Facts Not Feelings with Brooke C. Furniss

🚗 AI is transforming automotive retail—is your dealership ready?

In this episode of Facts Not Feelings, I sit down with David Marod, founder of Contactter AI, to explore how AI is reshaping dealership operations, streamlining customer engagement, and boosting lead conversion.

🤖 AI isn’t here to replace humans—it’s here to enhance efficiency, eliminate repetitive tasks, and improve customer experiences. But with so much AI hype, how do you separate facts from fiction and successfully implement AI in your dealership?

💡 3 Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ AI in Dealerships – How AI enhances customer interactions, automates lead engagement, and increases sales.

2️⃣ Seamless Integration – The importance of choosing the right AI solution and avoiding tech stack headaches.

3️⃣ Customer Experience First – How AI personalizes conversations, boosts customer satisfaction, and supports—not replaces—human interactions.

🔗 Connect with Our Speakers:
David Marod 👉 https://qrch.net/sr4gty74nmo3 
Facts Not Feelings 👉 https://qrch.net/rvwds5eho042

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📲  Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3DYjWN0
🎵 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI
▶️ YouTube: https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

👍 Enjoyed this episode? Like, comment & subscribe for more game-changing insights from Facts Not Feelings!

Chapters:

00:35 - Intro: Meet David Marod and Contactter.AI

02:00 -  How AI Transforms Customer Engagement & Lead Nurturing

05:16 - AI & CRM Integration: The Key to Seamless Dealership Ops 

10:52 -  AI Success Story: How Contactter AI Boosted Car Sales

14:08 - When AI Feels Human: Evolving Customer Expectations

17:04 - Data-Driven Dealerships: Measuring AI’s Impact

19:20 - [Sponsored] AI That Sells: How Contactter AI Converts Leads Fast!

23:58 - AI + Human Touch: How Contactter AI Enhances Sales Teams

26:46 - Avoiding AI Adoption Pitfalls: Key Challenges & Fixes

30:43 - FTC Compliance & Texting: Avoid Costly Mistakes!

33:36 - Skeptical About AI? Why Dealerships Should Try It!

35:33 - Lightning Round: Connect with David Marod & Final Takeaways!

🚨 Is Playing It Safe Holding Your Business Back? 🚨

Taking risks doesn’t have to be reckless! Jordan Furniss, a serial entrepreneur, reputation expert, and Founder of Alfa Phox, joins Brooke Furniss to break down:

✅ How to take smart risks & avoid costly mistakes
✅ The power of online reviews & customer trust
✅ Why reputation management is your secret growth weapon

🚀 Whether you're a dealer, business owner, or entrepreneur, mastering risk-taking and digital reputation is key to long-term success in today’s market.

🔹 Connect with Our Speakers:
Jordan Furniss 👉 https://qrch.net/sqyqpppixhfb
Facts Not Feelings 👉 https://qrch.net/rvwds5eho042

🎧 Listen on Your Favorite Platform:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3DYjWN0
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

➡️ This episode is packed with actionable insights to turn vendor relationships into real partnerships and build a stronger reputation in your industry.

💡 Enjoyed this episode? Like, comment & subscribe for more game-changing insights from Facts Not Feelings!

Chapters:

00:42 - Introduction 

03:30 - How to Take Smart Business Risks Without Being Reckless

07:27 - Creating a Culture of Smart Risk-Taking in Your Business

10:40 - When Risks Don’t Pay Off: Lessons from Failure

14:48 - Balancing Innovation & Risk: Smart Growth Strategies

19:05 - Turning Negative Reviews into Business Growth Opportunities

23:18 - Why Online Reviews Define Your Business Reputation

27:09  - Proven Strategies to Improve Online Reputation

31:51 - Lightning Round: Facts, Risks & Shark Encounters!

🚗 The automotive industry is evolving fast! Are you keeping up?
Join me, Brooke Furniss, and Tim Cox, Co-Founder of CarNow, as we dive into the biggest shifts in car buying, leadership, and technology in today's automotive world. From rising interest rates to AI-driven solutions and the secret to high-performing dealerships, we break down Facts Not Feelings.

🔑 Main Takeaways:
1️⃣ Selling Cars the Way Customers Want to Buy – Why payment shopping is dominating the market and how top dealers are adapting.
2️⃣ AI & Digital Retailing – The right way to integrate AI without losing the human connection that drives car sales.
3️⃣ Leadership & Culture in Automotive – The one factor that separates high-performing dealerships from struggling ones.

Connect with Our Speakers:

• Tim Cox: https://qrch.net/sqvd5fb6322a 
• BZ Consultants Group: https://qrco.de/bcqqFo

Listen on Your Favorite Platform:

• Apple Podcasts 🎙️ https://apple.co/3DYjWN0
• Spotify 🎧  https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI
• YouTube ▶️ https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

👉 If you found this valuable, drop a comment! Let us know your biggest takeaway, and don’t forget to like & subscribe for more Facts Not Feelings episodes.

🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss out on expert insights that will transform the way you sell and service cars!

Chapters:

00:36 - 🚀 Welcome & The Story Behind "Facts Not Feelings” 

03:47 - Adapting to Market Shifts & Evolving Customer Expectations 

11:50 - Navigating EV Adoption & Market-Specific Strategies

14:08 - AI & Service: Enhancing Customer Experience the Right Way

19:46 - Leadership That Drives Success: Traits of Top Dealers

28:08 - Developing Future Leaders: The Power of Mindset and Growth

42:58 - Lightning Round & Closing Thoughts: Leadership, Laughs, and Lasting Impact

#CarBuying #Leadership #CustomerExperience

AI is transforming the automotive industry—are you ready to embrace the future?

In this episode of Facts Not Feelings, Brooke Furniss sits down with Rich Sands, CEO of Stella Automotive, to explore how AI is reshaping dealership operations. From booking service appointments to providing seamless customer interactions, learn how automotive-specific AI solutions are making dealerships more efficient, profitable, and customer-friendly.

👉 3 Main Takeaways:
1️⃣ AI Enhances Efficiency: Handle repetitive tasks like service appointment bookings while allowing employees to focus on high-value interactions.
2️⃣ Choose Automotive-Specific AI: Platforms tailored for dealerships ensure data security and effective communication.
3️⃣ AI and Human Roles Unite: Free up your team to build stronger customer relationships and drive revenue.

Discover how AI is the key to delivering a frictionless customer experience while protecting your dealership's data and enhancing profitability. Don’t miss this episode—watch now and unlock the potential of AI for your business!

Connect with Our Speakers:

• Rich Sands: https://qrch.net/sop5j0lt3ayu 
• BZ Consultants Group: https://qrco.de/bcqqFo

Listen on Your Favorite Platform:

• Apple Podcasts 🎙️ https://apple.co/3DYjWN0
• Spotify 🎧  https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI
• YouTube ▶️ https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

➡️ Whether you're a GM, dealer, or marketing agency, this episode is packed with actionable insights to transform your vendor relationships into true partnerships.

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Facts Not Feelings!

Chapters:

00:37 - Introduction 

01:51 - How AI is Transforming Automotive Customer Service

06:08 - Evaluating AI Solutions for Dealership Success

08:40 - Key AI Integrations for Dealership Efficiency

14:31 - Enhancing Customer Engagement with AI Efficiency

17:10 - Leveraging AI Preferences for Better Customer Engagement

21:18 - Future of AI in Automotive Retail: Unified Data & Streamlined Operations

27:00 - Maximizing AI for Dealership Success: Service Efficiency & Revenue Growth

36:28  - Lightning Round 

🚀 Dive into the transformative world of automotive advertising with Facts Not Feelings. This week, Brooke Furniss and James Klaus, President of Loon Advertising, unpack how streaming TV is revolutionizing the way dealerships engage with customers. From advanced targeting to clean room data analysis, discover strategies to boost ROI and reach your ideal audience.

Main Takeaways:

1️⃣ Advanced Targeting: Learn how streaming TV outshines traditional ads with precise audience targeting.
2️⃣ Data-Driven Success: Uncover how clean room technology ensures accurate ad measurement and optimized campaigns.
3️⃣ Maximizing Media Mix: Discover how streaming TV enhances your overall marketing strategy.

💡 Whether you’re exploring Amazon DSP, OTT platforms, or redefining your dealership’s ad strategy, this episode has the insights you need.

📣 Love this content? Hit subscribe, drop a comment, and share to help us grow! Join us every week for more expert insights!

Connect with Our Speakers:

• James Klaus: https://qrcc.io/sntnye5uq89u  
• BZ Consultants Group: https://qrco.de/bcqqFo     
• Apple🎙️ https://apple.co/3DYjWN0 
• Spotify 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI   
• Youtube ▶️ https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

Chapters:

00:49 - Intro: Transforming Automotive Advertising

04:36 - Why Streaming TV Beats Traditional Ads

15:00 - What Are DSPs and DV360? Explained Simply

16:23 - Choosing the Best DSP: App vs. Device Strategy

22:54 - Unleashing Amazon Data for Targeted Ads

28:49 - Overcoming OTT Advertising Challenges

34:43 - How to Determine Your OTT Advertising Budget

38:41 - Lightning Round: Fun Facts and Final Thoughts

#StreamingTV #AutomotiveMarketing #DigitalAdvertising #CarDealershipTips #FactsNotFeelings

Does your dealership see vendors as partners or just another expense? 🚘 In this episode of Facts Not Feelings, Brooke Furniss sits down with Joe Akers, NADA veteran and NADA 20 Group Moderator, to discuss how dealers can better navigate vendor relationships and unlock their true potential. From identifying hidden costs to leveraging overlooked data, this conversation will change how you approach vendor partnerships.

Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ Discover the hidden costs of misaligned vendor relationships.
2️⃣ Learn how to spot red flags and ask the right questions when choosing a vendor.
3️⃣ Uncover the most underutilized data points that can drive better decision-making

Connect with Our Speakers:

• Joe Akers: https://qrch.net/so10yqhjwt5o
• BZ Consultants Group: https://qrco.de/bcqqFo

Listen on Your Favorite Platform:

• Apple Podcasts 🎙️ https://apple.co/3DYjWN0
• Spotify 🎧  https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI
• YouTube ▶️ https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

➡️ Whether you're a GM, dealer, or marketing agency, this episode is packed with actionable insights to transform your vendor relationships into true partnerships.

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Facts Not Feelings!

Chapters:
00:48 - Introduction – Transforming vendors into partners
01:38 - Hidden Costs of Misaligned Vendors – The True Price of Poor Partnerships
09:16 - Choosing Long-Term Partners – Finding vendors who align with your goals
15:32 - Accountability Without Conflict – Managing Vendor Relationships
21:04 - Fixing the Blame Game – Process vs. Vendor Accountability
25:55 - Unlocking Hidden Insights – Underutilized Data That Drives Actionable Result
35:02 - Mastering Vendor Transitions – Avoiding Costly Dealership Mistakes
41:55  - Lightning Round: Insights, Fun Facts & Dealer Success with Joe Akers

Are you ready to take your dealership's social media strategy to the next level? 🚗✨ In this episode of Facts Not Feelings, Brooke chats with Nathaniel Greklek of Mohawk Auto Group, the mastermind behind viral campaigns like The Dealership series. Discover how Mohawk has redefined automotive branding, built trust with their community, and leveraged social media to boost sales and visibility.

3 Main Takeaways:

1. Build Trust Through Authentic Content: Showcase your team, community involvement, and processes to earn customer trust and loyalty.
2. Engage Employees for Viral Success: Create relatable, humorous, and innovative content by involving employees and giving them ownership in the creative process.
3. Maximize Social Media for SEO: Strategic social media campaigns can amplify your dealership's brand recognition and improve search engine visibility.

Nathaniel shares actionable insights on creating engaging, platform-specific content, measuring ROI, and overcoming common dealership challenges. Whether you're in the automotive industry or just curious about building a successful social media strategy, this episode is packed with value.

🔗 Connect with Nathanael:
Follow him on all major platforms: LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram, and more.

• Nathanael Greklek:  https://qrcc.io/snb2ez6vnz8t 
• BZ Consultants Group: https://qrco.de/bcqqFo     
• Apple🎙️ https://apple.co/3DYjWN0 
• Spotify 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI   
• Youtube ▶️ https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

🎧 Listen Now and don’t forget to Subscribe for more industry-leading insights!

Chapters:
00:44 - Intro: Transforming Car Buying with Social Media
03:40 - Building Trust Through Social Media Branding 
05:52 - $99 Car Strategy: Social Media’s Ripple Effect 
10:36 - Cracking the Code: Creating Content That Resonates 
12:56 - Engaging Employees in Social Media Content Creation 
16:14 - Balancing Content & Building Local Influence 
20:07 - Social Media's Impact on SEO & Local Visibility 
22:04 - The Dealership: From Ducks to Viral Sensation 
28:03 - Emerging Social Media Trends & Platform Predictions 
35:47- Lightning Round & Final Takeaways 

🚗 Discover the secrets to turning your dealership's BDC (Business Development Center) into a powerhouse of efficiency, customer satisfaction, and revenue generation. In this episode of Facts Not Feelings, Brooke Furniss is joined by Shawn Armour, founder of BDC Alchemy, to break down proven strategies that dealerships can implement immediately to align departments, leverage technology, and create lasting results.

Main Takeaways:
1️⃣ Why alignment between BDC and other departments is crucial for success.
2️⃣ The top tools and processes every dealership BDC must have.
3️⃣ How to measure and scale BDC performance with actionable insights.

Tune in to learn how to move beyond outdated systems and unlock the full potential of your BDC!

Connect with Our Speakers:

• Shawn Armorer: https://qrcc.io/smfy3mvulux9 
• BZ Consultants Group: https://qrco.de/bcqqFo     
• Apple🎙️ https://apple.co/3DYjWN0 
• Spotify 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI   
• Youtube ▶️ https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

🗣 Engage with Us:

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actionable insights into automotive success.

📌 Chapters:
00:47 - Welcome to Facts Not Feelings with Brooke Furniss & Shawn Armour
02:43 -  Barriers in BDCs – Key challenges dealerships face integrating BDCs.
07:32 - Essential Tools for BDCs – The big three technologies every BDC needs.
14:23 - Leveraging Predictive Analytics – Using data and trajectory to enhance customer interactions.
17:57 - Understanding Customer Behavior – How to better "read the lead" and build trust.
24:07 - Innovative Strategies for Lead Conversion – Bridging the gap between BDCs and sales.
32:58 - Measuring BDC Success – Defining and tracking performance metrics effectively
39:36 - Lightning Round – Shawn’s personal insights and rapid-fire questions.

What if buying a car was as easy as scrolling through your favorite app?

🚘 In this episode of Facts Not Feelings, host Brooke Furniss welcomes Brian Kramer, EVP of Cars Commerce, to discuss the digital revolution in automotive sales. From seamless integration to AI-powered customer service, learn how the industry is transforming car buying into a frictionless journey.

🔍 What You'll Learn:
Seamless Integration: Connecting online browsing to in-store experiences is crucial for dealerships to meet customer expectations.
Frictionless Trade-In Process: Providing exact trade-in values builds trust and reduces negotiation barriers.
Leveraging AI: Predictive analytics and AI tools streamline operations and bring humanity back to customer interactions.

Connect with Our Speakers:
Brian Kramer: https://qrcc.io/sm2y0rn8wdeo
BZ Consultants Group: https://qrco.de/bcqqFo     
Apple🎙️ https://apple.co/3DYjWN0
Spotify 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI   
Youtube ▶️ https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

🗣 Engage with Us:
If you find this discussion helpful, please give us a thumbs up 👍, subscribe for more insights and tips from industry leaders, and hit the bell icon 🔔 to stay updated on our latest episodes!

Chapters:
00:41 - Introduction
05:36 - 🔗 Breaking Barriers: Seamless Online to In-Store Sales
12:38 - 🚗 Simplify Tech: Avoid Overloading Your Website Tools
15:16 - 📊 Predictive Analytics: Streamlining Customer Journeys
17:17 - 💡 Training for Hybrid Sales: Building a Seamless 
Customer Experience
26:02 🔮 Evolving Customer Behavior: Using AI to Boost Satisfaction 
& Loyalty
33:03 - 🎤 Lightning Round & Lessons from Brian Kramer

#CarBuying #DigitalRetail #AutomotiveSales #AIinAutomotive #FactsNotFeelings

🚨 CDK Cyber Attack: What Every Dealership Needs to Know! 🚨
In this episode of Facts Not Feelings with Brooke C. Furniss, we dive into the aftermath of the CDK cyber attack—the largest data breach in automotive history. Brooke is joined by Laurie Halter, founder of Charisma Communications, to explore how the attack exposed vulnerabilities, disrupted an entire industry, and reshaped the way dealerships think about cybersecurity.

📌 Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ The Ripple Effect: Learn how the attack paralyzed dealerships, disrupted credit unions, insurance providers, and more.
2️⃣ Data Security Gaps: Discover the vulnerabilities that left the automotive industry exposed and how they can be mitigated.
3️⃣ Future-Proofing Your Dealership: Practical steps for creating contingency plans, diversifying data storage, and collaborating for a safer future.

🎥 Why Watch?
Whether you're a dealership owner, vendor, or automotive enthusiast, this episode offers crucial insights into safeguarding your operations against future threats. Don't wait for the next breach—get ahead of the curve!

Connect with Our Speakers:

• Laurie Halter: https://qrcc.io/smp2axkjmi58 
• BZ Consultants Group: https://qrco.de/bcqqFo     
• Apple🎙️ https://apple.co/3DYjWN0 
• Spotify 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3DNNgFI   
• Youtube ▶️ https://bit.ly/3jDwPoO

📌 Chapters:
00:47 - Introduction
03:17 - What Happened in the CDK Cyber Attack? 
05:46 - Industry Impact: The Ripple Effect Beyond Dealerships
09:38- Future-Proofing Your Cybersecurity Strategy
15:32 - Exploring Charisma's Research Arm & OEM Certification Insights
19:20 - Navigating Government Regulations & Cybersecurity in Automotive
22:24 - Collaboration & Diversification: Tackling Cybersecurity Challenges
26:20  - Lightning Round: Fun Facts & Laurie Halter's Insights

#FactsNotFeelings #MovingAutomotiveForward #Consultant #Podcast #Automotive #CarConsultant #AutomotiveConsultant #CarTalk #CarDealership #CustomerExperience #DigitalMarketing #WomenInAutomotive #WomenInBusiness #AutomotiveMarketing #BZConsultantsgroup #BZConsultants #BrookeFurniss #BrookeCFurniss