FWRD: An EasyCare Podcast

Reeder Trausch Marine’s leadership team shares how strong culture, clear communication, and high standards drive growth and customer experience. From leadership development to innovation and training, this episode highlights what it takes to scale a dealership while staying true to your values.

Russell Hill joins Corey Smith to discuss why dealership websites have become the new digital showroom for fixed operations, and how dealers can improve their digital service experience to reduce defection and drive service revenue.

Leadership expert and author Jamison Carrier joins Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui to discuss how dealerships can build championship-level teams. From smarter hiring systems to creating a culture built on winning, accountability, and appreciation, this episode breaks down practical leadership strategies that help teams perform at a higher level.

This episode explains how dealerships can increase service advisor performance in 2026 through consistent coaching, KPI literacy, AI integration, video MPIs, F&I cross-training, and visible accountability systems. Service is positioned as the primary profit and retention engine, requiring standardized processes and a strong practice culture.

Corey and Erick sit down with Eric Meahan to break down how data-driven reconditioning is helping dealers cut cycle time, reduce hidden costs, and improve operational control. The conversation explores why idle time, not technician speed, is the biggest bottleneck and how modern tools are reshaping used vehicle profitability.

Hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui dive into what it really takes to transition from service advisor to service manager. The conversation explores leadership mindset, using data to drive results, and how to shift from personal performance to team success. You’ll hear practical guidance on shop balance, forecasting, and team culture—all centered on helping new managers lead with confidence.

After walking away from a near-sale to Dontron, Russell Hill, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Fixed Ops Marketing, turned a failed acquisition into a growth story—expanding to over 600 dealerships nationwide. In this episode, Russell and host Corey Smith explore why your dealership website is the new showroom, what the “three-click rule” means for customer retention, and how AI-driven predictive maintenance is transforming fixed ops.

Eddie Campbell of Forest Lane CDJR joins host Corey Smith to share how training, video tools, and a strong tire strategy turned his team into a top-performing service department.

With service advisor turnover at 49%, dealerships face a deeper challenge: team retention. In this episode, Corey Smith and Chris Craig discuss practical strategies to support your fixed ops team, improve communication, and create a culture that drives loyalty and long-term success.

Shawn Armorer joins Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui to share BDC strategies that boost fixed ops performance, improve customer communication, and drive service traffic. With 24+ years in automotive, Shawn offers practical tips on using video, building team culture, and personalizing the service experience.

Lights, Camera, Action! In this episode of FWRD, hosts Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui are joined by Joe Shaker, founder of TruVideo, to explore the power of video communication in automotive service departments. They dive into how video communication can increase revenue, improve customer trust, and boost satisfaction. Joe shares how personalized videos are enhancing customer engagement and sales processes, while exciting new technologies like augmented reality are on the horizon. Tune in to learn actionable strategies for integrating video communication into your dealership and driving success in your service department!

In this episode, we sit down with Kate Beirowski to dive into the evolving landscape of customer experience in automotive retail and service. From the power of video engagement to the changing expectations of today’s consumers, we break down what truly drives loyalty and trust at the dealership level.Key takeaways include:Transparency & education in vehicle repairs—why customers demand itBalancing technology & human interaction in fixed ops for a seamless service experienceActionable strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and retentionKate shares her perspective, offering valuable insights into leadership, industry challenges, and the future of customer-centric dealerships. Plus, don’t miss the behind-the-scenes collaboration as we connect industry pros and future guests!

In this episode of FWRD Podcast, Corey Smith sits down with Roger Gutierrez, Fixed Operations Director at Biggers Auto Group, to break down what it takes to lead a top-performing service team in 2025. Roger shares game-changing insights on leadership consistency, effective communication, and leveraging technology for stronger customer interactions and team collaboration. Learn how to improve team engagement, streamline onboarding, and use cross-training for a more adaptable workforce. Plus, discover why performance metrics, emotional intelligence, and a clear vision are critical for success in the evolving auto industry. Don’t miss these actionable strategies to elevate your service department!