William Bell

In this episode of The Top Floor Charlotte, Jeff Smith - CEO of JL Smith - tells the story of his 3+ decade journey as CEO of a specialty music instrument 🎶 business. His journey has been anything but static!! His small instrument service business continued to grow 📈 and morph through multiple acquisitions, the addition of manufacturing, and the addition of new sales channels ❗ Tune in for actionable insights from Jeff that could help your career or your business! 💡 Morphinig from a service business through acquisition 4:35 💡 Succession Planning 16:50 💡 Value of mentors and trusted peers when leading a business 20:13 💡 Enjoyment from interacting with his people 24:50 💡 Using your style to become a successful CEO or leader 42:15 💡 Importance of continuous learning and humility for leaders 51:40 The full episode 🎧 link is below! Give it a like and subscribe if you'd like more content like this :) #TheTopFloorPodcast #CEO #leadershipinsights #businesssuccesstips #continuousimprovement

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Michigan dealership group takes branding to the skies with hot air balloon. Zeigler Automotive Group goes above and beyond to spread the word about their dealerships. Literally. Flying high above billboards and car lots, a hot air balloon emblazoned with the name of the Kalamazoo, Mich., dealership group dances through Midwest skies every summer. In an increasingly competitive market following the inventory shortage, Zeigler's balloon advertising strategy is to connect positive emotions with their brand, said Sam D'Arc, Zeigler's COO. "We buy from people that we trust and that we have an emotional connection with. That is what the balloon does," D'Arc said. "I have never seen someone watching a hot air balloon who doesn't have a smile on their face." The dealership group bought the custom balloon in 2021 for about $75,000 and it will last about 15 years, CEO Aaron Zeigler said. Pilot Derrick Jones flies it almost every weekend from May to October at dealership grand openings, balloon shows, charity events and more. Jones typically takes two passengers at a time for trips that last about an hour. Riders range from Zeigler staff to clients to members of the public who bid for the opportunity at charity auctions. Many people also post pictures of it on social media when they see it overhead. "It is singular in its ability to engage with communities," D'Arc said. Memorable marketing The balloon is a key piece of branding as the dealership group grows, Zeigler said. It added six stores last year, bringing its total to 41, and retailed 20,644 new vehicles. Zeigler ranks No. 45 on Automotive News' list of the top 150 dealership groups based in the U.S. Jones, who also is the director of Zeigler's Maserati, Alfa Romeo and Fiat dealerships in Grandville, Mich., sees firsthand how the balloon creates a "circle of brand and marketing," he said. "If people are thinking about the Zeigler balloon, they think of Derrick. And if they are looking for a car, I usually get a call, text or email saying: 'My uncle, my neighbor, my friend, my coworker is looking for a vehicle,' " Jones said. "People just don't forget about it — it's memorable." It is tricky to calculate any direct return on investment for the balloon, D'Arc said. But the auto group is counting on the balloon's unique ability to inspire joy, loyalty, and brand awareness. "You cannot buy a bigger billboard," D'Arc said. "And it's traveling, so everyone who sees it is pointing it out to people." Team becomes crew Being a top performer at Ziegler could mean the chance to travel to the top of the skies. The dealership group uses balloon rides as an incentive for team members, Zeigler said. It is a rare opportunity for employees and their family members so it brings out people's competitive sides.

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Titan Business Advisors is your trusted partner in selling your business. With their strategic approach, commitment to maximizing value, extensive network, and unwavering dedication to confidentiality, they'll ensure you achieve the best possible outcome. Don't leave the fate of your business to chance; partner with Titan Business Advisors and unlock the path to a successful sale. Disclaimer The Titan Business Advisors Inc. DBA Titan Business Advisors is a licensed business brokerage in CA. DRE #02225176. No officer, contractor, or affiliate of The Titan Business Advisors Inc., DBA Titan Business Advisors is authorized to give legal or tax advice. If you need legal or tax advice consult an attorney or tax preparer. #titanbusinessadvisors #wherebusinessgrows

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“Resource Nationalism and its Impact on the Global Automotive Market” GlobalAutoIndustry.com Interview with Ron Hesse features Lisa Reisman, CEO of MetalMiner, which serves as the leading metal market price intelligence brand. To listen to Interview, visit here: https://lnkd.in/gkeucs4B In the 15-minute Audio Interview, Ms. Reisman discusses these questions: • Despite the more sluggish global economy – in China, in Europe and in the US, we are still hearing of part shortages and material availability issues. Why is that happening because it runs counter to a lower demand environment? Also can you give an overview of which metals this is happening in? • This sounds like an issue that obviously impacts the global auto industry but doesn’t it also impact much bigger parts of the US economy as well? • What has been the impact of resource nationalism on prices and what is the relationship between prices and material availability? • You discussed earlier the impact on governments but how are industries or better yet individual companies thinking about mitigating this supply risk? #automotive #automotiveindustry #global #NorthAmerica #US #China #EU #Europe #metals #rareearthmetals #import #export #materials #OEMs #suppliers #manufacturing #production Ron Hesse Lis McNeil John Horrell Cathie Bliss Chad Upton Lisa Reisman About Lisa Reisman: Ms. Reisman CEO of MetalMiner, which serves as the leading metal market price intelligence brand. The company has quickly become the PRA (price reporting agency) for a range of metal price points including: Grain oriented electrical steel, a full range of North American stainless steel prices, a complete range of eMobility and CleanTech battery indexes, tinplate and other less commonly used metals. The company’s platform, MetalMiner Insights, provides forecasts, analysis and solutions for global manufacturers for a full range of carbon steel, nonferrous metals, precious metals and minor metals. To listen to Interview, visit here: https://lnkd.in/gkeucs4B

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Successful people aren't afraid of failure. Instead, successful folks welcome the opportunity to fail. Every failure is viewed as an opportunity to learn and to improve. As you demonstrate resilience to failure, you will shape your character, increase your toughness, and hone your resolve to achieve success. You can do it. Success is waiting for you.

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Just received the great testimonial on Amazon from a client about the first book of the Navigational Marketing & Sales Series, "Navigational Selling(r): piloting the client decision journey" "Great Process, Tools, and Techniques for Parts Manufacturing Firms."   "Looking for a process we could follow, and a coach to help us understand how to make it as effective as possible, we discovered Jerry Vieira and the Navigational Selling methodology. Jerry's book "Navigational Selling: Piloting the Client Decision Journey", fit the bill. Since adopting (and practicing) the methodology, our productivity and performance have both improved. We’re spending more time on projects that move the needle and less time chasing unqualified opportunities that tie up our cross functional teams."   "The Navigational Selling process covers all the bases: targeting the best markets, sales call planning, opportunity qualification, networking productivity, the use of meeting agendas, discussion summary formats, effective time management/productivity hacks, building trust, reading people types, written communications, and more. This is not Rah Rah motivational stuff. It is a serious step-by-step winning formula for success written by a trusted industry veteran that truly cares about your organization’s success." Joe Traverso, Sales Manager, Vision Plastics

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𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗱𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗮 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲? According to Billy Ray Taylor, CEO of LinkedXL and former The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company executive, winning is not only about setting a clear strategy and aligning on the goals and metrics, but engaging your team members and defining the actions to get there.  In the latest episode of Chain of Learning you’ll hear stories from Billy’s leadership at Goodyear, the importance of inclusion in building a winning culture, and Billy’s greatest challenge – and greatest learning – as a leader. Billy and I recorded this episode back in 2022, just as his book “The Winning Link: A Proven Process to Define, Align, and Execute Strategy at Every Level” was about to be released. I wanted to highlight the conversation on my podcast now for you to learn from Billy’s wisdom and insights about the humanity of leadership and how to win.  𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘀 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴. 🔗 Tune into to the podcast and come join join Billy, me, Patrick Adams, Nigel Thurlow 🇺🇸🇺🇦🇬🇧 and hundreds of other global leaders at the Lean Solutions Global Summit next month to tap into the power of continuous learning. 🎙️ ChainOfLearning.com/23 #ChainOfLearning #Lean #LeanLeadership #Strategy #StrategyDeployment #PeopleFirst

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🔥🚙 Leaders, Managers, Dealer Principals, and Automotive Professionals 🔥🚙 Why are our departments out of alignment? Positive Joe Leonard knows—and tells. Mark your calendar for David Long’s All Things Used Cars…Every Friday starting at 9AM EST/6AM PST. Jump into the conversation or be a 🪰 on the wall like me! Either way, you’ll walk away with amazing insights and actionable tips that you can implement at your dealership today to improve your bottom line. 💰🤑💲💵 👀 in the comments for a link to the full episode replay of Progressive Discipline. #automotive #autodealers #dealership #management #automotiveindustry #carbusiness #automotivesales #leadership #newcarsales #usedcarsales

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Manufacturing leaders, are you equipped to tackle your industry's toughest challenges? 🏭 Our latest blog post explores how the Crestcom L.E.A.D.R. program develops essential soft skills to overcome hurdles like: ✔️ Maximizing productivity and efficiency ✔️ Attracting and retaining top talent ✔️ Driving clear communication ✔️ Leading through constant change ✔️ Building high-performing teams ✔️ Increasing business acumen Crestcom can transform your manufacturing managers into effective leaders. Explore how in our blog article below: https://lnkd.in/eKUqVF5Q #Crestcom #Manufacturing #LeadershipDevelopment #SoftSkills #ChangeManagement #TeamBuilding

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Sales Hack 👇🏽💯 Many salespeople believe that using a script makes them sound robotic or seem like they don’t know what to say. But in reality, this mindset is completely backward. True sales professionals understand that scripts are a tool for consistency, confidence, and repeatable success. Mastering a script doesn’t make you less authentic; it helps you deliver your message more effectively and build trust with your customers. If you’re aiming for long-term success in sales, embrace the process and make the script your ally. It’s what sets the pros apart from the rest. #KamardJohnson #CEO #SalesHack #SalesProfessional #Business

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🔥🚙 🚀Used Car Managers, General Managers, Dealer Principals, and Automotive Professionals 🚗🔥🚀 If you missed Cars Commerce’s “USED CARPALOOZA” in Chicago…here’s your second chance! This Friday, August 16th starting at 9AM EST/ 6AM PST... David Spisak, Frank Knox, Brian Kramer, Jasen Rice, Glenn Lundy, Darrell Steed, and more of automotive’s brightest minds discuss decades worth of stress-tested tips and proven strategies shared at the event that have transformed used car departments into profit powerhouses. David Long’s All Things Used Cars. Jump in the conversation or be a 🪰on the wall like me! Either way, you'll walk away with profit-boosting insights to grow your bottom line immediately. 💰💲💵💪🤑 Look in the comments for a link to RSVP. You'll be texted a reminder once the room opens up. #AutomotiveIndustry #cardealers #usedcarsales #newcarsales

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Your Google rating can make or break your business. Strengthen your training, improve processes, and take control of your reputation. Let’s plan for success! How do you manage online reviews? Share below! #Reputation #Leadership #Coaching #GoogleReviews #BusinessGrowth #ReputationMatters #ProcessImprovement #CustomerFocus

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"Maybe the team has not kept up in capabilities to support that level of growth, maybe the business has outgrown its process and procedures from 10-15 years ago." Margin erosion is real, but you can avoid it! Learn how you can avoid margin erosion on Ep. #43 of the #FoundersGuidePost Podcast: https://lnkd.in/dXKyMiGR #ArizonaBusiness #MergersandAcquisitions #FamilyOffice #IncreaseProfits #Operations #FamilyBusiness #BusinessAttorney #BusinessPodcast #AmericanDream #ScottsdaleFoundersForum

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“Tariffs and Trade: Impact on the American Industrial Base” GlobalAutoIndustry.com Interview with Ron Hesse features Ambrose Conroy, Founder and CEO of Seraph. To listen to Interview, visit here: https://lnkd.in/gDpF6Fj4 In the 21-minute Audio Interview, Mr. Conroy discusses these questions: • There seems to be bipartisan consensus regarding tariffs on Chinese-manufactured vehicles. How do you see this affecting both established automotive supply chains and emerging Chinese OEMs trying to enter the U.S. market? What about suppliers? • Your view is many are not ready for a new wave of tariffs. What specific vulnerabilities or gaps in preparation have you observed, and what immediate steps should companies take to address them? • You mentioned that new administration policies may be implemented faster than expected. What specific changes should automotive companies be preparing for in 2025? • Looking at historical examples, what lessons can we apply to current trade policy decisions to ensure we protect domestic manufacturing while avoiding unintended consequences for the automotive sector? • You previously shared that NATO's Military Committee Chair recently suggested businesses should prepare for a 'Wartime Scenario' by relocating production lines. How realistic is this for the automotive industry, and what would such a transition look like? About Ambrose Conroy: Ambrose is the Founder and CEO of Seraph, a hands-on firm that delivers rapid, significant, and sustainable solutions to improve operational excellence for clients. Ambrose founded Seraph to bring together a team of top industry talent with the expertise to deliver measurable results. Prior to founding Seraph, Ambrose held various leadership positions, including Vice President of Supply Chain Solutions at NAI Global and leader of the West Coast Global Business Transformation Group at PA Consulting, where he supported clients in due diligence, crisis management, and strategic business transformation. He began his career as a consultant for CSC. #automotive #automotiveindustry #US #America #NorthAmerica #global #OEMs #suppliers #tariffs #import #export #USMCA #China #Mexico #manufacturing #supplychain Lis McNeil Chad Upton Cathie Bliss John Horrell Ron Hesse Ambrose Conroy Justin Fortier To listen to Interview, visit here: https://lnkd.in/gDpF6Fj4

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“Tariffs and Trade: Impact on the American Industrial Base” GlobalAutoIndustry.com Interview with Ron Hesse features Ambrose Conroy, Founder and CEO of Seraph. To listen to Interview, visit here: https://lnkd.in/gDpF6Fj4 In the 21-minute Audio Interview, Mr. Conroy discusses these questions: • There seems to be bipartisan consensus regarding tariffs on Chinese-manufactured vehicles. How do you see this affecting both established automotive supply chains and emerging Chinese OEMs trying to enter the U.S. market? What about suppliers? • Your view is many are not ready for a new wave of tariffs. What specific vulnerabilities or gaps in preparation have you observed, and what immediate steps should companies take to address them? • You mentioned that new administration policies may be implemented faster than expected. What specific changes should automotive companies be preparing for in 2025? • Looking at historical examples, what lessons can we apply to current trade policy decisions to ensure we protect domestic manufacturing while avoiding unintended consequences for the automotive sector? • You previously shared that NATO's Military Committee Chair recently suggested businesses should prepare for a 'Wartime Scenario' by relocating production lines. How realistic is this for the automotive industry, and what would such a transition look like? About Ambrose Conroy: Ambrose is the Founder and CEO of Seraph, a hands-on firm that delivers rapid, significant, and sustainable solutions to improve operational excellence for clients. Ambrose founded Seraph to bring together a team of top industry talent with the expertise to deliver measurable results. Prior to founding Seraph, Ambrose held various leadership positions, including Vice President of Supply Chain Solutions at NAI Global and leader of the West Coast Global Business Transformation Group at PA Consulting, where he supported clients in due diligence, crisis management, and strategic business transformation. He began his career as a consultant for CSC. #automotive #automotiveindustry #US #America #NorthAmerica #global #OEMs #suppliers #tariffs #import #export #USMCA #China #Mexico #manufacturing #supplychain Lis McNeil Cathie Bliss John Horrell Ron Hesse Chad Upton Ambrose Conroy To listen to Interview, visit here: https://lnkd.in/gDpF6Fj4

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