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Downshift With Tonnika

Tonnika Haynes

Power does not always come from pushing harder. Sometimes in life and in business, the smartest move is to slow down so you can move forward with control, clarity, and intention. Just like a great driver, growth means looking ahead, preparing for the climb, and knowing when it is time to change gears.

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#42
Thursday · 1 hr 43 min
We Created the Technician Shortage | Katie Gates - Ep 40
Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Tonnika Haynes sits down with Katie Gates for a raw conversation about what it actually takes to build the next generation of automotive technicians. Katie shares her journey from being told automotive wasn't a place for women to becoming a technician, service advisor, trainer, writer, mentor, and field diagnostic technician. But the conversation gets bigger: if the industry is worried about a technician shortage, why are entry-level technicians still being thrown into shops without proper mentorship, training, or support? Tonnika and Katie talk shop culture, technician burnout, investing in training, women in automotive, personal responsibility, and why both owners and technicians have a role in changing the industry. Timestamps: 00:00 – Why Young Technicians Are Leaving 00:42 – Lipstick, Beards & Getting the Morning Started 03:13 – Meet Katie: Technician, Advisor, Manager & Trainer 07:19 – Why Katie Chose Automotive Anyway 09:32 – The Professor Who Made Her Feel Bulletproof 11:50 – Mentorship, Wrenching Women Wednesday & Paying It Forward 16:40 – Women in Auto Care & the Scholarship That Changed Everything 19:15 – Starting Tech School With a Three-Week-Old Baby 21:13 – Are Entry-Level Technicians Being Set Up to Fail? 25:32 – Shop Leaders Need to Get Out and Talk to Their People 29:07 – Why Training Your Existing Team Is Cheaper Than Replacing Them 33:25 – Why Tonnika Takes Her Whole Team to Training 38:00 – We Told Kids NOT to Learn a Trade 39:56 – “You Told Them Not to Come Here” 41:11 – Why Automotive Professionals Still Get Disrespected 47:49 – “You Pushed Them Away” — The Entry-Level Tech Problem 54:43 – Technicians Have to Invest in Themselves Too 57:22 – Shop Owners: Get Up and Walk the Shop 1:00:55 – Building a Culture Where People Actually Communicate 1:10:07 – Front Counter vs. Back Shop Communication 1:16:56 – Why Auto Repair Costs What It Costs 1:23:22 – Building Trust With Your Repair Shop 1:33:20 – Are We Failing Service Advisors Too? 1:36:36 – What’s Next for Katie? 1:38:32 – Don’t Ignore Your Own Check Engine Light 1:39:45 – Katie’s Message to the Next Generation 1:41:18 – Tonnika’s Changing “Why” & Closing Thoughts
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#41
September 10 · 50 min
The Technicians Who Get Ahead Do THIS | Bruce Bolen - Ep 40
You shouldn't have to play detective just to figure out what's happening in your own shop. 😂 If you're ready for all your shop's information in one place, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO What happens when your employer won't pay for the training you know you need? Tonnika sits down with technician Bruce Bolin to talk about taking ownership of your career, investing in your own education, and refusing to let a lack of opportunity become an excuse for staying stagnant. Bruce shares what pushed him to attend industry training on his own dime, his plans to eventually open a shop, and how he's already passing his knowledge along to younger technicians. They also get into technician pay, certifications versus real-world ability, mentorship, and why getting just 1% better can completely change your value in this industry. If you're waiting on somebody else to make you a better technician, this conversation might sting a little. Timestamps: 00:00 – What Are You Actually Worth as a Technician? 00:42 – Bruce’s First Automotive Training Event 07:06 – 16 Years as an Automotive Technician 12:09 – The Five-Year Plan to Open His Own Shop 15:00 – Why Automotive Community & Training Matter 18:21 – Stop Waiting on Your Employer to Train You 25:29 – Want Better Pay? Increase Your Value 34:11 – Preparing for Shop Ownership Before Opening the Doors 38:01 – Mentoring the Next Generation of Technicians 43:21 – Is There Really a Problem With Young Technicians? 48:31 – Why the Automotive Community Matters
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#40
September 3 · 1 hr 8 min
Young Technicians Aren’t the Problem. Bad Mentorship Is. | Phil Ubinger & Hunter Jackson - Ep 39
Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Everyone complains about the technician shortage—but what if the automotive industry doesn't have a young-people problem as much as it has a mentorship problem? On this episode of Downshift with Tonnika, Tonnika sits down with veteran technician Phil Ubinger and his former mentee Hunter Jackson to talk about what real mentorship looks like inside an automotive repair shop. They dig into teaching technicians to think instead of simply handing them answers, why experienced techs need time and incentive to mentor, and why young technicians have a responsibility to invest in themselves. From shop culture and training to work ethic, confidence, standards, and career growth, this conversation challenges both generations to stop pointing fingers and start building the future of the automotive industry. Timestamps: 00:00 Why mentorship matters in automotive 02:35 Hunter’s journey into the automotive industry 05:30 Phil’s 40+ years as a technician 09:35 Why young technicians struggled to advance 13:15 Training vs. true mentorship 17:10 Building work ethic beyond technical skills 21:20 How to give constructive criticism without killing confidence 24:55 Stop giving technicians all the answers 27:50 “You can’t use my brain to do your work” 31:30 Finding the right mentor for the right technician 34:55 Building professionals, not just parts changers 38:25 “That’s not how we did it at Firestone” 41:50 Finding the right shop culture 44:20 A mentorship that became bigger than automotive 48:30 Passing mentorship on to the next generation 51:45 Hunter’s advice for young technicians 52:55 Nobody will invest in you more than YOU 54:50 Why shop culture can make or break mentorship 58:30 Are your technicians actually taking advantage of training? 1:01:25 If you’re not participating in your own rescue, that’s a YOU problem 1:03:45 Stop complaining about the industry and help change it 1:06:20 Leadership, legacy, and passing the torch
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#39
August 27 · 1 hr 22 min
Shop Owners: Maybe YOU'RE the Problem | Tristin Sweeney - 38
Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO At 29 years old, Tristin Sweeney is running an auto repair shop, building automotive technology, and questioning some of the industry's favorite excuses. In this episode, Tonnika Haynes talks with Tristin about his unconventional path from the startup world into automotive, acquiring Honest Automotive, building Shift, and why owning a shop became the ultimate testing ground for solving real industry problems. But things get spicy when they tackle the supposed technician shortage, outdated hiring practices, shop owners blaming younger generations, and why good employees may be leaving shops that refuse to change. They also dig into AI, technician training, communication, leadership, burnout, and why new technology should solve problems instead of creating more work. If you're a shop owner who keeps saying, “Nobody wants to work anymore,” this conversation might make you look in the mirror. Timestamps: 00:00 Why automotive has become unattractive to work in 00:23 Downshift intro 00:42 Meet Tristin Sweeney: 29, busy, and obsessed with automotive 01:23 Audi, Volkswagens, and where the car obsession started 03:15 Can you be a great service advisor without knowing cars? 04:40 There are more automotive careers than turning wrenches 06:26 From tech startups to the automotive industry 07:17 Getting laid off, joining ShopGenie, and finding his industry 09:17 Running TWO automotive businesses at 29 10:11 How Tristin bought Honest Automotive after finding it on Facebook 14:01 Has shop ownership given him gray hair yet? 14:32 Building a shop around passion and customer experience 16:21 Honest Automotive is also Tristin’s “laboratory” 16:48 How Shift Automotive was born 18:19 Building software from the problems that drive shop owners crazy 19:10 Technology problem or people problem? 20:17 How does someone working 60–70 hours a week avoid burnout? 22:55 Success isn’t worth burning yourself out by 30 23:19 Tonnika gets VERY personal about Tristin having kids 😂 25:32 Why Tristin is committed to automotive for the long haul 28:53 Shift grows to more than 150 shops 30:02 Why simply SHOWING UP can change your career 31:21 The “Gen Z stare” and learning how to communicate 33:34 Get in rooms where you’re uncomfortable 37:04 What will automotive look like 10 years from now? 41:11 Shop owners who ignore AI WILL get left behind 42:43 How should shops prepare technicians for new technology? 43:27 Does every tech need to understand the newest cars right now? 45:48 Why the next generation matters more than ever 47:58 What does a technician actually need to “look like”? 48:48 Is the technician shortage actually a hiring problem? 49:48 How many great technicians are shops overlooking? 50:48 “I hire people. I don’t hire jobs.” 52:00 Why automotive can be an unattractive place to work 54:18 Great shops generally aren’t struggling to find applicants 54:51 The talent is out there—and some of them want to leave their current shop 55:55 If recruiters can steal your technicians, that’s a YOU problem 56:04 Most shop problems start with the owner 57:30 Accepting criticism from your employees—even your own son 58:03 Old-school leadership vs. the way Tonnika leads today 59:33 The macaroni-and-cheese recipe for evolving a family business 1:01:47 Is treating every employee differently “coddling”? 1:03:50 Why one universal pay plan doesn’t work for everyone 1:04:39 Flexible schedules, flat rate, salary, and what actually motivates people 1:07:08 Shop owners who refuse to compromise may lose great technicians 1:07:56 Bad bosses create the next generation of bad bosses 1:08:21 Why leadership and communication have to be learned 1:13:00 Stop micromanaging every detail of your shop 1:14:22 “Granddad did it that way” isn’t a good enough reason anymore 1:15:28 The Carfax data debate gets spicy 😂 1:16:24 What Carfax actually gets from your shop 1:17:47 Tonnika’s grandfather discovers OnStar and thinks “they’re coming for him” 1:19:03 Technology fear usually comes from misunderstanding 1:19:45 Tristin’s legacy: Leave automotive better than he found it 1:20:00 Where to find Honest Automotive and Shift Automotive 1:21:22 Closing, AI hot takes, and what’s next
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#38
August 25 · 58 min
Are You Running Your Shop… Or Is It Running You? | Darin Johnson - Ep 37
You shouldn't have to play detective just to figure out what's happening in your own shop. 😂 If you're ready for all your shop's information in one place, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Running an auto repair shop is one thing—but what happens when the shop starts running you? In this episode, Tonnika Haynes sits down with Darin Johnson, a one-man shop owner from Great Bend, Kansas, who admits he's working seven days a week, struggles to tell customers no, and hasn't taken a real vacation since 2018. They get into the difficult transition from technician to business owner, why coaching and industry connections have changed Darin's approach, and how raising his labor rate didn't create the customer revolt he feared. Tonnika also gets fired up about boundaries, last-minute customers, “free” tire pressure checks, and why serving your community doesn't mean allowing customers to control your schedule. Darin is heading to ASTA with a mission: build his network, learn how to step away from the shop, find help, and finally create a business that gives him a life outside the bays. Timestamps: 00:00 Cold open: “It’s gonna be on one more day” 00:19 Downshift intro 00:38 Darin still has a FLIP PHONE?! 02:10 Meet Darin: Running a one-man repair shop in Kansas 02:44 How he accidentally became a shop owner 04:27 From hot rods to 25 years in automotive 05:39 Does Darin really want to stay a one-man operation? 07:06 Heading to ASTA for the first time 07:40 Why Darin LEFT his first training event early 08:39 Coaching struggles: Knowing what to do vs. actually doing it 09:55 The real reason Darin is coming to ASTA 10:16 Shop ownership can feel like you’re on an island 13:08 Working seven days a week & being married to the shop 14:20 The people-pleasing problem 15:03 Customers asking about cars at dinner and the grocery store 16:27 What happens when the shop becomes your only hobby? 20:26 Feeling guilty for taking time away 20:57 “Schedule your hats”—including downtime 22:59 Darin’s five-year plan: Train someone to replace him 23:38 His last REAL vacation was in 2018 24:34 Open-heart surgery changed how Darin viewed the business 25:21 Becoming an owner instead of just a technician 28:06 Why 15–20 cars are constantly sitting at the shop 28:34 The work Darin has finally started saying NO to 30:49 Bringing an accountability partner to training 32:42 Why a few unhappy customers can ruin your mindset 33:58 Should you just FIRE the worst 5% of your customers? 38:02 Tonnika gives Darin his official ASTA assignment 40:40 Finding your automotive family 42:39 Why Tonnika recommends coaching 43:57 Coaching’s impact on Darin’s mindset and mental health 45:01 “I wish I would’ve done this 10 years ago” 46:04 Why shops that don’t train get left behind 46:58 Darin now has the highest labor rate in town 47:34 Tonnika’s $12 lawnmower tire era 😂 49:00 Learning how to say NO without losing customers 49:12 Scheduling your different “hats” as an owner 51:10 Customers don’t control your schedule 51:44 “It’s been on for two weeks? It can wait another day.” 53:05 Your six-month-old check engine light isn’t suddenly my emergency 53:50 How “real quick” jobs steal HOURS from your day 54:52 Why Tonnika refuses to just throw air in a tire 55:32 “My air isn’t free!” 56:23 The right way to say no: Give customers another option 57:45 Darin’s ASTA challenge & what’s coming in Part 2
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#37
August 20 · 1 hr 30 min
Why Young Technicians Keep Failing | Riley Spence - Ep 36
Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE 00:00 Meet Riley Spence and the dangers of reading internet comments 03:12 Starting in the automotive industry at 14 years old 04:54 Learning from mistakes, trouble, and a different career path 06:06 Moving from turning wrenches into service and parts management 07:36 Being promoted without training, procedures, or support 08:21 Are service advisors really doing the easier job? 09:52 How technician roles differ between dealerships, independents, and fleets 12:31 Front and back must work together—not against each other 14:35 Ego, arguments, and the shop cultures nobody wants 17:23 Why Riley loves his current shop and the people around him 18:34 Not every mentor is right for every apprentice 19:02 Riley admits how ego hurt him as a young technician 20:11 What Tonnika tells young employees who ask for help but won’t listen 22:20 Making mistakes, slowing down, and learning without giving up 24:20 What happens when a technician oversells their abilities 25:51 Tonnika’s “green banana” scale for inexperienced technicians 26:54 Do experienced technicians actually want to teach the next generation? 28:30 The most important lesson for apprentices: shut up and listen 30:00 Could an experienced technician learn from a 20-year-old apprentice? 33:00 How younger employees can make an entire shop better 35:18 Accountability, respect, and preparing young people for the workforce 37:42 Mental health is real—but it cannot erase accountability 41:04 Work-life balance and creating a safe place for technicians to talk 44:10 Riley shares a costly mistake involving a car with no brake pedal 47:52 The high-school dropout who became a talented technician 50:35 Finding potential in unexpected employees 51:24 How shops can make automotive careers more attractive 53:01 Tool allowances and helping young technicians build a toolbox 54:45 Why shops need to invest in training 55:20 Technicians don’t have to wait for their employer to educate them 58:40 Don’t let a bad shop stop your career growth 01:03:00 Why support at home matters in a demanding automotive career 01:05:11 Parenting your own children is not “babysitting” 01:07:33 From “Brown’s daughter” to “Tonnika’s dad” 01:08:09 Making a difference in employees’ lives 01:10:36 What legacy really means inside and outside the shop 01:12:52 Why shop owners need honest feedback from their employees 01:21:11 Jordan’s roadside repair and a helpful stranger 01:22:11 Banana pudding, Southern culture, and automotive friendships 01:23:47 The automotive leaders Riley admires 01:26:32 Why conversations and community are changing the industry 01:27:00 Why Tonnika finally started a podcast 01:27:29 Showing young people that automotive can be a great career 01:29:24 Riley’s responsibility to the next generation 01:29:42 Dirty hands, clean money
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#36
August 13 · 1 hr 1 min
Why Great Technicians Struggle as Shop Owners | Aniz Lavji & Brian Gauthier - Ep 35
Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO What happens when automotive professionals stop trying to figure everything out alone? In this episode of Downshift with Tonnika, Tonnika Haynes sits down with Aniz Lavji and Brian Gauthier to talk about the training, relationships and hard business lessons that transformed the way they approach the automotive industry. They share how ASTA Expo helped them find mentors, strengthen their technical skills, understand their numbers and build connections that continued helping them long after the classes ended. Aniz also explains how changing his shop software and processes helped him generate 50–60% more business, while Brian shares how the people he met helped him move from feeling stuck as a technician to opening his own shop. ASTA Expo 2026 takes place September 24–26 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Use registration code DOWNSHIFT25 to save $25. Register HERE Timestamps: 00:00 – Meet Aniz and Brian: two very different automotive journeys 02:21 – Why neither guest had attended industry training before 05:12 – Finding a way to attend despite family and financial pressures 07:01 – Why the best learning often happens outside the classroom 10:46 – The biggest lesson from walking into a “bigger room” 13:10 – How ASTA Expo changed Tonnika’s own career and business 14:32 – The software change that helped Aniz grow business by 50–60% 15:58 – Working on the business instead of always working in it 20:20 – Internet opinions, difficult customers and running your own shop 23:11 – Pricing, boundaries and learning to say no 25:25 – Why “profit is not a dirty word” 31:00 – Aniz’s vulnerable first-night experience and the people who showed up 36:00 – Why the relationships can matter as much as the training 42:07 – How Brian went from feeling stuck to opening his own shop 44:07 – Why technicians and service advisors must invest in themselves 49:34 – What first-time ASTA Expo attendees can expect 54:02 – Stop gatekeeping knowledge in the automotive industry 59:08 – ASTA Expo dates, registration details and discount code
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#35
August 6 · 47 min
From College Basketball to Automotive Leader | Gabby Oglesby - Ep 34
You shouldn't have to play detective just to figure out what's happening in your own shop. 😂 If you're ready for all your shop's information in one place, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Tonnika Haynes chats with Gabby Oglesby, Director of Product at Kukui, about her journey from college basketball to innovator in the automotive tech space. Gabby shares how her background in sports shaped her leadership style, why diversity and representation matter in the industry, and the importance of designing user-friendly products for shop owners. Timestamps: 00:00 Social media confessions and TikTok addiction 01:34 How basketball built Gabby’s leadership from a young age 02:46 Honored in the Hall of Fame: Gabby’s journey from Guilford College to Kukui 04:57 Wearing the green: The inside truth about Kukui’s infamous uniforms 05:25 Four years at Kukui—bridging product creation and real shop needs 06:22 From country kid to tech leadership: Gabby on moving, growing, and learning 08:24 Designing products with empathy for shop owners and customers 09:08 The power of community & networking at industry events 10:06 How the game (and teamwork) led to a new kind of leadership at work 12:25 Breaking barriers: Black women, LGBTQ+ leaders, and showing up at automotive events 16:31 Why representation and village vibes make the industry stronger 17:19 So many career options in auto, even if you don’t wrench 18:35 Tackling imposter syndrome and showing up 19:49 Being underestimated, finding your voice, and showing confidence 21:30 Masculine-presenting in leadership and the importance of authenticity 22:00 Parenting, adoption, and non-traditional families in auto 23:08 Growing LGBTQ+ visibility at trainings—breaking old assumptions 24:38 How stereotype-busting leads to stronger community 25:48 The real secret: Diversity and curiosity build the best teams 27:46 How Kukui builds new tech for shops—straight from owner input 28:55 Toggles, choices, and making products user-friendly 30:58 Keeping up with tech—old school meets new school shop culture 31:19 AI, customer experience, and the tools that really matter for shop owners 34:39 The loyalty program and the importance of customer retention 36:06 New shops, new competition—standing out with service, not just tech 38:24 Lessons from rapid change: Stick to what works, be wary of shiny new “solutions” 41:00 Lasting legacy: Gabby on commitment, voice, and bringing your full self 43:16 What diversity really brings to your shop—food, flavor, and unstoppable teams 44:00 Why the next generation matters and why you need to be at the table 44:46 Where to find Gabby, Kukui, and upcoming events
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#34
July 30 · 1 hr 6 min
Who Takes Care of the Shop Owner? | JeanAnn SaintGrace - Ep 33
Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE In this episode, Tonnika Haynes and JeanAnn SaintGrace get real about the shop ownership journey—no sugarcoating here. JeanAnn opens up about navigating grief, burnout, and leadership after the loss of her husband, sharing how those tough lessons turned into a passion for coaching other shop owners. If you’ve ever felt like you’re celebrating your wins alone, juggling all the hats, or just need someone to unwind with who truly gets it, this episode is for you. Listen to JeanAnn's podcast "Shop Talk Her Way" here Timestamps: 00:00 Why shop owners need a place to unload—the birth of Downshift 01:16 JeanAnn’s background: Shop ownership, grief, and a “unicorn” sale 03:39 Returning to the automotive world—coaching through loss 05:47 Why longer coaching calls matter & celebrating client wins 07:04 Loneliness of leadership—why owners need people to celebrate with 08:13 The value of going deep: No “I’m fine” answers allowed! 09:51 Balancing business and friendship—navigating tough employee situations 12:34 Vision for your team: Helping employees look beyond the next paycheck 14:34 Embracing differences—why everyone brings something to the table 16:11 The next great idea can come from anywhere (even the “kid” tech!) 18:18 Smarter people in the room: Building teams that challenge and grow 18:56 The three things employees want most: Communication, recognition, input 20:15 One-on-ones, “date nights,” and loving your team ‘til it’s weird 21:36 Technicians and mental health: Addressing the industry’s suicide rate 24:16 Shop ownership is lonely—creating spaces for real talk and support 26:23 Lacking life insurance and key man insurance? Why it’s a must 29:01 Burnout, overwork, and the power of letting your team support you 32:39 General vs. soldier: Why owners shouldn’t always be “in the trenches” 34:55 Giving yourself grace—especially when hard work doesn’t look glamorous 37:52 Surviving life’s curveballs: The benefits of planning and protection 43:31 Being vulnerable as a leader & building real trust/culture 47:03 Celebrating the little wins—because no one claps for payroll! 56:22 The heart of service: Why connections with customers matter most 59:04 Becoming the “first call”—your shop as the hub of community trust 1:01:25 From fixing cars to fixing lives: Jean Ann’s legacy through coaching 1:04:00 You’re not alone—reaching out for community, resources, and real talk 1:05:10 How to connect with JeanAnn and find your safe space to land
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#33
July 28 · 59 min
Benjie Burris's "Secret Weapon" for His Shop | Benjie and Kristy Burris - Ep 32
Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Tonnika Haynes welcomes back Benjie Burris, but this time he brought who we all wanted to hear the first time. The boss! Kristy Burris. Today, they get into what it means to build legacy in the automotive repair industry. They also cover the importance of apprenticeship programs and investing in young technicians to secure the industry's future. Tonnika also unpacks the real story behind shop culture—emphasizing that true wealth isn’t just KPIs, but the impact you have on your community and the next generation. Timestamps: 00:00 The pressure to go to college—and the reality for grads 01:31 Why Benjie’s “secret weapon” changed the business 02:46 Doing the work vs. coasting through shop coaching 05:00 Kristy’s journey: from classroom to the family shop 09:11 The apprenticeship program and hiring local youth 13:00 Rethinking “special education”—everyone deserves a chance 16:05 The unseen brilliance in non-traditional students 18:28 Why degrees and diplomas aren’t the only path to success 20:07 Building up people, not just technicians 22:22 Real wealth: lessons you can’t measure in KPIs 24:45 Are today’s kids “lazy”? Busting myths about the next generation 27:44 The trap of chasing other people’s goals—set your own 32:34 How mentorship changes lives (and helped Benji calm down!) 36:03 Culture eats strategy for breakfast—here’s what REALLY matters 42:15 Mentorship in action: the new generation leading the shop 45:45 Lessons learned: why serving your community beats the bottom line 48:14 Don’t bring work home—making the family business attractive 51:10 Next-gen ownership: preparing your kids for leadership 55:05 Giving your staff tools that don’t come from a tool truck 57:00 Why feedback (and a good chicken wing) matter 59:10 It’s not smoke and mirrors—shop culture you can FEEL
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#32
July 23 · 1 hr 4 min
How to Build a Business While Raising a Family | Kassiady Markham - Ep 31
You shouldn't have to play detective just to figure out what's happening in your own shop. 😂 If you're ready for all your shop's information in one place, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Kassiady Markham joins Tonnika Haynes to share her journey of building Phase Two Automotive alongside her husband from the ground up. Kassiady opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood, business ownership, and overcoming setbacks—including business failures and family health crises. She emphasizes the importance of coaching for growth, setting boundaries at work, and building generational wealth for their family. Timestamps: 00:00 Kassiady introduction: therapy, humor, and owning half the company 01:02 Shop origins: EMT careers and turning a car hobby into a side hustle 04:08 From “side gig” to baby in the office—juggling kids and business 05:16 Struggles: marriage stress, foreclosure, and raising autistic children 07:00 When the first business collapsed and the comeback began 10:09 Taking a leap (again): Starting over with Phase Two Automotive 13:32 IRS threats and the decision to take full control 14:29 Stepping into leadership: Doing the books, HR, and payroll 16:36 Coaching with Elite: Solving problems, boundaries, and marriage tips 18:45 Why running a family business was the only way 20:01 Who’s in Kassiady corner when it gets hard? Support systems 23:30 How the team runs the shop (including her brother!) 25:38 The crucial role of coaching in unlocking new growth 27:20 The vision: generational wealth, success goals, and involving the kids 30:35 Lessons learned: “It’s not a bad life—just a bad day.” 32:01 Setting work boundaries and prioritizing family 34:19 Therapy as self-care; keeping the marriage strong 39:05 Parenting philosophies and supporting kids to adulthood 41:14 Leading as the only woman in the shop: standing firm 43:19 Customer confrontations and not backing down 44:50 Real advice for women running shops or helping husbands 50:39 Discounting, boundaries, and protecting the shop’s future 54:49 Giving back to the community—doing good when it matters 56:29 Expansion goals: property headaches and future shop dreams 60:08 Rapid fire: first car, dream car, entrepreneurship in one word 61:49 Biggest lesson: Wishing they’d started coaching sooner 62:13 Why she’ll never be without a business coach
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#31
July 21 · 2 hr
The Mistake That's Costing Your Shop Money | Nick Yannessa & Chi Wong - Ep 30
Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE In this episode, Tonnika welcomes Nick Yannessa & Chi Wong to talk about how they started a auto repair shop. Nick brought up how he thinks it's dangerous to judge customers based on their car or background—presenting recommendations equally is key for success. They all discuss the importance of efficiency and processes, especially for one-person operations, with strategies ranging from shop layout to streamlined part sourcing. The discussion explored how relationships—whether through peer support, coaching, or personal connection with customers—can make or break both morale and business success. Timestamps: 00:00 Growing up in the business, judging customers & learning not to assume 03:00 The wild origin story of a Philly-area repair friendship 07:00 Shop ownership journeys: from dealer frustration to Craigslist finds 13:15 Shop expansions, partnerships, and the big pains of growing fast 16:30 Management mistakes: Getting hurt by the wrong coaching advice 22:30 Why shop friendships (and roasting each other) drive real growth 26:00 Breaking out of the tech mindset — why process & sales skills matter 35:00 Single bay or big staff? How to thrive as a one-man show 41:30 Efficiency hacks: leg surgery for your shop layout 47:00 The power of batching tasks, double-dipping on equipment, and finding your warehouse 51:00 Bootstrapping a new shop, from free desks to Techmetric (or not) 59:00 Real-life sales training: How to pitch brakes and win trust 1:12:00 Dealership vs. Indie: Why premium service isn’t just about the brand 1:20:00 Body shop margins, insurance games, and why service rocks 1:33:00 The secret sauce: Making your shop unforgettable 1:39:00 Building trust over time (without a single DVI) 1:44:00 Health, happiness, and generational wealth—success beyond KPIs 1:46:00 Why driving a free CR-V might beat flexing a Cadillac 1:52:00 Building benefits for your people, and leveling up your future 1:58:00 Final rants and why you need to be the “dive bar” your customers love
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#30
July 16 · 56 min
The Shop Owner Comparison Trap | Anders Gustafson - Ep 29
Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Tonnika Haynes welcomes Anders Gustafson to discuss the real journey of shop ownership, from humble beginnings to scaling up. Anders shares the challenges of starting a shop with little experience, reflecting on the lessons learned from opening a second location and the importance of picking the right spot. Together, they get real about the mental toll of comparing yourself to others on social media, the need for community and coaching in the automotive industry, and why self-growth matters more than flashy online wins. Timstamps: 00:00 The Comparison Trap: Social Media and Shop Owner Wins 01:26 East Coast Roots: Moving for a Dream 02:15 Breaking into Automotive: From Office Job to Shop Life 03:38 U-Hauls & Humble Beginnings—Opening Shop in Virginia 07:27 Location Matters! Lessons from Two Stores 11:01 Second Location Struggles & Mistakes 14:36 Going It Alone: The Cost of Not Getting Industry Support 17:32 Social Media: More Harm Than Good? 19:02 Measuring Growth: Why the Only Race is With Yourself 25:02 Teaching & Tectonic: How Humor Changes the Game 28:23 Tech-Enabled Services: ShopLevers Explained 32:46 Business Partners: Horror Stories & Happy Endings 37:04 Boondoggling Across the Globe: Adventures Post-Shop Life 41:40 Real Shop Drama: Roller Coasters, Jabronis & Jalopies 44:00 The Power of Coaching, Training, and Community 46:53 From Fear to Freedom: Finding Your Shop Owner Tribe 49:01 Shop Ownership = Roller Coaster (and Why You Should Love It) 52:44 Google Reviews, Value, and Standing Your Ground
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#29
July 14 · 1 hr 49 min
What Nobody Warns You About Shop Ownership | Andrew Klement & Caleb McElmurry - Ep 28
You shouldn't have to play detective just to figure out what's happening in your own shop. 😂 If you're ready for all your shop's information in one place, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Tonnika Haynes sits down with Andrew Klement and Caleb McElmurry to dive into the realities of young shop ownership in the automotive industry. Andrew and Caleb talk candidly about their rough starts, the importance of being profitable (and actually charging the right prices), and how building a supportive community has made all the difference. Timestamps: 00:00 Young shop owners introduce themselves, plant mom stories, and moving from mobile to brick-and-mortar 04:36 Caleb describes his dealership beginnings, lessons from a used car lot, and why integrity matters 06:35 Andrew shares his “started from the lawnmower” story, learning on the job, and meeting the right mentors 12:27 Why both left bad bosses and how they leveled up their skills 13:55 Building a customer base: overcoming $20 repair mindsets and finding the right clients 17:15 The hardest part of moving from technician to owner—payroll, pricing, and pressure 21:21 Learning to price (and value!) your work: Big mistakes shop owners make 25:28 What it actually means to take care of your community—and yourself 34:12 Balancing family and business: honest talk about shop life with kids 39:16 The shop mistake neither will EVER repeat again 43:03 Coaching, community, and why there’s no single right way to win in this business 57:00 Are you building a legacy? Talking new generations and what it means for your shop 1:01:50 What to know before you open your own shop (spoiler: it’s harder than you think!) 1:16:10 Why undercharging and sacrificing profit is hurting everyone in the industry 1:21:55 Being proud of what you’ve built—yes, you deserve that truck! 1:29:12 Marketing in small towns & finding the customers who value your shop 1:33:09 There’s more than one way to run a shop—and that’s okay 1:39:09 Real talk: mental health, community, and lifting each other up in the industry 1:44:01 Wrapping up: finding your people, making it your own, and why the journey is worth it
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#28
July 9 · 48 min
Stop Running Your Shop Like a Technician | Rick White and Buckaroobob Bucknbob (John Firm) - Ep 27
Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE What does it really take to run a thriving auto shop without living in the bays? Today Rick White and Buckaroo Bob join Tonnika to break down the journey from wrench-turner to true business builder. Hear firsthand stories about learning to trust your team, why “hiring smarter” is the real secret, and how the right coaching can seriously change your shop’s future. Plus: Why you need to delegate, why “set it and forget it” marketing frees you up to lead, and why building your network is as important as building your car count. Timestamps: 00:00 Are you running your shop—or is your shop running you? 02:07 Letting go: When Bob's son joined the family business 03:43 The long road from working IN the business to working ON it0 6:03 Bob’s transformation: Training yourself out of a job0 7:25 How group coaching built an unstoppable shop owner family 10:03 ARO breakthrough: From $252 to $820 by trusting the process 12:00 Control freaks, “Mama syndrome,” and learning to let your team lead 14:50 Why you must hire people smarter than you—and how to spot them 15:43 Book club for bosses: “One Minute Manager” and more game-changers 18:01 Coaching: Are you looking for a coach—or just a cheerleader? 21:20 Rick’s journey: From micromanagement to true leadership 25:51 Letting go: Real growth means they don’t need you every day 30:26 Training is NOT optional—why you’re never too good to learn 31:39 The three reasons shop owners skip coaching (and how to fix it) 33:02 Your only entitlement: Opportunity, not comfort 35:59 Facing big challenges—without carrying all that baggage 39:02 If you’re still taking technical classes… you’re not leading your shop 40:34 Simple details that set your shop apart—yes, the smell matters! 41:21 Saying yes to more—adventure, networking, and stepping outside your comfort zone 43:22 Big invitations: Family reunions, cookouts & open mic wisdom 44:07 Upcoming advisor training and summer events—don’t miss out!
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#27
July 7 · 42 min
The Conversation Women in Automotive Need to Hear | Maryann Croce , Melissa Birdie Patterson and Tiffany Scherado-Birou - Ep 26
Running a shop is hard enough—you don't need your software making it harder. 😂 If you're ready for more clarity, better organization, and a smoother experience for both your team and your customers, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, the conversation focused on the Amazing Women in Automotive group and its mission to recruit, retain, and engage more women in the industry. One concept discussed was the importance of mentorship and how even new members can offer fresh perspectives to the group. A key theme that emerged was the challenge—and the necessity—of giving yourself permission to evolve as a leader and embrace new roles as your business and life change. Timestamps: 00:00 Belonging in Automotive: Propping Each Other Up 00:40 What’s Amazing Women in Automotive REALLY About? 01:15 The Origin Story: Creating Space and the Mission 02:12 Men, Listen Up: Why This Matters for Everyone 03:24 Safe Spaces & Real Talk—NOT a Kumbaya Circle 05:07 Welcoming Newcomers and Building Confidence 06:22 Mentoring & the Power of Fresh Eyes0 7:09 Automotive Auntie: Why Mentorship Matters 08:20 There’s a Community Out Here—Don’t Miss Out 09:09 Transferable Skills: You DON’T Need to Be a Tech 10:10 Bringing Marketing, Accounting, and More to the Shop 11:16 Events, Retreats & Partnering with Schools 12:13 It’s OK to Focus on You—Permission to Refuel 13:38 Balancing Motherhood & Shop Life: Permission Granted 14:41 Leading at Work, Leading at Home: Raising Leaders 16:00 Why Don’t We Give Ourselves Enough Credit? 17:15 Permission to Say Thank You (& Mean It!) 18:14 Auntie Advice: Sometimes You Just Need a Dance Party 19:25 AI, SOPs & Finding Time—Give Yourself Grace 21:05 Getting Women Out of Their Shell & Into Community 22:33 Technician Engagement: Cultural Differences and Challenges 24:21 Why You Need to Show Up—Even if You Think You Don’t 25:20 Weekly Encouragement & Why Laughter Matters 26:07 Tears, Tough Days & Doing Leadership the Right Way 27:31 Letting Go: Empowering Your Team and Yourself 30:13 Redefining Your Role—No More Mom Guilt 32:12 Coaching, Leadership & Sharing the Wins 34:05 Raising Leaders at Every Level of the Shop 36:00 When Your Why Changes—Identity, Shifts & Legacy 40:43 How to Join Amazing Women in Automotive! 41:18 The Power of Community & What’s Next
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#26
July 4 · 18 min
Why Busy Shops Stay Broke | Josh Oberlander | Ep 25
You shouldn't have to play detective just to figure out what's happening in your own shop. 😂 If you're ready for all your shop's information in one place, check out Tekmetric HERE Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO In this episode, Tonnika Haynes and Josh Oberlander break down why slowing down and focusing on process can actually turbocharge your shop’s growth. Tonnika shares hard-won lessons about moving from high car count and burnout to prioritizing quality over quantity, showing how DVIs (with more photos!) increase both trust and repair order value. Josh jumps in with actionable advice on building team buy-in, gamifying new processes, and leading from the top. Timestamps: 00:00 Leading from the top: Why technicians and advisors must buy in 00:35 The untapped power of free training for shop owners 01:17 Doing less for more: Getting profitable work from fewer cars 02:16 Maximizing ARO by slowing down and focusing on DVIs 03:07 The quick lube trap: Saying yes to everything vs. building real value 03:23 Photos = trust: How transparent DVIs win more jobs 03:34 Josh shares shop success with upping DVI photo counts 04:04 Protecting your shop with good photos (and covering your … liability) 05:01 Why busy shops are still "broke"—the cost of missing training & coaching 06:10 Saying 'no for now': The hardest lesson for shop owners 06:41 Why oil changes almost never build loyalty (and what to focus on instead) 06:53 Coaching your team: Breaking through resistance to DVI and new processes 08:04 Gamifying buy-in: Whiteboards, numbers, and making it a challenge 09:20 The 60- or 90-day challenge: Real tracking for real results 10:00 Why photo & video DVIs build trust—and prevent burnout 11:19 Video in the shop: When and why you want to use it 12:08 Technicians, not actors: Keeping DVI videos authentic 12:25 The magic of just one extra hour per ticket 12:36 Team buy-in starts at the top—stop relying on "because I said so" 13:18 Creating a culture of “disagree and commit” 14:20 How team input drives goals, ownership, and commitment 15:08 Buy-in that sticks: When your team runs the shop without you 15:53 Setting the next big goal (and getting your team hyped!) 16:06 The never-ending work of real leadership 17:01 The payoff of openness: Why your team should know the numbers
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#25
July 2 · 49 min
ATTENTION: Shop Owners - Buy Back Your Time | Dan Thieken - Ep 24
Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE In this episode, Tonnika Haynes and Ash Kaplan chat with Dan Thieken, owner of Kreager Tire and Service LLC in Millersport, Ohio. Dan opens up about the journey from sweeping floors as a high school student to owning his own shop, emphasizing the importance of building the right team so that owners can eventually step away from day-to-day operations. He also shares his philosophy on why shops should offer tires—not only as a profit center, but as a window into the car's soul that keeps customers from ever needing another shop. Timestamps: 00:00 Why you should ALWAYS offer tires at your shop 02:11 Dan Thieken's origin story: From sweeping floors to owner 04:32 The leap to management—and whistleblowing on bad leadership 05:25 Not a tech? Why owning a shop is still for you 07:07 People skills: Bartenders, restaurant work, and automotive service 10:41 Building a team so you (finally) can step away 13:31 Small town challenges: Hiring, no running water, and real culture 16:14 The trust fall: Letting go of your “baby” shop 18:17 Shop success = buying back your own time 20:04 The slippery slope of coaching and paying it forward 22:11 What’s your business mix? Service vs. tires, and how it changed 24:22 Two reasons EVERY shop should offer tires 25:10 How selling tires unlocks full-vehicle inspections 26:20 Stop “selling”—just advise and build relationships 28:00 Would Dan ever hire a coach? The answer might surprise you 32:26 Advice for new shop owners: Train your replacement 34:21 The personal side: Boundaries, empathy, and being “too nice” 39:00 Mistakes owners make: Wanting to be absentee too soon 43:12 The real trick: Let your staff learn from their mistakes 46:00 Why Dan feels more at home away from the counter 47:51 Upcoming events, classes, and golf trips
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#24
June 30 · 1 hr 1 min
Your Shop Might Be Driving Customers Away | Jessica Watkins - Ep 23
Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE In this episode, Jessica Watkins tells Tonnika and Ash about her time in marketing and how she got into the automotive industry. They bring up the challenges women face, from working in shops without AC or clean bathrooms to building customer-centered businesses. Learn from the ladies on how shop owners can make their spaces more inviting for women and why curb appeal, safety, and clean facilities truly matter. Timestamps: 00:00 When shops refuse to upgrade: The pain of paper tickets 01:04 Is it hot in here? Real talk about shop air conditioning (or the lack of it!) 02:04 Jessica’s origin story: Tripling sales & demanding more 05:18 Why clean bathrooms and AC matter for customer (and staff!) happiness 07:16 The surprising power of shop curb appeal 10:22 Making the automotive industry friendlier for women 12:10 How Ash built Golden Hour Garage to make shop life easier 14:35 The little things that build trust and boost your brand 17:50 Want higher prices? Start by raising your standards 20:12 Why your marketing matters (and how not to suck at it) 22:46 Nosy people are your next customers. Get visible! 25:41 Safety first: Creating a shop environment everyone feels safe in 28:40 What women notice that shop owners miss 31:14 True service stories: When a shop loses a customer for good 36:29 Why front counter greetings and clean lobbies can’t be ignored 40:13 The secret to staff training and customer loyalty 43:06 Confessions & how to encourage more women to join the shop life 47:25 Lessons (and laughs) from real shop experiences 54:00 How to connect with Jessica and get solutions for YOUR shop!
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#23
June 25 · 1 hr
The Secret to Thriving in the Automotive Industry | Justin Allen - Ep 22
Consistency is key - heard that! But, consistency is HARD. That's why I gave up on trying and let the experts handle it. Detect Auto. Let them clean up your estimating process and raise your ARO - like they did for me! CLICK HERE TO BOOK A DEMO Anybody can run a shop. Building one that lasts? That's a whole different story. If you're ready to build smarter systems and a better experience for your team and customers, check out Tekmetric HERE In this episode, Tonnika Haynes and Ash Kaplan are joined by Justin Allen, Regional Training Representative for Hunter Engineering Company. Justin shares how creating safe and welcoming spaces—like women’s only alignment classes and future Spanish-speaking courses—empowers underrepresented groups in the automotive industry. The conversation dives into the importance of authentic networking, both online and at in-person events, as the true driver for confidence and belonging. Timestamps: 00:00 – Finding comfort and sharing the lonely seasons 02:34 – Creating inclusive, confidence-building training spaces 03:36 – Why “women’s only” (or any specialty) classes matter 05:47 – How community happens & why it’s sometimes needed 06:39 – Expanding representation: plans for Spanish-speaking classes 08:20 – The impact of generosity, authenticity, and industry encouragement 09:02 – When to dial back or shine bright with your personality 10:19 – Meeting people where they are—connection over performance 12:56 – Owning your style & standing strong, even in a sea of jeans 14:13 – Loneliness, the internet, and plugging into shop community 15:52 – Does teaching/training fill you up or wear you out? 17:01 – Local industry events: why independent owners need wider connections 18:42 – How past and present approaches to networking differ 20:10 – Personality as marketing and the art of standing out 22:17 – The magic of turning a group of strangers into a true learning team 24:06 – Surprises in the journey from sales to teaching 25:08 – Why you never really “finish training” 25:41 – Getting better on camera: simple tips for real engagement 28:19 – The importance of eye contact in video and making viewers feel seen 31:11 – Editing, authenticity, and growing your digital voice 32:00 – Tech gadgets: meta glasses & bringing innovation to the bay 33:52 – Taking pictures that help your shop shine on social 36:44 – The power of networking events, large and small 39:17 – Trade shows, podcasts, and the “chosen family” in auto 42:04 – Passing on the value of community to the next generation 46:14 – Why connection beats Kumbaya: realness at shop gatherings 48:17 – Embracing the power of welcoming the “new kid” 52:00 – Downshift moment: Loneliness, divorce, and finding yourself again 54:36 – Advice for those struggling: “You are not alone” & get plugged in 57:14 – Online groups, resources, and making your first connection 58:17 – Ready to plug in? Where to connect with Justin Allen
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