Tag: Main Episode

Guest Expert:
Amy Anderson
Senior Director, Market & Consumer Research
Cox Automotive

Guest Expert: Amy Anderson, Senior Director of Market & Consumer Research at Cox Automotive, joins Jade Terreberry to share powerful insights from the latest AI Readiness Study. Amy reveals how leading dealers are turning AI into real business results—boosting efficiency, customer engagement, and profitability—while overcoming challenges like trust, data quality, and training. Her advice: start small, build a clear plan, and measure progress. Dealers who take action now are gaining a competitive edge and unlocking the true potential of AI in automotive retail.

Top Takeaways:

1. AI is moving from buzzword to business driver: 81% of dealers say AI is here to stay, and 63% see investing in it as essential for long-term success. The momentum is real—and those who lean in are already seeing results.
2. Overcoming barriers unlocks opportunity: Dealers are tackling challenges like trust, data reliability, and training. By investing in education and improving data quality, they’re building confidence and setting the stage for smarter operations.
3. Success starts with a plan—and small wins: The most successful dealers don’t wait for perfection. They start with focused pilots, measure outcomes, and iterate—leading to greater efficiency, profitability, and a competitive edge.
4. Tailored AI solutions deliver real impact: From personalized marketing to predictive pricing, dealers who apply AI to their unique needs are seeing the biggest gains in revenue and customer engagement.
5. Implementation is easier than you think: 81% of dealers who’ve adopted AI found it simpler than expected. The key? Take action, solve one real business problem at a time, and watch your dealership transform.

Timestamps: 

0:00 – 1:30 – Introduction & Why AI Readiness Matters

Jade Terreberry introduces the episode and guest Amy Anderson, and previews the discussion on the importance of AI for dealers.

1:30 – 2:30 – Dealer Attitudes Toward AI

Amy shares key stats from the AI Readiness Study, showing strong dealer confidence and commitment to AI adoption.

2:30 – 4:04 – Barriers to Adoption

Jade and Amy discuss the biggest challenges dealers face—trust, data reliability, and training—and strategies to overcome them.

4:04 – 5:38 – What Sets Successful Dealers Apart

Amy explains how having a formal plan, starting small, and iterating leads to stronger performance and measurable benefits.

5:38 – 7:29 – Practical Applications & Impact

The conversation highlights where AI is making the most difference, including marketing, pricing, and predictive outreach.

7:29 – 8:20 – Overcoming Hesitation & Entry Barriers

Jade and Amy address common misconceptions about AI implementation and encourage dealers to take the first step.

8:20 – 10:20 – Implementation Insights & Dealer Experiences

Amy reveals that most dealers found AI adoption easier than expected, emphasizing the value of solving real business problems.

10:20 – 11:10 – Closing Thoughts & Call to Action

Jade wraps up the episode, encourages listeners to explore the full AI Readiness Study, and thanks Amy for her insights.

Guest Experts:
Elizabeth Stegall
Senior Director of Client Retention
Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book and ICO

Bethany Johnson
Strategic Planning Director
vAuto

Guest Experts: Elizabeth Stegall, Senior Director of Client Retention for Autotrader, Kelley Blue Book, and ICO, and Bethany Johnson, Strategic Planning Director at vAuto, join Jade Terreberry to break down essential strategies for dealers and OEMs to thrive in 2026, focusing on the acronym R.O.A.D.: ROI Focus, Omnichannel Everything, Application and Adoption of AI, and Database Decision Making. Together, they share straightforward ways for dealers to move beyond outdated metrics, simplify inventory management, and harness AI and data in everyday operations. Their advice empowers automotive leaders to connect with customers, run a smoother business, and stay ahead of the competition in the year to come.

Top Takeaways:

1. ROI and real sales matter more than old metrics: Elizabeth and Bethany urge dealers to move beyond lead counts and last-click attribution, focusing instead on actual sales and meaningful customer outcomes.
2. Omnichannel strategies drive engagement and loyalty: Delivering a seamless experience—online and in-store—is now essential. Dealers who connect with shoppers across all channels see higher engagement, better retention, and increased sales.
3. AI and real-time data are transforming operations: Adopting AI-powered tools and leveraging up-to-date data helps dealers optimize inventory, marketing, and customer interactions for greater efficiency and profitability.
4. Inventory acquisition requires discipline and diversification: Bethany highlights the importance of using all seven acquisition channels and continually refining strategies to ensure the right vehicles are available to meet demand.
5. Dealership websites are the new walk-in: Jade’s advice: treat your website as a primary sales channel in your CRM. Understanding where customers originate—virtual or physical—helps dealers capture more opportunities and adapt to changing shopper behavior.

Timestamps: 
0:00 – 0:49 – Introduction

Jade Terreberry welcomes listeners, introduces Elizabeth Stegall and Bethany Johnson, and previews the episode’s focus on automotive trends and strategies for dealers and OEMs.

0:49 – 2:16 – Setting the Stage: R.O.A.D. for 2026

Jade introduces the R.O.A.D. acronym—ROI Focus, Omnichannel Everything, Application and Adoption of AI, and Database Decision Making—as the framework for thriving in the year ahead.

2:16 – 5:40 – R: ROI Focus & Evolving Metrics

Elizabeth discusses the shift away from outdated metrics, the importance of understanding the full consumer journey, and how new attribution models help dealers measure what truly drives sales.

5:40 – 11:10 – O: Omnichannel Everything

Bethany and Elizabeth explore omnichannel strategies, emphasizing seamless connectivity between online and in-store experiences, and the impact on inventory management and customer engagement.

11:10 – 16:17 – A: Application and Adoption of AI

Elizabeth and Bethany share practical advice for adopting AI, leveraging trusted partners, and using real-time data to improve efficiency, personalization, and profitability.

16:17 – 18:26 – D: Database Decision Making

The conversation turns to using data as a daily operating tool, with insights on how real-time, high-quality data enables smarter decisions and drives long-term success.

18:26 – 20:22 – Top Advice for Dealers in 2026

Jade asks Elizabeth and Bethany for their one big piece of advice. Bethany highlights disciplined inventory acquisition across all channels, while Elizabeth stresses efficiency and focusing on the metrics that matter. Jade adds the importance of treating dealership websites as key sales channels.

20:22 – 21:55 – Closing Thoughts

Jade wraps up the episode, previews future topics, and encourages listeners to subscribe for more insights on navigating the road ahead in automotive retail.

Guest Experts: Mo Zahabi, AVP Product Consulting, and Noah Lee, Director of Product Consulting at Cox Automotive, join Jade Terreberry for a dynamic preview of their Modern Retailing Conference (MRC) panel. They reveal how first-party data and native CDPs are revolutionizing dealership strategy, while multi-touch attribution and AI unlock smarter marketing and higher profits. Mo and Noah share real-world examples and actionable tips, empowering dealers and OEMs to personalize experiences, streamline operations, and gain a competitive edge in 2026.

Guest Experts:
Mo Zahabi
AVP Product Consulting
Cox Automotive

Noah Lee
Director of Product Consulting
Cox Automotive

Top Takeaways:

1. Dealers must activate first-party data for real results: Mo emphasizes that leveraging native CDPs powered by first-party data enables dealers to engage shoppers at the right moment, driving more personalized and effective experiences.
2. Multi-touch attribution is essential—not optional: Noah explains that relying on last-click metrics leaves dealers “flying blind.” Embracing multi-touch attribution helps identify which touchpoints truly drive conversions and optimize marketing spend.
3. AI is transforming every step of the shopper journey: From predictive service intelligence to real-time personalization and inventory scoring, Cox Automotive’s AI tools are streamlining operations and boosting profitability for dealers and OEMs.
4. Personalization and timing are key to engagement: The MRC panel highlights that understanding where shoppers are in their journey—and reaching them with relevant offers—creates better outcomes for both consumers and dealerships.
5. Actionable strategies for 2026 success: Mo and Noah advise dealers to integrate data-driven insights into daily workflows, move beyond outdated metrics, and prioritize digital retailing to close more sales and stay competitive.

Timestamps: 

0:00 – 1:10 – Introduction

Jade Terreberry welcomes listeners, introduces Mo Zahabi and Noah Lee from Cox Automotive, and previews the panel discussion for the Modern Retailing Conference.

1:10 – 2:57 – The Evolving Car Buyer’s Journey

Mo explains how data and AI have changed the way dealers understand and engage shoppers, emphasizing the importance of first-party data.

2:57 – 4:45 – Personalization and Timing

Mo and Jade discuss how leveraging data enables dealers to reach customers at the right moment with relevant offers, improving the buying experience.

4:45 – 6:45 – Multi-Touch Attribution and Marketing Optimization

Noah highlights why dealers must move beyond last-click metrics, sharing strategies for identifying which touchpoints drive conversions and optimize ad spend.

6:45 – 8:52 – Native CDPs and Dealership Operations

Mo details how native Customer Data Platforms powered by first-party data are streamlining processes and transforming dealership engagement.

8:52 – 11:44 – Real-World AI Applications

Noah shares examples of AI in action at Cox Automotive, including predictive service intelligence, inventory scoring, anti-bot protection, and real-time personalization.

11:44 – 13:47 – Actionable Strategies for 2026

Mo and Noah offer practical advice for dealers and OEMs to activate data, integrate technology, and prioritize digital retailing for a competitive edge.

13:47 – 15:18 – Closing Thoughts

Jade wraps up the episode, invites listeners to the Modern Retailing Conference, and encourages dealers to embrace data-driven strategies for future success.

Guest Expert: Hans Bodine, VP of Strategic Partnerships at Experian, joins Jade Terreberry to discuss how the Experian Auto Check and Kelley Blue Book partnership is redefining vehicle history reports. Hans highlights exclusive auction data, expanded service records, and the proprietary Auto Check Score that helps dealers and lenders reduce risk and improve transparency. The episode explores consumer priorities like accident history and title brands, plus why offering free reports on marketplaces boosts inventory conversion and trust for dealers, OEMs, and certified pre-owned programs.

Guest Expert:
Hans Bodine
Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Initiatives
Experian

Top Takeaways:

1. Exclusive Auction Data Sets Experian Apart: Experian Auto Check offers 95% coverage of auction-derived data—329 million announcements and 4.5 million structural damage records—providing unmatched transparency for dealers and OEMs.
2. Trust Drives Adoption: The combined strength of Experian and Kelley Blue Book creates a powerful trust signal for consumers and dealers, with Experian’s brand already reaching 70 million U.S. consumers through its credit monitoring app.
3. Service Data Is Growing Fast: Experian has increased service records in its reports by more than 50% in the past year, with even more growth expected, helping dealers reduce risk and improve decision-making.
4. The Auto Check Score Is Influencing Lending: This proprietary score predicts whether a vehicle will remain operational for five years, guiding both dealer acquisition strategies and lender decisions.
5. Marketplace Merchandising Is Non-Negotiable: With 48% of car shoppers starting on marketplaces and Experian Auto Check being the only VHR available across all major platforms, dealers must leverage this visibility to boost conversions and inventory turn.

Timestamps: 

0:00 – 1:30 – Introduction and Meet Hans

Jade Terreberry introduces the show and guest Hans Bodine, VP of Strategic Partnerships at Experian, and previews the discussion on the future of vehicle history reports.

1:30 – 3:07 – Partnership and Differentiators

Hans explains the Experian Auto Check and Kelley Blue Book partnership, highlighting exclusive auction data and brand trust as key differentiators.

3:07 – 6:05 – Data Expansion and Consumer Insights

Jade and Hans discuss increased service records, new data partnerships, and findings from Experian’s consumer study on what matters most in vehicle history reports.

6:05 – 7:36 – Risk Reduction and Auto Check Score

Hans details how proprietary scoring and buyback guarantees help dealers and lenders reduce risk and improve transparency.

7:36 – 9:27 – Dealer Action and Industry Impact

Hans shares advice for dealers to connect with Cox Automotive teams and leverage enhancements that drive inventory conversion and consumer confidence.

9:27 – 12:06 – Closing Thoughts

Jade wraps up with key takeaways, emphasizes the importance of vehicle history reports on marketplace listings, and encourages listeners to subscribe for future episodes.

Guest Expert:
JB – Jeffrey Burnett
General Manager
Preston Automotive Group

Guest Expert: Jeffrey Burnett (JB), General Manager at Preston Automotive Group, joins Jade Terreberry to discuss Preston’s innovative Ford store, designed for a true omnichannel experience. JB shares how the new concept—featuring a welcoming barista hub and iPad-powered sales—removes traditional barriers and empowers both consumers and staff. He explains how transparency, speed, and personalization are transforming the car buying journey, and offers advice for dealers and OEMs looking to modernize and boost satisfaction and profitability.

Top Takeaways:

1. A new kind of dealership experience: Preston’s Ford store replaces cubicles and desk phones with a welcoming barista hub and open seating, creating a relaxed, customer-first environment.
2. Empowering shoppers and staff: By giving both consumers and sales associates shared control, the store fosters transparency and trust—leading to happier customers and more satisfied employees.
3. Speed and simplicity through technology: iPad-powered sales allow instant access to inventory, pricing, and payment options, streamlining transactions and reducing time spent in the dealership.
4. Modernization starts with mindset: JB’s advice: Prepare early, embrace a concierge approach, and focus on customer comfort to successfully modernize the store experience.
5. Leadership buy-in drives transformation: Top-down support and valuing customer time are essential for lasting change, helping dealerships boost satisfaction and profitability.

Timestamps: 

0:00 – 1:26 – Introduction and Meet JB

Jade Terreberry welcomes listeners, introduces the show and guest JB, and previews the discussion about Preston’s first-of-its-kind Ford store and its innovative omnichannel design.

1:26 – 3:46 – Inspiration and Concept

JB shares the inspiration behind the store’s design, highlighting Elena Ford’s vision and how the new concept removes traditional dealership barriers.

3:46 – 7:11 – Customer and Staff Experience

Jade and JB discuss how the new approach empowers both shoppers and staff, fostering transparency, shared control, and higher satisfaction.

7:11 – 9:00 – Speed, Simplicity, and Technology

JB explains how iPad-powered sales and digital tools streamline transactions, making the process faster and more enjoyable for everyone.

9:00 – 11:10 – The Apple Genius Bar Comparison

Jade asks JB to compare the experience to the Apple Genius Bar, and JB describes how the store’s layout and approach meet customers where they’re most comfortable.

11:10 – 12:24 – Advice for Dealers and OEMs

JB offers actionable advice for others looking to modernize: prepare early, embrace a concierge mindset, and secure leadership buy-in.

12:24 – 13:34 – Implementation and Team Buy-In

JB discusses the importance of top-down support and how the new process has made dealership operations easier and more efficient.

13:34 – 15:48 – Closing Thoughts

Jade wraps up the episode, congratulates JB and the Preston team, and encourages listeners to visit the new store and subscribe for future episodes.

Guest Expert:
Micah Tindor
Assistant Vice President, Consumer Vehicle Disposal
Cox Automotive

Guest Expert: Micah Tindor, Assistant Vice President of Consumer Vehicle Disposal for Cox Automotive, joins Jade Terreberry to unpack the latest shifts in consumer behavior and what they mean for dealers. In this fast-paced conversation, they explore how evolving expectations are reshaping vehicle valuation, retail strategy, and the role Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash Offer plays in helping dealers stay competitive and meet buyers where they are.

Top Takeaways:

1. Long tail ROI is a game changer: Dealers who track the total downstream value of every vehicle—including future trades, service revenue, and customer retention—are making smarter acquisition decisions and maximizing profitability.
2. Data-driven strategies reveal hidden wins: Analyzing a year’s worth of sales and trade data helps dealers identify which vehicles generate the most additional revenue, allowing them to confidently invest more in high-value inventory.
3. Competing with disruptors means rethinking value: Winning trades against Carvana and Carmax isn’t about matching the highest offer upfront; it’s about understanding and communicating the full value a vehicle brings to the dealership.
4. Affordability challenges require new approaches: With more consumers underwater and juggling multiple offers, dealers must use long-term value to offer more competitive trade values and build trust with buyers.
5. Start with your data foundation and expert support: Micah’s advice: build a robust data repository to identify vehicles with high downstream value, and consult client success managers to guide your strategy and implementation.

Timestamps:

0:00 – 1:40 – Introduction

Jade Terreberry welcomes listeners, introduces Micah Tindor as the most frequent guest, and previews the episode’s focus on long tail ROI and acquisition strategies.

1:40 – 2:19 – What is the Long Tail Approach?

Jade asks Micah to explain the long tail approach to vehicle acquisition and why it matters for dealers in today’s market.

2:19 – 5:05 – Breaking Down Long Tail ROI

Micah details how dealers should look beyond immediate profit and consider the total downstream value of each vehicle, including future trades, service revenue, and customer retention.

5:05 – 5:34 – Industry Blind Spots

Jade highlights that dealers often miss out on deals due to a lack of confidence in the long tail model, and asks Micah for strategies to overcome this.

5:34 – 7:47 – Real-World Strategies and Data Analysis

Micah shares how dealers can use historical sales and trade data to identify high-value vehicles, and gives examples of how this approach increases win rates and market share.

7:47 – 8:49 – Competing in Today’s Market

Jade and Micah discuss how dealers can compete with online retailers like Carvana and Carmax by focusing on total value rather than just front-end gross, especially as consumers arrive with multiple offers.

8:49 – 10:09 – Affordability Challenges and Consumer Experience

Micah explains how rising prices and constrained consumer budgets make the long tail approach even more critical for building trust and offering competitive trade values.

10:09 – 10:59 – First Steps for Dealers

Jade asks Micah for actionable advice. Micah recommends starting with a robust data repository and consulting client success managers to identify vehicles with high downstream value.

10:59 – 12:01 – Closing Thoughts

Jade wraps up the episode, thanking Micah for his insights and encouraging dealers to embrace new strategies for appraisals and acquisitions. She previews upcoming content and invites listeners to subscribe.

Guest Expert: 
Patrick Janes 
AVP of Business Development 
vAuto

Patrick Janes, AVP of Business Development for vAuto, joins Jade Terreberry to unpack how omni-channel strategy and AI are reshaping automotive retail. Patrick explores the importance of connecting inventory management with customer engagement, the impact of AI on trade-in appraisals and process efficiency, and the need for collaboration across dealership teams. He shares actionable insights on sourcing inventory, optimizing trade capture, and leveraging technology to drive profitability, streamline operations, and build lasting consumer trust—all ahead of their session at Digital Dealer.

Top Takeaways:

1. Omni-channel strategy is now essential: Dealers must connect inventory management with customer engagement across digital and in-store experiences to stay competitive in 2025 and beyond.
2. AI is transforming trade-in appraisals: Voice-driven and data-powered AI tools are helping dealers deliver more accurate, transparent offers and build consumer trust—often “sight unseen.”
3. Identifying and addressing risk zones is critical: The biggest pain points for dealers are in trade-ins, purchases, and F&I; data-driven processes help solve these challenges and keep customers engaged.
4. Process optimization drives profitability: Defining, measuring, and collaborating on dealership processes—especially for trade capture and inventory sourcing—are key to maximizing ROI.
5. Inventory sourcing starts in the service drive: Top-performing dealers are leveraging internal opportunities, like the service drive, to source inventory and capture more trades.

Timestamps: 

0:00 – 0:42 – Introduction

Jade Terreberry introduces the episode and welcomes guest Patrick Janes, AVP of Business Development for vAuto, previewing a discussion on omni-channel strategy, AI, and dealership trends.

0:42 – 2:53 – Why Omni-Channel Matters

Patrick explains why omni-channel strategy is now essential for dealers, emphasizing the need to connect inventory management with customer engagement, and previews their upcoming session at Digital Dealer.

2:53 – 4:57 – AI’s Impact on Trade-In Processes

Jade and Patrick discuss how AI is transforming trade-in appraisals, improving accuracy, transparency, and efficiency for dealers and consumers.

4:57 – 7:43 – Addressing Risk Zones

Patrick identifies the biggest pain points for dealers—trade-ins, purchases, and F&I—and shares how data-driven processes help solve these challenges.

7:43 – 10:59 – Process Optimization and Measurement

The conversation shifts to the importance of defining, implementing, and measuring dealership processes, especially for trade capture and inventory sourcing.

10:59 – 13:26 – Inventory Sourcing and Service Drive

Patrick shares best practices for sourcing inventory internally, highlighting the service drive as a key opportunity for capturing trades.

13:26 – 15:39 – Real-World Success and Closing Advice

Patrick offers actionable recommendations for closing the year strong and maximizing dealership profitability.

15:39 – 17:21 – Closing Thoughts

Jade wraps up the episode, encourages listeners to subscribe, and previews upcoming conversations with industry leaders.

Guest Expert:
Jeremy Marshall
Senior Product Consultant
Dealer.com

CONTENT:

Jeremy Marshall joins Jade Terreberry to discuss how dealers can finally close the 92% blind spot in their sales funnel by embracing multi-touch attribution and honest measurement. The episode explores why leads aren’t deals, how to leverage every touchpoint, and the critical role of dealership websites and marketplaces in driving shopper satisfaction and profitability.

TOP TAKWAYS:

Multi-touch attribution is essential for real ROI: Dealers must look beyond first and last touch, tracking all 62+ steps in the consumer journey to understand what actually drives sales.

Leads don’t pay the bills—deals do: Honest measurement means focusing on closed deals, not just form submissions or phone calls.

Dealership websites are digital storefronts: Structure, AB testing, and heat mapping help optimize the site for real shopper engagement and conversions.

Marketplaces are key entry points: Nearly half of shoppers start on a marketplace, and one in three buyers never submit a lead before purchasing.

Shopper satisfaction hinges on control and transparency: Consumers want education, collaboration, and control—dealers who deliver relevant experiences win more business.

TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – 1:21 – Introduction & Conference Preview

Jade and Jeremy set the stage for their discussion at the NCM Client and Friends Conference and share highlights from their presentation.

1:21 – 2:55 – Closing the Blind Spot With Attribution

Why tracking every touchpoint matters more than ever.

2:55 – 3:45 – The Role of Websites and Marketplaces

How digital storefronts and listing sites shape the buyer journey.

3:45 – 4:45 – Data-Driven Website Optimization

The importance of using analytics, AB testing, and heat mapping to drive engagement.

4:45 – 5:18 – Shopper Satisfaction Study Insights

Consumers expect education, transparency, and control throughout the process – why you need to focus on this.

5:18 – 5:44 – Final Thoughts & Resources

Jade wraps up with what you should be focused on, mentions bonus episodes and new studies.

Bethany Johnson, Director of Strategic Planning with vAuto joins Jade Terreberry to break down how she’s seeing successful dealers overcoming inventory shortages, profit compression, and affordability challenges by embracing disciplined acquisition strategies and practical AI tools. The episode explores how leveraging all acquisition channels and automating key processes is helping dealers stay competitive and profitable in a changing market.

Guest Expert:
Bethany Johnson
Director of Stategic Planning
vAuto

Top Takeaways:

Inventory challenges are easing, but discipline is key 

Dealers must apply process and discipline to acquisition, leveraging all seven channels – especially service and consumer-driven sources.

Profit starts with smart acquisition 

The most successful dealers focus on buying right, using best practices and long-tail evaluation models to maximize every transaction.

Affordability hinges on transparent trade-in processes

Hear why helping shoppers get the most from their trade is essential for deal progression and customer satisfaction.

AI is transforming acquisition, pricing, and merchandising

Dealers gaining market share are using AI to identify common vehicle issues, automate descriptions, and optimize pricing—saving time and boosting margins.

Start small, find efficiencies, and scale with technology

Identify pain points, let AI handle repetitive tasks, and build momentum by tackling one challenge at a time.

Timestamps:

0:00 – 1:26 – Introduction & Inventory Trends

Bethany discusses the ongoing recovery from inventory shortages and the importance of stocking strategy.

1:26 – 2:43 – Seven Acquisition Channels

Dealers should leverage auctions, other dealerships, private party, KBB ICO, equity mining, and especially service.

2:43 – 4:23 – Long-Tail Evaluation and Competitive Models

Best practices and discipline help dealers acquire vehicles and stay competitive with new retail models.

4:23 – 5:44 – Affordability and Trade-In Transparency

Transparent trade-in processes are key to helping shoppers and closing deals.

5:44 – 7:34 – AI in Acquisition, Pricing, and Merchandising

AI tools help dealers spot common issues, automate descriptions, and price vehicles competitively.

7:34 – 9:03 – Scaling Market Share with AI

Dealers can use AI to save time, empower staff, and cover more ground profitably.

9:03 – 10:00 – Final Advice and Closing Remarks

Bethany encourages dealers to identify pain points, use technology to find efficiencies, and take incremental steps toward growth

Brad Rosenfeld, SVP of Car and Driver – Hearst Magazines Auto Group joins Jade Terreberry to celebrate the launch of the Car and Driver marketplace powered by Autotrader, sharing how this partnership creates a win-win for consumers, dealers, and OEMs. The episode explores how trusted editorial content, seamless connectivity, and expanded reach are transforming the car buying journey and driving higher quality leads.

Guest Expert:
Brad Rosenfeld
Senior Vice President 
Car and Driver – Hearst Magazines Auto Group 

Top Takeaways:

Editorial expertise meets marketplace reach – Car and Driver’s 70 years of reviews and 10 mil+ monthly visitors and content now connect directly to millions of Autotrader listings, guiding shoppers from research to purchase.

Win-win for consumers and dealers – The win-win side lies in the high-intent, high-income shoppers that dealers can now get in front of, while giving consumers a seamless experience from research to inventory.

The benefits of earlier engagement in the buyer journey – Dealers should focus on connecting with shoppers at the very start of their research, building relationships and trust before the decision phase.

Marketing effectiveness and closed-loop insights – Collaborations like this enable smarter advertising, better data sharing, and more opportunities to follow consumers from first click to closed deal.

Advantages of a transformative omni-channel ecosystem – This innovation is just the beginning, there are advantages to a more connected experience for consumers, dealers, OEMs, and advertisers.

Timestamps:

0:00 – 1:21 – Introduction & Partnership Announcement

Jade and Brad introduce the Car and Driver marketplace powered by Autotrader.

1:21 – 3:15 – Why This Partnership Matters

Brad explains how editorial content and marketplace listings combine for a win-win.

3:15 – 5:41 – Value for Dealers and OEMs

No extra setup or cost, plus high-intent leads and profitability potential.

5:41 – 7:52 – Audience Reach and Early Engagement

Car and Driver’s 10 million monthly visitors are actively researching and ready to buy.

7:52 – 9:51 – Connecting Editorial Experience to Inventory

Shoppers see local inventory while reading reviews, driving earlier dealer engagement.

9:51 – 11:47 – Marketing Effectiveness and Data Insights

The partnership enables smarter advertising and closed-loop measurement.

11:47 – 13:38 – Closing Thoughts and Future Vision

Brad and Jade reflect on the transformative impact and look ahead to ongoing innovation.