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July 16, 2024
Live From Women In Automotive With Bobbie Herron
Join the Chicks in Charge team on location at the 10-year anniversary of Women in Automotive in Colorado Springs. In this lively, impromptu recording, host Jess is joined by longtime board member Bobbie Herron, along with a spontaneous gathering of powerhouse women, to celebrate big milestones and discuss how this unique conference creates genuine friendships, professional growth, and an empowering environment for women and men alike. You’ll hear candid conversations about how Women in Automotive has evolved since its early days, why authenticity matters in networking, and how a single event can spark lasting industry connections.
Featured Guest: Bobbie Herron
- Founder & CEO: The Bees Knees Agency
- Background: Over 20 years in automotive retail leadership, including roles with Garber Automotive Group and the Cardinale Group of Companies.
- Expertise: CRM optimization, leadership development, high-performance culture, digital marketing, and process improvement.
- Speaking Highlights: Digital Dealer, World Shopper Conference, Women in Automotive, DrivingSales, plus guest lecturer at Northwood University.
- Awards & Recognition: Named to Automotive News “40 Under 40.”
- Contact: PartnerWithBobbie@gmail.com | Text: 989.672.9945 | LinkedIn
Episode Highlights:
- Celebrating 10 Years of Women in Automotive
- Why this conference stands out from traditional industry events.
- Growth from a small gathering to hundreds of diverse attendees.
- Building Authentic Relationships
- How vulnerability, support, and genuine conversations lead to deeper industry connections.
- The importance of “no mean girls here” in fostering a safe space to learn and grow.
- Pro Tips for Conference Success
- Vitamin B, IV therapy, and small hacks to stay energized at high-altitude events!
- Making the most of group activities, sponsor opportunities, and networking dinners.
- Why Men Are Welcome
- Insights on how inclusive conversations drive meaningful change in automotive.
- Encouraging first-time attendees, both men and women, to step out of their comfort zone.
About The Bees Knees Agency
Bobbie’s agency delivers personalized strategies for dealerships and vendors—improving operations, nurturing leaders, and revolutionizing CRM usage. Her leadership background includes time with top-performing dealer groups, emphasizing results-driven training and consulting.
Transcript
0:00 – 0:40 | Spontaneous Kickoff
- Jess turns on the recording mid-lively conversation in Colorado Springs.
- The group jokes about the scenic location and ongoing “live action.”
0:40 – 2:00 | Welcoming Bobbie Herron
- Bobbie joins in to discuss the energy and vibe at Women in Automotive’s 10-year event.
- They reflect on the “elevation” both literal and metaphorical.
2:00 – 5:00 | Growth of Women in Automotive
- Bobbie recalls how the conference started with about 30 people in a small room.
- Shasta points out the massive attendance this year, with 70% first-time attendees.
5:00 – 7:00 | Standing Ovations & Keynote Moments
- They mention highlight sessions, including emotional speakers and teenage keynoters like Kaylee “Kay” who received a huge ovation.
- Bobby emphasizes the power of vulnerability and authenticity.
7:00 – 9:00 | Conferences vs. Community
- Jess notes the contrast between typical shows like Digital Dealer and the more personal environment of Women in Automotive.
- Bobbie credits strong relationship-building for real change in the industry.
9:00 – 10:30 | Staying Energized
- Tips for vitamin B12, hydration, and “IV therapy” for high-altitude events.
- Hilarious side stories about the tradeshow lifestyle.
10:30 – 12:00 | Surprise Drop-Ins
- Other conference attendees pop by the podcast area, sharing quick pro tips.
- Live demonstration of the supportive environment in real time.
12:00 – End | Final Takeaways
- Everyone cheers for Women in Automotive, encouraging involvement and celebrating how far the conference has come.
- Jess closes with the “In a world where you can be anything, be kind” motto.
Bobbie Herron
President of Work Domination
Bobbie Herron AKA "B" - Bold ideas and bigger results, that’s Bobbie Herron in a nutshell. With more than 20 years of knocking down barriers in automotive retail, she’s the brains behind The Bees Knees Agency, where forward-thinking digital marketing meets next-level dealership operations. An original founding board member of Women in Automotive, Bobbie is all about empowering and mentoring women to lead, innovate, and make waves in a historically male-dominated field. Awarded Automotive News’ “40 Under 40,” she isn’t just another talking head, she’s a hands-on leader unafraid to roll up her sleeves, test fresh ideas, and help teams shatter their goals in real time.
When she’s not taking the stage at major industry events or teaching at Northwood University, you’ll find Bobbie championing “car chicks” everywhere, investing in mentorship programs, and sharing straight-talk insights on Chicks in Charge: Automotive Edition. Her fearless approach to CRM innovation, leadership culture, and bottom-line results makes every appearance an energetic, can’t-miss conversation. Check out our conversations with her for a taste of her relentless drive, and stay tuned for more as she fuels a new era of success in the automotive world.
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