Cheers to Freedom is a podcast designed for business leaders, especially in the car wash industry, that want to build a business they love, without spending their time in the weeds. We want to help you find freedom from the day to day grind live the life you want to live.
In this powerful episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi McClendon shares the real reason his business—and life—leveled up: functional, holistic health.Our guest, Dr. Bart Precourt, isn't your average chiropractor. He's a peak performance guide who helps business owners reclaim their energy, focus, and freedom by fixing what's really broken—from the inside out.You'll hear:✅ Why most hard-working operators crash in their 40s✅ How Levi went from skeptic to believer after one visit changed his family's life✅ The truth about burnout, energy slumps, and what's actually costing you success✅ How to build a business and life that feel as good as they lookIf you're scaling a car wash business—or just running hard—this conversation might be the nudge you didn't know you needed.
Are you frustrated because your employees don't care about your business as much as you do? You're not alone. The truth is, they probably never will—because it's YOUR business, not theirs. But that doesn't mean they can't be motivated, engaged, and invested in your success.In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon break down:✅ Why employees don't think like business owners (and why that's okay)✅ Three simple strategies to create a motivated and engaged team✅ How to build a company culture that makes employees WANT to work hard✅ The key to turning “just a job” into a meaningful role for your teamWhen employees feel purpose, autonomy, and recognition, they take ownership of their work. And when that happens? Your business thrives.
In this episode of the Cheers to Freedom podcast, hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon discuss their recent trip to Zihuatanejo, Mexico, and its significance to Levi, inspired by the movie Shawshank Redemption. They explore themes of personal growth, perseverance, and the importance of community, drawing lessons from the film's characters, particularly Andy Dufresne and Red. The conversation emphasizes the power of small actions, trusting the process, and the impact of bettering oneself while uplifting others. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to choose freedom and actively write their own stories in life.
In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon dive deep with Ryan Easter, founder of The Allied Advantage and 'The Car Wash Coach.' Ryan shares his incredible journey from grinding 14-hour days in the car wash industry to living his dream life aboard a sailboat in the Caribbean. Discover the transformative power of coaching, learn the strategies to reduce stress, and hear success stories of car wash owners who've broken free from the day-to-day grind. Whether you're a car wash owner or just curious about achieving freedom in business, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. ✅ Free Discovery Call with Ryan Easter: Visit TheAlliedAdvantage.com for a FREE discover call!
How do words shape your business? In this exclusive episode of the "Cheers to Freedom" podcast, we're joined by Donald Miller, best-selling author of Building a StoryBrand, to celebrate the launch of his updated book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0. Donald dives into: ✅ Why words are the most critical tool in your marketing. ✅ How the updated StoryBrand framework can revolutionize customer connections. ✅ Practical tips for car washes to create emotional connections and stand out in competitive markets. You'll also hear real-world examples of how messaging, soundbites, and controlling ideas can drive growth and build customer loyalty. Plus, get an inside look at StoryBrand.ai, Don's new AI-powered tool to craft memorable marketing messages! If you're looking to transform your business with clear, impactful communication, this episode is a must-watch.
What made 2024 a defining year for Opspot and its customers? In Episode 67 of the Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon break down proven strategies that helped car washes achieve record-breaking results.
In the final episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon discuss the last and perhaps most important rule: You Will Be a Tough-Minded Disciplinarian and Put Your Car Wash on a Strict Direct Marketing Diet. Learn why building and maintaining a high-quality list of customer phone numbers is your car wash's most valuable asset, and why direct marketing (especially through SMS) is the key to consistent sales and engagement. If you want to unlock the full potential of your marketing strategy, this is a must-listen conclusion to the series!
In Episode 9 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon emphasize the importance of data-driven decisions with the rule Results Rule, Period. This episode dives into how car wash owners can avoid making decisions based on gut feelings or assumptions. Instead, they explain why tracking results and testing different strategies is key to marketing success. If you're ready to maximize your marketing ROI, this episode is a must-listen.
In Episode 8 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon discuss the importance of focusing on results rather than just aesthetics. Rule number 8, Design Will Not Be the Priority, highlights why clarity and a compelling message are far more important than flashy designs. Discover how simplifying your marketing can drive more conversions, and learn why sometimes less is more when it comes to design. If you want to boost your car wash's success with smart marketing, this episode is for you!
In Episode 7 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon dive into the importance of using strong copy in your marketing efforts. Words matter, and they explain how effective copy can drive action, build trust, and turn prospects into loyal customers. Learn why good copywriting is one of the best investments your car wash can make, and discover actionable tips for improving your marketing messages. If you want to boost sales and engagement, this episode is a must-listen.
In Episode 6 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon discuss the importance of follow-up and why it's critical for your car wash's success. In this episode, they explain how consistent follow-up helps build trust, keeps you top of mind, and ensures customers come back when they're ready to buy. Discover actionable strategies to automate your follow-up process and turn prospects into loyal customers. If you want to maximize your marketing efforts, this episode is a must-listen.
In Episode 5 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon dive into the most controversial rule yet: Only No-Cost Brand Building. They discuss why car washes should avoid spending big on brand awareness and focus instead on building their brand organically. From creating memorable customer experiences to engaging with your local community, this episode reveals the free yet powerful ways to make your brand stand out—without breaking the bank. If you want to grow your brand while maximizing ROI, you don't want to miss this!
In Episode 4 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon tackle the importance of tracking, measurement, and accountability in your marketing efforts. They explain why it's crucial to go beyond likes and clicks, focusing on metrics that truly matter—like conversions and revenue. Discover how to use different keywords for various campaigns, track customer behavior, and make data-driven decisions that drive success. If you want to maximize your marketing ROI, this episode is essential listening.
In Episode 3 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon discuss the third rule: You Will Give Clear Instructions. They explain why clarity is crucial in every aspect of your marketing—from signage to call-to-action buttons—and how confusion can drive customers away. Learn how to eliminate ambiguity, provide straightforward directions, and ultimately boost customer engagement and satisfaction. If you want to make sure your customers know exactly what to do at every step, this episode is for you.
In Episode 2 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast's miniseries, "The 10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon break down the second essential rule: There Will Be a Reason to Respond Right Now. In this episode, they discuss the importance of creating a sense of urgency in your offers, ensuring your customers take immediate action. Learn why time-sensitive promotions and limited-time offers are crucial for boosting conversions and driving sales. If you want to move customers from thinking about it to actually buying, this episode is a must-listen.
Welcome to The Cheers to Freedom Podcast! In this special 10-episode miniseries, host Levi McClendon and Josh Taylor dive into the "10 Car Wash Marketing Rules," inspired by Dan Kennedy's Magnetic Marketing principles, specifically tailored for the car wash industry. In this first episode, "There Will Always Be an Offer," Levi and Josh discuss the importance of always including an irresistible offer in your marketing efforts. They explain why a compelling offer—something so good that customers would be foolish to pass it up—is crucial for attracting and retaining customers. Whether it's a free wash in exchange for a phone number or another value-packed offer, learn how to ensure every piece of your marketing delivers maximum impact. Tune in and discover how to leverage offers to boost your car wash's success!
Join hosts Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon in this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast as they chat with Aden Cesmat from Air Freshener Marketing. Discover how air fresheners can significantly enhance your car wash business's revenue and help build a robust text club. Aden shares innovative strategies and practical tips to transform air fresheners into powerful marketing tools. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The hidden potential of air fresheners in car wash marketing. ✅ Creative customization and utilization ideas for maximum impact. ✅ Effective techniques for building a strong text club using air fresheners. ✅ Real-life success stories and actionable advice from industry experts. ✅ Don't miss out on this episode packed with valuable insights to elevate your car wash business. - Promotional offer: Text "fresh" to 411365 to start your custom air freshener order and receive exclusive deals! - Text "cheers" to 411365 to stay updated with the latest podcast episodes and insights.
Dive into the summer with Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon on the Cheers to Freedom podcast, where they share innovative tactics for car wash owners to boost their business during the summer season. Learn how to capitalize on holidays and transition periods with creative promotions like the 'Summer Survival Kit', and discover how to use a text club to maximize customer engagement and increase memberships without needing discounts.
In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh polish off the misconceptions and reveal the secrets behind building a workplace environment that attracts and retains the crème de la crème of the workforce. Are you tired of the revolving door of employees coming and going? Do you dream of a team as loyal and lasting as that new car shine? You're in the right place!
Welcome to Episode 52 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, where we dive deep into the heart of innovation, growth, and community within the car wash industry. In this special episode, join your hosts, Levi and Josh, as they revisit some of the most transformative moments from the 2023 OptSpot Freedom Summit held in SanDestin, FL. What's Inside: Inspirational Highlights: We spotlight the summit's most impactful speeches and workshops, sharing insights that continue to resonate with our community. Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes: Levi and Josh offer a glimpse behind the curtain, sharing personal stories and favorite moments that made the summit unforgettable. Success Stories: Hear how attendees have applied the strategies and insights from the summit to achieve remarkable growth and success in their businesses. Looking Ahead: Get a sneak peek into what the 2024 OptSpot Freedom Summit has in store, including new themes, speaker announcements, and exclusive opportunities for our listeners. Why Listen? Whether you're a seasoned car wash business owner or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to inspire and empower your entrepreneurial journey. Discover the power of community, innovation, and shared success as we celebrate the highlights of the 2023 summit and look forward to even more groundbreaking content in 2024. Don't miss this chance to relive the best moments of the 2023 OptSpot Freedom Summit and gear up for what's next. Click play, dive in, and let's raise a toast to freedom, growth, and the future of our industry. Subscribe to The Cheers to Freedom Podcast for more episodes like this, and be sure to hit the Like button if you find value in our discussion. Share your favorite summit moment or takeaway in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you! Connect with Us: Website: www.optspot.com Join our Facebook group for updates on the 2024 OptSpot Freedom Summit and more! https://www.facebook.com/groups/optspot
Welcome to episode 51 of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, where our hosts, Josh Taylor and Levi McClendon, delve into the integral connection between personal growth and business success. Levi, with his rich life experiences and insightful perspectives, shares invaluable lessons that have not only shaped his business acumen but also his personal life.
In this episode of the Cheers to Freedom Podcast, we dive into the incredible success story of All American Express Car Wash and how they built their text club to a staggering 20,000 people with just one location. Through strategic social media advertising and clever marketing tactics, they were able to drive leads and engage customers effectively. Join us as we unpack their journey and provide actionable steps to grow your own text club. Stay tuned for an inspiring interview with Sam, the managing partner of All American, as he shares his wisdom and advice for other car wash operators and owners. Don't miss out on this valuable episode that showcases the power of building a text club for marketing success!
What are micro commitments, and how can they work magic for your car wash business? We'll break down this concept and unveil real-life examples. Learn how these small, low-risk actions can make a monumental impact on your bottom line and provide you with valuable insights into your customers' preferences. Tune in to uncover the secrets behind crafting irresistible offers and building an effective customer journey that effortlessly guides visitors into becoming committed, repeat customers. We'll share tried-and-true techniques to optimize your digital and SMS marketing efforts, ensuring your messages hit the right chords and drive maximum engagement.
Opening a new car wash location can be tricky... you want it to be highly successful but don't want to waste time and money on strategies that don't work. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Josh interviews Zach Davis, OptSpot's Senior Account Manager & Partner at Lonestar Suds Express Wash. Together, they will take you behind the scenes of OptSpot's new groundbreaking Go-To-Market campaign and share invaluable insights into how they achieved phenomenal results at Lonestar Suds Express Car Wash. During this episode, Zach will dive deep into the strategies that propelled Lonestar Suds Express Wash to success. Discover how they managed to generate thousands of qualified opt-ins even before their grand opening and garnered over a thousand members within their first few weeks!
In this eye-opening episode of "The Cheers to Freedom Podcast," we dive deep into the untapped potential of marketing strategies for car wash businesses. Our hosts, Levi and Josh, explore the top 5 missed marketing opportunities that car washes often overlook, leaving heaps of money on the table. This episode is packed with actionable insights and creative tips to help car wash owners increase their revenue and customer base. Join Levi and Josh as they share real-life examples and step-by-step guides to transform your car wash marketing game. Don't miss this chance to unlock the full potential of your business and gain an edge over the competition!
In this episode, we explore a game-changing tool for car wash owners called KPI Stats. Levi shares how this tool can help improve lead measures and increase profits in your car wash every day. We dive into the features of KPI Stats and discuss how it can be used to analyze performance metrics, track progress towards goals, and identify areas for improvement. Tune in to learn how KPI Stats can revolutionize your car wash business and take it to the next level!
OptSpot has acquired Washmore Media, a full-service marketing agency for car washes, which means huge opportunities for OptSpot customers. Levi and Josh talk with Zach Davis, founder of Washmore Media, about the merger and the future of OptSpot customers.
Signing up monthly wash members and collecting their information shouldn't be difficult. When you have successfully collected your customers' information you can create strategies to not only sign up more members, but also retain those members longer, making your car wash more successful and your revenue bigger. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh explore how your car wash can make signing up monthly members faster and make collecting their information easier.
In this episode, Levi and Josh explore the five-funnel approach that car washes need to stay competitive and profitable in 2023. We'll discuss each of the five funnels - from marketing to churn and retention - as well as ways to implement them in your business. We'll highlight previous episodes from the Cheers to Freedom Podcast that you can listen to so you can dive deeper into each funnel. On Site Funnel: #4 | Why you should be exchanging data with your customers (engage and exchange) #32 Value of a phone number Off Site Funnel: #25 How to get 2000 members before you car wash opens (founders club. on-site signage, local store marketing (LSM), Facebook ads #27 How to Grow a Massive List of Leads Without Giving Away a Free Car Wash #28 How to create a successful referral program Online Funnel #3 | How a great reputation management strategy can turn angry customers into raving fans #9 | How To Create A Website That Will Make You Money - Using The StoryBrand Framework #11 - #17 StoryBrand Framework Retention Funnel: #29 How to build a loyalty program #31: Stop Wasting Your Car Wash's Money On This (The power of keeping customers longer) Churn #1 | Why Car Washes are Losing a Ton of Money by Not Having a "Manage My Plan" Strategy
Levi and Josh have a candid conversation about the few similarities and many differences between OptSpot and Rinsed. Should you have both? Should you use one or the other? How does your business benefit from either? We answer those questions and more in this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast!
You hear us talk about collecting your customer's phone number all the time... but how much money is every phone number actually worth to you? In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh will actually show you how to calculate the value of every phone number so you can decide if it's worth the hassle or not. Visit OptSpot.com/ROI to get free access to the Value of a Phone Number calculator.
As a car wash operator, we know you hate wasting money. There's a lot of advice out there, but there's one thing some experts are telling you to do that is actually costing you A LOT of money. We want to set the record straight. We've done the research, and we're going to show you why you no longer need to waste money on this ONE THING ALMOST EVERYONE IS DOING and start allocating those funds to this instead.
The #1 thing car wash owners and operators are concerned about is more competition moving in. What if you could have the peace of mind knowing YOU are the car wash that's keeping the others awake at night? In this interview, Best-selling author of Build a StoryBrand and CEO of Business Made Simple, Donald Miller, gives insights into how your car wash business can become the standout brand in your market. Click Here to sign up for Donald Miller's Business Made Simple.
A loyalty program is a great way to keep your customers coming back, and can be especially helpful for car wash businesses. But what do you have to offer members who are already getting car washes every day? In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss how to build a loyalty program that rewards members and keeps them renewing month after month.
Studies show that customers are 50% more likely to buy a product or service if it's recommended by a close friend. So, how does your car wash capitalize on that? With a great referral program that's simple to implement. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss why a referral program is a must for your car wash and how to implement one successfully. For more questions or to take your car wash business to the next level, visit www.OptSpot.com and schedule a call today!
Most people think that you have to choose between raising money for a good cause or growing your business. But that's not true! With OptSpot's fundraising tool, you can do both! In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss how you can use fundraising to partner with local organizations to help them raise funds AND grow your car wash at the same time. Schedule a call at OptSpot.com if you want to implement this tool into your car wash business.
Down market, market correction, recession? Whatever we're calling it, it sucks... unless you're doing the right things to grow your business. You might think only certain types of businesses grow stronger during a recession... and you're right... it's the type of businesses that are doing the RIGHT things to set themselves up for success. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss the ONE THING your business MUST DO in order to GROW STRONGER DURING A RECESSION! LISTEN NOW!
Car washes can be very successful businesses but only if you have the right Go To Market strategy. In this episode, Levi and Josh discuss how to get 2000 pre-registered Wash Club members before you open your doors. Dive even deeper into this strategy at the OptSpot Freedom Summit. Registration is now open to OptSpot Customers! Register at www.optspot.com/freedom-summit!
When it comes to your business, words matter. There's one word the car wash industry uses more than any other word, and it might be killing your membership sales. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss why car washes might want to stop using this one word and replace it with something your customer will start paying attention to.
When I (Josh) first met Levi and Jeremy at OptSpot, I knew they were running a successful business. BUT, there was one thing I thought they were doing that would ruin them down the road. Listen to find out what that was and why my perspective has changed.
As we head into uncertain economic waters, businesses need to find new and innovative ways to engage customers. The QR code has made a comeback in recent years, but not many people are using it in unique or creative ways. In this episode of the Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss 5 ways a simple QR code can make your car wash money. To sign up for OptSpot or to watch a demo and speak to a rep, visit OptSpot.com today!
Levi and Josh recap the ICA Car Wash Show in Nashville, TN, including their dinner with Donald Miller. Plus we offer some great Father's Day promo ideas to increase your text club opt-ins and partner with the local community!
These days it seems like the economy is always headed into uncertain waters that can have major impacts on your business. Levi and Josh discuss practical ways you can make your car wash business "recession proof".
Tim Schurrer knows what it takes to build a winning team. He spent almost a decade of his career launching two brands— StoryBrand and Business Made Simple—as COO alongside New York Times bestselling author Donald Miller. Before that Tim worked at TOMS as well as Apple Inc. He is the host of the Build a Winning Team podcast, where he offers listeners actionable advice as he interviews some of the top leaders in business. Pre-Order Tim's book and check out his podcast, Build a Winning Team here: https://www.buildawinningteam.com
The current economy has emboldened the work force and put new demands on business owners all over the country. It's important you understand what the demands are, how you can leverage them to grow your business, and hire and retain quality employees that you can influence for the future. In the episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh talk with Jason Wilkie from Magis Wash about what they do to train and equip Car Wash owners and managers to create a culture that helps their business and employees thrive. For more information about Magis Wash, text MAGIS to 411365.
There's a reason why people buy things. There's something specific they want. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss the final section of the StoryBrand framework... Results. Text CHEERS to 411365 and never miss an episode again!
People tend to take action only when they're told to take action. That's why your customers need you to give them a clear call to action in order to do business with you. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss why your business may be leaving tons of money on the table if you do not have a clear call to action... and what you can do about it. Text CHEERS to 411365 to stay up to date with new episodes, more tips, and announcements!
When your customers choose to do business with you, they're taking a risk. A great company lessens that risk, and builds trust with their customer, when they give the customer a simple and clear plan to do business with them. This helps the customer understand you know exactly how to help them get what they want. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss the 4th step in the StoryBrand, 7-part framework... The Guide has a Plan to help the Hero Win the Day.
Your customers aren't looking for another hero in their story. They're looking for a guide that will help them win the day. In this episode of The Cheers to Freedom Podcast, Levi and Josh discuss the third part of the StoryBrand, 7-Part Framework: How to play the GUIDE and not the HERO in your customer's story. There are two ingredients to this part of the framework, and to miss one is to miss the whole thing.