Talking Shop with ShopOwner

In a recent interview, Doug Kaufman, the host of "Talking Shop with ShopOwner," spoke with Lauren Langston, president and COO of Tekmetric, to discuss the upcoming Tektonic 2026 Conference. The conference is set for April 9th and aims to empower automotive repair shop owners through strategic insights, networking opportunities, and best practices. Langston emphasized the importance of yearly business planning and taking time away from daily operations to reflect on goals for the future. Attendees will benefit from sessions tailored for everyone in the shop, from owners to technicians.With expert speakers and a focus on integrating technology with operational excellence, Tektonic promises to enhance profitability and customer satisfaction within the automotive repair industry.For information, visit Tekmetric.com/Tektonic.

In this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, Doug Kaufman talks with David Rogers (Auto Profit Masters / Shop4D / Keller Brothers Auto Repair) about the people-first strategies and practical tech that help independent shops win.In the conversation, the industry veterans cover hiring for character and developing technicians, creating a culture that reduces rework and drives retention, simplifying tech stacks to remove wasted clicks, and using contained AI safely to surface useful KPIs.David also shares how focusing a team on one or two critical metrics — not a dozen — creates real, repeatable gains. Tune in for straightforward tactics you can apply this month to improve customer experience, shop throughput and employee loyalty.

Doug Kaufman sits down with Sunil Patel, founder & CEO of TekMetric, to unpack Tektonic 2026 — an industry-wide conference built for every role in the repair shop, not just a vendor event.Learn how TekMetric’s data view across more than 14,000 shops reveals what top performers do differently and how Tektonic will translate those insights into practical, measurable outcomes.Patel explains the conference format — 75 role-based breakout sessions where owners, service writers, technicians and foremen can “choose your own path” through hands-on technical training (including EV topics), service-writing skill workshops, MSO growth panels and a coaches debate. Hear about keynote speakers, networking opportunities, and TekMetric’s consultative approach to helping shops reach their next result (for example, improving average repair order through better DVIs and photo standards).Event starts April 9, 2026 at the Marriott Marquis Houston. More info and registration: TekMetric.com/Tektonic

In this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, Doug Kaufman interviews David Rogers, COO of Keller Brothers and founder of Auto Profit Masters, about the challenges automotive repair shop owners face with juggling multiple management systems.Rogers emphasizes that many shops lose thousands of dollars monthly due to inefficiencies stemming from fragmented systems that don't communicate with each other.Rogers introduces Shop4D, an ecosystem solution developed to address these issues. Shop4D integrates various aspects of shop management, providing real-time data and connectivity to empower shop owners, managers, and technicians. This allows for better decision-making, improved efficiency, and increased profitability.Developed with a $15 million investment and tested in Rogers' own shop, Shop4D aims to give independent shops a competitive edge against larger dealerships and chains by enabling efficiency, transparency, and employee empowerment. Rogers stresses the importance of finding a system where all components are centralized, and the software company takes ownership of any issues, rather than passing the blame.Shop4D supports multi-shop operations and enables technicians to work better without unnecessary stress, Rogers emphasizes. Ultimately, Rogers hopes to help the entire automotive industry to succeed.Shop owners interested in learning more can visit Shop4D.com or email David directly at david@shop4D.com.

In this episode of "Talking Shop with Shop Owner," Kyle Price, Senior Product Manager at Monroe Shocks, explains about the transition from winter to spring and the importance of suspension maintenance.Price highlights the impact of winter conditions on vehicles, emphasizing the need for drivers to care for their suspension systems. "With rising prices, vehicle owners are holding onto their cars longer, making suspension maintenance crucial. They want to make sure that their suspensions – shocks, struts, coil springs – are working the way that they should after enduring lifetime of cold and salt during winters.""We're trying to publish a lot of training and education. The Restore line is designed for the general population; the everyday driver who is looking for performance and a product that's going to keep their vehicle running, at a level that they can afford."According to Price, there are several key symptoms that bring customers into shops, including noise and ride quality. "Shop owners need to consider vehicle mileage, and have dialogue with customers about their driving habits to recommend suitable options.The suspension system is critical to the safety and the comfort of your customers' rides, and safety is always top of mind," he says. This dialogue presents an opportunity for shop owners to have a conversation with their customers to open their eyes to options that are right for their needs. Monroe's new product line, Monroe Restore, was developed to meet the needs of everyday drivers seeking performance at an affordable price.Price says different options may, in fact, be right for different drivers' needs and encourages shop owners and technicians to explore the Monroe website (www.monroe.com) for training and conversation points to guide customers. He also recommends visting the Garage Gurus (GarageGurus.tech) for expert training that can be tailored to individual shop needs.

In this episode of "Talking Shop with Shop Owner," Doug Kaufman interviews Jason Rainey, VP of NAPA AutoCare and NAPA Autotech, about the NAPA Team Tool Rebate program.Rainey explains that the program is designed to help shop owners attract and retain technicians by providing them with the tools they need to do their jobs. The program works by allowing shop owners to earn rebates on their NAPA parts purchases, which they can then use to purchase tools for their technicians. Shop owners simply buy NAPA parts and NAPA handles the rebate process in the backside, distributing funds that shops can reallocate to their team members.This program isn't just about providing tools, Rainey says, but is also about building a strong culture within the shop. "By giving technicians the tools they need, shop owners can show them that they are valued and appreciated. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and reduced turnover. When you're attracting talent, you're saying, 'because we're partners with NAPA, we're able to do this. And so it really is a rising tide raises all ships kind of thing."Rainey also discusses the NAPA Auto Care Apprentice program, which is designed to help young people enter the automotive repair industry. The program provides apprentices with the training and mentorship they need to succeed. He notes that the program has been very successful, with over 2,000 apprentices currently working in NAPA Auto Care member shops. Rainey highlights the program's competency-based approach, stating, "if they haven't mastered a skillset, they can stay there. There's not the end of the marking period. They can stay there until they're able to master that skill."Rainey explains that NAPA is committed to helping shop owners succeed, offering a variety of programs and services designed to help shop owners attract and retain technicians, improve their operations, and grow their businesses.For more information visit NAPAOnline.com.

On this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, host Doug Kaufman dives into the incredible journey of Ritchie Wimmer, a man whose passion for cars transformed his life and the lives of those around him.Ritchie Wimmer wears many hats: shop owner, teacher, racer, and technician. But his story is more than just a resume—it's a testament to perseverance, adaptability and the importance of paying it forward in the automotive industry. His journey began with a childhood fascination with cars that evolved into a career shaped by life-changing moments.After building his first race car and learning the trade through hands-on experience, Wimmer faced a life-threatening accident that could have ended his career. Instead, it ignited a new purpose: teaching. Now, as an instructor at Morro Bay High School, he is combining his expertise as a shop owner with his love for education to train the next generation of automotive technicians.From organizing his high school’s auto shop into a professional-grade learning environment to taking students to SEMA and connecting them with industry leaders, Ritchie Wimmer is bridging the gap between education and the automotive workforce. He’s passionate about solving one of the industry’s biggest challenges—the shortage of skilled technicians—by inspiring students to see the trades as a fulfilling and exciting career path.Wimmer's story isn’t just about teaching; it’s about creating a legacy. By sharing his knowledge and experiences, he’s helping students realize their potential while addressing the critical need for future technicians in an ever-evolving industry.Whether you’re a technician, educator, or industry supplier, Richie’s story is a call to action: get involved, support local training programs, and inspire the next generation. Because as Richie proves, one person’s passion can drive lasting change.This episode of Talking Shop with Shop Owner is presented by AAPEX, the premiere business and networking event in the automotive industry. AAPEX.20 24 was a huge success recently in Las Vegas and next year is already on the calendar – November 4–6, 2025 at the The Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. For information or to sign up to be notified when AAPEX 2025 registration opens, visit AAPEXShow.com.

America loves competition and will tune in to watch competitors battle on TV. Forget about watching washed up fighters slap at each other - you can watch REAL champions compete at the U.S. Auto Tech National Championship Driven by Yokohama  for the title of 2024 U.S. Auto Tech National Champion.In this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, host Doug Kaufman, editor of ShopOwner Magazine, chats with Andy Buehler, automotive technology instructor and 2024 champion of the US AutoTech National Championship, and Kim Arnold from Intersport’s Elite Trades Championship Series about the program.  They discuss the competition, which highlights the importance of skilled trades, celebrates automotive technicians, and addresses workforce shortages.Andy shares his journey in automotive technology, teaching, and competing, while Kim elaborates on the competition's structure and its impact on inspiring the next generation of technicians. Listeners also learn about the camaraderie among competitors and the significant prizes and support provided to participants.The program aims to elevate the trades' prestige and encourage more professionals and students to join. Key takeaway: The championship is not just a competition—it’s a movement to champion skilled trades as vital and rewarding careers.Tune in for an inspiring conversation celebrating innovation, education, and the future of automotive technology. The competition's final round will air Friday, December 27th at 8:00 pm on CBS Sports Network. Visit USATNC.com for more information.Talking Shop with ShopOwner is presented by AAPEX.

In this episode of Talking Shop with Shop Owner, Lucas Underwood, owner of L&N Performance Auto Repair in Blowing Rock, NC, discusses the impact of Hurricane Helene on the automotive repair community in North Carolina. Lucas describes how his shop and nearby repair businesses have rallied to support their devastated communities. Local shops have cooked meals for first responders and neighbors, helped with road clearing and offered free repairs for those in need.The discussion between Doug Kaufman, ShopOwner’s editorial director and Underwood highlights the strong bonds within the automotive repair industry, emphasizing how professionals come together in times of crisis. The Automotive Service and Tire Alliance of North Carolina (ASTA) set up a GoFundMe campaign to support affected shops, which quickly raised over $100,000. Additionally, organizations like WorldPac and Scanner Danner joined in, providing essential resources.Lucas and others will continue sharing this story and gathering support at the AAPEX show in Las Vegas, which serves as a central gathering for automotive professionals to connect and collaborate. This episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity within the automotive repair community.For more on how to support the relief efforts, visit ASTA’s website or Samaritan's Purse, a local organization involved in disaster relief.Talking Shop with ShopOwner is presented by AAPEX, the premier automotive industry networking and educational event. The 2024 AAPEX Show will be held in Las Vegas, November 5-7. AAPEXShow.comASTAUSA.orgSamaritansPurse.org

What's the best type of training? Cheap, convenient, and quick might seem to be the best answer. It costs your shop money when your techs are not repairing vehicles, right. Well consider this: training may seem expensive, but continuous training isn't a cost. It's an investment in employees to retain talent and provide high quality service in the automotive repair industry.In this episode of Talking Shop with Shop Owner Doug Kaufman highlights the significance of continuous learning for technicians, service advisors and managers. Bill Snow, VP of franchise development at RadAir Complete Car Care and Tire Centers, joins to discuss various training methods and the challenges shop owners face in keeping employees up to date with the latest industry developments. The conversation underscores that training isn’t just about gaining technical knowledge; it’s about fostering personal growth and strengthening relationships within the team and the industry.Talking Shop With ShopOwner is sponsored by AAPEX 2024, the premier business and networking event in the automotive industry.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are approximately 5,000 fires in automotive service and repair facilities each year. These fires cause an estimated $108 million dollars in direct property damage, result in about 10 civilian an 3 firefighter injuries, and often spread beyond the initial location resulting in even more damage and even deaths.The worst news? They’re usually preventable.In this episode of "Talking Shop With ShopOwner," ShopOwner editor Doug Kaufman and Steve Lockwood from Mountain State Fire Protection in Mesa, AZ, discuss fire safety in automotive repair shops. They discuss the potential threats in the automotive industry, such as combustible liquids and sparks from equipment. They also mention the importance of maintaining electrical equipment and the common occurrence of fires in automotive shops. Steve recommends shop owners keep their shops clutter-free and provide employee training on fire safety. He suggests reaching out to local fire protection companies or fire departments for resources and assistance.  They also touch on the importance of sprinkler systems and the legal requirements for fire safety in shops.This episode of Talking Shop with Shop Owner is presented by AAPEX 2024, the premiere business and networking event in the automotive industry. Training is one of the key aspects of AAPEX - For more information about the huge number of onsite training sessions or to register, visit AAPEXShow.com.- On September 28, the price increases to $120. During registration, you can add individual training sessions for $150 each. For more value, choose the AAPEX Seminar Package and get five sessions of your choice for only $400 ($350 in savings).Visit Mountain State Fire Protection or your local fire department or fire protection agency to get more helpful tips.

Knowing the different personalities and dominant traits of team members helps with communication and prevents internal conflicts, says John Wade, owner of Super Eagle Auto Care in Charlotte, NC.In this episode of Talking Shop With ShopOwner, Doug Kaufman discusses the challenges of finding, hiring and implementing your next ideal team member.Flexibility and constant adjustment are necessary for successful teamwork. Finding the right employees who fit the team can be a challenge for owners.  Growing too quickly without sufficient cash flow can lead to struggles.The conversation   touches on the challenges of employee retention and finding the right fit for the team and delves into the decision-making process of when to grow a business and the risks involved. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of effective customer communication and service advisors in driving growth. Talking Shop with ShopOwner is presented by AAPEX2024. For more information visit AAPEXShow.com.

We all know the value of training - or do we? Is it always valuable? Is it alway effective? Should it always take top priority?Naturally, you want to say yes, but experts say the RIGHT training for your team's needs is what's really crucial.Today's episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner focuses on the challenges of training technicians and service advisors in the automotive industry. The guests, Dave Boyes and Ron Shanas from Today's Class, discuss the importance of training in a rapidly changing technological landscape and the difficulties shop owners face in finding time for training amidst busy schedules.Together, they introduce their training platform, which offers daily training sessions in three to five-minute increments, tailored to the individual's role and experience. The platform uses adaptive technology to adjust the training based on the user's knowledge and provides feedback and opportunities for deeper learning. In a free-form conversation with ShopOwner editor Doug Kaufman, the guests emphasize the importance of consistency in training and the benefits of their approach in terms of knowledge retention and engagement. They also discuss the flexibility of the platform, which can be configured to align with the shop's specific needs and services.The guests highlight the ongoing development of the platform's content and its ability to adapt to changing industry needs. They also address common concerns and fears of shop owners, such as the perception of training as a game and the return on investment. They explain how the platform addresses these concerns and provides measurable outcomes, such as improved knowledge and performance, which can be used for salary increases, hiring decisions, and overall business improvement. The guests invite listeners to visit their website (ShopSquadOnline.com) for more information, to participate in webinars or to learn more about the platform. This episode is sponsored by AAPEX 2024, the premier business and networking event in the automotive industry.  Visit AAPEXShow.com to learn more about the show, being held November 5-7 in Las Vegas.

Charles Dickens might have said it best when he began his story “A Tale of Two Cities” by saying "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” When you think about it, every year end review and new years forecast could be summed up exactly the same way. It’s all in how you look at things. In this 2023 wrapup/2024 forecast episode of Talking Shop With ShopOwner, Doug Kaufman and Vic Tarasik discuss the state of the automotive industry at the end of the year and what to expect in the coming year.Kaufman, editor of ShopOwner magazine and Tarasik, The Shop Owner Coach agree that 2023 has been decent, with some clients experiencing record months and trending towards a record year. They also discuss the positive impact of lower gas prices and the potential for increased vehicle maintenance and repairs as a result.However, they acknowledge that things can change.The speakers touch on the importance of being prepared for potential challenges and uncertainties in the coming year, such as supply chain issues and changes in consumer behavior. They also discuss the trend of some shops considering a four-day workweek and the benefits and drawbacks associated with it.Overall, they emphasize the importance of focusing on what can be controlled within the shop and making decisions that prioritize the well-being of employees and the satisfaction of existing customers.Talking Shop with Shop Owner is sponsored by AAPEX, the premier automotive industry networking and educational event. To get more information about the 2024 AAPEX show, to be held November 5-7 in Las Vegas, visit AAPEXshow.com.

When the workday is over, the tools are put away, the computers have gone to sleep, the customers have driven away safely and the last tech has clocked out, washed up and left the parking lot, do you ever just take a minute to put your hands on your hips, look around your shop, take a deep breath and think, “Is this really all there is to life?”If so, you’re probably not alone.After a tiring day of being responsible for everything – from customers’ cars and their safety, employee productivity and their family’s security to your own business legacy, things can get a bit overwhelming. There’s a lot of stressful nights spent tossing, turning and considering what’s next. Bryce Kenny understands what you’re feeling. Kenny, professional driver of the Monster Jam Great Clips Mohawk Warrior monster truck, says he has been stuck in routines that were intended to bring him one level of satisfaction, only to find out that he was stuck in the wrong gear.In this episode of Talking Shop with Shop Owner, Bryce Kenny, talks about his new book called "Geared for Life." In the book, Kenny shares his personal journey and offers advice on finding the courage to chase dreams and overcome fear. He emphasizes the importance of shifting into the next gear in life and making a lasting impact on the world.Kenny believes that success is not about faking it until you make it, but rather believing in yourself and becoming the best version of yourself. He also encourages readers to look for ways to inconvenience themselves and to find meaning and purpose in their work. Kenny's book is available for purchase on various platforms, and he is passionate about helping others find their own gears and achieve success.Talking Shop with Shop Owner is sponsored by AAPEX, the premier automotive aftermarketing business and networking event. For more information about the show, visit AAPEXShow.com.

We talk a lot about the challenges facing shops these days – from technology to training to technicians, it often feels like we have more problems than solutions.In this episode of Talking Shop With ShopOwner, we endeavor to get answers to some of our questions. Doug Kaufman, editor of ShopOwner and Tomorrow’s Technician, talks with Jen Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and supporting young people to pursue careers as automotive technicians.TechForce provides scholarships, grants, and resources to help students get the education and training they need to enter the industry.Tech Force recently launched the "Grab the Wheel" campaign, which aims to reach out to 13 to 24-year-olds who may be interested in becoming automotive professionals. The campaign focuses on empowering young people to take control of their future and consider a career as a skilled technician. Tech Force also offers a community platform where industry professionals can connect and support each other and encourages industry professionals, shops, and manufacturers to get involved by volunteering, making donations or posting job opportunities. Tech Force is taking a group of students to the 2023 AAPEX Show, to expose them to the industry and show them the opportunities available. For more information on the foundation, visit TechForceFound.org Taking Shop with ShopOwner is presented by AAPEX.

Would you go for a ride in a car that has no driver? Autonomous vehicles are making news every day and they're making some automotive professionals nervous. Are they the future of ride sharing? Are we destined to become a world of passengers? Today we're talking about taking a backseat and letting technology do to driving. We're talking Shop with Shop Owner.Autonomous vehicles have been in the news a lot recently. Waymo, Google's self-driving car division has just announced success in putting completely autonomous vehicles into the field in Arizona. Yet there are still some challenges. Google says there have been cases where the test drivers in their vehicles fell asleep behind the wheel. A driverless car recently drove into wet concrete, mistaking it for a road, and studies from London have shown that self-driving cars and their cameras aren't yet perfect.In this episode of Talking Shop with Shop Owner, Doug Kaufman discusses the future of autonomous vehicles with Chris Piche, the CEO of Smarter AI. Piche explains that Smarter AI develops software platforms for AI cameras used in various applications, including driverless cars. He emphasizes that while AI cameras are not perfect, they are constantly improving and have already been used to enhance safety features in cars. Piche also discusses the challenges of data collection and processing, as well as the potential for AI cameras to detect complacent and distracted driving. He concludes by mentioning the increasing use of AI technology in commercial transportation markets.This episode of Talking Shop With ShopOwner is presented by AAPEX, the automotive industry's premier training, technical and networking gathering. The 2023 AAPEX Show will be held in Las Vegas, October 31-November 2. For information, visit AAPEXShow.com

Baseball Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan once said, "Enjoying success requires the ability to adapt. Only by being open to change will you have a true opportunity to get the most from your talent." While it's doubtful the Ryan Express was discussing the future of the automotive aftermarket, his words are just as true for us as they were for himself, as he found himself facing increasingly younger, stronger batters throughout his career.In this episode of Talking Shop with ShopOwner, the Kaufmans continue their analysis of what's to come. Doug Kaufman with Shop Owner Magazine and Derek Kaufman, managing partner at Schwartz Advisors, talk about the future of this industry, focusing on the people, the ones who work in the shops, the ones who own the shops.The common complaint is there's just no good techs out there. When the local fast food places are having trouble hiring workers, what chance do we have? What will it take to recruit, hire and retain top talent now and in the next several years?Talking Shop with ShopOnwer is sponsored by AAPEX, the premier automotive industry networking and educational event. To get more information about the 2023 AAPEX Show to be held this year in Las Vegas, October 31-November 2, visit aapexshow.com.

Of all the changes this industry has faced over its more than a century of life, that past 40 years have been a whirlwind. We’ve seen typewriters transition to mainframes to laptops; we’ve witnessed the eventual embrace of fuel injection and anti-lock brakes; we’ve seen OBDII and the internet come and pagers and faxes go. Through it all, shop owners have adapted.It’s fun to look back at what’s changed and consider how much better off we are now – but it’s scary to be on the other side of the curve, looking forward, trying to predict what’s coming next over the horizon. In this episode, Doug Kaufman, editor of ShopOwner grills Derek Kaufman, managing partner at Schwartz Advisors about what we can expect in the automotive industry in the future. As it turns out, that future is both closer and more amazing than you may imagine.Talking Shop With ShopOwner is sponsored by AAPEX, the premier automotive industry networking and educational event. To get more information about the 2023 AAPEX show, to be held this year in Las Vegas, October 31 through November 2, visit AAPEXshow.com.

For years, many automotive professionals feared the growing presence of electric vehicles because of the possibility that they meant fewer service opportunities. Since it's now becoming clear that EVs will still require much of the traditional maintenance and repair found in conventional vehicles, shops are embracing the technology.With electric vehicles, potentially accounting for 40% of total passenger car sales by 2030, the time is now to equip the people working on these vehicles for the road ahead, especially since drivers are keeping their cars on the road longer.They're not going away and shop owners and technicians will need to know how to do jobs - even traditional service and maintenance work - efficiently and safely.From training to tooling, the requirements to work on EVs are more critical than ever. Increased production and the push to adopt EVs has been a long time coming, but are the technicians who service these vehicles and keep them on the road ready for the change?In this episode of Talking Shop With ShopOwner, Doug Kaufman talks with Susan Starnes, Vice President of Emerging Markets with NAPA and Jake Sorensen, a NAPA Auto Care technician at McNeil's Autocare in Sandy and Riverton, UT, who explain why addressing the challenges before they're a problem is the best way for shops to prepare for the coming influx of electric vehicles.This episode is sponsored by AAPEX.