Podcasts about automotive technology

SummaryIn this episode of Whiskey Watchers and Wheels, hosts Matt and Kevin discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal celebrations and upcoming events to the impact of movies on car culture. They delve into their favorite television shows, classic car experiences, and the challenges of maintaining vehicles in the summer heat. The conversation also touches on the rise of electric vehicles and the latest trends in retro car audio systems, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the automotive landscape. In this conversation, the speakers delve into their shared experiences with car audio systems, reminiscing about the nostalgic elements of the 90s. They transition into discussing the evolution of car culture, including music preferences and the significance of venues in Florida. The conversation then shifts to the speaker's passion for crafting custom watches, exploring the creative process and the challenges faced in sourcing parts. Finally, they emphasize the importance of presentation in manufacturing, sharing insights on how packaging and branding can enhance the customer experience. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricate world of watch modding, discussing the challenges and techniques involved in customizing watches, particularly Seiko models. They explore the significance of branding in the watch industry, the potential for creating a new watch brand, and the appeal of modern watch movements. The discussion then shifts to the automotive world, where they express a desire to see the revival of classic car designs and the importance of small cars in today's market. The conversation highlights the intersection of craftsmanship, branding, and nostalgia in both watchmaking and automotive design.

On this episode of Connected, Greg sits down with Nathan Shaver, a dealer at Shaver Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Nathan is a fifth-generation automotive dealer and has a great vision for the industry's growth. It's clear Nathan has a passion for what's new in automotive technology and how it can impact his business. He and Greg touch on this and other interesting topics, including: -How Nathan works to define a clear and concise strategy for his store as a new owner. -Building buy-in with his team and how they prepare to operate more efficiently in this market. -Creating new opportunities by identifying what's next in automotive technology.

As we've entered the last week of May, I remember how crazy this time of year is for those who have school-aged children. I know a lot of parents are in what many call Maycember. The chaotic final days of the school year entail so many parties, ceremonies, graduations, proms, concerts, teacher appreciation gifts and sports tournaments. It can also bring lots of anticipation, with kids looking forward to summer break and wondering what teacher they'll have next year. For me, however, I'm often reminded of a difficult memory that occurred over 20 years ago at the conclusion of my son's first year of kindergarten. That year I had to tell six-year-old Jacob he wouldn't be moving up to first grade with his friends in the fall. Several months earlier, Jacob's kindergarten teacher called my husband and me in for what we thought was a routine conference. Expecting to hear glowing reports of our son's schoolwork, we were instead faced with a situation that brought frustration and heartache to our family. Jacob's teacher began by saying Jacob had been very distracted over the last few months, and she felt he needed to be tested for ADD. She handed us a paper outlining the symptoms and advised us to have a doctor confirm the diagnosis. Then she dropped the bomb. “I believe Jacob would be better off if you held him back a year,” she said coolly. “Of course, the choice is yours, but he won't benefit if you send him on ahead.” Here's Jacob's story... Also, I'd love for you to become part of the Building Strong Homes Community and sign up for my email list where you'll also receive my baked spaghetti recipe. You can also click to sign up to become part of my free Facebook community. Watch on YouTube Lessons Learned and Victories Won Through Our Son's Struggle with ADD with Carol Roper https://youtu.be/IO7tY33uiCU

In this episode of the Used Car Dealer Podcast, Zach talks with Tim Zierden, Chief Operating Officer at TradePending, to unpack how the company's trade-in, payment, video, and retention tools are “making automotive simple” for more than 5,000 dealerships. Tim shares what drew him to the role after two decades at Cox Automotive, KAR Global, and Dealertrack, the biggest milestones powering TradePending's recent expansion, and how real-time data helps dealers outpace tariff-driven price swings. The conversation also dives into AI-lite automation vs. personal video, the rise of CDPs, and the customer-life-cycle tactics that turn online shoppers into lifelong service customers. Whether you're wrestling with affordability headwinds or hunting for higher-ROI digital retailing solutions, Tim's insights are a must-listen.Below are the main questions Zach asks Tim, along with timestamps:00:37 Q) What pulled you toward TradePending after two decades in auto-tech?02:52 Q) Beyond the recent acquisitions, which milestone mattered most for the company's growth?04:01 Q) How does your “make automotive simple” mantra guide product decisions?05:21 Q) What's the biggest thing dealers say TradePending improves for engagement and sales?08:54 Q) How do you keep onboarding painless and support seamless for new clients?10:59 Q) How is TradePending helping dealers navigate today's tariff-driven price swings?14:49 Q) Which emerging tech or consumer habits will reshape dealerships next?17:19 Q) What fresh innovations are you rolling out to keep dealers competitive?19:27 Q) What key factors should dealers weigh when choosing digital-retail and trade-in tools?Listen to more episodes here: https://www.sellyautomotive.com/podcastRead the full transcription: https://blog.sellyautomotive.com/blog/tim-trade-pending

Mark Queen, the visionary CEO of Skaivision and one of the original founders behind eLead CRM, joins me to dive into the future of AI-powered dealership efficiency. Skaivision is revolutionizing the way dealers view process breakdowns by layering powerful AI—specifically Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs)—over existing dealership camera systems. This groundbreaking tech captures real-time activity in sales and service, highlights missed opportunities, and even delivers instant vehicle offers during service visits. Mark walks us through his entrepreneurial journey, from Reynolds & Reynolds to creating the largest CRM in auto retail, to now tackling tech fatigue and inefficiencies head-on. If you're in the car business—service, sales, tech, or leadership—this episode will fuel your thinking about what's possible when innovation meets daily dealership challenges. We talk express service friction, retention killers, service-to-sales drama, video transparency, and how real-time AI automation can make your people faster, more productive, and more profitable. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with one of the auto industry's most respected founders!

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo 2025, expect discussions on industry trends, Arkansas accents, automotive training, towing experiences, key programming, future business plans, the potential impact of AI on diagnostics, and the Tech Talks class at Vision 2025 - with a few fun detours into movies like 'The Wolf of Wall Street,' 'Predator,' and 'Rocky!' Matt Fanslow, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, MN, Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z Podcast Zeb Beard, Strokes Diesel and Automotive, Monticello, AR, strokersdiesel@gmail.com Andrew Sexton, ATS Automotive LLC, Cedar Rapids, IA Andrew Sexton Watch Full Video Episode Vision Hi-Tech Training & Expo: https://visionkc.com/ Introduction and Event Overview (00:00:00) Movie References and Banter (00:01:11) Zeb Beard's Business Expansion (00:02:51) Podcast Anniversary Reflection (00:03:55) Discussion on Towing Operations (00:06:50) Weather Impact on Towing (00:07:25) Battery Issues in Towing (00:09:06) Agricultural Work in Arkansas (00:10:19) Henry Winkler's Role in "Rocky" (00:12:58) Tech Talks at Vision (00:15:05) The Evolution of Training Opportunities (00:15:36) Networking and Collaboration (00:16:44) Thermal Imaging Presentation (00:20:07) Key Programming and Automotive Technology (00:25:44) The Role of AI in Automotive Repair (00:27:37)r. Importance of Foundational Skills (00:34:27) Challenges for New Technicians (00:35:04) Training and Career Development (00:39:20) Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: 

Switching Shop Management Systems isn't as hard as you think! Give Shop Controller a try HEREIf your DVI isn't certified, you're losing customers! Get a FREE certification when you touch HERE!Chris Cotton is the host of the AutoFix TechnologyCast. You can listen to that show HERE Today he and Braxton talk about technology changes in the repair industry and how Chris believes, comparative to cell phones, the industry is stuck in the flip phone stage of how they use tech. He also shares where he thinks the industry is going and can be in the next 5 years. This podcast was recorded at Vision 2025 using Hollyland Lark 2 mics. If you'd like to check those out, you can HERE

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at the 45th annual Mobile Air Climate Systems Conference (MACS 2025) in Orlando, Florida, this episode dives into the evolving world of thermal management in vehicles. Our panel discusses the shift from traditional air conditioning to a more advanced approach, driven by the growing complexity of modern vehicles, especially EVs. They explore why maintaining optimal temperatures for batteries, electric motors, and other components is just as critical as passenger comfort. The conversation also covers alternative refrigerants, particularly blends, as a way to boost efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and adapt to changing battery technologies. With these advancements, the need for technician training and industry adaptation is greater than ever. Our experts emphasize the importance of collaboration across the industry to ensure a smooth transition and deliver effective solutions for both OEMs and aftermarket service providers. Adam Kimmel, Koura, adam.kimmel@orbia.com Ryan Kooiman, Director of Training, Standard Motor Products. Ryan's previous episodes HERE. Chuck Abbott, Global Marketing Manager, Koura Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode MACS Training Event & Trade Show: https://macsmobileairclimate.org/ National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF): https://wp.nastf.org/ Koura: https://www.kouraglobal.com/ Honeywell: https://www.honeywell.com/us/en Introduction and Sponsors (00:00:00) Evolution of Thermal Management (00:02:28) Consultative Role of Shop Owners (00:02:10) Rise of Thermal Management Specialists (00:03:08) Importance of Battery Temperature Control (00:03:46) Impact of Electric Compressors (00:05:45) Training on Thermal Management (00:12:19) Future of Refrigerants (00:09:52) Concerns with Flammable Refrigerants (00:11:04) Thermal Management in Electric Vehicles (00:14:04) Training Demand for Electric Vehicle Systems (00:15:26) Battery Chemistry and Future Developments (00:17:02) Shifting Priorities in Funding (00:18:27) Changing Thermal Management Needs (00:18:57) Service Recommendations for Blends (00:19:18) Collaboration in Industry (00:19:58) New Components in AC Systems (00:20:50) Complexity of Thermal Management Systems (00:22:15) Career Opportunities in Automotive Technology (00:23:06) Investing in New Refrigerant Machines (00:24:30) Consumer Benefits of Blend Refrigerants (00:25:05) Leakage Characteristics of Blends (00:26:14) Future of Refrigerant Machines...

Congratulations to Mr. Garrett who teaches Automotive Technology at Shadow Ridge High School for being our February Teacher of the Month! Mr. Garett will receive a $150 Visa gift card courtesy of Findlay Chevrolet, an additional $150 Visa gift card courtesy of Silver State Schools Credit Union PLUS a personalized Mercedes in the Morning Teacher of the Month plaque from H&J Trophies!

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick shares why she chooses to drive an “old” car and explores the complexities of modern automotive technology. She delves into the vast amounts of data collected by cars today, the privacy implications of this data collection, and the potential risks associated with sharing personal information. The conversation emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness regarding data privacy and offers practical advice for protecting oneself in a data-driven automotive world. TakeawaysModern cars are equipped with advanced technology that can enhance driving but also raises privacy concerns.Cars collect both technical and personal data, often without the owner's knowledge.The Mozilla Foundation's report labels modern cars as a 'privacy nightmare.'Many car manufacturers collect more personal data than necessary for vehicle operation.Data collected by cars can be shared with third parties, including insurance companies and law enforcement.To protect privacy, consumers should consider driving older cars or educating themselves about new car technologies.Deleting personal data from cars before selling or trading them in is crucial.Resources:https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/privacynotincluded/articles/its-official-cars-are-the-worst-product-category-we-have-ever-reviewed-for-privacy/https://privacy4cars.comYou can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. Connect with LeeAnn: Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Work with LeeAnn: Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car Car Buying Service Copyright ©2024 Women's Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors. Promotive can help you find your dream job, or help you hire. Touch HERE for more. Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREIn this episode, Murray Voth from RPM Training chats with Jeff. Murray starts with what he called "emotional discounting" at repair shops, and how the industry needs to shift from this. He also discusses shop owners' challenges when they feel "handcuffed" to their businesses and explores ways to strike a balance between working in the industry and strategizing for its growth. 00:00 Business Coaching & Consulting Expansion08:01 "Benefits of Online Coaching"12:13 "Business Evaluation and Consultancy Insights"18:30 Bypassing Front Desk for Control25:30 Behind-the-scenes Business Strategy30:25 Delegation and Succession Planning33:16 Business Closure Due to Owner Retirements41:28 Car Ownership Financial Struggles45:36 Understanding Personal and Professional Values48:55 Overlooked Auto Maintenance Education55:44 Choosing Quality Over Cost58:49 Learning Technical Skills Hands-On01:04:08 Streamlined Service Through Effective Communication Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232

Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABEShop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitabilityUtilize the fastest and easiest way to look up and order parts and tires with PartsTech absolutely free.Click here to get started: https://geni.us/PartsTechTransform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingPros In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by Jason Quillin, owner of Top Notch Auto. Jason discusses the challenges of managing a shop with two separate buildings, emphasizing the inefficiencies and added costs it brings. He also shares his journey from dealership technician to shop owner, highlighting the struggles with employee management and the importance of creating a cohesive team. They delve into the evolving automotive landscape, particularly the challenges with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and the reluctance of many shops to adapt to new technologies.If you're navigating the complexities of shop ownership or grappling with technological advancements in the industry, this episode is a must-listen for you!00:00 Old Dealership Dilemma10:09 Audi Calibration and Alignment Issues13:00 Entitled Mindset at Dealerships19:02 Insurance Claim Plan Discussion22:56 Progressive Salary Plan Negotiation30:50 Forklift Speed and Skill35:02 Perpetual Budget Inflation Cycle38:01 Revamping Vocational Education Focus45:50 "Turn Signal Communication Spy"51:29 Rural Ingenuity: Self-Reliant Rebuilding55:03 Opposition Silenced by Authorities01:00:32 "Young Farm Kid's Work Ethic"01:03:25 Self-Reliance in Modern Society

In this episode of the podcast, Zach sits down with Randy Kobat, President and CEO of Repair On Demand, a provider of innovative reconditioning solutions for dealerships. They discuss how reconditioning has become a critical factor in dealership success, the common inefficiencies that slow down the recon process, and how technology can help dealers cut turnaround time and maximize profitability. Randy shares lessons from his extensive background—leading brands like vAuto, Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer, and HomeNet—along with key insights from his decade at Cox Automotive. They also touch on how EVs bring new challenges, such as battery diagnostics, and how a streamlined recon workflow can give dealers a competitive edge.Below are the main questions Zach asks Randy, along with approximate timestamps:Q) How did you get started in automotive tech, and what led you to your current role?Q) From scaling vAuto and Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer, what lessons stand out for dealers today?Q) Why should dealers rethink how they manage their reconditioning process?Q) Where do you see the biggest inefficiencies in dealership recon right now?Q) How can dealers fix the communication breakdowns between sales, service, and third-party vendors?Q) What are the main financial and operational benefits of a streamlined recon process?Q) How does Repair On Demand help dealers eliminate recon inefficiencies?Q) Which innovations in recon technology are most exciting to you?Q) Any key takeaways from your time at Cox Automotive that you've brought to Repair On Demand?Q) With EVs on the rise, what new recon challenges do dealerships face (like battery diagnostics)?Q) What's next for Repair On Demand in the coming 12 to 24 months?Q) How can listeners reach out if they want to connect with you?Listen to more episodes here: https://www.sellyautomotive.com/podcastRead the full transcription: https://blog.sellyautomotive.com/blog/randy-kobat

Relebogile Mabotja speaks to Nicol Louw a Technical Car Expert about evolving automotive technology from old to new.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textJoin hosts Joe and Chops on the Dealerchat Podcast as they chat with Stephen Douglas from Real Easy Car Credit. Together, they dive into the world of car financing and subprime finance, sharing insights on running a dealership, marketing strategies, and adapting to a competitive market. Learn about the challenges of sourcing vehicles, navigating regulations, leveraging social media, and building trust with customers. Don't miss this in-depth look at the auto industry and the importance of innovation for success!To find out more about if Dealerway can help you follow this link: https://dealerway.co.uk/Real Easy Car Credit: https://www.reallyeasycarcredit.co.uk/Go check out https://www.youtube.com/@Dealerway/videos podcast where you might just see some familiar faces, real soon

In this episode of the Used Car Dealer Podcast, Zach talks with Mark Allen, President of AutoAp, a leading provider of recall management services for dealerships, fleets, and various automotive partners. They discuss how AutoAp's technology resolves the frequent discrepancies in safety recall data, the complexities behind VIN checks, and why automated, timely recall information is crucial for protecting customers and avoiding costly liability. Mark shares how his extensive experience in the auto industry led him to join and eventually lead AutoAp, and he offers insights into how all players—dealers, OEMs, service providers, and government agencies—must work together to improve overall road safety.Below are the main questions Zach asks Mark:Q) Mark, how did you get started in the auto industry?Q) Tell us about AutoAp and how you became its president.Q) How many vehicle recalls occurred in the U.S. during 2024?Q) Are current VIN-check sources enough, or what else should we know?Q) What's the solution to these recall challenges?Q) How does AutoAp partner with different companies across the automotive ecosystem?Q) Which services does AutoAp offer, and can you share a key client example?Q) Anything else you'd like to add to wrap up the discussion?Q) How can companies contact you and learn about your upcoming events?

Who will take the lead in the AI automotive race?

Click here to send a text to Christian and Doug with your contact infoSpecial thanks to PBS Newshour for connecting us with Weber State University, enabling us to interview a dynamic student/instructor duo from the Automotive Technology Program. Join us as we talk with Makenna and Brandon as they rev up their engines and drive into the fascinating realm of automotive education. Makenna shares her joy of wrenching on steering and suspension with her dad, while Brandon reminisces about restoring a 1979 Z28 Camaro with his father. We spotlight the automotive programs at Weber State University, a wellspring of skilled technicians since the 1920s. Experience the evolution of automotive technology through personal tales that highlight the enduring allure of classic cars and the profound impact of hands-on learning.Get ready for a high-speed adventure as we explore turbocharging tales and the everyday magic of keeping beloved cars on the road. Hear the exhilarating story of transforming a white Chevy Beretta Z26 and the ongoing challenge of maintaining a Tesla Model 3. Makenna shares her humorous transition from the "Exploder," a 2004 Ford Explorer, to her trusty Honda Civic, "Maverick." She also recounts her thrilling experience at the SEMA auto show in Las Vegas, giving you a glimpse into the vibrant world of automotive enthusiasts. Buckle up for a ride filled with passion, nostalgia, and the joy of automotive adventures. The episode highlights the innovative automotive program at Weber State University, showcasing the hands-on learning experiences offered to students. Makenna and Brandon share their journeys and emphasize the importance of merging technology with traditional automotive skills, as well as promoting inclusivity within the program.Listener Poll - What should Brandon name his 1979 Camaro Z28 ?Learn more about Weber State University's Automotive Technology Program and coverage by PBS News Hour:https://www.weber.edu/Majors/automotive-technology.htmlhttps://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/how-the-next-generation-of-auto-techs-is-preparing-for-the-electric-vehicle-transition#womeninautomotive #weberstateuniversity #automotivetechnology #pbsnewshour #sema #carsloved #carcast #toallthecarsivelovedbefore #everycartellsastory #evercarhasaculture #fordexplorer #camaroz28 #pbsnewshour #fordexploder #chevyberetta  #chevyberetta #weberautoRemember to Follow/Subscribe and visit https://linktr.ee/carsloved to find all of our episodes and latest content.

In this exciting episode of the evo India Podcast, we're joined by Mr. R Velusamy, President of Automotive Technology and Product Development at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. If you're an engineer, a student in engineering college, or simply a car enthusiast, this podcast is packed with insights you don't want to miss!Hosted by Ed Sirish Chandran, this episode deeply delves into R Velusamy's journey – from his early days to becoming a pivotal figure at Mahindra & Mahindra. The biggest challenges faced in automotive technology and product development, the turning points for Mahindra: Was it the 2020 Thar or the revolutionary XUV700? The story behind developing the 2020 Mahindra Thar, setting up the Mahindra Research Valley (MRV), and MSPT. The talent, innovation, and engineering brilliance that make Mahindra a global name in the automotive industry.Get ready for a deep dive into the world of automotive engineering, innovation, and leadership with R Velusamy. So, grab your pens and notepads and tune in for this engineering masterclass!

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Explore the rich legacy of Standard Motor Products, a family-owned business established in 1919, and its ongoing commitment to innovation in the automotive industry. Eric Sills, President of Standard Motor Products, shares insights into the company's dedication to quality, technology, and education, as well as their latest acquisition of Nissens and vision for future global advancements. Eric Sills, President/CEO, Standard Motor Products  Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode First Impressions of Standard Motor Products (00:00:20) Customer Awareness (00:00:57) EV and Hybrid Readiness (00:01:37) Legacy of Standard Motor Products (00:01:49) Eric's Family Legacy (00:02:21) Adapting to Automotive Technology (00:03:30) Research and Development Strategies (00:03:53) Vehicle Control Division (00:05:18) Temperature Control Innovations (00:07:27) Recent Acquisition Overview (00:08:25) Global Presence and Strategy (00:12:16) Education vs. Training (00:14:12) Importance of Specialized Knowledge (00:15:10) Training and Education in the Industry (00:16:13) ADAS Calibration Issues (00:16:54) Consolidation in the Industry (00:19:09) The Auto Care Industry (00:20:37) Family Business Dynamics (00:21:02) Succession Planning Insights (00:21:52) Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts:

Join us for an cool episode featuring two industry game-changers: Dave Sperau, Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Autosled and Alex Snyder, CEO of FRIKINtech and President of Dealer Refresh. In this episode, we dive into the revolutionary world of transportation in the automotive industry, led by Autosled's remarkable growth. Dave shares his inspiring journey from car dealer to innovator, driven by his frustrations with inefficiencies in the vehicle transport process. Discover how he developed an app that streamlines billing, vets drivers, and provides real-time tracking—akin to the Uber experience for cars.  Alex, a recent Autosled user, recounts his seamless vehicle purchasing experience, highlighting the app's efficiency and transparency. He shares how easy it was to get a quote, contract a driver, and have his unique vehicle delivered sooner than expected, all while maintaining communication with the driver.  We explore how Autosled has become a trusted partner for dealers and manufacturers across the country, transforming the way vehicles are delivered. With a vast network of vetted drivers and quick payment processes, the days of waiting for transporters to gather multiple cars are gone.  Listeners will learn about the upcoming NADA show conference in New Orleans, where you can connect with Autosled and discover how their services can benefit both dealers and consumers. If you're considering buying a car from another market, this episode highlights a tool that puts affordable transportation right at your fingertips! Tune in to hear how Autosled is not just changing the game for dealers but also empowering consumers to make smarter, faster decisions when it comes to vehicle transport! Dave Sperau - david.sperau@autosled.com | autosled.com Alex Snyder - alex@dealerrefresh.com  Autosled is ranked #9 in the Deloitte Technology 2024 Fast 500. The awards recognize innovative companies across technology, life sciences, fintech and energy tech sectors. https://bit.ly/3DjaSoT NADA 2025 - Autosled will be exhibiting at Booth# 7921. Autosled will also be running a special during the show for any dealers that sign up at NADA to use Autosled & ship their first vehicle before the end of February 2025. Dealers that sign up and move their first car before the end of Feb 2025 get their first vehicle move for FREE (up to 500 miles)! We're confident that dealers will love the Autosled experience and want as many as possible to have the opportunity to give it a try at NADA. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com  

In this episode of the Used Car Dealer Podcast, Zach interviews Mike Goodwin, Founder and President of EverLogic, a leading Dealer Management System (DMS) company in the RV and trailer space. Mike began his journey in the industry helping an RV dealership with accounting integrations and has been running EverLogic for over 20 years. He shares his expertise on a range of topics relevant to RV, trailer, and golf cart dealers, including industry challenges, technological advancements, and future opportunities.Some of the questions asked were:Q) What inspired you to found EverLogic after your extensive experience in the RV industry?Q) What unique challenges do RV and trailer dealers face, and how does EverLogic help?Q) What prompted your expansion into the golf cart market, and how do you see its future?Q) What major technological changes are happening in the industry, and how are dealers adapting?Q) What sets EverLogic's DMS apart for RV, trailer, and golf cart dealers?Q) What are the biggest challenges dealers face today, and how can technology help overcome them?Q) How have customer expectations changed over 20 years, and how does EverLogic help dealers meet them?Q) Can you share a success story where EverLogic improved a dealership's operations?Q) What future opportunities and challenges do you foresee for dealers in the next few years?Q) Do you have any announcements or company updates for 2025?Listen to our other podcast episodes: https://www.sellyautomotive.com/podcastTranscribe of this podcast - https://blog.sellyautomotive.com/blog/mike-goodwin-2024

Karen Haluska, a teacher at Hungary Creek MS and mother of two sons, talked with us about how well her sons are doing at the ACE Center at Hermitage. Please listen to her and Brayden who is in the Automotive Technology program and AJ who is in the Culinary Arts program talk about the many benefits of ACE Center programs and how it has changed their lives for the better.

Click here to send a text to Christian and DougWe play a brief game of automotive trivia with one of our guests from Weber State University's Automotive Technology program about the origins of the original Pontiac GTO and the rebirth with the 2004-2006 version. Listen in to how we stump Christian and his surprise when he learns the true source.Check out our current and past episodes and be sure to subscribe/follow to get access to our latest podcasts.https://linktr.ee/carsloved#pontiacGTO #pontiac #WeberStateUniversity #podcast #ToAllTheCarsIveLovedBefore #everycartellsastory #everycarhasaculture

Click here to send a text to Christian and DougOne of our student guests from Weber State University's Automotive Technology program wasn't always so handy with a wrench. Listen to this soundbite from an upcoming episode to learn how her “Ford Exploder” got its nickname during a trip to Arby's.Check out our current and past episodes and be sure to subscribe/follow to get access to our latest podcasts.https://linktr.ee/carsloved#fordexploder #weberstateuniversity #carsloved #podcast #EveryCarTellsAStory #evercarhasaculture

Tom Waldron grew up in Garden Grove, California. He served in the Cebu Philippines mission. Tom attended Golden West college and BYU-Idaho Pathway Connect before he received a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Technology Management from BYU-Idaho and a Master of Science in Management and Leadership from Western Governors University. Tom was a technician for Coast Cadillac and a master diagnostic technician for Toyota. He currently is a faculty member for the Automotive Technology program here at BYU-Idaho. Tom is married to his sweetheart, Rolayne, and they have seven children. He enjoys outdoor activities such as mountain biking, snow skiing, surfing, and water skiing. Tom has served in many callings in his life, including various Young Men's callings, elders quorum presidencies, and as a stake clerk. He is currently serving in a bishopric as first counselor in the Rexburg YSA 32nd Ward on campus.

Tom Waldron, a faculty member in the BYU-Idaho Department of Engineering and Technology, taught about receiving personal revelation and acting on it during his devotional. He talks about his devotional message in an interview with BYU-Idaho Radio reporter Vanessa Willardson.

Tom Waldron, a faculty member in the BYU-Idaho Department of Engineering and Technology, taught about receiving personal revelation and acting on it during his devotional.

Guests: Sara Sargent, AutoSens Automotive Technology SpecialistOn LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarasargent17/Rob Stead, Managing Director and Founder, Sense Media GroupOn LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertjstead/____________________________Hosts: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martinMarco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society and Technology PodcastOn ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/marco-ciappelli____________________________Episode NotesThe episode kicks off with a playful exchange between Sean and Marco, setting the tone for an engaging discussion about the future of automotive tech. Marco points out the rapid advancements in the industry, comparing it to the evolution from the Flintstones' manually-powered car to today's sophisticated autonomous vehicles. Sean highlights the significance of these advancements and the pivotal role conferences like AutoSens and InCabin play in shaping the industry's future.A Brief History of AutoSens and InCabinRob Stead, the managing director and founder of SenseMedia, provides a historical overview of the AutoSens conference. Established in 2015, AutoSens was born out of a need to bring together experts from various sectors of the automotive industry to foster collaboration and innovation. The event has grown exponentially, and in 2016, the first AutoSens conference was held. Today, AutoSens and its sister event, InCabin, attract a diverse audience, including engineers, regulators, and manufacturers.Key Themes and DiscussionsThe conversation dives into the core themes of the upcoming conferences. Sara Sargent, an Automotive Technology Specialist at SenseMedia, explains her dual role in ensuring technical integrity and leading the InCabin event. She emphasizes the importance of addressing current safety concerns, such as child presence detection and airbag deployment accuracy. These technologies not only enhance safety but also pave the way for future innovations in autonomous driving.The Complexity of Autonomous VehiclesRob elaborates on the challenges faced by the industry, emphasizing the difficulty of achieving full autonomy (L4) in consumer vehicles. He notes that while L4 technology is feasible, it is costly and likely to be limited to fleet operators rather than individual consumers. The transition to higher levels of automation will be gradual, with most vehicles remaining at Level 2 (L2) for the foreseeable future.The Importance of Redundancy and CollaborationSean questions the need for various sensor modalities in vehicles, to which Rob responds by explaining the concept of redundancy. Multiple sensors, including cameras, radar, and LiDAR, work together to create a comprehensive and reliable system. This redundancy is crucial for ensuring safety and reliability in autonomous driving systems. Additionally, the conversation touches upon the importance of vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2X) technology and its potential to enhance transportation systems.InCabin: Advancing Interior SensingThe discussion shifts to the interior sensing technologies covered in the InCabin conference. Sara highlights the significance of these technologies in ensuring passenger safety and comfort. From detecting medical emergencies to preventing drunk driving, interior sensors can play a critical role in enhancing the overall driving experience. However, Sara acknowledges the privacy concerns that come with increased interior monitoring.Looking Forward to the ConferencesRob and Sara both express their excitement for the upcoming conferences in Barcelona. They provide a sneak peek into some of the keynotes and technical sessions, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the events. Notably, the conferences will feature discussions on HMI design, simulation validation, and insights from the Chinese automotive market.ConclusionAs the episode wraps up, Sean and Marco reflect on the importance of conferences like AutoSens and InCabin in driving innovation and ensuring the safety and reliability of future automotive technologies. They encourage listeners to attend the events and stay tuned for more insightful discussions on the evolving landscape of automotive technology.Be sure to follow our Coverage Journey and subscribe to our podcasts!____________________________This Episode's SponsorsHITRUST: https://itspm.ag/itsphitweb____________________________Catch all of our event coverage: https://www.itspmagazine.com/technology-cybersecurity-society-humanity-conference-and-event-coverageOn YouTube:

EAH spoke with Miguel, after a little over a year in the CEO post, to understand where the group is heading. He describes his plans for the Company and in particular, the DeCarbon Technologies Group, which is working with many important partners to accelerate emissions elimination innovation. Miguel began his professional career in 1987 as a controller at VDO AG. He was subsequently CFO of VDO Instrumentos in Spain and the worldwide VDO Instrument Division. Within the Siemens Group, López was CFO of various business units of Siemens AG from 2001 – including the Industry Automation Division from 2008, the Digital Factory Division from 2014 and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy from 2017. In the years from 2018 to 2022, he was President & CEO of Siemens in Spain. During this period, he also performed the role of Non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors at Siemens Gamesa. From 2022 to May 2023, he held the position of Chairman of the Board of NORMA, an automotive and industrial supplier. Since June 2023 he has been CEO of thyssenkrupp AG.Miguel studied business administration at the Mannheim University of Cooperative Education. López also completed a global MBA program at the universities of Toronto (Canada), Erftstadt (Germany), Linz (Austria) and Shanghai (China).About thyssenkrupp:thyssenkrupp is an international industrial and technology company employing ~100,000 people. Across 48 countries it generated sales of €38 billion in fiscal 2022/2023. Since October 1, 2023, the business activities have been bundled into five segments: Automotive Technology, Decarbon Technologies, Materials Services, Steel Europe and Marine Systems. Backed by extensive technological know-how, the businesses develop cost-effective and resource-friendly solutions to the challenges of the future. Around 4,000 employees work in research and development at 75 locations all over the world, mainly in the fields of climate protection, the energy transition, digital transformation in the industry and mobility of the future. thyssenkrupp currently has a portfolio of approximately 14,630 patents and utility models. Under the thyssenkrupp umbrella brand the company creates long-term value with innovative products, technologies and services and contributes to a better life for future generations. To this end, the company pursues ambitious climate protection targets and optimizes its own energy and climate efficiency. At the same time, it uses its diverse abilities along the relevant value chains to play a significant role in driving forward its customers' green transformation. thyssenkrupp is listed in the MDAX index. thyssenkrupp shares are traded on Frankfurt Stock Exchange (symbol: TKA) and as American depositary receipts (symbol: TKAMY) in the USA.--Links:thyssenkrupp:https:/www.thyssenkrupp.com/en/homethyssenkrupp DeCarbon Technologies:https://www.thyssenkrupp.com/en/company/corporate-structure/decarbon-technologies

Originally created in 2000 as the Hillsboro 2020 Vision and Action Plan, the Hillsboro 2035 Community Plan is our shared vision for Hillsboro's future and a detailed action plan for working toward that collective goal. The ideas in the plan are based on input from thousands of community members in cooperation with local organizations who have agreed to share implementation responsibilities. The plan was developed by a volunteer, community-led task force representing a wide variety of interests to ensure the vision retains a broad community focus.  Over the course of the first 15 years of the plan's implementation - from 2000 to 2015 - twenty-five community partners completed nearly 180 actions, including such visible projects as the Hillsboro Civic Center, Glenn and Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center, Hondo Dog Park, Jackson Bottom Wetlands restoration, community gardens, and many others.  Every five years, the plan is reviewed and new ideas are sought from our community, so we ensure the plan remains fresh and relevant to the people who live, work, and recreate here. The Hillsboro 2035 Oversight Committee has been soliciting ideas for the 2025 update since the spring, and will conclude their collection on Monday, September 30. After that, writing teams will convene to distill and articulate new action items in the five focus areas: 1) Health, Wellness, and Safety; 2) Education and Community Involvement; 3) Economy and Infrastructure; 4) Livability and Recreation; and 5) Environmental Sustainability.    Don't miss the chance to share YOUR ideas for Hillsboro's future! Share your big ideas at Hillsboro2035.org by September 30 to let your voice be heard, help shape our community, and maybe even win one of several prizes! Our featured program is HSD's Career and College Pathways Shuttle System! The CCP shuttles offers high school students the opportunity to access eight different flagship programs across the district: Aerospace at the Hillsboro Airport; Automotive Technology, Bioscience Technology, and Veterinary Sciences at Hilhi; Diesel Technology at our Transportation and Support Services Center; Fire Science at the Hillsboro Fire Training Center; Health Sciences - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant - at Century High School; and Metal Processing at Glencoe High School. Nearly 280 students are riding the shuttle to these programs this fall, which is our highest number ever! Many thanks to everyone who makes this amazing opportunity possible, including industry partners, counselors, course instructors, students accessing the programs, and Transportation staff.   There will be no school for all students on Monday, September 30, for staff development. School resumes on Tuesday, October 1. Hot News is produced and emailed t HSD families and staff each week school is in session. Please add the address to your “safe sender” list to make sure you always receive the latest issue. Please also bookmark our district website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hsd.k12.or.us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to stay informed about what's happening in our district and schools.

Join me and Aaron Bickart general manager of OfferLogix as we challenge the vendor community to reimagine their product offerings to integrate robust soft-pull credit technology with a distinct advantage to competing solutions.

In this episode we talk with the David Protano, Dean of Automotive Technology at MassBay Community College. Then we review the Acura TLX and chat with our radio family that makes the program what it is. https://podcasts.feedspot.com/car_podcasts/

In this episode we talk with the David Protano, Dean of Automotive Technology at MassBay Community College. Then we review the Acura TLX and chat with our radio family that makes the program what it is. https://podcasts.feedspot.com/car_podcasts/

Want to learn more about the electrification of fleets and innovations in automotive technology? We're thrilled to have two amazing guests in this episode, Jimmy Fielding of Purkeys and Josh Essmon of ZeroRPM! Listen to this insightful conversation as we discuss the impact of anti-idling regulations, service technologies like electric standby options for reefer trailers, and the significance of telematics in optimizing vehicle performance.   About Jimmy Fielding and Josh Essmon Jimmy began working for Purkeys part-time in high school and fell in love with the trucking industry. Having been with Purkeys for 23 years, his passionate personality is infectious to all who meet him. Jimmy's favorite part about Purkeys is working with the customers to help understand and resolve any issues they face. When Jimmy isn't working, he enjoys fishing and spending time with his family. Josh Essmon has been a dedicated member of the ZeroRPM team since 2015. He began his journey as an Installation Technician, where he refined his technical skills and developed a deep understanding of the company's innovative solutions. Through his hard work and commitment, Josh advanced to the position of Sales Application Manager, a role in which he currently thrives. Josh is passionate about working at ZeroRPM, a company whose vision and values align with his own. He finds great satisfaction in contributing to an organization that prioritizes innovation, customer satisfaction, and environmental sustainability. Josh's dedication and enthusiasm continue to drive his success and impact within the company.   Connect with Jimmy and Josh Website: https://purkeys.net/  / https://www.zerorpm.com/  Email: jfielding@purkeys.net / josh.essmon@zerorpm.com  Phone: (479) 305 2877 / (256) 338 6736  

In this episode of the Used Car Dealer Podcast, Zach interviews Andrew Rostami, Chief Product Officer and CMO at Credit Acceptance. They discuss Credit Acceptance's strategies for dealer growth and support for the subprime ecosystem. The conversation also highlights the latest financing tech innovations and upcoming initiatives from Credit Acceptance.Some of the questions asked on the podcast include:Q) Andrew, what is your background and current role at Credit Acceptance?Q) What factors contributed to the increase in new active dealers at Credit Acceptance?Q) How has Credit Acceptance adapted to support dealers amid lenders pulling back from auto lending?Q) What challenges do subprime customers face in auto financing, and how does Credit Acceptance address them?Q) What are the latest financing options that Credit Acceptance offers to help dealers grow?Q) How does Credit Acceptance's lending model align the interests of dealers, buyers, and consumers?Q) In what ways does Credit Acceptance support dealer growth beyond financing solutions?Q) How do you see the auto financing landscape evolving for subprime customers in the next few years?Q) How important is technology in Credit Acceptance's strategy, and what innovations are you excited about?Q) Has your team developed any new integrations for easier funding from independent dealership DMS?Q) Can you share success stories where Credit Acceptance significantly impacted a used car dealer's business?Q) What role does the automotive industry play in economic mobility, and how does Credit Acceptance contribute?Q) How has the current economic climate impacted consumer behavior in the auto market?Q) Are there any upcoming initiatives or products from Credit Acceptance that used car dealers should be excited about?Listen to our other podcast episodes: https://www.sellyautomotive.com/podcastTranscribe of this podcast - https://blog.sellyautomotive.com/blog/credit-acceptance-2024

In this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Norm Gieselman, known as the "Mechanic of the Stars" on TikTok. Norm and Jeff have a conversation about the complexities of managing a car repair business, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing customer needs through effective intake questions. Norm also shares his experiences with resource constraints, focusing on quick jobs while building capacity for more complex repairs. Additionally, they discuss the growing knowledge gap between customers and technicians due to the increasing technology in modern cars. 00:00 Discovering TikTok transformed my learning experience.04:00 Friends engage, share challenges, and understand opinions naturally.08:31 Business owner transitions to franchise for growth.11:05 Got into HD due to car repair.15:21 Contrasting attitudes towards vehicle technology in summary.18:51 Debate on tire torque and overanalysis in automotive.20:03 Complaining about high-end truckers and their rattle.24:37 Transition from project management to business administration.29:14 Qualifying customers, limitations, and concerns for acceptance.32:25 Sent car to the tuner, unit malfunctioned, sat.35:29 The Car part overheats, causing the insulation to melt.38:06 Understanding leads to practical application and success.42:10 Learning by observation and apprenticeship for mastery.45:43 Mechanics diagnose and repair engine issues.49:12 Consider leasing for fixed costs, not ownership.50:01 Concerns about the longevity of modern vehicles' features. Thanks to our sponsor Promotive! Find your dream job today: gopromotive.com/jeff Go to the ASTA Expo! REGISTER HERE

Host Chad Pytel interviews Monik Pamecha, the Co-Founder and CEO of Toma, a company specializing in AI for the automotive industry. Monik discusses how Toma automates phone calls for car dealerships, enhancing customer service and streamlining interactions. Despite advancements in digital communication, phone calls remain crucial in the automotive sector, and Toma leverages AI to improve these experiences significantly. Monik shares his journey in the tech industry, detailing Toma's evolution from experimenting with different AI applications to focusing on voice AI. He explains the challenges and successes faced along the way, highlighting how AI technology has matured since his early work with chatbots in 2016. The conversation reveals how Toma's voice AI quickly gained user traction, validating their focus on this innovative technology. The episode also delves into the practical implementation of Toma's AI solutions in the automotive industry. Monik emphasizes the importance of integrating AI with existing dealership software and the gradual rollout process to ensure effectiveness. He discusses the need for clear communication about AI's role in customer interactions, reflecting diverse responses across different demographics. Monik's insights provide a compelling look at the future of AI in automotive customer service. Toma (https://www.toma.so/) Follw Toma on X (https://twitter.com/toma_voice), LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/tomavoice/), or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/tomavoiceai/). Follow Monik Pamecha on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/monikp/). Follow thoughtbot on X (https://twitter.com/thoughtbot) or LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/150727/). Transcript:  CHAD: This is the Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots podcast, where we explore the design, development, and business of great products. I'm your host, Chad Pytel. And I'm joined today by Monik Pamecha, Co-Founder and CEO of Toma, which provides AI for the automotive industry. Monik, thanks for joining me. MONIK: Hey, Chad, thanks for having me. CHAD: Obviously, in fact, as evidenced by the guest list that we've had over the last few months, a lot of companies are either integrating AI into their products or starting new companies. And you've been around doing AI for quite a while now. Tell us about Toma. MONIK: Yeah. So, Toma automates phone calls for the automotive industry right now, and we build a lot of different AI products as well. It's an interesting market, but one of the leading users of phone calls for doing business. So, a lot of the business, which is buying cars, you know, the first touch happens over the phone, you know, people bringing in their cars for service, getting updates, and all that, like, mostly happens over the phone, even though you have had websites and apps and all of these around. And to give you, like, an idea of scale, like, there are 290 million cars in the U.S. alone, which is, like, about 90% of the population has at least one car. So, scale is massive, and Toma is making that experience of getting service and just dealing with anything related to automotive, like, 100 times better. CHAD: So, I would encourage people to go to the website and check it out, because, I have to admit, I was a little skeptical, at first, about how good the phone call could actually be. And I was impressed by how natural it was, how it was able to respond in the video demos that I saw. So, how did you know that this was going to be possible? MONIK: I think a lot of it comes from our own experiences, I mean, not with automotive, but with technology. So, I've been in tech for a long time. I mean, I started writing code when I was, I think, 11 or 12, a similar story for my co-founders as well. But I've been doing machine learning research as well in the past. In fact, this was in 2016 when I wrote a paper on this as well, and we built a chatbot that was based on generative models. And, at the time, in 2016, it was really funky. Like, Google had come up with something called Sequence to Sequence, and we were using that to train it on a little bit of data that we had, and we had something that kind of worked. And, at the time, I was thinking that, I mean, when you were working with that, you'd see it, like, go off the rails and, like, do something really stupid. It couldn't even get grammar right. And, at the time, I saw all the holes that I was like, if somebody plugged these, like, you know, this would be phenomenal. Like, this is what it takes for it to work, you know, these are the places, more from a practical experience, right? Like, if you had to take it to production, like, what would you need to fix? And then, six years later, I see that things actually started picking up, right, like, they actually fixed all those holes. And it came back to me, and I was like, all right, this is the time. You know, those were the issues. They're all fixed. Now you can go ahead and build. So, I think a lot of it came from experience as to like, all right, this is what we should build, or this is why we should build, like, in terms of the technology. But we didn't really arrive at this idea, so to speak, you know, at least as a founding team. It was a lot of pivots. CHAD: What was the original sort of idea that you said, okay, we're going to start a company to do this? MONIK: Well, that was very different from this very, very different. So, my co-founder and I, like, most founders, like, the first thing they do is they try to look for problems that they themselves have. And we're like, huh, looks like...what do we have in common? We have some chronic conditions, and we've used diet to, you know, manage them. So, maybe let's build a tool to help, you know, patients manage conditions with, you know, diet recommendations. And we spent six months on that, and it went absolutely nowhere. Also, I think consumer products are just different. They require a different kind of thinking. But, you know, we were just trying to throw something on the wall and pray it sticks. And, you know, it was honestly pretty miserable because we got banned on a bunch of communities on Reddit and Facebook trying to promote it. And, like, all the people who tried our product they just never came back again, and, you know, things like that when you have something that people don't want, right? So, we see that side. I mean, and after that, we go ahead and we try to do...I think it was during it, I don't know, like, when you get a sense of, like, something's not going to work, where, like, then we realized maybe we should stick to what we know best, which is, you know, we're both technical. So, maybe we should do something that's, you know, more relying on those skills than something entirely different, which I think Y Combinator calls it founder-market fit. I think that's also very true. Of course, you can, like, build something for a business you know nothing about, but there must be some compatibility. So, yeah, we started with that, kept on experimenting. And then, I think, at some point, we were so annoyed that we made, you know, a list on Google Sheets. And we're like, all right, let's just, you know, vomit out 10 ideas that we have had, and let's write them all, and let's go after them one by one. Let's spend two weeks until we hit something that, you know, maybe we think has legs. And the third idea or the fourth idea on that was building something with voice AI. And, at the time, even that was, like, just a horizontal platform. That was it. All right, so we go ahead and commit to that. So, if we go through the list, try the first two or three ideas, I think the first thing was...then we went on the other extreme where we're like, all right, let's do something we do all day long, which is, as engineers, we are on call. So, you know, even at, I don't know, 2:00 a.m. in the night if your system is down, you get a pager on your phone saying, "Get on the computer and fix it." And we're like, how could we make that better? That was the first thing on that list. We spent some time trying to do it and, again, we kind of get that feeling. I think the more you fail, I guess, the better you get at detecting failure. I don't know about success but failure for sure it works like that. I think the third or the fourth idea was voice AI, and then we go ahead. We hack a prototype over a weekend and then put it out on...again, the communities that we know how to market were, like, Facebook groups and Reddit. And it picks up. Like, within, like, 3 days, we had 200 demo calls set up. And that just blew our minds because having been on the other side, we're like, oh, this is what it feels like when people kind of want something, what you have. I mean, it's still not clear, right? But -- CHAD: And you put it out there as automated voice assistant for businesses? MONIK: No, actually what we did [laughs], I mean, nobody will want to click that if you put it like that [laughter]. You know, just out of curiosity, I was like, "Hey, you know, I've built this thing. It does this, you know, what do you think? Do you think this has any use for you?" And that's it. Like, people are, you know, messaging me nonstop, like, DMing me that, "Can you please share it with me? You know, I run this business. This might be helpful." It was, like, more genuine. Like, I was just exploring, but, you know, that was a question that I posed. And that had, like, so many people show up, and they're like, "How about you just give us that and we can make money off of this?" And then, we started, you know, digging deeper, and we're like, oh, okay, it looks like you have so many manual processes and across industries. So, we had, like, some people from healthcare, some people from, like, you know, MLMs, multi-level marketing, so many different industries, optometrists, some in construction. Anyway, so we're, like, thinking at that point, huh, okay. Maybe there is something here. Again, no mention of automotive, no mention of dealerships, nothing. We had a single dealership then. And I would say this was, like, about six months. I don't even know how many months ago, but, like, a couple of months ago. I think, at the time, is when we applied to Y Combinator as well. CHAD: So, you applied to Y Combinator with the voice idea. MONIK: Right. And we put something out there. I forget if it was the healthcare idea or the voice idea, but it's probably one of the two. I mean, that's also the other thing about Y Combinator. I think they don't really focus on ideas as much as they just focus on teams, which I think is probably the best practice. You know, we pivoted again [laughs]. But yeah, so we did voice AI, and then spent some time just trying to do everything, right? Trying to build a horizontal layer for voice, where building assistance for all kinds of businesses. And, you know, one of the businesses, at the time, was a dealership. I always like to think of this as an arranged marriage, where, you know, we have the customer. We kind of work through it -- CHAD: So, you had an actual dealership that you were partnered with as sort of a expert in the industry? MONIK: Our first customer, right. And they were very progressive dealers, so they're always trying new things. And, at the time, we were working with a bank. We were working with some healthcare locations as well. We had some construction industry... whatnot. And we were going crazy trying to build something because everybody had these different requirements. And then, in practice, like, if you push AI out in the wild, to make it work, you need a lot of things, like deep domain expertise being one of them. So, that realization is happening, you know, where we're coming to terms with that. And, at the same time, it works really well for the dealership, and they bring another customer. And they're like, "Oh, they also want to use it," and we're like, "Okay, sure. We'll turn it on." Then we do it. And then, it works again. And then, they bring more customers. And then, we're like, wait a minute, you know, like, we're not doing any outreach. We're not pushing out anything, and it seems like customers want it. And then, there are these other places where we're struggling so much. Like, even with healthcare, you know, the regulations in banking and healthcare they slow down, you know, any sort of, like, AI implementations. So, even that world was very different with the automotive space. And you kind of do more of it and then you're like, oh, okay, looks like there is something here, and then we just decide to double down on that space. And then, we go further deep in and you realize, oh -- CHAD: Did Y Combinator...that can be a difficult decision for founders to make. So, did being in Y Combinator help you sort of give you the push to make that kind of bold decision? MONIK: At least from our experience, it's always been that they're, like, get to the truth very quickly, whatever it is, and then make a decision. Do not delay it. I think we were, in fact, slow to do that. I think they were probably pushing people to do it more because we saw companies pivot in our batch, like, two times, three times right before demo day, which is the end of the program. Like, two weeks before, they just completely changed the company, and that's completely okay. CHAD: So, how does an implementation actually happen? How does it roll out to a new customer? MONIK: I mean, this is also very new, right? I think as you come across new customers, you have to adapt the process. But the essence of it is that you first have some data to start, which is, for example, for us, we work with a bunch of call recordings because a lot of our customers are already recording a lot of their calls. So, that gives you, like, some data as to what the experience is like today. Then the next thing is you get an idea of what you know your customers want the experience to be like. And then, you're basically now figuring out the delta between the two. And then, you're configuring the AI agents, making sure, testing it. And then, you have, like, a period of, like, a week or so where you get through all of that. Then you work through integrations with existing softwares. That also, by the way, is another, like, I would say automotive is a sleeping giant. Like, an auto dealership, on average, like, per month will be spending $50, 000 on software. CHAD: Wow. MONIK: Because the whole business runs on software—everything starting from sales, inventory, parts, service, everything, repair orders—all of it comes through that. CHAD: Now, is there a single common platform that a lot of dealers are using? MONIK: Unfortunately, no. There are some major players; CDK Global is one of them, which actually was hacked recently. And it's in, like, over 15, 000 dealerships, and all of them shut down. CHAD: Wow. MONIK: Like, they just couldn't do any business, and they had to come up with creative workarounds. So, it was pretty painful, kind of, like, a COVID, you know, COVID moment for them. And then, yeah, we've been trying to help our dealers, whoever used that software, to, you know, again, come out with workarounds, where the AI is actually capturing all the information. And, you know, instead of dumping it into that system, it's, you know, finding workarounds on how to get it to our dealers. But yeah, so you integrate with them. That is, like, another major step. And they're, you know, they're not the most tech-forward companies so, you know, that can be a little challenging. CHAD: Right. So, they use a lot of software, but they're not necessarily tech for...they probably don't have big IT departments and that kind of thing. And then, the users are probably non-technical. MONIK: Correct. Yeah. The thing about dealers, I think, is that they're so plugged into the business, like, they know everything that is happening in the business. Everybody knows what the bottom line looks, what really will move the needle, what is a good customer experience. They may not be technical, but I don't think it even matters. That's the thing. But yeah, we were talking about, like, the process, so it takes a couple of weeks So, you do, you know, you get all the information from them as to what needs to be done. You integrate into the systems. And then, the next thing that you do is you start slowly, where, for example, when we start taking phone calls for them, we initially start with off hours and overflow. So, when nobody's able to pick up a phone call, we get the phone calls. And that's how you get, like, some training data at the beginning in a safe manner. And then, as the volume increases, you know, you get more confident, and you roll it out to a larger audience. But I think the key thing here is it has to be a gradual process because, even for the customer, it's something so new, like, to have a full-fledged conversation. Like, you can have a phone tree where it's, like, press one; press two. You're used to that kind of stuff, and that's been around for 15 years, and it still is, you know. And it is not the most natural thing, but it continues to exist. So, this is the next, you know, natural evolution of that interface where it's more free-flowing and, you know, less annoying. CHAD: Do all of your customers...when the AI agent answers, does it say it's an AI agent? MONIK: I mean, our recommendation is to always say that. I mean, it's up to the customer, eventually, if they want to say that or not. And, in fact, it is pretty interesting. Demographics make a huge difference. Like, we're live in, you know, all the states, not all but I would say, like, all the major states. And the way people behave with AI agents is so different, you know, Florida, and Michigan, and California, like, we see the call quality. We see the metrics. We see how annoyed people are or how happy they are and things like that. The way they talk is so different. And one of the parameters in that is actually, you know, letting them know that it is an AI or not as well. So, we tweak that based on, you know, where we are. But for the most part, we always say that because we want to set the expectations, right? Because, initially, when we didn't, the most popular question on the call was like, "Are you a human?" CHAD: [laughs] MONIK: And the fact that people are asking it was also pretty insane, right? CHAD: Right. They could sort of tell that something was different. MONIK: Yeah, if you have, like, a long enough conversation because, obviously, it's not human, right? And then, you go, like, five turns into the conversation, and then you realize, okay, it sounds like a human, like, you know, it's speaking pretty quickly. It's giving me the kind of answers I want. But, like, this thing is strange because, you know, humans have a personality now. Like, with AI, like, a lot of the systems, I mean, you can build personality into it, but it still doesn't have a personality, like, the truth is still that. And it does show up, you know, in interesting ways. And, of course, there can be, you know, some sort of mechanistic issues, you know, like, whatever, right, like, what the customer is really used to and then what you actually say. I think the best practice is to almost always declare, like, it's an AI. And that has improved call quality significantly. MID-ROLL AD: As life moves online, bricks-and-mortar businesses are having to adapt to survive. With over 18 years of experience building reliable web products and services, thoughtbot is the technology partner you can trust. We provide the technical expertise to enable your business to adapt and thrive in a changing environment. We start by understanding what's important to your customers to help you transition to intuitive digital services your customers will trust. We take the time to understand what makes your business great and work fast yet thoroughly to build, test, and validate ideas, helping you discover new customers. Take your business online with design‑driven digital acceleration. Find out more at tbot.io/acceleration or click the link in the show notes for this episode. CHAD: Did you train your own models? MONIK: Yeah, we collected enough data to be able to do that, and we have trained a lot of different components and different models. So, when you think of it, there's not, like, one model that does the whole thing. You have, like, a lot of these small, medium, and large models that do different parts. So, the voice and speech are, let's say, two components. I think the brain of the agent is really the thing that needs the most amount of training because, you know, text to speech and voice, I mean, they have, like, you know, some limits and then, some, you know, business return. Like, after some point, like, there's not really much value to be gained there because if you can transcribe everything, you know, to a certain level of accuracy, all the regions change, you know, accents change. You can always improve. Then it's just expanding scope. But really, with the brain of the agent, you have multiple different models that actually interact with each other, and they're not just LLMs or generative models. You have a lot of different types of things that are going. You know, you're looking up information. You are, you know, validating something. You're making sure if, you know, this is compliant with what, you know, your company's tone is, all of these happening at the same time. And then, these are the different things that you actually really need to train because that's so specific to, you know, the type of business that is happening. CHAD: So, are you also doing your own hosting of the models, or are you using a cloud provider for that? MONIK: Yeah, we use cloud providers. I think having a small team it's insane. I mean, you can host custom models on a lot of these providers now. And then, a lot of them even offer services for you to, like, train and, you know, they take care of the infrastructure as well. I think it's a good thing to rely on it if you're lean and small. There's only so much a few people [chuckles] can do and focus on. CHAD: What are you most focused on right now, either from a business or a product perspective, or, you know, where's your area of biggest risk? MONIK: Of course, there is always, you know, risk of competition. And I guess the real question is, like, where...a lot of popular AI companies get asked this as well, right? Like, what is your moat, right? And then, I mean, I think that is the most obvious risk, right? Where, like, what is stopping anybody else from doing what you're doing, right? And there are certain parts of it, which, you know, you can de-risk. Like, having data and having proprietary data is, like, one of the biggest factors in this, right, of de-risking this. I mean, there's also like, you know, the risk of, let's say, especially in our industry, is, like, taking technology to an industry where, you know, consumers are not pro-technology. You know, they don't want to jump at the best thing that there is, right, especially customer service generally suffers from that, right? Like, people anytime they hear a bot or something and they're like, "Ah, representative agent." So, there's, like, some underlying risk in, you know, human tendencies as to what they want. But, again, to think about it, like, you know, IVRs, which are these interactive voice response systems, they've been around for so long. Nothing about it is natural. It is completely alien to how we interact, but they've been around for so long. So, a lot of times, like, this innovation is actually pushed down from the business to the consumer and not the other way around. It may not be the best experience. It's getting there. So, it's that battle between the two, which I think can delay implementations. You know, some people, like, one of our customers, at one point, we went through the entire deal. And I think the owner of the dealership group just said, "I don't believe in AI." Now, you know, like, it's pretty hard, right? Like, you have the metrics. You have the numbers. You're generating value, but the belief is strongly held. And then, at that point, you know, there's nothing you can do. CHAD: Do you know why they were saying that? Was it like, I don't believe it as in I don't think it can do it, or I don't believe in it as in, like, it's against my ethics, or something like that? MONIK: I feel like it's probably because they've been burned by past experiences of AI. Like, I think chatbots have been around for so long, and a lot of people in the automotive industry have used them. Now, they used to suck. And as I remember in 2016 as well, you know, over the few years that came, like, it was still pretty terrible. So, I think it's some muscle memory from that. And then, also, I think AI has been hyped a lot, and I feel like people just generally discount anything that is hyped. And the opinion is that let's just wait for the dust to settle, and then we'll just pick the winners. So, it's also possible, right? On the adoption curve, like, there's you just hit some people who are probably not on the early or even the mid, right? Maybe on the tail end, which I guess is completely fine and true for any tech adoption cycle. CHAD: And it's true for any product that you're...this is not just an AI company problem. I think it's a startup thing, you know, to find the early adopters and then to move on from there. But you need those early adopters, those champions who are willing to do something new before other people. MONIK: Exactly. And, I mean, yeah, it's just surprising to me how many early adopters, even in...like, there are almost early adopters in every industry. Every business has people who just want to see something, you know, they're just excited about it, like, they're willing to take the risk. And sometimes I'm not even sure why. But, you know, there's just that element of thrill, and then also, you know, beating the market to it and things like that. And once you feel it, you understand the adoption curve initially. Because when you see customers, you see, ah, I see every dealership. Everybody should use us. I mean, as a naive founder, I think that that's what I used to think initially. And then, you know, over time, you get a sense of like, all right, you know, these are the types of customers that you should go after. These are the people who you should talk to first. And you build that kind of muscle as a founder and, yeah, new learnings. CHAD: So, you started with the voice assistant. But are you moving into providing other AI-driven solutions for the automotive industry? MONIK: Right. So, as we work with more dealers, we found out, you know, more areas that can be improved and, you know, gaps in, for example, communication. I think a lot of, like, quality of service really comes from how you can, you know, communicate with your customer. And it's not just about...you could do a good job and, you know, you could just completely destroy your, you know, quality scores because you didn't communicate well enough. And you could do a bad service and still have a great, you know, service, you know, experience by communicating well. So, I think a lot of it is key to communication, and that's our focus: using AI to make it better. Voice is one channel. There are other channels as well. And there are a lot of, you know, communication gaps within, you know, our customers, you know, business set up as well. So, we try to bridge that gap. CHAD: So, since you're focused on communication then, you're probably still leveraging generative AI solutions. MONIK: Oh, a lot of it is, you know, improved by that technology. Like, so I always think, like, great products usually bring in two things, right? One is a necessary evil. Let's say, you know, something that has to be done like a phone system, for example, like, you need people to call in. You need to set up all the numbers, phone trees, whatever, routing. And then, there is AI, which makes that whole process easier. So, I think good products usually have these two things combined, where it lets you do one nasty thing, which, you know, obviously, everybody else can do in a different way. And then, there's this one exceptional thing that you can do. And then, [inaudible 27:04] together, and it makes, like, a great offering for the business. I think that's what we're working towards. CHAD: What do you think about the way things are right now, in general? I do think that there are some companies that are saying, "Well, that great thing is the AI," but they're not necessarily solving a problem that needs to be solved in that way. MONIK: Yeah. I mean, I think to that part, right, the hype is real. Even in my mind, I just discount, like, 40% of the things that people say about AI now. Like, I mean, I would say it's more true than not, like, 60%, sure, but, like, a rough number in my mind is just 40%, and people, like, exaggerate. But, I mean, that's not because, I guess, they're lying. It's because they're, you know, hopeful, right? Because nobody knows, like, in practice. Like, I mean, now that we've done, you know, hundreds and thousands of minutes of AI phone calls, like, that has, like, you know, added to my judgment. And I kind of know, like, you know, what is possible and what is not with even the most cutting-edge stuff there is. I think a lot is possible. But it's unfair to say that, oh yeah, it's as good as a human, for example, right? Like, in certain use cases, that just is not true. It's a different paradigm. It's just a different design interaction that has never existed before. There's nothing human about it. You can try to force it to be as human as you want but then it is forced human. Like, it is still not natural because it just isn't. CHAD: So, I'm getting the sense then that that might not be your north star. That might not be what you're shooting for. MONIK: Yeah, not at all, no. At the end of the day, a tool should drive business outcomes, right? And then, to drive business outcomes, you got to understand what your customer and their users want, for example. You know, I can imagine a world where people will say, you know, when a human picks up the phone, and they're like, "No, I don't want to talk to you. Can you transfer me to a, you know, the virtual agent?" Like, it will happen, right? And it won't be natural. Like, I do not think it will be natural, and it will be different. Because imagine, like, a human having access to all the information at the same time. Like, how would they behave, right? Like, humans behave in a serial manner, and then there is, like, some simplicity to some interactions and some complexity to others. That's not the case with, you know, all the information you have. Like, I already know, for example, if you call me, right, and I'm an AI agent for your business, I know so much about you already, right? Like, I'm not going to act the way, you know, an agent would act who's, like, now pulling up something on the screen, and they're like, "Give me a moment," and then they're reading through your stuff. Like, I already know all the issues you've had, all the conversations you had in the past. So, now I know what's exactly wrong, and, in fact, I'll give you the answer straight up, right? Because I can kind of get ahead and figure out what you really want. CHAD: There's an example in one of the example videos I watched or, actually, I was trying to think, would I ever want to not talk to a person, right? There's an example in one of your videos where you can see the person does exactly what I do on a call. They say their email address is their first name dot last name at gmail.com. And that's not exactly what mine is, but it's like that. And I say that, and most of the people that I talk to on the phone when I say that they...and I think it might be because they're not on a screen that has my first name and my last name on it anymore. Oftentimes, they don't remember my name, or can't see it, or can't understand what I'm saying. But the AI has all the information, and it understood what you were saying, and it just gets it instantly. MONIK: Exactly. Another example of that, right? Let's say, like, you called six times, right? I mean, usually what happens in call centers often is that, like, you get thrown around, different agents pick up, and then maybe the data comes there. I've heard that, like, on existing recordings of, like, humans, where it's like, "I'm calling for the sixth time. Like, do you need me to repeat the same thing again?" And then, they go through the same flow again because that is the policy, for example. And then, they're just so annoyed. Like, with AI, there's no such thing. It's just, you know, one model that's consistent, that's listening to everything. And it's like, even before you say...like, "I see you've called for the sixth time. You know, I'm really sorry that this is happening," and, you know, whatever. Just simple things like that. CHAD: I'm just thinking about those experiences that I've had with customer service that have been that. And, yeah, that's why I think that this is really, you know, has a lot of potential. So, how do you sort of, you know, critics of AI will often point to, like, putting people out of work, right? How do you think about that? MONIK: Yeah. I always, like, to pin it down to, like, evidence, and, I think, at this point, I have enough to talk about this. I think what we've seen with our technology is that a lot of it leads to repurposing of existing talent. So, for example, there are, you know, business development companies that dealerships rely on for inbound and outbound calling. Now, when we free their time up from inbound, like, that's what we focus on right now, and take off all the mundane tasks, like, the agents that they have are now free to do a lot more outbound, which actually drives more sales or, you know, gives a better experience because, you know, people are checking up on them and saying, "Okay, how was your service a week later," right? And the person feels really good. And if there's any problem, they address it, whatever, right? So, I think there is more stuff to do than humans will ever be able to do, and our desires have no end. We will continue to pursue that. So, as you free up something...it's like a race which has no finish line. You get a little bit of lead, but that doesn't mean anything because now you still got to keep going and keep going, and that's what we've seen. So, you know, with service advisors, for example, who would get phone calls in the service department of the dealership all the time, now they don't get calls anymore, right? But they're able to spend more time with people in the store. So, they're actually able to upsell more. So, this kind of efficiencies that you drive, like, they take off the stuff that, you know, you don't want to do all the time and is repeatable to some extent, and then you free them to do things that they couldn't have done before. So, it really is, you know, realizing that there is this endless amount of work that always needs to be done. And here, I took this off your plate, but you still have all this work to do. So, it's just repurposing of, like, talent that's been happening again and again. And, I mean, there is, of course, that's not to say that there is not going to be a loss of job opportunities, things like that, because, you know, it's just part of creative destruction as it is called, right? Where anything new will create some sort of disruption and then, you know, destroy certain things, but then it creates more, you know, on a net basis. That's happening, yeah. I mean, if you think about it, like, I mean, I remember I grew up in India. This was, like, 15 years ago, I don't know, maybe 10 years ago, too. There was somebody who would sit in the elevator, and their only job was to press a button. If you think about it, right? Like, I mean, is that job like, you know, what value is it driving? Of course, like, to some extent, right? And then, they came up with these elevators where you could punch in the numbers, you know, exact floors right at the beginning, and you just walk into the right elevator, and that's done. So, I mean, that job obviously does not exist anymore or does not need to exist anymore, right? But, I mean, I don't know if anybody else in the world has an opinion on that job existing, for example. Like, it's just, over time, when we look back, it just seems, like, obvious that, you know, why were we doing that? We should be doing this other thing. So, I think it's just movement. CHAD: Right. Yeah. I think it is uncomfortable in the moment but, you know, there is a certain trend to the world, aside from AI, aside even from technology, specifically of progress. And, you know, over time, positive comes from that, but that doesn't mean that there's not pain in the meantime. MONIK: There is, yeah. Definitely, there is pain. And I think the real reason why people feel this a lot is sometimes, like, even I make that mistake myself of viewing yourself as, like, stationary in terms of, like, skills and learning. It's like, you are everything you've learned up till now. And, okay, if what I knew up until now is not going to be relevant tomorrow, then what am I going to do? But the thing is that everybody has the capability to learn and improve, and, in fact, even that gets easier and easier with time because technology makes that easier. And then, people are able to do more things than they could do before, learn faster, for example. And it's important to not forget that we have that ability. You know, we can always change and improve, and, in fact, knowing so much makes us even better at knowing more. And that's why we've been able to adapt to every change in history so far; we always have. You know, so that fear is natural. But I think, over time, when we all look back and we're like, oh my God, why were we doing that? You know, like, and we will all be doing different kinds of things. Like, that is guaranteed. That is going to happen. But that fear still exists, and I think that is what causes the pain. It's the anxiety of it. Like, really? Of course, you have to change, you know, tracks. That is very real, but it's not as painful as fear makes it. CHAD: Well, speaking of growing, and changing, and improving, you mentioned that, you know, you and your co-founder are both technical. How have your roles changed as the company has progressed, and what have you learned [chuckles], and have you settled into any sort of roles? MONIK: Yeah. So, I'm the CEO. My co-founder is a CTO. We both used to write code at the beginning. Now only one of us writes code. CHAD: And I'm guessing it's not you [laughs]. MONIK: Yeah, it's not me. Although I do miss it sometimes, but, actually, to be honest, I don't. CHAD: [laughs] MONIK: I feel so happy to have found that, I mean, to have realized that. But yeah, I think, basically, I think now that I understand at least B2B business to some extent, I think you always need to have a clear split of, like, build and sell. And then, of course, there's all this additional stuff that you need to do, but I think these two distinctions need to be absolutely crystal clear because both are full-time jobs. And more than that, you need, like, owners of those spaces, and it's very hard to jump between the two. I mean, if they are solo founders, I mean, it's incredible how they do it if they're able to do both, or they rely on AI, or they rely on, you know, consultants, or contractors, or whatever. But I think those are the two roles. And it came, I mean, I think it was just a natural progression. It's, like, when there's more work than people, I mean, that's usually a good place to be, I think, and that's how you know something is going well. You automatically assume natural roles. Because it's in that moment of, oh no, my list is, like, growing, like, quicker than you know, something, and then I need to jump in, and then you pick up the most natural and important things to you. And then, even if you're not good at, like, you don't have an option. You have to get better at it. For example, selling, like, I never did any sales, ever. Like, I was doing machine learning and distributed systems and whatnot. But I've come to now realize that, okay, that is something that I enjoy that I think I can learn and get better at. And everything I did before, actually, even the engineering mindset helps with sales because it's just a process. So, we kind of assumed our roles when we just had too much on our plate, and we're like, "All right, you'll do this. I'll do this. Okay, fine." And then, we just talk about it, and then, all right, we keep doing it, and then now it just becomes a routine. CHAD: Yeah, how has your team grown? MONIK: Well, we've been two of us now, and we're hiring for a software engineer right now. So, we've been very lean. And I think...and this is also to something that Sam Altman said. I think it was him or I don't know who said that but, you know, you'll probably see the first one-person billion-dollar company. CHAD: Yeah, I think it was, yeah. MONIK: And I think there is some truth to it. Like, I don't know about billion, but, like, maybe a couple of million, a couple of hundred million, like, that might happen sooner. Because we've always tried to stay very, very lean, and I think we've relied on using technology wherever possible. But yeah, that's not to say...we still need people to build. And we are looking for a software engineer because, at some point, there's only so much we can do. CHAD: Yeah. So, what would make someone a good fit for your team in that software engineering position? What are they coming to the table with? MONIK: Everything, I wish. No, I mean, there are some exceptional people. And I think that's exactly what we're looking for is engineers with a founder's mindset because a founder's mindset is always like, you know, give us all the information. We'll make the decisions and figure out like, you know, what needs to be done. And someone who's, of course, exceptionally skilled at technology, at writing code, at building software, but also at understanding like, you know, what to build. I think that is, like, a killer combination and that is what differentiates, like, a great extraordinary engineer from anybody else. CHAD: Well, especially since it's going to be the second developer [chuckles], you're going to have high needs and expectations for that. MONIK: And with startups, right? It's always a little bit of chaos, and it's people who thrive in that chaos. And that's the thing, right? I've worked in, like, a bunch of startups that actually went on to become unicorns. I worked at Turing.com, which I think is...$4 billion, something like that now. But when I joined, there were, like, you know, just 10 people. And every company has problems, you know. And there's always this chaos that ensues, you know, at every stage. But there are some type of people who, like, thrive in that. They just love it. And there are some people who complain about it. I think the ones who complain about it lose that opportunity to grow, and they don't have the mindset to see opportunity in it. And I think those are the people who are absolute amazing, you know, future founders, you know, or even, like, great founding engineers are employees like that because they like that challenge, you know. It's like, this is wrong. Let me go fix it. CHAD: Right. And the reverse is also true. There's a point in a company's life cycle where they need a different kind of person that is more, like, stable [laughs]. MONIK: Well, I don't know. I think I disagree with that. I think, I mean, that's when the company, you know, plateaus. Like, if you bring in more people like that, you...really, like, what is a company? It's just a collection of really smart people. The fact that OpenAI is able to do what Google cannot over the span of six years is because they just do not hire people, you know, of certain caliber, certain mindset. They just keep them out. Again, that's their policy, or even some larger companies. I think the idea is to keep that mindset going and going. It is tiring, right? But it is what drives innovation. Like, that's just the nature of it. CHAD: Well, if what you're describing sounds like someone who's listening, or if someone's in the automotive industry and wants to learn more, where can they do that? MONIK: Yeah, they can reach out to me, you know, my email is monik@toma.com. So, they could get to us. CHAD: And you can subscribe to the show and find notes along with a complete transcript for this episode at giantrobots.fm. If you have questions or comments, email us at hosts@giantrobots.fm. You can find me on Mastodon at cpytel@thoughtbot.social. Monik, thank you so much for joining me and sharing the story with me. MONIK: Thanks, Chad. This was great. CHAD: This podcast is brought to you by thoughtbot and produced and edited by Mandy Moore. Thanks so much for listening and see you next time. AD: Did you know thoughtbot has a referral program? If you introduce us to someone looking for a design or development partner, we will compensate you if they decide to work with us. More info on our website at: tbot.io/referral. Or you can email us at: referrals@thoughtbot.com with any questions.

In this episode, Braxton Critcher is joined by Justin Allen from Hunter Engineering Company. Justin emphasizes the urgent need for ongoing training in the automotive repair industry due to rapidly evolving vehicle technology. He introduces Hunter University, an innovative online learning platform designed to provide accessible training for technicians. Additionally, Justin highlights the complementary role of the Hunter Learning Channel on YouTube, offering procedural content to enhance technicians' skills and efficiency.00:00 Braxton discusses the importance of automotive repair training.06:02 Hunter Engineering Company expands training with an online platform.10:04 Create your learning portal with certificates.11:31 High demand for automotive training due to retirements.

Richard Hawwa is a Managing Director at Nomura Greentech, leading the Mobility and Automotive Technology practice in the Americas. Richard has 18 years of investment banking and operational experience, having advised on M&A and capital raising transactions with an aggregate value of more than $125 billion. Links: Show notes: http://brandonbartneck.com/futureofmobility/richardhawwa Edison Manufacturing Exchange: https://brandonbartneck.substack.com/publish/home https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-hawwa-42a64b44/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:42 Misconceptions About Raising Capital 09:46 The Significance of Cash Burn and Gross Margin 12:13 Understanding the Importance of Cash and Margin 16:19 The Skepticism of Investors and Founders 18:26 The Never-Ending Fundraising Process 22:31 The Importance of Scalability in Building a Business 24:45 The Dichotomy of Venture-Backed Startups and Bootstrapped Businesses 27:48 Scaling a Business: Manufacturing and Bomb Cost 33:04 Building a Sustainable Competitive Moat 34:57 The Role of Capital Deployment 37:47 The Importance of Trust and Reputation in Relationships 41:09 The Value of Domain-Specific Experience 46:32 Conclusion Keywords investment banking, raising capital, financial picture, misconceptions, capital market, funding, milestones, revenue projections, scalability, marketing, building a business, fundraising, scaling, manufacturing, bomb cost, economies of scale, vertical integration, competitive moats, capital deployment, trust, reputation, domain-specific experience, CFO Richard Hawwa Bio: Richard is a Managing Director at Nomura Greentech, leading the Mobility and Automotive Technology practice in the Americas. Richard has 18 years of investment banking and operational experience, having advised on M&A and capital raising transactions with an aggregate value of more than $125 billion. Richard most recently served as the Chief Financial Officer at Embark Trucks, a NASDAQ-listed developer of self-driving software. He was instrumental in taking Embark public and its subsequent strategic sale in 2023, having helped raise $300 million in public and private capital. Prior to joining Embark in 2021, Richard served as a Managing Director at Citigroup, responsible for coverage of companies in the global mobility and automotive sector, advising and executing strategic M&A and capital raising transactions. Throughout his career, Richard has served as a relationship and execution leader across a variety of sectors and clients and, in this capacity, is actively involved with management teams and Board of Directors in new idea generation, capital raising transactions, strategic and valuation/defense reviews, acquisition and divestiture implications and overall strategic and capital raising advisory services. Richard's broad industry and transaction experience has been instrumental in supporting new and sustainable technologies in complex transactions and bringing his operational and transaction experience to the benefit of clients. Nomura Greentech: Nomura Greentech is a global investment banking advisory firm that supports companies in Capital Raising, M&A and Strategy. The team has the deepest transactional experience across Wall Street to provide real-time advice and form long-term partnerships with clients with access to investors globally Future of Mobility: The Future of Mobility podcast is focused on the development and implementation of safe, sustainable, effective, and accessible mobility solutions, with a spotlight on the people and technology advancing these fields. Edison Manufacturing and Engineering: Edison is your low volume contract manufacturing partner, focused on assembly of complex mobility and energy products that don't neatly fit within traditional high-volume production methods. linkedin.com/in/brandonbartneck/ brandonbartneck.com/futureofmobility/

WWJ auto analyst John McElroy reports vehicle to vehicle technology is available to prevent crashes and save lives.  

On this episode of the Six Five On The Road at Computex Taipei, hosts Olivier Blanchard and Anshel Sag are joined by Qualcomm's Don McGuire, SVP & CMO for a conversation on Qualcomm's role in pushing the boundaries of technology through its Snapdragon platform. The discussion spans from the overall impact of the Snapdragon brand across various sectors including mobile, sound, XR, automotive, and the emerging segment of AI PCs. Their discussion covers: The evolution and recognition of the Snapdragon brand beyond mobile, entering new domains such as sound, XR, automotive, and AI PCs. How Snapdragon's entry into the AI PC platform with its next-generation features aims at redefining the PC industry. The positioning of Snapdragon as both a technology disruptor and an innovation accelerator, and its strategic approach to market leadership. Key differentiators of the Snapdragon platform in contrast to other technology solutions, and the significance of these distinctions for the wider tech ecosystem. Learn more at Qualcomm.

NewsRadio WFLA White House Correspondent Jon Decker - A preview of Kenyan President William Ruta's visit to the White House. Tampa Bay Business Journal Real Estate Editor Ashley Kritzer - Two new housing developments are breaking ground and Tampa is getting a new fast food chain. ABC News Tech Reporter Mike Dobuski - The latest in automotive tech from the Spring Brake event in Pennsylvania. Senior Elections Analyst for FiveThirtyEight Geoffrey Skelley - Will RFK, Jr. qualify for the debates and how could his candidacy impact the election? ABC News Crime & Terrorism Analyst Brad Garrett - Blood sent to the RNC, pipe bombs on Jan. 6 - How political violence is heating up and what law enforcement is doing about it. Feeding Tampa Bay President & CEO Thomas Mantz - Feeding Tampa Bay celebrates the grand opening of their new Causeway Center. US Coast Guard Auxiliary Commander Gordon Thomas - Safety tips for National Boater Safety Week.

In this episode, Braxton talks with Brian Plott from the Equipment and Tools Institute (ETI). Brian shares exciting news about ETI's expansion into the global market, specifically their plans to establish a presence in Europe. He discusses the long-range planning that preceded this decision and the strategic moves ETI made to align with its board's vision. Additionally, Brian emphasizes the differences in business practices between the U.S. and Europe and how this expansion will aid in fostering better relationships with European OEMs, ultimately enhancing the information flow and support systems.00:00 ETI expands to Europe, maintaining a neutral stance.03:10 Evaluated, planned, and implemented European market expansion.06:34 Obtaining information and support from European OEMs.10:04 Rapid technological progress in the automotive industry.

In this episode, hear the latest developments in the automotive repair industry, focusing on several innovative technologies and industry trends. Brian Plott from ETI shares insights into the expansion of ETI into Europe, replicating their successful American model to engage with new members and OEMs overseas. Auto makers are pushing for advancements in automotive head-up displays, including both hologram and augmented reality technologies aimed at enhancing driver safety without distraction. Additionally, Michelin's progress on their airless tire technology, Uptis, emphasizes its potential benefits and ongoing real-world testing.  Thanks to our sponsor AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching! Schedule your free strategy session here: autofixautoshopcoaching.com

Today we have a very special episode featuring Dr. Rana el Kaliouby, former Co-Founder and CEO of Affectiva, currently Deputy CEO of Smart Eye, having a discussion with Smart Eye CEO Martin Krantz. In their conversation, Rana and Martin touch on the significance of recent design wins, the methodology behind estimating revenue and lifetime value, and the exciting potential of combining interior sensing with generative AI. Listen in to learn more.Links of interest:[Read] Press Release: Smart Eye Announces New Automotive Interior Sensing AI Design Win with European Premium Car Manufacturer[Watch] Watch full livestream video of this conversation[Read] Blog Article: Smart Eye Achieves Another Milestone with Interior Sensing Design Win[Download] eBook: Interior Sensing: The Next Frontier in Improving Road Safety and the Mobility Experience

NAPA trainers Curt Eigenberger, Bill Weaver, and Randy Cohen, discuss the critical role of training in the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). The conversation underscores the industry's evolution, the need for technicians to update their skills continuously, and the overarching theme of safety and ongoing education in response to technological advancements. The role of mechanical and technology specialists is changing faster than a pit stop at the Indy 500. Always know that training is a key pillar to your strategic success. We're not just talking about keeping up with the latest tech but about staying ahead of the curve. Show Notes: Watch Full Video Episode Link to NAPA Auto Tech Training Technology Skills and Mindset (00:02:06) The conversation delves into the mindset and skills required for today's technology specialists, emphasizing the blend of engineering knowledge and artisan skills. Evolving Training with Technology (00:04:57) The evolution of training in response to technological advancements, including the need to adapt to industry trends and technician needs. Youth in the Automotive Industry (00:06:53) Insights on the changing demographics in the automotive industry, including the increasing interest in technology and electronics among young technicians. Preparing Future Specialists (00:09:47) Identifying and grooming individuals for technology specialist roles, emphasizing the importance of motivation, desire, and forward-thinking. Traits of Successful Specialists (00:13:26) Key traits of successful technology specialists, including problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and the ability to anticipate future industry developments. Recruiting and Identifying Talent (00:14:44) The recruitment of potential technology specialists, with an emphasis on identifying talent within the existing workforce and beyond. The need for a different mindset (00:16:16) The need for individuals to adapt to new technologies and change their mindset. Adapting to high-voltage electricity (00:17:12) The importance of understanding and respecting high voltage electricity and the need for proper training and safety measures. Safety and training for electric vehicles (00:19:12) The necessity of safety and proper training for working on electric vehicles, emphasizing the need for awareness and respect rather than fear. Changing approach to working on vehicles (00:21:31) The need to rethink traditional practices and prioritize safety when working on vehicles, especially in the context of electric vehicles. Pre-qualifications and assessments for EV training (00:24:30) The importance of pre-qualifications and assessments for individuals attending EV training, emphasizing the need for certification and safety awareness. The future of automotive technology (00:27:02) The future of automotive technology, including trends in alternative fuels and propulsion systems, and the evolving nature of the industry. Embracing change and technology in the industry (00:28:55) The excitement and opportunities in embracing new technologies and changes in the automotive industry, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation. Adapting to new roles in the industry (00:29:14) The shift away from traditional stereotypes in the automotive industry, focusing on the evolving roles and opportunities for individuals interested in technology. The importance of conversational learning (00:32:53) The value of conversational and interactive learning, allowing for open discussions and addressing...

Join host Matt Watson as he goes into the complex world of automotive technology with a twist of entrepreneurial spirit. In this episode, Matt sits down with the innovative mind behind WebBuy and the visionary founder of Pauldron, CTO Steve Dimock. Buckle up as they traverse through the rugged landscapes of Montana, exploring the untamed frontier of tech industry growth. From the emergence of pioneering companies like Onyx to the burgeoning computer science programs igniting young minds, Montana's tech scene is a force to be reckoned with. Unveil the challenges of crafting an online car-buying platform with Steve Dimock, where the scarcity of software talent in Kansas is just the tip of the iceberg. Dive deep into the complexities of digital retailing solutions and the quest for transparency in the automotive realm. Explore the innovative strategies employed by WebBuy and Pauldron to revolutionize the car buying process, promising not just efficiency, but a newfound trust between dealerships and consumers. Discover how they're slashing dealership wait times and reshaping the very fabric of automotive retail. Peel back the layers of technological ingenuity as Matt and Steve dissect the AI-powered revolution in vehicle service contracts. From personalized recommendations to seamless follow-ups, witness the future of automotive maintenance unfold before your eyes. And don't miss out on the riveting tale of Steve Dimock's latest venture, Pauldron, where partnerships pave the road to success and experience meets innovation head-on. Tune in as Matt Watson and Steve Dimock navigate the fast lanes of tech entrepreneurship, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to reshape the automotive landscape, one byte at a time.   Find Startup Hustle Everywhere: https://gigb.co/l/YEh5   This episode is sponsored by Full Scale: https://fullscale.io/   Visit the WebBuy website:  https://webbuy.com/    Visit the Pauldron website: https://pauldron.net/    Learn more about Stephen Dimock https://www.linkedin.com/in/sdimock/    Highlighted Discussion Points Automotive tech and startup WebBuy and Pauldron with CTO Steve Dimock. 0:01 Tech industry growth in Montana. 1:03 Challenges in creating an online car-buying platform. 2:19 The complexity of car buying process and digital retailing solutions. 6:11 Car buying process and software to improve trust and efficiency. 9:51 Digital retailing for car dealerships. 14:51 Digital retailing adoption in the automotive industry. 21:28 Automotive digital retailing and new company Pauldron. 26:35 AI-powered vehicle service contract follow-up system. 31:25 Go-to-market strategy for a new venture. 36:45 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Mind the Innovation Manufacturing Leadership Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Mallerie Merchant, a dedicated professional with a strong background in business and sales. We delved into the exciting electronic industry, the impact of technological advancements, the importance of strong mentorship and company culture, and the evolving customer relationships in a changing world. Listen in for valuable insights on leadership, skills development, and the keys to thriving in a dynamic industry. You can reach Mallerie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malleriemerchant/ malleriemerchant@rcmerchant.com https://www.rcmerchant.com/ For more content like this, subscribe to Mind The Innovation on Apple or Spotify, or wherever you like to listen. You can find Sannah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sannahvinding/ or visit https://mindtheinnovation.com/hello/ Stay curious and keep learning Thanks for listening! Sannah

If the cars just stayed locked better, they say, there wouldn't be as many carjackings! Huh? You're telling me that these liberal "journalists" are acting as if the reason there were fewer breaking-and-entering events is because car doors were stronger back then? Grace shares some other euphemisms and silly semantics by the left-leaning media.