Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Tim Guidotti of Ferdotti Motor Services, a garage with a rich history dating back to 1977. 
 
Tim shares insights into the evolution of his family-run garage, the significance of training and equipment investment, and how these elements contribute to a successful workshop. 
 
We also speak to "The Fleet Guy" himself about the world of fleet vehicles, which now make up nearly 60% of all new vehicle sales, including challenges and rewards of transitioning into fleet work, and how garages can enhance their profitability by understanding the unique needs of fleet customers.
 
Tim emphasises the need for garages to adapt to the changing landscape of vehicle ownership, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles and the shift towards mobility as a service.
 
Guests:
Tim Guidotti - The Fleet Guy
 
What you’ll learn:
How garages can diversify their income through fleet work
The significance of training and preparation for servicing fleet vehicles
Insights into The Fleet Guy initiative and its offerings
The impact of electric vehicles on the future of the automotive industry
How important networking and relationship building is 
 
This episode is a must-listen for garage owners looking to tap into the fleet market.
 
📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben welcome Eleanor Baker Barnes from Apprenticeship Central to discuss the pressing need for young talent in the automotive aftermarket and how to effectively attract apprentices. Eleanor talks about common misconceptions surrounding the interest of young people in the automotive industry, explaining that they are eager to join but require the right encouragement and opportunities. We explore the significant challenges garages face in recruiting apprentices and the vital role of mentorship in shaping a successful apprenticeship experience. Gain insights into the importance of creating a welcoming environment for apprentices, including effective onboarding processes and the need for clear communication regarding expectations. Eleanor also highlights the evolving landscape of apprenticeship roles, particularly in light of advancements in electric vehicles and the diverse opportunities available within the industry. Guests:
Eleanor Baker Barnes - Commercial Director, Apprenticeship Central
What you’ll learn:
The importance of attracting young talent to the automotive aftermarket
How to create an inviting and supportive environment for apprentices
The role of mentorship in successful apprenticeship programmes
Current trends in apprenticeship roles and the impact of EV technology
Dispelling myths about the automotive industry among young people and their parents 
This episode is essential for anyone in the automotive sector looking to foster a new generation of skilled professionals and ensure the industry's future success. 📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, we sit down with Ellen Plumer from Ben, the charity dedicated to supporting those in the automotive industry. Ellen sheds light on the vital services Ben provides, emphasising that help is available to anyone who has worked in automotive (and their families), regardless of their circumstances.
 
The discussion dives into the mental and physical challenges faced by individuals in the automotive sector, including highlighting the impact of stress and anxiety compounded by the ongoing cost of living crisis. Ellen shares insights into how Ben offers holistic support, from mental health resources to financial assistance, and the importance of early intervention before issues escalate.
 
Listeners will learn about the historical evolution of Ben, its mission to raise awareness within the industry, and the significant role that peer support plays in encouraging individuals to seek help. Ellen also addresses the growing need for a more inclusive environment that acknowledges mental health, particularly in a traditionally male-dominated field.
 
Guest:
Ellen Plumer - Head of Awareness & Experience, Ben
 
What you’ll learn:
The range of support services available through Ben for automotive workers and their families
Common mental health challenges faced in the automotive industry
How to identify early warning signs of stress and burnout
The importance of fostering a supportive workplace culture
Ways to raise awareness and support the charity’s mission
 
This episode is essential listening for anyone in the automotive industry, offering valuable insights into mental health support and the importance of community within the sector.
 
📻 We're proud to be supporting Ben with a 24-hour live radio show on 20th August to help raise funds for this fantastic charity. If you'd like to support the challenge, you can donate here: 24 Hour Radiothon - Garage Talk Online
 
📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline
 

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Henry Bisson, Marketing Director at Ring Automotive, to discuss the latest developments in automotive lighting, vehicle safety and the aftermarket.
 
Henry shares his insights on the importance of quality bulbs, highlighting how poor choices can lead to costly repairs and safety issues. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of vehicle lighting, including the differences between brightness and glare, and the implications of using LED bulbs. As the darker months approach, Henry emphasises the need for consumers to be educated about their choices, especially as modern vehicles become increasingly complex.
 
The conversation also touches on the relationship between Ring Automotive and OSRAM and how they work together. Henry reflects on the changing dynamics of the aftermarket, the significance of battery health, and the impact of seasonal changes on vehicle performance.
 
Guests:
Henry - Marketing Director, Ring Automotive
 
What you’ll learn:
Why choosing quality lighting products matters
The difference between brightness and glare
What drivers need to know about modern lighting technology
How battery health affects vehicle performance, especially as the seasons change
Why consumer education is becoming increasingly important
 
Whether you're an aftermarket professional or simply interested in the latest vehicle technology, this episode offers practical insights into lighting, safety and the trends shaping the automotive industry.
 
📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline
 

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben are joined by Toby Whewell, Sales and Marketing Director, and Holly Brailsford, Marketing Manager at Fras-le Mobility UK. Together, they delve into the world of braking systems, bearings, and the evolving landscape of the automotive aftermarket.
 
Fras-le Mobility UK may not be a household name for every garage, but the brands under its umbrella, including Juratek, Abtex, and Nakata, certainly are. Toby and Holly discuss how these brands integrate and the challenges garages face in choosing the right components, particularly in the competitive braking market. They also explore the impact of electric vehicles (EVs) on braking systems and the importance of understanding the nuances of product quality versus price.
 
Throughout the episode, they highlight the significance of proper installation processes and the need for garages to adapt to the increasing complexity of modern vehicle technologies, including the integration of advanced sensors and the implications for diagnostics.
 
Guests:
Toby Whewell - Sales and Marketing Director, Fras-le Mobility UK
Holly Brailsford - Marketing Manager, Fras-le Mobility UK
 
What you’ll learn:
The challenges garages face when selecting braking and bearing components
The role of electric vehicles in shaping braking system requirements
Why understanding product quality is crucial in a competitive market
The importance of installation processes and diagnostics in ensuring safety
How marketing strategies are adapting to the evolving automotive landscape
 
This episode offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of braking and bearing components while preparing for the future of vehicle technology.
 
📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, we welcome Quentin Le Hetet from GiPA to discuss the evolving landscape of the UK’s automotive aftermarket.
 
Quentin shares insights on how the pandemic has dramatically altered the car parc demographics, with a significant drop in new car registrations leading to an ageing fleet. He explains the implications for garages, particularly as vehicles move into the 5-9 year age bracket, which typically sees increased mechanical issues.
 
We also discuss the importance of understanding customer preferences when it comes to parts and services, highlighting the need for garages to engage in meaningful discussions with their clients about quality versus price. Quentin touches on the growing significance of tyres in the market, especially as electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent and require specific maintenance approaches.
 
Additionally, we explore the challenges of diagnostics in workshops, the need for training and proper tooling, and the rising importance of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration as the industry adapts to new technologies.
 
Guest:
Quentin Le Hetet - Country Director UK, GiPA
 
What you’ll learn:
The impact of COVID-19 on car registrations and the subsequent effects on the automotive aftermarket
Why understanding customer needs is crucial for garages
The role of tyres in the maintenance of EVs and traditional vehicles
Challenges and opportunities in diagnostics and ADAS calibration
The importance of ongoing training and investment in the garage sector
 
If you're a garage owner or involved in the automotive industry, this episode provides valuable insights into navigating the current market challenges and preparing for the future.
📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk
 
▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

In this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, sponsored by BM Catalysts, Vicky and Ben sit down with Neil Grant, Managing Director of HELLA Ltd, the UK arm of a major global automotive supplier with a long-standing presence in lighting and electronics.
 
From OE lighting and electronics through to diagnostics, ADAS and workshop equipment, HELLA is more than a parts supplier. Neil explains how the business supports the independent aftermarket with OE-quality products, technical information, training resources and remote diagnostic support designed to help workshops keep vehicles moving.
 
This conversation looks at how HELLA operates across a wide and complex product range and what that means when supporting garages in a rapidly changing industry. Neil also shares his perspective on the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, and why access to diagnostics capability, training and technical support is becoming increasingly important for workshops.
 
He also discusses HELLA’s significant growth in electronics, the return to thermal management, and the company’s “360 degree solution” approach for supporting garages across diagnostics, equipment and parts.
 
Guest:
Neil Grant - Managing Director, HELLA Ltd
 
In this episode you’ll hear about:
How HELLA has evolved from lighting specialists into a wider workshop and aftermarket solutions provider
Why electronics has become one of HELLA’s fastest growing product areas
Neil’s view on how future vehicle technologies may shape the industry
The return of thermal management and why it is important for HELLA
How diagnostics, remote support and ADAS equipment fit into workshop support
Why training and technical information are increasingly important for technicians
 
If you work in the automotive aftermarket, run a workshop, or are responsible for repairing and maintaining vehicles, this episode provides insight into how a major OE supplier is supporting the independent garage network.
 
📩 Get in touch: hello@garagetalkonline.co.uk▶️ Watch Garage Talk Unwrapped on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@garagetalkonline

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

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

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