The Most Recognizable Face in Auto: Michael Cirillo on Alignment, Vendor Stigma, and NADA 2026

Host Shasta Haddock is joined by the one and only Michael Cirillo, host of The Dealer Playbook and a leading voice at ASOTU, live from the Authenticom booth at NADA 2026. Despite years of collaboration, this marks Michael’s first official appearance on the I’m a Car Chick podcast. In this candid conversation, Michael challenges the industry to drop the "negative vendor stigma," reminding everyone—from dealership staff to software providers—that "we are all vendors" working toward the same goal. They explore the power of intentionality in branding, the physical toll of a high-energy NADA week, and why the industry moves forward faster when everyone finds a common point of alignment.

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