EPISODE: 199 – Deo Kitoko on YouTube Growth, Auto Repair Success, and Building Trust
From learning automotive repair beside his father in the Republic of Congo to building a successful shop and YouTube channel in Maryland, Deo Kitoko’s story is a powerful reminder of what hard work, humility, and persistence can build. In this conversation, he shares how he taught himself advanced diagnostics through books and YouTube, why he started creating videos, and how education, honesty, and consistency helped him grow both his audience and his business. Give this episode a listen to hear how Deo turned skill, service, and storytelling into real momentum.
Timestamps
Introduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:00) Brian introduces Deo, highlights his YouTube channel, and previews the episode’s topics.
Theo’s Early Life and Automotive Roots (00:01:18) Deo shares his upbringing in the Republic of Congo, learning auto repair from his father, and early shop experiences.
The Value of Skilled Trades in the Age of AI (00:04:50) Discussion about job security in skilled trades versus jobs threatened by AI, and the importance of automotive skills.
Theo’s Path to Shop Ownership (00:06:24) Deo describes his journey from technician to shop owner, including his education and early career in Congo.
Technical Education and Master Tech Certification (00:08:13) Deo details his technical high school, college, and diesel training, leading to master tech status in Congo.
Decision to Move to the U.S. (00:10:17) Deo explains his choice to move to America, learning English, and the challenges of immigrating.
First Job in the U.S. and Early Career (00:12:00) Deo recounts getting his first job in the U.S., proving his skills, and advancing in the shop.
Self-Education and ASE Certifications (00:13:27) Deo discusses learning from YouTube, books, and mentors, and passing ASE certifications to become a master tech in the U.S.
Sponsor Messages (00:16:21) Promotional segment for Shop Boss and App Fueled.
Theo’s Certifications and Timeline (00:18:26) Deo lists his certifications and clarifies his arrival in the U.S. in 2013.
Learning Diagnostics and YouTube Inspiration (00:19:04) Deo explains how he learned diagnostics from YouTube and books, inspired by Eric the Car Guy and Scanner Danner.
Starting the YouTube Channel (00:19:30) Deo describes what motivated him to start making YouTube videos and his initial doubts.
First Video and Overcoming Self-Doubt (00:24:05) Deo shares the story of filming his first video for a customer and being encouraged to start a channel.
Building a Production Team (00:28:41) Deo explains how his YouTube channel grew to include a full production team and better equipment.
Advice for Shop Owners on Video Content (00:29:42) Deo advises shop owners on starting with simple equipment and clarifies his focus on education over marketing.
Balancing Shop Work and Content Creation (00:33:56) Deo discusses the challenges of balancing shop management with filming and editing videos.
Transparency and Showing Mistakes (00:34:54) Deo talks about showing mistakes and comebacks in his videos to build trust and authenticity.
Impact on Hiring and Team Culture (00:37:39) Deo describes how his videos attract technicians and foster a positive shop culture.
Meeting Scanner Danner and Industry Connections (00:39:28) Deo recounts meeting his YouTube inspiration, Scanner Danner, and the impact of industry networking.
Giving Back and Future Goals (00:42:28) Deo discusses helping friends in Congo, translating knowledge, and his desire to teach and expand his business.
YouTube Channel and Social Media Plugs (00:43:36) Deo shares where listeners can find his content online and thanks Brian for the marketing advice.
Networking and Working with Shop Marketing Pros (00:45:30) Deo describes networking at industry events and his experience working with Shop Marketing Pros.
Closing Remarks (00:47:20) Brian and Deo thank each other, and Brian closes the episode with network information.
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Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey
EricTheCarGuy
KIT’S Auto and Truck Repair
Deo Kitoko
