Downshift With Tonnika

Tonnika Haynes
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Entrepreneurship

Power does not always come from pushing harder. Sometimes in life and in business, the smartest move is to slow down so you can move forward with control, clarity, and intention. Just like a great driver, growth means looking ahead, preparing for the climb, and knowing when it is time to change gears.

  1. 2d ago

    Who Takes Care of the Shop Owner? | JeanAnn SaintGrace - Ep 33

    Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE In this episode, Tonnika Haynes and JeanAnn SaintGrace get real about the shop ownership journey—no sugarcoating here. JeanAnn opens up about navigating grief, burnout, and leadership after the loss of her husband, sharing how those tough lessons turned into a passion for coaching other shop owners. If you’ve ever felt like you’re celebrating your wins alone, juggling all the hats, or just need someone to unwind with who truly gets it, this episode is for you. Listen to JeanAnn's podcast "Shop Talk Her Way" here Timestamps:00:00 Why shop owners need a place to unload—the birth of Downshift01:16 JeanAnn’s background: Shop ownership, grief, and a “unicorn” sale03:39 Returning to the automotive world—coaching through loss05:47 Why longer coaching calls matter & celebrating client wins07:04 Loneliness of leadership—why owners need people to celebrate with08:13 The value of going deep: No “I’m fine” answers allowed!09:51 Balancing business and friendship—navigating tough employee situations12:34 Vision for your team: Helping employees look beyond the next paycheck14:34 Embracing differences—why everyone brings something to the table16:11 The next great idea can come from anywhere (even the “kid” tech!)18:18 Smarter people in the room: Building teams that challenge and grow18:56 The three things employees want most: Communication, recognition, input20:15 One-on-ones, “date nights,” and loving your team ‘til it’s weird21:36 Technicians and mental health: Addressing the industry’s suicide rate24:16 Shop ownership is lonely—creating spaces for real talk and support26:23 Lacking life insurance and key man insurance? Why it’s a must29:01 Burnout, overwork, and the power of letting your team support you32:39 General vs. soldier: Why owners shouldn’t always be “in the trenches”34:55 Giving yourself grace—especially when hard work doesn’t look glamorous37:52 Surviving life’s curveballs: The benefits of planning and protection43:31 Being vulnerable as a leader & building real trust/culture47:03 Celebrating the little wins—because no one claps for payroll!56:22 The heart of service: Why connections with customers matter most59:04 Becoming the “first call”—your shop as the hub of community trust1:01:25 From fixing cars to fixing lives: Jean Ann’s legacy through coaching1:04:00 You’re not alone—reaching out for community, resources, and real talk1:05:10 How to connect with JeanAnn and find your safe space to land

  2. 4d ago

    Benjie Burris's "Secret Weapon" for His Shop | Benjie and Kristy Burris - Ep 32

    Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Tonnika Haynes welcomes back Benjie Burris, but this time he brought who we all wanted to hear the first time. The boss! Kristy Burris. Today, they get into what it means to build legacy in the automotive repair industry. They also cover the importance of apprenticeship programs and investing in young technicians to secure the industry's future. Tonnika also unpacks the real story behind shop culture—emphasizing that true wealth isn’t just KPIs, but the impact you have on your community and the next generation. Timestamps:00:00 The pressure to go to college—and the reality for grads01:31 Why Benjie’s “secret weapon” changed the business02:46 Doing the work vs. coasting through shop coaching05:00 Kristy’s journey: from classroom to the family shop09:11 The apprenticeship program and hiring local youth13:00 Rethinking “special education”—everyone deserves a chance16:05 The unseen brilliance in non-traditional students18:28 Why degrees and diplomas aren’t the only path to success20:07 Building up people, not just technicians22:22 Real wealth: lessons you can’t measure in KPIs24:45 Are today’s kids “lazy”? Busting myths about the next generation27:44 The trap of chasing other people’s goals—set your own32:34 How mentorship changes lives (and helped Benji calm down!)36:03 Culture eats strategy for breakfast—here’s what REALLY matters42:15 Mentorship in action: the new generation leading the shop45:45 Lessons learned: why serving your community beats the bottom line48:14 Don’t bring work home—making the family business attractive51:10 Next-gen ownership: preparing your kids for leadership55:05 Giving your staff tools that don’t come from a tool truck57:00 Why feedback (and a good chicken wing) matter59:10 It’s not smoke and mirrors—shop culture you can FEEL

  3. Jul 23

    How to Build a Business While Raising a Family | Kassiady Markham - Ep 31

    You shouldn't have to play detective just to figure out what's happening in your own shop. 😂 If you're ready for all your shop's information in one place, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Kassiady Markham joins Tonnika Haynes to share her journey of building Phase Two Automotive alongside her husband from the ground up. Kassiady opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood, business ownership, and overcoming setbacks—including business failures and family health crises. She emphasizes the importance of coaching for growth, setting boundaries at work, and building generational wealth for their family. Timestamps:00:00 Kassiady introduction: therapy, humor, and owning half the company01:02 Shop origins: EMT careers and turning a car hobby into a side hustle04:08 From “side gig” to baby in the office—juggling kids and business05:16 Struggles: marriage stress, foreclosure, and raising autistic children07:00 When the first business collapsed and the comeback began10:09 Taking a leap (again): Starting over with Phase Two Automotive13:32 IRS threats and the decision to take full control14:29 Stepping into leadership: Doing the books, HR, and payroll16:36 Coaching with Elite: Solving problems, boundaries, and marriage tips18:45 Why running a family business was the only way20:01 Who’s in Kassiady corner when it gets hard? Support systems23:30 How the team runs the shop (including her brother!)25:38 The crucial role of coaching in unlocking new growth27:20 The vision: generational wealth, success goals, and involving the kids30:35 Lessons learned: “It’s not a bad life—just a bad day.”32:01 Setting work boundaries and prioritizing family34:19 Therapy as self-care; keeping the marriage strong39:05 Parenting philosophies and supporting kids to adulthood41:14 Leading as the only woman in the shop: standing firm43:19 Customer confrontations and not backing down44:50 Real advice for women running shops or helping husbands50:39 Discounting, boundaries, and protecting the shop’s future54:49 Giving back to the community—doing good when it matters56:29 Expansion goals: property headaches and future shop dreams60:08 Rapid fire: first car, dream car, entrepreneurship in one word61:49 Biggest lesson: Wishing they’d started coaching sooner62:13 Why she’ll never be without a business coach

  4. Jul 21

    The Mistake That's Costing Your Shop Money | Nick Yannessa & Chi Wong - Ep 30

    Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE In this episode, Tonnika welcomes Nick Yannessa & Chi Wong to talk about how they started a auto repair shop. Nick brought up how he thinks it's dangerous to judge customers based on their car or background—presenting recommendations equally is key for success. They all discuss the importance of efficiency and processes, especially for one-person operations, with strategies ranging from shop layout to streamlined part sourcing. The discussion explored how relationships—whether through peer support, coaching, or personal connection with customers—can make or break both morale and business success. Timestamps:00:00 Growing up in the business, judging customers & learning not to assume03:00 The wild origin story of a Philly-area repair friendship07:00 Shop ownership journeys: from dealer frustration to Craigslist finds13:15 Shop expansions, partnerships, and the big pains of growing fast16:30 Management mistakes: Getting hurt by the wrong coaching advice22:30 Why shop friendships (and roasting each other) drive real growth26:00 Breaking out of the tech mindset — why process & sales skills matter35:00 Single bay or big staff? How to thrive as a one-man show41:30 Efficiency hacks: leg surgery for your shop layout47:00 The power of batching tasks, double-dipping on equipment, and finding your warehouse51:00 Bootstrapping a new shop, from free desks to Techmetric (or not)59:00 Real-life sales training: How to pitch brakes and win trust1:12:00 Dealership vs. Indie: Why premium service isn’t just about the brand1:20:00 Body shop margins, insurance games, and why service rocks1:33:00 The secret sauce: Making your shop unforgettable1:39:00 Building trust over time (without a single DVI)1:44:00 Health, happiness, and generational wealth—success beyond KPIs1:46:00 Why driving a free CR-V might beat flexing a Cadillac1:52:00 Building benefits for your people, and leveling up your future1:58:00 Final rants and why you need to be the “dive bar” your customers love

  5. Jul 16

    The Shop Owner Comparison Trap | Anders Gustafson - Ep 29

    Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Tonnika Haynes welcomes Anders Gustafson to discuss the real journey of shop ownership, from humble beginnings to scaling up. Anders shares the challenges of starting a shop with little experience, reflecting on the lessons learned from opening a second location and the importance of picking the right spot. Together, they get real about the mental toll of comparing yourself to others on social media, the need for community and coaching in the automotive industry, and why self-growth matters more than flashy online wins. Timstamps:00:00 The Comparison Trap: Social Media and Shop Owner Wins01:26 East Coast Roots: Moving for a Dream02:15 Breaking into Automotive: From Office Job to Shop Life03:38 U-Hauls & Humble Beginnings—Opening Shop in Virginia07:27 Location Matters! Lessons from Two Stores11:01 Second Location Struggles & Mistakes14:36 Going It Alone: The Cost of Not Getting Industry Support17:32 Social Media: More Harm Than Good?19:02 Measuring Growth: Why the Only Race is With Yourself25:02 Teaching & Tectonic: How Humor Changes the Game28:23 Tech-Enabled Services: ShopLevers Explained32:46 Business Partners: Horror Stories & Happy Endings37:04 Boondoggling Across the Globe: Adventures Post-Shop Life41:40 Real Shop Drama: Roller Coasters, Jabronis & Jalopies44:00 The Power of Coaching, Training, and Community46:53 From Fear to Freedom: Finding Your Shop Owner Tribe49:01 Shop Ownership = Roller Coaster (and Why You Should Love It)52:44 Google Reviews, Value, and Standing Your Ground

  6. Jul 14

    What Nobody Warns You About Shop Ownership | Andrew Klement & Caleb McElmurry - Ep 28

    You shouldn't have to play detective just to figure out what's happening in your own shop. 😂 If you're ready for all your shop's information in one place, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Tonnika Haynes sits down with Andrew Klement and Caleb McElmurry to dive into the realities of young shop ownership in the automotive industry. Andrew and Caleb talk candidly about their rough starts, the importance of being profitable (and actually charging the right prices), and how building a supportive community has made all the difference. Timestamps:00:00 Young shop owners introduce themselves, plant mom stories, and moving from mobile to brick-and-mortar04:36 Caleb describes his dealership beginnings, lessons from a used car lot, and why integrity matters06:35 Andrew shares his “started from the lawnmower” story, learning on the job, and meeting the right mentors12:27 Why both left bad bosses and how they leveled up their skills13:55 Building a customer base: overcoming $20 repair mindsets and finding the right clients17:15 The hardest part of moving from technician to owner—payroll, pricing, and pressure21:21 Learning to price (and value!) your work: Big mistakes shop owners make25:28 What it actually means to take care of your community—and yourself34:12 Balancing family and business: honest talk about shop life with kids39:16 The shop mistake neither will EVER repeat again43:03 Coaching, community, and why there’s no single right way to win in this business57:00 Are you building a legacy? Talking new generations and what it means for your shop1:01:50 What to know before you open your own shop (spoiler: it’s harder than you think!)1:16:10 Why undercharging and sacrificing profit is hurting everyone in the industry1:21:55 Being proud of what you’ve built—yes, you deserve that truck!1:29:12 Marketing in small towns & finding the customers who value your shop1:33:09 There’s more than one way to run a shop—and that’s okay1:39:09 Real talk: mental health, community, and lifting each other up in the industry1:44:01 Wrapping up: finding your people, making it your own, and why the journey is worth it

  7. Jul 9

    Stop Running Your Shop Like a Technician | Rick White and Buckaroobob Bucknbob (John Firm) - Ep 27

    Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE What does it really take to run a thriving auto shop without living in the bays? Today Rick White and Buckaroo Bob join Tonnika to break down the journey from wrench-turner to true business builder. Hear firsthand stories about learning to trust your team, why “hiring smarter” is the real secret, and how the right coaching can seriously change your shop’s future. Plus: Why you need to delegate, why “set it and forget it” marketing frees you up to lead, and why building your network is as important as building your car count.Timestamps: 00:00 Are you running your shop—or is your shop running you? 02:07 Letting go: When Bob's son joined the family business03:43 The long road from working IN the business to working ON it06:03 Bob’s transformation: Training yourself out of a job07:25 How group coaching built an unstoppable shop owner family10:03 ARO breakthrough: From $252 to $820 by trusting the process12:00 Control freaks, “Mama syndrome,” and learning to let your team lead14:50 Why you must hire people smarter than you—and how to spot them15:43 Book club for bosses: “One Minute Manager” and more game-changers18:01 Coaching: Are you looking for a coach—or just a cheerleader?21:20 Rick’s journey: From micromanagement to true leadership25:51 Letting go: Real growth means they don’t need you every day30:26 Training is NOT optional—why you’re never too good to learn31:39 The three reasons shop owners skip coaching (and how to fix it)33:02 Your only entitlement: Opportunity, not comfort35:59 Facing big challenges—without carrying all that baggage39:02 If you’re still taking technical classes… you’re not leading your shop40:34 Simple details that set your shop apart—yes, the smell matters!41:21 Saying yes to more—adventure, networking, and stepping outside your comfort zone43:22 Big invitations: Family reunions, cookouts & open mic wisdom44:07 Upcoming advisor training and summer events—don’t miss out!

  8. Jul 7

    The Conversation Women in Automotive Need to Hear | Maryann Croce , Melissa Birdie Patterson and Tiffany Scherado-Birou - Ep 26

    Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, the conversation focused on the Amazing Women in Automotive group and its mission to recruit, retain, and engage more women in the industry. One concept discussed was the importance of mentorship and how even new members can offer fresh perspectives to the group. A key theme that emerged was the challenge—and the necessity—of giving yourself permission to evolve as a leader and embrace new roles as your business and life change. Timestamps:00:00 Belonging in Automotive: Propping Each Other Up00:40 What’s Amazing Women in Automotive REALLY About?01:15 The Origin Story: Creating Space and the Mission02:12 Men, Listen Up: Why This Matters for Everyone03:24 Safe Spaces & Real Talk—NOT a Kumbaya Circle05:07 Welcoming Newcomers and Building Confidence06:22 Mentoring & the Power of Fresh Eyes07:09 Automotive Auntie: Why Mentorship Matters08:20 There’s a Community Out Here—Don’t Miss Out09:09 Transferable Skills: You DON’T Need to Be a Tech10:10 Bringing Marketing, Accounting, and More to the Shop11:16 Events, Retreats & Partnering with Schools12:13 It’s OK to Focus on You—Permission to Refuel13:38 Balancing Motherhood & Shop Life: Permission Granted14:41 Leading at Work, Leading at Home: Raising Leaders16:00 Why Don’t We Give Ourselves Enough Credit?17:15 Permission to Say Thank You (& Mean It!)18:14 Auntie Advice: Sometimes You Just Need a Dance Party19:25 AI, SOPs & Finding Time—Give Yourself Grace21:05 Getting Women Out of Their Shell & Into Community22:33 Technician Engagement: Cultural Differences and Challenges24:21 Why You Need to Show Up—Even if You Think You Don’t25:20 Weekly Encouragement & Why Laughter Matters26:07 Tears, Tough Days & Doing Leadership the Right Way27:31 Letting Go: Empowering Your Team and Yourself30:13 Redefining Your Role—No More Mom Guilt32:12 Coaching, Leadership & Sharing the Wins34:05 Raising Leaders at Every Level of the Shop36:00 When Your Why Changes—Identity, Shifts & Legacy40:43 How to Join Amazing Women in Automotive!41:18 The Power of Community & What’s Next

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Power does not always come from pushing harder. Sometimes in life and in business, the smartest move is to slow down so you can move forward with control, clarity, and intention. Just like a great driver, growth means looking ahead, preparing for the climb, and knowing when it is time to change gears.

Information

  • Creator
    Tonnika Haynes
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Tonnika Haynes

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