On The Ramp – The Independent Automotive Garage Owners Podcast.
- Épisodes
- 53
- Parution
- mensuelle
- Dernier épisode
- 6 Nov 2026
À propos du podcast
We have a simple mission; to connect as many independent garages as possible, with the aim of sharing knowledge and helping to raise the standards of the independent automotive industry.
Épisodes 53
From Lorry Driver to Award-Winning Garage Owner | Dave Wilson, Drive Green
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlTo find out more about our GMS LaunchControl …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit:
https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
To find out more about our GMS LaunchControl, head to https://launchcontrol.app
Eight years ago Dave Wilson was driving lorries and doing carbon cleans at the weekend to pay off his debts. He had no trade background, no backing, and soon after, an IVA that meant he couldn't get so much as a credit card. Today he runs Drive Green Vehicle Services, an award-winning garage with staff, and he has just bought the unit next door without a mortgage.
Alex and Tim take Dave back to the £2,000 carbon cleaning machine he gambled on, and work forward through teaching himself DPF work, walking away from lorry driving, building a mobile business through an IVA, saving £15k just before COVID hit, getting his first unit, and learning to price a job properly.
Topics covered:
- going from lorry driving to carbon cleaning at the weekend
- finding his first customers on Facebook
- the "what's a DPF?" job that changed everything
- caring for his dad while building the business
- running a business through an IVA with no credit
- taking on a unit with £3,500 in the bank
- why most garages are undercharging
- buying the unit next door when the bank wouldn't give him a mortgage
- his advice for anyone thinking of going it alone
Timestamps:
00:00 - launchcontrol
00:42 - intro
01:57 - from lorry driver to carbon cleaning at the weekend
03:50 - finding customers on facebook
07:27 - "what's a dpf?" the job that changed everything
10:26 - cracking dpf regens and charging properly
13:29 - caring for his dad
16:31 - walking away from lorry driving
25:40 - joining the dpf doctor network
27:31 - networking his way into the trade
29:30 - the iva, building a business with no credit
33:08 - castrol | the race group partnership
35:45 - £15k saved, then covid
42:04 - getting the first unit
46:27 - sharing a garage and taking on dan
54:36 - who the business is for
57:45 - learning to price a job
1:02:12 - most garages are undercharging
1:06:38 - front of house, staff and the new hire
1:14:49 - buying the unit next door with no mortgage
1:23:30 - on the main stage at 1tec
1:25:50 - a tough year
1:30:32 - advice for anyone going it alone
1:31:41 - outro
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
#ontheramp #garageowners #independentgarage #dpf #startingagarage #ukgarages #automotiveindustry #mechaniclife #castrol
The future of garage management software and AI in the automotive industry.
If you run a garage, you’ve probably seen a lot of adverts for garage management software (GMS) lately. There’s a reason for that. AI has made software almost free to build, so garage owners, the established …
Notes de l’épisode
If you run a garage, you’ve probably seen a lot of adverts for garage management software (GMS) lately. There’s a reason for that. AI has made software almost free to build, so garage owners, the established players and brand new companies are all piling into the market.
In this short episode I talk about where that leaves the industry. I cover why prices are falling, what MCP is, and why connecting Claude or ChatGPT to your GMS changes things. Soon your agent won’t just pull reports. It’ll create bookings, order parts and contact customers. I also explain why LaunchControl starts at £49, how one of my businesses already runs fully automated bookkeeping through Xero, and why I think the market will grow fast and then shrink back to a few key players.
The big idea: your GMS should hold your data and your processes, and give you full API and MCP access so you can build on top of it. Some of our customers already have.
Chapters
00:00 Why you're seeing so many GMS adverts
02:03 AI inside the workflow, and what MCP means
03:00 When AI agents start writing back to your GMS
03:41 Why we launched LaunchControl, and why it's £49
05:07 Bookkeeping that runs itself
06:25 Buying a GMS right now, and the coming shake-out
07:46 The GMS as your data layer
08:41 Customers building their own apps
10:11 Your priority for the next 12 months
To learn more, visit https://launchcontrol.app
Starting a Garage With £200 in the Bank
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlRoss Maitland was promised training by one …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Ross Maitland was promised training by one employer after another. Main dealers, big independents, a contract, a handshake, none of it turned into a single day on a course. At 35 he was ready to leave the trade for good.
Instead he opened Maitland Motors in Burntisland with £200 in his bank account and his mum and dad lending him the rent. Less than a year in he had nothing booked and gave himself two days before he packed it in. Ten years on he has six staff, owns the building, and has just won an award for training and development. Alex and Tim take him right back to the Yellow Pages and work forward through every garage, every broken promise, and every mistake he made on the way.
Topics covered:
- writing to 74 garages for an apprenticeship and getting two replies
- being passed over for master tech training without being asked
- a bonus scheme that punished the wrong person
- finding out he was £3 an hour under the technicians he was trying to recruit- why paying under market rate catches up with a garage
- starting a garage with £200 and no savings
- the fleet work that saved his first year- a thousand pounds a year for unlimited training, and what he did with it
- what he does differently now he employs technicians himself
Timestamps:
00:00 - intro
07:56 - writing to 74 garages for an apprenticeship
18:14 - leaving the first garage for bigger jobs
26:44 - castrol | the race group partnership
29:30 - promised master tech training, then passed over
39:46 - on £10.50 an hour and £3 under his own technicians
48:03 - the two homers that made his mind up
52:24 - starting maitland motors with £200 in the bank
59:57 - two days from packing it in
1:05:20 - a thousand pounds a year for unlimited training
1:13:37 - winning the training and development award
1:20:01 - two staff, an envelope and five rules
1:30:37 - outroSubscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
Inside the Tuning World: Files, Agents and the Bit Nobody Talks About
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlDavid Simpson left school with no …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit:
https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
David Simpson left school with no qualifications, got sacked from a string of McDonald's, and ended up running a tuning network with around 800 agents and manufacturing his own DPF cleaning machines. In this episode he and Sy Harraway open up a side of the trade most garage owners never see from the inside, including how tuning files are actually bought, sold and protected, and why the incoming DPF test is going to catch out a lot of cars.
If you run a workshop, send DPFs out, or have ever wondered what is really on the ECU of the car in front of you, this one is full of practical insight.
What is covered:
Diagnosing with second-hand parts instead of chasing fault codes
How master and slave tuning tools work, and why choosing a file provider matters
Manufacturers locking down ECUs, and what happens when one gets cracked
Warranty markers and how main dealers spot a remap
The DPF MOT test and what it means for mapped-out vehicles
Putting vehicles back to stock as a revenue stream
Building a DPF cleaning machine from scratch
Running a garage at 48% gross profit with one technician and an apprenticeTimestamps:
00:00 - intro
00:30 - from the army to the boot of a bmw
05:21 - the £30 ecu approach to diagnostics
09:14 - mobile to workshop, and the moonlight flit
16:16 - selling tools, and getting stung
20:25 - seven day payment terms and lending on trust
27:47 - Castrol | The Race Group Partnership
29:00 - masters, slaves and how tuning files really work
42:20 - tuning evs and locked down ecus
54:56 - the dpf mot test and stockpiling filters
57:56 - the mdf box and the machine that leaked
1:02:50 - taking manufacturing to turkey
1:07:59 - four businesses, one workshop
1:17:08 - £120,000 spent getting work for agents
1:24:27 - outroSubscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
#ontheramp #mobilemechanic #garageowners #independentgarage #automotiveindustry #mechaniclife #ukgarages #trades #automotive #castrol #remapping #dpf #diagnostics
What It's Really Like Taking Over the Family Garage at 24
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlMarc is 25 and runs Magnet Autos in Liverpool, a …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit:
https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Marc is 25 and runs Magnet Autos in Liverpool, a third generation family garage his granddad started in 1978 after accidentally buying the wrong building at auction. He came into the business straight out of school after six months at home, took over in October 2023 when his dad stepped back to care for his granddad, and was made managing director just under two years later. Turnover has roughly doubled in three years.
Tim Guidotti joins Alex on co-hosting duty for the first time, so there is a proper fleet conversation in here too: fleet versus retail margins, auto authorisation on the platforms, high spend reviews and de-fleeting, and why six technicians can run on one service advisor.
If you run an independent garage or you are heading into a family business handover, this one is honest about the parts that go wrong as well as the parts that work.
Topics covered:
Coming into the family business out of school and starting in the back office
How Magnet bought its way into fleet in 2004
Taking over in October 2023 when his dad stepped back
Going from mate to boss, and the hire he regrets letting go
Turning away the busy fools and £4,000 to £5,000 a week of turnover
Fleet versus retail: margins, authorisation and high spend reviews
Splitting workshop control from the front desk
The five year plan, ramps, and why he is not opening a second site
Timestamps:
00:00 - intro
01:44 - leaving school and the six months at home
07:29 - how magnet got into fleet in 2004
13:15 - the dip and taking over in October 2023
19:18 - the sultan of brunei cars
23:06 - Castrol | The Race Group Partnership
24:26 - the setup, the staff and buying the wrong building
33:02 - fleet versus retail margins and authorisation
39:15 - the numbers and turning away the busy fools
46:27 - becoming managing director
52:46 - the five year plan and adding ramps
59:36 - outro
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#garageowners #independentgarage #automotiveindustry #mechaniclife #ukgarages #trades #automotive #castrol #fleet #familybusiness #ontheramp
The Tyre Lady: 50 Cars a Day, 2,000 Tyres in Their Biggest Month
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlSophie Lyden works alongside her dad at Westgate …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Sophie Lyden works alongside her dad at Westgate Tyres in Morecambe. Three depots on one street, 40 to 50 cars a day, and no booking system for tyres. She's also better known across the trade as The Tyre Lady, and became the person the BBC called when they wanted a tyre expert. She joins us to talk about how both of those things happened.
If you run a garage or sell tyres, this one's full of practical insight, and a decent argument that safety messaging is the best marketing you're not doing.
In this episode:
- Why Westgate doesn't take bookings for tyres, and how they cope with 40 to 50 cars a day
- The stock strategy behind their biggest tyre month
- TPMS, valve service kits, and the conversation most garages skip
- Why she checks dot codes on every car and advises at 3mm
- The crash outside the garage that started The Tyre Lady
- What road safety conferences never talk about
- How a LinkedIn post about a bad tyre reached 200,000 people
- Getting a tyre onto the BBC Breakfast sofa
- What she'd change about the MOT and the legal tread limit
- ADHD, postnatal depression, and running a business through both
Timestamps:
00:00 - intro
01:04 - how sophie ended up back in the family tyre business
09:11 - inside westgate tyres and their biggest month
18:31 - punctures, stock and what makes a tyre shop busy
24:51 - tyres or servicing, and which one she would keep
29:26 - castrol | the race group partnership
35:55 - the crash outside the garage that started the tyre lady
43:04 - road safety conferences, dot codes and the education gap
52:38 - testing tyres and keeping the tyre lady separate from westgate
60:37 - bbc breakfast and the families behind the campaign
66:46 - what she would change about the mot and the tread limit
75:07 - adhd, postnatal depression and understanding her own brain
83:40 - taking over the business and what comes next
88:05 - outro
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#ontheramp #tyres #tyresafety #garageowners #independentgarage #ukgarages #automotiveindustry #roadsafety #mechaniclife #castrol
Is Fleet work worth it? The Fleet Guy sets the record straight.
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlFleet work divides the trade. Some garages swear …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit:
https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Fleet work divides the trade. Some garages swear by it, others swear at it. In this episode, Alex and Leo are joined by Tim Guidotti, second generation owner of Ferdotti Motor Services and founder of Fleet Guy, to tackle the myths head on. Alex explains why he spent years telling garages to get rid of their fleet work, and why he now admits he was wrong. Tim breaks down good fleet vs bad fleet, the truth about labour rates, how to actually win fleet contracts, and why the data suggests retail-only garages could be facing long term decline.
If you run an independent garage and you've ever dismissed fleet work, this one's full of practical insight.
Timestamps:
00:00 - intro
01:04 - tim's story, growing up in the family business
12:34 - joining the business and doing the deal properly
21:52 - Castrol | The Race Group Partnership
23:05 - why alex was anti-fleet, and admitting he was wrong
29:32 - the coffee test, good fleet vs bad fleet
41:09 - winning fleet work and keeping it
52:25 - should your garage do fleet, and where ownership is heading
1:03:05 - the labour rate myth, utilisation and productivity
1:09:23 - why fleet guy exists, building an industry standard
1:16:36 - fleet guy live, plus tim joins as co-host
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
#ontheramp #garageowners #independentgarage #fleetwork #fleetmanagement #ukgarages #automotiveindustry #mechaniclife #castrol
The Marginal Gains Approach to Running a Garage: A Conversation with Phil Brookes
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlThis week it's not a story episode, it's a …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
This week it's not a story episode, it's a business one. Alex and Leo sit down with business coach Phil Brookes, who has spent his career in the tyre and garage trade, from the workshop floor to training and running parts of a national group, and now coaching independent garages. We get into the stuff most owners never get taught: pricing with confidence, knowing your real numbers, front of house, recruitment and the small marginal gains that quietly add thousands to the bottom line.
If you run a garage and you have ever felt busy but not as profitable as you should be, this one is full of practical insight.
Timestamps:
00:00 - intro and why business training is undervalued
01:20 - phil's journey into the trade
07:38 - growing and selling a national tyre group
13:37 - why tyre pricing is so sensitive
17:25 - pricing with confidence and the three prices
18:50 - front of house and the restaurant lesson
26:39 - why training fails without follow-up
29:11 - marginal gains and the 1% rule
33:00 - the wheel alignment opportunity
38:27 - how much profit is really in a tyre
47:56 - leading, retention and recruitment
51:09 - knowing your numbers and the benchmarks that matter
57:29 - marketing and the garage that isn't busy enough
1:04:23 - hiq, wholesale and the real tyre margins
1:06:47 - how to get in touch with Phil
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
#ontheramp #garageowners #independentgarage #automotiveindustry #mechaniclife #automotive #castrol #businesscoaching
Behind the UK's Biggest Garage Events: A Conversation with Joanne Knowles, Messe Frankfurt UK
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-...Joanne Knowles is the Event Director for Automechanika …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit:
https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-...
Joanne Knowles is the Event Director for Automechanika Birmingham and the UK Garage and Body Shop event, the two biggest trade shows in the UK independent garage calendar.
She joins Alex and Dawn on this episode to talk about what actually goes into running them, why attending matters more than ever, and how Motivate is starting to change the way new talent is brought into the industry.
If you're a garage owner, technician, college tutor or student, this one's worth your time.
Timestamps:
00:00 - intro
01:14 - automechanika vs uk garage and body shop
03:00 - why garage owners should attend
07:31 - feedback, parking and the autonomous bus
09:20 - introducing motivate
12:20 - women, the ignite arena and engaging colleges
18:16 - computer science, adas and the future
21:34 - the case for cpd accreditation
25:22 - castrol | the race group partnership
26:37 - industry community, the blend and ben charity
33:15 - takeaways and how to get involved
41:13 - uk garage and body shop 2026
44:00 - outro
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
#automotiveindustry #podcast #interview #ontheramp #independentgarage
Life of a Mobile Tech with The Norfolk Tech
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlJordan from JLK Vehicle Solutions, better known …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.
To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Jordan from JLK Vehicle Solutions, better known online as The Norfolk Tech, joins us to share how a Covid redundancy pushed him into self-employment and how he's built one of the healthier mobile businesses in the UK.
In this episode, Jordan breaks down why the trade undercharges, what it really takes to run a mobile business day to day, the value of community for solo operators, and why he's been willing to talk openly about burnout.
00:00 – Introduction
02:15 – Redundancy during Covid
06:10 – Six weeks to self-employed
08:45 – Building the business on Facebook
19:20 – A typical day on the road
22:35 – Why the trade undercharges
33:00 – Sponsored Segment
38:00 – Getting scammed, security, and working on driveways
53:00 – Diary management and parts
01:06:00 – The mobile tech community
01:10:00 – Talking openly about burnout
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
#ontheramp #mobilemechanic #independentgarage #automotiveindustry #castrol
tps://beacons.ai/ontheramp
From Employees To Owners: how we built a fully booked specialist garage
If you are a garage owner thinking about starting, specialising or scaling, this episode offers a clear look at what actually drives results. In this episode we cover how this specialist garage was:- Built With …
Notes de l’épisode
If you are a garage owner thinking about starting, specialising or scaling, this episode offers a clear look at what actually drives results.
In this episode we cover how this specialist garage was:
- Built With Clarity From Day One
- Built Without Guesswork- Built With Purpose, Not Pressure
- Built Through Focus, Not Expansion
- Doing the Right Things Early
This episode is kindly sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. Find out more about Castrol using the link below:
https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
01:42 - Early career and dealership experience
04:15 - The decision to leave the dealership
07:10 - Career perspective and Australia
10:05 - Starting The Mini Repair Shop
14:20 - Building the brand before the building
18:35 - Launching during COVID
23:10 - Finding customers in the early days
28:45 - Why specialising in MINI works
34:20 - The role of social media
40:05 - Partnerships and early growth
46:30 - Expansion vs focus
52:10 - Key lessons for garage owners
57:00 - Final thoughts
Building a Resilient Garage From General Repairs to Specialist
Most garage businesses start broad.General repairs. General customers. General positioning.But over time, staying general can make growth harder, not easier.In this episode, we explore the journey from a …
Notes de l’épisode
Most garage businesses start broad.General repairs.
General customers. General positioning.
But over time, staying general can make growth harder, not easier.In this episode, we explore the journey from a traditional town-centre garage to a specialist Land Rover business and the structural decisions that built long-term resilience along the way.
We cover:
- Transitioning from petrol station to full garage operation
- The risk of moving from a high street location to a commercial unit
- Why mastering internal workflow comes before expansion- How specialisation strengthens pricing confidence and authority
- The importance of perception in building value
- This is not about chasing trends. It is about deliberate evolution.
- If you are thinking about resilience, repositioning, or future
-proofing your garage, this episode is for you.
This episode is supported by Castrol and The Race Group.
To learn more about Castrol and how they support independent garages,
visit:https://www.castrol.com
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction
2:10 - The Origins of the Business
6:15 - From Petrol Station to Garage
12:40 - The Risk of Leaving the High Street
18:20 - Moving to a Commercial Unit
24:30 - Building Systems Before Expansion
30:15 - Controlling Parts and Workflow
36:40 - The Shift Toward Specialisation
44:10 - Becoming a Land Rover Specialist
52:30 - Perception and Premium Positioning
1:01:20 - Lessons in Building Resilience
1:08:45 - Final Thoughts
From Second Guessing to Leading a Garage Business
Running a garage does not come with a manual.In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Petty, co owner of JP Petty Motors, to talk honestly about what it is really like to learn the motor trade while already …
Notes de l’épisode
Running a garage does not come with a manual.
In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Petty, co owner of JP Petty Motors, to talk honestly about what it is really like to learn the motor trade while already carrying the responsibility of running a business.
Sarah did not come from a technical background. She learned on the job, asked questions, made mistakes and slowly built confidence in an industry that does not always make space for uncertainty. We talk about running a family garage, the pressure that follows you home, making difficult pricing decisions, learning when to ask for help, and stepping out of the shadows to become a visible leader.
This conversation will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they were figuring it out as they went along.
Timestamps
2:00 – Coming into the garage with no technical background
5:10 – Learning on the job and early challenges
8:00 – Moving into a service advisor role
11:00 – Balancing family life and the business
14:00 – Covid and the pressure on the garage
17:30 – The moment everything had to change
20:00 – Learning to ask questions and not guess
23:00 – Knowing what you do not know
26:00 – Stepping out of the shadows
29:30 – Confidence and leadership in the garage
32:30 – Putting yourself out there in the industry
35:00 – Discovering the wider automotive community
38:30 – Information overload and staying grounded
41:30 – Running a family business together
45:00 – Supporting staff and building trust
48:30 – Growth pricing and difficult decisions
52:00 – Vehicle health checks and changing processes
56:00 – Capacity pressure and future thinking
1:00:00 – Final reflections on learning as you go
This episode is supported by Castrol and The Race Group.Visit Castrol here: https://www.castrol.com
The Hidden Costs of Going Solo in The Motor Trade
In this episode of On The Ramp, Jamie shares an honest account of his journey through the motor trade.From starting out in a small local garage and working through dealerships and independents, to running his …
Notes de l’épisode
In this episode of On The Ramp, Jamie shares an honest account of his journey through the motor trade.From starting out in a small local garage and working through dealerships and independents, to running his own business for nearly a decade, this conversation looks at what life is really like behind the scenes.
Jamie talks openly about going mobile with very little planning, the pressure of keeping work coming in, and the reality of long hours with little reward.
The episode explores common challenges many garage owners face, including undercharging, fear of employing staff, working without a long term plan, and the isolation that can come with running a one man business.
The discussion also covers the difficult decision to close a garage, the emotional impact of locking the doors for the last time, and the relief that can come from stepping away.
From there, the conversation moves into growth, learning diagnostics properly, working alongside stronger operators, and finding a healthier balance between work, life, and ambition.
This episode will resonate with anyone in the automotive industry who has run a garage, is thinking about starting one, or is questioning what success in this trade really looks like beyond just being busy.
This episode is proudly sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.
To learn more about Castrol Service, visit:
https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/services/castrol-service.html
Timestamps:
01:00 - Getting into the motor trade
05:30 - Apprenticeships and early mistakes
06:45 - Leaving the dealer and chasing money
07:50 - Going mobile and starting alone
09:10 - Running a business with no plan
11:00 - Winter work and survival mode
11:40 - First workshop and early growth
14:00 - Working month to month
15:45 - The biggest mistake looking back
19:00 - Long hours and family pressure
25:00 - Realising something had to change
29:30 - Deciding to close the business
36:30 - Learning again and rediscovering the trade
56:30 - Finding balance and enjoying the work
What Modern Diagnostics Demand From Independent Garages
Modern diagnostics demand far more than plugging in a tool and changing parts. In this episode of On The Ramp, we talk about what working on today’s vehicles really requires from independent garages.The …
Notes de l’épisode
Modern diagnostics demand far more than plugging in a tool and changing parts. In this episode of On The Ramp, we talk about what working on today’s vehicles really requires from independent garages.
The conversation covers process, responsibility and decision making in a world of complex systems, EVs and ADAS. We discuss why fault codes are only the starting point, why structure and method matter, and what happens when diagnostics is rushed or handled without the right understanding.
This episode is for garage owners and senior technicians who want to work safely, professionally and sustainably as vehicles continue to evolve.
Timestamps:
02:12 – Steve’s background and how diagnostics has changed
06:38 – Why fault codes are only the starting point
11:04 – Moving from parts fitting to proper diagnostic process
18:27 – Teaching technicians how to think, not just test
26:06 – Why process matters more than tools
31:42 – Charging properly for diagnostics and assessment time
38:18 – Intermittent faults and managing customer expectations
44:02 – EVs, ADAS and the responsibility garages now carry
49:28 – Safety risks and why calibration matters
56:08 – Dealer vs independent diagnostics explained
01:02:35 – The future of diagnostics and access to vehicle data
01:08:12 – Burnout, pressure and working smarter
01:15:48 – Raising standards without losing your sanity
01:22:26 – Final thoughts on professionalism in the trade
This episode is proudly sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.
Find out more below:
Castrol: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
The Race Group: https://www.facebook.com/TheRaceGroup/?locale=en_GB
Hiring, Firing & Everything In Between
We sat down with Jennifer Webb from HR Vitals to break down the HR essentials every garage owner needs to understand. From contracts and onboarding to conflict, conduct and difficult conversations, Jen explains …
Notes de l’épisode
We sat down with Jennifer Webb from HR Vitals to break down the HR essentials every garage owner needs to understand.
From contracts and onboarding to conflict, conduct and difficult conversations, Jen explains the practical steps that protect your people and your business.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- The most common HR mistakes garages make
- What every employee contract should include
- How to handle staff issues fairly and legally
- Why documentation matters more than you think
- The right way to approach sickness, conduct and capability
- How good HR creates a stronger, safer and more stable workplace
- If you employ people in the automotive industry, this is a must-watch conversation.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Why HR matters more than most garage owners realise
02:17 – What HR Vitals actually does for the automotive industry
04:22 – The most common HR problems inside independent garages
07:25 – Quick wins for reducing pressure on owners and teams
1:36 – Handling issues early and avoiding bigger problems later
15:03 – Conduct and capability explained in clear terms
20:18 – Values, behaviour and setting the right expectations
27:03 – What workplace culture really looks like inside a workshop
33:57 – Avoiding confrontation and how it impacts team behaviour
38:51 – Scoring culture and understanding who fits the business
43:19 – Why technicians lose motivation and direction
49:26 – How HR strengthens retention and protects your business
57:10 – Why your mindset affects how you manage people
01:12:00 – How onboarding shapes the first months of employment
01:23:10 – Recruiting the right people and building a stable team
This episode is proudly sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.
Find out more below:
Castrol: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
The Race Group: https://www.facebook.com/TheRaceGroup/?locale=en_GB
Hidden Struggles In The Automotive Industry
This week, we sit down with Ellen Plumer from Ben Charity, the organisation supporting everyone in the automotive industry.We talk openly about mental health, financial struggles, and the pressure of running or …
Notes de l’épisode
This week, we sit down with Ellen Plumer from Ben Charity, the organisation supporting everyone in the automotive industry.
We talk openly about mental health, financial struggles, and the pressure of running or working in a garage. From business owners to technicians and suppliers, Ben offers free, confidential support when life gets tough.Listen to find out:- How Ben helps anyone in the trade
- Why awareness can save lives
- The shocking truth: two people in the automotive industry die by suicide every week
- What garage owners can do to support their teams
- How you can use Ben’s services for free
Visit ben.org.uk to learn more or get help today.
On The Ramp is proudly sponsored by Castrol, supporting garages that keep Britain moving with trusted oils, lubricants and technology that powers performance every day.
🔗 Learn more about Castrol Service: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome and why this episode matters
02:13 - What is Ben Charity and who do they support?
06:27 - The unseen struggles in the trade
08:42 - How Ben helps garage owners and their teams
12:36 - Mental health, money, and business stress
16:18 - The stats every garage owner should hear
20:45 - The real cost of not looking after yourself or your staff
25:22 - Coaching and counselling… what’s the difference?
32:09 - Letting people help you
40:37 - How every garage can spread the word about Ben
55:18 - Why awareness keeps the industry strong
Inside D&D Autos Success - 36 MOTs a day!
From sweeping floors to running 36 MOTs a day...We sit down with Matthew Pestridge of D&D Autos to talk family business, garage growth, diagnostics, and why the trade’s future looks brighter than ever.This …
Notes de l’épisode
From sweeping floors to running 36 MOTs a day...We sit down with Matthew Pestridge of D&D Autos to talk family business, garage growth, diagnostics, and why the trade’s future looks brighter than ever.
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
00:00 – Meet Matthew from D&D Autos Alex and Nathan welcome Matthew Pestridge and introduce his family-run garage in Ashford.01:00 – How It All Started. The story of how Matt’s dad founded D&D Autos back in 1993.
04:00 – Growing Up in the Garage. Matthew shares early memories, family roles, and what made him join the trade.
07:00 – From Apprenticeship to Ownership. How Matthew learned the ropes, from college days to running the business.
10:00 – Building a Bigger Workshop. The move to an 11,000 sq ft site during the 2008 crash — and surviving it.
17:00 – Training, Tech & Diagnostics. Why D&D Autos invest heavily in upskilling, tools, and ADAS calibration.
25:00 – Running a Family Business. How three siblings keep a large, busy garage running without fallouts.
31:00 – Recruiting & Retaining Techs. Matthew's take on hiring, training, and keeping good people in the trade.
45:00 – Plans for Expansion. Looking ahead to a second site and growing the D&D Autos brand.
58:00 – Lessons for Garage Owners. Matthew's advice on growth, teamwork, and staying hands-on with the trade.
Why Data Is The Real Driver of Success
Tina Drayson returns to On the Ramp to talk about the data every garage owner must track. From workshop efficiency and labour recovery to front of house sales and cash flow, this episode strips it back to the …
Notes de l’épisode
Tina Drayson returns to On the Ramp to talk about the data every garage owner must track. From workshop efficiency and labour recovery to front of house sales and cash flow, this episode strips it back to the numbers that make or break your business.
If you have ever wondered why your team is busy but the bank balance is not, this is the one to listen to.
Powered by Castrol and The Blend.
Is this the biggest opportunity in the Motor Trade in the next 5 years?
Alex and Nathan are joined by Tim Guidotti (The Fleet Guy) to talk about the rise of fleet work, the importance of building relationships with fleet managers, and how garages can adapt to the industry shift …
Notes de l’épisode
Alex and Nathan are joined by Tim Guidotti (The Fleet Guy) to talk about the rise of fleet work, the importance of building relationships with fleet managers, and how garages can adapt to the industry shift away from private vehicle ownership.
We also ask the question - why should a busy garage be concerned about fleet work today?
Tim also shares details about upcoming Fleet Guy training, Q&A webinars https://thefleetguy.co.uk , and his session at The Blend. https://www.theblend.events
How Mark Turned a Family Garage Into a Diagnostics Powerhouse
This episode of On The Ramp is proudly sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.👉 Learn more about Castrol Service: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/services/castrol-service.htmlFrom family garage …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode of On The Ramp is proudly sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.
👉 Learn more about Castrol Service: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/services/castrol-service.htmlFrom family garage beginnings to building Garage Vitals, Mark shares how diagnostics, OEM tools, and dealer access shaped his journey — and why even top independent garages often need support.
We cover the rise of remote diagnostics, the hidden time drain of OEM software, and what SERMI accreditation and vehicle security codes mean for the future of independent garages.
👉 Sign up for SERMI: https://rmisc.co.uk/sermi-expression-of-interest/
👉 Access vehicle security codes: http://www.autosecuritycodes.comSubscribe for more real stories, honest conversation, and expert insight from inside the independent garage sector.
The Problems With Tyres
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlTyres are often treated as an afterthought — but …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.
To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Tyres are often treated as an afterthought — but they might be the biggest untapped opportunity in the aftermarket.
We sit down with Quentin from GiPA UK to look at the data behind tyre sales, EV wear patterns, MOT failures, and why so many garages are losing out on both retention and new business. From tyre-only depots to MOT regulation, EV fleets to customer psychology — this one’s packed with insight.
If you're thinking about the future of your garage, this episode is a must-listen.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome back: Tyres, research, and missed opportunities
10:17 – Why 20% of workshop visits are tyre-related
18:02 – Sponsored segment
19:15 – EV tyre failure stats and surprising MOT trends
28:03 – Are EVs entering the aftermarket too late?
35:42 – Selling safety: Why tyre education matters more than ever
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#ontheramp #automotiveindustry #independentgarages #EVrepair #gipa #castrol
From Mobile Van to Multi-Site Empire, the Story of Cedar Garage
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlFrom two Ford apprentices in a tiny workshop to …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.
To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
From two Ford apprentices in a tiny workshop to running a multi-site operation with its own EV battery repair lab — this is the story of Kevin Pearce and Cedar Garage.
We talk about growing through mistakes, how to buy a business the smart way, building a high-performing team, and why Kevin is now investing in some of the most technical EV repairs in the country. If you're thinking about expansion or wondering how to scale without losing your mind — this one's for you.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction and Kevin’s early career
21:36 – Sponsored segment
22:50 – Acquisitions, team churn, and learning how to lead
33:00 – Buying vs. building, TUPE, MOT licences, and renovations
47:00 – The Cedar Electric story: EV batteries, national repair, and laser welders
01:03:00 – Delegation, team structure, and what's next for site number five
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
#ontheramp #garageowners #automotiveindustry #evrepair #castrol
£500 and a Dream: Building a Garage Brand from Nothing...
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlFrom burnout in retail to building a garage brand …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group.
To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
From burnout in retail to building a garage brand from scratch, this episode tells the powerful story of Louise Baker, founder of Womanic.
With no formal qualifications and just £400 to her name, Louise started fixing cars in her apartment car park while raising her daughter solo. Now fully booked, she runs her own workshop, speaks in schools, and is inspiring the next generation of technicians through her work and her new all-female show, Auto Angels.
We talk about leaving the motor trade, finding the courage to return, and how she built a business with nothing but grit, honesty, and a deep love for the job.
If you're in the trade, this one will hit home.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction and early influences
18:02 – Burnout, the Tesco years, and rediscovering purpose
21:36 – Sponsored segment
22:12 – Launching Womanic and building a customer base
33:01 – Inspiring the next generation through school and college visits
47:00 – Building a garage, giving back, and future plans
53:00 – Reflections, contentment, and advice for the next generation
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#ontheramp #garageowners #automotiveindustry #womeninthetrades #castrol
£0 to £1m in 3 years: The Story of Fife Autotech’s Rapid Rise
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlFife Autotech’s Chay joins us to share how he …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Fife Autotech’s Chay joins us to share how he went from a dealership technician to building one of the most successful specialist garages in Scotland – hitting £1M turnover in just 3 years.
In this episode, Chay breaks down the reality of starting from scratch, the mindset behind his decisions, and what it really takes to scale a garage quickly — from risk and sacrifice to hiring the right team and obsessing over numbers.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:12 – How did he get into the trade?
22:35 – Sponsored Segment
23:49 – Apprenticeship, job loss, and regaining momentum
43:04 – Diagnostic journey, SimplyDiag, and early business plans
01:04:05 – Starting Fife Autotech and rapid growth
01:21:30 – Building a strong team and scaling the business
01:27:05 – Finding balance and reflections on the journey
01:31:10 – What’s next for Fife Autotech?
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#ontheramp #automotivebusiness #independentgarage #automotiveindustry
#28 Finance for Garages: What You Need to Know
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlFinance can be one of the hardest things for …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
Finance can be one of the hardest things for independent garages to get right — and one of the least talked about.
In this episode, we sit down with Lee Schofield, founder of One Funding, for an honest look at the real challenges and opportunities around funding a garage business.
From asset finance to working capital, buying another business to managing risk, this conversation covers the key questions every garage owner should be thinking about. Whether you’re growing fast or just planning ahead, Lee shares practical advice based on years of experience in the industry.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:24 – Guest background: About Lee and One Funding
03:51 – What are the biggest financial challenges for independent garages?
08:43 – Understanding asset finance
23:02 – Ensuring you have sufficient working capital30:18 – Sponsored segment
31:32 – Managing cash flow and exploring business loans
48:47 – How can you finance the purchase of another business?
53:29 – What should you look for in a finance provider?Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#ontheramp #automotivebusiness #garagefinance #independentgarage #automotiveindustry
#27 Starting From Zero With The Car Nerd
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlFrom five-star hotels to fault-finding on the …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
From five-star hotels to fault-finding on the road, this episode dives into the journey of Cathal, better known as The Car Nerd. He didn’t take a traditional path into the trade. After starting in hospitality, Cathal moved into car sales, then built a van business from the ground up. But it was diagnostics — not sales — that truly sparked his interest.
We talk about the early days working out of a small yard, how he taught himself remapping, and why he focused on professionalism from the start. From mobile tuning to opening his own workshop, Cathal now runs a growing diagnostics and performance business in Northern Ireland, backed by a Top Gear Tuning franchise and a commitment to doing things the right way.
Whether you’re in the trade or just curious about what it takes to build a business like this, Cathal’s story is full of insight, hard-earned lessons, and practical advice.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:25 – How did Cathal get started?
27:50 – What drives him to keep pushing forward?
50:17 – A deep dive into diagnostics
01:04:22 – What’s next for The Car Nerd?
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#ontheramp #automotiveexcellence #automotivebusiness #automotiveindustry
#26 One year in, we reflect and refocus. Business failures, acquisitions, and key hires
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlA full year of On The Ramp and the journey is …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
A full year of On The Ramp and the journey is just getting started. In this episode, Alex, Leo and Nathan reflect on the past 12 months, sharing honest insights about their businesses — the wins, the setbacks, and the bold decisions shaping what’s next.
Expect real talk about closing divisions, launching new sites, stepping back from operations, and building tools the industry needs. If you're in the garage trade, this is one to take in.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
03:06 – Business updates from Lindleys Autocentres
18:45 – Dack Motor Group update
33:43 – Sponsor message
34:57 – Walsall Wood Tyre & Service Centre update
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#ontheramp #automotiveexcellence #automotivebusiness #Automotiveindustry
#25 Conversation with Mark Field, IAAF - Fixing the trade from the inside.
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.htmlIn this episode, we’re joined by Mark Field …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home.html
In this episode, we’re joined by Mark Field, Chief Executive of the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of the independent garage sector.
We explore the real-world impacts of international trade tariffs, the challenge of attracting and retaining young talent, and why it’s time to shift the perception of the trade from within. Mark talks about the IAAF’s evolving role—bridging the gap between suppliers, distributors and garages—and how they're pushing for stronger representation, improved access to data, and meaningful change on key legislation like Right to Repair.
Whether you’re on the tools, running a business, or somewhere in between, this episode is a clear look at where the trade is going, and why now is the time to get involved.
00:00 – Intro
06:10 – Tariffs and Trade: How International Politics Are Hitting the Aftermarket
15:14 – Growing the IAAF: What’s Being Done to Bring More Members In?
19:38 – Sponsor Break
20:52 – Changing Perceptions: Reframing What It Means to Work in the Trade
30:42 – Getting Colleges on Board: Fixing the Industry's Talent Pipeline
43:50 – Automechanika & Motivate: Giving the Next Generation a Front Row Seat
52:00 – Who’s Actually Engaged? The Reality of IAAF Membership Numbers
1:02:10 – Access, Data, and the Right to Repair: The Ongoing Fight for Independent Garages
1:13:40 – Outro
Subscribe for more expert insight, honest conversation, and real stories from inside the independent garage sector.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#iaaf #automotiveaftermarket #ontheramp #garagesuccess #righttorepair #castrol
#24 Extracting Yourself from Your Garage: How to Step Back Without Losing Control
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home/partner-with-us/independent-workshops.htmlIn this …
Notes de l’épisode
This episode is sponsored by Castrol and The Race Group. To learn more about Castrol Service, please visit: https://www.castrol.com/en_gb/united-kingdom/home/partner-with-us/independent-workshops.html
In this episode, we sit down with Jay Wheatley, founder of Absolutely Automotive, to discuss how garage owners can extract themselves from the daily grind and take their business to the next level. Jay shares his expertise as a business consultant, offering practical advice on stepping back from hands-on work, improving efficiency, and building a sustainable, profitable garage.
We explore the key challenges garage owners face when trying to transition from technician to business leader, the importance of understanding financials, and why structured processes are essential for long-term success. Jay also dives into the role of specialisation, staff management, and the impact of emerging industry trends on independent garages.
If you’re a garage owner looking to work smarter, not harder, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you extract yourself and grow your business.
https://absolutelyautomotive.co.uk/help-guides
00:00 – Introduction
08:02 – Selling a Garage Business: Key Considerations
21:18 – Advertisement
22:32 – Transitioning into Business Consultancy
29:12 – How Can a Garage Owner Step Back from Daily Operations?
45:20 – Is Specialising in a Niche Essential for Success?
57:20 – Essential Advice for Service Advisors
01:07:40 – Future Trends in the Automotive Industry
01:19:30 – Stuck in a Rut? How Coaching Can Help Garage Owners Move Forward
Subscribe for more expert industry insights and business strategies.
https://beacons.ai/ontheramp
#automotivebusiness #garagesuccess #businessgrowth #ontheramp #mechaniclife #automotiveindustry
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