Legacy in the Workshop: Lessons from My Grandad

Some of the most profound lessons in life come from moments and memories that stay with us forever. For me, many of those lessons came from my grandad—a man who left a lasting mark on me, even though he passed away when I was just six years old.

My grandad was more than just family; he was my inspiration. A respected Vauxhall (GM) specialist, he built a stellar reputation in his community and eventually managed a dealership. His dedication, skill, and passion for his craft left an impression on everyone who knew him—and especially on me.

I spent countless hours at my grandparents’ house while my parents worked. Those moments became the foundation of my early fascination with the automotive world. My grandad welcomed me into his workshop, introducing me to his tools and sharing his passion in a way only a true mentor could. What inspired me most was seeing his customers come around, often almost begging for his advice and expertise. It was never about money—in fact, I’m sure it was rarely even discussed. It was about the respect and trust he had earned through his knowledge and genuine care for helping others. Even at that young age, I idolized him, soaking up every moment in his presence.

One thing that stood out—and something that stuck with me throughout my own career—was the way he kept his workshop: clean, organized, and always ready for action. It wasn’t just about tidiness; it was a reflection of his professionalism and respect for his craft. This image of an orderly, well-maintained workshop is incredibly important for customers to see—it builds trust, signals attention to detail, and showcases a commitment to quality. It taught me the importance of discipline and preparation—lessons that would later shape how I approached my own career in the automotive industry.

Even after retiring, my grandad’s reputation endured. Customers continued bringing their cars to him, seeking his expertise. He had this incredible ability to simply listen to a car and diagnose the issue—an art that spoke to his deep, intuitive understanding of vehicles. Remarkably, he was a self-taught man who didn’t pass any formal exams, yet his knowledge and skill exceeded that of many trained professionals.

Reflecting on those early lessons, I realize how much they influenced my journey. From my time as a mechanic in the UK to leading service operations and eventually starting my own coaching business, the values my grandad embodied—dedication, craftsmanship, integrity—have been with me every step of the way. Now, I’m taking the next step in my journey: owning my own vehicle repair shop. I'm close to finalizing a deal that will bring me closer to making that dream a reality, carrying forward the legacy and passion that began in my grandad’s workshop.

This journey has also taught me something even deeper: everyone’s unique past and experiences shape them into who they are today. A key part of understanding how to manage and lead people is recognizing this individuality. When teaching and training, it’s essential to consider each person’s background, as their personal journey influences how they learn, respond, and grow.

Though his time with me was short, my grandad’s impact was lifelong. His legacy wasn’t just about cars; it was about how you treat people, how you take pride in your work, and how passion and perseverance can lead to success, no matter where you start.

These are the lessons I carry forward every day—lessons I now pass on to others through my own work. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.