Send us a Text Message.Is your car sending location data to the police? Should it be?On today’s episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse, host Daniel Govaer is joined by Ashley Cavazos, Marketing Director at DeMontrond Auto Group, Colby Joyner, VP of Marketing at Cavender Auto Group and Savannah Simms, Director of Business Development at Simms Auto Group.They delve into dealership challenges such as implementing new processes under new management, navigating inventory levels, and the impact of competitive pricing. Plus, there are some free ways to improve customer experience and signs that your dealership just isn’t that into you.Here’s what’s covered in today’s episode:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:19 Around the horn with today’s panel3:14 Driving It Until the Wheels Fall Off9:07 Shady Dealers and Shady Deals17:01 Connected Cars and Privacy26:49 Are EV Discounts a Conquest Opportunity?36:07 Free Ways To Improve Customer Experience42:19 Red Flags to Say Your Dealership Might Not Be Into YouSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Getting a car for under $30,000 is like hitting the jackpot for buyers today. It doesn't even matter if it's an EV; if the sticker price is under that magic $30K mark, people are all over it.Today, the ASOTU Wheelhouse talks about how price sensitivity is influencing dealership inventory strategies, plus covers what it takes to build a winning culture in 2024. Host Daniel Govaer is joined by new panelists Savannah Simms, Director of Business Development at Simms Auto Group and Jonathan Dawson, Coach & Trainer atSellchology, along with regular faces Brian Kramer, EVP at Cars Commerce and GM at Accu-Trade and Michael Wood, GM at Checkered Flag Auto Group.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:39 Around the horn with today’s panel5:40 Gen Z and Skilled Trades9:58 Marijuana Testing in the workplace13:27 The price point for affordability18:49 A winning culture26:18 Workforce and recruiting changes for 202434:35 Signs Your Dealership Just Isn’t That Into YouSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Consumer Reports, Carvana and Cybertrucks, oh my!Do consumers pay attention to top car lists? What software is absolutely necessary for success in the dealership world? Does the general population care that inflation is still high? And how can you make yourself the place to attract the top talent in the auto industry?On this fast-moving episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse, host Daniel Govaer is joined by Colby Joyner, VP of Marketing & Strategy at Cavender Auto Group, Jarrod Kilway, VP of Digital Operations at Casa Automotive Group, Alan Brown, General Manager at Sam Pack’s Five Star Chevrolet and Jordan Cox from ASOTU | More Than Cars.Here’s what we cover on today’s episode:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer3:02 Around the horn with today’s panelists6:15 Is Carvana Selling Stolen Cars?10:15 Ex-NFL Player Blocked from Buying Cybertruck by Financial Adviser12:17 Inflation Is Up, People Are Still Spending15:12 Is Consumer Reports Still Relevant?21:02 What is essential software at a dealership?24:23 Colby’s EV experience so far25:38 How to make your store a talent magnet31:09 Dealership Relationship AdviceSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Here’s some free advice: It’s not that hard to improve your customer experience.Just try some of these simple things that our panel suggests. Host Daniel Govaer is joined by Kyle Mountsier, COO of ASOTU, Michael Wood, GM at Checkered Flag Auto Group Jen Suzuki, President at eDealer Solutions and Erica Bruno, Head of Marketing & Brand Engagement at Global SUV. Here’s what we covered:0:00 Intro and Disclaimers1:38 Around the horn: How did February end in the auto industry?5:37 Headlines - Tesla’s Brand Loyalty10:59 Headlines - Reselling Cybertrucks14:44 Headlines - Jaguar’s Last Year Of ICE20:17 Headlines - Shawn Fain, Motor Trend Person of the Year23:47 How To Improve Customer Experience Without Spending a Dime39:44 Relationship Advice - Signs Your Dealership Just Isn’t That Into YouSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.It’s February in the car business, meaning it’s not without its challenges.Fortunately, the panel on the ASOTU Wheelhouse is here to help you navigate through it. Host Daniel Govaer is joined by Paul Daly, CEO at ASOTU, Matt Haiken, President & Dealer Principal at Prestige Collection, Colby Joyner, VP of Marketing & Strategy at Cavender Auto Group and Ashley Cavazos, Marketing Director at DeMontrond Auto Group.They break down what it means to be successful in the new landscape of higher supply and lower demand, the (ongoing) challenges of marketing and selling EVs, what all this means for dealership pay plans and share some toxic traits to avoid at dealerships.Here’s what’s covered:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:59 Around the horn with today’s panelists4:44 What does gross profit and discounting look like this year?12:11 Tackling the affordability issue20:55 Discounts, Discounts and More Discounts30:26 Should changing car prices mean a change in salesperson pay plans?36:53 Relationship Advice: Toxic Traits To AvoidSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.How do you build a culture where people of all backgrounds can feel accepted and accept others?In this episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse, host Daniel Govaer is joined by Dimitrius Naylor, Director of Cavender Nissan of San Marcos, Karen Byrd, GM of Colonial VW Subaru and Alan Brown, GM of Sam Pack’s Five Star Chevrolet.Throughout the episode, the panel delves into topics such as the power of authentic leadership, the importance of understanding employees' backgrounds and experiences, and strategies for creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace. They also discuss the impact of company culture on recruitment, the value of understanding employees' personal 'whys,' and the importance of leadership in fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated.Here’s what we cover:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:32 Around the Horn with today’s panel4:04 Sharing Your Unique Upbringing15:22 The Value of Diverse Experiences21:38 Diversity in Recruiting30:37 Takeaways and CloseSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Some conversations are worth extending.Last time on the ASOTU Wheelhouse, we looked at supportive strategies for our current and next generation of leaders in our industry focusing on empowerment, specifically addressing the unique challenges faced by women in the auto industry.Today we continued that conversation with new faces and topics. Host Daniel Govaer is joined by Michael Wood, General Manager at Checkered Flag Auto Group, Erikka Tiffani Wells, General Manager of Walser Hyundai,Katie Duncan, Assistant General Manager  of Mohawk Chevrolet and Ashley Cavazos, Marketing Director of DeMontrond Auto Group.In addition to our panel, we were able interview Tianna Mick, Ashley Kilbarger and Mabel Peralta about their experience in the auto industry and include their responses in today’s show.Here’s what we covered:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:59 Around the Horn on how the year is starting5:39 Why women aren’t drawn to automotive with Tianna Mick12:05 Why are women held back in automotive with Ashley Kilbarger25:11 How dealers can better lead women with Mabel Peralta31:39 Closing thoughtsSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.On this episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse, we delve into supportive strategies for our current and next generation of leaders in our industry focusing on empowerment, specifically addressing the unique challenges faced by women in the auto industry. We will hear from different perspectives of women in auto retail and talk through ways to remove barriers and support their growth.Host Daniel Govaer is joined by Liza Borches, President and CEO of Carter Myers Automotive, Michael Wood, General Manager at Checkered Flag Auto Group, Katie Duncan, Assistant General Manager of Mohawk Chevrolet, and Fabiola Mathis, General Manager at Mercedes-Benz of Lubbock.In addition to our panel, we were able interview several women in the auto industry and include their responses in today’s show.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:55 Around the Horn with today’s panelists4:59 Erica Bruno on women in auto5:53 Discussion on why women are not drawn to auto11:42 Jesse Cannon-Wallace on women and social media12:08 Discussion on using social media as a woman in auto25:47 Erica Bruno on what dealers are supporting women well28:46 What each of our panelists is taking back to the storeSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Buckle up. It’s time for the Wheelhouse to dissect leads and follow-up process.Who should handle leads? How often should you follow-up? Where does AI fit in the process?On today, the longest ever episode of the Wheelhouse, host Daniel Govaer is joined by Jen Suzuki, President of eDealer Solutions, Kyle Mountsier, COO of ASOTU, Don Hall, President of the Virginia Automobile Dealers Association and Michael Wood, General Manager at Checkered Flag Auto Group.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:0:00 Intro1:34 Around the horn with today’s panel4:15 What we are and aren’t talking about with leads5:49 The Who and What of leads12:39 The customer journey prior to a lead20:35 Who handles internet leads?28:35 What goes into lead follow up?37:13 Lead handling a single point of contact store45:26 Closing thoughtsSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Hyundai will sell its vehicles on Amazon, and it potentially has huge ramifications for the auto industry.Fortunately, the Wheelhouse is here to break it all down. Daniel Govaer welcomes Brian Kramer, EVP of Cars Commerce, Matthew Haiken, Retailer Principal of Prestige Collection Auto Group, and new face Michael Wood, GM at Checkered Flag Auto Group.They cover why we’re here, and how dealers should respond. Plus, can any company introduce something as cutting-edge as the Cybertruck? What’s up with the new FTC regulations aimed at car dealers? And is Tesla the only OEM really playing the EV game in the US?Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:36 What is each of our panelists focused on for the rest of the year?4:09 The excitement around the Cybertruck8:32 FTC regulations aimed at car dealers13:36 Mazda calls Tesla the only EV taking off in America16:38 Hyundai to sell cars through Amazon31:11 Rapid Fire with today’s winner32:21 OutroSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.The retail auto industry has some questions about the EV narrative that’s being spun in the media and pop culture.Are dealers the problem? Is this whole thing a political issue? What do consumers actually want? And how many people actually plug in their plug-in hybrids?No one disagrees that EVs are coming and should come. The question is how do we get there and how do we work together to get there?Our panel this week is full of retail automotive advocates from all sectors. Matthew Haiken is the Retailer Principal of Prestige Collection Auto Group, which includes a Polestar store. Michael Hayes is the Academy Chair for NADA, teaching the upcoming generation of dealers, and worked for an EV startup for 6+ years prior to that. Don Hall is a 40+ year industry titan and the President of VADA. And of course, Daniel Govaer hosts.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:0:00 Introductions and Disclaimer1:18 Around the Horn on the state of the franchise network5:09 The Mercedes-Benz x Buccees collaboration is a head scratcher9:12 What do we do about EV and luxury depreciation?17:05 New York backtracks on EV snow plows19:57 Combatting The EV Narratives30:14 Rapid Fire with today’s winner32:10 OutroSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Here are the things in the retail auto industry that we need to stop sayingDuring today’s episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse hosted by Daniel Govaer, panelists Liza Borches, Andrew DiFeo and Jen Suzuki talk about the words and phrases that we shouldn’t be using anymore, plus why Taylor Swift and Travis Kielce matter to the auto industry.0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:56 What are our panelists scared of?3:58 Who on the panel is a Swiftie?5:10 Hertz cutting back on EV investment7:52 Jeep introducing more models over $100K10:50 People aren’t making big purchases14:45 Marijuana Hiring and Employee Policies22:19 Employee Compensation and the UAW’s Contract28:00 What are things we should stop saying?34:30 Rapid Fire with today’s winner36:00 Halloween costumes in the dealership37:25 Bonus Travis Kielce and Taylor Swift question and wrap-up Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.It all ties back to the customer and serving them better.On today’s episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse hosted by Daniel Govaer, we talk about Rivian, BWM, Apple, car listing websites and a customer service survey. But at every conversation, our panelists Paul J Daly, Matthew Haiken, Kyle Mountsier and Jennifer Suzuki find ways to tie it practically back to what is happening in stores with customers every day. Here’s what we talk about on today’s episode:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:43 Our Panels Thoughts on Future Industry Gatherings5:54 What’s happening at Rivian?10:33 BMW Makes Premium Trim Standard17:29 The Apple iCar is coming24:17 Car Listing Websites Prospering27:32 The Necessary Customer Service Skills33:25 Rapid Fire with today’s winnerSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Missed ASOTU CON? Don’t worry, we got you.On the first ever live appearance of the ASOTU Wheelhouse hosted by Daniel Govaer, we’re joined by Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier, Matthew Haiken, and the amazing Liza Borches graces us with her presence for the first time.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:0:00 Intro and Disclaimers1:27 Daniel’s look around the industry3:31 The Watch List7:09 F&I Best Practices12:53 Used BEV Retail-ability16:24 A 4 Day Work Week In Auto22:29 The United States vs Amazon 26:08 It Is What It Is with DG30:43 Rapid fire with today’s winnerSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Let’s get real practical.Today, we take extra time and care to tie it down for those who work and lead in dealerships as we answer the question: How do you respond to the headwinds you see around you? What is the biggest threat and where’s the biggest opportunity?On this episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse hosted by Daniel Govaer, we’re joined by panelists Matthew Haiken, Patrick Abad and Jen Suzuki.Here’s what we cover:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:36 What Matters Right now7:20 Dealers and Used EV Tax Credits13:06 Issues surrounding the UAW Strike21:34 Who is the real winner/loser in the UAW Strike?27:56 Threats and OpportunitiesWant to see the Wheelhouse live? Join us at ASOTU CON in Baltimore, MD on September 26-27! Get more information at https://www.asotucon.comSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Matthew Haiken gets all fired up.Brian Kramer won’t stop interrupting.Patrick Abad seems to welcome companies gleaning data from him.Paul J Daly is still basking in the glow of his “victory” from 3 weeks ago.On today’s episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse hosted by Daniel Govaer, we have Paul J Daly, Patrick Abad, Brian Kramer and Matthew Haiken on to discuss the growing issues around vehicle privacy and answer the question: do we actually care that cars are stealing our data?Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:0:00 Intro and Disclaimer1:45 BMW and its re-heated seats4:25 Bring a Trailer and consumer trust9:16 Toyota is releasing a Century Luxury edition12:26 Will ICE Vehicles be around until 2050?17:45 Off-topic Off Lease Only conversation18:36 All the issues surrounding vehicle privacy27:26 Rapid Fire with today’s winner31:53 Buy, Lease, WholesaleCome see the Wheelhouse in-person at ASOTU CON 2023! Get your tickets at https://www.asotucon.comSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Should more OEMs look towards Ferrari for strategy?Our panel seems to think so.On this episode of the ASOTU Wheelhouse with Daniel Govaer, we uncover how Ferrari has turned their customer base younger and what other dealers/OEMS can learn from it. It’s a grab bag Labor Day episode, so we jump all around the map with panelists Paul J Daly, Kyle Mountsier, Jenn Suzuki and Brian Kramer.Here’s what we cover:0:00 Intro2:14 Our Panelist’s Watch List6:52 Rivian’s CEO Mocks ICE Buyers9:47 Tesla’s Most Recent Price Cuts12:09 Adam Driver Can’t Drive a Ferrari13:49 Ferrari’s Younger Customer Base19:02 Applying Ferrari’s Strategy21:25 Should we train salespeople on other brands?24:26 Rethinking Traditional Lead Gen28:29 Is Customer Acquisition Still the Best Method?31:31 Rapid Fire with today’s winner34:03 Buy, Lease, WholesaleCome see the Wheelhouse in-person at ASOTU CON 2023! Get your tickets at https://www.asotucon.comSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.We aren’t economists, but we do know what dealers can do to be successful.On this week’s edition of the ASOTU Wheelhouse - hosted by Daniel G, we tackle how dealers should approach economic slowdowns, plus why Ford isn’t the same as Porsche.Paul J Daly is still riding high off of last week’s “win,” Patrick Abad wants to hold a book burning, Kyle Mountsier wants to un-train everyone and all of them are astounded that the one and only Jen Suzuki joined the show.Here’s what we cover in this episode:Introductions and DisclaimerWhat our Panelists are WatchingChicago Suing Hyundai/KiaDirect Sales and 2035 Emissions MandatesFord’s $300K MustangThe “Emotional Connection” and EVsHow Can Dealers Win If The Economy Slows DownRapid Fire with today’s winnerIt Is What It Is With DGBuy, Lease or Wholesale?Want to see this show live? Get your tickets to ASOTU CON by visiting www.asotucon.comExperience the education, the encouragement and the fun!Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Will people need dealers in the future? Can’t they just do the whole process online?In this rowdy episode of the Wheelhouse, host Daniel Govaer and the ASOTU Wheelhouse crew tackle this topic, but before we get there, we’ve got rumors and stolen ideas.Here’s what to expect:Matthew Haiken talks about VinFast’s Public IPO before Daniel introduces it as an actual topic, causing all sorts of chaos.Kyle Mountsier reminds us that he can talk about tech for a long time.Paul J Daly thinks the Mitsubishi Mirage will one day be a collectible.Bob Lanham gives non-committal answers and spouts all kinds of rumors…correction…rumors he heard.Today’s Topics:-What our panel is watching-Vinfast coming to a dealership near you?-Are auto shows actually effective anymore?-The end of the sub-$20K new car-The future of car buying and the dealer’s place in it-Rapid Fire with today’s winner-Buy, Lease, WholesaleIt might go without saying, but the ASOTU legal team wanted us to remind everyone that the opinions and views expressed in this podcast are the views of the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the position of ASOTU or any entity the participants represent.Thanks Legal… but we like the Wheelhouse the way it is, and we won’t back down from bold topics and conversation.Got something we should talk about? Know a voice that could add to the conversation? Think we got it wrong? Drop us a comment and let us know!Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars

Send us a Text Message.Interpreting the data can be hard, but the Wheelhouse is here to help.On our second consecutive episode, host Daniel Govaer is joined by Paul J Daly, Brian Kramer, Matthew Haiken and Jasen Rice. We take a deep dive into the recent JD Power and Cox Automotive reports, separating fact from fiction. Plus we add our normal bit of sarcasm and wit. Are we right or wrong? Let us know in the comments.Like the show? Follow it on all podcast platforms - https://www.asotu.com/podcast-category/the-asotu-wheelhouseSign up for the ASOTU Daily Email, the morning email that reminds you of what you work in the automotive industry.Like what you've heard here? Check out our other shows:The Automotive TroublemakerAuto CollabsMore Than Cars