Connected Podcast Episode 212: Using AI to Create Better Customer Experiences

Today on Connected, you'll hear from Rich Sands, CEO of Stella AI and a longtime automotive technology leader. Rich has spent nearly 30 years at the intersection of automotive and technology, with leadership roles at J.D. Power, Ford, Microsoft, and now Stella AI. In this episode, Rich shares how artificial intelligence is reshaping dealership operations, improving customer engagement, and creating new opportunities for growth. In this episode, Rich talks about: -How AI helps dealerships increase efficiency by handling routine tasks, letting employees focus on higher-value customer interactions. -Why dealers are rapidly adopting AI tools to improve communication, uncover new opportunities, and drive revenue growth. -What the next phase of AI looks like, including agentic workflows, customer-facing AI assistants, and the systems dealers need to have in place today. If you're evaluating AI tools, planning your technology strategy, or simply trying to understand where the industry is headed, this conversation offers practical insights on what matters now and what's coming next. Get Connected with Rich Sands! ‪@stellaautomotiveai‬