Chad Kooiman: Building a Car Shop People Actually Love

From Stylist to Business Builder: What It Takes to Create a Company That Outgrows Its Founder

In this episode, Bryan Sullivan shares his journey from a talented hairstylist to a successful salon owner, highlighting the importance of systems, financial management, and leadership in business growth. Discover practical insights on scaling a service business, employee development, and navigating challenges like COVID-19.

From Family Business to Trusted Franchise: Shelly Poston's HVAC Journey

Shelly Poston shares her journey of transforming a family business into a trusted franchise in the HVAC industry, emphasizing customer trust, empathy, and staff training. Discover how faith, communication, and continuous learning drive success in service-based businesses.

From Warehouse to Leadership: The 23-Year Journey of Mahlander's

In this episode, Nathan Schock interviews Jason Miersma, Vice President of Mahlander's Appliance and Lighting, exploring the history, culture, and future of this family-owned business. They discuss leadership, customer service, adapting to change, and building a cohesive team in a competitive market.

Chad Kooiman: Building a Car Shop People Actually Love

In this episode, I sit down with Chad Kooiman, founder of Ultimate Automotive, to trace his journey from a small franchise shop to a thriving two-location business built on culture, trust, and community. Chad shares how he started in 2000 under the All Tune and Lube franchise while still in college, hustling for customers through coupons before eventually breaking out on his own. We dig into his people-first philosophy — how he takes care of his team, runs the business alongside his wife, and has evolved from technician to CEO. He also walks me through what makes Ultimate Automotive different: a free ride service for customers, an unconventional pay structure, and a culture of curiosity that's getting his team ready for EVs and self-driving vehicles. If you're building something that lasts, this one's for you.

From Broadcast to Business: Preserving Memories in the Digital Age

Stephanie Csornok shares her journey from broadcasting to founding Digital Downsizing, a niche business preserving family memories through digital conversion. Discover how her background, emotional connections to memories, and strategic marketing have shaped her entrepreneurial success.