Growing up in a military family, Tristen Epps moved around a lot. But no matter where he was living, Friday nights were sacred. He got to dress up, go to a restaurant, not order from a kids menu, and feel like he was getting to know the place he was living — for now. At home, when his mom taught him to scramble an egg, he was mesmerized by the alchemy; one simple ingredient could transform into so many things. It's that wonder and curiosity that transformed him into the leader, visionary, and Top Chef winner he is today. He joined Tinfoil Swans at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen to talk about his mission to “un-colonize colonized food,” the freedom he feels cooking in Air Jordans, why it's important to him to celebrate oxtails with Michelin-level finesse, and his belief that cooking has power to correct history. Sponsor: Old Fitzgerald® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Bardstown, KY. 50% Alc./Vol. Think Wisely. Drink Wisely. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
The best operators, amazing stories from inside and outside of auto, and new perspectives. Join hosts Kyle Mountsier, Michael Cirillo, Paul J. Daly plus special guests as we just hit the record button for some quick and very candid conversations with some of the most amazing guests at ASOTU CON. All of it is live. All of it is unfiltered, and all of it is for you. These are the ASOTU CON Sessions by SpaceAuto // ASOTU CON Sessions is produced by Automotive State of the Union (ASOTU). Learn more at https://www.asotu.com
The best operators, amazing stories from inside and outside of auto, and new perspectives. Join hosts Kyle Mountsier, Michael Cirillo, Paul J. Daly plus special guests as we just hit the record button for some quick and very candid conversations with some of the most amazing guests at ASOTU CON. All of it is live. All of it is unfiltered, and all of it is for you. These are the ASOTU CON Sessions by SpaceAuto // ASOTU CON Sessions is produced by Automotive State of the Union (ASOTU). Learn more at https://www.asotu.com
In this ASOTU CON 2025 session, Paul J Daly sits down with Kielan Whitner of Townsend Nissan to explore what it really means to lead from "eye level." A former Syracuse football player and public accountant, Kielan breaks down how he transitioned into the auto industry and climbed the ranks to General Manager in just seven years. His approach? Lead with empathy, be accessible, and create a dealership culture where personal connection drives professional performance. Kielan shares his philosophy on how culture isn't just set at the top—it must be enforced and nurtured in the middle. He unpacks the principles behind his now-viral stance on negativity (hint: you go home), why starting in service gave him a unique leadership edge, and how transparent career paths like the one he experienced at Greenway Automotive can help attract and retain next-gen talent. If you're looking for leadership lessons grounded in experience, humility, and action, this one’s for you. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ ⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:36 Kielan shares his Syracuse roots and sports background 1:53 Social media helps sharpen his leadership ideas 2:22 “Leading from eye level” means starting with human connection 3:27 Greenway’s MIT program helped shape his leadership journey 5:09 He compared finance vs auto retail—and chose speed, income, fun 6:28 Writing service first gave him deep appreciation for fixed ops 7:43 Negativity sends you home—no exceptions 8:16 Culture enforcement is consistent and contagious 9:04 Kielan reflects on leadership lessons from sports and life…
In this compelling ASOTU CON session, Paul J Daly sits down with John Bozzella, President and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, to discuss the evolving role of leadership in the modern auto industry. Bozzella shares his journey from politics to automotive policy, offering a unique lens into how government, innovation, and economic strategy intersect. With decades of experience at Ford, Chrysler, and now leading a critical trade organization, Bozzella unpacks the deep impact the auto industry has on national security, job creation, and technological advancement. TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro 1:07 From politics to auto: John's unique industry entry 2:36 Ford hired him to bridge policy and technology 4:33 Skills are transferable—policy, labor, leadership 6:00 Alliance for Automotive Innovation’s mission explained 7:05 Auto industry contributes to national security and GDP 8:05 A strong U.S. auto sector protects economic independence 9:22 Dealers must embrace a bigger-picture industry narrative…
In this ASOTU CON 2025 session, Paul J Daly sits down with Glenn Pasch to discuss his latest book, The Road to Sold , and dive deep into the practical realities of online sales process optimization. Glenn, a seasoned operator, consultant, and trainer, explains how the book was born out of a common but frustrating gap between marketing performance and showroom results. With his signature “hands-in-the-dirt” approach, he reveals how disconnects between online lead handling and in-store engagement often stem from poor communication—not poor marketing. The conversation explores how meaningful conversations, not just leads, are the key to increasing conversions. Glenn shares actionable insights for dealers, from auditing CRM habits to improving cross-functional accountability. He also emphasizes the need to view online shoppers with the same level of attentiveness and nuance as showroom visitors. With relatable examples and a conversational tone, this episode highlights how dealers can use better process design, data awareness, and team coaching to move beyond clicks and calls—and actually sell more cars. It’s not about reinventing the wheel; it’s about building a process that consistently leads to conversations, appointments, and ultimately, conversions. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:30 Glenn Pasch joins to discuss The Road to Sold 1:57 The book addresses the disconnect between traffic and sales 3:40 The heart of the issue is a lack of meaningful customer conversations 4:13 Online shoppers are handled differently than walk-ins—and it’s a mistake 6:35 Convenience has changed buyer expectations permanently 7:30 Focus should shift from “making calls” to “starting conversations” 8:46 First step is auditing the process—not necessarily changing it 9:36 Execution, not strategy, is usually the biggest challenge 10:02 The Road to Sold is available now on Amazon…
In this fast-paced and thought-provoking conversation recorded live at ASOTU CON 2025, David Spisak sits down with Ben Hadley to explore what he calls “The Age of Compression.” Ben breaks down how innovation cycles, attention spans, and consumer expectations are all accelerating—and why traditional automotive processes are struggling to keep up. This episode dives into the psychological and technological shifts reshaping how businesses must think, build, and serve in an era of instant gratification and continuous iteration. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro 1:01 What is the “Age of Compression”? 2:20 Attention spans have dropped to 1.4 seconds 3:25 TikTok’s rise shows compressed innovation cycles 5:07 Auto retail lags behind due to data and API bottlenecks 6:09 Speed Layer helps websites load 50% faster 8:19 Consumers never go back to inferior solutions 10:08 Effort and meaning still matter in digital experiences 11:43 Direct mail and personalization are making a comeback 13:21 Luxury = decompressed, high-effort experiences 14:47 Budget 15% of ad spend for R&D and experimentation 16:19 Most tech stacks are outdated and need disruption…
In this thought-provoking ASOTU CON 2025 session, David Spisak of Disruptive Growth Solutions sits down with Daniel Govaer to tackle one of the most pervasive operational issues in automotive retail: shiny object syndrome. With over two decades of experience in retail automotive, Daniel breaks down how impulsively chasing new tech leads to stalled implementations, team confusion, and ultimately, failure to launch. Together, they discuss the critical importance of identifying real problems before chasing tools, why vendors must stop selling solutions to unprepared clients, and how involving frontline stakeholders in decisions drastically improves adoption. Govaer emphasizes that buying software doesn’t solve problems—utilizing it does. Dealers will walk away with a fresh perspective on vetting their tech stack, auditing utilization, and empowering their teams to drive transformation from the inside out. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ ⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 1:06 Shiny object syndrome begins at the dealer level 2:54 Stop buying tools—start solving actual problems 4:14 Decision makers must not be the only champions 6:06 Leadership often abandons implementation too early 7:04 Dealers must regularly audit their bloated tech stack 8:20 Too many tools disengage frontline staff 9:37 Friction-filled tech leads to friction-filled CX 11:08 Associates deserve better solutions, not more complexity 13:06 Audit how easy it is to sell something—start there…
In this playful yet insightful session from ASOTU CON 2025, Arthur Bratton of Holiday Automotive joins Brad Gelber to explore what his young children unknowingly taught him about website user experience (UX) in automotive retail. Drawing inspiration from how his three, five, and seven-year-olds interact with technology, Arthur emphasizes that intuitive, simple design doesn’t just help younger users—it benefits every shopper. From click behavior to visual clarity, this episode breaks down the parallels between child-friendly interfaces and effective dealership websites. The conversation digs into specific UX best practices, including optimizing page speed, cleaning up information overload, and eliminating distracting pop-ups. Arthur also highlights how the human touch still matters, advocating for authentic personalization through employee photos and immediate follow-up from real people. This unique perspective offers a practical and accessible roadmap for dealers looking to enhance their digital storefront—starting with a mobile phone, a critical eye, and maybe even a little help from their kids. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ ⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:10 Arthur Bratton joins to discuss what his kids taught him about UX 1:22 Simplicity is powerful—if kids can use it, everyone can 2:26 Big buttons and obvious CTAs improve mobile and desktop experience 2:50 Dealer websites often overload users with too much text 4:08 Site speed matters—users bounce if it takes more than two seconds 5:55 Visual clutter and pop-ups create frustration and distrust 6:13 Show relevant content first, like price and key features 7:36 Human touches like staff photos create trust and comfort 8:57 Regularly test your own website and remove unnecessary bloat 10:10 Overloaded pop-ups are the fastest way to lose shoppers…
In this ASOTU CON 2025 session, Elizabeth Shults of RML Automotive joins Brad Gelber on the podcast stage to unpack one of the most contentious issues facing dealership marketers today: one-size-fits-all mandates from OEMs. Elizabeth shares firsthand how top-down directives—like Stellantis’ recent GMB access requirements—create operational chaos at the dealership level. Drawing on her deep experience with domestic brands, she highlights the disconnect between OEM decision-makers and the day-to-day realities of running a marketing operation inside a dealership. Elizabeth argues that many OEMs operate on outdated assumptions and fail to understand the sophistication and capabilities of their top-performing dealers. The conversation critiques the inefficiency and unintended consequences of universal digital governance policies. From duplicate Google Business Profiles to wasted time executing unclear mandates, Elizabeth lays out the tangible costs of misaligned strategies. But she also offers solutions, advocating for OEMs to embed specialized digital talent, develop tiered support based on dealer performance, and stop treating innovation as a threat. For anyone who’s ever felt bogged down by compliance over strategy, this episode will strike a chord—and offer a path forward. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ ⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:11 Elizabeth Shults joins to discuss OEM mandates and dealer misalignment 0:44 OEM decision-makers lack front-line experience and real-world context 1:39 Stellantis GMB mandate creates confusion and duplicate profiles 3:30 Many OEMs demand control without providing actionable support 4:38 Ford praised for greater flexibility and feedback loops 5:47 Franchised dealerships need individual flexibility—not uniform digital policies 6:09 GMB strategy fails by focusing on the wrong performance tiers 7:52 Dealership marketers are forced to fix problems OEMs create 8:41 OEM digital governance often blocks innovation 9:07 Solution: embed digital specialists and modernize dealer performance scoring…
In this high-powered ASOTU CON 2025 session, Steve Greenfield moderates a conversation with three top-tier venture capital voices shaping the future of automotive retail: Bill Cariss of Holman Growth Ventures, Chase Fraser of FM Capital, and Brian Donnelly of Autotech Ventures. With decades of operational, investment, and mobility experience between them, these investors unpack what it really takes to attract funding in today's automotive startup ecosystem. The conversation covers everything from fund strategy and portfolio construction to how OEM disruptions, EV adoption, and workforce shifts are impacting where dollars go. Each guest brings a unique lens: Brian from a tech-driven, early-stage VC perspective; Chase from a dealer-tech and mobility investor with deep roots in retail; and Bill from a strategic corporate VC angle tied to one of the most diversified companies in the space. The panel gets candid about what entrepreneurs do wrong when pitching, the red flags that shut deals down fast, and the rare qualities that earn startups a second meeting. They also explore how venture investing in auto is more collaborative than cutthroat—and why relationship-building and execution still matter most in this tight-knit vertical. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ 0:00 Intro 0:11 Steve welcomes Brian Donnelly, Chase Fraser, and Bill Cariss to the stage 0:41 Brian outlines Autotech’s early-stage, mobility-focused $500M fund 3:31 Chase introduces FM Capital’s dealer tech roots and $240M fund 6:06 Bill explains Holman’s evolution from fleet operator to investor 8:22 Holman’s partnership with FM Capital bridges strategic and financial VC 12:26 VC collaboration in auto is more synergistic than competitive 14:25 Key difference between strategic and financial VCs 19:58 Returns now top priority—even for corporate VCs like Holman 24:15 What VCs look for: problems, unique fit, and major industry “tidal waves” 28:45 The quickest way to lose an investor’s interest? Not getting to the point 32:30 Final advice for entrepreneurs pitching automotive-focused venture capitalists…
In this ASOTU CON 2025 conversation, Michael Wood of Checkered Flag joins Elena Ciccotelli to explore the current state and future of Jaguar, the complexities of EV retail, and the importance of improving the customer experience in the dealership model. Michael passionately defends Jaguar's return to its roots, pushing boundaries in design and technology while rejecting criticism from purists who misunderstand the brand’s evolution. He sheds light on the realities of franchise laws, using Scout as an example of how direct-to-consumer EV brands are clashing with regulatory frameworks—particularly in states like Virginia. The conversation also confronts the flaws in traditional dealership experiences that fuel consumer interest in direct-to-consumer models. Michael urges dealers to improve the variable side of their business and leverage their superior after-sales infrastructure as a competitive advantage. From his views on tariffs and inventory management to trends he’s watching in used car strategy, Michael delivers insights with unfiltered honesty and wit. This session is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the intersection of luxury automotive, customer loyalty, and EV disruption. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ ⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:11 Michael Wood returns to discuss Jaguar's evolving brand identity 1:39 Jaguar reclaims its heritage by pushing boundaries, not playing it safe 3:52 Franchise laws conflict with direct-to-consumer EV models like Scout 5:18 Dealerships must improve variable ops to compete with new entrants 6:41 EV buyers want a full-service, reliable dealership experience 7:28 Cars are now high-tech devices—customer support must reflect that 8:07 Tariffs may disrupt inventory, but used car ops are the best insulation 9:29 Michael’s current rides: Defender 110 and a plug-in Range Rover…
In this lively ASOTU CON 2025 session, Alex Lawrence of EV Auto returns to the podcast stage with host Elena Ciccotelli to discuss the evolution of his brand, the EV landscape, and how content creation, customer trust, and service infrastructure all play critical roles in EV adoption. Known for his engaging documentary-style social media presence, Alex shares the journey from low-engagement educational videos to viral behind-the-scenes content that built EV Auto into a trusted name. He offers candid insights into the EV resale market, highlighting how political climate, geographic region, and customer familiarity dramatically impact used EV pricing—especially for Tesla. The conversation expands into how EV Auto has developed a full-service model to support long-term customer confidence. With a fixed ops division, mobile servicing across three states, and warranty-backed battery diagnostics, Alex positions his brand as a holistic EV experience provider, not just a retailer. They also touch on consumer hesitations, the expiration of the used EV tax credit, and which models are best for daily driving—including Alex’s personal favorite, the Hummer EV with the roof off. This episode is packed with real-world strategy, authenticity, and a glimpse into what the future of EV retailing looks like. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ ⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:12 Alex Lawrence returns with updates on EV Auto’s evolution 1:40 Brand success driven by documentary-style social content 3:34 Used EV values depend on region, brand, and infrastructure 4:16 Tesla performs well in Utah due to brand loyalty and local demand 7:29 EV Auto expands with fixed ops and mobile servicing in three states 8:22 90% of customers are first-time EV buyers needing confidence 9:30 Mobile and in-store service reinforce customer loyalty post-sale 9:59 Alex’s current rides include the Hummer EV and Cybertruck…
In this dynamic ASOTU CON 2025 session, Austin Conroy sits down with Joe Castelino of American Motors Group to unpack a bold and strategic approach to rethinking service operations in response to changing market forces—including tariffs, EV adoption, and used car surges. Joe outlines how his team is right-sizing their fixed ops strategy by looking at every process from technician dispatching to digital parts ordering, and from internship-based technician development to a dedicated EV service center. The session dives into much more than technician hiring—this is about systemic efficiency and positioning dealerships for long-term resiliency. Joe shares how American Motors Group is anticipating and preparing for the influx of used car sales, doubling down on reconditioning capacity, optimizing parts logistics, and even launching e-commerce for DIYers. Most striking is the group’s commitment to the future of EV servicing, including the radical move of converting an entire dealership into a 20-bay EV-only facility. This episode offers a masterclass in operational foresight and shows how innovation in fixed ops can be both proactive and profitable. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ ⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:11 Joe Castelino joins to discuss optimizing service for tariff-era challenges 0:37 Used car growth drives massive reconditioning demands 1:16 Oil change efficiency improvements enhance overall shop capacity 2:29 Parts e-commerce targets DIYers and off-dealer service customers 2:36 Strategy goes beyond hiring—includes BDC and extended hours 3:20 Planning begins with reaction but quickly moves to proactive design 4:20 Data-driven parts stocking boosts reconditioning speed 5:01 Recon center includes fully siloed team and processes 5:53 Intern program turns part-time students into full-time techs 7:33 Radical move: launching a 20-bay dedicated EV service center 8:23 EV service needs are real, even if limited 9:00 Strategic service positioning is key amid evolving market conditions…
In this inspiring ASOTU CON 2025 session, Austin Conroy sits down with Richard Lupo of Apple Tree Honda to discuss a revolutionary approach to solving one of the industry's biggest challenges: technician and service advisor shortages. Richard shares how his dealership has implemented a forward-thinking talent development program, transforming their hiring practices from reactive to strategic. By replacing the traditional "lube tech" role with entry-level technician career paths, Apple Tree has created a stable pipeline of passionate, long-term team members. Lupo emphasizes the importance of identifying genuine enthusiasm for automotive work in candidates and providing them with mentorship, pay structure, and tool support that fosters growth and retention. The conversation also dives into how the same philosophy is being extended to service advisors, using valet and assistant roles as the foundation for a new bench system. The program emphasizes hourly pay, weekly productivity bonuses, and structured overtime—all framed as intentional investments in the future of the dealership. With real-world results like a 250-hour weekly increase in express service output and the successful graduation of multiple technicians in under 18 months, Lupo proves that building a people-first culture is not just idealistic—it’s operationally sound. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ ⏱️ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:10 Richard Lupo joins to discuss technician shortages and sustainable hiring 0:43 Replacing lube techs with entry-level technicians improves candidate quality 2:09 Career path leads from quick service to flat rate in 12–18 months 3:27 Hiring focused on passion for cars, not prior certifications 5:25 Hourly pay plus weekly bonuses based on team productivity 6:24 Unapplied labor reframed as long-term training investment 6:48 Tool accessibility made easy to eliminate entry barriers 7:50 Similar bench-building strategy implemented for service advisors 8:43 Strategic investments prioritize people over short-term profits 10:15 Overtime scheduling accelerates skill growth and team retention…
In this ASOTU CON 2025 session, Ed Roberts of Bozard Ford Lincoln joins host Austin Conroy on stage to discuss one of the most overlooked aspects of automotive retail: customer convenience during the ownership journey. Ed challenges the industry’s traditional approach to fixed ops, pointing out the stark contrast between the high-touch sales process and the often neglected service experience. He emphasizes the need to stop interrogating customers during scheduling and start welcoming them with open arms. Drawing analogies to OpenTable and Amazon, Ed makes a compelling case for simplifying online scheduling and shifting focus to customer-centric solutions. The conversation dives deep into why most dealers unintentionally drive customers away by prioritizing internal ease over customer convenience. Ed shares how Bozard Ford is breaking the mold with practices like proactive mobile service and data-driven customer outreach. He envisions a future where service is as frictionless and reactive as ordering from your favorite online store, and where mobile operations blur the line between sales and service. If you're a dealer thinking about how to future-proof your service lane, this episode offers a roadmap packed with vision and realism. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:10 Ed Roberts joins to discuss customer convenience 0:43 Sales gets focus, but ownership journey drives loyalty 1:48 Scheduling must be as simple as booking a dinner 3:16 Online service scheduling must reach 100% accessibility 4:47 We’ve built convenience for dealers, not customers 5:29 Dealerships must compete with national chains on access 6:54 Perception of inconvenience creates opportunity for competitors 8:21 Mobile service is the future of customer-centered convenience 11:27 Mobile service transitions into mobile sales strategy…
In this Session, Kyle Mountsier sits down with automotive industry icon David Kain to unpack his evolving role at NCM Associates and the powerful impact of Vendor 20 Groups. With decades of experience advocating for dealer success, David shares why it's more important than ever to foster genuine partnerships between vendors and dealerships. His insights highlight a fresh approach to collaboration that breaks down long-standing walls in the auto industry. David offers compelling anecdotes from recent Vendor 20 Group sessions, reflects on the importance of dealer feedback in product development, and calls on vendors to invest more meaningfully in the people and institutions that help shape innovation. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 1:25 Vendor 20 Groups reframe vendor-dealer relationships 3:24 The ethics of using dealer cell phone numbers 4:45 “Pitch slapped”: The new language of bad outreach 5:46 Dealers chase insights, not sales pitches 7:37 Vendors should compensate dealers for advisory input 10:27 Advisory shares incentivize product innovation 11:25 NCM planning new client & friends event…
In this engaging ASOTU CON 2025 session, hosts Kyle Mountsier and Paul J Daly sit down with Michael Lucki of Riverhead Mazda and two distinguished international guests: Ricardo Conesa and Pedro Sala from Spain’s Top Auto Group. They dive into the current state of the Spanish auto market, spotlighting the rise of Chinese automakers, rapid tech adoption, and the similarities dealers share across borders. Michael reflects on his unique global journey, from Spain to NADA, and now to his own dealership, revealing how international connections help shape local dealership excellence. The conversation offers rare insights into how global perspectives can enrich the U.S. retail automotive space. From leveraging AI for dealership efficiency to balancing strategic planning with daily operations, this episode provides valuable takeaways for dealers and industry pros looking to think both globally and locally. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:12 Live from ASOTU CON 2025 with global dealer guests 1:00 Michael shares Spanish connection and MBA background 2:48 Chinese OEMs disrupting the Spanish market 3:57 Tech innovation in Spanish dealerships mirrors U.S. trends 5:09 Chinese brands praised for quality, design, and adaptability 6:10 Michael on balancing strategic vision with dealership reality 7:49 Closing thoughts and gratitude for global collaboration…
In this forward-looking ASOTU CON 2025 session, Kyle Mountsier sits down with Arianne Walker from Amazon Autos and two standout students from Northwood University, Chase Southwick and Hanna Wood, to explore the evolving automotive landscape through the lens of the next generation. From fresh insights into customer experience to the rising role of digital fluency and social media savvy, this episode highlights the vital importance of welcoming new voices into the industry. The discussion spans personal stories of how these students chose a path in automotive, the real-world training they're receiving, and how they're already making an impact—whether in service-to-sales roles or going viral on TikTok. Arianne shares how Amazon’s involvement is less about brand exposure and more about nurturing industry growth through partnership. Together, they unpack the critical balance between tech and human connection, underscoring that the future of auto is collaborative, transparent, and deeply people-focused. Learn more about Amazon Autos at https://sell.amazon.com/programs/autos Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 1:08 Why Amazon supports next-gen industry talent 2:16 Chase's journey from weather to wheels 3:28 Hanna's return to ASOTU CON with deeper goals 4:37 Social media fluency as a modern power tool 6:36 Chase: Tech should enhance—not replace—human connections 9:08 Arianne: Amazon is dealer-focused, not dealer-replacing…
In this ASOTU CON 2025 session, Nick Askew dives into the intricate world of inventory optimization with Derek Hansen and Patrick Janes of Cox Automotive. As industry veterans and leaders at one of automotive's most data-rich organizations, they explore how AI-powered insights and digital tools are helping dealer groups solve one of their most persistent challenges: getting the right car to the right store at the right time. The conversation reveals how Cox Auto, through solutions like vAuto, is enabling proactive—not reactive—inventory management by centralizing data across rooftops, analyzing store-specific performance trends, and using predictive models to move vehicles more strategically. From avoiding “time robbers” in vehicle transfers to eliminating internal bidding wars, Derek and Patrick explain how dealers can use technology to boost profitability, speed up turn, and better leverage group scale. Learn about vAuto at https://www.vauto.com/ Learn about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 1:29 AI powers smarter store-level inventory decisions 2:40 Dealers move 16,000+ cars monthly—often inefficiently 3:49 Personalizing inventory strategy to each store's customer base 5:44 Being proactive avoids aging units and lost gross 6:32 AI enables prediction over reaction in inventory management 7:17 Avoid internal bidding wars with smarter, centralized data 8:40 Use group scale to maximize turn and gross…
In this ASOTU CON 2025 episode, Nick Askew sits down with Danielle Mills Walden from Upstart and Evan Driscoll of Audi Jacksonville to explore how AI-powered financing is transforming dealership operations and expanding customer access. With real-world insights from both the provider and the practitioner, the conversation covers everything from instant approvals and improved profit centers to the ethical implications of AI-driven lending. Danielle breaks down how Upstart’s technology leverages thousands of data points—beyond just credit scores—to approve more buyers, faster. Evan shares how the software helped his luxury dealership close deals that would have previously been lost, especially among first-time buyers and customers with thin credit files. Together, they make a compelling case for AI as not just a tech upgrade, but a competitive advantage and a tool for financial inclusion. Learn more about Upstart at https://www.upstart.com/dealers/ Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:59 What is Upstart and how it supports dealers 1:55 AI speeds up approvals and eliminates underwriter bottlenecks 3:13 Instant approvals improve customer experience and cash flow 4:16 How AI uses alternative data to approve more buyers 6:07 AI as a tool for inclusion—not discrimination 7:34 Overcoming resistance from dealership staff 9:38 Upstart picks up 5–6 extra deals monthly 10:35 When paychecks grow, minds open…
In this ASOTU CON session, Chad Graves of Reunion Marketing joins Nick Askew to explore how AI-generated overviews—like those featured prominently in Google and other search platforms—are fundamentally transforming the customer journey in automotive retail. With search behavior changing rapidly due to the rise of tools like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, Chad unpacks how dealerships must adapt their SEO strategies to stay visible and relevant in a zero-click world. Learn more about Reunion Marketing at https://reunionmarketing.com/ Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ TIME STAMPS: Intro 1:01 AI overviews are replacing traditional search listings 2:42 SEO still matters—but it must evolve to remain relevant 3:56 Zero-click answers are reducing organic traffic 5:23 Dealerships must create low-funnel, question-focused content 6:38 Use AI to compare vehicles, answer questions, and drive clicks 7:32 Combine long-tail and local content for broader visibility 8:19 Personalized, high-volume content is the future 9:44 Two blog posts a month won't cut it anymore…
In this Session from ASOTU CON 2025, Zac Kinch sits down with Keith Lemer, CEO of WellNet, to explore how reframing healthcare costs can directly enhance company culture. Keith shares real-world examples of transforming healthcare from a dreaded budget line item into a powerful recruitment and retention tool—turning dollars into deeper employee engagement. From guiding employees toward smarter healthcare decisions to implementing innovative savings strategies, Keith illustrates how dealers can take control of one of their largest operating expenses. The conversation unpacks how companies like Carter Myers Automotive are using healthcare savings to reinvest in their people, even waiving employee premiums. Keith challenges the belief that the healthcare system is broken and instead calls out who it's truly working for. This episode is a must-listen for dealers and business leaders who are ready to connect the dots between culture, cost control, and employee well-being. Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/ Timestamped Takeaways: 0:00 Intro 0:43 Healthcare is a cultural glue for organizations 1:33 The system works—for those who profit from it 2:16 Same procedure, wildly different costs across locations 3:24 Creative healthcare strategies save businesses millions 4:40 Real case: $3,000 back in employees’ pockets 5:08 Culture wins: referrals, retention, and fewer sick days 8:09 Healthcare with Ritz-Carlton level service…
In this ASOTU CON Session recorded live at ASOTU CON 2025, Zac Kinch sits down with Greg Uland, VP of Marketing at Reynolds and Reynolds, to unpack the real-world impact of goal setting inside dealership operations and corporate teams. Greg brings clarity to how effective goal setting aligns every team member—from senior leadership to frontline staff—toward a common mission. Through dealership-specific examples and lessons from Reynolds and Reynolds’ own practices, Greg breaks down the importance of actionable, layered goals that support culture, efficiency, and accountability. The conversation tackles how to avoid the common trap of setting goals in isolation, instead emphasizing dialogue, ownership, and consistent visibility. From technician productivity to sales team motivation, Greg shares how meaningful conversations and smart use of technology can transform targets into tangible outcomes. Whether you’re a dealer principal, manager, or vendor partner, this episode delivers practical strategies to set—and stick to—goals that drive results. Timestamped Takeaways 0:00 Intro 0:35 Greg reflects on ASOTU CON’s growth and energy 1:05 Goal setting points teams toward meaningful action 1:48 How to break down and cascade dealership goals 3:19 Communicating goals up and down the organization 4:02 Coaching salespeople by analyzing actions vs. results 5:31 Helping technicians prioritize tasks and boost efficiency 7:53 Keep goals front and center with metrics and reminders Learn more about Reynolds and Reynolds at https://www.reyrey.com/ Learn more about SpaceAuto at https://space.auto/…
Send us a textIn this inspiring ASOTU CON session, Danny Zaslavsky hosts Erikka Tiffani Wells, General Manager at Walser Automotive Group, on the ASOTU CON podcast stage. Erikka shares her journey of rising through the automotive industry, discussing the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to a single point of contact and negotiation-free sales model at Walser. She passionately explains how this approach has transformed customer experiences by prioritizing transparency and convenience.Er...…
Send us a textIn this dynamic ASOTU CON session, Glenn Lundy converses with Jonathan Dawson, renowned Coach and Trainer at Sellchology, about building the next generation of the automotive industry. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of maintaining relational selling over purely transactional methods, cautioning against innovation for innovation's sake. They explore the delicate balance between leveraging modern tools like Amazon and maintaining traditional, personal interactions with custome...…
Send us a textIn this insightful ASOTU CON session, Danny Zaslavsky hosts Austin Beaver, a rising star in the automotive industry, on the ASOTU CON podcast stage. Austin shares his journey of growing up in a car dealership family, his early experiences in the dealership, and his transition from studying accounting to becoming a controller and now preparing to lead a new Mazda store. They delve into the evolution of car buying preferences, emphasizing the importance of providing a frictionless...…
Send us a textIn this lively episode of ASOTU CON Sessions by Effectv, Glenn Lundy hosts an inspiring discussion with Todd Caputo, founder of Todd Caputo Consulting, and a dynamic group of students from Northwood University: Noah Koss, Breanne Pratley, Hanna Wood, and Zak McLeod. They explore the unique role Northwood University plays in shaping the next generation of automotive leaders. Todd Caputo shares his initiative to bring Northwood students to ASOTU CON, highlighting the importance of...…
Send us a textIn this engaging ASOTU CON session, Glenn Lundy interviews Kayla Kody, Vice President at Richmond Ford Auto Group, delving into the future of the automotive industry. Kayla shares insights on the importance of training and development, innovative changes in sales processes, and the impact of technology on service departments. They discuss the critical role of change management and the significance of breaking down silos within dealerships to foster a cohesive and efficient work ...…
Send us a textIn this episode of ASOTU CON Sessions, Glenn Pasch sits down with Anthony Jingoli, Senior Director of Automotive Strategy and Partnerships for Effectv and Brendan Jackson from Effectv to explore the intricacies of content strategy and the evolution of targeted advertising. Anthony and Brendan shed light on the confusion surrounding OTT, addressable advertising, and the overall TV ecosystem, providing clarity on how these elements fit into a comprehensive marketing strategy.The d...…
Send us a textIn this episode of ASOTU CON Sessions, Glenn Pasch engages in a compelling conversation with AJ McGowan, co-founder and president of AutoVision. AJ delves into the advanced data science behind AutoVision’s platform, highlighting its capabilities in inventory management and marketing strategy enhancement. The discussion focuses on how AutoVision leverages data to provide dealers with precise insights, enabling them to make informed decisions about pricing, marketing, and inventor...…
Send us a textIn this insightful episode of ASOTU CON Sessions, Joe Overby interviews Darrell Steed, president of SmartWolf Consulting. Steed shares the fascinating origin of his company’s name, inspired by his reputation as a fixer in the auto industry, akin to Winston Wolf from "Pulp Fiction." The conversation delves into Steed's journey from a used car director to a consultant, highlighting the critical lessons he’s learned in dealership operations and his mission to help dealers optimize ...…
Send us a textIn this insightful episode of ASOTU CON Sessions, Glenn Pasch sits down with Brad Gelber, Digital Media and Content Marketing Manager at West Herr Automotive. Brad shares valuable strategies on organizing and optimizing content marketing in the automotive industry. He delves into the challenges faced by small marketing teams, the importance of using tools like Monday.com for workflow management, and the significance of authentic, people-centered content.Brad also provides practi...…
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