We're pumping the brakes on The Straight Shift podcast for a little while, but that doesn't mean you can't still receive important automotive industry updates!

Visit my website to sign up for The Straight Shift Newsletter and keep driving safely!

https://www.thecarchick.com/

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here. 

Connect with LeeAnn:

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Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick.  All rights reserved.

SUMMARY

Cars are no longer just mechanical machines — they are rolling software platforms.

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® breaks down the growing trend of subscription-based car features and what it actually means for consumers.

From life-saving systems like OnStar and connected services such as Subaru STARLINK and Hyundai BlueLink, to hands-free driving tech like Super Cruise and BlueCruise, we separate the subscriptions that make sense from the ones that feel like a toll booth for your tushy.

You’ll learn:

• How telematics systems actually work
• Why emergency services like OnStar have handled tens of thousands of real dispatches
• How Tesla normalized pay-to-unlock EV features
• What happened with Toyota’s remote start confusion
• Why BMW’s heated seat subscriptions sparked backlash
• What questions you MUST ask before signing a car contract

If you’re financing a vehicle for five to seven years, you need to understand what could stop working in year three.

This episode will help you avoid surprises — and the bullshittery.

TAKEAWAYS

• Modern vehicles are software-defined and can enable or disable features remotely.
• Emergency systems like OnStar have handled nearly 40,000 emergency dispatches in a single year.
• Tesla normalized over-the-air performance unlocks in EVs.
• Some manufacturers have experimented with charging for features already physically installed in the vehicle.
• Consumer backlash has influenced companies to reconsider subscription strategies.
• Subscription fatigue is entering the automotive world.
• Buyers must understand what features expire after trial periods.
• Asking the right questions before purchase prevents expensive surprises later.

RESOURCES

https://DrivingInTheUK.com/

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Summary

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® discusses the intricacies of car leasing, particularly focusing on what to do at the end of a lease. She shares a real-life example of helping a client navigate lease end options, emphasizing the importance of understanding positive equity and the often-misleading information from leasing companies. The conversation covers the impact of market dynamics on leasing, the importance of transparency when dealing with dealerships, and practical steps for maximizing equity at lease end. The episode aims to empower listeners with knowledge to make informed decisions about their leased vehicles.

Takeaways

• Leasing companies do not disclose positive equity options.
• Market value can exceed the residual value, creating equity.
• Pandemic changes have altered how leases are handled.
• Transparency with dealers can lead to better offers.
• Documenting your car's condition is crucial for negotiations.
• Researching market value helps in understanding equity.
• Bidding wars among dealers can maximize your return.

Resources 

CarBuyingCourse.com
TheCarChick.com

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Summary

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® discusses the importance of understanding different drivetrains, particularly in the context of winter driving. She reflects on the recent winter storms in the Carolinas and addresses common misconceptions about all-wheel drive vehicles. The conversation covers the differences between rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive, emphasizing the significance of tires and driving skills in snowy conditions. The episode concludes with advice on making informed decisions about vehicle purchases based on individual driving needs.

Takeaways

• Many people overestimate their need for all-wheel drive.
• Understanding the differences in drivetrains is crucial for safety.
• All-wheel drive does not improve braking on slippery surfaces.
• Tires play a significant role in winter driving performance.
• Four-wheel drive offers more control than all-wheel drive in certain conditions.
• All-wheel drive systems can be expensive to maintain and replace tires.

Resources:

Snow Day Driving Fun video:  https://youtu.be/ibOHd-BxS0Q?si=PZb7UgsjUY6ks7vn

Matt’s Off-Road Recovery YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MattsOffRoadRecovery

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Summary

Amazon Autos promises to make buying a car as easy as clicking “Buy Now.” But is it actually easier — and more importantly, is it better for car buyers?

In this episode, The Car Chick® breaks down how Amazon Autos really works, why Hyundai was the first automaker to partner with Amazon, how the platform has evolved into used and certified pre-owned vehicles, and where dealership bullshittery can still sneak in. We compare Amazon Autos to TrueCar, Autotrader, and Cars.com, explain who this model works for, and why convenience often comes at the cost of leverage.

Takeaways

• Amazon is testing a new car buying model.
• Hyundai's flexibility makes it a suitable partner for Amazon.
• The buying process is still dealer-centric despite the online platform.
• Fixed pricing reduces negotiation but may not guarantee the best deal.
• Convenience often comes at a cost in the car buying process.

Resources:  

https://www.thecarchick.com/perfect-car-package

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Summary

In this episode, The Car Chick® discusses the current state of the automotive industry as we enter 2026, reflecting on the challenges faced in 2025, including economic uncertainty and shifts in consumer confidence. She shares predictions for the upcoming year, emphasizing a potential shift from electric vehicles (EVs) to hybrids, and highlights the importance of empowerment through mobility, illustrated by a personal story of helping a woman in need.

Takeaways

• Car buying feels uncomfortable and risky in 2026.
• 2025 was marked by uncertainty and unexpected challenges.
• The automotive industry is looking for stability and profits.
• Interest rates have dropped, but car prices remain high.
• Financial incentives from manufacturers may increase in 2026.
• Leasing may become more attractive with lower rates.
• Hybrids are expected to gain popularity over EVs.
• Education and preparation are key for car buyers.

Resources

Help Mom and Daughter Escape Abuse: https://gofund.me/b8ae621da

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Summary

In this final episode of 2025, The Car Chick® takes a more personal turn—sharing how recent firearms training led to a powerful realization about driving safety.

This episode is not about politics or gun rights. It’s about responsibility, training, and what happens when we treat powerful tools too casually. From overwhelming choices and “gear over skill” thinking to why training matters more than gadgets, LeeAnn draws clear parallels between firearms safety and everyday driving.

She closes with The Car Chick’s 4 Universal Rules of Driving Safety, a framework every driver should carry with them—especially during busy holiday travel.

Takeaways

• Cars and firearms are both powerful tools that require training and responsibility
• Skill and training matter more than equipment or “mods”
• Random opinions aren’t a strategy—clear priorities are
• Situational awareness prevents emergencies before they happen
• Driving deserves the same seriousness we apply to firearm safety

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Summary

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® shares her experiences and insights from the 2025 Charlotte International Auto Show. She discusses the latest vehicle redesigns from various manufacturers, highlighting the Nissan Armada and Murano, Toyota's Grand Highlander, 2026 Hyundai's Palisade, 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and 2026 Outback, and the 2026 Honda Passport. LeeAnn emphasizes the importance of usability testing for potential car buyers and shares her thoughts on the evolving automotive landscape, including electric vehicles and family-friendly features.

Takeaways

• The Nissan Murano's new design is more appealing and less niche.
• Toyota's Grand Highlander offers spaciousness and hybrid options, making it a strong contender.
• The Hyundai Palisade's redesign has some usability quirks that may disappoint buyers.
• Subaru's Crosstrek and Outback received significant updates, with the Crosstrek now offering a hybrid model.
• The Toyota Crown Signia lacks the premium feel expected at its price point.
• The Honda Passport's design is attractive, but it falls short in comfort and off-road capability.
• Usability testing is crucial for potential car buyers to ensure the vehicle fits their lifestyle.

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Part 2 of the “How to Order a New Car” crossover with A Girl’s Guide to Cars

SUMMARY

This episode picks up where Part 1 of our crossover with Scotty Reiss left off. On her show, What Drives Her from A Girl’s Guide to Cars, we busted the myth of the “factory order” and why so many buyers are told they can’t custom-order their dream car and how dealer allocations actually control what gets built.

Now, in Part 2 on The Straight Shift, LeeAnn Shattuck (The Car Chick®) takes the wheel with the tactical side of the story. We dive into how to make the system work for you — what to do when a dealer says “no,” how dealer trades really happen, how to lock in your price, and how to protect your deposit.

It’s the no-BS, real-world guide to actually getting the car you want — whether you’re ordering a Porsche, a Subaru hybrid, or just trying to avoid the dreaded “allocation shuffle.”

🎧 Listen to Part 1 on What Drives Her → https://agirlsguidetocars.com/podcast

🎧 Then tune in here for Part 2 — How to Order a New Car (When the Dealer Says You Can’t).

TAKEAWAYS

• “Factory order” does not always mean custom. Know how your brand handles builds.
• Understanding dealer allocations gives you leverage.
• How to negotiate the price, even for special orders.
• Get everything in writing: buyer’s order, deposit terms, and price lock.
• Deposits should always be refundable, especially on new or unseen models.
• Dealer trades can score rare cars if you know who to call.
• Do not settle. Shop multiple dealers and markets.
• Someone, somewhere, wants to sell you a car.

RESOURCES

https://agirlsguidetocars.com/podcast

https://agirlsguidetocars.com/how-to-order-a-new-car

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Episode Summary

Ever wandered through a European parking lot and thought, “Why don’t we get cars like that in America?”

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick, dives into the sleek, smart, and downright sexy European cars that U.S. drivers can’t buy — and all the bureaucratic, political, and marketing nonsense that keeps them off our roads.

She covers everything from trade wars and tariffs to global platform sharing, brand confusion, and she reveals the legendary naming fail in automotive history.

Key Takeaways

• European automakers build smaller, more stylish, and more driver-focused cars — and American drivers are missing out on some genuinely great vehicles because of it.
• The combination of differing safety standards, emissions regulations, and high startup costs makes it difficult for foreign brands to justify entering the U.S. market.
• The current trade and political environment is unpredictable, which makes expanding into new markets — especially the U.S. — too risky for many automakers.
• Global platform sharing allows manufacturers to design multiple models on the same architecture, meaning many cars are more closely related than consumers realize.
• Vehicle naming strategies often change by market due to language, marketing, and cultural factors — though occasionally they lead to some embarrassing translation fails.

Resources

www.TheCarChick.com

www.DrivingInTheUK.com

https://www.youtube.com/@CarChickTV

www.CupraOfficial.com

www.Vauxhall.co.uk

www.Skoda-auto.com

www.dsautomobiles.com

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.