Dealer Driven

Welcome to Dealer Driven! A podcast all about your industry, from your association, focused on amplifying your success. Join hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes as they explore the daily challenges and opportunities dealerships face and how to navigate through them. These 15 to 20-minute drive-time episodes will highlight the best ideas for opportunities and solutions to operational challenges you face, as well as warn you about issues on the road ahead. If you work in a dealership, this is the podcast for you!

Turning Service Into a Competitive Advantage with Smart Technology

The service lane isn’t just where repairs happen, it’s where loyalty is built.In this episode, Kim Saylor, Senior Director of Fixed Ops Marketing at CDK Global, joins hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes to talk about how dealerships can create a better service experience by using the right technology, smartly and strategically.They explore the full flow of service, from AI-powered scheduling and smoother check-ins to predictive inspections and faster payments. Kim shares what dealers can do today to remove friction, improve communication, and turn service into a revenue engine.Whether you’re looking to cut hold times, increase transparency, or improve shop efficiency, this episode offers clear, practical steps to make your service operations a real differentiator.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

12-01
20:44

Using AI in the Dealership

Artificial intelligence continues to generate attention across industries but for dealers, it’s already creating real results.In this episode, hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes speak with Andy Seidenman, instructor at the NADA Academy and a recognized expert in dealer website management, CRM implementation, and modern retailing practices. Andy outlines how dealers can begin using AI tools today to streamline operations, improve marketing performance, and enhance internal training.Topics include how to simulate trade-in conversations using conversational AI, use AI to write vehicle ads tailored to specific customer personas, and apply automation to repetitive tasks across departments. The discussion also clarifies the difference between agentic and logarithmic AI, offering insight into what’s available now—and what’s coming soon.For dealership leaders exploring the role of AI in operations, this conversation offers a clear, actionable starting point.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

11-17
18:39

Attract. Reward. Retain.: Lessons from NADA’s Workforce Study

Attracting and retaining skilled employees continues to be one of the biggest challenges for dealerships across the country. The latest NADA Dealership Workforce Study sheds light on what’s working, what’s changing, and where dealerships should focus to stay competitive in today’s labor market.In this episode of Dealer Driven, hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes are joined by Matthew Vollmers, NADA Academy Instructor, and Joe Fleming, NADA’s Manager of Industry Relations. Together, they break down the most important findings from the 2025 Workforce Study, from changing compensation structures to evolving benefit expectations and the growing importance of workplace culture.The episode offers a practical look at how dealerships can use data to make smarter staffing decisions, strengthen retention, and create a culture where employees build long-term careers.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-27
29:07

NADA Quarterly Economic Report: Q3 Review & Q4 Preview

Inventory shifted in unexpected ways last quarter, challenging assumptions and reshaping dealer strategies. The auto market isn’t standing still and neither should your approach heading into Q4.In this episode, we’re joined by two of the most respected voices in the industry: Patrick Manzi, Chief Economist at NADA, and Larry Dixon, VP of Auction Data Solutions at NAAA. We break down the key takeaways from Q3—rising vehicle prices, softening inventories, and consumer affordability pressure. We also talk through the ripple effects of expiring EV tax credits, stubborn interest rates, and what to expect from the used market as we close out the year. Patrick and Larry share their expert insights into how dealers can prepare for what's coming in Q4 and beyond.Give this episode a listen to stay a step ahead and set your dealership up for a smarter Q4.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

10-15
26:11

Inside NADA Show 2026: Education, Innovation & What’s New

The NADA Show has always been where dealers go to sharpen their edge—and in 2026, the education lineup is bigger and more focused than ever.In this episode, hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes are joined by Alison Wides and Ashley Kempson from the NADA Show team for an inside look at what’s ahead. They break down the different types of sessions, from Main Stage speakers and Super Sessions to Exchanges and the all-new product demos. You’ll also get a sneak peek at the speakers to watch, hot topics like AI and Variable Ops, and tips on how to make the most of the experience.They also share details on the midweek schedule shift, how to plan your time with the NADA app, and what to expect from this year’s opening night party at the Las Vegas Grand Prix Plaza. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a show veteran, this preview will help you get ready for four days of learning, networking, and industry insights.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

09-29
21:06

Year-End Financial Strategies for Dealers

It’s tempting to wait until Q4 to start tackling your dealership’s financial cleanup—but by then, you’re already behind.In this episode, hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes sit down with Heather Westman and Sharlene Croteau, both instructors at NADA Academy, to break down what dealers should be doing now to close out the year with more confidence and less chaos.They explain the most common year-end financial mistakes they see, like ignoring aging inventory, failing to monitor receivables, or missing floorplan costs. They share practical strategies for forecasting, involving department managers in planning, and reviewing overlooked areas like vendor lists, contract renewals, and expense allocations.Heather and Sharlene also preview the upcoming Financial Management seminars hosted by NADA, where they go even deeper on dealership operations, forecasting, and financial leadership.  Learn more or register at: nada.org/seminarsFollow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

09-15
21:02

The Critical Balance Between Compliance and Profitability in the Finance And Insurance (F&I) Office

The Finance & Insurance (F&I) office plays a pivotal role in dealership profitability — but with increased legal scrutiny and evolving customer expectations, success now hinges on building trust through compliance.In this episode, Chuck Bryant, NADA Academy Instructor, joins hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes to share what actually works inside a high-performing F&I department. From weekly audits and consistent menus to transparent payment conversations, Chuck walks through how dealerships can create a trustworthy, repeatable process that drives results.He also breaks down how to define real product value, why some offerings put your store at risk, and what to look for when reviewing your current F&I lineup. If you’re focused on improving performance without sacrificing integrity, this episode is for you.A resource related to this episode's topic is NADA's Driven Management Guide on "Voluntary Protection Products: A Model Dealership Policy," available online here.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

08-25
19:05

Data on Your Terms: Secure, Controlled & Clean Data = More Sales

Security isn't just about protection, it’s about control. And for dealerships, that control over data is quickly becoming non-negotiable.In this episode, Michelle Phelps, Senior Director of Customer Success at Authenticom, joins hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes to explore the importance of dealership data control. They discuss Native Vault, a free resource available to NADA members, and how it helps dealers manage, secure, and optimize their data on their own terms.Michelle shares real-world examples of what can happen when dealers overshare or lose track of vendor access. The conversation covers compliance risks, the operational impact of dirty data, and how better data practices can strengthen vendor relationships and increase marketing ROI.This episode offers actionable steps any dealership can take to protect sensitive data, ensure clean data flows, and streamline their digital operations with confidence.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

08-04
21:33

NADA Quarterly Economic Report: Q2 Review & Q3 Preview

High prices, tightening incentives, and global uncertainty—Q2 was anything but predictable for the U.S. light-vehicle market.In this episode, hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes are joined by Patrick Manzi, Chief Economist at the National Automobile Dealers Association, for the first installment of NADA’s new Quarterly Economic Report series. Patrick breaks down the key forces that shaped Q2’s market dynamics, from shifts in consumer demand and inventory levels to the real-world impact of tariffs and affordability challenges.They also get into what’s ahead for Q3—why used inventory could become critical, how hybrid sales are outpacing EVs, and what dealers should really be watching as inflation and interest rates put more pressure on customers’ wallets.If you’re looking for grounded insights and actionable perspective on what the data actually means, you’ll want to hit play.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

07-14
20:17

Customer Journey Insights from Before, During and After the Deal

Today’s car buyers are more informed and more in control. The 2024 Car Buyer Journey Study from Cox Automotive shows how shifting expectations and smarter tools are shaping every step of the customer experience.In this episode, Jade Terreberry and Vanessa Ton join hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes to unpack what this year’s research reveals about buyer behavior, dealer opportunities, and the digital tools that make the biggest difference. They talk about the growing demand for hybrid buying experiences, how trade-in friction is becoming a key trust factor, and why more time spent shopping doesn’t mean less satisfaction.We also get into why dealers who personalize the journey before the deal are seeing better results and what steps you can take now to meet buyers where they are and build loyalty that lasts. If you're looking for real-world takeaways to improve the customer journey and keep buyers coming back, this episode is a must.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

06-23
24:25

Auto Retail’s Digital Dilemma: Why Online Hasn’t Replaced the Showroom Yet

Despite rapid advancements in e-commerce, a significant percentage of consumers still choose to purchase their vehicles in person. In this episode, hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes are joined by Joe St. John, Chief Customer Officer at Autofi, to explore why digital retailing has yet to fully replace the traditional showroom experience. Joe discusses the misconceptions surrounding online car buying, highlights critical touchpoints that influence consumer decisions, and explains the operational challenges dealerships face when attempting to integrate digital and in-person processes. This conversation provides valuable insights into how dealerships can better align with evolving customer expectations by embracing a hybrid model that leverages technology while maintaining the personalized service buyers still value.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

05-26
27:49

Service Sales Training is the Missing Piece in Dealership Growth

Trust is one of the biggest barriers in the service drive — and without it, your team will always be stuck in transactional selling. In this episode, Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes sit down with Jennifer Suzuki, President of eDealer Solutions, to talk about why service sales training is still the missing piece in dealership growth.Jennifer breaks down how a customer-first mindset, value-based selling, and simple culture shifts can change everything. She shares real examples of what strong service advisor communication looks like, how to build trust quickly, and why slowing down is actually the smartest way to move forward. From walk-around strategy to technician videos and everyday phrases that signal care, this episode is full of practical tools you can use immediately.If your service lane is still being treated like a speedway instead of a relationship-building opportunity, this episode will help you reset the approach.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

05-05
22:19

Increasing the Value of Your Dealership

Valuing a dealership isn’t a one-size-fits-all process — and most owners underestimate what really drives worth. In this episode, Erin Kerrigan, Founder and Managing Director of Kerrigan Advisors, joins hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes to talk through the real factors that impact dealership valuations and how to strengthen them. Erin shares why location, fixed operations, used car performance, and image-compliant facilities all influence value — and how to think strategically about expansion and exits. She also outlines how real estate, staffing efficiency, and contract management can either help or hurt your long-term game. Whether you're planning to sell, grow, or simply sharpen your operations, this episode breaks down practical steps to improve performance and build value in today’s market.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

04-14
22:19

The Digital Drive: Mastering AI, CDPs, and Dealer Data

The future of dealership operations is data-driven, and mastering AI, Customer Data Platforms (CDPs), and advanced analytics is no longer optional. In this episode, Jim Dodd, NADA Consultant & Digital Analytics Technical Specialist, joins hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes to break down how dealers can use these tools to improve marketing, streamline operations, and gain a competitive edge. Jim explains how AI enhances customer interactions, why first-party data is key to better decision-making, and how CDPs provide a unified view of customers. He also covers critical topics like data privacy, ownership, and compliance, offering real-world strategies to ensure dealers stay in control of their data while maximizing its value. For dealers looking to optimize their digital strategy and future-proof their business, this episode is packed with insights you can’t afford to miss.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

03-24
21:44

Optimizing Parts Inventory for Greater Dealership Success

Welcome to Dealer Driven, the podcast for dealership professionals ready to level up their operations and boost profitability. In this episode, hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes sit down with Brian Crossen, a NADA Academy instructor with over 25 years of operations experience, to tackle a game-changing topic: Parts Inventory and Investment Quality—one of the most overlooked yet critical factors in dealership success. Brian shares how poor inventory management can slow down your service department and impact sales. He breaks it all down—covering key metrics like inventory aging, fill rates, and obsolescence—and shares practical strategies to keep your operations running smoothly. Tune in to learn how better communication between parts and service teams, plus smarter use of your DMS tools, can transform your dealership’s efficiency and profitability.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

03-03
23:53

Boost Technician Productivity and Profitability in Your Dealership

Welcome to Dealer Driven, the podcast tailored to dealership professionals navigating today’s fast-paced automotive industry. In this episode, hosts Cameron Wilson and Michael Hayes discuss the critical issue of "technician time vampires" with NADA Academy instructor Larry Hourcle. Drawing from his 27-year experience as a line technician, Larry breaks down how seemingly minor inefficiencies can significantly impact the service department's productivity and profitability. From proper documentation, organized workspaces, and strong communication between service and parts departments, learn how these small efficiency gains can lead to substantial productivity increases and better profitability. Whether you're managing a service department or looking to optimize your dealership operations, this episode provides actionable insights for minimizing time waste and maximizing technician productivity.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

02-10
24:38

Future-Proofing Your Dealership Team for 2025 and Beyond

Welcome to Dealer Driven, the podcast tailored to dealership professionals navigating today’s fast-paced automotive industry. In our first episode, hosts Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes are joined by Cathy Palochko, COO of Quantum⁵ and ESi-Q, to tackle one of the most pressing challenges dealerships face: employee retention. With retention directly tied to profitability, Cathy shares actionable strategies to reduce turnover, engage a multi-generational workforce, and prepare teams for ongoing industry disruption. From leveraging workforce data to fostering cultures of purpose and growth, this conversation is packed with valuable insights to help you create a thriving dealership team. Whether you’re aiming to retain your top talent or enhance your leadership approach, this episode is your guide to future-proofing your workforce for 2025 and beyond.Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

01-21
29:44

Welcome to Dealer Driven

Welcome to Dealer Driven, the podcast for dealership professionals. Hosted by Camron Wilson and Michael Hayes from the National Automobile Dealers Association, Dealer Driven tackles the real challenges you face every day. From navigating industry shifts to optimizing operations and spotting can’t-miss opportunities, this show has you covered. Each episode is packed with actionable insights, best practices and tips to keep your dealership ahead of the game. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, heading to work, or closing up shop, buckle up and join us on Dealer Driven—because your success is our mission!Follow UsX @NADAUpdateInstagram @NADAYouTube @NADAUpdateLinkedIn @NADAFacebook @NADAUpdatePresented by The National Automobile Dealers Associationhttps://www.nada.org/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

01-08
01:04

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