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Geri Lynn is a 40-year Nissan dealer-owner in Houma, Louisiana, known for human-centered leadership, visible presence on the lot, and turning a once-skeptical car-buying experience into a culture of trust and fun. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. The customer is not always right; protecting and valuing your employees creates better long-term customer experiences. 2. Business success comes from consistent culture, trust, and human connection not just transactions. 3. Visibility and accessibility as a leader build trust faster than any marketing strategy ever could. Check out Geri's website - GerilynnNissan Website Sponsors HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. NetSuite - If your revenues are at least in the seven figures, get our free business guide, Demystifying AI, at NetSuite.com/fire. Revenued - Built for small business owners who need fast, flexible access to working capital, without relying on your personal credit score. Apply now at Revenued.com/fire.
In this episode of Service Drive Revolution #362, Chris, Hogi, and Adam dig deep into the reality of what it actually takes to walk into a failing service department and completely flip it upside down. Chris shares what he learned as a 24-year-old consultant, affectionately nicknamed "The Bulldog", by dealing with old-school managers who would rather lose money than change their systems. We break down the three distinct buckets every dealership falls into, the exact 4-week research and execution blueprint Chris used to double labor sales in 90 days, and why fixing a business is often less about the numbers and more about fixing human self-esteem. Plus: Why the cashiers and porters always know more about your department's problems than the manager does.
Ameen Hassen - Head: Shari'ah Banking, Standard Bank SAfm Market Update - Podcasts and live stream
Josh Arnold, Recon Lead Technician at Austin Subaru, is back on the podcast for another honest conversation about life in the trade. He opens up about mentoring apprentices from scratch, what it really took to turn around a struggling recon department, and how public speaking and MPI video have pushed him to grow in ways he didn't expect. Watch the video recordingAbout the EpisodeHost: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay, jayg@wrenchway.comGuest: Josh Arnold, Austin Subaru, Connect with Josh on LinkedInLinks & ResourcesGet notified of new episodes --> Join our email listJoin the ASE Connects CommunityASE Connects brings shops, dealerships, and schools together in one structured network to strengthen the technician pipeline. By making it easier to connect, collaborate, and support students through job shadows, internships, and classroom engagement, ASE Connects helps schools build stronger programs and helps shops develop a more consistent, local source of future technicians. Learn more:ASE Connects Memberships for Shops & DealersASE Connects Memberships for Schools (Free!)Connect with us on social:FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeTikTok
Today, Sam D'Arc is joined by Jon Alcorn, Operating Partner at Dogwood Automotive Group. Winchester, Virginia's three-brand Dogwood Auto Group hasn't printed a paper pencil in over a year, yet grosses are up, and finance penetration sits at 89%. Jon breaks down the two systems behind that shift: a salesperson efficiency scorecard that grades reps from 113% down to 58% on metrics they can actually control, and a digital retailing stack that will deliver a 30-second actual cash value and a 60-second real quote to every online shopper starting June 1. Topics: 09:30 Why "Your Presence Is Your Leverage" Is A Lie. 10:00 The Day The Paper Pencil Died. 11:30 Why Customers Submit Their Own Credit. 18:00 Why Transparency Doesn't Kill Gross. 21:00 The Salesperson Scorecard Nobody Built. 30:00 Why Variable Ops Has No Efficiency Metric. 41:00 The Sales Manager As Restaurant Manager. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Mia - Your 24/7 AI receptionist who speaks like a human, not a robot. Never miss another lead. Visit @ here. 2. Reynolds & Reynold - ReconVision doesn't just help you track recon; it helps you fix it. Visit here for more information. 3. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
In this eye-opening episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, Sean V. Bradley sits down with CBT News co-founder and automotive industry veteran Jim Fitzpatrick for a conversation that every dealer principal, general manager, and automotive leader needs to hear. "The FTC is going to be saying, look, you can't play games with this. If your salesperson is out there pitching a price on a car... your salesperson is now going to be representing to the consumers what the sale price of that car is." - Jim Fitzpatrick As the FTC increases its focus on dealership advertising, pricing transparency, and consumer protection, many retailers are left wondering: Is my dealership truly prepared? Sean and Jim unpack one of the most important topics facing the automotive industry today, exploring how regulatory changes, compliance expectations, and evolving consumer demands are reshaping the dealership landscape. From pricing disclosures and advertising practices to the growing influence of social media and personal branding, this discussion highlights why old habits could create new risks in today's market. "We're really bringing together the smartest minds in retail automotive or most of them, to bring them together to say, look, let's help dealers figure this thing out." - Jim Fitzpatrick Without giving away all the answers, this episode challenges dealers to think differently about compliance, leadership, training, and accountability. More importantly, it highlights why staying informed and proactively adapting may be one of the biggest competitive advantages a dealership can have moving forward. Whether you're a dealer principal, GM, GSM, compliance officer, or automotive professional, this conversation will help you better understand the road ahead and why industry leaders are paying close attention to the conversations surrounding FTC enforcement, dealership operations, and the future of automotive retail. Register for the Auto Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. here and get $100 OFF with code 'SEAN100': https://www.cbtnews.com/auto-leadership-summit/ Because in today's environment, what you don't know could cost you far more than you think… Key Takeaways: ✅ The FTC is focusing on fair pricing and transparent marketing practices in the automotive industry to protect consumer interests. ✅ Dealers need a comprehensive training program that includes a structured compliance strategy to address pricing and social media marketing challenges. ✅ Social media influencers and individual sales representatives can unwittingly cause compliance issues if they post content related to pricing without understanding the implications. ✅ Establishing a robust audit system for social media content posted by dealership employees is vital to maintain compliance and protect brand reputation. ✅ The CBT News Auto Leadership Summit on Fair Pricing and Compliance will offer insights from experts across the industry on how to navigate these compliance challenges. About Jim Fitzpatrick Jim Fitzpatrick is a 25-year veteran of the retail automotive industry. He began his career in 1980 as a new car salesperson at a high-volume Toyota dealership in South Florida and quickly rose through the ranks, holding executive positions with AutoNation and JM&A. In 2001 Jim became the Managing Partner of a Toyota dealership in Augusta Georgia. In 2004 Jim, along with his son, John, co- founded Force Marketing in Atlanta, Georgia which currently serves over 1600 franchised dealers throughout North America. In 2012, realizing the need for new car dealers to have their own news and information platform, Jim and his wife Bridget, launched CBT Automotive Network. In addition to providing daily news reports, CBT produces nine weekly shows, hosted by the industry's best known consultants and trainers. Each show focuses on different departments of the dealership operation. Over 54,000 dealer principals, OEM, and Association Executives throughout North America receive CBT's daily newsletters. A recent study found that more people view CBT's video segments than any other automotive media platform. A father of five and grandfather of six, Jim lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his family. Harnessing Regulatory Compliance and Social Media Strategy in Automotive Sales: Insights from Industry Leaders Key Takeaways Social Media Compliance: Dealerships must enforce strict social media policies to ensure compliance with Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulations and protect their brand image. Price Transparency: Aligning advertising strategies with FTC guidelines on fair pricing can prevent costly violations and enhance consumer trust. Training and Policies: Implementing comprehensive training programs and policies can safeguard dealerships against potential regulatory breaches and maintain operational integrity. Navigating the Complex World of Social Media Compliance In the ever-evolving automotive industry, dealerships face a growing demand to maintain transparency and compliance, particularly in the realm of social media. The transcript from a riveting conversation between Jim Fitzpatrick and Sean V. Bradley highlights the importance of ensuring dealership employees adhere to social media guidelines set by the FTC. Fitzpatrick asserts that social media has become crucial in portraying a dealership's brand and customer experience. "Take the influencers and have them talk about the experience, have them talk about the selection," he suggests, emphasizing content that avoids pricing to remain compliant. The conversation underscores the significant role dealerships' social media strategies play in forming consumer perceptions and regulatory compliance. With employees potentially acting as brand ambassadors online, the repercussions of non-compliant posts can be detrimental. Discounted prices or misleading offers shared on personal platforms, as Fitzpatrick points out, can draw unwanted regulatory scrutiny. Dealerships are not just at risk of tarnishing their reputation but also face hefty fines. Simply put, ensuring a strategy that focuses on non-monetary aspects of the dealership experience can protect both brand and financial standing. Price Transparency: A Path to Building Consumer Trust Price transparency in dealership advertising is another crucial theme woven throughout the dialogue. The FTC, under the Biden administration, has intensified its focus on what it terms "junk fees" in various industries, including automotive. "Maybe the managers are saying, well, in order for us to be compliant, we're going to price ourselves right out of the marketplace," Fitzpatrick notes, acknowledging the balance dealerships must strike between competitive pricing and regulatory adherence. According to Bradley, the importance of consistency across advertised prices and what consumers actually pay when they walk into a dealership cannot be overstated. Misleading pricing not only disrupts consumer trust but also exposes dealerships to severe penalties. With the FTC reportedly sending out 97 warnings to dealerships about these practices, the industry is on high alert. Dealerships must ensure that their advertising reflects the actual purchase price, minus incentives, to maintain compliance and consumer confidence. Comprehensive Training and Policies for Sustainable Operations Both Bradley and Fitzpatrick adamantly express the importance of robust training and policy establishment to mitigate the risks of regulatory infringements. Fitzpatrick underscores the need for ongoing employee education, suggesting that training programs specifically tailored to reinforce compliance norms can be a dealership's strongest defense. "If you don't have ongoing training in this area…you have no defense," he mentions. Bradley concurs, emphasizing the necessity of consistent managerial oversight and the implementation of structured communication protocols, such as computer use policies. These measures not only ensure that the dealership aligns with federal regulations but also empower employees with the knowledge they need to uphold the company's reputation. Comprehensive, routine audits and training can preemptively address and rectify potential compliance issues before they escalate to external disputes or regulatory scrutiny. Navigating the intricacies of compliance in the automotive industry requires a proactive and strategic approach. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability through comprehensive training and controlled social media strategies, dealerships can fortify themselves against regulatory pitfalls. As the conversation between Bradley and Fitzpatrick poignantly illustrates, these measures not only safeguard against financial penalties but also contribute to building a resilient, consumer-focused brand reputation in a competitive industry 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.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vMtf0ZtSbbA Fleet maintenance isn't sexy — but it's one of the highest expenses in trucking, the most controllable, and by far the most ignored. Justin Brevik of Bosch FleetMe returns to the BulkLoads Podcast to break down exactly where fleets bleed money on maintenance and how to fix it, whether you run 3 trucks or 3,000. Host Jared Flinn and Justin cover the real cost of letting a truck sit at a dealership, the oil-change myth costing you thousands, why tires are your #1 maintenance expense (and the cheap fix almost nobody does), and how to move your operation from reactive to preventative to predictive maintenance. If you're an owner-operator, carrier, or fleet manager trying to protect your margins, this one pays for itself. Want to be featured on the BulkLoads Podcast? https://www.bulkloadsmedia.com/ ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 Joining Bosch's Fleet Maintenance Team 05:23 Fleet maintenance strategies 09:55 360-degree DVIR integration 11:18 Streamlining fleet breakdown response 14:40 Evaluating and training technicians 19:00 Dealership repair and staffing insights 22:11 Tire maintenance and oil changes 23:45 Fleet management tools overview
In this episode of Service Drive Revolution #361, Chris, Hogi, and Adam continue our origin series by jumping back in time to the moment Chris realized that financial statements are the secret key to everything in a dealership. ] Chris shares a wild story about trading his own consulting services just to get a back-door education on how dealership financials actually work—and how a chance meeting with a former Kansas City Chiefs player changed his perspective. Plus: A deep dive into the trap of fatalism in America today, and why understanding the numbers is your ultimate industry superpower.
Chuck Hartle, parts expert and founder of PartsEdge is back with a special episode: a replay of the hugely popular webinar covering parts pricing strategies—all about how your dealership's matrix and source structure within the DMS directly affect your margins and control. Chuck breaks down the steps to truly review your pricing foundation, shares real examples from over 300 dealerships, and exposes common pitfalls that are quietly shrinking your profits.From reviewing your price matrix and recognizing when manufacturers “matrix you” to updating overlooked menu-priced items, this episode is packed with real-world insights that parts managers can take action on today. The conversation covers reporting musts, what to tweak and how, debunks pricing myths, and delivers gritty, optimistic advice for running a lean, high-performance parts department.If you're a fixed ops leader or dealership manager looking to turn inventory faster, reduce obsolescence, and stop guessing when it comes to pricing, this replay is your co-pilot.--------------------------------------------This show is powered by PartsEdge: Your go-to solution for transforming dealership parts inventory into a powerhouse of profitability. Our strategies are proven to amp up parts sales by a whopping 20%, all while cutting down on idle inventory. If you're looking to optimize your parts management, visit
In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Ben Atkinson, VP of Auto Lending at Upstart, and Evan Driscoll, General Sales Manager at Audi Jacksonville to discuss why the credit score has become the most overrated number in auto lending and how a full-spectrum dealership running everything from $2,000 used cars to $400,000 Rolls-Royces gets first-time buyers approved at competitive rates with no money down. Evan breaks down how a slow approval costs his store at least $1,000 per car per day in aging inventory, and how a 10-second automated decision changed the math. They also get into why 24/7 automated approvals matter most during the weeks traditional lenders go dark. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Upstart. Topics: 04:30 Why Slow Approvals Kill Deals. 05:50 The $1,000 Cost Of One Extra Day. 08:00 How Soft Pulls Close More Deals. 09:50 Why Customers Love Soft Pulls. 11:20 The 10-Second Approval. 15:00 Why First-Time Buyers Get 7% Rates. 16:30 The 280 Data Points Beyond Credit Scores. 20:00 24/7 Automation Beats Banking Hours. 21:00 The Beach Chair Email That Enraged A Store. 24:30 Why Manual Credit Apps Are Dead. 26:00 One Portal Beats Five Logins. 29:00 People First, Tech Second. Upstart - Unlike traditional auto financing, Upstart uses thousands of data points – not just credit scores – to approve more buyers, structure more profitable deals, and speed up funding. Learn more at here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
South Carolina woman is dead after flying umbrella incident at restaurant, U-Haul trailer disappeared 14 years ago and all of a sudden just casually showed back up at a dealer, Shady car salesman tried to pull a fast one on blind customer?
South Carolina woman is dead after flying umbrella incident at restaurant, U-Haul trailer disappeared 14 years ago and all of a sudden just casually showed back up at a dealer, Shady car salesman tried to pull a fast one on blind customer?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today I'm joined by Marcello Sciarrino, Co-Owner at Island Auto Group. Marcello runs 20 stores across New York and New Jersey — the 37th largest business in New York State, ahead of the Yankees and the Giants — and he watched peers go from 3 stores to 12 overnight while he and his partners sat on their hands. He breaks down the math trap killing over-leveraged dealers, why brokers in the New York market are secretly extracting thousands per deal at the consumer's expense, and why his next big bet isn't more acquisitions — it's 70 to 100 new service bays in the next 12 months. Topics: 01:20 Why Overexpansion Crushes Bad Dealers. 02:20 The 60,000-Square-Foot Toyota Bet. 03:50 The 12x Multiple You Cannot Afford. 06:30 The Three-Person Boardroom. 07:20 Why You Buy the Person, Not the Store. 14:00 The $7,500 Broker Fee That Kills Consumers. 19:40 Why Toyota Might Finally Enforce the Rules. 26:30 The $3,000 Down Payment Lie. 27:50 The Carvana Lesson Dealers Ignore. 32:20 Why New York Is Losing the Rich. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. Wikimotive - Wikimotive delivers organic and paid search solutions to hundreds of dealerships from rural rooftops to multiple top-5 national dealers. Visit @ here for more info. 3. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Art Dessein, Vice President of Sales at Impel, and Rebekah Scheussler, Business Development Director at Walters Auto Group to discuss why luxury dealers are quietly losing service customers to independent shops and how AI is rebuilding the personalized experience at scale across both sales and service. This conversation surfaces the silent retention leak inside fixed operations: a nine-minute average service hold time, an 80% abandonment rate on the online service scheduler, and 190,000 independent shops siphoning loyal owners away. Walters has run 107,000 leads and over 600,000 messages through Impel, lifted per-rep capacity from 200 leads to 300-400, watched show rates climb, and seen days to sale drop. Customers are even thanking the AI agent for the best service experience they have ever had, without knowing it isn't human. The takeaway for any dealer on the fence: it isn't if, it's how fast. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Impel. Topics: 03:15 200 Leads Per Agent. 05:40 The Overnight Lead Problem. 08:00 The 9-Minute Hold Time. 09:20 Will AI Replace Me? 13:20 The Better The Tech, The Worse The Support. 17:55 Why Zach Travels (My Son's Secret). 19:10 Why Set It And Forget It Fails. 20:05 107,000 Leads Handled. 21:00 The 10-Person Savings. 23:00 27% Repeat Purchase Rate. 25:10 When Customers Thank The AI. 32:55 Something Doesn't Have To Be Broken. GetImpel - Dealers are caught between rising customer expectations and the math of meeting them without staffing every problem. Impel's AI Operating System unifies the entire customer lifecycle — sales, service, voice, chat, marketing, merchandising — engaging, qualifying, and scheduling every shopper and customer in seconds, in the dealer's brand voice, at unlimited scale. The human team focuses on what builds loyalty: the relationships. Visit https://impel.ai/ to learn more and experience the power of Impel. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
What happens when AI enters a dealership… and your employees emotionally resist it? In this powerful episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, Jen dives deep into one of the biggest leadership challenges happening inside dealerships right now: anti-AI culture, fear-based resistance, and the emotional side of organizational change. After training inside dealerships every single week and working with hundreds of managers and employees every month, Jen shares what she's personally witnessing in real time. Employees aren't just resisting technology. Many are scared of becoming irrelevant, overwhelmed by rapid change, or embarrassed they don't fully understand AI while younger employees adopt it faster. As the founder of eDealer Solutions and co-founder of ZukiTalk, Jen brings a rare inside perspective on how leadership messaging, dealership culture, emotional intelligence, and AI adoption are now colliding. This episode is not about AI hype. It's about leadership maturity. Jen breaks down why dealerships cannot shame employees into using AI, but also cannot allow emotional resistance to stop organizational evolution. She explains how dealerships should responsibly discuss AI ethics, customer trust, employee concerns, privacy, communication boundaries, and the future workforce expectations already forming inside the industry. If you're a dealer principal, GM, fixed ops leader, sales manager, service director, or anyone leading people through change, this episode will challenge how you think about culture, adaptability, leadership communication, and the future of automotive retail. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Jen Suzuki breaks down AI in the most real-world, non-Silicon-Valley way possible. No tech jargon. No robot talk. Just honest insight from someone who trains inside dealerships every single week and is watching the automotive industry evolve in real time. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, Jen explains what AI actually is, why so many people are either scared of it or pretending to understand it, and how dealerships are already changing faster than most leaders realize. From service advisors and BDC teams to technicians and managers, she shares what she's personally seeing inside stores across the country as AI begins improving communication, reducing friction, speeding up learning, and exposing weak processes. As the founder of eDealer Solutions and co-founder of ZukiTalk, Jen gives a rare inside perspective on the collision between human connection and technology. This episode is not about replacing people. It's about helping dealership teams become faster learners, better communicators, and more valuable in a rapidly changing world. If you work in automotive retail, leadership, sales, service, or fixed ops, this conversation will challenge the way you think about AI, the future workforce, and what customers actually want from the dealership experience. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Today I'm joined by Corina Straub Diehl, CEO and President at Diehl Automotive Group. After the sudden loss of her husband in 2007, Corina ignored advice to sell the business and instead scaled it into a 24-store powerhouse generating over a billion dollars in revenue. This conversation breaks down her "rebel" leadership style, her aggressive 5-year ROI acquisition strategy, and why she views collision centers as the ultimate customer retention tool. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Openlane - If you've never used OPENLANE before, or it's been a while since you have, you're eligible to earn up to $2,500 in buy or sale fee credits. Learn more @ here. 2. Autovision - If you're looking for ways to improve turn rates, reduce bottlenecks, and gain a clearer picture of your inventory strategy, check out AutoVision's suite of solutions. Visit @ here. 3. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:35 The Hermetically Sealed US Auto Market. 02:00 The Franchise Corinna Calls Her Ugly Stepchild. 06:15 The 5-Year ROI Rule That Built An Empire. 13:45 The Husband's Final Warning She Ignored. 21:00 Why She Still Shops At Target. 23:40 The 300-Email Hack Every Executive Needs. 28:30 The Customer Email That Terrifies Her Team. 31:45 The GM Who Stole From A Widow. 39:45 The 20x Multiple She Refuses To Pay. 55:15 The Old-School Fraud She Still Catches. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Power sports veteran Ray Mondragon joins GarageCast to break down what actually works in dealership marketing today. From Harley-Davidson sales floors to digital strategy and AI, Ray shares the proven fundamentals dealers can't afford to ignore.UPDATE 2027 is back.Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry's premier training and networking events.Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow.Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.
In this episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, LA Williams sits down with respected automotive leader Milt Whitesides from SS Auto and Cycle Brokers for a conversation that goes far beyond selling cars. What actually separates average dealerships from elite-performing stores? Is it inventory, traffic, advertising, or is it something much deeper happening inside the culture, leadership, and daily habits of the dealership itself? "Average never creates extraordinary." – LA Williams With decades of experience leading high-performing dealerships, building winning teams, and transforming store operations, Milt shares powerful insight into the mindset, structure, and discipline required to create long-term dealership success. "Serve your team, serve your leaders, and serve your guests. That's what makes the big difference." – Milt Whitesides This episode explores why leadership matters more than ever in today's automotive industry, how process consistency impacts profitability, and why culture is often the hidden factor behind both dealership growth and dealership failure. Without giving away the full blueprint, LA and Milt touch on the power of accountability, communication, relationship-building, inventory strategy, and the shift from traditional dealership operations to a more modern, intentional approach. "Mindset creates everything. If you think you're a 40-car-a-day store, you're a 40-car-a-day store." – Milt Whitesides If you're a dealer principal, GM, manager, or automotive professional looking to elevate your dealership beyond average performance, this episode will challenge the way you think about leadership, culture, and operational excellence. Remember, the great dealerships are not built by accident. They are built by intention! Key Takeaways: ✅ The transformation from average to elite dealership performance hinges on a disciplined approach to leadership, process execution, and fostering a positive culture. ✅ Building strong customer relationships should be prioritized over traditional, transactional approaches, integrating service-minded principles throughout the dealership. ✅ Setting and sticking to systematic daily habits, such as the 'morning five,' can substantially impact personal and professional growth within the automotive industry. ✅ Developing a comprehensive acquisition strategy that goes beyond relying on auctions is crucial for sustainable used-car inventory management. ✅ Fostering a service-oriented culture requires ongoing mentorship, relationship building, and aligning everyday activities with overarching dealership goals. About Milt Whitesides Milt Whitesides, a seasoned veteran in the automotive industry with over 35 years of experience, has held pivotal roles such as General Sales Manager, General Manager, and Managing Partner. He is renowned for his expertise in dealership leadership, culture development, and volume enhancement. His innovative strategies have been recognized with numerous accolades, including awards from FCA Stellantis, Mitsubishi, and Subaru. Milt's leadership at Sanderson Ford has been instrumental in achieving a groundbreaking sale of 734 units, making him a leading authority on high-performance dealership operations. Unlocking Success in Car Sales: The Importance of Leadership, Culture, and Execution Key Takeaways Transformational leadership and culture are essential for high-performing car dealerships. Successful execution in car sales relies heavily on systems that save stress, time, energy, and money. Effective team building and relationship management directly impact dealership performance and culture. Transformational Leadership: Driving Change in Car Dealerships In the rapidly evolving automotive industry, old-school tactics are being replaced by transformational leadership, emphasizing relationship building over intimidation and fear. "They just used to beat it into us, right? They just used fear and intimidation," reflects Milt Whitesides, shedding light on an outdated model no longer effective in today's market. Now, building relationships and demonstrating leadership by example are crucial. The shift highlights the need for leaders to engage directly and personally with their teams, showing team members that they're committed to the same goals and willing to "do any of the things that you're coaching, you're willing to do and show them how to do it." Such engagement fosters a culture where employees aren't just workers, but integral parts of a larger vision, contributing significantly to the dealership's overall success. Systematic Execution: Creating a Blueprint for Success Systems in car sales aren't just about maintaining order; they're about creating consistent, scalable success. As LA Williams aptly states, "Systems save you stress, time, energy, and money." This philosophy highlights the necessity for dealerships to adopt robust processes that ensure every member of the team understands their role and the steps needed to achieve their goals. Incorporating structured training programs for both sales staff and managers ensures everyone is equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for their roles. Milt Whitesides emphasizes the importance of thorough, hands-on training, stating, "We're coaching, we're training, we're mentoring, we're motivating, we're inspiring." This comprehensive approach ensures that processes are not just guidelines, but actionable, effective strategies that elevate performance across the board. The execution of such systems inevitably leads to improved sales outcomes, as demonstrated by dealerships achieving extraordinary sales figures, like 734 units. This level of performance isn't accidental; it's the result of consistent application of systems and processes designed to optimize every facet of sales operations. Relationship Building: Fostering a Culture of Excellence The success of a dealership heavily depends on the relationships forged within its walls. Whitesides elaborates on the transition from a transactional mindset to one focusing on relationships, not just with customers, but within teams as well. "For me, it's about relationships now," he states, indicating a paradigm shift necessary in modern dealerships. To bridge the gap between average and exceptional, Whitesides suggests serving the team members and customers becomes the priority. "You serve them," he advises, underscoring how an attitude of service permeates every interaction, creating a cohesive and motivated workforce. This approach yields a twofold benefit — it enhances customer experience and bolsters internal morale, aligning everyone's efforts towards achieving common goals. The implications of such relationship-focused efforts are manifold. Dealerships become welcoming environments where employees thrive, leading to higher customer satisfaction and, ultimately, increased profitability and market share. In the dynamic world of automotive sales, success hinges on effective leadership, rigorous execution of systems, and strong relationship management. By shifting towards transformational leadership, instilling systematic execution through training, and fostering a culture where relationships are prioritized, dealerships can achieve unprecedented success. Embracing these changes positions them to not only compete but excel in a market where customer expectations and competitive pressures are continually rising. Such strategic realignment and commitment to innovation can transform dealerships into industry leaders. 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.
We continue our episodes of the Auto Remarketing Podcast originating from the Live Stage, which was sponsored by SYCN Auto Logistics, during the Used Car Industry Summit in Miami this spring. AutoWeb / UsedCars.com president and COO Dan Ingle tackled a part of the dealership business that's frustrating managers and their sales staffs. Why have leads deteriorated so significantly? Along with offering his explanation for the situation, Ingle explained what performance-based marketing is and how it could provide a solution .
In this episode of the Used Car Dealer Podcast, Zach Klempf talks with Dan Ingle, President & COO of UsedCars.com, to discuss how affordability pressures are fueling a major shift from new to used vehicles and what dealers need to do to stay ahead in a tight inventory market. Drawing from his extensive automotive background, including leadership roles at Kelley Blue Book and AutoWeb, Dan shares practical strategies dealers can use heading into 2026. The conversation covers pricing vehicles to market, building consumer trust through stronger merchandising and vehicle history reports, and improving speed-to-lead and lead nurturing for shoppers transitioning from new to used. They also dive into inventory sourcing strategies across trade-ins, service drive, auctions, and direct-to-consumer channels, along with Dan's perspective on growing used EV demand and how dealers can better merchandise and position EV inventory for today's buyers. ⏱️ Key Questions & Timestamps 01:12 — Dan's career journey (PeopleFirst → KBB/Cox → AutoWeb turnaround → UsedCars.com) 03:39 — Why 1 in 3 shoppers are moving from new to used (affordability, rates, payments) 04:54 — Where shoppers are landing: segments, trims, and the $15K “unicorn” hunt 06:11 — Demand stays healthy… but confidence is down: need-based buying + what that signals 08:03 — What the new-to-used migration means for dealer strategy in 2026 (used mix + positioning) 09:52 — Dealer playbook: pricing to market, listing quality, VHR trust, and speed-to-lead/nurture 12:17 — Inventory flow update: off-lease returns, upside-down equity, and tight day supply 13:12 — Are we heading toward balance—or does affordability keep supply tight? 13:51 — Sourcing strategy: auctions vs trade-ins vs service lane vs direct-to-consumer channels 15:12 — Biggest inventory opportunity: late-model, clean, on-brand units (and why it matters) 15:48 — Used EVs: interest trends, impressions, and what conversion looks like so far 16:48 — Used EV buyer psychology: affordability tailwinds vs battery health concerns 17:58 — How to sell used EVs: pricing, training, range, trust signals, battery health + warranties 19:25 — Back half of 2026 outlook: merchandising opportunities + what Dan expects next 20:40 — Rapid fire: underrated segment to stock now (3–5-year sedans) 21:10 — Rapid fire: biggest dealer mistake right now (not “skating to where the puck is going”) 21:51 — Rapid fire: surprising data point (mid-April EV impressions doubled) Learn more about Usedcars.com: https://dealers.usedcars.com/?utm_source=used-car-dealer-podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=dan-ingle-interview&utm_content=youtube-description
KADA President Jason Wilson and Vice-President Sarah Bishop chat with Jerry Wagner and Pat Morgan of the Kentucky Sheriffs' Association about the new process for dealerships to apply for two employee Special Inspectors. Get the latest here, including how you can register and get trained!
In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Nathan Johns, CFO of Smith Auto Group, and Justin Feist, President of Auto Dealer Payments, to discuss how credit card processing is the "last frontier" of dealership expense management, yet most CFOs struggle to decipher their 20-page monthly statements. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how processors use "price creep" to erode margins and why dealerships are structurally disadvantaged in the world of chargebacks. We break down how to audit your effective rate and implement a defense strategy to reclaim lost profit without selling a single extra car. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Auto Dealer Payments. Auto Dealer Payments - Auto Dealer Payments exclusively works with automotive dealerships, providing simple, transparent, and best-in-class support for payment processing. Visit @ here for more information and to schedule a meeting. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 04:20 Why Credit Card Processing Never Gets Audited. 05:40 The 20-Page Statement Nobody Reads. 06:05 Why Your Processor Only Lowers Rates When You Leave. 07:10 The Line Item That Made Justin Investigate. 08:00 Why Dealerships End Up In 1-800 Support Hell. 09:30 The “Local Relationship” Costing You Thousands. 11:45 Why Chargebacks Hit Service Departments Hardest. 12:45 Guilty Until Proven Innocent. 14:40 The 20% Win Rate That Can Jump To 80%. 16:00 The $5,000 Monthly Chargeback Exposure. 18:40 Why Your Processor Raises Rates Twice A Year. 24:30 The $21,000 Per Million Hidden Cost. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Understanding the dynamic factors behind fuel prices can seem daunting, but this video clarifies how "crude oil" and "supply and demand" dictate what you pay at the pump. We break down the intricate "logistics" and market forces, making "economics explained" accessible. Gain a clearer perspective on "oil prices" and how they are set, moving beyond simple blame.Full Video On Youtube:https://youtu.be/umQF9sWxhgEGrab a copy of my book:https://partsmanagerpro.gumroad.com/l/qtqaxBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-motor-files-podcast--4960744/support.
In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Dennis Gingrich, Sales and Finance Director at the Niello Company, and George Chamoun, CEO of ACV Auctions to discuss the shift from gut-based appraisals to VIN-specific data science and how Niello Company exploded their lead volume by democratizing trade-in values. George breaks down why traditional inventory management is dying and how automated service drive inspections are uncovering hidden $8,000 mistakes before they hit the books. This conversation highlights the tension between "the artist" manager and the machine, proving that transparency is the ultimate tool for dealer retention. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by ACV Auctions. ACVAuctions - ACV is on a mission to transform the automotive industry by building the most trusted and efficient digital marketplaces and data solutions for sourcing, selling, and managing used vehicles with transparency and comprehensive insights that were once unimaginable. ACV offerings include ACV Auctions, ACV Transportation, ACV Capital, MAX Digital, True360, and ClearCar. For more information about ACV, visit @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 03:25 The Tire That Broke the Old Way. 05:30 How Buying Leads Made Niello Compete Against Itself. 07:50 Why Your BMW Quote Should Match Buffalo's. 08:10 The Closing Rate That Made Dennis Switch. 12:05 Predicting Trade Value Within $100. 14:30 Why Your Gut Is Costing You Thousands. 19:55 The $8,000 Mistake Viper Caught. 21:00 600 Leads in Two Months vs. 1,299 in Twelve. 22:00 Why Inventory Management Software Is Dying. 29:00 The Guarantee That Proves ACV's Data. 38:30 Why Your Best Salespeople Should Stop Pricing Cars. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Have you ever been scammed buying something on TikTok?? People are getting scammed on TikTok from a fake car dealership that says it's based in Aurora! When they go to the address it's an apartment building.
In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Matt Groves, CEO of the Colorado Auto Dealer Association, to break down the latest FTC regulations and what they mean for automotive and powersports dealers. From the collapse of the CARS Rule to the rise of stricter consumer protection standards, Matt shares key insights on advertising compliance, transparency, and how to avoid costly mistakes. If you're a dealer navigating evolving regulations and social media marketing risks, this episode is packed with practical, must-know guidance.UPDATE 2027 is back.Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry's premier training and networking events.Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow.Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.
As any dealer knows, tax refund season is when dealership volume really begins to take off. Unfortunately, fraudsters have gotten wise to this as well. In this episode of the 700Credit Credit Podcast, Ken Hill and Jason Harris break down how opportunistic fraudsters take advantage of lapses in dealership compliance when customer volume peaks, and how firmly established processes can keep your team protected. 700 Credit Podcast Episodes & more: https://www.700credit.com/700credit-podcast/ #dealership #automotive
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 HERELaunch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HEREIn this episode, Jeff talks with Christopher Clingerman, a fleet mechanic out of Rochester, New York. Christopher shares how he went from working on tractor trailers to maintaining school buses, and what surprised him most about the switch from dealership life to fleet work. They get into the day-to-day challenges techs deal with, from bad parts and misdiagnosed vehicles to the importance of training and having a shop culture that actually supports its people.Timestamps:00:00 Working at Hyundai dealership11:46 Frustrations with car dealership service26:28 Routine vehicle inspections37:40 Using vegetable oil in hydraulics42:50 Modified trucks and safety issues56:41 Concerns with turbocharged engines01:09:59 Laid back work environment01:19:22 Training opportunities during work hours01:25:33 Changes in welding education01:37:39 Brian's electrical skills explained01:46:34 Working on vehicle repairs01:57:40 Using real tools to teach skills02:10:56 Comparing tire brands and costs02:18:54 Open door for venting support 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
Are you efficient? Make your dealership efficient! | The Podcast for Used Car Dealers S5 E35Every dealership needs to be efficient to increase profits. Efficiency will help you make your dealership a success! Find out how. Watch this episode for our thoughts on the subject, and then tell us about your ideas in the comments! Don't miss an episode! Subscribe to Down Payment now! Visit all our sites at:YouTube - @DownPaymentPodcastYouTube - @cardealeru5061X - @DownPaymentPodInstagram - @DownPaymentPodcastDon't forget to like and subscribe! #carsales #usedcar #usedcarsforsale #autosales #automobile #auto #cardealer #cardealership #preownedcar #secondhandcar #buyherepayhere #managmenttraining #manager #managertraining #denver
Today's show features: - Lee Walton, Dealer Principal & Vice President at Bob Allen Ford-Ottawa - Frank Zombo, VP of Sales at Auto Hauler Exchange - Marion Cain, Founder of ACE™ This episode is brought to you by: Uber For Business – Not every service customer needs a loaner. Uber for Business gives your dealership a lower-cost courtesy ride option for customers whose vehicles are in the shop. Same convenience, less overhead. Book a demo and they'll buy you lunch with an Uber Eats gift card. Visit https://businesses.uber.com/CDG to get started. Auto Hauler Exchange – Auto Hauler Exchange is the vehicle transportation marketplace connecting shippers and carriers directly to remove inefficiencies, cut delivery timelines in half, and save 15-20% on transport. Visit https://www.autohaulerexchange.com/ to set up your free account today. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Andrew needs backup that all fountain drinks should cost the same amount regardless of size. Johnny needs backup that we need government regulation on Youtube comments. Enjoy! Support the showRemember to sign up for the Patreon for Post-Show Banter! https://patreon.com/thecavalrypodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
Today, I'm joined by Brian Abrams, VP of Data and AI at CDK Global, to discuss the critical shift from viewing AI as a "tool" to an operational strategy that prevents massive profit leakage. Brian explains why nearly 60% of dealer data is currently "dirty," how consumer AI agents are already calling stores to negotiate deals, and why a unified customer profile is now the only way to protect your margins. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - The AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. Veramatic - Meet Veramatic: the accuracy layer your DMS never built. Get clean, consistent, trusted accounting data, normalized before it hits the GL, automatically. Learn more @ here. 3. CDK Global - Dealership challenges are constantly evolving—your technology should too. The CDK Dealership Xperience Platform unifies your operations with AI-driven tools built to grow with you. Visit @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 03:52 Why Dealerships Already Talk To AI Every Day 05:50 The Fix For Endless Screen Hopping 12:45 Why 60% Of Dealership Tasks Still Slow Teams Down 13:35 The Profit Leak Bigger Than Vendor Fees 14:05 Why Sales Reps Chase Phantom Leads 16:30 The $2 Million Warning Dealers Miss 18:10 The CDK Upgrade Dealers Already Have 20:40 The Marketing Burn Rate Dealers Ignore 28:40 The Sentence That Makes AI Tools Work Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Dealerships are missing out on the service contract opportunity. If you don't sell them a service contract, someone else will and you could lose them as a customer. I had the opportunity to sit down with Brenda Cline Kereakes from Line5 at Agent Summit 2026 for an incredibly insightful conversation on the opportunities dealerships are missing and how to increase your profitability from the service drive in 2026. For more on Line5, visit: https://www.line5.com/ #dealership #automotive
Today's show features: - Cole Short, Head of Content & Creative Strategy at Car Dealership Guy - Jay Law, Head of Partnerships at Car Dealership Guy - Yossi Levi, Chief Car Guy at Car Dealership Guy This episode is brought to you by: Podium – the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look at https://www.podium.com/car-dealership-guy Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
This week, Chad rubs off on Kelsey as she deals with some complications at a car dealership, they both visit their moms over the weekend, Kelsey gets to watch her Dad perform the live Batman soundtrack and also attends the AFTD Conference in Seattle. Plus, great listener emails including a woman who should have been Chad's soulmate. Write into pretendproblemspodcast@gmail.com with your advice questions and stories and we'll answer them on the show! Subscribe to the podcast, and give it a 5-star rating and review to help the show move up the charts. Video for the episodes is on Kelsey's YouTube channel!Watch the episodes and subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9UBPfi4B_j1Ua7xDOcyBnASee Kelsey on tour: https://punchup.live/kelseycook/ticketsSee Chad on tour: https://punchup.live/chaddaniels/ticketsWatch Kelsey's special “Mark Your Territory” on YouTube: https://youtu.be/uYqWsDhWkkA?si=J9hgt5nKtMLxB1sjWatch Chad's special "Mixed Reviews" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1kVr3zkz7E&t=663sFollow Kelsey on social media: @KelseyCookComedyFollow Chad on social media: @thatchaddanielsTheme Song cowritten by Matthew Facca and Alex BentSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Video inspections are now standard in dealerships and shops across the country, but most students graduate without ever recording one. In this episode, Warner Jones, Sr. VP at TruVideo, walks instructors and program directors through why inspection video is a must-have skill for today's students, how it closes the communication gap between techs and customers, and how schools can get the industry's leading video platform at no cost.Watch the video recording About the EpisodeHost: Jay Goninen, WrenchWay, jayg@wrenchway.comGuest: Warner Jones, TruVideo, wrenchway@truvideo.com Links & ResourcesGet notified of new episodes --> Join our email listGet Started with TruVideo's Education Program for SchoolsJoin the ASE Connects CommunityASE Connects brings shops, dealerships, and schools together in one structured network to strengthen the technician pipeline. By making it easier to connect, collaborate, and support students through job shadows, internships, and classroom engagement, ASE Connects helps schools build stronger programs and helps shops develop a more consistent, local source of future technicians. Learn more:ASE Connects Memberships for Shops & DealersASE Connects Memberships for Schools (Free!)Connect with us on social:FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeTikTok
Today, Sam D'Arc is joined by Sam Hatch, General Manager at JRR Motor Sales, to discuss how he moved his top salesperson into a dedicated buying center to source 70+ units off the street in a single month. We discuss the "Matrix" view of inventory data, the spicy reality of off-site super sales, and why transparency is a dealer's greatest competitive edge. Sam also reveals the specific AI tools he uses to automate the hunt for used cars. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - The AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. Zurich - Zurich helps dealers operate with clarity, confidence, and certainty — driving stronger performance today while protecting long‑term value. From proven F&I processes and insights‑driven training to income‑generating programs, profit participation, and risk management solutions, Zurich is built to help dealers win now — and build for what's next. Discover more @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 02:20 Why Salespeople “Come to Die”. 04:35 From $0 to $6.5K Week. 06:10 The Integrity Rule. 08:55 Why Locals Hated Travelers. 13:40 The GM Who Took a 66. 16:40 800 Cars on Index Cards. 18:55 Why They List at 95. 19:40 The AI vAuto Won't Build. 24:15 Cracking Facebook Search. 27:55 70 Cars in 45 Days. 29:05 Pulling Top Sales Off the Floor. 33:25 The $50 Profit Play. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
In this episode the hosts dissect a Midwest trailer dealership priced at $5–7M and uncover a financial cliffhanger—questionable add-backs and heavy inventory requirements that may be masking weak true profitability.Business Listing – https://mail.mixmax.com/m/R8B9vgpovo59ao3bCWelcome to Acquisitions Anonymous – the #1 podcast for small business M&A. Every week, we break down businesses for sale and talk about buying, operating, and growing them.Looking to build a professional website in minutes? Try Wix: https://wix.pxf.io/c/6898629/3115214/25616?trafcat=templateHubSpot is the backbone for how businesses scale without chaos. Try them out here: https://go.try-hubspot.com/OeG9Vr
Thinking about buying, selling, or scaling your dealership? In this episode of GarageCast, Courtney Bernhard breaks down the real motivations, common mistakes, and smart strategies behind dealership exits and acquisitions—plus how independents can stay competitive in a changing market.
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 HERELaunch your tool game to the next level with Launch Tech USA! HEREIn this episode, Marco Palumbo shares his journey from technician to owner of Maxim Tire and Muffler in Winnipeg. He discusses the challenges of adapting to new automotive technologies, such as ADAS and electric vehicles, and the investments required in equipment, training, and staff. Marco also emphasizes the value of transparent customer service and community reputation, demonstrating how taking care of customers builds long-term loyalty and success.Timestamps:00:00 Meeting Mark and first impressions05:28 Importance of mentoring in shops12:13 Success with TikTok marketing17:38 Discussing car calibration and trust21:54 Unexpected car repair costs29:15 Dealerships vs. aftermarket dynamics34:45 Engaging waiting customers in showroom42:20 Oxygen sensor issues and specialization45:49 Tesla service challenges in smaller cities52:46 Celebrating Mark's impact56:16 Challenges with tech skills and training58:56 Managing training logistics01:04:09 Troubleshooting car electrical issues01:10:47 Managing customer service expectations01:16:04 Challenges with car part repairs01:24:28 Facing time management challenges01:28:24 Advocating for customer transparency01:34:09 Unresolved car maintenance issues01:37:26 Customer requests and shop policy01:42:08 Charging for technical auto repairs01:47:39 Recognizing Marco's passion and impact 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
In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Todd Hatch, Service Director at Palm Springs Nissan, and Malcolm Richardson, Senior Automotive Account Manager at Uber for Business to discuss how dealerships can eliminate the massive P&L leak caused by traditional shuttle and loaner fleets. Todd shares how he slashed his monthly transportation spend by $6,000 and reduced his loaner fleet from 50 cars to 12 by pivoting to an on-demand model. They unpack how direct DMS integrations allow service advisors to book rides in seconds, improving CSI by removing the friction of idle shuttles and late pickups. Ultimately, the conversation provides a blueprint for dealers to reclaim wasted overhead and send thousands of dollars directly back to the bottom line. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Uber for Business. Uber - Learn how Uber for Business is transforming the service lane by replacing outdated shuttle programs with on-demand mobility that elevates the customer experience. Discover how top dealerships are using centralized transportation dashboards and partner integrations to lower operational costs, improve CSI scores, and keep service bays moving. Learn more at https://businesses.uber.com/CDG Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:20 The $12,000 Monthly Black Hole. 02:10 Why Saturday Shuttles Were A Disaster. 03:15 The 50 Loaner Cars Hemorrhaging Cash. 04:15 Why Small Repairs Tanked CSI More. 05:20 One Question That Diffused Every Complaint. 07:25 The Relief From Firing The Shuttle. 08:45 The Biggest Myth About "Free" Shuttles. 09:30 One Click From The DMS Killed The Job. 12:25 The Controller's Shock At The First Bill. 13:30 How Uber Replaced Parts Drivers Too. 18:40 The 38 Parking Spots Hidden In Waste. 23:10 The One Mistake Todd Would Fix. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Today I'm joined by Jim Roche, CEO of Warrcloud. This conversation breaks down the massive $32 billion surge in warranty work, why customer pay is decelerating, and how dealers can use technology to fix "leaky" receivables and technician dissatisfaction. Jim reveals the tactical steps needed to modernize the service lane before the "death spiral" of rising prices drives your customers away. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here 2. CDG Recruiting – Hire top dealership talent, fast. From sales managers to GMs and C-suite execs, we've placed over 1,000 roles across auto retail. Ready to scale without the hassle? Visit @ here to get started. 3. WarrCloud - Your warranty claims process shouldn't drain your profits—or your people. Dealers reduce costs, speed up reimbursements, and uncover new revenue opportunities—while consistently improving OEM claim scores. The future of fixed ops belongs to those who adapt. Let's talk about automating your warranty processing today. Visit @ here Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 04:20 The Death Spiral Pricing Out Customers 06:50 Why Techs Feel Underpaid for Warranty 08:50 Why Your $25 Clerk Can't Handle Warranty 12:25 Fixed Ops Now Drives 54% 14:40 The $6 Million in Warranty Receivables 18:45 The Bob and Gladys Factor Killing Profits 22:10 Why 54% of Gross Gets 0% Time 24:15 The Two-Step AI Primer for Dealers 26:25 The Two-Day AI Summit That Changed Walzer Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1329: Lawmakers push to block Chinese vehicles as they sit just miles from the U.S. border. Meanwhile, those same brands are gaining attention from American drivers. Plus, a new “most trusted companies” list shows how perception is shaping retail and automotive players alike.Show Notes with links:A growing group of U.S. lawmakers is urging the Trump administration to keep Chinese automakers out of the American market entirely, even as consumer interest rises and some leaders float U.S.-based production.More than 70 House Democrats are pushing to maintain a full ban on Chinese vehicles entering the U.S. market.The current restrictions stem from 2025 rules citing national security concerns, especially around data collection from connected vehicles.Despite high tariffs and bans, consumer curiosity about Chinese EVs is increasing, especially with the Beijing Auto Show currently happeningThe debate gets complicated as Trump made comments in January welcoming Chinese automakers building plants and jobs on U.S. soil.“We must not cede the American auto industry to a strategic competitor intent on global dominance,” lawmakers said.Chinese automakers may be locked out of the U.S., but just five miles from the Texas border, they're gaining traction with low prices and high-tech features. Chinese brands like BYD, Geely, and Great Wall are thriving in Mexico with EVs, hybrids, and gas vehicles priced well below U.S. offerings.Dealerships near El Paso are attracting attention from American shoppers, with some buyers and drivers already bringing vehicles into the U.S. under legal exceptions.One driver regularly commutes into Texas in a Chinese plug-in hybrid.Executives warn the pricing pressure is real, with some saying competing at Chinese price points would mean losing money.“If they were allowed to be sold in the United States…they would destroy the American car market,” said a Geely salesman,A new ranking of America's most trustworthy companies is out, based on a survey of 25,000 consumers, with retail brands dominating the list and sparking debate about how trust is measured and which companies truly earn it.Newsweek's 2026 list ranks retailers like Chewy, Costco, Amazon, and Home Depot among the most trusted companies in the U.S.The rankings are based on consumer perceptions of trust across industries, with retail heavily represented at the top.The report emphasizes that trust is increasingly tied to transparency, reliability, and handling of customer data.Some critics argue the list favors large corporations and question whether trust can truly be measured through surveys.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/
Today I'm joined by Erikka Tiffani, General Manager at Walser Hyundai Brooklyn Park. In an industry defined by grind and tradition, Erikka breaks down how Walzer has successfully implemented a 4-day work week and a non-commissioned sales model. We discuss the transition from traditional F&I "boxes" to a one-point-of-contact system that actually maintains high PVR. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - the AI platform trusted by one in three dealerships. Podium helps dealers consolidate sales, service, messaging, and voice into one connected system that actually runs the work. If your AI isn't driving real outcomes, it's time to take a closer look @ here. 2. Nomad Content Studio - The team behind the dealers you actually see on social media. Nomad works in your dealership to build a brand new pipeline of sales driven by social media content. They're the same team behind names like George Saliba, Benzs & Bowties, and EV Auto—dealers who've built national brands and sold more cars in the process. If you want your dealership to be next, head to @ here and book a call. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 02:35 Daycare Worker Who Walked Into A Dealership. 04:50 Why Salesmen Said She Was The Receptionist. 08:20 The GM With A Play Closet In Her Office. 10:55 Why Resumes Lie, Hunger Doesn't. 12:30 The Car Washer Selling 25 Cars A Month. 16:10 The Four-Day Work Week That Works. 18:45 Why Walzer Killed The F&I Box. 23:45 The F&I Gap Nobody Expected. 27:10 Why He Hired Someone "Not Ready." 32:15 The Skill Most GMs Lack. 36:50 When A Customer Refused To Shake Hands. 48:30 Why $5,000 In Printers Had To Go. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
What if your dealership isn't losing deals because of price… but because of the experience? "Disney's mission is simple: to make people happy." — Vance Morris In this episode of the Millionaire Car Salesman Podcast, Sean V. Bradley sits down with former Disney leader Vance Morris to explore a concept most dealerships overlook: how customer experience can become your biggest competitive advantage! Dealerships often focus on inventory, pricing, and traffic… but the real differentiator may lie in something far less talked about. Vance brings a completely different perspective, shaped by years of building world-class experiences in environments where every detail matters and every interaction is intentional! "Price is only relevant with the absence of value." — Sean V. Bradley This conversation challenges how dealerships think about the customer journey, from the very first interaction to long after the sale is complete. It highlights why average experiences produce average results… and why the stores that stand out are the ones that create something customers actually remember. "Your best customer is a referred customer. It's almost a guaranteed close." — Vance Morris Learn why most dealership experiences feel the same to customers and how small moments can create a massive impact! If you're a dealer principal, general manager, sales manager, or automotive professional looking to elevate your dealership beyond price and competition, this episode will challenge your perspective on what truly drives success. Because in today's market… customers don't just remember what they bought… they remember how you made them feel! Key Takeaways: ✅ Anticipatory Service: Car dealerships should adopt anticipatory service, like Disney, by anticipating customers' needs before they express them. ✅ Customer Satisfaction Focus: Processes should prioritize making customers happy as a mission, not merely completing sales tasks. ✅ Wow Packages: Implement post-sale wow packages that enhance the ownership experience, encouraging customer retention and referrals. ✅ Human Interaction: Whenever possible, replace automated phone systems with live operators to improve customer engagement. ✅ Referral Incentives: Utilize referral cards in wow packages to attract new customers and strengthen community ties. About Vance Morris Vance is a former Birth Control Factory Security Guard and turned that into a wild journey from Disney leader to bankrupt out-of-work executive to carpet cleaner to successful entrepreneur. Today, he's the guy businesses call when they're bleeding profit and can't figure out why. He delivers real-world systems that stop customers from quietly disappearing and stop money from leaking out the back door. He's the only expert on the planet, who blends direct-response marketing with engineered customer loyalty and retention. Creating Exceptional Customer Experiences: Lessons from Disney to Dealerships Key Takeaways Adopt Anticipatory Service: Deliver superior customer service by anticipating client needs before they even ask. Create Memorable Experiences: Businesses should turn routine interactions into memorable experiences, making every customer interaction remarkable. Implement Systems: Establish systems and processes to free up employee brain power for engaging, personalized customer experiences. Discovering the Power of Anticipatory Service In the competitive world of automobile sales, providing anticipatory service can set a dealership apart from the rest. Vance Morris, drawing upon his extensive decade-long experience with Disney, emphasizes that Disney's strength lies in its ability to foresee customer needs before requests are made. As Morris illustrates, Disney's approach to anticipatory service transforms mundane customer service into extraordinary experiences: "On a hot day, Disney employees might offer water before it's requested, making it an anticipatory service rather than just satisfactory." Application in Dealerships Dealerships can take a page from Disney's book by proactively addressing potential car buyer needs. For example, implementing a system where salesperson greets visitors with detailed guidance on where to explore specific car models, just as Disney employees guide patrons throughout the park, enhances the initial customer interaction. Such preemptive assistance makes the car buying experience smoother and more enjoyable. Through anticipatory service, dealerships not only meet but exceed customer expectations, transforming them into raving fans and lifelong customers. This approach, as Morris asserts, significantly reduces friction in the buying process, enhancing overall customer satisfaction. Crafting Memorable Customer Experiences Creating memorable experiences isn't just Disney's forte; it's a principle applicable across all industries, including car dealerships. Morris shares this fundamental principle, explaining its transformative impact on customer loyalty and long-term retention: "Disney has figured out how to create an experience out of all the boring and mundane things." Strategies for Dealerships To replicate this strategy, dealerships should focus on delivering a memorable experience from the moment the customer walks in. This could involve greeting customers with a curated welcome package, including branded merchandise and personalized gifts. The idea is to evoke positive emotions, leaving a lasting impression that encourages customers to return. Similarly, just as Disney pays attention to detail, dealerships can ensure that the car-buying process is smooth and engaging by incorporating small but significant gestures. For instance, asking customers about their favorite music during appointment confirmations and having their preferred station playing during the test drive can make an immense difference. Dealers are encouraged to transform ordinary transactions into unique experiences, fostering a strong emotional connection with their customers that keeps them coming back. Building Systems for Consistent Excellence Systems and processes are the backbone of a consistently superior customer service. Vance Morris emphasizes the importance of streamlined operations, a principle he mastered at Disney, to ensure consistent service delivery: "Disney runs on systems and processes… it frees up brain space to do all the nice things." Implementing Robust Processes Just as Disney utilizes comprehensive systems and processes, dealerships are advised to develop and implement detailed operational guidelines ensuring each customer interaction is seamless. For instance, integrating a robust CRM system allows for detailed tracking of customer interactions, valuable for personalized follow-ups and service consistency. Furthermore, employing systematic approaches in areas like staff training can ensure every interaction is executed with precision, maintaining high service standards. This not only enhances customer satisfaction but also fosters an efficient working environment conducive to continued business success. Recapturing the essence of the conversation between Sean V. Bradley and Vance Morris, the central narrative revolves around crafting exceptional interactions through anticipatory service, memorable experiences, and systematic operations. With a legacy rooted in Disney's pioneering customer service strategies, businesses, especially car dealerships, stand to gain significantly by integrating these principles. Transforming typical customer service interactions into extraordinary experiences creates loyal customers willing to share their positive encounters, establishing a potent competitive advantage in the marketplace. 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.
The Automotive Troublemaker w/ Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier
Shoot us a Text.Episode #1327: Dealers lose service share to quick lubes, EVs prove stronger range retention, and Chinese vehicles gain global credibility at the Beijing Auto Show.Dealership service lanes are losing ground as quick lube shops quietly gain share in 2025. New data shows fewer transactions and shrinking revenue for dealers, with pricing strategy emerging as the key battleground in keeping service customers loyal.The study analyzes credit and debit transactions across all service channels including dealerships, independents, quick lubes, and tire chains.Overall service transaction dollars fell 8.3 percent, but dealers declined faster at 11 percent.Dealership service transactions dropped 13 percent year over year, the steepest decline among all segments tracked.Quick lube shops gained market share while raising prices more slowly than dealerships, attracting cost-conscious customers.Even with free OEM-paid maintenance, dealers are struggling to retain customers in the critical first two years of ownership.“The quick lubes are what everybody should be worried about,” said Ducker Carlisle's Nate Chenenko.Electric vehicle range isn't fading the way many buyers fear. New data from over a billion miles of driving shows modern EVs are holding onto their range far better than expected, thanks to both improving battery tech and smarter software.Recurrent data shows EVs retain about 97% of range after three years and 95% after five years of ownership.The study is based on real-world driving data, factoring in climate, usage, and battery age, not just EPA estimates.About 68% of 2023 model-year EVs are still exceeding their original EPA range today.Automakers are offsetting degradation with OTA updates and built-in battery buffers that unlock over time.At the Beijing Auto Show, American YouTuber Ethan Robertson of Wheelsboy is giving global audiences a firsthand look at Chinese EVs, helping shift perception from “cheap copycats” to serious innovation leaders.Robertson led international visitors through the Beijing Auto Show, showcasing China's latest EVs and tech-forward designs.Perception has shifted dramatically, with Chinese brands now recognized for advances in batteries, software, and charging.Attendees highlighted futuristic interiors and features, calling the vehicles a “new generation” of driving experience.Competitive pricing remains a major disruptor, with fully loaded EVs around $30,000 undercutting U.S. options.“Our comment section is full of people saying, ‘I can't believe the government won't allow them to sell this car in my country,'” said Robertson.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/
In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Michael Naim, VP at Zurich North America, and Jeff Glanzmann, Dealer Principal at Glanzmann Subaru, to discuss why many dealers are "flying blind" by relying on quarterly PDFs for their most valuable profit centers. This conversation breaks down how to move from a reactive "set it and forget it" mentality to a data-driven operation that yields massive returns on premium. Michael and Jeff reveal why transparency in reinsurance is no longer optional and how real-time visibility can actually fix your used car reconditioning and CSI. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Zurich North America. Zurich.Insurance - Zurich delivers The Zurich Advantage to dealerships nationwide by combining comprehensive F&I products, consultative training, revenue‑generating programs, and wealth‑building profit participation strategies. Grounded in our mission to provide clarity, confidence, and certainty, we help dealers protect what matters, strengthen performance, and build a legacy for the road ahead. Learn more @ here. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 03:00 Why Dealers Fly Blind On Reinsurance. 04:35 The Quarterly PDF Trap. 06:45 The 120-Day Claim Surprise. 08:30 Why Sloppy Recon Destroys Profits. 10:00 The CSI Boost Nobody Saw Coming. 12:00 The Spinal Surgery Test. 16:30 The 70% Return Dealers Miss. 20:30 Why Your CRM Won't Save You. 22:15 The Dashboard That Forces Honesty. 24:20 Why Keeping Managers Dark Was A Mistake. 33:55 The One Call Every Dealer Must Make. 35:15 The One Number That Matters. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Today I'm joined by Matt Leone, CEO of DriveCentric. Matt breaks down why "tech bloat" is killing dealership margins and how shifting from task management to real-time engagement hubs can stop lead leakage across Sales, F&I, and Service. We also dive into the future of AI agents and why your next "employee" might actually be a machine-learning model. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Lotlinx – Meet LotGPT, your AI Inventory Strategist built exclusively for car dealers. It reveals competitive insights, shopper behavior, and pricing dynamics, and even identifies underperforming VDPs with merchandising recommendations to boost conversion without cutting prices. Put LotGPT to work for your dealership today, totally free, @ here. 2. CDG Circles – A digital peer group for top auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Vendor reviews. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Join dealers representing 3,000+ rooftops @ here. 3. DriveCentric – DriveCentric puts dealerships in the Fast Lane to the Customer with a modern engagement platform built to move faster, connect teams, and keep every customer moving forward. Visit @ here to learn more Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 02:40 The Bill That Could Ban Chinese Cars. 05:10 Why Australian Dealers Make Zero On New Cars. 07:10 The Threat Destroying Blue Sky Values. 09:25 Why Toyota Stores Trade For 15X Earnings. 12:50 Why US Trucks Are Safer Than China. 18:10 Dealer Profits Still Double Pre-COVID. 21:50 The One Brand Where Bargains Are Appearing. 24:45 The Smart Lever When New Car Gross Drops. 26:40 Why Salespeople Can't Afford The Cars They Sell. 30:50 The Mercedes Turnaround That Made It Hot Again. 45:55 Infiniti Stores Selling For Zero Blue Sky. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
In this episode of the Industry Spotlight, joining host Sam D'Arc are Luke Parker, Finance Manager at BMW Greensboro and Erik Wielgos, Director of Dealer Success at Service Payment Plan to discuss how after a new GM changed the goalposts with a "50% penetration or pay cut" ultimatum, Luke Parker had to find a way to sell VSCs to customers the banks wouldn't touch. This conversation breaks down the tactical shift from traditional financing to 0% payment plans that drove a 20% surge in F&I performance. We explore how to handle luxury repair objections, the reality of chargebacks, and the massive untapped opportunity in cash-buyer protection. This episode of the Car Dealership Guy Podcast is brought to you by Service Payment Plan. Service Payment Plan - Service Payment Plan, Inc. (SPP) is the industry leader in providing interest-free payment plans for F&I products sold throughout the United States and Canada. SPP enables the auto industry's leading dealers, administrators, and OEMs to provide their customers with an affordable and customizable method to protect their vehicles. With its 40+-year history of unparalleled service, long-standing partnerships, and integrations with the leading software platforms in the industry, SPP stands at the forefront of the future of automotive retail. Contact us @ DealerSuccess@sppinc.net to learn more Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 01:35 The Sly GM Move That Forced A Scramble. 03:00 Why Luxury Customers "Don't Buy" VSCs. 07:45 The 0% Fix When Banks Say No. 12:00 How SPP Added 15 Points Overnight. 18:15 The $500 PVR Jump That Changed Everything. 21:15 Why Targeting Subprime Destroys Chargebacks. 24:20 Selling More Than VSCs With SPP. 26:45 Why No Credit Check Is A Compliance Shield. 33:45 The Service Drive Trick That Closes In 3 Minutes. Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com