In the Club by Club Colors

What does it take to manage one of the fastest-growing college brands in the state? In Part 2 of our conversation, Chris sits down again with Rachel, Director of Licensing and Auxiliary Services at UNC Charlotte, to unpack how she balances brand integrity with explosive campus growth. From managing vendor relationships and retail partnerships to wrapping NASCAR fire suits and transforming bookstores into social hubs, Rachel shares the behind-the-scenes decisions that shape a university’s brand every day. If you’re building a college brand, managing a campus store, or curious about higher ed retail strategy, this one’s packed with actionable insight and heartfelt reflection. Connect with Rachel Skipworth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-skipworth-b3223471/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-club-by-club-colors/id1611056742 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vqZB7gPKLTlkDHI66XxN3 If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com

What does it mean to be the brand you represent? In this episode, Rachel Skipworth, Associate Director of Auxiliary Services, Bookstore, and Licensing at UNC Charlotte, shares how 25 years across admissions, fundraising, and campus services shaped her approach to brand leadership. From rolling out a university-wide rebrand during COVID to championing internal buy-in across departments, Rachel breaks down what it takes to build belief from the inside out.

What happens when college athletes become national celebrities overnight? In Part 2 of our conversation with Dale Arens (University of Iowa) and Craig Westemeier (University of Texas), we dive into the branding ripple effects of NIL, celebrity athletes, and the business of licensing at scale. From Caitlin Clark’s rise to the future of fair labor, this episode covers how student-athlete fame collides with institutional licensing and what it means to protect a brand while supporting individual opportunity. Dale and Craig reflect on their leadership roles, origin stories, and the coaching trees they’ve helped grow through mentorship. They also unpack the challenges of email culture, the power of a phone call, and why honest conversation still beats clever copy.

What does it take to protect a brand that millions of people wear with pride? In this episode of In The Club, host Chris Jaeger sits down with two giants in collegiate licensing: Dale Arens (University of Iowa) and Craig Westemeier (University of Texas at Austin). With nearly 70 years of combined experience, Dale and Craig open up about what it really takes to manage two of the most iconic brands in college sports. From the rallying power of “Go Hawks!” to the global reach of the Longhorn logo, they explore the emotional weight behind a logo and the day-to-day work of protecting it. They dive into the evolution of brand licensing, the impact of NIL, the value of tenure, and why trust equity is a game-changer on campus. Whether you're in higher ed, athletics, or brand strategy, this is a masterclass in building legacy.

Amazon isn’t easy—and Joe Stefani wants you to know it. In Part 2 of our conversation, Joe breaks down the behind-the-scenes grind of building Desert Cactus into a trusted partner for collegiate brands, pro sports, and now global football clubs. From retail packaging to hands-on quality control, Joe explains how staying detail-obsessed built the brand's reputation. We talk about e-commerce evolution, relationship-driven growth, licensing pain points, and his full-circle moment returning to Monmouth College to speak with students. Joe also shares his proudest moments—from packing boxes himself to having Arsenal and Chelsea come knocking. Whether you're in retail, branding, or just love a smart growth story—this one's for you. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-stefani-191a484/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-club-by-club-colors/id1611056742 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vqZB7gPKLTlkDHI66XxN3 If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com

From a college dorm room to Amazon’s top ranks—how Joe Stefani scaled Desert Cactus from a side hustle into a licensing empire. We spoke with Joe Stefani, founder and president of Desert Cactus, about how he built one of the most unique businesses in collegiate merchandise. Joe reveals how a single fraternity flag turned into a brand selling across Amazon and beyond. He covers the ups and downs of licensing, the power of gut decisions, and why design simplicity drives product success. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-stefani-191a484/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-club-by-club-colors/id1611056742 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vqZB7gPKLTlkDHI66XxN3 If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com

From flash mobs at restaurants to 85-year-olds shaking it on the floor—Commit Dance Fitness is redefining what community movement looks like. In Part 2, Quande shares how Commit empowers creativity within structure, why their seven-setlist model makes instructors feel like artists, and how fitness became a lifeline for students aged 12 to 85. She also opens up about the emotional engine behind her leadership, the mentors and moments that kept her going, and why saying "yes" to a Groupon class changed her life. Connect with Quande on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quandequande/?hl=en Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-club-by-club-colors/id1611056742 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vqZB7gPKLTlkDHI66XxN3 If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com

What started as a 60-minute dance fitness class is now a coast-to-coast movement and Jessica “Quande” is at the heart of it. In this episode, we sit down with co-founder of Commit Dance Fitness, to explore how a childhood nickname turned into a personal brand, and how her team built one of the most community-driven fitness formats in the U.S. She shares how Commit grew from packed dance labs to a national instructor network, the creative branding choices behind their standout teal aesthetic, and how merchandise, mentorship, and masterclasses keep the community engaged and thriving. Connect with Quande on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quandequande/?hl=en Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-club-by-club-colors/id1611056742 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vqZB7gPKLTlkDHI66XxN3 If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com

What do stand-up comedy, solo cruises, and legal marketing have in common? For Linda Orton, they’re all part of a 35+ year journey of reinvention, leadership, and deep curiosity. In Part 2, Linda shares how public speaking became a professional superpower—and how it helped her navigate major life transitions with humor and heart. From TEDx-style talks on AI-powered networking to performing comedy, Linda explains why curiosity, storytelling, and adaptability are the keys to connection. She also opens up about writing on LinkedIn since its early days, the value of commenting as a form of engagement, and how personal stories can spark professional impact. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-club-by-club-colors/id1611056742 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vqZB7gPKLTlkDHI66XxN3 If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com Connect with Linda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindasedlofforton/ A big thank you from Linda to recent partners: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theplayniceagency/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebelpinecreative/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/vested-llc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/passle/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/upslide/

What does it take to build a career at the intersection of law, consulting, and marketing—before any of those industries embraced branding? Linda Orton knows firsthand. From being on the ground floor of legal marketing to launching a full rebrand at private equity speed, Linda shares how to create strategic clarity, build internal buy-in, and lead through change. Linda breaks down why B2B marketing is still misunderstood, how storytelling powers brand adoption, and what it takes to align teams under one message—fast. Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-club-by-club-colors/id1611056742 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vqZB7gPKLTlkDHI66XxN3 Connect with Linda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindasedlofforton/ If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com A big thank you from Linda to recent partners: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theplayniceagency/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebelpinecreative/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/vested-llc/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/passle/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/upslide/

What happens when your content takes off — and your name is the brand? In Part 2 of our conversation with Darren McKee, he breaks down what it really takes to sustain momentum, stay authentic, and keep building when the audience is larger. From sending unscripted video DMs to publicly calling out HubSpot on LinkedIn, Darren shares how experimentation, self-awareness, and a backwards hat turned into a personal brand — and a business that’s coached over 500 leaders. He also opens up about the pressure of being visible, protecting his family’s digital footprint, and why “teach, don’t tell” is the mindset driving his content today. Whether you're a sales rep, content creator, or aspiring founder, this episode is full of raw, real-world lessons on building trust, showing up differently, and growing something that lasts. Connect & learn more about Darren McKee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenmckeesales/ Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-club-by-club-colors/id1611056742 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0vqZB7gPKLTlkDHI66XxN3 If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com

Connect & learn more about Darren McKee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenmckeesales/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ijuo4NZ2jkwIf you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com

In this episode, the discussion revolves around the varying experiences and challenges faced by former student-athletes, specifically those who went pro versus those who didn't, and their continued engagement with their alma maters. The conversation delves into the significance of the equipment manager in maintaining connections with alumni athletes. The impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) on collegiate sports is thoroughly examined, revealing its potential in revenue generation and the resulting complexities in university fundraising dynamics. Additionally, KC Smurthwaite elaborates on his teaching experiences at Utah State University, emphasizing hands-on, real-world learning for students in journalism and sports reporting. The episode also highlights successful branding and licensing projects, including jersey sales and apparel deals, that aim to enhance fan engagement and drive revenue for athletic programs.KEY TAKEAWAYSExperiences of Former Student-Athletes: The discussion highlights the different challenges faced by former student-athletes, especially those who went pro versus those who didn’t, and how they continue engaging with their alma maters.Role of Equipment Managers: The importance of the equipment manager in maintaining strong connections with alumni athletes is emphasized as a key factor in alumni relations.Impact of NIL: The episode delves into the growing influence of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) in collegiate sports, showcasing its potential for revenue generation while complicating university fundraising efforts.Hands-on Learning in Journalism: KC shares his teaching experiences at Utah State University, focusing on providing real-world, hands-on learning opportunities for students in journalism and sports reporting.Branding and Licensing Success: Successful branding and licensing initiatives, such as jersey sales and apparel deals, are discussed as effective strategies to enhance fan engagement and drive revenue for athletic programs.QUOTES“What does that even mean? We don’t have aviation at our school... this person who's probably never played football in their life... was so adamant going, no.”“It’s a fun fan experience. You’re tapping into nostalgia. It’s always a win in market. Emotional heartstrings.”“At athletics admin we speak various campus languages. We speak bookstores. We speak the licensing and marketing. We also speak what Coach says.”“It doesn’t really cost that much to create an experience. We have a great game plan and athletics admin. We are working backwards. Let’s define success. Let’s do quantifiable things and we’ll get there.”“What does that even mean? We don’t have aviation at our school... this person who's probably never played football in their life... was so adamant going, no.”“It’s a fun fan experience. You’re tapping into nostalgia. It’s always a win in market. Emotional heartstrings.”“It doesn’t really cost that much to create an experience. We have a great game plan and athletics admin. We are working backwards. Let’s define success. Let’s do quantifiable things and we’ll get there.”Connect and learn more about KC Smurthwaite.https://www.linkedin.com/in/smurf/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/

In this episode, host Chris Jaeger welcomes guest KC Smurthwaite from Athletics Admin who shares insights into his 15+ years in higher education and athletics, covering roles from fundraising to corporate partnerships. They discuss the unique challenges of balancing work life and the creative strategies employed to enhance donor experiences and revenue opportunities. KC emphasizes the importance of customized donor cultivation, the significance of playing the 'long game,' and the need for a game plan akin to playing chess rather than checkers. They delve into innovative approaches such as personalized merchandise for donor engagement and the critical role of understanding each institution's and donor's unique needs. Throughout, the discussion highlights the essence of building genuine relationships and the impact of tailored contributions to the success and experience of student-athletes and the broader university community.KEY TAKEAWAYSExtensive Experience: KC Smurthwaite shares insights from his 15+ years in higher education and athletics, covering various roles including fundraising and corporate partnerships.Work-Life Balance Challenges: The discussion highlights the unique challenges of balancing work and life in this field.Creative Donor Strategies: KC discusses creative strategies to enhance donor experiences and revenue opportunities, emphasizing the importance of customized donor cultivation.Playing the "Long Game": He stresses the significance of long-term planning, comparing the approach to playing chess rather than checkers.Innovative Donor Engagement: Personalized merchandise is one example of innovative strategies for engaging donors and strengthening relationships.Understanding Unique Needs: Tailoring strategies to the specific needs of institutions and donors is critical for success.Building Genuine Relationships: The conversation underscores the importance of building authentic, meaningful relationships, which ultimately benefit student-athletes and the broader university community.QUOTES"In higher education, you’re playing the long game. It is always relationships. It is making sure you're being a good steward to all the folks across campus. And it takes time.""We want to be in there. We want to be known. We want to be in the meetings. Now, if they don’t want us in there, we're not going to. But at the end of the day, we want to augment anything that's being done already within the department.""The crazy thing was, all the people I sent that shirt to would wear it to games... you took the mailer and you're wearing my shirt that Isent you, has proof of concept.""Chess, not checkers... you have to be thinking moves ahead, and you have to be able to pivot and provide solutions to your clientele, and they all come in different ways, shape or form."Connect and learn more about KC Smurthwaite.https://www.linkedin.com/in/smurf/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/

In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we continue the conversation with Mike Wilkinson, the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of South Alabama. Mike shares his journey of adapting to a new campus environment and the importance of being genuine and authentic in both personal and professional life. He emphasized the need for higher education institutions, especially within student affairs, to effectively tell their stories and connect with students through digital media and social platforms. The conversation delves into creating impactful student experiences, highlighting efforts like the return of the homecoming concert and the development of a new Student Involvement Department. The discussion also touches on the significance of mental health awareness, the importance of team leadership, and building strong collaborative relationships across campus. Furthermore, insights about leveraging branding for community building and future goals of personal growth, including aspirations of becoming an NCAA basketball referee, are shared.KEY TAKEAWAYSCommunity and Leadership: Emphasizing the importance of genuine leadership and fostering community within student affairs.Mental Health: Highlighting the critical role of mental health support and breaking the stigma associated with it.Social Media Presence: Encouraging student affairs professionals to utilize social media to tell their stories and engage with students.Event Management: Discussing the significance of student engagement through events like homecoming concerts and pre-game tailgate concerts.Collaboration: Stressing the power of partnerships and collaboration within the university, especially between student affairs and athletics.QUOTES"Tell your story, the good, the bad, the ugly, how you got to where you're at is a key part of it.""We don't tell our story, especially in student affairs… you don't find them. They're a ghost.""We have to have courage. We have to have bravery, um, in these walks that we walk.""Being genuine is key. That's key. I take a lot of pride in being genuine and being authentic.""Hire good people, give them the resources that they need to do their job, and then get the heck out of their way."Connect and learn more about Mike Wilkinson.https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelwilkinson7/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/

In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we are joined by Mike Wilkinson, the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of South Alabama. Mike shares his unconventional path into higher education, starting from his freshman year at the Air Force Academy and his early aspirations of a career in sports. He discusses the pivotal moments that shifted his focus towards student affairs, including personal challenges such as his mother's health struggles and his transformative experience with the Houston Rockets. Mike emphasizes the importance of core values like family, trust, empathy, and creating happiness, and how these values guide his approach to supporting students. The conversation also explores the role of student affairs in enhancing the student experience and the critical skills gained outside the classroom. Mike shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, balancing career and personal life, and the significance of storytelling and visibility in higher education.KEY TAKEAWAYSCareer Journey: Mike Wilkinson's transition from aspiring sports professional to a leader in higher education demonstrates adaptability and resilience.Personal Adversity: Personal experiences, such as his mother's illness and recovery, significantly influenced his career in student affairs.Student Affairs: Emphasizes the importance of holistic education that includes both academic and extracurricular activities, instilling critical life skills in students.Leadership: Attributes like empathy, trust, and the ability to handle imposter syndrome are vital for effective leadership in student affairs.Community Engagement: Strong student leadership and storytelling are essential in promoting student involvement and success.Work-Life Balance: The dedication to student affairs often involves long hours and personal sacrifices, highlighting the commitment required in such roles.QUOTES"Ultimately, people are on this earth to help each other, to lift one another up.""If you can swim in three feet of water, you can swim in 30 feet of water, you can swim in 300 feet of water. It's all about your form.""Creating opportunities for people and platforms for people to thrive—that’s something that's important to me.""The best conversations, the best moments in my career happened behind closed doors, one on one with students.""We play a critical role in the university experience and the life experience of these students."Connect and learn more about Mike Wilkinson.https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelwilkinson7/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/

In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we delve into the critical need for enhancing staff experience in higher education, especially in the post-pandemic landscape with our guest, Kelsey Finn, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Compass Group. We discuss the importance of staff feeling connected to their purpose, as it directly impacts student services. The episode also highlights real-life examples from various universities and explores the challenges and strategies of leadership in higher education, with a focus on supporting and retaining staff. Additionally, we feature a conversation with a trailblazing leader who shares insights on being a woman in leadership, empowering others, and the importance of asking questions. This insightful discussion offers valuable advice for young professionals aspiring to take on leadership roles.KEY TAKEAWAYSEmphasize the importance of staff experience in enhancing student experience.Highlight the need for higher education institutions to focus on employee engagement and appreciation.Discuss the challenges of rapid leadership changes in academic institutions.Address the disparity in the way questions are asked and assumptions made of women leaders compared to men.Encourage delegation and empowerment of team members to foster ownership and readiness for leadership roles.Recommend asking a lot of questions and staying curious as a way to grow professionally.Importance of relationships and networking within the higher education community.QUOTES"Happy staff, happy students.""We all want to belong to something.""Being the first at anything is really really hard.""You can't truly understand it if you haven't done it.""If you get a seat at the table, pull your chair right up, be at the table, be engaged.""Everyone has the question, who's actually willing to ask the question and be that person?"Connect and learn more about Kelsey Finn.https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseyharmonfinn/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/

In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, we are joined by Kelsey Finn, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Compass Group. Kelsey shares her unexpected journey into higher education, from majoring in parks and recreation to developing successful programs for college students. She discusses her various roles and experiences across multiple universities and organizations, including Illinois State University, UC Berkeley, and NACUS. Kelsey delves into the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and community on college campuses, particularly through food services and creating inclusive spaces. She highlights the critical role of relationships and understanding the unique needs of different stakeholders in higher education. The conversation underscores the significance of the staff experience alongside student success and how Compass Group is addressing these complex challenges.KEY TAKEAWAYSCareer Development: Kelsey Finn shares her unconventional journey to her current role in higher education, emphasizing that career paths often evolve unexpectedly.Impact of Internships: Initial professional experiences, such as internships, can significantly shape one's career and future opportunities.Higher Education Dynamics: Many professionals in higher education find their roles through serendipitous opportunities and not necessarily through a direct path.Role of Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships is crucial for success in higher education and related industries.Importance of Student and Staff Experience: The focus on improving both student experiences and staff experiences highlights the evolving needs in higher education settings.Adaptability and Innovation: Institutions must innovate to address new challenges, such as increasing student loneliness and creating inclusive spaces.QUOTES"Loneliness is a true problem on college campuses.""Always seek consensus.""Creating spaces where people feel safe and welcome is crucial."“You want to create spaces where everyone wants to have their lunch together versus sit in their individual spaces.”“Food is not just about nourishment; it’s about creating connection and community.”“We have to consider how we’re impacting students and staff, making them feel seen, cared for, and safe.”“It’s all about relationships and being able to speak different languages within the sector you’re engaging with.”“Creating spaces that make people feel included and combating the loneliness epidemic on campuses is our current focus.”Connect and learn more about Kelsey Finn.https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseyharmonfinn/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/

In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, Ian Musselman and the hosts highlight the importance of diverse experiences in shaping versatile skills. They discuss transitioning from general contract work to a specialized role in the automotive industry. Key elements include the value of passion in professional fulfillment, the challenge of delegation, and the significance of a strong, trusted brand in influencing public policy. The guest also emphasizes the importance of team dynamics and consistent brand representation in all interactions, underscoring the impact of personal and company values in daily operations.KEY TAKEAWAYSCareer Journey and Experience: Ian Musselman shared his diverse background, working in various industries including, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and nonprofits, which allowed him to gain broad perspectives and apply general knowledge to specific sectors.Passion for Work: Musselman emphasized the importance of working in areas that provide fulfillment, noting his particular passion for cars and transportation, and how this passion drives his continued engagement and enthusiasm in his role.Team and Leadership: He highlighted the strength and capability of his team at LKQ, stressing how having a passionate and skilled team is crucial for success.Brand and Policy Impact: The significance of a strong brand in influencing public policy was discussed, emphasizing the importance of being a recognizable and trusted entity in the policymaker's mind.Brand Engagement: Musselman mentioned how LKQ actively uses branded products to create a lasting impression in various professional settings.Personal Interaction: Despite transitioning to different roles within the company, Musselman continues to value personal interactions and remains engaged in various activities and meetings.Consistency in Values: The importance of representing oneself and one's company consistently with the desired values and leaving a positive impression.QUOTES“You talk to my teammates…I've been trying to transition away from some of what I've been doing for 25 years...because I'd love it. I really enjoy it. It is still a passion.”“We work globally, I've got an incredibly capable and knowledgeable team and I struggle with the fact of handing it off and letting them do other things because I want to have my hands in it.”“When you have that passion though, that drives other people towards you as well.”“One of the things that we want public policymakers to think about is our brand when they're writing something that is going to affect 200 million vehicles.”“Branding is a visual reminder of who you are and what you talked about.”“Are you living those same values in which you want people to perceive you and your company?” Connect and learn more about Ian Musselman.https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-p-musselman-7a04306/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/

In the episode In The Club powered by Club Colors, Ian introduces LKQ, a company with a rich 25-year history rooted in sustainability and innovation. Founded by Mr. Flynn as a means to transform salvage vehicles into valuable commodities, LKQ has grown into a global leader in parts distribution. The company is committed to reusing and recycling nearly every component from end-of-life vehicles, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability. Ian discusses LKQ's expansion into specialized and aftermarket automotive equipment, their efficient operational strategies, and the importance of quick turnaround times for customers. He also delves into LKQ's active engagement in public policy and their robust foundation aimed at giving back to communities. Ian's varied role within the company underscores the importance of transparency and trust in shaping policies and fostering industry collaboration.KEY TAKEAWAYSLKQ is a globally recognized leader in automotive parts distribution, specializing in recycling and repurposing salvage vehicles efficiently.The company's foundation in sustainability and recycling, including reclaiming end-of-life vehicle parts, helps reduce waste and provides valuable resources for various industries.LKQ offers a wide range of products, from recycled vehicle parts to new aftermarket components, catering to diverse needs including emergency vehicles and specialized equipment.The company is deeply involved in public policy, ensuring regulations support its operations and contribute to workforce training and development.LKQ's corporate culture emphasizes community engagement and transparency, both internally and in external affairs.QUOTES"Being able to take an end-of-life vehicle, analyze what can be used, reused... is a core part of our business.""We take pride in our ability to provide our customers with on-demand deliveries, leading to quicker turnaround times in repairs and maintenance.""We're the world's largest automotive recycler, recycling close to a million vehicles per year.""Being transparent is incredibly important. Being honest and transparent to your partners builds trust.""We believe we are a fabric of those individual communities.""Having that passion and culture in any industry, I think, is important."Connect and learn more about Ian Musselman.https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-p-musselman-7a04306/If you enjoyed this episode of In the Club Podcast with Club Colors, please leave us a review on your favorite podcasting platform!Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com/