Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz

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MANAGEMENT
UPDATED WEEKLY

Weekly inspiration from automotive service business coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. www.autoshopcoaching.com Run Your Shop. Don't Let It Run You.

4D AGO

Build It to Sell (Even If You Never Do) [E248]

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/ Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind Host: Coach Chris Cotton Network: Aftermarket Radio Network Episode 248 – Build It to Sell (Even If You Never Do) In this episode, Coach Chris Cotton breaks down why every auto repair shop should be designed for exit from day one. Topics Covered: Why most shop owners own a job, not a business How to structure your shop for transferability The power of a business prospectus Reducing owner dependency Increasing enterprise value Tactical steps to build sellable systems Sponsor: Shop Marketing Pros – Helping shops create predictable growth and market dominance. Network: Aftermarket Radio Network If someone offered to buy your auto repair shop tomorrow, could you hand them a clean prospectus? In Episode 248 of The Weekly Blitz, Coach Chris Cotton dives into why every shop should be built to sell — even if you never plan to. From clean financials and defined structure to removing owner dependency, this episode challenges independent shop owners to think like enterprise builders, not operators. Because one day, you will exit. Will you leave chaos… or value? 🎙️ Podcast Network The Weekly Blitz is proud to be part of the Aftermarket Radio Network, home to some of the most trusted voices and podcasts in the automotive aftermarket. Be sure to explore the network for more shows focused on leadership, operations, technology, and the future of automotive. 📌 Listen, Subscribe & Share If this episode resonated with you: Subscribe to The Weekly Blitz Check out Shop Talk Her Way Share this episode with someone who cares about leadership done right Strong leaders build strong teams — and strong teams build strong shops. 🤝 Episode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros helps auto repair shop owners build consistent, long-term growth strategies that actually work—especially during slower or unpredictable seasons like January. If you’re looking for marketing that supports your business instead of stressing you out, visit ShopMarketingPros.com. 🎧 About The Weekly Blitz The Weekly Blitz is a short-form, tactical mindset podcast for auto repair shop owners who want clarity, confidence, and consistent execution in their business. Hosted by Coach Chris Cotton, each episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately in your shop. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris: AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching www.autoshopcoaching.com www.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

11 min
MAR 2

Leaders Eat Last… But Don’t Starve [E247]

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/ Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind Host: Coach Chris Cotton Network: Aftermarket Radio Network Episode 247 – Leaders Eat Last… But Don’t Starve In this episode, Coach Chris Cotton dives into Simon Sinek’s concept from Leaders Eat Last and applies it directly to the auto repair industry. Topics Covered: What “leaders eat last” really means The difference between sacrifice and self-neglect How leadership creates psychological safety in your shop Why burned-out owners hurt culture Tactical ways to protect your energy while still serving your team 📄 Episode Description (For Apple / Spotify) What happens when you walk out of your shop and realize you never ate lunch? In Episode 247 of The Weekly Blitz, Coach Chris Cotton explores Simon Sinek’s powerful leadership concept from Leaders Eat Last — and how it applies to auto repair shop owners. Leadership means sacrifice. But does it mean burnout? This episode challenges shop owners to protect their people without starving themselves in the process. If you’ve ever carried the weight of your shop on your shoulders… this one’s for you. 🤝 Featured Collaboration This episode highlights the launch and growth of Shop Talk Her Way, a podcast dedicated to honest conversations, leadership development, and real experiences — especially for women in automotive, but valuable for anyone leading a team or business. 🎧 Sponsor Message This episode of The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros specializes in marketing for auto repair shops — not generic marketing fluff. From websites and SEO to paid ads and branding, they focus on strategies that actually drive car count, improve ARO, and support profitable growth. If you’re ready for marketing with accountability and industry understanding, check them out and let them know The Weekly Blitz sent you. 🎙️ Podcast Network The Weekly Blitz is proud to be part of the Aftermarket Radio Network, home to some of the most trusted voices and podcasts in the automotive aftermarket. Be sure to explore the network for more shows focused on leadership, operations, technology, and the future of automotive. 📌 Listen, Subscribe & Share If this episode resonated with you: Subscribe to The Weekly Blitz Check out Shop Talk Her Way Share this episode with someone who cares about leadership done right Strong leaders build strong teams — and strong teams build strong shops. 🤝 Episode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros helps auto repair shop owners build consistent, long-term growth strategies that actually work—especially during slower or unpredictable seasons like January. If you’re looking for marketing that supports your business instead of stressing you out, visit ShopMarketingPros.com. 🎧 About The Weekly Blitz The Weekly Blitz is a short-form, tactical mindset podcast for auto repair shop owners who want clarity, confidence, and consistent execution in their business. Hosted by Coach Chris Cotton, each episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately in your shop. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris: AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching www.autoshopcoaching.com www.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

7 min
FEB 23

The Bay Shortage Is Bad The Shop Owner Shortage Might Be Worse [E246]

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/ Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind Host: Coach Chris Cotton “Communities are regulating repair capacity out of existence… and they still expect same-day service.” “At some point, towns are going to run out of places to fix the cars they depend on.” “The bay shortage isn’t just a market problem—it’s a permitting problem.” Data/Pressure 4. “Vehicles per bay hit about 253 by 2022—and it’s projected to top 261.” 5. “More cars. More complexity. Fewer bays. That’s the squeeze.” Productivity / ‘One tech’ 6. “If you want more capacity, stop hunting bays and start hunting waste.” 7. “Most shops don’t have a technician shortage. They have a productivity leak.” 8. “Every owner knows the one technician I’m talking about.” 9. “Imagine every shop releasing one dead-weight tech back into the pool—suddenly half the industry improves.” Owner shortage 10. “You don’t have a capacity problem—you have a leadership pipeline problem.” 11. “The technician shortage hurts production. The shop owner shortage threatens the industry.” Consolidation / Collision 12. “Collision repair is showing us the future: consolidation accelerates when succession fails.” 🎧 Sponsor Message This episode of The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros specializes in marketing for auto repair shops — not generic marketing fluff. From websites and SEO to paid ads and branding, they focus on strategies that actually drive car count, improve ARO, and support profitable growth. If you’re ready for marketing with accountability and industry understanding, check them out and let them know The Weekly Blitz sent you. The Weekly Blitz is proud to be part of the Automotive Repair Podcast Network, home to some of the most trusted voices and podcasts in the automotive aftermarket. Be sure to explore the network for more shows focused on leadership, operations, technology, and the future of automotive. 📌 Listen, Subscribe & Share If this episode resonated with you: Subscribe to The Weekly Blitz 🤝 Episode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros helps auto repair shop owners build consistent, long-term growth strategies that actually work—especially during slower or unpredictable seasons like January. If you’re looking for marketing that supports your business instead of stressing you out, visit ShopMarketingPros.com. 🎧 About The Weekly Blitz The Weekly Blitz is a short-form, tactical mindset podcast for auto repair shop owners who want clarity, confidence, and consistent execution in their business. Hosted by Coach Chris Cotton, each episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately in your shop. To listen to more episodes, download the ARPN App at https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris: AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching www.autoshopcoaching.com www.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

8 min
FEB 16

Real Leadership, Real Voices: Shop Ownership, Coaching, and Shop Talk Her Way [E245]

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/ Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind Host: Coach Chris Cotton Network: Aftermarket Radio Network Guest: Coach JeanAnn SaintGrace Title : Real Leadership, Real Voices: Shop Ownership, Coaching, and Shop Talk Her Way 📄 Podcast Description In Episode #245 of The Weekly Blitz, Coach Chris Cotton sits down with Coach JeanAnn SaintGrace — former shop owner, industry coach, and host of the podcast Shop Talk Her Way. This episode is all about real-world leadership in the automotive industry. JeanAnn shares her journey as a shop owner, the lessons learned from running a business in the trenches, and how those experiences shaped her coaching philosophy today. This isn’t theory — it’s perspective earned through experience. Chris and JeanAnn also dive into their new collaboration, the importance of elevating meaningful conversations in automotive, and why Shop Talk Her Way is creating space for voices and leadership styles the industry needs more of. This episode is honest, grounded, and packed with insight for shop owners, managers, service advisors, and anyone serious about leading well in this industry. 🛠️ What You’ll Learn in This Episode JeanAnn SaintGrace’s background as a former shop owner How real ownership experience shapes better coaching The leadership lessons you only learn by being in the trenches Why representation and authentic voices matter in automotive The mission behind Shop Talk Her Way What this new collaboration means for shop owners and leaders Why strong leadership beats shortcuts every time 🤝 Featured Collaboration This episode highlights the launch and growth of Shop Talk Her Way, a podcast dedicated to honest conversations, leadership development, and real experiences — especially for women in automotive, but valuable for anyone leading a team or business. 🎧 Sponsor Message This episode of The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros specializes in marketing for auto repair shops — not generic marketing fluff. From websites and SEO to paid ads and branding, they focus on strategies that actually drive car count, improve ARO, and support profitable growth. If you’re ready for marketing with accountability and industry understanding, check them out and let them know The Weekly Blitz sent you. 🎙️ Podcast Network The Weekly Blitz is proud to be part of the Aftermarket Radio Network, home to some of the most trusted voices and podcasts in the automotive aftermarket. Be sure to explore the network for more shows focused on leadership, operations, technology, and the future of automotive. 📌 Listen, Subscribe & Share If this episode resonated with you: Subscribe to The Weekly Blitz Check out Shop Talk Her Way Share this episode with someone who cares about leadership done right Strong leaders build strong teams — and strong teams build strong shops. 🤝 Episode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros helps auto repair shop owners build consistent, long-term growth strategies that actually work—especially during slower or unpredictable seasons like January. If you’re looking for marketing that supports your business instead of stressing you out, visit ShopMarketingPros.com. 🎧 About The Weekly Blitz The Weekly Blitz is a short-form, tactical mindset podcast for auto repair shop owners who want clarity, confidence, and consistent execution in their business. Hosted by Coach Chris Cotton, each episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately in your shop. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris: AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching www.autoshopcoaching.com www.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

20 min
FEB 9

Celebrate the Win… Then Keep Moving [244]

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/ Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind Host: Coach Chris Cotton Network: Aftermarket Radio Network Episode Title: Celebrate the Win… Then Keep Moving Podcast Description (Apple Podcasts / Spotify) What happens when you hit a big goal… and your coach barely pauses before handing you the next one? In this episode of The Weekly Blitz, Chris Cotton dives into the tension between celebrating wins and maintaining momentum — from both sides of the coaching relationship. Sparked by a personal weight-loss milestone that was quickly followed by a new target, Chris reflects on what accountability really looks like, why great coaches don’t linger on success, and how a simple pause — just one more beat — can make people feel seen without slowing progress. This episode is a must-listen for shop owners, leaders, and coaches who want to push people forward without losing the human element along the way. 📝 Show Notes ⏱️ Episode Overview Coaching is about progress — not comfort. But does that mean we skip celebration entirely? In this episode, Chris Cotton shares a personal coaching moment that led to a deeper realization about how wins are acknowledged, why accountability partners often move on quickly, and how leaders can strike a better balance between recognition and forward momentum. This isn’t about trophies or praise — it’s about reinforcing discipline while keeping people engaged, motivated, and seen. 🔑 Key Topics Covered Why great coaches don’t linger on wins The difference between celebrating progress and getting stuck in it A personal story about weight loss, coaching, and unexpected emotions How shiny-object celebration can kill momentum The real job of accountability partners and coaches Why high performers need direction more than motivation The concept of “one more beat” — pausing just long enough to acknowledge effort How shop owners and leaders can apply this with technicians, advisors, and managers Recognizing progress without lowering standards 🧠 Key Takeaways Coaches move on quickly on purpose — not because they don’t care Momentum matters, but so does feeling seen You don’t need fireworks or long celebrations — just intentional recognition One extra pause can strengthen trust without slowing progress Great leadership balances pressure with humanity 📣 Sponsor Message This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros — a marketing partner that doesn’t just sell ads, but actually understands the auto repair industry. Chris recently joined Brian on the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast to discuss “The Most Important KPI You’re Not Tracking” — a conversation that highlights why it matters when your marketer is plugged into real industry conversations. It’s good to know your marketing partner is thinking, learning, and bringing meaningful insights forward — not just pushing clicks. 📻 Network Shout-Out Proud to be part of the Aftermarket Radio Network, where shop owners and industry leaders come together to share real conversations that move the aftermarket forward. 👊 Final Thought Progress doesn’t stop — but it feels better when it’s recognized. Celebrate the win. Pause for one more beat. Then keep moving. 🤝 Episode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros helps auto repair shop owners build consistent, long-term growth strategies that actually work—especially during slower or unpredictable seasons like January. If you’re looking for marketing that supports your business instead of stressing you out, visit ShopMarketingPros.com. 🎧 About The Weekly Blitz The Weekly Blitz is a short-form, tactical mindset podcast for auto repair shop owners who want clarity, confidence, and consistent execution in their business. Hosted by Coach Chris Cotton, each episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately in your shop. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris: AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching www.autoshopcoaching.com www.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

7 min
FEB 2

Some People Can Only Take You So Far [E243]

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/ Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind Host: Coach Chris Cotton Network: Aftermarket Radio Network Episode Title: Some People Can Only Take You So Far In this episode of The Weekly Blitz, Chris Cotton dives into one of the toughest leadership realities in business: recognizing when people have reached their capacity ceiling. From service advisors who cap sales to employees who unknowingly hold organizations hostage, this episode challenges shop owners to confront fear-based thinking and lead with clarity. Chris explains why it’s never as bad as your mind tells you it will be — and how growth often lives on the other side of uncomfortable decisions. Topics Covered: Capacity ceilings in service advisors The danger of hostage thinking Why great employees aren’t always the right employees How fear exaggerates outcomes Leadership decisions that unlock growth 🤝 Episode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros helps auto repair shop owners build consistent, long-term growth strategies that actually work—especially during slower or unpredictable seasons like January. If you’re looking for marketing that supports your business instead of stressing you out, visit ShopMarketingPros.com. 🎧 About The Weekly Blitz The Weekly Blitz is a short-form, tactical mindset podcast for auto repair shop owners who want clarity, confidence, and consistent execution in their business. Hosted by Coach Chris Cotton, each episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately in your shop. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris: AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching www.autoshopcoaching.com www.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

7 min
JAN 26

The Taco Salad Lesson: Communication That Actually Lands [E242]

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/ Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind Episode Title: It’s Easy to Contract When You Should Be Expanding Host: Coach Chris Cotton Network: Aftermarket Radio Network What if the real communication problem isn’t what you said… but what the other person heard? In this full-length episode of The Weekly Blitz, Coach Chris Cotton devotes an entire show to one of the most overlooked leadership skills: making sure communication actually lands. Using a personal story about taco salad from his youth, Chris breaks down why assumptions derail teams, how leaders unintentionally create confusion, and what it really takes to ensure understanding—at work, at home, and everywhere in between. If you’ve ever said, “That’s not what I meant,” this episode is for you. Episode Summary: In “The Taco Salad Lesson: Communication That Actually Lands,” Coach Chris Cotton explores why communication breaks down even when intentions are good. Through a relatable childhood story and real-world leadership examples, this episode dives deep into the difference between hearing and listening, the danger of assumptions, and how leaders can verify understanding before problems show up. You’ll learn: Why intent does not equal impact The difference between hearing and listening How assumptions quietly wreck teams Simple ways to confirm understanding Why clarity is a form of respect 🤝 Episode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros helps auto repair shop owners build consistent, long-term growth strategies that actually work—especially during slower or unpredictable seasons like January. If you’re looking for marketing that supports your business instead of stressing you out, visit ShopMarketingPros.com. 🎧 About The Weekly Blitz The Weekly Blitz is a short-form, tactical mindset podcast for auto repair shop owners who want clarity, confidence, and consistent execution in their business. Hosted by Coach Chris Cotton, each episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately in your shop. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris: AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching www.autoshopcoaching.com www.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

8 min
JAN 19

It’s Easy to Contract When You Should Be Expanding [E241]

The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops. Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo: https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/ Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ If you would like to join their private facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind Episode Title: It’s Easy to Contract When You Should Be Expanding Host: Coach Chris Cotton Network: Aftermarket Radio Network When business feels uncomfortable, most shop owners don’t pause — they panic. They pull back marketing. They delay hiring. They cancel training. In this episode of The Weekly Blitz, Coach Chris Cotton tackles one of the most dangerous instincts in business: contracting when expansion is required. This conversation is about leadership under pressure — and why fear-based decisions quietly kill long-term growth. Coach Chris breaks down why contraction feels responsible, why it’s often the wrong move, and how the best-performing shops expand strategically when others retreat. This is not about reckless growth. It’s about intentional expansion — expanding systems, leadership, visibility, and execution when it matters most. If you’ve been feeling squeezed, uncertain, or tempted to “wait and see,” this episode will challenge that thinking — and give you a better path forward. ⏱️ EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – 02:45 🔥 Opening Hook: Why contraction feels safe — and why it’s dangerous 02:45 – 08:30 🧠 Why shop owners contract under pressure (fear vs leadership) 08:30 – 14:45 📈 What expansion really means (hint: it’s not always a new building) 14:45 – 16:15 🎯 Mid-Roll Sponsor: Shop Marketing Pros 16:15 – 22:30 🏗️ Expand or slowly shrink: the real cost of waiting 22:30 – 25:00 🚀 Final close + Aftermarket Radio Network mention 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS Contraction is emotional. Expansion is strategic. Pausing marketing is usually the most expensive decision you can make. Expansion doesn’t mean reckless growth — it means intentional investment. Slow shops don’t need less visibility — they need better execution. Leadership shows up before confidence does. 🔊 QUOTABLE LINES “Contraction is easy. Expansion is leadership.” “Markets don’t reward fear — they reward presence.” “If your shop is slow, question execution before demand.” “There is no neutral — you’re either expanding capability or shrinking your future.” “Confidence doesn’t come before action. It comes after.” 🤝 Episode Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Shop Marketing Pros. Shop Marketing Pros helps auto repair shop owners build consistent, long-term growth strategies that actually work—especially during slower or unpredictable seasons like January. If you’re looking for marketing that supports your business instead of stressing you out, visit ShopMarketingPros.com. 🎧 About The Weekly Blitz The Weekly Blitz is a short-form, tactical mindset podcast for auto repair shop owners who want clarity, confidence, and consistent execution in their business. Hosted by Coach Chris Cotton, each episode delivers real-world insight you can apply immediately in your shop. To listen to more episodes, make sure and go over to iTunes and or Spotify. Don't forget to rate and review us! Connect with Chris: AutoFix-Auto Shop Coaching www.autoshopcoaching.com www.aftermarketradionetwork.com 940-400-1008 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching YouTube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae Email Chris: chris@autofixsos.com The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.

7 min

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out of 5

6 Ratings

Weekly inspiration from automotive service business coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. www.autoshopcoaching.com Run Your Shop. Don't Let It Run You.