Best Auto Buyers Guide Podcasts (2025)

1
EVs in a Phoenix summer, Dodge brings back the V6, Jeep has too many EVs 1:09:11

Play Pause

14d ago1:09:11

1:09:11

In this wildly scatterbrained episode, we break down the biggest reveals from the LA Auto Show, including updates on Honda’s Prelude, the Jeep Recon, the redesigned Telluride, and Stellantis’ ever-confusing EV strategy. We also dive deep into Tesla’s shockingly high German inspection failure rates, and answer a listener's question about how much EV…

1
Decoding the Price Tags - Understanding Vehicle Valuation Guides 34:23

7d ago34:23

34:23

Discover the secrets behind vehicle pricing in this Season 5 premiere of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance! Host John Lewis breaks down the critical differences between wholesale and retail auto pricing, then dives deep into the three major vehicle valuation guides every automotive professional needs to know: Black Book, Kelley Blue Book (KB…

1
The Tricolor Holdings Collapse - The No-Show That Changed Everything 37:08

20d ago37:08

37:08

Tricolor executives failed to appear at today's Section 341 creditor meeting—a stunning development that's reshaping this massive fraud case. In this urgent episode of Drive To Success, host John Lewis delivers breaking news coverage and an analysis of what happened in Dallas federal bankruptcy court. More than 150 participants joined the meeting, …

1
Does Jeep have too many EVs while Volvo has too few? Also, Honda gets a new hybrid system. 1:19:09

22d ago1:19:09

1:19:09

Does Jeep have too many EVs while Volvo has too few? Also, Honda gets a new hybrid system.By Auto Buyers Guide

1
Spot Delivery Dilemma 18:24

29d ago18:24

18:24

In this eye-opening episode, John Lewis tackles one of the most controversial practices in automotive retail: spot delivery, also known as "yo-yo financing." Whether you're a dealer trying to navigate compliance, a finance manager protecting your business, or simply curious about automotive finance practices, this episode delivers critical insights…

1
Crossing the Generational Divide Approach To Auto Financing 15:57

1M ago15:57

15:57

n this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, host John Lewis explores the fascinating generational divide in auto financing preferences. From Gen Z's digital-first approach to Millennials' value-conscious optimization and Gen X's relationship-focused strategies, each generation brings unique expectations to the car-buying process. Le…

1
The Repo Law Maze 17:12

1M ago17:12

17:12

Welcome to another episode of "Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance" with your host, John Lewis. In this essential episode for auto finance professionals, we dive deep into the challenging world of state-by-state repossession laws and the complex compliance maze they create for lenders operating across multiple states. John breaks down the most…

1
Toyota's New RAV4 Is A Winner, Jeep's EV Is Underbaked, Nissan's Versa Needs A Resurrection 1:09:35

1M ago1:09:35

1:09:35

In this episode Alex gets on his soapbox about affordable transportation and why a cheap new car is better than a used car, and why it's important for our economy that they exist. Travis talks about Toyota's all-hybrid RAV4 and how the new 324 horsepower GR Sport model compares against the competition. Rounding things out, the guys discuss what exa…

1
The Blockchain Revolution - How Distributed Ledger Technology Is Transforming Auto Title and Loan Verification 20:20

2M ago20:20

20:20

California has put 42 million car titles on blockchain – and this is just the beginning. In this solo episode, host John Lewis explores how blockchain technology is transforming auto title and loan verification, transitioning from an experimental concept to a live implementation. Starting with California's groundbreaking blockchain title system, Jo…

1
Nissan’s New Leaf, NACS Isn’t Perfect, Toyota Corolla Cross, & The Electric TrailBoss 1:25:21

2M ago1:25:21

1:25:21

Travis and Alex wander across a bunch of topics today from the dual-charging port weirdness on the new Nissan Leaf, they question whether the Silverado EV TrailBoss might really be a trail intern, and why the Corolla Cross might or might not be the ultimate Corolla.By Auto Buyers Guide

1
Right to Repair Revolution - How Legislative Changes Are Reshaping Vehicle Values and Loan Risk 23:17

2M ago23:17

23:17

What if a simple legislative change could increase your vehicle portfolio's residual values by 10-15%? In this updated solo episode, host John Lewis delves into the rapidly evolving Right to Repair movement and its significant implications for the auto finance industry. Starting with a real-world story of a $12,000 Tesla repair (with some repairs n…

1
The Credit Union Advantage 23:23

2M ago23:23

23:23

By John Lewis

1
100 Billion Auto Dealership Buy-Sell Boom 17:18

2M ago17:18

17:18

In this episode of Drive to Success: Mastering Auto Finance, host John Lewis breaks down the record-breaking world of dealership mergers and acquisitions. With 510 completed transactions in 2024 and a 258% increase in dealers seeking to sell, we explore the critical concept of Blue-Sky valuation and why it's driving unprecedented dealership values.…

1
Lucid Air Review, "800V" Explained, Emissions Rollbacks, Lease End Options, 1:15:01

2M ago1:15:01

1:15:01

Welcome to another episode of the Auto Buyer's Guide podcast. This week we're driving the Lucid Air, the most efficient car in North America. Travis also got some time in the first ever electric Trail Boss from Chevrolet. We're going to discuss 400 volt, an 800 volt charging, what the new emissions rollbacks might mean for you and for vehicles in t…

1
Why Every Driver Should Know About NHTSA and Vehicle Recalls 21:34

3M ago21:34

21:34

In this comprehensive episode of Drive to Success: Mastering Auto Finance, host John Lewis provides an in-depth exploration of NHTSA's role in vehicle safety, detailed recall statistics, advanced recall management strategies, and the financial implications of vehicle recalls. Whether you're a consumer, a finance professional, or an automotive indus…

1
Over Mileage Leases, Durango's V8 Problem, & The Legacy Of Cash For Clunkers 46:44

3M ago46:44

46:44

In today's episode, Travis and Alex discuss lease-end issues when you've gone over your mileage limit, luxury car maintenance costs, the death of the Nissan Ariya and the base Cybertruck. Also, Dodge's Durango continues for another year, but it loses the V6 and picks back up the 6.4L and Hellcat engines... Except if you're in CARB states where the …

1
How Lemon Laws Are Reshaping Auto Lending 11:15

3M ago11:15

11:15

In this episode of Drive to Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we pull back the curtain on one of the most overlooked risks in the $1.4 trillion auto loan market: lemon laws. What happens when a brand-new car turns out to be a mechanical disaster—and the law forces a buyback? Spoiler alert: it’s not just the automaker who pays the price. Captive fina…

1
China is driving safety, tire sizes explained, and minivans aren't all that after all? 1:11:52

3M ago1:11:52

1:11:52

Once upon a time, China followed the world when it came to safety regulations and standards, but this is 2025, and China is forging its own path, especially when it comes to new tech like one-pedal driving and electronic door releases. Is this the right move or not? Travis and Alex also discuss minivans vs big SUVs and how tire sizes work. Travis d…

1
New Car Buying Guide - Tips, Tricks, Dos, Don'ts, and Horror Stories 1:06:49

3M ago1:06:49

1:06:49

Here's what to do (and not do) when buying a new car and what you can expect. -Discounts -Invoice isn't the real cost -Financing works in your favor -Extended warranties -Shop around -Going out of state can go wrongBy Auto Buyers Guide

1
Record-High Car Payments & 84-Month Loans 11:36

3M ago11:36

11:36

In this eye-opening episode of Drive to Success: Mastering Auto Finance, host John Lewis unpacks the alarming financial reality facing today’s car buyers. With 1 in 5 Americans now paying over $1,000 a month for a new car and record numbers of 84-month loans, the traditional model of auto ownership is being stretched to the breaking point. John exp…

1
Jeep's Cherokee was always a "Crossover", RAM's V8 is back, Kia's Sportage is less ugly than before 57:15

3M ago57:15

57:15

In today's rambling episode, we talk about the resurrected HEMI in Ram's 1500 truck, and why it is and isn't a big deal. Tesla has a new Model Y Performance, Jeep's new Compass is starting as a hybrid-only soft-roader... And that's ok. Why? Because news flash: it's never been a Wrangler. Also: since there's a 4-door Wrangler, and a 4-door Grand Che…

1
What is SAAR? and Why It Matters in Auto Finance. 10:48

3M ago10:48

10:48

In this episode of Drive to Success, host John Lewis breaks down a vital yet often misunderstood metric in the automotive and lending industries — SAAR, or the Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate. You'll learn: What SAAR is and how it’s calculated Why it plays a critical role in auto lending strategies How credit analysts, lenders, and dealers use SAAR…

1
The Power of Emotional Intelligence and Team Synergy in Auto Finance 13:30

4M ago13:30

13:30

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we dive into the transformational power of emotional intelligence (EI) and how it drives team synergy across departments like inside and outside sales, retail credit, funding, risk management, and leadership. Learn why EI is essential for building stronger communication, fostering collabo…

1
Legroom Cheating Explained, Durango Gets Another Year, Blazer EV SS Is 'Murican Muscle Reborn? 1:02:33

4M ago1:02:33

1:02:33

In this episode Alex and Travis take a deep dive into legroom. How it's measured, why you can't always trust the numbers, and why we always talk about legroom in a specific way. We also ask: is the Blazer EV SS the modern Grand National? -gasp- Oh, and Durango gets another year to live, standard V8s and a bonkers top-end price tag.…

1
The Interplay Between Credit Decisioning and Auto-Backed Securities 10:54

4M ago10:54

10:54

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we explore the critical connection between credit decisioning and auto-backed securities (ABS). Host [Your Name] dives deep into how credit analysts' decisions—such as rate shaves and rate exceptions—impact the cost of funds for auto loan portfolios and the performance of ABS. Learn how t…

1
Unlocking the Power of E-Contracting in Your Dealership 11:43

4M ago11:43

11:43

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we explore the transformative power of e-contracting and how it’s reshaping the future of auto dealerships. We dive deep into the benefits of digital finance processes, from faster funding and improved accuracy to enhanced customer experiences and operational efficiency. Learn about the k…

1
Prices Are Going Up, Again, Alex's Daughter Is In The Hot Seat, Car Categories Are Confusing. 41:52

4M ago41:52

41:52

Where is the safest place for your child's car seat? Well, that kind of "depends." In this solo episode Alex tackles viewer questions while Travis is out sick including why there's a baby behind Alex's seat instead of being on the other side. Also, why car prices are on sharp rise skyward, why we're always comparing strange things, and just why is …

1
Knowledge Management in Credit Analysis 9:59

4M ago9:59

9:59

In this inspiring episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we explore how Senior Credit Analysts can transform their performance and influence using the power of knowledge management. From navigating complex decisions in Defi-Solutions to turning instinct into documented insight, this episode introduces four essential tools—Decision Mem…

1
Want Your New Car To Last Longer? Don't Get These Features 1:01:36

4M ago1:01:36

1:01:36

What should you do, and not do, if you want your car to last longer? Well, it's the 21st century so don't be afraid of power windows or doors locks, but you might want to think twice about performance options, DCTs, CVTs, and yes... Even manual transmissions.By Auto Buyers Guide

1
How KPIs and Feedback Loops Empower Credit Analysts 11:24

4M ago11:24

11:24

In this transformative episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we dive deep into how Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) — when paired with powerful feedback loops — can unlock next-level performance for credit analysts. Learn how to go beyond data dashboards and use KPIs as strategic tools to improve underwriting accuracy, manage risk, …

1
Coaching to Close 13:13

5M ago13:13

13:13

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we dive deep into the transformative power of expert consulting and coaching in auto finance. From training inside sales teams and dealer relationship managers to educating F&I and sales managers, learn how a strategic approach can unlock new growth across franchise and independent dealer…

1
What Happens to New Vehicles That Don’t Sell? 9:38

5M ago9:38

9:38

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we pull back the curtain on a topic most car buyers and even some dealership pros rarely think about: what happens when brand-new vehicles sit unsold on the lot? From floor plan financing and grace periods to shrinking profit margins and auction losses, we break down the real financial im…

1
Speed Cameras Are Evil, There's A New Mazda CX-5, Alex & Travis Get Political 1:01:31

5M ago1:01:31

1:01:31

What would tax policy be like if Alex and Travis ruled the US? Scary though, no? Less scary: the new 2026 Mazda CX-5 is finally coming! Although... Not everyone will be a fan of the styling and design direction which has gone more minimal than ever before. Oh, and speed cameras should be burnt at the stake.…

1
We know less about reliability than ever, EV tax credits are toast (and Tesla with it?) 1:05:10

5M ago1:05:10

1:05:10

Sadly due to one of the smallest datasets since CR started reporting on new car reliability, we know less about reliability than at any point in decades. How does a Dodge or some Jeep models compare to a Toyota? Who really knows. Honda vs Toyota? We have those numbers down, but the rest? It's a crapshoot. Travis and Alex also talk about the EV tax …

1
Leveraging a Customer Data Platform for Dealership and Captive Lender Success 11:27

5M ago11:27

11:27

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we explore how a Customer Data Platform (CDP) can revolutionize auto dealerships and captive lenders by centralizing customer insights and improving decision-making. Learn how AI-driven analytics can enhance lead conversion, optimize inventory management, streamline loan approvals, and cr…

1
2025 Mercedes CLE And The Death Of The Convertible, Travis Almost Buys Something 1:00:51

5M ago1:00:51

1:00:51

Over the last 20 years convertible sales have plunged by more than 80%. Ouch. Once upon a time ragtops were over 5% of all new car sales and now they are down to a fraction. Why has this happened? What can we do about it? And why might it be time for a Sebring resurrection?By Auto Buyers Guide

1
AI in Credit Analysis – The Future of Smarter Lending 9:56

5M ago9:56

9:56

Artificial Intelligence (AI) transforms the way lenders assess creditworthiness, approve loans, and manage risk. In this episode of Drive to Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we explore how AI in credit analysis enhances efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making in auto finance. Learn how AI-driven underwriting, machine learning in lending, and auto…

1
The Power of Automotive Data: How Industry Giants Shape the Market 9:45

6M ago9:45

9:45

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we explore how Edmunds, J.D. Power, Experian Automotive, and Cox Automotive shape the car buying, auto financing, and dealership operations landscape. These industry giants provide critical automotive market data, impacting vehicle pricing, consumer trends, credit risk analysis, and deale…

1
Nissan Turns Over A New Leaf, Just As Hybrids Proliferate. 1:06:11

6M ago1:06:11

1:06:11

Alex and Travis talk about Nissan's new entry-level EV, which is, let's be honest, unlikely to be as inexpensive as Chevy's upcoming Bolt replacement. They also deep-dive into hybrids from the new performance hybrid Corvette (no, not the E-Ray) to the Maverick and beyond. They also dish about sport trucks...…

1
RAM Is Protesting... Themselves? 1:12:55

6M ago1:12:55

1:12:55

The HEMI IS BACK! With it comes a new logo, a symbol of protest! Yep! Protest the patriarchy! Um, wait, but they did this to themselves, so... RAM is protesting RAM?By Auto Buyers Guide

1
America's declining influence in the auto world might be a good thing? 1:02:20

6M ago1:02:20

1:02:20

Travis and Alex help a viewer decide which 3-row is right for them and then start theorizing about America's declining importance when it comes to automotive design. Now that the US is not the largest market in the world, and it's continuing to contract, will we see more interesting cars here? Also, why is it that "cars not designed for us" seem mo…

1
RAM's bringing back the TRX, EV maintenance schedules, how tariffs are impacting the car market 56:35

6M ago56:35

56:35

Travis and Alex are back after an extended break that's the result of too much travel, too much news, and Alex moving to Bogota for a spell. Yep, that Bogota. Anyway, in today's episode we talk about the impact of the US tariffs on imported cars and car parts, how it's changing not just the new car market but the used market as well. We'll dive int…

1
Mastering Auto Finance for Business Owners 12:29

7M ago12:29

12:29

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we break down the essential steps for self-employed sole proprietors, LLCs, and C-Corporations to qualify for auto financing. Learn how business credit scores like the Dun & Bradstreet Paydex Score and Experian Business Score impact approvals, what financial documents lenders require, and…

1
New Cars Are Made For The Wealthy, Because That's Who Buys Them... 59:31

7M ago59:31

59:31

In this episode, Travis and Alex tiptoe around politics, talk about tariffs, who's actually buying new cars, and try to find exactly how small something has to be in order to be "compact." They also tackle the trickiest question in the business: just how do you pronounce Jaguar?By Auto Buyers Guide

1
Auto Fleet Sales & Financing Strategies 10:48

7M ago10:48

10:48

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we take a deep dive into auto fleet sales—what they are, who benefits from them, and the best financing strategies available. Whether you’re a small business owner, a corporate fleet manager, or a dealership looking to expand, understanding fleet sales can help you make smarter financial …

1
Exploring Buy Here Pay Here Dealerships and Their Role in Auto Financing 12:55

7M ago12:55

12:55

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we take an in-depth look at Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) dealerships and how they shape the auto financing landscape. Discover how BHPH dealers serve high-risk customers with in-house financing, the impact of this model on credit-challenged buyers, and the financial risks and rewards for deal…

1
Here's What We Really Think Of Every Car Company In America, Part 2 1:29:36

8M ago1:29:36

1:29:36

In this video we talk Nissan, Tesla, Mazda and more. Here's where we think companies have gone wrong, and what they can do to fix it... As if we knew how to fix a car company that is....By Auto Buyers Guide

1
Here's What We Really Think Of Every Car Company In America 59:22

8M ago59:22

59:22

Watch out, this time we let you all have it! Yep, this is our unvarnished opinions of every car company that sells cars in America.By Auto Buyers Guide

1
What's New At The NY Auto Show! 41:48

8M ago41:48

41:48

Subaru dropped a refreshed Solterra, a new EV, and a next-generation Outback at the NY Auto Show. Kia also introduced a K4 hatch, the US market EV4, and Hyundai followed up with the new Palisade that we all knew was coming because we saw it in Korea already.By Auto Buyers Guide

1
The Importance of Auto Insurance Coverage When Buying a Vehicle 12:30

8M ago12:30

12:30

In this episode of Drive To Success: Mastering Auto Finance, we take a deep dive into the importance of auto insurance when purchasing a new or used vehicle. We discuss why insurance is essential, how insurers calculate rates, and the factors that influence your premium. Plus, we break down the average insurance costs for sedans, SUVs, trucks, vans…