In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Kieran O'Brien and Sunil Patel to discuss the breaking news of the merger between Shopgenie and Tekmetric. Kieran and Sunil delve into the strategic decision behind merging their companies, emphasizing the benefits of combining their efforts rather than building separate solutions. They also highlight the industry's need for innovative, all-in-one platforms that address both the current and future needs of auto repair shops.

00:00 Shopgenie and Tekmetric merge; breaking automotive news.

05:28 Joining forces was inevitable for industry success.

09:00 Shopgenie offers unique CRM functionality, unlike others.

12:34 Innovative, future-focused auto shop technology solutions.

16:32 Subscribe for automotive updates; share your thoughts.

Learn more about how Shop Controller can make your shop more efficient HERE

Listen to our conversation with NASTF Executive Director Donny Seyfer

Listen to Good News in Auto Repair with Eric Merchant and Hurricane Relief

Help Operation Mechanic Hurricane Relief

Braxton Critcher delivers the latest updates on the automotive repair industry. Stellantis' major organizational changes due to weak global demand, and the National Automotive Service Task Force board elections, with new opportunities for AI integration in auto repair. Braxton also highlights a significant recall from Honda and shares insights into the evolving demographics of the do-it-for-me market and its future impact.

Thanks to our sponsor AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching! Schedule your free strategy session here: autofixautoshopcoaching.com

Vote in this year's NASTF elections!

In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Donny Seyfer to discuss the latest happenings in automotive repair news. Donny shares insights on the NASTF election changes, highlighting the new voting system implemented on their website to streamline the process for their 44,300 members. Additionally, he touches on the pressing issue of AI's impact on the automotive repair industry, noting both its advantages and potential risks. Lastly, Donny provides updates on various wins with automakers, including noteworthy efforts with Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, and General Motors to improve their software and support systems.

00:00 Nasdaq selections via curated slate, ensuring continuity.

03:45 42,000 members are eligible to vote via email.

10:16 Balancing innovation and security within AI use.

11:21 AI answers call; indistinguishable from the human voice.

17:43 Nissan updated warranty policy; calibration issues unresolved.

21:34 Counterfeit products caused unplanned GM tech issues.

23:44 Vote now and share AI industry thoughts.

Learn more about how Shop Controller can make your shop more efficient HERE

Donate to Merchant Automotive!

In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Kory Rozema, Eric Merchant, and Elijah McMillan from Michigan to discuss good news in auto repair. Elijah introduces a supportive networking group formed with Kory and Eric, highlighting the importance of community and collaboration in the industry. Eric shares his experience organizing a supply drive for storm-impacted areas, detailing the efforts to coordinate aid and the outpouring of support from various states. The conversation focuses on the positive impact of helping others, emphasizing the role of industry solidarity and compassion in making a difference during challenging times.

00:00 Chris Cotton helps the automotive industry understand unknowns.
05:40 Community fundraising initiative gains momentum rapidly.
07:55 No damage, but no power or water.
09:30 Seeking resources for smaller communities near Asheville.
14:40 Helping others positively impacts lives and industry.
17:11 Unprecedented storm hits Asheville, North Carolina area.
20:14 Ensuring enough space, prioritizing safe transport.
24:08 Success requires action and collective contribution.
26:32 Live like Jesus: serve others with compassion.
31:56 Podcast highlights positives in the automotive industry.
33:16 Inspiring community involvement and appreciation fuels effort.
36:44 Contact Corey or Elijah.

In this episode, Braxton breaks down the tentative agreement reached between the International Longshoremen's Association and the United States Maritime Alliance, which provides a temporary relief to supply chain disruptions. Elijah shares about the initiative of gathering and delivering supplies to Hurricane Helene victims in North Carolina, highlighting the industry's community spirit. Additionally, Braxton reports on Chrysler's recall of over 150,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles due to a fire risk, urging affected owners to take precautionary measures.

Vote for NASTF Board of Directors

Nominate NABC Awards

Thanks to our sponsor AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching! Schedule your free strategy session here: autofixautoshopcoaching.com

Braxton Critcher is joined by Eric Sponhaltz, a member of the Tool and Equipment Committee for the Auto Care Association. Eric provides an in-depth look at the Repair Act, explaining its significance for both consumers and the automotive industry. Braxton and Eric discuss the pressing need for bipartisan support to ensure access to critical vehicle data for independent repair shops.

00:00 Passionate about the automotive industry's community and goals.
04:24 Independent shops are essential for out-of-warranty car service.
08:48 Modern vehicles are complex, like driving computers.
11:19 Repair Act not considered despite significant support.
14:42 Bipartisan support for the bill ensures unity.
16:18 Dealers expanding services anticipating reduced control.
20:02 Independent shops and dealerships should cooperate.
23:13 Organizations help repair shops recover from damage.
25:51 Subscribe, share, review Automotive Repair podcast.

Learn more about how Shop Controller can make your shop more efficient HERE

In this episode, Braxton Critcher highlights the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene, emphasizing the devastation faced by automotive repair shops and the GoFundMe campaign launched by ASTA to support those affected. He discusses the put the Brakes on fakes initiative by the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, which aims to combat the rise of counterfeit auto parts with the backing of Homeland Security and US Customs. Additionally, Braxton shares insights on the growing interest among young people in automotive repair as a career path, supported by a recent study from IMR Inc.

Donate to the ASTA GoFundMe that supports affected repair shops from Hurricane Helene

Thanks to our sponsor AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching! Schedule your free strategy session here: autofixautoshopcoaching.com

Donate here: https://bit.ly/4ejh3qB

To request assistance, download your application here: https://bit.ly/3zBONAu and submit your completed application to chet.mottershead@astausa.org by October 11th.

Mike Allen joins Braxton and Lucas to discuss the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on automotive repair shops in Western North Carolina. Lucas shares firsthand accounts of the destruction, including entire towns being washed away and major roads being closed. Mike emphasizes the need for industry support, outlining ASTA's efforts to raise funds through a GoFundMe campaign to help affected members.

00:00 Unprecedented event, resembles 1940, 1916 disasters, ravines.
04:42 Unprepared for the storm; limited food and supplies.
09:13 Jeff, ASTA, industry unity, support, relationships, importance.
10:43 Auction tools tonight; proceeds support needs.
14:11 Thanks for listening! Like, share, subscribe, follow.