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AutoTalk With Jaz

AutoTalk With Jaz

Hosted by Jazmine Booker

Episodes

32

Latest episode

Jun 2025

Language

EN

About the show

Auto Talk With Jaz is a podcast that dives deep into the captivating world of the automotive industry, exploring personal stories, expert insights, and the latest trends. The podcast aims to engage listeners with storytelling, guest interviews, and informative discussions about the challenges and triumphs within the automotive sector. A dedicated mini-series will focus on the various shortages affecting the industry, shedding light on the intricacies of parts shortages, worker shortages, and more.

Listen to episodes

32 recent
June 18, 202520 min

Kicking Off Season Two: Exploring AI Trends and Human Touch in the Automotive Industry

Welcome back to Auto Talk with Jaz! In this brand-new season, host Jazmine Booker dives headfirst into the evolving world of the automotive industry, with a special focus on the rise of AI and technology trends. Jazmine shares her personal journey of reentering the workforce and how her perspectives have shifted, setting the stage for candid, insightful discussions.This episode kicks off the season by exploring how artificial intelligence is being integrated into automotive businesses, from sales and customer interactions to call audits and project management. Jazmine emphasizes that while AI is a powerful tool, it’s not a replacement for the irreplaceable human touch that makes the industry thrive. Expect real talk about the challenges, benefits, and very real growing pains of using AI, plus the importance of using technology as an aid, not a crutch.Looking ahead, Jazmine teases upcoming episodes featuring Jonathan Mast of White Beard Strategies, who’ll offer his expertise on AI in automotive, and Laura Lee Schmidt of Smith Automotive, who brings a heartfelt perspective on what it means to start over in the industry.So buckle up as we delve into how innovation and experience can come together to make the auto world even better. Don’t forget to subscribe, check out the YouTube channel, or join the LinkedIn newsletter to stay updated with all things Auto Talk with Jaz!

June 14, 202513 min

How My Dad Sparked My Passion for Cars and the Industry

Welcome to a heartfelt episode of Auto Talk With Jaz! This week, host Jazmine Booker gets personal as she reflects on her journey into the automotive industry—a path inspired by childhood memories working alongside her dad. With Father’s Day on her mind, Jazmine explores the deep impact fathers and father figures have had on her career and the industry as a whole. She discusses the importance of passing down automotive knowledge through generations, the unique role dads play both at home and in the shop, and how community and mentorship—often from men who treated her like family—helped shape her as a professional. Jazmine also previews exciting upcoming topics, like the rise of AI in automotive work and an inspiring interview with Ms. Schmidt from Schmidt Automotive about what it means to start over in this business. Tune in for a candid, gratitude-filled tribute to the fathers of the car world, and get ready for insightful conversations coming your way!

January 17, 202529 min

Auto Talk With Jaz: Strategies for Better Experiences in the Automotive Industry

Welcome to Auto Talk With Jaz! I'm your host, Jazmine Booker. In today's episode, I want to share some advice on how people, especially women, can improve their experiences when going to auto shops, dealerships, and getting their own parts.As someone who has been in the automotive industry for nearly 10 years, I recently had an eye-opening interaction at an auto parts store that reminded me how women are often treated disrespectfully when it comes to working on their own vehicles. The employee seemed shocked that I, as a woman, would be replacing a car battery myself. He even asked "where are the men in your family?" as if I couldn't possibly be doing this on my own.This experience reinforced why I started this podcast in the first place - to empower women with the knowledge and confidence to take control of their auto repair and maintenance. In this episode, I'll be sharing tips on how to communicate more effectively with mechanics, what questions to ask at shops and dealerships, and how doing your own research can help you save money and avoid being taken advantage of.I'll also give some recommendations on affordable tools and resources that everyone should keep in their vehicle. Finally, I have an exciting interview coming up with Laura Lee Schmidt of Schmidt Automotive, who has an incredible story of starting over and transforming her repair shop.So join me as we navigate the often frustrating but ultimately empowering world of auto repair! Let's support each other and show that anyone can take charge of maintaining their vehicle.

January 10, 202544 min

Enhancing Workplace Dynamics: Paula M. Kramer's Insights on Gossip and Stereotypes

Welcome to Auto Talk With Jaz! I'm your host, Jazmine Booker. We have a special guest in today's episode - Paula M. Kramer. Paula is here to share her incredible insights and strategies for building strong connections in the workplace and navigating challenges related to stereotypes and bias.Paula's journey is truly inspiring. Despite facing personal tragedies at a young age, she persevered and became an international speaker at 50, a bestselling author at 70, and now a podcast favorite at 72. Her diverse experiences, including working in male-dominated environments like construction sites, have given her a unique perspective on overcoming stereotypes and fostering positive relationships.Throughout our conversation, Paula will share her "Soapy Strategies" - techniques for making oneself more approachable, synchronizing similarities with colleagues, and transforming workplace dynamics. She'll discuss the importance of understanding "situation language," speaking the language relevant to your role, and finding common ground through shared experiences.We'll also delve into Paula's courses, which cover topics like recognizing and addressing gossip, understanding behavior styles, and navigating stereotypes. She'll share stories illustrating how these strategies can defuse tense situations, place employees in roles that highlight their strengths, and break down industry barriers.So whether you're looking to advance your career, build stronger relationships with coworkers, or become a more effective communicator, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Get ready to take notes as Paula M. Kramer shares her wisdom on Auto Talk With Jaz!

December 18, 202427 min

Compassionate Leadership: Fostering Vulnerability, Trust and Joy in the Workplace

In this episode of Auto Talk with Jaz, host Jazmine Booker continues her conversation with Dr. Rob Lion, focusing on his "Trust and Alignment Framework." This framework is designed to help leaders and managers understand how to better connect with and meet the needs of their teams.The framework is represented visually as a car's drive shaft system with four wheels, each representing a key leadership attribute:Consistency - helps people anticipate leaders' reactions and builds trustAccountability - holding everyone to the same standards and having difficult conversations when neededConnection - recognizing people as individuals and connecting with them appropriatelySafety - ensuring psychological safety so people feel secure speaking up without fear of retributionWhen these four attributes are deployed effectively, it leads to meaningful work, compassion, vulnerability and trust among the team - the human essence that drives the actual work getting done.Dr. Lion and Jazmine discuss the importance of leaders showing their own humanity and vulnerability to connect with their teams. They also touch on giving people grace when they are struggling and working together as a community to support one another through challenges.Dr. Lion's key piece of advice is to never stop learning - be a lifelong student and stay curious. This builds self-awareness, patience and the ability to connect with diverse people.Links referenced in this episode:www.blackriverpm.com

December 11, 202436 min

Motivational Frameworks: Tools for Personal and Professional Growth

In this episode of "Auto Talk with Jaz," host Jazmine Booker interviews Dr. Rob Lion, a professor, and expert in organizational performance. Dr. Lion shares two frameworks for improving motivation and leadership in the workplace.The first is the "speedometer framework," which distinguishes intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Dr. Lion emphasizes that motivation is an internal process driven by three basic psychological needs: competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Effective leaders should focus on creating conditions that foster intrinsic motivation rather than relying solely on extrinsic motivators like pay.The second framework is the "CAR model" Dr. Lion developed: Competency, Autonomy, and Relatedness. He explains that employees' work performance can be impacted by deficits in any of these areas, both in their professional and personal lives.Through a case study, Dr. Lion illustrates how examining an underperforming employee's CAR situation revealed personal challenges affecting her work. He encourages managers to show genuine interest in their employees' well-being to better understand and support their motivation.Other key takeaways include the importance of fostering connection and enjoyment at work and recognizing that factors beyond pay, such as a positive work environment aligned with intrinsic motivations, are crucial for employee retention.The episode concludes with an announcement from Dr. Rob Lion that the next installment will feature more motivational frameworks.

October 31, 202435 min

Resilience, Authenticity, and Legacy: Erica Bruno on Shaping the Auto Industry

Welcome to Auto Talk With Jaz! In today's episode, we have an extraordinary guest, Erica Bruno, the Vice President of Business Development at CBC Automotive Marketing. Erica, a self-proclaimed "car girl" at heart, has a rich legacy in the automotive industry; she’s a third-generation professional whose journey was deeply influenced by her grandfather, a pioneering and resilient figure in automotive franchising.Throughout this episode, Erica and our host, Jazmine Booker, dive into Erica's storied career that began with Toyota's management training program and spanned across major companies like Nissan Corporate and Volvo Corporate. Erica shares invaluable lessons from her grandfather about authenticity and perseverance, discusses the realities of women in the car business, and stresses the importance of focusing on what you can control in life.We'll explore her passion for branding, the vital role of community and empathy in leadership, and how genuine connections can transform workplaces. Erica also provides insights into her involvement with organizations like the Women of Color Automotive Network and Automotive State of the Union, which aim to support diversity in the industry.Join Jazmine and Erica as they navigate topics from overcoming discrimination, the importance of employee well-being, strategic career planning, and the power of self-reflection. This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to grow in the automotive industry—or any field. So buckle up and enjoy the ride on this inspiring journey with Erica Bruno on Auto Talk With Jaz!

October 16, 202428 min

Lessons in Conflict Resolution and Burnout Management in the Automotive Sector

Welcome back to another episode of "Auto Talk With Jaz." I'm your host, Jazmine Booker, and today, we're diving deep into the complexities of conflict resolution in the workplace, especially within the automotive industry. As a woman in this field, I share my personal journey, from navigating challenging dynamics with management to recognizing the importance of mental and physical health. We also get a sneak peek into exciting upcoming guests, including a parts department expert, a Women of Color Automotive Network representative, and even a doctor specializing in workplace culture. We'll talk about how crucial honest conversations are and why leaving a toxic environment might be the best decision for your well-being. Get ready for a heartfelt and insightful episode that aims to empower and educate. Let's get started!

October 2, 202418 min

Empowering Employees: How to Raise Standards in the Workplace

This podcast episode focuses on the critical role employees play in shaping and maintaining organizational standards and culture. Jazmine Booker emphasizes that while managers set the standards, it's equally important for employees to actively uphold them and advocate for improvements in the work environment. She encourages listeners to use their voices to speak up when they see issues, as well as to embrace change and collaborate effectively with their colleagues. The discussion highlights the necessity for employees to train and support one another, fostering a sense of community and teamwork that ultimately contributes to a healthier workplace. Jasmine also explores the impact of low standards on employee morale and the importance of accountability at all levels within an organization.As the episode concludes, Jazmine reiterates the necessity for both employees and managers to strive for alignment in their efforts to improve the workplace. She reflects on the challenges that arise when leadership fails to set a solid example, causing frustration among employees who desire a culture of accountability and excellence. Jazmine posits that organizational culture is not solely the responsibility of management but is a collaborative effort that requires participation from all team members. She encourages her audience to redefine their roles within the workplace, advocating for a culture of mutual support and shared responsibility. This holistic approach to workplace dynamics emphasizes that change is a collective endeavor, with both managers and employees needing to engage actively in creating a respectful and productive work environment. In doing so, Jazmine leaves her listeners with a powerful message: to be a part of the solution, not the problem, by embracing change and advocating for continuous improvement.Takeaways: Effective communication between employees and managers is crucial for maintaining workplace standards. Employees should advocate for themselves and others to improve the work environment. Embracing change and being open to new standards can lead to a better workplace. Long-term employees often resist change because they benefit from the status quo. Creating a supportive organizational culture enhances employee morale and productivity. Management should model the behavior they expect from their employees to foster accountability.

September 25, 202415 min

Effective Strategies for Managers to Foster Collaboration and Improve Workplace Environment

Hey everyone, welcome to the latest episode of AutoTalk with Jaz! In today's show, we're diving into a crucial topic for managers - how to foster a more collaborative work environment instead of a competitive one. Your host Jazmine Booker recently spoke about this subject at an engagement and she's here to share some of the key points.We'll discuss the importance of managers setting clear standards and maintaining them consistently across the team. Jaz will also touch on how managers need to check their biases and delegate effectively based on people's actual abilities, not just playing favorites.Using your voice in the right way is another essential skill. Managers hugely impact the organizational culture through their words and actions. Jaz will explain how managers need to steer clear of gossip and unprofessional behavior while still being honest and relatable to their teams.Finally, being open to change and constructive feedback is a must for any good leader. Jaz will share her 4-step approach of doing, critiquing, fixing and repeating to help managers continuously improve.So listen in for Jazmine's expert tips on how managers can step up, empower their teams, and create a workplace where everyone collaborates and thrives together. Let's jump into it!

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