On this episode of Training Camp with Adam Marburger, best-selling author and business strategist Danelle Delgado shares her journey into the automotive industry, the foundation of her training company Team Engage, and the psychology behind personal and organizational growth. From overcoming her initial hesitation about the industry to becoming a sought-after trainer for high-performing dealerships, Delgado offers insights on leadership, adaptation, and achieving peak performance in a rapidly evolving market.
Delgado’s entry into the automotive industry was unexpected. After speaking at the 10X Growth Conference, she connected with a dealership leader who followed her advice persistently for 18 months. That connection led to a transformative collaboration with Liza Borches, CEO of Carter Myers Automotive, who encouraged Delgado to develop a scalable training program.
This evolved into Team Engage, a 52-week training course designed to enhance leadership and sales performance across all dealership departments, from F&I to service and accounting.
Further, Delgado describes the automotive industry as one that forces the most adaptation, constantly balancing rapid change with deep-rooted traditions. She emphasizes that while many professionals resist change out of fear of losing what they’ve built, the most successful businesses embrace it.
Change, she explains, happens in two ways: through consistent, deliberate action or by being forced into it through crisis. Therefore, she urges dealers to choose proactive growth rather than waiting for a breaking point.
When discussing the difference between good and great performers, Delgado highlights the importance of foundational self-improvement. She teaches a system she calls the “Tower of Influence,” which focuses on personal development as the key to unlocking business success. Instead of looking for a silver bullet, she stresses that sustainable success comes from intentional habits, discipline, and a mindset shift toward continuous learning.
“People are more afraid of losing what they have than building what they possibly could. If you don’t choose to grow day by day, eventually, you’ll be forced to change when crisis hits. Which would you prefer?” – Danelle Delgado
