Talking Business with Mark and John

In this engaging and insightful video, we sit down with Dr. Imogen Reid, a prominent voice in the automotive industry, to discuss the crucial topic of gender diversity and its impact within the sector. Dr. Reid, who is part of the VACC (Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce), sheds light on the pressing need for increased female representation in the auto industry. Throughout our conversation,...

Welcome to the first podcast of season three, where we delve into the world of automotive fleet business development. In this episode, we discuss the importance of continuing to canvass automotive fleets, even during vehicle supply shortages. As businesses adjust to the new normal post-Covid, Mark shares his insights on the state of the automotive fleet business pre and post-Covid. He emphasizes t...

Electric vehicles offer an exciting opportunity for Australia to reduce emissions and transition to more sustainable transport. However, there are several challenges in adopting EVs at scale in Australia. In this video, we discuss the key challenges around EVs in Australia and what is needed to support their rollout. Australia lags other leading markets like Norway in providing incentives and infr...

Welcome to our video interview with Adiba Fattah, a PHD researcher from the University of Sunshine Coast. Adiba is conducting a research project on the evaluation of the franchise model in the Australian automotive industry. In her study, Adiba is focusing on several key aspects. Firstly, she is investigating the social exchange dynamics and the power and control dynamics between the dealer and th...

Human resources and recruitment are more important than ever in today's fast-changing business landscape. In this video, Dean Courtenay of Quadrant People Resources shares his insights on these critical topics. Dean outlines the services Quadrant offers, from recruiting and executive search to HR support. He discusses the impact of the pandemic on hiring - the shift to virtual interviews, challeng...

The future of the automotive aftersales workshop is becoming increasingly intelligent and automated thanks to advances in rugged hardware and software solutions. In this video, Russell Younghusband from Getac discusses how artificial intelligence and automation are transforming the workshop. Getac provides ruggedized hardware designed for harsh workshop environments. Their devices can withstand dr...

In this enlightening video, we have the privilege of speaking with Howard Gerwin, a seasoned expert from RKLAB AG, as he delves into the fascinating realm of engines and fuels. Join us as we explore the challenges faced by the industry in meeting emissions requirements and the exciting potential for improving CO2 and NOx emissions. Howard takes us on a comprehensive journey through the various fue...

We talk with Howard Gerwin, an expert in diesel engine technology, to gain a deeper understanding of how diesel engines work and the latest innovations to improve emissions and combat climate change. Howard explains the VW diesel emissions scandal in 2015 and the challenges VW faced. He provides an in-depth look at technologies like catalytic converters, exhaust gas recirculation or EGR, selective...

This video provides an in-depth discussion on the challenges and considerations around electric vehicles and their environmental impact. We start by investigating the scarcity of rare earth metals required for electric vehicle batteries and the environmental damage caused by mining these metals. While electric vehicles are marketed as “zero emissions,” this only refers to emissions from the tailpi...

This week we sit down with Silvio Barbisan, an automotive enthusiast and proud member of the Monaro Car Club. Silvio discusses what fuels his passion for muscle cars, especially the iconic Holden Monaro. Silvio currently owns 10 Holden and Monaro vehicles, a collection that has evolved over many years. His interest in cars started at a young age and grew into a lifelong hobby and community. Silvio...

This week we had the opportunity to speak with Tony Foon, an expert in the automotive industry, to discuss the challenges of attracting and retaining qualified technicians and mechanics. Tony emphasized the importance of creating a clear career path for technicians to show them that this can be a lifelong career, not just another job. Tony discussed the need to get new technicians working with too...

This week we dive deeper into understanding the complex challenges involved in managing a police vehicle fleet. We explore a range of topics including the specific requirements police vehicles must meet to suit the needs of law enforcement. We review the different types of police vehicles that comprise a fleet, from patrol cars to special-purpose units. We discuss how police vehicles differ from r...

Are we right or are we wrong? What do you think the numbers will be for the Australian Automotive New Car Market in 2022. Let us know what you think are the factors that will influence the market in 2022 for new and used car sales and give us your comments below. We would love to hear from you. Mark and John discuss factors that will impact budgets for 2022 and do a review of the automotive market...

In this interview, we speak with Drew Schnehage, CEO of Innovation Group, about fleet management and accident and claims management services. Drew explains why understanding data and developing actionable business insights is critical to achieving substantial cost savings for fleet managers. This video is valuable for any company in the automotive repair or paint industry, as well as those looking...

Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair sit down with Andrew Myers from DTS Experience to discuss strategies for making effective outbound car sales calls. Andrew explains why many car sales consultants struggle with consistent outbound calling and offers advice on how to develop habits and systems to overcome this common hurdle. Andrew emphasizes the importance of making a firm commitment to a certain...

In this episode of Talking Automotive With Mark and John Podcast, hosts Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair interview David Hawkins, Chief Revenue Officer of Loyalty Logistix. David discusses the importance of gaining a granular understanding of customer data to improve key metrics like retention and loyalty. David explains that successful digital companies are data-driven, relying on analytics to u...

IIn this insightful audio, we sit down with Kevin Abood, a seasoned expert in the car dealership industry, to discuss innovative business ideas that can significantly improve profitability and drive car sales growth in automotive dealerships. Kevin dives deep into the key areas that demand attention when it comes to boosting business performance. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the f...

In this insightful video, Mark and John delve into the world of automotive marketing, specifically highlighting the importance of identifying a dealer's prime marketing area. They shed light on the crucial factor of attracting customers from outside this area and explore the associated costs. One key aspect they emphasize is the limited distance customers are willing to travel for various services...

We sat down with George Norris, Founder and Director of Norris Management, to discuss leadership, management, and the future of the automotive industry. George has over 25 years of experience as an executive coach, strategist, and leadership advisor. George sees the biggest challenges for OEMs and dealers as developing strong, visionary leadership and learning how to motivate and empower employees...

We talk to Santo Amoddio, Managing Director at Glass's Information Services Australia, about the future of automotive residual values and what impacts them. Santo discusses how trends like electric vehicles, autonomous driving and car-sharing programs will shape the automotive industry and residual values in the coming years. He explains how residual values directly impact new and used car sales b...

Talking Automotive with Mark and John Ep 8. In this week's podcast, we talk to two of the owners of Modera, digital experts from Estonia. Siim Vips, a digital entrepreneur involved in a number of digital startups, and Janek Prummel whose extensive career has spanned decades in the digital space. We discuss why Estonia is one of the countries at the forefront of the digital marketing and advertisin...

In the latest episode of Talking Automotive with Mark and John, Mark Palavestra and John Sinclair delve into a comprehensive review of the first quarter of the auto industry. With their expert analysis, they shed light on the factors that have shaped the market thus far and provide insights into future trends for 2021 and beyond. Mark takes the time to meticulously explain how the figures in the a...

The future of car sales distribution is rapidly changing. In this video, we sit down with Peter Viljoen, CEO of Sydsen, to discuss the emerging direct-to-consumer model pioneered by Mercedes and BMW in South Africa. Viljoen provides insightful commentary on this bold experiment where automakers have opted to sell directly to buyers rather than solely through traditional dealerships. He explains ho...

In this video, we talk with Steve Blunt, a potential electric vehicle customer, about what you need to know before buying an electric vehicle. Steve asks several questions about EVs and how they might impact his lifestyle and purchasing decisions. We compare buying an EV versus a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle and how the process has changed. We also look to the future of EVs in Au...

The traditional car franchise distribution model for auto dealers has been in place for decades. Car manufacturers, known as original equipment manufacturers or OEMs, distribute vehicles to independent car dealerships that then sell the vehicles to customers. This model has led to a sometimes strained relationship between OEMs and dealers as they negotiate vehicle pricing, sales targets, and other...