Mickey Seelye is the operator and president of Seelye Automotive Group, which includes elite dealerships such as Seely Ford in Kalamazoo, Seelye Kia Battle Creek, and Seelye Truck Center of Pawpaw. Known for their exceptional customer service and unique corporate culture, Mickey's leadership is deeply rooted in values of character, integrity, and faith.

Stan Qualls is the general manager at Seelye Automotive Group. His journey from a salesperson to a key leadership role showcases his dedication to transforming the organization with a foundation of strong moral principles and a commitment to serving both customers and employees with the heart of God.

What We Discuss in This Episode:

Both Mickey and Stan Qualls talk about how their faith guides their leadership and creates a unique work environment where values and integrity are paramount. They candidly share the daily challenges they face in the automotive industry and how their faith helps them navigate these obstacles while maintaining a focus on serving others.

We also explore the importance of authentic leadership and building genuine relationships within the workplace. Mickey and Stan highlight the necessity of trust and support among team members, fostering a culture where employees feel valued and understood. They discuss the importance of taking time to engage with their managers about non-business-related issues, building a safe and encouraging environment that prioritizes the well-being of their staff.

Stan opens up about his personal faith journey, recounting how a profound personal tragedy brought him closer to Jesus and shaped his approach to leadership. His story underscores the transformative power of faith in overcoming life's challenges and leading with empathy and understanding. Similarly, Mickey shares his leadership philosophy, emphasizing that true success is measured by the positive impact one has on others, rather than just financial performance.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast players!

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Connect with Mickey Seeyle and Stan Quals

• Stan Qualls: squals@seelye.com
• Mickey Seelye: mickey@seelye.com

Connect with Bart Nollenberger:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-nollenberger-4949405a/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BartNollenbergerCoaching

Ric Gregson has a wealth of experience in the automotive industry, spanning over 42 years. Known for his role as a performance group moderator for CDK, Ric has been a pivotal figure in guiding 20 groups across the nation. His extensive background with AutoNation and his expertise in sales processes and dealership management make him a revered figure in the industry.

What We Discuss In This Episode:

In this episode we dive into the heart of effective leadership within the automotive industry, exploring how leaders can navigate both challenging and prosperous times. Ric shares his invaluable insights on the current state of dealership leadership, particularly in the face of economic fluctuations and technological advancements. He emphasizes that these challenges offer unique opportunities for leaders to test their capabilities and grow stronger.

We begin by discussing the critical role of leadership training in dealerships. Ric points out a common pitfall in the industry: promoting top-performing salespeople to managerial positions without equipping them with the necessary leadership skills. He underscores the importance of continuous development, stating, "We hire great salespeople and promote them to managers, but often, they lack the essential skills to lead people." This conversation highlights the gap in leadership training and its impact on employee turnover and overall dealership performance.

Another significant topic we explore is the distinction between training and coaching. Ric passionately explains that while training is crucial, real performance improvements are achieved through effective coaching. "Training is essential, but coaching is where real performance changes happen," he notes.

Ric and I explore how developing strong leaders not only improves business outcomes but also enhances the personal and professional lives of team members.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast players!

• Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-the-change/id1622521488
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xcQk7kNGNOnWuZ14aDkWC

Connect with Ric Gregson

• Phone: 954-850-3341
• Email: gregsonrick@yahoo.com

Connect with Bart Nollenberger:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-nollenberger-4949405a/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BartNollenbergerCoaching

Chad Staples is the President of Elevation Dealer Services, a leading automotive F&I products agency. With over six years in retail and more than nine years working for administrators and running a large agency, Chad has collaborated with over 500 stores, gaining invaluable insights into dealership operations. His focus on dealer processes, income development, training, recruiting, reinsurance, and customization of various F&I products makes him a sought-after expert in the field.

What We Discuss In This Episode

Chad Staples and I discuss the intricate workings of the automobile industry, focusing on how to optimize dealership operations and overcome common challenges. We discuss the pervasive issue of corporate bloat, which Chad describes as a significant barrier to efficiency and dealer success. By reducing unnecessary overheads and focusing on what truly benefits the dealer, we explore strategies to enhance performance and foster a more productive working environment.

A significant portion of our conversation is dedicated to leadership and the role of emotional intelligence in fostering a positive company culture. Chad opens up about his personal journey, reflecting on his struggles with insecurity and ego during his early career. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and self-awareness, crucial components of emotional intelligence, in becoming an effective leader.

We also dive into the four components of emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management, discussing how these elements have shaped Chad's leadership style and contributed to his success.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast players!

1. Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-the-change/id1622521488
2. Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xcQk7kNGNOnWuZ14aDkWC

Connect with Chad Staples

1. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-staples-42599915/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevationds/

Connect with Bart Nollenberger:

1. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-nollenberger-4949405a/
2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BartNollenbergerCoaching

Eric Olsen is a seasoned professional with 32 years in the automotive industry and 17 years as a General Manager. Currently, he leads Frank Leta Honda in O'Fallon, Missouri, near St. Louis. Eric is not just a dedicated professional but also a family man, married for 36 years to his high school sweetheart, Angie, with three grown children and five grandchildren. His life is a testament to his values of faith, family, and leadership.

What We Discuss In This Episode:

We explore the vital role of culture in a dealership's success. Eric shares insights on creating a culture that values integrity, character, and faith. He believes in the power of good people, stating, "If they're good people, I can teach them to sell cars." This approach has helped him build a team that is not only skilled but also deeply committed to their work and each other.

Coaching and Personal Development

Eric's leadership style is rooted in coaching and personal development. He talks about the importance of managers working alongside their salespeople, showing them the ropes rather than merely giving orders. This collaborative approach fosters a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Eric also highlights the need for emotional intelligence in leadership, helping his team realize their full potential.

Eric believes that caring about his team's personal lives leads to better performance at work, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast players!

• Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-the-change/id1622521488
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xcQk7kNGNOnWuZ14aDkWC

Connect with Eric Olsen

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-olsen-85848418/

Connect with Bart Nollenberger:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-nollenberger-4949405a/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BartNollenbergerCoaching

Chris Saraceno is a powerhouse in the automotive industry, a revered author, and a personal development enthusiast whose leadership principles have inspired many, serving as Vice President and Partner of the Kelly Automotive Group for over 27 years.

What We Discuss In This Episode:

Chris and I explore the profound philosophies from his book "The Theory of 5," where he reveals how the world's happiest and most productive people cultivate key relationships in their lives. We delve into the essence of leadership, discussing the significance of continuous development, both personally and professionally. Chris shares the strategies he employs at Kelly Automotive Group to ensure his team is motivated, well-trained, and aligned with the company's values.

We reminisce about our shared mentors, reflect on the power of gratitude and faith, and underscore the importance of setting and maintaining high standards within any organization. Chris's approach to balancing personal fulfillment with professional success offers valuable lessons for leaders in any industry.

Join us as we unpack the wisdom of Chris Saraceno and discover how you can apply these principles to elevate your own life and career. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone striving to lead with integrity, passion, and purpose.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast players!

• Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-the-change/id1622521488
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xcQk7kNGNOnWuZ14aDkWC

Connect with Bart Nollenberger:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-nollenberger-4949405a/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BartNollenbergerCoaching

Michael Cirillo is a dynamic entrepreneur, the CEO of FlexDealer, and the host of the renowned podcast, Dealer Playbook. Michael's expertise has been instrumental in transforming the automotive industry.

His journey from a small town in British Columbia to leading multiple successful ventures is a testament to his innovative mindset and relentless drive.

What We Discuss in This Episode:

Michael's pursuit of this "better way" led him to develop innovative inventory management software. This venture eventually grew into a full-suite marketing agency, FlexDealer, which now integrates advanced AI tools. Throughout our discussion, Michael emphasizes the importance of questioning the status quo and continuously seeking improvement, a mindset that has been instrumental in his success.

We also explore the essence of modern leadership. Michael advocates for leaders to deeply connect with their teams, spending quality time understanding their motivations and building trust. He stresses that genuine human connections are foundational to organizational success and that leaders must balance task-oriented and relationship-oriented approaches. By delving into DISC behavior assessments, we uncover how understanding these dynamics can enhance team performance and foster a collaborative work environment.

Another significant theme is the state of leadership within the automotive industry. Michael offers insights into common challenges faced by managers and provides practical solutions. He underscores the importance of honesty, self-reflection, and a commitment to personal growth. Michael believes that effective leadership requires a deep understanding of one's team and a willingness to invest time in meaningful conversations that go beyond mere task management.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast players!

• Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-the-change/id1622521488
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xcQk7kNGNOnWuZ14aDkWC

Connect with Michael Cirillo

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcirillo/
• Email: michael@cirillo.com

Connect with Bart Nollenberger:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-nollenberger-4949405a/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BartNollenbergerCoaching

What does it take to be a successful leader in the automotive industry while pursuing unique personal passions? How do you balance high-stakes business with personal fulfillment? Dive into this episode where I sit down with my long-time friend and automotive powerhouse, Josh Letsis, to uncover the secrets of leadership, resilience, and the unexpected journey into the world of horses.

What We Discuss In This Episode

In this engaging episode, Josh Letsis and I delve into the transformative journey of leadership within the automotive industry. Josh recounts his progression from starting as a salesperson to becoming a general manager and partner in top-performing dealerships. He emphasizes the critical shift from focusing on individual success to leading and developing large teams, highlighting the significance of moving from a "me" to a "we" mentality. Josh's experiences underscore the importance of authenticity and respect in leadership, sharing how these values have shaped his career and relationships within the industry.

We also explore the intricate balance between professional demands and personal life. Josh offers a candid look at how he manages the high-stakes environment of the automotive world while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. He shares practical strategies for being present and engaged both at work and at home, advocating for integration over balance. Josh's approach involves setting clear priorities and ensuring that time is managed effectively to reduce burnout and increase productivity. His insights into work-life harmony provide valuable lessons for anyone striving to achieve success in both arenas.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast players!

• Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-the-change/id1622521488
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xcQk7kNGNOnWuZ14aDkWC
• Connect with Josh Letsis
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-letsis-8376279/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josh_letsis/?hl=en

Connect with Bart Nollenberger:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-nollenberger-4949405a/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BartNollenbergerCoaching

Bart Nollenberger is a motivational speaker who leverages real-life experiences to drive change and inspire growth in others. He’s someone who understands the grind, having worked his way through the ranks before finding his calling in empowering people. This connection to real-world challenges makes his advice and insights motivational, actionable, and relatable.

As a certified John Maxwell coach, Nollenberger doesn’t just talk the talk; he walks the walk. He’s not about lofty ideals or abstract concepts; he’s about what works, what doesn’t, and how to pivot and persevere. What’s compelling about Nollenberger is his authenticity. He shares his failures as openly as his successes, making him relatable.

Contact Bart Nollenberger at Bart@bartnollenberger.com or +1 480-327-8751 for speaking engagements, coaching sessions, and training inquiries.

What We Discuss In This Episode:

What if the key to transforming your automotive business lies not in your sales tactics, but in your ability to lead? What could change in your life if you developed as a leader? How would your influence grow, and what weaknesses could you subtract?

The most profound shift in my leadership journey came from studying John Maxwell’s principles. Reading "Developing the Leader Within You 2.0" by Maxwell transformed my understanding of leadership from being about titles and positions to being about influence. In this episode, I delve into Maxwell’s five levels of influence, discussing how these concepts can be applied within the automotive industry to create more effective and inspiring leaders. Understanding these levels can help middle managers, often promoted without adequate training, to become exceptional leaders who drive both business results and team satisfaction.

Ask yourself these questions..

1. What could change in your life if you developed as a leader?
2. How could developing your leadership skills add effectiveness to your role and improve your quality of life?
3. Are you relying on your title for influence, or are you genuinely leading through earned trust and relationship-building?

Join me in this episode as we explore the transformative power of effective leadership and how you can apply these principles to achieve greater success and fulfillment in your career.

A Special Gift for Listeners:

As a thank you for tuning into this episode, I’m offering a special gift to help you on your leadership journey. To unlock the gift, email the "Five Levels of Leadership survey" to Bart@bartnollenberger.com to receive a free survey. This survey will help you understand where you stand as a leader and provide insights into areas for growth.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe and leave a review on your favourite podcast players!

• Subscribe on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keep-the-change/id1622521488
• Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xcQk7kNGNOnWuZ14aDkWC

Connect with Bart Nollenberger:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-nollenberger-4949405a/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BartNollenbergerCoaching