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A fresh, human-centric approach to success and legacy.

The journey of Troy Duhon, the President at Premier Automotive is nothing short of remarkable, beginning as a porter washing cars at age 13 and evolving into a successful car salesman, a journey shaped significantly by his father's struggles and transformation. His narrative is not just about selling cars; it’s about creating a legacy that transcends the automotive business.

Troy shares poignant moments from his life, including his father's battle with alcoholism and eventual redemption, and how these experiences shaped his perspective on business and life. His story takes a dramatic turn with Hurricane Katrina, where he faced immense challenges but emerged with a renewed purpose.

Emphasizing the importance of 'profit with a purpose,' Troy has integrated his business success with philanthropic endeavors through his foundation, Giving Hope. This foundation feeds thousands daily and builds orphanages worldwide, illustrating how businesses can profoundly impact local and global communities.

Timestamps

0:00 - Introduction

1:45 - Troy's Early Career and Father's Influence

7:00 - Overcoming Challenges Post-Hurricane Katrina

11:20 - Blending Business with Philanthropy

18:01 - Envisioning a Legacy Beyond Business

21:39 - Closing Thoughts: Business as a Vehicle for Change

Troy Duhon is the President at Premier Automotive.

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What do you get when a stand-up comedian enters the auto world? Obviously, the answer is David Spisak.

The President/CEO of Disruptive Growth Solutions is a jack-of-all-trades. His journey from stand-up comedy to the automotive industry is unique. David brings a depth of knowledge about the industry, not just at the dealership level but its undercurrents too – from Capitol Hill to OEM factors.

Recently, David and the team at Disruptive Growth Solutions hosted a livestream called Disruptive Forces, over 8 hours of content on EVs and what dealers can do to be prepared. Learn more here.

David shares his perspective on EVs in the automotive industry, highlighting the challenges and opportunities they present for dealers. He stresses the importance of adapting quickly, investing in knowledge, and providing exceptional customer experiences. The conversation also delves into the implications of the growing EV market, the need for dealers to be proactive rather than reactive, and the critical timeframe dealers have to adjust to these changes.

0:00 - Intro & David Spisak's Stand-up Comedy Days

3:19 - The Disruptive Forces Live Stream

7:28 - Dealership Challenges with EVs

9:46 - Urgency for Dealers in EV Transition

16:19 - Investing in People and Dealership Operations

20:24 - Reflections on the Conversation

David Spisak is the President/CEO of Disruptive Growth Solutions

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Jeremy Stephens is taking the service lane on the road.

Jeremy, who started as a technician and climbed up to a leadership position, shares his passion for leading and empowering his team. The conversation takes an interesting turn as they dive into the nuts and bolts of remote automotive servicing. This innovative concept, still new in the industry, is unpacked in detail, discussing the daily operations, challenges in scheduling, and the use of technology in streamlining processes.

The episode doesn't shy away from speculating about the future of automotive servicing. The team discusses over-the-air technological solutions and how customer service experiences are continuously evolving in this sector. Jeremy's narrative is a compelling example of adaptability, innovation, and recognizing opportunities in challenges.

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

3:19 From technician to service director

6:10 Servant leadership 101

11:12 Understanding remote service

15:36 Planning and communication in remote service

20:02 The future of auto service

22:02 Reflections on innovation, leadership, and customer-first service trends.

Jeremy Stephens is the Remote Service Director at Bozard Ford Lincoln.

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Karen Byrd would rather coach compassion than coach compliance.

In this 'Auto Collabs' episode, Karen Byrd, GM at Colonial VW Subaru, unveils her unique leadership style, pivoting from compliance-driven to compassion-led management. Byrd discusses her evolution during the pandemic, emphasizing self-growth and adaptability. In true 'Love People More Than Cars' fashion, she focuses on empathy, listening, and understanding to drive her team forward. Her insights for 2024 include maintaining an open mindset and embracing change.

Karen's approach is a breath of fresh air in the automotive industry marked by intense sales pressure. She emphasizes leading with empathy and unconditional love, crucial in today's dynamic market. Her journey from a rigid, plan-based mindset to one that values personal connection and emotional intelligence offers invaluable lessons for leaders in any field. Byrd's story is a testament to the power of transformative leadership and its impact on both personal and organizational success.

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

2:55 Karen Byrd's approach to 2024

4:18 Removing mental silos to avoid being blindsided by unexpected events

7:57 The pandemic as a time of self-rebirth

11:59 Practical advice for leaderss on learning and listening

17:02 Moving from a compliance-focused approach to one centered on compassion

22:28 Wrap-up and takeaways with Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo

Karen Byrd is the GM at Colonial VW Subaru

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Insights, laughs, and a fresh perspective on the future of mobility!

Grab a coffee and join us for a lively chat with Elena Ciccotelli, the charismatic host of the "EVs for Everyone" podcast. In this episode, we delve into the electrifying (pun intended!) world of EVs. Elena lights up the conversation with her sparkling wit and deep EV insights. Kicking off, Paul shares an eye-opener from Elon Musk's biography, revealing Tesla's rollercoaster journey.

Elena, with her unique take on the EV universe, shares inspiring stories and underscores the importance of both education and action in the EV space. She reflects on her journey from Lyft to podcasting, driven by a passion for telling the lesser-known, impactful stories in EVs. We also get into the nitty-gritty of dealer sentiments towards EVs, exploring the mixed feelings in the auto world. Plus, Elena's personal spin on owning a Chevy Bolt EV adds a real-world touch. This episode isn't just talk – it's a lively exchange packed with laughter, insights, and a whole lot of EV love.

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

2:27 Introducing Elena Ciccotelli

5:27 Elena's EV Philosophy

11:20 From Lyft to Podcasting

17:30 Dealers' Perspective on EVs

25:30 The Evolution of EV Adoption

Elena Ciccotelli is the Host of the EVs for Everyone Podcast.

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How do you go from being an average car dealer to being a good car dealer? Alan Brown has the key.

We get up close with Alan, the General Manager at Sam Pack's Five Star Chevrolet and a dynamic force in the automotive industry. Known for his infectious energy and innovative leadership, Brown brings an air of excitement and passion to the table. Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier and Michael Cirillo lead the conversation, delving into Brown's unique approach to team meetings, employee recognition, and fostering a positive work culture. Alan shares his monthly celebration rituals, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging employee milestones and performance in a way that's both engaging and rewarding. His method is not just about numbers; it's about people, culture, and breaking the conventional mold of automotive management.

Alan's stories, filled with wisdom and humor, highlight his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a significant figure in the automotive world. His approach to leadership is grounded in mentorship and personal growth, proving that effective management goes beyond financial figures. The episode covers the nuances of balancing data-driven decisions with a people-first approach, emphasizing the significance of mental toughness and consistent communication in driving business success. Listeners will find inspiration in Alan's philosophy of leading by example and his commitment to creating a workplace that people are proud to be part of.

Takeaways:

0:00 - Introduction to the episode with Paul, Kyle, Michael and a mention of ASOTU CON.

2:27 - Alan Brown describes his monthly employee recognition practices, emphasizing celebrations and team spirit.

9:33 Alan discusses the importance of asking oneself, "Would you work for you?" and elaborates on leadership in challenging times.

12:39 The conversation shifts to the balance between pay plans and cultivating a positive workplace culture.

17:29 Alan's upbringing, mentorship experiences, and the impact of these on his leadership style.

22:00 The significance of being a fearless leader and the impact of 'taking turns' in enhancing workplace culture.Alan Brown is the General Manager at Sam Pack's Five Star Chevrolet

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Meet a guiding force shaping the next generation of auto industry leaders.

Elgie Bright is the charismatic Department Chair of the Automotive Marketing and Management Program at Northwood University. His approach to teaching not only covers the technicalities of the automotive world but also emphasizes the human element - the core of the industry. Elgie's unique perspective offers valuable insights into how the next generation of automotive leaders is being nurtured.Elgie discusses the balance in Northwood University's student demographics, with an equal mix of dealership legacies and fresh entrants, reflecting the evolving landscape of the automotive industry. He highlights how the university's programs, including their innovative camps for 14-18-year-olds, offer a gateway to diverse career paths within the automotive sector, from traditional dealership roles to exciting positions in startups and tech-focused companies. Moreover, Elgie shares exciting news about Northwood's master's program, emphasizing organizational leadership within the automotive context - a skill crucial for the success of future industry leaders.

Timestamped Takeaways:

Elgie Bright is the Department Chair of the Automotive Marketing and Management Program at Northwood University.

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A professor and a pioneer. Meet Alex Lawrence.

In this episode of Auto Collabs, we sit down with Alex Lawrence, CEO of EV Auto, to explore his journey and impact in the electric vehicle (EV) world. From his early days detailing cars to leading a groundbreaking EV dealership, Alex's story is a blend of passion, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. He shares insights into the allure of electric vehicles, their technological advancements, and his vision for EV Auto, which is redefining the EV retail experience.

Timestamped Takeaways:

Alex Lawrence is the CEO of EV Auto.

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From paper to digital... quite literally.

Listen in to this engaging conversation with Greg Uland from Reynolds and Reynolds on this episode of Auto Collabs. We're delving into the digital transformation of the auto industry, discussing everything from traditional processes to modern digital strategies. Greg shares valuable insights on enhancing customer experiences and the dynamics of the used car market.

Did You Know? Reynolds has an interesting background in paper production, which adds a unique perspective to their automotive journey. Plus, Greg brings firsthand experiences from the auto parts sector that are as enlightening as they are essential.

Our Favorite Moments

Greg Uland is VP of Marketing for The Reynolds and Reynolds Company.

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Successful digital marketing starts by asking "What am I marketing and who am I marketing it to?" But it doesn't stop there.

With a rich history in the industry, Steve DeWitt of automotiveMastermind shares his unique perspective on the transformation of automotive retail, focusing on data-driven strategies and customer-centric approaches. The conversation covers a range of topics, from the importance of understanding consumer behavior to leveraging technology for more effective dealership management.

Steve's journey, from his early days questioning the establishment of an internet department to his current role in shaping sales strategies, offers valuable lessons. The episode is peppered with anecdotes from Steve's career, highlighting the shift in industry practices and the increasing relevance of data in understanding and catering to customer needs. Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities within the automotive sales sector, as well as Steve's philosophy on empowering employees and fostering a culture of innovation.

Takeaways:

Steve DeWitt is the VP of Sales for automotiveMastermind

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