Garagecast - All Things Power Sports and Marine

From mowing lawns to building an 11-location dealership business—how did John Wooden pull it off? The owner of Minnesota’s River Valley Power and Sports joins GarageCast to share the risks and strategic moves behind his growth. Hear how marinas create year-round revenue, smarter inventory decisions keep business moving, and proactive service brings customers back. Plus, John weighs in on succession planning and what’s next for marine and powersports dealers. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage C...

The book says one thing. The auction says another. Jim Woodruff and Mike Murray of National Powersports Auctions join GarageCast to explain why wholesale values are holding stronger than many dealers think—and how to turn more trade-ins into profitable pre-owned sales. Plus, the outlook for Harley-Davidson, marine, and the months ahead. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Fea...

What does the latest Fed rate move really mean for powersports and marine dealers? Northpoint Financial’s Russell Baqir breaks down consumer confidence, aged inventory, F&I opportunities, and the moves dealers and OEMs should be making right now to protect cash flow and profitability. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportuni...

What’s next for the boating industry? Malibu Boats CEO and former Polaris executive Steve Menneto joins GarageCast to talk dealer strategy, pre-owned pricing, inventory discipline, financing, wakeboat regulations, and the changing marine consumer. Plus, Steve shares the strategy behind bringing Saxdor boat production to the U.S. and where he sees the biggest opportunities—and challenges—ahead for marine dealers and manufacturers. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February...

Bill Fenech is coming out of retirement—and he’s got a big announcement. The former CEO of Barletta Premium Pontoon Boats returns to GarageCast to reveal SeaGlass Pontoons, his brand-new venture aimed at bringing affordability, quality, and excitement back to boating. Bill shares why he’s jumping back into the marine industry, what he believes the industry is getting wrong, and why SeaGlass could shake up the entry-level pontoon market. Bill Fenech is back—and he’s ready to make some noise. U...

In Part 2 with Nike’s Bret Schoolmeester, we go behind the scenes of one of the world’s most influential brands to explore leadership, product innovation, supply chain challenges, and the future of retail. Bret shares how Nike empowers teams, turns consumer insights into products, navigates COVID disruption, and connects manufacturing with the customer experience. We also uncover lessons powersports and marine dealers can apply to product knowledge, personalization, and the evolving balance b...

What does it take to build a game-changing product—and a winning team? Nike Running Footwear VP Bret Schoolmeester joins GarageCast to share his journey from competitive runner to Nike executive, his role in the revolutionary Vaporfly, and lessons on leadership, resilience, innovation, and the future of retail. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, ...

From attorney to dealer principal, Michael Maledon shares the leadership lessons, pricing transparency strategies, and customer-first philosophy driving success at one of the powersports industry's top dealership groups. Discover how culture, technology, and trust are shaping the future of powersports retail. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20...

Adventure riding is for everyone—and Adventure Crown is proving it. Sam and Tony sit down with founders Lana Tsurikova and Chip McMann to discuss building an inclusive, skills-first competition that's helping grow the next generation of adventure riders. From the Backcountry Discovery Route to the future of the sport, this episode is packed with inspiration, community, and two-wheel adventure. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and mar...

Matt Gruhn, President of the MRAA, returns to GarageCast to discuss the future of marine retail, leadership, and his new book, Anchoring. From evolving customer expectations to data-driven decisions and the nine disciplines every dealer needs to succeed, this conversation is packed with practical insights for marine and powersports professionals ready to lead what's next. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier...

At Mau Marine in Okoboji, Iowa, they believe they aren't selling boats—they're selling weekends, family memories, and a lifestyle on the water. In this episode of GarageCast, Matt Lange shares how his family-run dealership has built a thriving culture centered on exceptional customer experiences, intentional training, and a team-first mindset. Discover the simple philosophies that have fueled decades of success, from developing future talent to creating lifelong customers, and why relationshi...

Running a successful dealership takes more than great sales—it takes exceptional leadership. In this episode of GarageCast, Schooly and Tony share the biggest lessons from the latest General Manager Training Academy, covering F&I processes, service department performance, technician development, and the leadership strategies top-performing dealerships use to drive growth. Packed with practical takeaways for general managers, dealer principals, and fixed ops leaders looking to improve perf...

Mastermind groups can transform the way dealers think about business, leadership, and wealth. In this episode of GarageCast, Ozzie Giglio and Dave Cotteleer share how strategic planning, peer accountability, and a long-term wealth mindset help dealers build stronger businesses—and stronger futures. Discover why the best operators don't just manage dealerships—they create lasting value. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine indu...

Nick Vosinek, Director of Sales for Beneteau and Wellcraft, joins GarageCast to discuss the future of marine retail. Learn why Group Beneteau is doubling down on innovation, simplifying its brand strategy, embracing adventure boating, and helping dealers improve lead management, customer experience, and long-term profitability. A must-listen for anyone in the marine industry UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s prem...

GarageCast dives into the world of dealer financing with John Durnian and Russell Baqir of Northpoint Financial. From floorplan lending and used-inventory financing to navigating cash-flow challenges, they share how relationship-driven financing helps marine and powersports dealers thrive. Plus, a look at industry trends, emerging technology, and what the future of retail looks like. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine indust...

GarageCast dives back in with Part 2 of our conversation with Flamingo Marine founders Eric and Brian Davis. From revolutionary pontoon design and cutting-edge engineering to rethinking family boating, dealer partnerships, and the future of the marine industry, this episode explores how Flamingo is challenging everything we thought we knew about boats. If innovation, disruption, and the future of boating excite you, don’t miss this one. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–F...

Part 1 of an incredible conversation with Eric and Brian Davis of Flamingo Marine. From growing up in the marine industry to building Seven Marine and now reinventing pontoon boats, this episode dives into innovation, family legacy, and what’s next for the future of boating. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for...

Recorded inside the legendary Harley-Davidson Archives, this special GarageCast episode features Bill Davidson and Harley-Davidson CEO Artie Starrs discussing the brand's next chapter. From rebuilding dealer relationships to reconnecting with riders, hear firsthand why excitement is returning to one of the world's most iconic motorcycle brands—and what the future holds for Harley-Davidson. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine ...

Discover what really closes deals in today’s powersports market. In this episode of GarageCast, Sam and Schooly break down the biggest lessons from their recent closing workshop — from transparency and relationship selling to the friction points that make customers walk away. Packed with real-world sales insights for dealers, managers, and sales teams looking to sell smarter and build stronger customer trust. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the pow...

Power sports veteran Ray Mondragon joins GarageCast to break down what actually works in dealership marketing today. From Harley-Davidson sales floors to digital strategy and AI, Ray shares the proven fundamentals dealers can’t afford to ignore. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, ow...

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 ...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunitie...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and net...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers ...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 Clubs, and opportunities for dealers, manufacturers, vendors, owners, and managers to ...

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.” UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry t...

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. UPDATE 2027 is ba...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry ...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Co...

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...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 3...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports ...

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 W...

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 v...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s p...

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...

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 epi...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’s premier training and networking events. Featuring industry training, 20 C...

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. UPDATE...

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...

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...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of t...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersport...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Co...

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 s...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for on...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites Jan...

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. UP...

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. UPDATE 2027 is back. Join Garage Composites January 31–February 1 for one of the powersports and marine industry’...

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. UPDATE 202...