In this episode of the Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson sits down with Brian Kovar, a seasoned professional in the Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) world and current business development expert at Ideal Computer Systems. What started as a casual LinkedIn connection has evolved into a robust professional relationship—and today’s conversation dives deep into why data, ethics, and genuine connections are the secret sauce for thriving in today’s agriculture and dealership industries.
Brian shares how Ideal’s Dealer Management System (DMS) helps transform chaotic dealerships into data-driven operations by centralizing inventory, purchasing, and customer service workflows. They also touch on industry shifts post-COVID, the increasing importance of AI, and how networking—done right—can unlock career-changing opportunities.
Whether you're a small manufacturer, a seasoned dealer, or someone navigating change, this episode delivers practical insights and motivation rooted in experience and authenticity.
Networking matters: Brian's entire career pivot came from his LinkedIn network, proving your connections are a career asset.
Data > Emotion: Dealerships that operate on data are making better, faster, and more profitable decisions.
DMS Explained: A Dealer Management System centralizes operations—think of it as a business playbook.
Provide value first: Brian’s ethos is about showing up with help—not just a pitch.
Optimize before you expand: You may be leaving money on the table by not streamlining your current operations.
AI is here: Smart dealerships are already starting to implement AI and predictive analytics for decision-making.
“You can be driving a Ferrari, but if you're off-roading—it makes no sense.” – Brian Kovar
“Slow down. Take a breath. The grind is not the goal. Optimization is.” – Joe Sampson
“You don’t know what you don’t know. What if we could give you a better mousetrap?” – Brian Kovar
“It’s not about the sale—it’s about the partnership. And that’s where real value is found.” – Joe Sampson
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.