Your Business Your Life podcast

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106. Addressing the Talent Gap in Collision Repair with Brandon Eckenrode 24:58

לפני 7 hours24:58

24:58

Attracting and retaining talent is a persistent challenge in the collision repair industry, and industry engagement plays a critical role in overcoming this issue. The struggle to find skilled technicians and support technical education programs leaves many shop owners feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to bridge the workforce gap. Without a steady pipeline of trained professionals, the industry's future is at risk. Join Matt Di Francesco and Brandon Eckenrode, Executive Director of the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) , as they discuss the power of local industry involvement, offering practical strategies for shop owners to mentor students and secure a sustainable future for the collision repair industry. Matt and Brandon also talk about: (01:54) Why is finding talent in the collision repair industry such a challenge? (03:14) The crucial role of combining iCAR and ASE training with ADAS advancements (05:21) How can we shift the negative perception of being a “grease monkey”? (07:06) What initiatives is CREF taking to tackle the talent shortage (08:47) How CREF recruits students and connects them with shops after graduation (10:53) How can shop owners engage with local schools to attract talent? (14:35) Can young hires' fresh ideas create a mutually beneficial learning environment? (17:35) How can educators, industry leaders, and recruiters collaborate to attract your techs? (19:07) What’s the best way for a shop owner to get involved in supporting new talent? Connect With Brandon Eckenrode LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-eckenrode-9b51107/ Email: brandon.eckenrode@i-car.com Website: https://collisionrepaireducationfoundation.org/ Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Brandon Eckenrode began his career in 2002 with I-CAR's marketing department before joining CREF in 2009. Since then, he has been dedicated to supporting collision programs at high schools and colleges across the U.S., helping to train and develop the next generation of technicians. As Executive Director, Brandon is committed to promoting the collision repair industry as a viable career path and addressing the workforce shortage by attracting new talent. Under his leadership, CREF is focused on strengthening educational initiatives and ensuring a sustainable future for the industry. Brandon is a familiar face at industry events and shows, where he actively engages with stakeholders to advance CREF’s mission. Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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105. The Power of Education: Helping Collision Shops Thrive with John Shoemaker 39:52

לפני 28 ימים39:52

39:52

Managing costs and staying profitable is a constant challenge for independent collision shop owners, and education plays a crucial role in overcoming these hurdles. In this episode, John Shoemaker shares his passion for helping shop owners educate themselves and their customers about the value of their services—ensuring they are properly compensated for their work. With years of experience in business development. John has helped many shops refine their processes and improve their bottom line. He understands the importance of accurate invoicing, validating costs, proper documentation, and building strong relationships with claims adjusters. Join Matt DiFrancesco and John Shoemaker, AMAM, Business Development Manager - BASF Automotive Refinishes North America, as they explore the power of education in the collision industry, offering practical advice on how shop owners can stay ahead, maximize efficiency, and confidently communicate their value to customers. Matt and John also talk about: (05:38) Why do shop owners struggle with charging through invoices? (08:52) The two towers in the insurance world (11:53) Why proper documentation is the key to success (13:25) Should shop owners invest in sales training for their staff? (16:27) The benefits of finding your niche (18:43) Why owners should start educating their customers on what sets their shop apart (24:17) How to develop better relationships with different claims managers (28:33) Where can shop owners learn to improve documentation, billing, and repair planning? (30:29) Why shop owners should invest in personal development (33:30) What is appraisal burnout? (35:51) The power of paying it forward in the industry Connect With John Shoemaker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-shoemaker-amam-a0800020/ Email: john.a.shoemaker@basf.com Phone: 7574357118 (Mobile) Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: John Shoemaker is the Business Development Manager for BASF Automotive Refinish Coatings - North America and has been in the automotive repair industry since 1973. His career began as a helper in a small body shop in California before serving in the U.S. Air Force as a technician, vehicle maintenance manager, accident investigator, technical instructor, and management system analyst. After returning to the civilian sector, he managed several dealership collision centers, served as a dealership service director, and founded JSE Consulting, where he provided training in damage analysis, marketing, lean implementation, and collision center management. John has contributed to industry advancements by assisting CCC Information Services in developing the Production Assistant system and working with DuPont Performance Coatings to validate data connector needs. He holds an Accredited Master Automotive Manager certification and has presented training programs at SEMA, NACE, AASP/NJ Northeast, and other industry events. Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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104. Building the Future: Apprentice Programs and Mentorship in Collision Repair with Stan Russell 28:24

לפני 11 weeks28:24

28:24

As we enter the new year, many repair shop owners are focused on setting growth and success goals; one challenge remains at the forefront: finding and retaining talent. It’s an issue facing nearly everyone in the industry, which makes today’s guest, Stan Russell, the perfect person to kick off the year. With decades of experience as a technician, educator, and mentor, Stan has made it his mission to develop solutions that benefit both shop owners and young technicians. His passion for cars has driven him to create impactful apprentice programs that teach essential skills, including business and financial literacy. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Stan Russell, Director of Training and Apprentice Development at CollisionRight , as they share their insights on building strong teams, setting realistic goals, and shaping the future of the industry through mentorship and education. Matt and Stan also talk about: (03:17) What needs to change to attract young talent into the collision repair industry? (04:49) Why teaching the business perspective is crucial for training young technicians (07:39) An advice to help young people future-proof their careers in collision repair (12:38) Why rapid technician training programs are setting up the industry for failure (14:04) How can experienced technicians help secure the future of the industry (15:53) The challenges educators face when running high school automotive programs (19:57) Why a college degree is no longer the only path to career success (22:56) Why is training the right person to run your business worth the investment? (23:53) How can independent shop owners find and attract trained young talent? Connect With Stan Russell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stan-russell-08246326/ Website: https://collisionright.com/ Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Stan Russell began his journey in the collision repair industry in 1984 as an apprentice technician after graduating from Lincoln County High School in Fayetteville, Tennessee. His entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to launch his own repair shop in 1989, marking the start of a dynamic and influential career. One of his most groundbreaking contributions came in 2015 when he became the pilot instructor for the Service King Start Program. This innovative initiative, the first industry-funded collision repair program in the U.S., was based in high schools, introducing young people to the opportunities available in the trade. In the fall of 2023, Stan joined CollisionRight, a regional MSO headquartered in Dublin, Ohio, where he now leads the design and implementation of their Right Start Apprentice Programs. His mission is clear: to make a lasting positive impact on the industry and the next generation. Stan is passionate about highlighting the specialized nature and financial potential of careers in collision repair. He aims to shift perceptions—whether among young people or shop owners—about the lucrative and rewarding opportunities this industry offers. Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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103. Structuring Business for Tax Efficiency and Succession Planning: Part 3 with Stuart Sorkin 37:24

לפני 14 weeks37:24

37:24

Welcome to this third and final installment of our educational series on structuring business for tax efficiencies. In the previous sessions, we covered the complexities of C Corporations, including their benefits, drawbacks, and scenarios where they might be appropriate. In this episode, Matt and Stuart Sorkin, a seasoned attorney, CPA, and founder of Business and Legal Advisors, LLC, focus on Buy-Sel Agreements highlighting their importance and addressing common misconceptions. This topic is especially beneficial for business owners working with partners, employees, or family members who are shareholders as they learn a few practical strategies to help protect against unexpected events that could shake up ownership or create challenges for the business. Matt and Stuart also talk about: (01.29) Is succession planning the antithesis of a business owner’s strengths? (02:03) What is the Monte Carlo Analysis? (04:41) The question that will help you define your true business value (12:45) Why should business owners have Buy-Sell Agreements? (15:54) Why Stuart is a big proponent of always having a reverse offer (22:55) The agreement that Stuart missed which led to 7 years of litigation (29:51) Two types of insurance business owners must always consider (31:14) The issue with third-party financing (33:12) The one requirement to ensure growth and maximize the value of your business (33:58) Why it is crucial to build a team to help plan for your business’s future Connect With Stuart Sorkin Website: https://businessandlegaladvisors.com/ Personal Website: https://stuartsorkin.com/ Phone: (301) 320-1152 Email: info@businessandlegaladvisors.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-sorkin-84a528/ Schedule a call with Stuart: https://calendly.com/stuart-sorkin Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Stuart H. Sorkin is the founder of Business and Legal Advisors, a firm that assists small and mid-size businesses with growth strategies. With over 40 years of experience as an entrepreneur, CPA, and attorney, he specializes in business entity formation, mergers and acquisitions, tax and estate planning, and asset protection. He co-authored Expensive Mistakes When Buying & Selling Companies…and How to Avoid Them in Your Deals and has been featured in publications like the Wall Street Journal and USA Today. Stuart also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Jack R. Anderson Charitable Foundation. He holds a B.S.B.A. in Accounting and Finance, a law degree, and an LL.M. in taxation. Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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102. Structuring Business for Tax Efficiency and Succession Planning: Part 2 with Stuart Sorkin 38:44

לפני 16 weeks38:44

38:44

Welcome back to part two of our special three-part educational series, where we continue exploring how business owners can optimize their structures for long-term success. While tax rates were covered in the previous episode, this conversation takes a closer look at other crucial factors that impact business owners, such as transfer strategies, control, and long-term financial planning. In this session, Matt is again joined by Stuart Sorkin, a seasoned attorney, CPA, and founder of Business and Legal Advisors, LLC, to dive deeper into the key differences between C Corps, S Corps, and LLCs. They also break down how the right entity structure can not only reduce tax liability but also provide shop owners with the flexibility to step back from day-to-day operations while ensuring future growth and stability. Matt and Stuart also talk about: (01.09) A big problem in raising investor capital with S-Corps (03:08) What is a non-qualified deferred compensation plan? (07:24) How strategic tax and equity planning can protect your business and key talent (11:49) The role of a strong partnership agreement (16:18) How to transition ownership while staying in control of the business (21:13) Key considerations for different stock classes (23:51) How employee agreements can protect your deal and boost valuation (28:45) How to turn key employees into owners without breaking the bank (31:42) How a holding company structure unlocks growth and employee equity (33:11) Why your CPA or attorney may not recommend a C-Corp Connect With Stuart Sorkin Website: https://businessandlegaladvisors.com/ Personal Website: https://stuartsorkin.com/ Phone: (301) 320-1152 Email: info@businessandlegaladvisors.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-sorkin-84a528/ Schedule a call with Stuart: https://calendly.com/stuart-sorkin Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Stuart Sorkin brings over 40 years of experience as an angel investor, entrepreneur, CPA, and attorney, specializing in assisting business owners with growth and exit strategies. In 2018, he founded The Business and Legal Advisors, a consulting firm focused on the financial and legal protection of business owners, executives, and entrepreneurs. He has expertise in areas such as business entity formation, mergers and acquisitions, tax planning, succession planning, and estate planning. Stuart is the co-author of Expensive Mistakes When Buying & Selling Companies...and How to Avoid Them in Your Deal s and has spoken at various professional groups on exit strategies and asset protection. He has been featured in top media outlets, including the Wall Street Journal and USA Today, for his insights on tax-related matters. Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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101: Structuring Business for Tax Efficiency and Succession Planning: Part 1 with Stuart Sorkin 40:12

לפני 16 weeks40:12

40:12

Welcome to a special three-part educational series designed to help business owners rethink their roles and structures for long-term success. Many shop owners today, especially younger ones, aren’t ready to transition out entirely but want their businesses to thrive without being dependent on their day-to-day involvement. This series will explore key strategies to achieve that goal, starting with how the right business structure can minimize tax liability, enhance transfer options, and allow owners to maintain control while stepping back operationally. In this first session, Matt is joined by Stuart Sorkin, a seasoned attorney, CPA, and founder of Business and Legal Advisors, LLC , to talk about the impact of entity types on ownership goals and discuss the recent tax law updates and their implications, offering practical insights for shop owners looking to future-proof their businesses. Matt and Stuart also talk about: (04:00) Why body shop owners should rethink tax planning before 2026 (06:12) When is the right time to start planning your exit strategy? (06:47) How structuring your sale can save you in taxes (09:10) The benefits of the different business structures (17:15) Why most investors don’t like S-Corps (30:11) What S-Corps can do to fund big purchases without draining cash (32:24) How smart tax planning can keep you profitable without crossing the line (34:01) Why it is crucial to know who you are selling to (35:48) The importance of planning early (37:05) What is the built-in gains tax? Connect With Stuart Sorkin Website: https://businessandlegaladvisors.com/ Personal Website: https://stuartsorkin.com/ Phone: (301) 320-1152 Email: info@businessandlegaladvisors.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-sorkin-84a528/ Schedule a call with Stuart: https://calendly.com/stuart-sorkin Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Stuart Sorkin is an attorney, CPA, and founder of Business and Legal Advisors, a consulting firm specializing in strategic business transfers. With extensive experience in the collision industry, Stuart provides invaluable guidance to shop owners navigating complex transactions. He is also the author of Expensive Mistakes When Buying and Selling Companies , a must-read book outlining common pitfalls in business sales. Stuart’s expertise helps business owners avoid costly errors and make informed decisions. Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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100. 100 Episodes Strong: A Journey of Impact and Gratitude 13:14

לפני 17 weeks13:14

13:14

Welcome to a very special episode of Your Business, Your Life!! Today, we’re celebrating an incredible milestone—our 100th episode! Four and a half years ago, Matt Di Francesco launched this podcast with one goal: to help business owners align their lives and businesses to create generational wealth. In this episode, Matt reflects on the journey, sharing the lessons learned and the impact created along the way. He expresses heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this milestone possible. He also outlines his plans to continue delivering value through the podcast, including exciting new initiatives and content. Matt talks about: (00:45) How the Your Business your Life podcast started (05:50) Why surrounding yourself with smarter people is a game-changer (06:54) Exciting plans for Your Business, Your Life in 2025 (11:53) Matt’s ultimate goal for the future Have a topic or question you'd like Matt to cover? We’d love to hear from you! Whether it’s about financial planning, exit strategies, or value building, feel free to share your suggestions or comments. Just send an email to podcast@highliftfin.com , and we’ll be happy to address them in future episodes. Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. High Lift Financial is a DBA for DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC. Investment advisory services are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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99. How ESG Principles Can Drive Value for Your Collision Repair Shop with Eddie Hightower 28:45

לפני 19 weeks28:45

28:45

To exit your business on your own terms and fund your ideal post-business life, increasing its value is essential. One powerful way to achieve this is by adopting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. Unfortunately, many collision shop owners are unaware of how ESG practices can significantly impact their business's value, leading to missed opportunities for growth, profitability, and a stronger market position. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Eddie Hightower, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Social Responsibility at Caliber Collision , as they dive into how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices can drive long-term business growth, enhance business reputation, attract valuable talent, and ultimately boost the overall value of your shop. Matt and Eddie also talk about: (03:44) The three components of sustainability (04:56) Why most shops score poorly on the ESG criteria (09:45) The importance of reputation (11:53) One of the biggest challenges in guiding shop owners in preparing for a third-party sale (15:23) What Caliber Collision looks for when buying a shop (17:03) How Caliber Collision’s Technician Apprentice Program (TAP) works (21:56) Why doing the right thing with ESG lifts the entire collision repair industry (28:28) Why shop owners should embrace sustainability practices and tell their story Connect With Eddie Hightower Website: https://www.caliber.com/services/collision LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiehightower/ Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Eddie Hightower, who joined Caliber in 2015, brings a diverse background spanning legal and HR leadership roles across both private and public companies. An attorney by trade, Eddie earned his BA from the University of Denver and his JD from the University of Miami School of Law, remaining an active member of the Florida and DC bars. His unique perspective on sustainability and social responsibility aligns with his experience in human resources—an area often overlooked by collision shop owners. Eddie also serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Tampa and, outside of work, enjoys the gym, reading, and volunteering for Operation Kindness, a local pet rescue organization. Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. Investment advisory services from High Lift Financial are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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98. The Collision Industry’s Hotbed for Buyers: What’s Driving the Boom? with Laura Gay 33:03

לפני 24 weeks33:03

33:03

The collision repair industry is growing quickly, with more private equity and buyers showing interest. This creates a great opportunity for shop owners to take advantage of the booming market. However, selling a shop can be complicated, and owners who focus on increasing their shop's value and getting professional help will have the best chance to maximize their profits. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Laura Gay, Owner and Consultant at Consolidation Coach , as they discuss the rising demand for consolidation in the collision industry, the importance of professional guidance in sales to maximize returns, and their insights on what the future market may hold. Matt and Laura also talk about: (02:28) What is Collision Classifieds? (04:36) The current state of the consolidation market (07:18) The different tier classifications of buyers (10:40) Why shop owners should seek professional help when selling their shops (15:03) What shop owners need to understand about the tax implications of a sale (17:02) What C-Corporations need to prepare for (20:12) What the collision repair market will look like in 5 years (23:59) Why shops need to increase their free cash flow now (25:38) How a shop’s dependence on its owner affects its value (29:22) Why shop owners should join the Collision Cocktail Hour Connect With Laura Gay Website: https://consolidationcoach.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-gay-b5b576156/ Email: laura@consolidationcoach.com Phone: 301.399.8675 Book a consultation call: https://consolidationcoach.com/contact/ Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial Tune in to The Collision Cocktail Hour! Join Matt and Laura, along with Micki Woods, Barrett Smith, Clay Hoberecht, and Rick Selover, for the Collision Cocktail Hour, held every third Wednesday of the month at 8 PM Eastern. This open forum offers a valuable opportunity for shop owners to discuss real-world challenges and solutions with their peers, and everyone is welcome to participate! REGISTER HERE → https://collisioncocktailhour.com/ About the guest: Laura Gay, a former small MSO shop owner, was approached by aggressive consolidators to sell her shops in 2014. Feeling lost, she took time to learn about the auto body shop Mergers and Acquisitions process, realizing the importance of getting it right when selling. In 2015, she successfully sold her shops and retired at 42. After helping friends through the selling process, she was encouraged to start a business, leading to the creation of Consolidation Coach, a leading M&A firm for shop owners today. Outside of work, Laura enjoys drag racing, NASCAR, and spending time with her dogs, Mopsie, Oscar, Stagger, and Miss Pearl. Disclaimer: All information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. No tax or legal advice is given nor intended. Content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here. Investment advisory services from High Lift Financial are provided through Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC, an independent advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.…

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97. Automation in Action: Boosting Efficiency and Reducing Backlogs in the Collision Industry with Phillip Brown 30:41

לפני 26 weeks30:41

30:41

Many collision shop owners struggle with managing project backlogs and inefficiencies due to outdated or disjointed software systems, leading to delays, increased manual workloads, and difficulty in tracking key tasks. These issues not only slow down operations but also prevent shops from maximizing their productivity and retaining top talent. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Phillip Brown, Principal Consultant / President at Blu Pitt Inc., as they discuss the importance of streamlining processes and the benefits of automation in the collision industry. Matt and Phillip also talk about: (02:12) What led Phillip to help businesses streamline project management processes (04:25) How can collision shops gain better control over their workflows (04:51) What strategies can shop owners implement to save time on OEM research and ensure accurate repairs (14:43) How Blu Pitt helps businesses operate more efficiently. (18:15) What benefits do automation and streamlined processes provide for retaining top talent (21:22) How Blu Pitt helped Harley-Davidson streamline their processes (26:23) Why collision shop owners should never underestimate the power of streamlining and automating processes Connect With Phillip Brown Website: https://www.blupitt.com/home LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipjbrown/ Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Phillip is an experienced software engineer who has spent years working with computers and programming. His journey began when he learned about project management software, which revealed to him that many companies relied on Excel spreadsheets and disconnected tools to manage their projects. Recognizing the potential for improvement, he utilized his programming skills to create integrated systems that automated processes and provided a comprehensive view of project management for owners and CEOs. This experience motivated him to start his own business, where he assists companies in refining their processes through software integration, consolidation, and sometimes transitioning to more advanced solutions. Phillip is on a mission to help 10,000 businesses perfect their project management to give them more organization, better ROI, and retain their high performers by 2033. Disclaimer: DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC, d/b/a High Lift Financial, is a Pennsylvania-registered investment advisor and may conduct investment advisory services in states where it is registered, exempt, or excluded from registration. The content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here.…

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96. Building the Future: Talent, Technology, and Training in the Automotive Industry with Diane Benting 18:54

לפני 28 weeks18:54

18:54

Finding skilled talent in the collision repair industry has become increasingly difficult due to a shortage of experienced technicians and a lack of new entrants into the field. As the industry evolves with advancements in technology and repair techniques, shops struggle to attract candidates who possess both the technical skills and adaptability needed for modern repairs. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Diane Benting, President at BodyShopJobs, as they discuss the challenges and solutions for the collision repair industry, particularly in finding and retaining talent. Matt and Diane also talk about: (01:55) How BodyShopJobs started (02:53) The biggest mistake shop owners make when acquiring talent (04:51) The mindset shift that needs to happen in the industry (06:49) Why shop owners should look to the untapped talent of women in the industry (10:17) Hiring for culture over skillset in collision repair (14:16) The value of continuous training (16:53) What shop owners can do to empower the next generation of talents Connect With Diane Benting Website: https://bodyshopjobs.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmbenting/ Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Diane Benting is the president and founder of BodyShopJobs, a dedicated job board for the collision repair industry. With 16 years of experience in the industry, Diane has deep knowledge of the sector, having worked in various marketing roles at a prominent regional paint jobber before launching her own venture. She is highly involved in the collision repair community, leveraging her extensive industry expertise to connect businesses with qualified talent. Disclaimer: DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC, d/b/a High Lift Financial, is a Pennsylvania-registered investment advisor and may conduct investment advisory services in states where it is registered, exempt, or excluded from registration. The content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here.…

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95. WreckWeek Session Part 3: Key Strategies to Help Build Your Business Value 31:51

לפני 30 weeks31:51

31:51

Collision shop owners, are you truly maximizing the value of your business? Matt Di Francesco dives deep into this question. He shares eye-opening anecdotes on how simple actions, like answering the phone with empathy or regularly updating customers, can make a significant impact. Whether it’s improving communication, enhancing digital marketing efforts, or planning for employee retention, Matt provides actionable insights to help shop owners build a thriving business. In this episode, we're wrapping up a special three-part series recorded live at the Wreck Week conference last June. Join Matt as he concludes this insightful journey, diving into the key strategies for building value in your collision shop. Matt also talks about: (01:00) How can shop owners enhance customer service (04:40) Why digital marketing is a must for collision shops (07:11) The importance of educating customers on their rights (09:24) The different types of incentives to offer your employees (11:18) Why shops must always have a performance matrix (15:32) The value of having a good tax planning attorney (15:43) Why having properly structured retirement plans is crucial (18:56) The advantages of having a CRM for your business (20:10) The best investment you can make (21:48) Why Employment Agreements are crucial for your key employees (23:51) The people involved in guiding owners through the exit process (24:52) Matt’s value proposition Connect with Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial Disclaimer: DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC, d/b/a High Lift Financial, is a Pennsylvania-registered investment advisor and may conduct investment advisory services in states where it is registered, exempt, or excluded from registration. The content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here.…

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94. WreckWeek Session Part 2: The 3-Step Process to Build Value in Your Business 26:01

לפני 32 weeks26:01

26:01

Have you ever wondered how to truly build and enhance the value of your collision shop? Building your business's value can be a complex process due to various factors. It involves understanding and adapting to market dynamics, managing finances effectively, streamlining operations, maintaining customer satisfaction and so much more. Fortunately, with the right strategies and tools, you can simplify these complexities and maximize your business's value, paving the way for a successful exit. At the Wreck Week Conference last June, Matt DiFrancesco broke down this complex process into a three-step journey for collision shop owners. Join Matt in the second installment of his three-part series, where he explores the concept of using a GPS approach to build business value and explains why having a business continuity plan is crucial for all entrepreneurs. Matt also talks about: (00:30) The first step in building value in your business (03:11) What Matt loves about the collision industry (03:53) How to assess your starting point (04:38) Two ways to close your value gap (05:48) What is business continuity? (06:56) Four areas to consider when putting together a business continuity plan (08:57) The importance of having a Buy-Sell Agreement (11:02) The problem with “cookie-cutter” valuations (12:18) How often should agreement and other documents be reviewed? (17:07) Why stay bonus plans are great for key employee retention (22:28) The benefits of choosing a C-Corp structure Connect with Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial Disclaimer: DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC, d/b/a High Lift Financial, is a Pennsylvania-registered investment advisor and may conduct investment advisory services in states where it is registered, exempt, or excluded from registration. The content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here.…

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93. Strengthening Family Businesses Through Leadership with Pete Walsh 39:09

לפני 34 weeks39:09

39:09

Are you a business owner struggling to balance the demands of family dynamics with achieving business success? The majority of businesses are family-owned or operated . Often, multiple family members are involved in running these businesses, leading to unique and interesting dynamics. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for business owners to strengthen the business, rebuild leadership, and boost productivity within their companies. Join Matt DiFrancesco and Pete Walsh, Family Business Advisor & Master Coach, as they discuss the challenges that family businesses face and share personal stories of navigating conflicts, setting expectations, and developing leadership within the family business. Matt and Pete talk about: (02:32) Why the concept of leadership today is trickier than ever (06:36) Why family businesses must understand that a business has a lifecycle (07:27) The common factor among the fastest-growing shops (08:09) What are some of the biggest challenges that family businesses face? (10:34) How to create a unified family vision when dealing with diverse personalities (10:50) The advantage of having objective feedback from outside the family business (12:23) Why conflicts are completely normal (14:14) Strategies for parents to help deal with entitlement among their children (21:11) How the Family Business Coaching System works (28:19) Pete’s value proposition (29:30) The one mistake most business owners make (32:22) The benefits of having the children work someplace else before they go into their family business Connect With Pete Walsh Website: https://familybusinessperformance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-walsh/ Get access to Tools and Proven Strategies that will help your family business thrive and succeed - for FREE! Visit https://familybusinessperformance.com/ Connect With Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial About the guest: Pete Walsh is a seasoned family business consultant with over 16 years of hands-on experience in his own family business. In 1997, he founded the Peak Workout Business Coaching System, and in 2013, he established the Family Business Performance Center. His goal is to support family businesses by offering his proven practices online for free, helping them strengthen and grow. Pete also provides personal coaching to select clients. He has been happily married for 35 years and is the proud father of two successful adult children. Disclaimer: DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC, d/b/a High Lift Financial, is a Pennsylvania-registered investment advisor and may conduct investment advisory services in states where it is registered, exempt, or excluded from registration. The content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here.…

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92. WreckWeek Session Part 1: Building Value In Your Shop 22:42

לפני 36 weeks22:42

22:42

Last June, WreckWeek 2024 brought together professionals from road clearance, collision repair, and auto repair for a comprehensive expo where attendees could network, participate in workshops, and explore the latest advancements and technologies in accident management and vehicle repair. Matt DiFrancesco was invited to host an educational session at this event. In it, he emphasizes the importance of strategic planning for collision shop owners to enhance their business value and ensure a smooth and profitable exit when the time comes. Join Matt in the first of this three-part series, where he talks about the importance of building value in collision shops and businesses, planning for the end game, identifying exit plans, and considering factors beyond revenue and profitability. Matt also talks about: (03:15) The 5-year revolving plan (04:06) Preparing your business for the lifestyle you desire (06:10) Why a business’s value does not have a fixed formula (07:21) The difference between an essential owner and an incidental owner (10:19) The benefits of becoming an incidental owner (11:52) Why is it important to build value in your shop? (15:11) An underutilized talent in the collision industry (17:10) The value of preserving the legacy and reputation of your business Connect with Matt DiFrancesco: matt@highliftfin.com (814)201-5855 LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco LinkedIn: High Lift Financial Facebook: High Lift Financial Instagram: @high_lift_financial Youtube: @highliftfinancial Disclaimer: DiFrancesco Financial Concierge, LLC, d/b/a High Lift Financial, is a Pennsylvania-registered investment advisor and may conduct investment advisory services in states where it is registered, exempt, or excluded from registration. The content provided herein or on our website should not be construed as an offer for investment advice or for securities, insurance, or other investment products. Investments involve the risk of loss and are not guaranteed. Consult a qualified legal, tax, accounting, or financial professional before implementing any investments or strategy discussed here.…

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