Crossroad Conversations With The Lewis Brothers podcast

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Unlock the secrets to building powerful habits that can skyrocket your business success with the Lewis Brothers. We explore how daily routines can make or break your leadership potential, drawing from personal insights and the current automotive landscape during truck month. Discover the subtle ways in which your morning clarity can set the stage for a productive day, and why letting go of unnecessary attachments—like excess inventory—can lead to better team dynamics and improved decision-making. As we navigate the complexities of time management and proactive planning, we take cues from experts like Alex Hormozi on aligning your energy levels with your tasks for maximum impact. Learn strategies to break free from unproductive habits and restructure your day for peak performance. From balancing accountability with empowerment in management roles to fostering a culture of trust that enables team growth, we share practical tips that can transform your organizational dynamics and set you on a path to sustainable success. Finally, we tackle the challenge of breaking bad workplace habits with insights from Toyota's just-in-time production system and lessons in strategic decision-making. Hear about the courage and preparation needed for large-scale business projects, and why staying flexible and open to change is crucial for long-term success. Reflect on how external perspectives can keep you grounded and ensure you're not just going through the motions. Whether it's personal stories about managing morning routines or the importance of trusted resources, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to building strong business habits that will empower you in both personal and professional realms.…

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Ep. 23 - How Letting Go Leads to Growth 1:09:17

13 days ago1:09:17

1:09:17

Unlock the secrets to balancing control and growth in your business with the Lewis Brothers on Crossroad Conversations. Ever wondered if holding the reins too tightly could actually stifle your progress? We promise you'll gain insights into the power of letting go and the incredible benefits of community involvement as a cornerstone of success. With candid stories and practical advice, we'll encourage you to reassess what matters most in both your business and personal life. Dive into the art of delegation as we explore why empowering your team to take ownership can lead to groundbreaking innovations. Discover how to recalibrate your expectations and foster a thriving workplace by embracing change and adapting to market dynamics. We'll also share our thoughts on inventory management, emphasizing the importance of treating it as a cash investment rather than an emotional attachment. Prepare to challenge your perspective on leadership and find that sweet spot between control and growth for sustained success. Join us as we navigate the complexities of maintaining a positive workplace culture while managing underperforming employees. With practical strategies for aligning individual values with organizational goals, we'll highlight the tough yet necessary decisions that protect team morale. By focusing on strategic flexibility and market trends, we'll underline the value of a strong team culture driven by continuous education and empowerment. Whether it's about refining business strategies or understanding the automotive world, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your leadership approach and business acumen.…

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Ep. 22 - Local Legacy: Why Community Connections Matter 53:55

20 days ago53:55

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Discover how the power of local roots can transform your business success with the Lewis Brothers, who have nurtured a thriving family enterprise over four generations. Ever wondered what it takes to maintain long-term employee retention and forge lasting customer relationships? We'll share invaluable insights, illustrating how being community-oriented and fostering personal connections distinguishes us from national giants. Explore the unique benefits of working for a locally owned business, where repurposing roles is the norm, not layoffs. Imagine a work environment reminiscent of the camaraderie of "Cheers," where familiarity builds customer trust and loyalty. We'll also sprinkle in some local flavor with a fun Fayetteville, Arkansas quiz, keeping you engaged and connected to our roots. On this episode, feel the vibrancy of community engagement through electrifying events and meaningful sponsorships. From supporting "Shop with a Cop" to transforming race aid stations into unforgettable experiences, we demonstrate how passion and energy can leave a lasting impact. By carefully selecting sponsorships that align with our values, we not only enhance brand awareness but also strengthen community bonds, proving that business success is a two-way street of giving back and growing together.…

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Ep. 21 - Passion and Paychecks: Finding Harmony in Your Career Journey 1:01:49

27 days ago1:01:49

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Is it possible to balance passion and a paycheck without sacrificing one for the other? Discover the secrets to aligning your personal interests with career success in this episode of Crossroad Conversations with the Lewis Brothers. We explore the delicate act of juggling financial stability and true passion, offering insights into how personal goals, such as paying off debt or planning a dream vacation, can fuel motivation and drive. Our discussion extends beyond personal aspirations to company culture, highlighting how leaders can empower their teams by helping them identify their passions and integrate them into their work. The dynamics of career goals evolve as we move through life, from early days focused on financial gains to later stages prioritizing work-life balance. We share personal anecdotes and examples, illustrating how early investments in time and effort can lead to greater flexibility and personal fulfillment in the future. By understanding motivations that transcend age, we highlight the role of mentors in guiding individuals toward harmony between career and personal life. This episode emphasizes the reciprocal benefits of achieving balance and mentoring others, creating a motivating environment that inspires team members to reach their full potential. Our conversation also touches on the potential pitfalls of monetizing hobbies and the importance of distinguishing between personal passions and professional pursuits. Through engaging stories, like a cousin's choice to avoid turning a beloved hobby into a business, we underscore the need to keep certain passions separate from revenue-generating ventures to maintain their enjoyment. As we explore these themes, we encourage listeners to reflect on their own balance of passion, revenue, and personal goals, while considering the contagious impact a culture of enthusiasm and success can have within a team. Join us for a thought-provoking episode that's sure to inspire new ways to navigate your career path.…

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Ep. 20 - Avoiding Burnout: Fueling Sustainable Business Growth 53:35

5 weeks ago53:35

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What if you could fuel your business growth without burning out your team? On this episode of Crossroads Conversations, the Lewis Brothers offer a treasure trove of strategies to maintain a thriving business while keeping burnout at bay. We tackle the art of empowering employees and supporting managers, ensuring your team stays engaged, challenged, and inspired. Discover what it takes to scale responsibly, staying true to core values even as the landscape shifts and competition intensifies. Unlock the secrets to sustainable growth as we explore the importance of establishing scalable processes. Recognize the warning signs of unsustainable growth—like burning the midnight oil and dissatisfied customers—and learn how to restructure tasks and clarify roles to keep the pressure off your team. We stress the significance of external perspectives for better decision-making, and the delicate balance between data-driven strategies and maintaining a broad strategic vision. You’ll even find out the most popular car color in a fun quiz segment! Join us as we explore innovative concepts like the vertical vehicle storage tower, demonstrating creative problem-solving in tight spaces. We discuss the blend of technology and human interaction in customer service, ensuring multiple touchpoints for diverse consumer preferences. With anecdotes and experiences, we illuminate how aligning team structures with core values guarantees integrity and success in every transaction. This episode is a beacon for anyone looking to foster a thriving, value-driven business environment.…

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Ep. 19 - Work Hard, Unplug Harder 1:08:08

6 weeks ago1:08:08

1:08:08

Returning home after a long day at work can feel like stepping into a different world, one filled with either the triumphs of success or the weight of defeat. We open up about our personal experiences managing the complexities of running a family business while ensuring those emotions don’t cross into our family time. You'll walk away with practical strategies for maintaining positivity in your home, even when your workday feels like a battlefield. Plus, we share insights into boosting business revenue through innovative expense evaluations and self-performance techniques. Navigating the thin line between personal and professional life is a challenge many face, and we are here to explore the nuances with you. Our discussion highlights the importance of drawing boundaries at work, balancing productivity with the occasional, yet valuable, personal interaction. Through personal anecdotes, we explore how different personalities maintain this balance. We recognize the importance of being present at work while appreciating the human connections that can enhance workplace cohesion. Ever wondered how leaders mentally prepare for their daily challenges? We discuss the importance of setting boundaries to prioritize personal well-being and the significance of unplugging after work. You'll hear about our methods to maintain a work-life balance, such as listening to comedy during commutes and setting clear expectations with partners about sharing work events. We believe in supporting not just ourselves but also our employees in achieving harmony between their personal commitments and career demands. Join us as we explore strategies for fostering growth, accountability, and a supportive environment both at work and home.…

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Ep. 18 - From Idea to Action: How to Begin Your Business Journey 1:05:08

7 weeks ago1:05:08

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Join us on a transformative journey into the world of business and automotive innovation with "Crossroad Conversations with the Lewis Brothers." Discover how to transform ambitious ideas into actionable business ventures, and learn from our collaborations with Dealer OMG, experts in digital and social marketing strategies. We'll also provide insights into the latest automotive trends, such as the benefits of plug-in hybrid vehicles like the 4xe Wrangler, which promise both efficiency and sustainability. Whether you're an entrepreneur at heart or simply a car enthusiast, this episode promises valuable insights and inspiration. We explore the intricate dance between nurturing innovation and overcoming common business challenges. Understand the importance of a customer-centric approach and the pitfalls of being too rigid with initial plans. Through personal anecdotes and real-world examples, we lay out the necessity of flexibility and strategic planning. Hear about our ventures, learn from our missteps, and discover how being open to feedback and willing to pivot can lead to greater success. This rich discussion is packed with lessons on fostering collaboration and maintaining a dynamic environment that encourages growth and innovation. Finally, we confront the human side of running a business—managing burnout and self-doubt, particularly within family-run enterprises. Get an inside look at the dynamics of working closely with family members and how mutual respect and clear communication can lead to a thriving business. We share our strategies for overcoming personal and professional challenges, emphasizing the value of proactive problem-solving and decision-making. This episode aims to inspire you to build successful businesses while maintaining healthy relationships and personal well-being.…

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Ep. 17 - From Billboards to Digital: How to Master Modern Marketing 1:04:44

8 weeks ago1:04:44

1:04:44

What if your business could navigate the digital marketing landscape more effectively, especially in a rapidly changing industry like automotive? Join us on Crossroads Conversations with the Lewis Brothers, where we explore how businesses can prepare themselves for increased demand and decide where to allocate their marketing resources wisely. Our partners at DealerOMG share game-changing insights into optimizing digital advertising, perfect for any budget, and discuss how businesses can transition from traditional to digital marketing strategies to capture and maintain customer engagement. We'll guide you through the fascinating journeys of two marketing professionals who ventured into digital marketing from distinct backgrounds—radio and fashion merchandising. These personal stories illustrate the vast opportunities waiting in the digital world. Ashley and Andrew delve into how they founded DealerOMG, targeting the auto industry by leveraging existing customer data to shift from generic ads to personalized communications. Through strategic targeting and fostering long-lasting customer relationships, we uncover how dealerships can expand their reach and improve service retention rates through tailored marketing. Discover how the creative aspects of marketing are evolving from old-school guerrilla tactics to innovative, data-driven techniques. While metrics like cost per lead are important, crafting engaging and memorable content that truly connects with audiences is paramount. We discuss the challenges of convincing dealership managers to adopt long-term social media strategies and the exciting potential of integrating AI, virtual reality, and the metaverse into marketing plans. Dive into the realm of social media platforms and learn how to harness these tools for maximum impact, ensuring your business stays ahead in a competitive digital age.…

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Ep. 16 - DealerOMG: Success Through Strategic Marketing and Employee Retention 1:03:24

9 weeks ago1:03:24

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Curious about transforming your automotive business through strategic marketing and employee retention? Join us as Andrew and Ashley from DealerOMG share their winning formulas for success. Discover the power of targeted social media advertising and learn how investing in top talent can lead to long-term gains, even with initial costs. Gain insights into how standing out in a competitive market and building strong community ties can be the game-changer your business needs, with inspiration from standout local companies like Fayettechill. Through the lens of our own podcasting journey, we explore how sharing stories and insights can build connections and enrich a family business legacy. Ashley Kilbarger brings her wealth of experience in the automotive industry to the table, highlighting innovative approaches to recruitment and retention. Our conversation reveals how effective communication and continuous learning can be fostered through storytelling, helping both new and established employees align with company values. Experience the journey of creating spaces that prioritize both employee satisfaction and customer engagement. From climate-controlled workshops to inviting breakrooms, we discuss the thoughtful infrastructure that supports a thriving workplace culture. We also touch on the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a legacy business, emphasizing leadership's crucial role in adapting to growth while preserving core values. As we wrap up, we invite you to be part of the conversation, share your thoughts, and tune in for exciting future guests who will continue to enrich our exploration of the automotive industry.…

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Ep. 15 - Building a Multi-Generational Brand 1:01:01

10 weeks ago1:01:01

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We're celebrating a momentous occasion as we sit down with our father, Tim Lewis, to explore the roots of our family business. Being a third-generation business owner, Dad shares heartwarming stories of his childhood spent at the original dealership in downtown Fayetteville and its relocation to North College in 1969. These nostalgic memories offer insights into how growing up in this environment instilled in us the importance of learning from others and challenging ourselves, a legacy we continue to uphold in the automotive industry. Discover the power of generational influence and continuous learning in shaping our family's success. We reminisce about the discovery of an old handwritten business plan that ignited a venture into the boat store industry, which later expanded into used cars. Motivational giants like Zig Ziglar inspired a culture of lifelong learning, evolving from cassette tapes to digital formats, benefiting both personal growth and team development. This chapter highlights how learning from industry experts has been pivotal in our journey of personal and professional evolution. Join us as we recount some of the most imaginative and lively car dealership promotions from the early '70s, like giving away live ponies with the purchase of a Ford Pinto. From the "High Roller" monster truck excitement to the "Whale of a Sale" campaign with a massive bass tank, these stories are a testament to the creative marketing spirit that defined an era. We also explore the crucial role of recognizing and embracing individual strengths within a family business, and how supporting each other's passions fosters a harmonious and successful collaboration.…

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Ep. 14 - Solutions Start With You: Proactive Problem-Solving 54:16

11 weeks ago54:16

54:16

Transform your business challenges into opportunities for success! Join us as we dive into the world of family-run enterprises, where cultivating a problem-solving mindset is key. We promise you'll gain insights into empowering your team with solution-oriented attitudes, promoting a culture of accountability, and exploring the significance of clear communication. Real-world examples, like a service department's misstep, illustrate how proactive leadership can guide teams in identifying root causes instead of settling for quick fixes, fostering continuous improvement and enhancing customer satisfaction. Discover how adaptability in leadership can revolutionize your company's operations. By focusing on cross-training and flexible management, we highlight strategies for maintaining quality and managing unexpected absences without compromising the customer experience. Learn how effective leadership and problem-solving skills can create a seamless operation, even in the face of challenges, and understand the vital role of teaching teams to become self-sufficient problem solvers. Our discussion underscores the importance of leaders stepping back to refine strategies, using direct feedback and insights to enhance organizational efficiency. Lastly, unlock the secrets to creating "raving fans" through exceptional customer service. We explore the power of listening to feedback and adapting strategies to meet evolving expectations, turning challenges into opportunities for building stronger relationships. Whether through mentoring in sales or service roles, identifying opportunities within departments, or addressing customer issues with empathy, this episode lays out effective strategies for success. Witness how personal and professional growth can lead to lasting impressions and satisfied, loyal clients.…

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Ep. 13 - Workplace Education: Essential or Overrated? 59:42

12 weeks ago59:42

59:42

Ever wondered if ongoing workplace education is more than just a buzzword? Join us on Crossroads Conversations with the Lewis Brothers as we explore this provocative question and unravel the role of continuous training in professional triumphs. Listen in to discover how vocational and technical schools shape careers, and why foundational business and accounting knowledge is a game-changer, even for non-specialists. We promise you'll walk away with insights on whether a four-year degree holds more value than technical education and how these choices affect your career trajectory. We dive into the heart of workplace culture and its power to transform employee experiences, especially in the automotive industry. Learn about the proximity principle and how your surroundings and the people in it fuel your growth. We'll share stories of how being in the right place can propel your professional journey, whether you're engaging in direct learning or soaking up knowledge from industry veterans. Leadership isn't about knowing it all; it's about empowering others and being resourceful, as we illustrate with real-life examples in fields like accounting and digital marketing. The path to success isn't just about acquiring skills but creating an environment where continuous learning thrives. We explore the delicate dance of employee retention and training, and how even with razor-thin margins, investing in people can yield remarkable results. Discover the intricate balance of fostering a culture that encourages employees to grow internally, minimizing the allure of greener pastures. Whether you're a business owner or an aspiring leader, this episode offers a treasure trove of strategies to enhance your professional life and make an indelible impact.…

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Ep. 12 - Effective Communication Strategies for Business Leaders 1:00:02

13 weeks ago1:00:02

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Unlock the secrets to transforming your business with the power of effective communication. Learn how improving communication skills can set your business apart, as we explore why a staggering 87% of leaders fail to communicate effectively. We promise to provide you with actionable insights that can enhance your team's productivity, performance, and profitability. By sharing personal anecdotes from our own journey, including our experiences with workplace health initiatives and exciting events like the Beast of Burden, we illustrate the real-world impact of strong communication. We dive into the importance of building a core group of communication catalysts within an organization to facilitate change and ensure clear messaging at all levels. Discover how understanding personality traits can help leaders communicate expectations more effectively, leading to better team alignment and customer satisfaction. Through examples like successful multi-layered communication strategies for events, we reveal the significance of a unified approach that reaches both internal teams and customers, leveraging tools like Slack and dedicated marketing channels. Adaptability is key in today's business world, and we explore how tailoring communication to meet diverse customer and employee preferences can enhance efficiency and address roadblocks. Learn strategies to maximize profit through improved communication, from the use of visual aids to foster transparency, to the importance of maintaining trust in customer interactions. Join us for an engaging discussion on how communication can bolster sales, reduce expenses, and ultimately drive organizational success, building long-term relationships in competitive markets.…

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Ep. 11 - Who Cares About Health In the Workplace 1:00:56

14 weeks ago1:00:56

1:00:56

Ever wondered how a personal health journey can transform not just your life but the lives of those around you? Join us, the Lewis Brothers—Matt, Shelby, and Taylor—as we share our own stories of overcoming health challenges and how these experiences have sparked a passion for fostering healthy workplace environments. From navigating the complexities of vasovagal syncope to the pivotal moment that ignited a love for running, we explore the power of intentional lifestyle changes and the impact they have on both personal and professional growth. Our candid conversations offer insights into how embracing wellness can enhance resilience and drive business success. Through camaraderie and shared goals, we've cultivated a thriving fitness community that extends beyond our family and into the workplace. Listen as we recount the exhilarating experience of transforming from casual joggers to marathon enthusiasts, and how these pursuits have fostered a vibrant culture of support and encouragement. From cheering on participants in the Route 66 marathon to racing through the trails of ultra-endurance events, our journey highlights the importance of teamwork, accountability, and the joy of pushing past perceived limits. Discover how community involvement and a dedication to personal growth have inspired countless others to embark on their own wellness journeys. We continue our story by diving into the exciting world of event organization, where we strive to create unforgettable experiences. From strategic race-day logistics to the spirited atmosphere of our events, each detail is designed to uplift and motivate. Whether it's the booming sound of personalized cheers or the camaraderie shared over post-race snacks, the energy is contagious, driving everyone involved to pursue continuous improvement. Join us, as we reflect on the lessons learned and the triumphs celebrated along the way, all while emphasizing the importance of setting goals and the power of accountability in achieving personal and collective success.…

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Ep. 10 - Is the Customer Always Right? 1:00:09

15 weeks ago1:00:09