The studio glow-up set the mood: take something proven and make it feel new. That’s exactly where our conversation goes with Delaney and Andrew Kitching of GB Remanufacturing, two paths into the automotive aftermarket that prove this industry is more dynamic, tech-forward, and welcoming than most people expect. From a tech startup and influencer marketing world to finance and sales, they found a resilient ecosystem where listening hard, building mentors, and adding digital fluency turn fresh ideas into real results.
We dig into what newcomers wish they knew on day one: how complex the supply chain really is, why AAPEX can change how your entire team sees the business, and how to present ideas without tripping egos. You’ll hear practical tactics for earning trust—document the current state, ask better questions, run small pilots—and for leveling up fast with mentorship, peer feedback, and networking that actually moves careers forward. We also talk about the balance of old school plus new school: keeping quality, relationships, and service at the core while layering in content strategy, SEO, analytics, and digital storytelling that speaks to technicians, WDs, and buyers.
There’s candid perspective on family business dynamics... earning respect, protecting legacy, and staying humble while you push for change. If you’re new to the aftermarket, you’ll leave with a clear roadmap: learn the ecosystem, find mentors, walk the trade floor, and pick one process to improve with a trusted partner. If you’re a veteran leader, you’ll hear how to invite new voices without sacrificing what works. Hit play, share this with a teammate who needs the nudge, and subscribe for more candid, practical conversations that help all of us grow. And if you enjoyed the episode, leave a quick review, your feedback helps more curious pros find the show.
To learn more about the Auto Care Association visit autocare.org.
To learn more about our show and suggest future topics and guests, visit autocare.org/podcast
