Transforming a business requires clarity, trust, and a focus on people.

In this episode, Kyler and John speak with Garrett Johnson, VP of Sales and CX at Zero Motorcycles, about the leadership principles that have shaped his approach to success. Garrett explains how prioritizing human connection, both internally and with dealers, is key to scaling the business. 

He shares his journey from dealer to OEM and how aligning diverse teams around clear objectives has driven growth. Garrett also discusses the challenges of navigating the EV motorcycle space, staying adaptable in uncertain times, and why customer experience is at the heart of every decision.

Key Takeaways:

1. Put People First: Garrett explains why trust and prioritizing relationships are at the core of leadership success, both within the team and with external partners.
2. Create Alignment Across Teams: By breaking down silos and promoting clear communication, Garrett found ways to make sales and marketing work in unison toward common goals.
3. Adapt with Agility: In a fast-changing market, staying flexible and ready to pivot is essential to overcoming challenges and remaining competitive.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Meet Garrett Johnson

(03:55) From dealership floor to VP seat at Zero Motorcycles

(07:45) The fix for sales and marketing misalignment

(11:38) Why Garrett challenges corporate norms from day one

(15:26) Elevating CX by listening to customer dissatisfaction

(19:18) Tariffs, uncertainty, and selling through economic chaos

(23:12) The case for daily collaboration across all departments

(27:05) Speed matters: How Zero makes faster decisions

(30:58) A better partnership model between OEMs and dealers

(34:47) What dealer-first marketing really looks like at Zero

(38:38) Growing the EV motorcycle market with younger riders

(42:30) Launching accessible products to expand adoption