The Automotive Leaders Podcast

Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereIn this episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, host Jan Griffiths engages in a conversation with Daniel Rustmann, an industry expert with over 30 years of legal experience in supplier-related matters. They explore the unique challenges the automotive supply chain faces during and post-UAW strike.Daniel, a co-chair of the global automotive practice at Butzel Long, provides valuable insights into the legal and contractual aspects influencing the ability to restart operations swiftly. He emphasizes that while contractual obligations often favor OEMs, a cooperative approach may be more effective in resolving disputes. The discussion also highlights the intricate interconnectivity within the automotive supply chain, emphasizing the importance of aligning terms and conditions to ensure a seamless flow of expectations.The significance of proactive risk assessment and open communication within the supply chain is evident throughout the conversation. Maintaining healthy supplier relationships, keeping in touch with employees, and fostering positivity are key takeaways. This episode underscores that, while legal considerations are crucial, a collaborative approach, coupled with positive leadership, holds the key to overcoming challenges and transforming the automotive industry in the face of adversity.Themes discussed in this episode:UAW Strike and supply chain challengesSwift restart of operationsContractual and legal considerationsCommunication and collaborationRisk assessment and preparednessLeadership and positivityOpportunities for transformationFeatured Guest: Daniel RustmannWhat he does: Daniel Rustmann is the Co-Chair of the Global Automotive Practice at Butzel Long; he is highly respected in the automotive industry for his work in the supply base.On leadership: “Every time we face a serious challenge, that also comes with a serious opportunity. And this is an opportunity for people to step up and show their leadership and show their poise, show their creativity, show their grit to be able to get through the situation like we always do like the industry always recovers.”Mentioned in this episode:UAW Strike: Preparing for a Successful Industry Restart, episode with Thomas Kowal, President of Seraph North AmericaMEMA - Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (formerly OESA)FMEA - Failure Modes and Effects AnalysisEpisode Highlights:[00:01:26] Legal Challenges and Swift Startup Post-UAW Strike: Explores the legal and operational hurdles in the automotive supply chain post-UAW strike, focusing on the need for swift startup and effective communication across tiers.[00:07:41] Contractual Preparations for Supply Chain Recovery: Critical aspects of supplier contracts are discussed. Dan advises suppliers to review their contracts, especially concerning payment issues, proactively. Understand rights and obligations and establish a clear paper trail to prepare for a rapid startup.[00:14:27] Prioritizing Collaboration in Supplier Contracts: Dan and Jan stress the significance of proactive discussions in supplier contracts, focusing on quality, delivery, and issue resolution. Their approach prioritizes collaboration over legalities, enabling suppliers to better prepare for supply chain challenges.[00:21:09] Embracing change and leading through crisis: This highlight focuses on authentic leadership during times of crisis and the potential for transformation within the automotive industry amid challenges. [00:25:22] Dan's pro tips: Dan provides three essential tips for automotive suppliers: legal preparedness, effective communication, and positive adaptation.Top Quotes:[00:02:27] Dan: “We can expect that when an agreement is reached, the OEMs will want supply to start immediately. And they will push hard to have everybody up and running yesterday with very little notice. So that will certainly be the largest obstacle everybody faces.”[00:16:17] Dan: “It's impossible to make a perfect contract that could address every situation; however, you can have a good contract, you know, one that is very clear and negotiated upfront”[00:16:43] Dan: “I've been advocating for years that you might have more leverage than you think. You may be able to provide some protection for yourself. And I'm not talking about doing a massive red line of the terms and conditions. I'm talking about the fundamental issues that will seriously impact whether you make money or lose money from this contract in the long term: price adjustment, return of capital, and protecting your intellectual property.”[00:21:15] Dan: “I strongly believe you should have a little faith. Our industry has recovered from many things in the past, and we as individuals have recovered from many things in the past; we have to have a certain amount of positivity about our approach… And we must be able to turn it over to a certain extent and think; maybe I can come out of this stronger and better.”[00:24:48] Dan: “The industry and various aspects of it need some transformation. And I'm not just talking about ICE to electric; it needs some transformation in how we do business and interpersonal relationships, more positivity to the approach, and more collaboration.”Related Episodes:UAW Strike: Preparing for a Successful Industry RestartTransforming UAW Strike Negotiations for a Win-Win OutcomeLeadership in Crisis: Navigating the UAW StrikeUAW Strike and the Automotive Industry: Supply Chain Insights

Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereIn this solo episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, Jan Griffiths addresses the ongoing UAW strike, focusing on the president of the UAW, Mr. Shawn Fain. Jan begins by acknowledging the positive aspects of Fain's leadership, including his early communication and his personal connection to build a strong sense of community among union members.However, the tone of the episode shifts as Jan expresses her concerns about Fain's aggressive negotiation tactics. She criticizes what she sees as a return to old-school power plays and threats. Jan points out that the automotive industry is in a period of transformation, and Fain's tactics risk damaging the industry's future. Jan also cites industry experts Sandy Munro and John McElroy, who offer different perspectives on the situation. Furthermore, Jan underscores Bill Ford's collaborative approach and vision for the industry, opposing Fain's adversarial stance, and stresses the importance of all stakeholders uniting to steer the industry through transformation, expressing her frustration with Fain's "us vs. them" mentality.In conclusion, Jan calls on Shawn Fain to reconsider his approach, urging him to prioritize the industry's long-term interests, engage in meaningful dialogue, and work towards a mutually beneficial resolution for all parties involved in the automotive industry.Themes discussed in this episode:UAW strike and leadershipNegotiation tacticsThe need for a more collaborative approachThe rhetorical use of emotionsPreparation for industry transformationReaching a mutually beneficial dealFeatured Guest: Jan GriffithsWhat she does: Jan is the founder of Gravitas Detroit, an organization dedicated to cultivating authentic leadership in the automotive industry by providing courses, workshops, speaking events, and more. She is also the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast.Mentioned in this episode:Episode with Kate Vitasek about collaborative negotiations.Sandy Munro’s YouTube videoBYD and VinFastMary Barra, CEO of General MotorsJohn McElroy’s YouTube video. "Share the Pain, Fain"Episode 100th of Automotive Leaders Podcast with John McElroyEpisode Highlights:[01:36] Leadership evaluation: The episode comprehensively evaluates Mr. Shawn Fain's leadership style during the UAW strike, highlighting his approach's positive and negative aspects.[03:54] Critique of negotiation tactics: Fain's tactics are old school, emphasizing the aggressive and adversarial methods used and their potential consequences for the automotive industry.[07:20] Emotional rhetoric: The discussion explores the emotional language used in the strike, including terms like "corporate greed" and "eat the rich," and how these emotional arguments can distract from the essential issues.[13:13] Collaborative vision: Bill Ford's collaborative approach and idea for the industry are contrasted with Fain's adversarial stance, emphasizing the importance of unity among all stakeholders to drive the industry's transformation.[16:08] Jan's call for change: Jan delivers a powerful call for Shawn Fain to reconsider his approach and prioritize the industry's long-term interests. She stresses the need to work towards a mutually beneficial resolution to avoid the industry's potential downfall due to prolonged disputes.

Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereIn this Automotive Leaders Podcast episode, host Jan Griffiths and Thomas Kowal, the president of Seraph North America, discuss the current state of the automotive supply base during the UAW strike. They begin the episode by exploring MEMA's statistics, shedding light on concerns about layoffs, financial viability, and restart times, emphasizing the importance of understanding the strike's impact on the supply base across various timeframes.The conversation shifts to the importance of conserving cash, including labor reduction and inventory optimization. They also address the potential challenges that could arise when trying to restart production after supply chain disruptions. Stressing the significance of working on rapid ROI projects, finding ways to collaborate with consulting firms when financial constraints exist, and building relationships with OEMs.Thomas shares practical advice on how to prepare for the production restart, including conducting startup FMEA, analyzing logistics, and improving communication with suppliers. He suggests creating a startup plan and involving the workforce to ensure a smooth transition when production resumes. The episode concludes with insights into evolving automotive dynamics, adaptability, and leadership's role in a positive workplace.Themes discussed in this episode:Impact of the ongoing UAW StrikeStrategies for cash conservationOutline of potential short-term to long-term scenarios for suppliersDecision-making for CEOsThe importance of proactive preparationRole of leadership during restartThe new normal of the auto industryFeatured Guest: Thomas KowalWhat he does: Thomas is the President of Seraph North America. His areas of expertise include operations, business development, project and team management.On leadership: “I recommend the plant office people, when you start back up again, get out on that shop floor, be with the people, solve the problem for them, take this as an opportunity to rebuild the relationship with the workforce.”Mentioned in this episode:IHS Markit LTD / S&P GlobalPublished Document by MEMA OEE - Overall Equipment EffectivenessFMEA - Failure Mode and Effects AnalysisEpisode Highlights:[00:02:35] Understanding Challenges: The discussion dissects key MEMA statistics, highlighting challenges in the auto supply chain during ongoing strikes. Thomas offers insights into short, medium, and long-term implications. They also examine how strikes affect suppliers' finances, program management, and the potential shift to low-cost regions.[00:10:06] Industry Layoffs and Resilience: The unexpected salary layoffs in the supply base due to the strike's indirect impact. Insights on addressing this issue through workforce training line adjustments and the importance of long-term strategic planning and open communication for industry resilience.[00:16:10] Advice for CEOs: Practical advice is provided for CEOs and leaders facing liquidity challenges, including considering rapid ROI projects and seeking collaboration with consulting firms while finding financial solutions.[00:20:50] Strengthening OEM Relationships: The importance of building strong relationships with OEMs and working on solutions proactively is emphasized.[00:25:15] Strategies for Production Restart: The episode highlights the need for open communication in preparing for production restart, suggesting strategies such as conducting startup FMEA, analyzing logistics, and rebuilding relationships with the workforce during startup.[00:27:54] Leadership in Shifting Auto Industry: The role of leadership in fostering a positive and productive work environment is discussed, along with the evolving dynamics in the automotive industry and the need for adaptability.Top Quotes:[00:21:54] Thomas: “If an OEM does not have a good relationship with a supplier, they will do everything, not only to hide it but to fight the OEM.”[00:23:20] Thomas: “If you haven't done it already, try to work on a solution; they [OEMs] will not stop their production, they will bring people in and they will be much tougher with the suppliers that were not at least open and try to work with them beforehand.”[00:28:33] Jan: “But it's the leadership and the enthusiasm that comes along with it that will really make the difference, I see an opportunity, for leadership to be real cheerleaders for the shop floor.”Related Episodes:Transforming UAW Strike Negotiations for a Win-Win OutcomeLeadership in Crisis: Navigating the UAW StrikeUAW Strike and the Automotive Industry: Supply Chain Insights

Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereThe Vested Way eBooksIn this latest episode of the Automotive Leaders podcast, host Jan Griffiths engages in a compelling conversation with Kate Vitasek, a renowned expert in the realm of collaborative, win-win business agreements. The episode explores the pressing issue of labor strikes within the automotive industry, with a particular focus on the ongoing dispute between the UAW and OEMs. Jan and Kate challenge the conventional power-based negotiation strategies prevalent in the industry and advocate for a transformative shift towards collaborative negotiation methods.Kate shares her well-established approach to crafting vested agreements that cultivate trust, transparency, and the alignment of interests between negotiating parties. Through real-world examples and success stories, the conversation highlights the immense potential for positive change within the automotive sector. It calls on industry leaders to break away from adversarial relationships, urging them to embrace a culture of collaboration. This shift not only holds the promise of driving innovation and cost savings but also ensures a win-win outcome for all stakeholders. This episode serves as a compelling call to action for the automotive industry, inspiring leaders to revamp their negotiation practices and forge healthier, long-term relationships.Themes discussed in this episode:Labor strikes in the automotive industryConventional power-based negotiationThe need for a transformative approachCollaborative negotiation principlesThe potential for positive changeSustainability and ResponsibilityFeatured Guest: Kate VisatekWhat she does: An accomplished author and educator, Kate is a leading authority in strategic partnerships. She also heads research at the University of Tennessee and specializes in the Vested® business model. With experience at major corporations like P&G and Microsoft, Kate provides executive training and coaching, empowering organizations to excel in strategic collaborations and foster innovation.On leadership: “Don't treat your suppliers or union employees as "us versus them", you're competing against other companies. So, beat the market with your suppliers, beat the market with your employees.”Mentioned in this episode:MEMA (Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association)Graduate and Executive Education ProgramJohn Nash, Nash EquilibriumVested: How P&G, McDonald's, and Microsoft are redefining winning in business relationships.Island HealthHarvard Business ReviewEpisode Highlights[00:01:34] The costly impact of the UAW strike. The ongoing UAW strike and its significant impact on the automotive industry is estimated at over $4 billion. [00:06:07] Moving beyond power-based negotiations. The prevalence of power-based negotiation tactics in the industry and the need for a better approach.[00:09:26] Kate’s Vision for collaborative agreements. Kate’s expertise in collaborative, win-win business agreements and her mission to change negotiation mindsets.[00:13:53] Embracing a win-win negotiation mindset. Explore the importance of shifting from a win-lose mentality to a collaborative negotiation mindset and discover Kate's step-by-step approach to transforming negotiation dynamics, which focuses on establishing trust and transparency."[00:21:10] Success of Collaborative Negotiation. The success stories and positive outcomes of organizations that have adopted collaborative negotiation methods.[00:25:27] A Call to Action: Kate’s words of wisdom. The call to action for the automotive industry to embrace a culture of collaboration, leading to innovation and cost savings for all stakeholders.Top Quotes:[00:03:17] Kate: "You've got to change the world one deal at a time. And it changes with changing your mindset.”[00:05:41] Kate: "I actually don't want Shawn to stand up, I want both of them to stand down. I want them to change their dialogue.”[00:06:41] Kate: "When we use our power back and forth, we tend to just get on a slippery slope, it gets ugly, and it's a lose-lose for everyone.”[00:25:32] Kate: “Don't treat your suppliers or union employees as "us versus them", you're competing against other companies. So, beat the market with your suppliers, beat the market with your employees.”[00:26:12] Kate: “Change the way things are. But don't go with power. That's ugly. That cost is $4 billion. It costs us not to have employees to have dinner on the table.”[00:27:04] Kate: “I challenge you to redefine winning, and it's not winning at the expense of your supplier. It's not winning at the expense of the labor unions.”

Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter In this episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, host Jan Griffiths addresses the ongoing UAW strike and its impact on the industry. She begins by acknowledging the chaos and media coverage surrounding the strike, with jabs being exchanged between OEMs, the UAW, and even politicians getting involved. Jan emphasizes that the strike's repercussions extend beyond just the OEMs and Tier Ones, affecting smaller businesses like hers that rely on the automotive industry for their livelihood. Jan outlines her plans for upcoming episodes, focusing on bringing in a turnaround company to offer insights on surviving the strike and preparing for the industry's restart. She also discusses the aggressive negotiation tactics prevalent in the industry and teases an upcoming interview with an expert in collaborative negotiations who will shed light on changing negotiation models. Additionally, Jan encourages listeners to explore another podcast she co-hosts, "Auto Supply Chain Prophets," which delves into supply chain topics within the automotive sector. She concludes by inviting listeners to share their favorite podcasts and reassures them that the automotive industry's resilience will see it through the challenges posed by the strike.Themes discussed in this episode:Impact of the UAW StrikeRepercussions Beyond OEMsSurvival StrategiesPreparation for Industry RestartNegotiation TacticsFeatured Guest: Jan GriffithsWhat she does: Jan is the founder and CEO of Gravitas Detroit, an organization dedicated to cultivating authentic leadership in the automotive industry by providing courses, workshops, speaking events, and more. She is also the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast.Mentioned in this episode:Auto Supply Chain ProphetsPreparing for Post-Strike Success in Automotive Supply Chains with Bill HurlesQAD and QuistemAutolineMorning JoeSmartlessTen Percent HappierEpisode Highlights:[00:00:57] UAW Strike Impact: Jan discusses the ongoing UAW strike and its extensive impact on the automotive industry, shedding light on how it reaches beyond OEMs to affect Tier Ones and smaller businesses, offering a more comprehensive view of the crisis.[00:02:28] Survival Strategies: Jan outlines plans to feature a turnaround company, offering insights into surviving the strike and preparing for the industry's eventual restart.[00:04:03] Rethinking Negotiation Tactics: The episode touches on the aggressive negotiation tactics prevalent in the industry and hints at an upcoming interview with an expert in collaborative negotiations, advocating for a shift in negotiation models.[00:05:40] Podcast Promotion and Audience Engagement: Jan promotes her co-hosted podcast, "Auto Supply Chain Prophets," centered on automotive supply chain topics while engaging listeners by inviting them to share their favorite podcasts. She concludes with a message of industry resilience and confidence in overcoming the strike's challenges.

Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereIn this solo episode, Jan Griffiths shifts her podcast's focus to address the ongoing UAW strike's impact on the automotive industry. She spotlights Shawn Fain, the UAW President, highlighting his transparent communication while critiquing certain negotiating tactics. Jan explores the importance of leadership traits displayed during the strike, such as transparency, clear communication, and personal connection. While she appreciates these qualities in Fain, she advocates for a more collaborative approach between the OEMs and the UAW. Jan emphasizes the critical need for Tier One leaders to adopt a coaching and nurturing approach with Tier Two suppliers, fostering trust and transparency amid industry challenges. Jan believes in the resilience of the automotive industry and its ability to weather this storm through authentic leadership. She commits to keeping listeners updated on the strike's progress and the complexities of restarting operations, encouraging all to step up as leaders and remain authentic in facing the uncertainties ahead.Themes discussed in this episode:UAW Strike and Automotive Industry ImpactLeadership Traits of Shawn FainTier Two Supplier RelationshipsResilience and Authentic LeadershipFeatured Guest: Jan Griffiths (Host)What she does: Jan is the founder and CEO of Gravitas Detroit, an organization dedicated to cultivating authentic leadership in the automotive industry by providing courses, workshops, speaking events, and more. She is also the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast.On leadership: “We're resilient and tough, and we will survive. We know how to survive. This is a real test for us right now. It's a real test for our leadership. This is a time for authentic leadership to shine.”Mentioned in this episode:Shawn Fain, UAW PresidentEpisode 104: UAW Strike and the Automotive Industry: Supply Chain Insights with Tor Hough and Sig HuberCIE NewcorLM ManufacturingEpisode Highlights:[00:00:01] Shift in focus: The episode marks a departure from the podcast's usual content to address the UAW strike and its implications for the automotive industry.[00:02:22] Shawn Fain's leadership: Jan Griffiths discusses the leadership qualities displayed by Shawn Fain, the President of the UAW, during the strike. She acknowledges his transparent communication but criticizes certain bullying tactics.[00:08:13] Tier two supplier vulnerability: The fragility of the tier two supply base is emphasized, particularly in the face of plant shutdowns caused by the strike. Jan stresses the importance of Tier One leaders adopting a coaching and nurturing approach with their Tier Two suppliers.[00:09:53] Need for collaboration: The episode advocates for a more collaborative relationship between the OEMs and the supply based, encouraging open dialogue and human-to-human conversations.[00:11:17] Resilience and authentic leadership: The episode underscores an enduring theme—the remarkable resilience of the automotive industry. It emphasizes the critical role of authentic leadership, especially in times of crisis, as a driving force behind the industry's ability to navigate challenges and persevere. [00:11:50] Future updates: Jan commits to providing ongoing updates on the strike's progress and the challenges of restarting operations. She invites her audience to contribute ideas and insights for future episodes.Top Quotes:[00:07:45] Jan: “I would love to see a much more collaborative relationship between the OEMs and the UAW.”[00:10:26] Jan: “If we don't open up these communications and get a greater level of honesty and transparency, and trust with our suppliers, we're never going to get through this.”[00:11:09] Jan: “The only way that we're going to get through this is by making human connections and building on trust and transparency”[00:11:16] Jan: “We know as an industry, we are strong, we are tough, we are resilient. And we have gotten through everything in over 100 years to get us where we are today.”

Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereIn this bonus episode of the ALP podcast, Jan Griffiths delves into a pivotal moment in the automotive industry as the UAW (United Auto Workers) calls for a strike across the three major American OEMs: Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis. This historic event highlights the significant challenges that supply chain leaders and CEOs within the automotive sector are currently facing. Jan sets the stage for this critical day in automotive history, emphasizing the urgent need for strategic responses to address the disruptions rippling through the supply chain.Joining Jan are industry experts Tor Hough, CEO of ELM Analytics, and Sig Huber, Chief Commercial Officer for ELM Analytics. Together, they engage in a comprehensive discussion about the essential steps required to prepare for and effectively manage such disruptive situations. The conversation revolves around key aspects, including the critical role of gathering timely and accurate data about suppliers, enhancing supply chain resilience through design and relationships, and the analysis of the five pillars of risk: liquidity, labor, parts, demand, and transportation.Moreover, the episode underscores the paramount importance of transparent communication with the supply base, the cultivation of trust, and proactive planning for financial risks and startup challenges in the event of prolonged disruptions. As the automotive industry grapples with uncertainty during the ongoing strike, this episode equips supply chain leaders and CEOs with valuable insights to navigate the complex landscape of supply chain disruptions successfully.Themes discussed in this episode:Automotive industry disruptionsSupply chain risk managementFinancial vulnerabilities of suppliersImportance of Communication and TrustStrategies and CountermeasuresPillars of Supply Chain ResilienceFeatured Guest: Tor HoughWhat he does: Tor Hough is the CEO of ELM Analytics. Tor is fervently committed to elevating data quality standards in the industry while catalyzing business change, transformation, and growth.Featured Guest: Sig HuberWhat he does: Sig Huber serves as the Chief Commercial Officer at ELM Analytics, bringing a wealth of expertise in supplier risk management spanning over 25 years. With a distinguished career at both FCA (now Stellantis) and Toyota, Sig has demonstrated exceptional leadership in guiding supplier risk management teams to success.Episode Highlights:[03:27] Data Gathering: The importance of gathering accurate and timely data about suppliers, especially in the sub-tier levels of the supply chain, to understand vulnerabilities.[10:06] Navigating Supply Chain Vulnerability and Building Resilience: Sig and Tor dive into the automotive supply chain's vulnerabilities amid disruptions like COVID and the UAW strike. They emphasize the importance of timely data, supplier financial health, and strategies for bolstering resilience, including supply chain design and robust supplier relationships.[14:15] Proactive Planning for Supply Chain Resilience: Sig delves into best practices for bolstering supply chain resilience. They emphasize the need for proactive planning to mitigate financial risks and navigate startup challenges during prolonged disruptions.[15:27] Effective Crisis Leadership, What Leaders Should Do Now: Sig Huber, Tor Hough, and Jan Griffiths share invaluable insights into leadership during supply chain crises. Learn about the significance of clear communication, crisis management teams, building trust with the supply base, and maintaining strong relationships. Gain actionable advice for leaders in the automotive industry facing disruptions like the UAW strike.[24:25] Five Pillars of Risk: Analyzing the five pillars of risk—liquidity, labor, parts, demand, and transportation—and the significance of addressing each pillar during supply chain disruptions.[27:22] Financial Risk and Authentic Leadership: Sig discusses the financial risks impacting suppliers, stressing the need to identify and prioritize vulnerable ones. Jan emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership when dealing with financially challenged suppliers.Top Quotes:[14:18] Tor: "The design of your supply chain matters greatly. The type of part that you're manufacturing and who you're using to manufacture that can have a big impact on how you respond to events."[15:13] Tor: “Gathering the data to understand where your suppliers are is important. And in both preparing for it, and then understanding what you need to do to respond once the event occurs.”[17:51] Sig: “If it's a few weeks, I think that the industry will be okay. If it drags out beyond six weeks, I think it's going to be a different situation.”[18:52] Tor: “That trust relationship allows you to get ahead of the problem, identify where the weaknesses are, and then put in countermeasures.”[29:38] Jan: “When you identify a supplier with some financial weakness, please do not go in there with a baseball bat and aggressive tactics and show how tough you are and that you're going to make the supplier perform what is quite possibly the impossible. Please go in there with a nurturing, coaching supportive approach.”

Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereIn this insightful podcast episode, Cheryl Thompson, CEO of the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion, and Advancement (CADIA), joins host Jan Griffiths to discuss the critical topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) in the automotive industry. Cheryl shares her inspiring journey, from washing dishes in the basement of Ford Motor Company to becoming a CEO, highlighting the possibilities for personal growth and professional excellence.The conversation also touches on Cheryl's role at American Axle & Manufacturing and her efforts to champion DE&I within the organization. Demystifying DE&I, Cheryl emphasizes that it's about creating workplaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and has equitable opportunities. She introduces the concept of the "fear zone," a barrier to meaningful DE&I progress, and addresses common pushbacks and resistance faced in DE&I initiatives.Cheryl outlines the critical elements of an effective DE&I strategy, including leadership commitment, systemic change, and creating inclusive cultures. She also shares CADIA's mission to double the number of diverse leaders in the automotive industry by 2030 and highlights the tangible bottom-line impact that diversity and inclusion can have. The episode concludes with Cheryl offering valuable advice to leaders in the automotive industry: the importance of self-awareness and fostering an inclusive environment.Themes discussed in this episode:Diversity, Equity, and InclusionPersonal and professional growthCrafting an Effective DE&I StrategyChallenges and Pushbacks in DE&IBalancing Psychological Safety and AccountabilitySignificance of self-awarenessFeatured Guest: Cheryl ThompsonWhat she does: Cheryl Thompson is CEO and Founder of the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion, and Advancement. (CADIA) Cheryl possesses a wealth of experience in the automotive sector, having held key roles at prominent companies such as Ford and American Axle.On leadership: “I think that leaders, particularly leaders who have been around for a while, think that they know everything, they think they've got it all figured out. And nobody has it all figured out.”Mentioned in this episode:Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion and Advancement (CADIA)Gallup surveyNational Defense Industrial AssociationGoogle in Project Aristotle 2012CADIA ConnectsMeet Stephen M. R. Covey, Global authority on trust, leadership, and culture. New York Times best-selling authorMeet Carrie Uhl, Chief Procurement Officer for GE HealthcareEpisode Highlights:[00:03:03] Cheryl's inspiring career journey: Cheryl's remarkable career trajectory, from washing dishes in the basement at Ford to becoming a CEO, illustrates the power of determination and perseverance.[00:10:21] American Axle's DE&I initiatives: This podcast episode explores American Axle's commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I), shedding light on the organization's efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable work environment for all employees.[00:13:16] Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I): The podcast delves into what DE&I truly means in the workplace and its importance for fostering inclusive cultures and diverse leadership.[00:17:33] Balancing psychological safety and accountability: The discussion revolves around the challenge organizations face in maintaining a delicate balance between holding individuals accountable for their actions and fostering an atmosphere where employees feel psychologically safe to express their thoughts and ideas.[00:22:05] Overcoming challenges and pushbacks in DE&I: Cheryl and Jan explore common pushbacks and hurdles organizations encounter on their DE&I journey. These include resistance to change, fear of backlash, and the importance of navigating these challenges with resilience.[00:31:01] CADIA's role in DE&I: A spotlight on CADIA (Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion, and Advancement) and its mission to double the number of diverse leaders in the automotive industry by 2030.[00:40:30] Bottom-line impact and benefits: The podcast discusses the positive impact that DE&I initiatives can have on a company's bottom line, from increased innovation to improved employee engagement.[00:42:57] The fun stuff: In a lighthearted segment, Cheryl shares her favorite band and mobile app (LinkedIn), adding a personal touch to the conversation.[00:47:49] The 21 traits of authentic leadership: Cheryl's favorite trait of authentic leadership is  "self-awareness." Cheryl's emphasis on self-awareness is a testament to her commitment to personal growth and unwavering dedication to making the automotive industry more diverse, equitable, and inclusive.[00:48:06] Advice for auto industry leaders: Cheryl offers valuable advice to automotive leaders on the significance of self-awareness in fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.Top Quotes:[00:35:38] Cheryl: "If you make those small, little moves about being more inclusive, getting to know each of your team members, what motivates them, what is going to help them show up at their best, you will start to see those benefits yourself."[00:39:26] Cheryl: “People are our biggest assets. And that's how we get the work done. So I absolutely agree. We need to focus on the people thing.”[00:48:27] Cheryl: "Recognize how you're making people feel. Recognize how you're treating people."[00:48:57] Jan: “You have to be aware of who you are and where those knowledge gaps are and develop more of that growth mindset than fixed mindset.”[00:49:13] Jan: “If we are going to transform this industry, and we are going to do it, it's not all about the product. It is about the people.”

Contact Lockton - Your Automotive Industry Insurance ExpertSign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter Watch the Full Video on YouTube - click hereIn this podcast, Jan Griffiths talks to Kristin Trecker, Chief Human Resources Officer at Visteon Corporation, a global auto tech company. The focus is authentic leadership and transformation in the automotive industry —how to roll with change, grow the right mindset, and drive real impact. Trecker shares her 5-year journey in automotive, underlining the need to adapt, learn, and network. She's all about true leadership, especially in these fast-changing times.Jan and Kristin discuss ditching the old top-down leadership for newer, agile styles. Leaders must flex, admit missteps, and foster learning and teamwork. They also dig into how authentic leadership fuels innovation, spotlighting how Visteon's learning culture and Agile Software method spark small yet game-changing innovations.Kristin ends by pushing leaders to step up, link with strategy, and grow their businesses. She's all for making things happen, staying in the know, and boosting the auto industry's drive forward. This podcast digs deep into Kristin's journey and leadership impact. It's a roadmap for change, learning, and pushing the industry's pedal to the metal.Themes discussed in this episode:Innovative Transformation in the Automotive IndustryDeveloping a Talent Supply ChainVisteon’s Holistic Culture ChangeTechnological Shift of a Legacy Auto CompanyThe Importance of Having a Growth Mindset as a LeaderFeatured Guest: Kristin TreckerWhat she does: Kristin is the Chief Human Resources Officer at Visteon Corporation. She excels in driving cultural transformation and using technology to propel business success, while her skillful blend of strategic vision and operational prowess nurtures high-achieving teams.On leadership: “I also asked my team, give me feedback. Did I do something wrong? Or should I have done something different? …. Because no leader is perfect. And if you can develop that two-way conversation, that mutual trust, you can just go so much more quickly.”Mentioned in this episode:Sachin Lawande, President and CEO of Visteon Corporation  The Automotive Leaders Podcast Episode 36: Meet Warren Harris, CEO of Tata TechnologiesThe Automotive Leaders Podcast Episode 65: Meet Stephen M. R. Covey, Global authority on trust, leadership, and culture. New York Times best-selling authorThe Automotive Leaders Podcast Episode 78: Meet the ‘Godfather of the EV’ and CEO of Switch Mobility, Dr. Andy PalmerEpisode Highlights:[00:05:24] Revolutionizing Talent Supply Chain: Kristin delves into the concept of the talent supply chain and its transformative impact on the automotive industry. Drawing parallels from traditional supply chain practices, Kristin explains how Visteon is reshaping its organizational culture to resemble a tech company, fostering employee empowerment and accountability.[00:08:24] Empowering Gen Z in the Workforce: Jan and Kristin explore the shifts in workforce expectations and values, highlighting Gen Z's emphasis on purpose-driven work and aligning company culture with individual contributions. They discuss how embracing these changes can increase engagement, meaningful connections, and positive organizational impact.[00:15:29] Reimagining Performance Management: Jan and Kristin candidly discuss the shortcomings of traditional annual performance reviews and the need for a more agile and employee-centric approach. They emphasize the value of ongoing conversations, real-time recognition, and transparent feedback to foster trust, alignment, and rapid growth within organizations.[00:27:18] Balancing Tradition and Innovation: The conversation delves into the challenge of balancing automotive industry traditions with the demand for innovation and rapid transformation. Kristin and Jan discuss how companies must evolve their cultures and leadership styles to align with new industry trends.[00:32:32] Applying Lessons from Other Industries: Kristin draws parallels between Formula One racing and the automotive industry, emphasizing the value of iterative improvements and the role of technology in driving success. The conversation highlights the importance of being open to change and embracing new ideas.[00:36:18] The 21 Traits of Authentic Leadership: Kristin Trecker's favorite trait of authentic leadership is the "growth mindset," which aligns with her passion for continuous learning and adapting to new challenges. She emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and being open to new possibilities.[00:44:59] Advice for auto industry leaders: Kristin recognizes the importance of creating an impact in an ever-evolving landscape, empowering leaders to steer through industry shifts and trends with purpose and vision.Top Quotes:[00:04:59] Kristin: "Asking for help when you need help. I think that's probably something that will speed up how your company operates when you can develop that sort of culture.”[00:05:31] Jan: "You do you, the only thing you can control truly in this world is yourself. You cannot control what others think of you and you cannot control their behavior. But you can control you, and you can influence your team.”[00:11:29] Kristin: "I think culture is all about a lot of little things that you do within your company, it's decisions that you make, it's how you interact with people, it's where you focus, and that creates culture."[00:37:46] Jan: "Growth mindset brings you back to being 100%, your authentic self and believing in yourself.”[00:44:59] Kristin:  "Find a way to make an impact in your business."

Learn more about creating your own internal company podcast Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter Episode 101 is here, and we're diving deep into a compelling journey through the heart of the auto industry's transformation. Buckle up as we explore how legacy companies are reimagining themselves in the face of rapid change.In Episode 100, we sat down with industry veterans John McElroy and Jason Stein, to examine the auto industry's leadership and culture. Now, it's time to shift our focus towards the future—toward transformation. While the term "transformation" might seem like a ubiquitous buzzword, the present episode promises a fresh outlook. We're not just talking about change; we're uncovering the essential elements that propel legendary auto companies into the future.Remember the Blockbuster and Netflix tale? Think of it as a cautionary tale for our beloved industry. How can century-old giants like Goodyear and Ford shift their thinking to harness the power of startups? We delve into the success story of Mach49 and Goodyear's transformation journey, revealing how they're nurturing innovation and embracing the startup mindset.And here's a hint: It's not just about splitting businesses or making structural changes. It's about a cultural revolution that brings innovation to the forefront.Linda Yates, CEO of Mach49, lays out the path to success in her book, "The Unicorn Within," unveiling how legacy giants can tap into the magic of startups and innovation. It's a blueprint for reinvention—a guide to unleashing the true potential of auto industry leaders.But the real magic lies in understanding how Tesla's "all design in one room" philosophy can break down the silos that have held us back. It's time to ignite a startup mentality and forge new paths.So, rev up your curiosity and join us on this riveting journey of transformation and innovation. Click the play button and hear the auto industry's evolution from the inside out.Get ready to shift gears and embrace the future. Because, as we'll uncover, the road less traveled is where the true revolution begins.Themes discussed in this episode:Transformation in the Auto IndustryStartup Mentality and Culture shiftLessons from Goodyear and Mach49Nurturing innovation and embracing startupsOvercoming Silos and Nurturing InnovationImportance of fostering an authentic leadership approachAdapting and staying relevant in a rapidly changing landscapeOthers mentioned in this episode:Episode 92: Meet the Man Behind the EV Wireless Charging Revolution: HEVO Founder & CEO Jeremy McCool"The Seven Secrets to Tesla's Success," a Youtube video by John McElroySandy Munro, CEO of Munro & Associates"10x Is Easier Than 2X" by Dr. Benjamin HardyLori Jo Vest, Partner at Popspeed Digital Marketing LLCFeatured Guest: Jan Griffiths (Host)What she does: Jan is the founder and president of Gravitas Detroit, an organization dedicated to cultivating authentic leadership in the automotive industry by providing courses, workshops, speaking events, and more. She is also the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast.On leadership: "This podcast is all about finding those leaders who really 'get it,' who understand what the leadership model and the culture is required for in the future of this industry."Episode Highlights:[00:03:59] Injecting Innovation into Legacy Giants. Jan discusses the need for legacy auto companies to infuse a startup mentality into their operations for innovation. Splitting business units like Ford did is a step, but true transformation requires cultural shifts beyond just structural changes.[00:06:37] Unleashing Innovation. Jan highlights Goodyear's example of successfully integrating startup mentality into their legacy company. This case study showcases the importance of nurturing innovation, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and adopting a venture capital approach.[00:08:29] Strategies for Cultivating Innovation. Jan delves into "The Unicorn Within," a book by Linda Yates, showcasing how legacy companies can create a nurturing environment, leverage their strengths, and diversify their growth engine.[00:11:35] Disrupting Traditional Silos. Jan explores Tesla's innovative approach of having all design under one roof. This strategy disrupts traditional silos, enabling streamlined communication and collaboration, resulting in more cohesive and innovative designs. [00:15:52] Journey to personal and professional transformation. Jan shares her personal transformation journey, from leaving a corporate job to pursuing her mission. The story illustrates the importance of aligning personal beliefs with professional goals to drive meaningful change. [00:17:34] Shifting from Incremental to 10x Thinking. Jan encourages a shift in mindset from incremental improvement to a more ambitious 10x thinking, citing examples of how personal and professional transformations can drive significant change.Top Quotes[00:02:37] Jan:  "Think back to the Netflix story. Blockbuster had the chance, didn't they, to nurture that startup, but they didn't do it... They were complacent. They thought that they knew best. And they were dead wrong."[00:05:12] Jan: "It's one thing to make the structural change, but it's about much more than that. It's about the culture and the way that we do business."[00:10:09] Jan: "There are advantages that we have in legacy auto land, but we have to learn how to leverage those unique attributes and those unique things that we have."[00:10:37] Jan: "It's about finding the right culture for our legacy companies; I believe will be the secret to our success."[00:16:35] Jan: "I walked away from that, took it all to $0 income, because I believed—I believe in myself, and I believe in my mission. My mission is to transform the culture in the auto industry."[00:18:09] Jan: "And so what we have to do in legacy auto land is to get away from this 2x incremental steps of improvement kind of mindset and move to more of a 10x kind of thinking, both professionally and personally, to close this out.”[00:18:54] Jan: "It's going to take a heck of a lot more than small incremental steps of improvement. It's going to take massive transformation in the way we think and the way that we do business. The time for this transformation is now.”