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In this episode of Gearheads and Gasoline, Bryan Harrison shares his journey from being a passionate car enthusiast to running his restoration shop while balancing a career as a firefighter. He dives into how his family influenced his love for cars, the importance of hands-on experience, and why engaging the next generation is key to the future of the automotive industry.

Bryan, along with hosts Barry Alt and Annette Bauer, explores how social media has reshaped marketing in the industry, the growing popularity of custom builds, and the need to respect diverse automotive cultures. They also discuss the challenges of running a shop, from finding quality suppliers to building a reliable team, and the impact of strong customer relationships.

A big takeaway? Community and mentorship matter. Bryan is deeply involved in youth engagement, charity work, and industry events—all with the goal of passing down knowledge and keeping the automotive world thriving. Whether it's learning from mistakes, adapting to new technology, or simply treating customers right, this episode is packed with insights for shop owners, enthusiasts, and anyone looking to build a strong business in the automotive space.

Guest Bio:
Since 2021, Bryan Harrison has been at the helm of Harrison’s Rod and Custom, specializing in C10 builds with a distinctive street rod style. With 90% of his work focused on the C10 market, he has built a reputation for craftsmanship and innovation.

Bryan is a contributor to United By Trucks on YouTube and was the builder behind the 2023 NSRA Giveaway Truck—the final vehicle in NSRA’s giveaway series. Beyond the shop, he’s passionate about giving back to the industry. He founded GM Truck Fair, an event dedicated entirely to funding the Harrison’s Rod and Custom Scholarship Fund, which helps young enthusiasts receive training in custom automotive and restoration fields.
Through his builds, mentorship, and industry contributions, Bryan is committed to shaping the future of the automotive world.

Guest

• Email: harrisonsrodshop@comcast.net
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: maximizesales@motorheaddigital.com
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: annette@annettebauercreative.com
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

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• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at gngoperations@motorheaddigital.com

Audio and Video Production by: Mantis Media

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In this episode, Barry Alt and Annette Bauer sit down with Joalda Lopez, the powerhouse behind Rebel Road Hot Rod Garage, the only female-owned classic automotive restoration shop in her state.

Joalda shares her incredible journey of launching her business during the challenges of the pandemic and how she’s built a thriving restoration shop alongside her fiancé. She opens up about her SEMA show experiences, the power of networking in the automotive industry, and the grit it takes to succeed as a female entrepreneur in a traditionally male-dominated field.

This conversation dives into:
🚗 Building and restoring classic cars – the approach, quality control, and customer vetting that set Rebel Road apart.
📣 The role of marketing and word-of-mouth – how Joalda has grown a national clientele.
🛠 Training the next generation – why hands-on education and setting professional standards for interns are crucial.
👥 Teamwork, humility, and leadership – the values that drive her business forward.
⚠️ Customer expectations & safety – what car owners should know before bringing in a restoration project.
💡 The future of Rebel Road – goals, challenges, and the evolving role of women in the industry.

And, to wrap things up, a fun speed round where Joalda shares personal insights and industry wisdom!

If you love classic cars, entrepreneurial stories, and real talk about what it takes to run a successful restoration shop, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! 🚘🔥

Guest Bio:
Joalda is the proud owner and founder of Rebel Road Hot Rod Garage, the only female-owned classic automotive restoration shop in her state. Alongside her fiancé, she built the business through resilience and determination, navigating the challenges of a global pandemic.

Her journey into entrepreneurship began long before opening the shop—becoming a mother at just 16 gave her the grit and perseverance needed to thrive in business ownership. With a deep passion for restoring classic cars, Joalda is dedicated to keeping automotive history alive, one restoration at a time. She embraces the daily challenges of the industry and takes pride in the work her team does to bring more classic cars back to the road.

Guest

• Joalda@rebelroadhotrodgarage.com
• Website
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: maximizesales@motorheaddigital.com
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: annette@annettebauercreative.com
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at gngoperations@motorheaddigital.com

Audio and Video Production by: Mantis Media

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In this engaging conversation, Jesse Vaughn, owner of Level 7 Motorsports, shares his journey from a young car enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur in the automotive industry. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from a steady job to running his own business, the difficulties in finding skilled labor, and the importance of mentorship. Jesse also highlights the niche focus of his business on pro touring trucks and the significance of building strong customer relationships.

Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the need for financial preparedness and the value of quality in both products and services. In this conversation, Jesse discusses his approach to DIY truck building, emphasizing collaboration with customers through email communication and e-commerce. He shares insights on using YouTube as an educational platform for DIY builders, the importance of becoming a thought leader in the automotive industry, and the balance between quality and quantity in business.

Key Takeaways:
- Jesse's passion for motorsports began at a young age with dirt bikes
- Financial stability is crucial before starting a business in the automotive industry
- Finding skilled labor is a significant challenge in the automotive industry
- Mentorship and guidance are essential for aspiring automotive professionals
- Quality and attention to detail are key to building a successful brand
- Building a niche market can lead to increased demand and recognition
- Customer relationships are vital for business growth and reputation
- YouTube serves as an educational tool for DIY builders
- Participation in events like the SEMA Show boosts visibility and excitement
- Transparency in communication builds trust with customers

Guest Bio:
Level 7 Motorsports is a family-owned, motorsports-inspired business that strives for perfection in all that we do. We specialize in everything from advanced wiring services and engine swaps to complex suspension and chassis systems. We have experience in stainless and aluminum TIG welding and can fabricate most anything automotive-related. We are known for our ability to build complete, purpose-built vehicles from the ground up and have extensive product knowledge to assist our customers with the latest-and-greatest cutting edge automotive technology.

We take pride in developing and manufacturing our own specialized parts and are a dealer for dozens of the best products in the industry. From the DIY, garage builder to the novice automotive enthusiast, Level 7 Motorsports is your source for ProTouring parts and insight.

Guest:

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram

Hosts:
Barry Alt, Motorhead Digital

• Email: maximizesales@motorheaddigital.com
• Website

Annette Bauer, Annette Bauer Creative

• Email: annette@annettebauercreative.com
• Website

Don’t miss an episode from Gearheads n’ Gasoline!

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

You can reach us at gngoperations@motorheaddigital.com

Audio and Video Production by: Mantis Media