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Automotive Informants

Automotive Informants

Written by: Chris J. Martinez
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About this listen

Automotive Informants is where real operators talk about what’s actually happening inside the car business.

Hosted by Chris Martinez and Zach Fritz, this podcast goes beyond headlines and hype. We break down the strategies, decisions, and execution that drive real growth inside dealerships and automotive companies across the country.

You’ll hear conversations about AI implementation, fixed ops performance, used car strategy, leadership, marketing, inventory, and the operational moves that separate average stores from elite ones. No theory. No recycled conference talk. Just practical insight from people who’ve built, scaled, and led from the front lines.

If you’re a dealer principal, GM, department manager, or growth-minded executive who wants to stay ahead of where this industry is going, this is your weekly edge.

The future of automotive won’t be shaped by opinions. It will be shaped by operators who execute.

2026 Chris J. Martinez Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Negative Equity, Subprime, and the Future of Auto.

    Negative Equity, Subprime, and the Future of Auto.
    Feb 19 2026

    The conversation delves into the uncertainty in the automotive market, the impact of negative equity on the credit market, the rise of subprime lending, the challenges and advantages of lender fees, and the transition to autonomous vehicles and its implications. Each chapter explores a different aspect of the automotive industry, providing insights and perspectives on the current landscape and future trends.

    Takeaways

    • Automotive market uncertainty
    • Impact of negative equity on credit market
    • Rise of subprime lending
    • Challenges and advantages of lender fees
    • Transition to autonomous vehicles and its implications

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Automotive Market Uncertainty
    • 10:06 Negative Equity and Credit Market
    • 20:04 Subprime Lending and Lender Fees
    • 30:07 Transition to Autonomous Vehicles
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    38 mins
  • When OEMs Feel Pressure, Dealers Feel It Next

    When OEMs Feel Pressure, Dealers Feel It Next
    Feb 19 2026

    The conversation covers various themes in the automotive industry, including the impact of technology, trends in vehicle manufacturing, the rise of electric vehicles, tariffs and lawsuits, automation's impact on jobs, market trends, and navigating industry noise and opportunities. The discussion provides insights into the challenges and opportunities in the automotive industry, particularly in relation to technological advancements and market dynamics.

    Takeaways

    • Automotive industry trends
    • Impact of technology on automotive industry

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Navigating Industry Noise and Opportunities
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    27 mins
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