giving 100% wherever I am — at work or at home. On Wednesdays, for example, I pick up my oldest son and bring him to the dealership; it’s the best of both worlds. Balance isn’t always achievable, so I just do my best to be present in what I’m doing. Is there anything else you’d like readers to know? With all the darkness in the world, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that most people are probably good people. Looking for the good in people and being kind can make a real impact. Tell us about your involvement with MADA — how long you’ve been a member, any roles you’ve held and events you participate in. We’ve been MADA members for more than 10 years. I haven’t held any roles yet, but I’d love to serve however I can. I’ve attended Dealer Day at the Capitol twice. One of my close friends is a state representative, so I enjoy seeing what his day looks like at the Capitol, and he always gives me a shout‑out on the floor, which is fun. Legislation significantly affects our business, and the MADA team does a great job of keeping dealers informed. Outside of work, what does life look like for you, and how do you approach balancing personal and professional responsibilities? I have two young sons — a 3‑year‑old and a 1‑year‑old — so most of my free time is spent with them. I also turkey hunt a little and try to exercise. As for balance, I’ve learned that true work‑life balance doesn’t really exist. What you do is part of who you are. I focus on instructors at NCM and our group moderator, Steve Velosi, who has had a major influence on my career. What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far? Seeing people come into this industry and, more specifically, our business, feeling lost or struggling and watching them transform their lives. Knowing I played even a small role in helping change a family’s trajectory is an incredible gift. What does the future look like for Kirk Auto Group? Are you pursuing further growth? Yes — we just acquired a new Ford store in Springfield, Tennessee, and we are still looking for opportunities. But we believe growth must be good growth. Expanding before your organization is ready only adds headaches. We focus on what Steve Velosi calls “minimal incrementalism” — growing consistently, even if it’s just by 1%. 11
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