Shows
The Dealer Lab25 | Jason White: Fay Myers & One Dealer LaneJason White on AI, One Dealer Lane, and Digitizing the Powersports Dealership ExperienceMax Materne and Danny French interview Jason White, managing partner of Fay Myers Motorcycle World in Denver and a VP within the fourth-generation Schomp Automotive Group, about why AI will reshape dealerships and why operators must engage or be left behind. White explains his role in automotive software A to Z Sync and the creation of One Dealer Lane (ODL), a powersports-focused middleware platform built after A to Z Sync couldn’t be adapted to powersports needs like VIN decoding, taxation, and rate/remittance. He describes ODL’s mo...
2026-04-281h 28
The Dealer Lab24 | Oz Osburn: GM of MotohouseFrom Marine to GM: Oz Osburn on Building a Powersports Dealership, Leading Teams, and Using AIOz Osburn discusses his career path from Marine Corps infantry to law enforcement, then into automotive service and management in Colorado, including managing a high-volume Ford service operation, before moving to Mississippi and briefly working at a Ford dealer in Metairie. He joined MotoHouse in early 2022 as the store was being built and opened, initially servicing Can-Am before adding Polaris, CFMoto, Yamaha, Sea-Doo, and other lines, and he explains key differences between automotive and powersports service such as diagnostic complexity, parts lead times, and...
2026-04-201h 49
The Dealer Lab23 | DELV Analysis: how we study Dealership OperationsInside Ownex’s DELV Dealership Analysis: Valuation, Loyalty Data, and a 90-Day RoadmapIn this episode of the Dealer Lab podcast, Justin visits the studio and the team explains how the set was built from an AI-generated image before diving into Ownex’s DELV dealership analysis. Max, Danny, and Justin walk through the report’s structure, including the five-star vitals executive summary across profitability, department contribution, inventory health, technician proficiency, and sales/parts/service penetration, then show how the tool converts gaps into dollar opportunities and identifies the top three highest-ROI priorities. They discuss using DELV for due diligence and valuat...
2026-04-141h 17
The Dealer Lab22 | Jacque Touzet: Moto JusticeDealerships, Community, and AI: Jacque Touzet on the Ownership ExperienceMax Materne and Danny French interview Jacque Touzet, the longtime dealership attorney, customer, and track-riding motorcycle enthusiast, about what made their former dealership feel like a family and community hub through events, problem-solving, and strong communication. Jacque explains how helping riders after crashes and dealing with insurance issues helped shape his practice focused on riders, and they discuss how dealerships have grown colder post-sale and post-COVID amid consolidation, shrinking margins, lower-displacement sales, and reduced staffing. The conversation compares these shifts to changes in law practice, emphasizes that great experiences—not ju...
2026-04-111h 04
The Dealer Lab21 | Jacob Berry: Motohunt Co-founderHow MotoHunt Started: Jacob Berry on Inventory Management, Used-Bike Strategy & the Future of DealershipsMax Materne and Danny French interview Jacob Berry, co-founder of MotoHunt, about his background from automotive master tech to RideNow’s internet director and how MotoHunt was born from tedious, multi-day Excel-based inventory meetings that required manually pulling JD Power, NPA, and network data to make pricing and transfer decisions. Jacob explains how seed money and partnering with Michael led to building a centralized, data-driven tool to remove emotion from inventory decisions for both new and pre-owned units, and how dealers can use it for appraisals, co...
2026-03-311h 22
The Dealer Lab20 | Mark Jacobs: Ownex Co-FounderBuilding the Dealership of the Future: Loyal Customers, Behavior Change, and AI Tools That ScaleIn this episode, Max Materne, Danny French and Justin Watson talk with partner Mark Jacobs about how industries scale through movements led by visionaries, shared language, and difficult behavior change supported by better tools. They revisit the “Inkwell” meetings where manufacturers, dealers, and vendors gathered without a fixed agenda to map what was holding dealerships back, shifting focus from rearward-looking P&L metrics to understanding customer rhythms, loyal-customer value, and the “adventure” category that powersports, marine, automotive, bicycle, and even restaurants share. They argue the industry...
2026-03-241h 25
The Dealer Lab19 | Tom Collins: FreedomRoad FinancialHow Motorcycle Lending Works: Tom Collins on Debt Ratios, Digital Buying, Fraud & Growing PowersportsIndustry veteran Tom Collins discusses his decades-long finance career, from banking and indirect auto lending to Harley-Davidson Financial Services and founding Freedom Road Financial in 2006–07, later acquired by Old Second Bank. He explains how Freedom Road grows by staying focused on motorcycle/powersports lending and OEM partnerships, and why the industry must better reach younger riders amid rising living costs, safety concerns from parents, and expectations for faster digital transactions. Collins describes efforts toward end-to-end online purchasing via OEM sites and highlights Echo as a partner en...
2026-03-171h 00
The Dealer Lab18 | Martin Rich: Service Manager of Hattiesburg CyclesHow Hattiesburg Cycles Built a High-Output Service Department: Tracking, Staffing, and Customer Experience with Martin RichMax and Danny interview Martin Rich, service manager at Hattiesburg Cycles, about building a profitable service department by treating time as the dealership’s most valuable inventory. Martin shares his path from Northern England to Mississippi and into powersports service management, then details the systems he implemented: daily and weekly tracking of customers through the door, scheduling, WIP and cycle time from RO creation to cash-out, a 24-hour diagnostic guarantee, and complimentary MPIs. He explains how hiring and training technicians through an apprenticeship pipeline gr...
2026-03-101h 13
The Dealer Lab17 | Jokey Froeming: Polaris Field Operations DirectorJokey Froeming is interviewed by Max Materne about how service and the ownership experience drive customer loyalty and dealership profitability. Froeming shares her path from working in small, owner-operated snowmobile and motorcycle dealerships (parts, service, sales, and F&I) to joining Polaris, first training dealers across profit centers and later moving into corporate sales operations and leading a newly formed fixed ops team. They discuss Polaris’ regional Service Excellence Workshops, the team’s focus on non-technical service operations, customer experience, and process efficiency, and results from implementing digital multipoint inspections, including major increases in dollars per repair order. They also...
2026-03-021h 53
The Dealer Lab16 | Stephen Kirkland: New Orleans H-D & Mobile Bay H-DHow Stephen Kirkland Grows Two Harley-Davidson Dealerships: Loyalty, Training, and Smart AIMax and Danny interview Stephen Kirkland, General Manager for two Elite Dealer Group locations—New Orleans Harley-Davidson and Mobile Bay Harley-Davidson—plus the group’s third store, Rally Point Harley-Davidson in Columbus, Georgia. Kirkland discusses managing two stores three hours apart by relying on strong managers, clear processes, and constant communication. He recounts customer-experience stories that build loyalty, including buying a customer a birthday cake and inviting top customers to pick up Mardi Gras king cakes, which he says drove strong in-store transactions at low cost compared to large...
2026-02-2354 min
The Dealer Lab15 | Tony Altieri: National Powersports AuctionTony Altieri on Fixing Powersports: Transparency, Data, and Small Tech Wins That Change DealershipsMax and Danny sit down with Tony Altieri (VP of Business Development at National Powersports Auctions) to talk about the biggest pain points in powersports dealerships and why many owner-operators are stuck working in the business instead of on it. Tony explains how his role at NPA connects him to OEMs, lenders, dealers, and software providers, why NPA’s data is valuable but hard to monetize without turning it into actionable tools, and why he tends to support authentic founders building practical solutions. Th...
2026-02-161h 41
The Dealer Lab14 | Zach Materne: dealership risk management & insuranceMastering Dealership Insurance: Comprehensive Breakdown with Zach MaterneIn this episode, Zach Materne joins Max, Danny, and Justin to dive deep into the complexities of dealership insurance. From general liability to dealer inventory coverage, they cover every essential policy needed to keep your dealership protected. The discussion includes amusing anecdotes, enlightening insights, and crucial advice that showcases why having a knowledgeable insurance broker is vital for any dealership. Don’t miss this informative and entertaining conversation, perfect for anyone in the dealership industry!00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter02:40 Meet Zach: The Barbershop Quartet Singer02:58 Guitar Talk and Personal Interests05:22 Zach's Journey in...
2026-02-091h 14
The Dealer Lab13 | Daniel Willoughby: Founder of Studio Moto talks about building for experienceIn this episode of Dealer Lab, Max & Justin dive into an engaging conversation with Daniel Willoughby about crafting unique motorcycle dealership experiences. Daniel shares the inspiration behind Studio Moto, the challenges and joys of starting a small, boutique dealership, and the importance of maintaining culture and customer experience in business. Join us for an in-depth discussion on how technology, passion, and creativity come together to shape the future of motorcycle retail.00:00 The Importance of Unique Dealership Experiences00:46 A Tangent on Coffee and Beans02:17 Funny Anecdote: The Stroller Incident04:36 Introduction to the Dealer Lab Podcast04:53 Daniel Willoughby's Journey in the...
2026-02-031h 23
The Dealer Lab12 | Controlling Major Unit InventoryIn this insightful episode, the team discusses the impact of effective inventory management on dealership success. Learn how Justin navigated an inventory liquidation, managing to avoid a $40k hit with creative strategies. Explore the complexities of flooring costs, the balance of price adjustments, and unique selling strategies in the ever-evolving automotive industry. Join us as we dive into the challenges and solutions for maintaining healthy dealer operations.00:00 Introduction and Early Success00:08 Casual Conversation and Coffee Addiction04:17 Motorcycle Adventures and Mishaps17:23 Inventory Challenges and Solutions42:19 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and New Ventures42:54 Airbnb and Motorcycle Purchases44:43 Tesla Service Experience52:51 Dealing with...
2026-01-261h 25
The Dealer Lab11 | AIM Expo Recap with Lance IsaacsMarketing Insights and Motorcycling Adventures: AIM Expo Recap with Lance IsaacsIn this episode, World Superbike racing legend and marketing professional Lance Isaacs joins Justin Watson and Max Materne to discuss the aftermath of AIM Expo 2026. They delve into key industry insights, trends in customer loyalty, and the evolution of marketing strategies in the motorcycling world. Tune in for an engaging conversation on building stronger communities, the impact of experiential marketing, and the role of face-to-face interactions in today's digital age.00:00 Understanding Customer Profitability00:14 Recap of AIM Expo Experience00:25 Unexpected Airbnb Adventures01:51 Conference Highlights and Impressions03:24 Industry Changes and Future...
2026-01-141h 07
The Dealer Lab10 | Billy Nicoll: back with more!Dealership Turnaround: Billy Nicoll Shares Insights on Service and Inventory ManagementBilly Nicoll discusses the ongoing challenges and successes in turning around multiple dealership service departments. From hiring and training new service advisors to optimizing inventory management, Nicoll shares his strategies and experiences in revitalizing underperforming teams and processes. He details his innovative auditing and documentation methods, emphasizing the importance of systematic improvements and setting customer expectations. This episode is packed with practical advice for service managers and dealership owners looking to drive efficiency and profitability in their operations.00:00 The Chaos of Running a Service Department Solo00:47 Rapid Expansion: From...
2026-01-0654 min
The Dealer Lab9 | Marc McAllister: Ownex partner helping revolutionize the industry.In this episode, we sit down with Marc McAllister, a dynamic figure in the motorcycling industry with extensive experience at Harley-Davidson and Tucker. He shares his journey from Dublin, Ireland, to Wisconsin, and his career spanning mechanical engineering to dealer development. Marc explores the intricacies of dealership operations, the importance of customer satisfaction, and the evolving landscape of motorcycling culture. As a partner at Ownex, Marc is instrumental in rethinking how dealerships engage with customers and how the industry can support that evolution. Tune in for insights into the future of dealerships, the role of technology, and the balance...
2025-12-3049 min
The Dealer Lab8 | John Franco & The Turn Around Story Part 2In this episode, we dive deep into the challenging yet rewarding process of reviving a struggling motorcycle dealership. Join us as we discuss the initial hurdles, like excessive flooring costs and unanticipated floods, and explore the significant life changes and decisions involved in taking on this role. We recount the efforts to restore the dealership's reputation through community events, such as the 'Moto Julia Rebirth' featuring the Rebirth Brass Band, and highlight the struggles and achievements in cleaning up inventory and overhauling the service department. Discover our strategies for inventory management, including aging strategies for parts and major units...
2025-12-2358 min
The Dealer LabJohn Franco & The Turn Around Story: Part 2Revamping a Dealership: From Triage to TriumphIn this episode, we discuss the monumental journey of transforming a struggling motorcycle dealership. From managing inventory and dealing with unexpected challenges like a flood, to revamping the service department and hosting massive community events, we delve into every aspect of reinvigorating the store. Follow along as we share our detailed strategies for inventory management, customer experience improvement, and team building. Whether you're interested in the business side of a dealership or passionate about motorcycles, this episode offers valuable insights and lessons learned in turning around a business.00:00 The Cost of Motorcycle Flooring00:34...
2025-12-211h 02
The Dealer Lab7 | Mike Skibbie from Chester River ConsultingDriving Dealership Success: In-Depth Marketing Insights with CRCIn this episode, we delve into a conversation with Mike from CRC, discussing the challenges and triumphs of dealership marketing. From the importance of managing customer data to the effectiveness of direct mail and email marketing, Mike shares valuable insights and experiences. The discussion covers the integration of CRC’s tools, data hygiene, and the significant impact of personalized customer interactions on dealership success. We also explore the collaboration between CRC and dealership operations, emphasizing the power of data-driven marketing strategies in the automotive and marine industries.00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties01:21 Dealer We...
2025-12-1653 min
The Dealer Lab6 | John Franco & The Turn Around Story: Part 1Join us on an intricate journey with Max and John Franco as they recount the compelling story of Moto Julia, a motorcycle dealership rich with history and community spirit. Discover how chance meetings and bold decisions led to the remarkable transformation of a struggling business. From John's early years immersed in the world of motorcycles to the serendipitous events that brought Max and John together to breathe new life into Moto Julia, this episode delves into the meticulous process of identifying and repairing the dealership's critical weaknesses. Follow along as they reminisce about the vibrant motorcycle culture in New...
2025-12-0858 min
The Dealer Lab5 | Rowan Mockler from Ekho: Transforming Dealership OperationsAn In-Depth Conversation with Ekho Co-Founder Rowan MocklerIn this episode, we sit down with Rowan Moakler, co-founder of Ekho, to discuss how their groundbreaking platform is revolutionizing dealership operations. Rowan shares insights on Ekho's unique features, the benefits of an integrated digital sales process, and the potential for long-term industry change. We also delve into Rowan's background at Duolingo, the challenges of scaling new technologies, and the nuances of transforming traditional dealership models. Join us for an illuminating conversation about the future of automotive retail and what it means for both dealerships and customers.00:00 Introduction and Sales Pitch00:17 Retail...
2025-12-0353 min
The Dealer Lab4 | Steve Dodds: Rethinking F&IRevolutionizing Dealerships: Innovating F&I and Customer ExperienceIn this episode, industry experts discuss the evolving landscape of F&I (Finance and Insurance) in the dealership world. They explore how the buying process has shifted online, demanding changes in sales tactics and customer engagement. Steve Dodds, a renowned F&I trainer, joins the conversation to share insights and innovative ideas on improving dealership operations and customer satisfaction. The team delves into new strategies for virtual interactions, cash deal penetrations, and creative brainstorming to push the boundaries of traditional dealership models. This insightful discussion highlights the importance of technology, process rethinking...
2025-11-141h 10
The Dealer Lab3 | Service Departments With Billy NicollHow to Turn Your Failing Service Department Into a High-Performance Machine: Insights from Billy NicollIn this insightful podcast episode, Billy Nicoll shares his extensive experience in transforming underperforming service departments into top-performing operations. Billy discusses his journey from starting Nicoll Racing in 1999 to managing large service teams at Fay Myers and GForce. The conversation covers the importance of digitalizing processes, increasing technician proficiency, and the game-changing role of service videos in customer interactions. Learn about team structure, including the innovative use of technician assistants and expediters, and how these strategies lead to substantial improvements in service...
2025-10-291h 02
The Dealer Lab2 | From Swirl to StrategyIn this episode, the team discusses the challenges of transitioning from traditional management to becoming an effective operator who can foresee and prevent problems in a retail environment. They share their own experiences, such as conducting GM meetings, implementing new training programs, and navigating the complexities of processes like Google Classroom setups. The conversation delves deep into topics like the importance of understanding financials, the value of detailed data analysis, and the necessity of committing to a well-defined roadmap. They also touch on the cultural and psychological aspects of management, emphasizing the need to shift from reactive fire-fighting to...
2025-10-2448 min
The Dealer Lab1 | Charting the Course: The Inaugural Episode of Ownex CohortsIn this episode, the team discusses the launch of their Ownex dealer cohort, aimed at improving motorcycle dealership operations and customer experiences through innovative solutions. The conversation covers various topics such as the importance of consistent customer service, unique challenges faced by service advisors, and the role of technology and new processes in transforming the dealership landscape. The team also highlights the value of regular meetings to share ideas, track progress, and hold each other accountable in implementing new, effective strategies. If you're considering joining an Ownex group this will give you a taste of what you'd be seeing
2025-10-1752 min
One Gang WorldwideMax Materne: Boiling the Ocean & Revolutionizing Powersports with Ownex.io | One Gang Ep 105Send us Fan MailOn this episode of One Gang Worldwide, we sit down with Max Materne, founder of Ownex.io, to explore how technology is transforming the motorcycle and powersports industry.Ownex.io is a platform designed to streamline transactions, enhance transparency, and bring modern digital solutions to dealerships, manufacturers, and riders. Max shares how the idea came to life, the problems it solves, and his vision for the future of powersports in a connected world.Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Maxima Turn and OnX00:39 Welcome...
2025-08-261h 23