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AI is no longer optional—it's a must-have tool for every salesperson, service advisor, and dealership professional. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, learn how to leverage AI to save time, boost efficiency, and personalize every customer interaction. Jen walks you through: The must-have AI tools for your phone and desktop How to prompt AI effectively for emails, texts, objections, and follow-ups Using AI for customized, value-driven communication with car buyers Real examples of AI-generated emails, subject lines, and texts that get engagement Tips for AI-assisted product knowledge, brand building, and objection handling Stop spending hours on repetitive tasks—learn how AI can become your ultimate sales assistant. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Today I'm joined by Fred Emich IV, Partner at Emich Automotive. We cover how Emich Automotive became the #1 EV retailer for Kia, the challenges Fred's faced as Chairman of VW's National Dealer Council, and the evolving threat Scout poses to VW dealers — plus much more. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Lotlinx - What if ChatGPT actually spoke dealer? Meet LotGPT — the first AI chatbot built just for car dealers. Fluent in your market, your dealership, and your inventory, LotGPT delivers instant insights to help you merchandise smarter, move inventory faster, and maximize profit. It pulls from your live inventory, CRM, and Google Analytics to give VIN-specific recommendations, helping dealers price vehicles accurately, spot wasted spend, and uncover the hottest opportunities — all in seconds. LotGPT is free for dealers, but invite-only. Join the waitlist now @ Lotlinx.com/LotGPT 2. CDK Global - Managing inventory doesn't have to be a grind. Backed by over 50 years of CDK know-how and powered by next-gen AI tools, you'll price with confidence, merchandise like a pro, and move cars off the lot faster — all while boosting your bottom line. Learn more about the CDK Vehicle Inventory Suite @ https://www.cdkglobal.com/cdk-vehicle-inventory-suite 3. CDG Circles - A modern peer group for auto dealers. Private dealer chats. Real insights — confidential, compliant, no travel required. Visit https://cdgcircles.com to learn more. Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 00:37 How did racing shape Fred's career? 02:51 Entering the family car business how? 05:40 Biggest triumph and challenge in auto? 09:57 Strategy for dominating the EV market? 17:34 Future vision for Volkswagen leadership? 20:39 Key industry challenge with Volkswagen? 22:26 Direct-to-consumer: threat or opportunity? 24:28 How has Tesla impacted the industry? 35:30 How does community shape future vision? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
AI isn't here to replace humans—it's here to amplify them. In this first episode of our new mini-series with Matador AI, Jen sits down with Kevin Esmezyan, Head of Product at Matador AI, to explore how dealerships are using AI to eliminate repetitive tasks, reduce burnout, and empower their people to focus on what they do best—building relationships and delivering a remarkable guest experience. From automating lead follow-ups to intelligently syncing with your CRM, Kevin explains how the right human + AI collaboration transforms workflow, increases productivity, and sets a new standard for efficiency in modern dealerships. If you've been curious about how AI actually works in practice (not just in theory), this episode is your starting point. https://matador.ai/ | Kevin Esmezyan, 514-793-1488 | Kevin@matador.ai Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Not every day do you meet someone who's worked their way from the sales floor to the GM's office — and now sits on the advisory board for an AI company that's changing how dealerships leverage AI in operations. In Part 2 of our AI mini-series with Matador AI, Jen sits down with Uli DeMartino, a seasoned operator turned advisor, to talk about how AI is being used inside real dealerships today—from improving follow-up consistency to bridging sales and service for a stronger customer experience. Uli shares what he's learned turning around underperforming stores, what he looks for first when he walks into a struggling dealership, and how he's helping shape Matador AI into a dealer-first platform that augments people, not replaces them. If you've ever wondered what AI looks like through the eyes of a real GM who's lived the grind, this one's a must-listen! https://matador.ai/ | Uli DeMartino | uli.demartino@matador.ai Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
We all love a shiny new tech demo—but what happens after the install? In Part 3 of our AI mini-series with Matador AI, Jen sits down with Joshua Bagley, Head of After Sales, to talk about what really makes AI work inside a dealership. Joshua breaks down the people side of implementation—why collaboration across departments, leadership buy-in, and consistent follow-up are the difference between success and failure. He also shares Matador AI's unique "client success pod" structure that keeps dealers supported, engaged, and achieving real results long after the onboarding call. From onboarding to retention, Josh shows that AI's success depends on culture, not code—and why adoption beats innovation every time. https://matador.ai/ | Joshua Bagley, | joshua@matador.ai Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
AI is changing the way dealerships connect, communicate, and compete! In Part 4 of our Matador AI mini-series, Jen sits down with Carla Ksonzek, Head of Sales at Matador AI, to talk about how top dealers are winning the long game through automation, culture, and leadership. Carla breaks down what she calls the SMS-first world—where 90% of customers respond within minutes—and how dealers can use AI as an extension of their people, not a replacement. You'll hear how Matador scales without losing personal touch, the power of leadership buy-in, and why adoption beats innovation every time. If you lead a sales or BDC team, this episode will help you build consistency, protect your people from burnout, and create an edge your competition can't match. https://matador.ai/ | Carla Ksonzek 514-452-1347 | Carla@matador.ai Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Emails alone won't cut it anymore. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we dive into how to leverage video to boost responses, engage leads, and convert more sales. Jen walks you through: Using AI to craft tailored video scripts for introductions, follow-ups, and appointment confirmations. The 4 "moments that matter" in every customer journey — from first contact to sold. Be-back videos and loyalty follow-ups to reconnect with previous buyers. Tips for thumbnails, intros, and video length that actually get watched. Learn why video isn't just a trend — it's now a must-have in the dealership sales toolkit. Perfect for salespeople, BDC agents, and managers looking to boost engagement and close more deals. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Are you still saying, "What I'd like to do is get you down here…"? That old-school, transactional approach is dead. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we explore the relational selling mindset — the strategy that builds trust, boosts confidence, and creates lifelong customers. Jen walks you through: The difference between transactional and relational selling How to connect with customers, uncover what matters, and avoid rushing the sale Using AI and smart word tracks to pivot conversations toward value, not just price The 5 "checkboxes" to establish rapport, confidence, and trust before asking for an appointment Real-world examples and exercises to shift your sales approach immediately If you want to stop high-pressure selling and start building relationships that convert, this episode is your roadmap. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Today I'm joined by Ivette Dominguez Drawe, Dealer/Owner of Alpine Automotive Group. We unpack her incredible journey from the sales floor to building a thriving dealership empire — leading one of Colorado's top-performing teams and driving a group that now sells one in every three GM vehicles in the state. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Lotlinx - What if ChatGPT actually spoke dealer? Meet LotGPT — the first AI chatbot built just for car dealers. Fluent in your market, your dealership, and your inventory, LotGPT delivers instant insights to help you merchandise smarter, move inventory faster, and maximize profit. It pulls from your live inventory, CRM, and Google Analytics to give VIN-specific recommendations, helping dealers price vehicles accurately, spot wasted spend, and uncover the hottest opportunities — all in seconds. LotGPT is free for dealers, but invite-only. Join the waitlist now @ http://www.Lotlinx.com/LotGPT 2. vAuto - As the industry's premier provider of end-to-end inventory management solutions, vAuto gives every dealer—from a single point store to the largest groups—the data, insights and tools they need to maximize returns from the new and used vehicle inventory investments. Known for its game-changing inventory management innovations, vAuto provides AI-powered predictive data science to help dealers see their future and consistently make the right, ROI-minded decisions with every vehicle they appraise, acquire, price and retail. Visit @ https://www.vauto.com 3. Nomad Content Studio - Most dealers still fumble social—posting dry inventory pics or handing it off without a plan. Meanwhile, the store down the street is racking up millions of views and selling / buying cars using video. That's where Nomad Content Studio comes in. We train your own videographer, direct what to shoot, and handle strategy, to posting, to feedback. Want in with the team behind George Saliba, EV Auto, and top auto groups? Book a call at http://www.trynomad.co Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 00:07 Why start a dealership in 2005? 01:56 Key to a successful husband-wife team? 05:44 Secret to 20 years in business? 09:10 How does community involvement drive success? 14:49 Most creative marketing strategy used? 23:14 How to choose digital retailing partners? 27:19 What does a Retention Manager do? 30:07 Benefits of launching mobile service? 39:45 Why diversify into new business ventures? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
So many people avoid calling internet leads — and it's not fear, it's lack of process. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I break down my 3-step call framework that builds trust, uncovers what customers really want, and locks in appointments fast. You'll learn: How to lead with helper vibes instead of "sales vibes." How to get into flex mode to understand their needs and preferences. How to confidently set appointments and ask for commitment. No scripts. No robotic pitches. Just human-to-human connection that converts. Perfect for BDC agents, sales consultants, and dealership leaders who want to level up their call game. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Unlock the secrets to mastering internet lead follow-up with Jen Suzuki! In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, Jen dives deep into her aggressive, results-driven 72-hour follow-up cadence for internet leads. She shares proven strategies for phone calls, texts, voicemails, personalized videos, and AI-assisted messaging—designed to help dealerships convert more buyers, build trust, and stand out in a competitive market. Whether you're a BDC rep, salesperson, or manager, Jen's insights will show you how to find the low-hanging fruit, engage customers with personalized content, and maximize your internet sales conversions. Tune in for actionable tips, real-world examples, and a few laughs along the way! Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
In this solo episode, Jen Suzuki kicks off her new Sales Series with the energy, insight, and strategy that'll transform your phone calls into conversions. Jen breaks down her favorite real-world techniques that work for inbound, outbound, internet, and service calls — the same tactics she teaches top-performing dealership teams across the country. You'll learn: How to make an intro that hooks customers instantly How to use loyalty recognition to build instant trust How to sell the appointment before asking for it Why energy, benefits, and connection beat old-school sales scripts every time The “What are you doing right now?” technique that boosts same-day appointments This episode is pure gold for salespeople, BDC agents, and managers who want to stand out on the phone and close more deals — without sounding robotic or desperate. Tune in and get ready to level up your sales conversations! Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Today I'm joined by Len Short, CEO of Lotlinx. LotGPT is here — and it might change how dealers manage inventory forever. In this episode, Len Short and I break down the world-first dealer-focused LLM, how it diagnoses inventory issues in real time, the 7 most-searched dealer prompts, and why he's giving it away completely free. To try LotGPT for yourself, 100% free, join the waitlist at lotlinx.com/lotgpt This episode is brought to you by: 1. OPENLANE - The world's best online dealer marketplace for used cars, bringing you exclusive inventory, simple transactions, and better outcomes. Learn more @ http://www.openlane.com/cdg 2. Amazon Autos - With Amazon Autos, your dealership can reach more buyers, drive more sales, and deliver a modern, more delightful car-buying experience. Learn more @ https://sell.amazon.com/programs/autos 3. Lotlinx - Get the best possible market advantage on every vehicle transaction. Optimize operations and boost profits using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Learn more @ https://lotlinx.com Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Dealership recruiting ➤ http://www.cdgrecruiting.com Fix your dealership's social media ➤ http://www.trynomad.co Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ http://www.cdgpartner.com Industry job board ➤ http://jobs.dealershipguy.com Request to be a podcast guest ➤ http://www.cdgguest.com Topics: 00:30 How is auto retail evolving? 01:03 What is Lot GPT? 01:44 How does AI empower dealerships? 03:57 Benefits of real-time market analysis? 07:43 Best dealer feedback on Lot GPT? 18:38 How to rate and manage inventory? 20:57 How is user data secured? 23:41 What is the onboarding process like? 33:48 Final vision for AI in dealerships? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ x.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy Threads ➤ threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Get ready to meet Raul Gomila, General Manager of City Kia of Greater Orlando, and one of the highest-performing dealership leaders in the nation! Jen Suzuki dives deep into Raul's playbook on leadership, management, and dealership growth — and how he built a championship culture that sells +/- 500 cars a month. Raul shares how he turned an average store into a national powerhouse through daily coaching, empowering managers, and creating a customer-centric, ethical, high-performance culture. From handling downturns to motivating teams, promoting talent, and expanding massive service operations, Raul reveals what it truly takes to lead a winning dealership. If you're a GM, sales manager, or dealership operator, this episode will fire you up with real-world strategies, leadership inspiration, and practical systems that drive results — no excuses, just execution! Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I break down how to take everything from the previous service advisor lessons — warm greetings, Job-Risk-Reward (JRR), analogies, and MPI preparation — and execute a 2.0 follow-up call that drives approvals. I'll cover: How to personalize each call and start with a warm, human touch Using good news first to relax customers before addressing needed work Incorporating JRR and analogies to make repairs clear and relatable Strategies for texts and follow-ups when customers don't pick up Tracking approvals and keeping momentum for a seamless customer experience Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Learning concepts is only half the battle — the real skill comes from practice. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I share an interactive activity from my live classes that helps service advisors take everything they've learned — from warm greetings to Job-Risk-Reward explanations and analogies — and put it into action using real MPIs. I'll cover: How to use MPIs, photos, and videos to plan conversations Partnered role-play exercises to practice greetings, JRR, and analogies Tips for managers to coach their teams during practice Turning practice into confidence so live customer conversations feel effortless A weekly challenge: pick two MPIs, create analogies, practice, get feedback, and level up your team When advisors practice in a safe environment, their confidence rises, explanations become clear, and customer trust — and approvals — soar. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Specs, millimeters, torque, hydraulic pressure… customers check out FAST when advisors go “full tech mode.” That's where analogies change the game. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I share one of my favorite techniques that helps customers understand repairs without feeling overwhelmed: turning technical jargon into relatable stories. I'll cover: Why customers decline work when they don't understand the language How to use simple, everyday analogies (like crayons, sneakers, or coffee filters) The power of humor and storytelling to reduce tension and win trust How to practice analogies as a team for fun, memorable customer experiences A weekly challenge: turn two MPI jobs into analogies and test them with your team When you swap tech talk for real talk, customers nod, laugh, and approve more often. Analogies make the complex simple — and that's where credibility (and sales) live. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Today's show features: Jeremy Nowling, Sales and Digital Retailing Director Rohrman Auto Group Nick Perdikis, CEO of inride William Camastro, Dealer Principal, Partner at Gold Coast Cadillac This episode is brought to you by: Lotlinx – With Lotlinx, dealers win with every VIN. The AI-powered platform uses the most robust VIN and shopper data to help optimize every vehicle and protect profit. Take control of your inventory today at Lotlinx.com. inride – inride's Trade Agent AI helps dealers by mining their customer database 24/7. It finds trade-in opportunities, engages owners, and books appointments automatically—faster than any human team. Right now, dealers can claim 30 days free PLUS a discounted monthly rate. But hurry—this exclusive offer ends October 15, 2025. Go to https://inride.com/trade-agent-ai-demo-request/ today! Car Dealership Guy is back with our second annual NADA Party—happening in Las Vegas on Thursday, February 5th. It's the hottest ticket at NADA 2026. Spots are limited and unfortunately we can't invite everyone —so RSVP today at https://carguymedia.com/cdglive and we hope to see you in Vegas! — Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Today's show features: Todd Blue, CEO of LAPIS Chris Singleton, Managing Partner at Mike Terry Auto Group This episode is brought to you by: Lotlinx – With Lotlinx, dealers win with every VIN. The AI-powered platform uses the most robust VIN and shopper data to help optimize every vehicle and protect profit. Take control of your inventory today at Lotlinx.com. Car Dealership Guy is back with our second annual NADA Party—happening in Las Vegas on Thursday, February 5th. It's the hottest ticket at NADA 2026. Spots are limited and unfortunately we can't invite everyone —so RSVP today at https://carguymedia.com/cdglive and we hope to see you in Vegas! — Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Most customers don't wake up excited to buy brake pads or a cabin filter. That's where YOU come in. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I reveal the secret weapon that service advisors across the country call their #1 takeaway from my classes: the J-R-R Formula (Job – Risk – Reward). Here's what we cover: How to explain any repair in plain English without jargon Why “just listing repairs” kills approvals and trust The easy 3-step J-R-R approach that makes recommendations stick How to weave in humor + humanity to keep it real (and not salesy) A weekly challenge to put J-R-R into practice on brakes, tires, filters, alignments, and more This is Trust-Building 101. When you use J-R-R, you stop sounding transactional and start sounding relational. And that shift is what customers respect — and approve. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Today's show features: Krystal Roberts, Executive Manager at Advantage Chevrolet of Hodgkins Troy Blackwell, EVP, Automotive Business Development, Spiffy Alex Morton, CFO at Gregg Young This episode is brought to you by: Lotlinx – With Lotlinx, dealers win with every VIN. The AI-powered platform uses the most robust VIN and shopper data to help optimize every vehicle and protect profit. Take control of your inventory today at Lotlinx.com. Get Spiffy – Spiffy gives you the software, vans, devices, and playbooks to launch fast, operate efficiently, and grow fixed ops—beyond the bay. Visit getspiffy.com to learn more Car Dealership Guy is back with our second annual NADA Party—happening in Las Vegas on Thursday, February 5th. It's the hottest ticket at NADA 2026. Spots are limited and unfortunately we can't invite everyone —so RSVP today at https://carguymedia.com/cdglive and we hope to see you in Vegas! — Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
You can be the friendliest advisor in the world, but if a customer thinks their car will be ready in two hours and it takes six… you're the bad guy. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we're diving into one of the biggest customer killers in the service lane: unclear expectations. With most dealerships using XTime, it's time to master the features that turn it from a “fancy calendar” into a credibility booster. You'll learn how to: Use XTime to set timelines, pickup windows, and updates that customers trust Eliminate surprises (because surprises in service = stress) Leverage transparency to build credibility and reduce complaints Give customers an action plan and communication plan before they leave the counter Flip complaints into compliments by following through on promises Bottom line: clarity beats surprises. If you want to keep customers loyal and CSI scores high, you've got to be a professional expectation setter Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Social media and AI are no longer side projects for dealerships—they're the engines driving connection, branding, and sales growth. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I sit down with John Spinoza and Julian Builis of Cruise Control, a team that's been transforming dealership marketing through smarter strategies, compliance safeguards, and AI-powered engagement. We break down what every dealer, entrepreneur, and executive needs to know right now, including: The future of personal vs. professional content (and why both matter) How contests and shareable posts are outperforming traditional boosting The compliance and copyright pitfalls that can cost dealers millions The role of AI in capturing leads before they slip away How to create emotional, scroll-stopping content that buyers trust If you're ready to cut through the noise and actually make social + AI work for your dealership or business, this episode will show you how to put your marketing on Cruise Control. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Most advisors treat the walkaround like it's optional. It's not. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I'm breaking down why the walkaround is the most underused but most powerful tool you have to build trust, boost credibility, and set the tone for approvals. You'll learn how to: Turn a walkaround into a stage for connection, not just inspection Slide in credibility without sounding salesy or pitchy Use visuals and proof (tires, wipers, lights) to make recommendations stick Add humor and humanity to ease tension and build rapport Transition customers smoothly into business with confidence If you've been skipping the walkaround, you're skipping income potential. Done right, it's not just about the car — it's about the relationship. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we sit down with Jay Vijayan, visionary founder and CEO of Tekion, to explore his transformative journey from Tesla's CIO to creating one of the most disruptive companies in automotive retail. Jay shares the bold leap of leaving a high-level role at Tesla to tackle decades-old dealership technology challenges, and how his purpose-driven vision sparked the creation of Tekion's cloud-native platform. From buying dealerships to build a “live lab,” to navigating COVID with innovation that reshaped digital retailing, Jay takes us inside the risks, setbacks, and breakthroughs that fueled Tekion's rise. We also dive into the importance of solving root problems—not surface-level fixes—how dealers and OEMs can collaborate to deliver seamless consumer experiences, and why AI, machine learning, and ecosystem partnerships are no longer optional but essential to the future of automotive. If you've ever wondered what it takes to disrupt legacy systems, win over skeptics, and build a company that redefines an industry, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and act bolder. Tekion launched Tekion AI Agent for Service this year. You can learn more about it in this video.https://tekion.com/resources/tekion-ai-agents-service= Also, here is a link to our testimonials page which includes some really great dealer customer accounts and stories. https://tekion.com/testimonials Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
First impressions are money in the service drive. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we dig into the relational greeting — the difference between being just another transactional advisor and being the trusted pro customers return to again and again. I'll walk you through how to: Show up with the right energy (because customers feel it before you speak) Use names, humor, and personal touches to build instant trust Transition naturally from small talk to business without feeling “robo” Make customers feel like people, not VIN numbers Turn a check-in into the start of a relationship that drives approvals and loyalty This isn't theory — it's what I see working every week in dealerships. If your service team can nail this, the rest of the process gets easier, approvals go up, and income potential climbs. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
This one's for the service team (but sales, you should listen too—because everybody's in sales). In this kickoff to my new Service Team Series on Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I break down the Service Cheat Code: how preparation before the customer even shows up changes everything. From reviewing history and declined work to checking recalls, parts, and notes, I share the exact steps that turn rushed, transactional check-ins into confident, relational experiences that win trust and drive approvals. These are the same hacks I train advisors on in dealerships every single week—practical, now, and proven to increase income potential. This episode is your game plan for better connections, smoother days, and higher CSI scores. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I've got Ryan Rohrman, CEO of Rohrman Automotive, to explore the intersection of legacy, leadership, and innovation in the automotive industry. Ryan shares how he honors the 60+ year foundation laid by his grandfather while steering a multi-dealership organization toward growth and relevance. From creating memorable customer and employee experiences to embracing AI and technology without losing the human touch, Ryan discusses the principles that guide his team, including transparency, innovation, personal connection, and servant-mindedness. He also dives into the importance of change management, training, and gamification to keep employees engaged, reduce turnover, and foster a culture that's ready to adapt to new challenges. Listeners will gain insights into: Balancing legacy and modern leadership in family-owned dealerships Building a culture of human-first customer experience (CX) Integrating AI and automation while maintaining genuine human connections Training, gamification, and strategies for reducing turnover Preparing your team to embrace change and innovation Whether you're a dealership leader, automotive professional, or someone interested in effective leadership and customer experience, this conversation with Ryan Rohrman offers actionable strategies to drive relationships and deliver awesome experiences—every single time. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com | Jen Suzuki, President and Founder of eDealer Solutions, Inc. | Dealership Education | www.edealersolutions.com | Meet me!bit.ly/3J7011t | Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki
In this episode of Dealer Talk, we dive deep into mindset, leadership, and making bold decisions in business. I'm thrilled to sit down with my long-time friend and client, Inder Dosanjh, whose journey from technician to owning 17 car dealerships is nothing short of inspiring. We also welcome Munish Mahajan, Inder's co-founder, CEO & President, who brings a tech-forward, transformative approach to dealership operations. We talk about: The mindset shifts that move you from “just a job” to building something bigger. The challenges of scaling a dealership business while keeping your team motivated and empowered. How data, AI, and smart processes can fill gaps in dealership operations. The power of complementary skill sets in partnerships and leadership. Real-life crossroads that define companies and leaders—and how to make bold decisions when the stakes are high. Whether you're a dealership owner, GM, frontline manager, or part of a BDC team, this episode is packed with insights on growth, transformation, and taking action—even when it feels risky.
This week on Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I'm joined by automotive veteran Greg Iverson—a BDC and marketing leader who has worked with some of the nation's top-performing dealerships, including the legendary Norm Reeves Honda and Car Pros Kia. Greg brings 20+ years of experience in internet sales, BDC leadership, and sales training, including time learning under industry icon Tom Stuker. In this conversation, we dive into what separates the frontline reps who struggle from the ones who consistently crush their goals. We cover: How to build and work a sales plan that actually drives results. The role of attitude, consistency, and intention in becoming a top performer. Why hiring right and nurturing team success fuels retention. The overlooked power of call coaching, TO processes, and phone guides. How nationally ranked stores create environments of training, accountability, and fun that keep their teams sharp. Greg shares real-deal strategies for BDC agents, internet managers, and sales leaders to level up and keep their stores competitive in today's market. Whether you're leading a team or working the phones, you'll walk away with actionable tactics to sharpen your edge and drive performance. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com | Jen Suzuki, President and Founder of eDealer Solutions, Inc. | Dealership Education | www.edealersolutions.com | Meet me!bit.ly/3J7011t | Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki https://apple.co/38lmHM1 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx Check out our sponsors! LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. NADA Show Booth #803 Autosled.com is the next-generation automotive transportation logistics platform and marketplace. CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.
In this final episode of the 10 Steps to the Sale series, Jen brings the energy and strategy you need for Steps 9 and 10—Vehicle Delivery and Follow-Up & Referrals. Learn how to turn a handoff into a celebration that gets shared on social (yes, you need a ring light
In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we dive into the overlooked powerhouse of the dealership tech stack: the phone. Jen is joined by Keri Cohen and Josh Desmond of CallRevu for a no-fluff conversation about turning every ring into real revenue. Together, they unpack how top-performing dealerships are using phone intelligence—not just to monitor calls—but to increase revenue, improve customer experience, and align marketing, sales, and service like never before. We get into the whole thing! Why the phone is still the most valuable (and ignored) revenue channel How call quality—not just quantity—impacts ROI and customer loyalty Ways dealers are using voice data to optimize campaigns and messaging Real examples of collaboration between marketing and the showroom What a connected, revenue-driven tech stack should actually look like How human coaching and accountability amplify what the tech delivers If you're tired of missed opportunities, misaligned messaging, or mystery shopper reports that go nowhere—this episode gives you the intel, strategy, and next steps to finally rethink your phones and start driving results.
In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we're diving into Steps 7 and 8 of the 10 Steps to the Sale—presenting the numbers and closing the deal. This is where things get real. Jen shares how to keep the buyer's emotions high, build trust, and guide them toward saying “yes” with confidence. You'll learn how to use plain language that feels collaborative, and ask soft-close questions that don't make you sound like a pushy robot. If you've ever stalled at the desk or fumbled a close, this one's for you. Oh—and you'll leave with a new homework assignment that'll actually make you better at selling tomorrow. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com | Jen Suzuki, President and Founder of eDealer Solutions, Inc. | Dealership Education | www.edealersolutions.com | bit.ly/3J7011t | Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki
In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we're diving deep into Steps 5 and 6 of the 10 Steps to the Sale — the test drive and the trial close. Jen keeps it real with down-to-earth stories (including one near-kidnapping
In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I'm diving into steps 3 and 4 of the classic "10 Steps to the Sale" — Qualify and Vehicle Presentation. Learn how to shift from selling to consulting with a smarter, more emotional approach to the Needs Assessment. Jen shares how asking the right questions saves time, builds trust, and helps land customers on the right vehicle faster. Then, she flips the script on the traditional walkaround, introducing her Feature + Benefit + Emotion formula — a game-changing method for creating emotional buy-in before the test drive. Packed with real examples, role-play prompts, and simple ways to personalize your process, this episode helps sales teams create moments that stick, connect deeper, and win more deals — the modern way. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 800-625-1590 | edealersolutions.com | Jen Suzuki, President and Founder of eDealer Solutions, Inc. | Dealership Education | www.edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki
Salespeople ask me all the time: “Jen, do you still teach the 10 Steps to the Sale?” The answer is YES — but with a modern spin for today's showroom and remote selling environments. In this episode, I break down the first two steps: ✅ Meet & Greet — Creating instant comfort, using body language, and ditching robotic openers. ✅ Build Rapport & Discovery — Going deeper than small talk with powerful, curiosity-based questions. Plus: I share real-world examples of salespeople shifting their approach and closing more deals by simply changing how they say hello. Whether you're on the lot or behind a phone, this one's a must.
The best sales coaches don't wing it — they go one-on-one. In this powerful episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we get into the most underutilized yet effective tool in a dealership manager's playbook: the 10-minute one-on-one. Jen breaks down her personal playbook for holding short, focused coaching sessions that actually develop your salespeople. You'll learn how to structure these weekly meetings so they're more than just a check-in — they're where growth actually happens.
You can't build a championship team on randomness. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we're locking in on the tool most dealerships overlook — a strategic, weekly training calendar that creates rhythm, raises confidence, and keeps your team locked into progress. Jen shares her repeatable 4-week framework that covers internet leads, phone skills, showroom TOs, and objection handling — all broken into daily, trackable micro-lessons. This is the blueprint for managers who want to stop winging it and start winning consistently.
Want to know what separates average sales teams from championship ones? It's not just hustle — it's practice. In this episode of Dealer Talk, Jen dives into the power of daily role play and how dealership managers can create a culture where practice becomes the norm (not the cringe). Whether your team is avoiding the phones, recycling templates, or just not closing deals, role play is the competitive edge you've been missing. Jen shares real-life coaching stories from the field, proven role play strategies, and how to make it fun, fast, and effective in just 10 minutes a day.
Coach the person, not just the group. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we're taking the next step in developing high-performing sales teams—moving from team talks to tailored coaching. If you're a manager who's ready to elevate your leadership game, this one's packed with practical frameworks and real dealership scenarios you can start using today. Jen breaks down: The 3 Ps of diagnosing performance: Performance, Process, and Presence Her go-to one-on-one coaching blueprint How to coach mindset, not just skill sets The role of energy and presence in driving results Why your salespeople need a coach—not a boss You'll walk away with coaching phrases, reset strategies, CRM tips, and ways to turn every one-on-one into a power session that inspires growth, confidence, and performance. "I'm not coaching you because you're bad. I'm coaching you because you're worth it." Let's build a team that's not just trained, but transformed.
Managers Series - did you check out the prevous episode? This is “My team knows what to do, they just don't do it.” If you've ever said that, this episode is for you. Jen breaks down how managers can coach their teams in just 10-minute bursts using her proven CIVIL framework: Coach, Introduce, Verify, Illustrate, and Lead. You'll learn: How to structure daily training that sticks Why consistent coaching beats long meetings How to turn outbound calls into a showroom flood The secret to building a team that wants to be coached This one's packed with real dealership talk, examples from the field, and actionable steps you can start using today to create a high-performing, motivated team. Let's goooooo!!!
Today's show features: Brian Benstock, Partner/GM of Paragon Honda & Acura Len Short, CEO of Lotlinx Larry Morgan, Chariman of Morgan Family Ventures This episode is brought to you by: CarNow – CarNow isn't just about flashy features or marketing buzz. It's about helping dealers actually sell more. One store moved from a 3% close rate to 30% in just a month by switching to our connected platform. That's the kind of lift you can't ignore. From Chat & Messaging to ReConnect's assisted follow-up, it all just works - and it works together. Curious what that kind of performance could look like for you? Take a look at the numbers: https://carguymedia.com/carnow Interested in advertising with Car Dealership Guy? Drop us a line here: https://cdgpartner.com Interested in being considered as a guest on the podcast? Add your name here: https://bit.ly/3Suismu Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
In this episode, Jen Suzuki shares three powerful strategies for dealership sales managers who want to transform their team into top performers. Whether you came up through the ranks selling cars or you're new to leading people, Jen dives into how to shift from being the go-to closer to becoming the coach your team needs. Packed with real-world insight and actionable steps, this episode helps leaders stop doing all the work themselves—and start empowering others to rise. If you're ready to build a championship team, this one's for you.
What if your service lane could scan a car like an airport security system—except instead of searching for bombs, it's finding oil leaks, tire damage, and alignment issues? In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I sit down with Yaron from UVeye, the company turning heads (and lifting RO numbers) with their instant vehicle imaging tech—also known as the MRI for cars. We talk about how UVeye's AI-powered tunnel gives advisors and customers crystal-clear visuals on a vehicle's condition in seconds. This transparency builds trust, boosts upsells, and drives higher labor hours—all while improving CSI scores. Yaron shares the wild origin story of UVeye (hint: it started with bomb detection!), how OEMs like Toyota and GM helped shape its evolution, and why seeing is believing in today's service experience. If you're in fixed ops, recon, or even sales—you need to hear how this tech is transforming how we inspect, present, and sell needed service work. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we're diving into one of the most powerful, underrated strategies for breaking through the noise in today's sales landscape: using GIFs and memes in your follow-up. If your internet leads keep ghosting you, you're not alone—and you're not helpless. Jen shares how she coaches dealerships to inject low-pressure, fun, and memorable energy into their messaging with visual media. You'll hear real-world examples and get a framework for building your own “GIF & Meme Library” to use in various sales scenarios—from day-one outreach to long-term follow-up. This one strategy has helped dealership teams stand out, boost engagement, and most importantly, connect like humans again. Whether you're in the BDC, selling on the floor, or leading a sales team, this episode will give you a fresh way to be relevant, visible, and impossible to ignore. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Tired of sending dead-end follow-up texts that get ignored? In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we dive into the exact words, tactics, and mindset shifts you need to revive ghosted leads and get customers talking again. Jen breaks down real-world follow-up strategies straight from her dealership coaching sessions—no fluff, just proven scripts that get opens, responses, and appointments. Whether you're texting, emailing, or voice dropping, this episode gives you a playbook to level up your message game and spark real conversations that convert into car deals. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Is your showroom traffic feeling light lately? You're not alone—and more importantly, you're not stuck. In this episode, Jennifer Suzuki breaks down 10 real, practical ways to get more people through your doors right now. Whether you're in sales or BDC, these aren't theory-based ideas—they're street-tested tactics from dealerships doing it daily. Jen shares what's working across top stores, including strategies for leveraging your sold database, sending custom videos, and tapping into heat-up lists that still convert. No fluff. No boring lectures. Just 10 ways to fill your showroom with actual buyers this week. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
Today's show features: Mike Kelley, General Manager of Bourne's Auto Center, Kerri Wise, CMO of Lotlinx, Jeff Ramsey, CMO of Ourisman Automotive Group. This episode is brought to you by: Lotlinx - Get the best possible market advantage on every vehicle transaction. Optimize operations and boost profits using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Learn more @ https://lotlinx.com/ Interested in advertising with Car Dealership Guy? Drop us a line here: https://cdgpartner.com Interested in being considered as a guest on the podcast? Add your name here: https://bit.ly/3Suismu Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
AI is no longer a “nice-to-have”—it's a game-changer for dealerships that want to win in today's competitive market. In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, I sit down with Lance Schafer, General Manager of Product and Technology at LotLinx, who's been leading the charge in applying machine learning to the core areas where dealers often struggle most: inventory management, pricing, and customer experience. Lance breaks down how traditional dealership strategies—like pricing based on gut feeling or managing inventory with old sales data—are being replaced with data-driven, real-time AI systems that help stores become more profitable and efficient. We talk about: How AI shifts inventory strategy from reactive to predictive How dynamic pricing boosts both speed and profitability Using machine learning to match inventory with what customers actually want The biggest hurdles in AI adoption and how to overcome them What trends are coming next, and how to prepare now Whether you're just exploring AI or already testing tools, this episode will give you clarity on where the real impact is—and how to start modernizing before the market forces your hand. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
In this rare and powerful episode, I sit down with Randy Parker, CEO of Hyundai and Genesis Motor North America, one of the most progressive and people-first leaders in the automotive industry—and head of the third largest automaker in the world. We dive into the state of retail automotive, how Hyundai and Genesis are breaking records, and why Randy's leadership style has made him a dealer favorite (IMO) across the country. We talk tariffs, US production, economic development, and electrification strategies—including the IONIQ 9, new charging partnerships, and the company's flexibility in responding to real-time consumer demand. But what really makes this conversation powerful is our shared belief in relationships—that people are the true link to profitability. Randy opens up about his passion for mentorship, coaching NBA students, and why investing in people is the heartbeat of his leadership. We explore how Hyundai is: Building major U.S. infrastructure (Meta Plant in Georgia, steel mill in Louisiana) Balancing innovation in fuel cell, EV, hybrid, and air mobility Reinforcing the dealer model and expanding service capacity Making car buying easier with online tools like Amazon Auto Always playing offense—with a simple mantra: “Sell, sell, sell like hell!” This one's packed with leadership gold, forward-thinking strategy, and the kind of authenticity that defines real success. Don't miss this episode with a powerhouse CEO who's shaping the future of retail and proving why people still matter most. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |
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