In this episode of Dealer Tech Tuesdays, John Acosta sits down with Jeane Reitelbach to explore how leading with authenticity and vulnerability can dramatically transform your dealership's culture and profitability.

Jeane, a renowned marketing and customer experience expert, shares practical insights into why genuine human connection is essential for creating lasting customer relationships, enhancing employee engagement, and boosting dealership success. Discover how shifting from transactional interactions to authentic leadership can redefine your team's performance and elevate your dealership’s reputation.

🔑 Key takeaways include:

* How vulnerability can be your greatest strength in dealership management.
* Proven strategies to integrate authenticity into your dealership’s culture.
* Real-world examples of successful leadership transformations.

If you're a dealership owner, general manager, or automotive leader looking to foster meaningful connections, enhance customer experience, and drive sustainable growth, this episode is a must-watch!

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What if understanding your team's unique behavioral profiles could revolutionize your company's culture? Join us as we sit down with Tracy Kawa, a key player at VTech Dealer IT who has developed an innovative behavioral assessment tool that is transforming team dynamics. Tracy shares her journey from observing human behavior to creating an assessment that pinpoints personal values, competencies, and potential conflicts, aligning team members with company culture and enhancing organizational success.

Effective communication in leadership is more than just talking—it's about speaking an employee’s "work love language." Tracy and I explore the intricacies of employee engagement, emphasizing the importance of valuing individual contributions. Learn how tailoring your communication to resonate with employees' values can boost motivation and reduce turnover. We also highlight the impact of scripting conversations to ensure that managerial interactions are constructive and meaningful, ultimately fostering a more engaged and dedicated workforce.

Organizational harmony isn't just a buzzword—it's a crucial factor in sustainable growth. Tracy sheds light on managing team dynamics by resonating with employees' internal value structures and the benefits of complementary skill sets. We discuss the implications of executive pay structures and the importance of caring leadership in creating a supportive culture. Through real-world examples, we illustrate how nurturing managerial potential and aligning pay with short-term and long-term goals can significantly improve company performance and employee satisfaction. Tune in for valuable insights that could transform your organizational approach.

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Embark on a transformative journey with car dealership virtuoso Brian Kramer, as we peel back the layers of innovation within the auto sales industry. Brian's rise from detailing cars to revolutionizing dealership systems illustrates the potent combination of technology and human ingenuity. With legacy platforms like CDK and Reynolds & Reynolds at his fingertips, he's steered a paperless revolution, proving that deep-rooted knowledge can be the catalyst for creative and efficient workspaces.

Dive into the core of business adaptability and witness how organization, humility, and data trump gut instincts every time. We unravel the strategies that have reshaped car sales, from Grant Cardone's wisdom to the nuanced art of negotiation where AI meets "Never Split the Difference." Our conversation with Brian underscores the necessity of precise communication and bespoke training for a thriving operation, regardless of the industry. The anecdotes shared are more than just stories; they're blueprints for success, emphasizing the profound impact of predictive analytics in decision-making processes.

The dynamics of car dealerships are as intricate as they are fascinating, and in this episode, we spotlight the traits of the industry's top performers. We address the alignment of leadership with the unique profiles of team members, the revelations brought on by operational changes, and the paramount importance of accountability. Whether it's reshaping compensation structures or prioritizing people over technology, Brian's insights are a testament to how prioritizing thoughtful processes can manifest extraordinary business outcomes. Join us to unlock the secrets to transforming your dealership—or any business—into a well-oiled machine.

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Step into the world of high-stakes cybersecurity with Justin Shanken, CEO of Black Breach and a former counterintelligence special agent with the U.S. Army, as he joins us to dissect the growing nexus between digital defense and the automotive industry. Justin trades tales of his journey from clandestine government operations to spearheading security in the private sector, offering a rare glimpse into the frontline efforts to shield businesses from the cyber threats lurking in today's digital shadows. As we navigate through the complexities of government regulations, like the FTC's latest cybersecurity policies, our discussion illuminates the contentious landscape companies must traverse to safeguard customer data and stay ahead in the cybersecurity arms race.

Our conversation with Justin is a masterclass in cybersecurity essentials, unwrapping the layers of protection mandated by regulations such as the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. We dissect the nuances between basic Multi-Factor Authentication and the expert-driven realm of penetration testing, demystifying the jargon and revealing the fine line between compliance and a proactive, resilient security posture. We also venture into the shadowy world of cybercrime, where savvy criminals operate with business-like efficiency, underscoring the ever-present risks during critical business junctures like mergers and acquisitions, as well as the cultural perceptions that shape our response to these incidents.

Wrapping up our intensive session, Justin and I cast light on the heavy cost of cyber negligence, particularly within car dealerships, where downtime can siphon revenue and ransomware can demand a king's ransom. The sobering reality is that a robust cybersecurity strategy is no longer optional; it's a cornerstone of modern business practice. As we advocate for the strategic outsourcing of training and liability management, we underscore the substantial benefits of expert involvement in fortifying your business's digital fortress. Join us for this episode—packed with insights, strategies, and unfiltered expertise—for an invaluable guide to navigating the turbulent waters of cybersecurity in the automotive industry.

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What happens when creativity punctuates the automotive industry? Our latest episode promises to redefine your perception of the car business. We sit down with the dynamic Judy Serra, the CFO of Headquarter Automotive, who has turned the corporate culture on its head. Judy's innovative approach, from her five-star wall of fame at Headquarter Toyota to her talent-scouting prowess, is undoubtedly setting the pace in the industry. 

Ever wondered what makes a leader in the car business? Judy shares her insights on leadership and how she effectively communicates with her team to recognize and celebrate not just the big wins, but also birthdays, anniversaries, and the embodiment of company values. We also delve into how the car industry gives second chances, the importance of sharing these inspiring stories, and creating a diverse workforce with opportunities for remote workers. 

The future of the car industry is electric, quite literally! We discuss the rise of the new era of dealers and the government's influence on consumer choice, particularly with the bill on the congress desk. Listen in as we explore Toyota's Kaisen philosophy and the potential of the hybrid of electric vehicles and PHEVs. Want to connect with Judy Serra? She's just an email or LinkedIn message away! Join us for a conversation that promises to be as electrifying as the future of cars!

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Ever thought about the intricate dynamics of running a car dealership? Tom Kline, a seasoned compliance and risk mitigation consultant, with a family history in the car business dating back nearly a century, is here to take you on a ride, sharing his experiences with eccentric customer stories and indispensable advice for novices in the industry. We also discuss the complex relations between manufacturers and dealers, and the ripple effects of shifting trends in the industry.

The crux of our conversation revolves around risk management in dealerships. Did you know that a clean restroom at McDonald's can drastically improve the customer experience at a dealership? Intrigued? We will decode this analogy for you. Also, we delve into the two main risk sources in dealerships – customers and employees. Tom will walk us through practical ways of identifying these potential risks and how to nip them in the bud. 

And if you're thinking insurance policies are just a necessary evil of the business, think again! We shed light on how comprehending your insurance policy can be a game-changer, saving you from avoidable expenses and unnecessary heartaches. We also discuss some astonishing cases of dealership fraud which underline the necessity of compliance in risk management. So, buckle up as we navigate the often overlooked aspects of the automotive industry. You'll come away with fascinating insights and practical tips to ensure the smooth journey of your dealership.

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Cheryl Lopez, an accomplished automotive industry leader with more than
32 years of experience, has been with Headquarter since 2016 joining as
Controller for the Toyota store. Since then, her proven track record of
success in streamlining processes, increasing efficiencies, and optimizing
time management procedures in a fast-paced work environment has
earned her a reputation as a hands-on leader who can make a real difference.  She has gone on to become the Corporate Controller for the group's four locations.  In her current role, she is responsible for organizing and directing accounting personnel at four dealership locations while ensuring the integrity of financial data, accounting, taxes, reporting, and financial controls. Her oversight of the monthly close process and account reconciliation procedures have ensured the accuracy of financial
statements and compliance with GAAP.  

She also provides leadership, mentoring, and training for direct reports, developed and implemented departmental policies and training programs, and possesses a strong knowledge of all accounting staff duties.  In 2022, she was elected Treasurer of the Southeast Toyota Comptroller’s Association. Cheryl began her career by spending 24 years with Lehman Dealership Enterprises, where she began as a file clerk and receptionist while still attending high school.  During this time, her roles included IT Director for the group’s 8 Dealership Locations, CDK System Administrator, and Bookkeeper, later becoming the Office Manager for the Toyota and Mazda locations.  She then went on to become Assistant Controller with the South Motors Group.

A unique perspective on the automobile industry, rooted in her experience in each role in the accounting office, gives her a complete understanding of the industry's inner workings. Through her years of experience, the impact she has had on the automobile industry has been significant. Her work leads to improved financial and operational performance, resulting in increased revenue growth. Her expertise in accounting, office management, and system administration has made her a go-to source for technical guidance on complex accounting issues, and her ability to provide leadership, mentorship, and training has earned her respect from her peers. 

As part of her mission to inspire future female leaders, she has taken on numerous mentorship roles to share her rewarding experiences in the industry. For over a decade, Cheryl has volunteered for various organizations, such as American Brittany Rescue, Lasagna Love, and MPS Superhero.  

Cheryl and her husband, Byron, live in the beautiful city of Miami, Florida with their three Brittany Spaniels.

Support the show

Dealer Tech Tuesday is a podcast and Clubhouse room on the Automotive Innovations Club. It airs at 2pm EST every Tuesday. It is a discussion and QA for anyone in the automotive space. VTech Dealer IT hosts the show, bringing in experts in their respective fields.

This week's episode is with my co-host Paul Jensen from the Qvale Auto Group. We discuss future-proofing your dealership and the effects of electric vehicles on your operation.

Visit us at: https://www.vtechdealerit.com/247-it-support/

Support the show

Dealer Tech Tuesday is a podcast and Clubhouse room on the Automotive Innovations Club. It airs at 2pm EST every Tuesday. It is a discussion and QA for anyone in the automotive space. VTech Dealer IT hosts the show, bringing in experts in their respective fields.

This week's episode is the unauthorized download on Update Promise. Join us with our co-hosts John Acosta, Paul Jensen, and Geno Walsh where we discuss new product deployments, implementations, and successes with Curtis Nixon, Brandon Nixon, and Drew Benson. 

Visit us at: https://www.vtechdealerit.com/247-it-support

Support the show

Dealer Tech Tuesday is a podcast and Clubhouse room on the Automotive Innovations Club. It airs at 2pm EST every Tuesday. It is a discussion and QA for anyone in the automotive space. VTech Dealer IT hosts the show, bringing in experts in their respective fields.

This week's episode is with my co-hots Paul Jensen from the Qvale Auto Group. We discuss future-proofing your dealership and the effects of electric vehicles on your operation.

Visit us at: https://www.vtechdealerit.com/247-it-support/

Support the show