FWRD: An EasyCare Podcast

Author: EasyCare

Welcome to FWRD: An EasyCare Podcast, your go-to resource for mastering dealership operations, hosted by Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui. With extensive backgrounds as a training professionals, each episode delves deep into the automotive, powersports, RV, and marine industries. FWRD brings expert guests to the table, sharing invaluable insights and strategies for success. From optimizing sales techniques to navigating industry trends, FWRD equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive. Tune in to FWRD and stay ahead of the curve.
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Language: en

Genres: Business, Careers, Management

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116. FWRD - The ART of Ai: How Dealers can learn, adapt, and prepare for the future with Sean Hartman from TOMA Ai
Episode 116
Wednesday, 4 February, 2026

AI is everywhere in automotive right now, but not all “AI” is the same.On this episode of FWRD, Corey Smith and Erick Jauregui sit down with Sean Hartman, VP of Sales at Toma, to talk about the practical side of AI for dealerships, especially in service and customer communications. Sean shares how dealers can avoid the hype, start with clear goals, and choose solutions that actually move the needle.You’ll learn: The simplest way to think about AI in a dealership: start with the use caseTwo common dealer scenarios where AI delivers fast wins (overwhelming call volume vs. repetitive BDC calls)How to spot real AI vs. advanced IVRThe “Art of AI” framework: Adoption, Resolution, TailoringWhat to ask vendors (learning over time, benchmarks, call-tree placement, integrations)Where the human touch still matters most (status calls, tough conversations, upset customers)What the next 3–5 years may bring: smarter, more dynamic workflows and communicationsIf you are exploring AI, this is a strong starting point to evaluate tools with clarity and confidence.