Explore every episode of the podcast The Straight Shift with The Car Chick
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forbidden Fruit: The Cool European Cars America Can’t Have (and Why) | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:22:11 | |
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
Resources https://www.youtube.com/@CarChickTV
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road: My Wild UK Adventure | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:32:49 | |
Summary In this episode, The Car Chick® shares her experiences driving in the UK, highlighting the challenges and joys of navigating on the left side of the road for the first time. She discusses her personal reflections on her trip, some unusual driving challenges and the politeness of British drivers. The conversation covers various aspects of driving culture, including roundabouts, road signs, and the beautiful scenery of the UK. The Car Chick also shares her visit to Stonehenge and her thoughts on the different cars available in the UK, concluding with insights on driving protocols and the importance of courtesy on the road. Takeaways
Resources www.youtube.com/watch?v=CML-l97Mujg
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Riding with Ghosts: The Truth About RoboTaxis | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:35:38 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick explores the world of autonomous vehicles and robotaxis, discussing their origins in science fiction, the major players in the industry, the technology that powers them, and the challenges they face. The conversation delves into the safety concerns surrounding robotaxis, highlighting both humorous incidents and serious implications of their operation on public roads. LeeAnn also addresses the public's perception of robotaxis and the future of autonomous driving technology.
Takeaways: · Robotaxis are inspired by sci-fi concepts. · Waymo is the leading company in the robotaxi space. · Motional operates robotaxis in Las Vegas through Lyft. · Zoox is building purpose-built autonomous vehicles with no driver controls. · The technology behind robotaxis combines LIDAR, radar, cameras, ultrasonic sensors and artificial intelligence. · Public perception of robotaxis is mixed, with safety concerns. · Hilarious incidents highlight the learning curve of robotaxis. · The future of autonomous vehicles is still uncertain, but evolving.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #21: Hurricanes and How to Avoid Buying a Flood Car | 18 Sep 2018 | 00:30:45 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick talks about the affect of storms like Hurricane Florence, Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma on the used car market. She also gives her top tips for how to avoid buying a flood car. National Motor Vehicle Title Information System database = www.VehicleHistory.gov The Car Chick's Hurricane Impact Video = https://youtu.be/9NVxZUi_PVI
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #20: The Worst Used Cars in America | 31 Aug 2018 | 00:36:48 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick talks about the absolute WORST used cars on the US market that you should avoid like the plague and NEVER buy!
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #19: The Truth About Gasoline | 16 Aug 2018 | 00:31:56 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick explains what is meant by the octane number of gasoline and why it's critical to use the right type of gas in your vehicle. Does using Premium gas give more power or better gas mileage? Is it "better" for your car? The Car Chick dispels many of the myths around gasoline to save you money. She also talks about the difference between regular gas and diesel and why it's disastrous to put diesel fuel in a gas engine and visa versa.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift #18: How to Keep Your Teen Driver Safe on the Road | 30 Jul 2018 | 00:38:21 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick talks about how we can keep our teen drivers safe on the road. What are the best (and worst) cars to buy for your teenager? How can you set boundaries and monitor their driving behavior? How does your own driving behavior influence them? She also recommends sending your teen to an advanced driving school like the Teen Driving Solutions School (www.TeenDrivingSolutions.org), a non-profit dedicated to keeping teen drivers alive!
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #17: The Best Time to Buy a Car | 13 Jul 2018 | 00:33:41 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick dispels many of the myths around the best time to buy a car. When is the best time to buy a car? The truth is, there are many good times to buy a car throughout the year. And there are some really BAD times!
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #16: What to Expect As Your Car Ages | 29 Jun 2018 | 00:33:32 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick talks about what maintenance and repairs you should expect as your car ages, or if you are purchasing a used car. She also points out certain "bad habits" that you may have that are prematurely aging your car and costing you money.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #15: Road Rage | 15 Jun 2018 | 00:39:04 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick gives you the Road Rage Test! How prone are you to experiencing road rage? Are your driving behaviors contributing to road rage in others? Learn the common causes of road rage along with great tips to avoid or reduce it so you stay safe and less stressed on the road.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #14: The Right Way to Detail Your Car | 31 May 2018 | 00:36:32 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick talks with car detailing expert, Johnathon Stephens of Carolina's Finest Detailing, about the do's and don'ts of washing and detailing your car to protect the paint and your investment.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #13: Lemon Law for Cars | 14 May 2018 | 00:35:00 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick talks with attorney, Steve Moskos of the Moskos Law Firm, about Lemon Law for cars, trucks, SUVs, minivans and other passenger vehicles. Steve brings over 30 years experience in automotive-related consumer law and litigation.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #12: How NOT to Buy Tires | 30 Apr 2018 | 00:34:01 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick decodes all of those confusing letters and numbers associated with tires, and tells you what to look for, and what to avoid, when it's time to buy new rubber.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Evolution of Car Safety Technologies | 21 May 2025 | 00:35:16 | |
Summary: In this episode of The Straight Shift, LeeAnn Shattuck and automotive journalist Kendra Sommer delve into the evolution of car safety technologies, including airbags, seatbelts, and modern driver assistance systems. They discuss the importance of understanding crash test ratings, the significance of features like blind spot monitoring, and the emerging technologies that monitor driver behavior. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness and responsibility among drivers, highlighting that the most crucial safety feature in any vehicle is the driver themselves. Takeaways:
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Car Safety and Technology 02:36 Kendra Sommer's Journey in the Automotive World 04:26 The Evolution of Seatbelts and Airbags 09:18 Understanding Safety Ratings and Crash Tests 11:48 Modern Driver Safety Aids Explained 17:33 Blind Spot Monitoring and Its Importance 21:11 Emerging Technologies in Vehicle Safety 25:09 Driver Monitoring and Alerts 28:13 The Safety and Convenience of Surround View Camera Systems 31:02 Choosing the Right Vehicle for Safety 33:00 Empowering Women in the Automotive Industry Resources: SS11: Driver Aids Safety Technology SS81: Crash Test Results Don’t Apply to Women https://www.buzzsprout.com/2400168/episodes/15670597?t=0 SS101: Is Your Car Spying on You?
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #11: Driver Aids Safety Technology | 16 Apr 2018 | 00:31:14 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick talks about the different "driver aid" technologies that exist in cars today - what are they, how do they work, how can they FAIL, and why she doesn't like them.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #10: Self-Driving Car Kills Pedestrian | 30 Mar 2018 | 00:31:19 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick talks about the recent tragic accident in which a self-driving Uber car killed a pedestrian. She talks about how self-driving car technology works (and doesn't work) and breaks down what investigators know so far about the tragic accident.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #09: How NOT to Buy a Used Car (Used Cars, Part 2) | 15 Mar 2018 | 00:30:08 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick talks about the critical DOs and DO NOTs of buying a used car, including the most common mistakes that many used car shoppers make that can cost them thousands of dollars down the line.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #08: What is Your Trade Really Worth? (Used Cars, Part 1) | 28 Feb 2018 | 00:32:01 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick talks about how much the car you are trading is really worth, and how to get the most money for it. This is Part 1 in a two part series on buying and selling used cars.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #07: When and Why to Change the Fluids in Your Car | 16 Feb 2018 | 00:33:27 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick talks about the 6 main fluids in your car, why they are important and how often to change them to keep your car running smoothly and safely for 100,000 miles and more!
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #06: Driving Tips from the Race Track | 31 Jan 2018 | 00:30:32 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick shares 8 advanced driving tips that she has learned in over 25 years of racing that YOU can implement on the city streets and highways to become a better and safer driver.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #05: How to Pick the Perfect Car | 13 Jan 2018 | 00:31:31 | |
In this episode of "The Straight Shift", The Car Chick shares her 3 step process for how to pick the perfect vehicle based on YOUR unique lifestyle, budget and personality.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #04: New Years Resolutions for Your Car | 31 Dec 2017 | 00:31:05 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick talks about 10 New Year's Resolutions that your CAR wishes you would make.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #3: Holiday Driving Dangers | 16 Dec 2017 | 00:27:58 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick talks about the top 5 holiday driving dangers and a CRAZY thing that happened in the Walmart parking lot.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #2: Winterizing Your Car with Special Guest, Amy Mattinat | 30 Nov 2017 | 00:31:41 | |
In Episode #2 of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick talks with special guest and award winning auto shop owner, Amy Mattinat, about how to prepare your vehicle for winter. Whether you live in the North or the South, it is critical to prep your car for colder weather and potentially slippery roads to keep you and your family safe. Don't forget to subscribe to the show!
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Rise of Women-Only Rideshare Services | 07 May 2025 | 00:30:23 | |
Summary: In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick discusses the critical issue of safety in rideshare services with Kimberly Evans, founder of Just Her Rideshare. They explore the alarming statistics surrounding assaults in rideshare, the necessity of a women-only rideshare service, and the unique vetting process that ensures safety for both drivers and riders. Kimberly shares her personal experiences and the challenges of building a women-centric transportation service, emphasizing the importance of community and trust. The conversation highlights the need for safer transportation options for women and the broader impact on society. About Our Guest: Kimberly Evans is a seasoned business leader and fourth-generation entrepreneur. As the Founder and CEO of Just Her Rideshare, Inc., she has created a women-centric rideshare company based in Charlotte, NC, where safety, comfort, and community ride together. Takeaways: · Safety in rideshare services is a significant concern for women. · Over 40% of women report uncomfortable encounters in rideshare services. · Vetting processes in traditional rideshare services are inadequate. · Women are less likely to perpetrate crimes against each other. · Just Her Rideshare was created to provide a safer option for women. · Fundraising for women-led startups is particularly challenging. · Just Her Rideshare is more than just a rideshare; it's a community.
JustHerRideshare.com TheCarChick.com CarBuyingCourse.com
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Straight Shift, #1: Holiday Car Shopping Mistakes and How to Avoid Them | 14 Nov 2017 | 00:28:54 | |
In Episode #1 of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick talks about the top 3 mistakes most holiday car shoppers make and how to avoid them, so you get a great deal on a new car without all of the year-end hassle. Don't forget to subscribe to the show!
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| How to Save Money on Car Insurance in 2025 | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:30:55 | |
Summary In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick© and special guest, insurance expert Jasmine Walker of Brightway Insurance, delve into the complexities of car insurance. They discuss the rising costs of insurance, the importance of understanding discounts, and strategies for saving money without sacrificing coverage. The conversation also covers the unique challenges faced by teen drivers and small business owners when it comes to insurance, as well as the significance of full disclosure in the claims process. Listeners are encouraged to build strong relationships with their insurance brokers to navigate these challenges effectively. Takeaways
Resources www.TheCarChick.com
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Why Modern Car Paints Suck (and How to Keep Yours Looking Good Anyway!) | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:30:41 | |
Summary Takeaways
Resources:
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| What Cars are Most and Least Affected by the 25% Tariffs? | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:29:16 | |
Summary In this episode of The Straight Shift, LeeAnn Shattuck, The Car Chick©, discusses the recent implementation of a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and its implications for the automotive industry and consumers. She breaks down how these tariffs will affect car prices, which brands will be hit hardest, and the broader economic impact. The Car Chick© also shares her plans to keep listeners informed through a new newsletter and updates to her online course. Takeaways
Resources:
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Is the Cybertruck Really That Bad? | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:23:45 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick provides a critical analysis of the Tesla Cybertruck, discussing its controversial design, material choices, practicality, safety concerns, and cost. The conversation highlights the vehicle's shortcomings and compares it to other electric trucks on the market, ultimately concluding that the Cybertruck is more of a gimmick than a functional vehicle. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| BREAKING NEWS: US Automakers Granted 30 Day Tariff Exemption! | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:20:14 | |
Summary In this episode, The Car Chick discusses the recent tariff situation affecting the automotive industry, particularly focusing on the one-month exemption granted to major automakers. The Car Chick explains the existing USMCA trade agreement, the challenges posed by new tariffs, and the potential impact on vehicle production and pricing. The episode concludes with which vehicles will be the most affected by tariffs, as well as insights on how consumers should navigate the current market conditions. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| How Old is Too Old for a Used Car? | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:23:42 | |
Summary In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick discusses the considerations for buying older used cars, especially for teenagers. She explores the factors that determine “how old is too old” for a used car, including the car's make and model, maintenance history, parts availability, and the importance of understanding the car's past. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough research and the acceptance of unpredictability when purchasing older vehicles, while also addressing the unique challenges of finding parts for older cars and the significance of teaching responsibility to young drivers. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Is Your Car Spying On You? | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:35:22 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick shares why she chooses to drive an “old” car and explores the complexities of modern automotive technology. She delves into the vast amounts of data collected by cars today, the privacy implications of this data collection, and the potential risks associated with sharing personal information. The conversation emphasizes the importance of consumer awareness regarding data privacy and offers practical advice for protecting oneself in a data-driven automotive world.
Takeaways
Resources:
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Classic Cars 101: What to Know Before You Buy Your Dream Ride | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:32:04 | |
Summary In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® and Rudy Samsel, founder of Guys With Rides, delve into the world of classic cars, discussing the emotional and financial aspects of buying and restoring these vehicles. They explore what defines a classic car, key considerations for potential buyers, and the importance of documentation and condition. Rudy shares insights on where to find classic cars, underrated models, and cars to avoid. The conversation emphasizes the need for rational thinking in the buying process and offers practical tips for navigating the classic car market. Guest Bio Rudy Samsel has been a car fanatic since childhood—his first word was “car,” and he grew up devouring everything from owner’s manuals to magazines. Known by friends and family as a true “Car Savant,” he can recall obscure details about nearly any make and model and has the wrenching skills to back it up, having rebuilt suspensions, swapped engines, and tackled countless projects. Together with his wife Nancy, Rudy co-founded Guys With Rides, a dealer-free classic car auction site built on honesty, trust, and a passion for preserving the hobby for real enthusiasts. Takeaways
Resources
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Car Chick: A Journey of Women’s Empowerment | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:27:31 | |
Summary In this 100th episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick reflects on her journey into the automotive world, sharing her origin story, the evolution of her brand, and her commitment to empowering women in car buying. She discusses the challenges and triumphs she faced, the importance of setting high goals, and her passion for educating others about cars. The episode concludes with an announcement about a shift in the podcast's release schedule, emphasizing quality content over quantity. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| What Are the Best Cars for Seniors? | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:30:14 | |
Summary In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick discusses the unique needs of seniors when it comes to selecting a vehicle. She shares personal experiences with her own mother and insights on what to consider when choosing a car for elderly drivers, including ease of entry, comfort, safety features, and the importance of testing vehicles with mobility devices. The conversation also covers specific vehicle recommendations that cater to seniors' needs, emphasizing the significance of comfort and accessibility in the car buying process. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Are Hondas and Toyotas Still Reliable? | 22 Jan 2025 | 00:26:08 | |
Summary In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick discusses the evolving reliability of Honda and Toyota, two brands historically known for their dependability. She examines recent issues, recalls, and the impact of technological advancements on these brands' reputations. The conversation also highlights Subaru's rise in reliability rankings and the importance of understanding the metrics behind vehicle reliability. The episode concludes with insights on the future of these brands and the automotive industry as a whole. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Most Exciting New and Redesigned Car Models Arriving in 2025 | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:30:41 | |
In this episode, The Car Chick discusses the latest trends in the automotive industry, focusing on the exciting new models set to be released in 2025. The conversation highlights the significant shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, as well as the continued presence of gas-powered models. LeeAnn shares her insights on various upcoming vehicles, including the Nissan Maxima EV, Kia EV3, and the return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid. She also touches on the redesign of popular models like the Hyundai Palisade and Honda Passport, emphasizing the importance of affordability and practicality in the evolving automotive landscape. takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| New Years Predictions, Part 2: Will 2025 Be a Good Year to Buy Cars? | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:24:41 | |
Summary In this episode of 'The Straight Shift', LeeAnn Shattuck discusses the automotive market predictions for 2025, addressing common misconceptions fueled by clickbait media. She analyzes the current state of new and used car sales, the impact of profit margins on affordability, and the financial tools available for car buyers. The conversation also highlights market trends, potential discounts on specific vehicles, and the anticipated rise of electric vehicles. LeeAnn concludes with insights on how to navigate the car buying process effectively in the coming year. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| 2025 Automotive Industry Predictions: Nissan and Honda Merger Insights | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:30:58 | |
In part 1 of this two-part episode, The Car Chick gives her predictions for the automotive industry in 2025, focusing on the potential merger between Nissan and Honda. She analyzes the implications of this merger, the challenges both companies face, and the cultural dynamics at play. LeeAnn emphasizes the need for strategic partnerships in the evolving automotive landscape, particularly in the context of electric vehicles and market competition.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| How to Book a Limousine for Your Event | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:34:20 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick explores the world of limousines with 30 year transportation industry veteran, Jonce Gibson from Bayside Limousines. They discuss how limousines are made, the current costs associated with them, and the types of events for which people typically rent limousines. They also cover important considerations when choosing a limousine service, planning for a successful experience, safety regulations, the impact of ride-sharing services, and etiquette for passengers. The episode concludes with memorable experiences from the limousine business, including encounters with famous passengers.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Why Are Cars So Freakin’ Expensive Now? | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:25:57 | |
In this episode, The Car Chick discusses the alarming rise in car prices, exploring the reasons behind the lack of affordable vehicles in the U.S. market. She delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain issues, and the shift in automakers' priorities towards higher profit margins. The conversation also highlights the competitive advantages of Chinese automakers and the need for a cultural shift in the U.S. auto industry to produce more affordable cars in the future. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| End of Year Car Deals: What to Expect in 2024 | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:28:04 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift,The Car Chick discusses her Thanksgiving experiences and transitions into the topic of Black Friday car deals. She explains the current state of the automotive market, highlighting the inventory surplus and the best deals available for the end of the year.LeeAnn breaks down the types of incentives offered by manufacturers and emphasizes the importance of doing homework before purchasing a vehicle. She also touches on the electric vehicle market and concludes with resources for car buyers. · 2024 is expected to be a better year for car shopping. · Inventory levels are historically high, leading to better deals. · Manufacturers are offering various incentives to boost sales. · Jeep has significant cash rebates available this December. · Electric vehicles are seeing good deals due to market changes. · Do your research on incentives based on your region.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Best and Worst Vehicles at the 2024 Charlotte Auto Show | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:31:25 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick discusses her experiences at the 2024 Charlotte Auto Show, highlighting the decline of auto shows, the rise of electric vehicles, and her personal awards for the best and worst vehicles showcased. She provides insights into various car models, their features, and her critiques of design choices, particularly focusing on new offerings from Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Kia, as well as a controversial color pairing in the Lexus NX.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Transmission Impossible: How Your Car Really Works | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:28:49 | |
Summary In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® delves into the often-overlooked topic of car transmissions. She explains the critical role transmissions play in vehicle performance, detailing the various types including manual, automatic, CVT, dual clutch, and electric vehicle systems. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding how each transmission works, their maintenance needs, and the potential issues that can arise. Listeners are equipped with knowledge to make informed decisions when buying or maintaining their vehicles, particularly regarding transmission care. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Why Do Car Engines Sound Different? | 20 Nov 2024 | 00:21:25 | |
In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick shares her personal story of adopting two kittens and seamlessly transitions into a discussion about the fascinating world of car sounds. She explains the physics behind why different engines produce unique sounds, the impact of engine configurations, and the role of exhaust systems. The episode also highlights the best and worst sounding cars, emphasizing the subjective nature of sound preferences among car enthusiasts. LeeAnn concludes with a call to action for listeners to share their favorite car sounds and introduces her online car buying course. Takeaways
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| How Trump’s Victory Could Affect Car Buyers | 13 Nov 2024 | 00:24:40 | |
So... we had an election last week. In this episode, I discuss the potential impacts of the second Trump administration on the automotive industry, focusing on consumer implications, regulatory changes, and the effects of tariffs. I highlight the importance of the CARS rule, the future of electric vehicles, and how tariffs could influence car prices and availability. I also show you how to adapt your car buying strategies in light of these changes, ensuring you remain informed and proactive in your purchasing decisions.
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| Lessons Learned from Living with a Rivian: The Realities of EV Ownership feat. Dr. Glenn Jaffe | 06 Nov 2024 | 00:37:00 | |
We've got a great episode today! I am so excited to have my guest and longtime friend, Dr. Glenn Jaffe on the show. A couple of years ago, I did an episode dedicated to what it would be like to really live with an electric vehicle. At the time, we heard all the hype and everyone was really excited. However, at the time I recorded that episode, it was still a little more theoretical. But now, EVs have been around for a while and more people have been living with them so we have some more empirical data. This is why I'm excited to actually hear from someone who lived with an electric vehicle for a time. Glenn bought a Rivian R1S, and while the process of taking delivery was great, his overall experience wasn’t what he expected it would be which led him to selling the vehicle after only 9 months of ownership. Topics:
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Effects of Hurricanes Helene and Milton on the Automotive Industry | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:25:45 | |
I know in the last episode of The Straight Shift, I promised you guys we would be talking this week with a client of mine about his experience owning an electric vehicle and why he decided to go back to gas. However, we're going to have to push that to next week because at the time of this recording, we were recently hit with Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Here in Charleston, our impacts were relatively minimal compared to the absolute devastation seen in our mountain communities. So today I want to talk about the impacts of the hurricanes and the surprising ways they will affect the automotive industry – from chip manufacturing to looking out for “flood cars”. Topics:
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||
| The Current State of the Automotive Industry | 23 Oct 2024 | 00:28:00 | |
Excited to give you an official welcome back to The Straight Shift, with me, LeeAnn Shattuck, also known as The Car Chick. If you’ve been listening to the show since it launched in 2017, thank you so much for sticking in there. If you’re new here, welcome! In this episode I’ll be sharing an update on why the show went on a hiatus, how it impacted my business as a whole and the podcast. Beyond that, I’ll be sharing more on the current state of the automotive industry so we can set the foundation for upcoming episodes. When you listen, you’ll get an update on everything from lasting impacts of the chip shortage, if you should purchase a new, used, or leased car, and of course a short update on electric vehicles. What you do need to know is that we aren’t currently in a true buyer’s market, but you’ll learn the power that you do have. Listen today and subscribe to the show so you never miss our weekly episodes. Topics:
Work with LeeAnn: Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved. | |||