Episode 64
How I Met Chris Cloutier, and Why You Should Go to AAPEX! [E64]
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound, Express
I'm sharing a story I don't tell often - my first time attending AAPEX (Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo) in 2017.
At the time I first attend - I had just left the family business, was traveling on my own dime, and was a week away from starting a new job (which didn’t go quite as planned). Being alone in a city that doesn't appeal to me - but through providence, found a few good friends, wound up at a dinner with Matt Fanslow and Eric Ziegler.
The next morning - I caught a keynote speech from none other than Chris Cloutier… listen to how things unfolded from there.
This episode is about showing up when everything feels wrong. About checking your competitive assumptions. About one conversation that can change everything.
In this episode, I'm also sharing insights (with permission from Frank Strong) from Mark Bogdansky, VP at Auto Care Association. He has some keen perspective on our $2.3 trillion industry, the challenges ahead (talent shortage, technology), and why AAPEX is where the entire supply chain comes together to solve real problems.
AAPEX 2025 is November 4-6 in Las Vegas. Wayne Gretzky keynotes. 75+ training sessions. Thousands of opportunities to make the kind of connection I made in 2017.
If you've ever wondered whether AAPEX is worth attending - this episode is for you.
Register for AAPEX 2025. https://www.aapexshow.com/
Email me at speakup@craigoneill.net - let me know if I'll see you there. I'd love to record a quick conversation with you for a future episode.
Show up even if it's hard.
Sincerely,
Craig O'Neill
People Mentioned: Bob Greenwood, Chris Cloutier (CEO, AutoFlow), Matt Fanslow (Episode 59), Eric Ziegler, Mark Bogdansky (Auto Care Association)
Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound, Express:
The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com. "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.
AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com
Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.
In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.
Express by Facepay myexpress.io. Keep your existing merchant processor and software at your service counter. Express is integrated into your workflow to make the experience better.
Contact Information
- Email Craig O'Neill: speakup@craigoneill.net
- Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
