Afleveringen

  • Thanks to our partner Promotive

    In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest answers three key listener questions that auto repair shop owners face all too often. From handling warranty job accounting to navigating the financial fallout of divorce, Hunt gives practical, no-nonsense advice.

    ​In this episode, you'll learn: 

    The right way to book internal and partial warranty work in QuickBooksWhether adding your spouse to the business makes sense financiallyWhy 8(a) certifications usually don’t help auto repair shopsHow divorce and child support can affect your business valuation and cash flowReal-life examples and actionable advice from 15+ years of experience

    Thanks to our partner Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

    The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

    The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

  • Thanks to our partner Promotive

    Are you charging enough for labor at your shop? In this week’s Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest of Paar Melis and Associates tackles one of the most misunderstood metrics in autorepair profitability—your labor rate. Spoiler alert: it’s not always about charging more.

    ​This week, you'll learn:

    Why labor rate isn't the ultimate driver of shop profitThe difference between your door rate and effective labor rateWhat real benchmarking data says about high vs. low labor ratesThe one metric that actually correlates with profitabilityHow technician productivity impacts your labor cost and bottom lineThe market analysis trap shop owners fall into (and how to avoid it)Effective Labor Rate Episode [E128]: https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/episode/128

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

    The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker 

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  • Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound

    Watch Full Video Episode

    In our Episode Today:

    Our host Craig O’Neill welcomes friend and newly minted Certified Speaking Professional - Jimmy Lea to talk about his journey!

    The NSA Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation is a notable achievement that involves many phases of approval.  This is a hard earned achievement, which to our knowledge, has never been attained by an individual within the aftermarket before now!

    You can check out the details of the process here:  https://nsaspeaker.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Guide_How-to-Earn-the-CSP_Class-of-2025.Final_.pdf

    Jimmy is a well known and respected speaker in our industry and he has been a lifelong communication enthusiast.  Since Craig and Jimmy have been friends for many years, and you’ll hear in this episode some reflection of the impressions Craig has had of Jimmy in his early days and many thoughtful questions regarding the process of earning and value of a speaking credential.

    While our topic focuses a great deal on the CSP process - you’ll begin to see how a focus on a skill looks for a true professional and learn some valuable insights into the ‘why’ behind any certification.

    Topics include:

    Documenting your journeyGaining endorsementsThe value of capturing recordingsVideo submissions Do’s/Dont’sMentoringAccepting Failure and FeedbackHow those with a designate safeguard the integrity of the designationRe-application and success!

    The conclusion of this episode will give our listeners some food-for-thought on the value of credentialing in our industry, which has a tenuous relationship with the topic.  Do you need a certification to be a speaker?  Not at all.  However, certifications DO tell an audience (as they do with a visitor of a repair facility) something about the people they are meeting with.  

    The Word of the Day:

    Effusive

    adjective 

    Expressing feelings of gratitude, pleasure, or approval in an unrestrained or heartfelt manner.

    Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:

    The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com.  "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.

    AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com

    AutoLeap at

  • Thanks to our partner Promotive

    In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA of Paar Melis and Associates, explores the details behind what former President Trump is calling the "largest tax cut in U.S. history." What’s actually in the proposed bill? Will any of it pass Congress? And most importantly, what could it mean for auto repair shop owners and other small business operators?

    Hunt unpacks what we know so far, what’s still uncertain, and how business owners can start thinking strategically. From potential expansions of the Child Tax Credit and QBI deduction to the controversial proposals of eliminating taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security, this episode covers the key elements that matter most.

    Whether you’re looking to stay informed or proactively plan for future changes, this episode offers a grounded look at what’s on the table—and what’s likely to be left off.

    Key Takeaways:

    What’s included in the proposed 2025 tax cut and what’s still up for debateThe current status of the Child Tax Credit, QBI deduction, bonus depreciation, and SALT deduction capPotential elimination of taxes on Social Security income—and whether that’s realisticA breakdown of the proposed “Millionaire Tax” and its implications for high earnersWhy the talk of tax-free tips and overtime could create major planning opportunities for business owners

    What shop owners need to watch for and how to prepare as legislative discussions continue

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow 

  • Thanks to our partner Promotive

    Credit card fees are eating into shop owners' profits â€” but should you be passing those costs onto customers? In this episode of Business By The Numbers, Hunt revisits the hot-button topic and shares what’s changed since 2021.

    Key Points:

    Why more shops are experimenting with credit card surcharges todayReal-world results from shops that do charge fees â€” and those that don’tThe hidden dangers of incentivizing cash paymentsHow pricing strategy impacts customer loyalty and shop profitabilityHunt’s no-BS recommendation for handling credit card costs in 2025

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

    The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

    The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/

  • Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound

    Watch Full Video Episode

    In our episode today, we welcome guest Hunt Demarest, CPA ABV.

    Hunt is the host of Business by the Numbers and, as our host Craig O’Neill will tell you… Hunt uses words really well for a numbers man!

    This episode came to be after Craig found himself on a walk and listening to one of Hunts recent episodes, Episode 163 - Where are my customers?  It’s a great episode on getting to the root of what the numbers are actually telling you - and guess what - it involves actually picking up the phone and talking to people!

    Hunt’s episode played right after Craig had listened to an episode on a health/wellness program which spoke on a similar topic… going straight to the source of information!

    Often times we can get caught up in the minutia of details and analysis.

    If we are not careful - it can lead to assumptions and wrong conclusions.

    As Hunt says, “Numbers do not lie, but they do not tell the whole story.”

    Getting the whole story inevitably involves communication - and it isn’t always comfortable for people to pick up a phone to get it.

    While the takeaway for today’s episode is in the title, it expands as you listen to Hunt and Craig explore a range of topics from talking to clients, employees, and even family.

    Today’s WOTD is Gumption

    noun

    the ability to make intelligent decisions especially in everyday matters

    Learn more about Hunt Demarest here: 

    https://paarmelis.com/business-by-the-numbers/

    Look for his book here:  https://a.co/d/hAf0cDF

    Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:

    The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com.  "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.

    AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com

    AutoLeap at AutoLeap.com. Are you tired of juggling multiple tools to manage your auto repair shop? Say hello to the streamlined efficiency of AutoLeap, the #1 all-in-one Auto Repair Shop Management Software!

    Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.

    In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.

    Contact Information

    Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected] Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters

    The Aftermarket Radio Network:

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    In this week's episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA at Paar Melis & Associates, tells a jaw-dropping real-world story: how one automotive repair shop owner — and his wife — ended up spending days in jail over mishandled sales tax payments.

    If you're an auto repair shop owner, this episode is a must-listen. Sales tax isn’t income tax â€” it’s trust money you're collecting on behalf of the government, and states take it very personally when they don’t get paid.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Why sales tax is treated more seriously than income tax by state and local governmentsHow a small sales tax problem snowballed into jail time, a locked shop, and frozen bank accountsWhat mistakes automotive shop owners make that trigger sales tax auditsThe one mistake you can’t afford to make after you get behindSimple steps to protect your business, your reputation — and your freedom

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest 

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    April 15th is behind us â€” but your tax strategy shouldn’t stop there. In this episode, Hunt Demarest, CPA at Paar Melis, shares exactly what auto repair shop owners need to be doing based on how their tax season wrapped up. Whether you filed early, waited until the last minute, or punted with an extension, Hunt helps you take the right steps now to avoid penalties, reduce next year’s bill, and keep your shop’s finances dialed in.

     In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Why filing an extension isn’t always a problem â€” but failing to plan ahead isThe costly myth about tax extensions that trips up even seasoned shop ownersWhat to do now if you owed a big tax bill or got a refundThe IRS’s rules on estimated taxes and why ignoring them leads to penaltiesSmart financial habits every shop owner should adopt after tax season ends

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Tariffs might sound like a foreign concept—until they hit home. In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt breaks down the real-world impact tariffs can have on your auto repair shop, using a powerful shop-vs-shop analogy to explain rising costs, disappearing jobs, and economic ripple effects. Whether you're in the weeds of part pricing or just trying to make sense of the news, this episode gives you the context you need.

    Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

    Why tariffs are making headlines—and how they could impact part costs in your shopWhat the “free market” really looks like when safety and environmental regulations aren’t equalThe economic chain reaction that can crush local businesses and communitiesHow tariffs influence pricing, profits, and technician availability in the long termA breakdown of how the U.S. tax system evolved from tariffs to income taxes—and why that matters now

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

    The...

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    What if your auto repair shop is losing money every single day — and you don’t even know it? In this episode, Hunt sits down with Alex Saladna, CEO of Wicked File, to talk about the hidden financial leaks happening in shops just like yours and how AI is helping owners plug those holes fast. From missed parts and uncredited returns to unauthorized purchases, we dive deep into how real shop owners are using Wicked File to save thousands of dollars and hundreds of hours every month.

    Whether you're a single-location shop or managing multiple rooftops, this episode shows you why "doing it manually" might be costing you way more than you think.

    Alex Saladna, WickedFile

    In this Episode, you'll learn: 

    How Alex's family-owned shop lost $180,000 in just 6 months â€” and what sparked the creation of Wicked FileThe real financial leaks you're probably missing — and why statement reconciliation isn’t enoughWhy even large, well-staffed shops fall behind on parts reconciliationHow AI-powered tools like Navigator help shop owners instantly spot problems and improve profitabilityWhat one multi-shop owner did to increase net profit by 15% in just one month

    Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto 

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    “Do I have enough to retire?”

    It’s the question every business owner eventually asks—but most never answer. In this episode, Hunt breaks down why your retirement isn’t about hitting a number… it’s about building a life you don’t need to escape from.

    What You'll Learn:

    Why there’s no universal retirement number (and what to focus on instead)The simple formula to estimate how much you really needHow Social Security, real estate, and your business really factor inThe danger of carrying debt into retirementWhat the book Die With Zero teaches us about using our time and money wisely

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

    The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Is your shop struggling with fewer repair orders and dropping sales? It may not be about losing customers—your clients could just be driving less. In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, walks you through a real-life example of how customer driving behavior (and simple mileage tracking) revealed critical insights for a struggling $2M shop. Learn how to use your own data to better understand your customer base, track hidden metrics, and adjust your strategy—before your bottom line takes another hit.

    In this episode:

    Why fewer visits doesn’t always mean fewer customersHow to calculate mileage trends using your shop management systemThe difference between customers and repair orders (hint: it matters)How remote work and economic shifts impact car care habitsHow to conduct a customer behavior audit—without creeping them outAction steps to track spending per mile and make smarter business decisions

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, dives into a major economic issue that could impact your auto repair shop: stagflation. With inflation staying high and economic growth slowing, what does this mean for your business? Should you be concerned about a recession, and how can you prepare? Hunt breaks it all down with real-world insights and historical comparisons to the 1970s economic crisis.

    🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    What stagflation is and why it matters now.How inflation is outpacing wage growth and hurting the middle class.The impact of tariffs, oil prices, and fiscal policy on businesses.Lessons from past economic downturns (1970s and Japan's lost decades).How auto repair shop owners can stay profitable in a shifting economy.

    Stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions for your business!

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, dives into the world of financial projections—what they are, why they matter, and how to build a solid financial story that banks will take seriously. Whether you’re looking to secure a loan, expand your shop, or simply set better financial goals, this episode will help you navigate the process with confidence.

    Key Takeaways:

    The biggest mistake shop owners make when creating financial projections.Why your story matters more than the numbers when pitching a loan request to a bank.The three key levers you can adjust in a financial projection: sales, margins, and expenses.How to build a realistic projection that a bank will trust.Why working with an accountant on projections can save you from financial disaster.Common red flags that make banks reject loan applications.

    Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    This week on Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA with Paar Melis and Associates, breaks down the latest market news and legislative updates that directly impact auto repair shop owners. From the return of the BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) report to evolving tax policy discussions and IRS processing delays, Hunt provides a no-nonsense analysis of what’s happening and how it could affect your business.

    In This Episode, You'll Learn:

    ✔️ The BOI Report is back—what it is, why it matters, and the March 21st deadline you can’t ignore.

    ✔️ Trump’s tax proposals—what’s being discussed, what’s likely to pass, and what it means for your shop and your customers.

    ✔️ IRS struggles & refund delays—why tax processing is slower than ever and what to expect if you’re waiting on an Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) refund.

    ✔️ Interest rates & the economy—why rates aren’t moving much (yet), and what this means for your financial strategy in 2025.

    ✔️ The state of small businesses & consumer spending—how last year’s trends impact this year’s outlook, and why customer financial health affects your shop’s profitability.

    Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Closing your shop on Saturdays might sound like a risky move, but could it actually improve your business? In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, explores the real financial and operational impact of shutting down on Saturdays. Is it worth it? What factors should you consider before making the switch? Whether you're thinking about a 5-day workweek, reducing hours, or making strategic changes to your shop’s schedule, this episode is packed with insights to help you make an informed decision.

    Key Topics Covered:

    ✅ Why auto repair shops are moving away from Saturday hours

    ✅ The financial impact of closing on Saturdays—and how to make up for lost sales

    ✅ How to determine if your shop can afford fewer workdays

    ✅ The role of employee preferences in business hours

    ✅ Attracting top talent by offering a 5-day workweek

    ✅ Strategies to transition customers from weekend scheduling

    ✅ Real-life case studies of shops that successfully cut their Saturday hours

    Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with

  • Hunt examines technician cost management within automotive repair shops shop management systems. He explores the issue of inaccurately reported labor costs, which frequently misrepresent the true financial health of the business.

    Hunt discusses the underlying reasons for this discrepancy, and how they calculate technician compensation. The episode talks to various methodologies that can be employed to rectify these inaccuracies, ensuring that shop owners possess a more precise understanding of their financial obligations.

    The objective of this episode is to empower our listener with actionable insights that can lead to improved profitability and operational efficiency in their businesses.

    Takeaways:

    The podcast discusses the critical issue of accurately recording technician costs in shop management systems, which is often miscalculated, leading to significant profit discrepancies.The episode emphasizes the importance of revising technician cost methods to reflect true expenses, thereby enhancing financial transparency and operational efficiency.Listeners are urged to assess their current payroll structures and make necessary adjustments to ensure more precise financial forecasting.Understanding the relationship between productivity and payroll costs is vital for maintaining profitability, with practical strategies provided to achieve this.

    Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket...

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Are you truly a business owner, or just a well-paid employee? In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, dives into the critical distinction between running a business and simply working a high-paying job within your shop. Learn how to measure your hourly rate, assess your true profitability, and make strategic moves to improve your bottom line while working less.

    Key Takeaways:

    The difference between being a business owner vs. an overpaid employeeHow to calculate your true hourly rate (and why it matters)The role of profit in determining business health vs. personal earningsThe trade-off between high profit and business independencePractical steps to transition from working in your business to working on your business

    Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

    Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/

    The Auto Repair Marketing...

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Welcome to another episode of Business by the Numbers, hosted by Hunt Demarest, CPA, with Paar Melis & Associates. This week, we're diving into the pros and cons of leasing versus buying vehicles and equipment, covering critical tax implications and cash flow considerations. Whether you're eyeing a new luxury SUV or financing essential shop equipment, this episode breaks down the factors that influence your financial decisions.

    Key Points:

    Leasing vs. Buying: Understand the key differences, from cash flow management to tax deductions, when deciding whether to lease or purchase vehicles or equipment.Tax Implications: Learn how vehicle weight (like the 6,000-pound gross vehicle weight rule) affects first-year deductions.Leasing Equipment: Discover why leases dominate the automotive equipment industry and how they’re treated for tax purposes.Cash Flow Management: Explore how financing options impact cash flow, both short and long-term.Real-Life Scenarios: Gain insights from real-world examples, like a $3,000 savings on a BMW purchase using dealership financing incentives.

    Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/

    Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/

  • Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Welcome to this episode of Business by the Numbers! Host Hunt Demarest, CPA, explores the recent IRS developments and what they mean for business owners, taxpayers, and accountants alike. With executive orders, funding cuts, and shifting policies, there's plenty to unpack about the future of the IRS and tax compliance.

    Key Takeaways:

    IRS Funding Cuts: The Inflation Reduction Act promised $80 billion for the IRS, but political maneuvering and budget cuts have significantly reduced this allocation.Commissioner Resignation: The departure of the IRS commissioner raises questions about future agency direction and efficiency.Audit Frequency Impact: With fewer agents and reduced funding, audits for wealthy individuals and large corporations are likely to decrease.Taxpayer Challenges: Delayed refunds, processing slowdowns, and a backlog of cases could worsen due to IRS understaffing.Emerging Trends: Discussion on potential international tax changes and the possibility of an "External Revenue Service" impacting U.S. tax revenue collection.https://www.projectfinance.law/publications/2025/january/trump-executive-orders/https://waysandmeans.house.gov/2025/01/23/president-trumps-cease-and-desist-to-irs-protects-middle-class-families-and-small-businesses-from-irs-audits-and-weaponization/https://moneywise.com/a/ch-synd/irs-asks-for-more-funding_1737633682545

    Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

    Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS

    Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?

    It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.

    Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com

    Thanks to our partner, Promotive

    It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.

    Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

    Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com

    Email Hunt: [email protected]

    Download a Copy of My Books Here:

    Wrenches to Write-OffsYour Perfect Shop 

    The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

    Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/