Explore every episode of the podcast TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How Investing In Yourself Unlocks The Next Level of Growth with April Simmons, Heidi German, and Wendy Cornell | 16 Dec 2025 | 00:34:09 | |
Growth rarely shows up wrapped in convenience. Sometimes it looks like discomfort. Sometimes it looks like spending money on yourself when every instinct tells you to put everyone else first. Tim Cox sits down with April Simmons, Heidi German, and Wendy Cornell for an honest, grounded conversation about what happens when women in automotive finally say “yes” to their own development — and how that single decision quietly changes everything that follows. The discussion unfolds not as a victory lap, but as a reflection on leadership, self-belief, and the courage it takes to step into something new before you feel “ready.” What stands out most is how growth doesn’t arrive all at once. It shows up in journaling. In accountability. In recognizing the “gap of crap” — the stories we tell ourselves about why we can’t move forward. Heidi and Wendy share their journeys through automotive, leadership, and life, revealing that investing in yourself doesn’t pull you away from others — it actually makes you more capable of serving them. The episode lands on a simple truth: leadership isn’t measured only by what you do, but by what people do because of you. 00:00 – Why great dealerships are built on leadership, not luck 01:39 – Celebrating women who are shaping the future of automotive 03:30 – Saying yes to personal growth before you understand the impact 04:42 – Why most women won’t invest in themselves — and the cost of that 05:23 – Creating scholarships to remove barriers to growth 06:31 – The power of community and accountability partners 08:46 – Choosing yourself when you’ve always put everyone else first 11:04 – Career paths aren’t linear — and that’s a strength 14:00 – Wearing many hats and growing into leadership 17:51 – What truly inspires effective leaders 22:43 – Leadership is measured by what people do because of you 26:55 – Advice to women entering automotive: keep growing, stay curious 29:05 – Identifying what’s holding you back — and how to close the gap 30:54 – Positivity, grace, and breaking goals into manageable steps Connect with April Simmons on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-simmons/ Connect with Heidi German on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-german-53326881/ Connect with Wendy Cornell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cornellwendy/ Connect with Tim Cox on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-cox-29065a7/ Listen to more episodes of Tim Talks at: https://www.carnow.com/timtalks/ | |||
| Dealers Gone Wild: Off-Roading, CVTs, and a New Era of Automotive Marketing with Tim Pohanka | 25 Nov 2025 | 00:22:02 | |
In this special episode of Tim Talks, Tim sits down with dealer principal Tim Pohanka to unpack one of the most creative, daring, and downright fun marketing experiments the automotive world has seen in years. Pohanka and two other Nissan dealer principals each bought a sub-$10,000 used Nissan, added minimal modifications, and embarked on a 1,200-mile off-road endurance challenge across Utah’s most brutal terrain — from the Bonneville Salt Flats to Moab, Little Sahara, Cathedral Valley, and more. With more than 150 hours of drone, in-car, and cinematic footage, the “Tour Detour” chronicles not only the punishing journey but also the surprising durability of these inexpensive vehicles, particularly the much-debated Nissan CVT. | |||
| The Future of Automotive Leaders with Northwood University | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:36:07 | |
Tim sat down with five standout students and Elgie Bright, the heart behind Northwood University’s automotive program. Meet Colin, Katrina, Julia, Chase, and Brooke. From global experiences to major internships and career goals, these future leaders share how Northwood empowers them to thrive. Packed with inspiration, insights, and lessons, this episode shares a front-row seat to the next generation of changemakers. Connect with Elgie Bright on LinkedIn, and explore Northwood University’s Automotive Marketing & Management program.
[01:27 – 02:21] Meet Elgie Bright [02:21 – 04:18] Introducing the Students [04:18 – 06:54] Education Meets Opportunity [06:54 – 08:45] Colin's Passion [08:45 – 12:10] The Buffalo Mentality [12:10 – 14:55] Katrina’s Experience [14:55 – 18:57] Julia’s Ambitions [18:57 – 21:04] Chase's Journey [21:04 – 23:37] Brooke’s Reflections [23:37 – 25:55] Leadership Defined by Impact [25:55 – 27:15] Why Northwood? [27:15 – 32:29] Building Future Leaders Together [32:29 – 35:35] Final Thoughts | |||
| The Mirror and the Mission with Kyle Mountsier | 20 May 2025 | 00:32:02 | |
Tim sits down with Kyle Mountsier, COO and co-founder of ASOTU, to explore the journey from retail automotive to purpose-driven leadership. Kyle shares powerful stories of culture transformation, the origins of ASOTU, and how creating an environment where people see the best in themselves can change everything. From personal faith to professional breakthroughs, this conversation unpacks what it means to lead with intention, build empowered teams, and reflect the true heart of the automotive industry. Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn. [00:00 – 01:22] Guest Introductions Tim welcomes Kyle back to the podcast, reflecting on Kyle's previous appearance and the journey since leaving retail three and a half years ago. [01:22 – 03:12] Visionary Leadership Kyle recounts his transition from dealership life to co-founding ASOTU, sparked by early career experiences and a desire to reshape the industry’s reputation. [03:12 – 06:03] Mission-Defining Moments Kyle shares the story of his mentor, Aaron Hill, and the pivotal moments that drove him to pursue automotive as a career with purpose and integrity. [06:03 – 07:11] Faith as a Leadership Foundation Tim and Kyle explore how faith and values can inform leadership styles and shape individuals’ missions. [07:11 – 10:47] Inside ASOTU Culture Kyle discusses recent milestones, team culture, and how their internal environment encourages personal and professional growth. [10:47 – 14:03] Encouragement, Leadership, and Legacy Tim reflects on personal losses and life lessons, highlighting the importance of pouring into others and leading with authenticity. [14:03 – 17:37] Empowering Industry Transformation Kyle and Tim discuss how creating empowering environments leads to better outcomes in business and life. [17:37 – 23:34] How to Break Mediocrity They dive into the tension between profitability and purpose, sharing real-world examples of high-performing, people-focused dealerships. [23:34 – 26:17] Crisis, Resilience, and Opportunity Tim reflects on past industry disruptions, how dealers have adapted, and what separates those who thrive from those who falter. [26:17 – 29:33] Living with Intention and Leading with Love Tim and Kyle get philosophical as they discuss fear, faith, and the power of living and leading intentionally and lovingly. [29:33 – 31:23] Final Thoughts Kyle and Tim close, encouraging leaders to love their people more than their profits, live fully in the present, and be the impact they want to see. | |||
| Inspect What You Expect with Kyle Disher | 06 May 2025 | 00:36:56 | |
In a TimTalks first, Kyle Disher, founder of RevDojo, demonstrates a live, impromptu mystery shop, highlighting the exchange’s strengths and areas to improve. Throughout the conversation, Tim and Kyle dive into what’s working—and what’s not—in dealership sales today. We learn what separates average dealerships from the exceptional and how small process improvements can lead to big wins. From mystery shopping 7,000+ stores a month to why calendar invites can double your show rate, don’t miss one of the most dynamic trainers in the automotive industry. Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn and access free RevDojo resources. [00:00 – 02:31] Intro & Guest Introduction Tim introduces Kyle Disher as one of the most dynamic trainers in the automotive space. [02:31 – 05:23] Kyle’s Start Kyle shares his journey from Montgomery Ward appliance sales to selling and managing car sales at 19. [05:23 – 08:27] The Birth of RevDojo Kyle describes how webinar trainings evolved into a platform with mystery shops, recorded webinars, and data insights. [08:27 – 10:01] Common Dealer Mistakes Kyle identifies three critical mistakes most dealers make and the impact of correcting them. [10:01 – 12:36] How to Coach Change Tim and Kyle explore dealer leadership buy-in and the importance of following up mystery shops with actionable coaching. [12:36 – 17:21] The Value of Inspection Kyle shares an example of applying a Formula 1 mindset—careful inspection for incremental gains. [17:21 – 23:03] Why Aggressive Follow-up Works Kyle reveals most dealers only call twice in five days. He urges listeners to use their tools with urgency. [23:03 – 25:03] Turning Missed Opportunities into Wins Tim and Kyle explore how weekly mystery shop reviews as sales meetings can drive accountability and performance. [25:03 – 27:08] Trustworthy Teams Tim and Kyle chat about the importance of building a sales team that you’d trust with your closest family. [27:08 – 33:13] LIVE Mystery Shop A live cold call to a Chevy dealer in Dallas reveals why even well-meaning salespeople often miss the appointment. [33:13 – 36:31] Tools, Templates, and Free Resources for Dealers Kyle walks through free resources and processes that help dealers get immediate wins—like calendar invites and call guides. [36:31 – 37:46] Closing Thoughts Tim wraps with a reminder that no one is smarter than everyone—and implementation is everything. | |||
| The Road to Sold with Glenn Pasch | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:34:41 | |
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. | |||
| Understanding Your Brand’s ROI with Ben Hadley | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:30:31 | |
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. | |||
| Where Vision Meets Problems with Danny Zaslavsky | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:33:59 | |
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. | |||
| Mentorship, Culture & Community with Michael Speigl | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:37:53 | |
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. | |||
| Raising the Standard: Unlocking Peak Performance with Jonathan Dawson | 25 Feb 2025 | 00:34:52 | |
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. | |||
| The Power of People & Partnerships with Tim Pohanka | 11 Feb 2025 | 00:32:17 | |
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. | |||
| From Good to Great: Breaking Barriers with Adam Arens | 04 Feb 2025 | 00:37:04 | |
“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. | |||
| Own Your Data, Ditch the Feelings with Brooke Furniss | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:30:43 | |
From athletic trainer to one of the most outspoken voices in automotive, Brooke Furniss has built her career on one rule — facts, not feelings. In this episode, Tim sits down with Brooke to unpack how a corneal transplant, a detour into DealerSocket, and years inside dealerships led her to build a platform that defends dealers, challenges vendors, and demands truth in an industry full of noise. What follows is a raw, funny, and powerful look at leadership, humility, and the courage to say what others won’t. Brooke and Tim dive into data transparency, fake dashboards, shiny-object distractions, and why the best leaders are humble enough to learn through pain. This one’s part masterclass, part therapy session, and all heart. 00:00 Tim welcomes Brooke — and sets the tone for an unfiltered conversation 01:03 The unexpected start: from athletic trainer to the automotive world 02:29 How a corneal transplant changed everything 04:06 The DealerSocket years and seeing every side of the business 05:59 Why Brooke walked away from selling and started giving dealers a voice 06:47 Tim on vanity metrics and the only KPI that really matters 07:54 Brooke breaks down the data fight — and why most dealers don’t own theirs 09:45 “Performance over pizzazz”: chasing shiny objects vs. chasing results 12:52 Kickbacks, broken processes, and calling out industry excuses 14:22 What “people first” really means when culture gets tough 16:59 The biggest killer in any dealership: pride 18:18 How true leaders stay humble — and why that’s rare 26:30 Brooke’s message to new leaders: research, resilience, and never losing your voice Learn more about Brooke Furniss at https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookefurniss/ Watch the Facts, Not Feelings podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIY-PixNsvgD1nrRFiw5xoNfU3rY6ojPy Connect with Tim Cox at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-cox-29065a7/ Listen to more episodes of Tim Talks at https://www.carnow.com/timtalks/ | |||
| Turning Pain into Purpose with Troy Duhon | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:29:05 | |
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 [00:26 – 01:41] Introducing Troy [01:41 – 02:33] Troy’s Journey [02:33 – 05:36] From Sales to Ownership [05:36 – 08:24] Overcoming Hurricane Katrina [08:24 – 11:23] Leading with Purpose [11:23 – 14:45] Giving Hope NOLA [14:45 – 17:10] Creating a Culture of Compassion [17:10 – 19:47] Legacy Over Wealth [19:47 – 24:08] Pain Becomes Purpose [24:08 – 27:00] Encouraging Resilience [27:00 – 28:27] Keys to a Meaningful 2025 [28:27 – 29:04] Closing Thoughts | |||
| Finding the Gifts in Challenges with Brad Wise | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:32:14 | |
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." | |||
| Luxury, Leadership, and Legacy with Adam Merlin | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:30:15 | |
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. | |||
| Gatekeepers of Culture: Leading and Protecting Teams with David Spisak | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:32:50 | |
This episode of TimTalks dives deep into the essence of leadership, culture, and resilience, featuring David Spisak, president and CEO of Disruptive Growth Solutions LLC. Drawing on decades of experience, David shares his journey from running the most profitable dealership in America to now, emphasizing the critical role of leadership in an industry accustomed to cycles of change. David and Tim explore the concept of being “gatekeepers of culture” and its significance to protecting a workplace’s environment and success. David highlights recruiting not just as a means to replace but to upgrade, advocating for emotionally intelligent and self-driven individuals. The discussion serves as both an inspiration and a practical guide for leaders striving to create environments where their people and organizations can flourish. Connect with David on LinkedIn. [00:00:00 - 00:04:02] Introduction Tim introduces the episode and guest David Spisak, reflecting on their relationship, Tim’s new role as a grandfather, and why leadership matters. [00:04:03 - 00:05:58] Guest Background Tim sets up the conversation asking David to reflect on his success in the industry. [00:05:59 - 00:08:28] Leadership and Personal Milestones David shares insights into owning the most profitable dealership in the nation with a less than a 3% turnover rate, citing mentorship and caring about the little things. [00:08:29 - 00:10:55] Creating a Successful Culture David stresses that culture and self efficacy as drivers for exceptional performance. [00:10:56 - 00:12:12] How David Strove to Lead David reflects on his task to raise the ceiling at the Mercedes store he stepped in to run, focusing on his people and importance of leading culture. [00:12:13 - 00:14:39] Leadership Values Tim shifts to the importance of resilience, staying calm during crises, and pouring into your people. [00:14:40 - 00:17:27] Coaching Through Challenges David expounds on Tim’s point, highlighting workforce shifts in the industry and talent needing additional support while navigating new challenges. [00:17:28 - 00:22:53] Becoming “Gatekeepers of Culture” David introduces the concept of being a "gatekeeper of culture" and encourages leaders to hire for values over talent, foster a collaborative team, and develop their teams. [00:22:54 - 00:23:50] Hallmarks of Thriving Organizations David argues that the hallmarks of a successful organization include: a strong culture and being data-centric, processes-driven, and obsessed with their clients. [00:23:51 - 00:25:26] Hiring for Long-Term Success Tim pushes deeper into “gatekeepers of culture,” asking David how to continue hiring the right people. [00:25:27 - 00:27:23] Hiring the Right Person David stresses to focus on long-term team cohesion over immediate talent, not stressing on hiring a person but the person. [00:27:24 - 00:29:46] EQ Is the X Factor David argues that the hiring “X factor” is a person’s emotional quotient, or EQ. [00:29:47 - 00:32:50] Closing Thoughts Tim closes the episode, thanking David for his time and further reflecting on what “gate keepers of culture” means to him. | |||
| Building Teams, Trust and Workforce Mindsets with Todd Caputo | 06 Nov 2024 | 00:34:22 | |
Tim welcomes Todd Caputo, president of Todd Caputo Consulting, for another episode of TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond. Formerly known as the “Used Car King,” Todd shares his journey from growing up in his father’s dealership, to building and selling multiple high-performing stores, and now consulting for dealerships around the country. Tim and Todd discuss progressive leadership, recruitment, and marketing success. Todd explains how dealerships can thrive by approaching operations in new ways, adapting to market challenges, and motivating the industry’s changing workforce. Whether your focus is new or pre-owned, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to lead and grow your business. Connect with Todd on LinkedIn. [00:00 – 01:00] Introduction & Guest Background Todd Caputo, known as the "Used Car King," discusses his experience in the automotive industry, having worked in every dealership role, including dealer principal. [01:01 – 03:55] Early Career and Business Growth Todd grew up in the business, starting at his father’s small dealership in Syracuse, NY, and attending Le Moyne College. He built used car superstores, selling 6,500 cars annually at peak, focusing heavily on leadership and team autonomy. [03:56 – 05:32] Expansion and Sonic Automotive Acquisition Todd's business was sold to Sonic Automotive during COVID-19. He reflects on the transition from being a dealer to working for a public company, describing it as his "MBA." [05:33 – 09:00] Talent Recruitment Strategies He recruited top talent through progressive branding, compensation, and marketing, drawing attention from employees across the industry. Auctions and industry events were also key recruitment grounds. [09:01 – 12:06] Key Strategies for Used Car Success Todd emphasizes the importance of inventory acquisition from auctions, trade-ins, and service drives. [12:07 – 16:00] Adapting to Market Changes Post-COVID With auctions becoming more challenging, acquiring trade-ins became essential to profitability. A detailed appraisal process ensures the dealership doesn’t miss valuable trades. [16:01 – 22:00] Service Drive Acquisition Process Todd shares how service drives can generate inventory: Use dedicated staff for appraising service vehicles; incorporate QR codes and personalized offers with repair orders; pay all employees bonuses for helping acquire cars. [22:01 – 25:10] Creating a Culture of Acquisition Todd promotes dealership-wide participation in car acquisition, with employees using QR-code business cards to connect with car sellers outside the dealership. [25:11 – 27:10] Motivating and Managing Younger Employees Todd explains how Millennial and Gen Z employees respond better to positive reinforcement than financial incentives alone. He argues that leaders need to adjust their management styles to support younger talent effectively. [27:11 – 29:50] Preparing for Market Shifts Todd advises dealerships to be ready for economic changes and seize unexpected opportunities. [29:51 – 33:38] The Importance of Financial Discipline Todd stresses saving money during good times to weather downturns, cautioning dealerships against overspending. He observes that many in the industry are now struggling after living beyond their means during profitable periods. [33:39 – 34:22] Closing Thoughts Tim reflects on giving back to the industry and mentoring the next generation and encourages listeners to focus on continuous improvement and to seek out small ways to make a difference every day. | |||
| Purpose, Gratitude, and Security with Paul J Daly | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:37:49 | |
Purpose, Gratitude, and Security with Paul J Daly In this episode of TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond, Tim sits down with Paul J Daly, founder and CEO of Congruent and Automotive State of the Union (ASOTU). Paul shares his journey from service advisor to building a thriving reconditioning business and then founding Congruent. Tim and Paul discuss the role of identity in leadership, overcoming insecurities, and how fostering purpose helps teams thrive. They emphasize the importance of gratitude, recognizing employees, and making hard decisions for long-term success. Tune in for inspiring stories, valuable insights, and practical leadership lessons. Connect with Paul on LinkedIn. [00:00 – 01:04] Introduction Tim Cox opens the episode, introducing the show’s focus on leadership in the automotive industry. We’re introduced to guest Paul J Daly. [01:05 – 04:09] Icebreaker Paul and Tim joke around with a funny anecdote about having a personal bedtime message recorded by David Spisak. [04:10 – 08:08] Paul’s Early Days Paul shares how he got started in the automotive industry from growing up in South Philadelphia to starting as a service advisor in Oswego, NY. [08:09 – 10:49] Founding a Reconditioning Business Paul explains how he transitioned from his service advisor role to starting his own reconditioning business, growing to serve 50,000-60,000 vehicles annually across the Northeast. [10:50 – 11:47] Building Congruent After selling his reconditioning company, Paul focused on Congruent, a marketing agency incubated from his previous work. [11:48 – 17:16] Power’s Double Edge Sword Paul reflects on good and poor examples of power in leadership, arguing that leadership’s intent is to produce thriving in and through other people. [17:17 – 24:32] A Leader’s Sense of Self Tim and Paul discuss how leadership impacts the automotive industry where Paul emphasizes the connection between identity, effective leadership, and celebrating wins. [24:33 – 28:37] Making Hard Decisions to Thrive Paul reflect on challenges in leadership, including making hard decisions for the future good of their teams, even if the team is uncomfortable. [28:38 – 34:12] Gratitude in Everything Tim and Paul reflect on the importance of thriving through others and being grateful. Paul shares advice: Start and end each day and end each day with gratitude by saying, “Thank you.” [34:13 – 35:59] Reflecting on Legacy and Influence Tim shares personal stories, including receiving support from the automotive community at his mother’s funeral, which leads Paul and Tim to discuss how genuine leadership leaves a lasting impact through meaningful interactions. [36:00 – 37:19] Tim’s Challenge to Listeners Tim challenges listeners to treat everyone as if they are more important than themselves, fostering a culture of respect and care. [37:20 – 37:49] Closing Remarks Tim thanks Paul for joining and encourages listeners to follow the podcast, leaving them with the takeaway: "No one is smarter than everyone—let’s get better together." | |||
| People Over Everything: Leadership, Accountability, and Impact with Matt Lasher | 08 Oct 2024 | 00:32:03 | |
In this episode of TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond, Tim Cox sits down with Matt Lasher, a seasoned leader from West Herr Automotive Group and President of streamline.auto. They discuss prioritizing people over everything, navigating accountability, and how great leaders are measured by their impact on their team. They explore the nuances of individualized management, work-life balance, and authentic leadership. Matt also shares his unique approach to leadership: tending a garden with constant nurturing and adaptation. Tune in for inspiring stories, valuable insights, and practical leadership lessons. Connect with Matt Lasher on LinkedIn. [00:00 – 00:17] – Introduction to TimTalks [00:18 – 01:22] – Matt Lasher [01:23 – 02:40] – Matt’s Personal Life [02:41 – 04:10] – Matt’s Career Journey [04:11 – 04:38] – Building West Herr Automotive [04:39 – 06:07] – The Importance of People [06:08 – 08:30] – Accountability in Leadership [08:31 – 09:02] – Work-Life Balance [09:03 – 10:33] – People Over Everything [10:34 – 13:50] – Being Hyper-Individualized [13:51 – 15:13] – Non-Linear Paths [15:14 – 18:27] – Vulnerability [18:28 – 20:29] – Community Involvement [20:30 – 22:59] – Authentic Leadership [23:00 – 24:37] – Just for Today Tim encourages leaders to practice gratitude even just for a day. [24:38 – 27:06] – Measuring Leaders Tim notes that true leaders are measured not by what they do, but what their people do. [27:07 – 28:25] – Hiring Talent [28:26 – 30:26] – The Garden of Leadership [30:27 – 32:03] – Closing Tim ends the conversation emphasizing how leaders should be judged by what their people accomplish. | |||
| Turning a Broken Dealership Around With Kevin Deutsch | 24 Sep 2024 | 00:30:03 | |
In this episode of TimTalks, Tim Cox sits down with Kevin Deutsch, general manager of Butler Lexus of South Atlanta, to dive deep into the strategies and leadership mindset that transformed a failing Lexus dealership into a thriving, market-leading store. Kevin shares how removing titles from business cards fostered a problem-solving culture, how daily meetings keep his team aligned, and how he empowered managers to take ownership across all departments. He also explains why transparency, both with employees and customers, has been essential to the dealership's success. This episode is packed with insights on leadership, accountability, and the power of cohesive teamwork. Guest and Contact Follow Kevin Deutsch, general manager of Butler Lexus of South Atlanta and radio talk show host “Car Guys” WSB Radio on Linkedin Show Notes: [00:00 - 01:00] – Introduction [01:00 - 02:30] – Perception vs. Reality in Dealerships [02:30 - 04:00] – Kevin's Background and Reputation [04:00 - 06:30] – Taking Over a Broken Dealership [06:30 - 09:00] – Removing Titles and Building Cohesion [09:00 - 12:00] – Daily Collaboration and Cross-Department Involvement [12:00 - 16:00] – Changing the Customer Experience [16:00 - 18:00] – Pay Transparency and Daily Tracking [18:00 - 20:00] – The Role of the Sales Desk [20:00 - 22:00] – A Culture of Cross-Training and Succession Planning [22:00 - 24:00] – Monthly All-Employee Meetings [24:00 - 28:00] – Closing Thoughts | |||
| Growth Requires Pain with Michael Stevens | 17 Sep 2024 | 00:30:06 | |
In this insightful and inspiring episode of TimTalks, Automotive Leadership and Beyond Tim Cox sits down with Michael Stevens, an automotive leader who has turned challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Michael takes us on a journey through his decade-long career, sharing the highs and lows of working in a dealership, from starting out fresh in the industry to transforming the culture and productivity at Bob Ruth Ford. Michael reveals how adopting a mindset of gratitude, building meaningful relationships, and committing to daily growth not only changed his life but also the lives of those he leads. From improving team morale to breaking sales records, Michael discusses the real-world impact of positive leadership and culture change in the auto industry. Guest & Contact: Connect with Michael Stevens, variable operations director at Bob Ruth Ford on Linkedin Show Notes: [00:00] Introduction [01:29] Michael’s Background [03:13] The Importance of Culture [05:49] The Role of Gratitude [07:06] Leading with Intention [09:35] Legacy and Impact [14:54] Empowering Employees [18:05] The Power of Belief [00:21:58] Leading by Example [27:09] Closing Thoughts [28:00] Outro | |||
| Reinsurance Leadership Gets An Upgrade With Chad Staples | 10 Sep 2024 | 00:24:38 | |
Description: In this episode of TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond, Tim explores the leadership principles that have propelled President Chad Staples of Elevation Dealer Services to success. Chad reveals how his company is redefining reinsurance with a transparent and customized approach, helping dealers maximize profits while building strong, value-driven teams. Contact: Connect with Chad Staples President of Elevation Dealer Services on Linkedin or contact him at chad@elevationdealerservices.com [00:00] - Introduction: The Importance of Leadership in Automotive [02:15] - Chad Staples’ Background and Introduction to Elevation Dealer Services [05:30] - Redefining Reinsurance: Transparent Fee Structures [10:00] - Customizing Reinsurance Based on Dealer Goals [13:45] - The Role of Investment Strategies in Reinsurance [17:00] - Setting Up Controlled Foreign Corporations (CFCs) and the 831(b) Tax Election [21:00] - Building a Strong Team: Leadership Values at Elevation Dealer Services [24:30] - Success Stories and Dealer Feedback [28:00] - The Growth of Elevation Dealer Services [32:00] - The Law of Attraction in Leadership [35:00] - Encouragement for Dealerships Considering Reinsurance Evaluation [37:45] - Closing Thoughts and Call to Action [40:00] - Outro | |||
| Why Great Leaders Still Need a Coach with Chris Hunsicker | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:37:42 | |
What if the reason you’re not growing isn’t your business, your team, or your market — it’s you? In this episode, Tim sits down with world-renowned executive coach Chris Hunsicker, a former therapist turned leadership mentor whose honest, no-nonsense approach has reshaped how leaders think about growth. Chris shares the truth behind resilience, why “grinding harder” isn’t the answer, and how the best leaders are the ones humble enough to be coached. This is a conversation about leadership, self-awareness, and the quiet discipline of getting better every day. You’ll walk away with tools to lead yourself first, reshape your culture, and finally understand what it means to build something that lasts. 0:00 — The importance of leadership and the power of coaching 1:30 — How Chris Hunsicker became David Long’s leadership coach 2:50 — Why even top performers need coaching 3:20 — The myth of toughness and what resilience really means 5:00 — From therapist to coach: how Chris found his purpose 7:00 — The Mrs. Fields story — and a career-defining confrontation 8:40 — Falling in love with the car business 10:00 — What separates good dealerships from great ones 11:10 — “You’re not broken” — how leaders can face the truth 13:05 — The danger of blaming others instead of growing yourself 15:45 — Why leadership starts when it stops being about you 17:10 — “You’re either breaking or being broken” — the power of standards 20:45 — How leadership principles apply to every part of life 24:40 — The 3-question game film exercise to review your day 26:00 — Why small daily progress beats big quarterly plans 31:00 — Lessons from teaching leadership in Paris 33:00 — Maxwell’s wisdom: success is found in daily routines 34:45 — The true separator of good and great leaders 35:50 — Chris’s book Unstoppable Culture and final reflections Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hunsicker/ Read Unstoppable Culture: https://bit.ly/4oSPEl5 Listen to the Dealership War Room: https://info.chrishunsicker.com/private-podcst Connect with Tim Cox on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-cox-29065a7/ Listen to more episodes of Tim Talks at: https://www.carnow.com/timtalks/ | |||
| How to Create a Thriving Dealership Culture with GM Patrick Abad | 03 Sep 2024 | 00:28:15 | |
Description: Join Tim in this heartfelt episode of TimTalks Automotive Leadership and Beyond, where he sits down with his close friend and esteemed leader, Patrick Abad, general manager of Beaver Toyota of Cumming. Dive into an inspiring conversation about leadership in the automotive industry, the power of effective management, and how to create a thriving dealership culture. Patrick shares his journey from working in Tampa, Florida, to transforming Beaver Toyota in Cumming, Georgia, and the core principles that have driven his success. Discover how clear communication, respect, and opportunities for growth can foster an environment where employees flourish and aspire to their leaders. Guest:
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[0:00] - Introduction: The Power of Leadership in Dealerships [0:26] - Patrick Abad's Leadership Journey [2:48] - Key Leadership Principles: Coming Through for People [5:44] - Building a Culture of Respect and Growth at Beaver Toyota [10:50] - Communicating Growth Opportunities Clearly [13:55] - The Impact of Culture on Business Success [16:50] - The Role of Humility in Leadership [19:19] - Community Engagement and Giving Back [22:14] - Advice for Aspiring Leaders in Dealerships [27:25] - Closing Thoughts and Takeaways [27:54] - Outro | |||
| Empowering Women in Automotive Leadership with Director of Marketing Lynne Hudson | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:27:02 | |
Description: In this episode of TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond, Tim welcomes Lynne Hudson, Director of Marketing for Toyota Tampa Bay and West Shore Honda. With a long-standing relationship since 2015, Tim and Lynne delve into her journey in the automotive industry, her leadership philosophy, and her dedication to empowering women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Lynne shares insights from her work with the Morgan Auto Group, her experiences with John Maxwell's leadership principles, and the importance of intentional living. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about overcoming challenges, fostering leadership, and the transformative power of gratitude. Guest:
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[0:00 - 0:55] [0:55 - 2:12] [2:12 - 3:08] [3:08 - 4:12] [4:12 - 6:57] [6:57 - 9:59] [9:59 - 14:14] [14:14 - 18:21] [18:21 - 20:24] [20:24 - 26:53] | |||
| Protecting Your Dealership From Unexpected Privacy Laws with Nicole Newman & Joshua Talcovitz | 20 Aug 2024 | 00:29:57 | |
Episode Description: In this episode of Tim Talks, we dive deep into the complexities of privacy laws impacting the automotive industry with our special guests, privacy attorney Nicole Newman from L2 Partners, and senior attorney Joshua Talcovitz from Kurkin, Forehand, and Brandes. Learn about the challenges dealerships face regarding outdated privacy laws, such as the Florida Security and Communication Act, and how these laws are being leveraged in lawsuits that could affect your dealership. Nicole and Joshua provide invaluable insights on how to protect your dealership from these legal pitfalls and proactive measures you can take to stay compliant. Guests and Contact Information:
Show Notes: [00:00] Introduction: Tim Cox introduces the focus of the episode – the importance of leadership in the automotive industry and the growing concern over compliance with privacy laws. [00:17] Industry Challenges: Tim Cox highlights the need for the automotive industry to stay compliant with laws like GLBA and TCPA, with a focus on protecting dealerships. [01:19] Guest Introduction: Tim Cox introduces privacy attorney Nicole Newman and senior attorney Joshua Talcovitz. [02:07] The Florida Security of Communications Act: Nicole Newman and Joshua Talcovitz discuss the law being used to file lawsuits against dealerships for their chat features. [03:13] Understanding Consent: Nicole Newman explains the lawsuits stemming from improper consent in dealership online chats and how CarNow is helping dealers protect themselves. [05:14] Wiretap Law Application: Joshua Talcovitz expands on the outdated wiretap laws and how they are misapplied to modern chat features on dealership websites. [07:49] Who’s Behind the Lawsuits: Joshua Talcovitz reveals how digital privacy advocates, or individuals looking to profit from lawsuits, are targeting dealerships. [10:18] Court Cases & Outcomes: Joshua Talcovitz details the legal landscape, including small claims courts, and the potential for these cases to escalate to class-action lawsuits. [14:53] How Dealerships Can Protect Themselves: Nicole Newman and Joshua Talcovitz share proactive steps dealerships can take, such as adding cookie banners and updating privacy policies. [18:09] Two-Party Consent States: Nicole Newman lists states with two-party consent laws and why dealerships must be extra vigilant in those areas. [20:12] Practical Solutions: Tim and his guests discuss practical steps dealerships can take to avoid lawsuits, including working closely with their web providers. [24:07] Final Thoughts: Joshua Talcovitz and Nicole Newman encourage dealerships to fight these lawsuits rather than settle, in order to prevent a flood of future legal actions. [27:00] Call to Action: Tim Cox wraps up with a call for dealerships to be proactive, protect themselves, and reach out to CarNow or legal experts for guidance. | |||
| Transforming Your Leadership Mindset with Damian Boudreaux | 13 Aug 2024 | 00:29:43 | |
In this inaugural episode of the revamped "TimTalks Automotive Leadership and Beyond," host CarNow’s Tim Cox sits down with Damian Boudreaux, a renowned coach in the automotive industry, to discuss transformational leadership. Damian delves into the principles of relationship selling, the importance of mindset, and the crucial role of leadership in transforming car dealerships. The TimTalks podcast is a treasure trove of insights for anyone in the automotive industry looking to be inspired, enhance their leadership skills and dealership culture.
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[00:00] Ben Carson’s Story: Tim introduces the story of Dr. Ben Carson, reflecting on how Carson went from being called “dummy” to becoming one of the world’s leading neurosurgeons, all due to a shift in mindset. [01:39] Renewing Your Mind: Tim emphasizes that Carson’s transformation began with a change in mindset, linking this lesson to leadership in dealerships. [02:40] Welcome to the Revamped Tim Talks: Tim introduces Damian Boudreaux, who inspired the Leadership in the Dealership concept and co-authored a book with Ali Reda, the top car salesperson in the world. [04:44] Damian Boudreaux Joins the Conversation: Damian shares his excitement about being part of the program and emphasizes that the key to transforming dealerships is growing people. [07:26] The Journey from Transactional to Relationship Selling: Damian explains how he went from selling just a few cars a month to selling 63 cars in one month by focusing on relationships. [08:59] Vision, Identity, and Storytelling: Damian outlines the three pillars of dealership success: having a clear vision, knowing your identity, and telling your story. [10:14] Mentorship and Growth: Damian talks about mentoring top performers like Ali Reda. [12:07] Coaching Managers and Leaders: Damian and Tim discuss how the book they co-wrote evolved to focus not just on sales but on the leadership challenges managers face. [14:23] Developing Career Paths for Dealership Staff: Damian highlights the importance of developing clear career paths within dealerships, not just for salespeople but for every role in the dealership. [16:26] The Law of Attraction and Duplication: Tim reflects on leadership principles that have helped him grow his own company, including the Law of Attraction and the Law of Duplication. [18:02] The Baseball Diamond Analogy: Damian introduces his “baseball diamond” analogy to explain the difference between transactional and relationship selling. [20:33] Success Stories and Relationship Selling: Damian shares success stories, including how he helped a young man named Carlos transition from the swimming pool business to selling 50 cars a month. [22:13] Moving Dealerships from Transactional to Relationship Selling: Damian and Tim talk about how entire dealerships can be transformed by shifting from transactional to relationship-focused models. [24:00] Overcoming the “Yeah, But” Mentality: Tim and Damian challenge listeners to reject the excuses that hold them back. [27:29] Closing Thoughts: Tim and Damian reflect on the power of mindset transformation, urging listeners to imagine what could be possible if they renewed their minds and believed in their potential as leaders in the dealership. | |||
| Dominate Your Life with Danelle Delgado | 09 Jan 2024 | 00:34:12 | |
Tim Cox sits down with Danelle Delgado to explore the keys to unlocking your potential, navigating life's challenges, and embracing a mindset that leads to lasting significance. | |||
| Navigating the Changing Auto Dealership Landscape with Daniel Govaer | 13 Sep 2023 | 00:39:27 | |
Join Tim Cox and Bob Lanham as they discuss the ever-changing world of auto dealerships with Daniel Govaer, the general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Easton. The trio explores insights on inventory challenges, buying from consumers, OEMs and inventory management, the impact of interest rates on financing and leasing, and the nuances of price trends in the automotive industry. | |||
| Bob Werner and Matching the In-store Process To Current Consumer Behavior | 20 Dec 2022 | 00:35:25 | |
CarNow's Tim Cox and Bob Lanham are joined by Bob Werner, Dealer Principal at Werner Mazda, to discuss the keys to Bob Werner's success. From understanding modern shopper preferences to delivering top-notch customer service, they explore the strategies and techniques that have made Werner Mazda a true leader in the automotive industry. | |||
| Patrick Abad and How to Recession-Proof Your Dealership | 09 Aug 2022 | 00:32:33 | |
Tim Cox is joined by Patrick Abad, General Manager at Beaver Toyota, to explore what it means to create a recession-proof ecosystem within your dealership's business operations. | |||
| Marat Pashkevich | Never Say Never: One Man's Story of Overcoming Insurmountable Odds | 26 Jul 2022 | 00:31:53 | |
Tim Cox is joined by Marat Pashkevich, the Director of Technology and Sales at indiGO Auto Group. Marat shares his powerful story of triumph and details how he was able to overcome the odds when faced with a seemingly insurmountable life-altering challenge. | |||
| Tim Cox: Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:17:49 | |
Tim Cox shares strategic advice on how to succeed as a strong leader in the automotive industry. | |||
| The Truth About Leading When No One’s Watching with Mickey Seelye | 14 Oct 2025 | 00:32:15 | |
In this moving conversation on TimTalks, Tim Cox sits down with Mickey Seelye, President & CEO of Seelye Auto Group in Kalamazoo, Michigan—a third-generation dealer whose leadership begins and ends with faith. Mickey shares how he rebuilt his family business from the inside out: valuing people over profit, choosing culture over convenience, and insisting that his faith be part of every decision he makes. This is a story about courage, conviction, and the quiet power of consistency—the kind of leadership that transforms both workplaces and lives. 00:00 – The Seelye legacy and the roots of a family-run dealership. 02:15 – Growing up in the showroom and learning every job in the building. 04:03 – “There’s no way I could do it without them.” Mickey on valuing his team. 05:34 – Meeting Stan—the faith-filled friendship that changed everything. 07:12 – The promise to lead differently, even when others said it couldn’t be done. 11:02 – When Forbes called—and why Mickey refused to leave faith out of the story. 13:18 – “If He’s first in my life, that means He’s first in business.” 17:40 – Consistency: the hidden ingredient in great leadership. 20:13 – “We hire for attitude, then train for skill.” Culture before talent. 25:01 – Starting with people—how to rebuild a broken culture from the ground up. 28:19 – Grace, hope, and leading a life that points back to purpose. Connect with Mickey Seelye: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeyseelye/ Connect with Tim Cox: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-cox-29065a7/ Listen to more episodes of TimTalks: https://www.carnow.com/timtalks/ | |||
| Jim Fitzpatrick and NADA 2022 | 21 Jun 2022 | 00:25:40 | |
Tim Cox is joined by CBT’s Jim Fitzpatrick to explore Jim’s background at CBT, the biggest takeaways from the 2022 NADA Show, and much more! | |||
| Bob Lanham and the Metaverse | 14 Jun 2022 | 00:34:28 | |
On this episode of TimTalks, CarNow's Tim Cox meets with Bob Lanham, Head of Automotive Retail at Meta, to discuss what the Metaverse means for car dealerships. | |||
| Fred Brothers and Cryptocurrency | 31 May 2022 | 00:37:03 | |
On this episode of TimTalks, Tim Cox and Cion Digital president and co-founder Fred Brothers sit down to discuss the new CarNow | Cion Digital partnership and what cryptocurrency means for the future of the automotive industry. | |||
| John Acosta, Paul Jensen and the GLBA | 17 May 2022 | 00:31:04 | |
Tim Cox is joined by John Acosta, CEO at VTech Dealer I.T., and Paul Jensen, Operations Manager at Qvale Auto Group, for an exciting and informative conversation. They discuss the new safeguards put out by the FTC, how dealerships can remain compliant with recent updates to the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), and other ways to ensure your dealership operations are secure. | |||
| Welcome to TimTalks | 03 May 2022 | 00:03:01 | |
Host Tim Cox provides an introduction to the TimTalks podcast. | |||
| Step Zero: Attitude, Energy, and Approach with David Long | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:32:58 | |
Tim sits down with David Long of Hansel Auto Group to explore clarity, accountability, and pouring into people. In this episode, David shares the origins of his Pandemic of Positivity, the foundation of his upcoming book, “Step Zero,” and his Return on Time framework. From his start detailing cars in Ohio to leading one of the strongest groups in the country, David’s story is proof that success leaves clues. Tune in for strategies that will inspire, only on TimTalks. [00:00 – 02:32] Introductions [02:32 – 04:36] David’s Journey [04:36 – 06:36] Advice for Young Leaders [06:36 – 08:08] Clear Expectations and Accountability [08:08 – 09:43] Repositioning Talent [09:43 – 11:14] Pandemic of Positivity [11:14 – 12:34] Rebuilding Culture [12:34 – 14:39] Live to 100 [14:39 – 17:27] Breaking Through Excuses [17:27 – 19:35] The Right People [19:35 – 20:53] Step Zero [20:53 – 23:09] Making a Difference [23:09 – 24:12] Return on Time (ROT) [24:12 – 26:18] Power of Consistency [26:18 – 27:46] Legacy of Love and Leadership [27:46 – 31:17] Choosing Positivity Daily [31:17 – 32:46] Closing Thoughts | |||
| Why Sitting in Every Seat Matters with Laurie Halter | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:31:35 | |
In this episode of “TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond,” Tim Cox sits down with Laurie Halter, founder and CEO of Charisma! Communications. Laurie shares her journey through the industry—from her early days at Chrome Data to running her own successful agency—and opens up about leadership, culture, and the powerful rise of women in automotive. From the importance of sitting “in every chair,” to practical ways we can recruit and support more women in the industry, Laurie’s insights are both inspiring and actionable. Their conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities of AI in automotive, and why listening to dealers is the key to creating real solutions. Connect with Laurie on LinkedIn and learn more about Charisma! Communications. [00:00 – 01:30] Introductions [01:30 – 03:35] Laurie’s Story [03:35 – 05:45] The Value of Experience [05:45 – 09:47] Building a Sorority of Support [09:47 – 13:29] Recruiting Women into Automotive [13:29 – 20:55] Culture, Mentorship & Leadership Lessons [20:55 – 24:56] Advice for Women Entering Automotive [24:56 – 29:47] Trends & Opportunities [29:47 – 31:26] Closing Thoughts | |||
| Excelling Through the 'Yeah Buts' with Evangeline Sutton & Hayden Hicks | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:33:22 | |
Excelling Through the 'Yeah Buts' with Evangeline Sutton & Hayden Hicks The latest TimTalks explores the foundations of exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and servant-minded growth in the automotive world. Tim joined Hayden Hicks, who is leading the charge at Jerry Hunt Supercenter with 900 used cars sold monthly, and Evangeline Schultz-Sutton, the dynamic CMO helping scale Clement Auto Group from two to seven rooftops. This episode spans personal origins, leadership philosophies, mindset routines, and tactical growth strategies that fuel next-level performance. Connect with Evangeline and Hayden on LinkedIn. [00:00 – 02:17] Meet the Guests [02:18 – 04:43] Why Hayden Stands Out [04:44 – 09:47] Hayden’s Journey [09:48 – 14:14] Daily Culture & Setting the Tone [14:15 – 16:40] Crushing the "Yeah, Buts" [16:41 – 20:58] Scaling with Smiles [20:59 – 24:28] Gratitude as a Leadership Superpower [24:29 – 26:48] Advice to a Younger Hayden [26:49 – 28:27] Advice to a Younger Evangeline [28:28 – 31:12] Dream Big [31:13 – 31:57] Final Advice for New Leaders [31:58 – 33:00] Closing Remarks | |||
| Challenging Ego and Creating Empathy with April Simmons | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:34:38 | |
Challenging Ego and Creating Empathy with April Simmons Tim sits down with industry powerhouse, April Simmons, to explore her journey from loan officer to digital retailing pioneer to operations leader at Horne Auto Group. April shares candid stories of breaking barriers as a woman in automotive, building successful internet departments, and discovering her “second mountain”—a mission to empower others. From resilience to reinvention, this TimTalks episode has actionable insights for anyone looking to grow in the auto industry. Connect with April on LinkedIn. [00:00 – 01:04] Opening & Guest Introduction [01:04 – 02:31] A Decade of Partnership [02:31 – 03:57] Taking Risks as a Thought Leader [03:57 – 05:02] April’s Automotive Origin Story [05:02 – 07:22] Early Lessons & Adapting [07:22 – 09:04] Entering Retail Automotive & Breaking Barriers [09:04 – 12:03] Building Internet Departments & Learning Marketing [12:03 – 13:29] The Secret Sauce: Communication [13:29 – 17:21] Women in Automotive: Opportunity & Obstacles [17:21 – 22:10] Retaining Women & Evolving Culture [22:10 – 26:08] Treat People How You Wish To Be Treated [26:08 – 31:22] From Survival to Joy [31:22 – 36:08] The Call to Empower [36:08 – 37:43] Continuous Improvement [37:43 – 37:54] Closing Remarks | |||
| Building Champions and Breaking Records with Roger Hendon | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:37:02 | |
On the latest “TimTalks,” Roger Hendon shares how he transformed Valdosta Toyota from a low-performing store to a top closer by building champions. Discover how empowering his team, establishing expectations, and leading with humility broke decades-old records. Learn Roger’s step-by-step strategy for dealership success, the power of belief, and what it takes to create a team that manages itself. Connect with Roger on LinkedIn. | |||