Welcome to another episode of Smart Living! Today, I had the pleasure of interviewing Shahe Koulloukian, a man of many talents and the proud owner of Mazvo Auto Car Care. Located on 7th Street and Camelback, right next to Xavier College Prep, Mazvo Auto has been serving the Phoenix community for an impressive 28 years.
Shahe’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Armenia and fluent in six languages, he has lived in various parts of the world, including Lebanon, Paris, Germany, Africa, Tel Aviv, and Toronto. Despite his global adventures, Shahe has made Phoenix, Arizona his home, where he runs a reputable and ethical car repair shop.
A Legacy of Ethical Business
Shahe’s commitment to ethical business practices is deeply rooted in his family history. Growing up, his father, a cobbler by trade, and other family members owned various businesses. They all emphasized the importance of being accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Shahe recalls his father’s words: “If you’re an honest business person, if you do business with empathy, you have nothing to hide.”
At Mazvo Auto Car Care, Shahe and his team strive to provide personalized, boutique-style auto repair services. With his wife managing the front office and a team of skilled technicians, Shahe ensures that every customer receives individual attention and thorough education about their car’s needs. This approach has earned Mazvo Auto Car Care numerous positive reviews and a loyal customer base.
A Multifaceted Career
Beyond his automotive expertise, Shahe is also an actor, writer, and culinary enthusiast. His acting career includes roles in movies, short films, music videos, and even a Discovery Channel reenactment. He shared an amusing anecdote about how his journey into comedy began with an open mic night at a local comedy club, leading to a full-time career in stand-up comedy during the Arsenio Hall era.
However, life had other plans. When Shahe’s father was diagnosed with cancer, he chose to prioritize family, returning to Phoenix and resuming his work as a mechanic. This decision ultimately led him to open Mazvo Auto Car Care and build a successful business.
A Passion for Culinary Arts
Shahe’s passion for cooking emerged during his childhood in Lyon, France, where he learned the art of French cuisine. This passion was rekindled later in life, leading him to earn a culinary degree and work as a chef at the Hilton in Phoenix. Although he eventually returned to his roots in auto repair, his culinary skills remain a significant part of his life story.
Empowering Car Owners
Shahe’s latest venture is writing. His book, “Car Confidential,” is a comprehensive guide designed to empower car owners with knowledge about auto maintenance, purchasing, and repair. The book covers various topics, including how to find an honest mechanic, understanding car insurance, and dealing with accidents. It’s all about self-advocacy and ensuring that car owners can navigate the often intimidating world of auto repair with confidence.
Looking Ahead
Shahe is also working on launching his podcast, “Car Confidential,” which will delve deeper into the topics covered in his book. The podcast aims to educate and empower listeners, featuring guests from the auto industry and beyond.
Shahe Koulloukian’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to ethical practices. Whether you need auto repair services or insights into maintaining your vehicle, Mazvo Auto Car Care is a place where you can trust the expertise and integrity of its owner.
Visit Mazvo Auto Car Care at 4610 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ, or check out their website for more information. You can also find Shahe’s book, “Car Confidential,” on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and local bookstores like Changing Hands.
