CMA's Moving Lives Forward Podcast

In this episode of CMA's Moving Lives Forward podcast, host Chris Heinz sits down with Jason Mahoney, Senior Director of Marketing for Carter Myers Automotive, to explore what it takes to market a 27-location automotive group with heart and strategy. Jason traces his career from waiting tables and selling cars to working for American Honda alongside COO Matt Walsh, eventually landing at CMA after a fateful encounter with Liza Borches at NADA. He unpacks the evolution of automotive marketing — from batch-and-blast direct mail to precision data-driven campaigns — and discusses CMA's "Care Keys" brand initiative, which brings the company's employee-ownership story to life for customers. Drawing on his CliftonStrengths profile of Woo, Individualization, Context, Ideation, and Positivity, Jason reflects on how his relationship-first mindset, love of history, and creative energy shape his leadership approach.

In this episode, host Chris Heinz sits down with John Housley, Parts and Service Director at CMA's Hyundai of Winchester, to explore what it takes to lead a high-performing fixed operations department. John shares how he structures his technician teams around focused skill levels, why eliminating friction — for both customers and employees — is central to his leadership philosophy, and how the opening of a brand-new facility became a rare opportunity to reset the culture and raise standards across the board. Drawing on his CliftonStrengths profile, John reflects on how his top themes of Restorative, Arranger, Strategic, and Belief shape his day-to-day decisions and long-term vision. He also offers candid advice for aspiring automotive leaders: learn the whole operation, bring solutions not just problems, and never stop growing — because the moment you drop anchor, the tide moves on without you.

Laura Campbell is the Executive Assistant to CMA's CEO Liza Borches. In this episode, we explore what it really means to support the top seat of a 1,300-person automotive company. Laura shares how her career path — from directory assistance and telecom management to the Chamber of Commerce and eventually CMA — equipped her with the skills, credibility, and heart her demanding role requires. Through the lens of CliftonStrengths, Chris and Laura unpack how talents converge to keep a fast-moving executive office running without missing a beat. Laura also opens up about her passion for giving back, including how she pitched and now leads CMA's four quarterly philanthropic initiatives that rally associates across all 27 dealerships around causes that matter.

What if the secret to three years of record-breaking success isn't working harder—it's measuring smarter? In this episode, Charles Camp, general manager and managing partner at CMA's Valley Subaru, shares his secret to success in winning the General Manager KPI Award for three consecutive years (2023-2025), earning him the title of "KPI King" among CMA's 26 dealerships. He was once a seven-year-old who dreamed of leading General Motors and then worked his way through retail sales at Lowe's to automotive leadership. Charles explains the five KPIs that matter most and how he has created position-specific KPI scorecards for every associate, with roll-ups to company-wide goals. The result: record-breaking performance year after year and a blueprint for sustainable dealership success.

What does it take to go from healthcare to winning a national automotive leadership award in just three years? In this episode, we interview Jeanine Bayne, Service Manager at Volvo of Charlottesville and recent winner of NADA's Rising Star Award for Women Driving Vehicle Retail. Jeanine shares her remarkable transition from nursing to automotive, rising from service advisor to service manager while bringing calm problem-solving and genuine care to leading her team of 17. She reveals what makes exceptional service experiences, the hidden complexities of the service department, and how she uses her strengths to manage daily pressures while building lifelong customer relationships. Whether you're in automotive or any leadership role, Jeanine's story offers powerful lessons on authentic leadership and seeing people as more than just numbers.

This episode features an interview with coach Danelle Delgado on the importance of gratitude, aligning with CMA's mission of "moving lives forward." Danelle's core work focuses on fixing self-esteem not through encouragement, but through a systematic approach called "Win on Repeat," where achieving factual results builds internal belief. Her own breakthrough came from formalizing her success, transforming her struggle with self-doubt into a commitment to service in every room she enters. She advocates viewing adversity as a gift that reveals personal strength. Finally, Danelle strongly endorses the traditionally male-dominated automotive industry as a space with tremendous growth opportunities for women who are willing to commit to personal development.

The podcast features an interview with Kyle Hoffmaster, an automotive technician at CMA's Subaru dealership in Winchester, VA. Kyle shares his journey into the automotive industry, which began as a teenager helping a mechanically-inclined neighbor and was cemented by the encouragement of his high school teachers who valued skilled trades. He emphasizes that the critical skills for a successful technician are patience and an open mind for continuous learning, often relating his work life to a challenging but rewarding game of bowling, where perfection is unrealistic. Kyle offers advice to aspiring technicians, stressing the importance of utilizing all free resources, gaining product knowledge, and developing strong communication skills to ask the right questions.

This podcast episode features an interview with Eddie Brown, the Executive Director and co-founder of Giving Words, a nonprofit partner of CMA that is dedicated to serving single mothers through car repair and car gifting. Brown explains that transportation is a crucial "linchpin" for single mothers' stability, directly impacting their ability to maintain housing, employment, and access essential services like food banks and medical care. The organization's motto is to provide "words of hope and hands that help."

In this episode of CMA's Moving Lives Forward podcast, host Chris Heinz sits down with Gwen Antesberger, a dedicated member of the People Team at Carter Myers Automotive. Gwen reflects on her unique career journey—from paralegal to Disney customer service agent to nonprofit executive assistant—and how each role has shaped her resilient, service-oriented approach. With a deep commitment to internal communications and talent acquisition, Gwen shares how her faith, her role as a mother of seven, and her behind-the-scenes work contribute to the company’s mission. Her story is a beautiful patchwork of experiences, stitched together with grace, humility, and a heart for helping others thrive.

In this episode, CMA's Chief Operating Officer, Matt Walsh, shares his unconventional career path, from waiting tables and headhunting to falling in love with the automotive industry. He discusses his passion for the car business as a meritocracy and how CMA's identity as an employee-owned company fuels its "Owners Just Care More" philosophy. Walsh reflects on his leadership style, emphasizing the power of storytelling to build rapport and his belief in learning from failure through better preparation and delegation. He also shares insights from his CliftonStrengths assessment and a favorite memory involving a unique team-building event at a raceway. Matt offers his perspective on how AI will transform the industry and advises listeners to focus on hard work, teamwork, and disconnecting from social media to lean into family and friends.

Meet Nina Ross, CMA's newest Talent Advisor, who in just four months is already transforming our hiring processes across 24 dealerships. Bringing over 13 years of experience from the banking industry, Nina shares her unique, data-driven perspective on attracting and retaining top talent. She reveals the three key traits she looks for in every candidate—curiosity, adaptability, and mission-alignment—and provides powerful advice for both applicants and hiring managers. We also explore how her top CliftonStrengths, like Strategic and Self-Assurance, shape her people-first approach.

In this episode of Moving Lives Forward, host Chris Heinz sits down with Matt Dudley, Parts Manager at CMA’s Hyundai of Lynchburg, for a conversation that transcends the workplace. Matt shares his journey from retail to automotive, and more profoundly, his role as a father to Eli, a remarkable 8-year-old living with rare medical conditions. From navigating early health crises to advocating for inclusive playgrounds, Matt’s story is one of grit, grace, and purpose. With a closing message to “hold the line,” this episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of showing up—for our families, our communities, and ourselves..

In this episode, we sit down with Nina Franks, Financial Well-Being Project Manager at Truist Bank, to explore the eight pillars of financial greatness. Nina shares how Truist Momentum empowers individuals to build financial confidence through practical tools, values-based budgeting, and long-term planning. From emergency savings to investing, homeownership, and giving back, each pillar offers a step toward greater peace, comfort, and control. Through personal stories and expert insights, Nina demonstrates how financial well-being is connected to every area of life. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your strategy, this episode offers inspiration and actionable steps to move your financial life forward.

On CMA's Moving Lives Forward podcast, Chris Heinz sat down with John Mark Osborne, an Executive Manager at CMA. John’s journey is a powerful story of perseverance, faith, and a forward-thinking vision for the future of car buying. While he waits to open and lead CMA's brand-new Honda dealership in Lexington Park, MD, his path, leadership philosophy, and deep personal insights offer an inspiring look at what it means to move lives forward.

In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Butler and Melissa Rourke, two newly promoted regional controllers at CMA, to explore the essential role accounting plays in the automotive industry. They share what a typical week looks like, how they support multiple stores, and the leadership lessons they've learned along the way. From Jessica’s journey starting as a nanny to Melissa’s deep family roots in the car business, their stories highlight diverse paths to success. They also discuss how their personal strengths shape their leadership styles and how they balance people management with financial precision. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the people who keep the numbers—and the business—running smoothly.

CMA launched a company-wide Wellable Challenge to promote physical wellness, engaging over 270 associates who logged 54,000 miles. The initiative, introduced by Raleigh Marria, emphasized inclusivity, motivation, and community through a user-friendly app and a dual leaderboard system. Standout participants Tyler Nuckoles, Kyle Hoffmaster, and Dino Womack each brought unique motivations and strengths to the challenge, from marathon training to personal health transformations. Their stories highlighted how individual talents and supportive environments can drive lasting lifestyle changes. The challenge improved physical health and deepened connections across CMA’s diverse teams and locations.

In this episode, nutrition and wellness coach Andrea Lopes shares practical tips for building sustainable health habits that fit real life. From quick, simple meal prep to improving sleep with small daily routines, Andrea emphasizes the power of consistency over perfection. She shares a powerful story of a client whose emotional health and marriage turned around after just a month of better eating and rest. Andrea also highlights the importance of community and accountability in making habits stick, especially in the automotive world. Listeners will walk away encouraged, informed, and equipped to take their next small step toward better wellness.

Listen to our conversation with Scott Rainey, a Marine Corps Veteran and Service Manager at CMA's Colonial Hyundai. He shares how his military training shaped his no-excuses, lead-by-example approach to leadership. With a natural blend of discipline, humility, and heart, Scott explains how he builds trust, fosters team collaboration, and earns influence through hard work and consistency. From fixing toilets to mentoring employees, his philosophy is simple: do the right thing, stay accountable, and never stop growing. Along the way, Scott offers insights on resilience, team buy-in, and the quiet strength of servant leadership.

Join us in this insightful episode as we explore the power of employee recognition with Dave Lawson from CMA's Williamsburg Ford and Matt Brink from CMA's CDJR of Lynchburg. Discover how timely, specific, and individualized appreciation can transform workplace morale and boost engagement. Dave and Matt share practical strategies, including daily recognition habits and tailored appreciation methods, that have proven effective in their stores. Learn how leveraging strengths like achiever and individualization can make recognition meaningful and impactful. Tune in to understand how these practices can create a supportive and motivated work environment.

In this episode, we feature five guests who have significantly improved their physical wellness. These real-life stories will inspire you, especially if you're looking for a boost to your health journey. Our guests come from various car dealerships, and despite the challenges of their demanding jobs, they have made remarkable changes in their physical well-being. Halfway through the show, we reveal the combined weight loss of our guests. You won’t believe it!

In this episode, Jesse Jones shares her inspiring career path, highlighting the mentors who shaped her leadership style and the challenges she faced along the way. From starting as a part-time cashier at Lowe's to becoming an area installation manager, Jesse discusses the complexities of managing contractors and ensuring customer satisfaction. Her transition to CMA, influenced by her mother's role at the company, showcases her resilience and commitment to putting people first. Jesse's personal experiences have fostered empathy and a reflective approach to leadership, making her a valuable asset to CMA and the team at Williamsburg Ford.

In this episode, we welcome Mark Sanborn, internationally acclaimed author, keynote speaker, and leadership expert, best known for his bestselling book, "The Fred Factor." Mark shares his insights on professional development, leadership, and how to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. We dive into the principles of "The Fred Factor," discuss insights into professional growth, and explore how employees and leaders can foster a culture of excellence. Join us for an inspiring conversation that will motivate you to elevate your work and life to new heights.

In this episode, we're joined by Bruce Kolz about his journey as an executive manager in the car business, starting from humble beginnings as a lot attendant to overseeing multiple stores at CMA.Key highlights include the importance of building authentic relationships with team members, the role of accountability, fairness, and consistency (AFC) in leadership, and the use of tools like the Gallup Q12 survey and CliftonStrengths assessment to drive engagement and performance.The episode also touches on the challenges of managing stress and eliminating excuses to achieve optimal results, as well as the unique and supportive culture at CMA that sets it apart in the auto industry.

In this episode, we chat with Frances Meiklejohn, Senior Benefits and Wellbeing Administrator, about her diverse role and its impact on CMA. She discusses the rewarding aspects of her job, including supporting associates during difficult times and participating in company acquisitions. She also answers some of the top mysteries of benefits and offers practical advice on seizing opportunities to enhance personal and professional wellbeing.

In this episode, we welcome back Mandy Housley, General Manager of CMA's Subaru of Winchester, to discuss a significant milestone. Mandy's store is the first to achieve 100% completion of the CliftonStrengths assessment among all associates. We explore the strategies and steps taken to reach this goal, including the importance of relationships, team collaboration, and integrating the assessment into the new hire process. Mandy shares insights on how understanding and leveraging individual strengths can enhance team dynamics and drive success.

In this episode, Liza and Chris guide listeners through a reflective exercise to review 2024 and set new goals for 2025. They discuss the importance of recognizing past accomplishments and planning for future success, with insights from special guests Don Sankey and Rob Migliaccio. Tune in for practical tips and inspiring stories to kickstart your new year with intention and purpose.

You know the 12 Days of Christmas, but do you know the 12 months of Moving Lives Forward? In this episode, we celebrate the 12 lessons we've learned as part of CMA's associate training program. Listen as we recall content from all year round. Plus there's a fun surprise at the end.

As the Executive General Manager for CMA's five Richmond dealerships, Ed Nicol sees himself as a Chief Team Builder. In this episode, we discuss what he has learned from working with thousands of employees and hundreds of teams and how his strengths have brought success. He also shares advice for people interested in the car business.

Jennie Lockett has spent 29 years at CMA. In an age where long-term tenure is rare, listen as Jennie shares the secret to staying in one workplace despite the changing seasons of life. Jennie is a dealership assistant for several CMA stores in the Richmond area.

How well do you receive feedback? In today's episode, we discuss how to make the most of feedback, including understanding different types of feedback, triggers that can get in the way, important feedback skills, and how your strengths can help or hinder you. 

Whether we like it or not, we all deal with change. How can you manage change better? Join Onboarding Specialist Nate Antesberger as we discuss the change management process, CMA's new onboarding program, and how strengths can help with change. 

How do you serve up spectacular customer service? Mindi Williams has been helping customers since she was 14. Through a variety of roles outside and inside the car business, Mindi has learned how to wow customers so they keep coming back. Mindi is the service manager at CMA's Colonial Subaru in Chesterfield, VA.

In episode 13, we're revisiting some of our most memorable moments from the first 12 episodes. Listen to our lineup of past guests, including our CEO, GM's, Support Team members, and even an Olympic gold medalist on topics like professional development, origin stories, using your strengths, and more. 

What happens when employees come to work and get life change too? In today's episode, Executive General Manager Scott Simons shares about his mentoring program that is transforming lives. In addition, he discusses social media strategies, going against his father's advice, and the power of strengths-based teams. Scott oversees five CMA stores in Staunton, VA.

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Josh Davis knows what it takes to win gold. He has broken multiple American swim records and served as Olympic captain for Team USA. Today he is a business owner, collegiate swim coach, and father to six children. Listen as Josh discusses winning principles for work and life.

Today, Glenn Lundy is a sought out consultant, business leader, author, and main stage speaker, but he didn't start out that way. Listen as Glenn shares his journey from hitting rock bottom to rising up. He also discusses principles from his new book, "The Legacy Titles." Glenn Lundy is a professional development consultant for CMA. 

What impact can knowing your strengths have on the sales process? Here's the story of how one sales manager almost lost a deal, and how knowing his strengths saved him. Troy Jackson is the General Sales Manager of CMA's Honda of Winchester, VA.

Can your strengths change? In this episode, General Manager Mandy Housley talks about how her strengths have evolved as she changed her role from manager of the service department to being the General Manager of CMA's Subaru of Winchester, Virginia.

What makes Chick-fil-A's culture so enticing? Chris Heinz spent a day at their HQ learning about their secret sauce. In today's episode, he shares five takeaways that are shaping how he thinks about employee experience and culture at CMA. Chris is CMA's Director of People & Associate Experience.

How do strengths show up early in life? In this episode, Ben St. Ours shares stories of his strengths and how they help him at work. He is the General Manager of the award-winning Valley Honda in Staunton, Virginia.

Beth Lucchesi is a Talent Acquisition Specialist for CMA. In this episode, she shares how she uses her top five talents for recruiting, how positivity can sometimes get in the way, and how she's learned to manage it for better decisions.

How can you have meaningful conversations at work? Making strengths the foundation is a great way to start! In this episode, Payroll Coordinator Charlie Richards models four types of strengths-based conversations to align work with what you do really well. These conversations were suggested by the Gallup Organization.

Most workers don't use their strengths for daily work. But that what your strengths are for! In this episode, Judi Anderson, Senior Customer Experience Manager for CMA, talks about how she changed her approach by using her strengths, and the difference it made.

What is one thing that can change everything? Join Chris Heinz, Director of People & Associate Experience, as he shares basic principles and benefits of the strategy being rolled out across CMA that can improve business practices across the board. 

In this inaugural episode, CEO Liza Borches and Chris Heinz talk about the vision for professional development at Carter Myers Automotive (CMA) and how this podcast plays a part. Learn how CMA is leveraging employee strengths, what Liza's top strengths are, how she uses them in her CEO role, and how employees can discover their top strengths.