The Automotive Leaders Podcast

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more

In this episode, Jan Griffiths announces she is taking a well-deserved break to head back to her homeland, Wales. She reflects on this year, filled with unexpected achievements like becoming an author and launching AutoCulture 2.0. Amidst the highs of success, Jan opens up about the inevitable crash that followed, shedding light on the less glamorous side of achievement.

Despite the challenges, the overwhelming support for her book on social media and its rapid rise to the top of Amazon's charts in the leadership category left Jan grateful for the dialogue it sparked on culture change in the automotive industry.

With the audiobook and Kindle versions released and the paperback version still available, Jan eagerly invites feedback from listeners, encouraging them to engage in conversations with their teams about the book's insights. She shares her email, [email protected], welcoming thoughts and questions.

For now, Jan invites listeners to tune in to another podcast she co-hosts and produces, Auto Supply Chain Prophets, where recent guest Shiv Taylor, VP of Enterprise Technology at Volta Trucks, shares valuable insights on the company's revival after facing bankruptcy.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• The importance of taking breaks to recharge and reflect on both personal and professional aspects of life
• Embracing both the highs and lows of achievement
• Fostering dialogue and community engagement around topics like culture and leadership
• The value of learning from experiences, both positive and challenging, for personal and professional growth

Your Host

Jan Griffiths is the architect of cultural change in the automotive industry. As the President & Founder of Gravitas Detroit, Jan brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for transforming company cultures. Additionally, she is the host of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, where she shares insightful conversations with industry visionaries. Jan is also the author of AutoCulture 2.0, a groundbreaking book that challenges the traditional leadership model prevalent in the automotive world. With her extensive experience and commitment to fostering positive change, Jan is at the forefront of revolutionizing the automotive landscape. Reach out to her at [email protected]

Mentioned in this episode:

• Listen to the AutoCulture 2.0 Book Launch speech.
• Grab a copy of AutoCulture 2.0: Leading with Gravitas
• Volta Truck's Electrifying Comeback to EV Business

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more

Watch the full book launch speech on YouTube - click here

In this special episode, we'll take you through the electrifying launch event of the book AutoCulture 2.0: Leading with Gravitas, where Jan Griffiths, the visionary force behind Gravitas Detroit, takes center stage.

Jan shares a heartfelt reflection on the significance of the book launch. Surrounded by industry veterans, friends, and supporters, she describes it as the best night of her life, where everything in her career and life converged. 

Jan starts her speech by diving straight into the core issue: the automotive industry's transformation. She highlights the flurry of discussions around technological advancements but questions the neglect of culture in these conversations. Jan challenges the traditional leadership model and advocates for authentic leadership rooted in trust and inspiration, drawing from Stephen M. R. Covey's wisdom.

Jan weaves in stories from influential figures like Sandy Stojkovski, Dr. Andy Palmer, Stefan Krause, and Jessica Robinson, illustrating the essence of authentic leadership. Through their experiences, Jan underscores the urgent need for a cultural revolution in the automotive industry.

Jan reflects on Tesla and BYD's remarkable journeys from skepticism to success. She warns against the Blockbuster fate, urging a culture that nurtures innovation instead of stifling it with outdated practices.

With unwavering determination, she calls on the audience to take action and become agents of change in an industry on the verge of a revolution.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• Revolutionizing leadership and workplace culture in the automotive industry
• The essence of authentic leadership and its significance in driving positive change 
• Learning from visionary leaders in the automotive sector
• The importance of creating safe spaces where employees can freely express their ideas without fear of judgment or backlash
• Confronting the common challenges entrenched in traditional corporate cultures
• Transitioning from top-down management to a more people-centered approach
• Cultivating an environment that nurtures innovation
• Elevating the voices and contributions of every employee through inclusive communication and community-building efforts

Your Host

Jan Griffiths is the architect of cultural change in the automotive industry. As the President & Founder of Gravitas Detroit, Jan brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for transforming company cultures. Additionally, she is the host of Automotive Leaders Podcast, where she shares insightful conversations with industry visionaries. Jan is also the author of AutoCulture 2.0, a groundbreaking book that challenges the traditional leadership model prevalent in the automotive world. With her extensive experience and commitment to fostering positive change, Jan is at the forefront of revolutionizing the automotive landscape. Reach out to her at [email protected]

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more

Watch the full video on YouTube - click here

Meet Martin Fischer, a member of the ZF Group Board of Management and the President of ZF Group Americas. In this episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, we'll discuss his views on automotive leadership and culture and how they play a vital role in his position at ZF Group. 

Martin talks about his leadership style and explains why aligning personal and professional values is essential to creating a consistent leadership identity. Reflecting on his intercultural experiences, Martin advises integrating the strengths of traditional German-style leadership and people-focused leadership styles for organizational success.

Martin gives a glimpse into ZF's culture transformation journey, including their "culture pioneers" program, which empowers employees to drive cultural improvements from the ground up. Martin describes "The ZF Way" as ZF's framework for running the company and identifies its core principles as part of its roadmap for success.

Discussing the emergence of EV startups in the automotive industry, Martin says ZF sees this change as an opportunity for learning and collaboration, sharing the approach they took with these startups and its positive impact on innovation.

Martin's role as chairman of MEMA OES Group takes center stage. His explanation of his motivation to give back to the industry speaks volumes about his commitment to collective progress beyond the confines of ZF.

Jan asks Martin, "What is the biggest challenge you see in this transformation?" Martin points out that uncertainty is affecting the entire industry. Martin said investing in new tech like EVs comes with risks, and solutions are needed to avoid supply chain collapse during the transition period.

Going personal, Jan wants to know what gets Martin out of bed in the morning. It turns out he's all about office life—meeting people, fixing problems, and getting that adrenaline rush from solving crises.

Stay until the end of the episode to hear Martin's advice for automotive businesses dealing with the industry's changes.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• Exploring a leadership style that is deeply rooted in values instilled by upbringing
• Why we should create a safe space for innovation and growth within teams
• Importance of collaboration in driving progress, both within ZF and across the automotive sector
• Having initiatives that empower employees to contribute to cultural improvement.
• Discussing the necessity of authenticity and the ability to connect with employees regardless of hierarchy
• Understanding ZF's methodologies and strategies for realizing its corporate vision
• Exploring collaborative opportunities presented by emerging EV startups in the automotive industry
• Highlighting the importance of investing in education and innovation to drive industry electrification
• The importance of comprehending industry transformation and setting a clear vision for organizational direction

Featured: Martin Fischer 

What he does: With extensive management experience at Siemens VDO Automotive, Hella, and Borg Warner, Martin Fischer provides valuable expertise in his role as the President of ZF Group Americas and a member of ZF Group Board of...

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more

Watch the full video on YouTube - click here

In this episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, Jan Griffiths interviews Collin Shaw, the incoming President of MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers Group. They talk about leadership, transformation, and culture in the automotive industry.

Collin shares his leadership philosophy: enjoying work, showing empathy, and building a solid team. He tells us how his early leadership role taught him the importance of guiding others toward success and how leadership isn't just about the leader but about empowering others to thrive.

Collin identifies focus as the biggest challenge in the auto industry as we wrestle with electrification, software-defined vehicles, and supply chain disruptions. He stresses the need for leaders to provide a clear vision for the future and rally their teams around it to foster unity and direction.

Discussing his new role in MEMA, Collin highlights the stability and strong leadership already in place. He emphasizes the need to understand current trends and member needs without " blowing things up." He aims to adapt and enhance existing foundations to serve members better and foster community engagement.

Collin identifies vulnerability and empathy as crucial authentic leadership traits, especially in a multi-generational workforce. He underscores the importance of leaders admitting their limitations and fostering connections across diverse teams.

On a personal note, Collin shares his passion for music and how it takes him off the stress of business life. Discussing the importance of mindset in setting the tone for the day, he stresses the importance of starting the day with meaningful connections and a sense of purpose, setting the stage for productivity and fulfillment in both personal and professional endeavors.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• The ongoing transformation in the automotive industry
• Leadership philosophy that focuses on enjoying work, empathy towards employees, and team-building
• Personal stories and experiences that shaped ideas of leadership
• Identifying focus as the primary challenge facing the automotive industry amidst various disruptions 
• Building a community within organizations and associations like MEMA 
• How Vulnerability and Accountability contribute to effective leadership 
• The importance of starting the day with a positive mindset, fueled by meaningful interactions with family and a sense of purpose in work

Featured: Collin Shaw 

What he does: Incoming President of the MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers group. He initially joined MEMA as president of the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association (HDMA) in early 2022. 

On leadership: “The very first thing that I find to be important as a leader is: let's have fun, let's laugh. Now, second to that, I think it's important that you have empathy for those around you; you know, we all bring things to the table when it comes to leadership. We all have baggage, good or bad, and making sure that you're empathetic as a leader is vitally important to the success of your team.”

Mentioned in this episode:

• Julie Fream to Depart MEMA, Collin Shaw Named as Her Successor, Effective April 1, 2024

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more

Watch the full video on YouTube - click here

In this episode, Jan Griffiths is joined by Cheryl Thompson, the CEO of CADIA (Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion & Advancement), to discuss "Driving Diversity: Unlocking the Power of Diverse Workforces for the Future of the Transportation Industry," a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) industry study that CADIA conducted in 2023.

Cheryl highlights progress and areas that need improvement, citing statistics on women's representation in the transportation industry and the disparities in racial and ethnic representation, especially at senior executive levels.

They explore the misconception of hiring "the best person for the job" as an excuse for the lack of diversity and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all candidates. Cheryl highlights the need for transparency in promoting diversity while discussing the challenges of collecting demographic data. Additionally, she underscores the importance of attracting early talent by dispelling outdated industry perceptions.

Jan and Cheryl also discuss the importance of connecting with the workforce to create a sense of belonging and inclusivity. They highlight the importance of retention strategies, including stay interviews, especially in a multi-generational workforce. They discuss innovative approaches like reverse mentorship and shadow boards to bridge the generational gap and leverage diverse perspectives for organizational growth and success.

Lastly, they talk about the key findings and best practices of CADIA’s 2023 Industry Study. Cheryl emphasizes the significance of collecting data, incorporating DEI into core business goals, and mentoring and sponsorship initiatives for career advancement.

Jan stresses the significance of investing time and effort in promoting diversity and inclusion, as emphasized in the study. She encourages listeners to explore the study for the lessons leaders can learn.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• The significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the automotive industry 
• The need for cultural transformation in the auto industry
• The importance of cultural, racial, and generational diversity
• Challenges in achieving representation for women and minorities, particularly in leadership roles
• Importance of providing equal opportunities for all candidates
• The urgency of dispelling industry stereotypes to attract diverse talent
• Challenges in collecting accurate demographic data
• Debunking the notion of hiring based solely on merit
• Integrating DEI into core business goals and practices

Featured: Cheryl Thompson 

What she does: In her role as the founder and CEO of the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion & Advancement (CADIA), Cheryl Thompson champions diversity, equity, and inclusion within the automotive industry. With over 30 years of experience in various leadership roles at Ford Motor Company and American Axle, Cheryl brings expertise in manufacturing, operations, and global leadership to her work. 

On leadership: “DE&I is all about good leadership, taking care of our people, making sure they have what they need to contribute to their highest potential and to really thrive at work.”

Mentioned in this episode:

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more

Watch the full video on Youtube - click here

Jan Griffiths is thrilled to share the news about her upcoming book, "AutoCulture 2.0," which is set to be published on March 7th, 2024. 

In this episode, Jan talks about the book's inspiration and commitment to transforming the leadership model and culture in the auto industry.

Jan dives into the book's contents, which include her personal story, industry experiences, and vision for authentic leadership. The book also features podcast interviews with visionary leaders in the auto industry, each providing a unique perspective on leadership and drawing from diverse backgrounds and experiences within the automotive sector.

Jan reveals three crucial leadership lessons she learned during the book's writing process. These include playing to one's strengths, prioritizing brevity and clarity, and embracing progress over perfection. 

With the release of "AutoCulture 2.0" just around the corner, Jan encourages listeners to get the book and embrace authentic leadership.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• Transforming leadership and culture in the auto industry
• The essence of authentic leadership and its significance in driving positive change 
• Learning from visionary leaders in the automotive sector
• Getting vital leadership lessons from a personal journey
• Recognizing and embracing your strengths
• Brevity and clarity
• Embracing progress over perfection

Your Host

Jan Griffiths is the architect of cultural change in the automotive industry. As the President & Founder of Gravitas Detroit, Jan brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for transforming company cultures. Additionally, she is the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast, where she shares insightful conversations with industry visionaries, and is the author of AutoCulture 2.0. With her extensive experience and commitment to fostering positive change, Jan Griffiths is at the forefront of revolutionizing the automotive landscape.

Email: [email protected]

Mentioned in this episode:

• Meet Stephen M. R. Covey, The New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Speed of Trust and Trust & Inspire 
• Meet Dr. Andy Palmer, former COO of Nissan and CEO of Aston Martin
• Meet Stefan Krause, A driving force in the world of EVs

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more

Watch the full video on YouTube - click here

Meet Larry Burns, a leading voice in the world of mobility. From serving as Corporate VP of R&D for General Motors to consulting for tech companies like Waymo, Larry bridges the gap between legacy OEM and tech-startup worlds. 

During this episode of the Automotive Leaders podcast, Larry addresses critical questions about the EV startup DNA, what enables its success, and the challenges traditional automotive culture poses. He revealed why traditional OEMs struggled with EV innovation and discussed how leadership played into the success of tech companies like BYD and Tesla in the EV market. He highlights the need for empowerment and a culture that embraces failure as a learning opportunity.

Discussing the kind of leadership the auto industry needs, Larry advocates for the "power of and," suggesting that effective leadership encompasses multiple traits rather than a single characteristic, emphasizing empathy, teamwork, and setting the proper examples in leadership behavior.

Furthermore, Larry highlights the evolving nature of leadership in today's world, where personal and professional lives are intertwined. He stresses maintaining personal values while balancing work and family life.

As the podcast wrapped up, Larry said that moving from ICE to BEV marks only the beginning. He stressed how technology is reshaping travel habits and urged leaders to adapt. Larry emphasized how crucial it is for companies to grasp these changes in mobility and encouraged them to grab onto the new tech opportunities coming their way.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• The importance of authentic leadership traits in fostering innovative learning environments.
• Challenges in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially in demanding industries.
• The transition from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
• The success of EV startups and their unique approach to technology.
• The impact of traditional automotive culture on hindering innovation.
• The transformative potential of communication and information technology in shaping the future of mobility.
• Difference between traditional OEM and EV startups

Featured: Larry Burns 

What he does: Larry is a prominent advisor in mobility, logistics, manufacturing, energy, and innovation. With a distinguished background as General Motors’ Corporate Vice President of Research & Development and Planning, Larry now consults for various organizations, including Kitson & Partners, Niron Magnetics, and Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE). His expertise lies in autonomous electric vehicles and their transformative impact on transportation services, a topic he explores in his book “Autonomy: The Quest to Build the Driverless Car―And How It Will Reshape Our World.”

On leadership: “There’s not one magic pill a person can take to be a great leader. You must be very sensitive to the people you’re leading. If you don’t set the right examples in your behavior, whether it’s integrity or treating people with dignity and respect, if you overreact to someone who had a...

Watch the full video on YouTube - click here

In this podcast episode, Jan Griffiths tackles a crucial question: Are Chinese OEMs ready to take over the global automotive stage, possibly replacing legacy automakers? 

In the quest for answers, Jan sits down with Tu Le, Founder of Sino Auto Insights. He brings his experience as a seasoned tech and auto professional with a rich background spanning Ford, General Motors, and Apple.

The conversation started with the current state of the automotive market in China — China's electric vehicle boom and the rise of Chinese automakers globally, with BYD surpassing a legacy OEM in sales. The talk then extends to the worldwide impact of China's EV exports and BYD's strategies for the US and Europe, with Tu identifying key factors contributing to the success of Chinese OEMs— visionary leadership, vertical integration, and a focus on innovation and scale. He also revealed the challenges for legacy automakers facing the evolving auto scene, emphasizing the necessity of cultural change for digital transformation.

Talking about traits leaders need in major OEMs, Tu advocates for decisiveness, a willingness to hire more competent individuals, and having a global perspective. He urges leaders to be visionaries who consider the evolving needs of consumers worldwide. The conversation concludes with Tu advising leaders to right-size their businesses, reduce dependency on legacy OEMs, and invest heavily in talent and future opportunities, especially in software-driven aspects. The advice also extends to exploring global markets, understanding regional driving trends, and considering the growing EV revolution.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• Auto industry dynamics and global market perspectives
• Chinese dominance in the worldwide market
• Cultural transformation in the auto industry
• Automotive transformation, OEM challenges, and disruptions
• ICE (Internal combustion engine) to BEV (Battery electric vehicle) 
• The role of software in the automotive future
• Diversification for Tier One Suppliers
• The importance of customer experience and being customer-focused

Featured: Tu Le 

What he does: Tu Le, Founder and Managing Director of Sino Auto Insights, is a driven entrepreneur dedicated to transforming transportation. He's led the firm to impressive growth, specializing in mobility and transportation consultancy. Tu is a recognized expert, often featured in major media, and co-organizer of the MOBILIT/E Conference, a key event in the global mobility space. His goal is to simplify and enhance how people and goods move, emphasizing innovation and accessibility. 

On leadership: “Leadership traits [OEMs for the future] I think that they are decisive. They also hire people on their teams that are smarter than they are. So, they don't have that typical ego of a CEO. I think it's important to be very confident and decisive because the automotive sector is not going to be a high-tech space.  It'll become this individually distinct new sector that has elements of manufacturing and elements of customer engagement service. You have to have a really diverse understanding of how the world works.”

Mentioned in this episode:

• NEV (New Energy Vehicle)

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Watch the full video on YouTube - click here

Embark on an automotive innovation journey with Ashok Sivanand, Founder and CEO of Integral, as we explore how he actively shapes the future of product design, technology, and leadership in the automotive industry.

In this episode, Ashok shares his insights on:

👉What's happening in the world of automotive technology and product design

👉Bridging the gap between Lean manufacturing principles and the field of software and technology

👉The challenges faced by OEMs in adopting cross-functional design processes and understanding how silos impact innovation

👉The shortcomings of traditional customer surveys

👉Power of in-depth interviews and qualitative data for effective problem-solving

👉Essential leadership qualities for fostering innovation in automotive companies

👉Why leaders should foster an environment that encourages experimentation and learning

👉The transition to a more innovative mindset within traditional organizations

Join us to explore the challenges, rewards, and transformative approaches shaping the future of the automotive industry. Whether you’re an industry professional or simply love innovation, this episode is a must-listen. 

Themes discussed in this episode:

• Understanding Customer Pain Points
• Challenges in Traditional Approaches
• Innovating Automotive Culture
• Designing Products in the Industry
• Making Bets for Innovation
• Transitioning to an Innovative Mindset
• Integral Way of Problem-Solving
• Essential qualities for fostering innovation in companies
• Managing Transitions in Companies

Featured: Ashok Sivanand

What he does: Ashok is the driving force behind Integral, a digital transformation firm. As the CEO, Ashok is on a mission to make mobility a universal right. His passion lies in collaborating to build delightful products and high-performing teams, fostering a tech community that's not just inclusive but diverse. With leadership roles at Pivotal Labs and a track record in product development, he's now leading Integral to reshape how businesses integrate technology into their core.

On leadership: “I think that a combination of vulnerability and resilience is something that is hard to find. It's hard to find within oneself, let alone within an organization”

Mentioned in this episode:

• IoT Company, Shoplogix
• Toyota Production System & The Theory of Constraints
• Ford Labs
• Steve Blank’s Investment Readiness Checklist
• The Four...

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As we step into 2024 with a fresh episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, Jan Griffiths sets the tone by highlighting the power of a restart. Drawing on the significance of the new year, Jan emphasizes the opportunity for a clean slate and renewed energy. Building on this, Jan delves into the philosophy of "The Gap and the Gain," urging listeners to shift their focus from unmet goals to acknowledging achievements and progress. This mindset, she emphasizes, is the key to success as we embark on a new year.

The episode unfolds with a broad overview of Jan's experiences in 2023, featuring milestones like her five-year journey at Gravitas Detroit, hitting the 100th episode milestone for the podcast, and engaging in thought-provoking discussions with automotive industry leaders. Throughout the recap, the episode subtly includes the ups and downs, highlighting Jan's role in dealing with challenges like the UAW strike and emphasizing her dedication to tackling crucial industry issues.

Looking ahead to 2024, Jan shares exciting plans, the upcoming release of her book, 'Roadmap to rEVolution,' and a commitment to 'swift execution,' where getting things done is the focus, but not at the expense of quality. The episode concludes with Jan expressing gratitude to loyal supporters, urging them to spread the word and invite others to join the movement towards authentic leadership and cultural transformation in the auto industry.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• The transformative potential of a fresh start
• Measuring success through progress
• 2023 Recap - milestones and highlights
• Prospects for the year 2024
• Automotive transformation, OEM challenges, and disruptions
• The importance of quality and ease in driving successful outcomes
• Cultural transformation in the auto industry
• Fostering a new mindset for success in 2024

Featured: Jan Griffiths 

What she does: Jan is the founder and CEO of Gravitas Detroit, an organization dedicated to cultivating authentic leadership in the automotive industry by providing courses, workshops, speaking events, and more. She is also the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:

• The Fresh Start Effect: Temporal Landmarks Motivate Aspirational Behavior
• The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy
• Wayne State University’s Global Supply Chain Management Advisory Board
• Tor Hough, CEO  of ELM Analytics
• GlobalWelsh USA Hub
• The Automotive Leaders Podcast’s