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Confessions of a Shop Owner

Confessions of a Shop Owner

By: Mike Allen
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Confessions of a Shop Owner is hosted by Mike Allen, a third-generation shop owner, perpetual pot-stirrer, and brutally honest opinion sharer. In this weekly podcast, Mike shares his missteps so you don’t have to repeat them. Along the way, he chats with other industry personalities who’ve messed up, too, pulling back the curtain on the realities of running an independent auto repair shop. But this podcast isn’t just about Mike’s journey. It’s about confronting the divisive and questionable tactics many shop owners and managers use. Mike is here to stir the pot and address the painful truths while offering a way forward. Together, we’ll tackle the frustrations, shake things up, and help create a better future for the auto repair industry.© 2025 Mike Allen Economics Leadership Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Ep 60 - Coaching Call #11 | Am I Too Expensive??
    Nov 25 2025

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    In this episode, Mike Allen confesses to Matt Lofton that he thinks his customers aren't finding the value in using his repair shop. Matt says that value is defined by what customers are actually willing to pay for, reminding listeners that shop processes only matter if clients perceive them as worthwhile. They also talk about employee retention, noting how turnover can set a business back and why keeping the right team in place should be a top priority.

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Mike's Vegas Wardrobe Malfunction

    10:36 "Retention and Sustained Growth Focus"

    13:29 Client Service & Repair Strategy

    19:19 Team Process and Standards Updates

    23:07 "Pricing Concerns and Reputation"

    33:35 Labor Rate Adjustment Explained

    34:56 Employee Feedback Reflects Trust

    43:39 Front Counter Compensation Debate

    47:50 "Defining Value Beyond Features"

    52:05 "Handling Customer Objections Effectively"

    59:06 "Discussing Brake Replacement Concerns"

    01:01:59 Pricing Strategy and Break-Even Analysis

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Ep 59 - Chris Enright | Communication is a HUGE Issue
    Nov 18 2025

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    Chris Enright owns Enright Automotive in Alexandria, Ohio and has one of the biggest industry followings on social media. Jeff Compton from the Jaded Mechanic also sits in for Bryan Pollock. Today, they get into the importance of communication among techs, advisors, and owners to avoid costly mistakes and improve efficiency. Chris brings up how techs shouldn't have to pay for their own tools and gives advice on how to by affordable tools, especially for techs just starting out.

    Timestamps:
    00:00 French Drivers vs Retired People from Florida

    06:24 Navigating SEMA and AAPEX

    15:33 "Industry Issues Stem from Communication"

    19:41 "Know Your Rights as Technician"

    24:43 "Tool Industry Perspectives Divide"

    28:22 Technician-Owned Tools Debate

    32:43 OEM Tools and Tool Truck

    36:59 "First Encounter with Electric Tools"

    46:29 Labor vs Parts in Modern Cars

    51:10 "It's Not an Issue Until Issues"

    55:08 Money Motivation vs Quality Talent

    01:01:43 "Success by Getting Outself's Way"

    01:04:36 "Challenges Keeping Up with Cars"

    01:12:13 Brake Job: Rotors and Pads Together

    01:14:59 "Defending Ethical Repair Practices"

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    1 hr and 21 mins
  • Ep 58 - Darrin Barney | Kids Are Entitled These Days
    Nov 11 2025

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    Darrin Barney is the CEO of Elite Worldwide, Mike's Coaching Company of choice. Last time he was on, he cried. So, guess what he did this time? Yep. He cried. What brought on the tears was how proud he is when he sees one of his kids overcome adversity. Like when his daughter proved the doctors wrong when she was born. They also discuss the evolution of Elite’s coaching programs, highlighting the new 180 program designed to support shop owners at every stage.

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Darrin Barney is Back!

    06:22 "Drive-Thru Wallet Struggle"

    09:09 "Defining Childhood Moment"

    10:39 "Million Dollar Baby Struggles"

    13:45 Cultivating Grit in Privileged Kids

    16:42 "Life Lessons From India"

    21:24 "Weekend Rush and Crash Tale"

    25:38 "Racing Isle of Man Before Death"

    26:18 "Racing Memories and Reflections"

    30:32 Business Development Training Programs

    35:39 Racing Addiction Never Ends

    39:02 From Employee to Business Owner

    40:43 "Watching Results Through Reviews"

    44:18 "Networking for Fresh Perspectives"

    47:54 Evolution of Pro Service

    50:11 Unexpected Opportunity: Tire Shop Dilemma

    54:12 Elite's Impact on Legacy

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 2 mins
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