Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast

Episode 18 - Inside automotive events with Jo Knowles - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Ben and Vicky sit down with Jo Knowles, Event Director of Automechanika UK and the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event.
 
Register for the UK Garage and Bodyshop Event here: https://forms.reg.buzz/uk-garage-and-bodyshop-2026/garage-talk
 
Jo talks about how she ended up in the events world, originally aiming for festivals before moving into automotive, and why properly understanding the aftermarket matters when putting on events for the industry.
 
We get into what actually makes people turn up to events, the role exhibitors really play, and what’s changing in the way shows are run.
 
There’s also a look ahead to this year’s UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, including new features, more focus on education, and how the industry can do a better job of bringing new people through the door.
 
Guest:Jo Knowles – Event Director, Automechanika UK
 
What you'll learn:
How Jo went from festivals to automotive events
What makes people actually attend shows
Why exhibitors matter more than we think
What’s changing at UK Garage & Bodyshop Event this year
The ongoing battle to bring new people into the trade
 
If you’re involved in the automotive industry or planning to attend the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, this episode gives you a proper look at what’s happening behind the scenes and what to expect.
 
🎟️ Register here: https://forms.reg.buzz/uk-garage-and-bodyshop-2026/garage-talk
📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

Episode 17 - Don’t let the bullies win: Tony Yates - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben sit down with Tony Yates from Schaeffler.
 
Tony shares his journey from a difficult start in his school life to becoming a driving force behind a fantastic training initiative in the aftermarket, Wrenches & Wisdom. It’s an honest conversation about confidence, careers, and why the industry needs to do more to support the next generation.
 
The discussion tackles the real reasons garages hold back from taking on apprentices, from time pressures to past bad experiences, and why that mindset needs to shift. Tony explains how Wrenches & Wisdom is helping bridge the gap between suppliers, colleges and workshops, giving apprentices practical knowledge from day one.
 
Guest
Tony Yates: Digital Marketing, Schaeffler
 
What you’ll learn
Why garages struggle to take on apprentices and how to overcome it
How Wrenches & Wisdom supports real-world training
What makes a good apprentice
Why ongoing training matters for technicians too
How personal experience can drive change in the industry
 
📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

Episode 16 - Under pressure: avoiding TPMS pitfalls - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Prashant Chopra from Autogem, a company leading the way in tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) since 2007. Prashant shares his expertise on the realities of TPMS and why thorough vehicle inspections are more important than ever for garages and technicians.
 
During the conversation, Prashant unpacks the common challenges surrounding TPMS, highlighting the importance of getting inspections right and keeping customers properly informed. He explains how missed checks can lead to issues down the line and ultimately damage a garage’s reputation. Prashant also underlines the value of training and ongoing support to help technicians confidently manage TPMS work.
 
Guests:
Prashant Chopra: Managing Director, Autogem
 
What you’ll learn:
Why accurate vehicle inspections are key to avoiding TPMS issues
How to communicate effectively with customers about TPMS
The impact of legislation and battery failure on TPMS systems
How better training and support can improve service quality
The benefits of taking part in Autogem’s Under Pressure competition
 
If you’re looking to strengthen your garage’s approach to TPMS and deliver a better customer experience, this episode is packed with practical insight.
 
Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
 
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

Episode 15 - Unleashing the chaos: PR and marketing strategy - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by the energetic “Chaos Twins,” Cheryl Dean and Annie Sutton from Impression. With their expertise in PR and digital marketing, they share strategies to help garages stand out and grow in a competitive market.
 
Cheryl and Annie explore the power of storytelling, the importance of building trust with customers, and how a consistent online presence can transform a garage’s reputation. Packed with actionable advice, they cover handling negative reviews, optimising your website, and using social media to increase visibility.
 
Guests:
Cheryl Dean: Senior PR and Influencer Account Manager, Impression
Annie Sutton: Digital Marketing Manager, Impression
 
What you’ll learn:
How storytelling can elevate a garage's brand.
Ways to handle negative reviews and turn them into opportunities.
The value of consistent digital marketing and social media engagement.
How platforms like TikTok are shaping the automotive marketing landscape.
Practical tips to boost visibility and connect with customers.
 
If you want to harness the power of PR and digital marketing to take your garage to the next level, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.
 
Get in touch with us at hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
 
Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

Episode 14 - Parts buying made easy with Part Sync - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Ashley Sutcliffe and Giulio Leone, the innovative co-founders of Part Sync. This dynamic digital marketplace is revolutionising the way trade buyers and suppliers connect, providing a smarter, more efficient means of sourcing automotive parts.
 
During their conversation, Ashley and Giulio share the story behind Part Sync, including the challenges and triumphs of launching a digital parts marketplace. They discuss how the platform streamlines the parts ordering process while improving transparency and competition among suppliers, ultimately benefiting garages and service managers alike. Listeners will also hear real success stories and practical tips for maximising efficiency in their own operations.
 
Guests:
Ashley Sutcliffe: Co-Founder, Part Sync
Giulio Leone: Co-Founder, Part Sync
 
What you’ll learn:
The inception of Part Sync and the key problems it aims to solve for garages and suppliers
How the platform simplifies the parts ordering process, allowing buyers to receive quotes quickly and efficiently
The importance of transparency in pricing and supplier vetting to help ensure quality parts
Insights into the evolving landscape of the automotive parts industry and the impact of digitalisation
Practical tips for garages and service managers to enhance their parts sourcing strategies 
 
If you're curious about the future of parts procurement and how technology is reshaping the automotive industry, make sure you give it a listen.
 
Get in touch with us at hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
 
Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

Episode 13 - Big Spuds: working with your spouse in the automotive aftermarket - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben sit down with Leanne and Brett from Big Spuds, a dynamic couple making waves in the aftermarket merchandise space. Based in Telford, they are the creative minds behind the team's Garage Talk hoodies and stickers that have become a staple at industry events!
 
During their lively discussion, Leanne and Brett share their unique journey of running a business together as a married couple. They delve into the challenges and triumphs of merging personal and professional lives, revealing how they navigate conflicts, establish ground rules, and maintain a sense of humour amidst the chaos of entrepreneurship. The conversation offers invaluable insights into the dynamics of couple run businesses, highlighting the importance of communication and collaboration.
 
Guests:
Brett Earp: Co-Founder, Big Spuds
Leanne Earp: Co-Founder, Big Spuds
 
What you’ll learn:
The significance of setting boundaries and ground rules when working with a spouse.
How to effectively manage conflicts that arise from differing work styles and personalities.
The importance of quality in merchandise and how Big Spuds addresses market demands.
Insights into the unique challenges faced by couples in the automotive aftermarket industry.
The power of humour and shared experiences in strengthening both personal and professional relationships.
 
If you’re intrigued by the complexities of running a business with your partner and the shared experiences that come with it, this episode is a must listen!
 
Get in touch with us at hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
 
Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

Episode 12 - Navigating the new age of car servicing and repairs with ClickMechanic - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Scott Greensmith from ClickMechanic, as they explore the transformative power of technology in the automotive repair industry. This insightful discussion delves into how ClickMechanic is reshaping the way consumers connect with mechanics; promoting transparency, trust, and convenience in vehicle maintenance.
 
Scott shares the founding vision behind ClickMechanic, highlighting its evolution over the past decade and the importance of providing fixed price quotes to customers. He discusses the challenges faced by mechanics and how the platform helps them thrive in a competitive market without compromising quality. With nearly a thousand mechanics applying to join the platform each month, Scott reveals the rigorous vetting process that ensures only the most qualified professionals are available to consumers.
 
Guest:
Scott Greensmith: New Product Development & Partnerships Manager, Click Mechanic
 
What you’ll learn:
The significance of transparency and trust in the automotive repair industry and how ClickMechanic is addressing these issues.
Insights into the changing landscape of vehicle maintenance, including the rise of electric vehicles and the need for specialised training.
The benefits of fixed price quotes and how they empower consumers to make informed decisions about their vehicle repairs.
How ClickMechanic supports mechanics in managing their workflow and enhancing their business opportunities.
The impact of the cost of living crisis on consumer behaviour and how ClickMechanic is adapting to meet these challenges.
 
If you're interested in the future of automotive repair and how technology is bridging the gap between consumers and mechanics, this episode is an essential listen.
 
Get in touch with us at hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
 
Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

Episode 11 - The art of automotive marketing - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, we welcome Tom Vallé and Joe O'Neill from BM Catalysts to discuss the intricacies of marketing for an aftermarket manufacturer. This engaging conversation dives deep into the various strategies and creative approaches that can make or break a marketing campaign in the automotive sector.
 
Throughout the episode, Tom and Joe share their experiences with innovative marketing tactics, including their memorable "Spin the Wheel" campaign at Automechanika, which proved that sometimes the simplest ideas yield the best results. They explore the balance between traditional marketing methods and the need for a more personable approach, particularly through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
 
Guests:
Thomas Vallé: Senior Marketing Manager, BM Catalysts
Joseph O'Neill: Marketing Executive, BM Catalysts
 
What you’ll learn:
The importance of adaptability in marketing strategies and how to respond to an ever-changing landscape.
Insights into the relationship between marketing and sales, and how effective marketing can drive business growth.
How to leverage creativity and personal engagement to connect with audiences in the automotive aftermarket.
The role of data analytics in shaping marketing decisions and understanding consumer behaviour.
Future trends in marketing, including the impact of AI and augmented reality on the automotive industry.
 
Get in touch with us at hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
 
Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline
 
If you're interested in the dynamic world of automotive marketing and the innovative minds behind it, this episode is a must listen.

Episode 10 - Chris Wileman on running a modern garage - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Chris Wileman of Castle Garage (Ashby) Ltd, as they delve into his remarkable journey within the automotive industry. Chris shares insights from his award-winning garage, which recently clinched the prestigious Garage of the Year title at the Blend event.Throughout the conversation, Chris discusses the evolution of his business, the importance of adapting to new technologies, especially with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), and the challenges faced by garage owners today. He emphasises the value of mentorship and community support, highlighting how collaboration within the industry can lead to mutual growth and success.
Guest:
Chris Wileman (Owner of Castle Garage (Ashby) Ltd)
"A business starts to die the day it starts turning away old customers or stops taking on new ones."
What you’ll learn:
The significance of building a strong team and how Castle Garage achieved recognition through collective effort.
Insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapid shift towards EVs and the importance of being an early mover in this market.
Advice on nurturing the next generation of automotive technicians and the need for investment in training and apprenticeships.
The impact of rising operational costs on the automotive industry and strategies for navigating these challenges.
Chris’s perspective on the future of the garage sector and the importance of community engagement in driving industry standards forward.
Get in touch with us at hello@garagetalkonline.co.ukDon’t forget to check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonlineIf you’re interested in the evolving landscape of the automotive industry and the insights from a successful garage owner, this episode is a must listen!

Episode 9 - Reflecting on the automotive aftermarket in 2025 - Sponsored by BM Catalysts

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben reflect on an incredible year in the automotive aftermarket industry as they conduct their end of year review for 2025. 
 
Join them as they reminisce about the highs and lows of the past twelve months, sharing memorable experiences and trends that have shaped their journey. From the excitement of their milestone of 51,000 YouTube subscribers to engaging with industry leaders at events like Automechanika, Vicky and Ben provide an insightful look into the evolution of Garage Talk.
 
What you’ll learn:
The significance of key events, including their standout moments at Silverstone and Car Fest, and how these experiences have impacted their growth.
The importance of building relationships within the industry and how positive engagement has fostered a supportive community.
Insights on the challenges of recruitment and the ongoing conversations around diversity in the automotive sector.
Reflections on the necessity of adapting to new technologies, particularly the rise of electric vehicles and how garages can better serve their customers.
The value of honest feedback and the role it plays in improving the industry as a whole.
 
Get in touch with us at hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
 
Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline
 
If you're looking for an engaging recap of the year in the automotive industry, filled with personal anecdotes and valuable insights, this episode is not to be missed!