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In this episode of the Gearheads and Gasoline Podcast, hosts Barry Alt and Annette Bauer welcome Melanie Hellwig White, CEO of Hellwig Products and Chair of the SEMA Board of Directors, to share her journey in the automotive industry, the importance of balancing legacy with innovation, and the challenges of being a female leader in a male-dominated field. She discusses the role of SEMA in shaping the industry's future, the significance of influencers and social media in marketing, and the value of family connections in maintaining balance in life. Melanie emphasizes the need for the automotive community to advocate for itself and represent the industry positively.

Key Takeaways:

• Balancing legacy and innovation is crucial for Hellwig's future
• The automotive industry must adapt to changing market trends
• Being a female CEO comes with unique challenges and opportunities
• SEMA plays a vital role in advocating for the automotive industry
• Influencers can significantly impact marketing strategies
• The importance of government advocacy for the automotive sector
• Authenticity in marketing is key to connecting with consumers

Guest Bio:
Melanie White is known throughout the aftermarket as a proven leader for both her own business accomplishments and her dedication to the industry. Hailing from a founding SEMA-member company that has exhibited since the very first SEMA Show in 1967 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, she represents the fourth generation to join the family business established by her great-grandfather in 1946.

White started in Hellwig’s sales department cold calling 18 years ago, working her way up to vice president before ultimately becoming the company’s first female CEO. And earned her woman owned certification status in 2023.

In fact, White’s involvement with the association has included membership in six SEMA councils and networks. In addition to earning several service awards from her council groups, she was among SEMA News’ first roster of “35 Under 35” young and rising talents in 2012. She was named SEMA Person of the Year in 2018, and awarded SEMA’s Businesswoman of the Year award in 2017. White also served as chair of the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and has been an outspoken industry advocate, participating in Washington, D.C., Rallies and joining other SEMA members on international business-development trips. She currently serves as the Chair of the SEMA Board of Directors.

Guest:
mwhite@hellwigproducts.com
https://www.hellwigproducts.com
https://www.facebook.com/hellwigproducts
https://www.instagram.com/hellwig_products
https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniehellwigwhite
https://www.youtube.com/@HellwigProducts

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• https://www.motorheaddigital.com

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• https://www.annettebauercreative.com

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