Welcome to The Gear Box Podcast—the ultimate pit stop for those looking to break into the auto repair business, grow their shop, and navigate the daily grind of the industry. Thinking about opening a shop? Struggling to increase profitability? Wondering what it really takes to thrive in a competitive market? We tackle the tough questions, break down real-world challenges, and share insider tips from industry experts, seasoned shop owners, and those turning wrenches every day. From leadership ...
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Welcome to AutoFix AdvisorCast, the podcast where automotive service advisors finally have a place to call home. Hosted by industry veteran Michael Doherty, with over 28 years of experience in the trenches, this show dives deep into the challenges, frustrations, and demands of being a service advisor in the independent auto repair world. AutoFix: AdvisorCast isn’t just about problems; it’s about solutions. Michael Doherty shares best practices, actionable tips, war stories, and fresh ideas f ...
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In each episode, Jamie Irvine and his guests have conversations that empower heavy-duty people. They discuss tips, tools, and technology that help heavy-duty parts manufacturers and distributors sell the right parts to fleets, repair shops, and truck operators.
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With a plethora of knowledge in sales, parts, and servicing medium- and heavy-duty trucks, BuyParts.Online leads the industry. Because of extensive knowledge of the nuances of the trucking industry, BuyParts Online is able to continuously meet and exceed the expectations of its customers. BuyParts Online understands the financial struggles independent repair shops and vehicle owners confront in the face of economic volatility. In order to solve this, BuyParts Online has painstakingly cross-r ...
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The Duff Radio Podcast focuses on music, current events, and the unique experiences of our guests.
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Use The Traffic Light Method to Retain More Clients!
14:26
14:26
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14:26Thanks 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 challenges service advisors face when communicating repairs to clients. Michael emphasizes t…
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"Burn It Down or Build It Back” – with Lola Schmidt
1:08:05
1:08:05
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1:08:05In this brutally honest episode, Jimmy Purdy and Lola pull no punches as they unpack the real chaos behind the scenes in auto repair — and spoiler alert: it's not the techs or the customers. From the constant battle with unreliable parts suppliers to the identity crisis of techs-turned-owners who'd rather rebuild a transmission than sell an oil cha…
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Why Discounting Fails and Adding Value Wins Loyal Clients
19:57
19:57
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19:57Thanks 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 tackles the hot topic of shop discounting, sharing why he believes it’s not a sustainable strategy for serv…
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Back by popular demand, Another live version of our local call in radio show.By Jimmy Purdy
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Service Advisor Secrets to Better Customer Retention
15:46
15:46
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15:46Thanks 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 through strategies for turning first-time customers into loyal, returning clients. He says you MUST c…
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Service Advisors - Do You Smile Through The Phone?
14:47
14:47
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14:47Thanks 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 tackles a recurring topic among auto shops: the importance of phone skills for service advisors. Michael em…
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Turning DIYers Into Loyal Customers | Service Advisors Listen Up!
19:35
19:35
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19:35Thanks 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 that issue we all struggle with... Converting do-it-yourselfers into loyal shop customers. Mich…
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Cutting Ties, Finding Peace: Nate Winston’s Journey to Independent Success
33:36
33:36
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33:36Nate Winston returns to the podcast one year after a dramatic business split — and he’s not the same guy. In this raw and reflective conversation, Nate opens up about the emotional toll of walking away from a 20-year friendship and 16-year partnership, the legal chaos that followed, and how he's found peace building his own shop from the ground up.…
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How Service Advisors Can Decode Customer Body Language
22:46
22:46
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22:46Thanks 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 today's episode, Michael Doherty dives into the art of reading customers’ nonverbal cues and matching their communication styles at the f…
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From the Bays to the Big Picture with Josh Rainwater
1:08:46
1:08:46
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1:08:46In this episode, Jimmy sits down with shop owner Josh Rainwater, who’s in the thick of a serious growth phase — and not holding back. Josh talks about what it means to go all in on your business, pushing through those brutal weeks where quitting sounds tempting, and the strategy behind hiring to free himself up from the bay and the front desk. If y…
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Service Advisors! Are You A Visionary or Integrator?
16:08
16:08
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16:08Thanks 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 two types of repair shop service advisors. Visionaries and integrators. Do you know which one y…
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Don't Sell To Clients, Educate Them! Tips For Service Advisors
18:45
18:45
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18:45Thanks 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 shift from a sales-oriented mindset to one focused on education and trust as a service a…
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*Special Edition!* Join Leigh-Ann and Jimmy Purdy live on Gear head radio!
47:21
47:21
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47:21A local, live call in radio show, featuring Leigh-Ann Purdy of Shift'n gears auto repair.By Jimmy Purdy
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Service Advisors! It's Time To Prep for Busy Season At Your Shop!
18:47
18:47
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18:47Thanks 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 helps you prepare for the busy spring season! Michael says to ensure all shop equipment, such as lifts and …
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Why Private Equity is Betting Big on Auto Repair – with Jim Parker
55:47
55:47
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55:47Private equity firms are flocking to the auto repair industry like never before—but why? In this episode, Jimmy Purdy sits down with industry expert Jim Parker to break down the boom in shop acquisitions, what makes auto repair recession-resistant, and how COVID put the spotlight on blue-collar businesses. Plus, they dive into a shocking stat: 40% …
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Becoming a Skittle-Pooping Unicorn. AKA - A Great Advisor
16:04
16:04
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16:04Thanks 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 how to become a standout service advisor. Or, like one technician on Reddit said, a "skittle pooping…
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Breaking Point: When Too Many Cars Becomes a Problem! with Josh Coomes
1:06:32
1:06:32
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1:06:32We sit down with Josh Coomes, who is in his second year of running his auto repair shop. We dive deep into the challenges of managing car count, marketing strategies, and the struggle of balancing growth with efficiency. Josh and Jimmy discuss the tipping point where too much work can actually hurt a shop, the importance of processes, and whether d…
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Phone Conversation Tips For Service Advisors. Do You Actively Listen?
15:40
15:40
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15:40Thanks 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 today's episode, Michael Doherty talks about active listening for service advisors. He points out the common issue of disengagement durin…
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*Special Edition* Live & Unfiltered with Gear Head Radio!
47:11
47:11
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47:11Gear up for a special edition of The Gear Box Podcast! 🎙️🔧 This time, I’m bringing you along for a Saturday morning like no other—live from the airwaves of Gear Head Radio! It’s a call-in radio show where we talk cars, repairs, industry insights, and everything in between—unfiltered and in real-time. Get ready for live questions, expert advice, and…
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My Thoughts From Vision 2025 in Kansas City
17:21
17:21
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17:21Thanks 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 takeaways from Vision Hi-Tech Training and Expo. He tells the story of his travel to the event, …
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Revolutionizing Repair Estimates with Brandon Jones of Hub Shop Solutions
42:42
42:42
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42:42In this episode of The Gearbox Podcast, we sit down with Brandon Jones, a former shop owner, coach, and leadership mentor, who is on a mission to change the way repair shops estimate jobs. Brandon has just launched Hub Shop Solutions, a groundbreaking company that provides a team of remote estimators, allowing service advisors to focus on what trul…
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Advisors Listen Up! Helpful Tips For Building Estimates At Your Repair Shop
17:38
17:38
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17:38Thanks 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 today's episode, Michael Doherty covers what you need to know about providing estimates to new customers over the phone. Michael shares p…
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"Finding Your Own Path: Cutting Through the Noise in the Auto Repair Industry with David Marks"
1:06:59
1:06:59
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1:06:59By Jimmy Purdy
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How To Manage Extended Warranty Expectations
19:14
19:14
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19:14Thanks 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. Today, Michael Doherty talks about the ever-so-dreaded topic of third-party warranty companies. If you're an advisor, you've had many headac…
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Shifting Profit: Jaron Kleber on Stopping Free Work & Raising Labor Rates
36:46
36:46
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36:46Are you giving away free work without even realizing it? Struggling to raise your labor rate without losing customers? In this episode of The Gear Box Podcast, we sit down with Jaron Kleber from Repair Shops of Tomorrow to tackle one of the biggest challenges in the automotive industry—knowing your worth and charging for it. We’ll break down why so…
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STBtheDON: Life, Music, and Building Genuine Relationships - Duff Radio Podcast
57:10
57:10
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57:10Ty McDuffey (host of Duff Radio) and STBtheDON have a discussion on life, creativity, and staying true to our goals. STBtheDON tells us about the story behind his stage name and his roots in Kansas City. We reflect on the importance of communication and respect in personal and professional relationships and how those values help us form strong bond…
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How To Improve the Vehicle Check-In Process at Repair Shops
17:33
17:33
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17:33Thanks 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. Today, Michael Doherty talks about managing vehicle check-ins through the lens of offense vs defense. He says you should take an offensive a…
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David Toole Shares Tips for Managing Multiple Auto Repair Shops
1:18:17
1:18:17
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1:18:17Today, Jimmy Purdy and David Toole talk about the pros and cons of owning multiple repair shops. David emphasizes creating a strong shop culture, particularly when expanding locations. He shares advice on preforming reviews and evaluations of technicians to ensure they are aligned with shop standards and discusses the challenges involved in managin…
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How To Improve Your First Impressions With Customers As A Service Advisor
18:51
18:51
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18:51Thanks 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 gives you tips on how to provide exceptional customer experience as a service advisor. Michael stresses the…
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Organic Growth vs Paid Ads in Repair Shop Marketing | Christian Mosley
1:02:57
1:02:57
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1:02:57Christian Mosley joins Jimmy Purdy to talk about automotive repair shop marketing. Christian talks about the pros and cons of social media how many shops have found wide success online. Jimmy shares his experience offering no-cost inspections to improve customer retention, saying that their retention rate increased significantly. The bottom line, t…
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TS Shaad - Midwest Rap Music, "Before SNS," Self Confidence Increasing Tips - Duff Radio Podcast
29:21
29:21
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29:21This new episode of the Duff Radio Podcast features a conversation with Kansas City rapper TS Shaad, his first appearance on the channel. You may have also heard him on "Hotbox Freestyle" and "Heart Of A Lion from the Duff Radio Podcast Vol. 1. In this Duff Radio Podcast episode, TS Shaad shares his personal writing process and what it was like in …
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Top Tips for Managing Parts As An Advisor
18:58
18:58
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18:58Today, Michael Doherty tells you why it's important to have efficient parts processes in place, such as setting up a Bluetooth doorbell to improve awareness when parts arrive. What do you do with the parts once they arrive, though? That's another key step, and he shares that in today's episode. 00:00 "Office Efficiency in Parts Management" 04:41 En…
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Mike Allen Gives Free Diag and Won't Apologize
46:16
46:16
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46:16In this episode of The Gearbox Podcast, Jimmy Purdy and Mike Allen talk about adaptability in today's industry. Mike shares why he offers free diag and gets into the constant balance between maintaining quality service and achieving growth. Listen to Mike Allen's new podcast "Confessions of a Shop Owner" HERE 00:00 Rural Store to Automotive Career …
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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. Today, Chris is joined by Kacie Presnell. Kacie shares her thoughts from her experience in improving service advisor's skills. A key focus s…
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Coralee Zueff's Top Tips to Help Technicians Trust Service Advisors
51:56
51:56
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51:56Today, Jimmy Purdy and Coralee Zueff talk about shop management and how to find the ideal ratio of technicians to service advisors. Jimmy asks Coralee to share her experience and advice to shop owners on how to gain trust between advisors and technicians. Coralee gives tips on setting expectations and improving diagnostic processes for shop owners.…
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Inauguration 2025 Political News Commentary - Duff Radio Podcast with LoganDaBaller
1:09:40
1:09:40
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1:09:40Welcome to a conversation with LoganDaBaller on the Duff Radio Podcast: 0:00 - Intro 1:25 - Martin Luther King Jr Day 2025 2:15 - Inauguration 2025 Highlights 3:30 - After Tiktok Ban Reaction 7:31 - War with China and US 11:25 - Trump presidency predictions 20:17 - Investment strategies 2025 21:50 - Inflation economics explained 24:14 - Censorship …
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Why Technicians Make Great Service Advisors - Chris Cotton Explains
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15:32
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15:32Thanks 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, Chris Cotton gives you tips on why technicians can make fantastic service advisors. He addresses common concerns with trans…
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You Got a Negative Review At Your Shop. Now What? Todd Westerlund Weighs In
1:20:52
1:20:52
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1:20:52Todd Westerlund is an industry vet. Over 15 years of technical experience and more than 18 years in the repair shop coaching. Todd is a believer in opening your shop seven days a week for ultimate customer service. He also shares advice on how to make your processes more efficient. 00:00 Industry Insights & Training 07:25 Technician's Journey: 15 Y…
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Are Safety Protocols Important for Auto Repair Shops?
17:41
17:41
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17:41Thanks 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. Today, Michael tells you how important CPR training and acquiring an AED are for automotive shops. He also talks about the value of having c…
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These Kids Blew My Mind! Teen Siblings Ava and Kingston Talk Transmissions
22:24
22:24
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22:24Jimmy talks with Kingston and Ava about their family-run transmission business at AAPEX 2024. Ava shares her journey in office management and how she's learned hands-on and gotten pretty good at multitasking. Kingston is excited about the technical side of the business, and even though he's in the 8th grade, he loves rebuilding transmissions. 00:00…
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Duff Radio Podcast from Riley Macc's Childhood Home: Working in an Auto Shop, Don't Let Bad Thoughts Take Over Nonprofit Organization, Bad Luvrs + Friends Concert in Kansas City, Putting on Muscle at the ...
36:29
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36:29This is a conversation between Ty McDuffey, the host of Duff Radio, and Riley Macc, a rapper, producer, and audio engineer from Blue Springs, Missouri. 0:00 - Interview intro inside Riley Macc's childhood home 0:49 - Meeting Riley Macc for the first time 3:52 - Life and what's going on for 2025, lifting weights, protein shakes gaining weight making…
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How to Master Scheduling and Service Bay Utilization as a Service Advisor
21:52
21:52
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21:52Thanks 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. Michael Doherty discusses the complexities of scheduling and service bay utilization today. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the …
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Pricing, Shop Expansion, and Customer Engagement in Auto Repair
1:16:11
1:16:11
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1:16:11Listen to Arun's podcast "We Are Driven" In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Arun Coumar, owner of Driven Auto Care and host of the "We Are Driven" podcast. Arun discusses the significance of efficient operations and avoiding high-pressure sales tactics to enhance the customer experience. Jimmy shares the challenges he faced in expanding his …
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Anwar - New Year 2025 Reflections, "Leviticus," DIY Fashion, Independent Artistry Duff Radio Podcast
1:45:25
1:45:25
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1:45:25Returning to the Duff Radio Podcast for the first episode of 2025 is Anwar, an independent artist (rapper, singer, painter, clothing designer) from St. Louis, Missouri, who just released his 8th body of music called "Leviticus." Timestamps: 0:00 - Congratulations to Anwar on his new album, Leviticus, Happy New Year 2025, how it feels to have a proj…
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How to Develop a Positive Business Culture and Mindset at Your Repair Shop
1:05:29
1:05:29
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1:05:29In this episode, Jimmy Purdy is joined by Jim Cokonis to discuss the significance of mindset and culture in business, especially within the realm of technician coaching. Jim Cokonis shares an anecdote about Simon Sinek to highlight the benefits of positive management on employee satisfaction. Jimmy emphasizes the difference between treating technic…
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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 Dougherty takes you through the A to Z of service advising, detailing individual traits and practices crucial for i…
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Car Inspections and Customer Relations with Phil Leone
1:19:56
1:19:56
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1:19:56Phil Leone, a seasoned automotive business coach, joins Jimmy Purdy. Phil emphasizes the necessity of thorough car inspections to ensure efficiency and job satisfaction among technicians. He shares the importance of quick quoting for waiting customers to enhance customer experience and minimize delays. Additionally, Phil discusses the value of ongo…
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A Huge Thank You to the Heavy-Duty Parts Industry
13:26
13:26
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13:26Send us a text Episode 350: Our host, Jamie Irvine announces that this will be the Series Finale of The Heavy Duty Parts Report. After 5 ½ years and 350 episodes, the podcast will discontinue making new content but will still be available to listen to. Why is the show ending? What is next? Listen to find out more! Show Notes: Visit HeavyDutyPartsRe…
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End-of-Year Reflections and Morning Routines for Service Advisors
22:20
22:20
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22:20Thanks 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. Michael Doherty discusses daily routines, parking lot scans, and communication plans for service advisors. He emphasizes the importance of a…
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Handling Driven Individuals and Business Impatience with Cecil Bullard
1:12:23
1:12:23
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1:12:23Cecil Bullard is the CEO of The Institute for Automotive Business Excellence. Cecil discusses the challenges of dealing with driven individuals in group settings and the risks impatience can pose in business decisions. He also shares his experiences with vetting marketing companies, emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluation to avoid issues.…
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