The Business, Cars & Cigars Podcast

Jennifer Carrasco learned a lot of things the hard way, which has given her a passion for helping others to not make the same mistakes. At just 24 years old, Jennifer bought the company she was working for. She ran it for a few years before the market crashed and filed for bankruptcy. She built the company back up before she went through a nasty divorce and had to file for bankruptcy again. Refusing to give up, Jennifer built the company back up for a third time. Now, at the age of 42, Jennifer has three successful companies.  As an EOS business coach, Jennifer helps people to fast-track their business to success through personal growth and building the right team. She starts by looking at 6-12 month goals and then reverse engineers down to what it will take daily. She believes in delegating and elevating. She also firmly believes that every little thing in life happens for a reason, to bring us to where we’re meant to be. What You’ll Learn: What it means to be the bottleneck of your company. How to get out of your own way. Why people have control issues. Why having core values is so important. Favorite Quote: “If your company isn’t running successfully without you, do you really have a company, or do you have a job?” -Jennifer Carrasco How To Get Involved: Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠

Shawn Montgomery is the newest addition to our team! With his passion for people and knack for navigating the digital world, Shawn has quickly become the driving force behind our social media presence. But here's the catch – Shawn may be a seasoned pro at social media, but he's diving headfirst into the world of car audio without any prior experience. And guess what? He's not coming in with a big ego, thinking he knows it all. Instead, he's all about asking questions, doing his own research, and embracing this new realm with open arms. Shawn understands that when you bring in someone new, you've got to figure out their unique learning style. Some folks absorb knowledge through reading and research, while others need a hands-on approach. Shawn knows how to meet people where they're comfortable and communicate in a way that suits them best. He's all about over-communicating to ensure he gets everything right. But Shawn's not just a social media guru – he's a doer. He's already organized some fantastic events, with more exciting ones on the horizon. He believes in authenticity, both online and in person, and he's not afraid to be himself. His first car meet was a smashing success, not because it was a money-making venture, but because it was a genuine gathering of like-minded car enthusiasts. Shawn's not just about business; he's about giving back. He's helping the team to gear up for an incredible Toys for Tots drive, aiming to make it the biggest donation yet. Community appreciation events are his secret sauce for a remarkable ROI, and he's all about making a meaningful impact. Life hasn't always been smooth sailing for Shawn; he's battled depression throughout his journey. But he's learned the power of focusing on what he gets to do, even in tough times. He constantly self-evaluates, striving for improvement in his day-to-day life. So, if you're looking for someone who's not just about the job but about passion, community, and genuine connections, Shawn Montgomery is your man. Join him on this exciting journey as he transforms the car audio world, one social media post at a time. What You’ll Learn: Why you should always be your genuine self. How our day-to-day impacts our mental health. How to bounce back from a bad day or a bad week. And much more! Favorite Quote: “When you bring in someone new, you have to figure out what type of learner that person is.” -Shawn Montgomery How to Get Connected: Facebook Instagram

During the second half of our interview with James Smith, he shares valuable insights on business management and employee engagement. He emphasizes the importance of investing in employees to create a thriving workplace environment. James highlights that showing genuine care and appreciation for employees is crucial for their motivation and success. He stresses the significance of taking a step back from daily tasks to build meaningful relationships with employees and understand their needs, both professionally and personally. James also mentioned the power of social media as a tool for business growth, emphasizing its ability to provide extensive reach and establish expertise in the industry. He emphasized that building a strong presence on social media can attract customers and enhance the reputation of a business. Furthermore, James discussed the importance of self-care and having a specific morning routine to maintain a positive mood, as one's mood can impact the entire team and customer interactions. He also expressed gratitude for the support he found in the 12v community, where competitors offered assistance during a difficult time in his personal life, highlighting the strength of the community. Lastly, James introduced the Full Throttle Foundation, a program he initiated to help others achieve their business goals. He acknowledged the challenges of starting and managing a business and emphasized the need for guidance, structure, and accountability in the entrepreneurial journey. This program aims to provide comprehensive support and guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs. What You’ll Learn: How to utilize social media to grow your business. How to motivate your employees. Why you should have a good morning routine.  And much more! Favorite Quote: “Some employees are motivated by money, a lot of employees are motivated by feeling appreciated.” -James Smith How to Get Connected: LinkedIn

In the first part of this two-part series, as we have a poignant conversation with guest James Smith, it becomes clear that he has been grappling with a series of profound challenges. Almost three months have passed since the sudden and unexplained passing of his wife. This tragic event left him shattered, rendering him unable to function at work for an extended period. The silver lining, however, is that he had meticulously structured his business, allowing him to step away and prioritize self-care while the business continued to operate smoothly. The contrast with a previous experience is striking. In 2019, James lost his brother, and despite his grief, he felt compelled to return to work swiftly, ultimately suppressing his mourning process. This time around, he recognized the importance of mourning and healing. Remarkably, after five weeks away, he discovered that his business was capable of functioning independently, a testament to his strategic planning. James imparts valuable lessons he's learned through his journey. One of these is the significance of knowledge-sharing: passing down your expertise to those below you while actively learning the responsibilities above you. He cautions against letting ego hinder growth, advocating for a collaborative environment where one isn't the sole custodian of knowledge. Furthermore, he emphasizes the role of core values in establishing a strong foundation for a business. These values guide the selection of employees, customers, and the creation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). James identifies communication, integrity, growth, and trustworthiness as their core values. He underscores the importance of SOPs as comprehensive guides that equip employees to handle diverse situations effectively. A particularly poignant insight he shares is the necessity of recognizing when someone no longer aligns with the company's core values. In such cases, he advocates for the difficult yet transformative step of letting them go. James firmly believes that taking this step paves the way for improvement and growth. In this conversation, James Smith's experiences and insights provide a deeply personal account of navigating profound loss, managing a business, fostering a healthy work environment, and the significance of core values in all these facets of life. What You’ll Learn: Why it’s important for your business to be able to run without you. How to build a strong foundation in your business.  Why you should hire on core values over talent. And much more! Favorite Quote: “To run a real business, that works without you, you have to build that foundation of core values” -James Smith How to Get Connected: LinkedIn

Prepare for an enlightening continuation of our two-part series with the remarkable Shawn Montgomery. In this installment, Shawn delves into the intricacies of modern promotion, particularly within the realm of social media. Navigating the digital landscape can be a daunting task, especially for those who aren't part of the younger generation. Shawn emphasizes the importance of enlisting the expertise of someone who not only understands the nuances of social media but genuinely enjoys the process and infuses it with their own brand of excitement. As algorithms undergo constant transformations, staying ahead of the curve is essential. Shawn highlights the need for a dedicated individual who thrives on keeping up with these changes to maximize online presence. The key, he suggests, lies in adding a personal touch. No more stock photos that bear no relevance to your business – authenticity is the currency of the digital age. Shawn's insights extend beyond promotion, resonating deeply with his ethos of building credibility and making a meaningful impact. He advocates for a hands-on approach – instead of merely offering assistance, he urges us to get out there and proactively contribute to others' lives, thereby creating genuine value within our communities. This conversation is just the beginning of an exciting journey with Shawn Montgomery. Keep an eye on The Car Audio Shop STL's social media platforms, as Shawn takes the reins and brings his wisdom to life. For a sneak peek into this thriving automotive world, follow them on Instagram @thecaraudioshopSTL. Get ready to dive into the world of effective promotion, authentic connection, and the inspiring journey of Shawn Montgomery. What You’ll Learn: The pros and cons of social media promotion. Why making and maintaining connections is important. How to build credibility in your community. And much more! Favorite Quote: “That’s how those connections are made, through good times.” -Shawn Montgomery How to Get Connected: Facebook Instagram

Join host Brandon in this captivating two-part conversation with special guest Shawn Montgomery, a dynamic figure in the St. Louis car scene. Having collaborated many times over the last 5 years, Brandon and Shawn have been itching to work together. That dream has finally come to fruition with Shawn becoming Brandon’s newest sales associate at The Car Audio Shop. Shawn's journey began in the heart of the St. Louis car culture when he was just 16, and now, after almost two decades, he has become an integral part of the scene. His innovative spirit led him to organize impromptu car meets in parking garages, igniting a spark that would eventually grow into a blazing phenomenon. As the founder of showroom socials, Shawn reached out to local dealerships, transforming their lots into hubs of automotive excitement. With the dealerships' support, cars were moved to the back lots to create space for these exhilarating gatherings, complete with vendors, mini BBQs, and a thriving sense of community. The serendipitous meeting of Shawn and Brandon occurred when Shawn invited Brandon to participate as a vendor at one of his iconic showroom socials. This fateful encounter marked the beginning of their collaborative journey, one that would later encompass transformative charitable initiatives. Shawn and his community have orchestrated inspiring events like the Toys for Tots drives, which have grown exponentially over the past two years, leaving a positive impact on the lives of countless children. Not stopping there, their compassion extended to hurricane victims as they collected and delivered donations, proving that the automotive passion they share goes beyond the road. Among their impressive events, "Stars and Cars" stands as a testament to Shawn’s dedication. Drawing over a thousand cars and featuring vendors, food trucks, car groups, and a vibrant DJ, it's a celebration that showcases the profound unity of the car community. What makes this movement even more remarkable is how it bridges the gaps between different car enthusiasts who often hold steadfast to their preferred groups. Through these events, the universal passion for cars emerges, fostering mutual respect and a sense of camaraderie among all involved. Stay tuned next week for the second part of this conversation as we explore the world of automotive enthusiasm, community building, and the powerful connections that emerge when people come together to celebrate their shared passions. Brandon and Shawn's conversation is an inspiring testament to the potential of collaboration and the transformative effects of a collective dream realized. What You’ll Learn: Why building community is so important. Why revenue shouldn’t be your main focus.  What makes a great event.  And much more! Favorite Quote: “Everyone focuses on revenue, they miss the fact that revenue is the by-product of the good stuff that you do.” -Shawn Montgomery How to Get Connected: Facebook Instagram

Dive into the captivating second part of the thought-provoking series with Callye Keen that delves deep into the intricacies of motivation and success. In this installment, we continue to unravel the complex tapestry of human drive, exploring the multifaceted nature of what truly inspires and propels us forward. Drawing from the realm of entrepreneurship, where aspirations run high and dreams collide with reality, we dissect the core motivations that fuel the ambitious minds of visionaries. It's a realm where compensation isn't just a transaction, but a reflection of value and progress. Callye explains why entrepreneurs seek not only financial rewards but also the priceless currency of time, where freedom harmonizes with a structure to create the perfect environment for growth. As our journey unfolds, we confront the paradox of too much freedom and its overwhelming effects on human nature. Through insightful revelations, we learn that pursuing progress eclipses the mere chase for wealth. The path to fulfillment is illuminated as we align our goals with what truly resonates within us, leaving no room for ventures that divert us from our ultimate purpose. Uncover the transformative power of pursuing one's passion, as we witness Callye’s own evolution from a top-rated podcast to a newly conceived creation. Embark on a profound exploration of conversations that transcend boundaries, replacing fleeting interactions with enduring connections. Callye rounds out this conversation by recommending some of his favorite reads. Where most people are lured in by the dopamine-inducing reads like “Extreme Ownership”, Callye finds that those types of books reiterate the same message over and over. He’s found that we learn more from stories than straight information. He loves the technical brilliance of autobiographies, where the reader is guided toward intellectual enrichment. Anchored by a keen appreciation for stories, Callye is excited to delve into the world of Rockefeller's monumental biography, “Titan”. He also highly recommends books such as Eliyahu M. Goldratt’s groundbreaking "The Goal," and the illuminating insights of "The Theory of Constraints." What You’ll Learn: Why too much freedom in the workplace is actually a bad thing? What employee incentives actually motivate people. The difference between a goal and a target. And much more! Favorite Quote: “Revenue is the result of doing the right things, and profit is the result of doing the right things well.” -Callye Keen How to Get Connected: Instagram LinkedIn End Hype Podcast The Startup Defense Podcast

In the first part of this two-part series, we step into the world of innovation and business prowess with Callye Keen, the visionary Chief Business Development Officer at K-Form. From designing captivating products to successfully selling them, Callye is a force to be reckoned with in the industry. With a passion for both nerd culture and the art of creation, Callye has an impressive track record. Notably, he crafted the world's most expensive fidget spinner, showcasing his unparalleled ability to make exceptional products. Moreover, he has a talent for teaching others the ropes of launching e-commerce brands and has collaborated with the Department of Energy on technical products. From small beginnings as a machine shop, Callye's journey has led him into the realm of product design, where he now oversees an expansive 30,000 sq ft manufacturing facility. What sets him apart is his unwavering commitment to transparency; he generously shares his business insights with anyone willing to learn. Callye understands that true value lies not just in information but in its implementation. His expertise lies in transforming ideas into actions that yield profits. He knows how crucial it is to understand one's customers and build trust with them, a key aspect of his successful business approach. In Callye's world, competition is the driving force behind market growth, but he thrives on being the most innovative player in the field. For him, ideas are catalysts that inspire even greater concepts. If you're seeking to embark on a journey to revolutionize your business, Callye Keen is the visionary leader you need. With his guidance, your product will reach its full potential and make a mark in the ever-evolving market. Welcome to a world where the fusion of nerd culture and business acumen breeds success beyond imagination. What You’ll Learn: How technical products are marketed to the masses. What the difference is between a hobby and a business. Why having the same idea as someone else is a good thing.  And much more! Favorite Quote: “I get to combine the two things that I like, which is nerd stuff and making stuff.” -Callye Keen How to Get Connected: Instagram LinkedIn

As we dive into part two with guests Josh Glenn and Tomas Keenan, we’ll look at how in the fast-paced world of business, success often hinges on finding the right individuals for the right tasks. Whether it's sales, tech, or any other crucial role, assigning specific responsibilities to dedicated team members has proven to make a massive difference in overall performance. But it doesn't stop there – leadership plays a vital role in fostering a culture of excellence. Your team needs to see you leading by example, going the extra mile, and investing genuine effort into your work. When they witness your commitment, they'll be inspired to reciprocate, bringing their A-game to every project. Achieving a truly sustainable business involves creating a team that can handle operations even in your absence. Imagine being comfortable leaving your business for a week, knowing it will continue to thrive. This dream becomes a reality when you prioritize skill development, nurture a sense of responsibility, and foster a collaborative environment. Are you tired of motivating employees solely through commission-based incentives? Consider shifting to an hourly payment model, encouraging every member to give equal attention and dedication to all projects. This way, you'll ensure consistent quality and avoid prioritization of higher-paying projects at the expense of others. In the hiring process, actions speak louder than words. Conducting working interviews allows you to gauge candidates' qualifications in real-world scenarios. Remember, attitude is just as crucial as skills – seek individuals whose values align with your company's mission and vision. And while you focus on building a rock-solid team, don't forget the power of community engagement. Sponsor local events or host your own, creating brand visibility and fostering meaningful connections with potential clients. Take your business to new heights through strategic team building, inspiring leadership, and a commitment to shared values. The right people and positive work culture are the cornerstones of unparalleled success. Make these changes, and watch your business soar! What You’ll Learn: How to get your employees to buy into your vision.  Why a good hiring and onboarding process is important. Why you should consider sponsoring local events. And much more! Favorite Quote: “Your guys have to see you putting in the extra effort, and they’ll start putting in the extra effort.” -Josh Glenn How to Get Connected: Facebook-Josh Glenn Facebook-Audio Electronics Facebook-Tomas Keenan

Join us on part one of this two-part series as we delve into the world of Audio Electronics with our esteemed guest, Josh Glenn, the proud owner of this thriving company. Accompanying him is Tomas Keenan, adding his expertise to the conversation. Josh shares his captivating journey, starting with a solid background in consumer electronics spanning over a decade. From humble beginnings at Radio Shack and various other ventures, fate led him to respond to a local ad seeking a salesperson for a car audio shop. Little did he know that this opportunity would become the turning point of his career. Entering the business, Josh discovered that the owner was contemplating an exit strategy, leaving him with the responsibility to revive the sales department. With determination and hard work, he successfully turned the sales around within a mere 6-8 months. Astonishingly, the owner confessed to rediscovering his passion for the business due to Josh's efforts. Thriving under the mentorship of the previous owner for three years, Josh eventually seized the opportunity to take ownership of Audio Electronics. It was during this transition that he gained a deeper understanding of why the previous owner had implemented certain processes and procedures. Josh was now faced with the challenge of blending his own innovative ideas with the successful practices of his predecessor. In the pursuit of growth and unity within his company, Josh implemented a crucial element into his business routine—weekly meetings. These gatherings have proven to be invaluable, creating a space for open communication and ensuring that all employees share a common vision. Getting his team to fully embrace the business's mission has become an imperative aspect of Josh's leadership. Tune in to this episode as we uncover the fascinating insights and lessons that Josh Glenn has learned throughout his remarkable journey in the world of Audio Electronics. Together with Tomas Keenan, we explore the depths of entrepreneurship and the strategies employed to build a thriving business. What You’ll Learn: What you can gain from attending a business mastermind. How your physical health can impact your business. Why ratings and reviews are so important. And much more! Favorite Quote: “I don’t like to sugarcoat stuff, it doesn’t serve anybody.” -Tomas Keenan How to Get Connected: Facebook-Josh Glenn Facebook-Audio Electronics Facebook-Tomas Keenan

Starting out as a 12v salesperson at Best Buy, Chris Ott spent his entire time with the company trying to get back into the tech/installer bay. After a year of excuses, Chris followed a friend to work at Circuit City where he could pursue his true passion. As a big box store, there were a lot of rules and structure, which Chris really appreciated. Over the course of 13 years, he worked up the ranks to become an install manager before the company came to an end. When the company went bankrupt, Chris decided he wanted to get away from the big box stores. Over the next few years, Chris experienced everything from higher-end boutiques to small mom-and-pop shops. Ultimately it was his part in an iPod-mini install video that went viral, that helped Chris really make a name for himself in the industry. He went on to work for some great shops, as well as some toxic ones. Through it all he learned the value of work-life balance and surrounding yourself with like-minded people.  What You’ll Learn: How a viral video affected Chris’s standing in the industry. What activity helped to pull Chris out of his depression. Why you should be picky about who you work with. And much more! Favorite Quote: “I like to address some of these taboo things, but doing it in a positive fashion that’s positive to the industry.” -Chris Ott Connect with Chris: YouTube

Today we’re talking business with Philip Sessions, author of Mindset Over Motivation.  As a public speaking coach, Philip is gearing up to host events that will teach business owners how to better scale their businesses through communication.  He hosts a podcast called Speaking Sessions, as well as a Facebook group called Speaking With Confidence. In addition to that, Philip maintains a full-time job as an engineer at BMW.  Public speaking doesn’t have to mean you’re talking in front of a large group, it can be a couple of employees. The biggest thing Philip pushes with public speaking is confidence.  It can help inspire employees, convey your business's core values, or gain a client. To gain that confidence, ensure you have an end goal of why you want to improve, and then put in the work. Repetition is key to getting comfortable and confident with speaking.  What You’ll Learn: What is the BARS method of speaking is.  How to develop confidence with public speaking. Why you should be utilizing videos on social media.  The difference between mindset and motivation. Favorite Quote: “Confidence is key to looking like you know what you’re talking about.” -Philip Sessions

Adam Smith doesn’t believe in failure. Words have power, and labeling yourself a failure just gives you an excuse to quit. As long as you’re learning from your mistakes and continuing to try, there is no failure. It’s because of this mindset that Adam has been so successful. He’s the CEO of Savage Freedoms Defense, host of the Go To War podcast, and a keynote speaker all over the country. In addition to that, he runs a 3-day protector and leadership experience called The Savage Initiative.  As a firearms instructor, Adam correlates business with firearms training. Both are about the ability to understand systems, processes, tools, and targets. In business and in firearms training, repetition is key. You need quality, but you also need quantity to build lasting results. When the right motivation is given, proper training is received, and the target is communicated properly, all that’s needed is action.  What You’ll Learn: How to properly lead a team to victory. Different ways to motivate different people. Why follow-up is so important. And much more! Favorite Quote: “I want quantity and quality, I want both.” -Adam Smith How to Connect With Adam: Savage Freedoms Defense Instagram Facebook

Success is a perspective. What’s considered successful for one person may not be the definition of success for another.  It’s important to determine what success will look like for you, and then find people that embody that to emulate.  Vice President of Break Free Academy, Drewbie Wilson, is in the studio today to talk about how to build your best life. As the author of Crushing The Day, and host of a podcast by the same name, Drewbie is focused on representing what winning looks like at all times. Drewbie utilizes what he calls the G-code, which focuses on gratitude, genetics, your grind, and the group of people you surround yourself with.  Within these four realms, he practices discipline on the daily.  We all have the same 24 hours in a day, but we don’t all make the most of it. Drewbie shares how he’s intentional with his time and how that’s led to fulfillment in his life. What You’ll Learn: Why you should have more than one mentor. How to make the most of your time. How to not let distractions derail your day.  Where the term ‘meme’ originated from. And much more!! Favorite Quote: “If you don’t have respect for your time, no one else is going to respect it either.” -Drewbie Wilson

Dustin and Tonya Johnson are an inspiring couple who have embarked on an incredible journey of self-discovery. After selling everything they owned, they decided to go all in and explore what they were truly made of. Through their shared experiences and endeavors, they have come to realize the profound impact they have on others. Their podcasting adventures have been particularly humbling, prompting them to reflect on their own lives. Dustin and Tonya discovered the importance of appreciating everything they have today by burning it all down in the past. Prior to their travels, they hadn't spent much quality time together. However, once they were alone, they rekindled their relationship and started dating each other again. Dustin's passion for building is evident in his favorite projects, such as the lightning-fast Salene and the numerous Chevy F10s he has worked on. The couple also enjoyed the challenge of a bus project and found joy in constructing low-rider bikes. They resonate with the rat rod culture, embracing a minimalist approach that aligns with Dustin's personal style. When it comes to advice, Tonya emphasizes the importance of perseverance, encouraging others to keep going even in the face of hardships. On the other hand, Dustin's family motto beautifully captures their philosophy of life: the way you choose to live directly shapes the world you inhabit. What You’ll Learn: What it looks like to date your spouse. What questions you should be asking your spouse. How to get through tough times. And much more! Favorite Quote: “It’s really good to know that what we do impacts people.” -Dustin Johnson How to Get Connected: Burn The Boats Apparel