The Biggest Mistake Shop Owners Make with Josh Coomes and Brian Ramsburg

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.

Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERE

Launch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HERE

Recorded at Tools in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Jeff sits down with Josh Coomes of Auto Shop Therapy and technician Brian Ramsburg to discuss the realities of running a modern repair shop. Brian reflects on more than 18 years in the trade, the challenges of being a solo technician, and why he enjoys variety in his work, while Josh shares his customer-first approach, leadership lessons, and the importance of protecting a shop's reputation. Together, they explore diagnostics, pay plans, hiring, training, and building a culture that values quality over speed.

Timestamps:

00:00 Listen or Become a Liability
 00:35 Tools in Hershey Introduction
 02:37 Brian's Career Journey
 04:18 Owning a Job vs. Owning a Shop
 07:42 Customer Empathy and Service Standards
 09:21 Turning Away Older Vehicles
 14:48 Favorite Types of Repairs
 18:02 Why They Avoid European Vehicles
 19:40 Shop Scheduling and Profitability
 21:56 Technician vs. Owner Priorities
 25:38 Working Relationship Challenges
 28:28 Hiring and Leadership Lessons
 36:20 Mentoring and a Proof-Based Culture
 40:41 Pay Plans and Team Morale
 42:03 The Starter Diagnosis Debate
 45:41 The Stress of Being the Only Technician
 48:50 Quality Control vs. Book Time
 52:40 Shop Standards and Fair Productivity
 55:27 Workflow and Imperfect Data
 58:51 Flat Rate Pressure Stories
 01:05:10 Hiring Through Working Interviews
 01:10:23 Charging Properly to Grow
 01:12:44 Final Advice and Closing

Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! 
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanic
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232