Alex Rapp

Alex Rapp

Alex Rapp, Director of Operations at Gateway Auto, has helped spearhead the transformation of traditional automotive collision, service, and sales business models into efficient, high revenue operations.

May 30, 2025

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4 min read

This One Simple Tap Could Earn Your Shop More Reviews—and More Money

Today, we’re diving into how a simple tap can turn everyday customer interactions into five-star reviews and real revenue for your shop. Joining us is Dylan Allen, founder and CEO of Cheers, redefining how service businesses collect reviews and recognize team performance with an NFC-powered tool that’s as easy to use as it is effective.

Podcast Episode

May 23, 2025

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4 min read

Why Smarter Training = More Money in Your Shop (and Less Stress for You)

Today, we're diving into how new training tech like VR and ADAS education can help your shop make more money, avoid liability, and stay ahead of the curve. Joining us are Chrisa Hickey and Mike Mertes from ICAR.

Podcast Episode

May 6, 2025

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4 min read

Tekmetric Interviewed: What Makes A Great Shop Management System?

If you're still running your shop off dusty servers, whiteboards, or software built in the '90s, you're not alone—but you have fallen behind. In this episode of the LeadFoot Automotive Podcast, we sat down with Sunil Patel, founder and CEO of Tekmetric, to talk about how his team is building the tech that shops need.

Podcast Episode

Apr 24, 2025

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5 min read

Automotive Training: Engage, Educate, and Adapt with Justin Allen

In this episode, join us with industry expert Justin Allen-a regional field trainer for Hunter Engineering Company, as we delve into the transformative landscape of automotive technology and education.

Podcast Episode

Apr 22, 2025

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5 min read

The Future of Fixed Ops w/ Dave Foy: What Shop Owners Need to Hear

Today, we’re diving into how smart technology—especially AI—is changing the game in fixed ops and helping shop owners win back their time. Joining us is Dave Foy, founder of Fixed Ops Mastermind, a seasoned industry veteran with over 40 years of dealership and service experience who’s now helping shops across the country simplify their operations and grow stronger teams.

Podcast Episode

Apr 15, 2025

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5 min read

AutoLeap Interviewed: One System to Streamline Your Auto Shop

Today, we're diving into how smart, all-in-one shop management software can help you save time, make more money, and ditch the multiple software headaches that can slow your shop down.

Podcast Episode

Apr 10, 2025

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4 min read

Data Privacy for Cars: Insights from CEO Andrea Amico

In this episode of the Leadfoot Automotive Podcast, we dive into the transformative realm of automotive data privacy with Andrea Amico, founder and CEO of Privacy for Cars. Discover how innovative tools not only safeguard sensitive customer data but also enhance dealership profitability, driving an ROI of 4 to 10 times the initial investment. As the industry navigates the complexities of data security, Andrea offers expert insights on turning compliance into a competitive advantage, making this discussion invaluable for automotive service leaders seeking to elevate their operations and build customer trust.

Podcast Episode

Mar 12, 2025

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4 min read

What is an AI Auto Shop Assistant? A Deep Dive with Detect Auto

In a world where technology evolves at lightning speed, the automotive industry finds itself on the cusp of a major transformation. With Jon Cabak at the helm of Detect Auto, innovative solutions are reshaping how auto repair shops operate, ushering in a new era of efficiency and growth. Join us as we delve into Jon’s inspiring journey, the evolution of Detect Auto, and the significant impact it's making in the automotive sector.

Automation

Mar 4, 2025

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2 min read

TireConnect Integrates With AutoOps for Seamless Tire Shopping and Scheduling

TireConnect, a platform owned by Bridgestone Americas Inc., has announced a new integration with AutoOps,

Scheduling

Mar 3, 2025

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5 min read

Is Online Scheduling Right For Your Auto Repair Shop?

Join us in this episode of the Leadfoot Automotive Podcast as we chat with Steven Fafel, co-founder of AutoOps, about revolutionizing the automotive booking process. Discover how online scheduling enhances customer experiences, increases shop efficiency, and ultimately drives sales without you having to lift a finger in your shop. Tune in for insights on how simple changes can lead to significant gains for shop owners.

Podcast Episode

Feb 25, 2025

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3 min read

Thriving in the Digital Era of Automotive Repair: Insights from Chris Cotton

In today's fast-paced automotive industry, technology isn't just an option—it's essential for survival. Join Chris Cotton, a seasoned industry expert, as he explores the crucial role of Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs) and other innovative tools that are reshaping shop operations. Discover how embracing these advancements can enhance customer trust, streamline processes, and ultimately boost profitability.

Industry Interviews

Feb 18, 2025

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6 min read

From Zero to $70 Million: Discover the Software Helping Collision Centers Earn $430+ More Per Repair

Discover how Eagle MMS is revolutionizing the collision repair industry by offering an innovative, itemized invoicing software solution that enhances profit margins. In this episode, co-founder Yanni Koutmos reveals the alarming trends in paint material costs versus labor rates and shares expert insights on how shops can leverage technology to maximize earnings and negotiate more effectively with insurance companies. Eagle MMS has helped shops bill out $70 million through their platform to date. Tune in to gain valuable strategies to transform your repair process and ensure a profitable future.

Podcast Episode

Dec 28, 2024

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5 min read

Modern Oil Change Stickers: A Hidden Gem for Efficiency and Customer Engagement

Shop owners, are you still handwriting oil change stickers or struggling with outdated printing systems? Discover how modern oil change stickers with QR codes and customizable designs can save time, improve accuracy, and even drive future appointments. Plus, learn which systems shops recommend to streamline your process today.

Tech Reviews

Dec 27, 2024

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7 min read

The Secret Weapon Every Successful Auto Shop Is Using (And Why You Should Too)

Discover how Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs) can revolutionize your auto shop by building trust, boosting close ratios, and modernizing operations. This guide breaks down the benefits, shares real-world success stories, and provides a step-by-step process to get started. Learn why top shop owners say DVIs are the single best thing you can do for your business.

Tech Reviews

Sep 23, 2024

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5 min read

Meet the Host: Alex Rapp, Gearhead Digitizing Automotive Businesses

In this episode of the Leadfoot Automotive Podcast, hosts Joe Toscano and Alex Rapp discuss the integration of technology in automotive shops, focusing on Alex's journey from a technology enthusiast to an operations manager at Gateway Auto. They explore the transformation of Gateway from a traditional paper-based operation to a digital powerhouse, emphasizing the importance of digital inspections and SEO strategies for small businesses in the automotive sector. The conversation highlights the significance of collaboration and sharing knowledge to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Podcast Episode

Sep 2, 2024

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7 min read

Leadfoot Podcast: The Ultimate Guide to Tech for Your Shop

In this episode of the Leadfoot Automotive Podcast, hosts Joe Toscano and Alex Rapp introduce their mission to help automotive shops leverage technology for improved efficiency and profitability. They discuss their backgrounds, the challenges faced by shop owners in finding reliable tech reviews, and the unique insights they bring from their own experiences in the industry. The podcast aims to provide actionable advice, tutorials, and interviews with industry leaders to help listeners navigate the evolving landscape of automotive technology.

Podcast Episode

Alex Rapp

This One Simple Tap Could Earn Your Shop More Reviews—and More Money

Why Smarter Training = More Money in Your Shop (and Less Stress for You)

Tekmetric Interviewed: What Makes A Great Shop Management System?

Automotive Training: Engage, Educate, and Adapt with Justin Allen

The Future of Fixed Ops w/ Dave Foy: What Shop Owners Need to Hear

AutoLeap Interviewed: One System to Streamline Your Auto Shop

Data Privacy for Cars: Insights from CEO Andrea Amico

What is an AI Auto Shop Assistant? A Deep Dive with Detect Auto

TireConnect Integrates With AutoOps for Seamless Tire Shopping and Scheduling

Is Online Scheduling Right For Your Auto Repair Shop?

Thriving in the Digital Era of Automotive Repair: Insights from Chris Cotton

From Zero to $70 Million: Discover the Software Helping Collision Centers Earn $430+ More Per Repair

Modern Oil Change Stickers: A Hidden Gem for Efficiency and Customer Engagement

The Secret Weapon Every Successful Auto Shop Is Using (And Why You Should Too)

Meet the Host: Alex Rapp, Gearhead Digitizing Automotive Businesses

Leadfoot Podcast: The Ultimate Guide to Tech for Your Shop

Use Tech, Earn More, Stress Less