In this episode of the Kunes Collective Podcast, Breanne sits down with Judy Manriquez, a powerhouse saleswoman who’s making waves in the automotive world. Their chat dives deep into what it’s really like to be a woman in a male-dominated industry — the highs, the hurdles, and the heartfelt moments that make it all worth it.
Building Relationships Through Empathy
Judy shares how empathy has shaped her career in car sales. For her, selling isn’t just about closing deals — it’s about connection.
“You spend so much time with customers that they stop being strangers,” she says. “You really do build relationships with them.”
That emotional side can be both a strength and a struggle. When customers can’t get approved for financing, it hits hard — especially when it’s someone like a single mom or an elderly buyer just trying to get around. But Judy credits Kunes’ Fresh Start Program for helping more people than most dealerships can, saying even other groups refer customers to them.
Earning Respect in a Male-Dominated Space
One of the biggest challenges Judy’s faced? Being underestimated.
“People assume I don’t know what I’m talking about,” she admits. “But we get extensive training — I know my stuff.”
Her pink, personality-packed desk and pink screwdriver aren’t just décor — they’re part of her brand. She laughs that customers remember her as “the girl with the pink desk.” And while she’s bubbly and approachable, she loves proving people wrong with her knowledge and professionalism.
“They underestimate you — and then you get to overdeliver.”
The Pressure to Look the Part
There’s also the unspoken pressure to always look polished. Judy acknowledges that presentation matters in an industry where first impressions count.
“You can’t show up in sweatpants and sell a $100,000 vehicle,” Breanne jokes. “How you present yourself shows you respect your job.”
Breanne and Judy talk about how self-care goes beyond looks — it’s about feeling good and staying healthy despite the long hours. Judy prioritizes workouts and meal prep, saying fitness helps her manage the mental stress of sales life.
Mixing Love and Business
Judy’s boyfriend also happens to be her sales manager — and the dynamic surprisingly works.
“He doesn’t give me special treatment,” she laughs. “He’ll tell me if something needs to be fixed!”
Their shared understanding of the job’s demands helps. Judy admits it’d be hard to date someone outside the business when long hours and unpredictable schedules are part of the gig. The couple keeps things professional at work, and Judy says the team’s respect and trust make it easy.
Everyday Essentials & Sales Survival Kit
In true car sales fashion, Judy keeps a screwdriver, tape measure, and even a flashlight on hand — plus essentials like chapstick and business cards. Breanne jokes about using a selfie stick once to take undercarriage photos for customers. It’s these small, relatable details that show just how hands-on the job can be.
Staying Motivated in a Tough Industry
When asked what keeps her going, Judy’s answer is real and relatable: financial independence and building a future.
“You put in long hours because you want to set yourself up for success,” she explains. “I want my future kids to have a better life.”
While she’s happy in sales now, Judy doesn’t rule out management one day. What she loves most, though, is the culture at Kunes — a company that feels like family.
“I worked here in high school when there were just four stores,” she recalls. “Now there are 40-plus. It’s amazing to see how much we’ve grown.”
Matcha & Motivation
The episode wraps up with laughs over their favorite drinks — strawberry matchas — and a shared appreciation for how far they’ve come. Judy’s story is proof that with empathy, grit, and a splash of pink confidence, women are redefining what success looks like in the car business.
Watch the full episode on the Kunes Collective Podcast for more insights, laughs, and real talk from women driving change in the auto world.
