Under the Bonnet: What’s Really Going On in Australia’s Automotive Industry

Under the Bonnet: What’s Really Going On in Australia’s Automotive Industry

Darren Bowler started as a teenage apprentice with a love for cars and worked his way up to leading major automotive brands across Australia. In this episode, he shares his journey through Holden, Hyundai, Audi, HSV and more, and reflects on what it takes to succeed in a fast-changing industry. From the early days under the bonnet to executive roles in sales, marketing and operations, Darren now consults to help businesses streamline, scale and thrive. He also dives into the current state of the automotive industry in Australia and where it's headed. If you’re in the industry or just curious about how it all works behind the scenes, this episode is packed with stories, strategy and straight-talking insights.

Beyond Resumes: A Practical Playbook for Workshop Hiring

Labour shortages are real, but your standards do not have to drop. This episode shows how to prove real skill in mechanics and technicians without relying on glossy CVs. You will hear practical tests such as drawings, welds and build challenges, simple English checks, and onboarding that actually works. Think barbecues, morning tea and clear context so people hit the ground running. We also cover the cultural nuances that matter when you hire in the Philippines. Lead with trust. Ask for repeat-back to confirm understanding. Use shorter sentences and clear instructions to avoid “yes sir” confusion. You will leave with a straightforward playbook you can use this week. Assess what matters, communicate clearly and coach deliberately so great people can thrive in your workshop or dealership.

How to support your sales advisors to care AND sell.

Sales came easy during covid. But now more than ever it is essential to support our sales advisors to listen, care and yes…sell.  I sat down with Ian Parker from Parker Management Group to unpack what really drives results in automotive sales. Ian has been in the industry since 1983 and his take is clear. The tech has changed with the internet, but the winners still listen, present well, follow up, and care. His ABC of selling is not always be closing. It is always be caring. Ian shares the mindset, scripts, and simple process tweaks that turn one time buyers into lifelong customers. We talk about • Rebuilding confidence with skill asking better questions, confirming preferred contact, agreeing next call times • Moving from order taker to trusted advisor listening to understand, setting clear next steps, presenting with care • Creating repeat customers with simple follow up rituals that compound results If you are a dealer principal or sales leader who loves creating content and momentum but needs support to get it out and implemented, this episode is for you.

From Apple Store to Service Advisor: Rethinking Hiring in Dealerships

Graham Wynn from Superior People uncovers what’s really going on in the automotive industry job market. From the massive shortage of technicians, to why reputation beats pay when candidates choose dealerships, to the surprising backgrounds that make the best service advisors (hint: Apple Stores )… Graham shares what’s working, what’s broken, and what needs to change. If you want to understand how culture, career paths, and even AI are shaping the future of hiring in dealerships, you’ll want to hear this conversation. Listen now and find out why attracting and retaining top talent is one of the biggest challenges dealerships face today.

The Real Reason Your Meta Ads Aren’t Working For Your Dealership

Dale Brittain from DBC2 works with some of the largest dealership groups to supercharge their marketing and he is here to spills the beans on how to make marketing work for your dealership.   You’ll hear why short-term thinking is costing businesses more than they realise, how to create campaigns that actually convert, and what EV buyers really care about (spoiler alert – it’s not what you think). This is a no-fluff, insight-packed convo that will change the way you look at digital marketing.