Welcome back to The David Spisak Show! Today, we’re diving into the epicenter of dealership success: Fixed Operations. And trust me, you’ll want to stick around for this one. My guest, Doug Brown, Director of Field Operations at XPEL, is here to drop some serious knowledge.

Doug has a career story that feels like a masterclass in leadership, growth, and navigating curveballs. From humble beginnings in the parts department to steering the ship at XPEL, Doug’s journey is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.

We get into it all:

•  Why Fixed Ops is the heartbeat of every dealership.
•  The evolution of leadership in the auto industry—and why managing isn’t enough anymore.
•  How XPEL is changing the game with self-healing paint protection film (yeah, it’s as cool as it sounds).
•  The smart way dealers are offsetting margin compression while delighting customers.

And can we talk about Doug’s mindset? Every curveball life threw at him became an opportunity for growth—and he shares how you can apply the same mindset to your career.

So, here’s the deal:

If you’re looking for actionable strategies to grow your dealership, differentiate your service offerings, and become a better leader, this episode is your blueprint.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!

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What’s the secret to thriving in an industry that’s constantly evolving, often under fire, and endlessly competitive? Preston Stewart, the National Variable Operations Director (and Compliance Director!) for the iconic Napleton Auto Group, joins me to answer that question—and so much more.

Preston’s story is one for the books: from growing up in his family’s Kansas dealership to working under some of the most legendary names in auto retail, his journey is packed with insights on leadership, reinvention, and building a people-first culture. Along the way, he’s become a trailblazer in navigating the challenges of compliance and the rise of AI, while staying grounded in the retail experience.

In this episode, we dig into:

• Why compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties but protecting your team, customers, and reputation.
• The cutting-edge tools (like MavSign) that make remote deals secure and seamless in today’s digital-first world.
• How AI is reshaping the future of automotive retail—and why it’s both a massive opportunity and a big risk.
• The core principle behind great organizations: caring deeply about your people and your customers.

Whether you're running a dealership, managing a team, or simply trying to future-proof your business, Preston’s wisdom is gold. His combination of real-world experience and forward-thinking vision will leave you inspired and better prepared for the road ahead.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!

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• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679

What happens when fresh perspectives meet decades of wisdom in the automotive industry? This episode is your front-row seat to a dynamic conversation with Jaden Abad, a rising star in automotive and the son of industry legend Patrick Abad. Jaden is bringing new energy, bold ideas, and an unstoppable drive to reshape how dealers think about used car operations, customer relationships, and the power of innovation.

In this episode, Jaden shares how his time at Beaver Toyota shaped his approach to operational excellence, his vision for the future of the industry, and why he’s diving headfirst into his new role at VinCue. Whether you’re a seasoned dealer or a young professional wondering how to make your mark, this conversation is packed with insights on:

• How to stop selling just cars and start building relationships that turn customers into lifelong advocates.
• Why the right data is the ultimate flex for dealers looking to crush the competition.
• The game-changing technology behind VinCue’s ReEngage tool, enabling dealers to connect inventory with customers like never before.
• The importance of investing in the next generation to keep the industry thriving.

But here’s where it gets interesting—this episode isn’t just about business. It’s about legacy, leadership, and those moments that make you stop and think, Wow, the future might just be in good hands after all. And if that wasn’t enough, we had a surprise guest: Jaden’s dad, Patrick, literally “podcast bombing” his way into the conversation to share some proud-dad wisdom and a few laughs.

Whether you’re a dealer trying to keep up with the rapid-fire pace of change, or you’re just curious about where the next big ideas are coming from, this conversation will leave you inspired and thinking, Game on.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!

• 🎧 Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-spisak-show/id1602552929
• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679

Welcome back to Used Car Solved! Today’s episode is packed with insights, strategies, and let’s be honest—some serious mic drops. I had the absolute pleasure of hosting three industry powerhouses: Daniel Crainic of Time Auto Group, Jared Kilway from Casa Auto Group.

Here’s what’s on the table:

We’re diving deep into how disruptors like CarMax and Carvana have reshaped the game—and more importantly, how dealers can not just survive but thrive in this ever-evolving landscape. From streamlining processes to leveraging community ties and using data as your secret weapon, these guys deliver a masterclass in turning challenges into opportunities.

Key takeaways you’ll get from this episode:

• Data is king: Jared breaks down why knowing your numbers isn’t optional—it’s essential for using AI, automation, and targeted strategies to outsmart the big players.
• Training your people: Daniel hits hard on why investing in your team is just as important as investing in technology—and how it’s the key to creating winning processes that stick.
• The acquisition advantage: Frank shares game-changing insights on how a disciplined approach to acquiring inventory can give you the edge over disruptors in your market.

But here’s the kicker—this wasn’t just theory. These guys shared real-world strategies and killer examples, from using AI to predict customer needs to leveraging community connections to build unbeatable loyalty.

So if you’re looking for fresh ideas, thought-provoking perspectives, and a few good laughs along the way, this episode is for you. Whether you’re a dealer, GSM, used car manager, or just a fan of innovation, you’ll walk away inspired and armed with strategies to take your business to the next level. 

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!

• 🎧 Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-spisak-show/id1602552929
• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679

Alright, buckle up, because this episode is one of those “you’ve got to hear it to believe it” conversations.

I sat down with Diego Vargas, a 30+ year veteran of the automotive industry and the new VP of Dealer Services at VinCue, to unpack how technology and curiosity are shaping the future of retail automotive. Whether you’re a dealer navigating inflation, rising interest rates, or the evolution of used car strategies, this conversation is packed with insights that can help you level up in 2025 and beyond.

Here’s a sneak peek of what we got into:

• The golden rule of 2025: Why “back to basics” is the key to thriving in a post-pandemic world.
• AI and tech made simple: How the right tools can help you get the right cars, price them smartly, and move inventory faster than you ever thought possible. (Yes, AI isn’t just for tech bros—it’s for car pros too.)
• Vendor chaos is out, simplicity is in: Diego explains why dealerships need fewer tools, not more, and how streamlining your tech stack can save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches.
• Why curiosity is the ultimate superpower: Diego’s take on how staying curious can help you adapt, innovate, and stay ahead in a business that changes faster than interest rates.

Diego’s passion for helping dealers isn’t just talk—it’s backed by decades of experience, a deep respect for the industry, and a relentless drive to innovate. If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “Am I doing enough to stay competitive?” or, “How do I make sense of all this tech?”, this episode has your name written all over it. And let’s be honest, the car business isn’t getting any easier, but with the right mindset, tools, and partners, there’s massive opportunity on the horizon.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now! 

• 🎧 Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-spisak-show/id1602552929
• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679

In this episode I had the absolute privilege of sitting down with two of the sharpest minds in the automotive industry: Edgar Castellanos, the mastermind behind California Motors Direct and Euro Motor Cars, and Daniel Crainic, the driving force of DNC Motors and Time Auto Group.

These guys didn’t just stumble into success—they built it from the ground up, navigating the challenges of independent dealerships, then scaling into multi-franchise operations. What’s most fascinating? They’ve taken the lessons learned from the scrappy, no-safety-net world of independents and applied them to thrive in the franchise space.

We talked about it all. How do you source cars when inventory feels impossible? What’s the key to standing out in a crowded market? And here’s a big one—why is appraising every single car the superpower that so many dealerships overlook? Edgar and Daniel share the real, actionable strategies they’ve used to grow, from mastering niche markets to leveraging every opportunity to outpace competitors like CarMax and Carvana.

Whether you’re a seasoned franchise dealer or an independent looking to scale, this episode is packed with insights that can take your operation to the next level.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!

• 🎧 Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-spisak-show/id1602552929
• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679

In this episode my guest is none other than Alan Haig, the mastermind behind Haig Partners and one of the most trusted advisors in retail automotive. If you're a dealer, investor, or just fascinated by the business of cars, this episode is your front-row seat to what’s really happening under the hood of the industry.

Alan doesn’t just dabble in data—he and his team live it. From record-breaking dealership transactions to the shifting dynamics of private vs. public ownership, Alan shares insights you won’t hear anywhere else. We break down:

• 2024's Wild Ride: Why profits normalized (but are still better than pre-pandemic levels) and which brands are thriving versus struggling.
• Dealership Value Secrets: How leadership, community connection, and even light bulbs (yes, light bulbs!) can transform an underperforming store into a profit powerhouse.
• Who's Buying, Who's Selling?: Why private dealers are dominating the buy-sell market and how public groups might shake things up in 2025.
• Outlook for 2025: Is now the time to sell your store or double down on growth? Alan shares his playbook for navigating the changing tides of dealership values.

This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a roadmap for anyone in the auto biz trying to make sense of where we’ve been and where we’re headed. Alan’s blend of sharp analysis and candid stories (wait until you hear about the burned-out light bulb epiphany!) makes this episode a can't-miss.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!

• 🎧 Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-spisak-show/id1602552929
• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679

Alright, my friends – buckle up, because this episode is an absolute masterclass in what it takes to build a wildly profitable used car operation in today's market. And trust me, you're going to want to take notes… or at least listen twice.

In this special segment of "Disruptive Forces", I’m joined by three powerhouses: Danny Zaslavsky from VinCue, Darrell Steed from Smart Wolf Consulting, and Brian Kramer from AccuTrade & Cars Commerce. Each of these guys has deep roots in the car business and now spends their days helping dealers do the impossible—turn profitability dreams into real-world results.

Here’s what you’re going to hear:

• The #1 mindset shift every dealership needs: Why acquisition isn’t just important—it’s everything.
• The auction trap: Why relying on auctions for inventory is killing your margins.
• Technology vs. Process: How the best dealers wrap tech around their processes—not the other way around.
• Data isn't just numbers—it's your GPS: The exact metrics you need to watch to stay on track.
• The org chart shakeup: Why the used car director might just be the MVP of your entire operation.

But here’s the kicker—the insights aren’t just theoretical. These guys deliver actionable, straight-shooting advice that any dealership, big or small, can put to work immediately. 

If you’ve been wondering:

Why aren’t my used cars turning fast enough?

Why does my gross profit look great, but my net profit disappears?

How do I make sure my people are focused on the right things?

…then this episode is for YOU.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!

• 🎧 Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-spisak-show/id1602552929
• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679

Hey friends, welcome back to the show, and happy holidays! Wherever you are, I hope you’re surrounded by loved ones and soaking in the good vibes this season. 

I’ve got a special guest for you today—someone I’ve been looking forward to having on for a while. Meet Adam Arens, the owner and operator of Patriot Auto Group. Adam is one of those names in the automotive world that stands out for all the right reasons. He’s built a reputation as an innovator, a disruptor, and a leader who doesn’t just talk about culture—he lives it. His dealerships are thriving not because of flashy gimmicks but because of the systems, people, and mindset he’s cultivated.

In this episode, Adam and I dive into everything you need to know about staying ahead in the game. We talk about the art of innovation—how to balance taking risks with being a “fast follower” who executes flawlessly. Adam also breaks down how his team uses tools like VinCue to revolutionize their used car strategy, from acquisitions to reconditioning to pricing. If you’re still running on the same tech stack and processes you used last year, this episode might just be your wake-up call.

And we don’t stop there. We get into:

• How to create a team that treats your business like it’s their own.
• Why turning inventory faster is more important than squeezing out every last dollar of margin.
• The future of EVs—and why the current tech might not be as permanent as you think.

Adam’s insights are practical, real, and backed by experience. This isn’t just a chat; it’s a masterclass in how to grow your business, outpace the competition, and set yourself up for 2025 and beyond.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links
• Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!
• 🎧 Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-spisak-show/id1602552929
• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679

Hey friends, you’re in for a real treat today. I brought on three absolute legends in the automotive world for this episode of Disruptive Forces. Meet Jason Rice, the mastermind behind Lot Pop (and a guy so obsessed with sales turn, his license plate says it all), Joel Bassam, president of Eastern’s Auto Group and a pioneer in innovative dealership strategies, and Adam Aarons, owner of the Patriot Auto Group, who’s been leading the charge in community-focused, high-performing dealerships.

Here’s the deal: we went deep into the art and science of sales turn—what it takes to move cars faster, make more money, and still deliver an incredible customer experience. This is the stuff they don’t teach you in any manual. From cutting down recon times and smart pricing strategies to leveraging community branding and setting up bulletproof processes, this episode is stacked with insights you can actually use.

But we didn’t stop there. We talked about the real difference-makers—how to train your team to think differently, how to lean into the data that’s right in front of you, and why holding people accountable with a little bit of love might be your best leadership move yet.

If you’ve ever struggled with turning inventory, managing gross, or just figuring out how to get out of your own way, this episode is for you. It’s practical, actionable, and honestly, a lot of fun. So, grab your notebook—or just listen in while you’re on the move—and get ready to transform how you think about sales turn.

Connect with David Spisak to Achieve Exponential Growth:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidspisak/
• Website: https://www.davidspisak.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (510) 604-0308
• Visit https://linktr.ee/spisakd for all our links

Like this show? Please leave us a rating and review where you're listening right now!

• 🎧 Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-david-spisak-show/id1602552929
• 🔊 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6oPjFeHfnxNXPTHXxNwIsm?si=4fc3f546d07a4679