This month marks Beth Gadbois’ five-year anniversary with O’Daniel Mazda. As the receptionist, she is often the first impression potential customers have when they call or visit O’Daniel Mazda, which means it is important for her to be friendly and courteous.
When Beth was first offered her job at the O’Daniel Automotive Group, she was a little hesitant because of a prior negative work experience with a different car dealership. However, she’s found that the O’Daniel's is a great company and family to work for. “They really do care about their employees and customers and it shows every day I walk into work,” she said. Another part of her job that she likes are the days when the team members from all the O’Daniel stores gather together for events such as cookouts, carry-ins, and Jeep Jam. She enjoys seeing everyone together, laughing, and having a good time.
When discussing her personal life, she cites her mother, a strong, independent single mother, as her biggest influence. “She taught me that you have to work for what you want in life, and that it’s never going to be easy.” Even though her mom lost her battle with breast cancer nine years ago, a day doesn’t go by that Beth isn’t reminded of her mom’s strength and beauty. She hopes that the lessons she learned from her mom will carry on to her own children.
Another influence in Beth’s life is the music group The Grateful Dead. She loves that fans embrace the culture and community as well as the harmony and togetherness inspired by the group. She was able to go to one of their events this summer and said it was an experience she wouldn’t forget and couldn’t wait to have again. Everyone was kind and happy at the event, which for Beth was a change from the frequent scariness of society today.
When not at work, Beth, a Fort Wayne native, spends time with her two children. One of her children is on the autism spectrum and Beth said that sometimes life can be challenging but never boring. One of her hobbies is crafting. She loves to create things and often makes jewelry and custom jewelry boxes from uncycled materials. “I like to take old things and make them beautiful again!”
A wonderful, kind, and patient woman— here’s to five more years, Beth! Happy anniversary!
