Running a dealership can be rewarding — but it can also be stressful, overwhelming, and at times, isolating. 

In this episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona is joined by Tim Hargraves, executive coach and founder of The Motor Coach.

After more than 20 years leading dealerships at Marriott Motor Group, Tim now helps automotive managers and leaders beat overwhelm, rebuild confidence, and rediscover their passion for the motor trade.

Together, we discuss:
- The biggest causes of stress for dealership leaders today
- Why imposter syndrome and burnout are common in the motor industry
- Simple mindset shifts to reduce overwhelm
- How coaching can transform leadership and work-life balance
- The skills future dealership leaders will need in an AI-driven world

■ Whether you’re a Dealer Principal, Manager, or Rising Leader, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you thrive.

■ Download Tim's Guide that goes with this podcast at https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides

■ Sponsors
- DMS Navigator —  the DMS that boosts efficiency, delivers enhanced customer service and helps  dealers grow profits.
- MyAutoCompanion — The customer app that keeps buyers connected, improves retention, and
increases lifetime dealer revenue.

Auto Trader’s new Deal Builder feature has triggered one of the strongest reactions the motor trade has seen in years. Many dealers are questioning its impact on leads, data, finance, and overall control of the sales process.

In this special roundtable episode, Simon Verona brings together dealers and industry experts to explore what Deal Builder means for the independent sector — and whether now is the time to reduce reliance on Auto Trader.

What We Discuss

What Deal Builder actually is

How it changes the customer journey

Why dealers are frustrated

The loss of deep links and its impact

The effect on finance, warranty and profitability

Are dealer complaints justified?

Practical alternatives

How to diversify your lead sources safely

Steps to reduce dependency on Auto Trader

‍

Who’s On the Panel

Jim Reid — Jim Reid Vehicle Sales

Josh Apps — V12 Automobil

Fraser Brown — Motorvise

Gary Monaghan — Digital Remarketing Solutions

Ian Godbold — IGC Digital

Neil Smith — Motorvait

Hosted by: Simon Verona

Download the guide that accompanies the episode from https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides

In this episode, Simon Verona breaks down typical price ranges, what drives costs up or down, and the hidden fees to watch out for. 

Plus, discover why forward-thinking dealers view their DMS not as a cost, but as an investment in efficiency, compliance, and profit.

Download our Guide to How Much a Dealer Management System should cost in 2025 at https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides 

■ Sponsored by DMS Navigator — the Dealer Management System to help you be more efficient, deliver better customer service and improve profits — and MyAutoCompanion —increasing customer retention, keeping

Episode 1 .... the beginning!

Cybersecurity isn’t just for big corporates — dealerships are at risk too.

In this inaugural episode of Dealer Tech Talk, Simon Verona explores the biggest threats (from phishing to ransomware), lessons from recent attacks at JLR and M&S, and what every dealer can do to prepare. 

Learn how to reduce risks, build a Cyber Security Guide, create a Disaster Recovery Plan, and two quick wins you can implement today.

Also, download our Dealer Tech Talk Guide to Cyber Security from https://www.dealertechtalk.uk/guides