In the latest episode of TimTalks, Glenn Pasch joins Tim to discuss his new book, “The Road to Sold,” the evolution of digital retailing, and how leadership drives lasting change in automotive. 

From his journey into the industry to powerful lessons in process and customer experience, this is a must-watch for anyone in automotive. 

Connect with Glenn on LinkedIn, and order “The Road to Sold” today. 

[00:00–01:34] Intro & Guest Introduction Tim opens the episode and introduces leadership coach and automotive expert Glenn Pasch. 

[01:35–06:27] Glenn’s Journey into Automotive Glenn recounts his start in hospitality and acting, how his brother Brian introduced him to digital marketing, and their eventual partnership in founding PCG. 

[06:28–09:11] How Glenn Met Tim Tim shares a memory of how PCG recognized CarNow early on, giving them a platform at NADA before they had a booth. 

[09:12–14:02] Thinking Outside the Box Glenn explains how PCG’s vendor research reports became an unexpected marketing tool and a trusted resource for dealers and vendors. 

[14:03–16:30] Launching “The Road to Sold” Glenn introduces his new book, inspired by conversations with Tim. The book emphasizes the need for conversations, not just leads, to drive digital retail success. 

[16:31–18:29] Why Conversation Matters The discussion shifts to how most dealerships chase leads rather than serve people, and why it’s time to evolve the digital sales process. 

[18:30–22:26] Treating Online Customers Like In-Person Guests Glenn advocates for mirroring in-store service online and eliminating friction to meet customer expectations. 

[22:27–23:02] Leadership's Role in Change They reflect on how leadership determines whether process changes succeed or fail—and why consistency and accountability are key. 

[23:03–25:47] From Training to Execution Glenn details the difference between dealerships that talk about change and those that live it daily. 

[25:48–29:34] Breaking Old Habits & Market Myths Tim and Glenn debunk excuses like “my market is different” and challenge leaders to rethink credit assumptions and embrace process consistency. 

[29:35–31:29] Adopting Tech with Intentionality They discuss how technology like AI should be thoughtfully implemented, and that customers want faster—not necessarily fully digital—car buying experiences. 

[31:30–34:36] Closing Thoughts Tim and Glenn wrap up with leadership insights and encourage listeners to evaluate their own commitment to process improvement. 

Ben Hadley, CEO & co-founder of Auto Genius, joined Tim for the latest episode of “Tim Talks: Leadership and Beyond.” From building a brand that can’t be measured by metrics to empowering teams with creativity and purpose, don’t miss the dynamic conversation on driving success. 

Ben shares his journey through tech, leadership, and launching game-changing strategies. Discover how community, culture, and long-term thinking are reshaping the future of automotive retail. 

Connect with Ben on LinkedIn, and follow Auto Genius. 

[00:00–01:12] Welcoming Ben Tim welcomes guest Ben Hadley, praising his expertise in automotive software and leadership. 

[01:13–02:11] Ben & Auto Genius Ben humbly reflects on the name of his company, Auto Genius, crediting his co-founders as the true geniuses. 

[02:12–06:14] Ben’s Automotive Journey Ben shares his unconventional path into automotive tech. Initially rejected by Dealer.com, he persisted until landing a sales role and rising to Director of Sales. 

[06:15–07:51] Ben’s Entrepreneurial Journey He details his journey helping scale companies and learning from industry trends before launching his own consulting firm. 

[07:52–13:21] Flipping the Script  Ben explains how building a community of top automotive marketers preceded the creation of his product—flipping the typical “product-market-fit” approach. 

[13:22–16:34] Supporting Marketing Departments Tim and Ben highlight the under-resourced dealership marketing departments, leading to the founding idea behind Auto Genius—solving problems like slow websites. 

[16:35–18:08] Metrics Aren’t the Full Story Ben criticizes the industry's over-reliance on short-term metrics and urges leaders to focus on long-term value and customer happiness. 

[18:09–21:18] The ROI of Culture They discuss how true dealership leadership means empowering employees, not just enforcing metrics. Great leaders create culture, not control. 

[21:19–23:36] The Waggle Dance Ben uses a bee analogy to illustrate how allowing experimentation leads to breakthroughs. 

[23:37–27:06] Why Build Local They explore how car dealers can build local brand equity where identity goes beyond metrics. 

[27:07–30:31] There’s No Metric for Brand Tim recaps Ben’s powerful takeaway: Your brand does not have a metric. Creating meaningful customer and employee experiences builds brand loyalty that numbers can’t always capture. 

In this episode, Tim sits down with Danny Zaslavsky to explore personal resilience, leadership, and innovation in the automotive world. From growing up as a Ukrainian immigrant to building a tech-driven dealership and co-founding VINCUE, Danny shares how purpose and culture have guided his journey. 

Connect with Danny on LinkedIn. 

[00:00–01:03] Welcome Danny 

Tim introduces Danny Zaslavsky, founder of VINCUE, setting the stage for a conversation on leadership, innovation, and growth in automotive. 

[01:04–02:27] VINCUE’s Rise 

Danny’s presence at industry events like NADA is highlighted, leading to a deeper dive into his personal story and the birth of VINCUE. 

[02:27–04:13] Early Lessons 

Danny recounts growing up in Kansas City, learning English, and being raised in a close family. 

[04:13–06:07] Entering the Business 

His dad moved from shoe repair to car sales, and by 14, Danny was selling cars, discovering a love for business and technology. 

[06:07–07:49] Early Innovation 

Danny recalls how a young tech whiz built them software that evolved into VinSolutions—an early moment that shaped his future. 

[07:49–12:03] Scaling Challenges 

After his father’s stroke, Danny had to take over. This challenge became the spark that led to VINCUE’s formation. 

[12:03–14:08] Turning Loss into Leadership 

Personal loss deepened Danny’s drive to build something meaningful, turning pain into purpose. 

[14:08–15:28] Vision and Innovation 

He reflects on how adversity fuels innovation and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who share your vision. 

[15:28–18:25] Traits of Success 

Tim and Danny discuss how top dealer groups lead with humility, consistency, and servant leadership. 

[18:25–20:33] CarNow x VINCUE 

They explain why VINCUE and CarNow partnered: to simplify workflows and better align with today’s connected consumer journey. 

[20:33–22:08] Reducing Overload 

The two reflect on how the integration aims to streamline the experience for both staff and shoppers. 

[22:08–24:15] Removing Ego 

Danny shares how VINCUE delivers consistent, data-backed appraisals, eliminating guesswork and ego. 

[24:15–26:24] Leveraging AI 

VINCUE’s platform adapts to each dealership’s market strengths, using machine learning to optimize pricing and inventory flow. 

[26:24–30:11] Aligning for Growth 

Danny emphasizes the power of aligning service and sales, helping customers while improving internal dealership collaboration. 

[30:11–31:56] Staying Innovative 

Danny shares how staying hands-on keeps him innovative, crediting Tim’s leadership as inspiration. 

[31:56–33:19] Closing Thoughts 

The episode ends with a message of gratitude and resilience, reminding us that we get better together, one day at a time. 

In this episode of “TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond.” Tim welcomes Michael Speigl, dealer principal of We Auto and industry leader. They dive into what makes great leadership, how to build a winning culture, and the power of mentorship in business. 

Michael shares insights on how his dealerships thrive by focusing on people, community, and core values, while Tim highlights key lessons on gratitude, growth, and success. 

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn. 

Subscribe & Listen: carnow.com/timtalks 

[00:00–02:11] Welcome & Guest Introduction 

Tim introduces Mike Spiegel praising his leadership and intelligence. Mike shares his enthusiasm for joining the show. 

[02:11–05:12] Early Days of CarNow 

Tim recounts how Mike Spiegel played a pivotal role in evaluating CarNow’s early technology, providing key feedback that helped shape its direction. 

[05:12–08:24] Leadership, Culture & Core Values 

Discussing the energy and leadership needed for success, Mike emphasizes the importance of culture and guiding principles in his dealerships. 

[08:24–12:19] We Auto’s Mission & Involvement 

Mike shares the mission of We Auto. He highlights their We Auto University and their extensive charity work. 

[12:19–16:23] Creating a Purpose-Driven Workplace 

Tim and Mike discuss how giving back to the community strengthens workplace culture, making employees feel part of something bigger. 

[16:23–20:38] Leadership Development & Mentorship 

Reflecting on their experiences, Tim and Mike stress the importance of mentorship in leadership. They discuss how coaching future leaders, such as Patrick Abad at Beaver Toyota, ensures sustainable success. 

[20:38–26:23] Growth, Recognition & Employee Development 

Mike shares how We Auto’s core values are integrated into daily operations, emphasizing clear career growth and employee recognition. 

[26:23–34:47] The Mindset for Success 

Tim explains his daily practice of gratitude and reflection, urging leaders to focus on serving others, continuous learning, and self-improvement. 

[34:47–37:32] Closing Thoughts 

Tim and Mike reflect on leadership lessons, encouraging listeners to focus on growth and community impact. 

Unlock elite sales success! Jonathan Dawson joins Tim Cox for an inspiring conversation. Jonathan shares game-changing insights from his 25-year journey in the automotive industry. A 24-time NADA speaker, co-founder of the Pinnacle Society, and president of Sellchology Sales Training, Jonathan dives deep into the mindset, strategies, and leadership principles that separate top performers from the rest.

In this episode, discover how raising your standards can transform your business and why belief systems drive behaviors. Jonathan breaks down his SOW Principle—Systems, Opportunities, and Work Ethic—that fuels elite sales success.

Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn and Facebook.

 [00:00–02:02] Introduction & Welcome Jonathan joins the show, sharing his excitement about being part of a platform that influences hearts, minds, and lives. 

[03:00–03:58] Celebrating 25 Years in the Industry Jonathan reflects on his 25-year journey in the car business and the honor of being a 24-time NADA speaker. 

[03:58–04:45] Pinnacle Training Center and Society Introduction to the Pinnacle Training Center in Atlanta and the Pinnacle Society, a mastermind group for elite sales performers co-founded with Frank Trinity and Ali Reda. 

[05:19–06:13] Record-Breaking Sales Achievements Highlighting Ali Reda’s world record of selling 1,582 cars in a year and the mindset behind creating a supportive space for high performers. 

[10:23–11:37] Leadership, Standards, and Accountability A candid discussion on leadership failures, fear of accountability, and why raising standards is critical for dealership success. 

[12:14–13:45] Mission 22: Redefining Sales Goals Jonathan explains Mission 22, a strategy advocating for a minimum of 22 car sales per person per month, challenging dealerships to raise their baseline. 

[16:16–17:15] Breaking Limiting Beliefs Drawing parallels with breaking the four-minute mile, Jonathan discusses how shifting beliefs can unlock new levels of performance. 

[18:08–21:14] Three Pillars of Sales Success 

Jonathan outlines the three pillars of sales success he calls the SOW principle: systems, opportunities, and work ethic. 

[24:11–25:20] Shifting Mindsets How changing beliefs and embracing new strategies helped sales professionals achieve record-breaking numbers. 

[28:32–30:04] Hunger and Humility Jonathan shares the two essential traits for success: the drive for more and the willingness to keep learning. 

[30:04–31:01] Breaking Through Mediocrity Exploring the dangers of complacent middle management and the importance of leadership that embraces risk and innovation. 

[31:22–32:16] Closing Thoughts Jonathan closes by emphasizing that leaders must remain hungry for growth and humble enough to embrace continuous improvement. 

Great leadership is the key to every successful dealership, and Tim Pohanka proves it. 

On the latest TimTalks episode, Tim, VP of Pohanka Nissan Hyundai, shares how he transformed struggling stores, built a powerhouse team, and created a leadership retreat that breaks down silos between sales, service, and vendor partners. 

Learn how process, accountability, and innovative thinking drive dealership success—and how rising stars like Roman are reshaping the industry. 

Connect with Tim Pohanka on LinkedIn. 

[00:00 – 01:15] Introduction 

Tim opens the episode by introducing Tim Pohanka, a leader who has driven remarkable transformations in his dealerships. 

[01:15 – 03:51] Pohanka Dealerships 

With over 100 years in business, Pohanka dealerships are built on trust and innovation. Tim P. shares how he respects the past while leading his stores into the future. 

[03:51 – 06:38] Overcoming Challenges 

Facing adversity from an OEM partner, Tim P. focused on the future rather than the past. His resilience and adaptability helped turn struggling stores into thriving businesses. 

[06:38 – 08:07] Adapting Strategies 

Tim P. describes how learning from setbacks allowed him to position his stores for long-term success. 

[08:07 – 10:34] Finding the Right Leaders 

Hiring the right people is key. Tim shares the story of Pam, a GM who transformed operations by enforcing strong processes and building trust. 

[10:34 – 15:02] Greenbrier Leadership Retreat 

Tim P. describes his team’s annual leadership retreat that brings key team members and vendor partners together. 

[15:02 – 17:24] Partners, Not Vendors 

Tim P. emphasizes the value of vendor partnerships. By involving partners in dealership strategy, he ensures they contribute to long-term success. 

[17:24 – 22:55] Breaking Down Silos 

Bridging the gap between sales and service is crucial. By fostering open communication, Pohanka dealerships create a unified culture that benefits employees and customers. 

[22:55 – 26:01] Process & Accountability 

Understanding financials is key to success. Tim P. ensures his team takes ownership by setting clear expectations and tracking performance. 

[26:01 – 29:51] Roman’s Rise to Leadership 

Roman, a top salesperson, mastered digital retailing and social media to drive sales. His success led to a leadership promotion, proving that strong processes create great leaders. 

[29:51 – 31:55] Final Advice 

Tim P. advises dealership leaders to focus on service, process, and accountability. A strong foundation in these areas drives long-term success. 

[31:55 – 32:08] Closing Thoughts 

Tim C. wraps up with a reminder: success comes from continuous learning and collaboration. Working together leads to better results for dealerships and their teams. 

 “Tim Talks: Leadership and Beyond” sits down with Adam Arens, owner of Patriot Auto Group. Adam shares his incredible journey to becoming the region’s most successful Subaru dealer. 

They explore actionable leadership strategies, the importance of mentorship, and how to build a winning culture. Adam opens up about overcoming challenges, embracing ambitious goals, and developing teams that thrive under any circumstances. 

Whether you run a rural dealership, a major auto group, or aspire to lead at any level, this conversation is packed with insights to inspire growth, resilience, and success. 

Connect with Adam on LinkedIn. 

In this inspiring episode of TimTalks, Troy Duhon, owner of Premier Auto Group and founder of Giving Hope Foundation, shares his journey from overcoming personal tragedies to building a life of leadership and philanthropy. 

Learn how he transformed pain into a global mission, feeding thousands, building orphanages worldwide, and creating a legacy of compassion in the automotive industry. 

Connected with Troy on LinkedIn, and learn more about Giving Hope NOLA. 

[00:00 – 00:26] Welcome to 2025
Tim introduces the first episode of 2025 and welcomes Troy Duhon, owner of Premier Auto Group.

[00:26 – 01:41] Introducing Troy
Tim shares his first encounter with Troy, praising his leadership, faith, and philanthropy. 

[01:41 – 02:33] Troy’s Journey
Troy recounts his journey into car sales under his father’s influence, despite a challenging upbringing.

[02:33 – 05:36] From Sales to Ownership
Troy shares how he became the youngest Toyota dealer in the world and the lessons he learned from his father.

[05:36 – 08:24] Overcoming Hurricane Katrina
Troy describes the devastation Hurricane Katrina brought to his dealerships in 2005, and how he turned his challenges into a commitment to giving back.

[08:24 – 11:23] Leading with Purpose
Troy discusses Premier Auto Group’s unique model of giving ownership to partners and his commitment to philanthropy.

[11:23 – 14:45] Giving Hope NOLA
Tim reflects on his experience at Troy’s Giving Hope Gala and how Troy’s team runs a food bank and supports orphanages globally.

[14:45 – 17:10] Creating a Culture of Compassion
Troy advises leaders to identify local community needs and involve employees in making an impact. 

[17:10 – 19:47] Legacy Over Wealth
Troy highlights the importance of building a legacy over material wealth, sharing personal anecdotes about instilling values in his children.

[19:47 – 24:08] Pain Becomes Purpose
Troy shares the loss of two sons to Potter’s Syndrome, leading him to adopt and build orphanages worldwide and turn personal pain into a global mission.

[24:08 – 27:00] Encouraging Resilience
Tim reflects on his own hardships and how Troy’s resilience and commitment to serving others inspired him and his family during difficult times.

[27:00 – 28:27] Keys to a Meaningful 2025
Troy challenges listeners to love unconditionally, give selflessly, and lead by example to make 2025 their best year yet.

[28:27 – 29:04] Closing Thoughts
Tim expresses gratitude for Troy’s time and story, encouraging listeners to apply the lessons shared and subscribe to the podcast.

In this episode of TimTalks, Tim sits down with Brad Wise, executive manager at Ferman Automotive, to explore the transformative power of leadership.

Brad encourages us to find the gift within challenges, illustrating how reframing obstacles can unlock hidden opportunities From overcoming limiting beliefs to recruiting for success, Brad's insights will motivate you to embrace progress over perfection. Whether you’re in the automotive industry or navigating your own leadership journey, this conversation will help you succeed.

Connect with Brad on LinkedIn, and subscribe to his podcast, WISE UP.

[00:00 – 01:00] Introduction

Tim introduces the episode, focusing on leadership in car dealerships and welcoming Brad Wise, Executive Manager at Ferman Automotive.

[01:01 – 03:27] Brad’s Journey

Brad shares his journey from a college baseball player to a leader in the automotive industry. Early mentors shaped his career and instilled key values.

[03:28 – 05:00] Overcoming Early Challenges

Brad discusses his humble beginnings in the industry, from his first day in a Sears suit to building confidence through mentorship and hard work.

[05:01 – 07:00] Joining Ferman Automotive

After 25 years in the industry, Brad joined Ferman Automotive. He highlights the company’s 127-year legacy and supportive culture.

[07:01 – 08:59] Transforming Leadership

Brad shares how he identified organizational strengths and opportunities, implementing daily meetings focused on personal development and positivity.

[09:00 – 11:50] The Power of Inspiration

Brad emphasizes the importance of self-development, using inspirational stories to motivate his team. Progress, he notes, is the key to happiness.

[11:51 – 14:45] Building a Positive Culture

Brad highlights the connection between personal and professional growth. His leadership approach centers on empowering employees to succeed in all areas of life.

[14:46 – 17:42] Balancing Accountability

Brad balances a supportive culture with clear expectations, focusing on recruiting, lead handling, training, and service retention.

[17:43 – 21:25] Creative Recruiting

Brad’s innovative recruiting methods, like targeted social media and nontraditional talent pools, attract top-tier candidates to Ferman.

[21:26 – 24:42] Overcoming Limitations

Brad encourages team members to turn challenges into opportunities, sharing stories of famous figures who used adversity as fuel for success.

[24:43 – 26:58] Finding the Gifts

Brad shares how reframing challenges, like a long commute, helped him grow. He urges others to seek the hidden benefits in difficult situations.

[26:59 – 28:58] Advice for Leaders

Brad advises new leaders to prioritize visibility, celebrate progress over perfection, and recognize unsung heroes within their teams.

[28:59 – 32:14] Closing Thoughts

Tim reflects on Brad’s inspiring insights, encouraging listeners to focus on progress and growth. Brad invites everyone to check out his podcast, "WISE UP."

In this episode of “TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond,” Tim sits down with Adam Merlin, founder and president of Merlin Auto Group, to discuss his inspiring journey from a childhood passion for Ferraris to building one of the most respected independent luxury car dealerships in the country.

Starting with a 400-square-foot office during the 2008 financial crisis, Adam reveals how creativity, risk-taking, and a focus on client experience helped him navigate challenges and achieve success in the niche market of pre-owned Ferraris and Porsches. He highlights the importance of leadership, treating employees with respect, and creating a positive work-life balance to attract top talent. By focusing on quality of life rather than solely financial incentives, Adam has attracted top talent, including some of the best Ferrari and Porsche technicians in the industry.

Packed with insights on entrepreneurship and leadership, this episode is a must-watch for automotive enthusiasts and business leaders alike.

Connect with Adam on LinkedIn.

[00:00 – 2:31] Introduction & Guest Background

Tim introduces Adam Merlin, founder and CEO of Merlin Auto Group.

[02:32 – 05:20] Adam’s Early Career Story

Adam shares his childhood passion for Ferraris and journey from an Indiana University graduate, to starting in car sales, and founding Merlin Auto Group in 2008.

[05:21 – 07:12] Making Smart Decisions in Challenging Times

Tim reflects on Adam’s approach to creating Merlin Auto Group amid the 2008 financial crisis, highlighting the smart decisions he made.

[07:13 – 10:19] Creating Merlin Auto Group

Adam reflects on his original business model, acquiring an airport office, and what it took to create a market.

[10:20 – 12:11] Transitioning to High-Line Luxury

Tim shifts the conversation to leadership, asking Adam how he built his team and made the transition to high-line luxury vehicles.

[12:12 – 16:54] Building the Merlin Auto Group Culture

Adam shares his thoughts on shifting his business model, establishing relationships, and taking the pain points out of luxury car sales by focusing on quality of life.

[16:55 – 18:35] How Important Quality of Life Is

The conversation on improving quality of life for employees continues. Adam stresses understanding bandwidth and dialing in on ethical alignment.

[18:36 – 22:05] Acquiring Top Service Technicians

Adam reflects on the challenges he faced while outsourcing service and the realization that he needed in-house Ferrari and Porsche techs.

[22:06 – 23:50] Finding What Motivates People

Adam reflects on the lessons he learned early in his career on finding people’s motivations and applying them to leading his team today.

[23:51 – 28:15] Taking Leadership to New Levels

Tim reflects on Adam’s leadership style, personal integrity, and the brand he’s built, highlighting how important Adam’s kind of leadership is to the automotive industry.

[28:16 – 30:15] Closing Thoughts

Tim and Adam close the episode with final thoughts on leadership, culture, and the power of treating people well.