For the first time, host Chad Hagle goes on-site to Southern California to meet with entrepreneur Ryan Lawrence.  

Ryan Lawrence was born and raised in Huntington Beach, California where his family was full of civil servants. Listen in to stories of how Ryan, earlier in his career, was a real-life version of a Beverly Hills cop. Ryan says that he is “not a total mechanic” but does “appreciate the style and history” of vintage cars. Ryan still owns the 1964 Ford Falcon Ranchero that he got when he turned 16 years old. Today, he is the thriving owner of VintageChariots.com, which has two retail stores in the Los Angeles area. 

“It’s like a family experience,” Ryan describes of being a part of car culture. It’s about more than men looking at metal, it’s about storytelling. Ryan appreciates the history, style, and the experiences behind the automobile industry. He has established himself as a resource for the classic car community, connecting with people who share a passion. 

To continue the conversation, Chad and Ryan turn the tables, and Ryan becomes the interviewer, asking Chad the questions this time. Ryan “pitches” his brands, Chariots Inc and Vintage Chariots, to Chad. He explains that there was a need for a lifestyle brand to exemplify the automotive and outdoor culture that relied on not only style but also high-quality materials, giving people the opportunity to express themselves and show what they love doing. 

Ryan gets Chad’s insight on how to promote himself and gain exposure when started a brand to let people know what the company represents. Even though Chad doesn’t consider himself an expert in marketing, he shares some of the lessons he’s learned in his own journey. “You have to maintain consistency” is his first piece of advice. Share your message continuously and simplify it as much as possible, associate the person with the brand and the story behind it.

Ryan explains how his brand went from vintage to Chariots Inc to include modern car enthusiasts. Chad shares his thoughts on how and how much brands can transition and change while still remaining true to their message without confusing their audience. They also discuss retail and sales strategies in the world of cars, touching on things like design, fashion, stores, location, and how to attract people’s attention visually. Finally, Chad gives Ryan advice on creating a good online presence and ways to reach more people in the environment around him and his space. 

This is the first part in a two-part series where the script is flipped and the guest will be asking the host questions. Make sure you follow through and listen in to Entrepreneur’s Corner, the latest and greatest format brought to you by Dadages Podcast.