Jimmy Purdy is joined by Chris Jones, Group Editorial Director at Endeavor Business Media. Chris delves into the significance of team coordination and mutual accountability, highlighting how successful team cultures develop when individuals enforce shared standards. Jimmy shares his personal journey from technician to shop owner, discussing the unexpected leadership responsibilities and the importance of maintaining high standards when hiring staff. 00:00 Evaluates shop owner, advisors, and tech...
Oct 17, 2024•57 min•Ep. 56
Jimmy Purdy is joined by Dailey Kelley, an experienced technician and shop owner from Bardstown, Kentucky. Dailey shares his insights on transitioning from dealership work to running his own business, highlighting the challenges of managing workflow and avoiding the pitfalls of field calls. Their conversation also covers the intricate world of transmission repairs, discussing the importance of detailed diagnostics and the common issues with high-cost maintenance. 00:00 Failures happen; sometimes...
Oct 10, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 53
In this part 2 episode, Jimmy Purdy and David Marks discuss the critical role of effective communication in auto repair services. David highlights how understanding customer needs and tailoring communication can significantly improve service delivery and enhance customer satisfaction. The duo also explores the importance of creating a respectful and supportive work environment to retain employees and foster team morale. Finally, they discuss the transformative impact of proper training and educa...
Oct 03, 2024•45 min•Ep. 55
Jimmy Purdy is joined by David Marks, owner of a full-service auto repair and used car dealership. David emphasizes the importance of having the diagnosing mechanic perform the repair to avoid blame-shifting and unresolved issues. Jimmy and David dive into the challenges of managing multiple employees, stressing the need for integrity and effective leadership. They also explore the financial viability of flipping cars versus just performing repairs, sharing insights from their personal experienc...
Sep 26, 2024•48 min•Ep. 54
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy welcomes Ashley Kaul to discuss several crucial aspects of business and customer service. Ashley emphasizes the vital role of honesty and transparency in marketing strategies, highlighting the need for genuine communication over automated systems. Jimmy shares his experiences with the importance of maintaining personal connections with customers and how effective handling of issues, like a broken truckload, can build lasting trust. They both underline the significanc...
Sep 19, 2024•1 hr 29 min•Ep. 52
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Ryan Stratemann to delve into the intricacies of automotive repair and business management. Ryan shares his journey from a one-bay shop to expanding his business, highlighting the importance of proper bookkeeping, proactive vehicle inspections, and pricing strategies. They also discuss the success and challenges of creating educational content on social media, emphasizing the need for authenticity and technical expertise. 00:00 Started TikTok, gained 10,...
Sep 12, 2024•58 min•Ep. 51
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Chris Cotton, a recognized expert in auto shop coaching. Chris talks about the intricacies of automotive parts pricing, revealing how list prices often mislead customers. Jimmy and Chris also discuss the transformative impact of raising labor rates on profitability, stressing how many shops undervalue their labor. Lastly, Chris recommends a campaign to announce changes in shop hours for better training schedules, emphasizing the benefits for both custome...
Sep 05, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 50
Jimmy Purdy talks with John Eppstein, a seasoned automotive business owner. John discusses the importance of promoting community service to build trust and attract support. He also shares his journey of expanding John's Automotive Care from one shop to multiple locations, emphasizing the need for tailored marketing strategies. Lastly, John underlines the critical role of having the right team in place and the challenges involved in hiring and retaining qualified employees. 00:00 "I find potentia...
Aug 29, 2024•51 min•Ep. 49
Today on The Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy Purdy and Greg Buckley kick things off differently than normal; they talk about the underground world of tree and fungi communication. Yep. Shifting gears, they discuss the mental health benefits of psychedelics and mindfulness practices and how those things can affect repair shop morale. Greg shares his insights on workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of personal sharing to build trust and transparency within the team. 00:00 Focus on business, acquis...
Aug 15, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 48
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Travis May highlight social media's growing importance for attracting customers and increasing business visibility. They discuss the benefits of collaboration among competing shops rather than cutthroat competition, emphasizing the need for mutual support in addressing industry challenges. Additionally, Travis shares his experiences navigating regulatory changes and the complexities of making crucial business decisions, particularly in separating his towing and r...
Aug 08, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 46
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Greg Rainville emphasize the need for job satisfaction and a role change if not respected at work. Greg shares his experiences on the non-linear nature of progress in marketing strategies and the importance of adapting them to client needs. They also delve into Greg's travels across the country, encountering both modern and traditional repair shops, highlighting the industry's resistance to change. 00:00 The Owner sang on the microphone, wild night in Ogden. 06:2...
Aug 01, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 47
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy sits down with David Boyd to cover effective communication in the automotive industry. David emphasizes the importance of consistent and genuine customer interactions, highlighting how call coaching can significantly improve service quality. They also explore the challenges of balancing customer expectations with diagnostic processes, stressing the need for clear communication and proper investment in diagnostic equipment. 00:00 Investment in equipment with measurabl...
Jul 25, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 45
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Jay from Teamtailor, who delves into the challenges of hiring technicians in the automotive industry. Jay shares his insights on the significance of employer branding and how showcasing a company's culture and values can attract the right talent. Together, they discuss the importance of authenticity in content creation, especially with platforms like TikTok and Instagram for connecting with the audience. 00:00 The Institute offers coaching without contra...
Jul 18, 2024•32 min•Ep. 44
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Eric Merchant discuss the critical need for taking breaks and sabbaticals to avoid burnout, emphasizing the clarity it brought to his business approach. Jimmy and Eric also delve into the importance of accurate vehicle diagnostics, sharing a story where a misdiagnosed fuel filter was mistaken for a transmission issue. Finally, they highlight the emotional and operational challenges of running an auto shop, stressing the need for empathetic communication and mento...
Jul 11, 2024•44 min•Ep. 43
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by guests Nick Valentine and Travis Smith. Nick and Travis discuss the joy and challenges of using and potentially breaking their equipment, emphasizing the importance of gaining trust from customers through personal experience. They tackle the issue of managing client expectations, detailing how they balance repairs and custom builds while navigating budget constraints and communication needs. Additionally, the conversation touches on the persistent proble...
Jul 04, 2024•54 min•Ep. 42
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Steven Fafel, and they discuss the complexities of modern marketing. Steven emphasizes the critical role of online scheduling in streamlining customer experiences. Jimmy shares the importance of adjusting prices based on customer feedback to enhance service quality. They also delve into the significance of social media and event attendance as fresh marketing tactics. 00:00 Success from community recognition and car repair. 05:17 Striving for greatness in...
Jun 27, 2024•40 min•Ep. 41
Is social media important in the automotive industry? In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Parker Branch, share insights on maintaining a positive shop culture amid employee turnover. Parker emphasizes proactive engagement with employees to retain talented staff, including regular performance evaluations and open discussions. Additionally, they delve into the benefits of using social media platforms to market the shop and attract both customers and potential employees. 00:00 Importance of accountabi...
Jun 20, 2024•35 min•Ep. 40
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Josh Flat, owner of Flat Out Automotive in Sally County, West Jordan, Utah. Josh talks about the motivation he receives from a friend's doubts, sparking his journey to business ownership. Jimmy and Josh also discuss the importance of raising rates and building client relationships, providing insights into maintaining quality service and customer satisfaction. Josh shares his personal struggle with health challenges and the impact of business stress, emph...
Jun 13, 2024•45 min•Ep. 39
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and guest Gilbert Khoshaba discuss how attending ASD transformed his customer interactions and business growth. He shares the challenges of transitioning from an employee to a business owner, setting ambitious goals like expanding to four shops by age 45. They explore the struggles and opportunities in marketing, underscoring the importance of social media, coaching, and effective marketing strategies. 00:00 Transitioned from various jobs to car mechanic. 05:23 Self-...
Jun 06, 2024•34 min•Ep. 38
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy welcomes Jessa Boyd and Tilly Corser from George's Friendly Auto Service in Lincoln, CA. Jessa shares her experience of classes not aligning with her goals, emphasizing the value of researching instructors and reaching out to experienced individuals. The trio also talk through the ethical considerations of offering free diagnostics and the importance of building trust with customers through transparent communication. Also, listen and learn about the innovative dispat...
May 30, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 37
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Dave Krukowski discuss ways to navigate the complexities of marketing and customer retention in the automotive industry. Dave talks about the effectiveness and challenges of direct mail and retention marketing, emphasizing the necessity of regular service reminders. Together, they talk about the issues surrounding customer service, highlighting the importance of setting clear expectations and personal interactions, particularly around handling transmission work. ...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 36 min•Ep. 36
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy welcomes Scott Pelava, a seasoned shop owner and community figure, on The Gearbox podcast. The conversation dives deep into the real challenges and personal costs of owning and operating an automotive repair shop. Scott shares his early struggles transitioning from technician to owner, highlighting the steep learning curve in mastering the business aspects to ensure growth and success. Both Jimmy and Scott discuss the critical balance between work and family life, re...
May 16, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 35
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Dan Thieken discuss the complexities of managing and growing an automotive repair shop. Dan shares his experiences and challenges with business ownership, stating the importance of appropriate pricing and capital management. Jimmy discusses the evolutionary journey of his auto shop, highlighting his strategic shift from tires to full-service offerings and the critical role of seizing market opportunities. 00:00 Power sports tuning big with community support. 05:4...
May 09, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 34
In this episode of The Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy Purdy explores the intricacies of running an auto repair shop with veteran mechanic Jeff Compton. Jeff underlines the importance of setting clear boundaries between technicians and customers to maintain the focus required for quality repairs. Jimmy reflects on transitioning his shop from transmission specializations to a more diversified range of maintenance services. They also discuss the challenges faced by service advisors, emphasizing the crucial...
May 02, 2024•59 min•Ep. 33
In this installment of The Gearbox Podcast, host Jimmy Purdy welcomes Jeff Compton to dive into the intrinsic challenges and dynamics of automotive business leadership. Together they explore the delicate balance of team involvement in decision-making, with Jimmy emphasizing the significance of not springing new processes on employees unexpectedly. Jeff shares his perspective on the dangers of absentee leadership and its detrimental effect on team morale. The pair also delve into sustainable busi...
Apr 25, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 32
Today, Jimmy Purdy sits down with Austin Goodlett, a two-year veteran shop owner who candidly shares the hurdles of entrepreneurship in the auto repair industry. Austin stresses the critical nature of understanding business numbers and the complex dynamic of valuing one's services while navigating the owner's multifaceted role that spans from technician to manager. Pivoting from the initial drive to increase car count, Austin now prioritizes solidifying a financial foundation for his shop's oper...
Apr 18, 2024•1 hr 20 min•Ep. 31
On this episode of The Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy Purdy invites auto repair shop owner Nate Winston, who shares his experiences and future ambitions in the automotive industry. Nate recounts his decision to branch out on his own after a partnership fallout, underscoring the importance of vision alignment and work ethic in business collaborations. As they discuss the evolving landscape of auto repair, Nate touches on his plans to build a state-of-the-art facility and his commitment to remaining hands...
Apr 11, 2024•51 min•Ep. 30
In this episode, Jimmy Purdy and Matt Fanslow discuss the intersections of psychology, business strategies, and the nuances of the automotive industry. Matt draws parallels between the strategies used in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and those needed for business success, emphasizing the critical nature of long-term thinking and adaptability. Jimmy explores the concept of networking beyond the industry, recounting how his participation in a local jiu-jitsu dojo has led to unexpected business opportunities...
Apr 04, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 29
On this episode, Jimmy Purdy welcomes Chris Johnson, a seasoned shop foreman technician from Cobra Mazda. Throughout their discussion, Chris talks about the challenges technicians face in the classic and performance car industries, emphasizing the struggle for profitability despite high customer spending. The pair also tackle the issues of rust and the difficulty in performing alignments on older vehicles, highlighting the necessity of adjusting labor times to account for such complications. Add...
Mar 28, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 28
On this episode of The Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy Purdy dives into the high-octane world of drag racing with celebrated driver Ron Capps. With a nostalgic look back at his roots, Ron reflects on his formative years on the central coast and his father's influence on his passion for cars. The conversation shifts gears to the precision and teamwork involved in race car driving: from the importance of a finely-tuned vehicle to the critical role of a supportive pit crew. Ron also candidly explores his fu...
Mar 14, 2024•47 min•Ep. 27
