Best Automotive Service Advisors Podcasts (2025)

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Service Advisors - Act Like You Already Do Business Together with New Customers! 13:03

Play Pause

3d ago13:03

13:03

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty shares practical advice for service advisors on how to approach new customer calls as if they’re already do…

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When Service Advisors Put Technicians First, Everyone Wins 1:01:36

5d ago1:01:36

1:01:36

Rena Rennebohm, CEO of Empowered Advisor, shares why shops thrive when service advisors put technicians first. With years of experience coaching advisors, Rena explains how stronger collaboration between advisors and technicians leads to better shop culture and performance. She also dives into challenges such as high service advisor turnover, the l…

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The Big Balance. How to be time rich with Jesse Itzler 33:56

3d ago33:56

33:56

Jesse is an out-of-the-box kind of guy. I'm most cases he didn't even start with a box! In this episode, Jesse, who is an acclaimed author, co-founder of the world's largest private jet company, and award-winning musician and producer among other things, dives deep into his approach to balancing professional achievements with family life. Jesse sha…

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Ford Tech 1:16:55

3d ago1:16:55

1:16:55

Get The BOOK HERE! Flat Rate Life https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FK654G57 Today's guest is a Ford Tech, we talk about all kinds of stuff. Support the show Follow the Facebook page Follow the instagram page-- Flatratetech_podcast Check out the website Flatratetechpodcast.weebly.com [email protected] Don't Forget To Rate And Review! Thanks F…

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The Five Performance Levels for Service Advisors | Level Up Today! 18:01

10d ago18:01

18:01

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty challenges Service Advisors to make a pivotal choice: remain average or strive for elite status in their ca…

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Leading with Accountability & Influence 59:31

8d ago59:31

59:31

In this episode, Dave Anderson, President of Learn to Lead, gives leaders actionable strategies for handling tough situations while earning trust and respect. He shares practical advice on holding even high-performing team members accountable, making confrontation conversational, and avoiding the loss of credibility. Check out the full video versio…

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Loyalty Isn’t Free — They’ll Still Lie to Get You Here 42:13

11d ago42:13

42:13

The BOOK Flat Rate Life GET IT HERE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FK654G57 First we talk about the true cost of loyalty — how giving a shop everything still leaves you with nothing when they’re done using you. Then we dive straight into the interview lies: the fake promises, the sales pitch, and the managers who convince techs to uproot their lives a…

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Service Advisors NEED to Use "The Honest Agreement"! 16:18

17d ago16:18

16:18

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty dives into the concept of the "Honest Agreement," inspired by Marcus Sheridan’s energetic approach to build…

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Episode 323: Life From The Fence 1:38:16

14d ago1:38:16

1:38:16

On this episode of Grease the Wheels, Uncle Jimmy goes in depth on the pros and cons of being an auto mechanic. Despite some of our previous episodes, there are many pros to being an auto mechanic. The cars have gotten safer, the shops in many cases have gotten better, and more often than not the shops have come a long way from some of their humble…

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Turning Wrenches for the Secret Service 1:15:13

15d ago1:15:13

1:15:13

Lenny Fumarolo shares his journey from working in NASCAR to becoming a Protective Armored Specialist for the United States Secret Service (USSS). He breaks down how others can follow in his footsteps, what daily repairs and maintenance look like in such a high-security role, and how tools, uniforms, and the overall environment differ from typical s…

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You want to be the BEST? Tommy Mello tells us how! 1:13:39

17d ago1:13:39

1:13:39

Tommy is BACK! Our first time with Tommy was after he was a keynote at the Shop Hackers Conference in 2024. This time Tommy joins us for an hour packed episode sharing how he grew his garage door service company into a massive enterprise with over 900 employees. He shares what it takes to not just be good at sales, but what it takes to be GREAT. Hi…

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The Death of Mentorship and the Short Life of Good Shops 38:15

17d ago38:15

38:15

Flat Rate Life The Book Get it NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Flat-Rate-Life-Mechanic/dp/B0FK654G57/ Mechanic mentorship is disappearing fast in the automotive industry, leaving new techs to figure it out alone. In this episode I talk about why veteran technicians aren’t teaching like they used to, how to spot a bad auto repair shop before you get hir…

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STOP Being Transactional!! - Start Growing Lasting Relationships with Every Customer 13:52

24d ago13:52

13:52

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty dives into why the sale isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning for service advisors. Michael shares actionab…

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Helping Shop Owners Build Profitable, Fulfilling Businesses 1:07:26

22d ago1:07:26

1:07:26

Darrin Barney shares his journey from running a family-owned shop with his brother to becoming CEO of Elite Worldwide. He talks about the early struggles of building a profitable business and the importance of having the right team in the right roles. Darrin also opens up about buying the company that changed his life and how he now helps shop owne…

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Flat Rate Life Is OUT NOW! Link Below 3:02

24d ago3:02

3:02

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FK654G57 Flat Rate Life is live on Amazon. I didn’t write this to be perfect—I wrote it to tell the truth. This book is for every tech who’s been underpaid, burned out, overworked, lied to, and still shows up. It’s not some motivational fluff. It’s what it actually feels like to survive in the bays. If you’ve ever though…

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Grey Mechanic 4:08

25d ago4:08

4:08

book is available NOW! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FK654G57 There’s a type of tech they never talk about. Doesn’t post, doesn’t brag, doesn’t suck up. Just shows up, keeps their head down, and sees everything. The one who doesn’t play politics, but knows who’s full of it. The one they underestimate—until they need him. This episode is about that te…

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Book Release 5:28

25d ago5:28

5:28

Book is available NOW! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FK654G57 The book will be live Tuesday august 5th. After years in the bays and years behind the mic, Flat Rate Life is finally here—and this episode is the raw, unfiltered sendoff. No marketing fluff, no corporate polish—just a pissed-off tech dropping the truth. Support the show Follow the Faceboo…

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Two-Week Service Advisor Challenge - "Just Say Yes" 17:29

1M ago17:29

17:29

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty challenges Service Advisors to step up their game with a two-week “Service Advisor Challenge,” starting Aug…

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Episode 322: Caution: TOXIC 1:17:04

1M ago1:17:04

1:17:04

On this episode of Grease the Wheels, Uncle Jimmy goes down the rabbit hole of toxic management. We go into some of the specifics for what makes a manager or boss toxic: such as unrealistic expectations, nepotism, and much, much more! The good news is that skilled tradesmen of all types, and especially auto mechanics and technicians have ample oppo…

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Building the Future Technician Workforce 1:04:59

30d ago1:04:59

1:04:59

Lauren Reinhold, Director of Training & Education at Kirk NationaLease, shares her journey from technician to teacher to leading a technician training and apprenticeship program. She discusses how connecting with students on a personal level helps them succeed, and she breaks down key parts of the program she's building. Lauren also highlights the …

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The Rise, Realization, and Resilience of Justin Smith: From Mutiny to Mental Health 1:14:40

1M ago1:14:40

1:14:40

In this podcast episode, Justin Smith, the charismatic owner of an auto repair shop in Fredericksburg, Virginia, shares his compelling story. Justin recounts working with his father at a young age to opening his own shop at 24, under challenging conditions with no money or local support. Over the years, he navigates through mistakes, such as managi…

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They Could've Fixed the System. They Branded it Instead. 9:15

1M ago9:15

9:15

My book "Flat Rate Life" order NOW. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FK654G57 The truth about this industry—finally in print. Real stories. Real shops. Real techs. No filters. No sponsors. Just what they don’t want you to say out loud. This one’s for every tech who’s sick of watching shop owners turn failure into content. You ever notice how the same pe…

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The Power of Pre-Appointment Estimates for Service Advisors and Auto Shops 17:39

1M ago17:39

17:39

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty talks about the power of pre-appointment estimates as a service advisor. He explains how delivering estimat…

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This Job Used to Mean Something 10:24

1M ago10:24

10:24

Flat Rate Life The book order it here https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FK654G57 There was a time when being a mechanic meant something—when the job carried pride, respect, and purpose. But somewhere along the line, that got stripped away. In this episode, I talk about what changed: the loss of identity in the bays, the pressure to just “shut up and prod…

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Career Survival Tips for New Technicians 1:05:51

1M ago1:05:51

1:05:51

Curtis Gardner, Audi Master Guild Technician at Sewell Audi of North Houston and Founder of Gnarred LLC, shares what young technicians need to know to build a respectful and lasting career. With 15+ years of experience, he covers common mistakes, how to survive your first months in the shop, and why discipline and strong workflows matter. Check out…

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Professionalism in a Broken System 20:35

1M ago20:35

20:35

In a trade full of broken pay plans, flat rate pressure, and corner-cutting techs, what does professionalism even mean anymore? This episode of Flat Rate Life goes straight into the bays—where real technicians are still showing up, doing it right, and trying to survive in a system that rewards the wrong things. Whether you're at a dealership, indy …

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Top 10 Service Advisor Action Items for Building Customer Confidence and Success 31:37

1M ago31:37

31:37

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty shares his top ten action items, highlighting the importance of greeting customers with confidence, masteri…

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The Industry Influencer Circus 10:46

2M ago10:46

10:46

This episode is a full takedown of the fake voices in the industry—YouTubers, TikTok techs, podcast guests, and influencer mascots who pretend they speak for working techs… while cashing in behind the scenes. They don’t turn hours. They don’t fight dispatch. But they’ll gladly sell you a torque wrench they got for free. We let these clowns become t…

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Mentoring vs. Training Technicians 1:05:17

2M ago1:05:17

1:05:17

John Roberts, Shop Foreman at Metro Toyota, didn’t plan to be on the podcast—but his insights were too good not to share. In this episode, John breaks down the powerful difference between training and mentoring, shares how he builds confidence in his team, and explains why becoming a top-tier technician takes more than just skill—it takes the right…

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Building from Scratch: Brett and Tonya's Fast Path to Success in Pensacola 1:21:18

2M ago1:21:18

1:21:18

In this podcast episode, Tonya and Brett share their dynamic story of starting a successful auto repair shop in Pensacola. From their initial meeting in Philadelphia, Brett's extensive 35-year career in dealerships, and fast pivots in life, their journey is filled with numerous relocations, raising three children, and overcoming major challenges. W…

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They Train You to Stay Broke 29:31

2M ago29:31

29:31

My Book "Flat Rate Life" is out available NOW! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FK654G57 The industry loves to sell techs on training. “Level up,” they say. “Get certified. Build your value.” But out here in the real world? The more you train, the more shit work you get—and the less money you actually make. Shops don’t care what you know. They care how …

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Service Advisors: It's Time to G.R.O.W. Up! 16:18

2M ago16:18

16:18

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty dives into the concept of G.R.O.W.—Getting Rid of Old Ways—in the world of service advising. Michael shares…

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Episode 321: The New Frontier 1:36:56

2M ago1:36:56

1:36:56

On this episode of Grease the Wheels, Uncle Jimmy is back in the OG Rock and Roll Garage after a Homeric odyssey to get to New York from Texas. As a result, Erik the Producer is in studio to talk about some of the digital tools that we have been working on to help make your lives easier, and make you more money! We are talking Video MPI Training, a…

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Where Racing Passion Meets Customer Trust 58:00

2M ago58:00

58:00

Marc Erickson, National Sales at AutoMeter Products, Inc., grew up in a drag racing family and naturally found his way into the automotive world. Over 20 years ago, he started at AutoMeter, and his passion for the brand has only grown. In this episode, Marc discusses the importance of credibility and honesty with customers, offers an inside look at…

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15 Techs Quit During This Episode 30:47

2M ago30:47

30:47

Every 2 minutes, a mechanic quits the industry. That means by the time you finish this episode, 15 techs will have walked away from the trade — and I’m not surprised. In this one, I break down the real numbers, the reasons behind the mass exodus, and the daily pressure techs face that nobody outside the bays wants to talk about. From flat rate stre…

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Convert More Calls With Empathy and Clear Communication in Your Shop 16:49

2M ago16:49

16:49

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty talks about how to turn transactional phone calls into valuable opportunities for customer connection. Mich…

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How Mentors & Mindset Unlock Technician Career Growth 1:00:15

2M ago1:00:15

1:00:15

In this episode, Dan Aldrich, Director of Automotive Technical Training at Christian Brothers Automotive, dives into what sets top technicians apart—a growth mindset paired with strong mentorship. Dan explores why soft skills are just as crucial as technical skills, how mentorship can transform many careers, and why investing in yourself is key to …

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The Full Story. Edward Caswell's Transformed Life! 59:10

2M ago59:10

59:10

In this powerful episode, Edward Caswell, owner of Full Throttle Automotive and Fast Lane Auto Repair shares more than the details behind his successful business. Edward shares the full story of his life of brokenness turned into transformation. Hear how his wife fiercely fought for his future with the support of those around him, allowing him to b…

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Another Reason Flat Rate is A Scam 31:48

2M ago31:48

31:48

Let’s talk about one of the biggest lies in the industry: overtime in flat rate doesn’t exist. You can work 55 hours, flag 60, bust your ass all week — and still walk out with zero extra for the extra time you were actually at work. That’s not just shady… it’s a straight-up scam. In this episode, I break down how shops and dealerships dodge overtim…

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How Service Advisors Should Handle Comebacks 17:40

2M ago17:40

17:40

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty discusses how service advisors can effectively handle comebacks in the automotive repair industry. Michael …

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Taking Auto Shop Online: How to Reach More Students Virtually 1:09:38

2M ago1:09:38

1:09:38

Bryan Robbins, Owner & Lead Instructor of Hot Rod High School, is bringing auto tech education to students at home through online lessons and take-home kits. What started during COVID now reaches homeschooled students and beyond. Bryan shares his journey of following in his dad’s footsteps as a teacher, how Hot Rod High School found success, and ho…

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This Industry Is Killing itself 22:44

2M ago22:44

22:44

The automotive industry isn’t just broken — it’s bleeding out. Shops can’t keep techs, nobody wants to enter the trade, and the ones who stay are getting burned out, disrespected, and underpaid. The system is eating itself alive, and management either can’t see it… or doesn’t care. In this episode, I lay it all out — the toxic pay structures, outda…

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The History of the Service Advisor Role in Auto Repair 15:34

2M ago15:34

15:34

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty takes listeners through the evolution of the service advisor role in the automotive industry. Michael highl…

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Episode 320: You Know You’re Effed Part IV 58:42

2M ago58:42

58:42

On this week’s episode of Grease the Wheels, Uncle Jimmy rounds out the “you’re e’ffed” saga with part four. As it turns out there are tons of portents of doom when cars roll into your shop. Some vehicle’s even have multiple of these automotive red flags, while others can be false flags. We hit the ever favorite, “gimp mask in the trunk” and raise …

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ADAS Calibrations Changing Auto Repair 1:02:39

2M ago1:02:39

1:02:39

Joel Adcock, Director of Partnerships & Business Development at Revv, joins us to talk about the growing demand for ADAS calibrations in today’s vehicles. He explains how often calibrations are needed—even after basic repairs—and why prescans should be part of every job. Joel also highlights the need to better educate drivers on what ADAS is and ho…

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Building a Business and Balancing Family: Lauren's Success Story in Auto Repair 52:53

3M ago52:53

52:53

Lauren Keeton shares her inspiring story of shop ownership and how she and her husband David turned it into the life they wanted. Despite growing up in a small family-run shop and initially wanting a different career, Lauren was drawn back into the industry when David pursued his dream of opening his own shop. Lauren discusses the financial challen…

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Turning Price Shoppers Into Loyal Clients at the Repair Shop 18:33

3M ago18:33

18:33

Thanks to our sponsor WorldPac and the WorldPac Training Institute (WTI)! TOUCH HERE for the latest in auto parts distribution and HERE to explore training programs that can take your career to the next level. In this episode, Michael Doherty explores effective strategies for dealing with price shoppers in the service advisor role. Michael emphasiz…

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Growing an Auto Shop with Social Media 1:05:09

3M ago1:05:09

1:05:09

Miles Bell, General Manager of Dave’s Auto Center, shares how his family’s shop built a combined following of over 4 million on social media to help grow their independent auto shop. He talks about how he and his dad, Dave Bell, have learned to work together by playing to each other’s strengths, their “secret sauce” for social media success, and th…

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Episode 319: Why Am I The Bad Guy? 1:09:41

3M ago1:09:41

1:09:41

On this episode of Grease the Wheels, Uncle Jimmy goes into some of the backend programming of our customers in regards to what the media has made our profession out to be for the last 50+ years. As a profession, few trades have been maligned to the extent of the automotive trades, and this is especially true in media depictions. Let’s be clear, we…

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No Hours, No Deal: What Every Mechanic Should Ask During A Job Interview 28:18

3M ago28:18

28:18

You're not just trying to get hired- you're trying to get paid. In this episode, we flip the script on shop interviews and break down the REAL questions every tech needs to ask before taking a job. From flat rate traps and shady pay structures to bad bays and weekend shifts, I cover how to spot the red flags before they cost you time and money. Whe…