This episode of WE ARE: Women Empowering Automotive Retail Excellence brought together a group of women leaders from across the industry—including Jessica Smith, Stephanie Wedgeworth, Melissa Marlatt, and Dave Foy—to explore authentic leadership, vulnerability, and growth in a male-dominated space.

Over the course of an hour, the group shared stories of professional setbacks, resilience, and the ongoing challenge of balancing performance with authenticity. From learning to speak up in rooms that once felt intimidating to supporting one another through burnout and self-doubt, the conversation captured what it means to lead with empathy and confidence. The theme that echoed throughout: women in automotive don’t need permission—they need each other.

Five Quotes from the Episode

1. “I’m in an organization, I’m performing, I’m building a brand, I’m doing all the things of every corporate America book that I’ve read and every mentor that I had. Surely this won’t happen to me again, and I was wrong. And it happened again.” – Jessica Smith
2. “You don’t have to worry about where yours is gonna come from. And that’s been a big thing, too—I’ve been working with a lot of people that are in the same situation I’m in, and I’m so busy trying to help them.” – Russell
3. “It doesn’t have to be negative. My question is, was there any feedback? Because feedback isn’t failure—it’s fuel.” – Jessica Smith
4. “Thank you. I receive that. I appreciate those words.” – Stephanie Wedgeworth
5. “Special guest Jessica Smith—she’s gonna kick us off, and she’s the perfect person to start this conversation.” – Dave Foy

Five Key Takeaways

1. Authenticity beats perfection. The most powerful leaders are those who are honest about what they’ve learned the hard way.
2. Feedback is a gift, not an attack. Growth happens when we stay curious instead of defensive.
3. Mentorship is everywhere. Real guidance doesn’t require a title—it comes from genuine connection.
4. Women need visibility and voice. Advocacy matters most when it happens in rooms we’re not in.
5. Resilience grows through repetition. Confidence is built by continually stepping into discomfort.

Five Actionable Steps for Tomorrow

1. Reach out to another woman in your network and share genuine encouragement or recognition.
2. Post or share one failure and what it taught you—to model vulnerability and leadership.
3. Ask for feedback from a peer or leader this week, then thank them—don’t defend.
4. Mentor in micro-moments. Offer five minutes of advice, connection, or encouragement to someone starting out.
5. Track your wins. End each week by writing down three things you accomplished, no matter how small.