Talking Shop with ShopOwner

Babcox Media
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Shop Owner magazine explores management topics with some of the industry’s best shop owners and business leaders.

  1. Mar 18

    Strategize and Connect: What to Expect at Tektonic 2026

    In a recent interview, Doug Kaufman, the host of "Talking Shop with ShopOwner," spoke with Lauren Langston, president and COO of Tekmetric, to discuss the upcoming Tektonic 2026 Conference. The conference is set for April 9th and aims to empower automotive repair shop owners through strategic insights, networking opportunities, and best practices.  Langston emphasized the importance of yearly business planning and taking time away from daily operations to reflect on goals for the future. Attendees will benefit from sessions tailored for everyone in the shop, from owners to technicians. With expert speakers and a focus on integrating technology with operational excellence, Tektonic promises to enhance profitability and customer satisfaction within the automotive repair industry. For information, visit Tekmetric.com/Tektonic.

    18 min

  2. Feb 25

    Hire for Character, Train for Skill: Leadership & Tech That Actually Grow Your Shop

    In this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, Doug Kaufman talks with David Rogers (Auto Profit Masters / Shop4D / Keller Brothers Auto Repair) about the people-first strategies and practical tech that help independent shops win. In the conversation, the industry veterans cover hiring for character and developing technicians, creating a culture that reduces rework and drives retention, simplifying tech stacks to remove wasted clicks, and using contained AI safely to surface useful KPIs. David also shares how focusing a team on one or two critical metrics — not a dozen — creates real, repeatable gains. Tune in for straightforward tactics you can apply this month to improve customer experience, shop throughput and employee loyalty.

    33 min

  3. Feb 19

    Tektonic 2026 — Training, Tech & Real Results

    Doug Kaufman sits down with Sunil Patel, founder & CEO of TekMetric, to unpack Tektonic 2026 — an industry-wide conference built for every role in the repair shop, not just a vendor event. Learn how TekMetric’s data view across more than 14,000 shops reveals what top performers do differently and how Tektonic will translate those insights into practical, measurable outcomes. Patel explains the conference format — 75 role-based breakout sessions where owners, service writers, technicians and foremen can “choose your own path” through hands-on technical training (including EV topics), service-writing skill workshops, MSO growth panels and a coaches debate. Hear about keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and TekMetric’s consultative approach to helping shops reach their next result (for example, improving average repair order through better DVIs and photo standards). Event starts April 9, 2026 at the Marriott Marquis Houston. More info and registration: TekMetric.com/Tektonic

    11 min

  4. 08/22/2025

    Taming the Chaos: How Shop Owners Can Regain Control

    In this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, Doug Kaufman interviews David Rogers, COO of Keller Brothers and founder of Auto Profit Masters, about the challenges automotive repair shop owners face with juggling multiple management systems. Rogers emphasizes that many shops lose thousands of dollars monthly due to inefficiencies stemming from fragmented systems that don't communicate with each other.Rogers introduces Shop4D, an ecosystem solution developed to address these issues. Shop4D integrates various aspects of shop management, providing real-time data and connectivity to empower shop owners, managers, and technicians. This allows for better decision-making, improved efficiency, and increased profitability. Developed with a $15 million investment and tested in Rogers' own shop, Shop4D aims to give independent shops a competitive edge against larger dealerships and chains by enabling efficiency, transparency, and employee empowerment. Rogers stresses the importance of finding a system where all components are centralized, and the software company takes ownership of any issues, rather than passing the blame. Shop4D supports multi-shop operations and enables technicians to work better without unnecessary stress, Rogers emphasizes. Ultimately, Rogers hopes to help the entire automotive industry to succeed. Shop owners interested in learning more can visit Shop4D.com or email David directly at david@shop4D.com.

    39 min

  5. 04/03/2025

    Shocks, Suspensions and Solving Customer Concerns About Safety and Ride Control

    In this episode of "Talking Shop with Shop Owner," Kyle Price, Senior Product Manager at Monroe Shocks, explains about the transition from winter to spring and the importance of suspension maintenance. Price highlights the impact of winter conditions on vehicles, emphasizing the need for drivers to care for their suspension systems. "With rising prices, vehicle owners are holding onto their cars longer, making suspension maintenance crucial. They want to make sure that their suspensions – shocks, struts, coil springs – are working the way that they should after enduring lifetime of cold and salt during winters." "We're trying to publish a lot of training and education. The Restore line is designed for the general population; the everyday driver who is looking for performance and a product that's going to keep their vehicle running, at a level that they can afford." According to Price, there are several key symptoms that bring customers into shops, including noise and ride quality. "Shop owners need to consider vehicle mileage, and have dialogue with customers about their driving habits to recommend suitable options.The suspension system is critical to the safety and the comfort of your customers' rides, and safety is always top of mind," he says.  This dialogue presents an opportunity for shop owners to have a conversation with their customers to open their eyes to options that are right for their needs. Monroe's new product line, Monroe Restore, was developed to meet the needs of everyday drivers seeking performance at an affordable price. Price says different options may, in fact, be right for different drivers' needs and encourages shop owners and technicians to explore the Monroe website (www.monroe.com) for training and conversation points to guide customers. He also recommends visting the Garage Gurus (GarageGurus.tech) for expert training that can be tailored to individual shop needs.

    13 min

  6. 04/02/2025

    Building A Shop, Boosting An Industry With NAPA's Team Tool Rebate Program

    In this episode of "Talking Shop with Shop Owner," Doug Kaufman interviews Jason Rainey, VP of NAPA AutoCare and NAPA Autotech, about the NAPA Team Tool Rebate program. Rainey explains that the program is designed to help shop owners attract and retain technicians by providing them with the tools they need to do their jobs. The program works by allowing shop owners to earn rebates on their NAPA parts purchases, which they can then use to purchase tools for their technicians. Shop owners simply buy NAPA parts and NAPA handles the rebate process in the backside, distributing funds that shops can reallocate to their team members. This program isn't just about providing tools, Rainey says, but is also about building a strong culture within the shop. "By giving technicians the tools they need, shop owners can show them that they are valued and appreciated. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and reduced turnover. When you're attracting talent, you're saying, 'because we're partners with NAPA, we're able to do this. And so it really is a rising tide raises all ships kind of thing." Rainey also discusses the NAPA Auto Care Apprentice program, which is designed to help young people enter the automotive repair industry. The program provides apprentices with the training and mentorship they need to succeed. He notes that the program has been very successful, with over 2,000 apprentices currently working in NAPA Auto Care member shops. Rainey highlights the program's competency-based approach, stating, "if they haven't mastered a skillset, they can stay there. There's not the end of the marking period. They can stay there until they're able to master that skill." Rainey explains that NAPA is committed to helping shop owners succeed, offering a variety of programs and services designed to help shop owners attract and retain technicians, improve their operations, and grow their businesses. For more information visit NAPAOnline.com.

    18 min

  7. 01/17/2025

    Driven to Inspire: From Shop Owner to High School Auto Teacher - And Back

    On this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, host Doug Kaufman dives into the incredible journey of Ritchie Wimmer, a man whose passion for cars transformed his life and the lives of those around him. Ritchie Wimmer wears many hats: shop owner, teacher, racer, and technician. But his story is more than just a resume—it's a testament to perseverance, adaptability and the importance of paying it forward in the automotive industry. His journey began with a childhood fascination with cars that evolved into a career shaped by life-changing moments. After building his first race car and learning the trade through hands-on experience, Wimmer faced a life-threatening accident that could have ended his career. Instead, it ignited a new purpose: teaching. Now, as an instructor at Morro Bay High School, he is combining his expertise as a shop owner with his love for education to train the next generation of automotive technicians. From organizing his high school’s auto shop into a professional-grade learning environment to taking students to SEMA and connecting them with industry leaders, Ritchie Wimmer is bridging the gap between education and the automotive workforce. He’s passionate about solving one of the industry’s biggest challenges—the shortage of skilled technicians—by inspiring students to see the trades as a fulfilling and exciting career path. Wimmer's story isn’t just about teaching; it’s about creating a legacy. By sharing his knowledge and experiences, he’s helping students realize their potential while addressing the critical need for future technicians in an ever-evolving industry. Whether you’re a technician, educator, or industry supplier, Richie’s story is a call to action: get involved, support local training programs, and inspire the next generation. Because as Richie proves, one person’s passion can drive lasting change. This episode of Talking Shop with Shop Owner is presented by AAPEX, the premiere business and networking event in the automotive industry. AAPEX.20 24 was a huge success recently in Las Vegas and next year is already on the calendar – November 4–6, 2025 at the The Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. For information or to sign up to be notified when AAPEX 2025 registration opens, visit AAPEXShow.com.

    17 min

  8. 12/12/2024

    Top Techs Announced In Televised Festivities

    America loves competition and will tune in to watch competitors battle on TV. Forget about watching washed up fighters slap at each other - you can watch REAL champions compete at the U.S. Auto Tech National Championship Driven by Yokohama  for the title of 2024 U.S. Auto Tech National Champion. In this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, host Doug Kaufman, editor of ShopOwner Magazine, chats with Andy Buehler, automotive technology instructor and 2024 champion of the US AutoTech National Championship, and Kim Arnold from Intersport’s Elite Trades Championship Series about the program.  They discuss the competition, which highlights the importance of skilled trades, celebrates automotive technicians, and addresses workforce shortages. Andy shares his journey in automotive technology, teaching, and competing, while Kim elaborates on the competition's structure and its impact on inspiring the next generation of technicians. Listeners also learn about the camaraderie among competitors and the significant prizes and support provided to participants. The program aims to elevate the trades' prestige and encourage more professionals and students to join. Key takeaway: The championship is not just a competition—it’s a movement to champion skilled trades as vital and rewarding careers. Tune in for an inspiring conversation celebrating innovation, education, and the future of automotive technology. The competition's final round will air Friday, December 27th at 8:00 pm on CBS Sports Network. Visit USATNC.com for more information. Talking Shop with ShopOwner is presented by AAPEX.

    22 min
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About

Shop Owner magazine explores management topics with some of the industry’s best shop owners and business leaders.

Information

  • Creator
    Babcox Media
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    59
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Babcox Media
  • Show Website
    Talking Shop with ShopOwner