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Peter Kelso embodies a rare and contagious brand of optimism that permeates every aspect of his professional demeanor. 

As the VP of Agency Partnerships at FullThrottle.ai, Peter's upbeat and positive approach is not just a personal trait but a strategic tool he leverages to enhance business relationships and customer experiences. His belief in the power of positivity is deeply ingrained, influenced by his parents and refined through personal development over the years. In every interaction, whether on LinkedIn with his positive vibes posts or in high-stakes business meetings, Peter’s optimism acts as a catalyst for reducing friction and fostering a collaborative atmosphere, proving that a sunny outlook can indeed translate to tangible business success.

Peter’s philosophy of positivity not only challenges the prevalent pessimism in the auto industry but also serves as a beacon for better business practices. It perfectly aligns with what we like to say around ASOTU: "Love people more than you love cars."

Here's what we cover:

0:00 - Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

3:22 - Why Positivity Matters: Peter's Approach on LinkedIn

4:17 - The Roots of Peter's Optimism

6:35 - Creating Content That Resonates

9:07 - The Impact of Positivity on Business Relationships

10:54 - Commerce and Human Connections

13:06 - The Real Impact of Optimism in Leadership

14:28 - Pessimism in the Auto Industry: A Culture Challenge

18:56 - Exciting Developments at FullThrottle.ai

21:00 - The Essential Role of Optimism in Sales and Marketing

Learn more about fullthrottle.ai: https://www.fullthrottle.ai/

Peter Kelso is the VP of Agency Partnership at fullthrottle.ai

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-kelso-19384010/

https://www.fullthrottle.ai/

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While AI can streamline operations, it's the human touch that truly nurtures customer loyalty and builds effective business relationships.

In this episode of Auto Collabs, Brad Title, the visionary leader behind Gubagoo, shares his expert insights on the nuanced role of artificial intelligence within the automotive industry and other sectors. As AI continues to evolve, Brad argues for its use as an indispensable tool rather than a standalone solution. He delves into how AI has the potential to revolutionize traditional practices, such as title clerking, by automating complex processes which can save time and reduce human error. However, he also warns of the dangers of relying too heavily on AI, noting that overemphasis can diminish the crucial human element that fosters genuine customer connections and loyalty.

The discussion also touches on the broader implications of AI in job creation and operational efficiency. Brad highlights the transformative power of AI in enhancing customer service and backend operations, yet he maintains a strong stance on the importance of maintaining a balance between automated solutions and personal interactions. By integrating AI thoughtfully into business practices, Brad envisions a future where technology supports and enhances human work, rather than replacing it. Throughout the conversation, examples from his own experience in leading Gubagoo illustrate practical ways businesses can leverage AI to improve efficiency while keeping customer relationships at the heart of their strategy.

Timestamped Takeaways:

0:00 - Intro

1:12 - Why ignoring AI trends is a significant oversight

3:44 - The risks of overemphasizing AI

6:00 - The effect of AI on jobs

11:03 - How AI can inadvertently betray consumer trust

16:27 - Gubagoo's development of new CRM platforms integrating AI

21:57 - Closing remarks

Learn more about Gubagoo: https://www.gubagoo.com/

Brad Title is the Founder, President and CEO at Gubagoo

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Jimmy's foresight and innovation are not just reshaping his company, but also providing a blueprint for the future of auto retailing.

We sit down for the second time with Jimmy Douglas, the trailblazing Founder and CEO of Plug, to dissect the seismic shifts in automotive technology and dealership dynamics. Jimmy, an ex-Tesla insider, shares his view into the rapidly evolving landscape of EVs and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for franchise dealerships. With a casual and engaging banter reminiscent of a lively tech meetup, our hosts, Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo, delve deep into Jimmy’s journey from launching Plug at ASOTU CON in September 2023 to steering the company through explosive growth in the used EV market.

Jimmy’s anecdotes about the intersection of software and automotive hardware illuminate the conversation, providing a peek into the not-so-distant future where EVs dominate the roads. His comparison of selling used EVs to understanding the complexities of various Android phones captures the essence of the challenges dealers face today. As he recounts the story of his past at Tesla and draws parallels to his current endeavors, Jimmy underscores the necessity for dealers to adapt swiftly to maintain relevance and profitability in this new era.

Timestamped Takeaways:

0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

3:37 Flying Middle Seats on Spirit Airlines

10:56 A deep dive into the 'software defined vehicle'

16:46 Why Jimmy believed Plug will be the safest platform for acquiring used EV inventory

22:10 An AI-generated image of "Little Jimmy" driving a vintage Chevy in Oregon

25:22 The importance of attending events like ASOTU CON

Learn more about Plug: https://plug.vin/

Jimmy Douglas is the Founder and CEO of Plug.

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It's not that hard to merchandise cars. Just take good pictures.

Throughout his career, Jason Tropp, the Business Partnerships Manager at CarCutter, has gleaned several vital lessons in the automotive marketing field, emphasizing the power of visual presentation in driving sales and customer engagement. He learned the critical importance of adapting and evolving within marketing roles, transitioning from creative to digital strategies to better connect marketing efforts with tangible sales outcomes.

A pivotal realization for Jason was the significant impact that high-quality vehicle images have on the effectiveness of advertising dollars. This insight not only led him to his role at CarCutter but also underscored the broader marketing principle that compelling product presentation is foundational to successful digital advertising. 

Furthermore, Jason's journey taught him the value of embracing effective technologies and tools that enhance marketing strategies, illustrating the profound effect of authenticity and belief in the products one promotes. His experiences advocate for the integration of marketing at the strategic planning table within automotive businesses, ensuring that marketing voices are not just heard but are influential in shaping business outcomes.

Timestamped Takeaways

0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

3:03 How Jason got to Portland, Maine

5:26 The value of marketing for an entire organization

11:55 How Jason got to CarCutter

16:04 The connection between proper car merchandising and marketing success

21:49 Believing in the thing you're marketing

25:22 The critical role marketers should play at the strategic planning table

Jason Tropp is the Business Partnerships Manager at CarCutter

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasontropp/

https://www.car-cutter.com/

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Hot Take Incoming: The practical over the sensational is key when using AI in marketing.

In this lively episode of 'Auto Collabs', we're joined by Kelly Good Stoop, the Regional Vice President at Lotlinx. Kelly shares her journey from being an "army brat" moving across continents to shaping the cutting edge of automotive digital marketing. From her early days selling traditional advertising to spearheading advanced digital strategies, Kelly's story is about adaptability and foresight.

The conversation pivots around the fascinating intersection of technology and marketing, with Kelly detailing how AI and machine learning are revolutionizing how dealers connect with customers. Her experiences range from broadcasting to digital platforms, offering a unique perspective on both the challenges and innovations within the automotive space. 

Timestamped Takeaways

0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

4:26: The shift from traditional to digital advertising in automotive

6:29: Embracing digital trends in the auto industry

8:51: Lotlinx's strategic use of data and AI to optimize dealership marketing.

14:58: The influence of Kelly's diverse upbringing

18:55: Kelly's strategies for engaging with new ideas and technologies at industry events

Kelly Good Stoop is the Regional Vice President of Lotlinx

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Diana Lee is a masterclass in leadership and determination, showcasing how personal history and professional challenges forges the leaders revolutionizing retail automotive.

The charismatic Founder and CEO of Constellation is a beacon of passion, aggression, and humility, and she shares her compelling journey from a timid immigrant child in Philadelphia to the powerhouse entrepreneur reshaping the automotive marketing landscape. Diana brings an energy to our podcast that makes you want to jump on your feet and applaud, discussing the unique challenges and triumphs of building a business as an immigrant in the competitive world of American enterprise.

Listeners are in for a treat as Diana delves deep into her roots, recounting the struggles of her early days in the U.S. and her initial experiences working in a dealership in the gritty environment of Worcester, Massachusetts. Her stories of survival on the sales floor, where she had to prove her mettle against all odds, and she shares stories of the cast of characters she met, including Don the Pimp and Bobby the Addict. In automotive, Diana found a family that supported each other. So when she started her agency, supporting the auto industry was at the front of her mind.

As the auto industry grapples with an increasingly digital-first approach, Diana envisions integrating AI to create a more personalized and efficient customer experience. Constellation is at the forefront of this revolution, developing AI-driven tools that not only enhance how dealerships interact with customers but also how they manage internal operations. Diana's goal is to tailor AI solutions that respect the unique culture of each dealership, thereby ensuring that technology amplifies their strengths rather than undermines the personal touch that defines the automotive selling tradition.

Timestamped Takeaways:0:00 - Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo4:14 - Diana's Recollection of the Dealership in 19898:44 - Diana's Immigrant Background12:18 - How The Dealership Helped Bobby the Addict Get Clean16:24 - Immigrants Are Filling The Recruitment Gap in Auto18:43 - The dealership model is better than direct-to-consumer20:21 - The potential for AI in dealerships24:41 - The crucial role dealerships play in nurturing talent and giving back to their communities.

Diana Lee is the Founder & CEO at Constellation

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Once you realize you're in a supportive community, you do whatever you can to support that community.

This episode features Nick Askew, a man of diverse backgrounds from music to car sales, who is now making waves in the auto retail industry as the Founder and CEO of Space Auto. Nick's journey is a fascinating blend of creative pursuits and entrepreneurial spirit, evidenced by his innovative approach to digital retailing in the automotive sector. His company, Space Auto, challenges traditional sales methods by integrating technology to enhance both customer and dealer experiences, advocating for a more human-centered approach in car sales.

Listeners will be captivated by Nick's personal narrative, which includes turning life's unexpected turns into stepping stones for his career. Starting from his early days in a band to an unexpected entry into car sales, and eventually leading to his pioneering work at Space Auto, Nick's story is a testament to the power of embracing change and pursuing passion over security.

Timestamped Takeaways:

0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

2:07 The meaning of "I Hold Gross"

4:33 From Band To Car Sales

7:01 Why Nick Loves Car Sales

9:31 The Decision To Start Space Auto

22:06 Space Auto's Philosophy and VisionLearn more about Space Auto: https://space.auto/

Nick Askew is the Founder & CEO of Space Auto

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Fixed ops is the real front door.

Dan Shine, Senior Editor for Automotive News, brings a fresh yet deeply informed perspective to the backbone of automotive retail - fixed operations. With a journalistic journey spanning over two decades, including significant stints in both newspaper and educational sectors, Dan's career path led him unexpectedly into the automotive sphere. His approach combines a rich historical knowledge of Detroit's automotive culture with a pragmatic view of current industry challenges, offering a unique lens on the evolving dynamics of automotive retail.

In his down-to-earth demeanor, Dan discusses the essential role that fixed ops play in the financial health of dealerships, contrasting it sharply with the more "showy" sales side of operations. He brings to light the innovative and essential strategies dealerships are implementing to tackle challenges such as customer retention, the introduction of EVs, and the necessary pivot back towards providing comprehensive services including tire sales and windshield repairs.

Timestamped Takeaways:

0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

0:45 Contrasting Fixed Ops and Sales

3:12 Dan's journey from traditional journalism to automotive

6:39 Starting a new job during the pandemic

14:32 The need for innovative customer retention strategies

18:36 Finding new revenue streams in fixed ops

22:19 Building Customer Loyalty

Dan Shine is the Senior Editor at Automotive News

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The automotive industry talks about understanding and leveraging data effectively, but what does that really take?

On today's episode of Auto Collabs, we chat with Bobby Gaudreau, the VP of Sales & Marketing at Activator Dealer Services. Bobby isn’t just an aficionado of endurance sports, having conquered countless marathons and Iron Mans; he’s also a seasoned pro in steering automotive dealerships towards digital efficiency and sophisticated data management. His journey from the first internet manager handling leads via fax to a pivotal force in leveraging Salesforce for automotive marketing is as fascinating as it is educational.

The conversation takes us through the evolution of data management in the automotive space, highlighted by Activator’s innovative approach to integrating a customer data platform (CDP) with traditional marketing strategies to enhance customer engagement and retention. Bobby's extensive experience brings invaluable insights into how big data and smart segmentation can dramatically improve marketing outreach, setting the stage for a discussion that’s as engaging as it is informative. His analogy of a "data refrigerator" packed with disparate data pieces underscores the everyday chaos dealerships navigate and how structured data strategies can turn this around.

Learn more about Activator Dealer Services: https://activator.ai/

Timestamped Takeaways:

0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

2:36 Bobby's Marathon Mindset: How Endurance Sports Influence His Professional Strategies

6:31 Bobby Gaudreau's Journey: From Marathons to Automotive Marketing Mastery

10:09 Integrating Salesforce: Revolutionizing Data Management in Automotive Sales

13:49 Startup Spirit in a Legacy Company: Innovation at Dominion Dealer Services

22:20 Democratizing Data: How Dealers Can Leverage Enterprise-Grade Tech for Marketing Success

Bobby Gaudreau is the VP of Sales & Marketing at Activator Dealer Services

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Hilary Haron’s experiences, from the Capitol’s halls to the dealership floor, offer invaluable lessons on the power of voice, the necessity of change, and the endless potential of paving new paths.

Hilary shares her rich heritage in the auto world, tracing back to her grandfather's pioneering spirit in the car dealership realm, through to her own ventures into automotive advocacy in Washington DC. As a multigenerational dealer and a mother fueled by the drive for a better future, Hilary’s insights into the complexities of car dealership, the evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), and the significant role of women in male-dominated industries are not just inspiring but a clarion call for industry-wide evolution and inclusivity.

Hilary’s story of advocacy shines a light on the urgent need for infrastructural readiness for EVs, a reminder that the path to electric mobility is still under construction. From the halls of Capitol Hill to the practical challenges of EV adoption, she unravels the nuanced layers of policy, public perception, and the pivotal shifts necessary within the auto industry. This conversation is a testament to the power of informed advocacy, the importance of diversity in automotive, and the uncharted roads leading to the industry's future.

0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

1:59 Hilary's Journey: From Dealership Legacy to Advocacy

4:48 The Impact of Personal Connection in Advocacy

10:24 EV Charging Infrastructure: A Capitol Concern

12:25 "A Road Less Traveled": Highlighting Women's Experiences

17:57 Steps Toward a Diverse Auto Industry

24:08 The Importance of Conversation and Advocacy

Hilary Haron is the Host of the A Road Less Traveled Podcast

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