What happens when precision from aviation meets creativity in automotive marketing?
In this episode, Ashley Brockhurst, Director of Marketing and Health & Safety at Charlesglen Toyota in Calgary, Alberta — “Alberta’s Celebration Destination” — shares how her dealership’s community-first philosophy is redefining what automotive retail can look like.
From aviation safety to dealership marketing leadership, Ashley’s story proves how curiosity, culture, and compassion fuel innovation. She opens up about her journey from receptionist to director, the strategy behind hosting 27+ community events a year, and how authentic philanthropy (not just PR) builds real customer loyalty.
You’ll learn how Charlesglen Toyota turned community connection into a competitive advantage, and how your dealership can do the same.
In This Episode:
Timestamps
00:00 Intro — From Aviation to Automotive
04:12 How a receptionist became a marketing director
09:05 The secret behind Charlesglen Toyota’s “Celebration Destination” brand
14:20 Culture that empowers people to take chances
18:55 How to build authentic community events that connect
24:10 Why women drive community impact (and dealership loyalty)
32:00 Measuring ROI when you can’t “track” community relationships
37:30 Building team buy-in for charity and local events
Who This Episode Is For
Dealership marketing teams
General Managers & Dealer Principals
Community relations & event coordinators
Women in automotive leadership
Anyone who believes marketing can build more than sales — it can build connection.
Connect with Ashley Brockhurst
🔗 LinkedIn: Ashley Brockhurst
🌐 Charlesglen Toyota: charlesglentoyota.com