On a recent episode of Breakfast with Champions on Clubhouse, small business expert Ramon Ray sat down with Scott Simons, CEO of Weimer Auto Group, to unpack lessons in leadership, social media, personal brand building, and the hard truths about running a people-first business in a high-stakes industry.

The conversation was filled with tactical insights, unfiltered truth, and the kind of real-world business wisdom you only get from those who’ve been in the trenches.

1. The Power of Presence and Relationships

Scott emphasized the importance of showing up—for your team, your customers, and your community. Whether it’s at 5 a.m. for Clubhouse or hosting key partners at the dealership, he makes it clear: consistency builds credibility. By consistently engaging with others and demonstrating commitment, leaders like Scott foster trust and collaboration within their organizations. Furthermore, he believes that effective communication and ongoing support are essential ways to build a winning team. Ultimately, the dedication to showing up reinforces a culture of accountability and excellence that everyone strives to achieve.

When Ford executives visited one of his stores, Scott and his team rolled out the red carpet—literally. They didn’t just clean up the showroom; they presented a vision for the brand, the business, and the future. That visit wasn’t just about cars—it was about trust, alignment, and leadership.

2. Social Media as a Business Growth Tool

Scott’s take on social media is simple: it’s not about vanity, it’s about visibility. His posts regularly generate tens of thousands of views—not because he’s paying for reach, but because he’s investing in relevance. He’s built a personal brand rooted in authenticity and value, leading to job applications, partnership opportunities, and community goodwill.

“I’ve never paid Facebook or LinkedIn a penny. But I show up, I give value, and it comes back tenfold.”

For small business owners, Scott’s message is clear: use your platform, tell your story, and connect with people consistently. By sharing authentic experiences and showcasing the values behind their products, small business owners can create a loyal customer base that resonates with their narrative. Additionally, collaborating with microinfluencers boost brand engagement, as these individuals often have dedicated followers who trust their recommendations. This strategic approach not only amplifies reach but also fosters genuine connections in the community.

3. Leading with Vision, Not Ego

One of the most compelling parts of the conversation was Scott’s reflection on accountability and humility. When his dealership received direct feedback from Ford about missed opportunities, Scott didn’t deflect. He owned it—and then he turned it into fuel.

“If you call me out once, it won’t happen again. I’ll fix it and come back stronger.”

His leadership philosophy? Take responsibility, fix what’s broken, and never make the same mistake twice. In Scott’s world, you can’t lead others until you’ve mastered leading yourself.

4. People Over Process—But with Discipline

Scott believes in culture-first leadership. Whether it’s refusing to split deals just for convenience or encouraging handwritten notes to customers, he puts people first—but demands accountability.

He trains his team to focus on the basics: greeting customers properly, answering emails, responding to leads, and keeping the lot organized. These aren’t revolutionary ideas—but they are often the first to be neglected.

“You don’t need the latest CRM if you’re not doing the basics. The small things are the big things.”

5. Build Your Brand—Always

Even as a CEO, Scott sees himself as a brand in progress. His advice: don’t stop building, connecting, or growing. From mentoring young professionals to answering every message after a viral post, Scott believes your reputation is your most valuable asset—and you should treat it like one.

6. A Final Word on Work-Life Balance

Yes, Scott works long hours. Yes, he texts at 4 a.m. But he also knows when to unplug, listen to his wife, and watch a documentary about a powerless cruise ship just to reconnect.

It’s not about being always on—it’s about being intentional, both at work and at home.

Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs and Leaders

• Be consistent: Show up before the opportunities arrive.
• Be visible: Use social media as a tool to share your story and build trust.
• Be humble: Take criticism as a gift, not a threat.
• Be clear: Set expectations and follow through.
• Be human: Treat people with respect—and let them know it.
  

Scott Simons proves that great leadership isn’t about doing everything right—it’s about doing the right things, consistently, with heart and hustle.