Summary:

In this episode of Cruise Control, host Kevin Davis speaks with Shad Stoker, a leader in the detailing industry and president of the International Detailing Association (IDA). Shad shares his journey from humble beginnings in detailing to becoming a key distributor and community leader. His story emphasizes the importance of resilience, continuous personal growth, and the power of community over competition. Shad also discusses strategies for overcoming negative mindsets, the value of surrounding oneself with successful influences, and practical tips for building camaraderie within the detailing community. His passion for elevating the industry and inspiring others to pursue growth shines through as he encourages listeners to embrace both positive and challenging experiences.

Key Takeaways:

1. Build Community Over Competition: Shad stresses the importance of fostering camaraderie within the detailing industry, creating a collaborative environment where competitors can network and grow together.
2. Embrace Resilience and Self-Improvement: By continually working on self-awareness and emotional control, Shad shows that growth comes from both successes and struggles.
3. Choose Positive Influences: Surrounding yourself with people who inspire success and learning from their experiences can drive personal and professional growth.
4. Practice Integrity in All Areas: Being impeccable with your word and following through with commitments builds confidence and establishes trust with others.
5. Adopt a Growth Mindset: Shad encourages listeners to see challenges as opportunities for learning and to continually push themselves beyond their comfort zones for long-term success.

Shad Stoker’s business growth advice focuses on fostering a collaborative community, maintaining self-discipline, and cultivating a growth-oriented mindset:

1. Build a Collaborative Community: Shad believes in creating a network of like-minded businesses, even with competitors. By hosting events and encouraging camaraderie, he has helped establish a supportive culture in the detailing industry where businesses thrive together rather than undercut each other.
2. Lead by Example: For those looking to create community, Shad recommends being the example—demonstrate collaboration, transparency, and integrity to inspire others to follow suit, building a positive business environment.
3. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Surrounding yourself with successful and motivated individuals drives growth. Shad advocates for investing in mentors and networking with people who inspire you, as they provide valuable insights and help elevate your standards.
4. Practice Self-Discipline and Integrity: Consistency is key to building trust and a strong reputation. Shad emphasizes doing what you say you will and keeping commitments, both in business and with yourself, to build confidence and credibility.
5. Embrace Continuous Learning and Growth: Shad advises business owners to push beyond their comfort zones, seeking personal growth to improve professionally. He encourages learning from every experience and being adaptable to thrive in a competitive market.

Get your one-stop success solution at www.detailersroadmap.com!

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Summary:

In this episode of Cruise Control, Kevin Davis sits down with Amanda Lees, owner of Boat Ease Marine Detailing. Amanda shares her fascinating journey from working on luxury superyachts to running her own boat detailing business with her husband in Minnesota. She discusses the physical and technical challenges of marine detailing, the unique intricacies of working with gel coats and teak, and her experience as a woman in a male-dominated industry.

Amanda also talks about balancing work and life on the road, her aspirations to build a training program for marine detailers, and her passion for encouraging other women to join the industry. This episode provides a deep dive into the world of marine detailing, resilience, and the importance of adaptability and specialized skills in business.

Key Takeaways:

1. Adapt and Learn: Amanda’s journey highlights the importance of adapting skills to new challenges and constantly learning to meet customer needs.
2. Build a Niche and Reputation: Specializing in marine-grade ceramic coatings and teak restoration helped Amanda’s business stand out in the industry.
3. Strength Through Community: Amanda advocates for a network of female marine detailers to share knowledge, support, and inspiration within a challenging field.
4. Invest in Professional Training: Attending specialized training sessions and learning from experienced mentors can be instrumental in mastering skills and growing a business.
5. Embrace Resilience and Collaboration: Working closely with her husband, Amanda showcases the importance of resilience, patience, and effective teamwork in a physically demanding field.

https://www.boat-ease.com

Get your one-stop success solution at www.detailersroadmap.com!

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In this episode of Cruise Control, Kevin Davis interviews Michael Honn from STEK USA, a paint protection film (PPF) company where Michael has grown from a startup employee to a key driver of sales and marketing. Michael discusses his unique journey, from working in detailing during college to becoming a full-time sales rep at STEK USA, eventually transitioning into a marketing leadership role. He explains the importance of building a scalable, customer-centered business model and the benefits of a consultative approach in sales.

Michael’s background in rally racing also weaves into the conversation, illustrating his high-energy approach to work and life. The discussion covers the power of personal relationships in business, the value of adapting strategies to fit market needs, and STEK USA’s commitment to quality products and sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways:

1. Empower Employees: Michael stresses the importance of enabling employees to take ownership in their roles, which fosters dedication and drives business success.
2. Customer Education First: Building trust through a consultative, educational approach helps STEK USA foster long-term relationships and maintain a strong market presence.
3. Value in Specialized Events: Rather than large trade shows, STEK focuses on local events and direct customer visits, which bring a higher return on investment and build stronger client relationships.
4. Adapt for Sustainable Growth: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and adaptability allow STEK to scale efficiently while keeping quality and customer satisfaction high.
5. Market Creatively: STEK’s marketing strategy prioritizes high-quality content and influencer partnerships, creating brand awareness and loyalty within niche automotive communities.

https://www.stek-usa.com/

Get your one-stop success solution at www.detailersroadmap.com!

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