Garagecast - All Things Power Sports and Marine

Steve Radt, Head of Sales for North America at Norton Motorcycles, brings a wealth of experience from Ducati and Polestar. He shares his journey from managing a dealership in Manhattan to reviving the iconic Norton brand. Radt discusses the art of captivating motorcycle sales through storytelling and customer experience. He delves into the evolution of Ducati, the challenges of transitioning to electric vehicles, and the innovative strategies driving Norton's resurgence in the U.S. market. Passion for motorcycles runs deep in his narrative!

The discussion focuses on the vital role of consistency in dealership success, emphasizing customer experience and team accountability. Listeners learn about the balance between efficient transactions and meaningful relationships. The hosts also explore memorable experiences, drawing parallels to the Rainforest Cafe. They debate the ideal fast food French fry, linking it back to consistency in customer service. Insights on structured systems and the normalization of deviance highlight the importance of adherence to procedures for enhancing customer loyalty.

In this special episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Lee Van Zeeland—longtime industry leader, Garage Composites consultant, and recent retiree from Team Winnebagoland. Lee reflects on his family legacy, decades of evolution in the power sports world, and his journey from dealer to mentor. A heartfelt conversation honoring a true industry icon.

In this episode, we tackle the tough realities of today’s marine and power sports market — and highlight what’s actually working. From unsold inventory to “garbage leads,” Sam and Tony break down why success comes to those who create opportunities, not just wait for them.Real talk on selling vs. clerkingWhy relentless follow-up matters more than everHow to turn pre-owned inventory into profitThe only true differentiator: your people and cultureIf you're feeling stuck, this episode is your wake-up call. Listen in and start making progress.

In this episode of GarageCast, Sam and Tony share their recent car-buying experiences—and it’s more than just a story about switching rides (again). From tech-savvy search tools to seamless customer service, Sam and Tony contrast the automotive buying experience with the powersports world, revealing powerful takeaways for dealers. Hear how one salesperson’s next-level service set a new standard—and why powersports and marine dealers must step up in key areas like transparency, follow-up, and online presence. Tune in for a candid, eye-opening look at what today’s buyers expect.

In this episode of GarageCast, Sam Dantzler and Jordan Schoolmeester sit down with Tony Audino of Clawson Motorsports to uncover how he’s transforming dealership culture, pay plans, and the customer experience in a post-COVID world. From automotive to power sports, Tony shares hard-earned lessons on flat commission structures, service integration, and bridging the tech gap between industries. If you're looking to modernize your dealership and rethink how teams work together, this episode delivers actionable insights you don’t want to miss.

In the final part of our two-part series, Rex Emery returns alongside Sam and Tony to break down what’s happening with today’s consumer confidence—and why it matters. From inflation and rising delinquencies to investment strategies like dollar-cost averaging and direct indexing, this episode delivers practical financial insight in a time of uncertainty. Learn how to stay grounded, make more brilliant money moves, and plan for the long game in a shaky economy.

In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with financial advisor Rex Emery to cut through the economic fog. From inflation and interest rates to trade tensions and real estate, Rex breaks down what’s driving today’s uncertainty—and how business owners can adapt. Don’t miss his clear, candid insights on navigating a volatile economy. Plus, stay tuned for part two next week!

In this episode of GarageCast, Tony Gonzalez and Jordan Schoolmeester tackle the realities of resilience, process, and proactivity in the power sports and marine world. From handling unexpected events to prepping for the off-season, this conversation is packed with real-world strategies to strengthen your service, parts, and sales operations. If you're ready to turn challenges into growth, this one’s a must-listen.

In this episode of GarageCast, Tony Gonzalez, Sam Dantzler, and Jordan Schoolmeester break down what separates the top 10% of dealerships from the rest. From industry insights and 20 club trends to the real numbers behind profit-per-vehicle, absorption rates, and payroll control—this episode reveals how elite dealers outperform the average. If you're ready to move beyond benchmarks and chase true profitability, this one's for you.