ASOTU Unscripted

In this candid and engaging episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol D. Bomar sits down with Owen Moon—veteran marketer, agency founder, and now co-founder of a new venture in streaming advertising. As lunch buzzes around them, Owen shares his 25-year journey through automotive marketing, from his early days embedded in dealership trenches to building Fix Ops Digital and eventually launching his newest company focused on fraud-free, human-focused streaming campaigns for dealers.Owen explains how streaming advertising is evolving from generic impressions to a premium, people-first approach. He talks strategy, fraud prevention via blockchain-backed DSPs, and how creative quality needs to match the high-value inventory dealerships hold. Learn more about DealerStream at https://dealerstream.com/STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro: Lunch, laughs, and live stage energy1:32 Owen’s 25-year journey in auto marketing begins2:24 Fix Ops Digital scaled to 850 clients before acquisition2:51 New company targets fraud-free streaming ad solutions4:05 30% of streaming ad dollars lost to fraud5:09 Why people over product is the future of dealership messaging6:29 Dealers must rebalance strategy with creative and authenticity7:36 ASOTU tip: “Get uncomfortable for 3 days—introduce yourself!”8:52 Find Dealer Stream via swag bag coffee mug demo link----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------What percentage of streaming ad budgets is lost to fraud?How can dealerships prevent streaming ad fraud?What is Owen Moon’s new company in the automotive ad space?Why should dealers invest in better creative for their ads?How does blockchain help with ad verification?What’s the future of OTT advertising in automotive retail?#lovepeoplemorethancars #morethancars #asotu #automotive #autoretail #autoindustry #cardealers #carsales #carculture

In this energizing edition of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar sits down with Bill Vaughn, a recently appointed dealership leader only 90 days into his new role. Bill brings a grounded, refreshingly candid perspective to the conversation, sharing his unlikely start in automotive and how learning to prioritize people over process completely transformed his trajectory. From struggling as a salesperson to thriving in finance and leadership, his story reflects the real power of people-first dealership culture.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro and welcome to Bill Vaughn0:45 Why he debated coming to ASOTU Con—and why he’s glad he did1:30 Starting in sales, failing forward, and finding purpose in people3:00 From BDC rep to finance manager in 90 days4:00 Bill’s first 90 days as a new dealership leader5:45 Empowering salespeople with $500 discretion to serve customers7:00 Building a shared vision through trust and involvement-------------------------------------------------------------------What should dealership leaders focus on in their first 90 days?How can you empower salespeople to create better customer experiences?What’s the benefit of discretionary spending for dealership employees?How can dealerships improve trust and autonomy on the sales floor?Why did Bill Vaughn say yes to ASOTU Con 90 days into a new job?What’s a people-first approach to dealership management?How does ASOTU Con differ from traditional auto industry conferences?#lovepeoplemorethancars #morethancars #asotu #automotive #autoretail #autoindustry #cardealers #carsales #carculture

In this episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar sits down with Enrique Gago of Gago Brothers Automotive to talk about transformation, resilience, and rediscovering purpose through reinvention. Enrique opens up about how he unexpectedly entered the automotive industry—thanks to a favor for his then-girlfriend (now wife)—and how that moment sparked a journey into entrepreneurship, operations, and customer-centric innovation in his hometown of Ocala, Florida. Now running both an auto repair and tire shop as well as a used car dealership, Enrique shares the principles guiding their growth: transparency, community trust, affordability, and values-first leadership. STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/ TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro and welcome to Enrique Gago1:00 From booth support to automotive entrepreneur2:57 Acquiring a 30-year-old repair shop with his brother3:46 Applying lean ops and transparency to build community trust6:00 Attending events to grow, learn, and stay curious7:15 Prioritizing affordability in both service and used cars8:57 When others play defense, Gago Brothers go on offense---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------How did Enrique Gago start Gago Brothers Automotive?What does “go on offense” mean in business strategy?How can lean operations transform an auto repair shop?What are best Practices for building trust in the car service industry?Why is now a good time to get into the auto industry?What mindset shifts help small automotive businesses thrive?How can used car dealerships increase affordability and value?#lovepeoplemorethancars #morethancars #asotu #automotive #autoretail #autoindustry #cardealers #carsales #carculture

In this inspiring episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar sits down with 23-year-old rising star Gavin Reeves, who shares his rapid ascent through the automotive industry. Starting at just 18 as a porter, Gavin moved through roles in BMW product education, service tech, and sales before landing in a Center Performance role—all driven by his core passion for people over product. His perspective is deeply rooted in creating joyful, memorable experiences for customers, no matter where he is in the dealership.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro from Errol Bomar0:30 Gavin’s first-ever automotive conference experience1:06 Why he values people more than product1:59 Realizing the impact of joyful, family-style service2:36 Journey from porter to product genius to performance lead3:11 His bold vision to scale people-first experiences nationwide3:42 Where to find and connect with Gavin Reeves----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Who is Gavin Reeves from Galleria BMW?How can young professionals grow in the automotive industry?What does a Center Performance role in a dealership involve?How do dealerships improve customer experience?What is BMW's product genius program?Why is people over product a winning strategy in auto retail?What’s it like attending your first ASOTU or auto conference?

In this episode of ASOTU Unscripted, Errol Bomar welcomes John Osborne, Executive Manager at Williamsburg Ford, to reflect on 27 years in the automotive industry and the key inflection points that shaped his approach to leadership, customer experience, and innovation. From entering the industry after time in the Army and firefighting school, to pioneering one-price selling and now pushing digital and AI innovation, John's journey is a testament to growth through intentionality.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro from Errol Bomar0:43 Why pricing transparency excites John today1:26 Leveraging AI and texting for better service ops2:13 From Army and firefighting to auto retail in the ‘90s3:31 2007: A career-shifting moment at a one-price Toyota store4:47 Data as a roadmap for growth and training6:25 Predicting faster, more personalized retail experiences8:12 Connect with John Osborne at Carter Myers Automotive--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Who is John Osborne at Carter Myers Automotive?How is AI improving communication in automotive service departments?What is one-price selling in car dealerships?What trends are shaping the future of car buying?How do dealerships use data to improve customer experience?What is the role of executive managers in modern auto retail?How can dealerships personalize digital retailing experiences?

In this heartfelt episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar welcomes back Judi Anderson—attending her fourth consecutive ASOTUCON—to explore the personal journey that led her to become a pillar of customer experience in the automotive space. From roller-skating carhop to corporate marketer to a role built just for her, Judy shares how empathy, purpose, and people-first thinking transformed her career and brought her to Carter Myers Automotive.Judi’s story is a testament to rediscovery. After 15 years as a stay-at-home mom, she re-entered the workforce and eventually landed a position that didn’t yet exist—but was created because she was the right fit. STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro from Errol Bomar0:50 Judi’s fourth ASOTUCON and why she keeps returning2:35 From hospitality to communications to auto marketing3:49 Re-entering the workforce after 15 years raising daughters5:45 Discovery of a customer experience role built just for her7:58 Why emotional intelligence is her greatest strength9:16 The moment Judi realized she loved people more than product11:14 How understanding employees leads to better customer outcomes-------------------------------------------------------------------Who is Judi Anderson at Carter Myers Automotive?How can emotional intelligence impact customer experience in auto retail?What is it like to return to work after 15 years away?How do dealerships create people-first cultures?Why is empathy a superpower in the workplace?What roles exist in auto that focus on experience, not sales?How can you turn passion into a job without a listing?

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar sits down with Landon Garside, a former high school drumline teacher turned automotive professional and now marketing strategist. Landon shares how personal transitions—including a divorce and career burnout—led him into the automotive industry by what seemed like chance. But a decade-old positive buying experience at a dealership planted the seed, and a people-centered mindset ultimately propelled him forward. From sales to marketing, Landon's journey is all about doing what's right—even when it isn’t profitable in the moment.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro1:01 Landon's entry into automotive after burnout and divorce2:16 Buying experience inspired dealership job application3:37 A pivot back into sales after leaving briefly4:52 Putting people over profit—literally sent a customer elsewhere5:50 “She bought her next three cars from me.”6:55 Marketing shift after dealership merchandising vacancy7:24 Strategies that helped dominate market share----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------How did Landon Garside transition from sales to marketing in automotive?Why is empathy a strength in car sales and dealership leadership?What’s an example of putting customers first in the automotive industry?How do TikTok and social media boost dealership market share?Why does understanding people matter more than product knowledge in sales?How can storytelling lead to career success in auto retail?What makes ASOTU different from other automotive events?

In this heartfelt and unscripted episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar sits down with Lou Cannata, a second-generation dealer principal and founder of Level 5 Leadership Coaching & Consulting. Lou shares the deeply personal and professional journey that shaped his leadership—starting from cleaning bathrooms in his family’s dealership to stepping into ownership in its 49th year. Lou’s passion for people, rooted in a legacy of service from his immigrant parents, radiates throughout the conversation as he reflects on the true meaning of success and the power of purpose-driven leadership.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro0:28 Lou Cannata joins ASOTUCON Unscripted stage1:35 Took over family dealership in its 49th year2:06 Started from the bottom—cleaning bathrooms to leadership3:21 Passion for people rooted in early childhood experiences5:00 Facing grief and health challenges shifted his perspective6:41 Redefined success as making people smile daily7:58 Launch of Level 5 Leadership Coaching & Consulting--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------What is Level 5 Leadership Coaching & Consulting by Lou Cannata?How did Lou Cannata take over his family’s car dealership?How do personal challenges shape leadership perspective?What does it mean to redefine success as a business owner?How can entrepreneurs lead with purpose instead of profit?What’s the ASOTU Unscripted podcast about?How does growing up in a family business shape leadership values?

In this high-energy episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar sits down with Nolan Armpriester, a second-generation automotive leader and Director of Operations with over two decades of industry experience. From his early days growing up in the dealership—literally using the shop as daycare—to overseeing an ambitious mobile service operation, Nolan shares his story with candor and clarity. This conversation is a tribute to longevity in the industry, evolving leadership, and building people-first service models in a traditionally product-driven space.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro0:21 Nolan joins ASOTU Unscripted live at ASOTUCON1:04 Grew up in the shop—dealership was his daycare1:33 Career path: from porter to Director of Operations2:57 Industry shift to mobile and guest-first experiences3:50 24,000 mobile service appointments in one year6:14 Goal: 30,000 appointments and 50 technicians by year’s end7:11 Mobile ops split into three tiers: entry to heavy repair--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Who is Nolan Arm Prester and what is his role in the auto industry?How do mobile service appointments work at dealerships?What’s driving the rise of mobile auto repair in 2025?How can dealerships scale operations to hit 30,000 service appointments?What roles exist in dealership operations from entry-level to director?What makes ASOTUCON different from NADA and other auto conventions?How can dealerships attract and train new mobile technicians?

In this faith-filled and forward-thinking episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar welcomes Shane Westphal for a conversation that blends personal transformation, professional loyalty, and the future of automotive. Shane shares his “But God” origin story, detailing how a random connection in a Baton Rouge restaurant led him to a 23+ year career in automotive—all at the same dealership. Now serving as general and executive manager, Shane reflects on the power of speaking life into others, leading with purpose, and embracing every role as a calling.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro0:22 Shane Westall joins the Unscripted stage1:23 Origin story: from restaurants to 23 years in automotive2:59 “But God” moments shaped his career journey4:17 From sales to GM at the same store5:00 Passion for developing people and building community6:34 Excitement about AI as a time-leveraging partner10:26 The curiosity mindset fuels better AI use and leadership12:02 Reflections on EV adoption and dealership evolution----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Who is Shane Westall and how did he enter the auto industry?How can AI empower—not replace—dealership teams?What is a “But God” origin story in career journeys?What are the future trends in EV and dealership infrastructure?How can auto leaders cultivate a community-driven dealership culture?Why does Shane Westall believe AI is a collaborative tool?What makes ASOTU’s Unscripted series different from traditional auto content?

In this vibrant and empowering episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar chats with Alyssa Mazur from the Russ Darrow Automotive Group. Though she claimed to be nervous, Alyssa delivers an inspiring and tactical breakdown of how she transformed the group’s social media presence across 15 dealerships in Wisconsin. Starting with no background in automotive, Alyssa shares her journey from a marketing agency into a role that she shaped from scratch—bringing structure, scale, and strategy to the group’s online voice.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro and welcome to Alyssa Majer1:06 Why ASOTU Con was her must-attend event2:03 Her unexpected entry into automotive via social media3:41 Building a scalable content system across 15 stores5:11 910% impressions growth through store-level content creators8:10 New “employee advocacy” push via Sprout Social9:58 Service team engagement proves long-term buy-in----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------How can car dealerships increase social media impressions organically?What is employee advocacy in dealership marketing?How did Russ Darrow Auto Group grow its digital presence?What tools help manage multi-location dealership social content?How can Sprout Social support automotive retail marketing?What’s the benefit of empowering dealership staff to create content?How does incentivized content creation boost engagement?#lovepeoplemorethancars #morethancars #asotu #automotive #autoretail #autoindustry #cardealers #carsales #carculture

In this episode of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar welcomes Dave Donaldson of DealerDMV for his very first ASOTU CON experience. Dave unpacks his journey from working in an Acura dealership’s detail department to leading a nationwide automotive titling solution. With infectious humility, Dave reflects on how the most unexpected roles—like managing tag and title—can become dynamic, problem-solving careers when surrounded by passionate people and purpose-driven technology.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Welcome to ASOTU Unscripted with Dave Donaldson0:57 ASOTU CON’s unique, people-first vibe1:43 DealerDMV’s “dealers first” philosophy2:49 From detailing Acuras to software product lead3:47 Why title & registration offers endless creative problems4:46 Dealer50: 50 states, one solution5:12 How shared nerdiness builds team synergy-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------What is DealerDMV and how does it help car dealerships?How can dealerships simplify title and registration across 50 states?What is Dealer50 and how does it work?What makes tag and title work exciting in automotive tech?How can you build a strong culture around dealership back-end operations?How did Dave build a career in automotive titling software?What is the DealerDMV “dealers first” philosophy?#lovepeoplemorethancars #morethancars #asotu #automotive #autoretail #autoindustry #cardealers #carsales #carculture

In this heartfelt solo edition of ASOTU Unscripted, host Errol Bomar takes a moment to step from behind the interviewer’s chair to share his own journey in the automotive world. From his early beginnings in car sales in the early 2000s to now being a celebrated speaker and orator for brands like Ford and events like NADA and the Kentucky Derby, Errol reflects on the powerful human moments that shaped his trajectory. One story in particular—a child gifting him a treasured Superman toy—became a symbolic turning point where he realized the industry is about people, not just products.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro from Errol Bomar0:24 His first role in new car sales in 20040:45 The Superman toy story that changed everything1:25 Transition into speaking, hosting, and brand work1:47 Representing Ford and hosting national events2:01 Invitation to share your people-over-product moment-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Who is Errol Bomar from ASOTU Unscripted?What inspired Errol to pursue a career in automotive speaking?How can storytelling transform dealership culture?What is the significance of the Superman toy story in car sales?How do automotive professionals connect with customers emotionally?How can I be featured on ASOTU Unscripted?Why does “people over product” matter in auto retail?

In this heartfelt and engaging episode of Unscripted, host Erroll Bomar sits down with Allan Krutsch Director of Enterprise CDP at Claravoy, to explore his unexpected journey into the automotive industry and the surprising personal story that fuels his passion. Allan shares how he transitioned from luxury women’s fashion sales in Sardinia to car sales in the U.S. after an abrupt job loss—an unplanned pivot that turned into a fulfilling 25-year career. What begins as a professional conversation quickly transforms into a touching narrative about his daughter, who also stumbled into car sales and quickly rose through the ranks to become a top performer and sales manager—all within three years.STAY CONNECTED WITH ASOTU:Sign up for the ASOTU Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/Watch the docu-series “More Than Cars” at https://www.morethancars.tvFollow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/asotu_morethancars/Join the community on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/ TIME STAMPS: 0:00 Intro: Sardinia, style, and a surprise career pivot1:59 Losing a job led to a lifelong automotive journey4:30 The power of employee satisfaction over customer metrics5:59 His daughter’s unexpected rise in the car business8:44 From aesthetician to top 10% car salesperson12:00 Humility and beginner’s mind fuel growth13:56 Data unlocks cost-effective, meaningful customer experiences15:26 “Helping is the new selling” becomes the ultimate takeaway----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------How can first-party data improve car dealership marketing?What is the impact of employee satisfaction on CSI in auto sales?How did Allan Crutch’s daughter succeed in car sales with no experience?What is “helping is the new selling” in modern automotive retail?What career growth opportunities exist in the car business?How can humility fuel success in automotive careers?What role does beginner’s mind play in dealership leadership?#lovepeoplemorethancars #morethancars #asotu #automotive #autoretail #autoindustry #cardealers #carsales #carculture