The Home Service Expert Podcast The Journey of an Automotive Expert with Aaron Stokes
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Aug 4, 2025 Aaron Stokes, founder of Auto Fix and Shop Fix Academy, boasts 25 years in the automotive repair industry. In this chat, he shares his inspiring journey from modest beginnings to a thriving entrepreneur and coach. Aaron discusses mastering financial metrics, emphasizing the critical nature of gross profit by the hour. He also delves into employee management, effective sales techniques, and the impact of community-driven live events. With a focus on embracing change and personal growth, Aaron offers strategies for business owners aiming to scale successfully.
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Aaron's Automotive Journey
- Aaron Stokes started in automotive at 21 with an eighth-grade education and no college, working out of a barn behind his trailer.
- He overcame a major theft loss, then built multiple businesses and a large coaching program.
Use Gross Profit Per Hour
- Measure gross profit by the hour, not just by percentage, to understand true profitability.
- Include overhead cost hours like driving time to ensure accurate job cost and pricing.
Staff to Say Yes
- Staff your business to say yes to customers and handle demand, even if it means sacrificing some net profit.
- Paying higher wages to skilled employees reduces costly mistakes and improves customer experience.
