Behind the Wheel at SEMA 2025: Meet the Industry Game-Changers – Part 4

Gianluca Grioni is the Vice President of Sales for Momo Tires USA and brings decades of global experience to the automotive industry. Originally from Italy, he began his career in 1997 as a test driver and went on to spend 22 years with Pirelli before joining Momo. Today, he oversees Momo’s growth across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, guiding distribution strategies, brand development, and the company’s expansion following its recent shift to full brand ownership. His background in motorsports, product testing, and international marketing gives him a unique perspective on building a European-rooted brand in the American tire market.Clint Young is the President and COO of Point S Tire & Auto Service USA, leading one of the industry’s fastest-growing dealer networks. Under his leadership, Point S has expanded to hundreds of rooftops across 39 states while also contributing to global growth across 51 countries. Clint oversees national operations, dealer support, and strategic initiatives, including new marketing programs set to roll out in 2026. Known for his energetic, people-first leadership style, he brings decades of experience in retail operations and continues to champion strong relationships, brand unity, and long-term growth for independent tire dealers.In this episode…Empty headingThe final installment of the SEMA roundup series closes out SEMA 2025 with two standout conversations, each offering a different window into how brands grow, adapt, and stay connected in a rapidly changing industry.Mike begins with Momo Tires, where Gianluca Grioni shares the brand’s surprising motorsports origins and how a Formula 1 driver’s custom steering wheel sparked the company’s legacy. Gianluca breaks down Momo’s entry into the U.S. market, their distribution strategies, and how the brand is positioning itself for bigger growth after taking full ownership of its product line. His perspective blends heritage, product knowledge, and a clear vision for the U.S. tire landscape.Later, Mike sits down with Point S President & COO Clint Young for an energetic, wide-ranging discussion on national and international expansion, dealer support, and the company’s new marketing programs rolling out in 2026. But as always with Mike and Clint, the conversation naturally moves into real life; cold plunging, sports injuries, rugby, family moments, revealing the personality behind the leadership and giving listeners the kind of authentic, unfiltered stories you only get at SEMA.This episode closes out the SEMA roundup series with candid conversations, unexpected moments, and a clear reminder that every brand is driven by the people behind it, a fitting finish to our time on the floor at SEMA 2025.Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: Empty heading[00:39] How Gianluca Grioni began his career as a test driver before moving into global sales[02:15] The surprising F1 story behind the creation of the first Momo steering wheel[04:42] How Momo Tires built its U.S. distribution and what dealers should know[08:30] Why Momo’s shift to full brand ownership is a game-changer for growth[09:41] Clint Young on Point S’s rapid expansion across 39 states[11:10] How international growth strengthens Point S’s buying power[13:20] The importance of partnerships and brand unity for a national dealer network[17:58] Cold plunges, sports injuries, and the life stories behind industry leaders[21:14] Why genuine relationships still drive dealer success at SEMAResources mentioned in this episode:Empty headingTread PartnersGain Traction Podcast on YouTubeGain Traction Podcast WebsiteMike Edge on LinkedInSEMA WebsiteGianluca GrioniMOMO TiresClint YoungPoint S TireQuotable Moments:Empty heading“Passion is where everything starts, sometimes even with a steering wheel you build yourself.”“Growing a brand in the U.S. means listening to the dealers first.”“If you’re not moving forward, you’re losing leverage.”“Cold plunges, sports, the injuries; it all connects back to discipline.”“SEMA reminds us the industry still runs on genuine conversations.”Action Steps:Empty headingExplore emerging brands at SEMA – Even established markets have room for fresh product lines and competitive positioning.Strengthen local partnerships – Strong dealer relationships remain a major advantage for both new and established brands.Stay consistent with brand messaging – As seen with Momo and Point S, clarity and identity help brands grow nationally.Invest in community and network building – Personal connections still move the market, especially at events like SEMA.Embrace cross-industry insights – Lessons from sports, discipline, and daily routines often translate directly to leadership.