Garagecast - All Things Power Sports and Marine

In this episode of GarageCast, we chat with Bob Pappajohn, a marine dealership owner from Vancouver, about his family's legacy in the boat business and the challenges he's faced navigating tariffs, luxury taxes, and economic shifts. Bob shares invaluable insights on how the marine industry adapts to changing market conditions, the ripple effects of tariffs, and the importance of innovati...

In this episode of GarageCast , we welcome back Nate Sanel, founder of National Powersports Distributors and CEO of Bank My Bike. After a year and a half, Nate returns with a bold new direction—one that defies industry norms and puts the focus back on what he does best: selling pre-owned motorcycles. Nate shares the highs and lows of his journey, from leveraging technology to enhance the buying ex...

In this episode of GarageCast , Chad Lyon, Managing Director at Wells Fargo, shares his insights from 32 years in inventory finance. We tackle the challenges of data accuracy in the marine vs. power sports industries, the lasting impact of COVID-19 on market forecasts, and how inflation and interest rates continue to shape consumer behavior. Chad also breaks down dealership consolidation trends an...

In this episode of Garage Cast , we break down the vital role of training as the industry gears up for peak season. From the evolution of Regional Sales Training (RSTs) to the challenges dealers face in staying proactive, we share insights, success stories, and strategies for building a strong training foundation. With expert takes from Sam, Tony, and Schooley you'll learn why understanding s...

This time, we ride into the heart of the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with Damon Woodruff, president of the Buffalo Chip Inn in Sturgis, South Dakota. Born under the main stage during a ZZ Top concert, Damon shares firsthand stories of how this small town swells from 6,000 to nearly 750,000 riders, thrill-seekers, and music lovers.  From jaw-dropping concerts featuring Kid Rock, Jason Aldean...

Live from AIM Expo in Las Vegas, we sit down with legendary auctioneer Steve Holt, whose family has been making auction history since 1976. Steve takes us behind the scenes of the high-energy world of auctioneering, from working with top manufacturers like BRP and Yamaha to hosting benefit auctions for Road to Recovery and the Malcolm Smith Foundation . Plus, don’t miss his electrifying live aucti...

In this episode of Garage Cast , we catch up with Terry Lynn from Troy Lee Designs at the A.I.M. Expo in Las Vegas. From wrenching on aircraft engines in the Marine Corps to shaping the future of motorcycle racing and gear, Terry’s story is pure adrenaline.  We talk about her career shift from the military to the motorcycle industry, her time at Icon, Triumph, and KTM, and what it was like navigat...

In this episode of Garage Cast , we’re buzzing from the energy of this year’s AIM Expo! We chat with Cinnamon Kearns, the mastermind behind the show, about the record-breaking turnout—35% more exhibitors, 40% more attendees, and a completely sold-out show floor. We also dig into the future of industry education, the push for more big-name manufacturers like BRP, Harley-Davidson, and Ducati to join...

Chris McGee, CEO of Moto Morini, discusses the brand’s legacy, expansion into North America, and commitment to Italian design and craftsmanship. Founded in 1937, Moto Morini is now increasing accessibility with high-quality, affordable motorcycles. The brand prioritizes strong dealer partnerships with Milan-based design and Chinese manufacturing for sustainable growth. McGee, whose family has deep...

Join us on Garage Cast as we dive into the electric energy of Expo 2025 with Mike Murray and Jim Woodruff from NPA. From record-breaking dealer attendance to game-changing industry shifts, we break down the key market trends. Hear about Mike’s bold expansion moves, Jim’s sharp economic insights, and how dealers can stay ahead—especially in the booming pre-owned space. Whether navigating rising pri...

Live from AIM Expo in Las Vegas, We finally got the chance to sit down with Alexander Smith from Malcolm Smith Motorsports—an interview years in the making! We talked about his mission at AIM Expo, including an auction honoring his legendary father, Malcolm Smith. Alexander shared how his dad’s hands-on approach shaped his values, the evolution of their family dealership, and what’s ahead for the...

In this episode, we catch up with Dave McMahon at the AIM Expo, where the energy is electric, and the power sports industry is in full swing. Dave, a well-known industry leader with experience as an editor, content director, and even on the manufacturing side, now serves as the Executive Director of the National Power Sports Dealer Association (NPDA). He shares why being at the Expo in person is a...

KTM’s future is one of the biggest stories in power sports right now, and we get the inside scoop straight from John Hinz, CEO of KTM North America. Live from AIM Expo 2025, we dive into KTM’s restructuring, the MV Agusta sale, dealer strategies, and inventory shifts—plus their ongoing commitment to racing. Don’t miss this candid conversation on where KTM is headed next! UPDATE 2027 is back. Join...

In this episode of GarageCast , Tony and Sam dive into the power sports industry’s current challenges and opportunities as we gear up for spring sales. With the AIM Expo happening now, we will break down key dealer conversations on allocation, profitability, and finance strategies. We’re joined by industry pros Tyler and Justin, who bring insights from their journey from auto sales to Harley-David...

In this episode of GarageCast, we chat with Greg Mackey, owner of Cycles of Jacksonville and Interstate Cycles. Greg shares his journey in the power sports industry, starting in his family dealership and navigating the ups and downs of a changing market.  We dive into the lessons learned from the 2008 downturn, the benefits of focusing on existing stores before expanding, and how shifting to a cas...

In this episode of GarageCast , we explore the evolving relationships between marine dealers and manufacturers with Jeff Strong of Strong’s Marine and Matt Gruhn, president of the Marine Retailers Association of America.  We discuss the importance of honesty and transparency, likened to a strong partnership, and dive into a new scorecard program designed to enhance collaboration, improve customer...

In this episode of Garagecast , we’re back and kicking off our sixth year with episode 259! After a refreshing break, we dive into the theme of the "status quo" and how it shapes your dealerships. From the little details, like keeping bathrooms clean, to big-picture strategies like managing inventory and training staff, we explore ways to level up for 2025.  #garagecast #tonygonzalez #sa...

Here is our final episode of 2024 UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow. Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.

UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow. Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.

UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow. Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.

UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow. Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.

Final episode UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow. Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.

Number 9 UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow. Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.

Number 10 UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow. Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.

Number 7 UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to connect and grow. Bring your team and plan to join us for UPDATE 2027.