:01:10) Discussion on planning marketing efforts for February, applicable for future years as well.
• Importance of National Dates (00:01:44) Caroline provides a disclaimer about the variability of national days and weeks throughout February.
• Valentine's Day Marketing Ideas (00:02:25) Emphasis on love-themed marketing ideas related to cars and community engagement for Valentine's Day.
• Promotional Ideas for Customers (00:03:23) Suggestions for promotions like Hershey's kisses or roses for customers to celebrate Valentine's Day.
• Community Involvement (00:04:18) Ideas for engaging with local charities and organizations during February, focusing on love and kindness.
• Boy Scouts Anniversary Week (00:06:44) Highlighting the Boy Scouts anniversary week and offering car care merit badge clinics at auto shops.
• Random Acts of Kindness Week (00:07:41) Discussion on promoting kindness in the shop and community during Random Acts of Kindness Week.
• Incorporating Kindness into Marketing (00:09:51) Encouragement to share acts of kindness on social media to inspire community involvement.
• National Days in February (00:12:22) Introduction to various fun national days in February that can be leveraged for marketing.
• Ice Cream for Breakfast Day...

In this episode, Brian Walker is joined by guest Hallie Wasinger to provide a behind-the-scenes look at how they tackled a major business challenge head-on. After two months of thinking everything was running smoothly, the team uncovered that website projects were falling behind and client communication had slipped. This significant issue required immediate action.

Hallie shares how she stepped in to take ownership, assessed each project, and led the team in establishing new, realistic launch dates. Together, Brian and Hallie discuss the importance of extreme ownership, providing structure, and delivering clear direction to get the team back on track. They also emphasize the value of staying calm when challenges arise, and the critical lesson that clients don’t expect perfection—they just want things made right.

If you’re navigating your own business challenges, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice on leadership, integrity, and making tough decisions.

Tune in now to discover how to keep your business on course, even when it feels like everything is going wrong.

Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for this episode. RepairPal will introduce your shop to new customers through repairpal.com, the largest site for auto repair. Learn more at

RepairPal.com/shops.

Are you ready to convert clients to members? App fueled specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your own customer loyalty app. Visit Appfueled.com

How To Get In Touch With the Guest

Hallie Wasinger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hallie-wasinger-411706161/

Show Notes with Time Stamps

• Introduction to the Episode (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast and guest Hallie Wasinger, setting the stage for the discussion.
• The Great Website Debacle (00:01:30) Brian introduces the topic of the "great shop marketing pros website debacle" and thanks sponsors.
• Agency Environment Challenges (00:04:39) Hallie describes the intense pace of working in an agency, likening it to "drinking out of a firehose."
• Hiring Challenges (00:05:20) Brian discusses the difficulties in hiring a suitable web project manager for their fast-paced agency.
• Trusting Your Instincts (00:05:56) Brian emphasizes the importance of trusting your instincts when sensing something is wrong in a project.
• Communication Breakdowns (00:07:04) Hallie notes that the team started feeling something was off, leading to a breakdown in communication.
• Reality Check on Project Status (00:08:49) Brian reveals the shocking reality of multiple projects being behind schedule and lacking communication.
• Lessons on Accountability (00:09:45) Brian discusses the need to dig deeper when issues arise and not just take someone's word for it.
• Transition of Responsibilities (00:10:42) Hallie expresses her eagerness to take over the web team after the previous manager's departure.
• Implementing Systems and Processes (00:11:28) Hallie highlights her focus on creating systems to improve the web team's efficiency.
• Taking Ownership of Projects (00:13:14) Hallie shares her approach of taking extreme ownership and communicating directly with clients about...