Inside the Minds of Automotive Leaders Shaping the Future

For today’s high-performing dealership owners, success is defined by more than just inventory and margins. It’s built on grit, community engagement and forward-thinking leadership. In this edition, we sat down with three industry leaders on The Walk Around podcast to share timely perspectives for those preparing to lead their stores into 2026 and beyond. 

The Grit Behind Great Dealers

Guest: Joey Huang, Dealer Owner at Great Lakes Auto Group

🎧 Listen Now 

Joey Huang ’s journey from medical school to dealership ownership is anything but typical, which is exactly why it’s so inspiring. In this episode, Joey opens up about the tenacity, optimism and relationship-building that helped him rise through the ranks and earn his first open point. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Grit is a strategy: Beyond hard work, Joey strategically fostered trust with OEMs and partners to position his stores for long-term success. 
• Relationships drive opportunity: From NAMAD involvement to mentorship, Joey shows how intentional networking can open doors in unexpected ways. 
• Prepare for 2026 now: Joey shares his thoughts on market uncertainties, consolidation trends and how dealers can stay ahead of the curve. 

“For a dealer...the more trust we have in our partners and manufacturer, the better the store performs and also the better the value of the dealership.” – Joey Huang 

Whether you’re a seasoned dealer or an emerging leader, Joey’s story speaks to resilience and growth. His insights on leadership and data trends are especially relevant as we head into a new year. 

Leading the Next Generation of Dealers 

Guest: Karen Ford, President at Sutton Ford  

🎧 Listen Now 

Karen Ford 's path to leading multiple dealerships began with hands-on OEM experience and a deep respect for legacy. In this episode, she shares how her background shaped her approach to operations, culture and community engagement. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Legacy drives leadership: As a second-generation dealer, Karen emphasizes the importance of honoring the hard work that built the foundation of her store while preparing the next generation to carry it forward. 
• Mentorship matters: Karen discusses how mentorship and leadership development are essential for empowering future dealership leaders. 
• Culture and community go hand in hand: She highlights how cultivating a strong internal culture and engaging with the local community can lead to continuing success. 

“It’s just really a blessing [being a second-generation dealer owner] because legacy is important, you know everybody fought really hard to get here and I’m just really looking forward to it.” – Karen Ford 

If you're looking to empower future leaders and strengthen your store’s foundation, don’t miss this episode.

The Human Connection at Your Dealership 

Guest: Perry Watson IV, President of NAMAD 

🎧 Listen Now 

In a time when technology is reshaping every aspect of retail, Perry Watson IV Perry Watson reminds us that people still matter most. This episode dives deep into how dealers can strengthen their teams, connect with their communities and create relational customer experiences that drive loyalty. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Servant leadership wins: Perry explains how listening to your team and understanding what motivates them leads to better retention and performance. 
• Community connection is a competitive edge: Dealers who engage locally build trust and brand equity that no ad campaign can replicate. 
• AI and DTC buying trend: Perry shares where dealers are seeing success with digital tools and where the human touch still reigns supreme. 

“I think the dealers that are actually sitting down talking to their teams and finding out what really drives individuals are having the most success with retaining talent in their dealerships.” – Perry Watson IV 

This episode is a must for any dealer looking to build a culture that attracts top talent and keeps customers coming back. Perry’s perspective as the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD) President offers a unique lens on how diversity, leadership, and community impact dealership performance. 

Why These Episodes Matter for Your Dealership 

Joey, Karen and Perry’s perspectives serve as a reminder that the future of dealerships isn’t just about trends or technology but about people, culture and trust. Their insights can help you lead with confidence as 2026 approaches. 

Looking for more ways to improve your dealership? Check out the resource above for Sales, Fixed Ops and F&I strategies! 

Listen Now & Subscribe: 

Catch all episodes of The Walk Around on JM&A Group’s podcast page or wherever you stream your favorite shows. 

Thanks for reading our LinkedIn newsletter! We’ll be back next month with a new speaker and topic to help you thrive in the automotive industry this year. Subscribe to get notified once the next issue is released.