The Automotive Talent Show

Cameron Cresswell
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Weekly Cameron and the team from Automotive Talent interview leaders from the automotive industry, gaining insights, their stories, and talking all things automotive related.

  1. 3d ago

    Running the Dealership Like A Footy Team | Luke Camilleri

    From dreaming of a career in professional football to leading one of Australia's highest-performing Mazda dealerships, Luke Camilleri has built his leadership philosophy around one simple idea: great dealerships are built like great sporting teams. Luke Camilleri talks about why culture isn't something you talk about—it's something you practise every day. We explore recruitment, accountability, adapting to change, leading through crises, creating a team-first mentality, and why celebrating the small wins is what ultimately drives long-term success. Luke also shares how marketing, leadership, and customer experience all improve when everyone is pulling in the same direction. Whether you're leading a dealership, managing a team, or simply looking to build a stronger culture, this conversation is packed with practical leadership lessons that extend well beyond the automotive industry. 🎧 Listen on SPOTIFY/APPLE/AMAZON/IHEART/DEEZER: theautomotivetalentshow.riverside.com 🎬 Full Episodes: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu 🎬 Clips & Shorts: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu/shorts 📱 FOLLOW US Instagram: instagram.com/automotivetalent LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/automotive-talent Facebook: facebook.com/AutomotiveTalent X/Twitter: x.com/Auto_Talent Podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/the-automotive-talent-show-podcast/ 👥 Host: Cameron Cresswell linkedin.com/in/cameroncresswell/ 🎤 Guest: Luke Camilleri linkedin.com/in/luke-camilleri-44b04362/ linkedin.com/company/aspley-mazda/ 00:00 Introduction to Luke Camilleri 00:28 Introduction to Luke Camellieri and His Journey 00:48 Running a Dealership Like a High-Performance Team 01:06 Transforming Traditional Business Practices 02:18 Luke's Journey into the Automotive Industry 06:39 Lessons from Early Experiences 11:05 Adapting to Change in the Automotive Industry 16:27 The Importance of Community and Social Media 25:48 Building the 'Car Man' Brand 27:02 Evolving Marketing Strategies 32:46 Creating a Destination Experience 38:53 Building a Strong Team Culture 44:06 Hiring for Fit and Potential 48:16 Future Growth and Consistency 49:52 The Importance of Discipline in Leadership 50:17 Hiring for Culture and Engagement 50:21 Transforming Traditional Business Practices

  2. Jul 22

    If You Don't Like Change, You're Gonna Hate Extinction | Kieran Stack

    The automotive industry is changing faster than ever. Customer expectations are evolving, technology continues to reshape the dealership experience, and service departments can no longer rely on doing things the way they've always been done. Kieran Stack talks about why embracing change isn't optional for today's dealerships. From coaching service advisers and developing stronger leaders to improving customer communication and building service departments that customers genuinely want to return to, he shares the practical mindset shifts that separate thriving dealerships from those that get left behind. Whether you're a dealer principal, service manager, service adviser, or someone building a career in automotive, this episode is packed with practical insights on leadership, aftersales performance, customer experience, and why the dealerships that continue to evolve will always have the competitive advantage. 🎧 Listen on SPOTIFY/APPLE/AMAZON/IHEART/DEEZER: theautomotivetalentshow.riverside.com 🎬 Full Episodes: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu 🎬 Clips & Shorts: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu/shorts 📱 FOLLOW US Instagram: instagram.com/automotivetalent LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/automotive-talent Facebook: facebook.com/AutomotiveTalent X/Twitter: x.com/Auto_Talent Podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/the-automotive-talent-show-podcast/ 👥 Host: Cameron Cresswell linkedin.com/in/cameroncresswell/ 🎤 Guest: Kieran Stack linkedin.com/in/kieran-stack-49060246 linkedin.com/company/service101/ 00:00 Introduction to Kieran Stack 02:05 Kieran's Journey to Australia and Training 03:27 The Philosophy of Service 101 05:13 The Role of Service Advisors 09:54 The Changing Landscape of Service Advisors 11:31 The Importance of Training and Communication 17:25 Selling vs. Helping in Service Departments 22:51 Consequences of Neglecting Vehicle Maintenance 28:01 Feature, Function, Consequence in Service Sales 29:15 The Evolution of Communication in Service Advising 31:23 The Importance of Effective Communication 35:37 Understanding Customer Needs and Rejections 40:22 Creating a Memorable Customer Experience 46:42 The Role of Technology in Service Advising 50:59 The Future of Service Departments 56:45 Final Outro.mp4

  3. Jul 9

    Why the Best F&I Leaders Think Beyond the Numbers | Anthony Maluccio

    F&I is often viewed as a numbers game—but the best leaders know it's about much more than finance, products, and profitability. In this episode of The Automotive Talent Show, Anthony Maluccio shares the leadership principles that have shaped his career in automotive, exploring how trust, culture, customer relationships, and developing people ultimately drive long-term business success. Anthony Maluccio talks about why the best F&I leaders think beyond the numbers, focusing on building strong teams, creating exceptional customer experiences, and making decisions that strengthen dealerships for the long term. His insights are practical, honest, and highly relevant for anyone leading in today's automotive industry. Whether you're a Business Manager, F&I professional, Dealer Principal, department leader, or simply passionate about the future of automotive retail, this conversation offers valuable lessons on leadership, performance, and building businesses that last. 🎧 Listen on SPOTIFY/APPLE/AMAZON/IHEART/DEEZER: theautomotivetalentshow.riverside.com 🎬 Full Episodes: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu 🎬 Clips & Shorts: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu/shorts 📱 FOLLOW US Instagram: instagram.com/automotivetalent LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/automotive-talent Facebook: facebook.com/AutomotiveTalent X/Twitter: x.com/Auto_Talent Podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/the-automotive-talent-show-podcast/ 👥 Host: Cameron Cresswell linkedin.com/in/cameroncresswell/ 🎤 Guest: Anthony Maluccio linkedin.com/in/anthony-maluccio/ linkedin.com/company/think-auto-pty-ltd/about/ 00:00 Introduction to Automotive Talent Show 01:45 Anthony Maluccio's Journey into Automotive Finance 03:38 The Unique Role of F&I in Dealerships 05:08 Navigating Sales and Finance Dynamics 07:35 Evolution of F&I Practices Over Two Decades 08:32 Current Challenges in the F&I Landscape 11:32 Compliance in the F&I World 14:04 The Role of Technology in Compliance 17:20 Changing Customer Expectations and Education 20:03 Best Practices for Dealerships in a Competitive Market 23:42 The Future of EV Financing and Market Adaptation 26:36 The Evolving Automotive Landscape 28:35 The Role of Business Managers in Dealerships 32:24 Finance as a Service: The Changing Dynamics 35:36 Future Predictions for F&I Desks 39:02 The Evolution of Think Auto 44:39 Scaling and Adapting to Market Changes 53:21 Final Outro.mp4

  4. Jul 1

    The Future of Automotive Is Changing Faster Than You Think - Steven Bragg

    Steven Bragg has spent decades helping dealership groups navigate growth, profitability, acquisitions, and industry transformation. Five years after his first appearance on the Automotive Talent Show, he returns to discuss how dramatically the automotive landscape has changed—and what's still to come. From Chinese OEMs and EV adoption to AI, dealership profitability, workforce evolution, and changing customer expectations, this conversation explores the forces reshaping automotive retail and what leaders need to do to stay ahead. Steven Bragg talks about why dealerships can no longer rely on old playbooks, how operational discipline creates resilience, where future profitability will come from, and why the businesses that embrace change—not resist it—will ultimately outperform the market. Whether you're a Dealer Principal, automotive executive, or industry professional, this episode offers practical insights into navigating one of the most significant periods of change the automotive industry has ever experienced. 🎧 Listen on SPOTIFY/APPLE/AMAZON/IHEART/DEEZER: theautomotivetalentshow.riverside.com 🎬 Full Episodes: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu 🎬 Clips & Shorts: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu/shorts 📱 FOLLOW US Instagram: instagram.com/automotivetalent LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/automotive-talent Facebook: facebook.com/AutomotiveTalent X/Twitter: x.com/Auto_Talent Podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/the-automotive-talent-show-podcast/ 👥 Host: Cameron Cresswell linkedin.com/in/cameroncresswell/ 🎤 Guest: STEVEN BRAGG linkedin.com/in/stevenrbragg https://www.linkedin.com/company/pitcher-partners/ 00:00 The Evolution of the Automotive Industry 02:16 Surprises in Industry Changes 04:59 Consumer Behavior and Vehicle Choices 07:27 The Impact of New Market Entrants 09:45 Challenges for Legacy Brands 12:47 The Role of Emissions Schemes 15:18 Brand Loyalty and Market Dynamics 23:18 The Shift in the EV Market 25:45 Profitability Pressures in the Automotive Industry 28:08 The Importance of Scale and Efficiency 31:37 Navigating Tax Changes and Business Structures 34:25 Talent Acquisition and Industry Changes 40:50 Preparing for Future Challenges in the Automotive Sector 48:21 Final Outro.mp4

  5. Jun 24

    From Car Care to Dealer Principal: Building Leaders, Not Managers - Tegan Blockey

    Tegan Blockey's automotive journey started with a car care role after putting a career in the police force on hold. Twenty years later, she's leading Bridge Toyota, Gove Toyota, and Lexus of Darwin, building one of the Northern Territory's most respected dealership operations. In this conversation with Cameron Cresswell, Tegan shares lessons from growing through the industry, leading teams across remote communities, developing future leaders, creating a culture people want to be part of, and adapting to an automotive landscape that continues to evolve. Tegan Blockey talks about why leadership matters more than management, hiring for attitude over experience, investing in staff, supporting local communities, and creating an environment where people can build long-term careers. She also shares her perspective on the future of automotive retail, changing customer expectations, and the opportunities that come from embracing change. Whether you're a Dealer Principal, people leader, or someone looking to build a career in automotive, this episode offers practical insights on leadership, culture, customer relationships, and developing great teams that stand the test of time. 
🎧 Listen on SPOTIFY/APPLE/AMAZON/IHEART/DEEZER: theautomotivetalentshow.riverside.com 🎬 Full Episodes: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu 🎬 Clips & Shorts: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu/shorts 📱 FOLLOW US Instagram: instagram.com/automotivetalent LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/automotive-talent Facebook: facebook.com/AutomotiveTalent X/Twitter: x.com/Auto_Talent Podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/the-automotive-talent-show-podcast/ 👥 Host: Cameron Cresswell linkedin.com/in/cameroncresswell/ 🎤 Guest: Tegan Blockey linkedin.com/in/tegan-b-a8717b162 00:00 Introduction 01:12 How Tegan Started 06:15 "Leading" as a "woman in a man's world" 09:01 Tegan talks about Imposter Syndrome 11:33 Why mentors matter 15:19 Tegan talks about Birdge Toyota and Eagers 22:56 Leaders not managers 25:33 Stereotype in the automotive industry? 30:36 Finding the balance 34:58 Croc as a pet?! 39:39 Age of connectivity 42:03 Outro

  6. Jun 10

    The Hidden Millions Most Dealerships Are Missing - Andrew Hillcoat

    Andrew Hillcoat has spent more than 40 years in the automotive industry, building a career that has taken him from apprentice technician in regional Queensland to luxury automotive leadership roles across Australia and the Middle East. In this conversation with Cameron Cresswell, Andrew shares lessons from every stage of that journey—from launching Maybach and SLR McLaren in the Middle East to helping dealerships across Australia unlock growth, improve performance, and navigate an increasingly competitive market. Andrew Hillcoat talks about why aftersales remains one of the most overlooked opportunities in automotive retail, the leadership habits that separate great operators from average ones, and how dealerships can uncover significant profit through better process, accountability, and customer retention. Whether you're a Dealer Principal, Service Manager, sales leader, or simply passionate about the automotive industry, this episode is packed with practical insights from someone who has seen the business from every angle. 🎧 Listen on SPOTIFY/APPLE/AMAZON/IHEART/DEEZER: theautomotivetalentshow.riverside.com 🎬 Full Episodes: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu 🎬 Clips & Shorts: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu/shorts 📱 FOLLOW US Instagram: instagram.com/automotivetalent LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/automotive-talent Facebook: facebook.com/AutomotiveTalent X/Twitter: x.com/Auto_Talent Podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/the-automotive-talent-show-podcast/ 👥 Host: Cameron Cresswell linkedin.com/in/cameroncresswell/ 🎤 Guest: Andrew Hillcoat linkedin.com/in/andrew-hillcoat-1ba23139 CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Toowoomba to the Automotive Industry 02:26 Automotive is an Inviting Industry 03:36 Navigating the Luxury Automotive Landscape 06:29 Experiences in the Middle East: A Unique Perspective 10:14 Transitioning Back to Australia: Lessons Learned 12:04 The Importance of After Sales in Automotive 14:53 Maximizing Profitability: Strategies for Success 18:00 Driving Performance: Key Metrics and Insights 20:56 Integrating Sales and Service Departments 22:24 Accountability in Sales and Service 24:15 The Role of Mentorship in Business 25:07 Addressing Underperformance in Dealerships 27:07 Maximizing Productivity and Efficiency 28:26 Rethinking Non-Productive Staff 30:17 The Impact of AI on Dealership Operations 33:19 The Future of AI in the Automotive Industry 35:22 Communication is Always a People's Job 38:32 Evolving Roles of Dealership Management 41:18 Navigating Industry Changes and Challenges 44:46 The Importance of Leadership Optics 47:36 Building Credibility and First Impressions 49:45 Maintaining a Positive Leadership Presence 49:59 Final Outro

  7. Jun 3

    25 Years at the Helm: Building a Dealership for the Next Generation - Mark Beitz

    From an aspiring footy player to leading one of Queensland's most recognised automotive groups, Mark Beitz shares the lessons learned from 25 years of growth, change, and reinvention. We discuss succession planning, AI and "digital employees", navigating market uncertainty, empowering future leaders, and why community-driven dealerships still have a place in the future of automotive retail. A fascinating conversation on leadership, technology, people, and building a business that lasts. Full episode out now. #AutomotiveIndustry #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #Dealership #AI #FamilyBusiness #AutomotiveRetail #Podcast 🎧 Listen on SPOTIFY/APPLE/AMAZON/IHEART/DEEZER: theautomotivetalentshow.riverside.com 🎬 Full Episodes: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu 🎬 Clips & Shorts: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu/shorts 📱 FOLLOW US Instagram: instagram.com/automotivetalent LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/automotive-talent Facebook: facebook.com/AutomotiveTalent X/Twitter: x.com/Auto_Talent Podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/the-automotive-talent-show-podcast/ 👥 Host: Cameron Cresswell linkedin.com/in/cameroncresswell/ automotivetalent.com.au 🎤 Guest: Mark Beitz linkedin.com/in/mark-beitz-6716ba8 Bartons.net.au

  8. May 27

    From Car Journalist to Automotive Insider - Mike Costello

    The automotive industry is changing faster than ever. From the rise of Chinese brands and EV adoption, to AI in dealerships and shifting customer behaviour — Mike Costello shares what’s really happening behind the scenes of the Australian automotive market. A sharp conversation on data, retail evolution, technology, brand loyalty, and where the industry is headed next. Full episode out now. #AutomotiveIndustry #Podcast #EV #Dealership #AutomotiveNews #AI #ElectricVehicles #Cars 🎧 Listen on SPOTIFY/APPLE/AMAZON/IHEART/DEEZER: theautomotivetalentshow.riverside.com 🎬 Full Episodes: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu 🎬 Clips & Shorts: youtube.com/@AutomotivetalentAu/shorts 📱 FOLLOW US Instagram: instagram.com/automotivetalent LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/automotive-talent Facebook: facebook.com/AutomotiveTalent X/Twitter: x.com/Auto_Talent Podcast LinkedIn: linkedin.com/showcase/the-automotive-talent-show-podcast/ 👥 Host: Cameron Cresswell linkedin.com/in/cameroncresswell/ 🎤 Guest: Mike Costello linkedin.com/in/mike-costello-cox-automotive/

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About

Weekly Cameron and the team from Automotive Talent interview leaders from the automotive industry, gaining insights, their stories, and talking all things automotive related.

Information

  • Creator
    Cameron Cresswell
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Cameron Cresswell

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