Garagecast - All Things Power Sports and Marine

In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Matt Groves, CEO of the Colorado Auto Dealer Association, to break down the latest FTC regulations and what they mean for automotive and powersports dealers. From the collapse of the CARS Rule to the rise of stricter consumer protection standards, Matt shares key insights on advertising compliance, transparency, and how to avoid costly mistakes. If you’re a dealer navigating evolving regulations and social media marketing risks, this episode is packed with practical, must-know guidance.

Thinking about buying, selling, or scaling your dealership? In this episode of GarageCast, Courtney Bernhard breaks down the real motivations, common mistakes, and smart strategies behind dealership exits and acquisitions—plus how independents can stay competitive in a changing market.

Sam Dantzler and co-host Jordan “Schooly” Schoolmester break down what top marine and powersports dealerships are doing right—focusing on team training, cross-department communication, and operational clarity. Fresh insights from the field highlight why breaking silos, running effective meetings, and sticking to sales fundamentals matter more than ever.

Q1 2026 shook the powersports market—mild winter, shifting buyers, and economic pressure. With insights from NPA, we break down what’s driving sales, why used inventory is surging, and how dealers can win the rest of the year.

FTC crackdowns are coming for dealer pricing—and power sports may be next. In this episode of GarageCast, we break down six must-know rules, what dealers are getting wrong, and how to stay compliant before enforcement hits.

From wrenching at 12 to owning multiple dealerships—Sam Nehme’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode of GarageCast, he shares hard-earned lessons on scaling stores, building winning teams, and spotting opportunities where others see risk. Plus, the wild story behind his $500K gold-plated chopper, “Nemesis.”

After years of trying, we finally sit down with industry heavyweight Jason White, Fay Meyers leader, automotive innovator, and the mind behind One Dealer Lane.From rebuilding after a disaster to turning a $65K finance department into a $1.9M operation, Jason shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, process, and what truly drives dealership success. This episode is packed with real stories, sharp insights, and a fresh perspective on the future of powersports and automotive.

Freestyle stunt legend Jason Britton joins GarageCast to share his wild journey—from underground cage fighting in Asia to becoming one of the most iconic sport bike performers in the world. We dive into his rise, brutal injuries, the industry's evolution, and the mindset it takes to keep pushing the limits on two wheels.

In this episode of GarageCast, we break down the difference between simply processing sales and truly selling. Drawing on insights from Daniel Pink and industry veteran Ed Lemco, we explore how modern dealerships can balance efficiency, technology, and the human connection that drives higher margins, repeat customers, and long-term loyalty.If you want more referrals, better customer experiences, and stronger sales performance, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of GarageCast, we talk with Jace Romine's of Union Marine in the Seattle area about the evolving marine industry and the mindset shifts driving dealership success. Jace shares his unconventional path into boating—from auto repair to real estate and bail bonds—and how it shaped his approach to leadership and sales.We discuss smarter CRM use, collaborative lead management, rising boat prices, changing buyer demographics, dealer–OEM relationships, and the potential role of AI in marine retail. A quick, insightful look at the future of boating and dealership sales.

What does it take to build and sustain a successful family powersports dealership?In this episode of GarageCast, Jeff Wheeler of Wheeler Power Sports shares hard-earned insights on staffing, manufacturer pressure, the internet’s impact on sales, and why people—not product—drive long-term success. He also discusses succession, leadership, and balancing family with the demands of the business.A must-listen for dealers and industry leaders.

In Part 2, Mark Sheffield takes on the biggest challenges in the powersports industry—dealer/manufacturer tension, volume bonuses, co-op pressure, and the race to the bottom hurting profitability.He shares why open dialogue matters, how his perspective shifted with BRP, and why digital lead follow-up may be the industry’s most overlooked opportunity.Candid, bold, and focused on helping dealers win.

Mark Sheffield doesn’t need much of an introduction—so we let the stories do the work. In Part 1 of this two-part GarageCast series, Mark shares how his path from the U.S. Army (and the First Gulf War in M1 Abrams tanks) shaped the mental toughness that later fueled his powersports career.He breaks down how becoming “the guy who can fix it” —including a Lightspeed server crash that made him the go-to problem-solver—opened doors, built influence, and helped him grow with the Woods family at Woods Fun Center. You’ll also hear lessons on leadership, accountability, and why 20 Groups became his “paid MBA.”Part 2 drops next Tuesday.

In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Ashley Read and Eric Smith, the brother-sister leadership team behind Colorado Boat Center. They share the real story of stepping into a family-owned dealership, defining roles, and navigating the transition from founders to the next generation.From unexpected career pivots to complementary leadership styles, Ashley and Eric break down what it takes to run a successful dealership as siblings—while honoring legacy and building a future-focused vision.

In this episode of GarageCast, Brandon Pack and Brandon Procupek of PowerMax break down what it really takes to grow a modern powersports business—from leadership and culture to marketing that actually moves units. We talk multi-rooftop growth, building a team-first operation, attracting new riders, and why their new show "Moving Metal" is bringing fresh energy to the industry.

Kick off the new year with GarageCast as we unveil new premier services from Garage Composites—mastermind groups and concierge consulting built to help dealers level up strategy, profitability, and long-term value.Joining us are Ozzie Giglio and Dave Cotteleer, who are leading the next mastermind sessions on March 24–25 in Miami. From Dave’s journey to Harley-Davidson executive leadership to Ozzie’s 25-year dealer career and successful exit, this conversation dives into what most dealers don’t spend enough time on: exit planning, wealth strategy, succession, and real estate.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Mitch Mann, we get ultra-practical about how dealerships can use AI to sell smarter, communicate better, and train faster. Mitch breaks down real-world use cases—from using AI to craft confident, customer-friendly responses in tough situations, to replacing awkward role-play with AI-powered sales simulations that help junior staff improve quickly (without the pressure).If you want to bring AI into your store in a way that actually moves the needle, this episode is your blueprint.

In this episode of GarageCast, Sam and Tony sit down with Mitch Mann, CEO of BoardCo, to break down how dealerships can move past the hype and put AI to work. From lead management to service ops, Mitch shares real-world lessons from three years of hands-on AI implementation—and what it takes to do it right.

Live from AIM Expo 2026, Tom and Cindy Hicks share how they built Southern California Motorcycles into the #1 Triumph dealer in North America—and what it took to successfully exit after 25 years.They break down the small operational changes that drove big financial gains, why labor rate increases rarely impact customers, and how data, discipline, and 20 Groups shaped long-term success. A must-listen for dealers focused on profitability, sustainability, and planning their next chapter.

Recorded live from AIM Expo, Sam and Tony sit down with Lindsey Scheltema, Director of the United States Motorcycle Coaching Association (USMCA), to talk about raising the standard of motorcycle coaching nationwide.Lindsey shares how certified coaching helps create safer riders, stronger dealer relationships, and lifelong customers—and how the MotorcycleCoaching.org app connects riders with trusted coaches across the country. A must-listen for dealers, OEMs, and anyone focused on growing the next generation of riders.

Recorded live from AIM Expo, this episode features industry icon Rick Alcon of R&S Motorcycles, sharing four decades of hard-earned lessons on what actually drives dealership success. Rick cuts through the AI hype to explain why disciplined sales processes, human connection, and strong leadership still close deals.The conversation covers how AI should be used to build better craftsmen, not replace them, along with insights on hiring, training, succession planning, and adapting to today’s workforce without losing accountability or culture. A must-listen for dealers navigating change while staying grounded in fundamentals.

Recorded live from Anaheim, this episode explores the future of the powersports industry with Bernie Brenner of Rollick. We break down what real consumer data is revealing, why AI is becoming essential for dealers, and how smarter insights can improve lead conversion, efficiency, and inventory performance.If you want a clear look at where the industry is headed—and how dealers can stay ahead—this is a must-listen.

Live from AIMExpo in Anaheim, the GarageCast team dives into the real challenges facing today’s dealers—from rising advertising costs to industry fragmentation. We’re joined by Sergey Tokman, dealer, entrepreneur, and host of One Gang Worldwide, for a candid conversation about collaboration over competition, mental health in the motorcycle community, and why shared best practices matter more than ever.

In our final episode of 2025, we look back on an unforgettable year of GarageCast—300+ episodes, standout guests, and the conversations that shaped our industry. From dealer performance and culture to community, tariffs, and the future of Harley-Davidson, we revisit key moments and lessons that mattered most. We wrap with gratitude for our listeners, clients, and team—and set the stage for an even bigger 2026. Thanks for being part of the GarageCast family.

In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Tom Whowoll, third-generation owner of Gordy’s, to explore why real-world experiences will always matter in the boating industry. From the irreplaceable thrill of being on the water to the power of experiential selling, Tom shares how Gordy’s has built a legacy by creating memories—not just selling boats.Tom also recounts a remarkable personal story of resilience after a near-fatal accident on Lake Geneva, and how his passion for wind-powered sports and boating never faded. This conversation is a powerful reminder that while technology and AI can enhance the journey, nothing replaces authentic experiences, community, and the emotional connection of life on the water.

In this episode of GarageCast, Jesse Davis of Legend Boats shares how operating as both an OEM and a retailer shapes smarter pricing, tighter dealer relationships, and a better customer experience. We dig into retail-driven insights, standardized pricing, performance scoreboards, and how Legend is navigating tariffs and market uncertainty—a candid, back-to-basics conversation on what’s working in marine retail right now.

GarageCast goes inside the pontoon market with industry veteran Mark Gibbs, now leading the charge at Premier Pontoon Boats. Mark shares how Premier is growing market share in a declining segment, why fast problem-solving wins customer loyalty, and how Premier’s PTX hull sets their boats apart. We also dig into inventory challenges, dealer relationships, and the balance between technology and personal connection in today’s marine industry. 

GarageCast sits down with Justin Shields, Director of Sales at Hagadone Marine, for a high-energy look at what truly drives sales in the marine industry: personal connection. Justin shares how he went from building an F&I department from scratch to transforming his approach at boat shows—shifting from chasing crowds to focusing on the person right in front of him.A sharp, insightful episode for anyone who wants to elevate their sales game and build relationships that actually convert.

Live from MRAA Dealer Week, GarageCast sits down with Correct Craft CRO Thomas Bates to break down the most significant challenges and opportunities in today’s boating industry. We explore why dealers must shift from “selling boats” to “selling their brand,” how telematics is reshaping the ownership experience, and why the industry is struggling to capture new and younger boaters.

Boating has changed—and fast. In this episode of GarageCast, Matt Gruhn from MRAA breaks down the most significant shifts facing marine dealers today, from soaring boat prices to rapidly evolving customer expectations. We dig into why most dealers still aren’t using AI, what the “dealership of tomorrow” must look like, and how transparency and technology will shape the future of buying and selling boats. A sharp, forward-looking conversation every marine professional needs to hear.

GarageCast goes deep into the future of boating with Gavin Hunt, VP of Sales at Chris-Craft. From his early days selling skis to leading one of the most iconic premium boat brands in the world, Gavin shares sharp insights on dealer strategy, brand positioning, and why Chris-Craft’s 151-year legacy still defines luxury on the water.We cover the launch of the new Sportster series, the rise of “dock jewelry,” the realities of today’s shifting marine market, and how dealers can stay profitable by embracing transparency, fresh inventory, and emerging tech—including AI.

Kim Sweers—The Boat Boss—is back on GarageCast. In this fast-moving episode, Kim shares hard-won lessons from reshaping her service operations, the bold move that eliminated constant rework, and the strategic pivot that fueled an 80% surge in brokerage sales. She also unveils her new show, Yachting Unplugged, and breaks down why staying informed—and embracing technology—will define the next era of marine retail.

In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Mark Dukes, owner and GM of High Desert Harley-Davidson in Boise. With more than 40 years in the powersports industry, Mark shares his journey from his early days at Fay Myers to leading one of the top Harley-Davidson dealerships in the Northwest. He breaks down the evolution of dealership culture, the importance of execution and customer service, and how his Learn to Ride program is bringing new riders into the sport—a standout conversation with a true industry veteran.

Meet the powerhouse duo behind Century Marine. In this episode of GarageCast, second-generation owner Melanie Bosley Bloomfield and sales leader Stephen Osborne share the family legacy, award-winning customer experience strategies, and the resilience that shaped their success. From boating passion to community-driven service, discover how Century Marine built a loyal, multi-generation customer base—and why their approach keeps winning. A must-listen for anyone in marine or powersports retail.

In this episode of GarageCast, Tony and Sam unpack insights from the fall 20 Clubs, tackling rising dealership costs, shrinking margins, and innovative ways to stay profitable. From early holiday buzz to major OEM shakeups—Harley’s new leadership, Indian’s transition, Kawasaki’s surge, and CFMoto’s momentum—they break down what’s driving the powersports market right now. Additionally, discover how training, inventory discipline, and community events can position your dealership for a successful season ahead.

In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Sean Bracey of Cedar Creek Motorsports to uncover how a parts and accessories department can become a powerful profit center. Sean shares real-world strategies to boost sales, engage customers, and drive dealership success. Packed with actionable insights—this one’s a must-listen for anyone looking to level up their parts department.

In this GarageCast episode, we sit down with Chad Clark and Bryan Castor—owners of five thriving Harley-Davidson dealerships—to explore how they turned humble beginnings into powerhouse operations. From innovative tent sales to navigating corporate shifts, they share candid insights on leadership, profitability, and the passion that fuels the Harley community.

Mike Murray and Jim Woodruff from National Powersport Auction (NPA) join GarageCast to break down Q3’s wholesale trends, pre-owned inventory challenges, and the potential impact of new steel and aluminum tariffs. Hear where the market’s heading, what dealers should watch, and how to stay ahead as we roll into 2026.

In this episode of GarageCast, Dan “Gus” Gussoff shares his blue-collar roots, his rise through the Harley-Davidson world, and the bold leap that took him from Detroit to the Emerald Coast. From hard-earned lessons in sales to building community and even launching Big Gus Tractor & Equipment, Gus’s story is packed with grit, humor, and insight. A must-listen for anyone who believes leadership is learned from the ground up.

In this special episode, we celebrate Sharon Sorrell, a beloved team member retiring after nearly 30 years. Sharon shares stories from the early Lemco days, hilarious travel memories, and reflections on the company’s growth. Join us for laughs, gratitude, and a heartfelt farewell to someone who’s been the heart of our team since 1996.

In this episode, we sit down with longtime friend and client Chris Watts, owner of America’s Motorsports in Nashville, TN. From assembling scooters in his father’s first Honda shop during his childhood to running five thriving dealerships, Chris shares an inspiring story of growth, grit, and adaptability. Hear his take on the evolution of the powersports industry, managing expansion, embracing new technology, and keeping fun at the heart of the business—a must-listen for anyone passionate about the ride and the people who make it happen.

In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Chris Crysdale of Skiers’ Choice—the company behind Supra and Moomba boats. From his start as a Ford mechanic to leading in the marine industry, Chris shares how passion and persistence shaped his path. He reveals why Skier’s Choice prioritizes quality over market share, the value of dealer partnerships, and how the brand is navigating post-pandemic challenges—a must-listen for anyone in the marine world.

Discover how Rowan Mockler and Chris Howard, founders of Ekho, are transforming powersports with seamless e-commerce and AI-driven solutions. Joined by industry veteran Mike Cunningham, we explore how technology, OEM partnerships, and dealer insights are reshaping the buying experience and the future of the industry.

Tariffs are shaking up the powersports industry — but how deep does the impact go? In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Christy Lacruelle and Scott Schloegel from the Motorcycle Industry Council to unpack the real costs of tariffs, from skyrocketing prices to supply chain challenges. With insights on policy, advocacy, and the uncertain road ahead, this is a must-listen for every dealer and industry pro navigating today’s turbulent market.

Dillon Moore of Colorado Motorcycle Adventure joins us to talk about taking over the family business, growing CMA into North America’s premier rental and tour outfit, and creating unforgettable riding experiences. We dive into CMA’s rapid growth, partnerships with OEMs and dealers, innovative marketing strategies, and the camaraderie that keeps riders coming back. Plus, hear about their upcoming Utah tour!

Family Legacy, Wild Stories & Sturgis Insights with Wade Rice Ride along as Wade Rice of Rice's Rapid Motorsports shares wild dealership stories, the evolution of Sturgis, and candid thoughts on the future of powersports.

In this quick hit episode of GarageCast, we catch up on Sam Dantzler’s ankle surgery and his 3-month absence from the road. We talk recovery setbacks, gratitude for strong teams, and the importance of resilience. Send Sam some love—and stay tuned for his return to 20 clubs and travel.

Marine dealers are facing a brutal Q2—sales down 33%, tariffs up, and closures looming. But there’s a way forward. In this episode, we break down the data, the ripple effect on PowerSports and Harley, and share a 4-step plan to create deals, accept more deals, boost F&I, and lock in service customers.If you’re in the industry, this episode is a must-listen to turn the tide before Q3 slips away.

New GarageCast Episode: Discover how to keep your service department thriving through fall and winter. We share proactive strategies—customer outreach, winterization services, OEM programs, and social media tactics—that flip the “slow season” into a profit season. Don’t wait for work to come in—create it.

From Ducati to Norton, Steve Radt’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and passion for two wheels. Hear how he built a successful Manhattan dealership, navigated the EV world at Polestar, and now leads Norton Motorcycles’ North American sales with bold plans for growth and groundbreaking models.