Show Notes
Are you running a garage business, or just a very stressful job?
In this episode of The Blend Podcast, host Mike Ruff sits down with Barry Lawson of Lawson Autotech for a candid look at the "isolation trap" that many independent garage owners fall into. Barry reflects on the early years of his business, where he operated in a bubble, believing that constant struggle was just a "normal" part of the trade.
The turning point came when his accountant revealed a devastating reality: after a full year of hard work, the business had netted just £16,000, to be split between two partners. Realising he was earning less than he could at a local supermarket, Barry made the radical decision to drop the tools and start looking for answers beyond his workshop walls.
If you’ve ever felt like you can’t afford to step away from the workshop, this is the episode you need to hear. Barry’s story is a powerful testament to what happens when you stop being a mechanic and start being a business owner.
Join us at The Blend 2026! The Blend returns to the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham on Saturday, 10th October 2026. Join workshops, industry experts, and trade suppliers for a full day of networking and insights, featuring keynote speaker Rory Sutherland.
👉 Learn more and book your tickets: https://www.theblend.events/
The Blend Podcast is proudly sponsored by Garage Hive and produced by Autotech Communications.
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