Stand Out Or Miss Out: Real Talk On Email, Video, And Follow-Up That Actually Works Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki podcast

39:53

What happens when a dealership fully commits to reinventing its service department? In this episode, Jennifer Suzuki chats with Andy Wright, Managing Partner at Vinart Dealerships, located just an hour from both Philly and NYC. Andy reveals how his team is solving the biggest challenges in fixed ops — from inconsistent traffic to advisor overload — by building innovative support teams and reshaping benchmarks. You’ll hear how they: Took appointment setting off the advisor’s plate and built a pre-write support team Raised the RO benchmark from 12-15 to 18-20 per day by removing admin burdens Use video and transparency to retain more service customers Launched a technician apprentice program to solve staffing shortages Run monthly in-house training sessions in a 50-person dedicated space Lean on AI tools like LeadVantage, CallRevu, Madator to assess conversations and improve processes Envision a near future where AI handles inbound calls and outbound calls This is a must-listen for dealer principals, fixed ops directors, and anyone serious about scaling consistency in the service lane. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7!…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

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How to Instantly Build Trust and Credibility with Internet Buyers 23:37

16 days ago23:37

23:37

In this episode, I share one of my biggest secret weapons for converting more Internet leads — selling yourself first. It's not about hard selling the car; it's about showing the value in doing business with you and your dealership. I dive deep into tactical strategies for prepping before the first call, leveraging past customer history, using community connections, and showcasing dealership value the right way — with real-world examples from inside the showroom. You'll learn how to position yourself as the obvious choice, how to talk about your digital retailing tools to save buyers time, and even how to use ChatGPT to help you craft powerful, memorable value statements that stick. If you want to close more Internet leads and feel more confident doing it, this episode is for you! Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7!…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
Helper Vibes Seller Vibes: How to Win the Call in 30 Seconds 20:06

16 days ago20:06

20:06

In this episode, I break down one of the most overlooked—but powerful—skills in phone sales: your tonality. It’s not just what you say. It’s how you say it. I share how I intentionally changed my voice , volume, and energy over time to sound more exciting, engaging, and attractive to buyers—and how you can do the same. We dive deep into why first impressions, tonal shifts, and “helper vibes” are what pull people into real conversations and help you move leads into the buying cycle fast. This episode is packed with real examples from live calls, opening lines that create trust, and techniques to uncover buyer motivation early. If you're tired of sounding like every other monotone advisor, this one’s for you. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7!…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

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Stand Out or Miss Out: Real Talk on Email, Video, and Follow-Up That Actually Works 25:04

29 days ago25:04

25:04

Staying hyper-focused on internet lead handling... In this episode, I break down how to actually improve your follow-up process so you win more customers—starting with your emails, videos, and mindset. Let’s face it: most emails still look like outdated templates, and subject lines that scream “dealership” get ignored. I’m showing you how to change that. I walk through my current process using ChatGPT to write custom, engaging subject lines and value-based messages that feel like they were made just for the customer. I also dive into how to create short welcome videos that build trust and show off your energy—because people buy you, not just the car. You’ll also get a real-world strategy for the first 72 hours of follow-up (yes, that includes GIFs, articles, and creative touchpoints that stand out). If you’re ready to stop sounding like every other salesperson in their inbox and start actually converting, this one’s for you. Key takeaways: Subject lines that get opened First sentences that hook Videos that build trust fast A 30-day follow-up game plan Creative tips to stay top of mind and fun This isn’t theory. These are the tactics I use in dealerships today—because basic won’t win anymore. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7!…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

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Call First, Text Smart, Leave a Killer Voicemail: Lead Handling in 2025 with Jen Suzuki 21:06

29 days ago21:06

21:06

In this episode, I’m getting real about the grind of internet leads—the ones with no phone numbers, the ones who ghost you, and the ones who drain your time asking for information only to disappear into the void. I've been there. I’ve sold cars. And now I work these leads live during my dealership sales training sessions. I'm in the trenches with you—setting same-day appointments with tough leads while coaching teams to win. That’s why I care so deeply about helping sales pros and BDC reps level up. You’ll hear: Why urgency is non-negotiable when working internet leads How to stand out in a crowded inbox The power of a well-timed phone call vs. a lifeless text chain Voicemail strategies that actually spark engagement How ChatGPT can help you write customized, value-packed follow-up messages What mindset it takes to thrive in today’s high-competition digital battlefield Whether you're struggling to convert leads or just want to refresh your game with 2025 tactics, this episode is packed with real talk, real examples, and strategies that actually work. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7!…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

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Mentorship in Motion: How Lane Managers Build Winning Teams 13:58

29 days ago13:58

13:58

In this episode, I’m talking directly to the powerhouse behind the most successful service departments: Lane Managers. Also known as Assistant Managers, these leaders are the glue that holds the service drive together. I’ve been spending time on-site with service teams recently, and when Lane Managers are engaged, locked in, and supporting the hustle live on the drive—everything changes fast. We break down how Lane Managers reinforce training, support Advisors in the moment, jump into heat cases, and create an environment where growth isn’t just expected—it’s lived. From tightening up MPI processes to improving greeting structure, managing wait times, and even securing financing approvals—these leaders do it all. And when they do, you feel it: happier customers, faster approvals, more trust, and an energized team all rowing in the same direction. This episode is filled with real examples, easy-to-execute ideas, and reminders of just how impactful Lane Managers are. It’s time to level up the leaders who keep the wheels turning! Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7!…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

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No More Whip Cracking: Fun Accountability That Works 14:19

29 days ago14:19

14:19

In this episode, I'm in the trenches—literally—on-site with a dealership service management team I’ve been working with. We’ve trained, implemented new tactics, and now we’re locking in on accountability without turning the heat up too high. Here’s the truth: you don’t need to micromanage to get big results. What you do need are simple, consistent actions that reinforce change. I walk through real-life examples—like how to use visual gauges during check-in, recognize loyal customers in the drive, and improve technician videos—to create habits that stick. We dive into: How to reward the right behaviors without burning people out Why shadowing advisors and reviewing MPI calls should be your weekly rhythm A fun team game called “Sell It to Me” that builds value-selling skills How easy metrics like % of tech videos completed can keep your team focused Simple contests and incentives that actually motivate people to grow Bottom line: when your people are having fun, feel seen, and know what to aim for—they win and so do your numbers. If you're a service manager who wants real accountability without the grind, you need this episode. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7! LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. NADA Show Booth #803 Autosled.com is the next-generation automotive transportation logistics platform and marketplace.…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
From eLead CRM to AI Smart Camera Systems: Mark Queen is Redefining Efficiency with Visual Intelligence 52:35

29 days ago52:35

52:35

Mark Queen, the visionary CEO of Skaivision and one of the original founders behind eLead CRM, joins me to dive into the future of AI-powered dealership efficiency. Skaivision is revolutionizing the way dealers view process breakdowns by layering powerful AI—specifically Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs)—over existing dealership camera systems. This groundbreaking tech captures real-time activity in sales and service, highlights missed opportunities, and even delivers instant vehicle offers during service visits. Mark walks us through his entrepreneurial journey, from Reynolds & Reynolds to creating the largest CRM in auto retail, to now tackling tech fatigue and inefficiencies head-on. If you’re in the car business—service, sales, tech, or leadership—this episode will fuel your thinking about what’s possible when innovation meets daily dealership challenges. We talk express service friction, retention killers, service-to-sales drama, video transparency, and how real-time AI automation can make your people faster, more productive, and more profitable. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of the auto industry's most respected founders! 👋 Mark.Queen@skaivision.com | skaivision.com Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7!…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
The #1 Training Hack to Build Customer Trust in Fixed Ops with Jen Suzuki 12:58

5 weeks ago12:58

12:58

Mastering Service Drive Walkarounds in Live Role-Play – Real Training for Real Results...COME ON NOW!!! In this episode, I'm opening the door to run through the plays of the most important activity a amanger can do with their selling machines - the Service Advisors! The power of the service drive walkaround—one of the most effective yet underutilized tools for selling service work. I’ve been training dealership teams across the country, and I’ve seen firsthand how confidence, engagement, and real-world practice can completely transform how advisors interact with customers. I explain how I do role-plays in Service! Learn the break down on why role-playing is critical, how to avoid overwhelming customers with price breakdowns, and the game-changing impact of presenting financing options at the right moment. Plus, I’ll share an easy-to-implement training exercise that managers can use immediately to boost sales and customer experience on the drive. 🚗 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to execute a proper service walkaround to engage customers and sell more work ✅ Why live training activities (yes, role-playing!) are the fastest way to level up your skills ✅ The right way to present pricing and financing options to increase approvals ✅ How small adjustments in body language and conversation flow impact ROI & CSI If you’re a service advisor, manager, or dealership leader, this episode is packed with real strategies you can implement today. Let’s get to work!🛠️ Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. NADA Show Booth #803 Autosled.com is the next-generation automotive transportation logistics platform and marketplace. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7!…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
Dealership Capital Strategies for Ambitious Operators with Dan Garces 35:30

5 weeks ago35:30

35:30

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Garces, President and COO of Automotive Capital, to break down the financial strategies that allow dealership operators to grow, scale, and even own their own store—without putting up massive amounts of personal cash. Dan has spent his career helping dealers navigate the complexities of capital, and today, he’s sharing real-world insights on how funding works, how to leverage it properly, and what separates those who stay operators from those who become owners. We dive into: The biggest mistakes dealers make when it comes to financing growth. Alternative funding options that don’t drain your cash flow. How to position yourself for ownership even if you don’t have millions in the bank. The mindset shift required to go from running a store to owning one. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own dealership, expanding your operations, or simply improving your financial strategies as an operator, this episode is for you. Knowledge is the key to growth—and today, we’re unlocking it. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7! LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. NADA Show Booth #803 Autosled.com is the next-generation automotive transportation logistics platform and marketplace.…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
Keeping the Energy High: Fun & Competitive Ways to Reinforce Training 12:55

6 weeks ago12:55

12:55

How to Build Championship Teams with Contests & Competitions The hardest part of training isn’t teaching the process—it’s making sure it sticks. In this episode, I break down how to sustain momentum, accountability, and energy in your dealership using fun competitions, MVP recognition, and daily challenges. I share real-world dealership strategies that keep teams engaged, motivated, and focused on growth, even when sales get tough. From raffle ticket rewards to upsell challenges and technician video contests, I’ll walk you through simple but effective ways to reinforce training while making work fun. If you’re a dealership manager looking to create a high-performance culture, this episode will give you practical ways to celebrate wins, build camaraderie, and keep your team focused on execution. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing. ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7! LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. NADA Show Booth #803 Autosled.com is the next-generation automotive transportation logistics platform and marketplace…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
High-Performance Dealership: Smarter Scheduling, Stronger Communication, Bigger Profits With Daniel Govaer + Matt Haiken 35:17

6 weeks ago35:17

35:17

In this episode, we’re diving deep into how dealership owners and managers can build a more structured, efficient, and profitable business with two powerhouse guests—Daniel Govaer, Fractional COO, and Matt Haiken, Principal and President of Prestige Collection Auto Group. Matt, who now runs six dealership locations, shares how his approach to leadership has shifted. He’s moving away from making gut-based decisions to structured planning, daily forecasting, and full financial transparency. Daniel, a fractional COO, reveals key strategies he’s uncovered while working inside dealerships—identifying profitability leaks, optimizing daily schedules, and improving internal efficiency. We cover: ✅ Where dealerships are losing profitability—and how to fix it ✅ The power of total financial transparency in hitting targets ✅ Why structured daily schedules for salespeople and managers drive better results ✅ How communication impacts sales—and how AI is reshaping messaging ✅ Can a dealership succeed using a Tesla-style transactional sales model? ✅ How top-performing dealers are leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT for next-level customer interactions Matt and Daniel share real, actionable ways to rethink dealership operations so leaders can scale with less chaos, better accountability, and stronger results. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7! LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
Cliff Banks on AI, Amazon-Hyundai, Digital Retailing & the Future of Auto 1:04:01

7 weeks ago1:04:01

1:04:01

What does the Amazon-Hyundai partnership really mean for the future of auto retail? Is AI evolving too fast for dealerships to keep up? And why might some obstacles in car buying actually be good for dealers? In this episode, I sit down with my long-time friend and trusted industry voice, Cliff Banks—founder of The Banks Report and AUTOVATE Conference. We break down the latest trends in automotive, from AI adoption in dealerships to digital retailing’s real impact on sales. Cliff shares insights from top automotive CEOs on the biggest challenges they face with AI, why SaaS development is a pain point for vendors, and what role data centers and computing power will play in the future of auto retail. Plus, we talk shop about: The Amazon-Hyundai collaboration—is this really about selling cars, or is it a data play to fuel digital advertising? AI in dealerships—why being open to new tools matters & the risks of pretending AI agents are human. Digital retailing & the sales process—is it actually making car buying easier, or is it just another manufacturer-driven initiative? The dealership evolution—how AI, data reporting, and the FTC’s compliance requirements could determine Tekion’s fate. China’s growing automotive influence—what happens if Nissan weakens? EV market reality—why Cliff predicts a much smaller EV share than expected. If you’re grinding it out in the dealership world and struggle to stay up to speed with industry shifts, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for a casual, insightful conversation with one of the most experienced voices in auto reporting. 🤝Cliff Banks - https://autovate.org/cliff-banks-bio/ Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7! LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. NADA Show Booth #803 Autosled.com is the next-generation automotive transportation logistics platform and marketplace. CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything in Sales 13:22

7 weeks ago13:22

13:22

Most service advisors stop at the first “no.” But the best? They know that’s just the beginning. In this episode, we’re talking about taking second and third swings—the art of fighting for the business that’s sitting right in front of you. Your customers don’t always need a discount; sometimes, they just need a little more information. I’ll walk you through real-world analogies and proven tactics to help you: ✅ Circle back on declined work without sounding pushy ✅ Use supportive, value-driven conversations to win approvals ✅ Create urgency without pressure ✅ Overcome objections with confidence and professionalism When you get in the right mentality before you clock in, you’ll start winning more approvals, making more money, and building stronger customer relationships. I’m fired up for this one—let’s make 2025 your best year yet! Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast | 🎧 https://apple.co/38lmHM1 🎧 https://spoti.fi/3uQ2nd1 | Jennifer@edealersolution.com | 954-873-8029 | edealersolutions.com | Meet me! bit.ly/3J7011t | Loyalty-Based Selling Strategies on CBT News | https://bit.ly/3JlcXAx 🔥Check out our sponsors!🔥 ActivEngage.com messaging seamlessly integrates into your dealership operations to attract, engage and convert more online shoppers with live people 24/7! LotLinx.com is a VIN Management Platform that enables precision automotive retailing via /AI/ technologies that improves dealership profitability. NADA Show Booth #803 Autosled.com is the next-generation automotive transportation logistics platform and marketplace. CallRevu.com is the leading automotive communications intelligence platform, offering call monitoring and call analysis, with technology optimized for sales, service (fixed ops) and marketing.…

Dealer Talk With Jen Suzuki

1
NADA’s Relentless Advocacy for Dealers: A Conversation with President Mike Stanton 37:27

8 weeks ago37:27