CarDealershipGuy — the internet's viral car dealer and market commentator — shares unbiased and transparent insights into the car market. Join 100,000+ weekly listeners who tune in to hear from auto industry leaders, innovators and CarDealershipGuy himself. For more free car market insights, visit dealershipguy.com and follow CarDealershipGuy on X (@GuyDealership) — Or check out cdgpodcast.com to catch every other episode of the CDG Podcast. Interested in advertising with CarDealershipGuy? Drop us a line here Interested in being considered as a guest on the podcast? Add your name here
The CarDealershipGuy Podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the car industry. Hosted by an anonymous car dealership professional, this podcast provides unique industry insights and features interviews with top players in the field. The show covers a wide range of relevant topics that you won't find anywhere else, making it a valuable resource for insiders and enthusiasts alike. The anonymity of the host adds an intriguing element to the podcast, leaving listeners curious about his background and expertise.
One of the best aspects of The CarDealershipGuy Podcast is its outstanding discussion and analysis of different aspects of the car business. Each episode shines a light on interesting topics that are rarely covered elsewhere, allowing listeners to gain a deeper understanding of the industry. The host's pedigree of guests is also impressive, bringing in experts who provide valuable insights into specific areas of the car business. Whether it's discussing autonomous vehicles or exploring new market trends, this podcast consistently delivers informative and engaging content.
While there are many positives to this podcast, one potential drawback is its narrow focus on the car industry. If you're not particularly interested in cars or don't work in the automotive sector, some episodes may not resonate as strongly with you. However, even for those who aren't industry insiders, there are still plenty of fascinating insights to be gained from listening.
In conclusion, The CarDealershipGuy Podcast is an excellent source of industry knowledge and entertainment for anyone interested in the car business. With its insider perspective and intriguing anonymity, this podcast offers unique perspectives and expert interviews that are both informative and enjoyable to listen to. Whether you're an industry insider seeking valuable insights or simply curious about how the automotive world operates behind-the-scenes, this podcast is well worth a listen.

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Frederick Grimm, Co-Founder and COO of AppraisalPro, and Danny Galat, General Sales Manager at Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Bend, to discuss how dealers are using real-time diagnostic scanning to stop taking hidden mechanical losses on trade-ins and turn a wholesale department that was bleeding money into one that's actually profitable. Danny walks through the $8,000 Ford Raptor miss that kept him up at night and drove him to find a better way to appraise used vehicles. The numbers that follow are hard to ignore: 20% of trade-in appraisals show a check engine light cleared within the last 50 miles, the average dealer is sitting on $15,000 to $20,000 in hidden reconditioning costs every month, and Danny's wholesale department swung from a loss to a profit by more than 300% in a single year. Frederick also breaks down how the tool detects odometer rollback and VIN fraud before a bad deal makes it onto your lot. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by AppraisalPro. Topics: 03:25 The $8,000 Raptor Miss That Changed Everything. 04:50 Why Warm Engines Hide Costly Problems. 06:10 The 30-Second Appraisal That Saves Thousands. 07:30 The Customer Who Got Caught Red-Handed. 09:00 Why Every Salesperson Needs A Lanyard Now. 10:10 The 10 Million Scans Powering Your Appraisals. 12:40 20% Of Trade-Ins Had Their Codes Cleared. 13:50 $15-20K In Hidden Recon Costs Found Monthly. 16:30 From Wholesale Loss To Profit In One Year. 17:50 The 300% Profit Swing You Can't Ignore. 18:30 Why 94% Of Dealers Convert After The Trial. 20:00 The $5,000 Guarantee You Need To Take. AppraisalPro - AppraisalPRO helps dealers instantly uncover the true mechanical reconditioning costs of trade-ins before they buy them, helping reduce surprises and protect profitability. The platform can also detect recently cleared check engine lights and hidden issues that may otherwise go unnoticed during the appraisal process. Start your free trial @ here! Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Joel Love, Service Director at Toyota of Montgomery - Liam Golightley, SVP Dealer Success at Podium - Ryan Carlstedt, EVP Fixed Ops at Willis Auto Group This episode is brought to you by: Experian – Experian Automotive helps marketers identify and engage high-value auto shoppers, strengthen customer loyalty, grow service revenue, and activate 1,100+ automotive audiences across 30+ advertising platforms. Learn more here: https://carguymedia.com/3RTNi9H Podium – Podium is the AI operating system built for dealerships — combining broken legacy systems into a single AI-first platform that helps GMs scale revenue, retain customers, and run fixed ops without adding headcount. Podium Connect was an invitation-only summit in Park City, Utah bringing together GMs, dealer principals, and C-suite leaders from some of the largest dealer groups in the country to share how they're actually implementing AI — what's working, what isn't, and where the industry is headed. Learn more at https://automotive.podium.com/ Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Aaron Zeigler, President of Zeigler Auto Group, and Johnny McKellar, who leads NationsGuard for Hendrick Automotive Group, to discuss why Zeigler is leaving its third-party warranty provider to stand up its own dealer-owned program, Zeigler Guard, and what Rick Hendrick himself says has been the single best decision in his 50 years in the car business. Rick Hendrick joins the conversation to explain how his dealer-owned warranty company became the financial reserve that let him avoid layoffs through COVID, recessions, and 20% interest rate cycles. Aaron and Johnny break down what it actually takes to transition a 41-location group onto a new program, why two groups that compete on paper chose to partner instead, and why Hendrick is selective about who gets access to this platform at all. Topics: 02:45 The Defining Moment For Zeigler. 04:10 Why Hendrick Started AutoGuard. 05:35 The Secret Sauce To Growth. 07:40 Controlling Your Own Destiny. 09:50 Three Times More Likely To Buy. 12:20 It's Your Program, Not Ours. 14:20 Why Hendrick Opened The Door. 16:00 We Won't Do This With Just Anyone. 17:30 The Best Thing We Ever Did. 18:30 When Business Partners Are Friends. 20:15 The 3-To-1 ROI On NASCAR. 23:30 The War Chest That Saves Dealers. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Michael Cottone, Head of Subaru Motors Finance at Chase Auto - Steve Rowley, President of Cox Automotive - Aharon Horwitz, Co-Founder and CEO of Fullpath - Katie Gattuso Duncan, General Manager at Mohawk Chevrolet This episode is brought to you by: Experian – Experian Automotive helps marketers identify and engage high-value auto shoppers, strengthen customer loyalty, grow service revenue, and activate 1,100+ automotive audiences across 30+ advertising platforms. Learn more here: https://carguymedia.com/3RTNi9H Chase Auto – Chase Auto is a leading provider of auto financing with a portfolio of more than $89 billion in assets and relationships with two-thirds of U.S. franchised automotive dealers. One of the largest bank dealer commercial services providers nationally, Chase Auto provides lending and/or depository solutions to more than 2,000 dealerships. Our experienced bankers offer financial expertise and a complete range of banking products. Learn more at https://autofinance.chase.com/. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today I'm joined by Vic Keller, Founder and CEO at Experience Ventures. In this conversation, he makes the case that most dealers are sitting on hidden enterprise value they haven't tapped, that the vendor landscape is moving too slowly for dealers who want to win now, and that the single biggest lever in any dealership is still the people, not the platform. Topics: 01:30 Fixed Ops Is Unbeatable. 02:45 The $2,600 F&I Number. 04:10 The Cold Call That Changed Everything. 07:40 Job Descriptions Don't Work. 11:00 Unicorns Destroy Dealerships. 12:20 Hidden Enterprise Value. 15:00 AI Won't Replace People. 17:30 Osmosis Is Killing You. 21:30 Don't Wait On Vendors. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Guidepoint Systems - Guidepoint Systems has spent decades purpose-building telematics for franchise dealerships — and in a flat-sales environment, their platform is becoming a dealer's most important retention tool. Visit @ here for more info. 2. TARGIT - TARGIT is an end-to-end business intelligence platform that gives car dealers worldwide complete visibility and control over all their operational data. Learn more about TARGIT @ here. 3. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Adam Stein, Executive Director at Plaza Auto Group - Brian Benstock, Vice President & General Manager at Paragon Honda and Paragon Acura This episode is brought to you by: Experian – Experian Automotive helps marketers identify and engage high-value auto shoppers, strengthen customer loyalty, grow service revenue, and activate 1,100+ automotive audiences across 30+ advertising platforms. Learn more here: https://carguymedia.com/3RTNi9H Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Dave Rogers, Fixed Operations Director at Piazza Auto Group - Todd Kaminski, President, Direct Markets at Zurich - Doug Coyle, Vice President, Direct Markets at Zurich - Chris Skinner, Fixed Operations Director at Granbury Nissan This episode is brought to you by: Stream Companies – How much revenue is slipping through the cracks at your dealership? Stream Companies' Missed Opportunities Report analyzes your strategy and highlights where you can drive more sales, faster. Request your free report today at https://www.streamcompanies.com/MissedOpportunitiesReport/ Zurich – Zurich helps dealers operate with clarity, confidence and certainty — driving stronger performance today while protecting long‑term value. From proven F&I processes and insights‑driven training to income‑generating programs, profit participation, and risk management solutions, Zurich is built to help dealers win now — and build for what's next. Discover more at: https://carguymedia.com/4wxv8dz Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Karen Chagnon, VP Sales at Guidepoint Systems, and Ferris Hamdan, General Manager at Wesley Chapel Honda, to discuss why most dealers are operating blind — unaware of which vehicles on their lot have a dead battery, a check engine light, or low fuel, and equally unaware of what's happening inside the vehicles they already sold, data their manufacturer sees but doesn't share with them. Ferris walks through how Wesley Chapel Honda nearly doubled sales volume to 400 units a month, and credits real-time vehicle health visibility with saving an estimated 15 to 20 deals per month. Karen reveals that the average dealer loses three to 10 sales a month to vehicles that simply weren't ready when the customer arrived, explains how the same data drives a 70% attachment rate in the finance office, and lays out why dealers who rely on manufacturer outreach are handing customer relationships to an entity whose loyalty is to the brand, not the store. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Guidepoint Systems. Topics: 03:30 One Dead Battery = One Lost Deal. 04:00 The Hour-Long Drive To A Dead Car. 06:50 The Three To Ten Deals You're Losing. 07:20 Why GPS Mileage Is 20% Off. 09:45 The 10-20 Batteries You Replace Monthly. 12:20 15 To 20 Saved Deals Per Month. 14:45 The 70% F&I Pen Rate. 16:45 Why Time-Based Service Reminders Fail. 22:30 Who Really Owns The Customer? 23:30 We Track Health, Not Location. 28:00 Can Your Product See A Check Engine Light? 32:55 The 10% Service Lift You're Missing. Guidepoint Systems - 25+ years. 1M+ vehicles. OEM-approved by Stellantis. Guidepoint Systems has spent decades purpose-building telematics for franchise dealerships — and in a flat-sales environment, their platform is becoming a dealer's most important retention tool. Real-time vehicle health signals, true odometer data, proactive service alerts. The right information at the right moment. That's how Guidepoint turns fixed ops into growth. Visit @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Joshua Johnson, CEO of Don Johnson Auto Group - Eric DeMont, Executive Director, Dealer Solutions and Growth at Urban Science - Shane Wood, General Manager of Port Orchard Ford This episode is brought to you by: Stream Companies – How much revenue is slipping through the cracks at your dealership? Stream Companies' Missed Opportunities Report analyzes your strategy and highlights where you can drive more sales, faster. Request your free report today at https://www.streamcompanies.com/MissedOpportunitiesReport/ Urban Science – Urban Science® is a leading automotive consultancy and technology firm serving automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and dealers, and the agencies that support them. The company provides the only source of U.S. industry-wide automotive sales data, updated daily. For more information, visit https://www.urbanscience.com/ Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today, Sam D'Arc is joined by Jon Alcorn, Operating Partner at Dogwood Automotive Group. Winchester, Virginia's three-brand Dogwood Auto Group hasn't printed a paper pencil in over a year, yet grosses are up, and finance penetration sits at 89%. Jon breaks down the two systems behind that shift: a salesperson efficiency scorecard that grades reps from 113% down to 58% on metrics they can actually control, and a digital retailing stack that will deliver a 30-second actual cash value and a 60-second real quote to every online shopper starting June 1. Topics: 09:30 Why "Your Presence Is Your Leverage" Is A Lie. 10:00 The Day The Paper Pencil Died. 11:30 Why Customers Submit Their Own Credit. 18:00 Why Transparency Doesn't Kill Gross. 21:00 The Salesperson Scorecard Nobody Built. 30:00 Why Variable Ops Has No Efficiency Metric. 41:00 The Sales Manager As Restaurant Manager. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Mia - Your 24/7 AI receptionist who speaks like a human, not a robot. Never miss another lead. Visit @ here. 2. Reynolds & Reynold - ReconVision doesn't just help you track recon; it helps you fix it. Visit here for more information. 3. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Tim Pohanka, Vice President & Executive Manager at Pohanka Automotive Group - Jacob Glassman, Dealer Principal at Brookville Chevrolet - Frankie Florey, General Sales Manager at Acura Of Denville This episode is brought to you by: Stream Companies – How much revenue is slipping through the cracks at your dealership? Stream Companies' Missed Opportunities Report analyzes your strategy and highlights where you can drive more sales, faster. Request your free report today at https://www.streamcompanies.com/MissedOpportunitiesReport/ Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Nick Ruffolo, Fixed Operations Director at Rohrman - Matt Norris, Fixed Operations Director at Bozard Ford Lincoln - Jeremy Stephens, Remote Operations Director at Bozard Ford Lincoln This episode is brought to you by: OPENLANE – OPENLANE brings easy, intelligent digital wholesale to dealers across the country, and was once again voted the most preferred digital wholesale marketplace by dealers. If you've never used OPENLANE before, or it's been a while since you have, you're eligible to earn up to $2,500 in buy or sale fee credits. Learn more at https://openlane.com/cdg. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Ben Atkinson, VP of Auto Lending at Upstart, and Evan Driscoll, General Sales Manager at Audi Jacksonville to discuss why the credit score has become the most overrated number in auto lending and how a full-spectrum dealership running everything from $2,000 used cars to $400,000 Rolls-Royces gets first-time buyers approved at competitive rates with no money down. Evan breaks down how a slow approval costs his store at least $1,000 per car per day in aging inventory, and how a 10-second automated decision changed the math. They also get into why 24/7 automated approvals matter most during the weeks traditional lenders go dark. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Upstart. Topics: 04:30 Why Slow Approvals Kill Deals. 05:50 The $1,000 Cost Of One Extra Day. 08:00 How Soft Pulls Close More Deals. 09:50 Why Customers Love Soft Pulls. 11:20 The 10-Second Approval. 15:00 Why First-Time Buyers Get 7% Rates. 16:30 The 280 Data Points Beyond Credit Scores. 20:00 24/7 Automation Beats Banking Hours. 21:00 The Beach Chair Email That Enraged A Store. 24:30 Why Manual Credit Apps Are Dead. 26:00 One Portal Beats Five Logins. 29:00 People First, Tech Second. Upstart - Unlike traditional auto financing, Upstart uses thousands of data points – not just credit scores – to approve more buyers, structure more profitable deals, and speed up funding. Learn more at here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Kenneth Criscione, Finance Manager at Harte Auto Group - Rich Stazzone, Director of Business Development at Highstreet Automotive - Mike Keese, Agency President at Highstreet Automotive - Dana Wines, Director of Training at WE Auto - Valerie Niedermeier, Director of Community Relations at WE Auto This episode is brought to you by: OPENLANE – OPENLANE brings easy, intelligent digital wholesale to dealers across the country, and was once again voted the most preferred digital wholesale marketplace by dealers. If you've never used OPENLANE before, or it's been a while since you have, you're eligible to earn up to $2,500 in buy or sale fee credits. Learn more at https://openlane.com/cdg. Highstreet Automotive – Highstreet Automotive specializes in insurance solutions for automotive dealerships, working with operators across the country to help manage risk, control costs and protect long-term profitability. Explore solutions at https://carguymedia.com/432QKkG Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today I'm joined by Marcello Sciarrino, Co-Owner at Island Auto Group. Marcello runs 20 stores across New York and New Jersey — the 37th largest business in New York State, ahead of the Yankees and the Giants — and he watched peers go from 3 stores to 12 overnight while he and his partners sat on their hands. He breaks down the math trap killing over-leveraged dealers, why brokers in the New York market are secretly extracting thousands per deal at the consumer's expense, and why his next big bet isn't more acquisitions — it's 70 to 100 new service bays in the next 12 months. Topics: 01:20 Why Overexpansion Crushes Bad Dealers. 02:20 The 60,000-Square-Foot Toyota Bet. 03:50 The 12x Multiple You Cannot Afford. 06:30 The Three-Person Boardroom. 07:20 Why You Buy the Person, Not the Store. 14:00 The $7,500 Broker Fee That Kills Consumers. 19:40 Why Toyota Might Finally Enforce the Rules. 26:30 The $3,000 Down Payment Lie. 27:50 The Carvana Lesson Dealers Ignore. 32:20 Why New York Is Losing the Rich. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. Wikimotive - Wikimotive delivers organic and paid search solutions to hundreds of dealerships from rural rooftops to multiple top-5 national dealers. Visit @ here for more info. 3. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Manny Sedano, Dealer Principal at Sedano Chevy and Sedano Ford - Andrew Sweet, CEO of SelectFI - Chris Taylor, Owner of Certified Auto Brokers - Katie Lamphere, Founder of Veterans in Automotive This episode is brought to you by: OPENLANE – OPENLANE brings easy, intelligent digital wholesale to dealers across the country, and was once again voted the most preferred digital wholesale marketplace by dealers. If you've never used OPENLANE before, or it's been a while since you have, you're eligible to earn up to $2,500 in buy or sale fee credits. Learn more at https://openlane.com/cdg. SelectFI – SelectFI helps you quote accurately, submit once, reduce compliance risk, and move deals through F&I dramatically faster — without increasing friction for your customers. Book a demo or meet us at NIADA 2026 at https://go.selectfi.com/niada-2026 Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Spencer Nicholson, Fixed Operations Director at Stuckey Automotive - Xavier Rivera, Service Director at Greenacres Nissan & I-95 Nissan This episode is brought to you by: Zurich – Zurich helps dealers operate with clarity, confidence and certainty — driving stronger performance today while protecting long‑term value. From proven F&I processes and insights‑driven training to income‑generating programs, profit participation, and risk management solutions, Zurich is built to help dealers win now — and build for what's next. Discover more at: https://carguymedia.com/4wxv8dz Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Art Dessein, Vice President of Sales at Impel, and Rebekah Scheussler, Business Development Director at Walters Auto Group to discuss why luxury dealers are quietly losing service customers to independent shops and how AI is rebuilding the personalized experience at scale across both sales and service. This conversation surfaces the silent retention leak inside fixed operations: a nine-minute average service hold time, an 80% abandonment rate on the online service scheduler, and 190,000 independent shops siphoning loyal owners away. Walters has run 107,000 leads and over 600,000 messages through Impel, lifted per-rep capacity from 200 leads to 300-400, watched show rates climb, and seen days to sale drop. Customers are even thanking the AI agent for the best service experience they have ever had, without knowing it isn't human. The takeaway for any dealer on the fence: it isn't if, it's how fast. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Impel. Topics: 03:15 200 Leads Per Agent. 05:40 The Overnight Lead Problem. 08:00 The 9-Minute Hold Time. 09:20 Will AI Replace Me? 13:20 The Better The Tech, The Worse The Support. 17:55 Why Zach Travels (My Son's Secret). 19:10 Why Set It And Forget It Fails. 20:05 107,000 Leads Handled. 21:00 The 10-Person Savings. 23:00 27% Repeat Purchase Rate. 25:10 When Customers Thank The AI. 32:55 Something Doesn't Have To Be Broken. GetImpel - Dealers are caught between rising customer expectations and the math of meeting them without staffing every problem. Impel's AI Operating System unifies the entire customer lifecycle — sales, service, voice, chat, marketing, merchandising — engaging, qualifying, and scheduling every shopper and customer in seconds, in the dealer's brand voice, at unlimited scale. The human team focuses on what builds loyalty: the relationships. Visit https://impel.ai/ to learn more and experience the power of Impel. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Christian Crain, VP of Operations at Crain Automotive - Doug Fusco, Managing Partner, Dealer Compliance at Informativ - Leo Portaluppi, Owner/CEO at P4 Automotive This episode is brought to you by: Zurich – Zurich helps dealers operate with clarity, confidence and certainty — driving stronger performance today while protecting long‑term value. From proven F&I processes and insights‑driven training to income‑generating programs, profit participation, and risk management solutions, Zurich is built to help dealers win now — and build for what's next. Discover more at: https://carguymedia.com/4wxv8dz Informativ – Informativ's SmartPencil gives dealers a credit-qualified, lender-specific first pencil the moment a soft pull returns -- VIN-level accurate, optimized for both consumer payment and dealer profit. It eliminates the guesswork that costs deals and speeds up the sales process. See how it works at https://informativ.com/ Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today I'm joined by Corina Straub Diehl, CEO and President at Diehl Automotive Group. After the sudden loss of her husband in 2007, Corina ignored advice to sell the business and instead scaled it into a 24-store powerhouse generating over a billion dollars in revenue. This conversation breaks down her "rebel" leadership style, her aggressive 5-year ROI acquisition strategy, and why she views collision centers as the ultimate customer retention tool. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Openlane - If you've never used OPENLANE before, or it's been a while since you have, you're eligible to earn up to $2,500 in buy or sale fee credits. Learn more @ here. 2. Autovision - If you're looking for ways to improve turn rates, reduce bottlenecks, and gain a clearer picture of your inventory strategy, check out AutoVision's suite of solutions. Visit @ here. 3. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:35 The Hermetically Sealed US Auto Market. 02:00 The Franchise Corinna Calls Her Ugly Stepchild. 06:15 The 5-Year ROI Rule That Built An Empire. 13:45 The Husband's Final Warning She Ignored. 21:00 Why She Still Shops At Target. 23:40 The 300-Email Hack Every Executive Needs. 28:30 The Customer Email That Terrifies Her Team. 31:45 The GM Who Stole From A Widow. 39:45 The 20x Multiple She Refuses To Pay. 55:15 The Old-School Fraud She Still Catches. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Chris Hudson, GM at Mark Miller Subaru - Lee Perine, VP of Partnerships at YASSI - Scott Simons, Dealer Principal at Simons Chevrolet GMC This episode is brought to you by: Zurich – Zurich helps dealers operate with clarity, confidence and certainty — driving stronger performance today while protecting long‑term value. From proven F&I processes and insights‑driven training to income‑generating programs, profit participation, and risk management solutions, Zurich is built to help dealers win now — and build for what's next. Discover more at: https://carguymedia.com/4wxv8dz YASSI – Yassi is a national vehicle verification platform that gives dealers a single source of truth for real-time lien, title, and registration data. When a dealer runs a VIN, they see active liens, title brands, DMV holds, and registration stops as they exist right now, pulled directly from state and federal databases, not aggregated data from the last refresh. No contracts, no monthly fees, no minimums. Visit Yassi.com to learn more or email sales@yassi.com to get started. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Nathan Johns, CFO of Smith Auto Group, and Justin Feist, President of Auto Dealer Payments, to discuss how credit card processing is the "last frontier" of dealership expense management, yet most CFOs struggle to decipher their 20-page monthly statements. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how processors use "price creep" to erode margins and why dealerships are structurally disadvantaged in the world of chargebacks. We break down how to audit your effective rate and implement a defense strategy to reclaim lost profit without selling a single extra car. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Auto Dealer Payments. Auto Dealer Payments - Auto Dealer Payments exclusively works with automotive dealerships, providing simple, transparent, and best-in-class support for payment processing. Visit @ here for more information and to schedule a meeting. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 04:20 Why Credit Card Processing Never Gets Audited. 05:40 The 20-Page Statement Nobody Reads. 06:05 Why Your Processor Only Lowers Rates When You Leave. 07:10 The Line Item That Made Justin Investigate. 08:00 Why Dealerships End Up In 1-800 Support Hell. 09:30 The “Local Relationship” Costing You Thousands. 11:45 Why Chargebacks Hit Service Departments Hardest. 12:45 Guilty Until Proven Innocent. 14:40 The 20% Win Rate That Can Jump To 80%. 16:00 The $5,000 Monthly Chargeback Exposure. 18:40 Why Your Processor Raises Rates Twice A Year. 24:30 The $21,000 Per Million Hidden Cost. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Scott Morrison, Fixed Operations Director at Mercedes Benz of Hampton - Dave Thomas, Director, Content Marketing at CDK Global - Richard Lupo, Fixed Operations Director at Apple Tree Honda and Acura This episode is brought to you by: Uber For Business – Not every service customer needs a loaner. Uber for Business gives your dealership a lower-cost courtesy ride option for customers whose vehicles are in the shop. Same convenience, less overhead. Book a demo and they'll buy you lunch with an Uber Eats gift card. Visit https://businesses.uber.com/CDG to get started. CDK Global – CDK Global empowers dealers with the tools and technology they need to build deeper relationships with customers and sell and service more cars. Visit https://www.cdkglobal.com/ Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Dennis Gingrich, Sales and Finance Director at the Niello Company, and George Chamoun, CEO of ACV Auctions to discuss the shift from gut-based appraisals to VIN-specific data science and how Niello Company exploded their lead volume by democratizing trade-in values. George breaks down why traditional inventory management is dying and how automated service drive inspections are uncovering hidden $8,000 mistakes before they hit the books. This conversation highlights the tension between "the artist" manager and the machine, proving that transparency is the ultimate tool for dealer retention. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by ACV Auctions. ACVAuctions - ACV is on a mission to transform the automotive industry by building the most trusted and efficient digital marketplaces and data solutions for sourcing, selling, and managing used vehicles with transparency and comprehensive insights that were once unimaginable. ACV offerings include ACV Auctions, ACV Transportation, ACV Capital, MAX Digital, True360, and ClearCar. For more information about ACV, visit @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 03:25 The Tire That Broke the Old Way. 05:30 How Buying Leads Made Niello Compete Against Itself. 07:50 Why Your BMW Quote Should Match Buffalo's. 08:10 The Closing Rate That Made Dennis Switch. 12:05 Predicting Trade Value Within $100. 14:30 Why Your Gut Is Costing You Thousands. 19:55 The $8,000 Mistake Viper Caught. 21:00 600 Leads in Two Months vs. 1,299 in Twelve. 22:00 Why Inventory Management Software Is Dying. 29:00 The Guarantee That Proves ACV's Data. 38:30 Why Your Best Salespeople Should Stop Pricing Cars. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Harold Hurst, COO of Purdy Group USA - Adam Crowell, Chief Legal & Strategy Officer at KPA - Seth Dobbs, Co-Chair of National Automotive Practice at FOX ROTHSCHILD LLP This episode is brought to you by: Uber For Business – Not every service customer needs a loaner. Uber for Business gives your dealership a lower-cost courtesy ride option for customers whose vehicles are in the shop. Same convenience, less overhead. Book a demo and they'll buy you lunch with an Uber Eats gift card. Visit https://businesses.uber.com/CDG to get started. KPA – KPA is the leading provider of compliance solutions in the auto industry, with a unique mix of innovative software, a national network of expert consultants, and award winning training and content. Visit https://kpa.io/ to schedule your demo. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today, I'm joined by Sen. Bernie Moreno to discuss his legislative plan to "hermetically seal" the US market from Chinese vehicles to protect national security and dealer valuations. We dive into the $400 billion cost of the EV transition, the "Common Sense" way to handle FTC pricing compliance, and why the US needs to return to building sub-$25,000 affordable cars. This episode is brought to you by: Interested in supporting Sen. Moreno? Visit https://secure.winred.com/team-moreno/hddonate to learn more 1. Podium - Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. CDK Global - The CDK Dealership Xperience Platform unifies your operations with AI-driven tools built to grow with you. Visit @ here. 3. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:35 The Hermetically Sealed US Auto Market. 02:00 Predator, Not Competitor. 03:45 Your BYD Is Filming Air Force Bases. 07:00 Canada's Regret Incoming. 08:05 Washington Finally Stops Playing Whac-A-Mole. 14:50 The 92-Brand Graveyard. 18:30 The $400 Billion EV Bust. 19:40 Ford's Model T Relaunch Is Real. 23:50 The FTC Crackdown Dealers Love. 32:45 The Mom Test Every Ad Fails. 37:00 Your Tariff Refund? Not For You. 48:00 The One Question That Closes Trust. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Lee Walton, Dealer Principal & Vice President at Bob Allen Ford-Ottawa - Frank Zombo, VP of Sales at Auto Hauler Exchange - Marion Cain, Founder of ACE™ This episode is brought to you by: Uber For Business – Not every service customer needs a loaner. Uber for Business gives your dealership a lower-cost courtesy ride option for customers whose vehicles are in the shop. Same convenience, less overhead. Book a demo and they'll buy you lunch with an Uber Eats gift card. Visit https://businesses.uber.com/CDG to get started. Auto Hauler Exchange – Auto Hauler Exchange is the vehicle transportation marketplace connecting shippers and carriers directly to remove inefficiencies, cut delivery timelines in half, and save 15-20% on transport. Visit https://www.autohaulerexchange.com/ to set up your free account today. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Tiago Castro, Senior Vice President, Marketing & Sales at Nissan Group of North America. - Chuck Turck, Fixed Operations Director at Classic Cadillac and Subaru - William Demaree, Group Director of Fixed Operations at Tom Wood Group This episode is brought to you by: Podium – the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look at https://www.podium.com/car-dealership-guy Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today, I'm joined by Brian Abrams, VP of Data and AI at CDK Global, to discuss the critical shift from viewing AI as a "tool" to an operational strategy that prevents massive profit leakage. Brian explains why nearly 60% of dealer data is currently "dirty," how consumer AI agents are already calling stores to negotiate deals, and why a unified customer profile is now the only way to protect your margins. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - The AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. Veramatic - Meet Veramatic: the accuracy layer your DMS never built. Get clean, consistent, trusted accounting data, normalized before it hits the GL, automatically. Learn more @ here. 3. CDK Global - Dealership challenges are constantly evolving—your technology should too. The CDK Dealership Xperience Platform unifies your operations with AI-driven tools built to grow with you. Visit @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 03:52 Why Dealerships Already Talk To AI Every Day 05:50 The Fix For Endless Screen Hopping 12:45 Why 60% Of Dealership Tasks Still Slow Teams Down 13:35 The Profit Leak Bigger Than Vendor Fees 14:05 Why Sales Reps Chase Phantom Leads 16:30 The $2 Million Warning Dealers Miss 18:10 The CDK Upgrade Dealers Already Have 20:40 The Marketing Burn Rate Dealers Ignore 28:40 The Sentence That Makes AI Tools Work Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Cole Short, Head of Content & Creative Strategy at Car Dealership Guy - Jay Law, Head of Partnerships at Car Dealership Guy - Yossi Levi, Chief Car Guy at Car Dealership Guy This episode is brought to you by: Podium – the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look at https://www.podium.com/car-dealership-guy Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today, Sam D'Arc is joined by Sam Hatch, General Manager at JRR Motor Sales, to discuss how he moved his top salesperson into a dedicated buying center to source 70+ units off the street in a single month. We discuss the "Matrix" view of inventory data, the spicy reality of off-site super sales, and why transparency is a dealer's greatest competitive edge. Sam also reveals the specific AI tools he uses to automate the hunt for used cars. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - The AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. Zurich - Zurich helps dealers operate with clarity, confidence, and certainty — driving stronger performance today while protecting long‑term value. From proven F&I processes and insights‑driven training to income‑generating programs, profit participation, and risk management solutions, Zurich is built to help dealers win now — and build for what's next. Discover more @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 02:20 Why Salespeople “Come to Die”. 04:35 From $0 to $6.5K Week. 06:10 The Integrity Rule. 08:55 Why Locals Hated Travelers. 13:40 The GM Who Took a 66. 16:40 800 Cars on Index Cards. 18:55 Why They List at 95. 19:40 The AI vAuto Won't Build. 24:15 Cracking Facebook Search. 27:55 70 Cars in 45 Days. 29:05 Pulling Top Sales Off the Floor. 33:25 The $50 Profit Play. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Kyle Coleman, President & CEO of Coleman Automotive Group - Scott Pharr, COO & Partner of P4 Automotive This episode is brought to you by: Podium – the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look at https://www.podium.com/car-dealership-guy Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Todd Hatch, Service Director at Palm Springs Nissan, and Malcolm Richardson, Senior Automotive Account Manager at Uber for Business to discuss how dealerships can eliminate the massive P&L leak caused by traditional shuttle and loaner fleets. Todd shares how he slashed his monthly transportation spend by $6,000 and reduced his loaner fleet from 50 cars to 12 by pivoting to an on-demand model. They unpack how direct DMS integrations allow service advisors to book rides in seconds, improving CSI by removing the friction of idle shuttles and late pickups. Ultimately, the conversation provides a blueprint for dealers to reclaim wasted overhead and send thousands of dollars directly back to the bottom line. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Uber for Business. Uber - Learn how Uber for Business is transforming the service lane by replacing outdated shuttle programs with on-demand mobility that elevates the customer experience. Discover how top dealerships are using centralized transportation dashboards and partner integrations to lower operational costs, improve CSI scores, and keep service bays moving. Learn more at https://businesses.uber.com/CDG Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:20 The $12,000 Monthly Black Hole. 02:10 Why Saturday Shuttles Were A Disaster. 03:15 The 50 Loaner Cars Hemorrhaging Cash. 04:15 Why Small Repairs Tanked CSI More. 05:20 One Question That Diffused Every Complaint. 07:25 The Relief From Firing The Shuttle. 08:45 The Biggest Myth About "Free" Shuttles. 09:30 One Click From The DMS Killed The Job. 12:25 The Controller's Shock At The First Bill. 13:30 How Uber Replaced Parts Drivers Too. 18:40 The 38 Parking Spots Hidden In Waste. 23:10 The One Mistake Todd Would Fix. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Jason Graciano, Partner & General Manager at White Plains Honda - Michael Ross, Fixed Operations Director at Larry Green Chevrolet This episode is brought to you by: Zurich – Zurich delivers The Zurich Advantage to dealerships nationwide by combining comprehensive F&I products, consultative training, revenue‑generating programs, and wealth‑building profit participation strategies. Grounded in our mission to provide clarity, confidence, and certainty, we help dealers protect what matters, strengthen performance, and build a legacy for the road ahead. Learn more at https://carguymedia.com/4cNTwyu Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today I'm joined by Jim Roche, CEO of Warrcloud. This conversation breaks down the massive $32 billion surge in warranty work, why customer pay is decelerating, and how dealers can use technology to fix "leaky" receivables and technician dissatisfaction. Jim reveals the tactical steps needed to modernize the service lane before the "death spiral" of rising prices drives your customers away. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here 2. CDG Recruiting – Hire top dealership talent, fast. From sales managers to GMs and C-suite execs, we've placed over 1,000 roles across auto retail. Ready to scale without the hassle? Visit @ here to get started. 3. WarrCloud - Your warranty claims process shouldn't drain your profits—or your people. Dealers reduce costs, speed up reimbursements, and uncover new revenue opportunities—while consistently improving OEM claim scores. The future of fixed ops belongs to those who adapt. Let's talk about automating your warranty processing today. Visit @ here Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 04:20 The Death Spiral Pricing Out Customers 06:50 Why Techs Feel Underpaid for Warranty 08:50 Why Your $25 Clerk Can't Handle Warranty 12:25 Fixed Ops Now Drives 54% 14:40 The $6 Million in Warranty Receivables 18:45 The Bob and Gladys Factor Killing Profits 22:10 Why 54% of Gross Gets 0% Time 24:15 The Two-Step AI Primer for Dealers 26:25 The Two-Day AI Summit That Changed Walzer Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Jonathan Gray, COO of Cavender Auto Group - Rob Cavender, President and CEO of Cavender Auto Group - Vin Stazzone, Chairman at HIGHSTREET | Automotive - Mike Keese, Agency President at HIGHSTREET | Automotive - Phil Pecoraro, Operating Partner at Murdock CDJR This episode is brought to you by: Zurich – Zurich delivers The Zurich Advantage to dealerships nationwide by combining comprehensive F&I products, consultative training, revenue‑generating programs, and wealth‑building profit participation strategies. Grounded in our mission to provide clarity, confidence, and certainty, we help dealers protect what matters, strengthen performance, and build a legacy for the road ahead. Learn more at https://carguymedia.com/4cNTwyu Highstreet Automotive - Highstreet Automotive specializes in insurance solutions for automotive dealerships, working with operators across the country to help manage risk, control costs and protect long-term profitability. Explore solutions at https://bit.ly/4eQhn3i Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today I'm joined by Erikka Tiffani, General Manager at Walser Hyundai Brooklyn Park. In an industry defined by grind and tradition, Erikka breaks down how Walzer has successfully implemented a 4-day work week and a non-commissioned sales model. We discuss the transition from traditional F&I "boxes" to a one-point-of-contact system that actually maintains high PVR. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. Nomad Content Studio - The team behind the dealers you actually see on social media. Nomad works in your dealership to build a brand new pipeline of sales driven by social media content. They're the same team behind names like George Saliba, Benzs & Bowties, and EV Auto—dealers who've built national brands and sold more cars in the process. If you want your dealership to be next, head to @ here and book a call. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 02:35 Daycare Worker Who Walked Into A Dealership. 04:50 Why Salesmen Said She Was The Receptionist. 08:20 The GM With A Play Closet In Her Office. 10:55 Why Resumes Lie, Hunger Doesn't. 12:30 The Car Washer Selling 25 Cars A Month. 16:10 The Four-Day Work Week That Works. 18:45 Why Walzer Killed The F&I Box. 23:45 The F&I Gap Nobody Expected. 27:10 Why He Hired Someone "Not Ready." 32:15 The Skill Most GMs Lack. 36:50 When A Customer Refused To Shake Hands. 48:30 Why $5,000 In Printers Had To Go. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Stephen M. Rowley, President of Cox Automotive - Aharon Horwitz is the Co-Founder and CEO of Fullpath - David Boice, Co-Founder and CEO of Team Velocity - Ron Almeida, General Manager of Colonial Ford of Plymouth This episode is brought to you by: Zurich – Zurich delivers The Zurich Advantage to dealerships nationwide by combining comprehensive F&I products, consultative training, revenue‑generating programs, and wealth‑building profit participation strategies. Grounded in our mission to provide clarity, confidence, and certainty, we help dealers protect what matters, strengthen performance, and build a legacy for the road ahead. Learn more at https://carguymedia.com/4cNTwyu Team Velocity – Team Velocity helps dealerships deliver faster, smarter, and more connected customer experiences through fully integrated platform technology. From websites and advertising to retention solutions and a native CDP, Team Velocity provides the tools dealerships need to succeed in every stage of the customer journey. Visit https://teamvelocitymarketing.com/ for more information or to request a demo. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Michael Naim, VP at Zurich North America, and Jeff Glanzmann, Dealer Principal at Glanzmann Subaru, to discuss why many dealers are "flying blind" by relying on quarterly PDFs for their most valuable profit centers. This conversation breaks down how to move from a reactive "set it and forget it" mentality to a data-driven operation that yields massive returns on premium. Michael and Jeff reveal why transparency in reinsurance is no longer optional and how real-time visibility can actually fix your used car reconditioning and CSI. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Zurich North America. Zurich.Insurance - Zurich delivers The Zurich Advantage to dealerships nationwide by combining comprehensive F&I products, consultative training, revenue‑generating programs, and wealth‑building profit participation strategies. Grounded in our mission to provide clarity, confidence, and certainty, we help dealers protect what matters, strengthen performance, and build a legacy for the road ahead. Learn more @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 03:00 Why Dealers Fly Blind On Reinsurance. 04:35 The Quarterly PDF Trap. 06:45 The 120-Day Claim Surprise. 08:30 Why Sloppy Recon Destroys Profits. 10:00 The CSI Boost Nobody Saw Coming. 12:00 The Spinal Surgery Test. 16:30 The 70% Return Dealers Miss. 20:30 Why Your CRM Won't Save You. 22:15 The Dashboard That Forces Honesty. 24:20 Why Keeping Managers Dark Was A Mistake. 33:55 The One Call Every Dealer Must Make. 35:15 The One Number That Matters. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Don Hall, President & CEO, Virginia Automobile Dealers Association - Morgan Abeyie, Podium Service AI Product Manager at Podium - Daniel Negalha, Corporate Fixed Ops Director at McGovern Automotive Group This episode is brought to you by: Haig Partners – When it comes to selling your life's work, trust the advisors who have built a reputation for maximizing value for family-owned dealerships. If you are considering a sale, divestiture or looking to grow, begin a confidential conversation at https://haigpartners.com/. Podium – Most service departments know exactly what they should be doing — the follow-ups, the declined services, the outbound outreach. They just don't have the bandwidth to do it. Podium's Service AI handles it all, end-to-end, so nothing falls through the cracks. Visit http://podium.com/cdg to see it in action. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683

Today I'm joined by Matt Leone, CEO of DriveCentric. Matt breaks down why "tech bloat" is killing dealership margins and how shifting from task management to real-time engagement hubs can stop lead leakage across Sales, F&I, and Service. We also dive into the future of AI agents and why your next "employee" might actually be a machine-learning model. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Lotlinx – Meet LotGPT, your AI Inventory Strategist built exclusively for car dealers. It reveals competitive insights, shopper behavior, and pricing dynamics, and even identifies underperforming VDPs with merchandising recommendations to boost conversion without cutting prices. Put LotGPT to work for your dealership today, totally free, @ here. 2. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. 3. DriveCentric – DriveCentric puts dealerships in the Fast Lane to the Customer with a modern engagement platform built to move faster, connect teams, and keep every customer moving forward. Visit @ here to learn more Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 02:40 The Bill That Could Ban Chinese Cars. 05:10 Why Australian Dealers Make Zero On New Cars. 07:10 The Threat Destroying Blue Sky Values. 09:25 Why Toyota Stores Trade For 15X Earnings. 12:50 Why US Trucks Are Safer Than China. 18:10 Dealer Profits Still Double Pre-COVID. 21:50 The One Brand Where Bargains Are Appearing. 24:45 The Smart Lever When New Car Gross Drops. 26:40 Why Salespeople Can't Afford The Cars They Sell. 30:50 The Mercedes Turnaround That Made It Hot Again. 45:55 Infiniti Stores Selling For Zero Blue Sky. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Jacob Shepherd, Dealer Principal at Chevrolet of Troy - Amber Good, Senior Product Marketing Manager at CDK Global - Robert F. O'Koniewski, EVP and General Counsel at Massachusetts State Automobile Dealers Association, Inc. This episode is brought to you by: Haig Partners – When it comes to selling your life's work, trust the advisors who have built a reputation for maximizing value for family-owned dealerships. If you are considering a sale, divestiture or looking to grow, begin a confidential conversation at https://haigpartners.com/. CDK Global – CDK Global empowers dealers with the tools and technology they need to build deeper relationships with customers and sell and service more cars. Visit https://www.cdkglobal.com/ Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683

In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Luke Parker, Finance Manager at BMW Greensboro and Erik Wielgos, Director of Dealer Success at Service Payment Plan to discuss how after a new GM changed the goalposts with a "50% penetration or pay cut" ultimatum, Luke Parker had to find a way to sell VSCs to customers the banks wouldn't touch. This conversation breaks down the tactical shift from traditional financing to 0% payment plans that drove a 20% surge in F&I performance. We explore how to handle luxury repair objections, the reality of chargebacks, and the massive untapped opportunity in cash-buyer protection. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Service Payment Plan. Service Payment Plan - Service Payment Plan, Inc. (SPP) is the industry leader in providing interest-free payment plans for F&I products sold throughout the United States and Canada. SPP enables the auto industry's leading dealers, administrators, and OEMs to provide their customers with an affordable and customizable method to protect their vehicles. With its 40+-year history of unparalleled service, long-standing partnerships, and integrations with the leading software platforms in the industry, SPP stands at the forefront of the future of automotive retail. Contact us @ DealerSuccess@sppinc.net to learn more Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:35 The Sly GM Move That Forced A Scramble. 03:00 Why Luxury Customers "Don't Buy" VSCs. 07:45 The 0% Fix When Banks Say No. 12:00 How SPP Added 15 Points Overnight. 18:15 The $500 PVR Jump That Changed Everything. 21:15 Why Targeting Subprime Destroys Chargebacks. 24:20 Selling More Than VSCs With SPP. 26:45 Why No Credit Check Is A Compliance Shield. 33:45 The Service Drive Trick That Closes In 3 Minutes. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Lonny Soza, Lonny Soza, Vice President of Fertitta Automotive - Michael Byrd, Chief Revenue Officer of Informativ - Alex Lawrence, CEO & Co-Founder of EV Auto This episode is brought to you by: Haig Partners – When it comes to selling your life's work, trust the advisors who have built a reputation for maximizing value for family-owned dealerships. If you are considering a sale, divestiture or looking to grow, begin a confidential conversation at https://haigpartners.com/. Informativ – Informativ's SmartPencil gives dealers a credit-qualified, lender-specific first pencil the moment a soft pull returns -- VIN-level accurate, optimized for both consumer payment and dealer profit. It eliminates the guesswork that costs deals and speeds up the sales process. See how it works at https://informativ.com/ Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683

Today's show features: - Jim Sabino, Fixed Operations Director at All American Ford Paramus - Chris McPhillips, Fixed Operations Director at Nissan, Hyundai, & Genesis of Cool Springs This episode is brought to you by: Stream Companies – How much revenue is slipping through the cracks at your dealership? Stream Companies' Missed Opportunities Report analyzes your strategy and highlights where you can drive more sales, faster. Request your free report today at https://www.streamcompanies.com/MissedOpportunitiesReport/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683

Today I'm joined by Alan Haig, President of Haig Partners. We dive into the shifting landscape of the auto buy-sell market, specifically focusing on how potential Chinese OEM entry could devastate U.S. franchise values. Alan breaks down the massive valuation gap between "Blue Chip" brands like Toyota and the struggling "Zero Blue Sky" franchises, while revealing why 15x multiples are still happening in today's market. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Overfuel - Overfuel is the new technical standard in automotive websites, proven to grow sales by 30%+. Whether you need more revenue or better support, they've got you covered. Visit @ here and enter code CDG500 to get $500 OFF a new website. 2. Siro - Siro's AI gives dealerships full visibility into every conversation. It records, transcribes, and analyzes in-person conversations. Proactively flagging compliance issues, missed revenue opportunities, and training gaps. Go to @ here to learn more 3. Haig Partners - Public retailers cite it. National media trusts it. Dealers rely on it. The Haig Report® sets the standard for dealership M&A data and trends in auto retail. Read it @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 02:40 The Bill That Could Ban Chinese Cars. 05:10 Why Australian Dealers Make Zero On New Cars. 07:10 The Threat Destroying Blue Sky Values. 09:25 Why Toyota Stores Trade For 15X Earnings. 12:50 Why US Trucks Are Safer Than China. 18:10 Dealer Profits Still Double Pre-COVID. 21:50 The One Brand Where Bargains Are Appearing. 24:45 The Smart Lever When New Car Gross Drops. 26:40 Why Salespeople Can't Afford The Cars They Sell. 30:50 The Mercedes Turnaround That Made It Hot Again. 45:55 Infiniti Stores Selling For Zero Blue Sky. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Sen. Bernie Moreno, (R - OH) - Mike Stanton, President & CEO of National Automobile Dealers Association - Samira Jusupovic, Founder of 4Evermomentum This episode is brought to you by: Stream Companies – How much revenue is slipping through the cracks at your dealership? Stream Companies' Missed Opportunities Report analyzes your strategy and highlights where you can drive more sales, faster. Request your free report today at https://www.streamcompanies.com/MissedOpportunitiesReport/ 4Evermomentum – We help dealerships move inventory faster by bringing visibility, control, and efficiency into the logistics process, from acquisition to frontline. By focusing on speed to sale, reducing delays, and improving how information is managed throughout the shipment lifecycle, we help dealers protect margins and operate with more confidence. Learn more at https://www.4evermomentum.com and start gaining more control, move inventory faster, and partner with a team that brings accountability and control. My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683

Welcome to Dealer War Room from Car Dealership Guy — a new series where host Yossi Levi sits down with top operators to break down the biggest challenges in auto retail. Today I'm joined by Matt Bowers, Owner of Matt Bowers Automotive Group, Todd Blue, CEO of LAPIS, and Andy Wright, Managing Partner of VINart Dealerships. In this episode, we get into the growing tension between dealers and OEMs — from affordability and negative equity to mandated tech. We also break down the split in the buy-sell market, rising FTC pressure, and why the franchise system is going through a major reset. This episode is brought to you by: 1. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. 2. Nomad Content Studio – The team behind the dealers you actually see online. Nomad works in your dealership to build a brand new pipeline of sales driven by social media content. If you want your dealership to be next, head to @ here and book a call. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 03:25 Why Toyota Stores Trade For 10X Earnings. 07:25 The California Buy Most Dealers Ignore. 09:15 Why Mercedes Dialed Back EVs Early. 12:35 Why Auto Retail Gets So Much Hate. 16:45 Why Small Country Stores Won't Sell. 21:10 How 84-Month Loans Trap Buyers. 26:40 The Dealer Decision That Forces OEMs To Change. 32:15 Why American Carmakers Killed Cheap Cars. 36:10 The Regulation Destroying Engines. 42:25 Why Follow-Up Became Adversarial. 46:20 The CSI Fix Nobody Will Try. 52:45 Just Leave The Brand If You Hate Stair Steps. 58:45 The Question Every CEO Must Answer. 01:02:50 Why Franchisees Have Zero Protection. 01:08:10 The Margin Obsession Killing Partnerships. 01:12:50 The $75 Million FTC Warning. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com

Today's show features: - Jeffrey Ramsey, CMO of Ourisman Cars - Jason Daury, Vice President of Sales at CarCutter - Jacob Rose, Photo Department Manager at Titus Will Auto Group This episode is brought to you by: Stream Companies – How much revenue is slipping through the cracks at your dealership? Stream Companies' Missed Opportunities Report analyzes your strategy and highlights where you can drive more sales, faster. Request your free report today at https://www.streamcompanies.com/MissedOpportunitiesReport/ CarCutter – CarCutter is an AI-powered vehicle media processing platform that helps dealerships modernize their vehicle photography workflow and drive sales. We go beyond simple image editing to provide a comprehensive solution for building a scalable and repeatable merchandising process. Visit https://carguymedia.com/4c9sgM8 to learn how to improve your online showroom and maximize the return on your digital investments. My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683

Today's show features: - Tully Williams, Fixed Operations Director at The Niello Company - Darren Spenst, Founder and CEO of The Laundry Guy - Renee Crisler, Owner/Founder of Reilly Crisler Jumpstart Memorial Fund This episode is brought to you by: CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops at https://cdgcircles.com The Laundry Guy – A cost-reduction partner for automotive groups, specializing in uniform, linen, and facility service contracts. Our team audits invoices and renegotiates agreements to drive 30–50% savings while improving contract terms. Send us your most recent invoice and we will do a free audit based on our industry data. https://thelaundryguy.com My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683

Today I'm joined by Rob Cochran, 2026 Chairman of NADA and CEO of #1 Cochran. We dive into the high-stakes world of dealer advocacy, exploring how NADA defeated the onerous CARS rule and why the FTC still has the industry in its crosshairs. Rob breaks down the "alignment gap" between OEMs and dealers, the looming threat of Chinese EVs, and why the franchise system must overhaul the customer experience to survive. This episode is brought to you by: 1. EasyCare - Pulseprotectsusa.com is providing our audience with a special offer of four free Pulse modules* installed and a free safety analysis. Visit @ https://www.easycaremidwest.com/pulse-protection/ today to claim yours! *4 modules per dealership group, installed by a Pulse technician only. 2. Veramatic - Every dealer wants clean closes, controlled cash flow, and confidence in true profitability. Most still operate without them. Until now. Meet Veramatic: the accuracy layer your DMS never built. Get clean, consistent, trusted accounting data, normalized before it hits the GL, automatically. Learn more @ www.veramatic.io/CDG or watch last Thursday's episode with Jen Speerbrecher here: https://youtu.be/MGS0W7f3miU 3. CDG Recruiting - Hire top dealership talent, fast. From sales managers to GMs and C-suite execs, we've placed over 1,000 roles across auto retail. Ready to scale without the hassle? Visit @ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ to get started. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 06:25 The FTC Rule That Almost Broke Dealers. 09:45 Why The FTC Is Watching Your Website Price. 13:35 NADA's Smart Fight Against OEM Overreach. 16:40 Why 97% Of Dealers Hate Stair Steps. 23:10 The 90-Day Problem Ruining Generational Plans. 26:00 The China Threat Dealers Ignore. 29:55 Would Rob Ever Sell A Chinese Franchise? 31:25 Billions At Risk From New OEMs. 41:25 The Trait That Prevents Business Death. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com