On this episode of ASOTU Unscripted, Erroll Bomar sits down with Carla Cosenzi to explore a journey that almost didn't happen. Growing up around her family's dealership, Carla was determined to chart a different path. She studied psychology, planned to pursue a PhD, and envisioned a future far from automotive retail. Then a simple invitation from her father to come home for the summer changed the trajectory of her life.

What followed was a story of finding purpose in an unexpected place. Carla shares how she learned to navigate skepticism, earn credibility on the sales floor, and eventually step into leadership during one of the most challenging periods in automotive history. Along the way, she reflects on the influence of her father, the employees who stood by the company through uncertainty, and the power of mentorship, community, and perseverance. At its heart, this conversation is about legacy, resilience, and the people who help us become who we're meant to be.

Timestamped Takeaways

0:00 Intro

0:28 Meet Carla Cosenzi

0:54 First Impressions of ASOTU CON

1:26 Growing Up Around the Family Business

1:53 The Summer That Changed Everything

2:09 Falling in Love With Automotive

3:05 Finding Her Place in the Dealership

4:18 Expectations Versus Reality

5:06 Earning Credibility on the Sales Floor

5:49 The Drive to Keep Going

6:40 Why People Keep Her Passion Alive

7:19 Carrying Forward Her Father's Legacy

8:35 Leading a Growing Dealer Group

9:31 Partnership, Family, and Perspective

10:23 Returning to the Business During Difficult Times

11:34 The Employees Who Made the Difference

12:56 Trust, Legacy, and Leadership

13:25 Why Mentorship Matters

14:08 The Power of Community and Connection

14:41 From Me to We

Connect with Carla Cosenzi at https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlacosenzi/

Learn more about TommyCar Auto Group at https://www.tommycarauto.com