This episode kicks off the season by exploring how artificial intelligence is being integrated into automotive businesses, from sales and customer interactions to call audits and project management. Jazmine emphasizes that while AI is a powerful tool, it’s not a replacement for the irreplaceable human touch that makes the industry thrive. Expect real talk about the challenges, benefits, and very real growing pains of using AI, plus the importance of using technology as an aid, not a crutch.

Looking ahead, Jazmine teases upcoming episodes featuring Jonathan Mast of White Beard Strategies, who’ll offer his expertise on AI in automotive, and Laura Lee Schmidt of Smith Automotive, who brings a heartfelt perspective on what it means to start over in the industry.

So buckle up as we delve into how innovation and experience can come together to make the auto world even better. Don’t forget to subscribe, check out the YouTube channel, or join the LinkedIn newsletter to stay updated with all things Auto Talk with Jaz!

As someone who has been in the automotive industry for nearly 10 years, I recently had an eye-opening interaction at an auto parts store that reminded me how women are often treated disrespectfully when it comes to working on their own vehicles. The employee seemed shocked that I, as a woman, would be replacing a car battery myself. He even asked "where are the men in your family?" as if I couldn't possibly be doing this on my own.

This experience reinforced why I started this podcast in the first place - to empower women with the knowledge and confidence to take control of their auto repair and maintenance. In this episode, I'll be sharing tips on how to communicate more effectively with mechanics, what questions to ask at shops and dealerships, and how doing your own research can help you save money and avoid being taken advantage of.

I'll also give some recommendations on affordable tools and resources that everyone should keep in their vehicle. Finally, I have an exciting interview coming up with Laura Lee Schmidt of Schmidt Automotive, who has an incredible story of starting over and transforming her repair shop.

So join me as we navigate the often frustrating but ultimately empowering world of auto repair! Let's support each other and show that anyone can take charge of maintaining their vehicle.

Paula's journey is truly inspiring. Despite facing personal tragedies at a young age, she persevered and became an international speaker at 50, a bestselling author at 70, and now a podcast favorite at 72. Her diverse experiences, including working in male-dominated environments like construction sites, have given her a unique perspective on overcoming stereotypes and fostering positive relationships.

Throughout our conversation, Paula will share her "Soapy Strategies" - techniques for making oneself more approachable, synchronizing similarities with colleagues, and transforming workplace dynamics. She'll discuss the importance of understanding "situation language," speaking the language relevant to your role, and finding common ground through shared experiences.

We'll also delve into Paula's courses, which cover topics like recognizing and addressing gossip, understanding behavior styles, and navigating stereotypes. She'll share stories illustrating how these strategies can defuse tense situations, place employees in roles that highlight their strengths, and break down industry barriers.

So whether you're looking to advance your career, build stronger relationships with coworkers, or become a more effective communicator, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Get ready to take notes as Paula M. Kramer shares her wisdom on Auto Talk With Jaz!

The framework is represented visually as a car's drive shaft system with four wheels, each representing a key leadership attribute:

1. Consistency - helps people anticipate leaders' reactions and builds trust
2. Accountability - holding everyone to the same standards and having difficult conversations when needed
3. Connection - recognizing people as individuals and connecting with them appropriately
4. Safety - ensuring psychological safety so people feel secure speaking up without fear of retribution

When these four attributes are deployed effectively, it leads to meaningful work, compassion, vulnerability and trust among the team - the human essence that drives the actual work getting done.

Dr. Lion and Jazmine discuss the importance of leaders showing their own humanity and vulnerability to connect with their teams. They also touch on giving people grace when they are struggling and working together as a community to support one another through challenges.

Dr. Lion's key piece of advice is to never stop learning - be a lifelong student and stay curious. This builds self-awareness, patience and the ability to connect with diverse people.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.blackriverpm.com

The first is the "speedometer framework," which distinguishes intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Dr. Lion emphasizes that motivation is an internal process driven by three basic psychological needs: competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Effective leaders should focus on creating conditions that foster intrinsic motivation rather than relying solely on extrinsic motivators like pay.

The second framework is the "CAR model" Dr. Lion developed: Competency, Autonomy, and Relatedness. He explains that employees' work performance can be impacted by deficits in any of these areas, both in their professional and personal lives.

Through a case study, Dr. Lion illustrates how examining an underperforming employee's CAR situation revealed personal challenges affecting her work. He encourages managers to show genuine interest in their employees' well-being to better understand and support their motivation.

Other key takeaways include the importance of fostering connection and enjoyment at work and recognizing that factors beyond pay, such as a positive work environment aligned with intrinsic motivations, are crucial for employee retention.

The episode concludes with an announcement from Dr. Rob Lion that the next installment will feature more motivational frameworks.

Throughout this episode, Erica and our host, Jazmine Booker, dive into Erica's storied career that began with Toyota's management training program and spanned across major companies like Nissan Corporate and Volvo Corporate. Erica shares invaluable lessons from her grandfather about authenticity and perseverance, discusses the realities of women in the car business, and stresses the importance of focusing on what you can control in life.

We'll explore her passion for branding, the vital role of community and empathy in leadership, and how genuine connections can transform workplaces. Erica also provides insights into her involvement with organizations like the Women of Color Automotive Network and Automotive State of the Union, which aim to support diversity in the industry.

Join Jazmine and Erica as they navigate topics from overcoming discrimination, the importance of employee well-being, strategic career planning, and the power of self-reflection. This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to grow in the automotive industry—or any field. So buckle up and enjoy the ride on this inspiring journey with Erica Bruno on Auto Talk With Jaz!

As the episode concludes, Jazmine reiterates the necessity for both employees and managers to strive for alignment in their efforts to improve the workplace. She reflects on the challenges that arise when leadership fails to set a solid example, causing frustration among employees who desire a culture of accountability and excellence. Jazmine posits that organizational culture is not solely the responsibility of management but is a collaborative effort that requires participation from all team members. She encourages her audience to redefine their roles within the workplace, advocating for a culture of mutual support and shared responsibility. This holistic approach to workplace dynamics emphasizes that change is a collective endeavor, with both managers and employees needing to engage actively in creating a respectful and productive work environment. In doing so, Jazmine leaves her listeners with a powerful message: to be a part of the solution, not the problem, by embracing change and advocating for continuous improvement.

Takeaways:

• Effective communication between employees and managers is crucial for maintaining workplace standards.
• Employees should advocate for themselves and others to improve the work environment.
• Embracing change and being open to new standards can lead to a better workplace.
• Long-term employees often resist change because they benefit from the status quo.
• Creating a supportive organizational culture enhances employee morale and productivity.
• Management should model the behavior they expect from their employees to foster accountability.

We'll discuss the importance of managers setting clear standards and maintaining them consistently across the team. Jaz will also touch on how managers need to check their biases and delegate effectively based on people's actual abilities, not just playing favorites.

Using your voice in the right way is another essential skill. Managers hugely impact the organizational culture through their words and actions. Jaz will explain how managers need to steer clear of gossip and unprofessional behavior while still being honest and relatable to their teams.

Finally, being open to change and constructive feedback is a must for any good leader. Jaz will share her 4-step approach of doing, critiquing, fixing and repeating to help managers continuously improve.

So listen in for Jazmine's expert tips on how managers can step up, empower their teams, and create a workplace where everyone collaborates and thrives together. Let's jump into it!

It's been an incredible journey of growth, both personally and professionally. I've had the chance to work with a local women's shelter, teaching basic car maintenance and empowering women with knowledge to protect themselves when dealing with the automotive industry.

The experience has taught me so much about how to be a better communicator and educator. I've realized the importance of conveying information in a way that truly connects with and helps the people I'm trying to reach.

While it's been a challenging few months of rebranding, restructuring the podcast, and figuring out next steps - the support from all of you has kept me going. Hearing how much the stories and lessons shared here have impacted you means the world.

So I'm coming back reinvigorated and ready to bring you even more great content to help you navigate the automotive world. Stay tuned for an awesome new regular episode dropping alongside this one. As always, thanks for riding with me on this journey. Let's get into it!

I’ll share some of my personal stories, including facing mistreatment and undervaluation despite my skills and qualifications. We’ll discuss when it’s time to leave a job that isn't fulfilling or fair, and the importance of updating your resume to showcase all of your skills and responsibilities. We’ll also touch on resources like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for those who are dealing with employer retaliation.

Moreover, I'll reflect on my journey through various dealerships—from starting at $15 an hour to being offered a managerial position at $20 an hour—all while facing challenging environments. And let’s not forget the crucial subject of prioritizing your mental health and choosing companies that align with your values.

Lastly, I’m excited to seek your feedback on our new podcast cover and encourage you to engage with us. Plus, there’s an exciting opportunity for me to speak at South by Southwest about protecting mental health in demanding industries, and I would love your support!

Stay tuned, and let’s get into it.

Jazmine and Heaven share their personal journeys, from the early days of getting their start in the industry to the lessons they've learned along the way. They discuss the importance of self-confidence, humility, and the need to stand up for oneself in a male-dominated industry. The two also delve into the technical aspects of the job, emphasizing the critical role of technicians in ensuring safety and quality, and the consequences of cutting corners or making mistakes.

Throughout the episode, Jazmine and Heaven offer valuable insights and advice for professionals across various fields, drawing from their own experiences and the wisdom they've gained from mentors and colleagues. They touch on topics such as dealing with workplace stress, building a supportive community, and finding success in a challenging industry.

In addition to the serious topics, the conversation is filled with lighthearted moments and personal anecdotes, from reminiscing about their friendship to sharing bizarre and humorous stories from their time in the industry. Jazmine and Heaven's natural chemistry and shared experiences make for an engaging and relatable listen.

So sit back, relax, and join us for an illuminating and entertaining discussion with two inspiring women who have made their mark in the automotive world. Whether you're an industry insider or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes stories, this episode of Auto Talk With Jaz has something for everyone.

In this episode, we dive deep into Raven's journey from her early interest in cars to establishing a thriving collision program at Collin College. We discuss the unique challenges she faced as a woman in a predominantly male industry, the crucial role of networking for job opportunities, and the balancing act of formal education versus practical experience.

Tune in as we share candid stories about workplace confrontations, the essential need for certifications, the ups and downs of technician life, and the growing demand for women in the automotive world. Whether you're an industry veteran or just starting out, you won't want to miss this insightful and empowering conversation. Let's get started!

In our conversation, Louise shares her personal journey from fixing tractors on a farm to teaching and mentoring. We explore the pressures of deciding on a career path early on, the progression through various stages of her career, and the challenges facing apprentices and women in the trade industry – from bullying and mental health to unfair stereotypes and the fear of speaking up.

Beyond the challenges, we discuss actionable strategies for maintaining a positive work environment, the importance of apprenticeship support, and the need for effective communication and leadership. Louise's rollercoaster of career changes, from dealing with irrigation systems to transitioning into coaching, opens the door to a deeper reflection on the culture of workplace learning and the skills needed to manage up in today's industry landscape.

And we’re not just talking shop – we address critical issues like gender inequality, bullying, and harassment, and dissect the dangerous effects of burnout, providing you with tips for building your confidence and standing your ground.

So, buckle up, listeners, as we shift gears to dive deep into the heart of the automotive world with a perspective you won't want to miss, right here on AutoTalk With Jaz.

In the midst of widespread Covid-related disruptions and a carousel of employee turnover, businesses are experiencing staff shortages like never before. And yet, paradoxically, some companies are shifting into high gear financially under these lean conditions. But at what cost?

Fasten your seatbelts as we explore the warnings from employees—those dashboard lights you never want to ignore—and discuss why embracing change and troubleshooting problems early on is the key to a smoother ride.

We'll also tease an exciting discussion about finding your confidence in the workplace, so make sure to stay tuned for that. But first, let us know your thoughts and experiences with the hashtag #peopleshortage, and we might just give you a shoutout on our show!

Before we switch gears, remember, I'm still fine-tuning our podcast intro, so rev your engines and send in your feedback!

In this episode, we'll dissect the strikes and the unsettling quiet of parts production lines, hear firsthand how an automotive claims adjuster navigates the tricky terrain of warranty coverage during people shortages, and explore the mental wear and tear of tackling 920 upset callers a day.

Plus, I’ll share some of my own personal pit stops in toxic work environments, highlighting just how damaging one single individual can be to the team's morale and a company's success—no matter if it's a major manufacturer or a family-owned shop.

So, listeners, let's get into gear and roll out as we uncover the bumpy roads and the hidden twists and turns of the automotive industry's people shortage. This is AutoTalk With Jaz, and you don't want to miss this drive!

Through the rearview mirror of personal experiences and the journeys shared with colleagues, we'll explore the intricate roads of familial warmth and corporate structure that shape our careers. We've navigated both sides of the garage—family-owned shops with their close-knit ties and personal touch, and corporate entities with their benefits and broad opportunities.

We'll discuss the genuine connection and recognition that can come from family-owned businesses, the parties and the gifts, but also the flip side—internal drama and the weight of wearing multiple hats without extra compensation. And in the corporate lane, we'll examine the perks and pay, the challenge of climbing the ladder, and the impersonality that can make one feel just like a number.

Whether it's better training and support versus workplace discrimination, or the stark division in managerial approaches, we have experienced it all, and it has fueled our journey from the auto industry to video production. We know the workplace can be more than just a pit-stop—it's where we spend countless hours revving up for life's long haul.

Today, we're not just discussing four wheels and an engine—we're tackling the human element behind them. So buckle up as we invite you to share your thoughts on navigating the family-like closeness or embracing the corporate climb. Trust me, you won't want to miss this ride on AutoTalk with Jaz. And don't forget, we'll be teasing a sneak peek into our next gripping topic: when to stay put or shift gears in your job. Stay tuned!

In this episode, we will delve into Felicia's fascinating journey from a teaching career to becoming a respected figure in the automotive industry. We'll explore her commitment to ethical conduct, her emphasis on cultivating positive relationships in the workplace, and her unique perspective on the value of continuous learning and adaptation in our fast-paced field.

Together, we will share laughter over the absurd amount of food that technicians can consume and bond over the tales of struggling to impress our hard-to-please fathers with our professional accomplishments.

Also, Rey and I will discuss the significance of trust, leadership, and investing in your employees as well as the challenges and rewards that come with staying loyal to a company that truly values its staff.

So buckle up, as we navigate through the importance of employee appreciation, the perilous journey of navigating workplace dynamics, and the paramount need for integrity in all business dealings.

It's all about the automotive industry through the lens of women who are changing the game—one episode at a time. Prepare to be inspired, educated, and entertained here on "AutoTalk With Jaz." Let's get the conversation started!

Through exclusive interviews with industry insiders, from seasoned engineers to visionary designers, and even the unsung heroes on the factory floor, we'll reveal the secrets, challenges, and triumphs that shape the cars we drive and love. These are the stories that don't always make it to the headlines but have a profound impact on the vehicles we rely on.

Whether you're a die-hard car enthusiast or simply curious about the human stories behind the automotive machines we encounter daily, this episode promises an exciting ride through the fascinating tales of the industry's unsung heroes. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and a newfound appreciation for the people and passion that drive the automotive world.

Through enlightening conversations with psychologists, life coaches, and individuals who've undergone transformative self-discovery journeys, we'll discuss the benefits of self-awareness. From improving relationships to making meaningful career choices, from enhancing mental well-being to fostering resilience, knowing yourself lays the foundation for a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

Whether you're on a quest for personal development or simply curious about the profound impact self-awareness can have, this episode provides valuable insights and practical strategies to help you embark on your own journey of self-discovery. Tune in to unlock the power within and learn why knowing yourself is a transformative key to a more authentic and rewarding life.