In this episode of “TimTalks: Automotive Leadership and Beyond,” Tim Cox sits down with Laurie Halter, founder and CEO of Charisma! Communications. Laurie shares her journey through the industry—from her early days at Chrome Data to running her own successful agency—and opens up about leadership, culture, and the powerful rise of women in automotive.

From the importance of sitting “in every chair,” to practical ways we can recruit and support more women in the industry, Laurie’s insights are both inspiring and actionable.

Their conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities of AI in automotive, and why listening to dealers is the key to creating real solutions.

Connect with Laurie on LinkedIn and learn more about Charisma! Communications.

[00:00 – 01:30] Introductions
Tim opens the episode and welcomes guest Laurie Halter.

[01:30 – 03:35] Laurie’s Story
Laurie recounts how she entered automotive by chance, her early days at Chrome Data, and launching her own agency in 2003.

[03:35 – 05:45] The Value of Experience
Laurie and Tim discuss why the best dealership leaders have “sat in every chair” and how that empathy shapes their approach.

[05:45 – 09:47] Building a Sorority of Support
Laurie shares how top women leaders are mentoring and empowering the next generation, creating momentum for lasting change.

[09:47 – 13:29] Recruiting Women into Automotive
Exploring barriers like rigid schedules, family balance, and the need for better recruitment strategies, Laurie emphasizes flexibility and recognizing leadership potential everywhere.

[13:29 – 20:55] Culture, Mentorship & Leadership Lessons
Tim shares a personal mentorship story from his early days, and they both reflect on the importance of leaders creating one-on-one support.

[20:55 – 24:56] Advice for Women Entering Automotive
Laurie encourages women to be bold, assertive, confident in their ideas, and to reject labels that diminish their role as leaders.

[24:56 – 29:47] Trends & Opportunities
Laurie discusses her recent AI research, the challenges with solutions being built without dealer input, and the opportunity for tools that truly solve dealership needs.

[29:47 – 31:26] Closing Thoughts
Laurie shares how to connect with her on LinkedIn and through Charisma! Communications, and Tim wraps the episode.