The Limitless Leadership Podcast

In this episode, recorded live at the 2026 ASTA Expo in Raleigh, North Carolina, Josh Parnell sits down with fellow Limitless Leadership coach Bobby McGraw to discuss his session “Running on Empty, Leading a Shop That Never Stops” and why leaders must learn to lead themselves first. Bobby explains how leaders can have limitless potential but limited energy, exploring decision fatigue and why feeling depleted should be treated as an energy issue rather than a character flaw. He introduces the ACT framework of awareness, courage, and tenacity, emphasizing the importance of taking action before confidence arrives and using the “be the bu...

In this episode, live from the 2026 ASTA Expo, Josh Parnell sits down with David Boyd, founder and CEO of Call Inbound, to discuss leadership, trust, and communication. David explains how lessons from aviation, including planning, prioritization, stress management, and preparing for contingencies, can help leaders build a clear vision and execute more effectively. He also introduces Call Inbound’s communication platform and its tools for call recording, integrations, AI powered training, and coaching. The conversation explores how leaders build trust through genuine relationships, consistent actions, availability, and servant leadership. David shares lessons from his mentor, Jeff Matt, and reflects on...

In this episode, live from ASTA Expo 2026 in Raleigh, North Carolina, Josh Parnell sits down with technical trainer Brandon Steckler to discuss SWAT Training and Diagnostics and why training is an investment that pays off. Brandon explains how SWAT helps technicians solve diagnostic challenges by identifying gaps in process, tools, and information, then creating customized training plans with service information, diagrams, and step by step guidance. He emphasizes mastering the fundamentals, avoiding shortcuts, and building confidence through intentional practice. The conversation also covers on site training, virtual sessions, waveform and data analysis, and specialized training for technicians at different...

In this episode recorded live at ASTA Expo 2026, Josh Parnell and Bret Beitler of Limitless Leadership sit down with Adam Rath of Allied Automotive to discuss leadership development, team culture, and business growth. Adam shares how leadership coaching and the Limitless Leadership Blueprint helped him develop his leadership team, strengthen communication, and address the “Peter Principle.” He explains how connecting team decisions to core values helped retain a key leader and create stronger buy in. The conversation also covers putting people before profits, turning conference ideas into action, and Adam’s favorite leadership book, Extreme Ownership.

Auto Master...

In this episode, recorded live at the 2026 ASTA Expo in Raleigh, NC, Josh Parnell sits down with Michael Rosenberger, CEO of ShopFix Academy and a two-shop owner in Dallas with 30 years of experience in the automotive repair industry. Michael shares his journey from ShopFix member to coach to CEO, including how ShopFix training helped him rapidly increase sales during a cash crisis. He also discusses the leadership challenges that followed the tragic death of ShopFix founder Aaron Stokes and what it meant to step up during a difficult season. Michael breaks down his “Profit Pitfalls” session, explaining how profitability is s...

Live from ASTA Expo 2026, Josh Parnell sits down with Lola Schmidt of Schmidt Auto Care and J'anvieu Parnell, founder of Limitless Ladies, to talk about self leadership, identity, relationships, and leading with purpose. J'anvieu Parnell shares her journey from counseling to creating a community where women can support and encourage one another. Lola offers practical advice for working with a spouse, including setting boundaries, defining roles, creating separate workspaces, and knowing when to seek outside help. They also reflect on the Refuge women’s retreat in Montana, choosing faith over fear, staying connected intentionally, and taking the first step to...

In this episode, Josh Parnell sits down with Amy P. Kelly, USA Today best-selling author and VP of consulting for Jon Gordon’s companies, to discuss purpose-driven leadership, workplace culture, and why difficult conversations don’t have to be difficult. Amy shares her story and explains how the “P” in her name represents purpose, including how people can discover their purpose through serving others, recognizing patterns, identifying strengths, and paying attention to what brings fulfillment. She also discusses her book Work Is Personal and challenges the idea that leadership and business should not be personal, sharing an HR-informed framework for crea...

In this episode, Josh Parnell sits down with Jay Warida, co founder and CEO of Carvis, to discuss AI, automotive repair, and the future of shop operations. Jay shares his background as a mechanical engineer and data scientist at Ford and GM, and explains why AI should be an ally for repair shops. He breaks down how Carvis helps service advisors create customer friendly estimates, improve repair order language, handle objections, and streamline the sales process. He also shares how Carvis entered the automotive industry, grew to more than 150 shops, and continues to build its tools around customer feedback...

In this episode, Josh Parnell sits down with Uwe Kleinschmidt, founder of AutoTech IQ, to talk about AI-powered digital inspections, customer education, AI search, reviews, transparency, and what leadership looks like in an increasingly AI-driven industry. AI isn't just changing how auto repair shops operate. It's changing how customers find you, evaluate you, and decide whether they trust you. One idea stood out: Transparency is the new trust. And leaders can't afford to simply use AI. They need to become AI validators—curious enough to experiment, learn, and know when the technology is actually helping.

Auto Mastery he...

In this episode, Josh Parnell interviews former NASCAR driver and Safeway Driving CEO Brad Coleman about the near-crash that changed his life and sparked his passion for road safety. Brad shares his journey from racing to driver education, how a Nationwide Insurance simulator helped him understand the dangers of distracted driving, and how his family eventually took over Safeway Driving.

Brad also explains the idea of “slowing down to speed up,” Safeway’s approach to driver education and safety, and why strong leadership comes down to keeping your word, listening, taking action, and owning accountability.

Auto M...

In this episode, Josh Parnell is with Joe Flammer, Account Executive at Broadly and former auto repair marketing professional, about leading through change, embracing feedback, and developing self-awareness. Joe shares how Broadly's evolution into AI-powered tools is helping small businesses improve customer communication and workflow automation, while reflecting on lessons from coaching, faith, and personal growth. The conversation explores navigating uncertainty, overcoming blind spots, emotional regulation, and why intentional leadership starts with knowing yourself.

Auto Mastery helps make sure the right customers find you on Google, your team converts those opportunities, and you know exactly what your...

In this episode, Josh Parnell welcomes Christian Mosley of Auto Mastery to discuss why generating leads is only the beginning of growing an independent auto repair shop. Christian explains how websites, SEO, and Google Ads can bring in potential customers, but shops still need to answer the phone, remove unnecessary friction, and confidently ask for the appointment.

Drawing from his experience as a former shop owner, Christian explains how call recordings, transcripts, and data can reveal missed opportunities, capacity problems, and weaknesses in the customer experience. He also shares leadership lessons around one-on-ones, the 1-3-1 problem-solving...

In this episode, Josh Parnell welcomes Jacki Lutz, Content Director at the Auto Care Association, to discuss why automotive businesses need to build a strong digital presence as search increasingly shifts toward AI tools like ChatGPT. Jacki explains how the Auto Care Association supports the aftermarket through advocacy, education, and efforts like right to repair, while emphasizing the power of content and social media to attract customers and future technicians.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to learn more about Limitless Leadership coaching, training, and speaking. 

Visit https://w...

In this episode, Josh Parnell welcomes Kamran Rahman and Saurav Kumar, co-founders of 47 Consulting, to discuss how authentic storytelling helps independent auto repair shops stand out. They explain why the automotive industry's values drew them in, how consistent video content builds trust before a customer ever visits the shop, and why the best marketing highlights the people behind the business. The conversation also explores leadership, creative partnerships, and building a brand that customers remember.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to learn more about Limitless Leadership coaching, training, and speaking. 

In this episode, Josh Parnell welcomes Dan Taylor, Chief Learning Officer and Performance Coach for Power Peer Groups, to discuss how great leadership is built through emotional intelligence, communication, and continuous learning. Drawing from a career that includes Fortune 500 companies like FedEx, Dan shares why peer groups and coaching help leaders grow faster, how "speaking greatness" into others unlocks potential, and why most people succeed when given the right support, systems, and environment.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to learn more about Limitless Leadership coaching, training, and speaking. 

In this episode, Josh interviews Andrew Klement, former Christian Brothers technician and new owner of Finley River Auto & Diesel in Ozark, Missouri, about launching his repair shop and building a culture centered on excellence. Andrew shares why excellence goes beyond clean facilities, it requires consistency, teamwork, continuous improvement, and a commitment to serving both customers and employees well. He also discusses hiring a coach early, creating a people-first workplace, learning from costly mistakes, and building systems that allow the business to grow without sacrificing culture. 

Stop wasting your marketing dollars and connect with Shop Marketing pros at h...

In this episode, Josh Parnell is with Brian Moak, 2025 Ratchet+Wrench All-Star/Owner of the Year and Executive VP of the Heart Division at Telly Tire, about building high-performing automotive businesses through strong leadership, systems, and a people-first culture. Brian shares how he nearly bankrupted his family business after buying it at 27, then transformed it by focusing on data, operational systems, and solving root problems instead of symptoms. The conversation explores leadership principles, acquisitions, employee retention, and creating a culture where people and performance thrive together. Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. 

Visit https://www.l...

In this episode, Josh Parnell sits down with Eric Joern, partner and Chief Revenue Officer at Kaizen CPAs and Advisors, to discuss how financial strategy can help auto repair shops grow beyond simply balancing the books. Eric shares his journey from working at a car dealership to becoming a CPA and helping Kaizen specialize in the automotive industry. The conversation explores leadership, employee development, accountability, continuous training, and why great advisors do much more than prepare tax returns—they help business owners make better decisions.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.go...

In this episode, Josh is together with Nestor Gutierrez, owner of Rancho Express Lube. He shares about his journey from starting as a lube technician in 2016 to becoming the shop owner just a few years later. Nestor shares how difficult early leadership nearly drove him out of the industry, how stepping into uncomfortable roles accelerated his growth, and why leadership starts with setting the example. The conversation explores mindset, mentorship, goal setting, and creating a workplace where employees can grow personally, professionally, and financially.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co...

In this episode, Josh welcomes Ron Helmer, CEO of Mentor Mentee, to discuss tackling the automotive technician shortage through structured career development and mentorship. Drawing from 22 years in the U.S. Navy, recruiting, and business ownership, Ron explains how clear career pathways help shops improve technician retention, productivity, and long-term success. The conversation also explores authentic leadership, building trust, emotional intelligence, accountability, and creating a culture where people are encouraged to learn, grow, and recover from mistakes.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to learn more about Limitless Leadership coaching...

In this episode, Josh welcomes Lynne Ghelfi, director of marketing for two major dealerships, John Maxwell–certified coach, trainer, and speaker, and author of No Talent Required: 12 Daily Practices to Build Cultural Trust and Performance. Lynn shares her 15-year journey in the automotive industry, how John Maxwell's servant leadership philosophy shaped her career, and why lasting leadership is built on consistent values—not titles or natural talent. She also discusses her daily leadership habits, the importance of intentional communication, and how anyone can lead through influence, curiosity, and connection.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next sear...

In this episode, Josh Parnell and co-host Bobby McGraw interview Jono Long, CEO of Leads Near Me, about his journey from youth ministry to leading a digital marketing agency serving independent auto repair shops. Jono shares how he learned marketing through hands-on experience, eventually selling his first agency before partnering to acquire Leads Near Me. The conversation explores leadership, team culture, coaching, decisive action, and why many shops don't have a marketing problem—they have a customer follow-up problem.

Stop wasting your marketing dollars and connect with Shop Marketing pros at https://www.shopmarketingpros.com. 

Vis...

In this episode, Josh is with Edward Caswell, owner of Full Throttle Automotive and Fastlane Auto Repair, about building a business centered on faith, servant leadership, and investing in people. Edward shares his journey from school teacher to multi-shop owner, the challenges of expanding during COVID, and the personal transformation that reshaped both his life and leadership. The conversation explores accountability, humility, company culture, mentorship, and why serving others is the foundation of lasting leadership.

Stop wasting your marketing dollars and connect with Shop Marketing pros at https://www.shopmarketingpros.com.

Stop managing chaos and...

In this episode, Josh sits down with Thomas Andrews, owner of CDT Automotive and Select Auto Pros, and a coach with Shop Fix Academy. Thomas shares how he built a brand that started as Carolina Diesel Trucks, grew from a one-bay shed into a 15-bay operation, and expanded to a second location. He opens up about leaving a six-figure cybersecurity career, the sacrifices his family made, and the leadership lessons that helped transform a struggling $3 million business into a thriving multi-shop operation. The conversation explores business coaching, accountability, hiring, faith, and why great leaders are willing to go first.<...

In this episode, Evan Richard, founder of ER Plumbing Services shares his journey from selling cars to building a successful plumbing business. Evan shares how he launched ER Plumbing in 2019, the rapid growth that followed the 2021 Houston freeze, and the lessons he's learned about leadership, entrepreneurship, and work-life balance. The conversation explores why skilled trades offer tremendous career opportunities, the importance of mentorship, building customer trust, and creating a business focused on education instead of high-pressure sales.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Stop managing chaos and...

In this episode, Stacey Black and Ethan Whidden from Promotive join the podcast to share their thoughts on leadership and culture in the automotive industry. Stacy emphasizes the critical importance of aligning new hires with shop culture to ensure long-term retention and positive impact. Ethan speaks to the role strong internal culture and leadership play at Promotive, highlighting the value of vulnerability, support, and real connection among remote teams.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Visit https://www.tekmetric.com to book a demo and see how...

In this episode, Dan Thieken and Ted Cooke from Kreager Tire and Service share their journey navigating leadership, friendship, and business partnership. Dan reflects on the challenges and rewards of compartmentalizing personal relationships to make tough business decisions, including hiring and even having to let go of family members. Ted discusses the importance of empowering team members to exceed their own expectations and highlights the impact a leader can have by believing in others.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Atlantic Automotive is a faith-based, family-owned coalition...

In this episode, Shawn Gilfillan, multi-shop owner from New Jersey, joins the podcast live at the Tektonic 2026 conference. Shawn reflects on how personal growth and self-awareness transformed his leadership approach, emphasizing the critical role of mindset in building strong teams. He also shares practical strategies for developing leaders within an organization, including the use of DISC profiles for improved communication and the importance of creating easy, repeatable wins to keep teams motivated.

Stop wasting your marketing dollars and connect with Shop Marketing pros at https://www.shopmarketingpros.com. 

Visit https://www.tekmetric.com to book a...

Amber Wright is the VP of Business Development at Tekmetric, and Sam Freeman is the Partnership Manager at Promotive. Today, Josh and Bret talk with the ladies about the role of culture in building high-performing teams, the ongoing challenges and importance of recruiting top talent in the automotive industry, and the need for leaders to embrace growth by stepping into discomfort and letting go of control.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com. 

Stop wasting your marketing dollars and connect with Shop Marketing pros at https://www.shopmarketingpros.c...

In this episode, Patrick Egan, founder of Spark Interactive, shares his journey from leading marketing for major automotive software companies to pioneering digital vehicle inspections (DVI) and storytelling-driven marketing. Patrick emphasizes the power of authenticity in business storytelling, highlighting how real, unscripted stories from owners, teams, and customers build connection and trust. He also discusses the importance of culture and leadership by example, urging shop owners to listen to their teams and showcase what truly sets them apart in a competitive industry.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to learn...

In this episode, Josh and Bret are joined by Jackie Hoegger, CEO of Hoegger Communications, for an inspiring conversation on leadership and organizational culture. Bret emphasizes the importance of authentic relationships over transactions, sharing how her team treats clients like family and the difference this approach makes. She dives into the significance of emotional discipline and creating an environment where employees feel valued, heard, and recognized.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to learn...

In this episode, Josh welcomes JeanAnn Saint Grace, coach with Autofix Auto Shop Coaching and host of Shop Talk Her Way. JeanAnn shares her powerful journey through personal tragedy and business ownership, emphasizing the importance of resilience and finding purpose in the face of adversity. The conversation highlights strategies for effective leadership, including authentic recognition of team members and setting healthy boundaries for self-care.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Visit https://www.tekmetric.com to book a demo and see how Tekmetric can help you run...

In this episode, Josh Parnell and Brett Beitler are joined by Andrew O'Brien, founder of Dad Tribes. Andrew shares his journey from military service to building the fastest-growing global community for fathers, highlighting the importance of brotherhood and combating male isolation. The hosts and Andrew discuss the difference between solitude and isolation, emphasizing the critical need for men to find camaraderie and support.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Visit Golden Hour Garage at https://www.goldenhourgarage.com to schedule a discovery call - & Own Your Golden...

In this episode, Josh chats with Jesse Jackson, CEO and founder of Mango Automotive, about her journey in rapidly scaling her company from zero to eight locations in four years. Jesse emphasizes the importance of building a positive and fun workplace culture, even in traditionally challenging industries. The conversation also covers innovative strategies for business growth, including the use of acquisitions and the introduction of a co-op model that enables shop owners to increase their exit multiples when selling.

Stop wasting your marketing dollars and connect with Shop Marketing pros at https://www.shopmarketingpros.com.

...

In this episode, Josh Parnell sits down with Lola and Erich Schmidt of Schmidt Auto Care to discuss their leadership journey as husband-and-wife shop owners. Lola shares how implementing strong business processes and a four-day workweek transformed their team's engagement and productivity. Erich reflects on the power of investing in staff development and fostering a positive workplace culture, emphasizing how both personal connections and well-planned growth strategies can lead to truly life-changing results for their team.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com. 

Stop wasting your marketing dollars a...

In this episode, Josh Parnell is joined by Bill Haas and Sara Fraser from Auto Ignite Management. Bill Haas shares his journey from technician to industry coach, highlighting the importance of purposeful growth and legacy in business. Sara Fraser discusses her transition into the family business, emphasizing the value of carving out one's own path and the power of "stay interviews" to support employee well-being.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to learn more about Limitless Leadership coaching, training, and speaking.

Visit https://www.tekmetric.com to book...

In this episode, John Firm and Rick White share their experiences from decades in the automotive industry, focusing on leadership growth and the importance of continual training. Rick White emphasizes that true impact as a coach is determined by others, and stresses the value of encouraging and developing team members. John Firm highlights the necessity of grit, resilience, and gratitude in overcoming challenges and maintaining leadership growth.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to...

In this episode, Dave Macholz, founder and CEO of AVTECC, discusses the transformation of technician certification through a skills-based, performance testing model. He outlines how AVTECC’s pilot programs in four colleges are working to bridge the gap between traditional education and real-world competency. The conversation also explores the resistance to change in the industry, highlighting the need for combining technical proficiency with enduring, “durable” skills to raise both technician and employer standards.

Stop managing chaos and start leading with purpose. Visit https://www.limitlessleadership.co to learn more about Limitless Leadership coaching, training, and speaking.

Visi...

In this episode, Eric Svedberg, owner of European Auto Works and founder of Fuel Coaching, joins the podcast to talk about the importance of coaching for shop owners. Eric shares how building effective systems and empowering staff are critical for scaling a business and freeing up the owner’s time. He also emphasizes that both professional and personal growth can result from having the right coach, encouraging owners to seek support and not let past negative experiences hold them back.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Visit ht...

In this episode, Charlie Burke and Luke Murray, training managers with Worldpac, share their journeys from humble beginnings to impactful leadership roles. Charlie Burke reflects on the value of industry-specific training, emphasizing how targeted education can transform struggling businesses into award-winning operations. Luke Murray highlights the importance of business management skills for shop owners, noting the powerful shift required when moving from technician to leader.

Learn more about Promotive or start your next search at https://www.gopromotive.com.

Visit Golden Hour Garage at https://www.goldenhourgarage.com to schedule a discovery call - & Own...