AutoFix AdvisorCast

Michael Doherty
  • 0.0 (0)
  • AUTOMOTIVE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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 from the front lines of advising. Michael’s mission is simple: to help service advisors and shop owners right the ship of the automotive industry by equipping them with the knowledge, community, and support they need. Michael started his journey in 1996 and has done it all—from vehicle detailing to client-guided sales, parts procurement, and managing shop workload. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Michael is a husband, father, and a passionate advocate for improving the service advisor role. Join him and take the first steps toward becoming a better, more profitable, and less stressed service advisor. Thanks to WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI) for sponsoring AutoFix AdvisorCast. Visit worldpac.com for the latest in auto parts distribution and wtitraining.com to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level.

  1. 31/10/2025

    Set Boundaries With Clients! Service Advisor Tips

    Thanks 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 hosts his final Autofix AdvisorCast and shares heartfelt reflections on the evolution of customer expectations in the automotive industry. He emphasizes that today's customers want Amazon-like convenience, high-end service, and genuine warmth from their repair shops. Key takeaways include the importance of setting clear, realistic boundaries with clients, leveraging proactive and empathetic communication to build trust, and maintaining consistency through strong systems and daily habits.If you'd like to be the next host of this podcast, contact Chris Cotton at Chris@autofixsos.com Timestamps: 00:00 Passing the Torch: Autofix AdvisorCast 03:45 Managing Expectations Builds Trust 10:11 "Truthful Service with Tact" 13:57 Proactive Communication Prevents Client Loss 16:27 Customer Service Beyond Transaction 17:58 "Excellence Starts with Habits" 22:57 Passing the Autofix Advisor Baton Stay connected with us on social media: Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop CoachingYouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching ChannelTwitter: @AutoFixCoachingDon't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE! If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at michael@autofixsos.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

    25 min

  2. 24/10/2025

    The "We Over Me" Mindset in Auto Repair

    Thanks 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, host Michael Doherty dives into the power of selfless teamwork in building an unstoppable shop culture. Michael shares personal experiences, emphasizing how serving one another leads to greater trust, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. He outlines actionable steps for fostering a winning mindset and promoting daily habits that elevate the entire team. Timestamps: 00:00 Teamwork Makes Work Easier 05:37 Passion Fuels Success 07:07 Positive Mindset Drives Success 09:53 "Turning Negatives Into Positives" 14:21 "Prioritizing the Customer Always" 18:13 "Strive, Grow, Serve, Unite" Stay connected with us on social media: Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop CoachingYouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching ChannelTwitter: @AutoFixCoachingDon't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE! If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at michael@autofixsos.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

    22 min

  3. 17/10/2025

    Why Patience and Communication Matter for Service Advisors

    Thanks 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 breaks down the concept of “client guided sales” and how it transforms the traditional sales approach for service advisors. Michael emphasizes the importance of using detailed diagnostic information and photos to build trust with clients, as well as the need for clear communication and patience throughout the estimating process. He also discusses how prioritizing the client’s main concerns, being transparent with recommendations, and making clients feel valued can set a shop apart in a competitive market. Timestamps: 00:00 Review Info Before Estimating 04:04 "Importance of Client Communication" 07:53 "Review Estimates Before Sending" 10:52 Client-Guided Sales Approach 12:57 "Client-Guided Sales Strategies" 19:19 "Client-Guided Sales Approach" 20:24 "Client-Guided Sales & Rapport" Stay connected with us on social media: Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop CoachingYouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching ChannelTwitter: @AutoFixCoachingDon't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE! If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at michael@autofixsos.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

    22 min

  4. 10/10/2025

    Mindset is EVERYTHING for Service Advisors!

    Thanks 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 essentials of maintaining a healthy, positive mindset as a service advisor. He emphasizes the power of positive self-talk and how it sets the foundation for confidence and resilience, especially during challenging days. Michael also highlights the importance of self-care—like staying hydrated, taking breaks, and giving yourself grace on tough days—to avoid burnout and consistently deliver exceptional customer experiences. Timestamps: 00:00 Inner Voice Shapes Positive Mindset 05:28 "Daily Self-Care for Clarity" 07:13 Effort Matters, Not Perfection 13:44 Cultivating Positivity in Communication 15:46 Clear Communication with Customers Stay connected with us on social media: Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop CoachingYouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching ChannelTwitter: @AutoFixCoachingDon't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE! If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at michael@autofixsos.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

    19 min

  5. 03/10/2025

    Never Stop Improving!...Or You're Falling Behind....

    Thanks 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 recaps his experience at the ASTA Automotive Service Tire Alliance Expo in Raleigh and dives into why ongoing learning is crucial for service advisors. He emphasizes that teachability—not just technical expertise—sets advisors apart in today’s rapidly evolving automotive industry. Michael also shares practical tips for improving communication between service advisors and technicians, as well as advice on learning from customer interactions to continually grow in the role 00:00 "Adapting to Industry Changes" 03:22 Teachable Advisors Triumph 08:40 Enhancing Technician-Advisor Communication 10:35 Effective Technician Communication Strategies 15:11 Commit to Continuous Improvement Stay connected with us on social media: Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop CoachingYouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching ChannelTwitter: @AutoFixCoachingDon't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE! If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at michael@autofixsos.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

    18 min

  6. 26/09/2025

    Building Trust and Loyalty as a Service Advisor in 2025

    Thanks 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 celebrates 50 episodes of the Autofix Advisor Cast and shares powerful advice for service advisors looking to grow in the industry. Michael stresses why direction is more important than speed, encouraging advisors to focus on heading the right way rather than rushing through tasks. He also highlights the importance of controlling what you can—like your attitude, time management, and communication—to create a positive shop environment. Finally, Michael reminds listeners that failure isn’t the end, but fuel for growth, and emphasizes how building relationships with both customers and coworkers makes all the difference in service advising. Timestamps:00:00 Attitude and Mindset Define Success 03:49 "Control Feedback and Communication" 08:23 Promoting Positive Workplace Communication 12:01 "Address Issues, Boost Business" Stay connected with us on social media: Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop CoachingYouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching ChannelTwitter: @AutoFixCoachingDon't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE! If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at michael@autofixsos.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

    14 min

  7. 19/09/2025

    Service Advisors: Top Tips for Phone Success

    Thanks 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 phone skills for service advisors. He emphasizes the importance of treating every incoming call as a quality lead, urging advisors to dig deeper and ask better questions rather than making quick judgments about customers. Michael also highlights that building trust and long-term relationships starts with that very first phone call, and reminds advisors that objections from customers are often just hidden opportunities to build value and confidence. Timestamps:00:00 Defining Quality Leads for Advisors 03:45 Client Calls: An Advisor's Opportunity 08:23 Probing Questions Boost Customer Trust 10:36 "Focus on Relationships, Not Sales" 15:12 "Building Relationships for Business Growth" 16:59 "See You at SEMA?" Stay connected with us on social media: Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop CoachingYouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching ChannelTwitter: @AutoFixCoachingDon't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE! If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at michael@autofixsos.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

    19 min

  8. 12/09/2025

    Getting Uncomfortable is the ONLY Way to Grow as a Service Advisor

    Thanks 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 it comes to avoiding uncomfortable tasks. Michael emphasizes that true growth happens when you tackle the work you tend to put off, like making follow-up calls or asking for reviews. He also highlights the importance of preparation and discipline, explaining how showing up early and consistently putting in effort builds trust with both your team and your customers. 00:00 "Confront Avoidance, Achieve Success" 03:33 Work Ethic in Service Advisory 08:45 Responding to Customer Reviews 11:23 Morning Prep Prevents Chaos 15:47 "Discipline Builds Trust and Confidence" 19:15 Prioritize Tasks and Build Confidence 20:49 "All-Star Ensemble" Stay connected with us on social media: Facebook: AutoFix Auto Shop CoachingYouTube: AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching ChannelTwitter: @AutoFixCoachingDon't forget to tune into The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton on your favorite podcast platform for more tips and tricks on managing your auto repair shop. If you're interested in auto shop coaching or our NEW service advisor coaching program, TOUCH HERE! If you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on the AutoFix AdvisorCast, please email us at michael@autofixsos.com. We look forward to connecting with you!

    22 min
See All (56)

About

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 from the front lines of advising. Michael’s mission is simple: to help service advisors and shop owners right the ship of the automotive industry by equipping them with the knowledge, community, and support they need. Michael started his journey in 1996 and has done it all—from vehicle detailing to client-guided sales, parts procurement, and managing shop workload. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, Michael is a husband, father, and a passionate advocate for improving the service advisor role. Join him and take the first steps toward becoming a better, more profitable, and less stressed service advisor. Thanks to WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI) for sponsoring AutoFix AdvisorCast. Visit worldpac.com for the latest in auto parts distribution and wtitraining.com to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Doherty
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Michael Doherty