WEBINAR: Defining Expectations: Rewriting Industry Identity with Discipline, Humility, and Purpose

What happens when a world-champion martial artist steps into the world of automotive repair? You get a story that punches through stereotypes and reframes what it means to succeed in this industry. In this gripping and inspiring webinar, Brandon Ballou, shop manager, martial artist, and second-generation automotive professional, shares his journey from childhood karate classes to earning a silver medal representing the U.S., and from battling public perceptions of "grease monkeys" to becoming a leader in the auto repair industry. Brandon challenges the outdated labels that limit professional identity and shows how motivation, discipline, and humility, his "three-legged stool of achievement,” can empower anyone to rise beyond expectation.

To help unpack the deeper lessons in Brandon’s story, he’ll be joined by Mark Seawell, one of The Institute’s instructors and industry leaders. Mark will guide the conversation with insightful questions and ensure that every takeaway is both practical and powerful.

You’ll learn:

- Why the labels we adopt shape, but don’t define, our value

- How personal loss can clarify your “why” and fuel action

- The surprising parallels between combat sports and customer service - How to shift your mindset from “selling” to genuinely serving

- What it takes to become part of the 1% shaping the future of our industry

Whether you're a technician, advisor, manager, or aspiring leader, this session will leave you fired up to rethink your potential, reframe your role, and take action that reshapes not just your life, but the industry itself.