Can we pay attention for a second?
I’ve spent more than 30 years in this industry. I’ve worked on the dealership floor, navigated corporate OEM and trained hundreds of leaders. I’ve watched trends come and go and seen plenty of the “next big thing” fizzle out faster than we see taillights over the curb.
But there is one shift in the industry that isn’t a trend. It’s a revolution. And it’s the women who are redefining how this business operates.
That’s exactly why I’m not just “attending” the Women Driving Vehicle Retail event at NADA Show 2026. I am emceeing it. And I’m telling you, with all the experience I have: You need to be in this room.
It’s not just breakfast. It’s a strategy.
We’ve all been to those networking events that feel a little… cliche. You exchange contact info. You eat a bagel. You leave.
This is not that.
On Tuesday, Feb. 3, we’re creating a space for real conversations — the ones about how you handle pressure when the numbers are down, how you move forward on a career path that doesn’t come with a map, and how you lead with authority in a room where you might be the only woman.
We’re diving straight into it with our panel, “Impact and Influence.” This session is designed to get to the core of building authority to drive change, whether you’re running the dealership or just starting your climb. We’re bringing together women who are doing the work to share exactly how they’re shaping the future of retail.
And we’re not just sitting in rows listening either. We are getting active. We have a dedicated networking activity built into our morning, designed to help you find other like-minded people. This is structured, high energy connection — exactly what you need to find the allies who will help you crush 2026.
Live From Las Vegas: Chaos, Leadership and SNL
If there’s one thing I know about retail, it’s that “controlled chaos” is practically part of the job description.
That’s why I’m obsessed with our keynote speaker this year: Lindsay Shookus, the seven-time Emmy Award winning producer of Saturday Night Live and co-founder of… wait for it… Women Work F#%k*ng Hard. Because they do.
Yeah, yeah. I know what you’re thinking: What does SNL have to do with selling vehicles?
Everything.
Lindsay spent two decades herding cats, managing massive egos, and making split-second decisions on live television with millions of people watching. If things go wrong, there are no retakes. If that adrenaline rush sounds familiar, it should — it’s exactly like a busy Saturday on the sales floor.
Her talk, “Late Night Lessons in Leadership,” is going to be a masterclass in staying cool when the heat is turned all the way up. It’s the kind of leadership training you can’t get anywhere else.
The “Insider” Truth (Don’t Say I Didn’t Warn You)
This event is going to sell out. Each year, people text, email or flag down one of the moderators, asking if they can be “squeezed in” because they forgot to register. And every year, they’re told the room is at capacity.
I don’t want you standing in the hallway. I want you in the room.
This is a ticketed event. It isn’t included in your Show registration. You have to choose to be there. So, do yourself a favor: register for NADA Show or ATD Show, and be sure to add the Women Driving Vehicle Retail event to your cart before you check out! Already registered for Show? Log in to your registration and add this exclusive ticket.
Let’s start the Show with energy. Let’s start the Show with connection. And let’s show this industry exactly what we’re made of.
I’ll see you in Vegas.
