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Today I'm joined by Alan Haig, President of Haig Partners. We dig into why Q4 buy-sell activity is suddenly exploding, which franchises are becoming “must-own” (and which aren't), how rate cuts are reshaping buyer math, and get a sneak peek at the latest Haig Report before its released. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Equifax - Fund More Auto Loans, Faster. Auto loan applicants are 40% more likely to be funded when instantly verified by The Work Number. You can get the data you need to know your borrower better and make fast, smart decisions. Equifax provides instant, secure access to verified borrower identity, address, income, and employment information, helping you move deals forward quickly." Visit @ https://carguymedia.com/3Lplzue to learn more. 2. Amazon Auto - With Amazon Autos, your dealership can reach more buyers, drive more sales, and deliver a modern, more delightful car-buying experience. Learn more @ https://sell.amazon.com/programs/autos 3. Haig Partners - Since 2014, the Haig Report® has delivered expert analysis on dealership performance, market activity, and franchise valuations, offering a clear view of opportunities and challenges in automotive retail. Learn more in the full Q3 2025 Haig Report® by subscribing to receive it as soon as it's released. Visit @ https://share.hsforms.com/1AEDx2iJDSsibryqbI1HyCgnr2vn 4. CDG Circles - A modern peer group for auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Visit https://cdgcircles.com to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:59 What defines the marathon's spirit? 02:53 Why did the CarMax CEO resign? 03:49 How is Carvana influencing the market? 07:14 Current state of the auto market? 11:14 Which brands are performing best? 21:40 Who is buying cars today? 26:51 Biggest opportunity in dealership sales? 29:05 Where are the hottest regional markets? 43:59 Future outlook for dealers? 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
AI is no longer optional—it's a must-have tool for every salesperson, service advisor, and dealership professional. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, learn how to leverage AI to save time, boost efficiency, and personalize every customer interaction. Jen walks you through: The must-have AI tools for your phone and desktop How to prompt AI effectively for emails, texts, objections, and follow-ups Using AI for customized, value-driven communication with car buyers Real examples of AI-generated emails, subject lines, and texts that get engagement Tips for AI-assisted product knowledge, brand building, and objection handling Stop spending hours on repetitive tasks—learn how AI can become your ultimate sales assistant. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Bill Demaree and Aaron Blount join us to share how Tom Wood University brings high school students into the dealership for hands-on automotive learning. They discuss the “why” behind the program, the importance of ownership support in building a marketplace of future technicians, and how they structure the curriculum to prepare students for real-world success in the industry.Check out the full video version of the podcast on YouTube!About the EpisodeHost: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay, jayg@wrenchway.comGuests: Bill Demaree & Aaron Blount, Tom Wood Auto GroupLinks & ResourcesGet notified of new episodes --> Join our email listAbout WrenchWay:For Technicians & Students: wrenchway.com/solutions/technicians/For Shops & Dealerships: wrenchway.com/solutions/shops/For Instructors: wrenchway.com/solutions/schools/Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Today I'm joined by Fred Emich IV, Partner at Emich Automotive. We cover how Emich Automotive became the #1 EV retailer for Kia, the challenges Fred's faced as Chairman of VW's National Dealer Council, and the evolving threat Scout poses to VW dealers — plus much more. 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 @ Lotlinx.com/LotGPT 2. CDK Global - Managing inventory doesn't have to be a grind. Backed by over 50 years of CDK know-how and powered by next-gen AI tools, you'll price with confidence, merchandise like a pro, and move cars off the lot faster — all while boosting your bottom line. Learn more about the CDK Vehicle Inventory Suite @ https://www.cdkglobal.com/cdk-vehicle-inventory-suite 3. CDG Circles - A modern peer group for auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Visit https://cdgcircles.com to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:37 How did racing shape Fred's career? 02:51 Entering the family car business how? 05:40 Biggest triumph and challenge in auto? 09:57 Strategy for dominating the EV market? 17:34 Future vision for Volkswagen leadership? 20:39 Key industry challenge with Volkswagen? 22:26 Direct-to-consumer: threat or opportunity? 24:28 How has Tesla impacted the industry? 35:30 How does community shape future vision? 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
What if the hundreds of leads in your CRM aren't the opportunity you think they are? In this revealing episode of The Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, Sean V. Bradley and LA Williams take a hard look at the reality of lead management in today's automotive industry. They unpack the costly truth behind what they call "dumb dealer math", where dealerships chase inflated numbers, waste money on poorly optimized lead sources, and mistake activity for true sales opportunities. "Your CRM is your central nervous system. It is not just a lead tool; it's your customer relationship management tool." - Sean V. Bradley Sean and LA dig deep into the difference between data that looks good and data that actually sells cars. They expose why metrics like SRPs and VDPs can be misleading, how poor CRM habits drain profits, and what really separates top-performing dealerships from the rest. "But as long as they (dealers) are making more money than they're spending, they think to themselves, I got other problems I got to deal with." - Sean V. Bradley But they don't stop there. The duo explores how smart dealers are diversifying their lead sources, leveraging proven partners like AutoWeb and CarsDirect, and building systems that turn leads into lifelong customers. If you've ever wondered why your lead volume isn't matching your results, or how to fix it, this episode will change the way you think about sales opportunities, metrics, and money in your dealership. It's not about getting more leads. It's about doing more with the ones you already have. Key Takeaways: ✅ Dealers often struggle with too many leads without an effective team or strategy to manage them, resulting in missed opportunities. ✅ Focusing solely on website metrics like SRPs and VDPs without actual lead conversion can lead to wasted resources and efforts. ✅ Proper planning, preparation, and training are crucial to overcoming common pitfalls in lead management and maximizing sales success. ✅ Diversifying lead sources through third-party providers can help dealerships attain a balanced, risk-minimized approach to lead acquisition and management. ✅ A well-integrated CRM system is essential for understanding prospects, meeting their expectations, and creating valuable customer relationships. About Sean V. Bradley Sean V. Bradley is a renowned expert in the automotive sales industry, currently serving as the President of Dealer Synergy. With over 27 years of experience, Sean is also a certified CSP and a best-selling author of "Win the Game of Googleopoly." Known for his innovative strategies in lead management and CRM, Sean has been a key influence in transforming car dealerships across the nation, making him a sought-after consultant and trainer in automotive sales. About LA Williams LA Williams is the Vice President at Dealer Synergy and the co-creator of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast. Known as the "Blind Master" for his unique perspective and insights, LA has a history of excellence in leveraging technology and training methodologies to increase sales and efficiencies in car dealerships. Maximizing Dealership Success: Unleashing the Power of Leads, Marketing, and CRM Strategies In the fast-paced world of automotive sales, success hinges on mastering the art of lead management, astute marketing strategies, and the effective use of CRM technology. Sean V. Bradley, CSP, and his insightful conversations with LA Williams underscore the urgent need for dealerships to refine these aspects for consistent growth. This article distills the core themes from their engaging discussion, highlighting how dealerships can transform potential challenges into opportunities. Strategic Lead Management: Pinpointing and capitalizing on quality leads rather than succumbing to distraction. Diverse Marketing Approaches: Balancing investment between the dealership's website and external lead sources to mitigate risk. Advanced CRM Integration: Leveraging CRM systems to optimize prospect engagement and relationship development. Strategic Lead Management In today's automotive industry, the ability to effectively manage leads is crucial. Sean V. Bradley's discussion about dealerships being overwhelmed with leads hits home for many. He describes a common scenario: "You guys have so many leads, so many buyers, and not enough people." Overwhelming lead volume without sufficient staff can result in missed opportunities and wasted resources. Bradley's advice on categorizing leads into existing prospects and carryover prospects is significant. He provides a vivid illustration of a common oversight: "If you have 1,000 fresh leads a month, you're not going to start the first day of the month with zero." Instead, dealerships should consider the cumulative effect of carryover leads. Creating a structured approach to handling these varying lead types ensures that sales teams don't become inundated and fail to capitalize on genuine sales potentials. The importance of preparation and understanding the buying cycle underscores the critical need for dealerships to adopt refined lead management strategies. As Bradley emphasizes, "The average buying cycle for a new car is 90 days." Knowing this, dealerships must adjust their follow-up processes to align with the customer's timeline, thereby maximizing conversion chances. Diverse Marketing Approaches A key theme reinforced by Bradley and Williams is the fallacy of putting all marketing funds into a dealership's website. Bradley cautions against such myopic strategies: "It makes no sense to spend a little bit of money on the website but spend a fortune on ads or crap that drives traffic." Instead, he advocates for a diversified marketing approach akin to a mutual fund strategy, where investments are spread across multiple lead sources to minimize risk and maximize exposure. This diversified strategy includes the use of third-party lead providers like AutoWeb and Cars Direct, which offer an attractive cost-benefit ratio. Bradley highlights this by noting, "You should be able, if you're brand new or you're underperforming, to handle about 80 to 100 fresh Internet leads max." This targeted approach ensures that dealerships can maintain lead quality while benefiting from a sustainable and predictable lead flow. Integrating different marketing facets, such as search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and social media campaigns, allows dealerships to reach a broader audience while retaining flexibility. This blend of strategies not only improves lead quality but also aligns marketing spending with tangible results. Advanced CRM Integration for Optimal Customer Engagement The integration of CRM technology in lead management cannot be overstated. A recurring theme in Bradley's discussion is the imperative for dealerships to leverage CRM systems as a central nervous system. With compelling clarity, he describes the potential of CRMs to enhance customer relationships from "inception of the prospect." A robust CRM system is more than just a tool for managing leads. It offers invaluable insights into customer behavior and preferences, enabling personalized communication strategies. Bradley advises on the strategic setup of CRMs: "It needs to be optimized the right way." This involves structuring automated emails, video messages, and task reminders to ensure that no lead is left unengaged. The synergy between CRM systems, human resources, and AI is especially transformative. Bradley explains, "Your CRM, your human resources, and your AI should all be designed and architected interdependently." This triad approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also cultivates deep customer relationships, ultimately driving sales and fostering long-term loyalty. Dealerships that embrace this comprehensive CRM strategy are better positioned to navigate the complexities of customer interactions, ensuring that every engagement is as personalized and impactful as possible. To truly thrive in the modern automotive landscape, dealerships must embrace a multi-faceted approach that integrates strategic lead management, diversified marketing practices, and advanced CRM solutions. By doing so, they can transform challenges into opportunities, ensuring sustained growth and customer satisfaction. As Bradley insightfully advocates, a dealership's success is significantly enhanced when it masters these key areas, preparing itself to meet and exceed customer expectations consistently. Resources + Our Proud Sponsors: ➼ The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group: Join the #1 Mastermind Group in the Automotive Industry with over 29,000 members worldwide. Collaborate with automotive professionals, learn the best industry practices, and connect with top mentors, managers, and sales leaders. Join The Millionaire Car Salesman Facebook Group today! ➼ Dealer Synergy: The automotive industry's #1 Sales Training, Consulting, and Accountability Firm. With over 20 years of proven success, Dealer Synergy has helped dealerships nationwide build high-performing Internet Departments and BDCs from the ground up. Our expertise includes phone scripts, rebuttals, CRM action plans, lead handling strategies, and management processes; all designed to maximize your people, processes, and technology! ➼ Bradley On Demand: The automotive industry's most powerful Interactive Training, Tracking, Testing, and Certification Platform. With LIVE virtual classes and access to a library of over 9,000 on-demand training modules, Bradley On Demand gives your dealership the tools to dominate every department: Sales, Internet, BDC, CRM, Phone, and Leadership. From sharpening individual skills to elevating entire teams, this platform ensures your people are trained, tested, and certified for maximum success. Equip your dealership to sell more cars, more often, and more profitably with Bradley On Demand!
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1193: Today, we're covering a spike in EV inventory, why dealerships are losing service customers, and how Gen Z's complex spending habits could reshape the retail landscape.Show Notes with links:A new Cox Automotive study warns that dealerships are quietly losing the long game in fixed ops. Despite the average age of a vehicle being 12.8 years, customer loyalty—especially among recent buyers—is slipping fast.Dealerships now see 12% fewer service visits than in 2018, despite rising service volume overall.Loyalty is weakening: just 54% of owners with cars under 2 years old return to the selling dealer, down sharply from 72% in 2023.Independent shops, quick lube chains, and mobile services are capturing business once assumed to be “locked in.”Primary reasons for defections include surprise costs and poor communication—despite dealership pricing being slightly lower than independents on average.“There is a clear call to action here for dealerships to proactively address customer dissatisfaction, strengthen communication and improve sales to service coordination to build back market share through lasting relationships.” said Skyler Chadwick, Director of Product Consulting at Cox Automotive.New-vehicle inventory in the U.S. surged past 3.1 million units in early November, with electric vehicles stacking up the fastest.Total inventory rose from 2.8M to 3.14M units, with days' supply climbing to 70.EV supply more than doubled in October to 107 days, up from 47 just a month earlier.Gas-powered vehicles sit at 72 days; hybrids at a leaner 57 days. Cars remain tight at 46 days while light trucks sit at 60 daysToyota leads the pack with the tightest supply at just 33 days, while several Stellantis brands now exceed 100 days' supply.Subaru was the only automaker among monthly reporters to see inventory shrink.Retailers are racing to understand Gen Z—set to command $12 trillion in spending power by 2030. A new PwC report shows this generation mixes frugality with emotional spending and values-driven decisions.Gen Z plans to cut holiday spending by 23%, averaging $1,357—far less than millennials at $2,190.82% plan to buy “dupes”—affordable versions of luxury goods—and 79% wait for sales.While cautious, they'll splurge on “affordable affluence”: resale sneakers, luxury skincare, and $7 matcha lattes.Loyalty is fleeting: 81% have changed buying decisions based on a brand's reputation.Quote: “For most Gen Z'ers, customer loyalty has to be earned, and even then it is fragile,” said Greg Petro, Forbes contributor.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/
Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HERERegister for Tektonic HERE!In this episode, Jeff Compton welcomes Chuck Mitchell, this year's APPEX Giveaway Winner from the Changing the Industry Podcast with Lucas Underwood and David Roman. Chuck shares his story of how he got into the industry from fleet management and parts retail to shop ownership. He's passionate about the current technician shortage and helping younger generations. He and Jeff talk about the importance of cross-industry collaboration among local shops, the need for better training and information access, and the value of mentoring new technicians to create a more sustainable future for the automotive industry.Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Chuck Mitchell06:39 "Friend's Growth in Dealerships"15:05 Balancing Business and Compassion17:06 Shop Ownership Challenges22:58 "Building Confidence Through Understanding"30:19 Improving Industry and Supporting Workers34:07 Tech Career Paths in Shops36:44 "EV Direction and Innovation"43:25 "Reviving Craftsmanship in Auto Industry"48:24 "Vehicle Repair Challenges Persist"52:18 Customer Service and Accountability01:00:09 "AI, VR, and Cost Challenges"01:03:39 "Nurturing Young Techs"01:11:31 "Industry Growth Through Connection" Follow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232
Today special guest host Sam D'Arc is joined by Shane Wilson, President at Connected Dealer Services. We dive into the tug-of-war between dealers and automakers for customer ownership after the sale, how real-time vehicle data is fueling explosive fixed-ops growth, the playbook dealers are using to win loyalty long after delivery – and much more. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Connected Dealer Services - Staying connected after the sale isn't optional anymore, it's your competitive edge. Connected Dealer Services, creators of CarRx, help you transform every car on your lot into an ongoing customer relationship. Their connected-car technology powers real-time tracking, stolen-vehicle recovery, and service alerts that keep customers engaged long after they drive off the lot. From protecting your inventory to driving retention and fixed-ops growth, CarRx turns vehicle data into real, measurable profit. Discover how @ http://CarRx.com/Retention 2. S&P/IHS Global - With over 1,000 segments, across Service, Trade-In and In-Market Shoppers across, Polk Auto Direct gives dealers the best return out of every dollar spent. The self-serve platform includes multi-dealer management capabilities and targeting up to a 50-mile radius. Save now with special discounts for new sign-ups through November 30! Visit @ http://PolkAutoDirect.com today. 3. Amazon Autos - With Amazon Autos, your dealership can reach more buyers, drive more sales, and deliver a modern, more delightful car-buying experience. Learn more @ https://sell.amazon.com/programs/autos Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 1:30 What is Connected Dealer Services? 4:30 What is Connected Dealer Services' unique data advantage? 8:00 How do you measure service appointment success? 12:30 What is Connected Dealer Services' origin story? 16:00 How does F&I improve in profitability? 21:00 Dealer group vs. OEM strategy differences? 24:30 How to enhance fixed operations? 28:00 What is the installation and support process? 32:00 What is the future vision for Connected Dealer Services? 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
Join me and Dan Mcallister, CRO from BLiNKAI as we discuss how their platform works to accelerate revenue in Fixed Operations. This platform provides innovative ways to unlock new revenue opportunities by filling gaps in staffing resources. Don't miss BlinkAI at this year's MRC as they showcase how AI is transforming Fixed Operations strategy! #dealershiptools #automotiveaisolutions #podcast
The next evolution of digital retailing is here — AI discoverability.In this 360° LIVE session, David from Intice, Inc. shows how to test whether your dealership website is fully optimized for AI engines like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Claude.You'll see a real live test — searching ChatGPT for “lease specials in Augusta, GA” — and watch how optimized dealer sites like Jim Hudson Acura instantly appear in AI-powered search results.You'll also learn:✅ How AI “reads” your website code✅ What JSON-LD data makes you visible to ChatGPT and Google✅ How to check your page source for AI optimization✅ How to track ChatGPT referral traffic using UTM parameters✅ Why AI visibility is the next big SEO frontier for digital retailersIf your dealership's website isn't ready for AI, you're already behind.Learn the exact steps to make your site discoverable, clickable, and trackable by every AI engine that matters.#DigitalRetailer #AIOptimization #AutomotiveSEO #ChatGPT #GoogleGemini #AutomotiveMarketing #DealerWebsite #SEO #AIforDealers #DigitalRetailing #Intice360 #WebsiteOptimization #AIVisibility
Government's 33% EV sales target is ‘wholly unrealistic' and will lead to ‘rationing' – Vertu boss'Poll tax on wheels': Experts warn about impact of proposed per mile charges on EVsRenault officially unveils new Twingo with retro-looking EV set to arrive in the UK in 2027TV star Mike Brewer blames the government as he SHUTS DOWN Sheffield used car supermarket
Welcome to Industry Spotlight—a focused series hosted by Sam D'Arc, highlighting standout dealerships and innovative companies, and exploring the trends driving success in today's automotive market. Today, Sam sits down with David Long, Executive General Manager at Hansel Auto Group, and Curtis Lewsey, Founder of DealerCards. This episode is brought to you by: DealerCards - The direct-mail platform built specifically for dealerships. With DealerCards, you can send personalized thank-you notes, birthday cards, and service reminders — even include brownies — all handsfree and branded for your store. It's a small touch that drives big loyalty and repeat business. Right now, CDG listeners can get a free sample box with cards and brownies at http://www.dealercards.com/cdg CDG Circles – A modern peer group for auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Visit https://cdgcircles.com/ to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:46 What makes a number one salesperson? 01:26 Do 90s sales strategies still work? 02:21 Why is personal touch so crucial? 07:41 How does DealerCards scale personalization? 11:24 How does gratitude drive business success? 18:56 Top tips for personal dealer connections? 19:27 Best creative customer follow-up methods? 22:09 How to measure personalization's impact? 29:38 What are high-impact customer touches? 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
- Porsche Opens 1st Overseas R and D Center - Ford Dealers Getting a Facelift - Polestar Considers Adding Used-Car Centers - Nissan Struggling, But Expects Improvement - Ferrari Posts Strong Third Quarter - Honda Reveals New Modular Hybrid Platform - Bentley Adding Another SUV - Supersports Returns to Bentley - Schaeffler Training Humanoids for Production - New Formula E Cars Get Bigger Battery
- Porsche Opens 1st Overseas R and D Center - Ford Dealers Getting a Facelift - Polestar Considers Adding Used-Car Centers - Nissan Struggling, But Expects Improvement - Ferrari Posts Strong Third Quarter - Honda Reveals New Modular Hybrid Platform - Bentley Adding Another SUV - Supersports Returns to Bentley - Schaeffler Training Humanoids for Production - New Formula E Cars Get Bigger Battery
Join me and David Solar, CEO of Liminal, and two of his clients from Morgan Auto Group and Modern Automotive Group as we discuss how their CDP platform is filling gaps needed to execute a powerful data activation strategy. Liminal is a new sponsor at MRC and is ready to showcase its technology to dealers who want their ROI to be measured in weeks, not months. #podcast #cdpplatform #dealershiptools
There are three levels of empathy. Most leaders never reach the top. Learn what it takes to lead with awareness, connection, and emotional mastery.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
AI isn't here to replace humans—it's here to amplify them. In this first episode of our new mini-series with Matador AI, Jen sits down with Kevin Esmezyan, Head of Product at Matador AI, to explore how dealerships are using AI to eliminate repetitive tasks, reduce burnout, and empower their people to focus on what they do best—building relationships and delivering a remarkable guest experience. From automating lead follow-ups to intelligently syncing with your CRM, Kevin explains how the right human + AI collaboration transforms workflow, increases productivity, and sets a new standard for efficiency in modern dealerships. If you've been curious about how AI actually works in practice (not just in theory), this episode is your starting point. https://matador.ai/ | Kevin Esmezyan, 514-793-1488 | Kevin@matador.ai Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Not every day do you meet someone who's worked their way from the sales floor to the GM's office — and now sits on the advisory board for an AI company that's changing how dealerships leverage AI in operations. In Part 2 of our AI mini-series with Matador AI, Jen sits down with Uli DeMartino, a seasoned operator turned advisor, to talk about how AI is being used inside real dealerships today—from improving follow-up consistency to bridging sales and service for a stronger customer experience. Uli shares what he's learned turning around underperforming stores, what he looks for first when he walks into a struggling dealership, and how he's helping shape Matador AI into a dealer-first platform that augments people, not replaces them. If you've ever wondered what AI looks like through the eyes of a real GM who's lived the grind, this one's a must-listen! https://matador.ai/ | Uli DeMartino | uli.demartino@matador.ai Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
We all love a shiny new tech demo—but what happens after the install? In Part 3 of our AI mini-series with Matador AI, Jen sits down with Joshua Bagley, Head of After Sales, to talk about what really makes AI work inside a dealership. Joshua breaks down the people side of implementation—why collaboration across departments, leadership buy-in, and consistent follow-up are the difference between success and failure. He also shares Matador AI's unique "client success pod" structure that keeps dealers supported, engaged, and achieving real results long after the onboarding call. From onboarding to retention, Josh shows that AI's success depends on culture, not code—and why adoption beats innovation every time. https://matador.ai/ | Joshua Bagley, | joshua@matador.ai Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
AI is changing the way dealerships connect, communicate, and compete! In Part 4 of our Matador AI mini-series, Jen sits down with Carla Ksonzek, Head of Sales at Matador AI, to talk about how top dealers are winning the long game through automation, culture, and leadership. Carla breaks down what she calls the SMS-first world—where 90% of customers respond within minutes—and how dealers can use AI as an extension of their people, not a replacement. You'll hear how Matador scales without losing personal touch, the power of leadership buy-in, and why adoption beats innovation every time. If you lead a sales or BDC team, this episode will help you build consistency, protect your people from burnout, and create an edge your competition can't match. https://matador.ai/ | Carla Ksonzek 514-452-1347 | Carla@matador.ai Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
In this special episode, the tables turn as Beyond the Wrench host Jay Goninen takes the hot seat! Guest host and longtime friend Josh Arnold, a technician himself, interviews Jay about his roots in the family auto shop, the journey to co-founding WrenchWay, and his favorite memories from the last five years of hosting Beyond the Wrench.Check out the full video version of the podcast on YouTube!About the EpisodeHost: Josh Arnold, Subaru Senior Master Technician, Connect on LinkedInGuest: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay, jayg@wrenchway.comLinks & ResourcesGet notified of new episodes --> Join our email listAbout WrenchWay:For Technicians & Students: wrenchway.com/solutions/technicians/For Shops & Dealerships: wrenchway.com/solutions/shops/For Instructors: wrenchway.com/solutions/schools/Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Success is never owned, it's rented and rent is due everyday.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
Today I'm joined by Doug Gilmour, Dealer Principal of Malone Ford. We get into Doug's 13-year run at Ford, the 7% profit swing that put him on the map, and the all-in gamble that made his dream a reality. 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. Learn more @ http://www.openlane.com/cdg 2. Repair360 - If you're in the used car business, you know wasted time is wasted money. Check out Repair360—the first and only reconditioning software that connects every function in the dealership to tighten recon and help you sell more cars — No more hounding vendors. Goodbye endless texts and hallway chases. Repair 360 connects all the dots. See where every car is and what its recon is costing minute-to-minute in real time. Go to @ http://www.repair360.com 3. CDG Circles – A modern peer group for auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Visit https://cdgcircles.com/ to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:34 Why leave Ford for dealership ownership? 05:12 How to pursue a dealership dream? 07:23 Biggest complexity in dealership ownership? 11:06 Key insights from the field? 14:54 Future of the auto industry? 32:51 Tesla vs. traditional automaker approach? 35:53 Solving vehicle affordability challenges? 43:09 Best team building and training strategies? 56:14 Future plans for the business? 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 future of the car business isn't coming… it's already here. And it's driven by artificial intelligence! Join Sean V. Bradley, President of Dealer Synergy, as he explores how AI is transforming every corner of the automotive industry. In this powerful episode, Sean is joined by two industry leaders: Yuriy Demidko from Fox Motors and Tasso Roumeliotis, Founder and CEO of Numa. Together, they pull back the curtain on the real impact of AI inside today's dealerships, from sales and service to communication and customer experience! "If you don't embrace some level of AI in certain pieces of your process, you will just fall behind really, really quickly." - Yuriy Demidko You'll hear how Fox Motors is strategically implementing AI to streamline service operations, enhance communication, and create more meaningful connections with customers, while Numa's cutting-edge technology is helping service advisors do more with less, resolving communication gaps that once slowed dealerships down! "Imagine what it will save you in the long term. Having cleaned up data, not just hoping and praying that your marketing is working properly." - Yuriy Demidko This isn't just theory, it's what's actually happening inside some of the nation's most forward-thinking stores. Whether you're a dealer principal, manager, or salesperson ready to embrace the next era of retail automotive, this episode will open your eyes to how AI is not replacing people, it's empowering them!
Take an inventory of people to better understand where you are on your leadership journey. Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1186: Dealerships are investing big in mobile service as customer demand and capacity challenges make on-the-go repairs a serious growth opportunity. France launches the world's first live EV-charging highway, while new data shows holiday shoppers are blending online convenience with a strong return to in-store experiences.Show Notes with links:As consumers crave convenience and service bays become scarce, dealerships are rethinking what “fixed ops” means. Bozard Ford-Lincoln's Ed Roberts has shown what success looks like: 46 mobile units, 43 techs, and $10 million in annual revenue. “Everything you can do in a shop without a lift can be done in the field,” Roberts said.The mobile repair segment grew 15% in 2024—nearly twice the growth of the overall “do-it-for-me” market—according to the Lang Aftermarket Report.Industry analysts predict mobile service will soon be an OEM standard, driven by capacity shortages, customer demand, and the undeniable appeal of “winning driveways.”Apple Tree Honda and Acura in North Carolina now run three Ford Transit vans daily, tackling maintenance and light repairs for customers who'd rather not come in.Fixed Ops Director Richard Lupo built the program from the ground up, using Urban Science data to pinpoint customers they weren't reaching—and consultants like Spiffy to scale operations efficiently.In a world first, France has flipped the switch on a stretch of highway that wirelessly charges EVs as they drive. The A10 motorway near Paris now delivers real-time power to vehicles in motion—potentially redefining how we think about range and charging altogether.VINCI Autoroutes and Electreon embedded coils beneath 1.5 km of roadway for the “Charge as You Drive” project.The inductive system hits peak power above 300 kW, verified by independent labs.Vehicles including a truck, van, bus, and car are already charging while cruising in live traffic.Even in an age of scrolling and swiping, shoppers still want to see, touch, and feel the holidays. Two new studies—from NIQ and Quad/Harris Poll—show consumers are going omnichannel, but physical retail and print are far from dead.66% of shoppers plan to browse online, but 64% will visit stores—and nearly 3 in 4 say in-store shopping gets them into the holiday spirit.76% of Americans see visiting stores as a holiday ritual, and 66% say their favorite gifts came from unexpected in-store finds.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier0:52 Edge Webinar this Wednesday1:25 Early Adopters Are Pushing Mobile Service Forward2:43 Richard Lupo of Apple Tree Honda and Acura joins the show9:39 France Launches 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/
People follow a manager because they have to but they follow a leader because they want to. Christopher Singleton breaks down the levels of leadership and what it takes to rise to the top.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1184: Today we cover Toyota's response to potential chip shortages, new research showing improved employee satisfaction at dealerships, and what Gen Z travelers want most from their hotel stays.Show Notes with links:Toyota CEO Koji Sato says the automaker isn't facing an immediate chip shortage despite rising concerns after China blocked exports from Dutch chipmaker Nexperia. The move is part of an escalating global tech standoff involving national security concerns.The Dutch government seized control of Nexperia last month over fears its Chinese parent, Wingtech, could pose a security risk—prompting China to halt exports.These chips aren't high-end processors; they're critical legacy semiconductors used in steering, lighting, and power systems.Toyota says it's stable “for now,” but rivals like Nissan report they only have enough chips to last through early November.The Alliance for Automotive Innovation warns that U.S. vehicle production could be disrupted as soon as next monthCDK's 2025 Dealership Workplace Study shows job satisfaction is rising and fewer employees plan to leave, but challenges around stress and long-term retention persist.Satisfaction jumped to 82%, up from 74% last year, while only 22% plan to leave in the next six months—down from 31%.Just 49% expect to stay at their dealership over the next 5-10 years, and only 26% would recommend auto retail as a career.“Dealerships that thrive will be the ones that listen, adapt and lead with empathy,” said CDK VP Bruce Johnson.A new study by researchers Huggland and Okumus reveals how Gen Z's travel habits and expectations are reshaping the guest experience. Their feedback from a 3-year mystery shopping study shows where hotels need to step up—and fast.Gen Z travelers prioritize convenience, safety, and intuitive tech over traditional brand loyalty.Digital check-ins, intuitive room controls, and reliable Wi-Fi aren't perks—they're baseline expectations.“Sometimes the little things can mean a lot,” said one Gen Z traveler. “We want crystal clear instructions and not have to ask for help.”0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier0:45 The halloween costumes around the office today2:53 Upcoming ASOTU Edge Webinar with Foureyes3:20 The Nexperia Chip Crisis5:44 CDK's Dealership Employee Satisfaction Rises to 84%9:20 What Gen Z Is Saying About HospitalityJoin 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/
Christopher Singleton opens up about the hardest transition in his dealership journey: moving from sales to GM. No more leaderboard rush or personal recognition... Now, the spotlight had to shine on his team members. Learning to lead from behind wasn't easy, but it's what transformed him into a true leader.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
Welcome to Industry Spotlight—a focused series hosted by Sam D'Arc, highlighting standout dealerships and innovative companies, and exploring the trends driving success in today's automotive market. Today, Sam sits down with Parker Boice, General Sales Manager at BMW Utah and Than Hancock, Chief Sales Officer at Podium. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - Don't miss another lead. With Podium's AI BDC, dealerships are seeing an 80% increase in after-hours appointments by handling leads 24/7. Instantly respond to inquiries, book test drives, and let your team focus on what matters: closing deals. Learn how Podium can help you sell more cars at https://www.podium.com/car-dealership-guy Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:15 How to compete in a crowded market? 04:45 How are customer shopping trends changing? 06:10 Biggest lead management challenge and solution? 11:53 How does AI improve customer experience? 18:57 What is agentic AI? 22:20 Will AI replace sales jobs? 26:15 Future of AI in dealerships? 28:01 Who owns and controls AI data? 37:31 How fast is AI evolving? 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
Christopher Singleton shares why emotional intelligence (EQ) is more valuable than IQ in leadership. True leaders know when to listen, when to guide, and how to connect through empathy and compassion, the soft skills that drive real success in automotive.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
Chris Craig from RockED joins WrenchWay to discuss their partnership offering free soft skills training to schools and students. They talk about why soft skills matter for today's technicians, what training is available on the RockED app, and how schools and students can get free access to the training.View the full webinar video and slidesAbout the EpisodeHost: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay, jayg@wrenchway.comGuest: Chris Craig, RockED, chris.craig@rocked.usLinks & ResourcesGet notified of new episodes --> Join our email listGet free soft skills training for your school or students: rocked.us/solutions-tech-schoolsAbout WrenchWay:For Technicians & Students: wrenchway.com/solutions/technicians/For Shops & Dealerships: wrenchway.com/solutions/shops/For Instructors: wrenchway.com/solutions/schools/Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Christopher Singleton made more money than ever before, but felt emptier than ever. Cars, clothes, and status couldn't replace what really mattered: meaningful relationships. Sometimes, every new accomplishment just brings a new kind of sadness.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
Today I'm joined by Ivette Dominguez Drawe, Dealer/Owner of Alpine Automotive Group. We unpack her incredible journey from the sales floor to building a thriving dealership empire — leading one of Colorado's top-performing teams and driving a group that now sells one in every three GM vehicles in the state. 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://www.Lotlinx.com/LotGPT 2. vAuto - As the industry's premier provider of end-to-end inventory management solutions, vAuto gives every dealer—from a single point store to the largest groups—the data, insights and tools they need to maximize returns from the new and used vehicle inventory investments. Known for its game-changing inventory management innovations, vAuto provides AI-powered predictive data science to help dealers see their future and consistently make the right, ROI-minded decisions with every vehicle they appraise, acquire, price and retail. Visit @ https://www.vauto.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 at http://www.trynomad.co Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:07 Why start a dealership in 2005? 01:56 Key to a successful husband-wife team? 05:44 Secret to 20 years in business? 09:10 How does community involvement drive success? 14:49 Most creative marketing strategy used? 23:14 How to choose digital retailing partners? 27:19 What does a Retention Manager do? 30:07 Benefits of launching mobile service? 39:45 Why diversify into new business ventures? 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
Thinking about selling your dealership in the next few years? Start now.Courtney Bernhard from Performance Brokerage Services joins Jacob Berry to share what really kills deals, from messy financials and family payroll to missing estate plans and frozen floorplans.Learn:Why there are more sellers than buyers in powersports right nowHow to clean up your P&L and parts department before you listThe 12–24 month prep plan that maximizes your store's valueWhy legacy and culture matter more than the moneySponsor: dealers.motohunt.comConnect with Courtney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-bernhard-072018113/Connect with Jacob: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-b-berry/Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/32L4getcOmBCYL3fRxDlyHApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dealership-fixit-podcast/id1449367603YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8RWgq6pFKN8dHurvKa858A
Working in the car business can take a serious toll on mental health. Long hours, high pressure, and constant performance expectations. It's time to start talking about it. In this short, Christopher Singleton dives into the real mental health challenges in automotive and why supporting your team matters more than ever.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
Running a business is no easy task. Leadership is often a thankless job, and the personal sacrifices can be heavy. Yet, the true mark of a great leader lies in their soft skills: empathy, communication, and emotional intelligence.In this episode of What the Fixed Ops?!, we sit down with Christopher Singleton, eloquent wordsmith and Managing Partner of Mike Terry Auto Group, to explore his transformative journey through the dealership world, from the bottom all the way to the top.Christopher opens up about the pitfalls of grandiosity and how success once led him astray - driving luxury cars, wearing three-piece suits, and stacking jewelry to prove his worth. In doing so, he lost connection with his team and learned a critical truth: leadership isn't about your image or your wallet - it's about empowering your team.We also dive deep into:Overcoming childhood traumaImposter syndrome and emotional regulationBuilding true self-esteem and self-respectThe soft skills that define authentic leadershipThe surprising sadness that can follow successAnd much more!Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters - and join us for this insightful episode of What the Fixed Ops?!Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
Today I'm joined by Ryan Downing, Dealer and CEO of Ross Downing Auto Group. We break down his plan to scale to 20 dealerships by 2040, how he's achieved 100% absorption at every store, and what it took to grow group revenue from $270M to $490M in just five years — plus much more. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Auto Hauler Exchange - Ship Smarter. Pay Less. No Middlemen. Tired of brokers driving up costs and slowing you down? Auto Hauler Exchange puts YOU in control. Ship cars faster and cheaper with 5,500+ vetted carriers. Get cars delivered in just 4 days on average. Transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and real-time tracking. Move cars smarter. Move cars faster. Learn more @ http://www.autohaulerexchange.com 2. Equifax - Fund More Auto Loans, Faster. Auto loan applicants are 40% more likely to be funded when instantly verified by The Work Number. You can get the data you need to know your borrower better and make fast, smart decisions. Equifax provides instant, secure access to verified borrower identity, address, income, and employment information, helping you move deals forward quickly. Learn more @ http://www.theworknumber.com/auto 3. CDG Recruiting – Hire top dealership talent, fast. From sales managers to GMs and C-suite execs, we've placed over 1,000 roles across auto retail. Ready to scale without the hassle? Visit @ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com to get started. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:41 How to achieve 20 stores by 2040? 01:43 Biggest challenge taking over during COVID? 03:47 Key growth strategies for scaling? 07:27 What is your leadership and operational style? 11:03 How to ensure sustainable growth and staffing? 21:01 Why focus on fixed operations for growth? 24:20 Biggest challenges in scaling accounting? 28:39 Best leadership and training initiatives? 33:04 How to balance tradition and innovation? 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 Fleet Success Show, Josh Turley and Marc Canton break down the real reasons behind the fleet technician shortage. Spoiler: it's not just about pay, and it's not just about competition with dealerships anymore. Today, fleets are fighting a war on two fronts—against white-collar careers and blue-collar trades that offer higher pay, lower complexity, and better mobility.Josh and Marc explore:Why techs are avoiding the automotive space and opting for HVAC, electrical, and plumbing.The psychology of Gen Z (aka the Toolbelt Generation).How lack of exposure and outdated compensation models are killing technician pipelines.The missed recruiting opportunities fleets ignore at trade schools and even 4-year universities.You'll also learn how to rethink recruiting, reposition your fleet, and make technician roles more appealing—without waiting for "the industry" to save you. Key TakeawaysThe technician shortage is not unique to fleet—dealerships and private shops are hurting, too.Gen Z is entering the trades, just not yours. Plumbers, HVAC techs, and electricians are winning the war for talent.Fleets struggle to recruit because they don't market themselves well and they lack a clear career path for techs.Dealerships have visibility and recruiting power. Fleets often hide behind HR processes and outdated comp studies.Competing requires intentional culture, real wage strategy, and recruiting at high schools and community colleges.Fleet managers must think like marketers—position your brand, tell a compelling story, and offer a growth path. Speaker BiosJosh TurleyCEO of RTA, Josh brings a practical, strategic mindset to modern fleet challenges. With deep industry experience and a passion for technician development, he champions data-driven fleet management and sustainable recruiting.Marc CantonFleet consultant and workforce strategist, Marc works with fleets to improve operational efficiency and tackle workforce shortages head-on. A master storyteller, Marc connects cultural trends with actionable steps for fleet leaders.
Sunil Patel shares how his path from medical school to shop owner to Founder and CEO of Tekmetric shaped his approach to leadership. He discusses how a personal shop struggle inspired Tekmetric, why staying focused on your vertical drives success, and the leadership lessons he's learned building a platform for automotive repair shops nationwide.Check out the full video version of the podcast on YouTube!About the EpisodeHost: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay, jayg@wrenchway.comGuest: Sunil Patel, Tekmetric, spatel@tekmetric.comSponsor: Jasper Engines & TransmissionsLinks & ResourcesGet notified of new episodes --> Join our email listAbout WrenchWay:For Technicians & Students: wrenchway.com/solutions/technicians/For Shops & Dealerships: wrenchway.com/solutions/shops/For Instructors: wrenchway.com/solutions/schools/Connect with us on social: Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok
Today, special guest host Sam D'Arc is joined by Phil Pecoraro, Operating Partner at Murdock Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. We dig into Phil's first month running his new store — why he's returning to the same dealership where he earned his first GM role 16 years ago, how he's carrying forward the legacy of Larry H. Miller's final store, and much more. This episode is brought to you by: 1. CDK Global - Tune in October 21 at 11 a.m. CT for CDK's 5th annual CDK CONNECT, a virtual event packed with insights, innovations, and expert-led sessions. Featuring Rita Case, Sam D'Arc, and more. Register now or watch on-demand @ cdkglobal.com/connect 2. FullThrottle.ai - fullthrottle.ai® is a next-generation AdTech powerhouse. The Automotive DSP™ is built specifically for the auto industry, combining advanced programmatic targeting, real-time bidding, and analytics tailored to drive dealership and OEM performance. With fullthrottle.ai®, marketers can reach the right car shoppers at the right moment and optimize toward real business outcomes like test drives, leads, or sales. fullthrottle.ai bridges the gap between auto media buying and results-driven marketing. Learn more at https://www.fullthrottle.ai/ 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 at http://www.trynomad.co Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:41 Biggest challenge in the new acquisition? 02:58 How did the key partnership form? 07:53 Early sales lessons from vacuums? 11:12 Best team building and leadership advice? 13:37 Key to turning around a dealership? 21:55 Balancing brand and community involvement? 24:17 Digital vs personal customer experience? 27:58 How to achieve top dealer status? 36:56 Best used car acquisition strategy? 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
Dad says using a CPAP machine allows you to drink more. The Nevada State Trooper and Dad had a discussion after he pulled Dad over. Stuck in a hotel hallway, self-serve honey and more!
Today I'm joined by Amol Waishampayan, Co-Founder of fullthrottle.ai, and David Regn, CEO of fullthrottle.ai. We break down what's really working in dealership advertising right now, what's getting left behind, and the new approach smart dealers are using to reach more buyers — plus plenty more. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Repair360 - If you're in the used car business, you know wasted time is wasted money. Check out Repair360—the first and only reconditioning software that connects every function in the dealership to tighten recon and help you sell more cars — No more hounding vendors. Goodbye endless texts and hallway chases. Repair 360 connects all the dots. See where every car is and what its recon is costing minute-to-minute in real time. Go to @ http://www.repair360.com or click the link in the show notes below. 2. Matador AI - Discover why the biggest dealership groups in America are using Matador AI to enhance their Sales and BDC teams to sell and service more cars than ever before. Right now, podcast listeners get the first 30 days risk-free with an included white-glove onboarding, so you can experience the difference in your store. This offer is only available until the end of the month, so don't wait! Head to http://www.matador.ai and book your demo today. 3. fullthrottle.ai - fullthrottle.ai® is a next-generation AdTech powerhouse. The Automotive DSP™ is built specifically for the auto industry, combining advanced programmatic targeting, real-time bidding, and analytics tailored to drive dealership and OEM performance. With fullthrottle.ai®, marketers can reach the right car shoppers at the right moment and optimize toward real business outcomes like test drives, leads, or sales. fullthrottle.ai bridges the gap between auto media buying and results-driven marketing. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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:00:16 Current automotive advertising trends? 01:26 David's key industry insights? 02:30 How have ad strategies evolved? 04:25 Digital advertising challenges and opportunities? 12:49 What is an Automotive DSP? 21:07 Best DSP success story? 38:10 Future of automotive advertising? 39:55 Final advice for dealers? 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
We're on location at a shuttered dealership in Texas to discuss one of the biggest cautionary tales in recent BHPH history. From alleged fraud to financial collapse, this episode breaks down what went wrong and the critical lessons every independent dealer needs to learn.In this special edition, we explore the downfall of what was once considered a poster child operation in the buy-here-pay-here industry. Just two years ago, this dealership was featured at industry conferences and praised across LinkedIn. Today? Lights are on, but nobody's home—and there's a lot of inventory sitting in limbo.What We Cover:The three major takeaways every dealer must learn from this failureWhy 80% repos on your lot is a red flag for serious cash flow problemsThe "debt vortex" - what happens when your ACV values invert on recycled inventoryFloor plan dangers for BHPH dealers and when (if ever) to use oneThe critical importance of communicating with your lender before things spiralHow to scale properly without getting ahead of your balance sheetWhy traditional practices with your own spin beats risky shortcuts every timeAlleged fraud tactics: double pledging collateral, falsified financials, and covenant violations.
Today's show features: Jeff Miller, CEO of Mark Miller Subaru Tustin Ulrich, GM of Roper Kia Matt Birckhead, Dealer Principal / Owner of Sir Walter Chevrolet Bart Schlosser, GM of Tom Wood Lexus This episode is brought to you by: Repair360 – If you're in the used car business, you know wasted time is wasted money. Check out Repair360—the first and only reconditioning software that connects every function in the dealership to tighten recon and help you sell more cars — No more hounding vendors. Goodbye endless texts and hallway chases. Repair 360 connects all the dots. See where every car is and what its recon is costing minute-to-minute in real time. Visit repair360.com Car Dealership Guy is back with our second annual NADA Party—happening in Las Vegas on Thursday, February 5th. It's the hottest ticket at NADA 2026. Spots are limited and unfortunately we can't invite everyone —so RSVP today at https://carguymedia.com/cdglive and we hope to see you in Vegas! — Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Today I'm joined by Katelyn Gilmore, General Manager of Paradise Chevrolet Cadillac. We discuss why she's betting big on the world's first fleet only service center, how to attract and retain gen z talent in the dealership, why shes handing out Rolex's to senior employees and much more. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Auto Hauler Exchange - Ship Smarter. Pay Less. No Middlemen. Tired of brokers driving up costs and slowing you down? Auto Hauler Exchange puts YOU in control. Ship cars faster and cheaper with 5,500+ vetted carriers. Get cars delivered in just 4 days on average. Transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and real-time tracking. Move cars smarter. Move cars faster. Learn more @ autohaulerexchange.com 2. Cox Automotive - Discover what's driving improved customer experiences—and dealership results. Download the Drivers of Shopper Satisfaction ebook from Cox Automotive today: Visit @ https://carguymedia.com/464vOfw 3. Impel - Meet the AI Operating System built for a new era of automotive retailing. From CRM to service bay, from website to DMS, it unifies and orchestrates every part of your dealership operations—and your customer lifecycle. Visit @ http://www.impel.ai and and discover how Impel AI turns routine interactions into VIP experiences. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:26 What is the Cadillac Champions group? 01:19 Why are 20 Groups valuable? 02:33 How to maintain high fleet sales? 07:55 Best community/employee initiative? 25:39 Managing generational shifts in workplace? 26:46 Current revenue and financial trends? 27:58 Managing a large service department? 31:58 Strategy for Cadillac/EV market? 35:04 Top leadership goal as GM? 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
Welcome to Industry Spotlight—a focused series hosted by Sam D'Arc, highlighting standout dealerships and innovative companies, and exploring the trends driving success in today's automotive market. Today, Sam sits down with Terry Chechakli, Director of Operations at Smith Auto Group, and Frederick Grimm, Co-founder of FIXD. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by AppraisalPRO: AppraisalPRO - Stop getting hammered on hidden trade-in costs. AppraisalPRO instantly reveals repair costs, alerts you to recently cleared codes, and integrates directly with vAuto— meaning diagnostic data populates automatically in your appraisals. Our comprehensive scans take seconds, not minutes, and are simple enough for anyone on your team to use. Join dealers saving $10,000s per month with the fastest and most accurate OBD2 appraisal solution in the market. Special deal for CDG listeners: FREE 1-week trial, then just $195/month with no setup fees and OBD2 scanners included. Visit @ http://www.getAppraisalPRO.com Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:22 Smith Auto's growth and acquisition strategy? 02:10 Biggest used car acquisition challenges? 03:12 Auctions vs. alternative inventory sources? 06:28 How AppraisalPro improves transparency? 10:30 Appraisal Pro's financial impact? 21:59 How do OBD scans help? 24:52 From fault codes to recon estimates? 27:31 Benefits of transparent dealings? 38:35 Future developments for AppraisalPro? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Today I'm joined by Jim Roche, CEO of WarrCloud. We dig into the $100K+ most dealers miss in warranty work, why surging warranty volume has made WarrCloud one of the fastest-growing companies in America (#1 in Missouri), and how you can retain techs and boost profits at the same time—plus much more. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Matador AI - Discover why the biggest dealership groups in America are using Matador AI to enhance their Sales and BDC teams to sell and service more cars than ever before. Right now, podcast listeners get the first 30 days risk-free with an included white-glove onboarding, so you can experience the difference in your store. This offer is only available until the end of the month, so don't wait! Head to @ http://www.matador.ai and book your demo today. 2. Digital Dealer - Digital Dealer Conference & Expo – Get real strategies that work in marketing, advertising, AI, fixed ops and more when you register to attend. Plus, the expo hall is packed with top exhibitors, quick-hit expert talks, and hands-on workshops that'll help you turn ideas into action. Mark your calendars for October 14-15, 2025 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas and register today @ http://www.digitaldealer.com/registration 3. WarrCloud - Your warranty claims process shouldn't drain your profits—or your people. Our award-winning AI technology transforms OEM warranty processing, helping you capture every dollar you've earned. Dealers reduce costs, speed up reimbursements, and uncover new revenue opportunities—while consistently improving OEM claim scores. The future of fixed ops belongs to those who adapt. Let's talk about automating your warranty processing today. Visit @ https://warrcloud.com/get-an-analysis Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:47 Current auto sales and service trends? 01:38 Why the shift towards vehicle service? 02:18 How to interpret market forecasts? 04:44 Warranty vs customer pay dynamics? 09:58 AI and RPA's role in dealerships? 18:06 How to optimize warranty claims? 28:05 Key insights for business growth? 31:38 Future trends for dealerships? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Today on CarEdge Live, Ray and Zach discuss the questions you should never answer when buying a car from a car dealer. 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 Sanjiv Yajnik, President of Financial Services at Capital One. We cover why tech integrations are still the biggest challenge for F&I, how lenders are anticipating an EV market slowdown, why "6%" is the most important number in dealership leads and much more. This episode is brought to you by: 1. vAuto - As the industry's premier provider of end-to-end inventory management solutions, vAuto gives every dealer—from a single point store to the largest groups—the data, insights and tools they need to maximize returns from the new and used vehicle inventory investments. Known for its game-changing inventory management innovations, vAuto provides AI-powered predictive data science to help dealers see their future and consistently make the right, ROI-minded decisions with every vehicle they appraise, acquire, price and retail. Visit @ https://www.vauto.com 2. WarrCloud - Your warranty claims process shouldn't drain your profits—or your people. Our award-winning AI technology transforms OEM warranty processing, helping you capture every dollar you've earned. Dealers reduce costs, speed up reimbursements, and uncover new revenue opportunities—while consistently improving OEM claim scores. The future of fixed ops belongs to those who adapt. Let's talk about automating your warranty processing today by visiting @ https://warrcloud.com/get-an-analysis 3. Capital One – Many dealers believe digital tools can help boost sales. But early findings from a recent Capital One Auto survey revealed operational challenges dealers are still navigating and how trust is shaped. Listen for insights as to what's been uncovered and where the research is headed. Learn more: https://www.capitalone.com/cars/auto-financing/dealer Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: 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: 00:51 Last year's predictions: right or wrong? 02:21 What is the future of EVs? 04:51 Dealerships' role in the EV transition? 07:28 How does tech create transparency? 13:45 Biggest tech integration challenges? 16:37 How to improve the F&I process? 23:13 How do downturns impact dealerships? 29:00 Best dealership tech stack recommendations? 40:34 Top predictions for dealerships' future? 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