Idiots or Inspiration?!?

Mackenna Herr • October 29, 2021

Are You Listening to Idiots or Inspiration?

What advice would you give to someone looking to start an automotive repair shop? How about anyone short-term, mid-term, or long-term running an automotive repair shop today?


Tune in and participate in the discussion between KUKUI's very own Jimmy Lea and Tara Topel from Topel's Towing & Repair. Tara was recognized as the 2021 Shop Owner of the Year from Women in AutoCare, a branch of the Auto Care Association. She has done some amazing things in her shop and has plenty of advice for anyone that wants to take their business to the next level.


Join us on October 28 and be ready to join in the conversation. If you have any tips and tricks you would like to share, please do. Assemble your top 3 bits of advice you would share with a fellow shop owner and let's talk!


Person using a phone while holding a steering wheel, icons of social media floating around.

Social Media, Simplified

By Gabby Oglesby • February 4, 2026
For today’s drivers, choosing an auto repair shop often starts online. Before they call or book an appointment, many customers check Google, scroll through your Facebook page, or look for recent updates that show your shop is active and trustworthy.
Person in suit touching a digital

2025 Year in Review

By Gabby Oglesby • January 20, 2026
In 2025, we made our product easier, clearer, and more impactful—helping shops save time, communicate with customers, and see the value of their marketing.

KUKUI Social Toolkit

By Mary Wirth • December 16, 2025
Your All-in-One Hub for Social Media Success
A black car with a rising blue graph superimposed, in a factory setting.

Your 2026 Auto Repair Shop Marketing Plan

By Rick Sage • December 9, 2025
Build a simple, effective 2026 marketing plan for your auto repair shop using modern tools like online scheduling, text marketing, QR codes, and automated reviews.

How Online Appointment Scheduling Drives More Business for Auto Repair Shops

By Rick Sage • October 30, 2025
As the owner of an auto repair shop, you’re always looking for ways to make it easier for your customers to do business with you—and at the same time improve your efficiency and profitability. One of the most effective steps you can take is implementing online appointment scheduling.

Modern Marketing Tools: QR Codes

By Gabby Oglesby • September 25, 2025
Running a busy shop means making sure every marketing dollar counts. That’s why more auto repair businesses are turning to QR codes.

Your Website Just Got Smarter: Introducing Automatic llms.txt

By Heather Myers • September 11, 2025
A behind-the-scenes upgrade that helps AI and search engines understand your shop’s website.
Thumbnail showing Google rating, AI summary, and review for an auto repair shop.

Why Google Reviews Are Crucial for Auto Repair Shops

By Summer Lee and Nick Martin • July 31, 2025
Google reviews boost your shop’s visibility, trust, and rankings—especially with Google’s new AI Mode. Learn how to get more.
Lori metzler is the senior director of client services at kukui.

KUKUI Promotes Lori Metzler to Senior Director of Client Success

By Mackenna Antignano • May 5, 2025
Lori Metzler is more than just a team member. She’s a heart, a mentor, and a force of good in this industry. She sees the potential in every shop and every person she meets. And now, in her new role, she’ll keep doing what she does best, lifting others up.
A hand is holding a cell phone with a speech bubble on it.

Text Marketing: One of the Most Valuable Tools in Your Shop

By Meaghan Evans • April 30, 2025
KUKUI makes it easy to grow and manage your opt-in list, while creating effective, personalized campaigns that drive results. Whether it’s through your website, social media, or in-shop promotions, KUKUI has the tools you need to build a loyal subscriber base and keep customers engaged.