DO IT FOR A LIVING

Most shop owners glance at their P&L once a year at tax time and have no idea what it's actually telling them. In this episode, accountant Jerry Cecco breaks down exactly how a profit and loss statement should be structured for a performance shop – and how to generate accurate numbers from your daily operations. Jerry spent years installing accounting systems for automotive dealerships before bringing that same financial discipline to small motorsports businesses. He's also an HPDE instructor at Eagles Canyon Raceway, so he gets the industry from both sides. We cover: Cash vs. accrual accounting – when each makes sense and how the same job looks completely different under each method Revenue categories – why separating parts, labor, and divisions (like web sales vs. service) changes everything COGS vs. expenses – what goes where and why most shops get it wrong The parts procurement spectrum – from simple bank syncs to purchase orders to full inventory tracking Gross margin benchmarks – what's healthy for parts vs. service Multi-division businesses – how to see if your e-commerce side is actually making money Using your P&L to make real decisions – pricing, hiring, and spotting problems early If your books are a mess or you've never really understood your financial reports, this is the episode to fix that. If you need help with your business accounting, reach out to Jerry at JerryCecco@gmail.com

Unlock the hidden secrets that are transforming manufacturing efficiency worldwide. In this deep dive, Richard and Kevin explore the powerful concepts that can revolutionize your production line—from error-proofing and Pokeyoke techniques that prevent costly mistakes, to lean manufacturing principles that maximize value while minimizing waste. Plus, learn practical examples—from how to design parts that only assemble one way to organizing complex hoses for faster, error-free installation. You'll uncover: The difference between error-proofing and Pokeyoke, and how to implement them effectively How to design parts with built-in Pokeyoke features that save time and reduce errors Step-by-step strategies to run a lean shop, from shadow boards to labor tracking The role of Kanban in managing workflows, inventory, and customer experience Practical tips to adapt lean and just-in-time principles for small, custom shops Ignoring these insights can mean wasting thousands of dollars on excess inventory, rework, and lost productivity. Conversely, mastering these methods opens the door to faster throughput, higher quality, and greater profitability—regardless of your company size. Perfect for manufacturers, shop owners, or anyone striving to eliminate inefficiency, this episode reveals proven strategies to boost your bottom line. Implement these ideas today and start working smarter, not harder. Be sure to like and subscribe to the channel! the more viewers we have, the more high quality guests we can attract! www.Doitforaliving.net www.myshopassist.com

In this episode, Kevin and co-host Richard Fielder break down the manufacturing systems used by large-scale factories and show you how to implement them in your small shop. Richard is a controls engineer at Peterbilt where he works with the systems that manufacture semi trucks at scale, and he brings that expertise to help small fabricators, tuners, and parts manufacturers work smarter. Whether you're making one-off custom parts or producing small batches, these principles will make you faster, more consistent, and more profitable. We cover 5S for organizing your workspace, shadow boards for tool management, standard operating procedures for documenting your processes, and how to build a proper bill of materials so you actually know what things cost to make. Richard explains how each system works on the factory floor at Peterbilt, then we translate it into practical steps for shops with 1-5 people. The goal isn't to turn your shop into a factory, it's to steal the best ideas from industrial manufacturing and apply them at your scale so you stop wasting time, reduce errors, and can actually grow without chaos. We will be following this episode with additional podcasts related to manufacturing processes we didn't discuss in this episode. Additionally, we will be talking to more guests who do manufacturing to talk to them about how they do things and the processes they use at their shops. Be sure to keep listening, and to subscribe to the channel! Check out My Shop Assist at myshopassist.com for shop management software built for the performance and racing industry! www.myshopassist.com

In this episode of Do It For a Living, we welcome back Zach Denney for a follow-up to his first appearance on episode 083. Back then, Zach was running Wholesale POwer (WHP), the US distributor for ECU Master, as a one-man operation out of an 1,800 square foot facility, hoping to hire his first employee. Fast forward to today, and he's now importing several brands including ECU Master, Verkline, and Delta ABS, as well as manufacturing harnesses and components to compliment those product lines. Zach shares how he scaled from solo importer to running a full team, the challenges of navigating COVID-era supply chain disruptions and tariffs, and how he's positioned his companies in an increasingly competitive aftermarket electronics market. We also dig into product development, dealer training, the shift toward standalone ECUs, and what's coming next — including advanced displays and GDI applications. We cover: Growing from a one-man show Building a team and defining employee roles Supply chain and tariff challenges Why everyone's moving to standalone ECUs Training and supporting your dealer network Order management systems and software stack The future of integrating modern tech into older platforms Check out ECU Master USA at www.ecumasterusa.com Check out Verkline at www.verkline.com Check out Delta ABS at www.deltaABS.com Find out more about My Shop Assist at www.myshopassist.com Check out all our content at www.doitforaliving.net Thank you for listening and be sure to subscribe!

In this episode of Do It For a Living, I talk with Peter Aggapoglou, founder of Autosport Fabrication, about his deep roots in the motorsports industry. Before launching his own shop, Peter built his expertise working for several high-end European and race shops, honing his skills in fabrication, chassis setup, and race car development. Peter also shares his challenges and solutions to running a business that caters to exclusively race cars. We dive into: His journey through prestigious race and performance shops before going solo The turning point that led him to start Autosport Fabrication out of necessity Lessons learned from working with top-tier teams and applying that knowledge to his own business If you're an aspiring fabricator, shop owner, or just love the business of racing, this episode is packed with insight. Tune in now! Check out Autosport Fabrication at : https://www.autosportfab.com/ on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoSportFab/ Find out more about My Shop Assist at www.myshopassist.com Check out all our great content for the Podcast at: www.doitforaliving.net and on facebook at www.facebook.com/doitforaliving

In this episode of Do It For a Living, I sit down with Adam Hammer of Hammer and Dolly Restorations to explore his journey into the world of classic car restorations. Adam shares how he got started, the challenges of building his own business, and the processes he uses to manage complex, long-term projects. We dive into his approach to business management, car building, and project management—covering everything from billing and customer interactions to record-keeping for both him and his clients. If you're involved in car restorations or any type of project that takes months or even years to complete, this episode is packed with valuable insights you can apply to your own work. Don't miss it! For more information on Hammer and Dolly: https://www.hammeranddolly.com/ Find out more about My Shop Assist at www.myshopassist.com Check out all our great content for the Podcast at: www.doitforaliving.net and on facebook at www.facebook.com/doitforaliving

In this episode of Do It For a Living, we sit down with Sasha Anis, founder of Mountain Pass Performance, to discuss his journey in building a cutting-edge performance business. Sasha shares insights into starting and scaling Mountain Pass Performance, managing production and sales, and pushing the boundaries of innovation in motorsports. We dive into his experience building hybrid race cars and adapting Teslas for road racing, exploring the challenges and opportunities of electric and hybrid technology in competitive applications. Whether you're an EV enthusiast or a performance shop owner, you won't want to miss this inspiring conversation! Check out the first interview with sasha here Check out mountain pass performance products on his website: www.mountainpassperformance.com Find out more about My Shop Assist at www.myshopassist.com Check out all our great content for the Podcast at: www.doitforaliving.net and on facebook at www.facebook.com/doitforaliving

In this episode of Do It For a Living, I sit down with Adam McCreery, founder of AFR Autoworks, to explore how he built his business using data-driven decisions. Adam shares how tracking shop hours, billing accurately, and managing overhead have been the keys to his success. We dive into the systems and strategies he's developed to maximize efficiency and profitability while maintaining high standards for his work. If you're looking for practical advice on running a more efficient and sustainable shop, this is an episode you won't want to miss! AFR Autoworks contact: Sales@AFRautoworks.com Adam Directly: Adam@AFRAutoworks.com www.AFRautoworksstore.com https://www.facebook.com/afrautoworks/ Check us out at www.doitforalivingpodcast.com or on facebook www.facebook.com/doitforaliving Be sure to check out My Shop Assist or watch our video to see how to works in a shop

After a four-year break, we're back with a brand-new season of the Do It For A Living Podcast, and we're kicking things off strong with a follow up from a special guest: Matt Beenen. Matt is an experienced entrepreneur and the driving force behind several successful businesses, Builtright and Mountech. In this episode, he shares insights from his journey, the challenges he's faced, and the strategies that helped him scale and strengthen his companies. We dive into topics like building a sustainable business model, adapting to industry changes, and the importance of a solid team. Matt opens up about the lessons he's learned along the way, including the mindset shifts that have been crucial to his growth as a leader and business owner. Whether you're a shop owner, entrepreneur, or just passionate about business, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration to help you on your own journey. Tune in as we relaunch the Do It For A Living Podcast with Matt Beenen's story, and join us as we embark on a new season of learning and growth together. Follow Matt at https://builtrightind.com/ https://www.facebook.com/builtrightind https://mountechusa.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mountechusa Check us out at www.doitforalivingpodcast.com or on facebook www.facebook.com/doitforaliving Be sure to check out My Shop Assist or watch our video to see how to works in a shop

Nathan grew up in Florida working on cars to help his dad's business. In his twenties, he moved around always chasing entrepreneurial ventures but wasn't always focused on cars. He eventually purchased a 2002 WRX Wagon and then he was hooked! The modifications began and he couldn't get enough. This led to starting a performance shop with two buddies and eventually meeting Doug Wilks who was the owner of Top Speed Performance. Nathan then began organizing tuning appointments for Doug to fly in and tune several vehicles at once. After some time, Nathan offered to buy the business from Doug and run it on how own terms. He kept the original employees, changed the name to Top Speed Motorsports, and grew the business over the next ten years. He recently changed it to Cicio Performance and now has two locations. One is in Atlanta, GA (the Top Speed Motorsports location) and the other is in Virginia Beach, VA. He has plans to open a third location in another year or two. With the new name, Nathan focused his efforts on running the business efficiently and tracking every metric possible. This has allowed him to open the second location and he is able to split his time between the two and manage them. His goal is to ensure his customers have a pleasant experience and work to get the cars completed as quickly as possible. He still works on GTR's but is expanding the services to 911's and plans on doing a ton of work with the new C8 Corvette when it comes out.

Its been about 4 years since we last talked to Andre and Ben of HP Academy. Originally, they were focusing on keeping the business small and running it themselves. They soon realized that they needed to hire some extra help. They have grown to 7 people and really helps generate content. Andre and Ben now release interviews each week and have greatly expanded their online education program. The online courses include tuning, engine machining, race car wiring, and vehicle setup. They are currently working with Engineered to Slide to even create a set of fabrication courses so be on the lookout for even more great content! If you're interested, they are always looking for talented individuals to join their team. So, feel free to reach out to them if you think you are qualified.

Back in 2017, AJ was humming along and making composite parts for race cars and street enthusiasts. He was approached by a customer who was wanting to help AJ scale the business, so he sold off 49% of the business. They changed the name to RHR Composites, hired 2 people, contracted some aerodynamic parts to be designed, and moved to a larger facility. Along the way, their vision for the future didn't align so AJ had to buy out his partner to take back 100% of the company. Even though it was a huge struggle, AJ looks at the events as a learning experience and tries to keep a positive outlook on the situation. He shrunk the company back to just himself, changed the name back to AJ Hartman Aero, and the business is humming along nicely. He has focused on reducing waste and improving efficiency within his shop. Even though he has moved out of the 6,000 sqft shop and back into the 2-car garage behind his house, he has been able to get more product out and make more money. This goes to show how important it is to focus on efficiency versus trying to make more money. AJ set his mind on improving the business and getting the most use out of his time. This has translated to higher profits with fewer resources.

Alejandro and Pablo Moreno didn't start a shop together but found they could grow a business by working as a team. Alejandro got his engineering degree, worked at Bell Helicopter for a while, and went back to school to get his MBA. In the meantime, Pablo was an auto mechanic, went to flight school, and then decided to start Tandem Automotive with a friend to work on drift cars (hence the name). When Alejandro finished grad school, he was looking for some sort of entrepreneurial venture and wanted to help Pablo. He crunched some numbers and made some changes at Tandem Automotive. His quickly discovered that something needed to change at the business if they wanted it to succeed. They looked at their current customer based and decided it was best to specialize in modifying and maintaining Toyota SUV's and trucks. Alejandro used his CAD skills and designed a custom wheel for their common application. While he thought it would be a great way to generate some extra profit, it turned out to be a real headache. Dealing with overseas manufacturing turned out to be extremely difficult and costly. But they overcame the hurdles and have had several hundred wheels produced. Tandem Automotive has also undergone several ups and downs with employees. They have tried to balance the number of techs with the workload but have struggled to hire hard workers and keep them busy with work. They have put systems in place to track the time and verify that they are charging appropriately and making money.