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Today on CarEdge Live, Ray and Zach discuss the latest data on unsold new cars. Tune in to learn more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today I'm joined by Paul Nadjarian, Chief Product Officer at Carfax. We break down why the smartest dealers are shifting from one-time gross to lifetime value, how vehicle history data closes the trust gap with consumers, and why “homegrown” inventory is becoming the most profitable used-car strategy. Paul also explains how automation and consumer signals are quietly driving higher service retention and better acquisition decisions without adding dealer workload. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Lotlinx - Meet LotGPT, your AI Inventory Strategist built exclusively for car dealers. Fluent in your market, your dealership, and your inventory, LotGPT analyzes live inventory, real-time market supply, and shopper demand to surface risk and opportunity VIN by VIN. It reveals competitive insights, shopper behavior, and pricing dynamics, and even identifies underperforming VDPs with merchandising recommendations to boost conversion without cutting price. Put LotGPT to work for your dealership today, totally free, @ https://lotlinx.com/LotGPT/. 2. Podium - Podium, the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ https://www.podium.com/car-dealership-guy. 3. Carfax - Drive long-term customer loyalty with CARFAX. Visit @ https://carfax.com/CDG to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 07:30 Why Gross Per Deal Is the Wrong Metric 10:25 The Inventory That Sells Faster and Makes More 12:40 The 19-Point Service Retention Gap 13:00 Miss Year One… Lose the Customer 28:00 The 20% Lift from Trust-Based Messaging 28:15 The 30% Lift from Coordinated Messaging 31:30 The Goldmine Most Service Lanes Ignore 33:20 The Used Car Section That Outsold the Rest 38:36 Without Loyalty, Dealer Economics Collapse Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1285: Today we unpack record negative equity making deals harder to pencil, service and parts lanes regaining momentum as dealers look for profit stability, and a surprising $56B productivity hit caused by generational friction and AI adoption inside modern sales teams.A growing number of buyers are rolling serious negative equity into their next vehicle purchase, creating real challenges for dealers trying to structure deals as lingering pandemic-era pricing continues to ripple through the market.Edmunds reports the average negative equity on trade-ins reached a record $7,214 in Q4, more than $1,000 higher than pre-pandemic 2019 levels.29% of new-vehicle buyers with a trade-in are underwater, up four percentage points from a year ago.Nearly 27% of underwater buyers carried at least $10,000 in negative equity, making deal structuring increasingly difficult for dealerships.Brian Maas of the California New Car Dealers Association summed it up: “At some point… even the most creative dealer can't figure out a way to help their customer get into a new car.”Our very own Chris Reeves did a deep dive in this morning's ASOTU daily email on how dealers can talk to customers about negative equity and real ownership cost.After a surprising dip late last year, dealer sentiment around service lanes bounced back in Q1 according to Cox Automotive, even as new-vehicle sales expectations remain flat.The Cox Automotive Dealer Sentiment Index for fixed operations rose to 63 in Q1, up from 61 in Q4.While improved, the score still trails mid-2025 levels of 65 and 66, showing the service business hasn't fully returned to peak optimism.Dealer expectations for future fixed ops opportunities jumped to 69, up five points from last quarter's low.With Cox forecasting flat new-vehicle sales around 16 million in 2026, service lanes may become even more critical for dealer profitability.A new report says generational tension inside sales teams isn't just awkward—it's expensive. A report from SalesLoft and Clari estimates generational conflict between Boomers, Gen X, and Gen Z is costing companies about $56 billion a year in lost productivity as AI adoption reshapes how teams work.Nearly 39% of Gen Z sales reps say they'd rather be managed by AI than a human, while some Boomers say they'd prefer AI over working with Gen Z colleagues.The tension is pushing talent out: 28% of Gen Z reps are job hunting to avoid Boomers, while 19% of Boomers are considering early retirement due to frustrations with Gen Z.Today's show is brought to you by iPacket Value. From accurate MSRP validaJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
- VW Dealers Sue to Block Scout's Direct Sales - Scout Reveals 160K Reservations and Production Timeline - Tesla Workers Reject Union in Germany - U.S. Hits Record Car Loan Debt - Stellantis Sells EV Vans for Same as Diesel - Honda Revives Insight Again, But as Pure EV - Hyundai and Kia Cut EV Models in the U.S. - BYD Makes Big Improvements with Next-Gen Battery
- VW Dealers Sue to Block Scout's Direct Sales - Scout Reveals 160K Reservations and Production Timeline - Tesla Workers Reject Union in Germany - U.S. Hits Record Car Loan Debt - Stellantis Sells EV Vans for Same as Diesel - Honda Revives Insight Again, But as Pure EV - Hyundai and Kia Cut EV Models in the U.S. - BYD Makes Big Improvements with Next-Gen Battery
In this episode of Lennox ON AIR, Dave and Doug visit Strategic America in Des Moines to hear how a cold call 45 years ago grew into a national marketing partnership supporting thousands of Lennox dealers. John, Lindsey, and Trista share how SA evolved from traditional media to full‑funnel digital strategy and why trust, data, and collaboration remain at the center of dealer success.The team breaks down what today's dealers need to stay competitive — from AI‑driven search changes to maintaining a strong digital footprint and giving agencies better lead‑quality feedback. Whether you're building brand awareness or driving more leads, this conversation offers clear, practical ways to strengthen your marketing and get more from the partnership.Lennox ON AIR is a Lennox Learning Solutions Production.
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1284: Today we're looking at Carvana quietly buying franchised dealerships, GM reshaping used-car sales around CarBravo, and Google's newest AI image model.Carvana is continuing its quiet march into the franchised dealer world. The online used-car giant just bought another Stellantis dealership near Boston—its sixth in about a year—raising eyebrows across the industry and hinting at a bigger strategy to capture inventory, service revenue, and customer proximity.The company has rapidly built a cluster of CDJR stores across the country including locations in California, Arizona, Georgia, and Texas, spending about $160 million on five of them.Stellantis recently added a rule limiting buyers to one CDJR dealership per year, a move some believe may be aimed at slowing consolidation from players like Carvana.Analysts say the strategy likely centers on access to trade-ins, parts, service revenue, and more used-car inventory to feed Carvana's core online business.CEO Ernie Garcia hinted at bigger ambitions saying: “The opportunities around us feel really, really, really big.”In a bid to compete with online disruptors like Carvana, GM is restructuring how its dealers sell pre-owned vehicles. The shift centers on pushing dealers toward GM's CarBravo platform and dramatically expanding what qualifies for a factory-backed warranty.GM is dissolving its long-running certified pre-owned program structure for Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC dealers, asking them to move used vehicle sales under its CarBravo national online marketplace starting in June.Dealers must use CarBravo if they want to sell used GM vehicles with factory-backed warranties, while Cadillac will keep its traditional certified pre-owned program.The program expands eligibility dramatically—even non-GM vehicles and cars up to 15 years old could qualify for warranties, far beyond today's typical five-year CPO limit.GM says the goal is to increase used-car inventory flowing through dealerships and capture demand in a market where 40M used cars sell annually vs. ~16M new vehicles.Mohawk Chevrolet president Andy Guelcher says the platform expanded reach: “I'm talking to people that I've never spoken to before.”Google just rolled out Gemini 3.1 Flash Image—aka Nano Banana 2—combining faster generation with the consistency needed for real production use.Google's Gemini 3.1 Flash Image merges the intelligence of its Pro image model with the speed of its Flash architecture, making high-quality image generation fast enough for everyday workflows.The model pulls real-time knowledge from the web, meaning generated images can reflect current information rather than static training data.It can maintain consistent characters across five people and track up to 14 objects, enabling multi-frame campaigns and repeatable branded assets.Today'Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
Degen Oscar season comes to a close as the boys grapple with seeing younger versions of themselves in Josh Safdie's 'Marty Supreme.' Andy kicks it off with a sprawling degenerate tale as he recalls the time he went to extreme (illegal) lengths to buy a replacement bass guitar part, which led to him relying on the greatest skill he had: playing claw machines. Then the fellas discuss a movie that some may see as standard Safdie running against time ridiculousness, while the guys see decisions that were emblematic of their chaotic plate-juggling youths as they realize they once lived the Marty Supreme lifestyle. With impeccable set design from the '50s, a wondrous score and needle drops from the '80s, and dialogue from present day the film takes place in post-WWII NYC but is of an indefinable era. Besides Timothée Chalamet powerhouse lead the movie is littered with non-actors, recognizable character actors, and a slew of stunt casting heavies. Afterwards, the guys rank the anti-heroes from Safdie movies, and make a case for why Marty is more sympathetic than his sociopathic behavior would have you believe. Because if you haven't risked it all by spinning too many plates, and over-promising to people around you in your 20s then you never experienced the Degen lifestyle.
Three years ago, Point S set an ambitious goal: 500 stores in 50 states within five years. At its 2026 Annual Owners Meeting in Phoenix, AZ, leadership shared how close the group is to that goal, and what still stands in the way.In this episode of What's Treading, Senior Editor Christian Hinton spoke with Point S leadership and dealers about distribution challenges, vendor partnerships, brand consistency and what's fueling expansion across nearly 40 states.Can Point S Reach 500 Stores?In 2023, Point S had 275 stores in 29 states. Today, the network stands at 464 stores across 39 states, including 80 new locations added in 2025 alone.Clint Young, president and COO of Point S, says growth has been strong... but not without hurdles.“Our biggest Achilles heel with growth has always been distribution,” Young said. “We're working to find dealers that are large enough to be able to take direct shipments and we can facilitate a very good member experience with them. So that's still a challenge, and we're looking at some growth opportunities with warehousing and some partnerships that we're really excited about.”CEO Walter Lybeck said improvements in third-party distribution have already helped accelerate expansion.“Third-party distribution was not as developed a couple of years ago as it is now," he said. "That's something that's really been able to help us in filling up that bucket for our new members.”Distribution and Platinum Partner StrategyLeadership emphasized that growth is not just about adding store count. It's also about strengthening dealer profitability and alignment.The 2026 promotional calendar centers around four Platinum Partners and 10 member-focused campaigns. According to Lybeck, narrowing that focus brings clarity.“By having four platinum partners, it really helps our members kind of focus on what it is that we need to be purchasing," he said.Young added that the structure creates energy at the store level.“That's going to give our owners and their store team members a lot of excitement and their communities to go out and connect with their populations and sell tires, so that is a big win for us,” he said.Why Brand Consistency MattersBrand consistency across more than 450 independent locations was another key theme of the meeting, and dealers echoed that sentiment. Michael Montgomery, general manager of TNT Tire Point S in Tacoma, Washington, said even simple upgrades make a difference.“New paint, 20-foot aprons in front of each one of the bay doors. New asphalt throughout the entire parking lot," he explained. "If it looks good, they'll feel comfortable coming in.”Vendor Relationships and Dealer MomentumThe vendor show, featuring about 80 vendors, remains central to the annual meeting. Young said the event builds more than purchasing power.“It sounds like you go to a vendor show to do business, but you really go there to build relationships with the vendors," he said. "What ends up happening is the members are building relationships with each other.”With 464 stores, expanded distribution support and a Top 3 Tire Dealer ranking in Consumer Reports, Point S leadership believes the path to 500 stores is becoming clearer — powered by relationships, brand alignment and disciplined growth.
Beware OR embrace the Ides of March! Dealers choice. On today's episode, host Bianca Martin, executive producer Hayley Sperling, and newsletter editor Rob Thomas give their top recommendations for ways to live your best life in Madison this March. From going to the next I'mProv, You're Prov comedy show and Wisconsin Film Fest previews to Femmestival 2026 and more, there's plenty to be excited about this month.
Luke Godwin has his finger on the pulse of the independent used-car dealer. For starters, he's a dealer himself as owner of Godwin Motors in Columbia, S.C. He's also a consultant working with independent dealers and a frequent speaker at industry conferences and 20 groups, not to mention co-host of the popular Independent Dealer Podcast. During a freewheeling conversation with Cherokee Media Group's Andrew Friedlander on the Auto Remarketing Podcast, Godwin offers his thoughts about what's keeping independent dealers up at night, what they can do better, opportunities in the used EV market, why it makes sense for franchise dealers to add buy-here pay-here to their toolkit, and more.
Today I'm joined by Michael Maroone, Chairman and CEO of Maroone USA. Michael breaks down why new cars are becoming commodities, where profit has actually migrated, and why culture, curiosity, and operational freedom matter more than pay plans. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - 78% of customers buy from the first business that responds, yet most businesses reply an hour or more late. Jerry 2.0 is the only fully customizable AI Employee. Jerry learns your playbooks, understands your inventory, schedules appointments, books test drives, handles trade-ins, books consultations, sends promotions, requests reviews, and learns from your feedback—within minutes, day or night. Businesses now let Podium's AI Employees handle 40% of their inbound leads, giving teams more time for their customers—and more time home for dinner. Learn what Jerry can do for you @ here! 2. Carfax - Drive long-term customer loyalty with CARFAX. Visit @ https://www.carfax.com/ to learn more. 3. Nomad Content Studio - Most dealers still fumble social—posting dry inventory pics or handing it off without a plan. Meanwhile, the store down the street is racking up millions of views and selling / buying cars using video. That's where Nomad Content Studio comes in. We train your own videographer, direct what to shoot, and handle strategy, to posting, to feedback. Want in with the team behind George Saliba, EV Auto, and top auto groups? Book a call @ http://www.trynomad.co Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 06:10 Instead of GMs, use equity-owning "President Partners." 06:45 Use a "Freedom Frame" for flexible governance. 08:00 High goodwill stores make partner buy-ins impossible. 19:55 Never use compensation to run your business. 21:10 Ask 20 questions in every elevator ride. 24:15 New car product has been totally commoditized. 26:15 We are facing a lost generation of CapEx. 32:15 Measure "Super PVR" to see total deal economics. 39:45 Reject framework agreements; they only hinder growth. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
In this episode of the Independent Dealer Podcast, hosts Jeff Watson and Luke Godwin dive into how AI is changing the way independent dealers run their day-to-day operations—from automating social media posts to handling leads without lifting a finger. They also get into the latest government pressure on the BHPH industry, what Elizabeth Warren's data request to NIADA actually means for dealers, and why market forces—not regulators—should be setting interest rates.What You'll Learn:- How Jeff automated his Google review responses and Facebook content using AI and Zapier- Why AI-powered lead conversations are setting appointments without customers ever knowing they're not talking to a human- The real limitations of AI bots—and what makes them frustrating vs. useful- What Elizabeth Warren's request to NIADA means (and why you probably don't need to panic)- Why capping auto loan interest rates would hurt the very customers regulators claim to protect- How market competition already regulates BHPH rates better than any government can- Why dealer conventions and industry education are your best protection against regulatory riskKey Takeaways:- Automate your review responses and social media posts with Zapier + ChatGPT—it's easier than you think- AI can handle inbound leads and set appointments, but only if it's built right- Good AI gets out of the way; bad AI runs customers in circles- If you're borrowing private capital, the government has no business telling you what to charge- Ignorance is not a defense—get educated at dealer conventions before regulators come knocking- Do it the right way and you have nothing to worry aboutThis episode is a must-listen for any independent or BHPH dealer curious about using AI tools to save time, cut costs, and stay ahead—plus straight talk on the regulatory noise that keeps coming for our industry.Support the businesses that support the podcast:Buckeye Risk Services - Reinsurance, tax planning, and long-term wealth strategies built specifically for independent dealers.https://theindependentdealer.com/buckeyeBlytzPay - Buy Here Pay Here payment processing with fast funding, text-to-pay, and real dealer-focused support.https://theindependentdealer.com/blytzpayIturan GPS - GPS and payment technology for BHPH and retail dealerships focused on asset protection, recovery tools, and customer management.https://theindependentdealer.com/ituranFollow & Connect: Website: www.theindependentdealer.comEmail: info@independentdealer.comFacebook Group: @independentautogroupLuke Godwin: @lukegodwinJeff Watson: /sendtojeffwLike, subscribe, and share this episode with another dealer who's ready to put AI to work on their lot.
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1279: Today we break down CarEdge's new Dealer Transparency Index shaking up pricing accountability, GM's MobileService+ reboot with lower-cost gas crossovers, and a fresh bump in consumer confidence that could signal steadier showroom traffic ahead.CarEdge just launched a new public report card for dealers—and it's aiming straight at pricing transparency. The AI-powered platform unveiled its Dealer Transparency Index, grading over 4,600 U.S. dealerships on how “real and honest” their pricing practices actually are.The Dealer Transparency Index (DTI) scores dealers on a 100-point scale, translating into A–F grades based on real out-the-door quotes.Scores are built from 40,000+ verified OTD quotes using CarEdge's AI negotiation platform. Dealers can't pay to improve their grade.The formula weighs doc fees (30%), add-ons (30%), dealer markups (30%), and quote data quality (10%).CarEdge lists 4,957 dealers in their search. 2,403 are graded A, 306 are graded F.CEO Zach Shefska clarified the mission: “We're not anti-dealer. We're anti-deception…"GM is retooling its MobileService+ strategy after dealers pushed back on the original $150,000 BrightDrop EV vans. Now, gas-powered crossovers are stepping in to power the next phase of at-home service—and dealers say this version actually pencils.Starting Q2, GM will offer upfitted 2026 Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain and Cadillac XT5 models for mobile service.The move follows the cancellation of BrightDrop 600 production and dealer concerns over cost, size and battery range.Upfront costs are expected to be cut by at least half compared to the $150,000 EV van. Dealers can even self-install the service kit in 6–8 hours.The setup allows stores to remove the equipment and resell the vehicle later—far more flexible than the “one-and-done” BrightDrop approach.MobileService+ Director Chris Hornberger said the new models hit the mark: “This, we feel, is the sweet spot, exactly what the dealers are looking for.”Consumer confidence edged higher in February, snapping a January slide as Americans felt slightly better about jobs and the labor market. While optimism is still well below last year's peak, expectations for the months ahead are starting to firm up.The Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index rose 2.2 points to 91.2, beating economist expectations of 87.The labor market differential improved, with more consumers saying jobs are “plentiful” versus “hard to get.”Today's show is brought to you by ESi-Q. ESi-Q measures employee satisfaction and provides actionable insight Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
Send a textEver wonder why hiring costs keep rising while performance stalls? We sit down with HR leader turned fractional consultant Seth McColley to unpack how founder-led companies in construction, manufacturing, and distribution can get senior HR capability without a full-time hire. Seth shares practical plays that save money fast—like replacing pricey recruiter fees with smart sourcing—and shows how to build a review process that actually improves performance instead of sparking anxiety.We dive into the backbone of execution: job descriptions that are real, measurable, and updated on a cadence. Seth walks through pairing self-assessments with manager assessments to expose gaps early, then turning those insights into targeted coaching, training, and better project assignments. We challenge the norm of tying performance reviews to pay, making the case for separating growth conversations from compensation so people hear feedback and act on it. Along the way, we cover legal pitfalls across states, termination planning, and why clear documentation is both fair and protective.This conversation also tackles culture and operations at street level. From low-hanging revenue—like calling back parts portal visitors—to mystery-shopping your phones and building rotation programs, we highlight repeatable habits that compound trust and results. And when succession looms, we map the human risks: runners-up who bolt, or worse, stay bitter. The fix is proactive roles, rotations, or dignified off-ramps. Above all, we argue HR must learn the business: margins, customers, shop realities. That's how policies, hiring, and reviews line up with what wins in the field.If you lead a small to mid-sized, founder-led team and want fewer landmines, faster hires, and reviews that move the needle, this one's for you. Subscribe, share with a colleague who wears “HR by default,” and leave a review with your biggest HR challenge—what should we break down next? Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - Construction, Mining, Agriculture, Cranes, Trucks and Trailers.We provide comprehensive online learning programs for employees starting with an individualized skills assessment to a personalized employee development program designed for their skill level.
Dealers must create content that consumers TRUST. I had the opportunity to catch up with Art Pier at C-4 Analytics NADA 2026 booth for an incredibly insightful interview on dealership marketing. We discuss the marketing strategies that dealerships need to take action on in 2026. #nada2026 #automotive #dealership #nada #dealershipmarketing Digital Dealership Solutions: ddsolutions.ca Strategy With Jason: strategywithjason.com Bell2Bell: bell2bell.ca Listen To The Strategy With Jason Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3IwlT3v Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3fT8V3H Soundcloud: https://bit.ly/347rnDb
The Canadian Bitcoiners Podcast - Bitcoin News With a Canadian Spin
Today Sam D'Arc is joined by Zach Billings, Co-Founder of Wikimotive. We break down why AI search is an evolution of SEO—not a replacement—and why consumer behavior is changing far slower than the hype suggests. Zach explains where GEO actually matters today, why reputation and human content outperform technical gimmicks, and why most dealers should still double down on traditional search. The big takeaway: AI is loud, but the real lead opportunity hasn't moved yet. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Openlane - The world's best online dealer marketplace for used cars, bringing you exclusive inventory, simple transactions, and better outcomes. If you've never used OPENLANE before, or it's been a while since you have, you're eligible to earn up to $2,500 in buy or sale fee credits. Learn more @ openlane.com/cdg 2. Siro - Siro's AI gives dealerships full visibility into every conversation. It records, transcribes, and analyzes in-person conversations. Proactively flagging compliance issues, missed revenue opportunities, and training gaps. Go to @ https://www.siro.ai/cdg to learn more 3. Wikimotive - Wikimotive delivers organic and paid search solutions to hundreds of dealerships from rural rooftops to multiple top-5 national dealers. Their focus is simple: get your store in front of people already searching for a car or service, and measure success by the leads and appointments that follow — not vanity metrics. Visit @ https://wikimotive.com/CDG/ to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 02:00 Consumer habits haven't shifted to AI search yet. 05:45 Google (with Gemini) will win the AI war. 06:25 The tech isn't ready for inventory searches. 08:05 AI search is just 0.5% of opportunity. 09:45 Reputation (consensus) is the #1 factor. 10:52 Traditional SEO is the #2 lever. 11:52 Structure content with clear subsections and FAQs. 15:30 Perfect schema markup is overhyped busy work. 29:58 Winning requires a 12-month SEO horizon. 41:50 Google now devalues AI-generated content. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
In Part 2, Mark Sheffield takes on the biggest challenges in the powersports industry—dealer/manufacturer tension, volume bonuses, co-op pressure, and the race to the bottom hurting profitability.He shares why open dialogue matters, how his perspective shifted with BRP, and why digital lead follow-up may be the industry's most overlooked opportunity.Candid, bold, and focused on helping dealers win.
In this powerful episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, Sean V. Bradley sits down with former UFC Heavyweight Champion Tim Sylvia and Jake Rask, VP of Oval Business Solutions, for a conversation that connects championship-level discipline with dealership-level profitability! What does elite combat sports training have to do with running a successful car dealership? More than you think. "Training, role play, practice, drill, rehearse… the quick you get it done, the quicker you figure that out, the better off you're going to be." - Tim Sylvia This episode explores how the mindset, preparation, and strategic execution required to win at the highest levels of professional sports translate directly into leadership, performance, and financial optimization inside the automotive industry. The discussion moves beyond motivation and into real-world business impact… especially when it comes to identifying hidden financial leaks that most dealerships overlook. "The food tastes different if you sit at a table with winners." - Jake Rask Sean, Tim, and Jake dive into operational blind spots, financial awareness, and why dealerships must take a closer look at the systems quietly affecting their bottom line. It's not just about selling more cars, it's about protecting the profit you're already earning. "We truly want to build legacies. We are not in this just to make a quick buck." - Tim Sylvia If you're a dealer principal, general manager, sales manager, or automotive entrepreneur looking to tighten operations and strengthen profitability in 2026 and beyond, this episode delivers a perspective you won't hear anywhere else. Because sometimes the biggest wins don't happen on the showroom floor… they happen behind the scenes! Key Takeaways: ✅ Training and Discipline: Tim Sylvia emphasizes that success in both professional sports and business relies heavily on consistent training, discipline, and dedication. ✅ Operational Cost Savings: Oval Business Solutions offers car dealerships the opportunity to significantly reduce credit card processing fees, often saving tens of thousands annually. ✅ Strategic Partnerships: By leveraging a legacy contract, Oval Business Solutions provides unmatched rates in the market, helped by the strong partnerships and experience Jake Rask brings to the table. ✅ Personalized Services: The guests highlight their family-owned business approach, which guarantees personalized and reliable customer service, setting them apart from larger, impersonal corporations. ✅ Community Engagement: Tim Sylvia offers to visit client dealerships for promotional events, reflecting a commitment to building strong community and customer relationships. About Tim Sylvia Tim Sylvia is a former UFC Heavyweight Champion widely respected in the mixed martial arts (MMA) community for his impressive record and dedication to the sport. Over his career, he achieved notable victories and was known for his commitment to training and peak physical performance. Recently, Tim has embarked on a new journey in the automotive industry, bringing his champion mindset to Oval Business Solutions, where he is involved in strategic partnerships and development. About Jake Rask Jake Rask is the Vice President of Oval Business Solutions, a leading company with over 30 years of experience in credit card processing. With a background as a dealership principal and prior connections to major business figures, he offers expert insights into the complexities of credit card fee management, aiming to save dealerships substantial operational costs. Saving Dealers Big Bucks: Credit Card Fee Solutions Unveiled Key Takeaways Unseen savings opportunities exist within automotive dealership processes, particularly in credit card processing fees. These fees, if unchecked, can heavily impact profit margins. In both sports and business, honesty and dedication can separate the champions from the amateurs. This principle is echoed by former UFC Champion Tim Sylvia, who emphasizes hard work and honesty in whatever venture you undertake. Partnerships with seasoned professionals from diverse backgrounds, like those in the UFC, offer unique insights and solutions that can shift a dealership's financial trajectory. Leveraging Unseen Opportunities in Credit Card Processing In the competitive world of automotive sales, finding untapped resources for savings can be revolutionary. Sean V. Bradley and his guest, former UFC heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia, discuss a topic that often goes unnoticed—credit card processing fees. Sylvia, now an advocate for greater transparency in credit card processing through his partnership with Oval Business Solutions, highlights the significant impact these fees can have on a dealership's bottom line. "Just to pay for their stupid credit card fee," Sylvia points out, "they have to sell six cars." A startling realization when considering the average dealership's sales metrics, it illustrates how these hidden costs may significantly hinder financial growth. Instead of falling prey to these fees, dealers have the opportunity to reduce them by partnering with experts who understand the intricacies of the industry. By transitioning to strategies that prioritize transparency and efficiency, dealers could potentially recover thousands of dollars otherwise lost to excessive processing charges. This newfound capital can be reinvested into operations that drive advancement and success. The Importance of Training: Lessons from the Octagon Sylvia draws parallels between the dedication needed for professional sports and business success. His transition from a UFC champion to a formidable figure in the automotive credit card processing sphere underscores the significance of relentless training and discipline. "The quicker you get it done, the quicker you figure that out, the better off you're gonna be," Sylvia advises, a testament to how champions hone their skills—a process applicable beyond the ring. Dealers, much like athletes, must train continuously, embracing cutting-edge strategies and technologies to stay ahead. Dealers who invest in extensive training enjoy a tangible edge over competitors who rely on outdated practices. As highlighted further during the podcast, training should not end with just mastering sales tactics. It encompasses knowing every facet of the business, from customer interaction to financial strategies—ensuring every tax dollar saved and every sale made contribute significantly to the dealership's profitability. Collaboration Equals Innovation: Bridging Sports and Sales Bradley's podcast shines a light on innovative solutions born from unique collaborations between industries. Sylvia's partnership with Oval Business Solutions, supported by CEO Jake Rask, showcases how harnessing diverse expertise can redefine dealership success. Rask, drawing on his own experiences as a former dealer principal, provides invaluable insights into navigating the often murky waters of credit card processing fees. Rask affirms, "Your vibe attracts your tribe," emphasizing that surrounding oneself with winners cultivates a culture of success across all domains. In dealerships, this principle echoes the necessity of aligning with knowledgeable partners, not only for immediate savings but also for sustained growth potential. This convergence of sports discipline and business acumen can transform auto dealerships, offering creative new pathways to efficiency, profitability, and reputation management by utilizing connections of high esteem and diverse backgrounds. Dealerships seeking to seize these opportunities must consider the benefits of engaging with leaders who bring unique, field-tested experiences and fresh tactics to the table. Utilizing such collaborations in dealership settings furthers growth while substantially boosting the bottom line. By comprehensively exploring hidden savings, deploying relentless training principles, and engaging in strategic collaborations, dealerships can position themselves for enduring profitability and success. The takeaways from this dialogue provide crucial insights into how management can reshape organizational strategies, seizing untapped potentials often overlooked in the realms of financial logistics. With this understanding, stakeholders can initiate transformative changes to tackle both visible and unseen challenges, leading their dealerships toward a prosperous future in the automotive industry. Resources + Our Proud Sponsors: ➼ The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group: Join the #1 Automotive Sales Mastermind Facebook Group with over 29,000 automotive professionals worldwide. The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group is the go-to community for car salespeople, BDC agents, sales managers, general managers, and dealer principals looking to increase performance, income, and leadership skills. Inside the group, members collaborate daily on automotive sales strategies, lead handling, phone scripts, closing techniques, CRM best practices, dealership leadership, and accountability systems. Learn directly from top automotive trainers, industry mentors, and high-performing sales leaders who are actively winning in today's market. If you're serious about growing your automotive career, increasing car sales, and building long-term success, join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today! ➼ Dealer Synergy: Dealer Synergy is the automotive industry's #1 Sales Training, Consulting, and Accountability Firm, with over 20 years of proven dealership success nationwide. We specialize in helping car dealerships increase sales, improve processes, and build high-performing Sales, Internet, and BDC departments from the ground up. Our expertise includes automotive phone scripts, rebuttals, CRM action plans, lead handling strategies, BDC workflows, Internet sales processes, management training, and accountability systems. Dealer Synergy partners directly with dealership leadership to align people, process, and technology, ensuring consistent results and scalable growth. From independent dealers to large dealer groups and OEM partnerships, Dealer Synergy delivers measurable performance improvements, stronger teams, and sustainable profitability. ➼ Bradley On Demand: Bradley On Demand is the automotive industry's most advanced interactive training, tracking, testing, and certification platform for car dealerships — built to develop top-performing teams across Sales, Internet Sales, BDC, CRM, Phone Skills, Leadership, and Management. In addition to LIVE virtual automotive training classes and a library of 9,000+ on-demand dealership training modules, Bradley On Demand now includes AI Phone Roleplaying and Coaching to help salespeople and BDC agents practice real dealership conversations before they ever get on the phone with customers. This AI-powered roleplay technology strengthens phone scripts, objection handling, appointment setting, lead follow-up, and closing skills, while providing measurable coaching feedback for continuous improvement. Bradley On Demand empowers dealerships to train faster, coach smarter, improve call performance, increase closing ratios, and sell more cars more profitably — all through structured, trackable, modern automotive training.
This week brought major tariff news, Supreme Court rulings, and fast-moving executive action that could directly impact steel, aluminum, and ultimately garage door pricing. In this episode of Torsion Talk, Ryan breaks down what actually happened, what it means for your business, and why most dealers are misunderstanding the headlines.The Supreme Court ruled against the use of certain emergency powers tied to sweeping global tariffs, but within hours a new tariff structure was introduced under a different law. While the news cycle made it sound dramatic, Ryan explains why steel and aluminum costs remain largely unchanged for our industry and why garage door manufacturers are unlikely to reverse recent price increases.Ryan dives into how this affects residential and commercial dealers, including LiftMaster operator increases, manufacturer price hikes, and why expecting pricing to snap back to pre-COVID levels is unrealistic. He also outlines why adjusting your price book based solely on a headline could be a costly mistake.More importantly, this episode focuses on strategy. Ryan explains why protecting open quotes is critical, why material escalation clauses should be standard in commercial and new construction contracts, and how to prepare your CSRs to confidently answer customer questions about pricing. With uncertainty around how long these tariffs may last, dealers must build flexibility into their quoting process and stay proactive rather than reactive.Ryan also shares why this moment highlights a bigger truth: the cost structure of the garage door industry has fundamentally changed. Companies that refuse to adjust pricing, margins, and sales conversations will struggle, while disciplined operators who understand their numbers and protect their margins will win.If you own or operate a garage door company and want to stay ahead of steel price volatility, tariff changes, and manufacturer increases, this episode gives you the clarity and direction you need.Stay informed. Stay profitable. Stay ready.Find Ryan at:https://garagedooru.comhttps://aaronoverheaddoors.comhttps://markinuity.com/Check out our sponsors!Sommer USA - http://sommer-usa.comSurewinder - https://surewinder.comStealth Hardware - https://quietmydoor.com/
Used inventory is becoming the most strategic profit center inside a powersports dealership, but most dealers are not structured to win.In this episode, Jacob Berry joins Mark Sheffield and Kyle Reid to break down how successful dealerships build scalable used inventory operations. From sourcing strategies and service department recon workflows to merchandising, video response tactics, and F&I opportunity, this conversation covers what actually works in today's market.If you want better inventory turn, higher gross margins, stronger lead conversion, and a repeatable process for buying and retailing used motorcycles and UTVs, this episode is for you.The future of dealership profitability isn't luck. It's process.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/d9omsTdWFBQConnect with Jacob: https://linkedin.com/in/jacob-b-berry Connect with Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markjsheffield/Connect with Kyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-reid-5a661880/Follow the Fixit Online: https://linktr.ee/dealershipfixitSponsor: https://dealers.motohunt.com
- European New Cars Sales Plummet as Diesel Collapes - EU Dealers Demand Help to Fight Chinese Invasion - Hyundai Warns of Escalating Tariff Threat - Mercedes Scales Back Electric G-Wagon Plans for Hybrid - BMW Abandons L3 Autonomy for More Affordable L2 - McKinsey: Robotaxi Costs to Plummet as AI Revolutionizes AVs - Toyota and Lexus Help Slash EV Charger Installation Times - Chery Tries to Challenge Global Mid-Size Pick Market
- European New Cars Sales Plummet as Diesel Collapes - EU Dealers Demand Help to Fight Chinese Invasion - Hyundai Warns of Escalating Tariff Threat - Mercedes Scales Back Electric G-Wagon Plans for Hybrid - BMW Abandons L3 Autonomy for More Affordable L2 - McKinsey: Robotaxi Costs to Plummet as AI Revolutionizes AVs - Toyota and Lexus Help Slash EV Charger Installation Times - Chery Tries to Challenge Global Mid-Size Pick Market
How do you scale refurbishment through existing dealer networks? In this episode, Rolf Keller, Head of Circularity, explains how Vitra built its circular model around buying back, refurbishing, and reselling furniture through its dealers, saving 60 to 90% CO2 compared to new products. Co-hosted by Heiko Tullney, Executive Director at Indeed Innovation, this conversation focuses on: • The role of modular design and why backward compatibility across product generations matters • How Vitra structured dealer access to circular stock, including list pricing, visibility into inventory, and revenue sharing • The criteria behind Vitra's buyback decisions, from product age and condition to logistics and location The episode also covers how replacing seat covers solves stock mismatches in contract orders and how Vitra embeds circularity requirements into new product development. This is the first episode in the series Irresistible Circular Businesses, sponsored by Indeed Innovation, the global design and innovation firm pioneering the circular economy. The series showcases business practices that deliver irresistible commercial and circular results, with examples from different industries across different R-strategies.
On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we welcome board industry vet, Jamie Meiselman to the show! We trace his journey from cold-water surfing in Westfield, New Jersey and the DIY dawn of Northeast snowboarding to a lifetime of innovation across board sports. Jamie reflects on his early roots in skate, surf and competitive snowboarding, pioneering boot technology with Burton and Airwalk, and his years shaping the voice of the industry as Managing Editor of Transworld Snowboarding during its explosive growth in the early 90s. After earning an MBA at Columbia, he pursued an ambitious surf-focused wave pool project that ultimately collapsed, shaping his philosophy on risk, resilience, and iteration. In 2017, Jamie returned to his core passion and founded Solite, introducing the first heat-moldable surf bootie and building a lean, performance-driven brand now respected worldwide. This conversation explores obsession, reinvention, craftsmanship, wave pool evolution, and the mindset behind creating products that truly improve function — closing with reflections on shaping, favorite boards, and the perfect eternity wave.Follow Jamie's company Solite Boots on Instagram @solitebootsand you can check out the latest selection at https://soliteboots.com/The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music: Artist: Sure SureSong: This Must be the PlaceAlbum: Sure Sure00:00 Welcome to the Swell Season Surf Podcast + Jamie Meiselman's Wild Resume04:18 Risk, Failure & the Brutal Early Wave Pool Dream (1999–2004)07:08 Franken-Boots, First Patents & Burton/K2 Innovation Stories10:47 The Obsession Advantage: How Jamie Thinks, Learns & Gets Distracted (AI Tools)13:21 Building a Lean Niche Brand: Solite's Focus, Marketing & Why Performance Wins19:02 Growing Up in NJ: Skateparks, Hamptons Summers & Learning to Surf23:32 Early Snowboarding DIY Era: Woodshop Boards, Ski-Shop Roots & Tinkering Mindset28:07 Solite Origin Story: From Seamless EVA Surf Gloves to Heat-Moldable Boots32:42 Staying Small on Purpose: Competitors, Core Values & Avoiding the ‘Next Nike' Trap35:46 Founder Reality Check: Freedom vs 7-Day Weeks, Support Systems & Family Balance41:58 Less Is More: Letting Kids Learn With Guardrails42:53 Balancing Marriage, Work, and Empty-Nester Life43:42 Surf vs Snowboard: Family Interests & Learning Curves46:17 Living Inland vs Beachside: Staying Hungry for Waves49:40 Dartmouth Days: Choosing Mountains, Quitting Lacrosse for Snowboarding52:03 Starting a Snowboard Club + Early Skiers vs Snowboarders Tension54:41 The ‘Urinal Meeting' That Launched a Transworld Writing Career57:09 Why Surfing Stays #1 (and Chasing Feel Over Progression)01:00:06 From Shaping Curiosity to DIY Boardbuilding as a Step-by-Step Process01:05:52 Boots, Concave Decks, and Performance-Enhancing Gear Ideas01:09:17 Inside Transworld's Boom: Ads, Trade Shows, and Snowboarding's Explosion01:13:30 From Airwalk to Burton: Boot Wars, Culture Shock, and the Wave-Pool Seed01:19:45 From Water Parks to Surf Pools: The Wave Pool Spark01:20:27 Prototyping the Dream: Trade Shows, Engineers & Early Wave Tech01:21:42 Business School as a Launchpad: Columbia, Seed Money & Raising Capital01:24:09 The Hard Part: Rejection, Anxiety, and Getting to the First Million01:26:20 The Fatal Flaw: Adjustable Bottom Contours and Why the Pool Kept Breaking01:28:11 When It Fell Apart: Boardroom Confidence, Bad Partners & Lessons Learned01:29:43 The Randall's Island “What If”: NYC Indoor Surfing That Never Happened01:32:18 Bouncing Back: Mindset After Failure and Building Smarter at Solight01:35:48 Solight's Growth Playbook: DTC vs Wholesale, Dealers, and Global Distribution01:40:17 Marketing Breakthrough: Pros in Cold Water and the Slater Boots Moment01:43:19 What's Next for Solight: New Products, Hats, and “No Me-Too Gear” Philosophy01:47:57 Surfer Questionnaire + The Perfect Eternal Wave (and Wave Pools Today)01:54:34 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Surfing, Wave Pool Communities & Sign-OffBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1273: GM is staying lean to outmaneuver the next sales slowdown. AI's appetite for memory chips could spark a new supply squeeze across autos and tech. Retailers are proving that telling better stories sells.Show Notes with links:General Motors is rewriting its inventory playbook, running 30–40% leaner and hoping that tighter supply, stronger cash flow, and faster decision-making could turn the next cycle into a competitive advantage.S&P Global Mobility forecasts U.S. sales down 2.5% to 15.8M units as affordability and softer EV demand weigh on the market.GM is targeting a 50–60 day supply versus the pre-pandemic 100+ days.Leaner inventory gives GM more flexibility to adjust incentives in a downturn without crushing profitability.Dealers have felt the squeeze, especially on affordable models, prompting GM to stage select Trax and Trailblazer units at ports to speed delivery.CFO Paul Jacobson summed up the strategy: “It's easier to do when you have less inventory in the system because you can just respond much more quickly.”Just when the auto industry thought it survived the chip crisis, here comes round two—this time powered by AI. Data centers are devouring global memory supply, forcing automakers to brace for tighter supply, higher costs, and potential production headaches.AI data centers are soaking up global DRAM and memory production, with Western Digital and Seagate already sold out of most 2026 capacity.Memory chip prices have jumped 90% quarter-over-quarter, prompting PC makers like Dell to raise prices 15–20%.Tesla's Elon Musk says the solution may be vertical integration: “We're going to hit a chip wall if we don't do the fab.”Retailers are doubling down on something we at More Than Cars know well—storytelling sells. Brands are shifting from simply stocking products to crafting narratives that spark emotion, build loyalty, and turn casual shoppers into long-term fans.Nordstrom says department stores no longer “introduce” brands—they help tell their story and build deeper consumer connection.Five Below credits curated social storytelling—merchandising and marketing working together—for stronger engagement with younger shoppers.Under Armour's Kevin Plank says brands must inspire emotion: “The world does not need another capable apparel and footwear manufacturer. The world needs hope and they need a dream.”Today's show is brought to you by ESi-Q. ESi-Q measures employee satisfaction and provides actionable insight into what's driving employee engagement and turnover - before employees leave.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
The feds are reportedly doing a deep dive at Arizona guns shops armed with a 'hit list' of suspects as the hunt for Nancy Guthrie & her abductor continues. Survival of the Saviest: How a stabbed Salem woman negotiated her way out of her assaulter's car & into a pharmacy! Plus, a jetsetter gets grounded by the law! Jennifer Gould reports. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today on CarEdge Live, Ray and Zach discuss the latest news from Honda. Tune in to learn more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1270: Ford floats ideas to counter China's EV push, Detroit rethinks sedans as affordability pressures rise and Amazon proves even tech giants can't crack physical retail that easily.As Chinese automakers creep closer to U.S. soil, Ford CEO Jim Farley reportedly discussed a framework that would allow Chinese brands to build cars in America—through U.S.-controlled joint ventures. The idea? Compete without getting steamrolled.Farley discussed U.S.-majority joint ventures with Trump cabinet officials at the Detroit Auto Show.The structure would allow Chinese automakers to build in the U.S., sharing profits and tech with American partners.Trump recently said he'd be open to Chinese companies building plants and hiring Americans.GM opposes any Chinese entry, warning of lost market share and supplier disruption.New polling from the north shows that Canadian sentiment toward Chinese-built EVs has shifted sharply: 53% now say it wouldn't affect their purchase decision and 15% say they'd be more likely to buy—compared to 2024 when 61% said they were less likely to consider one.After years of betting big on SUVs and trucks, Detroit may be eyeing a return to sedans as affordability pressures mount.GM, Ford and Stellantis are all exploring affordable sedan options, including hybrids priced under $30,000.Passenger cars now make up just 18% of U.S. sales, down from 50% fifteen years agoAs Detroit exited sedans, Toyota's share of the U.S. sedan market jumped from 12% to 22%Dealers say losing sedans cost them entry-level buyers who later would've traded up to higher-margin SUVs and trucks.“If somebody could build an affordable sedan, it would sell,” said dealer Adam Lee. “We have made these cars so expensive that nobody can afford them.”Amazon is shutting down its Amazon Go and Fresh stores, admitting it couldn't crack the economics of brick-and-mortar grocery. Despite world-class logistics and tech, the company discovered what operators already know: physical retail is a grind.Amazon will close Go and Fresh locations after failing to build a scalable, profitable grocery model.Grocery is attractive because it's high-frequency and data-rich—fuel for Amazon's $21B ad business, but shoppers prioritize price, value, and location over tech like “Just Walk Out.”“Physical grocery is just brutally operational,” said Professor Andy Tsay, calling the margins “thin and unforgiving.”Today's show is brought to you by ESi-Q. ESi-Q measures employee satisfaction and provides actionable insight into what's driving employee Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
Dave Bradley is a stand-up comedian & producer based in Chicago, Illinois!
Send a textWant a shed brand customers recognize and a dealer network that still feels local? We dig into the real tension between brand control and on-the-lot freedom, and we map a path that helps manufacturers create consistent demand while empowering dealers to sell with their own voice. With Cord joining Friday episodes, we shift into practical strategy: how to run lean, prepare for consolidation, and build systems that make operations, marketing, and delivery feel seamless to the buyer.We start where growth really begins—owning the customer journey. From quoting and contracts to delivery and reviews, we talk through the tech and process moves that give small to mid-sized builders an edge. Then we pull from franchising playbooks without the legal baggage: nested control for social media, regional content that actually converts, and co-op structures that fund awareness at the top while rewarding speed to lead at the bottom. If you have 2 to 8 million in revenue and a few dealer lots, this is the roadmap for scaling cleanly.Dealers get the playbook too. We break down why exact-match inventory is less critical than tight assortments, pro visuals, and a “next best alternative” script. We share how to hit turn targets by pairing local stories, short videos, and fast follow-up with a steady stream of centrally generated leads. And we highlight the underrated closer: the hauler. A friendly setup, clear care tips, and a simple review request often multiply referrals more than any ad spend.If you're wrestling with Facebook page ownership, ad budgets, or whether to demand exclusivity, you'll find practical steps both sides can act on this week. Tap play for proven ways to align brand standards, protect local authenticity, and create demand you can hand off confidently. If this helped, subscribe, share with your team, and leave a quick review to tell us what you want next.For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.Would you like to receive our weekly newsletter? Sign up here.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at info@shedgeek.com.This episodes Sponsors:Studio Sponsor: Shed ProVelocity360NewFound SolutionsShed SuitePlayMor
Send a textWhat if your dealership stopped reacting to problems and started predicting opportunity? We sat down with Mets and Nick, the team behind a from-scratch dealer management platform, to trace how a human-centered CRM evolved into a scalable DMS and where AI now multiplies the impact. The throughline is simple and bold: technology should fit the business, not the other way around—and clean signals beat crowded screens.We walk through the early missteps and course corrections that every tech leader will recognize: rebuilding the stack to something future-proof and hireable, resisting feature bloat, and prioritizing role-specific views so parts, service, and sales see only what they need. From there the conversation shifts to the power of triggers. Think: the buyer who always orders every two weeks but has gone silent, the fleet that hits a three-year mark, the prospect who clicks a high-value email at 10 p.m. With disciplined data capture—site behavior, email engagement, telematics, service milestones—AI can surface these moments automatically and route them to the right person at the right time.We also tackle the cultural roadblocks. Dealers will approve a multimillion-dollar machine in a heartbeat but hesitate to invest five figures in software that guarantees faster quotes and same-day invoicing. Yet this is where ROI hides: shaving clicks off the parts counter, auto-alerting sales to strong intent, turning completed jobs into instant, accurate bills. As sensor data grows, AI helps redefine what “best operator” means by weighing idle time, safety, maintenance, weather, and job complexity, not just output. Roles evolve too—analysts curate data quality and validate model insights while frontline teams act on event-driven queues instead of chasing stale lists.If you've wondered how to go from dashboards to decisions, this conversation lays out a practical path: start with foundations, capture the right signals with consent, let AI find patterns, and make it effortless to act. Your brand and territory are strengths; pairing them with proactive, data-led workflows is the competitive edge. Enjoy the episode, then subscribe, share with a colleague who still lives in spreadsheets, and leave a review telling us the first workflow you'd automate. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - Construction, Mining, Agriculture, Cranes, Trucks and Trailers.We provide comprehensive online learning programs for employees starting with an individualized skills assessment to a personalized employee development program designed for their skill level.
Today I'm joined by Donald Kemp, General Sales Manager at Stowasser Buick GMC. We dig into why human-first social content is outperforming inventory posts, how moving F&I earlier drives higher penetration, and where dealers are quietly leaking money through junk fees. The conversation is tactical, practical, and immediately applicable for stores feeling margin pressure. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Experian Automotive - Like most Car Dealership Guy Listeners, you're constantly looking for the inside edge on the auto industry. So if you're ready to step up your game to the next level – outpacing the competition and building customer loyalty – there's only one place to go from here: Experian Automotive. They're the only ones with exclusive data across vehicles, consumers, and credit—plus expert data scientists who connect the dots to uncover the insights you need. Get the industry-leading insights from Experian Automotive today! Learn more by visiting @ https://carguymedia.com/4cfcLjZ. 2. Privacy4Cars - Privacy4Cars' app lets your team delete it all in minutes and prove it with a Certificate of Deletion. Customers pay more. Trade-in capture rates soar. And you stand out as the dealership that actually protects people and what matters most to them. Drive more trade-ins, more loyalty, and more revenue. Offer customer vehicle privacy services today– visit @ https://privacy4cars.com/. 3. Nomad Content Studio - Most dealers still fumble social—posting dry inventory pics or handing it off without a plan. Meanwhile, the store down the street is racking up millions of views and selling / buying cars using video. That's where Nomad Content Studio comes in. We train your own videographer, direct what to shoot, and handle strategy, to posting, to feedback. Want in with the team behind George Saliba, EV Auto, and top auto groups? Book a call @ http://www.trynomad.co. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 00:43 What are the key business insights? 02:42 What is the used car strategy? 05:41 How to improve finance and service? 23:38 How to manage vendor relationships? 26:10 Which lead sources are best? 29:14 How to optimize lending practices? 34:37 How to leverage social media? 24:38 How to reduce credit card fees? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
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This week the boys each picked a film the other two guys had to watch! Benny chose the 1985 Horror film THE STUFF JTE chose the 2002 Sci-Fi Action film EQUILIBRIUM starring Christian BaleMoose chose the 2026 Zombie film WE BURY THE DEAD
In this episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, Sean V. Bradley and LA Williams go straight to the questions dealers and salespeople are asking right now, the ones that sit at the intersection of pressure, change, and opportunity in today's automotive market! "You should treat the community like it's your home; immerse yourself and engage." - Sean V. Bradley This isn't a scripted interview or surface-level trend talk. It's a fast-moving, real conversation that jumps from modern sales challenges to the bigger shifts reshaping how dealerships operate, compete, and win. Sean and LA unpack what's working, what's outdated, and what too many people are still overlooking as technology, expectations, and buyer behavior continue to evolve. "Get your inventory on your personal website and take ownership of your sales branding." - LA Williams Along the way, they touch on mindset, efficiency, pay plans, leadership influence, and the growing role of tools like AI… not as hype, but as leverage when used the right way. The episode blends practical perspective with forward-looking insight, giving listeners plenty to think about without handing them a one-size-fits-all answer! "If you're not learning and embracing artificial intelligence...you're going to get left in the dust." - Sean V. Bradley If you're trying to stay relevant, productive, and profitable in an industry that's changing fast, this episode will challenge how you think about selling cars today, and what it really takes to succeed moving forward. Key Takeaways: ✅ Maximizing pay plans and manufacturer incentives can significantly increase income for car sales professionals. ✅ The integration of AI in sales does not account for declining sales; rather, it's a lack of skill development and adaptation to current industry trends. ✅ Successful car sales stem from leveraging all eight potential sales channels, such as referrals, service conversions, and community engagement. ✅ Understanding dealership inventory integration on personal sales websites requires management approval, but greatly aids in personal branding and sales. ✅ Effective communication and immersion in the community are invaluable tools for expanding a sales pipeline and enhancing customer relationships. About Sean V. Bradley Sean V. Bradley is an accomplished expert in automotive sales training with nearly 30 years of experience in the industry. He is the President of Dealer Synergy, a renowned company that provides comprehensive training, consulting, and marketing solutions to automotive dealers. Sean is also the creator of the Millionaire Car Salesman podcast, where he shares insights on improving sales team performance, leadership issues, and industry trends. About LA Williams Known as "The Blind Master," LA Williams is the Vice President of Dealer Synergy. Despite his visual impairment, LA has excelled in the automotive industry, demonstrating remarkable leadership and communication skills. He is a prolific speaker, trainer, and co-host of the Millionaire Car Salesman podcast, where he brings a unique perspective to the world of automotive sales. Don't miss out on LA's NADA Session on Feb. 5th at 12:30 PM PST in Las Vegas! Maximizing Automotive Sales in the AI Era: Insights and Strategies Key Takeaways Embrace AI tools and technologies to stay competitive and avoid being left behind. Understand the diverse methods of prospecting in car sales to maximize revenue and customer engagement. Leverage community involvement and personal branding to enhance sales performance and dealership reputation. Navigating the Evolution of AI in Car Sales In the automotive industry, artificial intelligence is not just the future; it's the present. From providers like ChatGPT to Google's Gemini, AI tools are transforming how dealerships operate. As Sean V. Bradley succinctly states, "If you're not learning and embracing artificial intelligence… you're going to get left in the dust." This sentiment recognizes the rapid pace at which technology is evolving and the necessity for dealerships to adapt. Artificial intelligence is influencing customer interactions through advanced chat systems and data analytics. Dealers who optimize these technologies can provide more personalized customer experiences. Bradley further emphasizes the integration of AI by pointing out that, "AI is not the reason why we're selling more or selling less. It's about understanding the market." Dealers should harness AI to complement their skills rather than fearing displacement by it. The broader implication is the need for continuous learning and adaptation, ensuring that AI becomes a tool for empowerment rather than a hurdle. The Importance of Working Your Pay Plan A recurring theme in the podcast transcript is the critical importance of understanding and maximizing one's pay plan. This topic is brought to light by a participant, who struggles with an imbalanced work-pay dynamic, noting, "sold multiple warranties for 7k…[but] don't get paid on back end." This statement highlights a widespread issue where salespeople may not fully understand the intricacies of their compensation structures. Bradley advises any salesperson to meticulously analyze their pay plan to identify areas for increased earnings. He stresses, "You should understand how to max your commissions, how to max your pay plan." Emphasizing that this knowledge enables automotive sales professionals to optimize their strategies, enhance job satisfaction, and boost financial outcomes. Moreover, a deeper understanding of one's pay structure can lead to a more strategic approach in managing sales, encouraging salespeople and their managers to scrutinize and potentially renegotiate their pay plans for better alignment with personal and organizational goals. Community Engagement and Personal Branding Building a personal brand and engaging with the community are emphasized strategies for sustained success in the car sales industry. "If you want the community to support you, you've got to support the community," Bradley advises. Creating a personal website, as mentioned in the transcript, can be a powerful tool for salespeople to set themselves apart. This strategy allows salespeople to showcase their unique value propositions and facilitate a more direct connection with potential clients. Moreover, participating in local events and initiatives is a crucial method for prospecting and brand strengthening. Bradley suggests activities such as getting involved in school sports or charity events, stating, "The more that you get involved in the community, you could prospect a couple of things." This involvement not only fosters goodwill but also positions the salesperson as a trusted figure in their community, enhancing their reputation and expanding their network of potential buyers. The broader implication here is that personal branding, combined with community involvement, leads to increased trust, stronger relationships, and sustained business growth. Looking Ahead: Strategies for Success With technology transforming rapidly, it's incumbent upon automotive sales professionals to adapt and thrive. There is a recurring theme within this discourse: the need to balance traditional sales skills with modern technological advancements. By understanding and strategically utilizing AI and digital tools, professionals ensure they stay ahead of the curve. Mastering the complexities of pay plans and optimizing strategic approaches, dealerships, and their sales teams can achieve peak efficiency and satisfaction. Community engagement and personal branding are vital to creating a strong local presence, ensuring that when customers consider their next purchase, your name is the first that comes to mind. The insights and strategies discussed emphasize the necessity for adaptability, continuous learning, and strategic foresight in the ever-evolving realm of car sales. This journey requires commitment and intentionality, paving the way for both individual and organizational success in the competitive automotive landscape. Resources + Our Proud Sponsors: ➼ The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group: Join the #1 Automotive Sales Mastermind Facebook Group with over 29,000 automotive professionals worldwide. The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group is the go-to community for car salespeople, BDC agents, sales managers, general managers, and dealer principals looking to increase performance, income, and leadership skills. Inside the group, members collaborate daily on automotive sales strategies, lead handling, phone scripts, closing techniques, CRM best practices, dealership leadership, and accountability systems. Learn directly from top automotive trainers, industry mentors, and high-performing sales leaders who are actively winning in today's market. If you're serious about growing your automotive career, increasing car sales, and building long-term success, join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today! ➼ Dealer Synergy: Dealer Synergy is the automotive industry's #1 Sales Training, Consulting, and Accountability Firm, with over 20 years of proven dealership success nationwide. We specialize in helping car dealerships increase sales, improve processes, and build high-performing Sales, Internet, and BDC departments from the ground up. Our expertise includes automotive phone scripts, rebuttals, CRM action plans, lead handling strategies, BDC workflows, Internet sales processes, management training, and accountability systems. Dealer Synergy partners directly with dealership leadership to align people, process, and technology, ensuring consistent results and scalable growth. From independent dealers to large dealer groups and OEM partnerships, Dealer Synergy delivers measurable performance improvements, stronger teams, and sustainable profitability. ➼ Bradley On Demand: Bradley On Demand is the automotive industry's most advanced interactive training, tracking, testing, and certification platform for car dealerships — built to develop top-performing teams across Sales, Internet Sales, BDC, CRM, Phone Skills, Leadership, and Management. In addition to LIVE virtual automotive training classes and a library of 9,000+ on-demand dealership training modules, Bradley On Demand now includes AI Phone Roleplaying and Coaching to help salespeople and BDC agents practice real dealership conversations before they ever get on the phone with customers. This AI-powered roleplay technology strengthens phone scripts, objection handling, appointment setting, lead follow-up, and closing skills, while providing measurable coaching feedback for continuous improvement. Bradley On Demand empowers dealerships to train faster, coach smarter, improve call performance, increase closing ratios, and sell more cars more profitably — all through structured, trackable, modern automotive training.
In this episode of Torsion Talk, Ryan Lucia breaks down a timely article by Joseph Roberts (AQUED) titled “At a Crossroad Again: Navigating the Transitions Shaping the Garage Door Industry.” Ryan walks through the three core pillars of the article and adds his own real-world perspective from the dealer side, including what he agrees with, what he challenges, and what he believes is coming next for the garage door business.Ryan opens with quick industry updates, including a behind-the-scenes look at his new studio build, early signals that steel pricing may rise due to supply and demand pressures, and what he's seeing in marketing performance as clicks continue to shift in an AI-driven search landscape. He also shares plans for Markinuity and GDU at the IDA Expo, including a booth presence, potential live podcast recording, giveaways, and a private event.From there, Ryan dives into the first pillar: market segmentation and specialization. He discusses the push toward residential-only or commercial-only strategies, why he doesn't fully agree that doing both automatically makes you a generalist, and how seasonality and revenue stability can make multi-segment operations smarter when structured correctly. He also explains why he split his commercial and residential websites, how Google rewards specialization, and what it takes to market effectively to B2C homeowners versus B2B commercial buyers.The second pillar is where Ryan goes deepest: the growing tension in dealer and vendor relationships. He addresses consolidation at the manufacturer level, the shifting OEM-dealer dynamic, and why dealers must stop accepting one-sided arrangements. Ryan talks candidly about sales rep performance in the industry, the real costs dealers absorb when manufacturers miss on quality control, shipping, or accuracy, and why multi-manufacturer sourcing can protect a business. He gives credit where it's due by highlighting manufacturers he believes are doing things well, while also calling out common operational breakdowns that create expensive dealer-side problems.Finally, Ryan ties in the third pillar: ownership changes and exit strategy. He explains why succession, private equity, and acquisition timelines should influence marketing decisions, budgets, and business strategy. Ryan closes with a blunt but optimistic view of where the industry is headed, why the “purge” and consolidation are real, and what focused dealers must do now to compete, execute, and win in the next 5–10 years.Find Ryan at:https://garagedooru.comhttps://aaronoverheaddoors.comhttps://markinuity.com/Check out our sponsors!Sommer USA - http://sommer-usa.comSurewinder - https://surewinder.comStealth Hardware - https://quietmydoor.com/
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1264: As the NADA Show wraps, we zoom out on what actually mattered, from a shift in how dealers are thinking about AI, to deeper vendor partnerships, to how dealers are thinking about Chinese vehiclesShow Notes with links: As the dust settles from another packed NADA Show, some of the most meaningful takeaways weren't about flashy announcements, but mindset. Liza Borches shared reflections on leadership, partnerships, and why this year's conversations felt more practical — and more ready for action.“AI is a strategy conversation, not a tool conversation. It's less about adding new technology and more about using AI to help us solve problems and connect the tools and partners we already have.”“Partnership matters more than ever. Our vendor partners aren't just providers — they're collaborators helping us build better experiences for our customers and teams. The integration that our key partners are not just willing to do but excited to do is a gamechanger.”The idea of selling Chinese vehicles in the U.S. split the room at NADA. Dealers openly acknowledged the profit opportunity, even as trade groups and some store owners warned about subsidies, nationalism, and long-term consequences for American retail auto.Presidio Group president George Karolis said dealers are conflicted: “A majority of the dealer respondents saw it as a threat and opportunity — both… the vehicles are really good, slick and more affordable.”Several dealers privately said if Chinese OEMs solve affordability, politics won't stop them from sellingCable Dahmer Automotive Group owner Carlos Ledezma took a pragmatic stance: “If that's what the consumer is looking for, then we are going to have to pay attention to that.”NADA CEO Mike Stanton was blunt on policy: “It's bad for our industry, it's bad for our country, it's bad for consumers,” while still conceding NADA wouldn't block dealers from adding Chinese franchises.Ford Blue president Andrew Frick captured the dealer mindset: “It's hard for a dealer not to look at that as an opportunity for them as an entrepreneur.”Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/
Great dealerships aren't built by accident, they're built by putting the right people in the right seats and telling the right story.In this throwback episode of the Dealership Fix-It Podcast, Jacob Berry is joined by Jay Sanders of Dream Team Referrals, a recruiting firm focused on Powersports, Marine, and RV dealerships.Jay explains:Why most resumes fail to represent real valueHow recruiters actually evaluate candidatesWhy performance stories beat job descriptionsWhat dealers misunderstand about hiring and retentionJacob draws a powerful parallel between resumes and inventory listings, explaining how:Dealers undersell used inventory onlinePoor photos and descriptions kill engagementStorytelling directly impacts conversionThis episode is a must-listen for dealers who want better people, better inventory performance, and better long-term results.Listen to More Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3N9lzfg Further Episodes Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/43FoanX Interviews YouTube: / @dealershipfixit Connect with Jaye: / jayetalentrecruiter Connect with Jacob: LinkedIn: / jacob-b-berry Follow the Fixit Online: https://linktr.ee/dealershipfixitSponsor: https://dealers.motohunt.comAsk
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) trains hundreds of thousands of riders every year, yet many dealerships don't fully understand how powerful MSF partnerships can be.In this episode, Jacob Berry speaks with Robert Gladden, VP of Training Operations at MSF, about how rider education fuels dealership growth, improves safety, and builds long-term customer loyalty.We cover:How riders enter the sport through MSFWhy trained riders are better customersHow dealers can partner with local MSF sitesHow Ride Day introduces first-time ridersOEM incentives tied to MSF course completionAdvanced training opportunities for experienced ridersThe future of e-bikes, youth riders, and demographicsMSF Website: https://msf-usa.orgE-Bike Course: https://ebikecourse.com/Contact: rgladden@msf-usa.orgConnect with Robert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-gladden-b371784/Connect with Jacob: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-b-berry/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dealershipfixit A must-listen for dealerships focused on long-term growth, not short-term transactions.Sponsor & Resources: dealers.motohunt.com
The details of Baltimore City v. Hanover Armory, using litigation as a tool for public health, and making Maryland a safer place.Cass interviews Dr. Daniel Webster about his experience as expert witness in a landmark gun violence court case. -o-www.everythingispublichealth.comBluesky Social: @everythingisPHMastodon: @everythingispublichealth Email: EverythingIsPublicHealth@gmail.com Support the show
- Most Dealers Not Recouping EV Investments - Waymo Now More Valuable Than Most Automakers - Toyota and Honda Overtake the Detroit 3 in Canada - Denso Cuts Forecast But Still Expects Record Year - Porsche Could Scrap Next-Gen 718 EV Models - Chinese Researchers Develop Breathable Silicon Anode - Jag Skips Skateboard Chassis for Lower Seating Position - Microvision Gets Lidar Tech for Pennies on the Dollar
- Most Dealers Not Recouping EV Investments - Waymo Now More Valuable Than Most Automakers - Toyota and Honda Overtake the Detroit 3 in Canada - Denso Cuts Forecast But Still Expects Record Year - Porsche Could Scrap Next-Gen 718 EV Models - Chinese Researchers Develop Breathable Silicon Anode - Jag Skips Skateboard Chassis for Lower Seating Position - Microvision Gets Lidar Tech for Pennies on the Dollar
Today on CarEdge Live, Ray and Zach discuss the latest news on Volkswagen and their decisions with Scout Motors that are frustrating and scaring dealers. Tune in to learn more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's show features: Margaret Henney, Vice President of Marketing at CoVideo Taylor Mazock, Social Media Manager at Cavender Auto Group Jason Espin, Automotive Technician at Benzel-Busch Motor Car Lauren Clarke, RV Sales Assistant at Airstream of South Florida Chris Escalante, Finance Assistant at Suburban Buick GMC of Troy This episode is brought to you by: Stream Companies – Stream Companies is a full-service, fully integrated, tech-enabled advertising agency that drives measurable results through performance marketing, creative and content development, and proprietary AdTech solutions. Our innovative platforms, including the Retail Ready platform and Integrated Marketing Cloud, empower brands to optimize performance and accelerate growth. To learn more, visit StreamCompanies.com. CoVideo – Covideo is the leader in video lead response, helping dealerships convert more internet leads into appointments and vehicle sales through fast, personalized follow-up. Dealers using Covideo consistently see stronger engagement, higher appointment rates, and more vehicles sold. With AI-powered innovations coming soon, Covideo is continuing to help dealers move faster and win earlier in the sales process. Visit https://www.covideo.com/ to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683
Kick off the new year with GarageCast as we unveil new premier services from Garage Composites—mastermind groups and concierge consulting built to help dealers level up strategy, profitability, and long-term value.Joining us are Ozzie Giglio and Dave Cotteleer, who are leading the next mastermind sessions on March 24–25 in Miami. From Dave's journey to Harley-Davidson executive leadership to Ozzie's 25-year dealer career and successful exit, this conversation dives into what most dealers don't spend enough time on: exit planning, wealth strategy, succession, and real estate.
RV PODCAST NEWS EDITIONEpisode 586 - January 26, 2026Hey everybody, welcome to the RV Podcast News Edition. I'm Mike Wendland, and this is where we cut through the press releases, the hype, and the corporate spin to talk about what is really happening in the RV world.Now, quick programming note. If you are listening to this later in the week, we are watching a massive winter snow and ice storm that has affected campgrounds, travel plans, and even caused park closures across large parts of the country. Winter storm Fern has affected a huge swath of the country, 2,300 miles long, from Texas all the way to the East Coast. Ten states have reported more than a foot of snow. Many areas reported in excess of a half inch of ice. In some areas, an inch was reported, bringing down tree limbs across power lines. Well over a million customers have lost electric power and some may be without it for a week or more because of infrastructure damage and terrible road conditions.And as the snow, ice, and sleet slowly move off the eastern coast today, a massive cold front of arctic air is plunging much of the nation to dangerously cold temperatures. In the south, where temps rarely go below freezing, single-digit readings are being reported this morning.Obviously, this has affected many thousands in the RV Community. Fulltimers, even snowbirds who thought they were escaping the worst of winter in the mod south, are struggling to stay warm and keep the water running.The full affect of this storm is still be assessed but from everything we've been able to learn, RVers in the affected areas are reporting frozen water pumps at many campgrounds, propane shortages in the most affected areas and in some cases, no power. We've had reports from dozens of RVers impacted by the snow and overall, most say they are getting by. Most laid in plenty of bottled water, extra food, and made sure they had full tanks of propane and extra fuel for generators. One RVer - John, who lives in his Alliance fifth wheel in Missouri - said his biggest challenge was all the snow and ice piled on top of his slide out. He says the frigid air behind the snow isnt going to allow much melting and he is planning to get a ladder to clear the snow off.In Arkansas, a full-time couple - Sarah and Jim - said they wish they followed their friend's advice to haul their Jayco south towards Florida. “We have gone through two tanks of propane so far and the roads are so bad we can't get out to get them filled.” Her campground still has electricity but she said the lights have flickered and she expects she'll have to switch to generator power as the ice on the power lines is not melting.Perhaps the best assessment came from Ted, a Tennessee fulltimer, who lives in a fifth wheel on his own property along the Tennessee River.. “Most of us know what to do,” he said. “We can handle a week without power. We have a full fresh water tank and I have a 100 gallon propane tank to supplement the tanks in our rig. So we're dressed in heavy clothes and have extra blankets on the bed. This too shall pass.”Let's hope soon.Sop the storm dominates the RV news this week. But coming up, RVers are demanding a real voice with manufacturers, not a hand-picked group of industry insiders, and the response to that idea has been overwhelming.We will look at why campground reservations feel harder than ever to get, even as more parks are built. We will take a closer look at what is really happening in state parks, where long overdue upgrades are coming with some real tradeoffs. We will talk about used RV prices finally settling back toward reality.And we will have a little fun calling out how RV manufacturers keep copying each other's ideas, sometimes so closely it is honestly laughable.Before we get started…. a quick word about the RV Lifestyle Community at RVCommunity.com.If you are tired of ads, algorithms, and social media drama, this is different. It is a private, ad free community built by RVers, for RVers. Real conversations, real advice, real friendships.It is social media the way it SHOULD be.Learn more at RVCommunity.com.STORY 1 — It's Time RVers Had a Real VoiceFor years now, RVers have been talking among themselves about what is wrong with today's RVs.Too many quality issues. Too many poorly designed floorplans. Too many features that look great on a showroom floor but fail miserably in real life.And too often, it feels like no one in the industry is really listening.That thought hit home last week after a listener sent us a message that stopped us cold. He asked a simple but powerful question.Why don't RVers have a direct voice with manufacturers?With massive consolidation among RV manufacturers and dealers, buyers now have fewer real choices than ever before. You walk onto a mega dealer lot and see hundreds of rigs, but when you look closer, many are variations of the same designs, built by the same corporate parents, with the same lingering quality concerns.For many people ready to buy, the problem is not just price.It is confidence.They do not see the RV they actually want. And they are afraid to buy because of what they hear about reliability and workmanship.That is a terrible place for any industry to be.So it raises a bigger question.Who is speaking for real RVers?Right now, manufacturers mostly hear from dealers, sales teams, investors, and marketing departments.What is missing?Us.The people who actually live in these RVs. The ones who discover what works and what fails after thousands of miles of potholes, rainstorms, campground hookups, and real world use.Most feedback today is scattered across Facebook groups, YouTube comments, and forums. Thoughtful insights get buried in noise.That is not a system designed to build better RVs.It is a system designed to build frustration.So here is the idea that sparked a huge response.What if RVers spoke with one clear, organized, constructive voice?Imagine a live, moderated RVer Town Hall. Not a complaint fest. Not a shouting match. A serious conversation where experienced RVers present real world recommendations to manufacturers.Full timers and part timers. Fifth wheels and motorhomes. Retirees, families, weekend travelers.Talking about what actually matters.Build quality. Smarter layouts. Easier maintenance. Durability over decoration. Designs that match how people really camp.If structured properly and promoted well, manufacturers would pay attention. When customers speak thoughtfully and collectively, industries listen.Before we build anything like this, we want to hear from you.If you had five minutes with RV executives and engineers, what would you tell them?Not angry rants.Real ideas.Leave us a voicemail or send us an email at RVPodcast.com. We may feature your ideas on the podcast and use them as the foundation for a future live RVer Town Hall.This is not about tearing down manufacturers.It is about helping them build RVs that truly serve the people who buy them.Because the best RVs will not be created in boardrooms alone.They will be created when real RVers are finally heard.TRAVEL PLANNING WORKSHOP PROMOBefore we move on, a quick reminder.On February 5, I am hosting a live RV Travel Planning Workshop. This is where I walk you through how to plan smarter routes, find better campgrounds, avoid common mistakes, and build trips that actually match how you want to travel.It is practical, hands on, and you will walk away with a plan you can use immediately.Details and registration are available through our site, and I would love to have you join me.STORY 2 — Campgrounds Are Expanding, But Reservations Are Tighter Than EverHere is something RVers keep asking.If more campgrounds are being built, why does it feel harder than ever to get a reservation?On paper, things look good. New private parks are opening. Existing parks are adding sites. States are investing in infrastructure.But in practice, availability feels tighter than ever.RVers are traveling more often and staying longer. More parks are shifting toward monthly and seasonal stays for predictable income. Reservation systems make booking easier, but also more competitive.The result is a paradox.More campgrounds exist. But fewer open dates feel available.For RVers, this means planning earlier, being flexible, and sometimes looking beyond the most obvious destinations.STORY 3 — State Parks Are Upgrading, With Strings AttachedState parks are getting long overdue upgrades.New electrical systems. Rebuilt bathhouses. Extended sites for larger rigs.But these improvements come with tradeoffs.California has seen higher fees and reservation windows that fill in minutes. Florida has fewer first come, first served sites. Michigan's modernization brings 50 amp service and sewer hookups, but also higher nightly rates and tighter booking rules.Better infrastructure. Higher costs. Less spontaneity.State parks are still incredible values, but the old days of pulling in on a whim are fading fast.STORY 4 — Used RV Prices Are Finally Coming Back to EarthUsed RV prices continue to soften.Inventory is up. Buyers are cautious. Dealers are negotiating again.But buyers are selective.Condition matters. Maintenance records matter. Build quality matters.This shift is healthy. Confidence is returning, and patience is finally being rewarded.STORY 5 — Manufacturers Keep Copying Each Other, And It's Getting ObviousNow let's have a little fun, because this is one of those things you cannot unsee once you notice it.RV manufacturers love to talk about innovation.But if you walk a major RV show floor, you quickly realize how much copying is really going on.Case in point, the dinesk, that combination dining area and desk that slides, expands, and adapts depending on how you are using it.It was a standout feature in Brinkley RV models, clever, functional, and genuinely useful for how people live and work on the road.Fast forward to the Tampa RV SuperShow.Suddenly, a new Montana ad is showcasing a remarkably similar setup. And Winnebago rolls out a new towable with a nearly identical movable desk and dining combo.Coincidence? Not likely.And here is the part that makes industry veterans chuckle. Brinkley itself has been told that their dinesk concept resembles a similar idea introduced years ago by another fifth wheel manufacturer.In other words, the copying goes back generations.This is how the RV industry often works. One company takes a risk. Others watch carefully. And once the market responds, suddenly everyone has their own version.Sometimes that is healthy competition.But other times, it leads to stagnation. Instead of improving the idea, manufacturers simply replicate it, sometimes poorly, sometimes without understanding why it worked in the first place.The real opportunity here is not copying.It is listening.RVers know what features actually improve life on the road. They know what gets used every day, and what becomes a gimmick by the third trip.If manufacturers spent more time listening to real RVers and less time copying the rig across the aisle, innovation might actually mean something again.CLOSINGWhen you step back and look at all of this together, a pattern emerges.RVers want better built rigs. They want campgrounds they can actually access. They want state parks that balance upgrades with affordability. And they want to be heard.The RV lifestyle is thriving, but growth brings pressure. How the industry responds now will shape the next decade of RVing.Thanks for listening. We'll be back Wednesday with another Stories from the Road episode.
Today I'm joined by Brian Macdonald, CEO & President of CDK Global. We explore the massive scale of the CDK's automotive data ecosystem and what it means to have a touchpoint with nearly 90% of car owners in the country. Brian breaks down how dealers can transform this historical database into a functional asset to improve operations and capture market share. This conversation reveals the strategic power of connectivity in an increasingly data-driven industry. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Lotlinx - What if ChatGPT actually spoke dealer? Meet LotGPT — the first AI chatbot built just for car dealers. Fluent in your market, your dealership, and your inventory, LotGPT delivers instant insights to help you merchandise smarter, move inventory faster, and maximize profit. It pulls from your live inventory, CRM, and Google Analytics to give VIN-specific recommendations, helping dealers price vehicles accurately, spot wasted spend, and uncover the hottest opportunities — all in seconds. LotGPT is free for dealers, but invite-only. Join the waitlist now @ http://Lotlinx.com/LotGPT 2. OPENLANE - The world's best online dealer marketplace for used cars, bringing you exclusive inventory, simple transactions, and better outcomes. Learn more @ http://openlane.com/cdg 3. Nomad Content Studio - Dealers—big news. CDK just leveled up their CRM in a massive way. We're talking next-gen AI baked right into your daily workflow: Automatically following up with internet leads, surfacing buyer insights, and giving you instant AI-generated summaries of every customer interaction—no more digging through notes. And CRM Video is here. Record, send, and track personalized videos to customers—all inside the CRM. Check out the AI enhanced CDK CRM: Visit @ AI enhanced CDK CRM to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 00:55 What is Google Syndication? 01:35 What are Brian's bold predictions? 02:35 What is the current dealer economy? 04:29 What are the affordability trends? 06:29 How is AI innovating the industry? 07:12 What are CDK's data solutions? 18:31 What are the future industry predictions? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com