The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast

Aftermarket Radio Network
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The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker. Experts in their field who work with shop owners take it to the next level and create a unique approach to marketing. See the growth in your business you’ve been working so hard for by using time-proven marketing that works, fueled to go further by your shop's uniqueness.

  1. Beyond CRM: Using AppFueled to Redefine Customer Loyalty in Auto Repair [E130]

    3 HR. AGO

    Beyond CRM: Using AppFueled to Redefine Customer Loyalty in Auto Repair [E130]

    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 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

    53 min
  2. Preparing for February's Marketing [E129]

    DEC 4

    Preparing for February's Marketing [E129]

    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...

    30 min
  3. The Great SMP Website Debacle [E128]

    NOV 27

    The Great SMP Website Debacle [E128]

    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...

    39 min
  4. When Do You Take Time to Think? [E127]

    NOV 20

    When Do You Take Time to Think? [E127]

    Looking to unlock the true potential of your business? Discover how taking time to think can reveal new opportunities, boost creativity, and tackle challenges head-on. Learn how clarity breaks can help you refine your vision, focus on what truly matters, and transform your marketing strategy for better results. Get practical tips on clearing distractions, setting the right direction, and making the most of your time away from the daily grind. Ready to take your business to the next level?  Tune in now and see how a little time to think can make all the difference! 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/125  https://www.eosworldwide.com/blog/101893-eos-take-clarity-break - EOS Clarity Break Clarity Break Starter Questions Sometimes it is highly effective to have no plan, no questions while sometimes you need some starter questions to get your mind rolling (example questions below) What would I do if I wasn’t afraid?Today, I am dreaming about….What’s draining my energy right now?Who do you admire and why? What are they doing that you can do also?How do you practice caring for yourself? What are you most proud of?What can you de-clutter physically or emotionally today/this weekend?What are your self-affirmations? Make a list of statements to remind yourself who you are, what your talents/skills are, and what you believe about yourself. Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:01)  The host introduces the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast and acknowledges the network.Importance of Mental Clarity (00:00:10)  Brian Walker discusses the significance of mental clarity for business leadership and the distractions we face daily.The Concept of Clarity Breaks (00:01:27)  Walker explains clarity breaks as a tool for clearing the mind and enhancing creative thinking.Personal Experience with Clarity Breaks (00:02:35)  Brian shares his initial skepticism and eventual realization of the value of clarity breaks.How to Conduct a Clarity Break (00:03:37)  Instructions on how to effectively conduct a clarity break away from usual environments.Benefits of Clarity Breaks (00:04:27)  Walker emphasizes how clarity breaks can lead to significant insights and solutions for business growth.Overcoming Limitations through Clarity (00:05:36)  Brian reflects on overcoming mental barriers regarding business growth during his clarity break.Clarity Breaks and Marketing (00:07:44)  Discussion on how clarity breaks relate to marketing and fostering creativity in strategies.Sponsorship Mention - RepairPal (00:09:30)  Walker promotes RepairPal as a valuable resource for auto repair shops seeking new...

    19 min
  5. Preparing for January's Marketing [E126]

    NOV 13

    Preparing for January's Marketing [E126]

    Ready to kick off the year with a marketing plan that keeps your bays full? Join Brian Walker and Caroline Legrand as they dive into easy, actionable strategies to help auto repair shops plan their marketing month-by-month. From practical ways to align your campaigns with community events to leveraging fun, nationally recognized days, you’ll learn how to make your marketing engaging and impactful. Discover fresh ideas for social media, event hosting, and campaigns that’ll keep your shop top-of-mind all year. Whether it’s winter car care, “new year, new car” resolutions, or creative customer appreciation ideas, this episode is packed with ways to turn small efforts into big wins. Don’t let January sneak up on you—start planning now! Tune in to get the tools you need to make 2024 your best marketing year yet. 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 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://www.daysoftheyear.com/ https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/ - Topics for January  How To Get In Touch With the Guest Caroline Legrand - https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-legrand-00568b285/  Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01) Brian introduces the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast and guest Caroline Lagrange.January Marketing Planning (00:01:30) Discussion on planning marketing strategies for January with insights from Caroline's experience.Importance of Planning (00:02:29)Emphasizing the necessity of planning for effective marketing strategies.Community Engagement (00:06:14) Caroline highlights the importance of tying marketing to local community events.Winter Car Care Tips (00:06:14) Discussion on educating customers about winter car maintenance and safety.New Year Resolutions (00:08:04) Encouraging customers to make car care resolutions for the new year.Monthly Marketing Topics (00:10:10) Overview of key topics for January marketing, including national observances.National Hobby Month (00:10:14) Ideas for engaging customers through hobbies and community connections.National Blood Donor Month (00:11:06) Suggestions for hosting a blood drive to engage the community.National Mentoring Month (00:12:14) Celebrating mentorship within the shop and training opportunities for staffNational Pizza Week (00:12:36) Ideas for incorporating fun promotions around National Pizza Week into marketing.National Pizza Week (00:14:18) Discusses leveraging National Pizza Week for community engagement and supporting local businesses.Hunt for Happiness Week (00:15:07) Explores ideas for sharing happiness and resolutions during the first full week of January.January National Days Overview (00:18:02) Introduces various national days

    45 min
  6. It's OK to Dream Big (Stop Playing Small) [E125]

    NOV 6

    It's OK to Dream Big (Stop Playing Small) [E125]

    Welcome to another episode of the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast! I'm your host, Brian Walker, and I’m excited to have my co-host, Kim, back with me after her recovery. Today, we’re diving into a topic that can change the game for your shop: Stop Playing Small. If you’re tired of feeling stuck or just getting by, this episode is for you. We'll be talking about the mindset shifts and practical steps needed to build a thriving, impactful business. It’s time to break free from the limits we place on ourselves and dream bigger. From overcoming the unique challenges of the auto repair industry to redefining what true success means, we’ll share real stories, honest advice, and strategies you can use to push your business to new heights. Plus, you’ll hear how the right mentors, clarity breaks, and a supportive community can make all the difference. Get ready to challenge yourself, take a fresh look at your goals, and start building a business that’s more than just getting by—it’s an empire.  Let’s jump in and stop playing small together! 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 auto repair businesses. Build client loyalty. Get started today with your own customer loyalty app. Visit https://appfueled.com/  Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Start_with_Why  - Start with Why by Simon Sinek https://youtu.be/u4ZoJKF_VuA?si=8yihKPEDRkFErdeN  https://shopmarketingpros.com/kim-and-brian-tell-their-story/  - Episode 2 : Kim and Brian Tell Their Story https://shopmarketingpros.com/walkers-hierarchy-of-marketing-needs/ - Walkers Hierachy of Marketing Needs (Blog) https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-101-walkers-hierarchy-of-marketing-needs/ - Podcast Episode 101  https://shopmarketingpros.com/ep-084-failing-forward-in-marketing/ - Failing Forward in Marketing - Episode 84 Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction and Welcome (00:00:10) Brian introduces the episode and welcomes co-host Kim back after her surgery.Theme of the Episode (00:00:23) Discussion on the importance of "thinking big" in business, particularly in auto repair.Challenges in the Auto Repair Industry (00:02:19) Brian outlines unique hiring challenges and industry stigma faced by auto repair businesses.The Role of Money in Business (00:04:10) Exploration of how money is important but not the sole factor for happiness in business.Personal Goals Beyond Financial Success (00:05:21) Kim shares her personal aspirations, emphasizing freedom over financial gain.The Importance of a

    40 min
  7. BNI and Auto Repair Go Hand in Hand with Steve Hand [E124]

    OCT 30

    BNI and Auto Repair Go Hand in Hand with Steve Hand [E124]

    Curious about how BNI can transform your auto repair shop's success? Discover the secrets to building powerful referral networks, creating meaningful connections, and turning BNI meetings into your most valuable sales opportunity. In this episode, Brian and Kim Walker sit down with BNI expert Steve Hand to explore how BNI can help you fill your bays, streamline your networking, and grow your business through strategic partnerships. From finding the perfect chapter to mastering the art of specific referrals, you'll learn actionable tips for making the most of your BNI membership. Ready to elevate your shop’s networking game and drive more customers through your doors? Hit play now and unlock the potential of BNI for your business! Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) https://www.bni.com/  How To Get In Touch With The Guest https://www.linkedin.com/in/shand/  https://trianglebni.com/en-US/index  Show Notes with Timestamps Introduction to BNI (00:00:10) Brian introduces the podcast and welcomes Steve Hand, a BNI expert.Reconnecting After Years (00:00:52) Steve and Brian reminisce about their long-standing friendship and connection.The Importance of BNI (00:01:55) Discussion on why BNI is essential for auto repair businesses and its benefits.Understanding BNI (00:02:32) Steve explains what BNI is and how it helps businesses succeed through collaboration.Weekly Sales Meetings (00:03:14) Steve emphasizes BNI meetings as crucial weekly sales meetings for businesses.Looking for Opportunities (00:03:28) Steve discusses how to identify potential customers during networking.Building Relationships (00:05:38) Importance of personal connections and understanding each other’s backgrounds in BNI.1-to-1 Meetings (00:06:21) Brian and Steve talk about the significance of one-on-one meetings in BNI.Activating Relationships (00:07:30) Steve shares strategies for nurturing relationships to enhance networking effectiveness.Referral Processes (00:08:19) Steve explains how to recognize opportunities for referrals within your network.Gratitude to RepairPal (00:09:17) Brian thanks RepairPal for sponsoring the episode and highlights its benefits.Personal Experiences in BNI (00:10:16) Kim shares her experience of being in two separate BNI groups with Brian.Themed Referral Campaigns (00:10:59) Steve discusses the effectiveness of themed referral campaigns in BNI.Trial and Error in Networking (00:11:41) Steve reflects on learning through trial and error to improve referral requests.Sticking to a Campaign (00:12:42) Steve explains the importance of consistency in referral campaigns for better results.Story of a Soccer Mom (00:13:01) Discussion about a successful vehicle repair story involving a soccer mom.BNI Presentation Challenges (00:13:14) Addressing difficulties in creating unique 62-second presentations for BNI meetings.Finding the Right Market (00:14:21) A pizza shop owner shifts focus

    34 min
  8. Never, Ever Let Your Domain Name Expire [E123]

    OCT 23

    Never, Ever Let Your Domain Name Expire [E123]

    Today’s episode tackles a critical issue that could cost your business thousands—your domain name. What happens if it expires? Spoiler alert: It’s not good. An expired domain can bring your website crashing down, devastate your SEO rankings, and even force you to pay big money to get it back. But don't worry, we’re here to guide you through it! We’ll dive into the risks of letting your domain lapse and share practical steps to make sure this never happens to you. This episode is packed with essential advice that could save you a fortune and keep your online presence safe. Grab your headphones, hit play, and let’s dive in! Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc) Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/  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

    12 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker. Experts in their field who work with shop owners take it to the next level and create a unique approach to marketing. See the growth in your business you’ve been working so hard for by using time-proven marketing that works, fueled to go further by your shop's uniqueness.

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