About Us

Beyond Broken Cars

Hosted by Thomas Hays, “Beyond Broken Cars” is a podcast for the independent automotive repair community that shines a light on the personal and professional challenges faced by those within it. This show transcends discussions around the day-to-day operations of car repair to uncover the extraordinary ways industry professionals tackle life’s broader problems.
 
Those within the industry are familiar with complexity and unexpected issues, but what’s more remarkable is how its members apply their problem-solving skills beyond the garage. “Beyond Broken Cars” captures the depth of this community’s resilience, uncovering stories of overcoming obstacles not just under the hood but in aspects of life that matter even more.
 
Listeners will hear firsthand from pillars of the automotive community who share their journeys through broken businesses, strained relationships, challenging mindsets, and personal hardships delving into heartening tales of redemption, support, and new beginnings.
 
Join Thomas Hays as he creates a place for these incredible stories, offering a platform for encouragement, solutions, and shared experiences. “Beyond Broken Cars” is about the unbreakable human spirit, proving that the community’s strength lies not just in fixing cars but in supporting each other through life’s toughest moments. Tune in to discover how these professionals fix more than just cars—they fix hearts, minds, and futures.

Meet Your Host

Thomas Hays

Thomas’s journey in the automotive industry began as a service advisor for EuroFix, a regional auto repair chain in Tennessee. He quickly transitioned to working for the company’s corporate office where he honed his skills in operations and client service. His journey at EuroFix created the foundation of lessons and knowledge that gave him the ability to have a pivotal role in the founding of Shop Fix Academy, the largest business coaching company for automotive repair shop owners in the industry. Here, Thomas excelled in guiding owners to new heights of success and personal fulfillment. In late 2023, Thomas moved from Shop Fix Academy to begin working for his long-time friend, Ryan Burton, the founder of Leads Near Me®, a successful automotive industry digital marketing agency. Thomas joined Lead Near Me®, as the Vice President of Sales and Operations. Through this role, he continues to influence the industry with innovative strategies and a results-driven approach.
Thomas is no stranger to the world of automotive podcasts. As the creator and former host of “Success Leaves Clues: An Automotive Industry Podcast,” he earned acclaim for his engaging and informative discussions that captivated listeners across the globe. His approach to podcasting is both relational and conversational, shunning scripts in favor of authentic discussions. Thomas prides himself on advocating for his audience, embodying the curiosity of his listeners, and delving into the questions and topics that matter most to them.
 
Away from the microphone, Thomas’s life is equally vibrant and full. He resides in Tennessee with his wife of 14 years, their two children, and an energetic household of four cats and two dogs. An avid cyclist, Thomas finds solace and adventure on the roads, trails, and gravel paths of Middle Tennessee, embracing the freedom and challenge of the ride.
 
Through “Beyond Broken Cars,” Thomas Hays continues to explore the automotive industry’s evolving landscape, inviting listeners to join him on a journey of discovery, learning, and genuine connection.
 
Those within the industry are familiar with complexity and unexpected issues, but what’s more remarkable is how its members apply their problem-solving skills beyond the garage. “Beyond Broken Cars” captures the depth of this community’s resilience, uncovering stories of overcoming obstacles not just under the hood but in aspects of life that matter even more.
 
Listeners will hear firsthand from pillars of the automotive community who share their journeys through broken businesses, strained relationships, challenging mindsets, and personal hardships delving into heartening tales of redemption, support, and new beginnings.
 
Join Thomas Hays as he creates a place for these incredible stories, offering a platform for encouragement, solutions, and shared experiences. “Beyond Broken Cars” is about the unbreakable human spirit, proving that the community’s strength lies not just in fixing cars but in supporting each other through life’s toughest moments. Tune in to discover how these professionals fix more than just cars—they fix hearts, minds, and futures.

Meet Our Sponsors

Our Sponsors

Leads Near Me

Leads Near Me is a digital marketing agency for auto repair shops. We have become known for our ability to Effortlessly Increase Car Count™. Leads Near Me combines many years of experience, proprietary Google Ads software and a thirst for getting better every day to help auto repair companies grow their shops. With hundreds of shops in 43 states and Canada, Leads Near Me is uniquely qualified to help shop owners dramatically grow revenue. 

Our Sponsors

High Gear Conference

The High Gear Auto Repair Marketing Conference, an unprecedented gathering in the auto repair sector, is poised to take place from November 14th to 16th, 2024, at the Hilton Atlanta Airport. This conference is at the forefront of introducing innovative marketing strategies and fostering business expansion. It is designed for auto repair shop owners looking to elevate their marketing acumen and operational effectiveness.