Building on a 70-year family legacy, Johnny Roberts Motors thrives by combining leadership, dedication, and a daily practice of gratitude. In today’s episode of Training Camp, Chris Roberts, owner of Johnny Roberts Motors, joins host Adam Marburger to discuss his family’s legacy and how practicing gratitude daily creates high-performing teams.
Johnny Roberts Motors is a family-owned dealership that’s been around for over 70 years. Robert’s grandfather started the business after World War II, before he passed it down to his son. Roberts spent a lot of his free time as a child in the dealership, and as he got older, he worked his way up through the ranks. He eventually took over the dealership from his father and has been leading the Johnny Roberts team ever since.
As the owner’s son, stepping into leadership positions throughout his career wasn’t easy. He had to earn the respect of his employees, who had far more experience than he did. The key to gaining respect, he shares, is to lead with dedication, diligence and consistency. Instead of constantly delegating, he recommends jumping into the thick of it with the team and demonstrating dedication. Over time, he gained his team’s respect and—most importantly—trust.
When it comes to filling positions, Roberts prioritizes promoting internal talent. Of course, there are times when it’s more appropriate to hire externally. However, when leadership creates an opportunity for upwards mobility, it boosts the team’s dedication and drive and helps to preserve the dealership’s culture.
Roberts has always been a goal-oriented individual, and he’s experienced tremendous success throughout his journey. However, five years ago, he had a revelation that he needed to make adjustments to his habits to achieve daily success. He developed a morning routine that he rarely deviates from: he wakes early, reads his Bible, and practices gratitude daily.
"Start with gratitude... I've seen it really develop these younger kids, and especially get them where they can see a path in life."
Roberts also encourages his team to practice gratitude daily and says that it’s the key to developing a high-performing team. During morning sales huddles, each team member shares three things they’re grateful for. He also gifts each employee a gratitude book. While it’s not mandatory to fill it out, those who consistently do so are typically more productive, more motivated and have a more positive outlook toward their future and goals.
One of the most important things to sustain motivation is to have a written plan. Take large goals that may be overwhelming as a whole and break them down into smaller, more actionable steps.
In addition, this written plan can also help sustain momentum. During seasons of challenges, deferring back to the written plan can help one determine where they may be missing the mark and return to basics.
Roberts’ focus on gratitude, hands-on leadership, and clear goal-setting demonstrates how intentional habits can cultivate a motivated, high-performing team. By promoting internal talent and encouraging daily reflection, he ensures that both the dealership’s culture and its long-term success continue to grow.
